Insurance Coverage in Transit Accidents
Who pays for my injuries? When you're injured in a bus, LRT, or other public-transit accident, the answer isn't always straightforward.
Unlike regular car accidents, transit accidents in Alberta often involve **municipal insurance, commercial policies, and overlapping coverage sources**. Understanding these layers and identifying the responsible insurer is crucial for securing full compensation.
As Alberta injury lawyers experienced in transit and municipal claims, we explain how insurance coverage works, what benefits are available, and what to do if insurers deny or delay payment.
This guide covers:
How Transit Insurance Differs from Regular Auto Insurance
While most private vehicle collisions are handled by personal auto insurers, transit accidents are different. Potential sources of coverage depend on who operates the vehicle:
Potential Coverage Sources:
Types of Insurance Coverage in Transit Accidents
Several insurance coverages may apply depending on the circumstances of the crash:
Third-Party Liability Coverage
Pays compensation when a driver or transit operator is found negligent.
Accident Benefits (Section B)
Provides immediate coverage for medical, rehabilitation, and income-loss benefits — regardless of fault.
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you if the at-fault driver fled the scene or didn't have valid insurance.
Municipal Self-Insurance
Cities like Calgary and Edmonton maintain internal funds and adjusters to manage transit claims rather than using a standard private insurer.
Commercial Insurance (Private Carriers)
Applies to charter or intercity bus companies that operate under standard commercial liability policies.
Steps to Take After a Transit Accident
Taking immediate action protects your rights and ensures you access all available insurance coverage.
Call 911 and Ensure Police Report
Call 911 and ensure the scene is reported to police.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Get checked by paramedics or go to the emergency room, even if you feel fine initially.
Report the Incident
Report the incident to the bus driver or station supervisor and obtain an incident report number if possible.
Take Photos
Take photos of vehicles, injuries, and the accident scene.
Collect Contact Information
Collect contact information from witnesses and other passengers.
File a Section B Claim
File a Section B claim within 30 days for treatment coverage.
Contact a Lawyer
Contact a lawyer to handle municipal notice and insurance communication.
How a Lawyer Determines Coverage
Transit-accident claims often involve multiple overlapping policies. A lawyer can:
Identify All Applicable Insurance Policies
Identify **all applicable insurance policies** (municipal, private, or third-party).
Confirm Policy Limits and Exclusions
Confirm **policy limits and exclusions** to understand available coverage.
File Section B and Liability Claims Correctly
File **Section B and liability claims** correctly to meet all deadlines.
Communicate with City Adjusters or Insurers
Communicate directly with city adjusters or outside insurers on your behalf.
Coordinate Medical and Financial Evidence
Coordinate medical and financial evidence to support damages.
Negotiate Settlements Across Multiple Parties
Negotiate settlements across multiple parties to maximize your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Insurance coverage in transit accidents can be confusing — involving city programs, private insurers, and overlapping benefits. Missing a notice deadline or filing with the wrong insurer can delay or destroy your claim.
Seek medical help immediately
Report the incident and document everything
File your Section B claim and municipal notice promptly
Contact an experienced Alberta lawyer to coordinate coverage and protect your rights
Still have questions?
Contact us today — your consultation is free. No fee unless we win.