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February 20, 2026
If you have just been in a crash, it can feel overwhelming. Take a breath. The claims process in British Columbia is designed to be clear and structured once you understand the steps.
This guide provides general information about the ICBC claims process and does not replace direction provided directly by ICBC.
Here is how to file an ICBC collision claim and what happens next.
Your first priority is safety.
Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone requires medical assistance. If it is safe to do so, move vehicles out of traffic and turn on hazard lights.
Follow police direction if attendance is required. Safety always comes first.
Before leaving the scene, collect:
Full names and contact details of all drivers
Driver’s licence numbers
Licence plate numbers
Insurance information
Location, date, and time
Photos of vehicle damage and the scene
Witness names and contact details, if available
Clear documentation helps ICBC review your claim efficiently. Take wide photos and close-ups of visible damage.
If your vehicle has minor visible damage, you may later choose to use Kirmac’s AI estimator for a preliminary estimate. The AI estimator is a convenient digital tool that assesses visible damage only and does not replace a complete in-person inspection.
You can report your claim:
Online through ICBC’s claim reporting system, available 24 hours a day
By calling ICBC to report a claim during their phone reporting hours
You should report the collision as soon as reasonably possible. Prompt reporting helps avoid unnecessary delays and ensures ICBC can review your claim under your coverage.
When reporting, ICBC may ask for:
A description of what happened
Vehicle and driver information
Injury details, if applicable
Photos or supporting documentation
After submitting your report, ICBC will provide a claim number. Keep this number for future communication about your vehicle and repairs.
Your ICBC claim number connects your report with your policy and repair process.
ICBC will review the information provided and determine responsibility according to its assessment procedures. They may also explain:
What coverage applies
Whether a deductible applies
Next steps for vehicle inspection or repair
Coverage varies depending on your individual policy. For specific questions about benefits or limits, ICBC is the appropriate source of confirmation.
In British Columbia, you may choose your preferred repair facility.
When selecting a collision repair BC provider, consider:
Certified technicians
Manufacturer-approved repair procedures
Experience with both gas and electric vehicles
Auto glass repair BC services
Clear communication
A Limited Lifetime Guarantee on qualifying repairs
At Kirmac Collision & Autoglass, we work directly with ICBC throughout the repair process. We coordinate approvals, supplements, and communication to help make the experience as smooth as possible.
If your vehicle has glass damage, coverage for windshield or chip repair depends on your optional comprehensive coverage and deductible. Some policies may include benefits that reduce or eliminate the cost of eligible chip repairs. Confirm details directly with ICBC to understand your coverage.
If your vehicle is not safe or legal to drive, ask ICBC about next steps for towing and where your vehicle should be taken based on your coverage and the circumstances of the collision.
You may request that your vehicle be taken to your preferred repair shop, subject to ICBC procedures and policy terms.
Tow in collision repair can help reduce delays by delivering your vehicle directly to the facility that will complete the assessment and repairs. This can be especially helpful during busy winter driving months in BC.
Electric vehicles require specialized training and equipment. High-voltage systems and battery safety procedures must be handled according to manufacturer standards.
If you drive an EV, choose an EV friendly collision shop trained in proper high-voltage safety protocols and manufacturer repair guidelines.
Kirmac technicians follow industry standards and manufacturer procedures when repairing electric vehicles.
Once your vehicle arrives at the repair facility:
A detailed in-person assessment is completed
A repair plan is prepared and submitted to ICBC
Required approvals are received
Parts are ordered
Repairs begin
Some damage may only become visible after disassembly. If additional repairs are needed, the facility submits a supplement request to ICBC for review.
When repairs are complete, your vehicle should be restored to pre-collision condition in accordance with approved repair procedures. At Kirmac, qualifying repairs are backed by our Lifetime Guarantee for as long as you own your vehicle.
Collisions are stressful. Clear steps help.
Focus on safety, gather accurate information, report promptly, and choose a repair partner you trust.
Whether you need collision repair BC services, auto glass repair BC, assistance with a tow-in, or want to start with an AI estimator for visible damage, our team is here to help.
Book an Appointment, Start a Glass Claim, or Get an AI Estimate today. We are proud to serve BC families and give back through Kirmac Cares for Kids.
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