A car crash can be stressful for even the most seasoned of drivers. If you are a new driver or are still learning how to drive, being in a collision could be particularly overwhelming. However, if you are able to remain calm and take a few basic steps, the incident may be less shocking for you. Additionally, you are legally required to take certain actions in the event of an auto accident in BC. By following these tips from our driving school in Coquitlam, you can make the best of a stressful situation.
Know the Steps to Take after a Collision
No one wants to experience a collision, but you should be prepared in case you do. If you are in an auto accident in BC, follow these steps:
- Call 911 if Necessary: The first thing you should do is check to see if anyone is injured. If someone has sustained injuries, call 911 immediately. Also, call 911 if any of the involved vehicles cannot be moved safely and is blocking traffic.
- Exchange Identifying Information: You will need to exchange insurance information with the other drivers, as well as contact numbers. Try to trade other important information, too, including driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and the makes and models of all vehicles involved in the collision. If witnesses are on the scene, ask for their contact numbers.
- Get Photographs of the Scene: If you have immediate access to a camera or mobile phone, take photos of the damage done to all of the vehicles. You should also get photographs of any nearby road or property damage, such as skid marks or damage to a road sign.
- Report to the Police when Required: Be aware of the law regarding when you must report an accident to the local police. In BC, you are not mandated to report a collision to the police if there is no injury or death.
- Make a Report to ICBC: Regardless of whose fault the crash was, each involved party must file a report with ICBC. You must also make a report even if no injuries were sustained. You can report online or by phone to ICBC. As a claimant, you have a 30-day period to provide ICBC with a written report of the circumstances and consequences of your car accident. You have a 90-day due date for disclosure of an accident benefit application. The ICBC Dial-a-Claim numbers are 604-520-8222 for the Lower Mainland and 1-800-910-4222 for anywhere else in BC, Canada, or the U.S. Your insurance representative should give you further details on having any damage to your car repaired. You may also speak to the claims adjuster about no fault medical benefits.
Consult a Langley Driving School for Defensive Driving Best Practices
Getting in an accident can be scary for anyone. Whether you have been driving for 6 months or 20 years, don’t hesitate to consult North Shore Driving School about our defensive driving course. We have a reputation for being among the top driving schools in the Abbotsford, Langley, and Coquitlam area. Our instructors are happy to assist local drivers in feeling safe and confident on the road.
Feel free to call our North Vancouver Car Division at 604-988-1138. The Car Division in North Vancouver is at 1821 Lonsdale Ave. You may also call our Truck Division at 604-299-9292. The Truck Division is in Burnaby at 2990 Norland Ave. If you would prefer to reach us online, you may fill out our easy contact form today.