What to Do When You've Had an Accident

Accidents happen! So, don't panic. Take a deep breath and follow these steps to make an insurance claim:

1. If you've been in a car accident, the first step of filing a hassle-free claim happens at the scene of the collision. Once the area is secure and everyone is safe, get the name, driver's license and license plate number of the other driver. It's also very important to get the names and addresses of any witnesses. This may be crucial in determining who was "at fault" or responsible in the collision.
   


2. As soon as possible during normal office hours, you or the owner of the vehicle should set up an appointment to have your vehicle appraised and the damage assessed.

   Accidents must also be reported to the police under any of the following circumstances:

• if the collision results in injury or death
• if it's a hit and run
• if a driver is impaired
• if any of the vehicles involved have to be towed from the scene
• if the collision involves an out-of-province vehicle


If none of the above applies, the accident needs only to be reported to SGI.

Injuries need to be reported separately to the injury claims office.



3. On the day of your appointment, take your vehicle to the appraisal location where an appraiser will assess the damage and the cost of repairs. (If your vehicle is not drivable, arrangements will be made to have your vehicle towed to a location where the damage can be appraised).
   
   
4. Once the appraisal is done, you will receive a printout outlining the cost of repairs if your vehicle is repairable. After your adjuster confirms your insurance coverage is in order, you may have your vehicle repaired.
   
   
5. When repairs on your vehicle are completed, the body shop will ask you to sign a Certification of Repairs. This document is your authorization for the insurance company to pay the insured portion of the account directly to the repair facility. It also signifies that you're satisfied with the repairs.