Guidepost

Just had an accident?

You’ve just had a car accident in New Brunswick — what to do

First, check for injuries — if anyone is hurt, call 911. Second, move to safety if you can and exchange details with everyone involved. Third, contact your own insurer as soon as possible. This page walks through each step for New Brunswick; it is general information, not legal advice.

If anyone is hurt, call 911

That is true everywhere in Canada. Get people safe and get medical help first — everything else (reporting, insurance, documentation) comes after.

We haven’t verified New Brunswick–specific reporting thresholds or benefit figures, so this page stays deliberately general — the safe steps below apply, and the official links have the current detail.

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.
  • Collect the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all witnesses.
  • If it’s safe to do so, take photographs of the vehicles, the scene, and any damage.

Do you have to call the police?

If anyone is hurt, call 911. Reporting rules vary and we haven’t verified a New Brunswick figure — when in doubt, call the police non-emergency line.

Notify your insurer

Tell your own insurer as soon as possible — policy-specific deadlines apply, so check your policy or call your insurer.

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.

Official sources

Common Questions

Do I have to call the police after a minor accident in New Brunswick?

If anyone is hurt, call 911. Reporting rules vary and we haven’t verified a New Brunswick figure — when in doubt, call the police non-emergency line.

Who pays if the accident wasn’t my fault in New Brunswick?

Your own insurer handles your claim — contact them as soon as possible. Tell your own insurer as soon as possible — policy-specific deadlines apply, so check your policy or call your insurer.

Guidepost is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. This page is general information about the process — it does not cover fault, settlements, or whether to bring a claim. For advice on your situation, speak with a lawyer. Full disclaimer. Last updated: July 2026.