Do I Have Access to Mental Health Support After Losing a Loved One in a Car Accident?
Losing a loved one in a car accident is a devastating experience that can leave you feeling shocked, overwhelmed and alone. While there are community and government resources available, most people are unaware that automobile insurance policies also provide access to mental health support.
Ontario’s standard automobile insurance policy includes what is called Statutory Accident Benefits Coverage. These are no-fault benefits that are available to accident victims and their family members. Even if your loved one was at fault for the accident, these benefits are available to fund a variety of different services, including grief and psychological counselling. Coverage typically includes services from psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers.
In order to access these benefits, the first step is to notify your insurance company of the accident and the loss of your loved one as soon as possible. The insurer will require you to fill out an Application for Accident Benefits. You may also be required to provide documentation of your loved one’s passing and your relationship to him/her.
While the insurance company may suggest a mental health professional to you, you are under no obligation to use their suggested professional. You are free to use a mental health professional of your choosing. Some professionals are familiar with the automobile insurance regime and will bill your insurance company directly – others may not. If you pay out of pocket, be sure to obtain approval from the insurance company before starting treatment and keep all receipts to submit to the insurer for reimbursement.
Do not hesitate to ask your adjuster about what types of services are covered and how to access them. As long as the service can be justified, the insurance company will most likely approve it. For instance, play therapy or counselling camps can be approved for children who have lost a parent or sibling.
Grieving the loss of a loved one is difficult and exhausting. It is important to access professional support during your healing journey and accessing benefits under your automobile insurance policy will help you do that.
If you have questions or need guidance, reach out to a legal professional for assistance.
Written By
Liane is committed to representing individuals who have suffered serious personal injuries and to families who have suffered the losses of loved ones. Liane holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Windsor, where she received the Torkin Manes Cohen and Arbus award for combined academic achievement and service to the community, and the Charles J. Clark scholarship for academic excellence and involvement in community and volunteer activities. She was called to the bar in 2013.