In partnership with the Government of B.C., ICBC announced it is taking further steps to reduce financial burdens for drivers amid COVID-19.
In a media release today, the insurance provider said it is offering additional help to customers needing more relief than just the 90-day payment deferral, in way of waiving the $30 cancellation fee and $18 re-plating fee for those people who choose to cancel their insurance during this time.
Though customers will be required to remove the plate from their vehicle while it is not insured, those who re-insure May 30th or thereafter will be able to re-use their plate.
Customers re-insuring prior to May 30th will be issued a new plate at no charge.
ICBC is also still allowing fleet vehicle customers to suspend their insurance, in an effort to help them save money during this time.
Once testing resumes, those who have their learner driver’s licences (class 5-8) expire during the pandemic will not have to pay a fee for their new knowledge test.
ICBC has also confirmed that customers will be able to use their vehicles for the delivery of food or medical products and services, without changing their vehicle use insurance or having to pay a higher premium.
“We know many British Columbians are facing financial challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Nicolas Jimenez, president and CEO of ICBC.
“Businesses are also having to adapt to the situation, with many companies changing their business model to offer delivery services so people can access the food and medical products they need while physical distancing. ICBC is responding to these needs and taking action to ease the burden for everyone during this difficult time.”
ICBC has already offered several other methods to help British Columbians during the pandemic, such as:
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establishing the ability to conduct a number of transactions by phone or email, such as renewing driver’s licences set to expire, and renewing insurance; and
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allowing customers who pay for their insurance on a monthly basis to defer payments for up to 90 days with no penalty.
