Does modifying a vehicle for accessibility impact insurance?
4 minute read Published on Jul 22, 2026 by BrokerLink Communications
If you need to modify your vehicle for mobility or accessibility purposes, how these changes impact your insurance is probably not the first thing on your mind, but it should be on your list of to-dos. Aftermarket modifications to a vehicle can significantly improve your independence and safety. However, these car modifications can create gaps in your coverage if they are not disclosed to your insurance company or insured correctly.
This guide outlines what counts as an accessibility modification, whether your insurance premiums will be impacted, how to inform your insurance provider and how to make sure your equipment is comprehensively protected on and off the road.
What counts as an accessibility modification?
Accessibility modifications are any type of changes made to a vehicle so a person with a disability or mobility limitation can operate or ride a motor vehicle safely. Common examples include:
Hand controls for acceleration and braking.
Wheelchair lifts or ramps.
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Transfer or swivel seats.
Pedal extensions or seat repositioning.
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Steering wheel knobs and reduced-effort steering devices such as amputee rings, palm grips, spinner cuffs and Servo controls.
These types of modifications directly affect how a vehicle operates, the vehicle’s safety, repair costs and the overall replacement value of the modified vehicle, which is why informing your insurance company of these changes is necessary.
Will my premium change? (When it does and when it doesn’t)
In many cases, your car insurance premiums won’t increase after you’ve made vehicle modifications for accessibility purposes. However, certain scenarios can warrant a slight increase. Here’s a quick breakdown of when and when not your insurance premiums may become more expensive: Premium typically won’t increase when:
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The vehicle modifications are minor, such as adding a hand control or pedal extension.
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The accessibility equipment is installed by a qualified professional.
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The vehicle modifications don’t qualify as performance-enhancing modifications.
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The adaptive equipment substantially increases the overall value of your modified vehicle.
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Structure changes are made to the vehicle, such as lowering the floors for wheelchair access.
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The vehicle’s purpose changes. For example, a van is modified to transport individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges for pay.
Key takeaway: Failing to disclose vehicle modifications to your car insurance provider puts you at a far greater risk than a potential premium increase. If your insurer is unaware of the modifications, insurance coverage for the equipment installed could be denied.
Tell your car insurance provider the right way (what car modification documents to send)
Always disclose accessibility vehicle modifications before or immediately after they are installed in your vehicle. Waiting to inform your provider until you’re up for a renewal puts you at risk of having your claim denied, should you be involved in a collision or other incident. Here's what you should :provide
Vehicle modification documents typically requested
A description of the adaptive equipment installed.
Installation receipts or invoices.
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The name and credentials of those installing the adaptive equipment.
Photos of the installed equipment.
Once you’ve provided this information, confirm with your insurance company that the changes have been made to your policy.
Make sure your equipment is covered (coverage limits, vehicle valuation and riders)
Most standard insurance policies use an actual cash value (ACV) calculation when settling claims, which takes into account depreciation of the vehicle and its modifications. For expensive equipment, this may not be enough to fully compensate you following a total loss.
Luckily, some insurers may offer a guaranteed value endorsement to help cover the entire cost of stolen or damaged equipment following an insured event. Another thing to know is that most insurance policies cap your coverage for aftermarket equipment, unless it’s been specifically declared in the policy documents.
Loss of use for mobility users
Loss of use coverage pays for alternative transportation while your vehicle is being repaired. However, standard rental coverage may not meet your specific mobility needs as is. We suggest asking your provider or broker how your policy handles:
Accessible vehicle rentals.
Reimbursements for ride share or taxi services.
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Extended timelines may be needed for accessibility equipment following an accident.
Safety, inspections and classifications
When modifying your vehicle for accessibility purposes, these modifications themselves must meet Transport Canada’s safety standards by ensuring the equipment or changes do not interfere with airbag deployment, enhanced braking systems or the structural integrity of the car. Depending on the province or territory you reside in, you may need to pass a post-modification safety inspection.
Licensing and medical fitness
Adaptive driving may have/require:
A medical clearance.
A functional driving assessment.
Certain license restrictions.
Although an insurer can’t request medical details, they can confirm you meet licensing requirements.
How claims work with adaptive equipment
Should you need to file a claim following an accident or theft:
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Your repairs may take longer and require specialized repair facilities.
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Will require clear documentation to help move your claim along quickly.
Save money on insurance premiums without losing protection when modifying your vehicle
Pay your premium upfront.
Work with an insurance broker like BrokerLink.
Review your deductible amount to balance savings and risk.
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Ask whether you qualify for discounts (installation of anti-theft devices, clean driving record, etc.).
Contact BrokerLink today
Contact your local insurance expert today to learn more and get a quote for car insurance! At BrokerLink, we make buying insurance easier. We’ll show you the best options available and help you find the right coverage at a great price.