If you've been in a car accident, do this:![]() Stop. If you are involved in an accident, leaving the scene of the accident or not offering assistance is a criminal offence. Make sure you stop. Call for help. If the vehicles can't be driven, or it appears someone might be injured, or if you suspect someone may be impaired, call 9-1-1. Be safe. If you can, move your vehicles out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights (if they still work). Be sensible. Don’t stand between vehicles, and watch for other traffic. If anyone has been seriously injured, do not move them, and don’t move any of the vehicles. Wait for the police and EMS to arrive. Tempers might be flaring. If you feel unsafe, stay in your vehicle and wait for police. Report to the Police. If one of the vehicles can't be driven, or anyone is injured, or the damage is probably more than $2,000, file a police report. A police report will be a useful piece of evidence later. And, anyway, you will need to get a damage sticker to get the vehicle repaired. Exchange information. Under the Traffic Safety Act, you are required to produce your driver’s license, vehicle registration, license plate number, and financial responsibility card for the vehicle if there is one. If the other driver won't provide you this information, call the police. Take pictures. Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene, the other person’s driver’s license and registration, and any other evidence that might be available, such as street signs, license plates, or witness information. Notify insurer. You should call your own insurance company immediately and let them know about the details of the accident. It’s a good idea to get some correspondence with them in writing. Your own insurance company, whether you are at fault or not, has a duty to pay for a lot of your treatment for the first two years after the accident. Comments are closed.
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While this website provides general information, it does not constitute legal advice. The best way to get guidance on your specific legal issue is to contact a lawyer.
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