You’ve just had a car accident in Ontario: what to do
This page is the free Ontario guide. No sign-in. Read on.
Facts checked October 2026 · See what changed · How we check
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 Ontario; 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.
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At the scene: what to gather
Open this section ↓- 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.
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Do you have to call the police?
Open this section ↓You must report the collision to police when there are injuries, or damage to vehicles or other property exceeding $5,000.
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If you’re injured: what the system provides
Ontario is a private-insurer province with statutory accident benefits.Open this section ↓Ontario is a private-insurer province with statutory accident benefits.
- Your own insurer pays accident benefits regardless of fault; deadlines apply, contact your insurer promptly.
Contact your own insurance company. Where a collision reporting centre applies, the police will direct you.
As of July 1, 2026, medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care benefits remain mandatory in Ontario’s statutory accident benefits. All other accident benefits are now optional purchases chosen at the time you buy or renew a policy, so what you can claim depends on the coverage you selected. Check your policy and confirm with your insurer.
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Notify your insurer
Tell your own insurer as soon as possible, policy-specific deadlines apply, so check your policy or call your insurer.Open this section ↓Tell your own insurer as soon as possible, policy-specific deadlines apply, so check your policy or call your insurer.
5
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.Open this section ↓↑ Close this sectionStrict 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.
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Common Questions
Do I have to call the police after a minor accident in Ontario?Open this section ↓Do I have to call the police after a minor accident in Ontario?
You must report the collision to police when there are injuries, or damage to vehicles or other property exceeding $5,000.
Who pays if the accident wasn’t my fault in Ontario?
Your own insurer pays accident benefits regardless of fault; deadlines apply, contact your insurer promptly. Tell your own insurer as soon as possible, policy-specific deadlines apply, so check your policy or call your insurer.
Where to go from here
↑ Close this sectionGuidepost 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. Facts checked October 2026.
Informational guide only. Guidepost is not a law firm. This guide explains the typical process and is not legal advice. Requirements can change. Verify current rules with the relevant government authority or a qualified professional before you act.