What should I do after an accident?
- Stop and get to safety. Move vehicles out of traffic if possible. Check everyone for injuries and call 911 if needed.
- Stay at the scene. You're required to remain at the scene of a collision.
- Exchange information. Get names, addresses, phone numbers, licence plate numbers, drivers' licences, insurance information, and vehicle details for all parties.
- Document the scene. Take photos/video before vehicles are moved. If helpful, sketch how the collision happened.
- Gather witnesses. Ask for names and contact details of anyone who saw the incident.
- Notify police / reporting centre. Police will advise if they need to attend or direct you to a Collision Reporting Centre (see below).
- Do not admit fault. Provide factual details only. Fault is determined later based on all available information.
- If towing is required, confirm the cost before hookup. Keep the tow receipt and location of your vehicle.
- Report the loss. Contact our office as soon as possible, or call your insurer's 24-hour claims line after hours.
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A Collision Reporting Centre (CRC) is a dedicated police facility that helps motorists report collisions. See what to bring and what happens at the CRC.
Before you go
- Confirm police attendance isn't required at the scene (when police will attend).
- Move vehicles off the roadway if safe to do so.
- Exchange details with all parties and collect witness info.
- Bring your driver's licence, vehicle ownership, and insurance pink slip (full checklist).
When to use a CRC
In many Ontario municipalities (e.g., GTA, Halton, Peel), collisions with apparent total damage of $5,000 or more are reported at a CRC unless exceptions apply (see when to go). Police will attend the scene when there are injuries, suspected criminal activity (e.g., impairment, stolen vehicle), government vehicles, dangerous goods, uninsured/suspended drivers, or damage to public infrastructure (see details). Towed vehicles generally go directly to a CRC (towing & storage).
Note: Requirements can vary by municipality. If in doubt, call the non-emergency police line, or check CRC locations & hours.
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Who decides fault? Ontario's Fault Determination Rules
In Ontario, insurers must assign responsibility using the Fault Determination Rules-standardized diagrams and scenarios used for most collisions. They're applied consistently (regardless of weather, road conditions, or point of impact) and can split fault between drivers. View the official rules on e-Laws.
- Fault can range from 0% to 100% and may be shared.
- Insurance fault may differ from police charges/tickets.
- Common scenarios covered: rear-end, left-turn vs. straight, lane change, reversing/U-turn, parking-lot right-of-way.
Tip: Photos/video of vehicle positions, damage, road markings/signs, and witness contacts help your adjuster apply the rules quickly.
Want a plain-language overview first? See FSRA's consumer guide.
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What should I do if my vehicle is stolen?
- Call police to file a theft report and obtain the occurrence number.
- Notify us / your insurer with the report details.
- Many stolen vehicles are recovered within weeks-sometimes with minor damage. Your insurer may wait a reasonable period to see if it's recovered before settling.
- It's reasonable to start researching a replacement vehicle during this time in case a total loss settlement is issued.
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Loss of Use Coverage
If purchased, this coverage helps pay for a rental car or other transportation while your vehicle is being repaired due to an insured loss.
- Coverage applies until your claim is settled or the policy limit is reached-whichever comes first.
- Check your specific daily and total limits; extensive repairs can exhaust the limit.
- Ask us or your adjuster about approved rental providers and direct-bill options.
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What if something is stolen from my car?
Damage to your vehicle (e.g., a broken window) is typically handled under your auto policy. Personal items taken from the vehicle are usually covered under a home, condo, or tenant policy-often subject to that policy's deductible and limits.
- File a police report for theft or vandalism.
- Document the damage and missing items with photos and a list.
- Call us to discuss which policy applies and the most cost-effective way to proceed.
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Recommended Garages
You're free to choose your own repair facility provided costs are reasonable. Using an insurer-preferred shop can offer advantages:
- Faster service and streamlined approvals
- Workmanship guarantees (varies by insurer)
- Shops are pre-screened for quality, equipment, and customer service
Many insurers also have preferred auto glass providers. Ask your adjuster for the nearest options.
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What to consider before you make a claim
- Deductible vs. repair cost: Smaller repairs may be at or below your deductible.
- Premium impact: Certain claims can affect future rates. Call us to talk through scenarios.
- Additional costs: Storage, towing, and rental expenses can add up-factor these in.
Not sure? Call our office first. We'll help you decide the best path before you proceed.
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Making a Claim
- Contact us to start the claim, or after hours use your insurer's 24/7 claims line.
- An adjuster will explain next steps, confirm coverage, and gather details.
- Do not authorize repairs until you've spoken with your insurer/adjuster.
- Keep all receipts and estimates (towing, storage, rental, repairs).
The cost of repairs is your responsibility until the insurer accepts liability and authorizes payment. For peace of mind, ask your adjuster to confirm approval in writing.
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