Personal Story: Collision, Fault, and Recovery – Lessons Learned

Overview

• Author: Taskeen, creator of Personal Finance content for beginners.
• Incident: Rear-end collision in Vancouver; initially deemed 100% at fault by ICBC, then reversed to 0% after dispute.
• Purpose: To share practical steps and lessons for handling a car collision, dealing with auto-body shops, and disputing insurance decisions.

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The Collision

• Happened on a cold February afternoon at a Vancouver intersection.
• Car was rear-ended by another driver; airbags deployed, suspension damaged, car towed.
• Immediate aftermath included shock and distress, with a child in the car.
• Vehicle’s emergency system auto-dialed 911, emergency services responded quickly.
• Witnesses (pedestrians) gave contact info to support incident facts.

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Immediate Steps After the Collision

1. Ensure Safety and Call 911

   • Let emergency responders check for injuries.

2. Seek Witnesses

   • Collect contact information from anyone who saw the accident.

3. Document Everything

   • Note what happened at the intersection, taking pictures if safe.

4. DashCam Importance

   • Got a dashcam after the incident, which proved valuable in future events.
   • Suggested as a must-have for all drivers for protection and evidence.

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Dealing with the Auto-Body Shop

• Chose a shop with mixed reviews due to urgency and unavailability of others.
• Negative experiences: rude staff, poor communication, delays.
• Lessons:
  • Always check and believe negative shop reviews.
  • Consider waiting for a reputable shop, consult ICBC if unsure.
  • Ask for a courtesy car up front; rental coverage depends on fault assessment.
  • Communicate concerns directly with ICBC about poor service.

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Insurance Dispute Process

• Initially found 100% at fault as per ICBC (due to supposed right of way rules).
• Taskeen:
  • Read the 'Motor Vehicle Act' and driving manual to understand the law.
  • Consulted lawyers for guidance.
  • Submitted a detailed dispute, referencing relevant law sections and witness statements.
• Result: Decision overturned to 0% fault after reviewing evidence and witness confirmation.

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Emotional Impact & Recovery

• Experienced significant stress over three months.
• Noted psychological effects on the family, especially her child.
• Says empathy from ICBC representatives, even those making difficult calls, made a difference.

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Key Lessons and Recommendations

• Secure Witnesses: Crucial for supporting your version of events.
• DashCam: Invest in a reliable dashcam for objective evidence.
• Choose Repair Shops Wisely: Take negative reviews seriously; don't rush.
• Know the Law: Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws for self-advocacy.
• Dispute if Appropriate: Don’t hesitate to challenge insurance decisions using evidence and legal references.

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Final Thoughts

• Shared the experience to help others better navigate similar stressful situations.
• Emphasized importance of being proactive and informed, both with collisions and personal finances.
• Invited viewers to learn personal finance basics (taxes, TFSA, RRSP, investing) in her other videos.

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Resources

• Dashcam recommendation: Link provided in video description.
• Further educational videos on taxes, TFSA, RRSP, and investing available.

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Thank you to ICBC representatives and all first responders for their empathy and support.