What Should I Do If I’m Injured in 2025 or 2026?

If you’re injured in a motor vehicle accident in Alberta during 2025 or 2026, you still have the right to pursue a full personal injury claim under the current tort-based system. This is a critical window of time because once the province switches to no-fault auto insurance on January 1, 2027, those rights will be eliminated for future accidents.

Your Rights in 2025 and 2026

If your accident happens before the end of 2026, you may:

• Sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering, income loss, and other damages
• Claim long-term care and rehabilitation costs
• Seek compensation tailored to your specific situation, not just capped benefits
• Take disputes to court if your insurer or the at-fault driver refuses to pay fairly

Why Acting Quickly Matters

• Time is limited: As of now, there are only 16 months left before the law changes.
• Deadlines apply: Alberta has strict limitation periods for filing injury claims — waiting too long can cost you your right to compensation.
• Insurers prepare early: Insurance companies are already planning for the no-fault transition, which may affect how they handle claims in the meantime.

What If My Case Extends Beyond 2027?

Even if your claim isn’t resolved before the law changes:

• The date of the accident determines which system applies.
• An accident in 2025 or 2026 will remain under the current rules, even if your case continues into 2027 or later.
• This means you retain the full rights of the current system, not the capped benefits of no-fault.

Steps to Take If Injured in 2025 or 2026

1. Get medical care immediately and follow through with treatment.
2. Report the accident to your insurer as required.
3. Document your injuries and expenses (receipts, wage loss, medical notes).
4. Contact a personal injury lawyer to protect your right to sue before the deadline.