What to Do After a Car Accident in Ottawa (Step-by-Step)

A car accident is one of the most stressful experiences a driver can go through. Knowing exactly what to do in the minutes after a collision can protect your safety, your insurance claim and your legal rights. Here's a clear, step-by-step guide for Ottawa drivers.

Step 1: Check for Injuries and Stay Safe

Your first priority is safety. Before anything else:

• Check yourself and all passengers for injuries
• Do not move injured people unless there is immediate danger like fire or a gas leak
• Turn on your hazard lights immediately
• If possible and safe, move vehicles to the side of the road to clear traffic

If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Do not wait.

Step 2: Call 911 (When Required)

In Ontario, you must call 911 if the accident involves:

• Injuries or death
• A driver who appears impaired
• A hit and run
• Damage that appears to exceed $2,000
• Damage to government property like a street sign or guardrail

For minor accidents with no injuries and damage under $2,000, you can proceed to a Collision Reporting Centre within 24 hours instead of calling 911.

Step 3: Document Everything at the Scene

While waiting for police or before leaving the scene, gather as much information as possible:

• Photos of all vehicles, damage, licence plates and the full scene from multiple angles
• The other driver's name, phone number, driver's licence number and insurance information
• Names and contact info of any witnesses
• The exact location, time and weather conditions
• The officer's name and badge number if police attend

Step 4: Do Not Admit Fault

This is critical. Even if you feel the accident was your fault, do not say so at the scene. Fault determination is complex and involves factors you may not be aware of. Let the insurance companies and police handle that. Simply exchange information and be cooperative without making any admissions.

Step 5: Call Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurer as soon as possible after the accident, even if you don't plan to make a claim. Most policies require prompt reporting. Have your policy number ready and be prepared to describe what happened factually and without opinion.

Step 6: Call a Tow Truck if Needed

If your vehicle cannot be driven safely, you need a tow. In Ontario, you have the right to choose your own towing company. Do not feel pressured to use whoever shows up first or whoever police recommend.

When choosing a tow truck after an accident, make sure they:

• Give you a clear price before loading your vehicle
• Ask where you want the vehicle taken and respect your answer
• Use flatbed towing for vehicles with significant front, rear or undercarriage damage

Uplift Towing handles accident recovery across Ottawa and surrounding areas 24/7. We work carefully at accident scenes and take your vehicle exactly where you need it to go.

Step 7: Visit a Collision Reporting Centre if Required

Ottawa has Collision Reporting Centres where you must report accidents that don't meet the 911 threshold but still have damage above $2,000. Bring your driver's licence, insurance documents and vehicle ownership. You can find the nearest centre through the Ottawa Police Service website.

After the Accident: What Comes Next

Once the immediate situation is handled:

• Follow up with your insurance adjuster and provide all documentation
• Get a written repair estimate from a body shop before authorizing any work
• Keep records of all expenses related to the accident including rental car, medical appointments and towing receipts
• Consult a lawyer if you were injured or if there is a dispute about fault