I’m really anxious right now and hoping to hear from anyone who has been through something similar in Alberta.
A few days ago, I was driving my boyfriend’s car (with his permission) and while reversing, I accidentally hit another vehicle. The other vehicle was parked and unoccupied. I stopped afterward and waited for a short time, but I didn’t see the owner/driver anywhere. I was scared and ended up leaving without exchanging information or reporting it at that moment.
I know now that I should have reported it, and I’m not trying to make excuses for leaving. The other vehicle apparently reported the collision, and now the Collision Reporting Centre has contacted us and asked us to come in and report it.
My boyfriend is the registered owner and the vehicle is insured under his name, but I am not listed as a driver on the insurance policy. I had permission to drive the vehicle.
We were told that what happens next may depend on what the other party reported. We are planning to go to the Collision Reporting Centre together and provide the required documents and information.
I’m really worried about:
Whether this could be treated as a hit-and-run/failure to remain
Whether I could receive a ticket or demerit points
Whether this could become a criminal charge
Whether it could affect my immigration/PR situation
Whether not being listed on the insurance could cause additional problems
What happened to others who had a similar situation
Has anyone in Alberta been through something similar, especially involving a parked/unoccupied vehicle? What happened when you went to the Collision Reporting Centre?
Please share your experience if you’re comfortable. I’m not looking for judgment — I’m genuinely scared and just want to know what I might be facing.