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Confused About Car Accident Insurance Claim Time Limits in Ontario?

  • Writer: Naresh Misir
    Naresh Misir
  • 22 hours ago
  • 4 min read
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Discover the different timelines for insurance notices, accident benefits, and lawsuits—explained in one simple guide you can rely on


If you've recently been in a car accident in Toronto or surrounding areas, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed by all the time limits surrounding insurance and legal claims. Knowing which deadlines apply—and how missing any of them can affect your ability to recover—is essential. At Misir & Company, we help you navigate Ontario’s deadlines confidently, ensuring your rights stay protected.


What You Must Know: Insurance Reporting & Accident Benefits

Report the Accident Within 7 Days

Ontario law generally requires you to notify your insurance provider within seven days of the accident, or as soon as reasonably possible. Failing to report promptly may jeopardize benefits like rental vehicles, medical reimbursement, and income replacement.

Submit Accident Benefits Application Within 30 Days

Once you receive your insurer’s accident benefits package, you must return the completed application within 30 days. Even minor delays without a valid reason can delay or compromise your funding for rehab, medical expenses, and wage loss.


Legal Claims: Notice of Intention & Lawsuit Filing

Give Written Notice Within 120 Days

If you plan to sue the at-fault driver, Ontario law typically requires a written notice of intent within 120 days of the crash. Missing this deadline can limit interest claims and may complicate your lawsuit.


File Your Lawsuit Within Two Years

The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. In rare cases (e.g. minors, mental incapacity, or “discoverable” injuries), the clock may start later.

How we help: We draft and serve Notice of Intention, file lawsuits carefully within timelines, and support “discoverability” cases if they apply.


Special Situations: Exceptions That Can Alter Deadlines

Claims Involving Minors or Incapacity

Minors have until two years after turning 18, and mentally incapacitated individuals may have paused limitation periods until they regain capacity.

Municipal or Government Claims

If your accident involves a municipality or public property, you generally must provide written notice within 10 days of the incident or risk losing the right to sue.

“Discoverability” of Hidden Injuries

If your injuries were not immediately apparent, Ontario’s Limitation Act allows the clock to start when you reasonably should have known you were hurt.

How we help: We assess your case early, gather relevant medical records and adjust timelines as needed to keep your case valid.


Why Many Who Search “Car Accident Claim Time Limit” Still Get Confused

Searchers often face these overlapping issues in Ontario:

  • Multiple deadlines for reporting, benefits, notice, and lawsuits

  • Anxiety that missing even one may mean losing compensation

  • Uncertainty about which deadline applies to what

  • Confusion over exceptions they may qualify for

At Misir & Company, we clarify exactly what timeline applies to your situation—and we act fast.


How We Support You Immediately After an Accident

1. Fast, Accurate Reporting

We help you report to your insurer with full details—within 7 days or sooner.

2. Complete Accident Benefits Application

We guide you through your SABS forms, deadlines, and supplemental documentation—typically due within 30 days.

3. Written Notice & Civil Suit Planning

If legal action is needed, we ensure Notice of Intention is served within 120 days—and position your lawsuit to meet the two‑year limit.

4. Tailored Guidance for Special Rules

If you’re a minor, dealing with a municipality, or have delayed discoverability, we protect your rights using applicable exceptions.


Take Action Today

At Misir & Company, we offer a structured plan to meet all key deadlines and support your claim every step of the way. We treat your case with clarity and urgency—helping you focus on recovery, not confusion.

If you’ve been in a motor vehicle accident in Toronto or nearby, don’t wait. Reach out now to protect your legal and insurance options within Ontario’s strict timelines.


Frequently Asked Questions

What if I report the accident after 7 days?

Insurers may still accept late reports for valid reasons, but it's safer not to risk delays. We can help document and explain any delay.


Can I still file my injury claim after two years if I just discovered the injury?

If the injury wasn’t reasonably discoverable earlier, the Limitation Act may extend the period—but only under specific conditions. Early review is best.

What about accidents involving municipal roads?

Claims involving public property usually require a 10-day notice. Legal support ensures you meet this shorter window.

How do I know which claim types apply to my situation?

We review your case individually—breaking down timelines for insurance reporting, accident benefits, and potential civil claims.


Choose Misir & Company: Your Advantage in Ontario Claim Timelines

  • Focused on time-sensitive support from Day 1

  • Proven clarity on which deadline applies to you

  • Experience handling exceptions, notices, and lawsuit preparation

  • Local to Toronto, well‑versed in Ontario procedural rules


Next Steps

  1. Contact us with basic details of your accident.

  2. We confirm which deadlines apply and begin action.

  3. You get peace of mind knowing every deadline is managed.


Contact Misir & Company Today

Misir & Company Lawyers

880 St Clair Ave West

Toronto, ON, Canada

Phone: 416‑865‑6274


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