Even a minor injury from a vehicle crash can leave you shaken, sore, and unsure about your next steps. At King Insurance, we work closely with ICBC to make sure you get the help and support you need to recover. Here’s what you should know about the ICBC injury claims process — from reporting your vehicle accident to getting the right care after a vehicle collision.
1. Report Your Claim to Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC)
Report your vehicle accident to ICBC as soon as it’s safe to do so. This creates your claim number, which you’ll need to start treatment and access your insurance benefits. For many drivers and motorists, registering your ICBC claim quickly helps avoid delays in care and reimbursement.
You can submit your ICBC claim online 24/7, or by phone at:
- 604-520-8222 (Lower Mainland)
- 1-800-910-4222 (toll-free elsewhere in BC)
Have this information ready:
- Your BC Services Card or online banking login (to verify your identity online)
- Your driver’s licence and vehicle details
- Date, time, and location of the vehicle collision
- Photos or videos of the scene
- Names and contact details of witnesses
- Any vehicle crash-related receipts
2. Complete a Medical Disclosure Authorization (If Needed)
If your injuries require treatment beyond your pre-approved insurance coverage, your health care provider will need permission to share medical details with ICBC. You can give this consent by completing the medical disclosure authorization form and submitting it through ICBC’s online claims service.
3. Start Your Treatment Right Away
ICBC’s Enhanced Care insurance coverage includes pre-approved treatments for the first 12 weeks after your vehicle crash, no matter who was at fault. This ensures that drivers are not left unable to access critical therapy while waiting for approvals. You don’t need a doctor’s referral — just your claim number and Personal Health Number (PHN).
You’re automatically covered for:
- Physiotherapy: 25 sessions ($95 each)
- Chiropractic: 25 sessions ($75 each)
- Registered massage therapy: 12 sessions ($105 each)
- Kinesiology: 12 sessions ($94 each)
- Psychology: 12 sessions ($241 each)
- Counselling: 12 sessions ($157 each)
- Acupuncture: 12 sessions ($113 each)
Book your appointments as soon as possible so you can use the full benefit period. Focus on active treatments (like physiotherapy or exercise therapy) that help restore function, not just relieve pain.
4. Check for Other Insurance Coverage Related to Your Driver Licensing Status
If you have extended health benefits through work or a private insurance plan, those may be the primary payer for some expenses.
If you were injured at work, WorkSafeBC will generally cover your treatments first. If you qualify for Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits, you’ll need to use those before ICBC can provide income replacement.
Since May 1, 2025, ICBC is the first payer for medical equipment expenses, so you don’t have to bill other insurers first. This helps many drivers avoid gaps in care.
5. Save All Receipts
Some providers bill ICBC directly. Others require you to pay upfront and request claim reimbursement.
You have 180 days from the date of expense to submit receipts. Reimbursements are paid to ICBC’s approved rate (minus any user fees). Sign up for direct deposit to get your insurance payments faster.
6. Stay in Touch with Your Recovery Specialist
Your ICBC recovery specialist will be your main contact during your claim. Keep them updated on your progress every 2–3 weeks, even if everything is going smoothly. If your insurance provider recommends more treatment, your ICBC specialist can help approve it quickly.
For drivers recovering from more severe injuries, regular updates can ensure they are not left unable to access extended therapy or support services.
7. If Recovery Takes Longer Than 12 Weeks
Most minor injuries from a vehicle crash heal within three months, but some take longer. If your recovery is slower than expected, your health care provider can request a benefit extension through your insurance claim.
This could include more therapy sessions or coverage for additional services like occupational therapy.
8. Let ICBC Know When You’ve Recovered
When you’re back to your pre-crash abilities — meaning you can do your regular daily activities — inform your recovery specialist so they can close your ICBC insurance claim.
What If You Were a Cyclist or Pedestrian?
If you were hit by a vehicle, you’re entitled to the same treatment and recovery benefits as drivers. This includes income replacement if you can’t work, and in some cases, coverage for damage to your bike under your insurance.
Key Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- Act quickly — report your insurance claim and start treatment right away.
- Keep your claim number handy — you’ll need it for appointments.
- Focus on active recovery — exercises and movement-based therapy often help more than passive treatments alone.
- Save every receipt — even small expenses can add up for your insurance reimbursement.
- Stay in touch — regular communication with your recovery specialist keeps your claim on track.
At King Insurance, we understand that even a minor vehicle accident can disrupt your life. We’ll help you navigate the process, coordinate with ICBC, and make sure your insurance works for you — so you can focus on getting better. Whether you’re an individual, a family, or part of a household with multiple drivers, we make sure everyone gets the right coverage and knows when to renew their policies.
If you’ve been injured in a vehicle crash and need guidance, call us today. We’re here to help. If you’ve been injured in a vehicle crash and need guidance, contact us today. We can help you file a claim, review your current insurance, and renew your coverage so you’re fully protected moving forward. We’ll also remind you when it’s time to renew so you never experience a gap in coverage.
Located at the northwest corner of Marine Drive and Main Street, King Insurance proudly serves not only the South Vancouver communities of Marpole, Sunset, Oakridge, Victoria–Fraserview, and nearby areas like Marine Gateway and Marine Landing, but also clients across Richmond and the entire Lower Mainland.
Ka Hing Cheung is proud to work in the insurance industry, helping people manage risk and protect what matters most. Ka Hing is committed to ongoing learning and enjoys helping clients find the right vehicle and home coverage at the best available rate, while making sure they understand their options clearly.