Category: Uncategorized

Driving the ice roads in Manitoba’s north, hopping in your vehicle to head out to your ice fishing shack, or driving a well-known route on a frozen lake all carry a risk of going through the ice. With warmer weather on the way, that risk only increases as ice begins to soften and melt.

Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) received 22 claims in 2024 for vehicles that went through the ice, and there have been four claims reported so far in 2025. Going through the ice into cold water is potentially fatal as it can lead to hypothermia or drowning. In fact, one third of all drownings in Manitoba occur during the winter months – between October and April.

Recommended ice thickness for walking is 10 centimetres; to support one ATV or snowmobile, the ice should be 12 centimetres thick; for a car, the ice should be 20-30 centimetres thick; and for a truck, it should be 30-38 centimetres thick. However, even thick ice has the potential to be weak and crack. Temperatures can also vary widely throughout the province and while ice may be thick enough to travel on in one area, it could be extremely dangerous elsewhere.

“Drivers need to consider whether it is reasonable and safe to head out onto the ice,” said Maria Campos, Vice President & Chief Customer and Product Officer. “Understand the rules when traveling on ice roads and be prepared in case an emergency occurs. Manitobans should take special care when driving on surfaces that are slippery and can change without warning.”

Preparation is the key to keeping safe on ice roads – whether those are maintained ice roads in Manitoba’s north or a worn path on a local lake.

“Heading out onto the ice knowingly means you can take the steps to help protect yourself,” said Dr. Gordon Giesbrecht, known as “Professor Popsicle” for his 30-year career studying submersion and the effects of cold water. “Ice road safety looks a little different than the safety precautions we normally take on the roadways. For example, if you are heading out onto ice, unfasten your seatbelt and open your window so you can quickly exit the vehicle if it goes through the ice. I use the term ‘SWOC’: Seatbelts off, Windows open, Out immediately, Children first. If you remember those four things, your chances of getting out of a submerged vehicle increase.”

Lynne Stefanchuk, Executive Director of Lifesaving Society Manitoba, adds, “If you do choose to go on the ice, then you need to plan ahead and be prepared to go through the ice and into cold water. Wear something that floats, like a life jacket over your winter clothes; don’t go out alone; and be prepared to perform a rescue.”

Always make sure someone knows where you will be travelling, what time you left, and what time you are expected to arrive at your destination.

Photo attached.

-30-

For more information, please contact:

Manitoba Public Insurance

Media Relations Unit

204-985-7300

[email protected]

January and February are great months for hitting the trails on your snowmobile. It can be thrilling, challenging, and a great way to get a sense of community with other riders. It is also true that January and February have the highest fatality rates for snowmobilers in Manitoba.

Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) and Snoman Inc. are joining forces to highlight snowmobile safety to close out International Snowmobile Safety Week (January 12-18, 2025) and lead into Manitoba’s first Winter Trails Day on February 8, 2025.

Earlier today, MPI and Snowman held a safety demonstration near Stonewall, where three different components of safety were highlighted:

• Sharing the roadway
• Trail safety and trail grooming equipment
• Safety equipment for snowmobiles and riders

“By highlighting safety concerns, we are creating awareness that there are many proactive steps riders can take to make themselves safer while out on their snowmobiles, especially wearing a helmet, controlling speed, and riding sober,” said Maria Campos, Vice President & Chief Customer and Product Officer. “MPI doesn’t advocate for and educate about safety alone. It is through partnerships, like the one we have with Snoman, that we are able to fulfill our road safety mission – whether it is on or off-road.”

From 2021-2024, there were 12 snowmobile fatalities in Manitoba. Speed was the leading contributing factor. Other factors included:

• Alcohol impairment
• Lack of helmet use
• Driver inexperience
• Careless driving

Snoman emphasized that riders have to be aware of the safety concerns.

“Excessive speed is a contributing factor in the majority of incidents and can lead to fatalities,” stated Jason Wiebe, President, Snoman Inc. “Riders have to be cognizant of their abilities and to not impair their sense of control by consuming alcohol or drugs while riding. Safety is first and foremost for our organization.”

Safety is a shared goal for MPI and Snoman. When you register your snowmobile, MPI collects a $25 non-refundable annual fee on all off-road vehicle registrations on behalf of the Government of Manitoba to support trail maintenance and development, off-road vehicle safety education and training programs, and rehabilitation of public lands impacted by off-road vehicle use.

Purchasing a Snopass to ride on 12,000 kilometres of designated provincial trails helps Manitoba invest in grooming and maintaining trails, which contribute to snowmobile safety.

Ride safe and enjoy the snowmobile season.

MPI thanks the Public Utilities Board (PUB) for its response to the Corporation’s 2025/26 General Rate Application, which begins April 1, 2025. MPI respects the independent role of the PUB and will work to implement the order that has been issued for the Corporation’s compulsory line of business (Basic insurance).  

Coverage under MPI’s Basic insurance is mandatory for Manitoba drivers and rates are regulated and approved by PUB annually.

For the 2025/26 insurance year, PUB has ordered a 5.7 per cent increase to Basic insurance rates, which will represent an increase of $50.84 per year or $4.24 per month for the average passenger vehicle policy.

To ensure customers can choose the type of coverage that best meets their needs, MPI also offers additional options through its Extension line of business. These products are not mandatory and customers may choose to purchase them from any insurance provider in the province. With 96 per cent of customers choosing to purchase Extension products from MPI, the Corporation is proud of the value and convenience these options offer to Manitobans.

MPI’s Extension product portfolio includes additional third-party liability coverage, rental vehicle insurance and the option for customers to pay slightly higher premiums for their insurance to reduce the deductible they would pay in the event of a claim. For example, MPI’s current Basic insurance deductible is $750, but most Manitobans choose to pay for additional Extension coverage that reduces their deductible to $200.

In the current insurance year, MPI’s Board of Directors approved a 10.32 per cent increase to Extension rates, which represented an increase of $9.60 per year for the average passenger vehicle policy.

Beginning April 1, 2025, Extension rates will increase by two per cent, which will represent an increase of $1.99 per year on the average passenger vehicle policy.

MPI regularly reviews the pricing of its products to ensure we are continuing to provide high-value options for customers that are priced competitively when compared to other providers.

The PUB has also approved MPI’s application for a $10 increase to the cost of an annual driver’s licence. This helps support the Personal Injury Protection Plan (PIPP), one of the most comprehensive universal injury protection plans in North America. MPI has not increased the cost of a driver’s licence since 1997.

An expansion of the Driver Safety Rating system was also approved in the 2025/26 order. Customers who move to the new level 19 on the scale will receive an additional discount above the current maximum of 46 per cent.

All changes delivered in the order will be in effect as of April 1, 2025.

Véhicules de luxe, ventes apparemment légitimes de biens coûteux et activités liées au crime organisé Les enquêteurs du Service de police de Winnipeg (SPW) et de la Société d’assurance publique du Manitoba (la Société) ont mis au jour une opération sophistiquée de clonage de numéros d’identification de véhicules (NIV) dans la province, mettant au jour un réseau complexe de vol de véhicules haut de gamme et des activités liées au crime organisé.

En février 2024, les enquêteurs de la Section des enquêtes spéciales (SES) de la Société et de l’Unité des vols de véhicules commerciaux (UVVC) du SPW ont identifié un individu qui utilisait plusieurs de ses connaissances pour immatriculer des véhicules provenant d’autres provinces afin d’en établir la propriété au Manitoba. En approfondissant leur investigation, les enquêteurs ont découvert qu’au moins un des véhicules portait NIV cloné, ce qui signifie que le véhicule immatriculé au Manitoba portait le même NIV qu’un véhicule de marque, de modèle et de couleur identiques, mais enregistré dans une autre province.

L’équipe a maintenu une vigilance constante à l’égard de l’entrée de véhicules d’occasion au Manitoba. Les enquêteurs ont collaboré dans le cadre d’une opération baptisée « Projet Buyer Bee Aware » (Projet Acheteurs, soyez vigilants). Grâce à une technologie innovante développée par l’équipe de la SES, permettant d’analyser l’ensemble des données relatives aux NIV, les enquêteurs ont identifié un individu opérant dans différentes provinces. Cette personne utilisait le Manitoba comme centre d’opérations pour légitimer des véhicules de luxe volés, en effaçant toute trace de leur origine illicite, avant de les écouler au moyen d’un intermédiaire unique à Winnipeg.

Mohamad Kasem, un homme de 23 ans de Winnipeg, fait face à 68 accusations. Les enquêteurs ont découvert que Kasem vendait des véhicules à des concessionnaires automobiles au moyen de plateformes en ligne, ainsi que par l’intermédiaire d’une entreprise. Le 22 février 2024, l’UVVC s’est rendue dans l’une de ces concessions automobiles et a confirmé que les véhicules vendus par Kasem avaient été volés en Ontario entre janvier 2021 et janvier 2024, que leurs NIV avaient été changés et qu’ils avaient été proposés aux concessionnaires sous couvert de légalité. Les concessionnaires ont vendu plusieurs de ces véhicules à des clients. L’ensemble des véhicules, incluant ceux déjà acquis par des acheteurs, a fait l’objet d’une saisie. La valeur totale assurée de ces automobiles était évaluée à plus d’un million de dollars.

Le 17 avril 2024, des mandats de perquisition ont été exécutés dans une résidence située dans le pâté de maisons 100 du boulevard Saint-Martin à Winnipeg, ainsi que dans un établissement commercial situé dans le pâté de maisons 200 de la route Saint-Jean Marc dans la municipalité rurale de Springfield. Ces perquisitions ont permis de découvrir du matériel et des équipements nécessaires à l’altération des NIV.

« C’était une opération très complexe déployée sur plusieurs niveaux. « Nos enquêteurs ont réalisé un travail exceptionnel en coopération avec la Société pour élucider cette affaire complexe et mettre fin aux activités de ce réseau criminel », a déclaré le surintendant Cam Mackid du Service de police de Winnipeg.

L’enquête se poursuit.

« Ce que la Société et le SPW ont accompli ici, c’est protéger les Manitobains contre le vol d’automobiles, contre le crime organisé et contre les éventuelles répercussions financières », a déclaré le ministre de la Justice et procureur général Matt Wiebe. « Je suis impressionné et reconnaissant du travail accompli pour lutter contre ce grave problème qui sévit au Manitoba ». Entre 2017 et 2023, les demandes d’indemnisation pour vol de véhicules ont connu une hausse significative de 48 %, incitant le gouvernement à une intervention ciblée. « Le vol de véhicules requiert une approche collaborative multi-organismes, dont l’efficacité est ici démontrée. »

« Je suis tellement fier de cette équipe et de ce qu’elle a accompli pour que la Société et le SPW restent à l’avant-garde de la lutte contre le vol de véhicules », a déclaré Satvir Jatana, président et chef de la direction de la Société. « Cette enquête nous a permis de comprendre comment travailler de manière proactive au développement et à l’amélioration des processus au sein de la Société pour lutter contre le vol de véhicules. Les experts de la Société continueront de collaborer avec leurs partenaires des services d’application de la loi pour prévenir le clonage de NIV et autres types de fraudes liées au vol de véhicules, afin d’éviter que leurs clients ne deviennent victimes de ces crimes ou n’en subissent les répercussions financières.

Photo ci-jointe.

-30 —

Pour de plus amples renseignements, communiquez avec la

Société d’assurance publique du Manitoba
Service des Relations avec les médias
204 985-7300 [email protected]

Ou

Service de police de Winnipeg
Bureau d’information du public
204 986-3061 [email protected]

While Canada Post has resumed service, some Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) documents and cheques continue to be impacted due to backlogs and delays.

MPI is monitoring these issues to ensure customers are able to access their documents in a reliable and timely way.

Please see below for a full list of impacted communications:

Cheques

Beginning December 30, MPI will resume distributing most cheques through Canada Post.

The following types of cheques issued by MPI between November 7 and December 27 will remain available for customers to pick up at the MPI Service or Claim Centre location closest to the address on the customer file:

• Injury claims (including income replacement) 
• Physical damage claims
• Refunds
• International Registration Plan (IRP)
• Manitoba Electric Vehicle Rebate Program

Cheques will be available for pick up at MPI Service and Claim Centres until the end of the day on Tuesday, January 7. Please note: Cheques at the Swan River Claim Centre will only be available for pick up until the end of the day on Tuesday, December 31. Cheques that have not been picked up by these dates will be sent to customers through Canada Post.

Identification is required to claim a cheque. Customers will need to provide one piece of government-issued photo identification or two pieces of government-issued non-photo identification.

To find the closest MPI Service Centre, please use the Service Centre Locator Tool.

Customers with questions about the status of their payments can call MPI’s Contact Centre at 204-985-7000 or toll free at 1-800-665-2410.

Driver’s licences and identification cards

Earlier this month, MPI began distributing new and renewed Manitoba driver’s licences and identification cards through Canada Post. However, due to anticipated delays and backlogs, customers are encouraged to keep their temporary documents, including any condition documents issued, and not dispose of any expired cards until they receive a new one. Customers with expiring temporary licenses and cards should visit their broker or an MPI Service Centre to request a replacement.

Annual statements

Until mail service stabilizes, customers will continue to not receive their annual statements for their driver’s licence, vehicle registration and insurance. These include upcoming annual statements of account (reassessment notices) and renewal statements.

Reminder: With MPI’s five-year driver’s licences and policies, customers only need to visit an MPI Service Centre or Autopac broker once every five years, unless they want to change or cancel their policy between renewals, or they change their name, address or other personal information on their driver’s licence. However, customers are still required to pay for their driver’s licence and vehicle insurance every year. Years between renewals are considered reassessment years.

Customers who don’t receive a statement should keep track of the due date of their insurance and driver’s licence/ID card. Due dates are four months after a customer’s birthday. For example: If your birthday is on September 20, your due date is January 20.

To determine if a customer is in a renewal year and needs to have a new driver’s licence or identity card photo taken, they should check the expiry date on their current document. If it expires in 2024 or 2025, they must visit an MPI Service Centre or broker on or before the due date.

For more information about renewal status, please visit a broker or MPI Service Centre. Customers can also call MPI’s Contact Centre at 204-985-7000 or toll-free at 1-800-665-2410.

Driver abstracts and claims experience letters

Driver abstracts and claims experience letters continue to be available, however, non-urgent requests will not be distributed until mail service stabilizes.

Customers can continue to visit an MPI Service Centre to request a driver abstract and/or claims experience letter and have it completed while they wait. Customers who wish to complete a request form and apply for these documents without visiting a service centre must include a fax number in their application. Drivers abstracts and claims experiences letters cannot be emailed to customers.

Personalized licence plates

Approved personalized licence plates, replacement specialty plates, and any new member-based specialty plates will not be mailed until mail service stabilizes.

More information will be shared at mpi.mb.ca as it is available.

Driving under the influence of cannabis is a growing concern in Canada, especially following the legalization of its use for recreational purposes. The misconception that cannabis impairs driving less than alcohol can lead to dangerous and even fatal consequences on the road.

National Safe Driving Week is December 1 – 7. The Canada Safety Council, Insurance Brokers Association of Manitoba and Manitoba Public Insurance are highlighting the risks associated with driving while under the influence of cannabis.

“Driving under the influence of cannabis is a serious risk to road safety,” said Gareth Jones, President and CEO of the Canada Safety Council. “It impairs your ability to react and make sound decisions, and the consequences can be devastating. During National Safe Driving Week, we are urging all Canadians to understand that impairment, whether from alcohol or drugs, has no place behind the wheel.”

Statistics

According to the Government of Canada, cannabis-impaired driving remains a leading contributor to road accidents. A report from Public Safety Canada in 2023 found that 23.3 per cent of cannabis users nationwide admitted to driving within two hours of consumption.

The Traffic Injury Research Foundation further notes that, between 2018 and 2020, approximately half of the 4,976 injured drivers receiving care in 15 trauma centres had at least one impairing substance in their system. Cannabis was at the fore — tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, was detected in almost 20 per cent of drivers.

Impairment Effects of Cannabis

Cannabis affects motor skills, reaction time, and decision-making, all of which are crucial for safe driving. Additionally, it impairs cognitive functions necessary for driving, including coordination and perception. THC also alters how the brain processes information, which in turn affects the driver’s ability to focus, make quick decisions, and react to changes on the road.

One of the main dangers of driving after consuming cannabis is the reduction in reaction time, which makes it more difficult to respond to sudden hazards such as a car braking suddenly or a pedestrian stepping into the road.

This is particularly problematic in situations that require split-second decisions, such as avoiding a collision or adjusting to rapidly changing traffic conditions. Impaired motor coordination, another potential effect, increases the likelihood of swerving or losing control of the vehicle.

“Driving while under the influence, whether that is from drugs or alcohol, impairs your driving and is risky behaviour,” said Alexa Loewen, IBAM Director of Operations & Marketing. “The stakes are too high – death, injury, property damage, fines and convictions are just some of the potential effects. Being aware of the dangers will help make sure everyone gets home safe. It’s not worth the risk. Your auto insurance may not pay some benefits and everyone’s premiums will increase as a result.”

False Sense of Confidence

One of the dangers of driving under the influence of cannabis is that users often do not realize how impaired they are. Unlike alcohol, where the effects of intoxication are more recognizable, cannabis users may feel relaxed or even focused, leading to a false sense of security behind the wheel.

Studies, however, have shown that even small amounts of cannabis can significantly impact driving performance. The drug impairs cognitive functions like memory, attention, and the ability to multitask—all critical when operating a vehicle.

Legal Consequences

Under the Criminal Code of Canada, drivers can be tested for cannabis impairment through oral fluid screening devices or standard field sobriety tests. Penalties for cannabis-impaired driving can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense and whether the individual is a repeat offender.

If found guilty of driving under the influence of cannabis, Manitoba drivers can face serious legal consequences. For first-time offenders, penalties can include a $1,000 fine and a driving ban for up to one year. For repeat offenders, the penalties are even more severe, including longer driving bans and possible jail time. According to the most recent data from Manitoba Public Insurance, in 2022, eight per cent of drivers tested positive for at least one drug, and cannabis accounted for 61 per cent of all drug-impaired drivers.

“We need to work together to keep impaired drivers off of Manitoba’s roads,” said Satvir Jatana, President and CEO of Manitoba Public Insurance. “Fines and penalties are in place to help deter dangerous behaviours, but ultimately it comes down to choice. Making the wrong decision behind the wheel risks your life and the lives of others on our roadways. Make the responsible choice and never drive while impaired.”

The message is clear: driving under the influence of cannabis is never safe. The consequences—both in terms of road safety and legal ramifications—are too severe to ignore. With continued education and enforcement, we can work toward reducing the incidence of cannabis-impaired driving and keeping our roads safer for everyone.

Effective December 2, 2024, Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) is pleased to announce a simplified driver’s licence exchange process for new Manitobans with licences issued by 26 European countries.

Individuals who hold valid licences from the following countries can now exchange them for a Manitoba Class 5F (passenger vehicle) or Class 6F (motorcycle) licence, without the need for further knowledge or road testing:

• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden

Commercial class licences from these countries are not eligible to be exchanged in Manitoba for equivalent commercial classes.

“Each of these countries implemented harmonized driver training and testing standards that align with Manitoba’s requirements, which prioritize the safety of all road users,” said Maria Campos, MPI’s Vice President & Chief Customer and Product Officer. “MPI is proud to expand its licence exchange options and make the transition to our province easier for newcomers from these countries who choose to make Manitoba home.”

Manitoba is the second province in Canada to offer a licence exchange option for these countries, following Saskatchewan’s decision to extend passenger and motorcycle licence equivalency to these countries in 2023.

With this decision, Manitoba now offers reciprocity or licence exchange agreements with 41 jurisdictions. A full reciprocal country list is available here.

All newcomers and visitors to Manitoba can drive on their foreign passenger vehicle or motorcycle licence for up to three months before they require a new Manitoba licence. 

After this period, reciprocity or licence exchange agreements allow those with the required documentation to receive a Manitoba driver’s licence of an equivalent class without further knowledge or road testing. Eligible individuals are required to visit an Autopac broker or an MPI Service Centre (if vision testing is required) to start the process. Customers will be required to provide documents to establish their identity and their valid driver’s licence from the reciprocal country and/or a translated copy or English version of their driver’s record. All exchanged licences will be reviewed to ensure they are genuine and valid.

For more information about exchanging a driver’s licence, customers can visit a broker, an MPI Service Centre or call MPI’s Contact Centre at 204-985-7000 or toll-free at 1-800-665-2410.

The ongoing Canada Post work stoppage is impacting delivery of MPI documents, including cheques and driver’s licences. The following documents are affected:

Annual statements

Customers will not receive their annual statements for their driver’s licence, vehicle registration and insurance until the stoppage is resolved. These include upcoming annual statements of account (reassessment notices) and renewal statements.

Reminder: With MPI’s five-year driver’s licences and policies, customers only need to visit an MPI Service Centre or broker once every five years, unless they want to change or cancel their policy between renewals, or they change their name, address or other personal information on their driver’s licence. However, customers are still required to pay for their driver’s licence and vehicle insurance every year. Years between renewals are considered reassessment years.

Customers who don’t receive a statement should keep track of the due date of their insurance and driver’s licence/ID card. Due dates are four months after a customer’s birthday. For example: If your birthday is on July 20, your due date is November 20.

To determine if a customer is in a renewal year and needs to have a new driver’s licence or identity card photo taken, they should check the expiry date on their current document. If it expires in 2024, they must visit an MPI Service Centre or broker on or before the due date.

For more information about renewal status, please visit a broker or MPI Service Centre. Customers can also call MPI’s Contact Centre at 204-985-7000 or toll-free at 1-800-665-2410.

Cheques

The following types of cheques issued by MPI will be available for pick up at the MPI Service or Claim Centre location closest to the address on the customer file:

• Injury claims (including income replacement) 
• Physical damage claims
• Refunds
• International Registration Plan (IRP)

One-time payments and IRP cheques should be available four business days from the date a payment is confirmed with MPI and all associated documents are signed. Outside of Winnipeg, cheques should be available after six business days.

Ongoing payments from MPI should be available four business days after they are typically received in Winnipeg, and six business days outside of Winnipeg.

Identification is required to claim a cheque. Customers will need to provide one piece of government-issued photo identification or two pieces of government-issued non-photo identification.

To find the closest MPI Service Centre, please use the Service Centre Locator Tool.

Customers with questions about the status of their payments can call MPI’s Contact Centre at 204-985-7000 or toll free at 1-800-665-2410.

Driver’s licences and identification cards

Most new and renewed Manitoba driver’s licences and identification cards will not be mailed until the stoppage is resolved. Please keep your temporary documents, including any condition documents issued, and do not dispose of any expired cards until you receive a new one.

Manitoba law enforcement agencies are aware that some 45-day temporary driver licence certificates may expire before customers receive their permanent driver’s licences, and that some drivers who have valid driving privileges may be carrying expired paper documentation.

If a customer has an urgent need for updated photo identification, they should speak with their broker or an MPI Service Centre representative about their options.

Manitoba Electric Vehicle Rebate Program

Rebates approved under the Manitoba Electric Vehicle Program will not be mailed until the stoppage is resolved.

Personalized licence plates

Approved personalized licence plates, replacement specialty plates, and any new member-based specialty plates will not be mailed until the stoppage is resolved.

More information will be shared at mpi.mb.ca as it is available.

While there are many spooky and scary parts of Halloween, Manitoba roads shouldn’t be one of them – on the eve of trick or treating, Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) is reminding motorists and pedestrians to do their part to ensure everyone gets home safe this October 31.  

With 22 pedestrians killed this year, protecting the youngest Manitobans on this night centered on fun has never been more important.

“Losing even one life as the result of a collision is too many,” said Maria Campos, MPI’s Vice President & Chief Customer and Product Officer. “Through multiple channels, MPI is committed to making sure everyone heading out on Halloween this year understands that they have a role to play in keeping our roads safe.”

Over 90,000 wearable safety lights distributed to schools, daycares

MPI runs its Halloween Pedestrian Safety Promotion Program to help address the increased risks that this night brings to Manitoba’s streets. The program combines education initiatives and impactful safety items and has been in place since 2000. 

To help every child be seen while out trick or treating, MPI has sent over 90,000 wearable safety lights to more than 400 schools and daycares across the province. These flashing 47mm LED lights can be added to any costume and also be used year-round.

As part of the program, the Corporation also distributes age-appropriate classroom activities for Kindergarten to Grade 6 students, as well as letters encouraging parents/guardians to instill responsible road safety habits as early as possible.

“MPI is committed to creating safer roads for all Manitobans and that starts with building a strong foundation of good habits at a young age,” said Campos. “Halloween is an accessible way to introduce the shared responsibility we all have when travelling on our roads, whether we’re driving, walking or cycling.”

Road safety tips for all

To keep our streets safe for ghosts and goblins of all ages, MPI urges everyone heading out on Halloween to follow these road safety tips:

For motorists:

• Don’t speed ─ slow down, especially when you see children walking.
• Don’t assume children see your vehicle, they could run out in front of you.
• Watch for children who may dart between parked vehicles. Be prepared to stop at a moment’s notice.
• Stop and yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians about to cross at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
• Do not to pass traffic ahead of you that is slowing down or stopped for pedestrians using crosswalks. Not only is it unsafe, but it’s also illegal.

For trick-or-treaters:

• Look both ways for traffic before crossing the street. Use corners and crosswalks as they are the safest places to cross.
• Always walk – never run – across the street and never cross between parked cars.
• Wait for cars to come to a full stop before crossing.
• Be seen by wearing reflective clothing or costumes.
• In neighbourhoods where there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic the left-hand edge of the roadway.

Many of these tips are also featured in one of MPI’s popular 60-Second Driver segments, running regularly on CTV Winnipeg this season.

-30-

Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) is providing significant funding to adult driver training programs in remote, rural and underserved communities to improve road safety for all Manitobans.

Partnering with the University College of the North (UCN), the North End Community Renewal Corporation’s Citizens’ Bridge agency and Assiniboine College, the Corporation is helping to ensure accessible and affordable Class 5 in-class and in-car training through over $1.3 million in assistance in 2024/25.

“In 2023, nearly 80 per cent of all fatal collisions occurred outside of Winnipeg, which is home to less than half of Manitoba’s total population,” said Matt Wiebe, Minister Responsible for Manitoba Public Insurance. “With MPI’s focus on helping those in rural, First Nation and Indigenous communities get the necessary training, we have the opportunity to drastically reduce the number of Manitobans who tragically die on our roads every year.”

With this funding, UCN and Citizens’ Bridge will be expanding their existing MPI-supported driver training programs while Assiniboine College will be establishing a new course for adults seeking a Class 5 driver’s licence.

“Improving road safety for everyone is a key part of MPI’s mandate,” said Satvir Jatana, MPI’s President & CEO. “We are proud to increase our support for these programs across the province to ensure more new drivers have access to quality training, including experience making the right decisions behind the wheel and creating a foundation of responsible driving habits.”

New Assiniboine College program kicks off on Nov. 25

The Assiniboine College Class 5 Adult Driver Training Program is set to enhance road safety and support workforce development by providing affordable, accessible training in communities throughout the region. 

The program is designed to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to become confident and responsible drivers. It combines 16 hours of in-class theory with four hours of practical, in-car training using one of the College’s driver training vehicles. The curriculum includes everything from road test preparation to mastering parallel parking, ensuring students are well-prepared to drive safely on Manitoba’s roads.

“Through this collaboration, we’re making driver education more accessible for Manitobans while promoting road safety,” said Rennen Rommelaere, Coordinator, Community Programs at Assiniboine College. “We are excited to help individuals in communities across the province gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed as drivers.”

While the initial phase of the course will begin in Brandon on Nov. 25, the College and MPI are also working to confirm future intakes for the program in additional rural communities and First Nations.

With over $446,000 in support from MPI, the college expects to open 160 seats for the course in its first year.

Expanded programs in northern Manitoba, Winnipeg

MPI will provide over $495,000 this year to UCN to continue their Class 5 Adult Driver Training Program, which launched in 2023. In its first year, the program received nearly 400 applications from aspiring drivers in northern Manitoba communities, including Thompson, The Pas, Flin Flon, Churchill, Tataskweyak Cree Nation (Split Lake), Lynn Lake and more. Participants who have completed the training have performed well on their Class 5 road tests, with an over 70 per cent pass rate.

“This program has had such a positive impact on people across Northern Manitoba,” said Jamie Grant, Associate Vice President, Community & Industry Solutions at UCN. “The instant confidence boost we see when our students pass their knowledge or road test has propelled them to look into what is next.  Whether it be further training or entering the workforce, having a driver’s licence opens up many doors.”

As drivers may enter the program at different stages of the licensing process, each student is given an individual development plan that offers them the support and training they need to obtain a Learner stage licence through to the completion of a passed Class 5 road test.

The unique program is especially important in the region as it aims to reduce the disproportional number of fatal collisions that occur in the area. Between 2019 and 2023, nearly 11 per cent of all traffic fatalities in Manitoba occurred in northern Manitoba, despite the region accounting for only six per cent of the provincial population.

“Accessibility has been the real game changer to students coming into the program,” said Grant. “Having access to the instructors, training cars and examiners in the communities has proven to be very successful and achieving the outcome of high-quality new drivers.”

In Winnipeg, MPI funding has helped Citizens’ Bridge operate a Class 5 adult driver training program since 2013. MPI is increasing its funding support to $411,000 to enable the agency to continue their existing in-class programming and assist in launching a dedicated in-car course, called Ready to Drive.

The program will focus on providing new Manitobans and low-income residents with on-the-road Class 5 in-car instruction. Through comprehensive lessons, participants will acquire the essential skills and confidence necessary to navigate roads safely.

“The freedom, confidence, and opportunities that come with obtaining your driver’s licence is something that all people deserve,” said Sophie Stevens, DEC Intake Coordinator at Citizens’ Bridge. “Through this collaboration with MPI, we’ve been able to provide driver training to low-income and Newcomer Manitobans who have not previously had access to this type of programing. Since April, we’ve been able to help over 140 individuals improve their road safety knowledge through our learner’s licence program and our in-car driving lessons. It’s been a joy to watch people learn and grow through these opportunities!”

Citizen’s Bridge expects to increase its capacity to 250 clients per year across both programs with this additional support.

For more information on eligibility, fees and application information, please visit the UCN,  Citizens’ Bridge or Assiniboine College websites.

-30-

For more information, please contact:

Media Relations Unit

Ph: 204-985-7300

Email: [email protected]

Real life consequences of unsafe driving will be shared with over 4,500 high school students across the province this fall through Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI)’s annual Friends for Life Speaker Series.

Kicking off on Monday, Oct. 21 and running through Nov. 1, Friends for Life will visit more than 25 schools across the province, including in Flin Flon, Winnipeg, St. Pierre-Jolys and Rivers. The series features presentations from three individuals whose lives have been personally touched by the consequences of three major contributing factors to deaths on Manitoba roads – speeding, distracted and impaired driving.

“Through powerful firsthand accounts, Friends for Life engages students and encourages them to reflect on their own driving habits and the critical importance of making safe choices behind the wheel,” said Maria Campos, Vice President & Chief Customer and Product Officer. “These presenters are not only survivors and family members who have experienced unimaginable loss; they are advocates for change, using their experiences to inspire others to think twice before taking risks.”

Statistics show teens at high risk for collision, injuries and fatalities

Based on MPI’s data, the Friends for Life program is an important channel to reach the province’s youngest drivers at a time when they are highly represented in the number of collisions, injuries and deaths on roads throughout Manitoba:

• Young Manitoban drivers are 2.4 times more likely to be involved in a severe collision involving alcohol impairment than other age groups.
• On average, 41 youth per year are injured in speed-related collisions in Manitoba.
• Between 2017 and 2021, 17 people aged 15 to 21 were killed in distracted driving crashes.

Now in its thirteenth year, Friends for Life helps demonstrate MPI’s deep commitment to road safety and is part of our ongoing road safety programming in Manitoba, which includes children and youth presentations as well as partnerships with MADD Canada and the Manitoba School Board Association’s Safe Grad program.

“The cost of making dangerous decisions on the road can be devastating and that’s why MPI is committed to helping young people form a strong foundation around road safety as early as possible,” said Campos. “Through Friends for Life and our other community relations programs, MPI recognizes the impact we can have by talking to new drivers as early as possible to encourage them to avoid high-risk driving behaviours.”

About the 2024 Friends for Life speakers:

Sandra LaRose: Sandra connects with students by speaking about the heartbreaking loss of her 16-year-old daughter, Kailynn, after her vehicle was hit by a train while she was distracted by her phone. As the founder and president of Sharing Kailynn’s Sunshine Foundation Inc., a non-profit organization designed to share Kailynn’s compassion and giving nature with the people, Sandra helps youth understand how looking away from the road for one split-second can change everything.

Shelley Forney: In 2008, Shelley Forney’s life and the lives of her family were changed forever because of a devastating vehicle collision. Today, Shelley is a renowned presenter sharing her impactful story and advocating for stronger distracted driving laws. Her dedication to awareness makes her an influential voice for distracted driving reform, and her presentation is one that stays with audiences, helping to inspire meaningful and positive change.

John Westhaver: A fatal crash completely upended John’s life, claiming the lives of several of his best friends and leaving him with severe burns to 75 per cent of his body. John uses his experience living through the aftermath of the accident to inspire change by talking to young people about dangerous driving behaviours in the hope that sharing his story can prevent other fatal crashes from happening.

-30-

For more information, please contact:

Media Relations Unit

Ph: 204-985-7300

Email: [email protected]

On behalf of Manitoba Public Insurance, I want to share my condolences on the sudden and tragic passing of Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) Grand Chief Cathy Merrick.

A devoted and compassionate leader, Chief Merrick’s work and advocacy to improve the lives of First Nations people and the communities she represented was an inspiration to so many, including myself.

As the first woman to be elected as AMC’s Grand Chief, her legacy as a trusted voice on issues that matter in our province and country will be deeply missed and always remembered.

My thoughts are with her family, friends, community and all those who were touched by her incredible life.

Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) has filed its provisional General Rate Application with the Public Utilities Board (PUB) today, requesting approval of a three per cent increase to overall rates for the 2025/26 insurance year.

“MPI’s focus remains on providing stable and affordable rates for Manitobans even as we face increasing financial pressures,” said Satvir Jatana, MPI’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are taking necessary steps to manage these impacts, including seeking the lowest possible rate increase to ensure financial stability while continuing to deliver value for our customers.”

The proposed rate increase is necessary to address a steady and prolonged rise in the cost of claims as well as the cost of labour, raw materials and technology. This trend is persisting across MPI’s Basic, Extension and Special Risk Extension lines of business. The Corporation’s total insurance expense for the year was $1.7 billion, an increase of $334 million or approximately 24 per cent compared to the previous year.

In addition, the August 2023 hailstorm in the Winnipeg area was the largest natural catastrophic event in MPI’s history. Over 15,000 hail-related claims were filed last year, which resulted in a negative $50 million impact to net income, created significant backlogs and increased the amount the Corporation had to pay out in claims. In the last year, the average cost per claim has risen by over $1,100.

“MPI’s mission is to provide Manitobans with affordable rates,” said Jatana. “Despite the rising cost of claims, MPI, by virtue of its commitment to fiscal prudence, has maintained healthy reserves to help keep rates stable and affordable, while strengthening Manitoba’s public insurance system.”

The PUB normally issues its order in December. The proposed rates would be effective April 1, 2025, but because renewal dates are staggered, some vehicle owners won’t pay their new rates until March 31, 2026.

“I am proud of the way MPI employees have come together to manage the challenges we have faced over the past year,” said Jatana. “We will continue our focus on fiscal prudence, stability and affordability while providing outstanding products and services for Manitobans.”

MPI 2023/24 Financial Results

The unique challenges MPI has faced over the past year are reflected in its annual financial results, also released today. The Corporation reported an overall net loss of $129.5 million in 2023/24, driven largely by the overall increase in incurred claims.

Each of the Corporation’s individual lines of business experienced underlying performance impacts. More specifically:

• The Basic insurance line of business reported a Net loss of $80.2 million as compared to a Net income of $1.1 million in 2022/23. The total number of Autopac claims in 2023/24 rose by 40 per cent compared to the previous year.
• The Extension line of business reported Net income of $18.1 million as compared to a Net income of $33.3 million in 2022/23. Incurred claims in this line of business increased over 30 per cent last year, including a single loss event of $10 million.
• The Special Risk Extension (SRE) line of business reported a Net loss of $54.2 million as compared to a Net income of $16.6 million in 2022/23. Incurred claims rose nearly 54 per cent in this line of business. MPI has introduced changes to liability limits for SRE customers to reduce its exposure to large losses.
• The Drivers and Vehicles Act operations (DVA) line of business reported a Net loss of $13.2 million as compared to a Net loss of $10.4 million in 2022/23.
  

2023/24 Key MPI Numbers

• Average number of Autopac claims reported per working day – 1,184
• Total Autopac claims reported – 274,585
• Third party liability bodily injury and Personal Injury Protection Plan injury claims reported – 11,732
• Property damage claims reported – 262,853
• Average Number of Autopac policies in force – 1,278,461

Manitoba Public Insurance has acted quickly to minimize disruption to customers and ensure continuation of service delivery after a fire impacted its Gateway Service Centre on June 19.

MPI is pleased to share that starting Tuesday, June 25, scheduled road tests (Class 2, 3, 4, 5, and Air Brake) and non-hail estimate appointments will resume at the service centre. Class 1 road test appointments resumed June 20 and will continue as scheduled.

Please note: The location will remain closed for front counter services, including vehicle registration and driver licensing transactions, for the foreseeable future. Customers requiring front counter services are encouraged to visit an alternate MPI Service Centre location or their Autopac agent.

Please note the following details:

Road test appointments
Customers with Class 2, 3, 4, 5, and Air Brake road tests booked on Tuesday, June 25 or later should attend the Gateway Service Centre as scheduled.

Estimate appointments
Customers with non-hail estimate appointments booked on Tuesday, June 25 or later should attend the Gateway Service Centre as scheduled.

All customers with upcoming hail estimate appointments scheduled at the Gateway Service Centre have been contacted to reschedule their appointment at MPI’s Physical Damage Centre.

Knowledge test appointments
All scheduled knowledge test appointments have been cancelled and customers have been contacted directly. Customers can reschedule their appointment at another MPI Service Centre or visit Cityplace (2^nd floor) for a walk-in knowledge testing appointments on weekdays from 8:30-11:30 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.

Further updates will be shared at mpi.mb.ca as they are available.

Following an overnight fire at Manitoba Public Insurance’s Gateway Service Centre and subsequent closure today, efforts are underway to restore services and reschedule customer appointments that were cancelled.

The location will remain closed for front counter services, including vehicle registration and driver licensing transactions, for the foreseeable future. Customers requiring front counter services are encouraged to visit an alternate MPI Service Centre location or their Autopac agent.

MPI has acted quickly to minimize disruption to customers and ensure continuation of service delivery in a number of areas by putting the following arrangements in place:

Road test appointments
Class 5
Class 5 road test appointments cancelled today and those scheduled for Thursday, June 20 to Saturday, June 22 will be rescheduled at the Main Street Service Centre. Customers are being contacted directly with the details of their new appointments.

Class 1
Class 1 road tests will resume at the Gateway Service Centre beginning tomorrow and customers will be contacted directly to confirm their appointments.

Customers with Class 1 road tests cancelled today will be contacted directly to reschedule.

Knowledge test appointments
All scheduled knowledge test appointments have been cancelled and customers are being contacted directly. Customers can reschedule their appointment at another MPI Service Centre or visit Cityplace (2^nd floor) for a walk-in knowledge testing appointments on weekdays from 8:30-11:30 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.

Estimating appointments
Estimating appointments cancelled today and those scheduled for Thursday, June 20 to Saturday, June 22 will be rescheduled at other MPI Service Centres. Customers are being contacted directly with the details of their new appointments.

All customers with upcoming hail estimating appointments scheduled at the Gateway Service Centre will be contacted to reschedule their appointment at MPI’s Physical Damage Centre.

Adjusting appointments
Adjusting appointments willcontinue as scheduled and any impacted customers will be contacted directly.

Driver Fitness appointments
Customers who had Driver Fitness appointments cancelled today have been contacted to reschedule.

Further updates will be shared at mpi.mb.ca as they are available.

Due to an overnight fire, Manitoba Public Insurance’s Gateway Service Centre will be closed until further notice.

Scheduled appointments, including those for driver testing, adjusting and estimating services, have been cancelled and customers are being contacted to reschedule.

All other customers are encouraged to visit an alternate MPI Service Centre location or their Autopac agent for other service needs. Additionally, walk-in knowledge testing appointments for all licence classes are available at Cityplace (2nd floor) in Winnipeg on weekdays from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1- 4 p.m.

Further updates will be shared at mpi.mb.ca as they are available.

Due to weather and road conditions in the Westman region, Manitoba Public Insurance has cancelled some driver testing services, including road tests, and estimating appointments at locations in the area.

Affected locations include:

Brandon Service Centre
All scheduled road test appointments have been cancelled. Customers with scheduled knowledge test and estimating appointments should attend the location as scheduled.

Dauphin Service Centre
All scheduled road test and estimating appointments have been cancelled. Customers with scheduled knowledge test appointments should attend the location as scheduled.

Winkler Service Centre
All scheduled driver testing and estimating appointments have been cancelled.

Swan River Claim Centre
All scheduled estimating appointments have been cancelled.

Impacted customers have been contacted and their appointments will be rescheduled. Front counter services remain available at all locations.

Service updates will be shared at mpi.mb.ca, as available.