Vehicle Modifications - Archived September 21, 2026

Policy

Subject to clinical evidence supporting need, the WSIB may authorize vehicle modification.

Guidelines

The WSIB may authorize vehicle modification when modification to a worker's personal vehicle will improve or enhance quality of life and facilitate

mobility within the community, and
socialization - family, friends, organization.

Payment for vehicle modification will only be authorized where the modification is essential to the safe operation of, or to the worker's ability to enter, leave and operate the vehicle.

Types Of Modification

Examples of vehicle modification include

hand controls
elevating devices
dimmer switches
spinner knobs
van roof extension
special seats.

Payment

Before payment or reimbursement of modification costs and/or instruction on the operation of a modified vehicle can be made, the WSIB must receive confirmation

of the clinical need and advisability,
from the Ministry of Transportation that the injured worker has the authority to operate the vehicle in question, and
from the insurance company that they are aware of the condition and the worker's insurance is still in effect,
from the worker that the work has been satisfactorily concluded,
that the age and/or condition of the vehicle is such that the modification is warranted, and
where doubt exists, a Certificate of Mechanical Fitness shall be obtained by the worker.

NOTE

The WSIB will not authorize replacement and/or repair when damage to the vehicle modification is attributable to misuse and is in conflict with warranty requirements and recommended operating instructions.

Exceptions

The WSIB cannot authorize major vehicle modifications such as hand controls and elevating devices when the work-related condition is temporary in nature, for example, limbs encased in plaster.

Application date

This policy applies to all decisions made on or after July 1, 1989, for all accidents.

Document History

This document replaces 06-05-04 dated July 1989.

References

Legislative Authority

Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997, as amended
Section 32(e)

Workers' Compensation Act, R.S.O. 1990, as amended
Section 52

Minute

Board of Directors
#8(L), June 10, 2004, Page 6624