Just had an accident?
Just had a car accident — what to do right now
Take a breath. Here’s the order to do things in.
This is a calm, step-by-step guide to the first things to do after a crash — what to check, what to gather, and who to contact. It’s general information about the process, not legal advice, and it doesn’t cover fault or settlements.
1. If anyone is hurt, call 911
This is true everywhere in Canada. Check yourself and others for injuries, get to safety if you can, and get medical help first. Everything else comes after.
2. At the scene: what to gather
- Exchange your name and address, the name and address of the registered owner of the vehicle, the vehicle plate and permit number, and the liability insurance card.
- Get contact and insurance information from everyone involved.
- Collect the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all witnesses.
- If it’s safe, take photographs of the vehicles, the scene, and any damage. Some provinces publish a collision worksheet you can fill in on the spot.
3. Notify your insurer
Tell your own insurer as soon as possible — policy-specific deadlines apply, so check your policy or call your insurer.
4. Do you have to call the police?
That part depends on your province — the rules differ a lot. Some provinces set a dollar threshold for property damage; others have no threshold at all; and an injury or fatality is always reported everywhere. Pick your province below for the exact rule and who to contact.
Your province
Reporting thresholds and the injury-compensation system differ by province — pick yours.
The territories aren’t covered yet — check your territorial motor-vehicle office directly.
Deadlines and legal claims
Strict legal deadlines apply to injury claims — some are very short, and some notice requirements (for example, claims involving governments) can be a matter of days. Confirm your situation with a lawyer promptly.
Related guides
General information only, not legal advice — this guide does not cover fault, settlements, or whether to bring a claim. Sources: provincial government and public-insurer pages (linked on each province page). Last updated: July 2026.
Guidepost is not a law firm. Full disclaimer