Ontario drivers face updated rules in 2025 about when and how you must report car crashes involving property damage — and knowing them can save you legal trouble and insurance headaches. Whether you’re a daily commuter on the 401 or running errands around town, this guide breaks down what’s changed, why it matters, and exactly what steps you need to take if you’re involved in a collision.
What Changed: Higher Threshold for Reporting Property Damage
Effective January 1, 2025, Ontario raised the property damage reporting threshold for Property Damage Only (PDO) collisions.
- Old rule: You had to report any crash with total damage over $2,000.
- New rule: That threshold is now $5,000 in combined damage to all vehicles and property before you must report it to police or a Collision Reporting Centre.
This change reflects rising vehicle repair costs, inflation, and more complex car technology — meaning smaller damages that previously triggered mandatory reporting may now fall below the limit.
Why This Matters to Drivers
While the change might sound like good news (who doesn’t want fewer forms?), there are important points every driver should understand:
- Less paperwork for minor crashes: Collisions with damage under $5,000 now may not require formal police reporting.
- You still must report to your insurer: Regardless of the threshold, your insurance company often requires notification of any accident — usually within 7 days — or you risk losing coverage protection.
- Serious incidents always get reported: If there are injuries, any damage to public property, involvement of pedestrians or cyclists, or signs of criminal activity (e.g., impaired driving); you must call police regardless of the damage amount.
Step-by-Step — What to Do after a Crash in Ontario
Here’s a clear checklist to follow if you’re involved in a collision:
Ensure Safety First
- Move your vehicle out of traffic if it’s safe.
- Turn on hazard lights and check on other people involved.
- Call emergency help if anyone is injured.
Exchange Information
Always swap:
- Names and contact info
- Driver’s licence numbers
- License plate numbers
- Insurance company and policy details
This is essential even if damages seem minor.
Assess the Damage
If total damage appears over $5,000, you must report the crash to:
- Local police or
- A Collision Reporting Centre within 24 hours (you may start with an online report in many regions).
If damage is below $5,000 and no one is hurt, reporting to police is not required — but you can still do it if you feel it’s necessary for documentation.
Document the Scene
Take photos of all vehicles, license plates, road conditions, and property damage. These can be valuable for insurance claims.
Call Your Insurance Company
Even if you’re not reporting to police, you must notify your insurer. Most companies ask you to report incidents as soon as possible — typically within seven days — to avoid claim denial.
Insurance & Your Record
Under updated rules, collisions with damage under the new $5,000 threshold may qualify as minor at-fault events in certain situations. In some cases, your insurer won’t raise your premium after one such incident if:
- No injuries occurred
- There’s no payout
- Damage stays under $5,000 per vehicle/property involved
Still, every policy differs — so speak directly with your broker to understand how your coverage and premiums could be affected.
Final Tips for Ontario Drivers
- Always exchange info — no matter how small the scratch
- Report to your insurer promptly — don’t gamble on what’s “required”
- Get a police report for any serious damage, injuries, or disputes
Staying informed about Ontario’s updated traffic rules can make all the difference when the unexpected happens on the road. Drive safe — and know your rights and responsibilities if a collision occurs!
Carlos Perdomo, Paralegal
