I have provided legal assistance to injury claimants since 1992 and I have been a personal injury lawyer in Vancouver since 1995. When you are involved in a car crash involving an ICBC (Insurance Corporation of British Columbia) claim it is best to have a legal advocate that does not work for ICBC before you call ICBC dial-a-claim. Lawyers working for you can report your claim and also do the paperwork while you focus on your recovery. Watch my short video about calling ICBC to reprt a car accident.
Here are three top reasons you should call a personal injury lawyer before calling ICBC:
1. If the other motorist is insured with ICBC then ICBC will be acting against you.
ICBC is required to defend the other driver under third party liability coverage and your statement can be used against you later in court.
2. Even when you are trying to tell the truth insurance companies can often manipulate your words and you may not know what words they will turn against you.
Your injury and medications may interfere with your ability to make a proper report. I have been hired by many injury claimants who tell me that they gave a statement to ICBC and believe they just told the insurer what really happened. When I get a copy of the statement from ICBC it reads much different than what the client has told me.
3. It’s free- most personal injury lawyers will provide a free consult before taking a case.
Talk to a lawyer that will act in your best interest so you can can make an accurate report to ICBC if needed. If you haven’t already done so read my article on whether it’s a good idea to report your claim to ICBC.
Posted by Vancouver Personal Injury Lawyer Mr. Renn A. Holness, B.A., LL.B.