{"id":38390,"date":"2026-06-02T10:16:33","date_gmt":"2026-06-02T14:16:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/?p=38390"},"modified":"2026-06-02T15:53:27","modified_gmt":"2026-06-02T19:53:27","slug":"what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-canada","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/car-insurance\/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-canada","title":{"rendered":"What to Do After a Car Accident: A Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-template-selector templateSelector template__article\" data-template=\"article\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container tabListStickyWrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container__hero is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container__hero__inner is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<span class=\"rbc-yoast-breadcrum-span\"><span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/\">Home<\/a><\/span><\/span>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__featuredImage__group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__title__group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><h1 class=\"wp-block-post-title\">What to Do After a Car Accident: A Guide<\/h1>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__date__group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-post-date\"><time datetime=\"2026-06-02T14:15:33.758Z\">June 2, 2026<\/time><\/div>\n\n\n<span class=\"wp-block-rbc-html-element articleSingle__readTime\">11 Min Read<\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__author__group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/Fiona-Campbell.webp?quality=80&w=1024\" alt=\"Fiona Campbell\">\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__author__details is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<span class=\"wp-block-rbc-html-element articleSingle__author__name\">Fiona Campbell<\/span>\n\n\n\n<span class=\"wp-block-rbc-html-element articleSingle__author__designation\">Insurance Writer<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"articleSingle__featuredImage wp-block-post-featured-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_1360993799_edit.webp?quality=80&amp;w=1024\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"What to Do After a Car Accident\" style=\"object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_1360993799_edit.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_1360993799_edit.webp?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_1360993799_edit.webp?resize=768,512 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container__main is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container__page__nav is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\t\t<div class=\"socials-block\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"socials-block-title\">\n\t\t\tShare this article\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t<div class=\"social-links mob-mar-b-hlf mob-mar-t-hlf\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"social-button-wrapper sharing-custom sharing-email\" href=\"mailto:?subject=What to Do After a Car Accident: A Guide &#038;body=Hi, I thought you might be interested in this article from RBC Insurance: https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/car-insurance\/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-canada\" aria-label=\"Email\">\n\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/plugins\/rbc-blocks\/assets\/img\/icons\/icon-email.svg\"\n\t\t\t\talt=\"envelope icon\">\n\t\t\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\tEmail\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div class=\"social-button-wrapper sharing-copy-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"sharing-custom sharing-copy\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/car-insurance\/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-canada\" aria-label=\"Copy URL\">\n\t\t\t<img\n\t\t\t\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/plugins\/rbc-blocks\/assets\/img\/icons\/icon-related.svg\"\n\t\t\t\talt=\"copy icon\">\n\t\t\t<span id=\"sharing-copyUrl-Label\">\n\t\t\t\tCopy URL\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/button>\n\t\t\t<input type=\"text\" class=\"sharing-copy-text\" aria-labelledby=\"sharing-copyUrl-Label\">\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n  \t\t<\/div>\t\n\t\t\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-tabs-list tabsList\" data-switch=\"lgBp\" data-target-heading=\"h2\"><p class=\"tabsList__heading\">On this page<\/p><div class=\"tabsList__wrapper\"><button class=\"selectDropdown__button\" aria-haspopup=\"listbox\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><span class=\"selectDropdown__title\">Step 1: Ensure everyone is safe<\/span><span class=\"selectDropdown__chevron\"><\/span><\/button><ul class=\"tabsList__items selectDropdown__list\"><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item selected\"><a href=\"#h-step-1-ensure-everyone-is-safe\">Step 1: Ensure everyone is safe<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-step-2-call-the-police-if-required\">Step 2: Call the police (if required)<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-step-3-exchange-information-with-other-driver-s\">Step 3: Exchange information with other driver(s)<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-step-4-document-details-of-the-accident\">Step 4: Document details of the accident<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-step-5-seek-medical-attention\">Step 5: Seek medical attention<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-step-6-contact-your-insurance-company\">Step 6: Contact your insurance company<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-what-happens-after-i-report-a-car-accident-to-my-insurer\">What happens after I report a car accident to my insurer?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-the-bottom-line\">The bottom line<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-get-your-free-car-insurance-quote\">Get Your Free Car Insurance Quote<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__content__main tabListHeadings is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<section class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-block  pos-rel\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-inner-block  section-inner\" style=\"border-radius:0x\">\n<p>Whether you spin out on black ice, are rear-ended at a red light or get sideswiped in a parking lot, a car accident can happen in an instant. And they\u2019re more common than many drivers realize: there were close to 90,000 personal injuries and over 115,000 victims injured as a result of collisions in 2023, according to the <a href=\"https:\/\/tc.canada.ca\/en\/road-transportation\/statistics-data\/canadian-motor-vehicle-traffic-collision-statistics\/2023\/canadian-motor-vehicle-traffic-collision-statistics-2023\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-CarInsurance-38390-8628d376\" data-dig-category=\"LP-CarInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"National Collision Database\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Collision Database<\/a>. Some experts estimate that the average driver will be involved in up to four accidents over their lifetime and file a collision claim roughly once every 18 years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While you can minimize your risk by avoiding distraction, speeding and impaired driving, you can\u2019t predict the road ahead \u2014 or the actions of others. What you <em>can<\/em> control is how prepared you are when something goes wrong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Knowing what to do after a collision can help protect your safety, support your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/auto-car-insurance\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-CarInsurance-38390-cf3dba0c\" data-dig-category=\"LP-CarInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"car insurance\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">car insurance<\/a> claim, and prevent costly mistakes. Whether it\u2019s a minor fender bender or a more serious crash, here\u2019s how to stay safe and handle the aftermath with confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-callout-card calloutCard calloutCard__article\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-key-takeaways\">Key takeaways<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>After an accident, keeping calm and acting quickly can help protect your safety, support your insurance claim, and prevent costly mistakes.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Check yourself, your passengers, and others involved for injuries, and move to a safe location if possible.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Contact the police immediately if anyone has been hurt, killed, or if you suspect criminal activity. After, report the collision to your nearest reporting centre.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Exchange contact, vehicle, and insurance information with the other driver(s), but avoid speculating on fault or apologizing.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Document the scene carefully with photographs, notes, witness information, and details about the road conditions, traffic, and weather.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Get medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel fine, since some injuries may not appear right away.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, preferably within 24 to 48 hours.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-step-1-ensure-everyone-is-safe\">Step 1: Ensure everyone is safe<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><br>A collision can leave you feeling shaken, anxious, or overwhelmed. Take a deep breath and steady yourself \u2014 panic just makes it harder to think clearly. Then, focus on safety first:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Check yourself and your passengers for injuries:<\/strong> Adrenaline can temporarily mask pain, so don\u2019t assume everyone is fine right off the bat. If you\u2019re injured, stay where you are and wait for help.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Turn on your hazard lights:<\/strong> This warns approaching drivers to slow down and navigate safely around the scene.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Move to a safe spot (if possible):<\/strong> In a minor accident, move your vehicle to the shoulder or another safe area, especially on busy or high-speed roads.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Check on others involved:<\/strong> This includes other drivers, passengers, pedestrians, or cyclists. Do not move anyone who appears seriously injured, disoriented, or unconscious, as this could potentially worsen a head, neck, or spinal injury.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Call 911 if necessary:<\/strong> Contact emergency services if there are injuries, major vehicle damage, criminal activity, or airbag deployment. Wait for first responders to assess the situation before leaving the scene.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-step-2-call-the-police-if-required\">Step 2: Call the police (if required)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Call 911 immediately if any of the following apply:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Anyone is injured or there has been a fatality.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>You suspect criminal activity, such as impaired or dangerous driving.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>The other driver flees the scene (otherwise known as a \u201chit and run\u201d) or fails to provide required information.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>A pedestrian or cyclist has been injured.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>The collision involves dangerous goods or creates a safety hazard.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>There\u2019s damage to private or public property, such as a guardrail, traffic light, or utility pole.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-provincial-reporting-thresholds\">Provincial reporting thresholds<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In many provinces, property-damage-only (PDOs) collisions that exceed a certain damage threshold must also be reported to police, even if no one is injured.*<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-tables basicTables\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table basicTable hasFixedColumn enableBorder\"><div class=\"basicTable__sliderNav\" role=\"navigation\" aria-label=\"Table navigation\"><div class=\"basicTable__navArrow basicTable__prevArrow\" aria-label=\"Previous\"><\/div><div class=\"basicTable__sliderDots\" role=\"tablist\" aria-label=\"Table pagination\"><\/div><div class=\"basicTable__navArrow basicTable__nextArrow\" aria-label=\"Next\"><\/div><\/div><table class=\"basicTable__table\" role=\"table\" aria-label=\"Comparison table\">\n<thead class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-head basicTableHead\" role=\"rowgroup\" aria-label=\"Table head\">\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<th class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-header basicTableHeader\" role=\"columnheader\" scope=\"col\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-province-territory\"><strong>Province\/territory<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/th>\n\n\n\n<th class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-header basicTableHeader\" role=\"columnheader\" scope=\"col\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-minimum-property-damage-to-immediately-report-to-police\"><strong>Minimum property damage to immediately report to police<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\n\n<tbody class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-body basicTableBody\" role=\"rowgroup\" aria-label=\"Table body\">\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Alberta<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>More than $5,000 in combined vehicle and property damage.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>British Columbia<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>More than $10,000 in property damage.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>New Brunswick<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>More than $1,000 in property damage.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Newfoundland &amp; Labrador<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>More than $2,000 in property damage.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Northwest Territories<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>More than $2,000 in property damage.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Nova Scotia<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>More than $2,000 in property damage.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Ontario<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>More than $5,000 in combined vehicle and property damage.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Prince Edward Island<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>More than $2,000 in property damage.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>*Current as of May 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A police report can be useful if you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action later, as it provides an independent assessment of what happened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a>Report the accident to a collision centre<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For minor car accidents without injuries or signs of criminal activity, police may direct you to file a report at a Collision Reporting Centre (CRC) instead of waiting for an officer at the scene. These police-authorized reporting facilities operate in parts of Canada, including Ontario, Alberta, and Cape Breton in Nova Scotia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s what to expect:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Confirm whether a CRC report is required<\/strong>. If a police officer attends the scene, you may be given a report number to bring to the collision centre.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Go to the right location<\/strong>. Report to the nearest CRC in the jurisdiction where the accident took place, not the one closest to your home address.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Report within the required timeline. <\/strong>If your car is driveable, you may have a limited timeframe to report the accident. Depends on municipality, you should report the accident as soon as possible.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Bring the required documents. <\/strong>Take your driver\u2019s licence, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and any photos or notes from the scene.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Have the damage documented<\/strong>. Staff may photograph your vehicle and prepare an official collision report.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Follow up with your insurer.<\/strong> The report may be shared with police and insurers, but you should still contact your insurance company to confirm the next steps.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Some provinces may also allow drivers to begin the reporting process online before attending in person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re debating whether to report a collision, keep in mind that failing to do so could create problems later \u2014 especially if the other driver later claims injuries. Also, failing to report a reportable incident to the police or a CRC may lead to fines, demerit points, or a suspended licence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-step-3-exchange-information-with-other-driver-s\">Step 3: Exchange information with other driver(s)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Once everyone is safe, exchange personal information from the other driver(s). Under Canadian law, drivers must remain at the scene and provide their information to others involved in the collision. Failing to do so can lead to serious consequences, including fines, licence suspension, or criminal charges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br>Collect the following details:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Personal details<\/strong>: Full name, address, phone number, and driver\u2019s licence number.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Vehicle details:<\/strong> Licence plate number, vehicle make and model, vehicle identification number (VIN), and the registered owner\u2019s name (if different from the driver).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Insurance details: <\/strong>Insurance company name and policy number.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Photograph the proof of insurance slip (or \u201cpink slip\u201d), vehicle ownership, driver\u2019s licence, licence plate, and any visible damage for accurate record-keeping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br>If the person refuses to share their information or leaves the scene, record as many details as possible \u2014 licence plate, vehicle description, and direction of travel \u2014 and call the police immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep conversations brief and courteous. Do not apologize, admit fault, argue about what happened, or claim you are uninjured, as some symptoms may take hours or days to appear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_1426529441_edit.webp?quality=80&amp;w=1024\" alt=\"What to Do After a Car Accident\" class=\"wp-image-38389\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_1426529441_edit.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_1426529441_edit.webp?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_1426529441_edit.webp?resize=768,512 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-step-4-document-details-of-the-accident\">Step 4: Document details of the accident<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Document the accident while the details are still fresh in your mind. Make sure to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Photograph <\/strong>all vehicle damage, licence plates, visible injuries, the surrounding area, road conditions, and nearby traffic signals or signs.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Record the weather and visibility conditions<\/strong>, like ice, heavy rain, fog, flooding, and more. Even if the skies were clear and the road was dry, make a note of that.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Write a brief description<\/strong> of what you can remember about the accident, such as the time of day, your estimated speed, direction you were travelling, and position of other cars.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Sketch a diagram<\/strong> of the accident showing where each vehicle was positioned, along with relevant details, such as intersections or traffic lights.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Make a note of any concerning behaviour from the other driver<\/strong>, such as distracted driving, aggression, slurred speech, or signs of impairment.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Collect names and phone numbers from witnesses<\/strong>, especially anyone with dash cam footage or a clear view of the collision.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Related: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/car-insurance\/what-to-do-in-a-parking-lot-accident\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-CarInsurance-38390-5796386a\" data-dig-category=\"LP-CarInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"What To Do In A Parking Lot Accident\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">What To Do In A Parking Lot Accident<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-step-5-seek-medical-attention\"><a><\/a>Step 5: Seek medical attention<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if you were evaluated by paramedics at the scene, get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible \u2014 ideally within the first 24 hours. Some injuries may take hours or even days to appear. Plus, establishing an official medical record of your condition is essential in the event you need to pursue legal action or make an insurance claim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on your symptoms, visit your family doctor, a walk-in clinic, urgent care, or an emergency room. Delayed symptoms after a collision can include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Headaches or dizziness<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Neck, shoulder, or back pain<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Numbness or tingling<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Fatigue or nausea<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Swelling or reduced mobility<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Changes in vision, hearing, concentration, memory, or mood<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These symptoms may be linked to injuries such as whiplash, concussions, pinched nerves, soft tissue damage, or other underlying trauma.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When speaking with a healthcare provider, describe all symptoms in detail, specify when they began, and attend all follow-up appointments. Keep records of your diagnosis, treatment, prescriptions, and follow-up appointments, as medical documentation may be important for insurance or injury claims later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-step-6-contact-your-insurance-company\"><a><\/a>Step 6: Contact your insurance company<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Report the collision to your insurance company as soon as possible. Generally speaking, insurers expect accidents to be reported within 48 to 72 hours, although timelines vary by province. In Ontario, for example, drivers generally have up to seven days to report a collision to their insurer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, the sooner you report, the better. It helps preserve evidence, verify facts, and support your claim while the incident is still fresh. Delays could complicate the claims process or even affect coverage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically, you\u2019ll need to provide the following when making your report:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Your policy number<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Make, model, year, VIN and licence plate of the vehicle<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Name and licence of the person driving<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Name and licence of the other driver(s), plus their insurance companies and policy numbers<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Date, time and location of the incident<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Number of passengers in the vehicle<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Extent of any injuries<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Extent of damage to the car<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Your description of the accident, including weather, road conditions, traffic, etc.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Any photos or diagrams of the accident scene<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>The name and badge of any investigating officers and\/or incident report number<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In Quebec, drivers involved in collisions without injuries typically complete a joint accident report (know as <em>le constat amiable<\/em>) to help insurers process claims more efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When speaking with your insurer, stick with the facts and avoid speculating about fault. Claims adjusters will determine liability based on the available evidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/car-insurance\/how-to-avoid-insurance-fraud-after-a-car-accident\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-CarInsurance-38390-a923ba11\" data-dig-category=\"LP-CarInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"How To Avoid Insurance Fraud After A Car Accident\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">How To Avoid Insurance Fraud After A Car Accident<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-happens-after-i-report-a-car-accident-to-my-insurer\">What happens after I report a car accident to my insurer?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When you report the collision, your insurer will explain the next steps, including vehicle repairs, rental car coverage, and the claims process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once the details of the accident have been reviewed, your insurer will typically:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Determine fault for the accident<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Request a written declaration or formal \u201cproof of loss\u201d from you<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Arrange for the vehicle damage to be professionally evaluated<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Confirm what\u2019s covered under your policy<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Present the settlement terms<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Obtain your approval before proceeding with repairs or payment<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-bottom-line\"><a><\/a>The bottom line<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Even a minor car accident can be stressful and overwhelming. But knowing what to do \u2014 and acting quickly \u2014 can help protect your safety, support your insurance claim, and reduce unnecessary complications afterward. From documenting the scene to reporting the collision and seeking medical attention, each step plays an important role in protecting both your health and your financial interests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t wait until after an accident to find out whether you have the right coverage. Reviewing your policy with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/request-a-call\/personal-insurance\/contact-us\/index.html\" data-dig-id=\"LP-CarInsurance-38390-eab06557\" data-dig-category=\"LP-CarInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"a licensed RBC Insurance advisor\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">a licensed RBC Insurance advisor<\/a> today can help ensure you\u2019re properly protected. You can also get an <a href=\"https:\/\/www1.myrbcsso.rbcinsurance.com\/ada\/quoter?productType=auto&amp;campaignID=E4AMMPP&amp;Lang=EN0\" data-dig-id=\"LP-CarInsurance-38390-56a305ce\" data-dig-category=\"LP-CarInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"online quote\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">online quote<\/a> from RBC Insurance in minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-block  pos-rel has-fff-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-inner-block  section-inner block-wpr bg-light-blue rounded-corners pos-rel mob-pad-t pad-t pad-b mob-pad-b pad-l mob-pad-l pad-r mob-pad-r centered-block\" style=\"border-radius:0x\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center mar-b-hlf mob-mar-b-hlf mob-pad-t-hlf\" id=\"h-get-your-free-car-insurance-quote\">Get Your Free Car Insurance Quote<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center mar-b-hlf mob-mar-b-hlf pad-r mob-pad-r pad-l mob-pad-l has-text-lg-font-size\">Take a few minutes to get a competitive auto insurance quote online<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-a89b3969 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter btn before is-style-primary primary\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www1.myrbcsso.rbcinsurance.com\/ada\/quoter?productType=auto&amp;campaignID=BLOG_A13&amp;Lang=FR\" data-dig-id=\"LP-11882-476a44f4\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"button click\" data-dig-label=\"Start my Quote-https:\/\/www1.myrbcsso.rbcinsurance.com\/ada\/quoter?productType=auto&amp;campaignID=BLOG_A13&amp;Lang=FR \">Start my Quote<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center  mar-t-hlf\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/auto-car-insurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-Assuranceauto-7536-eb5cbf80\" data-dig-category=\"LP-Assuranceauto\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Learn More\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">Learn More<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Knowing what to do after a car accident can help protect your safety, support your insurance claim, and prevent costly mistakes. Here are the steps Canadians can take. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":203,"featured_media":38388,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"templates\/new-rbci-design.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[49],"tags":[20],"article-type":[80],"ppma_author":[186],"class_list":["post-38390","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-car-insurance","tag-car-insurance","article-type-advice-learning"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.7 (Yoast SEO v27.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>What to Do After a Car Accident: A Guide | RBC Insurance<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Knowing what to do after a car accident can help protect your safety, support your insurance claim, and prevent costly mistakes. 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