Commercial truck drivers are keeping our economy moving, our grocery shelves stocked, and medical supplies and packages delivered – so that many of us can stay home and be safe. When the Government of Canada issued an advisory in March that all non-essential travel should be avoided, a concern was sparked that this could impact insurance for emergency out‐of‐country medical expenses as well as coverage for truck drivers who were deemed an essential service and therefore crossing the border.

In response, the Canadian Trucking Alliance (who represents all of the provincial commercial transportation associations), engaged with the insurance industry to gain clarification, in order to help keep the supply chain moving. On March 19, the Canada Life and Health Insurance Association (CLHIA) published that commercial truck drivers with group insurance coverage would continue to have coverage for emergency out‐of‐country medical expenses.

While this clarified group insurance, it still left a concern for owner-operators, who make up a large part of the commercial transportation sector. Through further inquiry and discussion, the CLHIA again responded on March 25 and confirmed that drivers who hold individual policies (owners/ operators) would also be covered. Drivers are encouraged to carry a letter that identifies their employment and that they identify themselves as an essential worker when crossing the border. The Government of Canada developed a specific letter for this purpose, and it can be easily printed on your company’s letterhead by following the link below.

“It is critical that drivers have access to safety supplies, amenities as well as health insurance as they continue to work night and day to deliver essential goods during the pandemic. We are pleased to see that the CLHIA is working with industry to deliver such coverage for fleets as well as owner-operators,” states Chris Nash, president of the Alberta Motor Transport Association.

It is important to note, that CLHIA members represent the vast majority of Canada’s life and health insurance business. However, if you are uncertain if your insurance provider is a member of CLHIA please contact them directly, or contact your own insurance broker for clarification.

Resources

Letter that identifies driver as an essential service

March 19 CLHIA News Release: Insurers confirm continued out-of-country health insurance coverage for commercial trucking industry

March 25 CLHIA News Release: Travel insurers confirm individual health insurance coverage for commercial truckers

Other resources can be found on AMTA’s site