---
title: "Do I Need Insurance for Instacart in Ontario?"
description: "Instacart insurance in Ontario: Canadian shopper duties, delivery-permitted auto cover, helpers, borrowed cars, repair and injury choices, and separate claim processes."
canonical: "https://spot.insure/driving-insurance/instacart/ontario"
page-type: "driving-insurance"
updated-at: "2026-10-27"
page-role: "insurance-research"
research-topic: "rideshare-and-delivery-insurance"
---

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[Human-readable page](https://spot.insure/driving-insurance/instacart/ontario)

## Agent Guide

**What this page is:** Instacart insurance in Ontario: Canadian shopper duties, delivery-permitted auto cover, helpers, borrowed cars, repair and injury choices, and separate claim processes.

**Use this page when:** Use for source-backed rideshare and delivery insurance research. For a personalized checklist call check_driving_insurance with the actual jurisdiction, apps and vehicle.

**Limits (do not over-claim):**
- Separates legal minimums, platform-reported cover and unresolved policy questions; it does not establish policy entitlement, service availability or complete municipal licensing compliance.
- Sources have individual scope and review dates. Unknown evidence is not evidence that a policy or law does not exist.

**Provenance:** Official legislation, regulators, insurer-issued documents and platform documents; AI-assisted source review dated October 26, 2026.

**Related pages:**
- [Driving insurance research](https://spot.insure/driving-insurance) — collection
- [Driving insurance checker](https://spot.insure/driving-insurance/checker) — personalized checklist
- [Editorial policy](https://spot.insure/editorial-policy) — how research claims are sourced
- [Spot developers](https://spot.insure/developers) — API and MCP usage

# Do I Need Insurance for Instacart in Ontario?

Yes. Maintain automobile insurance that permits your actual Instacart shopping and delivery work. The Canadian contractor agreement assigns insurance duties to you, subject to local law, and warns that ordinary policies may exclude the services. The reviewed public material does not authenticate an Ontario Instacart fleet policy or your individual coverage; confirm your insurer’s permission, vehicle, drivers and current selections.

Research checked: 2026-10-27. Amounts are USD in the U.S. and CAD in Canada.

## Your Insurance Duties Under the Canadian Agreement

### Ask Your Insurer to Cover the Actual Services

The Canadian independent contractor agreement says you possess the equipment, insurance and licences needed for the shopping and delivery services. Its insurance-duty paragraph places responsibility on you to the extent required by law and warns that not all automobile policies cover those services. Ontario separately requires an owner or lessee to insure a motor vehicle operated on a highway. Tell your insurer about store travel, shopping, customer deliveries, frequency, other apps and every driver. Ask for written confirmation of the appropriate policy and any endorsements. An insurance card, a shopper-account approval or a policy described as personal insurance does not alone prove that compensated grocery delivery is permitted.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. C.25](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90c25); [Your rights and responsibilities as a consumer | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/your-rights-and-responsibilities-consumer)

### The Ordinary Liability Minimum Is Only One Part of the Decision

Insurance Act section 251 sets the ordinary automobile liability minimum at $200,000 per accident, apart from interest and costs. FSRA describes separate liability, accident-benefit, uninsured-automobile and qualified direct-compensation property-damage protections. Those rules do not establish that a personal insurer accepts your delivery activity or that the car has collision insurance. Keep valid registration and insurance evidence for the actual automobile. The Canadian agreement requires legally appropriate amounts, including no-fault or commercial liability insurance where required; it does not publish one universal Ontario Instacart fleet limit. Confirm the insured use, people, vehicle and purchased protections together rather than treating the ordinary statutory minimum as a complete business-insurance recommendation.

Evidence: Verified. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Insurance Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. I.8 | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90i08); [What is in a standard auto insurance policy? | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/what-standard-auto-insurance-policy); [Register and insure a vehicle in Ontario | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/page/register-and-insure-vehicle-ontario); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts)

### Read the Canada Section, Not the First U.S. Agreement

The public contracts page contains United States, Canada and Canada French sections. The Canadian English preamble names Maplebear Canada ULC, while the first U.S. agreement has a different country scope. The Canadian insurance obligations appear under section 6.3; its following authority clause repeats that number. This guide preserves the actual Canadian provisions instead of importing the U.S. section numbering. The public template has placeholders for the contractor and effective date, and section 18 says the effective date is when it is signed. Public availability does not authenticate your accepted version, signature date, amendments or individual insurance. Obtain the agreement that actually governs your work when those details matter.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts)

### A Linked Application-terms Page Is Currently Unavailable

The Canadian agreement incorporates account guidelines and other linked material and describes modifications to those linked materials. Its shopper-terms-next application-terms link returned the platform’s 404 page during this review. The Canadian account guidelines were available and expressly identify a Canada section. This guide does not silently substitute an older U.S. application-terms page for the missing link or treat the gap as proof that no application terms exist. Check the documents supplied through the actual shopper relationship before relying on a complete-contract interpretation. The agreement’s Ontario governing-law clause, with its Quebec qualification, also does not determine which coverage your separate automobile insurer issued.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Instacart — Full Service Shopper Account Access Guidelines, Canada](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/guidelines)

### Adequate Insurance Is Also an Account-access Requirement

The Canada guidelines list failure to maintain adequate insurance among possible grounds for suspension or deactivation. They also describe background checks, safety, accurate account information, co-shopping and confidentiality rules. Those platform requirements do not independently establish the legal minimum for every activity or an insurer’s acceptance of a particular car and driver. Keep the current insurance documents and truthful vehicle and account information available for legitimate verification. The Canadian agreement allows requests for proof of insurance, licences, registration and relevant records as permitted by law. An active account is not an insurer’s coverage decision, and a platform review of uploaded documents does not replace the duty to disclose delivery use to your insurer.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Full Service Shopper Account Access Guidelines, Canada](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/guidelines); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Your rights and responsibilities as a consumer | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/your-rights-and-responsibilities-consumer)

### A Claim Form Is Not Proof of Ontario Fleet Insurance

The reviewed Canadian agreement says Instacart is not responsible for the listed insurance except as required by local law. The public claim forms provide reporting routes but do not authenticate an Ontario fleet insurer, current certificate, limits, deductible or your enrollment. FSRA’s published approved-program list identifies particular platforms and insurers; another app’s listed program cannot be transferred to an Instacart assignment. The checker therefore keeps this snapshot qualified. Which current delivery-permitted automobile policy and endorsements cover my actual Instacart car, drivers and full work schedule? The Canadian contract and public claim forms do not authenticate an Ontario Instacart fleet policy or my individual limits, deductibles, injury selections or claim entitlement.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Instacart — Public Auto Liability Claim Form](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/auto_claims); [Instacart — Public Non-Auto Claim Form With Canadian Processing Instructions](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/claims); [Ridesharing, carsharing and auto insurance in Ontario (protect yourself) | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/protect-yourself/ridesharing-carsharing-and-auto-insurance-ontario-protect-yourself)

## The Journey, Automobile and Ownership Must Match

### Disclose Store Travel and Shopping as Well as the Final Delivery

The Canadian agreement describes personal shopping and delivery, and the Canadian role page explains that full-service shoppers manage the order from shopping through delivery. Its customer-service obligation is not an automobile policy defining an insured period. The auto claim form asks separately about travel to the store, travel to the customer, waiting online and being offline. Those intake options help collect facts; they do not promise coverage at all four stages. Ask your insurer how the entire working schedule is classified, including repositioning and personal errands. Do not copy Amazon’s delivery-commute definitions or a passenger platform’s accepted-trip limits into Instacart’s reporting categories.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Instacart — Canadian Full-service Shopper Role](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/role/full-service); [Instacart — Public Auto Liability Claim Form](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/auto_claims); [Your rights and responsibilities as a consumer | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/your-rights-and-responsibilities-consumer)

### Occasional Work and Multi-app Permission Still Need Disclosure

The Canadian agreement permits work for other businesses, including competitors, and does not require a minimum number of accepted opportunities. That contractual flexibility does not itself create a limited-use insurance exception. Describe occasional and frequent deliveries, passenger work, other apps, kilometres and drivers to the insurer and ask which use is permitted under the actual contract. This guide does not import British Columbia’s combined-use allowance or another province’s delivery thresholds into Ontario. If more than one app is open, retain which assignment and journey were underway. A separate app’s fleet insurance may have its own definitions and conditions; business permission from Instacart does not decide competing insurers’ obligations.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Your rights and responsibilities as a consumer | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/your-rights-and-responsibilities-consumer); [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download); [Ridesharing, carsharing and auto insurance in Ontario (protect yourself) | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/protect-yourself/ridesharing-carsharing-and-auto-insurance-ontario-protect-yourself)

### Access to a Reliable Car Does Not Establish Insurance Eligibility

The Canadian shopper role page requires access to a vehicle and sets out other eligibility and onboarding requirements. The contract separately requires a lawful right to operate the vehicle and appropriate insurance and authorizations for you and any personnel. Neither statement says every car you can physically access is insured for delivery. Confirm the actual registration, owner or lessee, VIN, principal use and drivers with your insurer. A changed household car, newly acquired automobile or replacement vehicle may involve its own notification and coverage conditions. Keep the platform’s vehicle-access requirement distinct from insurer acceptance, proof of registration and any lease or lender obligations affecting that particular automobile.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Full-service Shopper Role](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/role/full-service); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Register and insure a vehicle in Ontario | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/page/register-and-insure-vehicle-ontario); [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download)

### A Borrowed Car Has a Specific Standard-policy Delivery Issue

The separately posted Ontario OAP 1 contains an other-automobiles provision with conditions, including that the other automobile is not being used to carry paying passengers or make commercial deliveries at the time of loss. It also limits coverage for certain owned or regularly used automobiles. That is a particular non-described-automobile provision, not a statement that every described automobile automatically excludes all grocery delivery. A friend’s permission and your own personal insurance card therefore do not establish coverage for a borrowed Instacart delivery car. Obtain the actual owner’s and driver’s policies, permitted use and relevant endorsements. The checker withholds its ordinary owned-car snapshot when a borrowed selection requires that separate review.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Your rights and responsibilities as a consumer | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/your-rights-and-responsibilities-consumer)

### Renting or Substituting a Car Requires More Than Legal Possession

The Canadian agreement’s right-to-operate requirement does not waive a rental company’s delivery restrictions or establish collision insurance for a substitute vehicle. The standard OAP 1 has distinct temporary-substitute, other-automobile and rental provisions with their own limitations, including commercial-delivery restrictions in the relevant other-automobile provisions. Do not assume a household replacement, repair-shop loaner and short-term rental all follow the same rules. Ask the platform, vehicle owner and insurer about the actual arrangement and current documents. A reimbursement allowance for replacement transport is a different question from permission and coverage to work in the replacement car. The checker does not extend the owned-car snapshot unchanged to a rented selection.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download); [OPCF 20 - Coverage for Transportation Replacement](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/6431/download)

### Commercial and Non-car Work Need a Different Assessment

If the same car is used for a commercial livery, taxi, Uber Black or separate courier business, describe the complete operation rather than relying on a personal grocery-delivery answer. The Canadian contract refers to legally necessary insurance, including commercial insurance where required, without authenticating every business arrangement. Likewise, a bicycle, e-bike, motorcycle or walking selection does not inherit an automobile snapshot merely because the app offers shopping work. Confirm platform eligibility and the actual legal vehicle classification and insurance. The checker withholds the ordinary owned-car research in commercial, Black-mixed and unsupported non-car cases, preserving the need for an appropriate vehicle- and activity-specific review.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Instacart — Canadian Full-service Shopper Role](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/role/full-service); [Your rights and responsibilities as a consumer | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/your-rights-and-responsibilities-consumer); [Register and insure a vehicle in Ontario | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/page/register-and-insure-vehicle-ontario)

## Helpers, Customer Property and Business Liability

### Helpers Must Meet the Canadian Personnel Conditions

Section 4 of the Canadian agreement permits personnel subject to its conditions, including eligibility, background checks and separate shopper credentials. It does not permit sharing the accepting shopper’s username and password with a friend. The shopper remains responsible for performance and for specified personnel expenses and obligations. Confirm which actual people drive, shop and deliver and whether each insurer accepts their use of the automobile. The contractual ability to engage a helper does not establish that the helper is an insured driver or that a personal policy covers an employed or subcontracted delivery operation. A coverage discussion should identify the business relationship as well as the person behind the wheel.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Instacart — Full Service Shopper Account Access Guidelines, Canada](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/guidelines); [Your rights and responsibilities as a consumer | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/your-rights-and-responsibilities-consumer)

### The Accepting Shopper’s Presence Is a Separate Rule

The Canada guidelines restrict delegating to someone without an active valid shopper account and require the shopper accepting an order to be present when it is delivered to the customer’s door. They also restrict bringing people without shopper accounts, including minors, while providing services. Those are platform rules about service, safety and privacy, not a promise that everyone present is insured under one automobile policy. Distinguish the person accepting the batch, the person driving and anyone helping inside the store or at delivery. Confirm the actual insurance and legal obligations for each role. A companion’s licence or family relationship alone does not establish permission under the platform or insurance contract.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Full Service Shopper Account Access Guidelines, Canada](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/guidelines); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download)

### A Business Name Does Not Automatically Insure Every Helper

The Canadian agreement contemplates individuals and business entities and assigns responsibilities concerning personnel. A policy issued to a corporation, an owner, a lessee or another household member may define insured people differently. The standard OAP 1 and SABS contain specific named-insured, employee, regular-use and other-person provisions that require the actual facts. Check the registered owner, policyholder, business, drivers and vehicle together instead of assuming a company account, payment name or valid shopper login extends every coverage. Where a shopper business operates several vehicles, FSRA’s fleet guidance helps explain optional-benefit person categories; it does not establish that Instacart issued a fleet policy to that business.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download); [O. Reg. 34/10: STATUTORY ACCIDENT BENEFITS SCHEDULE - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2010](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/100034); [FSRA — October 14, 2026 Fleet and Accident-benefit Guidance](https://www.fsrao.ca/industry/auto-insurance/changes-statutory-accident-benefits-coverage-ontario-july-1-2026/fsra-auto-reform-accident-benefits-optionality-qa-insurers)

### Contractual Indemnity Is Different From an Insurer’s Promise

The Canadian agreement’s indemnity provisions address claims connected with service performance, personnel and use of a vehicle. It also says Instacart is not responsible for loss, damage or depreciation to the shopper’s or personnel’s equipment, including the vehicle. These are contractual risk allocations, not an issued insurance policy. Ask the relevant insurer which third-party, business and contractual liabilities it covers and which exclusions or defence conditions apply. Do not treat signing an indemnity as proof that an automobile insurer will reimburse every resulting demand. The actual accepted contract, applicable law and insurance wording matter; this guide does not determine the enforceability of every clause or the outcome of an individual dispute.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download); [Your rights and responsibilities as a consumer | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/your-rights-and-responsibilities-consumer)

### Groceries and In-store Incidents Are Separate From Car Repairs

A damaged customer’s groceries, contamination, an injury in a store and damage to the delivery automobile involve different interests. The standard OAP 1 liability section excludes specified carried property and property in an insured’s care, custody or control, and separately addresses contamination; DCPD also has a carried-for-compensation restriction. Do not read an automobile liability limit as a blanket cargo or product-handling policy. Instacart’s public non-auto form handles different listed incident categories but does not guarantee an outcome or establish a shopper injury policy. Ask about the actual property, activity and liability and which separate contract, if any, responds, rather than assuming every loss during a batch is automobile damage.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download); [Instacart — Public Non-Auto Claim Form With Canadian Processing Instructions](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/claims); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts)

## Your Car, Deductibles and Time Off the Road

### The Canadian Contract Does Not Promise to Repair Your Car

The Canadian agreement places vehicle and insurance expenses on the shopper and disclaims responsibility for specified equipment loss or depreciation. The public auto intake form is not evidence that Instacart pays the shopper’s collision deductible or repairs. Obtain delivery-permitted coverage for the actual automobile and ask which loss-or-damage protections you purchased. FSRA distinguishes collision, comprehensive, specified perils and all perils, each with different insured events and conditions. An automobile liability policy can satisfy one obligation without insuring your own vehicle against an at-fault crash, theft or other loss. This guide does not authenticate an Instacart Ontario contingent repair limit or a universal platform-paid deductible.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Instacart — Public Auto Liability Claim Form](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/auto_claims); [Optional and extra coverage | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/optional-and-extra-coverage); [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download)

### Check the Insured Peril, Deductible and Valuation Separately

For your own delivery-permitted policy, identify the applicable loss section, purchased coverage, deductible and settlement method. A collision with an object and a theft or vandalism loss need not follow the same insured peril or deductible. The standard OAP 1 also describes valuation, repair and replacement conditions; an outstanding loan is not itself the insured value of the car. Do not import another app’s matching-cover condition, $1,000 or $2,500 deductible, or replacement-cost promise into an Instacart answer. Selecting yes for personal comprehensive and collision in the checker still does not prove the insurer accepts delivery use, every driver or the particular loss under the issued contract.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Optional and extra coverage | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/optional-and-extra-coverage); [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts)

### Not-at-fault Damage Has Its Own Legal Conditions

Insurance Act section 263, the automobile regulation and the fault-determination rules govern qualified direct-compensation property damage. A statement that another motorist caused the crash is not a complete DCPD determination: the location, vehicles, insurance, fault allocation and relevant policy conditions matter. Separate that route from purchased collision repairs and from a liability claim concerning another person’s property. If the other vehicle cannot be identified or the accident occurred outside the relevant conditions, another policy section may need examination. The shopper agreement’s duties and the platform’s claim form do not settle those questions. Ask your insurer to identify the actual coverage and deductible rather than assuming all delivery-period damage follows one route.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Insurance Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. I.8 | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90i08); [R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664 AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/900664); [R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 668 FAULT DETERMINATION RULES | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/900668); [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download)

### A DCPD Election Can Remove Important Protection

Ontario’s regulation permits a written election not to recover DCPD damages, with rules concerning revocation. FSRA’s OPCF 49 form explains consequences for vehicle damage, contents and loss of use and the effect on collision availability. That blank form does not prove you signed an election or that an insurer attached it to your policy. If considering or reviewing reduced coverage, check the actual certificate and signed documents rather than assuming Instacart supplies whatever was removed. A smaller premium and an app’s acceptance of a driver do not establish equivalent protection for the delivery car. Obtain an explanation of how the election and current purchased coverages affect the actual vehicle and loss.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [OPCF 49 Agreement Not to Recover for Loss or Damage from an Automobile Collision (for Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1)](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/15011/download); [R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664 AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/900664); [Optional and extra coverage | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/optional-and-extra-coverage); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts)

### Replacement Transport Needs an Actual Purchased Benefit

FSRA’s standard OPCF 20 describes reasonable transportation-replacement expenses after a qualifying insured loss, subject to selected limits, start and end conditions and the applicable deductible-related requirement. It is not automatically included just because a shopper needs a car to earn income, and a separately posted form is not proof of attachment. Check the actual benefit, receipts, daily or total cap and when reimbursement ends under your policy. A rental allowance does not by itself authorize commercial delivery in the rented car. The Canadian agreement and claim forms do not authenticate an Ontario Instacart rental allowance or a guaranteed payment for every day the automobile is unavailable.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [OPCF 20 - Coverage for Transportation Replacement](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/6431/download); [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts)

### Lost Batches and Finance Payments Are Not the Same Loss

A car-repair settlement, transport reimbursement, an injury income benefit and loss of business revenue have different conditions and purposes. The Canadian agreement says there is no guarantee of delivery opportunities and assigns business expenses to the shopper. That does not establish insurance for missed batches, tips, equipment, finance instalments or a remaining total-loss balance. Ask which separate benefits or policies, if any, address those interests and what evidence and limits apply. Do not equate a compensation estimate shown in the app with insured future income. Preserve business and vehicle records relevant to an actual claim, and keep the policy’s loss calculation separate from the amount you expected to earn.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Optional and extra coverage | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/optional-and-extra-coverage); [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download); [O. Reg. 34/10: STATUTORY ACCIDENT BENEFITS SCHEDULE - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2010](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/100034)

## Injury Benefits and Ontario’s July 2026 Choices

### Delivery Permission Does Not Answer the Injury-benefit Question

Ontario’s July 1, 2026 reforms made specified accident benefits optional while medical, rehabilitation and attendant-care benefits remain mandatory. FSRA’s factsheet and filing guidance and the current SABS provide the relevant detail. A delivery-permitted policy does not by itself identify the selected income, caregiver, household, death or other benefits. Obtain the actual policy dates, renewal and written changes. The Canadian shopper contract’s requirement to secure legally necessary insurance is not proof that any particular optional benefit was purchased. This guide does not transfer another app’s fleet selections, California protections or a U.S. shopper injury headline into your Ontario automobile policy.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [O. Reg. 34/10: STATUTORY ACCIDENT BENEFITS SCHEDULE - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2010](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/100034); [Fact Sheet 2026 Accident Benefits Reforms - What Ontario drivers need to know](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/29826/download); [Changes in Statutory Accident Benefits coverage in Ontario on July 1, 2026 | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/industry/auto-insurance/changes-statutory-accident-benefits-coverage-ontario-july-1-2026); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts)

### Renewal Continuation and Eligible People Need Actual Facts

The SABS transition rules address policies issued or renewed before July 1, 2026 and deemed continuation unless the relevant written changes are made. Post-reform optional-benefit eligibility also uses named-insured, spouse, dependant, listed-driver and qualifying deemed-insured concepts. FSRA’s fleet guidance explains why those categories require attention in business arrangements. A helper with a shopper account, a vehicle supplied for regular use and a driver named on a certificate are not automatically interchangeable for every benefit. Check the actual policy, dates and relationship to the automobile. A current blank OPCF 47R or a general fleet explanation does not prove attachment, a signed selection or that every person associated with the shopper business is eligible.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [O. Reg. 34/10: STATUTORY ACCIDENT BENEFITS SCHEDULE - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2010](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/100034); [FSRA — October 14, 2026 Fleet and Accident-benefit Guidance](https://www.fsrao.ca/industry/auto-insurance/changes-statutory-accident-benefits-coverage-ontario-july-1-2026/fsra-auto-reform-accident-benefits-optionality-qa-insurers); [OPCF 47R-Optional accident benefits coverage & priority of payment](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28276/download); [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download)

### Medical Limits Depend on Injury Classification and Applicable Options

SABS section 18 generally limits medical and rehabilitation benefits for a predominantly minor injury to $3,500 plus applicable HST, with a specified exception involving compelling evidence of a documented pre-existing condition. For people outside that financial limit, combined medical, rehabilitation and attendant-care benefits generally have a $65,000 cap, or $1 million for catastrophic impairment, plus applicable HST, unless available optional benefits modify the amounts. These are conditional statutory frameworks, not three separate guaranteed payments to an injured shopper. Assessments and report costs can count toward the limits under the stated rules. Ask which classification, expense conditions and current options apply rather than assuming a shopper login establishes unlimited treatment.

Evidence: Verified. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [O. Reg. 34/10: STATUTORY ACCIDENT BENEFITS SCHEDULE - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2010](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/100034); [What is in a standard auto insurance policy? | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/what-standard-auto-insurance-policy)

### Income Replacement Is Not Automatically the Value of Missed Orders

SABS sections 5 and 6 use specific employment or self-employment eligibility and substantial-inability tests; the insurer need not pay for the first disability week. After 104 weeks, the stated test is complete inability to engage in work reasonably suited to the person’s education, training or experience. Section 7 uses a 70% calculation framework, prescribed employment and business amounts and offsets, with the amount fixed by the optional benefit as a limit. Section 4 addresses business income or loss and tax reporting. Gross Instacart deposits, tips or a list of missed opportunities alone do not establish the payable weekly amount. Keep suitable earnings and medical evidence and obtain the actual current selection and calculation.

Evidence: Verified. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [O. Reg. 34/10: STATUTORY ACCIDENT BENEFITS SCHEDULE - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2010](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/100034); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts)

### The Contract Does Not Decide WSIB Status by Itself

The Canadian agreement assigns workers’ compensation and other listed insurance responsibilities to the extent required by local law. It does not independently determine every shopper’s WSIB classification or the treatment of helpers. WSIB’s independent-operator guidance addresses transportation, courier and delivery work and the relevant status and optional-coverage process. Ask about the actual business relationship, vehicle, personnel and any changes that could affect an earlier determination. Keep workplace protection separate from automobile accident benefits, car repairs and any private injury product. An independent-contractor label or one insurance certificate does not prove that every employment, registration, benefit or offset question has been resolved for the individual operation.

Evidence: Verified. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [WSIB — Independent Operators and Rideshare Status](https://www.wsib.ca/en/businesses/registration-and-coverage/independent-operators); [O. Reg. 34/10: STATUTORY ACCIDENT BENEFITS SCHEDULE - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2010](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/100034)

### Uninsured Automobile and Family Protection Need Separate Review

The standard OAP 1 and FSRA’s OPCF 44R form address different uninsured-automobile and family-protection interests. Bodily injury from an uninsured, unidentified or inadequately insured motorist is not the same as collision damage to the shopper’s car. Confirm the actual insured people, applicable automobile, purchased family-protection limit, other insurance, offsets and evidence requirements. Some unidentified-vehicle allegations require corroborating independent or physical evidence under the relevant wording; a batch log is not a substitute for every condition. The separate public 44R form does not establish that your insurer attached it or selected a particular limit. Preserve relevant evidence promptly and obtain the actual policy applicable to the accident date.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download); [OPCF 44R Family Protection Coverage — FSRA posted AF-097E (2026)](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28621/download); [Insurance Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. I.8 | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90i08)

### Do Not Invent an Instacart-first Injury Priority Rule

Insurance Act section 268 and the applicable SABS govern accident-benefit priority and eligibility. A separately issued OPCF 47R may affect the relevant arrangement, but its public blank form is not proof that an individual policy has been changed. The Canadian shopper contract and claim forms reviewed here do not authenticate an Instacart fleet endorsement promising to pay first for your Ontario injury. Identify the actual owner, driver, policies, insured-person relationships and current endorsements rather than copying another app’s priority wording. A disagreement about which insurer pays first is also different from a denial that the person qualifies for the requested benefit or amount.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Insurance Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. I.8 | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90i08); [O. Reg. 34/10: STATUTORY ACCIDENT BENEFITS SCHEDULE - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2010](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/100034); [OPCF 47R-Optional accident benefits coverage & priority of payment](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28276/download); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts)

## Reporting the Right Incident to the Right Recipient

### The Public Auto Form Is an Intake Route, Not an Insurance Certificate

The public auto liability form accepts shopper, insurer, attorney and third-party relationship categories and asks for accident and insurance information. It is linked by Instacart’s non-auto page, which expressly addresses Canadian payment processing, but the auto form itself uses State and Zip code labels and does not disclose an Ontario insurer or policy. Confirm the appropriate Ontario reporting process through the actual support relationship. Do not submit placeholder personal details simply to test the form. Its availability does not establish acceptance of a claim, a duty to pay or an exemption from reporting to the vehicle’s insurer. A claim reference is different from coverage confirmation.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Public Auto Liability Claim Form](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/auto_claims); [Instacart — Public Non-Auto Claim Form With Canadian Processing Instructions](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/claims); [After an Accident: Understanding the Claims Process | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/protect-yourself/after-accident-understanding-claims-process)

### Use the Form’s Stage Questions to Record Facts Accurately

The auto form distinguishes travel to the customer, travel to the retailer, waiting for an opportunity and offline activity. It also asks for the retailer, injuries to someone other than the shopper, property damage, vehicle information, personal insurer and whether that insurer was notified. Preserve the actual assignment, route purpose, people and timing instead of choosing whichever stage seems most likely to produce coverage. The form’s categories are questions, not insured-period definitions. Keep safe photographs and legitimate supporting evidence, but protect customer information. The Canadian guidelines restrict disclosure of customer identities, addresses and app screenshots containing sensitive information; send necessary material only through an appropriate authorized claim process.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Public Auto Liability Claim Form](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/auto_claims); [Instacart — Full Service Shopper Account Access Guidelines, Canada](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/guidelines); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts)

### The Non-auto Form Does Not Establish Shopper Injury Insurance

Instacart’s non-auto page lists injury, property damage, allergy, food poisoning and pest-infestation categories and says the incident must be connected with an order. Its requester choices include customers, third parties, insurers or authorized representatives and attorneys; the existence of an injury category does not authenticate an Ontario shopper accident-insurance benefit. The page also calls direct submission voluntary and expressly gives no guarantee of outcome or resolution time. Determine whether the event concerns another person’s claim, your own injury, vehicle damage or a different business exposure. The right reporting route and the existence of an insured entitlement are separate questions requiring the actual facts and applicable contract.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Public Non-Auto Claim Form With Canadian Processing Instructions](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/claims); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [O. Reg. 34/10: STATUTORY ACCIDENT BENEFITS SCHEDULE - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2010](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/100034)

### The 45-day Statement Is Not a Promise to Settle Every Claim

The non-auto page describes Canadian release and payment-document requirements and asks claimants to allow up to 45 days from the signed date for payment handling and processing. It separately warns that outcomes and claim-resolution times are not guaranteed. Do not turn that post-document processing statement into a 45-day coverage investigation or settlement guarantee after an accident. Confirm which documents actually apply, what a proposed release covers and which rights or claims remain in dispute before relying on the process. A public form’s labels do not resolve an individual tax-document or legal-rights question, and missing or inaccurate paperwork can affect handling without proving that an underlying claim is insured.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Instacart — Public Non-Auto Claim Form With Canadian Processing Instructions](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/claims); [Your rights and responsibilities as a consumer | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/your-rights-and-responsibilities-consumer)

### Platform Reporting Does Not Replace Insurer Notice or Injury Forms

FSRA’s claim guidance generally calls for insurer notification within seven days, or as soon as possible when unable. SABS section 32 generally requires notice of an intention to apply within seven days after circumstances giving rise to entitlement, or as soon as practicable, and a completed signed application within 30 days after receiving the forms. Section 34 addresses a reasonable explanation for a time-limit failure. These are different steps from opening an Instacart support conversation or completing a vehicle intake form. Keep delivery and receipt records and ask the actual insurer which current notices, forms and supporting evidence remain due for the specific claim.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [After an Accident: Understanding the Claims Process | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/protect-yourself/after-accident-understanding-claims-process); [O. Reg. 34/10: STATUTORY ACCIDENT BENEFITS SCHEDULE - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2010](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/100034); [Instacart — Public Auto Liability Claim Form](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/auto_claims)

### Protect the Vehicle and Keep Proof and Limitation Questions Separate

The standard OAP 1 addresses protecting the automobile from further damage, inspection, proof of loss and repair or settlement conditions. It includes a stated 90-day sworn-proof condition for automobile loss, with relevant qualifications and other provisions requiring review. Insurance Act section 128 and the applicable appraisal terms address defined valuation or repair disagreements, not every coverage issue. Obtain the actual issued wording rather than assuming the latest public form is your entire contract. Keep estimates, receipts and safe photographs and confirm consent before nonessential repairs or destroying evidence. Proof, payment and legal action periods are distinct; a platform conversation or continuing negotiation does not establish that an applicable deadline stopped.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download); [Insurance Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. I.8 | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90i08); [After an Accident: Understanding the Claims Process | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/protect-yourself/after-accident-understanding-claims-process)

### Forward Legal Papers and Check Settlement Conditions

The standard OAP 1 liability section describes an insurer’s defence of covered automobile lawsuits and requires insured people to forward written claim materials and legal documents immediately. It also addresses assuming liability, settling a claim and interfering with the insurer’s proceedings or negotiations. Those conditions must be read with the actual issued coverage and facts; they are not a promise to defend every contractual or in-store dispute. If a shopper receives a demand involving personnel, groceries, another vehicle or an Instacart indemnity, identify the actual claim and notify the appropriate insurer promptly. Before promising payment or signing a release, confirm how the proposed settlement affects the insurer’s rights and the specific outstanding claims.

Evidence: Company-reported. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts); [Instacart — Public Non-Auto Claim Form With Canadian Processing Instructions](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/claims)

## Resolve the Specific Insurance or Platform Issue

### Insurer Priority Has Its Own Payment Procedure

Regulation 283/95 requires appropriate forms when an insurer is notified of an intention to seek accident benefits. An insurer supplying the application must not obstruct completion, refuse it or redirect the applicant. The first insurer receiving a completed application must commence benefits in accordance with the SABS while priority issues are resolved. That procedure does not establish every benefit’s eligibility or justify inconsistent duplicate claims. Retain proof of receipt and identify whether the actual dispute concerns insurer priority, benefit entitlement, an amount, car value or a platform account decision.

Evidence: Verified. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [O. Reg. 283/95 DISPUTES BETWEEN INSURERS | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/950283); [O. Reg. 34/10: STATUTORY ACCIDENT BENEFITS SCHEDULE - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2010](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/100034); [Insurance Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. I.8 | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90i08)

### Insurer Complaints and Account Appeals Are Separate

FSRA’s consumer complaint guidance starts with the insurer’s complaint officer and a final position letter. The Canadian account guidelines separately describe providing new evidence through the Trust and Safety deactivation email. Those routes address different decisions and do not themselves guarantee compensation or suspend legal deadlines. Keep the relevant policy wording, account notice, chronology and requested remedy and direct sensitive information to the appropriate recipient. The guidelines’ process does not establish that no other legal rights apply. Identify the actual disputed decision before assuming one support conversation resolves every insurance and platform issue.

Evidence: Verified. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Submit a complaint to FSRA | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/how-resolve-auto-insurance-complaint); [Your rights and responsibilities as a consumer | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/your-rights-and-responsibilities-consumer); [Instacart — Full Service Shopper Account Access Guidelines, Canada](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/guidelines)

### LAT-AABS Does Not Decide Every Delivery-related Dispute

Insurance Act section 280 and Tribunals Ontario’s guidance concern statutory accident-benefit entitlement and amounts. LAT-AABS does not decide car damage, fault, pain-and-suffering claims or insurer priority; its guidance generally describes a two-year application period after a denial notice and possible extensions. Other contractual or legal issues may use different processes and deadlines. Obtain timely advice about the actual dispute. For an individual coverage decision, retain the current certificate, endorsements, accepted shopper agreement, delivery permission, drivers, vehicle and benefit selections. This public-source guide does not authenticate those individual documents or determine claim entitlement.

Evidence: Verified. Scope: Ontario Instacart full-service independent-contractor shopping and delivery using an ordinary owned car, unless an alternative arrangement is expressly discussed. Canadian public contract/guidelines and current Ontario law are distinguished from individual accepted agreements, issued policies, benefit selections, platform enrollment and claim entitlement, which are not authenticated. Checked 2026-10-27.

Sources: [Application and hearing process - Tribunals Ontario](https://tribunalsontario.ca/lat-aabs/application-and-hearing-process/); [Insurance Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. I.8 | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90i08); [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download); [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts)

## Sources

- [Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. C.25](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90c25) — Government of Ontario (e-Laws); Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act, especially s.2: insured motor vehicle operation and proof; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [Insurance Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. I.8 | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90i08) — Government of Ontario (e-Laws); Part VI, especially ss.233, 251, 268 and 280: contract, liability minimum, accident benefits and disputes; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [O. Reg. 34/10: STATUTORY ACCIDENT BENEFITS SCHEDULE - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2010](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/100034) — Government of Ontario (e-Laws); Current consolidation from July 1, 2026: insured persons, mandatory and optional benefits, applications and entitlement; accessed 2026-10-27.

- [O. Reg. 283/95 DISPUTES BETWEEN INSURERS | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/950283) — Government of Ontario (e-Laws); O.Reg.283/95, ss.2.1–3 and 6–7: applications and insurer priority disputes; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 668 FAULT DETERMINATION RULES | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/900668) — Government of Ontario (e-Laws); Fault Determination Rules: allocation for vehicle-damage claims; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [Fact Sheet 2026 Accident Benefits Reforms - What Ontario drivers need to know](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/29826/download) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; 2026 reform: existing policy renewal, optional benefits and covered-person change; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [Changes in Statutory Accident Benefits coverage in Ontario on July 1, 2026 | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/industry/auto-insurance/changes-statutory-accident-benefits-coverage-ontario-july-1-2026) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; July 2026 statutory accident-benefit optionality and insurer filings; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [What is in a standard auto insurance policy? | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/what-standard-auto-insurance-policy) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; Mandatory liability, accident benefits, uninsured automobile and DCPD qualifications; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [Optional and extra coverage | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/optional-and-extra-coverage) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; Optional benefits and collision/comprehensive choices; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [Ridesharing, carsharing and auto insurance in Ontario (protect yourself) | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/protect-yourself/ridesharing-carsharing-and-auto-insurance-ontario-protect-yourself) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; Separate ridesharing, carsharing and delivery approved-product lists; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [After an Accident: Understanding the Claims Process | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/protect-yourself/after-accident-understanding-claims-process) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; Reporting, fault, repairs, claim evidence and DCPD opt-out; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [Your rights and responsibilities as a consumer | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/your-rights-and-responsibilities-consumer) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; Accurate applications, changes in use, policy information and written reasons; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [Submit a complaint to FSRA | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario](https://www.fsrao.ca/how-resolve-auto-insurance-complaint) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; Insurance-company complaint process, final position and FSRA scope; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [Application and hearing process - Tribunals Ontario](https://tribunalsontario.ca/lat-aabs/application-and-hearing-process/) — Tribunals Ontario; LAT-AABS jurisdiction, exclusions and application deadline; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [Register and insure a vehicle in Ontario | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/page/register-and-insure-vehicle-ontario) — Ontario Ministry of Transportation; Ontario vehicle registration, insurance and evidence; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [OPCF 49 Agreement Not to Recover for Loss or Damage from an Automobile Collision (for Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1)](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/15011/download) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; OPCF 49 warning and election not to recover collision/DCPD losses; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [OPCF 20 - Coverage for Transportation Replacement](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/6431/download) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; OPCF 20: insured-peril trigger, deductible condition, rental costs and limits; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [OPCF 44R Family Protection Coverage — FSRA posted AF-097E (2026)](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28621/download) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; OPCF 44R: eligible claimant, inadequately insured motorist, limits and deductions; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [OPCF 47R-Optional accident benefits coverage & priority of payment](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28276/download) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; OPCF 47R: purchased/declined benefits, covered persons and priority agreement; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664 AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE | ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/900664) — Government of Ontario (e-Laws); Reg.664: s.5.2: written DCPD election and revocation; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [Ontario Automobile Policy OAP 1 Owner’s Policy — July 2026](https://www.fsrao.ca/media/28946/download) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; OAP 1-EN.5 (07-2026): ss.1.4, 1.8, 2.2.4 and 3–7; statutory conditions; accessed 2026-10-26.

- [FSRA — October 14, 2026 Fleet and Accident-benefit Guidance](https://www.fsrao.ca/industry/auto-insurance/changes-statutory-accident-benefits-coverage-ontario-july-1-2026/fsra-auto-reform-accident-benefits-optionality-qa-insurers) — Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario; October 14, 2026 update: Fleet Policies and Optional Accident Benefits; OPCF 47R, covered persons, deemed named insureds and continuing selections; accessed 2026-10-27.

- [WSIB — Independent Operators and Rideshare Status](https://www.wsib.ca/en/businesses/registration-and-coverage/independent-operators) — Ontario Workplace Safety and Insurance Board; July 10, 2026 guidance: transportation/rideshare status rulings, same-VIN reuse, changed vehicles and optional insurance; accessed 2026-10-27.

- [Instacart — Canadian Independent Contractor Agreement](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/contracts) — Instacart / Maplebear Canada ULC; Canada English section: preamble and sections 1–7, 8 and 14–18; insurance subsection 6.3, personnel section 4, and proof and vehicle-loss provisions in section 7. Individual accepted version not authenticated.; accessed 2026-10-27.

- [Instacart — Full Service Shopper Account Access Guidelines, Canada](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/guidelines) — Instacart; Complete visibly headed Canada section: adequate insurance, co-shopping, accepting-shopper presence, confidential customer information, safety and account appeal. Legacy state terminology in some examples is not an independent Ontario legal finding.; accessed 2026-10-27.

- [Instacart — Canadian Full-service Shopper Role](https://shoppers.instacart.ca/role/full-service) — Instacart; Native Canadian eligibility/vehicle access, shopping and delivery scope, independent-contractor role and app help. Not insurance enrollment or an in-store employee coverage determination; accessed 2026-10-27.

- [Instacart — Public Auto Liability Claim Form](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/auto_claims) — Instacart; Blank form only: claimant roles, stage questions, other-person injury, vehicle and insurer reporting. State/ZIP labels; Ontario-specific workflow, insurer or coverage not authenticated; accessed 2026-10-27.

- [Instacart — Public Non-Auto Claim Form With Canadian Processing Instructions](https://shoppers.instacart.com/secure_forms/claims) — Instacart; Complete blank form and public instructions: voluntary review, no guarantee of outcome or resolution time, Canadian release and payment processing, 45 days from signed paperwork, requester categories and a separate auto claim link. This is not a shopper insurance policy.; accessed 2026-10-27.

## Related Reading

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[Do I Need Insurance for DoorDash in Ontario?](https://spot.insure/driving-insurance/doordash/ontario)

[Do I Need Insurance for Lyft in Ontario?](https://spot.insure/driving-insurance/lyft/ontario)

[Do I Need Insurance for Skip in Ontario?](https://spot.insure/driving-insurance/skip/ontario)

[Do I Need Insurance for Uber in Ontario?](https://spot.insure/driving-insurance/uber/ontario)

[Do I Need Insurance for Uber Black in Ontario?](https://spot.insure/driving-insurance/uber-black/ontario)

[Do I Need Insurance for Uber Eats in Ontario?](https://spot.insure/driving-insurance/uber-eats/ontario)

Research uses official platform rules, government legislation, regulators and insurer-issued documents. Unknown local policies are identified explicitly. This guide is a checklist, not a determination that you are insured or eligible for a platform.

Spot publishes this research and works in the insurance market. Source review is AI-assisted; no independent insurance-professional review is claimed.

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