RCMP reminds motorists about the new online collision reporting option as winter weather approaches.

As colder weather and winter driving conditions set in across Alberta, the RCMP is reminding drivers to take extra care on the roads and to be aware of a new way to report certain vehicle collisions online.

The Government of Alberta recently introduced Report My Collision (report-my-collision.alberta.ca), an online tool that allows eligible drivers to submit information about minor, property-damage collisions without attending a police detachment or collision reporting centre. This service is intended to make the reporting process easier and faster for drivers while helping police focus on more serious incidents.

To use the online system, drivers must have a valid Alberta driver’s licence, an Alberta.ca account, and the collision must have taken place within Alberta. Only passenger vehicles are currently eligible, while collisions involving commercially registered vehicles still require in-person reporting.

Drivers can use Report My Collision for certain single-vehicle incidents, including:

• When a vehicle strikes an animal
• When a vehicle hits an object such as a post or fence but not another vehicle
• When a vehicle slides off the road
• When a parked vehicle is damaged in a hit and run and there are no witnesses or supporting evidence 
• Any collision involving injuries, fatalities, multiple drivers, or identifiable suspect information must still be reported in person at the nearest police detachment

For more details or to start a report, visit report-my-collision.alberta.ca.

The RCMP would also like to remind drivers of some important steps to follow if you are involved in a collision this winter season:

• Check that everyone is safe and call 911 if anyone is injured or if a driver appears impaired
• If possible and safe, move vehicles off the roadway to avoid blocking traffic or causing additional collisions
• Turn on hazard lights and place cones or warning triangles to alert other motorists
• Do not stand between or behind vehicles, especially on slippery roads
• Take photos of the damage and the scene, as these are required when filing a report online
• Exchange driver and insurance information and take reasonable steps to prevent further vehicle damage while waiting on scene

For more information follow the RCMP on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta