A collision can leave you shaken, even when the damage looks minor. The best response is a calm sequence of safety, documentation and reporting steps. This guide explains what Calgary drivers should do at the scene, what information an insurer may request and how to prepare a vehicle for a professional repair assessment.
If anyone may be injured, someone is in immediate danger or you suspect an impaired driver, call 911. This article is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Requirements can change, so confirm current rules with the Calgary Police Service and the Government of Alberta.
1. Stop, check for injuries and make the scene safer
Stop immediately and turn on your hazard lights. Check yourself and your passengers before checking the occupants of other vehicles. Do not stand between vehicles or in an active traffic lane. If there are no injuries, the vehicles are driveable and it is safe to do so, move them out of traffic. If a vehicle cannot be moved, use warning triangles or other visible warnings if they are available and can be placed safely.
A leaking fluid, smoke, a deployed airbag or a damaged wheel can make a vehicle unsafe to drive. When in doubt, arrange a tow rather than risking additional damage or another incident.
2. Exchange the required information
Collect the other driver’s full name, phone number, driver’s licence number, licence plate, vehicle registration and insurance information. Record the make, model and colour of each vehicle. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information. Keep the conversation factual. Do not argue about fault, promise to pay or accept an informal cash settlement at the scene.
3. Photograph the scene before details disappear
Use your phone to take wide photos that show vehicle positions, traffic signs, road markings and weather conditions. Then take closer photos of every damaged panel, wheel, light and piece of glass. Photograph the licence plates and the other driver’s insurance card with permission. A short video walking around the vehicle can capture context that individual photos miss.
Write down the time, location, direction of travel and a simple description of what happened. These notes are most useful when made while the details are fresh. Back up the photos rather than relying on a damaged or lost phone.
4. Know when a Calgary collision must be reported
For 2026, Alberta’s property-damage collision reporting threshold remains $5,000 in combined damage. Calgary Police says a collision must also be reported if anyone is injured or it is a hit-and-run. Other circumstances can require reporting, including damage to public property or a driver who cannot provide the required documents. Modern bumpers can conceal sensors, absorbers and structural components, so visible damage may underestimate the total.
When collision-related repairs exceed the threshold, an auto body shop needs the police-issued damage sticker before completing the work. Calgary offers in-person reporting and an online Report My Collision option for eligible incidents. Check the current eligibility rules before relying on online reporting.
5. Notify your insurer promptly
Contact your insurer as soon as reasonably possible, even when you believe another driver caused the collision. Be ready to provide your policy number, police file number when applicable, the other driver’s details, photos and a factual account of the incident. Ask about your deductible, rental coverage, towing, claim number and any deadlines in your policy.
Keep one folder for emails, claim documents, estimates, receipts and notes from phone calls. Record the name of each person you speak with and what was agreed. Good records reduce confusion when several parties are involved.
6. Choose a repair shop and request a complete assessment
Alberta guidance states that consumers have the right to choose service providers, including a repair shop. An insurer may recommend a facility, but you can ask questions and select a shop you trust. Look for clear communication, documented repair procedures, qualified technicians and a written warranty.
An estimate based only on exterior photos may be preliminary. Once damaged parts are removed, the technician may find hidden damage to mounting points, reinforcement bars, wiring, sensors or the vehicle structure. A professional computerized estimate identifies visible operations first and is updated when additional damage is confirmed.
7. Do not drive a vehicle that may be unsafe
Arrange towing if the steering feels different, a wheel is rubbing, lights are broken, fluids are leaking, airbags deployed or a panel is loose. Even a low-speed impact can damage parts behind a bumper cover. A technician should inspect the vehicle before you resume normal driving when safety is uncertain.
8. Prepare for the repair process
Remove valuables and personal documents from the vehicle. Provide the shop with the claim number, insurer contact, police report information and any photos that show the original scene. Ask how supplements are handled, how updates will be delivered and what the warranty covers.
All Nicks Collision helps Calgary drivers with collision repair, insurance claim support, towing coordination and damage assessment. Call (403) 235-4148 or visit our Calgary contact page to discuss the next step.
Frequently Asked Questions
When must I report a car accident in Calgary?
Report a collision when anyone is injured, the combined property damage meets or exceeds Alberta’s current reporting threshold, it is a hit-and-run, or another reporting condition applies. For 2026, Alberta confirms the property-damage threshold remains $5,000. Check Calgary Police and Alberta guidance for the latest rules.
Can I choose my own auto body shop after an insurance claim?
Yes. Alberta consumer guidance says drivers have the right to choose service providers, including the repair shop. You may consider an insurer recommendation, but the final choice is yours.
Should I drive my vehicle after a minor collision?
Only if it appears safe and driveable. Do not drive when steering, wheels, lights, airbags, leaking fluids or loose body panels create a concern. Arrange towing or an inspection when unsure.
What photos should I take after a collision?
Take wide scene photos, vehicle positions, signs, road conditions, licence plates and close-ups of every damaged area. A short walk-around video can preserve additional context.
Why can a repair estimate change after disassembly?
Bumper covers and exterior panels can hide damaged reinforcements, brackets, wiring, sensors and structural parts. A supplement documents necessary work discovered after damaged components are removed.