Purpose
Accidents are stressful, but taking the right steps after a collision helps ensure everyone’s safety and makes the claims process smoother. This checklist adapts the Post‑Accident Checklist to Garitas Insurance customers. Keep it in your glovebox so you’re prepared.
Immediate actions
In the moments immediately after an accident, stay calm and make sure you and others are safe. According to the original checklist:
- Stay calm – take a breath before reacting.
- Move to safety – if possible, move your vehicle and yourself away from traffic.
- Remain at the scene with the other party involved.
- Check for injuries and call emergency services if anyone is hurt.
- Call a tow truck if your car cannot be moved.
Things to collect
Gathering information at the scene helps your insurer process a claim. The checklist recommends collecting the following details:
| Information to collect | Notes |
|---|---|
| Other drivers’ licences | Take a clear photo of each licence or record names and licence numbers. |
| Other drivers’ contact info | Get phone numbers and email addresses of everyone involved. |
| Other drivers’ insurance | Record the insurer and policy number for all vehicles involved. |
| Witnesses’ contact info | Ask bystanders for their names and phone numbers. |
| Photos of damages/injuries/scene | Use your phone to document vehicle damage, injuries and the overall scene. |
| Intersection of incident | Note the cross‑streets or landmark where the collision occurred. |
| Vehicles’ travelling directions | Write down the direction each vehicle was travelling prior to the accident. |
How to report
Under certain circumstances you must call 911:
- Call 911 if anyone is injured, if damage appears to exceed $2,000, if you believe an offence (e.g. impaired driving) has been committed, or if you’re unsure whether to involve police.
- If you didn’t report to police at the scene, go to the closest Collision Reporting Centre as soon as possible.
Reminders
There are a few key points to remember when dealing with insurance after an accident:
- Notify your insurance company promptly.
- Speak with your broker about deductibles and coverage; reporting an incident doesn’t always mean you have to file a claim.
Fault is determined by insurance companies based on Ontario’s fault determination rules, while police determine offences.
Garitas Insurance contact information
If you are a Garitas Insurance customer, use these details to reach us for claims assistance or questions:
| Contact method | Details |
|---|---|
| Phone | 905‑851‑1821 |
| info@garitasinsurance.com | |
| Address | 3425 Harverster Rd., Suite 206ª, Burlington, ON L7N 3N1 |
In an emergency, always call 911 first.