If you’ve just been in a car accident, you may be feeling shaken, unsure what to do next, and wondering whether you need to call the police.
In Ontario, some but not all accidents require police at the scene. Understanding when you’re legally required to report a collision, and when it’s simply a smart step, can help you stay on the right side of the law and protect your legal interests.
When Calling the Police Is Required
Under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, you must call the police immediately if:
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Anyone has been injured or there has been a fatality
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The combined damage to all vehicles and property appears to exceed $5,000
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You suspect a criminal offence has taken place, such as impaired or dangerous driving
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A government vehicle or municipal property is involved in the collision
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The other driver flees the scene or refuses to provide required information
If any of these situations apply, call 911 from the scene of the accident. Where there is a fatality, serious injury or suspected criminal activity, police will attend the scene and conduct an investigation. You must remain at the scene until you are cleared to leave.
Failing to report under these circumstances can lead to serious consequences, including fines, demerit points, or even charges under the Highway Traffic Act.
What About Minor Accidents?
Not all accidents require police at the scene. If the collision is minor—meaning no one is hurt, there’s no suspicion of a criminal offence, and the total damage appears less than $5,000—you don’t need to call 911. However, you are still legally required to report the accident at a Collision Reporting Centre within 24 hours.
Collision Reporting Centres are operated by local police services across Ontario and allow drivers to file an official report and photograph vehicle damage in a safe environment. This report can be important if issues arise later with insurance or injury symptoms that appear after the fact.
For locations in Ottawa, visit the Ottawa Police Service Collision Reporting Centre.
Why You Might Still Consider Calling the Police
Even when you’re not legally required to contact police, it might still be in your best interest to do so. If the other driver is behaving aggressively, refuses to share their insurance information with you, or is giving conflicting statements, calling the police can help ensure that the incident is properly documented.
Having a police report can also be useful if you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action later. It provides an independent account of what happened and may clarify issues of fault, especially in situations where the other party disputes your version of events.
What Happens If You Don’t Report?
If you fail to report a reportable accident—either to police or to a Collision Reporting Centre—you may face:
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Possible fine of $400 or more
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Possible demerit points on your licence and licence suspension
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Difficulty pursuing a claim, especially if injuries appear later
Even in a seemingly minor accident, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Reporting protects you legally and supports any future insurance or legal steps you may need to take.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident and have questions about whether to report it, or how to navigate the next steps, our Personal Injury team at Nelligan Law is here to help. Contact us at info@nelliganlaw.ca.
