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4 minute read Published on Jun 2, 2026 by BrokerLink Communications
A 2021 CAA study found that poor road conditions cost Canadian drivers $3 billion annually in additional vehicle operating costs. On average, that’s $126 on repairs and maintenance for each driver due to poor-quality roads.
Whether it’s potholes, ice, fallen trees, or other debris, knowing how to promptly and effectively report these hazards is not just a civic duty; it’s a critical step in ensuring the safety of all road users. All you need to know about how to report a road hazard and more is outlined for you below.
According to Statistics Canada, the cost to repair all municipal roadways ranked from fair to severely damaged was projected at $166.8 billion in 2020. Potholes, fallen debris, and slippery surfaces are common road hazards that drivers and pedestrians may encounter every day. Here’s a list of typical road hazards that drivers and pedestrians may encounter:
Potholes or sinkholes
Fallen debris or obstacles
Sudden flooding or road washouts
Sudden ice patches or heavy snowfall
Stagnant water
Unexpected wildlife
Poor road design
Damaged or faded road markings
Malfunctioning traffic signals
Broken or missing guardrails
Uneven road surfaces
Spilled hazardous materials
Dangerous road work conditions
Vehicle accidents
Reporting road hazards in Canada is crucial for maintaining road safety and can be done through various channels. Be as specific as possible about the location and nature of the hazard. Include details like the nearest cross street, landmarks, the size and type of hazard, and any immediate risks it poses. This information helps authorities prioritize and respond effectively:
If the hazard is on a city street, most municipalities handle reports through 311 or a dedicated service-request app. These tools are designed for things like potholes, debris, damaged signs, and local road maintenance issues. Here's what you should know:
If you’re within Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, or other city limits, contact 311 or use city apps.
For example, Toronto’s 311 app allows you to upload photos when you report potholes and debris. Van311 is a similar online form you can use to make service requests.
If the hazard is on a highway or a road maintained by the province, you’ll usually report it through the provincial transportation authority or the province’s road conditions service. This ensures the report reaches the group responsible for highway maintenance and safety response. Here are the numbers you should contact:
Ontario: Call MTO 1-800-268-4686.
Alberta: Report road hazards using Alberta511 app or online.
British Columbia: Contact 1-800-550-4997 or online at DriveBC.
If the hazard poses an immediate danger, use emergency channels instead of standard reporting lines. Calling the right number helps get a faster response when lives or major collisions could be at risk. Here's what to do:
Call 911 if there is an immediate danger to life, such as debris, downed power lines, impaired drivers, or accidents.
For non-emergencies, call your local police’s non-emergency number.
You may not immediately think of an impaired driver as a road hazard but remember that their ability to operate a vehicle safely is significantly compromised. Impairment typically reduces reaction times, impairs judgment, and affects coordination, making it difficult for the driver to control the vehicle, obey traffic laws, and respond appropriately to road conditions and other users. As such, quick and responsible reporting can help prevent car accidents and save lives. Here’s how to do it:
Here are the steps you should take when reporting a drunk or impaired driver through emergency services:
Dial 911 to report an impaired driver.
Give the dispatcher key details about the vehicle, such as make, model, colour, licence plate number, and any distinctive features, e.g., damage and stickers.
Note the direction in which the vehicle is travelling (eastbound, westbound, etc) and any specific driving behaviours that suggest impairment, such as swerving, erratic braking, or inconsistent speeds.
Provide your location and the last known direction of the suspected impaired driver.
Maintain a safe driving distance; do not attempt to follow them.
Pull over safely or have a passenger make the call. Do not use your phone while driving unless it’s hands-free.
Alternatively, you can do the following:
If you prefer to report anonymously, you can use tip lines like Crime Stoppers or a local anonymous tip line if available.
For an immediate threat like a drunk driver, calling 911 is the best course of action.
Making a service request to repair potholes, report bridge damage, or other road conditions is essential to keeping all people on the road safe and:
Preventing injuries, collisions, and property damage.
Supporting faster repairs and safer roadways.
Helping municipalities allocate resources more efficiently while preventing future hazards.
Frequent reports also allow insurance providers to better understand regional road hazards and risk factors, which can influence coverage and premiums.
When a vehicle is damaged due to road hazards like potholes, fallen debris, or icy road conditions, drivers may file a claim with their insurance company for repairs. Not only do frequent claims lead to higher insurance premiums over time, as insurers might view the driver as a higher risk, but insurance companies often adjust rates based on the overall risk profile of a region. At the same time, the type of policy you have will determine whether or not the damage caused by certain road hazards is covered by your insurance company:
Comprehensive coverage: Comprehensive coverage protects you against non-collision accidents such as debris, potholes, fallen trees, and water damage.
Collision: Only applies if a crash occurs while you were avoiding a road problem.
Liability: Liability insurance won’t cover damage from road issues.
An Ontario car insurance broker can help you tailor your Toronto car insurance policy to meet your needs.
Understanding how to report road hazards and recognizing their impact on car insurance are key aspects of being a responsible driver. By staying vigilant and promptly reporting any road hazards, we contribute to safer roads and help mitigate potential accidents.
Protect your vehicle and your wallet. Report hazards promptly, review your insurance coverage annually, and speak with a BrokerLink broker today to make sure you’re covered against unexpected road hazards today. Contact us over the phone or email to speak with a broker directly.
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