The people around me including myself are just like every other driver in British Columbia - we need insurance on our vehicles, but we're trapped in a system where there's only one provider - ICBC - and this monopoly is costing us both financially and emotionally.

Recently, my friend was quoted an annual rate of $10,000, which I can't even understand how they can justify. Furthermore, she was held 100% at fault for an accident she did not cause the reason for the high insurance rate. moreover, my vehicle was involved in a hit and run near my house. I reported the incident to ICBC as soon as I noticed the damages. The body shop sent their estimate to ICBC, and they decided the matter needed investigation, which had been ongoing for several months.

I met with ICBC’s investigator and provided a truthful statement. However, after several months ICBC has denied my claim, alleging that I caused the damage myself by hitting a gate or another object. Despite my honest account, I am being accused of lying and providing a false statement. ICBC insists that the damage was not caused by another vehicle in a hit and run. Their conclusion, which involved an adjuster, an investigator, and a comprehensive investigation, is nowhere close to the truth.

They delayed sharing their decision, leaving me in a state of limbo, costing me time, work, and peace of mind. I can't help but think about all the people who are wronged by ICBC daily and are unjustly denied, despite their honesty.

More than just a personal problem, this is a systematic flaw affecting all drivers in BC. We are cornered into a system where ICBC is the only primary provider of basic vehicle insurance. This monopoly takes advantage of our vulnerability and tramples on our basic consumer right to choose where we buy our policy from. Many drivers live with a constant anxiety related to insuring their vehicles because of this unfair situation.

We need fair competition in our auto insurance market. In Ontario, drivers can choose from numerous providers, which helps to keep rates competitive and customer service high. We believe such a competitive environment would be of great benefit here in BC.

It is time to demand a more equitable auto insurance marketplace in British Columbia. Let's reclaim our freedom and take control of our lives. After all, our homes and cars are our two biggest purchases, where we spend the majority of our time.

We are calling on the BC Government to introduce reforms in our auto insurance sector that would allow for more choice and competition. Sign this petition if you believe in a fair insurance market, where your rights as a consumer are upheld, and let's bring this to the attention of those who can bring about change.