Physiotherapy After a Motor Vehicle Accident in Alberta — Claim Guide
How MVA physiotherapy claims work in Alberta under the DTPR — the first 90 days, what's covered, and how AIM handles it for you.
The short answer
In Alberta, motor vehicle accident (MVA) injuries are typically handled under the Diagnostic and Treatment Protocols Regulation (DTPR). Most soft tissue injuries qualify for an initial period of rehabilitation funded directly by the auto insurer — at no out-of-pocket cost to you, in most cases. AIM handles the paperwork on your end so you can focus on recovery. *General information only — your individual claim is governed by the regulation, your insurer's adjuster, and your treating clinician's findings.*
What the DTPR is, in plain language
The DTPR is the Alberta framework that classifies common MVA injuries into categories — typically referred to as WAD I, WAD II, and WAD III for whiplash-associated disorders, plus sprain and strain categories for other body regions. Each category has a defined protocol of approved treatment and a timeframe in which insurer-funded care is available without you needing to argue for it.
What you should do in the first 7–14 days
- See a physician (family doctor, urgent care, or ER if warranted) so injuries are documented in the medical record.
- Report the accident to your auto insurer and get a claim number.
- Book a physiotherapy assessment — most clinics, including AIM, can start treatment under the DTPR with just your claim number, adjuster's name, and date of accident.
- Bring your claim details to your first visit. You don't need to figure out which WAD category you fit — your physio will assess and document that.
What's typically covered
Under the protocols, common MVA presentations (whiplash, soft tissue strains, joint sprains) qualify for an initial period of insurer-funded care that may include:
- Physiotherapy assessment and treatment
- Massage therapy (when delivered as part of an integrated rehab plan)
- Chiropractic care (where part of the plan)
- Concussion-specific rehabilitation if a concussion was sustained
- Vestibular rehabilitation for accident-related dizziness or balance issues
If your symptoms are more severe or don't fit the protocols, your treating clinician can request additional treatment beyond the standard funding window — this often involves an injury management consultation with a physician or specialist.
What if my injuries are more complex?
Concussions, more significant whiplash injuries, fractures, surgeries, and persistent symptoms past the standard DTPR window are common. They're not a problem — they just route slightly differently. Your physiotherapist coordinates with your physician and the insurer to keep care moving without gaps.
What AIM handles for you
- Insurer billing — direct billed wherever the auto insurer permits
- DTPR documentation and category assessment
- Coordination with your family physician and any specialists involved
- Communication with your adjuster about progress and treatment plans
- Referral within AIM to massage, chiro, vestibular, or concussion rehab where indicated
What you should bring to your first appointment
- Photo ID
- Your auto insurance claim number
- Your adjuster's name and contact info
- Date and brief description of the accident
- Any imaging or hospital paperwork from the day of the accident
- A list of current symptoms and any medications
Related care
Rehab support after collisions for whiplash, pain, mobility issues, and post-accident recovery.
General physiotherapy for pain, injury, mobility, and function.
Structured care for concussion recovery, symptom management, and return to activity.
Therapeutic massage as part of a complete recovery and wellness plan.
Neck injury after motor vehicle collision — covered under Alberta Section B.
Targeted treatment for acute neck pain, tech neck, and post-injury stiffness.
Modern, active treatment for acute and persistent back pain.
Mild traumatic brain injury needing structured recovery — not just rest.
Have a question this didn't answer?
Book an assessment with an AIM clinician — direct billing and WCB/MVA support included.