NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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As of January 1, 2025, Ontario has introduced changes to the collision reporting rules, impacting how drivers must respond to accidents. Here's a look at these changes and how they can affect you.
Ontario's New Collision Reporting Threshold
The most notable change is the increase in the damage threshold for reporting collisions. Previously, drivers were required to report any collision to the police if the total damage to a vehicle exceeded $2,000. This has now been raised to $5,000. This adjustment aims to reduce administrative burdens on both drivers and law enforcement, acknowledging the rising costs associated with vehicle repairs and the inflation of property values.
When to Report a Collision to Police
- You must report the collision to the police if the total damage exceeds $5,000, if there are injuries, if public property is damaged, or if a criminal act like impaired driving is suspected.
- Even if the damage falls below the $5,000 mark, exchange information with all parties involved, including names, addresses, phone numbers, license numbers, and insurance details.
Immediate Actions After an Accident
The general process after an accident hasn't changed, but it's critical to keep the procedure in mind:
- Stay Safe: Ensure everyone's safety first. If safe, move the vehicles out of traffic, turn on hazard lights, and if possible, set up flares or other warning signals.
- Exchange Information: Regardless of the damage amount, exchanging information with the other party(ies) is essential. This includes insurance, vehicle information, and personal details.
- Police Notification: You must involve the police to investigate if the collision involves personal injury, death, involves a pedestrian/cyclist, any criminal activity, a vehicle transporting dangerous goods, damage to public property, an uncooperative driver, or a train/light rail vehicle. For less severe incidents, you have 24 hours to report to a Collision Reporting Centre.
- Visit a Collision Reporting Centre: If the damage appears above the new $5,000 threshold, visit a Collision Reporting Centre within 24 hours rather than calling the police to the scene, or;
- To report an incident online, simply go to opp.ca and click "Report Online" - opp.ca/reporting.
The Huntsville OPP remind drivers and other road users they can significantly contribute to safer roads by avoiding taking unnecessary risks and complying with all traffic laws.
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