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In Ontario, some accidents must be reported to police. These are known as reportable collisions under the Highway Traffic Act.

A collision is considered reportable if:

• Anyone is injured
• The combined damage to vehicles or property appears to exceed $1,000
• There is damage to public property such as a guardrail, sign, or traffic light
• A vehicle is not drivable

If any of these apply, police must be notified. In many cases, police will direct drivers to report the collision at a Collision Reporting Centre rather than attending the scene.

*Please note the above information is subject to change by the Highway Traffic Act and anytime. Content has been updated as per January 2026. To see the most up to date content, visit Ontario.ca/ for up to date information.

Collision Reporting Centres are partnerships between police services, insurance providers, and private organizations. They allow drivers involved in property-damage collisions to safely self-report an accident.

If police do not attend the scene, drivers are typically required to report the collision within 24 hours.

At a reporting centre:

• A police officer inspects vehicle damage
• You receive guidance on completing the collision report
• Damage areas may be marked for documentation
• You are advised whether the vehicle is safe to drive

Once reporting is complete, you may leave or have your vehicle towed if it is not roadworthy.

If it is safe to do so, exchange the following details with all involved drivers:

• Full name and contact information
• Driver’s licence number
• Insurance company and policy number
• Vehicle make, model, colour, and licence plate

Your Finch Collision pouch is designed to keep your ownership and insurance slips organized so this step is easier when it matters most.

Photos can be extremely helpful for insurance claims and collision repair.

If it is safe:

• Take photos of vehicle damage from multiple angles
• Capture licence plates and surrounding areas
• Photograph road conditions and any visible injuries

These details can help protect you later in the process.

Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Stick to the facts and avoid speculation when describing the accident.

Even if your insurance company suggests a specific repair facility, you always have the right to choose where your vehicle is repaired.

Not all auto body shops are the same. Choosing a trusted collision centre helps ensure your vehicle is repaired properly, not rushed.

Finch Collision is a certified, insurance-approved collision repair centre serving drivers in London, Ontario and surrounding areas. We work with all major insurance companies and are a preferred repair partner for select insurers.

Our team can help explain the repair process, communicate with your insurance provider, and guide you through next steps after an accident.

No. You always have the right to choose your collision repair centre. Finch Collision can work directly with your insurer regardless of recommendations.

As soon as possible. Even minor damage can hide safety or structural issues that should be assessed by a certified collision repair centre.

Yes. We work with all major insurance companies and can assist with estimates, documentation, approvals, and communication.

If your vehicle is not drivable, contact Roadside Assistance or other tow truck companies to assist with transportation.