What to Do After a Car Accident – Not Your Fault? Here’s What Accident Victims Need to Know

A serious car accident can leave you injured and unsure of what to do next, especially if it isn’t clear who is responsible. A recent collision on Highway 48 shows how unpredictable and severe these incidents can be. If the accident was not your fault, your actions in the hours and days that follow can make a significant difference. 

At DWA Law, we help people navigate this process with clear direction and experienced legal support. We understand that most people do not expect to become the victim in an auto accident, and when it happens, the systems in place are often slow, technical, and unforgiving.

As soon as the accident occurs, whether you believe you were at fault or not, call 911. A police officer will attend and create a police report, which includes license plate numbers, the driver’s licence of each party, road conditions, and contact information. 

If you need medical attention, allow paramedics to treat you on scene or take you to a hospital. Some serious injuries take time to show symptoms. If you do not get treated immediately, the insurer may question whether the accident caused your injuries.

If it is safe to do so, take photos of all involved vehicles, vehicle damage, the intersection, and any skid marks or debris. These images can help in determining fault later. 

Make sure that you also record the at-fault driver’s insurance company information and driver’s licence number. Speak with witnesses and gather their contact details, and write down your own memory of the accident while it is still fresh. You should include time of day, visibility, vehicle movement, and what the other driver said. 

These full details matter when filing a claim with your own insurance company and if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim. Documenting the accident scene thoroughly protects your version of events.

You should always avoid saying anything that could be interpreted as accepting blame. Even simple, common words like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you” can be used against you. 

Determining fault is a technical process guided by evidence, not by statements made at the scene. Try to keep your answers brief, accurate, and neutral. If asked, you can exchange information, describe what occurred, and allow the police to complete their report, but always let the investigation determine who the at-fault driver is. 

Any mention of accepting blame may affect your ability to recover compensation through a legal claim. Remain calm and focus on safety.

Report the accident to your auto insurance policy provider as soon as possible. Ontario uses a no-fault system, which means your insurer will provide certain accident benefits such as coverage for medical attention, lost wages, and treatment. This is true even if the other driver caused the accident. 

It’s important to report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. This keeps your file active and protects your legal rights. If you wait too long, you risk missing key deadlines in your policy, which could lead to your claim being denied.

It is extremely important to hold on to any physical or digital evidence. Things like dashcam footage is especially valuable in showing how the accident happened. Save all photographs and make copies of the police report once available, and include details like road conditions, time of day, property damage, and weather. 

Remember to keep receipts for all accident-related expenses including vehicle repair, therapy, and transportation. You should also record each contact you have with a claims adjuster or insurance company representative, so that if your insurance company or the other party disputes the claim, you’ll have documentation that can support your position in negotiations or in a court setting if necessary.

When a car accident that isn’t your fault happens, you could potentially face insurance claim delays, fault disputes, or financial losses that aren’t being addressed. This is where legal support from an experienced car accident lawyer makes a real difference.

At DWA Law, we help clients navigate the legal side of car accidents. If your injuries require long-term treatment or affect your ability to work, we build your case to reflect the full impact of those losses during settlement discussions. In addition to car accident claim matters, our practice also covers related civil matters, including slip-and-fall accidents, disability insurance disputes, and estate litigation.

At DWA Law, we handle the fine print, manage the deadlines, and push your case forward with both legal precision and personal care.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here when you need us.