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Meeting your adjuster

Are there any forms I must sign?

Accident statement

Your adjuster may ask you to sign a statement about the crash that describes, in your own words, how the accident happened.

ICBC Accident Benefit application

If you are injured you will need to apply to receive ICBC's No Fault Accident Benefits. These medical and disability benefits are available to nearly everyone in British Columbia who has been injured in a crash, either as a vehicle occupant, pedestrian or cyclist. It is to your advantage to sign this form to ensure that you protect your entitlement to benefits.

Release of information forms

In order to evaluate your claim, your adjuster may need information from a variety of sources. "Release of Information" forms authorize ICBC to gather only the information we need to assess your claim. For example, if you are claiming wage loss, your adjuster will need employment records to verify your salary and benefit level prior to your crash.

You may be asked to sign release forms for information concerning:

Employment records
Business records
Medical records
Education records

Can I take my time to consider signing?

Of course you can. You don't need to sign any of these forms immediately. However, in order to avoid delays, it helps if you sign the forms and return them to your adjuster as soon as possible. If it helps to make you feel more comfortable, take the forms home with you. Discuss them with a friend, relative, or other person of your choice, before bringing them back to your adjuster.

If you want to make changes to your statement, please feel free to discuss those changes with your adjuster.

IMPORTANT: You only have 90 days after your accident to return your Accident Benefits form to ICBC or you may lose your right to claim for those benefits.

Do I need a lawyer?

Some people say I should get a lawyer. Do I really need a lawyer to settle my claim?

That's your decision. Our philosophy is to settle all claims fairly and promptly. We would like the opportunity to meet your needs without the expense and delay of litigation. However, you are entitled to appoint legal counsel at any time during the claims process.

NOTE: If you want to start a legal action with respect to your claims, you must do so within the applicable limitation periods. Your adjuster will be glad to give you more information about the limitation periods that apply to you.

For more information on this issue, see Your Settlement.