Being in a motor vehicle accident can be stressful, especially when you’re unsure what steps to take next.
One of the most common questions we hear is:
If I report an accident to my insurance company, but don’t actually make a claim, will my rates go up?
The short answer is: not necessarily. But as with most things in insurance, it depends on a few key factors.
First, it’s important to understand that reporting an accident is not the same as making a claim.
In Ontario, your insurance policy typically requires you to report an accident within a reasonable time, even if you don’t plan to seek compensation. 
In fact, reporting can protect you. It creates a record in case injuries or issues arise later.
In many cases, simply reporting an accident – without any payout – will not automatically increase your insurance rates.
Insurance premiums are usually impacted by:
So if you report an accident but: no claim is made, no payment is issued, and you are not found at fault, it is unlikely on its own to trigger a premium increase.
Even if you don’t make a claim, there are situations where your premium could still be impacted:
Insurance companies will still assess fault after an accident. In Ontario, fault is determined using standardized rules, regardless of whether you claim benefits. If you are found at fault, your insurer may view you as a higher-risk driver – even if no claim was paid.If There Is
Even without payouts, multiple reported accidents can signal increased risk. Insurers assess your overall profile, not just individual claims.
Even if you choose not to make a claim, the other driver may. If that happens and you are found at fault, your insurer may still adjust your premium.
Ontario has some protection for minor at-fault accidents.
If:
…your insurer may not increase your premium for that incident (in certain circumstances).
However, these rules are specific and don’t apply in every case.
Even if you’re worried about your premiums, reporting an accident is usually the right step.
Here’s why:
You generally have up to two years to pursue certain claims after an accident, and symptoms don’t always appear right away.
Ontario operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning you typically deal with your own insurer for benefits and compensation, regardless of who caused the accident.
However, fault is still determined, and it plays a major role in whether your premiums increase.
If you want to better understand how Accident Benefits and upcoming changes to coverage may affect you, we’ve broken that down in more detail here: Major Changes Coming to Ontario Auto Insurance: What Drivers Need to Know.
Reporting an accident does not automatically increase your insurance premiums.
In most cases, premiums are affected by fault and risk, not simply by notifying your insurer.
If you’re unsure what to do after an accident, it’s always better to get clear information early rather than risk complications later.
Every situation is different. If you’ve been in an accident and aren’t sure whether to report it, make a claim, or how it may affect your insurance, we can help you understand your options.
Contact us if you or a loved one needs support now.
