2025-07-13 · Most Valuable Towing

What to Do After a Car Accident in Ottawa

The First 60 Seconds After a Collision

Take a breath. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt — even if it seems minor — call 911 immediately. Neck and back injuries often don't show symptoms right away.

Turn on your hazard lights. If the car is drivable and it's safe to do so, move it to the shoulder or a parking lot. If it's not drivable, stay in the vehicle with your seatbelt on until help arrives — especially on the 417 or any road with fast traffic.

Who to Call, and in What Order

1. 911 if there are injuries, significant damage, or if the other driver leaves the scene (hit-and-run). 2. Police — in Ottawa, you must report any accident with damage over $2,000, injuries, or a hit-and-run. The Ottawa Police collision reporting centre is at 474 Elgin Street. You can also file online for minor collisions. 3. Your insurance company — ideally within 24 hours. Have the other driver's information ready: name, plate number, insurance policy number, and photos of the damage. 4. A trusted towing company. Police may call a rotation tow, but you have the right to choose your own. Call Most Valuable Towing at 613-262-6912 — we're TSSEA-certified and serve all of Ottawa 24/7.

What to Document at the Scene

This makes your insurance claim faster and protects you if the other driver's story changes:

• Photos. Both cars from multiple angles, the damage up close, the licence plates, and the whole scene including road signs, traffic lights, and weather conditions. These are gold for insurance adjusters.
• Driver info. Full name, phone number, licence plate, driver's licence number, insurance company and policy number.
• Witnesses. If anyone saw it happen, ask for their name and phone number. A neutral witness can settle a "he said, she said" insurance dispute.
• Notes. Write down what happened while it's fresh. Road conditions, weather, what direction each car was going, and what you were doing right before impact.

Accident Towing: What to Expect

If your car isn't drivable, you need a tow. Here's what to know:

• You can choose your own tow company. Police may suggest a rotation tow, but in Ontario you're not required to use it. Pick a company you trust.
• Accident recovery costs more than a standard tow — typically $200–$400+ depending on the situation. Your insurance may cover this; ask when you report the claim.
• Ask where the car is going. Some tow companies take vehicles to their own impound lot where storage fees pile up daily. Have it towed to your home, your mechanic, or a collision centre you choose.
• Remove valuables. Take your phone, wallet, purse, and anything else you need. Once the car is on the truck, you won't see it until it's dropped off.

What Happens After

File your insurance claim within 24 hours. In Ontario, you have 7 days but sooner is better — the adjuster needs fresh information. They'll walk you through the next steps: assessment, repair estimate, and rental car coverage if that's part of your policy.

See a doctor. Even if you feel fine. Adrenaline masks pain for hours, and whiplash symptoms can take days to appear. Documenting your visit protects you if you need treatment later.

Follow up on the police report. If police attended, you can get a copy from the Ottawa Police Service. Your insurance company will want it.

One Number to Save

The best time to choose a towing company isn't after an accident. Save 613-262-6912 now. Most Valuable Towing is available 24/7 across Ottawa, TSSEA-certified, and will get your vehicle safely off the road and exactly where you want it — not an impound lot.

Need accident recovery now? Our accident recovery team is available 24/7 across Ottawa — TSSEA-certified, fully insured. We'll get your vehicle off the road and exactly where you want it, not an impound lot. Call 613-262-6912.

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