You’ve been in a crash. The airbags deployed, or maybe they didn’t. Your heart is pounding, your hands are shaky, and your mind’s already racing ahead: Is everyone okay? How bad is the damage? Should I call someone?
The last thing most people want to think about at that moment is paperwork. And yet, questions about what to do next—especially when it comes to injuries—start flooding in almost immediately. One of the biggest: Should I report car accident injuries to my insurance company?
For Ontario drivers, the answer is almost always yes. But understanding why that’s the case requires a little unpacking—because it’s not just about following rules or ticking boxes. It’s about protecting your health, your finances, and your legal rights during a moment that feels chaotic and vulnerable.
This article explains what happens when you’re injured in a crash, what the law expects of you, what your insurance company needs to hear—and why delaying that phone call could cost you more than you think.
Where to Report the Collision
If the accident occurred in Hamilton, the first step—before you even think about insurance—is reporting the incident at the correct Collision Reporting Centre. That part trips up a lot of people. You must go to the collision reporting centre closest to where the crash happened, not the one closest to your home.
The vehicle must be present when reporting, and you’ll need ID, insurance documents, and your vehicle registration.
If anyone was injured—or if the total damage across all vehicles appears to exceed $5,000—you are legally required to report the incident. That’s not just an insurance thing. That’s Ontario law.
Now About Your Insurance Company
Here’s the part many drivers hesitate on: reporting the injury to their own insurer.
Yes, even if you’re not sure how serious the injury is yet. Yes, even if it seems “minor.” Yes, even if the accident wasn’t your fault.
Ontario operates under a no-fault auto insurance system. That means your own insurance provider is the one that pays out accident benefits, regardless of who caused the crash. These benefits can include:
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses
- Income replacement
- Attendant care or caregiver support
- Housekeeping assistance in some cases
If you don’t tell your insurer about your injuries, you can’t access these benefits. That’s not a technicality—it’s a real and lasting consequence.
How Soon Do You Have to Report It?
Seven days.That’s what your policy—and the law—expects. You have up to seven days to report an injury to your insurer or as soon as is reasonably possible. If you miss this window, the insurer may deny your claim entirely.
It doesn’t mean you have to submit every medical record or complete every form immediately. But they need to know. It gets the process started and protects your right to claim later—especially if your injuries worsen over time.
What if It Was Just a Fender Bender?
Here’s where things get murky. Plenty of people feel unsure after a minor accident . The vehicles involved show minor scratches. No blood. No broken bones. Do you still need to report a minor car accident?
If you’re not injured, and the damage appears minor (less than $5,000 total), you might not be required to report the accident to police—but you should still report it to your insurance company. That protects you in case someone else files a claim later or if symptoms develop days later (like soft tissue injuries or delayed pain).
It’s not about paranoia. It’s about preserving your right to coverage.
What Happens After You Report?
Once your insurance company is informed, they’ll assign a claims adjuster. This person makes the insurance company’s assessment, reviews the accident details, collects evidence, and helps determine what compensation you’re eligible for.
They’ll likely request:
- The police report or accident report
- Photos from the accident scene
- Names and contact details for any witnesses or other drivers involved
- Your version of events
- Medical documentation related to the injuries
Sounds like a lot? It is. And if you’re in pain, overwhelmed, or missing work, the claims process can feel especially hard to manage.
That’s when many people choose to speak with a personal injury lawyer. We can take over communications, ensure your rights are protected, and pursue fair compensation—without you having to juggle insurance claim paperwork or negotiation.
When Legal Help Is Essential
If your claim is denied, delayed, or underpaid, you’re not out of options. And if your injuries are serious, complex, or life-altering, a lawyer becomes more than helpful—they’re essential.
Our team at DWA Law has deep experience with Ontario’s auto accident benefits system, tort claims, and recovery-related disputes. We’ve helped clients navigate everything from chronic pain cases to disputes over life and critical illness insurance or long-term disability arising from a crash.
We also work with victims of medical misdiagnosis or negligent care after an accident—so if you believe your recovery was delayed or made worse, contacting a medical malpractice lawyer to seek legal advice may be the right call.
The important thing is knowing you’re not alone. You don’t need to take on the system by yourself.
Final Word: Yes, Report the Injury
Whether the accident involves poor road conditions, distracted driving, or a criminal offence like impaired driving, the most important thing is to report your injury and protect your legal and financial well-being. If you’re unsure where to begin, or if you’re feeling overwhelmed by forms and deadlines, DWA Law is here to help. We offer no-pressure, no-obligation consultations—just honest guidance and experienced support. You’ve been through enough. Let us help with the rest.
