Dealing with emergencies
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If Your Brakes Fail
Pump the brake pedal to attempt to restore hydraulic pressure.
If pumping fails, apply the parking brake gently but firmly while holding the release button.
Practice a parking-brake stop under controlled conditions with a qualified instructor to prepare for emergencies.
Never continue driving if brakes fail—pull over safely and call for help.
If Your Gas Pedal Sticks
Try lifting the pedal by sliding your foot underneath it (never reach down with your hands while moving).
If this fails, shift to neutral, turn on hazard lights, and pull over as soon as it is safe.
Turn off the ignition once stopped, and call for help—do not continue driving.
If Your Headlights Go Out
Check the headlight switch immediately.
If lights stay out, turn on your hazard lights, pull off the road, and stop in a safe location.
Call for assistance—driving without lights (especially at night) is both illegal and dangerous.
If You Have Trouble on a Freeway
At the first sign of vehicle trouble, begin pulling over to the nearest shoulder—do not wait for the vehicle to stall.
Turn on your hazard lights and reduce speed gradually by taking your foot off the gas pedal.
Exit the vehicle on the side away from traffic if you need to get out, but only if it is safe to do so.
Stay in your vehicle with doors locked, and call for help if possible. Ask any passerby to call the police or your automobile club.
400-series highways are patrolled by the Ontario Provincial Police—help should arrive shortly.
If Your Wheels Go Off the Pavement
Stay calm and avoid panicking—grip the steering wheel firmly.
Take your foot off the gas pedal to slow down naturally; avoid heavy braking.
Once you have control, gently steer back onto the pavement.
Be prepared to correct your steering and adjust speed once fully back on the road.
If a Tire Blows Out
Expect strong steering wheel vibration—stay calm and maintain a firm grip on the wheel.
Take your foot off the gas pedal to slow down; avoid sudden braking.
Steer in the direction you want to go and bring the vehicle to a safe stop off the road.
In a Collision Where Someone Is Injured
Remain at the scene and offer all possible assistance—never leave an injured person or drive away.
By law, report any collision to the police if there are injuries or if damage exceeds $2,000.
Turn off all engines and turn on emergency flashers; use warning signals or flares if safe.
Prevent fires—do not allow smoking or open flames near any vehicle.
Move injured people only if there is imminent danger of fire or explosion; otherwise, wait for trained medical help.
Provide first aid if you have training; cover injured persons to reduce shock, and stay with them until help arrives.
In a Collision Where No One Is Injured
Move drivable vehicles off the road if possible, especially on busy or high-speed roads—“Steer it, Clear it.”
By law, report collisions to the police if damage exceeds $2,000 (or if injuries occur).
Exchange information (name, address, insurance details) with all involved parties even if damage is under $2,000.
Take photos of the scene if it is safe to do so.
If your vehicle must be towed, note the tow truck operator’s name and licence number, and confirm the destination of your vehicle.
Contact your insurance company promptly if you intend to make a claim.
Key Reporting Threshold
You must report a collision to the police immediately when there are injuries or if damage to vehicles/property exceeds $2,000.
Failing to report a reportable collision can result in legal penalties.