What to Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident

In just a second, with little warning, a motor vehicle accident can happen and change your life with effects that can be felt for months or years. There were 568 fatalities and 26,425 serious injuries from collisions in Ontario in 2023. Each number represents lives interrupted by sudden change. The moments after an accident are stressful, but knowing what to do after a motor vehicle accident shapes your safety, your insurance claim, and in many cases, your recovery.

At DWA Law, we have helped many people through this process of what comes next after the scene has been cleaned, resolving complex claims and helping those injured seek compensation. Every situation is unique, but there are proven steps that help protect your well-being and your legal position.

For anyone involved in the accident, the first priority is safety. Move your vehicle to a safe place if possible, away from active traffic, and turn on your hazard lights. If your vehicle cannot be moved, remain inside with your seatbelt fastened until it is safe to exit. Check the road conditions and be alert for other motorists who may not see you. Y

ou’ll need to call 911 immediately if there are any injuries or significant property damage, as emergency services can secure the collision scene, provide medical assistance, and coordinate with local police.

In the moments after a car accident, adrenaline can hide injuries, so even if you feel steady, you may have sustained harm. If you’re able to, assess yourself and your passengers slowly and carefully, but remember that symptoms sometimes develop later. 

Be aware of dizziness, nausea, or difficulty concentrating, which may suggest a concussion. Pay attention to neck or back pain, which could indicate whiplash or other soft tissue injuries. 

Get medical attention as soon as possible.

If injuries are present, if property damage appears to exceed $2,000, or if you suspect impairment or dangerous driving, you are legally required, in Ontario, to notify local police. They may attend the scene or direct you to a collision reporting centre to file a police report. 

In many cases, a police officer will provide a damage sticker, which your driver’s insurance company may require before repairs or an insurance claim can move forward. This documentation becomes part of the official record of what happened.

Once safety is secured, exchange information with the other drivers involved. You will need their name, driver’s licence number, licence plate number, and policy number, and you should provide your details as well. Take note of the location, weather, and any damage to the vehicles involved. You can keep a record of the scene by taking pictures of the vehicle damage, the involved vehicles from multiple angles, and any broken glass at the scene. 

If there are witnesses, record their statements and contact information. A joint report may be completed to help prevent future disputes over fault or events.

Even if you were able to walk away from the accident scene, it is important to be examined by a healthcare professional. Some injuries are not immediately visible, and a medical record from a doctor or hospital visit supports your insurance claim and accident benefits. Bring any pictures, a record of symptoms, and the details of what happened. Follow medical advice and keep copies of all documents, prescriptions, and treatment plans in case they are needed later.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the car accident. Most policies require immediate notice, as delays can affect your claim. You should provide the following information: date and time of the collision, location, details of the vehicles involved, and the other driver’s insurance information. 

Be factual when describing what happened, and do not admit fault. The process will involve communication between your insurer and the other driver’s insurance company, so keep a record of all correspondence, policy numbers, and any updates on your file.

If you are injured, if there is disagreement about fault, or if you are unsure about the compensation offered, consider speaking with a car accident lawyer at DWA Law. We can help manage communications with the other driver’s insurance company, gather the necessary evidence, and pursue fair compensation. We also assist clients with related matters, from slip-and-fall accidents to medical malpractice and disability claims. A free consultation with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand the next steps without cost or obligation.

Car accidents are disruptive, but preparation can help you respond with clarity. Keep essential safety items in your glove compartment, such as bottled water, booster cables, a flashlight with extra batteries, and warning triangles. If you have been involved in an accident and need legal advice, DWA Law is here to help with our personal injury lawyers. Our team handles personal injury cases, insurance disputes, and civil claims with care and professionalism, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we work toward a fair resolution.

Contact us today for a no-obligation free consultation to begin your journey toward fair compensation today.