This is a brief and cursory overview. Always consult with your lawyer as soon as possible after an accident.
Where the negligent party in your accident (whether a slip and fall, or a defective road) is the City of Vancouver or another municipality, notice has to be provided within two months of the subject incident or you may lose your right to sue.
In regards to a car crash, you have only 90 days after your collision to complete your Accident Benefits form and return it to ICBC; otherwise you may lose your right to claim against ICBC for “no-fault benefits” (partial coverage for physiotherapy, massage, medication and disability benefits of up to $300 per week). Every case is different; uninsured claims, infant injury claims and hit and run claims, for example, all have different time limits and some require you to provide a written report. So when in doubt report your car accident injury right away through a friend, family member or injury lawyer to ICBC dial-a-claim. Vehicle damage claims should also be reported to ICBC right away.
Car crash victims have two years from the car crash date to file a lawsuit in order to prosecute their claim. After two years, your entire claim may be lost. We recommend that you consult a lawyer early on while evidence and details are new and fresh in people’s memories and to secure the maximum amount of funding for treatment.