Hello Dear Friends,
Have you been in a car accident in Ontario? Or do you want to be prepared in case it happens?
Let’s go through the steps you should take.
❗IMPORTANT – BE CAREFUL!❗
First and foremost, do not trust promises or offers from the other driver!
Statements like:
• “Let’s not call the police or involve insurance.”
• “Your insurance will be affected too.”
• “I’ll get your car fixed right away.”
…may seem appealing at the time. However, if you fall for these promises, you could end up chasing the other party for months, dealing with subpar repairs, or even being blamed for the accident despite not being at fault.
What to Do After the Accident?
1. Stop your car and turn on your hazard lights.
If the police see your car running at the scene of the accident, you could face a criminal charge and a hefty fine.
2. Exchange Information.
It’s crucial to exchange driver’s licenses, insurance, and contact details with the other party. For minor accidents, both parties can agree to handle things privately—but make sure all details are documented and signed.
Information to collect:
• Driver’s license
• Phone number
• Vehicle registration (ownership)
• VIN number (double-check accuracy)
• Insurance details (pink slip)
• Number of people in the other vehicle (who was seated where)
• Damage to the vehicles
• Witness names and contact details
3. Report the Accident Within 48 Hours.
You have 48 hours to report the accident to the police. You also have up to 1 year to notify your insurance company, but visiting a Collision Reporting Center immediately after the incident is usually sufficient.
Want to Notify Your Insurance Company?
If you wish to file a claim, contact your broker or authorized insurance representative. If the accident happens outside office hours and your car is undrivable, call your insurance company to arrange towing and a rental car. For minor accidents, always consult your broker before reporting the incident to your insurer.
Key Steps to Follow:
• Call 911!
Stop your car, turn on your hazard lights, and place warning signs around the vehicle if necessary. If you’re injured, stay in your car and avoid arguing with the other driver or passengers. Call 911 to report the accident.
Call the police if:
• Damage exceeds $2,000,
• Someone is injured, or
• You suspect the other driver is impaired.
• Take Photos and Videos.
Capture the accident scene from multiple angles. This will help establish what happened and identify fault. Share these images with your insurance company. If there are witnesses, ask them to stay and provide statements.
• Collect the Other Driver’s Information.
Get their license, insurance, registration, and contact details. Make sure the person driving the car is the rightful owner or authorized driver.
• Move Your Car to a Safe Location.
If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic. If the damage is severe, wait for a tow truck.
• Be Wary of Unauthorized Tow Trucks.
If your car needs towing, you have the right to choose the operator. Ensure you agree on where the car will be taken, the services required, and their costs. Get a written estimate before proceeding.
For Minor Accidents ($2,000 or Less in Damage)
If there are no injuries and no suspicion of impairment:
1. Take photos of the accident.
2. Exchange information with the other driver.
3. Report the incident to the Ontario Collision Reporting Center.
Reporting the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Share all details of the accident with your insurance company. Many insurance providers allow you to file a claim through their websites. Depending on your policy, your insurer may provide you with a rental car at no cost.
REMEMBER!
If you’re new to Canada, don’t feel alone—we are a big community here. If you need urgent advice, knowledgeable group members are always willing to help.
This article is for informational purposes only. If there are any errors, I apologize in advance. I would like to thank Fatih Dogan from BrokerUnion Insurance Brokerage for helping me provide accurate information.
Wishing you a wonderful week ahead and safe, ticket-free journeys!
Orhan Hoca
Licensed Driving Instructor
647 984 4682