Jennifer Oegema, BBA, CAIB, CPIB Ontario Trucking Insurance is a network of RIBO-licensed insurance brokers specializing in commercial trucking. All content is written and reviewed by active industry professionals with direct underwriting experience. Expert review by Jennifer Oegema, BBA, CAIB, CPIB (Oegema, Nicholson & Associates), edited by Rajwinder Minhas (Five Star Insurance Brokers). Our editorial standards →
In Ontario, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) provides mandatory workers' compensation coverage for most employees. If you operate a trucking company with W-2 employees, WSIB registration is required by law. It covers work-related injuries and illnesses, providing income replacement and medical benefits while protecting your business from employee lawsuits.
What Is Workers' Compensation (WSIB)?
Workers' compensation is a government-mandated insurance program that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill due to their job. In Ontario, it's administered by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB).
WSIB Benefits Include:
- Medical Coverage — All reasonable medical treatment, rehabilitation, and prescription costs
- Wage Replacement — 85% of net earnings during recovery (up to maximum insurable earnings)
- Permanent Disability — Ongoing benefits for lasting impairments
- Survivor Benefits — Pension and lump sum benefits if an employee dies on the job
- Return to Work Support — Vocational rehabilitation and modified work assistance
WSIB vs. Occupational Accident Insurance
WSIB is for W-2 employees—people on your payroll. Independent contractors and owner-operators typically don't qualify for WSIB and need occupational accident insurance instead. Misclassifying workers can lead to significant WSIB penalties and retroactive premiums.
Why Do Trucking Companies Need WSIB?
It's the Law
Ontario law requires WSIB coverage for most employers. Operating without coverage exposes you to significant fines, plus you'd be personally liable for all employee injury costs.
Lawsuit Protection
WSIB provides "no-fault" coverage. In exchange for guaranteed benefits, employees give up the right to sue you for workplace injuries. This protects you from costly litigation.
Protect Your Drivers
Trucking is a high-risk industry. When employees are hurt, WSIB ensures they receive proper medical care and income replacement while recovering.
Shipper Requirements
Many shippers and carriers require proof of WSIB coverage before contracting with you. Clearinghouse registrations often require WSIB verification.
How Much Does WSIB Cost for Trucking?
WSIB premiums are calculated as a percentage of your insurable payroll. For trucking operations, rates typically range from 2% to 5% of payroll, depending on your classification and claims experience.
| Classification | Typical Rate (per $100 payroll) |
|---|---|
| General Freight Trucking | $2.50 – $4.00 |
| Long-Haul Trucking | $3.00 – $4.50 |
| Specialized Freight | $3.50 – $5.00 |
| Office/Dispatch Staff | $0.20 – $0.50 |
Example Premium Calculation:
Real Claim Examples
WSIB claims are common in trucking. Here are three scenarios where workers' compensation protected both employees and employers:
Driver Injured in Loading Dock Accident
A fleet driver was helping unload at a customer's warehouse when a pallet fell from a forklift, striking his shoulder. The injury required surgery and 4 months of rehabilitation. As a W-2 employee, he was covered under the company's WSIB policy.
Repetitive Strain Injury (Back)
After 15 years of driving, a company driver developed chronic back problems from sitting and vehicle vibration. WSIB accepted this as an occupational disease, covering ongoing treatment and partial disability payments.
Fatality on Highway 401
A fleet driver was killed when another vehicle crossed the median. While the trucking company's auto insurance handled third-party claims, WSIB provided survivor benefits to the driver's widow and children.
Tips to Reduce WSIB Costs
Implement Safety Programs
WSIB offers premium rebates for companies with strong safety programs. The Safety Groups Program and Excellence Program can reduce premiums by 5-20%.
Manage Return to Work
Getting injured workers back to modified duties quickly reduces claim costs. Effective return-to-work programs lower your experience rating and future premiums.
Report Claims Properly
Prompt, accurate claim reporting avoids penalties and ensures proper case management. Late reporting can increase costs and hurt your experience rating.
Challenge Inappropriate Claims
Not every claim is valid. If you believe a claim is fraudulent or not work-related, you have the right to dispute it through WSIB's appeals process.
Ensure Proper Classification
Make sure your workers are classified correctly. Office staff should be classified separately from drivers—they have much lower rates.
Get Your Workers' Compensation Consulting Quote
Free quotes from licensed Ontario brokers
Frequently Asked Questions
Do owner-operators need WSIB?
Owner-operators who are true independent contractors typically don't qualify for WSIB and can't register. They need occupational accident insurance instead. However, if you're deemed a "dependent contractor" or employee by WSIB, you may be required to be covered. The classification matters significantly.
What happens if I don't register with WSIB?
Operating without required WSIB coverage is illegal. You face fines, retroactive premium assessments going back years, and personal liability for all employee injury costs. If an employee is hurt, you could be sued directly without the legal protection WSIB provides.
Does WSIB cover cross-border drivers?
WSIB covers Ontario-based employees regardless of where the injury occurs. If your driver is hurt in the US while on a work trip, WSIB still applies. However, you may also need US-specific coverage depending on which states you operate in.
How do claims affect my premium?
WSIB uses experience rating—your claims history directly affects your premium. More claims mean higher rates for years afterward. This is why safety programs and return-to-work management are so important.
Can I opt out of WSIB?
Most trucking employers cannot opt out—it's mandatory. Some independent operators can choose personal optional coverage. If you're unsure about your obligations, check with WSIB directly or consult with a specialist.