Section B Benefits in Alberta
What Injured People Need to Know
When you’re injured in a motor vehicle accident, the last thing you want to worry about is how you’re going to pay for medical treatment or replace income while you recover. Alberta’s auto insurance system recognizes this, which is why every standard car insurance policy in the province includes Section B Benefits. These short-term, no-fault benefits help cover medical needs and, in some cases, a portion of your income if injuries prevent you from working.
Many people first learn about Section B when they are already struggling. This guide explains what these benefits include, who qualifies, how to apply, and what to expect if issues arise along the way.
What Are Section B Benefits?
Section B Benefits come from Alberta’s Automobile Accident Insurance Benefits Regulation under the Insurance Act. These benefits apply regardless of who caused the accident and provide early financial support so you can access treatment and stabilize your situation. Section B does not replace a personal injury claim. Instead, it offers immediate assistance while longer-term legal issues unfold.
Medical Benefits Covered Under Section B
Section B covers treatment-related expenses such as chiropractic care, physiotherapy, massage therapy, prescription medication, ambulance services, dental treatment, and medical aids. These benefits generally apply for up to two years from the date of the accident.
Disability Benefits Under Section B
If your injuries prevent you from working, Section B may provide weekly disability benefits of up to $400. You must meet employment and medical requirements, and a short waiting period applies. Benefits can continue for up to two years if you remain eligible.
Death and Funeral Benefits
When a collision is fatal, Section B offers limited death benefits and funeral expense coverage to surviving family members. These payments address immediate financial needs and operate alongside potential Fatal Accidents Act claims.
Who Is Eligible for Section B?
Eligibility includes the policyholder, resident family members, passengers in the insured vehicle, and in some cases, pedestrians or cyclists struck by a vehicle. If you were injured in an Alberta motor vehicle accident, a Section B policy typically applies.
How to Apply for Section B Benefits
Applying involves notifying the insurer, completing the AB-1 Notice of Loss form, having your doctor complete the AB-2 medical form, providing employment documentation for disability benefits, and submitting any additional forms the insurer requires.
Common Delays or Denials
Benefits may be delayed or denied due to missing forms, conflicting medical information, gaps in treatment, employment verification issues, or missed deadlines. Addressing these issues early can keep your claim on track.
What Section B Does Not Cover
Section B does not cover pain and suffering, long-term disability, out-of-pocket expenses beyond policy limits, or vehicle repairs. It is designed as short-term support, not full compensation.
How Section B Works with Personal Injury Claims
Section B provides immediate support for treatment and income loss. A personal injury claim may provide additional compensation for long-term effects. In some cases, insurers may recover certain payments through subrogation when a claim resolves.
When to Seek Advice
You can start the Section B process on your own, but if benefits are delayed, denied, or reduced, advice can help you understand your rights and obligations under Alberta’s insurance laws.
Frequently Asked Questions About Section B Benefits in Alberta
Do I need to contact a lawyer before applying for Section B Benefits?
You do not need a lawyer to start a Section B claim, but guidance may help if your benefits are delayed, denied, or reduced. If you are unsure about timing, see our FAQ on when you should contact a personal injury lawyer.
How long do I have to apply for Section B Benefits?
Accidents should be reported to your insurer as soon as possible, and Section B forms should be completed promptly to avoid delays. For more information on legal time limits, see the statute of limitations for MVA claims in Alberta.
Are Section B Benefits available even if I caused the accident?
Yes. Section B applies regardless of fault. These benefits are considered “no-fault” and are available to most injured people. To learn more about liability rules, visit our FAQ on how fault is determined in an MVA.
What if I cannot work because of my injuries?
Section B disability benefits may provide weekly income support if you meet medical and employment requirements. For additional information on income loss, see what financial options are available if you cannot return to work.
Will applying for Section B affect my personal injury claim?
Section B provides immediate support and operates separately from a personal injury claim. Some payments may be subject to subrogation if you later receive compensation. For more information, visit our overview of damages and compensation.
What medical treatments qualify under Section B?
Benefits may cover physiotherapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy, dental treatment, and prescription medication. For more information on accident-related injuries, explore our FAQs for bicycle accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, and pedestrian accidents.
What happens if Section B Benefits do not cover everything?
Section B is designed for short-term medical and income support. Additional losses may be addressed in a personal injury claim. For more details, see FAQs on how long injury claims take and how MVA claims are valued.
What if Alberta moves to a no-fault insurance system?
Injuries that occur before Alberta’s no-fault framework begins will follow the current rules. To learn more about potential changes, see our FAQ series on No-Fault Auto Insurance in Alberta 2027.