Being in a car accident is disorienting, even when injuries are minor. In the immediate aftermath, it can be hard to think clearly about what steps to take — and missing some of them can affect your ability to access care and support later on.
Here is a practical guide to what to do in the days and weeks following an accident in British Columbia.
Right After the Accident
Check for injuries and call 911 if needed. Your safety and the safety of others comes first. If anyone is hurt or if the accident involves significant damage, call emergency services.
Move to safety if possible. If the vehicles are driveable and it is safe to do so, move them out of the flow of traffic.
Exchange information. Get the name, contact information, driver’s licence number, licence plate, and insurance details of everyone involved.
Document the scene. Take photos of the damage, the road conditions, the position of vehicles, and any visible injuries. This documentation matters more than you think it will in the moment.
Reporting to ICBC
In BC, you are required to report an accident to ICBC as soon as reasonably possible — typically within 24 hours. You can do this online, by phone, or at an ICBC claim centre. Even if you do not think you have been significantly injured, report the accident. Physical symptoms, especially soft tissue injuries, can take days or weeks to fully appear.
Seek Medical Attention Early
See your doctor or a walk-in clinic as soon as possible, even if you feel okay. A medical record documenting your condition shortly after the accident is important for your claim. Mention all symptoms — pain, stiffness, headaches, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, or emotional distress — not just physical injuries.
Your Emotional Recovery Matters Too
Car accidents can cause significant psychological distress, including anxiety while driving or as a passenger, intrusive memories of the accident, sleep disturbance, and in some cases PTSD. These responses are common and valid — and they are covered under your ICBC Enhanced Care benefits.
ICBC covers counselling for psychological injuries following a motor vehicle accident in BC. You do not need to wait until your emotional symptoms feel serious enough to deserve help. If you are struggling, reaching out early tends to support faster recovery.
If you’ve been in an accident and are dealing with the emotional aftermath, I can help. Madeleine Sullivan is a Registered Clinical Counsellor in Victoria, BC offering ICBC direct-billing for motor vehicle accident counselling. Book a free consultation — sessions available in person and online throughout British Columbia.