Helping You Navigate ICBC Claims in Surrey, BC

In British Columbia, anyone who is injured in a car accident has the right to file a claim with The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC). Whether you were at fault or not, you can request compensation for damage to your vehicle as well as medical expenses and other types of loss. At Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd., we aim to make the ICBC claims process as easy as possible. We can streamline the process for reporting auto body services for ICBC claims and getting necessary coverage for repairs. Schedule an appointment now for vehicle repairs related to ICBC claims in Surrey, BC.

Who Can File an ICBC Claim After a Car Accident?

You can file a claim if you are involved in a car accident in British Columbia. Even if you caused the accident, you are entitled to file a claim. People who can file claims include:

• Registered owner, principal driver, or lessee of vehicle
• Driver of the vehicle
• Passenger in the vehicle
• Pedestrian or cyclist involved in a vehicle accident
• Owner of property damaged by a vehicle
• Witness to a motor vehicle accident
• Family members of a victim who died in a motor vehicle accident

How to File a Claim With ICBC

You can report an accident and file a claim with ICBC through an online report or a telephone call. ICBC operates a service called Dial-a-Claim which is available 24/7, or you can report the accident online at icbc.com and begin the claims process.

Dial-a-Claim

Lower Mainland: 604-520-8222

Rest of BC: 1-800-910-4222

Or file a report online at icbc.com

Step-by-Step Guide to the ICBC Claims Process

Start by reviewing the information above. You can then begin the claims process:

• Reporting the Accident – Begin the process by calling the number or visiting the website above. Provide the necessary details, and a claims representative will call you back to take a formal statement.
• Initial Consultation and Claim Filing – You will provide the claims representative with specific information about the accident. When your claim is filed, an adjuster will be assigned.
• Assessment and Investigation – Your adjuster will begin an investigation and gather information about the crash. They will consult all resources and investigative tools available to them and determine responsibility, fault, or liability for the crash.
• Estimate for Damage – After making a claim, your adjuster will let you know where you can take your vehicle to get a damage estimate. You will need to go to an ICBC Repair Network Facility or ICBC claim centre. The estimator will assess the damage to your vehicle and write up an estimate of the repairs needed and cost. You can then have your vehicle repaired at that shop or take it to the auto accident repair facility of your choice.
• Resolution and Compensation – If you take your vehicle to an accredited ICBC repair shop, the shop will be paid directly by ICBC for the estimated repair work. When repairs are complete, you may be responsible for paying a deductible directly to the shop. When you get auto services for ICBC claims from a non-accredited repair shop, you will need to pay the shop for the total amount of the repairs yourself and then submit your receipts to ICBC for reimbursement.

Common FAQs About ICBC Reports and Claims

What do I need to file an ICBC claim?

Before you report an accident and begin the claims process, you should have an understanding of what to expect. You should also have certain information available:

• Where the accident occurred
• The licence plate number for each vehicle involved
• The driver’s licence number and contact information for each driver involved
• Insurance information for any driver not insured by ICBC
• A description of the accident
• Details of property damage caused and injuries suffered
• Police file number
• Witness information

How long do I have to report an accident to ICBC?

You should report an accident as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours.

What if I’m partially at fault for the accident?

ICBC claims adjusters carefully review the details of every crash to determine the degree of fault or liability. If you are found responsible, ICBC will notify you via letter. You will still have access to care and recovery benefits, but your premiums will likely go up.

How long will my claim take to process?

It can take 30 days or more for ICBC to process your claim and make a determination. You can always check the status of your claim online.

Can I appeal a decision by ICBC?

If you don’t agree with the ICBC’s assessment or decision, you can dispute it or file an appeal via the ICBC Fair Practices Office or the Civil Resolution Tribunal. You can also dispute your claim in small claims court.

Make an Appointment at Our Accident Repair and Auto Body Repair Shop

At Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd., we are a local, family-owned and operated auto repair shop. We specialise in accident repairs and auto body repair services, auto glass and windshield repair, auto bumper repair, and vandalism repair. Our friendly, experienced staff is fully certified and licensed. We offer a lifetime warranty on all of our work. No appointments are required; just bring your car into our shop. However, you can speed up the repair process by pre-booking online. Feel free to call us or contact us online if you have any questions.

We have more than 30 years of experience navigating the insurance claims process, and we will simplify the ICBC claims process for you as much as possible. Remember that you have two years from the date of your crash to complete vehicle repairs. We recommend that you bring your vehicle in as early as possible to avoid further problems, safety issues, or an increased risk of another accident.