Drivers can renew by phone, email: ICBC

B.C. drivers affected by the coronavirus will be able to renew their auto insurance by phone or email under changes announced Wednesday by the Insurance Corp. of B.C.

Although some insurance brokers remain open for in-person transactions, others will also offer ways to renew insurance without having to visit a location in person, ICBC said in a statement. The change could help those who have the virus, are in self-isolation or otherwise unable to get to a physical broker’s office during the crisis.

Basic vehicle insurance renewal, cancellations and policy changes can be done by phone at some brokers, and motorists will be allowed to receive their policy documents by email, submit their signatures electronically and arrange payments over the phone, according to the Crown corporation.

“ICBC’s top priority is the health and safety of its customers, partners and employees, and that’s why we are moving forward with emergency protocols to allow brokers to conduct ICBC business over the phone during this difficult time,” said Nicolas Jimenez, ICBC’s president.

The move does not allow for online renewals, which ICBC and the B.C. government have previously said they are exploring as part of future reforms to the auto insurer.

People whose driver’s licence expires during the coronavirus pandemic will still have to go in person to an ICBC office to have it renewed. The corporation said Wednesday it is “working actively on further options across the board to support customers and employees.”

ICBC has already cancelled road tests during the outbreak.