OPCF 44R family protection coverage explained
3 minute read Published on Oct 13, 2026 by BrokerLink Communications
Understanding the OPCF 44 and 44R endorsement
In addition to the mandatory car insurance coverage required in Ontario, you also have access to a variety of optional coverages, including Family Protection Coverage (OPCF 44R).
Your policy can include two important endorsements designed to protect you when accidents are caused by other drivers:
OPCF 44 (Uninsured automobile coverage)
This endorsement protects you if the at-fault driver does not have insurance. It allows you to rely on your own insurance coverage for compensation when the other driver cannot pay for damages.
OPCF 44R (Family protection coverage)
This endorsement applies when the at-fault driver does not have enough insurance to cover your losses. It supplements the other driver's liability coverage by allowing you to access your own policy limits, helping bridge the gap between their coverage and your actual damages.
What you need to know about OPCF 44 and 44R
-
OPCF 44 and OPCF 44R provide valuable protection if you or eligible family members suffer injuries or financial losses caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver, even when you are not travelling in your vehicle.
-
These endorsements are generally inexpensive to add and can significantly improve your financial protection following a serious accident.
-
Coverage typically aligns with your existing third-party liability limits and can help pay the difference when the at-fault driver's insurance is insufficient.
What is the OPCF 44 endorsement?
OPCF 44 and OPCF 44R are Ontario Policy Change Form endorsements that provide additional protection if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured, underinsured, or unidentified driver. These endorsements can increase the amount of compensation available to you beyond the limits carried by the at-fault motorist.
How does OPCF 44 work?
OPCF 44 applies when you are involved in a not-at-fault accident and the other driver is uninsured, underinsured, or cannot be identified, such as in a hit-and-run situation. The endorsement provides additional liability protection and compensation for bodily injury or death, helping you recover losses that exceed the at-fault driver's available coverage.
To add this endorsement, contact your insurance provider and complete the required application process. You may need to specify the coverage amount and the family members who will be protected under the endorsement.
What does OPCF 44 and 44R cover?
If you are injured by a driver who carries insufficient insurance or no insurance at all, OPCF 44 and 44R can provide additional financial protection for you and eligible family members.
Family Protection Coverage extends protection to children under 18, financially dependent family members, and household residents who qualify under the policy terms.
Coverage follows you beyond your vehicle and may apply whether you are driving, riding as a passenger, cycling, or walking as a pedestrian when the accident occurs.
In most cases, OPCF 44R mirrors your third-party liability limit. For example, if your liability limit is $2,000,000 and the at-fault driver only has $1,000,000 of liability coverage, your endorsement may provide access to the remaining $1,000,000 in protection, subject to policy conditions.
OPCF 44 example
Imagine a driver carrying Ontario’s minimum liability limit of $200,000 causes a serious accident that results in damages totaling $1.5 million.
If you do not have Family Protection Coverage: The at-fault driver’s insurance would pay up to its $200,000 limit, leaving a shortfall of $1.3 million. Recovering those funds directly from the driver could be difficult or impossible.
If you have Family Protection Coverage: Your policy may cover the difference between the judgment amount and the at-fault driver's insurance limit, up to your own liability limit. With a $2 million liability limit, your policy could cover the remaining $1.3 million in damages.
Is OPCF 44R mandatory?
No. OPCF 44 and OPCF 44R are optional endorsements in Ontario. Drivers can choose to add this extra protection to enhance their auto insurance coverage.
Will OPCF 44 increase my premium?
The cost of adding OPCF 44 or 44R is typically modest compared to many other optional coverages. The exact premium impact depends on factors such as your insurer, driving history, claims experience, and selected liability limits.
Protect yourself from uninsured and underinsured drivers
A serious accident can leave you facing costs that exceed the at-fault driver's insurance limits. OPCF 44 and 44R endorsements help provide an extra layer of financial protection for you and your family when you need it most.
Speak with a BrokerLink advisor today to learn whether Family Protection Coverage is right for your situation and how much additional protection you can add to your Ontario auto insurance policy.