If you have been in a car accident, you understand the stress, pain, shock, and confusion of such an event. In these circumstances, it’s not uncommon for people to forget or neglect to report the collision, however, failing to report a car accident can lead to significant legal consequences.
Here, we explain in what situations you are required to report your accident, how to go about doing that, and most importantly, what happens if you don’t report a car accident in Ontario.
Legal Requirements for Reporting Car Accidents
Before worrying about what happens if you don’t report an accident and whether or not you’ll need the support of a car accident lawyer in Ontario, it’s important to know when reporting is expected:
When to Report to the Police
You must notify the police immediately under several scenarios:
- if anyone is injured
- if there is significant vehicle damage
- if a government vehicle was involved
- if the accident involved a pedestrian
- if there is suspicion of criminal activity such as impaired driving
- if damage involved exceeds $2,000.
Having a police report if you’ve been involved in one or more of these accident scenarios not only protects you from a legal perspective but it provides you with important documentation for your claim.
When to Report to Your Insurance Company
When it comes to your insurance company, you should always inform them of the accident, regardless of its severity. Reporting must be done to make sure your coverage is intact, to initiate the claims process, and to protect yourself against future claims from other drivers.
How to Report an Accident
Now let’s get into how to report your car accident the police and to your insurance provider:
Reporting to Police
Reporting a car accident is done if a police officer (or officers) were called to the scene, they will collect all the relevant information from the drivers involved, and provide you with a collision report number for insurance purposes or if police are not called to the accident scene, you must find and go to your nearest collision reporting centre. At collision reporting centres, you will be instructed to fill out a report form.
Reporting to Your Insurance Company
It’s always best to notify your insurer as soon as possible after the accident. Call them and provide the necessary information. You will typically be asked for:
- Your policy number.
- Date and time of the accident.
- Location of the accident.
- Descriptions of what happened.
- Details of the other vehicle(s) involved, such as make, model, and year, license plate number, and insurance information.
- Contact information for any witnesses.
- Police report number, if applicable.
- Photos of the accident scene and all vehicles involved.
Consequences of Not Reporting a Car Accident
Failing to report an accident at your local accident reporting centre can result in severe penalties including fines ranging from $60 to $1,000+, demerit points, license suspension, and potential criminal charges.
Insurance-wise, you might face policy cancellation, increased premiums, or the denial of coverage for personal injuries or damages incurred. Unreported accidents can also complicate future legal or claims disputes due to the lack of official records.
Kalsi & Associates – Professional Car Accident Claims Lawyers
Understanding and following the accident reporting process is the key to protecting yourself. Nevertheless, if you’ve been injured in a car accident and are unsure about how to proceed, contact Kalsi & Associates.
Whether you need a car accident lawyer in Mississauga, a car accident lawyer in Richmond Hill, or elsewhere in the province of Ontario, we will help you navigate your situation the right way. Reach out today for professional assistance.
