What to Do After a Car Accident in Ontario
Even careful drivers can be involved in a collision. In the moment, it's easy to panic — which is exactly why it helps to know the steps in advance. This calm, practical checklist walks you through what to do after an accident so you can protect yourself and handle it responsibly.
If anyone is injured, or there's a danger to life, call 911 immediately. Safety always comes first — vehicles and paperwork can wait.
1. Stop and make the scene safe
- Never leave the scene of a collision you're involved in — leaving can be a serious offence.
- Turn on your hazard lights.
- If the vehicles are drivable and it's safe, move them out of traffic to avoid a second collision. If not, stay put and keep your hazards on.
- Check yourself and others for injuries before anything else.
2. Know when to call the police
Call 911 if there are injuries, if you suspect the other driver is impaired, if there's a hit-and-run, or if a vehicle is too damaged to move. In Ontario, collisions involving significant damage or any injury generally must be reported. For minor damage with no injuries, you may be directed to a Collision Reporting Centre to file a report — confirm current local requirements.
Rule of thumb: When unsure whether to involve police, it's safer to call and ask. They'll tell you whether you need to report in person.
3. Exchange information
Calmly exchange the following with any other driver involved:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver's licence number
- Vehicle make, model and licence plate
- Insurance company and policy number
Stay polite and factual. Avoid admitting fault or arguing about blame at the scene — fault is determined later through the proper process. Stick to exchanging information.
4. Document everything
- Take photos of all vehicles, damage, licence plates, the road and any relevant signs or signals.
- Note the date, time, location and weather conditions.
- If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information.
- Write down what happened while it's fresh in your memory.
5. Report to your insurer
Notify your insurance company as soon as reasonably possible, even for minor incidents. Give them the facts and the documentation you gathered. Your insurer will guide you through the claims process and any reporting steps you still need to take.
6. Look after yourself afterward
- Some injuries (like whiplash) appear hours or days later — see a doctor if you feel unwell.
- Keep copies of all reports, photos and correspondence.
- It's normal to feel shaken. Take time to steady your nerves before driving again.
Be prepared in advance
Keep these in your glovebox so you're ready:
- Your insurance and registration documents
- A pen and a small notepad
- A list of these steps
- An emergency contact number