2027 Alberta Care-First Auto Insurance – Frequently Asked Questions

Care-First is Alberta’s new automobile insurance system that focuses on recovery by providing enhanced medical, rehabilitation, and income support benefits following an automobile accident. Benefits are generally available regardless of who caused the accident.

Care-First takes effect on January 1, 2027. The system that applies to your claim depends on the date of the accident, not when you purchased your policy.

• Accidents before January 1, 2027 will be handled under the current system.
• Accidents that happen on or after January 1, 2027 will be handled under the Care-First.

The goal of Care-First is:

• Better care if you’re injured in a collision.
• Benefits in weeks instead of years.
• Accountability for bad drivers. Drivers who cause accidents will continue to face higher insurance premiums.
• More affordability and stability for auto insurance premiums.
• Reduce delays associated with legal disputes

Care-First includes enhanced accident benefits that may provide support for:

• Medical treatment and rehabilitation services
• Income replacement if you’re unable to work
• Personal care assistance for serious injuries
• Caregiver, childcare, and family expense benefits
• Permanent impairment benefits for eligible injuries
• Death and funeral benefits

Coverage is subject to policy terms, conditions, and eligibility requirements.

Yes. Care-First provides access to reasonable and necessary medical treatment and rehabilitation benefits to support your recovery.

If you are unable to work because of injuries sustained in an automobile accident, you may be eligible for income replacement benefits. Eligibility and benefit amounts are determined by the Care-First framework and your policy coverage.

Yes. While accident benefits are generally available regardless of fault, fault continues to affect driver accountability, insurance premiums, and underwriting decisions.

Care-First is designed to reduce the need for lawsuits by providing direct access to benefits and recovery support. Lawsuits may still be permitted in certain situations defined by Alberta legislation.

Yes. Pedestrians and cyclists who are injured in a motor vehicle accident may be eligible for Care-First benefits.

No. Coverage for vehicle damage, including Collision, Comprehensive, and Direct Compensation for Property Damage (DCPD), is not changing as part of the Care-First reforms.

As part of Alberta’s transition to Care-First auto insurance, the Grid rating system was removed effective January 1, 2027. If your premium was previously limited by the Grid, you may see a premium increase because your rate is now based solely on our rating program. The AIRB will continue to monitor the impact of these changes on drivers.

If you’re involved in an accident:

1. Ensure everyone is safe and seek emergency assistance if needed.
2. Report the accident as required by law.
3. Contact your insurance broker as soon as possible.
4. Keep records of medical treatment and expenses related to your recovery.
5. Follow the guidance provided by your claims representative regarding available benefits and next steps.

If you have questions about how Care-First may affect your coverage, visit alberta.ca/care-first-auto-insurance, or contact your insurance broker.