Vehicle Modifications Policy 21-402 | Effective Date: March 18, 2026

Policy

WorkSafeNB assists workers to maximize their independence by lessening or removing barriers through the provision of vehicle modifications, such as:

• Wheelchair lifts and ramps;
• Scooter lifts;
• Roof, floor, and door alterations;
• Specialized seating;
• Hand controls;
• Automatic transmission; and
• Wheelchair carriers.

To be eligible to receive this discretionary benefit, WorkSafeNB determines whether:

• The worker has experienced a compensable injury or illness that resulted in a significant long-term functional impairment;
• Vehicle modifications are needed to enable the worker to return to work and / or gain access to their community; and
• The worker has the ability to operate a vehicle in a safe manner.

When requirements for eligibility and need are met, WorkSafeNB evaluates the available options and oversees the implementation of the vehicle modification(s).

Vehicle modifications are limited to one vehicle per worker until the vehicle or equipment requires replacement.

Interpretation

Eligibility

1. WorkSafeNB determines whether there is a significant long-term functional impairment. This may include spinal cord or brain injuries, requiring the use of a wheelchair, or other workplace injuries or diseases of similar severity that may result in transportation limitations.

2. WorkSafeNB identifies the need for vehicle modifications by:

• Reviewing the device(s) and / or equipment prescribed by a medical practitioner; and
• Having a needs assessment conducted by a WorkSafeNB approved occupational therapist.

3. A needs assessment conducted by the WorkSafeNB approved occupational therapist:

• Assesses the worker’s functional abilities;
• Evaluates the impact of the worker’s needs on the worker’s family;
• Determines the long-term impact to the worker related to the compensable injury; and
• Reviews the worker’s limitations within the current vehicle.

Vehicle options

4. WorkSafeNB’s preference is to modify a vehicle owned by the worker. To determine if the worker’s current vehicle is appropriate in meeting their needs, WorkSafeNB evaluates aspects, such as:

• The age, size, and condition of the vehicle;
• Potential for the worker to achieve increased independence;
• Long-term durability of each option;
• Costs involved;
• Safety of the worker; and
• Ownership of the vehicle being modified.

5. Where it is not cost-effective to modify the worker’s current vehicle, WorkSafeNB may consider:

• Modifying another vehicle purchased by the worker; or
• Modifying a vehicle owned by another person if the worker relies on other people for their transportation needs.

6. Prior to any modifications, WorkSafeNB requires: 

• Proof of registration of the vehicle to be modified; 
• Proof of vehicle insurance;
• Written consent for the modification from the vehicle owner, and permission for worker to use and / or operate the vehicle, as required;
• Proof of the worker’s valid motor vehicle driver’s license, if the purpose of the modification is to enable the worker to drive; and,
• Written agreement that WorkSafeNB will not be responsible for future costs related to restoring the vehicle to pre‐modification conditions. 

7. WorkSafeNB considers vehicles owned by the worker and used partially for business purposes to be personal vehicles and may pay for modification costs; however, WorkSafeNB does not modify vehicles owned or leased by an employer.  

Vehicle modifications

8. WorkSafeNB collaborates with the worker, medical aid practitioners, and service providers, as necessary, to:

• Evaluate, select, and approve the most appropriate modification options; and
• Define the responsibilities of the parties involved.

9. WorkSafeNB implements the vehicle modification by:

• Selecting and approving the service provider; and
• Approving costs associated with modifying the vehicle.

10. When more than one service provider is available, WorkSafeNB considers factors such as:

• Cost;
• Experience;
• Inspection qualifications;
• Proximity to the worker; and
• Timeframes for completion.

11. Prior to payment, WorkSafeNB verifies the work has been completed by a certified mechanic and specialized vehicle modification professional(s). To ensure compliance with Canadian National Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, WorkSafeNB requires a copy of a valid inspection certification from:

• The department responsible for inspection and motor vehicle safety within the province; or
• An organization applying a National Safety Mark on the modified vehicle.

12. Where a worker wishes to upgrade the modifications approved by WorkSafeNB, the worker is responsible for payment of any costs which exceed the original plan and must arrange for payment to be made directly to the service provider.

Maintenance and repairs

13. WorkSafeNB may pay for repairs or replacement of equipment that is necessary due to:

• Normal wear and tear;
• Damage from accidental causes;
• Changes in the physical condition of the worker and fit of the equipment.

14. Before paying for the cost of repairs or maintenance of modifications, WorkSafeNB considers whether there are any valid warranties that may be used.

15. The worker is responsible for:

• Ensuring regular maintenance of the modifications occurs; and
• All maintenance and upkeep costs of the vehicle, such as regular maintenance and repairs, annual governmental inspections, and gasoline costs.

16. If the modified vehicle needs to be replaced, WorkSafeNB prefers to transfer the equipment in the old vehicle to a new vehicle, if possible. WorkSafeNB will pay for the costs associated with the equipment transfer, as necessary.

17. If the equipment cannot be transferred, WorkSafeNB pays for the costs of replacement modifications and equipment installation.

Financial assistance

18. If a worker requires a van to accommodate the use of a wheelchair, and no other suitable option is available, WorkSafeNB may contribute an amount they consider necessary and appropriate toward the purchase price of the vehicle. This decision is to be done in consultation with the worker to ensure any tax implications are understood. This assistance is generally available once every 10 years (the expected life of a vehicle); however, WorkSafeNB will consider exceptional circumstances on a case-by-case basis.

19. Where a worker chooses to purchase an appropriate vehicle, the worker may be eligible for an advance of compensation benefits. For more information, see Policy 21-505 Advances of Compensation Benefits.

20. When necessary, WorkSafeNB may pay for specialized driver education courses for the worker.

Security

21. WorkSafeNB may require security documents to protect the investment.

Tax implications

Vehicle modifications as outlined in this policy are generally considered medical expenses and are not reportable on a T5007.

Contributions toward the purchase of a van that exceed the lesser of $5000, or 20% of the purchase price (minus the cost of adapting the vehicle if included in the purchase price), are included on a the T5007.

Previous versions

• Policy 21-402 Vehicle Modifications release 4, effective January 1, 2020
• Policy 21-402 Vehicle Modifications release 3, effective September 13, 2017
• Policy 21-402 Vehicle Modifications release 2, effective January 26, 2012