Care-First auto insurance savings are now here
Auto insurance renewals in Alberta are now $300 less on average as a result of government's Care-First auto insurance reforms
EDMONTON, AB, Nov. 2, 2026 /CNW/ -- Yes, Really! Alberta drivers are saving $300 on average now that Care-First savings are here, and Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) has launched a new campaign to educate consumers about the positive changes. While the new model takes effect on January 1, all auto insurance renewals issued on November 1 and after reflect the new coverage and its associated savings for drivers.
"Starting today and moving forward, the vast majority of drivers will begin to see something in their auto insurance renewals that they haven't seen for a very long time – savings," said Aaron Sutherland, Vice-President, Pacific and Western, IBC. "By expanding benefits for those injured in collisions and reducing the need for lawsuits, the Alberta government's Care-First reforms have delivered on the promise to improve the affordability of auto insurance for drivers."
Based on an analysis of insurer rates by the province's Automobile Insurance Rate Board (AIRB), the government's rate regulator, close to 90% of drivers will see lower premiums under Care-First. Across all drivers, savings will average $300 but many will see even greater reductions. Young drivers and families with young drivers are expected to save the most, with many seeing their premiums reduced by around $3,000. Middle-aged drivers are expected to see savings closer to $525 on average. Seniors can expect savings of 20%.
In total, AIRB projects that out of Alberta's 3.1 million insured vehicles, approximately 2.75 million will see a premium reduction, with over half saving 15% or more.
Why aren't all drivers seeing savings under Care-First?
Roughly 310,000 drivers are expected to see rate increases under Care-First, the majority of which will average just 5%.
Under the new system, Alberta will no longer cap premiums for those with a history of at-fault claims, driving infractions and high-risk driving behaviour. These individuals may pay more because good drivers are no longer subsidizing their rates. Care-First premiums will also more closely reflect the expected cost of recovery and care following a collision. For example, the expected cost of post-accident care could be higher for a motorcycle driver injured in a collision and that cost is now reflected in their premiums.
Individual premiums will also vary depending on factors such as driving record, location, vehicle model and coverage choices. However, for those seeing premium increases under Care-First, Alberta has a highly competitive market and those with questions about their premium or the new system should speak to their insurance representative about what options are available to them.
Yes, Really! public campaign launched
To help educate consumers about the new Care-First system and the savings it will deliver, IBC has launched a province-wide public advertising campaign called Yes, Really! The campaign includes television, radio, digital and social media advertisements. Over the next two months, Albertans will see or hear the campaign frequently; the media plan is designed to reach each person at least 18 times.
Consumers can visit betterautoalberta.ca to learn more about Care-First, expected premium impacts and the enhanced care and recovery benefits available under the new system.
"Care-First is about making auto insurance work better for Albertans," added Sutherland. "That means lower premiums for the vast majority of drivers, better support after a collision and straightforward information that helps consumers understand their insurance renewal and make informed choices."
Based on approved insurer filings analyzed in September 2026. Results are averages and are not guaranteed for every driver.
About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Established in 1964, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up the vast majority of Canada's highly competitive property and casualty (P&C) insurance market.
As the leading advocate for Canada's private P&C insurers, IBC collaborates with governments, regulators and stakeholders to support a competitive environment for the P&C insurance industry to continue to help protect Canadians from the risks of today and tomorrow.
IBC believes that Canadians value and deserve a responsive and resilient private P&C insurance industry that provides insurance solutions to both individuals and businesses.
For media releases, IN Focus articles or to book an interview with an IBC representative, visit ibc.ca. Follow us on LinkedIn, X and Instagram, and like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1‑844‑2ask-IBC. We're here to help.
SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada
Media contact: Brett Weltman, Manager, Media Relations, [email protected]
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