A British Columbia driver is suing the province’s insurance provider after it denied coverage for his Porsche 911 GT3 RS damaged on a track. Alexander Paquette claims the car malfunctioned and caught fire, not that he was racing. The vehicle, leased by Paquette and his grandmother from an Ontario-based company, was valued at over $200,000.
The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC), which provides basic insurance to all drivers in the province, refused to cover the damage, citing a policy exclusion for track-related activities. Paquette’s lawsuit argues he did not breach the policy and is entitled to coverage for the vehicle loss, plus towing and other damages. ICBC’s denial letter stated the car was used in an excluded activity, including a “contest, show or race or in advanced or performance training” on a track, and did not allege unsafe driving or improper maintenance.
Track Day Gone Wrong
The incident occurred at Area 27 Motorsports Park, a members-only facility with a 4.83-km (three-mile) circuit designed by Jacques Villeneuve. Membership requires an initiation fee of $60,000 and annual dues, granting drivers a minimum of 15 days per month on the track. Paquette, who had his grandmother’s permission, was performing laps when the car caught fire. He reported the loss to ICBC, provided maintenance records, and made the car available for inspection, though ICBC did not examine it for a year.
The lawsuit has not yet been heard in court, and no allegations have been proven. Area 27 noted it was unaware of the lawsuit and emphasized that members and guests must sign a waiver absolving the track of responsibility for damage or loss, with insurance not mandated by the facility.
Insurance Gaps for Track Enthusiasts
This case highlights that standard insurance policies may exclude track-related activities, potentially leaving drivers financially vulnerable. Experts advise checking policies carefully and seeking specialized coverage for track days, as drivers may face significant out-of-pocket expenses for vehicle damage or track repairs.
Lessons for Drivers
Paquette’s situation serves as a cautionary tale for enthusiasts. Non-racing track activities may be excluded from standard insurance coverage. Drivers should review their policies for track-related exclusions and consider specialized insurance for track days. Many tracks work with insurance agencies that provide this type of plan, so drivers should ask if theirs does.
