Which bodyshops to Choose and Which to Avoid
Who and what to choose or avoid. You were involved in a car accident and you need to fix your car. Making a decision who to trust can be difficult.
Questions and Answers About Car Accidents and Collision Reporting Procedures
Note: The answers below are based on Ontario’s legal requirements and regulations. Always contact your local Collision Reporting Centre or law enforcement for specific guidance.
Q. Is there a time limit to report a car collision?
A. Yes. Under Ontario law, if the combined damage to all vehicles exceeds $2,000, you must report the collision to the police or a collision reporting centre within 24 hours. Reporting immediately is highly recommended to avoid complications or delays.
Q. When should I report a car accident?
A. You must report a car accident if:
- Combined damage to all vehicles or property exceeds $2,000.
- There are injuries to anyone involved.
- The accident involves illegal activity, such as impaired driving or a hit-and-run.
If damages are below $2,000, there is no legal requirement to report to the police or a collision reporting centre. However, you should still exchange information with the other driver for insurance purposes.
Q. What information should I collect from the other driver?
A. At the scene of the accident, collect the following:
- Driver’s full name (copy directly from their driver’s license).
- Address and phone number.
- Insurance company name and policy number.
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate number.
Additionally:
- Take photos of the damage to all vehicles, license plates, and the accident scene.
- Note the time, date, and location of the incident.
Q. Can I report my accident at a reporting centre near my home?
A. No. You must report the accident to a collision reporting centre in the same jurisdiction where the accident occurred. Centres in other cities will not accept your report and will direct you to the appropriate facility.
Q. Should I wait for police or go directly to the reporting centre?
A. It depends:
1. Call 911 immediately if:
- Someone is injured.
- A crime (e.g., impaired driving) is suspected.
- The accident involves hazardous materials or poses a danger to the public.
2. If no injuries or criminal activity are involved:
- Take photos of the vehicles and the scene.
- Call the local collision reporting centre to confirm their requirements and obtain an incident number if required.
In most cases, you can drive or tow your vehicle to the nearest reporting centre to file the report if the damage is over $2,000 and no one is injured.
Q. What if the damage is less than $1,000 and the other driver refuses to provide insurance information?
A. By law, all drivers involved in a collision must exchange insurance information. If a driver refuses:
- Call the police to obtain assistance. They may retrieve the necessary information.
- Note the license plate number and any identifying details about the driver or vehicle.
If the damage is under $2,000, police typically will not file a report but can assist in retrieving insurance details.
Q. Can I file a report after initially agreeing to settle privately if the other party changes their mind?
A. Yes. If the damage is under $2,000 and there are no injuries, the police or reporting centre will not file a report. However, ensure you have the following:
- A signed agreement outlining the settlement terms.
- Copies of the other driver’s license and insurance information.
To avoid complications, finalize such agreements at the scene and document everything thoroughly.
Q. Can I report an accident online or by phone?
A. No. Ontario law does not permit accident reports to be filed online or by phone. You must:
- Call the police to attend the scene (if required).
- Drive or tow the vehicle to a collision reporting centre in the same jurisdiction as the accident.
Q. Where is the collision centre in Etobicoke?
A. The Etobicoke Collision Reporting Centre has been closed. The closest alternatives for Toronto drivers are:
- 113 Toryork Drive (Finch and Weston area).
- 39 Howden Road (Lawrence and Birchmount area in Scarborough).
Q. What if the other driver leaves the scene before exchanging information?
A. A hit-and-run is a criminal offense. Here’s what you should do:
- Call the police immediately to report the incident.
- Look for witnesses or surveillance cameras in the area.
- Provide the police with any identifying details, such as the vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number (if known).
Q. What happens if the accident occurs in a parking lot?
A. Parking lot accidents are considered private property. Rules include:
- If damages exceed $2,000, call the police and file a report at the scene.
- For damages under $2,000, exchange information with the other driver. Fault may be assigned as 50/50 if both vehicles were moving.
If only one car was moving, the insurance of the moving vehicle’s driver will typically cover the damage.
Q. Can I move my car to clear traffic after an accident?
A. Yes, if:
- There are no injuries.
- No criminal activity (e.g., hit-and-run, impaired driving) is involved.
- Photos are taken of the scene and vehicle positions before moving.
Call the police if the combined damage exceeds $2,000 and follow their instructions.
Q. What if the driver is not on the insurance policy?
A. As long as the vehicle is insured, the driver is covered unless:
- The driver was specifically excluded from the policy.
- The insurance provider restricted specific drivers from using the vehicle.
Always check your policy details to confirm.
Q. Who determines fault in an accident?
A. Fault determination is governed by Ontario’s Fault Determination Rules:
- Police at the scene or reporting centre may issue traffic charges.
- Insurance companies make the final decision by reviewing the police report, statements, and applicable rules.
Insurance companies determine fault percentages, which affect your premiums.
Q. What should I do if I have further questions?
A. Contact your local collision reporting centre, insurance provider, or the Ontario Ministry of Transportation for additional assistance. Always document the incident and follow Ontario’s collision reporting laws to avoid penalties or delays in resolving your claim.
