Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO) Practice Exam

In the event of an accident involving an insured auto, what must the insured do?

1. Notify the police

2. Give written notice to the insurer

3. File a claim with the government

4. Have a witness statement prepared

The correct answer is: Give written notice to the insurer

The requirement for an insured person following an accident involving their vehicle includes giving written notice to the insurer. This step is crucial because it initiates the claims process and informs the insurance company about the incident as soon as possible. Timely notification allows the insurer to investigate the circumstances of the accident and determine coverage options, which is essential for ensuring that the insured receives the benefits they are entitled to. In the context of an accident, although notifying the police may be a necessary action to fulfill legal obligations or for securing a police report, it is not the primary duty to the insurer. Similarly, filing a claim with the government is not a typical requirement in the process of reporting an accident to an insurance company. While obtaining a witness statement can be beneficial in corroborating the details of the incident, it is not mandated or as critical to the insurer's process as providing written notice. Thus, promptly notifying the insurer is fundamental in managing the responsibilities of the insured after an accident.