Police and EMS in Lethbridge are reminding the public of what to do if they are in a minor collision. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Emergency responders reminding drivers what to do after minor collisions

May 7, 2025 | 8:43 AM

The Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) and Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) are teaming up for a new public education campaign.

LFES Platoon Chief Shawn Folk says, in the interest of improving safety, easing traffic congestion and supporting efficient emergency responses, they are issuing reminders about what to do following a minor collision.

“As first responders, our teams have recently encountered several close calls when vehicles involved in collisions were left in live traffic lanes,” says Folk. “Those incidents highlighted the need to engage with our community directly and explain how motorists can help keep everyone safe—including first responders—by taking the right steps after a crash.”

Generally, emergency crews are not dispatched to minor collisions unless injuries are reported, public property is damaged or there is ongoing danger.

The public is asked to follow these steps if they wind up in a minor collision:

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• Prioritize safety
  • Check on everyone involved to ensure no one is hurt. If there are any injuries, call 9-1-1 immediately for medical assistance.
• Clear the road
  • If your vehicle can be safely driven, move it to an area of safety (a nearby parking lot, side street, or shoulder).
  • This reduces the risk of additional collisions, keeps traffic flowing and ensures emergency services can access the scene if needed.
• Collect and exchange information
  • Personal Information: Names, phone numbers, addresses, and driver’s licence numbers for everyone involved, including any witnesses.
  • Vehicle Information: Licence plate numbers, as well as the make, model, year and colour of each vehicle.
  • Insurance Information: Insurance provider and policy number.
  • Collision Details: Time, date, and exact location of the incident.
• Report the collision
  • If the combined damage appears to be more than $5,000, attend the Collision Reporting Centre (CRC) at the Lethbridge Police Station as soon as possible. You can begin the process online at https://reportacollision.accsupport.com/ and complete it in person at the CRC.
  • If the combined damage appears to be less than $5,000, contact your insurance company to discuss your options.
  • Note: You must report the collision in the jurisdiction where it took place.

“Of course, when there’s a dangerous situation – like an injury or an impaired driver – it’s important that people call 9-1-1 and get the help they need as quickly as possible,” said Sergeant Tony Ramotowski of the LPS Traffic Response Unit. “But for minor collisions, we’re asking people to help us keep traffic flowing and improve overall safety for everyone by knowing the proper steps to take.”

More details on how to report collisions can be found on LethbridgePolice.ca

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