What To Do If You Get Into A Car Accident In Ontario

Car accidents can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but knowing what steps to take immediately afterward can help you stay calm and ensure that you protect yourself legally and financially. In Ontario, there are specific procedures to follow if you find yourself involved in a collision. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do if you get into a car accident in Ontario:

1. Ensure Safety First

The very first thing to do is make sure you, your passengers, and others involved in the accident are safe. If the accident is minor and there are no serious injuries, move your vehicle out of the way of traffic to avoid further accidents. If the accident is more serious, don’t attempt to move anyone unless there is immediate danger (like a fire).

If the vehicles are in a dangerous position (e.g., on the highway), it’s critical to get out of harm’s way as quickly as possible.

2. Call 911 (If Necessary)

If there are injuries, or if the accident involves substantial damage or public safety risks, immediately call 911. When speaking to the dispatcher, stay calm and provide the following information:

• Your location (street name, nearest intersection, etc.)

• Whether anyone is injured (provide details if possible)

• The number of vehicles involved and the nature of the accident

Even if there are no visible injuries, it’s a good idea to call the police if the accident is significant, as a police report will be important for insurance claims.

3. Exchange Information

It’s essential to exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver(s). You should collect the following information:

• Name, address, and contact number

• Driver’s license number

• Vehicle registration details (make, model, year, license plate number)

• Insurance company name and policy number

Be sure to do this calmly and politely, avoiding any admission of fault. It’s better to let the insurance companies and legal system determine who is at fault.

4. Document the Scene

Gather as much evidence as possible. The more information you have, the better protected you’ll be when dealing with insurance claims or potential legal action. Here’s how you can document the accident scene:

• Take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved.

• Capture the surrounding area (road conditions, traffic signs, etc.).

• Get the names and contact info of any witnesses.

• Write down any important details about how the accident happened (what the weather was like, road conditions, etc.).

This documentation will be valuable for both your insurance company and the police.

5. File a Report with the Police (If Required)

In Ontario, you are required to report the accident to the police if:

• There are injuries or deaths involved.

• There is property damage over $2,000.

• The driver leaves the scene without exchanging information.

If the police respond to the accident scene, they will file an accident report. If not, and the accident meets the criteria above, you must report the incident to the nearest collision reporting center within 24 hours.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

After the accident, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. In Ontario, all drivers must have auto insurance, and your insurer needs to know about the accident for claim purposes. If you’re unsure about what’s covered under your policy, ask them to clarify.

The information you’ll need to provide to your insurance company includes:

• A description of the accident

• The names and contact details of other parties involved

• A copy of the police report (if applicable)

It’s important to remember that Ontario follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning that your insurance will cover your own injuries and damages, regardless of who caused the accident. However, you may still be able to seek compensation from the other party’s insurance if they were at fault.

7. Seek Medical Attention (If Necessary)

Even if you don’t feel injured immediately after the accident, it’s always a good idea to see a doctor. Sometimes injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. A doctor’s visit is important for your health and also serves as a record for insurance purposes.

In Ontario, the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS) provides benefits to people injured in car accidents, regardless of fault. This can cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, and income replacement if you are unable to work.

8. File a Report with the Ministry of Transportation (If Required)

If you’ve been involved in a collision and you or anyone else has been injured, you must report the accident to the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) if it involves personal injury or death. You’ll be required to fill out a report called the Driver’s Report of Accident. This needs to be done within 7 days after the accident.

9. Don’t Admit Fault

One of the most important things to remember after an accident is not to admit fault at the scene, either to the other driver or the police. In Ontario, determining fault is the responsibility of the insurance companies and, if necessary, the courts. Even if you believe you may be at fault, it’s better to let the experts handle it.

10. Review Your Insurance Policy

After the accident, take the time to review your insurance policy. You’ll want to understand your coverage, whether it’s collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, or liability insurance. It’s also a good opportunity to consider whether your current policy needs to be adjusted for better protection in the future.

Conclusion

A car accident can happen when you least expect it, and dealing with the aftermath can feel overwhelming. By following these steps, you can ensure that you handle the situation legally and responsibly. Staying calm, documenting the scene, exchanging information, and contacting the police and insurance company are crucial steps in protecting your rights and getting the proper compensation for damages or injuries.