When you’re in a car accident in Manitoba, your world can feel turned upside down. Not only do you have to deal with damage to your vehicle, possible injuries, and the stress of insurance claims, but you might also be left wondering, how am I supposed to get around while my car is in the shop?
This is where Loss of Use comes in. If you’ve ever been without a vehicle after an accident, you know the inconvenience can be just as stressful as the collision itself. That’s why Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) has provisions for “Loss of Use”, coverage that can help pay for a rental car, public transit, or other transportation while your car is being repaired.
At Town Auto Body in Winnipeg, we see this scenario play out every week, and we help our customers navigate it with as little hassle as possible. In this article, we’ll break down what Loss of Use means, when you qualify for it under MPI, and how to make sure you’re not left stranded.
1. Understanding Loss of Use in Manitoba
In plain language, Loss of Use is exactly what it sounds like, compensation for the time you can’t use your vehicle because it’s being repaired after an accident.
Under MPI’s programs, Loss of Use benefits can help you cover reasonable transportation costs until your car is roadworthy again.
This coverage can include:
- Rental cars from MPI-approved agencies
- Public transit fare reimbursement
- Taxi or rideshare costs (in certain cases)
But here’s the important part: you don’t always automatically get Loss of Use. Your eligibility depends on who was at fault in the accident and what coverage you have.
2. When Does MPI Cover Loss of Use?
In Manitoba, there are two main situations where MPI provides Loss of Use coverage:
A. You Were Not at Fault
If another driver was responsible for the collision and you have a valid MPI claim, MPI will often pay for Loss of Use until your car is repaired.
- MPI will arrange a rental through a preferred agency.
- The rental is usually comparable to your own vehicle, within reasonable limits.
B. You Have Optional Coverage on Your Own Policy
If you were at fault (or partially at fault) but you purchased Optional Loss of Use coverage through MPI or your insurance broker, you can still get help with transportation.
Without optional coverage and if you were responsible, you’ll likely have to cover your own costs for a rental or alternate transportation.
For MPI’s official overview: MPI Loss of Use coverage.
3. What Does Loss of Use Cover Exactly?
Rental Cars
- MPI typically covers a rental from the day repairs start until your vehicle is fixed and ready for pickup.
- You must use an MPI-approved rental company.
Public Transportation
- If you choose not to rent a vehicle, MPI can reimburse bus fare or equivalent travel costs.
Taxis & Rideshares
- In special cases (e.g., mobility issues, no rental availability), MPI may cover taxi or rideshare fares.
Note: MPI does not cover luxury vehicle rentals unless your own vehicle is in that class and it’s necessary for your transportation needs.
4. How to Apply for Loss of Use with MPI
Here’s a step-by-step process that works for most Winnipeg drivers:
- Report Your Claim Immediately
- Call MPI’s Claim Centre: 204-985-7000 in Winnipeg, or 1-800-665-2410 toll-free.
- Report all details including fault, damage, and if you require a rental.
- MPI’s official guide: Reporting a Vehicle Collision Claim.
- Confirm Your Eligibility
- Your adjuster will tell you if Loss of Use applies.
- They’ll also confirm your coverage type and fault determination.
- Arrange Transportation
- If approved, MPI will set up your rental with a partner agency.
- Alternatively, track your public transit or taxi expenses.
- Keep All Receipts
- If you’re not using a rental, MPI requires receipts for reimbursement.
- Examples: Bus passes, taxi invoices, rideshare receipts.
- Coordinate with Your Repair Shop
- At Town Auto Body, we align repair timelines with your Loss of Use coverage so you’re not left without a ride unnecessarily.
5. How Long Does MPI Cover Loss of Use?
Generally, Loss of Use coverage lasts:
- From the day repairs begin (or your vehicle is declared a total loss)
- Until repairs are completed, or a settlement is paid out
MPI expects you to return the rental the day your car is ready. If you keep it longer, those extra days are usually out-of-pocket.
6. Common Misunderstandings
At Town Auto Body, we’ve heard every Loss of Use myth out there. Let’s clear up a few:
- “I get a rental no matter what”, Not true. Fault and coverage level matter.
- “I can choose any rental car I want”, No, MPI-approved agencies and reasonable vehicle classes only.
- “I can use Loss of Use for vacations”, Absolutely not; the rental must be for transportation while your car is being repaired.
- “MPI will cover my upgrades”, If you choose a higher-end vehicle, you’ll pay the difference.
7. Tips to Maximize Your Loss of Use Coverage
- Report Your Claim Quickly
- Delays can shorten your rental period.
- Start Repairs ASAP
- Don’t let your car sit waiting; your rental clock starts ticking when repairs start.
- Stay in Contact with Your Adjuster
- If repairs take longer than expected, keep MPI updated.
- Work with a Shop That Knows MPI
- Town Auto Body is experienced with MPI procedures, helping reduce downtime.
8. Real Winnipeg Example
Meet Sarah.
Sarah was rear-ended at a red light in downtown Winnipeg. MPI determined the other driver was 100% at fault. Within 24 hours of reporting her claim, Sarah had a rental car arranged through MPI.
Her repairs took 9 days. MPI covered the rental for the full period, and Sarah didn’t pay a cent. Town Auto Body kept her updated on progress so she could return the rental the same day repairs finished — saving her from extra charges.
9. How Town Auto Body Helps You
- Direct Communication with MPI: We coordinate your repair schedule with your Loss of Use period.
- Photo-Based Estimates: Speeds up MPI approval so you get your rental faster.
- Quality Repairs: We get your car back to pre-accident condition on time.
- Local Expertise: We know Winnipeg roads, MPI rules, and the challenges you face without your car.
10. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get Loss of Use if I’m at fault?
A: Only if you have optional Loss of Use coverage on your policy.
Q: Does MPI cover specialty vehicles?
A: Only if you regularly use such a vehicle for necessary travel and MPI deems it reasonable.
Q: What if my repairs take longer than my rental period?
A: You may need to cover the extra time yourself unless MPI extends the coverage due to repair-related delays.
11. Useful MPI Links
Final Thoughts
Loss of Use coverage exists to keep your life moving when your vehicle can’t. In Winnipeg, we depend on our cars for work, school, and family obligations, and being without one can be a huge disruption.
By understanding MPI’s Loss of Use rules, acting quickly after an accident, and working with a trusted shop like Town Auto Body, you can get back on the road with minimal stress.
If you’ve been in an accident and need help with your MPI claim, including Loss of Use, call Town Auto Body today. We’ll make sure your repairs and your transportation are taken care of.