Seven Tips: How to Proceed After a Car Accident
The sooner you can take these steps after a car accident, the better your chances of recovering safely and quickly. Here are seven tips to help make sure things go as planned.
1. Check on the Safety of All Passengers Involved (Including Yourself!)
Before anything else, always assess the safety of yourself and your passengers. If there has been an injury, it is important to determine if medical treatment is necessary. After that, check on any other motor vehicles involved and make sure no one was seriously injured.
2. Move Yourself and Others to Safety As Soon As Possible
Depending on the location of the accident, you may want to work with everyone involved to move to a safer place. Moving to a safe vehicular location can help reduce stress and refocus attention on the situation. Use your hazard lights in order navigate safely toward a more preferable area.
3. Call the Police (Under Severe Circumstances)
The police will be able to come and check on the situation and create a report. Depending on your location, this may take a bit of time; however, the police usually respond as quickly as possible. You can also let the other driver know you called the cops in case they're worried or confused about what's happening.
4. Take Pictures and Notes
Take pictures of the scene, including the vehicles and their locations (relative to each other), street names, close traffic signals, license plate numbers, and any documents related to the incident. Make sure to take pictures from multiple angles in order to capture details about damage and positioning of individual cars. This information can be helpful when filing a claim or if you're looking for clues during an investigation.
Documenting property damage to either your or the other driver's vehicle is important, particularly if there are any disputes within or about the accident report.
5. Exchange Insurance and Contact Information
Exchange information with the other drivers in order to ensure that everyone is on the same page and has what they need to proceed. This includes contact information, insurance company information (policy number), driver’s license numbers, vehicle registration, and any other details needed for filing a claim. You will need this info as you begin your claims process with your insurance professional.
6. Document Any Other Details You Think Might be Relevant
Documenting any other details about the scene can help you navigate the next steps. Write down the names of drivers involved (and persons affected), information about roadside assistance company used, and location of accident scene. Record police officer’s name and badge number, timing events, police report number as well as any other relevant information about accident.
7. Call Your Insurance Company ASAP
Finally, contact your insurance company to discuss the car accident and get advice about any car insurance claim you may need. Depending on who is at fault and the specific nature of the collision, your conversation with your insurer could go in many different directions. Be sure to mention that you were involved in a motor vehicle collision and whether there were any injuries. Ask them how they think you should proceed concerning details like rental cars or towing services.
8. Bonus Tip: Visit your nearest Collision Reporting Centre to file a Police Report. See: https://www.collision-reporting-centre.com/
BONUS: Ask AI “What is the top tip you’d give to a person who needs help after a Car Accident in Ontario?“
The top tip I would give to a person who needs help after a car accident in Ontario is to prioritize their safety and well-being first. Once safe, here's what they should do:
Seek Medical Attention: If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately or seek medical assistance as soon as possible. Even if injuries seem minor, it's essential to get evaluated by a healthcare professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Report the Accident: Contact the police to report the accident, especially if there are injuries, significant property damage, or if the accident obstructs traffic flow. In Ontario, you must report collisions to the police if there are injuries, damages exceed $2,000, or if the accident involves a government vehicle or property.
Exchange Information: Exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle information with the other parties involved in the accident. This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, driver's license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance policy details.
Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and any visible injuries. This documentation can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the accident, but refrain from admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you later.
Consult with a Lawyer: Consider consulting with a qualified personal injury lawyer who has experience handling car accident cases in Ontario. A lawyer can advise you on your rights, guide you through the claims process, and help you pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.
Keep Records: Keep detailed records of all medical treatment, expenses, repairs, and other related costs incurred as a result of the accident. This documentation will be valuable evidence for your insurance claim or legal case.
Follow Up: Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for treatment and follow-up care. Keep track of your recovery progress and any ongoing symptoms or limitations resulting from the accident.
