What is OPCF 44R family protection coverage?
OPCF 44R is the Family Protection Coverage endorsement on an Ontario auto policy. It tops up compensation when you are injured by an at-fault driver whose insurance limits are lower than your own. Your 44R limit generally equals your own third-party liability limit, and it fills the gap between the at-fault driver's coverage and your damages.
How does the underinsured motorist top-up work in Canada?
If your damages exceed the at-fault driver's available insurance, your OPCF 44R coverage pays the difference up to your own policy limit. The 44R recovery is reduced by the at-fault driver's payment and by certain other sources (such as other insurers), so it fills — but does not double — the gap.
Do I need OPCF 44R if I already have good coverage?
Yes. Your own third-party liability limit protects people you injure, not you. Without a 44R endorsement, if you are seriously hurt by a driver carrying only minimum limits, you could be left with substantial uncompensated damages. The 44R endorsement is inexpensive relative to the protection it provides.
What is the minimum auto liability limit in Canada?
Minimum mandatory third-party liability limits vary by province — commonly $200,000, though many drivers carry $1 million or $2 million. Because the at-fault driver may carry only the minimum, underinsured motorist protection like OPCF 44R is important to close the gap to your actual damages.