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Passenger injury claims in Alberta

Passengers rarely cause a collision, but they are often seriously hurt in one. Whether you were riding with a friend, a family member or a rideshare driver, you may have claims against more than one insurer.

As a passenger you can usually claim accident benefits, and you may have a claim for damages against whichever driver caused the collision. That can include the driver of the vehicle you were in. Many passengers hesitate to claim because they do not want to sue a friend or relative. In practice, the claim is made against that driver’s insurance policy, and the insurer, not your friend, deals with it.

Which insurer pays

Accident benefits are usually paid by the insurer of the vehicle you were in, or by your own policy if you have one, depending on the circumstances. A claim for damages is made against the at-fault driver’s insurer. If both drivers were partly at fault, both insurers may be involved. We identify every policy that may respond.

What passengers can claim

  • Treatment and rehabilitation costs
  • Lost income and loss of future earning capacity
  • Damages for pain and suffering
  • Out-of-pocket expenses and help needed at home

When more than one person was hurt

When several people in the same vehicle are injured, each person’s claim is separate, and each injured person can be represented. If you and a family member or partner were both hurt, tell us at the consultation so we can explain how the claims will be handled.

How a passenger claim proceeds

  1. Consultation

    We review the collision, who was driving and which policies apply.

  2. Benefits

    We make sure your accident benefits are claimed and your treatment is documented.

  3. Claim for damages

    We notify the responsible insurers and build the evidence on your injuries and losses.

  4. Resolution

    We negotiate a settlement or pursue the claim in court if needed.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to sue my friend who was driving?

The claim is made against the driver’s insurance, and the insurer handles it. A lawsuit names the driver formally, but the insurer defends it and pays any settlement up to the policy limits.

I was in a rideshare or taxi. Does that change anything?

Commercial vehicles often have different insurance arrangements. We identify which policies apply.

Does Care-First affect passengers?

Yes. For collisions on or after January 1, 2027, the right to sue will be limited under Alberta’s new Care-First model. Read more.

Talk to a lawyer about your situation

Book a consultation online, or call us at 587-393-3958, Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The information on this page is general information, not legal advice, and may not reflect recent changes in the law. Contacting UMPC Law does not create a lawyer–client relationship.