SGI handling deductible for owners with vehicles damaged in Athol Street joyride

No deductible will need to be paid by those whose vehicles were smashed up when they were hit by a stolen truck on Athol Street on Tuesday.

It was stated earlier by a SGI spokesperson that those wanting their vehicles repaired quickly would have to pay the deductible themselves and SGI would would try to recover it if the at-fault driver was convicted.

SGI Vice President Paul McIntyre says they have now reviewed all the facts involving the incident in Regina’s Catheral neighbourhood that left 16 vehicle damaged.

“If we’ve caused any confusion about that I certainly apologize,” said McIntyre.

“We deal with deductible and loss of use and seek recovery later from the person who caused the loss.”

He says the Crown insurer recognizes the vehicle was stolen and its driver impaired, allegedly, and so there would be no insurance coverage. There is a fund to cover crashes involving uninsured drivers.

SGI will still try to recover the money from the teen driver — if she is convicted — and if she has any ability to pay.

The company also admits it has heard the concern from the public when it was first suggested the vehicle owners would be on the hook for up to $700 for the deductible for each vehicle.

He says drivers in this incident can go to the shop of their choice to have it repaired with the deductible taken care of by SGI.