What to do if you get involved in a car accident?

Author: Sid Lakhanpaul, B.A. LLB |

Real Estate Lawyers in Mississauga Ontario

Sometimes the unexpected can happen. Being involved in a car accident can be quite traumatic, especially if you have never been involved in a collision before. It is always important to note the following:

  1. Ensure the safety of yourself and your passengers
    First and foremost, check yourself for any injuries you may have sustained. Be sure to also check on your passengers. Move your vehicle to a safe location if possible but it is imperative you do not leave the scene of the collision.
  2. Call Emergency Services
    Dial 911 and report the accident. If required, do not hesitate to request medical assistance. If Paramedics arrive at the scene of the collision, allow emergency personnel to check you out for any injuries. If you require further medical assistance, request to be transported to the emergency department of the nearest hospital. Your health is of paramount importance.
  3. Exchange Information with the other driver(s)
    It is important that you exchange contact information and insurance information with the other driver(s). Collect names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers and insurance details, including a copy of the insurance policy. You may need to rely on this information at a later date.
  4. Document the scene
    It is imperative that you take photographs and videos of the vehicles involved in the collision, the damage sustained to the vehicles and the accident scene from various angles. Make note of the date, time, weather and road conditions. If there are witnesses present at the scene of the collision, be sure to gather their contact information.
  5. File a police report
    If Police attend to the scene of the collision, cooperate with them and provide accurate information. Explain the mechanisms of how the accident occurred and be sure to obtain a copy of the police report for insurance claims. This cannot be understated. If police do not attend to the scene of the collision, ensure that you attend a self-reporting collision center and document how the accident occurred.
  6. Notify your Insurance company
    Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide your insurance representative with the information and documentation you collected.
  7. Seek Medical Attention
    Even if you are feeling fine, it is important to consult with your family doctor and get a medical evaluation to rule out any injuries that are not visibly apparent. Your family doctor may provide you with a diagnosis and give you a timeline for recovery. Additionally, you may need to participate in physical rehabilitation and take medication to overcome your injuries.
  8. Keep records
    Maintain all records related to the accident, including motor vehicle repair estimates, medical bills, out of pocket expenses, and correspondence with insurance companies.
  9. Consider Obtaining Legal Advice
    If there are serious injuries or disputes about how the accident occurred, consult with a personal injury lawyer. There are important deadlines for submitting documents with your insurance company and court filing procedures that you may not be aware of. Most, if not all, personal injury lawyers offer free consultations and operate on contingency fee arrangements. This means that you don’t have to pay legal fees until they procure a settlement award for you. There is little risk in seeking out legal advice and you obtain the benefit of a lawyer to evaluate the merits of your case.


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