Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Required in Canada?

Auto insurance laws vary across Canada, but one thing is consistent: most provinces include some level of uninsured motorist protection as part of their standard auto policy. This helps ensure that if you’re injured by a driver with no insurance—or one who flees the scene—you’re not left unprotected.

This matters when you're assuming you're fully covered just because you bought a basic policy. You might think about this the next time you renew your insurance or drive through a city where hit-and-runs are more frequent.

Is It Mandatory?

Yes—in most of Canada, uninsured motorist coverage is required and automatically included in government or private auto insurance policies. It’s designed to protect you, your passengers, and sometimes your vehicle when an at-fault driver has no valid insurance.

What’s typically included:

Medical care for injuries caused by an uninsured or hit-and-run driver
Lost income if you’re unable to work
Funeral expenses in fatal collisions
Compensation for pain and suffering

The required limits vary, and not all provinces include vehicle damage. In some cases, coverage for repairs must be purchased separately or handled through collision insurance.

How Coverage Varies by Province

The specific name and structure of uninsured motorist coverage can vary depending on where you live. Here’s a general overview:

Province	Included by Default?	Covers Vehicle Damage?
Ontario	Yes	No (unless optional coverage added)
Alberta	Yes	No (collision or legal action required)
British Columbia	Yes (through ICBC)	Yes (if not at fault)
Quebec	Yes	Yes (through public system)
Manitoba	Yes	Yes (with optional enhancements)

Tip: Even when coverage is included, it often comes with basic limits (e.g., $200,000). Consider increasing your protection if your financial exposure is higher.

Why It Still Needs Your Attention

Just because this coverage is required doesn’t mean it’s always enough. Many drivers never check their policy limit or review whether vehicle damage is included. If you’re relying on this coverage in the event of a hit-and-run or uninsured accident, it’s worth reviewing:

Whether your coverage limit matches your liability limit
In most provinces, you can’t carry more uninsured motorist coverage than your liability limit.
If your policy includes vehicle repair
If not, collision coverage may be your only backup for property damage.
What deductible applies
Some claims under this coverage still require an out-of-pocket contribution.

Caution: Don’t assume your basic policy is all-inclusive. Uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory in most places, but its scope may be narrower than expected.

Mandatory, But Not Always Complete

Uninsured motorist coverage is a built-in safety net across Canada—but that doesn’t mean it’s one-size-fits-all. Reviewing your coverage limits, understanding what’s included, and considering additional protection helps ensure you’re not left financially exposed after an accident caused by someone who didn’t follow the law.