Suspension of Coverage (OPCF 16) – SABS
The “Suspension of Coverage (OPCF 16)” form is an official document used to cancel specific coverages under an automobile insurance policy in Ontario. Effective since April 1, 1995, and governed by the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO), this form is essential for policyholders who wish to temporarily suspend their automobile insurance coverage. The form serves to suspend the coverage for the use or operation of a specified automobile under the policy. This suspension remains in effect until the coverage is reinstated through OPCF 17.
The policyholder agrees to take the described automobile out of use and not operate it from the effective date of the suspension. The following coverages will be canceled for the specified, newly acquired, and temporary substitute automobiles:
- Liability Coverage (Section 3)
- Accident Benefits Coverage (Section 4)
- Uninsured Automobile Coverage (Section 5)
- Direct Compensation – Property Damage Coverage (Section 6)
- Loss or Damage Coverages (Optional) under Section 7 for all perils caused by Collision or Upset.
The insurance company may choose to refund a portion of the premium upon suspension or reinstatement of coverage. However, no refund will be given if the suspension period is less than 45 consecutive days.
This form is a critical tool for managing temporary changes in automobile insurance coverage, ensuring that policyholders are not paying for coverage they do not need during periods when their vehicle is not in use.
Follow these steps to complete the form:
Issued to:
- Enter the full name of the policyholder or the name of the entity to whom the policy is issued.
Policy Number
- Write the policy number associated with the automobile insurance policy. This can be found on your Certificate of Automobile Insurance.
Effective Date of Change
- Specify the date when the suspension of coverage should start. This should include the year, month, and day. Ensure the date is accurate to avoid discrepancies in coverage.
Automobile Number
- Indicate the number(s) of the automobile(s) for which the coverage suspension applies. This information is available on your Certificate of Automobile Insurance.
Refund Amount
- Leave this section blank. The insurance company will calculate the refund amount based on the terms of your policy and the period of suspension.
Signature of Insured
- Sign the form to authorize the suspension of coverage. Your signature confirms that you agree to the terms outlined in the form.
- Include the date when you signed the form.
Returning the Form
- After completing and signing the form, return it to your insurance provider as instructed. Keep a copy for your records.
Important Notes
- Suspension Period: Ensure the suspension period is at least 45 consecutive days to be eligible for a refund.
- Coverage Details: Review Sections 2.1 to 2.5 carefully to understand which coverages will be suspended and the conditions of the suspension.
- Reinstatement: To reinstate your coverage, you will need to submit OPCF 17, “Reinstatement of Coverage,” when you are ready to put the vehicle back into use.
By following these steps, you can correctly complete the “Suspension of Coverage (OPCF 16)” form and ensure your automobile insurance is appropriately managed. If you have any questions or need assistance, contact your insurance provider.