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Your heart’s racing. Your mind is trying to piece it all together. Heck, maybe a few cuss words are thrown around.
First things first, I know you’re likely Canadian. Not saying sorry, however, could be the smartest thing you can do financially, despite it being completely against our culture.
Take a deep breath, remain calm, focus on the details, and tell your story to the police. Make no promises; Do NOT admit fault (EVER)
We’ll get to that, to begin here’s what to do after a car accident in Ontario
Step 1 – Stop the car, secure your safety
If you’re in a car accident in Ontario and don’t stop the car, you could face criminal prosecution charges. Turn on your four-way lights (hazard lights, four-way flashers) and set up road flares if you have them. For safety, stay in your car.
Step 2 – Call the police
Regardless of who is at fault, or any damage done, the faster emergency crews can respond, the better chance of survival for all. If you’re the one who is suffering, you’d want the help, too. Practice your empathy and do the world a favor.
The 9-1-1 operator will tell you if police are required on the scene. The following is a rough guideline for when police should be present.
If there are injuries.
Should the damage to any car from the accident exceed $2,000.
If you suspect someone is intoxicated, either by drugs or alcohol.
For minor accidents, call the collision reporting center
If the total damage in the car accident is less than $2,000, no one is injured, and there are no signs of intoxication or other illegal activity, it’s minor. Call an Ontario collision reporting center at 416-745-3301. You can also find an Ontario location by clicking here.
Step 3 – Take photos
When safe to do so, get out of your car and start taking pictures on your cell phone. Ideally, you haven’t moved your car. The photos and descriptions from all involved drivers will help determine fault for the insurance companies. Remember, Ontario uses the no-fault insurance system. So, you’ll only deal with your insurer regarding the accident.
Step 4 – Move your car
When it’s safe, and if you can, move your vehicle to the side of the road, away from traffic. If you can’t drive your car, ensure the hazard lights are on, and your road flares are set up if you have them. You can even pop your hood.
These are all signs that there’s been an accident with passing drivers. Those drivers, due to the “ rubbernecking” will slow down to get a closer look. Unless you can walk away to a nearby sidewalk, stay in your car to keep warm. If it’s wintertime, hopefully, you have a roadside emergency kit with a blanket in it. Don’t fret, emergency crews are on the way.
Step 5 – Record the details of the accident
Record the following, in your own words. You can use your phone’s voice recorder or any note-taking app or even send yourself an email of what happened.
Date
Time
Weather conditions
Road conditions
Estimated speed
Description of the accident
Draw a diagram of the accident
It’s essential to get these details down in your head while they’re fresh and before talking to others who may influence your statement. Honesty is the best policy.
Here is the government of Ontario’s accident worksheet.
What do you need from the other driver involved
Name
Address
Phone