A car accident can happen in seconds — but its effects can last for months or even years.
In Ontario, most people’s first instinct after a crash is to check the vehicle damage and start planning repairs. While that’s understandable, your personal health and legal protection should come first.
This guide will walk you through exactly what to do after a car accident in Ontario, the steps to protect yourself medically and legally, and why prioritizing your injuries matters as much as fixing your car.
Before anything else, make sure everyone is safe.
If the collision is minor, move your vehicle to the shoulder or a safe location away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately for medical assistance and police support.
Ontario Law Tip:
Under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, you must report a collision to the police if:
Even if it seems minor, having a police report can protect you during insurance claims later.
After an accident, adrenaline can mask pain. Many people focus on the car damage, thinking “I feel fine,” only to wake up sore or dizzy the next day.
🚨 Never skip a medical check-up.
Even a minor fender-bender can cause:
Visit a walk-in clinic, your family doctor, or the emergency room — and document every symptom. In Ontario, your medical records form essential evidence for any insurance or personal injury claim.
Before you leave the scene, gather as much information as possible.
Use your phone to take clear pictures of:
Also, note:
Why it matters:
Insurance companies and injury claims depend heavily on documentation. The more accurate your records, the stronger your position if disputes arise later.
Stay calm and polite when speaking with the other driver — but avoid discussing fault or blame.
Collect:
Ontario drivers are legally required to exchange this information after a collision. However, do not admit fault, even casually — statements made at the scene can affect your claim later.
Depending on the severity, you may need to contact:
Most Ontario cities, including Toronto, Mississauga, and Brampton, have CRCs where you can file a report and take photos for official documentation.
Visit within 24 hours of the incident if the police did not attend the scene.
Find your nearest CRC: Ontario Collision Reporting Centres
Under Ontario law, you must report the accident to your insurance provider within 7 days, even if you don’t plan to make a claim right away.
When speaking to your insurer:
If you experience pain or symptoms later, you can update your insurer with medical evidence to add an injury claim under Ontario’s Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS).
Here’s where many Ontarians go wrong:
They handle everything with their insurance company and assume they’ll be fairly compensated. Unfortunately, insurance adjusters often minimize injury claims — especially soft tissue or delayed-onset injuries.
That’s why it’s wise to consult a personal injury lawyer or licensed paralegal early. Most offer free consultations and work on contingency (no upfront fees).
An Ontario injury lawyer can:
Local Insight:
Ontario’s insurance laws are complex — having someone experienced in provincial accident benefits ensures you don’t miss critical timelines or compensation you’re entitled to.
Physical injuries aren’t the only effects of a car accident. Many people in Ontario experience anxiety, insomnia, or post-traumatic stress after a crash.
Don’t ignore these signs — mental health support is often covered under Ontario’s accident benefits.
Consider:
Your recovery should be treated with the same importance as repairing your car.
After a collision, vehicle damage is visible and urgent, while personal injuries can be invisible and delayed.
But neglecting your health in the early days can weaken both your recovery and your insurance rights.
In Ontario, you have legal protections — but only if you act promptly:
Being proactive ensures you’re protected physically, financially, and legally.
After a car accident, your car can be repaired — but your health and peace of mind are irreplaceable.
In Ontario, understanding your rights, getting timely medical help, and seeking proper advice can make the difference between a short-term inconvenience and a long-term struggle.
So before rushing to the auto body shop, take care of yourself first.
Your future well-being — and your legal protection — depend on it.
A car accident can happen in seconds — but its effects can last for months or even years.In Ontario, most people’s first instinct after a crash is to check the vehicle damage and start planning repairs. While that’s understandable, your personal health and legal protection should come first. This guide will walk you through exactly…
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Knowing what to do after a car accident in Ontario doesn’t end at the collision scene — recovery matters too.
At Regain Rehab Centre in Brampton our licensed physiotherapists, Chiropractor, Massage Therapist (RMT) and Psychotherapist provide post-accident care covered under Ontario’s Statutory Accident Benefits (SABS). Whether you’re suffering from whiplash, headaches, or delayed post-concussion symptoms, early assessment ensures proper healing and complete medical documentation for your claim.
Book an Appointment with Regain Rehab to begin your personalized recovery plan.
