What to do if you're in a car accident in Canada

So, you’ve been in a car accident. What do you do now? At BrokerLink, we know that those first moments afterward can feel overwhelming, so let’s walk through exactly what you should do next. From ensuring everyone’s safety and navigating legal requirements to contacting insurance, we’ve got your back. And since car crashes in Canada aren’t rare, knowing the right steps can make a big difference. Keep reading for a helpful accident checklist from BrokerLink.

Steps to take after a car accident in Canada

Although it happened years ago, Brigitte clearly remembers the time she rear-ended somebody. She was upset, her kids were crying, and the driver was furious, shouting and waving his arms threateningly. “It was all I could do to not break down,” she recalls.

Whether you caused the accident or you are the victim, there is nothing pleasant about being in a car accident. “Emotions and adrenaline are running high; however, it’s important you know what to do and what information to collect to get through the process efficiently,” says Mike Anderson at BrokerLink. Let's take a look at steps you should take if you find yourself in a car accident:

1. Stay calm and check for injuries

After you’ve taken a moment, you’ll want to assess the situation and address any immediate danger. You’ll need to call emergency services (9-1-1) immediately if:

• Anyone who is injured or uncooperative

• You suspect the other driver is impaired or guilty of another Criminal Code offence

If someone is injured, do not move them unless you must get them away from immediate dangers such as fire or traffic. If it’s safe and your car is drivable, pull over to the side of the road. If it’s not, turn off the engine, put on your hazard lights, and set up cones or other warning devices if you have them. No matter what, do not leave the accident scene. By law, drivers must stop, stay at the scene, and exchange information with everyone involved in the accident. Failure to do so can lead to significant civil penalties and criminal charges.

2. Collect your evidence at the scene

You’ll need to record the details of the incident to support your insurance claim later. Keep a disposable camera in the glove box or use your phone to take photos and video of:

• The accident scene from multiple angles

• Road conditions, signage, and surroundings

• Vehicle damage

• The other vehicle(s) and driver(s)

• Time, date, location, weather, and your approximate speed

Also, if there are any witnesses, make sure to get signed statements and contact information from them.

3. Exchange information with the other drivers involved

Next, you’ll need to exchange information with the other parties involved in the accident, such as:

• Full name and contact information

• Driver’s licence number and licence plate number

• Vehicle make, model, and year

• Insurance information, including the provider and policy number

It’s essential that you get all the relevant details, but Mike cautions you to be careful in your exchanges with other parties. “Never admit fault or agree to pay for repairs out of pocket,” he says.

4. Police presence or collision reporting centre

If the damage to your vehicle is major, and the police haven’t already been called, you must report the accident to the police. If the police cannot attend the accident scene, you can go to the nearest police station to file a police report yourself.

What is considered major damage varies depending on the province. For example, in Ontario, if the damage to all vehicles involved appears to be over $5,000, you’ll need to report the accident to the police. But if the damage is under $5,000, you can either drive or tow your vehicle to the nearest collision reporting centre and file a report there.

“It doesn’t take much to reach that [amount], so be sure to look closely,” says Mike. “Consider the value of your car and the nature of the damage.” To learn about what could happen if you don’t report a car accident, contact BrokerLink.

5. a) If your car is drivable

If your car is drivable and you don’t need the police to attend the scene, head over to your nearest collision reporting centre. If it’s the middle of the night, you can drive there in the morning instead. While it can vary by province, you’re generally required to report a collision within 24-48 hours.

5. b) If your car is not drivable

If your car is not drivable, you can arrange for a tow to the nearest collision reporting centre (if required).

6. Notify your insurance company

Once you’re safe, you’ll want to report the collision to your insurance company as soon as possible. Even if it’s just a minor car accident, calling your insurance company is essential for a number of reasons.

Most insurance companies have a 24/7 claims line, so you can reach out anytime. When you call, be ready to share all the details about the accident, including the information you gathered from the other driver(s). Your insurance provider will guide you through the next steps of the claims process and getting your vehicle repaired. To help support your claim, they may also ask for copies of:

• The accident report from the collision reporting centre

• The police report (if there was one)

• Your photos and videos of the damage

• A written summary from you of what happened.

• Contact information for any witnesses

“My insurance company arranged the appraisal, recommended a body shop and even set up the car rental for me,” says Brigitte. “It turned an unhappy situation into a pleasant one, all things considered.” Also, you’ll want to make sure to keep a record of every conversation and document you exchange with your insurance company, as it’ll help keep everything on track.

7. Notify your insurance broker (if you have one)

Mike also recommends contacting your local insurance broker about the collision. “We can help to discuss the impact of the collision on your insurance so there is no surprise when you receive your renewal,” says Mike. Plus, your insurance broker can help out if you have any questions about the claims process.

“The claim and repair process should go smoothly,” says Mike. “You’ve already had one unpleasant experience. Getting the damage fixed shouldn’t be another.” That’s why BrokerLink works with you to get the coverage you need. “We’ll find just the right policy. No more, no less,” he assures. “So if you ever have to make a claim, there will be no more nasty surprises.”

What are the legal requirements for reporting a car accident in Canada?

In most of Canada, it is illegal not to report a car accident if it involves any injuries, if the damage is over a certain threshold, or if the driver has committed a Criminal Code Violation. However, each province and territory has its own rules and requirements for reporting a car accident. Here are some examples:

What should I do after a minor collision or fender bender?

In 2023, Canada recorded more than 118,800 total injuries from motor vehicle collisions, including 9,261 serious injuries (the highest in five years) and 1,964 fatalities, the worst in a decade. But even minor types of car accidents, like a small bump in a parking lot or a low-speed tap at a red light, can lead to unexpected headaches later. Here’s what to do after a minor collision:

1. Check for car accident injuries

2. Safely move over to the side of the road or nearby parking lot

3. Exchange information with the other driver

4. Take photos of the damage

5. Document the exact time, date, location, speed, and road/weather conditions

6. Call your insurance provider or broker to report the collision

7. Document everything in case the other driver decides to file a claim later on

8. Watch out for any subtle issues that may arise later on, such as delayed whiplash or vehicle damage

Remember, reporting an accident to your insurance provider isn’t the same as filing a claim. By reporting a minor collision promptly, you’re protecting yourself down the road. This way, if any issues come up later (like hidden vehicle damage or delayed injuries), you’ll already have the details on file to support a claim.

How to cope with stress after a collision

Accidents can leave more than just dents in our vehicles. They can leave us with stress, anxiety, and emotional scars. According to Kells Psychology, about 39% of collision survivors develop PTSD in Canada. Here are five gentle and effective ways to help yourself feel more grounded after a collision:

1. Talk to someone you trust

Share your experience with a friend, partner, or family member. Verbalizing your feelings can help to lighten the load and remind you that you’re not alone.

2. Write it out

Try keeping a journal of your thoughts, dreams, or flashbacks. Putting them down on paper gives your mind the chance to process and release.

3. Seek professional support

If you’re still feeling tense days later, or if you notice symptoms like sleep issues or mood swings, consider talking to a counsellor, psychologist, or your family doctor. Early support can prevent longer-term stress.

4. Practice self-care rituals

Deep breathing, a short walk, yoga, or just listening to soothing music can help calm your nervous system if you’re feeling anxious about getting back inside a car.

5. Use mental‑health resources

In Canada, free or low‑cost services for help with anxiety, PTSD, and trauma may be available through your province or territory’s mental health resources, your provincial health plan, or your local Canadian Mental Health Association branch.

Contact BrokerLink

Want to feel more confident about what to do after a car accident? Reach out to BrokerLink. From what to collect at the scene for your insurance company to how a collision might impact your premiums down the road, our team is here to walk you through it all. We can also help you find a car insurance policy that fits your budget while making sure you’ve got the right coverage if you ever need to make a claim.

You can reach us by phone, email, or in person at any one of our locations throughout Canada. No matter how you choose to get in touch, a BrokerLink insurance advisor will be happy to assist you. We also encourage you to take advantage of our free online quote tool that can provide you with a competitive quote in minutes.

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