Being injured in a car accident can change your life in an instant. Medical bills, time away from work, and uncertainty about insurance are overwhelming. In Ontario, one of the most important steps toward recovery is completing the OCF-1 Application for Accident Benefits.
This form is your official request for support under the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS) – a program that provides coverage through your own auto insurance company, no matter who caused the accident.
An Accident Benefit claim and a lawsuit are different.
A claim for Accident Benefits in Ontario:
- is made through your own auto insurance company to access support like medical care, income replacement, and rehabilitation;
- can be made regardless of fault;
- are available to people involved in an accident even if they were not the driver or did not have their own automobile insurance; and
- is a mandatory step if you also intend to the sue an at fault party.
A lawsuit is a legal action against anyone who caused or contributed to the accident in order to seek compensation for pain and suffering, lost income, and other damages not covered by Accident Benefits or other insurance available to you.
What Is the OCF-1 Form?
The OCF-1 Application for Accident Benefits is the first document you complete to start your car accident insurance claim in Ontario. Submitting it to your insurer allows you to access financial support for:
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses (physio, massage, psychotherapy, Occupational Therapy etc)
- Income replacement benefits if you’re unable to work after the first week
- Attendant care and personal support services
- Other accident benefits designed to help you recover
Think of the OCF-1 as your key to access Ontario’s auto insurance system. Without it, your insurer cannot begin processing your claim or releasing funds within your coverage.
Why the OCF-1 Is Important
Timely submission is critical. You’re required to notify your insurer within seven days of your accident (or as soon as reasonably possible) and to submit your completed OCF-1 within 30 days of receiving it. Missing these deadlines can delay your accident benefits Ontario claim or reduce your eligibility.
The information in your OCF-1 also forms the basis for everything that follows — from medical assessments to income support. Providing complete and accurate details helps ensure your claim moves smoothly.
Who Can Complete the OCF-1?
If you’re well enough, you can complete the form yourself. However, if your injuries prevent you from doing so, a family member, friend, or legal representative — such as a lawyer — can help. It is important that you or your substitute decision maker signs the form.
You’ll need to include key information about the accident, your injuries, your insurance provider, and your employment situation. Be honest and thorough; small mistakes or omissions can lead to frustrating delays.
What Happens After You Submit It
Once your OCF-1 form is submitted, your insurance company will review it and may send additional forms, such as:
- OCF-3 (Disability Certificate) – completed by a healthcare provider to confirm your disability, diagnosis and ability to work and return to daily life
- OCF-18 (Treatment and Assessment Plan) – completed by your treatment team to request approval for therapy or rehabilitation
These forms work together to help your insurer determine what Statutory Accident Benefits you’re eligible for.
We’re Here to Help
Completing the OCF-1 Application can be stressful — especially when you’re focused on healing. At Bergeron Clifford Injury Lawyers, we help accident victims throughout Ontario understand their rights and access the benefits they deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident and need help with your car accident insurance claim, contact Bergeron Clifford Injury Lawyers today. We’re here to help you move forward with confidence, care, and clarity.
SAMUEL DAVIES
Sam is an associate lawyer at Bergeron Clifford LLP.
His range of experience in civil litigation includes advocating in medical negligence, mental health, motor vehicle and boating accident actions, statutory accident benefits and various other personal injury matters.
