Edmonton’s specialized Collision Reporting Centres (CRCs) have brought a new process for reporting minor accidents. While these centres aim to streamline reporting, there are crucial aspects that injury victims should be aware of to protect their rights and ensure fair compensation.
What Are Collision Reporting Centres?
Edmonton’s two CRCs are facilities where drivers involved in minor collisions can report the incident to both the police and their insurance companies. These centers were introduced in September 2022 as part of an agreement between the Edmonton Police Service and Accident Support Services International (ASSI), a company that operates similar facilities across Canada. Before this, minor collisions were often reported at local police stations, which could be time-consuming.
At the CRC, you’ll provide information about the accident, insurance details and potentially file a police report if necessary. CRCs handle collisions where the combined property damage exceeds $5,000, but do not involve the following:
- Fatalities or serious injuries
- Injured pedestrians or cyclists
- Non-moving traffic violations (e.g., expired registration, unlicensed driver)
- Vehicles transporting dangerous goods
- Large commercial vehicles over 4500 kg
- Blocked roadways or dangerous situations
- Damage to private, municipal, or highway property
For any of these situations, you should call the Edmonton Police Service non-emergency line at 780-423-4567.
Proceed with Caution: Protecting Your Rights
While CRCs aim for efficiency, it’s important to remember that their primary focus is on processing the accident report, not advocating for your well-being. The staff may be helpful, but their priority is to move you through the system. You should still report the collision directly to your insurer as well.
This is where caution is key. Insurance companies, while obligated to handle claims, are not necessarily on your side. Their goal is often to minimize payouts, which might mean downplaying the extent of your injuries or offering a settlement that may not fully cover your long-term needs.
Don’t Go It Alone: Consult an Injury Lawyer
Even after reporting your accident at a Collision Reporting Centre, it’s crucial to remember that the process is far from over. While the CRC staff can help you file the initial report, they are not equipped to provide legal advice or advocate for your specific interests.
Here’s why seeking legal counsel from an experienced injury lawyer is essential, even after visiting a CRC:
- Late-Appearing Injuries: Not all injuries are immediately apparent. Some, like whiplash or concussions, may take days or even weeks to fully manifest. A lawyer can help you document these late-appearing injuries and ensure they are properly accounted for in your claim.
- Complex Insurance Claims: Insurance claims can be confusing and overwhelming, especially when it comes to navigating complex medical evidence, liability disputes, and settlement negotiations. An injury lawyer can handle these complexities on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Disputes About Liability: In some cases, liability for the accident may not be clear-cut. Insurance companies may try to shift blame or minimize their responsibility. A lawyer can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case to establish liability and maximize your compensation.
- Maximizing Your Compensation: Even if liability is clear, insurance companies are not always motivated to offer you a fair settlement. A lawyer can advocate for your best interests, ensuring you receive compensation not just for your immediate medical bills, but also for long-term care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages you may be entitled to.
Remember, insurance companies have teams of experienced adjusters and lawyers working for them. Don’t face them alone. By consulting an injury lawyer early in the process, you level the playing field and give yourself the best chance of receiving the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Where Are Edmonton’s Collision Reporting Centres?
Edmonton has two CRCs:
- Edmonton Collision Reporting Centre – North: Located at 15750 116 Ave NW.
- Edmonton Collision Reporting Centre – South: Located at 5805 87A St NW.
Both locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday to Saturday, and from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sundays, excluding statutory holidays. Before heading to a CRC, it’s recommended to check the estimated wait times online at accsupport.com/Edmonton.
Don’t Leave Your Rights to Chance: Contact Hammer Injury Law
At Hammer Injury Law, we understand the intricacies of accident claims and the tactics insurance companies may use. If you’ve been injured in a collision, our team is here to provide expert guidance and fight for your rights. We offer free consultations to discuss your case, answer your questions, and help you navigate the path to recovery.
Don’t let a seemingly minor accident dictate your future. Contact Hammer Injury Law today and ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
