Auto accident checklist: How to be prepared and what to do if you’re in an accident

Car accidents can happen when you least expect them—no one plans for it, but being prepared can make a big difference. Having a checklist handy can help you stay calm and organized during a stressful situation. Keep this accident checklist where you can find it quickly such as in your car glovebox. BrokerLink is here to help guide you through what you should do before and after an accident, so you can handle the situation as smoothly as possible.

How to prepare: Your accident checklist

Keep important information handy

• Always keep your driver’s licence, vehicle registration, and insurance details in your car.

• Have a notepad, pen, and your smartphone or camera handy to document the scene.

• Know your insurance broker’s and company’s contact information.

At the scene of an auto accident

If you’re involved in a collision, try to stay as calm as possible. Here’s what you should do:

1. Stay calm and check for injuries

• First, make sure everyone is safe.

• Call for medical help if anyone is injured.

2. Make the scene safe

• Turn on your four-way flashers.

• Turn off your ignition and secure your vehicle.

• Use warning triangles, cones, or flags if you have them to warn other drivers and direct traffic safely.

3. Contact emergency services

• In an emergency, always dial 911.

• Ontario: If damage is over $5,000, or if there are injuries, call police and report to the Collision Reporting Centre.

• Alberta: If damage exceeds $2,000, or if anyone is injured, notify the police.

• Atlantic: Any collision resulting in injury, death, property damage, or damage exceeding $2,000 must be reported.

4. Do not admit fault

• Don’t make statements about who is to blame.

• Do not offer to pay for any repairs at the scene.

5. Gather key information

Collect these details from everyone involved:

• Other driver’s details:

  • Name, address, and phone number(s)

  • Driver’s licence number and province/state

  • Vehicle registration, licence plate, VIN, year, make, and model

  • Insurance company and policy number

  • Owner’s name (if not the driver)

• Passenger information: Names and contact details for all passengers.

• Witnesses: Names and contact information.

• Injured persons: Collect details and note visible injuries.

• Take photographs: Be sure to take photos of the accident at the scene.

6. Document the accident

• Take photos of all vehicles involved, licence plates, and any visible damage. Make notes on:

  • Date, time, and precise location

  • Weather and road conditions

  • Description of damages to all vehicles and property

  • Directions and speeds of vehicles

  • Any traffic signals or signs present

  • Sequence of events and any relevant details

• If possible, draw a sketch of how the accident happened.

7. Contact the authorities and your insurance

• Note police officer’s name, badge number, detachment, and file number.

• Call your insurance company and your BrokerLink insurance advisor as soon as you can.

Get a free car insurance quote from BrokerLink

Are you currently without car insurance and in need of a policy? BrokerLink can help. We work with some of the top insurance providers across Canada to help bring you the best policy and the best price for your needs. We can also help you in reviewing your current policy to tell you whether towing is included as part of your coverage.

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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