Immediate safety at the scene
Your first priority after any collision is safety. If the vehicles can still be moved and it is safe to do so, moving them out of live traffic reduces the risk of a second collision. If they cannot be moved, keep yourself and others clear of moving lanes.
- Turn on hazard lights if the electrical system still works.
- Check yourself and others for injuries before doing anything else.
- Move to a safe location such as the shoulder or a nearby sidewalk if you can do so safely.
- Avoid standing between damaged vehicles or in an active lane.
When emergency services are required
In Ontario, you are generally required to report a collision to police in situations such as injury or death, or where it is apparent that the combined damage exceeds the provincial reporting threshold. When in doubt, call 911 or your local police non-emergency line and follow their guidance.
If emergency services are involved, wait for their direction before arranging towing. In some situations, including collisions under active police investigation, the choice of towing operator may be directed on scene.
Information worth recording
Exchanging information with the other parties and documenting the scene can help later with insurance and any follow-up. Stay calm and factual, and avoid discussing fault at the scene.
- Names, contact details and insurance information for the other drivers.
- Licence plate numbers, makes, models and colours of the vehicles involved.
- The location, date and approximate time of the collision.
- Photos of the scene, vehicle positions and visible damage, if it is safe to take them.
Towing after a collision
If a vehicle cannot be driven safely, it will usually need to be towed. In Ontario, drivers have protections around towing, including the right to know where a vehicle is being taken and to receive clear documentation. Understanding those rights before you sign anything is worthwhile.
- Ask where the vehicle will be taken and whether that location is a storage yard or a repair facility.
- Request written documentation of the service, including the route and destination.
- Ask about any storage charges that may apply once the vehicle arrives.
MyTow lets you start the request online and, where the scene allows, choose your destination rather than having one chosen for you.
Next steps after the scene is cleared
Once everyone is safe and the vehicles are moved, notify your insurer as soon as it is practical and keep a record of the collision and any towing documentation. If you are unsure about your rights around towing in Ontario, our dedicated guides can help.