You’re out enjoying a drive with your family, or perhaps you’re gritting your teeth through a rush-hour commute, when suddenly it happens—a car collision. What should you do next? Follow these steps immediately after being involved in a car accident:
- Stop Driving and Move to Safety:
- Slow down and find a safe place to stop. If the collision is minor and your car is still operational, carefully pull over to the side of the road where it won’t block traffic.
- In serious accidents or if there are injuries or fatalities, stop where you are and turn on your hazard lights. The police will need to investigate the scene. Do not leave the accident site, as doing so can result in criminal charges.
- Check for Injuries:
- If injuries are involved, call 911 immediately and wait for help. Do not attempt to move anyone who is injured; wait for professional assistance.
- Survey the Damage:
- Exit your vehicle only if it’s safe. Take pictures or record a video of the scene, road conditions, and any damage to the vehicles.
- Note specific details that could be helpful for insurance claims or police reports, such as travel speed, weather conditions, and the presence of passengers or witnesses.
- Exchange Information:
- If another vehicle is involved, exchange names and contact information with everyone—drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
- Collect the other driver’s license number, vehicle details, and insurance information. Gathering as much information as possible will expedite your insurance claim.
- Call the Police:
- If there are serious injuries, someone should have already called 911. Additionally, contact the police if the damage appears to be over $2,000 (this limit varies by province in Canada).
- Call the police if there is significant damage to the highway or roadway, or if pedestrians or cyclists are involved.
- Regardless of damage, call the police if the other driver has left the scene or if you suspect fraudulent behavior (e.g., impaired driving, unlicensed driver).
- Report the Accident:
- Even if the damage is minor and there are no injuries, report the accident to the police. This ensures your account of the collision is on record.
- Reporting procedures and timeframes vary across Canada. In Ontario, report the accident to your nearest collision center within 24 hours. Other provinces and territories have different requirements.
- Obtain a copy of the collision report for your records.
- Contact Your Insurance Provider:
- Reach out to your insurance broker or insurer. They will guide you through the next steps, advise on towing rates, and initiate your claim.
- Some insurers may arrange for certified repair facilities or towing vendors to pick up and securely store your damaged vehicle at minimal or no cost.
- Make this call as soon as possible if you haven’t already done so from the accident scene. Many insurers offer 24/7 customer service.
- Prepare Your Vehicle for Towing:
- Before your vehicle is moved, take detailed photos of the damage and collision scene (if safe to do so). Don’t forget to include shots of the vehicle interior.
- Remove all valuables and necessities from the car.
Remember, following these steps promptly can help streamline the post-accident process and ensure you have a clear record of the incident. Stay safe on the roads!
