Aviva reveals shock statistics on car accidents in Canada

Aviva Canada’s new survey has revealed that half of Canadian drivers have no idea what to do immediately following an accident.

The survey was conducted for Aviva by Pollara Strategic Insights. Some 1,500 Canadians participated in the online survey, aged 18 years and older with a current auto insurance policy.

Insights from the survey found included:

• 50% of Canadians are “unprepared” to go through the claims process after a car accident.
• 30% of those in an accident place their first call to a family member or loved one; for young people, the percentage increases to 50%.
• Most consumers are not aware of what to say to tow truck drivers.
• Few Canadians understand their rental coverage, and some even overpay as a result.
• About a third of the survey participants are likely to use an insurer-approved auto repair shop.

“We were surprised at just how many Canadians are confused about what to do after they have an accident,” said Aviva Canada vice-president of auto claims Oliver Rudd.

Rudd added that while it is normal instinct to quickly call a loved one following a harrowing experience, the next phone call drivers should make after an accident is to their insurer or broker. Insurance professionals, he said, can guide drivers through the process and help them avoid costly mistakes or delays.