Auto Claims
Being involved in an automotive accident, no matter who was at fault, can be very unnerving. In the immediate aftermath of a collision, it can be very difficult to remember what you ought to do, but by following a few simple steps, you can ensure that the process that follows is as stress-free as possible.
Step 1: Call the authorities
Always call the police if:
- Someone is hurt.
- You suspect any other driver may be guilty of a Criminal Code offence, such as drunk driving.
- There is significant property damage.
If no one is hurt
- If it is safe, try to move your car to the side of the road, out of traffic. If you can’t drive your car, turn on your hazard lights or use cones, warning triangles or flares.
- Jot down details about the accident, including how it happened, the time, date and location, the speed of all cars and the road conditions.
- Get the contact information (names, addresses, phone numbers) of the registered owners of all cars involved, other passengers and other witnesses.
- Get insurance information from all drivers involved in the accident, including the driver’s license and plate numbers, and the names of their insurance companies and brokers.
- A sketch of the accident scene noting the position and direction of the cars is also helpful. (You may want to keep a disposable camera in your glove box to use instead.)
Preventing further loss
If you are involved in a collision, you are responsible for protecting your car from further loss or damage. Regardless, it is important to protect yourself and, where possible, your vehicle from further injury or damage.
Step 2: Contact your Broker
Once you’ve contacted the proper authorities, call your insurance broker. Your broker knows the specifics of your policy coverage, and can give you the best advice relating to your situation.
Click here for Insurance Broker contact information.
If your broker is not available, please call our head office at 1-800-222-9550 and one of our experts will be on hand to assist you.
In the event of a Claims Emergency that requires immediate assistance please refer to the claims contact information on the reverse of your liability card (pink insurance card).
*Information courtesy of Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC)
