To prevent the abuse of a loophole, Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) has changed its definition of “antique vehicle.”
Originally, “vehicles 30 years old or older” were considered “antique,” but under the new definition, only “vehicles that are model year 1987 and older” are classified as such.
The definition change came into effect at the start of 2018.
“This change means that vehicles with a model year of 1988 and newer will not be eligible to be registered for antique use…this change does not impact any vehicles currently registered for antique use” said SGI media relations manager Tyler McMurchy.
McMurchy explained that the change was made to address an “imbalance.”
“The intent of the Antique Use class, when it was originally created, was to accommodate vintage vehicles that were used infrequently – for parades or special occasions or Sunday drives,” he said. “But we’ve seen an increasing trend where antique-registered vehicles are also being used as regular use vehicles, driven daily in many cases.”
McMurchy also told
CJGX that because these antique-registered vehicles are insured at a low cost, it does not adequately compensate for the injury and liability claim payouts in the event of a collision.
In a news release, SGI said that physical damage coverage for antique vehicles is limited to $800 dollars, with full liability and injury benefits provided.
Furthermore, all vintage vehicles pay the same insurance premium of $85 dollars plus PST annually, regardless of vehicle make or body style.
McMurchy noted that the change was made following consultations between SGI, car clubs, and antique car owners.
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