In June, a Regina woman who became known as “the poutine bandit” was caught on camera vandalizing Daryl Siba’s automobile by pouring that cheesy goo all over it. While this act of wrongdoing was a relatively harmless act that made for a funny YouTube video, car vandalism has become a growing concern for many Canadian consumers.
As a result, Manitoba Public Insurance has announced it has eliminated the deductible on policyholders’ vandalism claims for all $100 and $200 extension packages, according to Global News.
To offset the cost, premiums will increase by three to five dollars beginning March 1, 2016.
Manitoba’s Justice Minister Gord Mackintosh said that the province changed the policy to help ease the financial burden on consumers. He also mentioned that vandalism should mirror auto thefts claims, which do not require automobile owners to pay deductibles.
“When people that are victimized like this ask for help, it’s important that government listen,” he said, in his public announcement. “It’s harming our sense of security while also harming family finances. That’s a double victimization.”
Although the data on auto vandalism in Manitoba is sparse, many residents feel that anecdotal evidence supports the idea that instances are on the rise.
Jon Waldman, for example, told Global News that he no longer locks his car since vandals have broken in 10 times over the past year, and the financial loss from theft is preferable to any ensuing deductible.
“I’ve paid $600 in deductibles in the past year. It’s ridiculous to have to pay for that,” Waldman said. “With word now from MPI, it is certainly comforting that should anything happen in the future, there will be coverage. But it’s unfortunate we had to go through six or seven months now to get to this point.”
The waiver will cover all forms of vandalism, including shattered windows and scratches caused by car keying. Although it officially takes effect October 1, any claims that are filed before then will be grandfathered into the provision.
