What to know about Section B – Accidents Benefits (No-fault Benefits)

What to know about Section B – Accidents Benefits (No-fault Benefits)

In Alberta, automobile insurance is prescribed by legislation. The result is a standardized insurance policy that is the same for all motorists. The three sections in Alberta’s Standard Owner’s Automobile Policy, Form (SPF No. 1) are:

  • Section A – Third Party Liability Insurance – Mandatory
  • Section B – Accident Benefits – Mandatory
  • Section C –  Loss of or damage to insured vehicle – Optional

If you’ve been involved in a motor-vehicle accident, you have a right to claim accident benefits from your insurer no matter who is at-fault in the accident. Continue reading

No-Fault Auto Insurance in Alberta

Alberta’s advisory committee on insurance reform has recommended that the province change its auto insurance system to a no-fault system.  No-fault auto insurance is common in jurisdictions where government plays a larger role in people’s lives such as British Columbia and Saskatchewan. This system is inconsistent with the values of personal responsibility, self-determination, and fairness that Albertans hold dear. 

Experience in the U.S. and other provinces has also shown that no-fault doesn’t reduce premiums but leads to higher costs and fewer protections and civil rights for Albertans.  A no-fault insurance means that if you’re hurt or your vehicle is damaged in an accident, your own insurance company will pay for some of your losses, no matter who caused the accident. Continue reading

Auto Insurance Reform Online Survey (Deadline: March 6, 2020). No-fault Insurance Will Have Serious Consequences for Injured People. What You Need to Know.

You may have heard that the Alberta Government is looking to reform the province’s Auto Insurance system. An online survey has been set up to collect input from Albertans. No details have been provided on what the new system would look like, but there has been reference to moving to a no-fault system.

We encourage all Albertans to take part in the survey and let the Government know what you want (and what you don’t want). You can find the link to the survey at the bottom of this post.

Before you provide your input, it’s important to understand in practical terms what a shift to a no-fault system will mean if you, or a loved one, is seriously injured in a car accident.

Continue reading