What to Do After a Car Accident in Toronto: 5 Critical Steps

Your first priority after a car accident should always be safety. If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic and prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured, regardless of how minor the injuries may seem. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not be immediately apparent but can have serious long-term consequences.

According to Toronto Police Services, you are legally required to report any accident to police if: the damage appears to exceed $2,000, anyone is injured, or there is criminal activity involved (such as impaired driving).

Thorough documentation is crucial for your insurance claim and any potential legal action. Take photos and videos of: all vehicles involved from multiple angles, visible damage to all vehicles, the accident scene including road conditions and traffic signs, license plates of all vehicles, and any visible injuries.

Exchange information with other drivers involved: full names and contact information, insurance company names and policy numbers, driver's license numbers, vehicle registration details, and license plate numbers.

If there are witnesses, get their contact information. Witness statements can be invaluable if there are disputes about how the accident occurred.

Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. Many serious injuries, including concussions, soft tissue damage, and internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately.

Medical records created shortly after the accident establish a clear link between the collision and your injuries. This documentation is critical for your insurance claim and any personal injury lawsuit.

Keep all medical records, bills, and documentation of treatments. This includes: emergency room visits, doctor appointments, physiotherapy sessions, prescription medications, medical devices (crutches, braces, etc.), and any other healthcare expenses.

Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible, even if you weren't at fault. Most insurance policies require prompt notification, and failure to report can affect your coverage.

When speaking with insurance adjusters: stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault or injuries, don't accept blame or apologize (even if you think you were partially at fault), provide only the information requested, and avoid giving recorded statements without legal advice.

Be aware that insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. Their goal is to pay as little as possible, which is why having legal representation is often beneficial.

Contact an experienced Toronto personal injury lawyer before accepting any settlement offers from insurance companies. Initial consultations are typically free, and most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay unless you win your case.

A skilled lawyer will: evaluate the full extent of your damages including future medical costs and lost wages, handle all communications with insurance companies, gather and preserve evidence, negotiate a fair settlement, or take your case to trial if necessary.

In Ontario, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (known as the limitation period). However, it's best to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident to preserve evidence and protect your rights.