Rules and deadlines differ by province, so this is a general checklist rather than a legal guide. Your insurer, or your public auto insurer, can tell you what applies where you live.
At the scene
Check for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or in danger.
Make the scene safe. If it is safe and the vehicles can be moved, move them out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights.
Call the police if needed. When you must report a collision to police differs by province. Call if there are injuries, a dispute, damage that looks serious or if the other driver leaves.
Exchange information. Names, phone numbers, licence plates, insurers and policy numbers, and the make and model of each vehicle.
Record what happened. Take photos of the vehicles, the scene and any signs, and get the name and number of any witnesses.
Stay factual. Avoid arguing about who was at fault. Fault is worked out later using your province's rules.
In the next few days
Tell your insurer promptly. In British Columbia, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, basic auto insurance is run by a public insurer (ICBC, MPI and SGI). In Quebec, injuries go to the SAAQ and vehicle damage goes to your own insurer. Policies expect prompt notice.
Watch the deadlines. Accident benefit claims have short deadlines in many provinces, sometimes days rather than weeks, so notify your insurer right away.
See a doctor if you feel hurt, even if the pain starts later.
Keep records. Receipts for towing, a rental car and medical costs, plus the claim number and the name of anyone you speak to.
Don't sign anything you don't understand. Ask your insurer first.
Ask about repairs. Ask your insurer how repairs are arranged and whether you can choose the shop.
Every insurer and every claim is different. This is the general shape of it, not a promise of how yours will go.
Make things safe and tell your insurer. Report the loss as soon as you can. Your policy may set time limits for reporting.
Document what happened. Photos or video, receipts, names and contact details, and a list of what was damaged or lost.
An adjuster looks at the claim. The insurer may assign an adjuster, who reviews the damage, asks questions and compares it with your policy.
The insurer explains its decision. You are told what is covered, what is not, and how your deductible applies.
Repairs and payment. Payment may go to you, a repair shop or your mortgage lender, depending on the claim and the policy.
Ask if something is unclear. If you disagree with a decision, ask the insurer to explain it. Insurers have a complaint process, and there are independent bodies you can turn to if it is not resolved.
Do I have to call the police after a minor collision?
It depends on the province and on the circumstances, such as injuries or the amount of damage. Call 911 if anyone is hurt, and check your province's rules for the rest.
Will my premium go up?
It depends on the insurer, who was at fault and your province's rules. Ask your insurer how a claim would affect your policy.
Do I deal with my insurer or the other driver's?
In most provinces you report to your own insurer, which handles the claim and may recover costs from the other party's insurer. Ask your insurer how it works where you live.
What if the other driver has no insurance?
Many auto policies include protection for accidents with uninsured or unidentified drivers. Ask your insurer how yours works.
General information, not advice or a recommendation. Rules differ by province and by insurer, so confirm with your insurer or a licensed advisor. This page was last checked in November 2026.