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Navigating Edmonton Collision Reporting Centres: What You Need to Know if You’ve Been Injured in a Collision
posted in: Personal Injury
If you’ve been involved in a minor motor vehicle collision in Edmonton, you’ll likely need to visit one of the city’s Collision Reporting Centres. These Collision Reporting Centres streamline the process of reporting accidents, but it’s essential to understand their role and how to protect your rights—especially when it comes to injury claims.
What to Do After a Collision in Edmonton
Being involved in a collision can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. In the chaos of the moment, it’s easy to feel unsure about what steps to take next. At KMSC Law, we understand how unsettling these situations can be, and we’re here to help you navigate them with confidence.
If you’re in a collision, follow these steps to ensure everyone’s safety and protect your rights:
- If the collision involves life-threatening injuries, a fatality, or an emergency situation like ongoing criminal activity, contact 911 immediately.
- Call the non-emergency line (780-423-4567) for situations such as:
- Drivers being transported to the hospital
- Injured pedestrians or cyclists
- Non-moving traffic violations (e.g., expired registration, unlicensed driver)
- Vehicles transporting dangerous goods or large commercial vehicles over 4500 kg
- Blocked roadways or damage to public property
- Clear the road: If it’s safe to do so, move the vehicles to a secure area to keep the road clear and reduce further risk.
- Assess the damage: If you believe the combined damage to the vehicles could exceed $5,000, report the collision to a Collision Reporting Centre as soon as possible to avoid a fine.
- Exchange information: Gather the necessary details from all involved parties, including names, addresses, license numbers, and vehicle information.
- Take photos: In stressful moments, photos can be an accurate way to capture the scene, including vehicle damage and any important details.
- Talk to witnesses: If there are witnesses, exchange information with them when possible.
- Report the collision to a Collision Reporting Centre: If your vehicle is operational, head to a Collision Reporting Centre. If it’s disabled, a tow company can take you and your vehicle to a Collision Reporting Centre directly from the scene.
Collisions can be distressing, but taking these steps can help ensure you’re protected legally and moving forward on the right path.
What Are Edmonton’s Collision Reporting Centres?
Collision Reporting Centres are specialized facilities where drivers can report minor vehicle collisions to both the police and their insurance companies. These centres were introduced in September 2022 through a partnership between the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) and Accident Support Services International (ASSI). Previously, drivers would need to report accidents at police stations, a process that could be time-consuming.
At a Collision Reporting Centre, you’ll provide information about the accident and your insurance details, and, in some cases, a police report may be filed. These centres deal with collisions where property damage exceeds $5,000 but do not handle:
- Situations in which any of the drivers are transported to hospital for any reason
- A pedestrian or cyclist being struck and injured by a vehicle
- Non-moving traffic violations (driver refusing to provide information, expired registration, expired insurance, unlicensed, wrong license class, etc.)
- If a vehicle is transporting dangerous goods
- Large commercial vehicles weighing more than 4,500kgs (i.e. School bus, tractor trailer unit)
- Roadways that are impeded and/or a dangerous situation exists.
- Damage to private, municipal, or highway property
If your situation involves any of these scenarios, you should contact the Edmonton Police Service at their non-emergency line (780-423-4567) or, in the case of serious injury or danger, call 911.
Where Are Edmonton’s Collision Reporting Centres Located?
Edmonton has two Collision Reporting Centre locations to serve the public:
Edmonton Collision Reporting Centre – North
Address: 15750 116 Ave NW
Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Monday to Saturday)
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Sundays, closed on statutory holidays)
Edmonton Collision Reporting Centre – South
Address: 5805 87A St NW
Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Monday to Saturday)
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Sundays, closed on statutory holidays)
It’s advised to check the estimated wait times online before heading to one of these centres at accsupport.com/Edmonton.
Proceed with Caution: Collision Reporting Centres and Your Rights
Although these centres are designed for efficiency, it’s essential to be aware that their primary role is to handle the logistics of collision reporting. They focus more on getting insurance details processed quickly than addressing potential long-term injury issues. This means that while you’re reporting the collision, the centre’s staff are not there to advocate for your well-being or ensure you understand the full impact of your injuries. Their role is to gather information and move you through the process quickly, which benefits the efficiency of insurance companies.
However, this can come at the expense of fully addressing injuries that may not immediately be apparent, such as whiplash or concussions, which often develop in the days or weeks following an accident. Be sure to consult with a doctor even if you feel okay initially. Also, insurance companies, while obligated to process your claim, often aim to minimize payouts. This is why it’s important to consult with an injury lawyer who can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for any injuries.
Start Your Collision Report from Home to Make the Process Easier
To simplify the process, you can now start your collision report online from your computer or phone. By submitting your details in advance, your visit to the Collision Reporting Centre will be quicker, as the report will already be pre-filled. This step saves time and makes the experience less overwhelming, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Click here to get started.
Why You Need an Injury Lawyer After Visiting a Collision Reporting Centre
Once you’ve reported your accident at a Collision Reporting Centre, it’s crucial to remember that the process is far from over. Insurance companies, while required to handle your claim, are not always on your side. Navigating the complexities of claims, medical evidence, and settlement offers can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover. That’s where KMSC Law’s Injury Law Team comes in.
- Injuries That Show Up Later: Injuries like whiplash or concussions can often take time to appear. Our team will work closely with you to ensure these delayed-onset injuries are documented and included in your claim, protecting your right to full compensation.
- Managing Insurance Claims: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. Initial settlement offers may seem adequate, but they often fall short when it comes to covering all of your recovery needs, such as ongoing medical care or lost wages. Our experienced lawyers will ensure that all aspects of your claim are addressed, so you get the compensation you deserve.
- Clarifying Liability: Liability can sometimes be unclear, and insurance companies may try to deflect responsibility. Our team will thoroughly investigate your case, gather the necessary evidence, and present a strong case to ensure your rights are upheld and you receive fair compensation.
- Maximizing Your Settlement: Even when the accident’s responsibility is clear, insurance companies may not offer a fair settlement right away. The Injury Law Team will fight to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. This fight includes not only covering your initial medical expenses but also factoring in long-term care needs, lost income, and compensation for pain and suffering, among other damages.
At KMSC Law, our Injury Law Team is committed to guiding you through this complex process, protecting your rights, and fighting for the compensation you deserve. Don’t leave your recovery in the hands of the insurance company—contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you every step of the way.
Reporting Your Collision is Just the First Step – Consult an Edmonton Injury Lawyer Today
While reporting your collision at a Collision Reporting Centre is an important step in the process, it’s not the only one. The complexities of insurance claims, hidden injuries, and legal implications can make it difficult to navigate the aftermath of an accident on your own. If you haven’t already, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced injury lawyer to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the full compensation you deserve.
At KMSC Law, our Injury Law Team has members based in Edmonton who are ready to assist you. We understand how stressful this time can be, and our dedicated team is here to help you every step of the way. From dealing with insurance companies to documenting late-appearing injuries, we’ll fight to make sure you’re fully supported throughout the entire process.
Don’t leave your recovery in the hands of the insurance company. Contact KMSC Law today for a free consultation and let us help you move forward with confidence.
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