Do Passengers Get Compensation After a Car Accident in Alberta?
If you were injured as a **passenger** in a car accident, you probably have questions: "Who pays for my injuries?" "Do I even have a claim if I wasn't driving?"
In Alberta, passengers generally have the **strongest legal right to compensation** because they rarely contribute to the cause of an accident. You can recover damages whether the at-fault driver was in your vehicle, another vehicle, or unidentified in a hit-and-run.
As Alberta personal injury lawyers, we help passengers get fully compensated without creating tension with friends, family, or insurers. This guide explains your rights, who pays, and how to protect your claim.
We'll cover:
What Counts as a Passenger Injury Claim?
A passenger injury claim arises when someone riding in a vehicle is hurt in an accident caused by another person's negligence. You don't need to be driving—or even own a vehicle—to qualify for compensation.
Common Passenger Injuries in Alberta Accidents:
Can Passengers Get Compensation After a Car Accident?
Yes. Alberta law gives passengers full rights to claim compensation for any injuries caused by negligent driving.
The driver of the vehicle they were in
If that driver was at fault.
The driver of another vehicle
Involved in the crash.
Both drivers
When each shares some fault.
The Motor Vehicle Accident Claims (MVAC) Program
If the at-fault driver was uninsured or fled the scene.
A claim against a friend or family member's insurer is not personal—the insurer pays, not the driver directly.
Steps to Take if You're Injured as a Passenger in Alberta
Your actions immediately after being injured as a passenger can protect your health and strengthen your claim.
Call 911 Immediately
Report the crash so police and paramedics attend. A police report confirms key details for your claim.
Get Medical Care Right Away
Even minor pain can indicate serious injury. Early medical documentation is vital.
Collect Information
Get driver details, insurance information, and witness names.
Take Photos of the Scene
Capture vehicle positions, damage, and visible injuries.
Notify Your Insurer
Report the accident, even if another insurer will pay—your Section B benefits may apply.
Track Your Recovery
Keep a journal of symptoms, treatments, and how injuries affect your life.
Contact an Alberta Injury Lawyer Early
A lawyer determines which insurer is responsible and ensures deadlines aren't missed.
How a Lawyer Helps Passenger Injury Victims
An experienced personal injury lawyer can navigate the complexities of passenger injury claims and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Identifying All Liable Parties
Ensuring no insurer escapes responsibility.
Handling Insurance Paperwork
Navigating multiple insurers in multi-vehicle cases.
Maximizing Compensation
Accounting for both immediate and long-term needs.
Protecting Relationships
Managing the claim discreetly so friends or relatives aren't involved personally.
Challenging Denials or Delays
Pushing insurers to treat passenger claims fairly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Passengers in Alberta have strong legal protections after a car accident—regardless of whether you were riding with a friend, family member, or stranger. You have the right to recover full compensation for your injuries, medical care, and lost income. With legal support, you can secure a fair settlement even when insurers try to downplay your claim.
Passengers almost always qualify for compensation.
You can claim from one or multiple insurers depending on fault.
Claims against friends or relatives are handled through insurance, not personally.
A lawyer ensures insurers pay fairly and your future needs are protected.
Injured as a passenger in Alberta? Contact us today for a free consultation.
Contact us today for a free consultation. No fee unless we win.