In Ontario, drivers involved in a motor vehicle accident are required by the Highway Traffic Act to do the following:
- Remain at or Return to the Scene: Drivers must stay at the scene or return immediately if they leave temporarily.
- Provide Assistance: Offer any assistance possible to others involved, especially if there are injuries.
- Exchange Information: Upon request, drivers must provide, in writing, their name, address, driver’s licence number, insurance information, and the name and address of the vehicle’s registered owner to anyone who has sustained loss or injury, to any police officer, or to any witnesses.
- Report Significant Accidents: If there is more than $2,000 in property damage, personal injury, or damage to the highway, drivers are required to report the accident to the police without delay.
In simple terms, this means that all drivers involved in an accident must:
- Stop their vehicle,
- Assist anyone who is injured or requires help,
- Exchange personal and insurance details, and
- Contact the police immediately if there is significant damage or injury.
If you are contacted by the police regarding an accident, reach out to our offices for legal advice before making any statements.
Legal Definition of Fail to Remain HTA 200,1
Duty of person in charge of vehicle in case of accident
(1) Where an accident occurs on a highway, every person in charge of a vehicle or street car that is directly or indirectly involved in the accident shall,
(a) remain at or immediately return to the scene of the accident;
(b) render all possible assistance; and
(c) upon request, give in writing to anyone sustaining loss or injury or to any police officer or to any witness his or her name, address, driver’s licence number and jurisdiction of issuance, motor vehicle liability insurance policy insurer and policy number, name and address of the registered owner of the vehicle and the vehicle permit number.
It was a very minor accident but it turned out there was a lot of damage. OTT took care of everything, represented me at court and had the charge dropped. I didn’t have to appear which I was grateful for. Very professional people with great results, thanks again!