Your heart is racing. Your mind is trying desperately to put it all together. You might even hear a few curse words.

First, we all have that Canadian tendency. However, not saying sorry could be the best financial decision you make, even though it is completely against our culture.

Keep calm and take a deep breath. Then, tell the police what happened. Do not make promises and do not admit to fault. We'll get there. To start, here are some things to do following a car accident in Ontario.

Step 1: Stop the car and ensure your safety

Criminal prosecution could be brought against you if you cause a car accident in Ontario. If you have road flares, turn on your four-way lights (hazard light, flashers, and four-way flashers). Stay in your car for safety.

Step 2: Call the police

No matter who is responsible or what damage has been done, the quicker emergency crews respond the greater chance of everyone's survival. You would want to help the person who is suffering. Do the world a favor by practicing empathy.

If police are needed on the scene, the 9-1-1 operator can tell you. Here are some guidelines for when police should be on the scene.

• Injuries.
• If the car's damage from an accident is more than $2,000.
• If someone suspects that they are intoxicated by drugs or alcohol,

Call the collision reporting center for minor accidents

It's considered minor if the damage to the vehicle is less than $2,000 and no injuries are sustained. Call the Ontario collision reporting center at 416-745-3301. You can also search for an Ontario location by clicking here.

Step 3: Take photos

Once it is safe, get out of the car and take pictures with your phone. You should not have moved your car. Insurance companies will use the photos and descriptions of all drivers to determine who is at fault. Remember that Ontario has the no fault insurance system. You will only speak with your insurance company regarding an accident.

Step 4: Move your car

If it is safe and possible, you should move your car to the side of traffic. If you are unable to drive your vehicle, make sure the hazard lights and road flares are turned on. You can also pop the hood.

These are signs that there has been an accident with passing drivers. These drivers will slow down due to " rubbernecking". If you are unable to walk to a sidewalk nearby, it is best to stay inside your car. You should have a winter emergency kit, preferably with a blanket. Do not worry, emergency crews will be there.

Step 5: Record details about the accident

You can record the following in your own words. You can record the following using your phone's voice recorder, any note-taking app, or send an email detailing what happened.

• Date
• Time
• Weather conditions
• Road conditions
• Estimated speed
• Description of the accident
• Draw a diagram showing the accident

These details should be written down as soon as possible. Honesty is the best policy.

Here's the government Of Ontario's accident sheet

What do you need from the other driver involved

• Name
• Address
• Telefon
• Number of driver's license
• Vehicle plate number
• Make and colour of the vehicle
• The registered owner of vehicle (it could differ from the driver).
• Vehicle identification number (VIN).
• Insurance company
• Number and expiry of insurance policy
• Their vehicle is damaged
• Number of people in the car
• Names and positions of passengers in the car (e.g. Rear driver's side

Step 6: Call your car insurance agency

They will be there to assist you. It is up to you to decide whether you want to file a claim, except if you don't have insurance. A report must be submitted within seven days, and ideally within 24 hours. If you don't, your insurance provider may deny your claim.

What your insurance company may want following a car accident

• Number of your car insurance policy
• Your vehicle's Make, Model, Year, Registration, and License Plate Number
• Date, time, and exact location of the accident
• Please describe the accident
• All drivers involved must have their driver's names and license numbers.
• The registration and insurance of the owner of the vehicle
• Number of passengers involved
• The severity of injuries suffered by all involved (pedestrians as well as cyclists)
• How much damage your vehicle has sustained
• All drivers involved: Names and driver's license numbers
• Names of all insurance companies and auto policies for all drivers
• When the police arrive, be sure to ask for the name and badge number of the investigating officer