November 14, 2001

SGI Changes Benefit Customers

Major changes are underway at SGI.

"Saskatchewan motorists have told us they want to see changes and we’ve listened " said Crown Investments Corporation Minister Maynard Sonntag. "I am pleased to announce that Saskatchewan motorists will soon have more choices when it comes to injury insurance coverage, a reward program for safe drivers and better customer service at SGI."

"The independent committee which reviewed the Personal Injury Protection Plan (PIPP), or no-fault insurance as we more commonly know it, did an excellent job and the government will be adopting virtually every recommendation put forward to improve the program," Sonntag said. "These changes will take effect as soon as necessary legislation is passed this Spring. Saskatchewan motorists will have among the best auto injury insurance benefits in the country at very affordable rates."

While the injury coverage provided under no fault insurance meets the needs of the vast majority of Saskatchewan motorists, there are some motorists who want a very different kind of auto injury coverage. In response, SGI will begin work immediately on developing an alternative coverage where vehicle owners and their families can elect to receive less extensive injury benefits from SGI, but can sue for pain and suffering, subject to a deductible, where there is an at fault party. This coverage choice will be available to vehicle owners by the end of 2002.

"Saskatchewan motorists have identified a discount program for safe drivers as a top priority," announced Sonntag. "Effective July 1, 2002 safe drivers will be eligible for a discount on their vehicle insurance premiums. SGI records show that the vast majority of Saskatchewan drivers are safe drivers and will be entitled to a discount."

The Safe Driver Rewards Program will take into account the driving records of all Saskatchewan motorists. Individuals who own passenger vehicles with private and farm class plates and have driving records free of at-fault accidents and certain traffic violations will be eligible for a discount on their insurance premiums.

SGI has also been working to improve its service, with specialized training for all front-line staff, customer service targets in all claims handling areas and 24 hour emergency claims service. Effective Dec. 1, SGI will be expanding its hours of operation to provide full auto claims service in its two busiest centres, Regina and Saskatoon. Service will be available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday to Friday and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday.

"SGI has worked diligently for several years to eliminate a deficit in the Auto Fund that reached a high of $128 million. At mid-year this year, the deficit was virtually eliminated and the Auto Fund is projecting a small surplus this year. As a result, SGI will be able to implement these new programs and service improvements without a rate increase in 2002," Sonntag said.

For media inquiries only, contact:
Julianne Jack
SGI Communications
Regina
(306) 775-6907

For all other inquiries, call 1-800-667-8015.

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