If you’ve recently been in a car accident in British Columbia, one of the first questions that comes up is simple: Do you have to pay a deductible for ICBC repairs?
The short answer is that it depends on the situation, mainly who is at fault, what coverage you have, and the details of your claim.
Let’s break it down clearly and practically.
What Is an ICBC Deductible?
A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket toward your vehicle repairs before insurance covers the rest.
For example, if your deductible is 500 dollars and your repair costs are 3000 dollars, you would pay the first 500 dollars, and ICBC would cover the remaining 2500 dollars.
Not every claim works the same way, but in many cases, a deductible does apply.
When You Do Have to Pay a Deductible
If You Are at Fault or Partially at Fault
If ICBC determines that you are responsible for the accident, either fully or partially, you will usually need to pay your deductible.
If you are fully at fault, your Collision coverage (if you have it) will cover the repairs, but you still pay the deductible first.
If you are partially at fault, you may still need to pay a deductible, although in some cases it can be reduced depending on how responsibility is shared.
If you do not have Collision coverage, you may be responsible for the full cost of repairs.
Collision and Comprehensive Claims
Even if fault is not the main issue, deductibles still apply to certain types of claims.
This includes collision claims such as accidents involving another vehicle or object, and comprehensive claims such as theft, vandalism, or weather damage.
Your deductible amount depends on what you selected when setting up your insurance policy.
Hit and Run Situations
In hit-and-run cases, a deductible is often still required, especially if the at-fault driver cannot be identified.
The deductible amount can vary depending on your coverage, but it is commonly around 750 dollars.
When You Do Not Have to Pay a Deductible
If You Are Not at Fault
If ICBC determines that the other driver is fully responsible and they are insured, you typically do not have to pay a deductible.
In this case, the repair costs are covered through the other driver’s insurance.
What Affects Your Deductible Amount
Your deductible is chosen when you set up your insurance policy.
A lower deductible usually means higher monthly premiums, while a higher deductible usually means lower monthly payments.
Most deductibles fall within a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars, depending on your coverage.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
You usually pay your deductible directly to the repair shop once the vehicle is being repaired.
ICBC covers the remaining balance and pays the shop directly.
If responsibility is shared, part of your deductible may be reduced or reimbursed depending on the claim outcome.
If the repair cost is lower than your deductible, it may not be worth filing a claim.
Final Thoughts
So, do you have to pay a deductible for ICBC repairs?
- Yes, if you are at fault, partially at fault, or using certain types of coverage.
- No, if you are not at fault and the other driver is fully insured.
Every situation is different, but understanding how deductibles work can help you make better decisions after an accident and avoid unexpected costs.
Need ICBC Repairs in the Tri-Cities? Broadway Collision Can Help
At Broadway Collision, we are an ICBC-certified auto body shop proudly serving Port Moody, Port Coquitlam, and the entire Tri-Cities area.
Whether you are dealing with a small dent or major collision damage, our team is here to help you navigate the ICBC process and get your vehicle repaired properly and safely.
- ICBC-certified technicians
- Help with the insurance process
- High-quality repairs you can trust
Get your vehicle back on the road safely and with confidence. Get a free estimate of your collision today or simply book your appointment.