Motor vehicle accidents can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. The aftermath of a car crash can be physically, emotionally, and financially overwhelming. However, Albertans have a valuable resource to help alleviate some of the financial burdens that come with such accidents – Section B benefits.
Every automobile policy consists of standard Sections ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’.
Section A is the third-party insurance for coverage in the event a person sues you.
Section B is benefits for bodily injury and coverage for injury related treatments.
Section C is coverage for loss or damage to your vehicle.
If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, you have a right to claim your accident benefits from your insurance regardless of who is at fault. These benefits are called Section B benefits, which are mandatory in a standard automobile policy.
Section B provides accident victims with essential coverage for medical expenses, rehabilitation, and compensation for income loss resulting from a motor vehicle accident.
Medical Expenses: One of the primary benefits of Section B coverage is that it covers medical expenses related to injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident. This includes rehabilitation services and prescription medication. This coverage ensures that accident victims can focus on their recovery without the stress of paying for necessary medical treatments.
Rehabilitation: Recovering from a motor vehicle accident often requires extensive rehabilitation, such as physiotherapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, occupational therapy, or psychological counseling. Section B benefits help cover these essential services, ensuring that accident victims have access to the care they need to regain their physical and emotional well-being.
Income Replacement: If an accident leaves you unable to work, Section B benefits provide compensation for your income loss. This financial support helps you maintain your financial stability while you recover from your injuries and get back on your feet. Coverage is up to a maximum of $2,400 a month.
Housekeeping and Home Maintenance Benefits: If the injured person is unable to perform their usual household tasks due to the accident, Section B may provide coverage for housekeeping and home maintenance services.
Funeral Expenses: In the tragic event of a fatal accident, Section B benefits also cover reasonable funeral expenses. This financial assistance can help ease the burden on the deceased’s family during a challenging time.
Survivor Benefits: If you’ve lost a loved one in a motor vehicle accident, Section B benefits may also provide survivor benefits to help dependents cope with the financial impact of their loss.
If you suffer from a serious injury, the Section B benefits are available for up to two years after the date of loss, up to a maximum of $50,00 per person involved in the motor vehicle accident.
To access Section B benefits, individuals involved in a motor vehicle accident must report the incident to their insurance provider promptly. The insurance company will then assess the claim and provide guidance on the necessary documentation and procedures. It is crucial to provide accurate and timely information to ensure a smooth claims process.
Section B benefits are a “no-fault” insurance system, meaning you can access these benefits regardless of who caused the accident. This system is designed to provide immediate support to accident victims without the need for lengthy legal battles to determine fault.
You will be required to use up any extended health insurance benefits you are entitled to ahead of some types of Section B coverage.
We are dedicated to helping you make an informed decision about your legal options. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motor vehicle accident, contact TC Legal today for a free consultation.