Could Albertans see a change to their car insurance policy?

Do you know how much you’re paying for your car insurance? You could see a change to your insurance policy in the next few months as Albertans are asked to weigh in on the province’s auto insurance system.

“The legal cost underlines your auto insurance here in Alberta are higher than anywhere else in this country, up to three times higher,” said Aaron Sutherland, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) vice-president of Western and Pacific regions.

According to the IBC, Albertans pay the second-highest car insurance rates in the country, and the bureau wants the province to lower those costs.

“Let’s put drivers in the driver’s seat, let’s let them choose the level of coverage that best meets their needs at the best price possible,” said Sutherland.

Last week, the Alberta government launched an online survey asking Albertans to join the conversation.

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In an emailed statement to CityNews, the province says “we need to hear Albertans with their thoughts and experiences. Their feedback will help us choose the right path to keep auto insurance affordable and sustainable.”

This isn’t the first time the province has promised cheaper car insurance. Last July, the government capped rates to inflation for drivers with good driving records. Some say that doesn’t work.

“The system today unfortunately sees safe drivers subsidizing bad drivers in the marketplace, we think that needs to change,” explained Sutherland.

Also at issue is Alberta’s no-fault insurance system, which means that each driver will deal with their own insurance on claims.

“But if you’re catastrophically injured following a collision, it’s important to understand what this is going to mean for the level of care you receive,” Sutherland added.