Let’s face it: As a driver, a car accident is your worst nightmare. However, one of the best ways to keep yourself safe on the road is knowing what an accident entails and how to distinguish one. Car accidents can come in many different shapes and sizes, and deciphering each type can play a big part in ensuring you remain safe. So, what exactly constitutes a car accident? What are some common causes? And how is fault determined in Ontario? This is everything you need to know about what a car accident is and how to determine the details.
What Exactly Constitutes a Car Accident?
A car accident occurs when an automobile, such as a car, truck, bus, or other motorized vehicle, comes in contact with another object. These collisions can include:
- Two or more vehicles
- A vehicle and a pedestrian
- A vehicle and an inanimate object, such as a pole or fire hydrant
- A vehicle going off the road
- Hitting a parked car
These types of accidents can include property damage, vehicle damage, injury or even death. Additionally, it can also end up costing those involved a hefty sum of money. In Canada, you may be held liable for damages or injuries caused by the car accident. The country has compulsory automobile insurance, so in many cases, these car accidents can be covered, or you can be reimbursed if you find yourself in a sticky situation.
How to Categorize Types of Car Accidents
In Ontario, these car accidents are categorized as either a Minor Collision or a Major Collision. A minor collision is when there are no serious injuries involved, and total damage of the collision is less than $2,000. These types of car accidents do not need to be reported to the police, but need to be reported to a Collision Reporting Centre as well as your insurance provider.
On the other hand, a major collision will likely include injuries or fatalities, a vehicle that is a total loss, as well as suspected criminal activity. This can include impaired driving or reckless driving. These accidents must be reported to the police immediately, as well as your insurance provider. For a more detailed list of car accident types, take a look at our article on the most common types of car accidents.
What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents?
There are virtually an unlimited number of causes for car accidents. Weather and road conditions are a common cause of car accidents in Canada. However, many accidents are also caused by a driver’s inability to pay attention or drive safely. By understanding the different factors that contribute to a car accident, you can help avoid them as best as possible.
Speeding
Failure to follow the legal speed limit is perhaps one of the most common causes of car accidents within Canada. This is when a driver is driving faster than the posted speed limit on the road. This can result in an accident, hefty fines and the towing of your vehicle if charged with stunt driving.
Distracted Driving
Nowadays, driving while texting has become a huge issue with the rise of smartphones. This can also include being distracted by music players, GPS devices, or even doing small things such as eating or applying makeup. Anything that will distract you from keeping your eyes on the road is distracted driving.
Driving under the influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol may lead to accidents, many in which are typically fatal. Drinking and driving is illegal in Canada, as it increases the probability of causing a car accident by roughly 900%!
Driving tired
Driving while extremely tired can also lead to accidents since a driver may nod off on a road or not be fully aware as to what is going on around them. It is always important to make sure you have a good night’s sleep before you find yourself behind the wheel.
Poor weather conditions
Weather conditions, especially in Canada, can be a huge cause of car accidents. Wet and icy roads can make driving difficult and require your extra attention when on the road.
Defective car parts
When a car part on a vehicle is broken or defective, it can cause the vehicle to operate in an unsafe manner. Some common defects can take part in the brakes, tires or safety features such as the airbags.
How To Determine Fault in a Car Accident
When a car accident occurs in Ontario, determining fault is a crucial step in the legal process. Establishing who is at fault is critical for holding those accountable who inflict any injuries or damages. Generally, determining fault in an Ontario car accident can involve a thorough investigation by law enforcement, as well as an analysis of various evidence. This evidence can include eyewitness testimonies, police reports, photographs and a plethora of other relevant information.
When a car accident occurs, it is important to note that fault is not always assigned to just one party. In some cases, it may be the conclusion that multiple parties will share responsibility for the car accident.
The determination of fault in a car accident has a significant impact on insurance claims as well as legal proceedings. The party found at fault may be required to compensate the injured party. This could be for medical expenses, property damage, or other losses. Fault damage may also affect insurance premiums and coverage, as fault is taken into account when determining liability and coverage limits. Staying out of accidents is critical in making sure your insurance premiums stay low!
What To Do After a Car Accident
Taking the necessary steps after a car accident is crucial to making sure you and those involved remain safe after an accident. What happens after a car accident is crucial. After the initial shock wears off, you should know the proper steps to take:
Stop your vehicle and ensure safety
Never drive away after an accident, even if it’s minor. Driving away from an accident is considered fleeing the scene of an accident, which is illegal. Make sure everybody within your vehicle and any other involved vehicles are safe.
Call the Police
If applicable, call 9-1-1. An operator will assess the details and dispatch the police, ambulance and/or fire to the scene if the accident is considered a major accident.
Take photos of the situation (when safe to do so)
If it is safe to do so, get out of your car. Use your cellphone to take pictures of the vehicle as well as any other vehicles or objects that are involved in the accident. Make note of any road conditions and weather conditions if applicable.
Move your car
Once you’ve assessed the damages, decide whether or not it is possible to move your car to the side of the road. This will make sure you and those involved are safe while exchanging information.
Record details of the accident and contact your insurer
Take note of some information regarding the accident, such as when and how it occurs. It is also crucial that you take down the information of any other people involved in the accident.
Contact your isure broker
You should contact your insurance broker within seven days of the car accident, but ideally within 24 hours.
For a full list of in-depth steps, check out our article on what to do when you get into an accident.
What Is A Car Accident: Conclusion
At the end of the day, a car accident isn’t fun, no matter the size. Whether it’s caused by distracted driving, poor weather, these car accidents highlight the importance of driving safely on our road! As the province continues to improve road safety measures, it is important to make sure you remain safe and secure with proper insurance! If you are in the market, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at isure! Contact us or request a quote today!
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