Essential Steps to Take Immediately After a Edmonton Car Accident in Alberta

A car accident can be overwhelming, but your immediate actions can make or break your injury claim later. Alberta law requires drivers to act responsibly after any collision — and insurers will scrutinize what you did in the minutes that followed.

Step 1: Prioritize safety. Move your vehicle to a safe area if possible, turn on hazard lights, and check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if the injuries seem minor, medical documentation from day one can later prove crucial in a personal injury claim.

Step 2: Collect evidence at the scene. Exchange names, phone numbers, license plates, driver’s license info, and insurance details with all parties involved. Use your phone to take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, the intersection, and any visible injuries. These visuals often become powerful evidence in settlement negotiations with insurance adjusters.

Step 3: Report the accident. In Alberta, you must report collisions involving injury, death, or property damage over $5,000. If police do not attend the scene, report to a Collision Reporting Centre as soon as possible. Always ask for a police file number — insurers require it.

Step 4: Notify your insurance company. Contact your insurer within 24 hours or as soon as possible. Provide basic facts but avoid admitting fault until the circumstances are investigated.

Step 5: Seek legal and medical help.Visit a doctor even if you feel fine; some injuries appear later. Then contact an Edmonton car accident lawyer for a free consultation. They’ll help preserve evidence, manage Section B benefits, and protect your rights under Alberta’s auto insurance system.

Pro Tip: Do not sign any insurer documents or recorded statements until you’ve spoken to a lawyer.

Disclaimer:The information above is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every situation is unique and must be reviewed by a qualified lawyer. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, slip and fall, dog bite, or other personal-injury incident in Alberta, you should seek legal advice from a licensed professional as soon as possible.

For personalized help, contact a lawyer in Alberta today. If you’d like us to connect you directly with an experienced Edmonton personal-injury lawyer, please reach out to our office.

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