Just Had a Car Accident in Alberta? Here’s Exactly What to Do, Step by Step

Even a minor fender bender can leave you shaken. Your heart is racing, your hands might be trembling, and suddenly you have to make a dozen decisions at once. Should you move the car? Call the police? What should you say to the other driver?

It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed. That’s why it helps to know the steps ahead of time. Save this guide on your phone, share it with the new driver in your family, and you’ll be ready if the unexpected happens on the Whitemud or the QEII.

At the Scene: The First Few Minutes

1. Check for injuries and stay safe. Your first priority is people, not cars. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. If the vehicles are drivable and it’s safe to do so, move them out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights.

2. Call the police when required. In Alberta, you must report a collision to police if anyone is injured or if the total damage appears to be more than $2,000 — which, with today’s repair costs, is almost any collision. For non-injury collisions in Edmonton and Calgary, you may be directed to a collision reporting centre rather than having an officer attend.

3. Exchange information. Get the other driver’s name, phone number, driver’s licence number, licence plate, vehicle make and model, and insurance company and policy number.

4. Document everything. Take photos of all vehicles from multiple angles, the damage, the road conditions, traffic signs, and the general scene. Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses.

5. Don’t admit fault. Be polite and cooperative, but avoid saying things like “sorry, that was my fault.” Fault is determined by the insurers based on the facts and Alberta’s fault determination rules, and emotional comments at the scene can complicate things.

After the Scene: The Next Few Days

6. Report the claim to your insurer or broker promptly. Most policies require you to report an accident as soon as reasonably possible. Even if you’re not sure you’ll file a claim, let us know.

7. Deal with your own insurer for vehicle damage. Since 2022, Alberta uses a system called Direct Compensation for Property Damage (DCPD). If you weren’t at fault, you’ll generally deal with your own insurance company for your vehicle repairs, rather than the other driver’s insurer. It simplifies things considerably.

8. See a doctor, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, like whiplash and concussions, don’t show up for hours or days. Getting checked promptly protects your health and documents any injuries for your accident benefits claim.

9. Keep a file. Keep receipts, repair estimates, medical notes, rental car costs, and a record of every conversation with your insurer, including dates and names.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Agreeing to a “cash deal” with the other driver. It can seem easier to settle privately, but repair costs are often far higher than expected, and injuries can appear later. Without a police report or claim record, you may have no recourse.

2. Waiting too long to report. Delays can create problems with your claim and your coverage.

3. Posting about the accident on social media. What you share online can be used when fault or injuries are being assessed.

4. Signing documents you don’t understand. If you’re unsure about a settlement offer or release, talk to your broker first.

Will My Premium Go Up?

It depends. If you’re found not at fault, your premium generally shouldn’t increase because of the accident. An at-fault accident can affect your rates at renewal. Some policies include accident forgiveness, which protects your rate after your first at-fault accident. It’s worth asking whether your policy has it.

Alberta has also announced reforms to its auto insurance system in recent years, so ask your broker how any changes may affect your coverage and claims.

We’re Here When You Need Us

One of the biggest advantages of working with a broker is having someone in your corner after an accident. At InsureLine Empire, we help clients understand the process, report claims correctly, and advocate for them if things get complicated. Save our number — (780) 761-2200 — and call us whenever you need help.