Can You Choose Your Own Doctor in a Car Accident Claim in Alberta?
After a car accident in Alberta, you may need ongoing medical care—physiotherapy, chiropractic treatment, specialist consultations, or psychological support. But when the insurance company starts recommending doctors or clinics, many people wonder: Do I have to use their doctors, or can I choose my own?
Insurers often claim they're 'helping' by sending you to preferred medical providers, but in reality, these professionals are often hired to protect the insurer's bottom line, not your recovery. Using the wrong doctor can weaken your diagnosis, delay treatment, or even reduce your compensation.
As Alberta personal injury lawyers who once defended insurers, we know how medical evidence determines the outcome of your case—and how to ensure it's based on independent, unbiased care.
This guide explains your right to choose your own doctor after a crash, the role of insurer-recommended doctors and IMEs, how medical records impact your injury claim, common mistakes that hurt medical credibility, Alberta-specific insurance rules and deadlines, and how a lawyer protects your right to fair treatment and full recovery.
This guide covers:
What Counts as Personal Injury After a Car Accident?
Personal injury means any physical or psychological harm caused by another driver's negligence. The sooner you see a doctor, the better your chance of identifying and documenting all injuries.
Common Car Accident Injuries in Alberta:
Can You Choose Your Own Doctor After a Car Accident?
Yes. In Alberta, you have the right to choose your own doctor, physiotherapist, chiropractor, or other healthcare provider after a car accident. Your treatment decisions are yours—not your insurer's. However, your insurer may still request an Independent Medical Examination (IME) or recommend clinics for billing convenience. You are not required to use their 'preferred' clinics for regular care. In fact, independent medical documentation from your own provider is often more credible in court or settlement negotiations.
Why Insurers Recommend 'Preferred' Doctors
Insurers often promote their own 'approved' or 'network' doctors for several reasons: Cost Control — Their preferred clinics charge negotiated rates; Convenience — They can access medical records directly and manage billing internally; Claim Limitation — Reports may downplay your injuries to fit Alberta's 'minor injury' cap; Influence on Evidence — Insurer-selected doctors may minimize diagnoses or suggest early return-to-work timelines. While not all preferred providers are biased, using one can create the appearance of insurer influence—hurting your credibility and your claim's value.
Why Choosing Your Own Doctor Matters
Selecting your own doctor ensures: Independent Opinions — Your diagnosis reflects your condition—not insurer expectations; Continuity of Care — Your family doctor and chosen specialists know your medical history; Proper Documentation — Independent records carry more weight in settlement negotiations; Improved Recovery — Personalized treatment plans, not one-size-fits-all insurer protocols.
Key point: You control your treatment. Insurers cannot dictate which doctor you see.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Alberta
Following these steps can help protect your right to choose your own doctor and strengthen your injury claim.
Get Medical Care Immediately
Visit a doctor, urgent care, or emergency department right after the crash—even if injuries seem minor.
Follow Up With Your Family Doctor
Your family physician should coordinate ongoing treatment, referrals, and specialist care.
Keep All Medical Records
Save every visit summary, prescription, and imaging report. These form the foundation of your claim.
Ask About Referrals
If needed, your doctor can refer you to physiotherapists, chiropractors, or specialists familiar with car accident recovery.
Avoid Insurer-Assigned Clinics Without Legal Advice
Before attending an insurer's 'preferred' clinic or assessment, speak to a lawyer. These clinics often limit claims under the minor injury cap.
Track Your Recovery
Keep a daily journal describing your pain levels, physical limitations, and how the injuries affect your work and family life.
Notify Your Insurer Promptly
Report the accident but avoid recorded statements or medical authorizations until you've spoken to a lawyer.
Contact an Alberta Injury Lawyer Early
A lawyer ensures your medical evidence is comprehensive, independent, and used properly in your claim.
How a Lawyer Helps With Medical Evidence and Treatment
A lawyer ensures your medical care remains independent and that your medical evidence supports your claim for full compensation.
Protecting Your Medical Independence
Ensuring you see doctors who work for you, not the insurer.
Coordinating Expert Opinions
Working with specialists to document lasting injuries.
Challenging Biased IME Reports
Cross-examining insurer-appointed doctors if they minimize injuries.
Maximizing Compensation
Using solid medical records to prove pain, disability, and income loss.
Handling Direct Insurer Pressure
Insurers may try to steer you toward specific clinics—your lawyer can stop that.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
In Alberta, you have the full legal right to choose your own doctor after a car accident. While insurers may suggest 'preferred' clinics, these facilities often serve the insurer's interests—not yours. Choosing independent medical care ensures fair treatment, better recovery, and stronger evidence for your claim.
You control your medical treatment—not the insurer.
Independent doctors provide unbiased evidence that strengthens your case.
Insurer 'preferred' clinics often minimize injuries under the minor injury cap.
A lawyer can protect your medical independence and ensure fair compensation.
Injured in a car accident?
Contact us today for a free consultation. No fee unless we win.