Car Accidents – Ontario’s Rules for Reporting
If you are involved in a car accident in Ontario, report it as soon as possible. Remain at the scene and check to see if anyone is injured or if there is any damage. If someone is injured and/or the combined damage is over $2,000 it must be reported.
Follow the instructions provided by your local Collision Reporting Centre, your insurance company, and Hamilton law firm Mackesy Smye.
In a Car Accident? How to Proceed
In Ontario, it is best if you report an automobile accident as soon as possible. If you are involved in an accident, you must stop. You may be subject to criminal charges if you don’t remain at the scene. Move your vehicle to the side of the road if it is safe to do so and the car is drivable. If unable to move your car, put on your hazard lights to warn other motorists.
If anyone is injured or the combined damage appears to be more than $2,000 call the police. Don’t attempt to move anyone who is injured, wait for help to arrive.If able and it is safe to do so, take photographs of the scene. If you suspect a driver is under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, or has violated any other Criminal Code offence, call the police. For more information please see: Financial Services Commission of Ontario brochure.
Contact the Collision Reporting Centre in the City where the accident occurred. You should contact the Collision Reporting Centre within 24 hours if no one was injured, and the combined damage to all vehicles appears to be less than $2,000.
Operated by law enforcement, each Collision Reporting Centre helps motorists report accidents. At the centre a police officer will inspect the damage to your vehicle. You’ll also complete a collision report form.
Reporting to an Insurance Company
After a car accident, call your insurance company as soon as possible to report any injuries and/or property damage. Provide your insurance company with all relevant details.If you don’t report the accident within a reasonable time frame, your insurance company may reserve the right to deny your claim.
When you call, have the following information: drivers’ license numbers, drivers’ names and contact information, insurance policy numbers, information about the vehicle (make/model/year) and license plate numbers. Have the date, time and location of the accident ready. Report any injuries.
If the accident was reported to the police, you should have the name and badge number of the investigating officer. Follow the instructions and claims process of your insurance company, and the advice of a law firm if you consult with one after the accident.
Auto Accident Reporting Conclusion
Reporting a car accident in Ontario involves a few logical steps. Immediately after the incident, contact the police if necessary and call a Collision Reporting Centre. Hamilton personal injury lawyers will help you with the process thereafter, and provide guidance when filing a claim with an insurance company.
If you are filing a personal injury claim, our law firm will inform you of your legal rights and help you with every step, so call today for your free consultation.