Motor Vehicle Accident Report Search Application in Ontario (English / French)

Understanding the Application for Search of a Motor Vehicle Accident Report Record in Ontario

If you need to obtain a copy of a motor vehicle accident report in Ontario, the official application form provides a structured process to request this information. This form, issued by the Queen’s Printer for Ontario, is essential for individuals or organizations seeking details about specific vehicle collisions that occurred within the province.

Purpose and Scope of the Form

The application form titled "Application for Search of a Motor Vehicle Accident Report Record" is designed for requesting reports related to motor vehicle accidents that meet certain legal criteria. It is primarily used by individuals involved in or affected by a collision, insurance companies, legal professionals, or law enforcement agencies. The form allows you to specify the accident details and identify the type of report you require, either certified or non-certified.

Conditions for Eligibility

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) restricts the availability of accident reports to cases involving fatalities, personal injuries, or property damage exceeding an estimated value of $1,000. This limitation ensures that the reports are accessible only for significant incidents, aligning with provincial legislation. If your collision does not meet these criteria, the Ministry will not process your request.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Completing the Form

1. Gather Required Information

• Personal identification details, including your full name and a valid Ontario Driver’s Licence Number or SIN.
• Accident specifics such as date, location, and involved vehicles.
• Details of the drivers involved, including their names, addresses, driver’s licence numbers, and vehicle information.

2. Fill Out the Application

Use clear, legible handwriting or type the information to prevent delays. Complete each section carefully, including the accident location, date, and details about the vehicles and drivers involved. For each request, specify whether you require a certified or non-certified report, noting that fees differ accordingly.

3. Attach Payment and Submit

The application fee is non-refundable and must be paid by cheque, money order, or credit card (if applicable). Cheques should be made payable to the Minister of Finance, and all personal cheques must be certified. If paying by credit card, ensure the attached authorization form is included. Send the completed form and payment to the specified address:

Ministry of Transportation, Information and Data Retrieval Unit, 87 Sir William Hearst Avenue, Room 158D, Toronto, Ontario M3M 0B4.

Important Considerations After Submission

Once your application is received, processing times will vary depending on the volume of requests and the completeness of your submission. It is advisable to allow sufficient time from the accident date to ensure the Ministry can locate and process your request effectively.

Note that the Ministry only provides reports for reportable accidents—those involving fatalities, injuries, or property damage over $1,000. The form explicitly excludes requests related to industrial accidents, property damage on private property investigated by other police forces, accidents involving unregistered vehicles, and theft or vandalism cases.

Legal and Privacy Responsibilities

Under provincial legislation, submitting false information on this form may result in penalties. The Ministry of Transportation is also required to maintain a record of disclosures of personal information from accident reports and to disclose this information upon request, in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Summary

This official application form is a formal, structured process to access motor vehicle accident reports in Ontario. By providing accurate information and adhering to the specified procedures, applicants can obtain essential accident details for legal, insurance, or personal purposes. Always ensure your request complies with the eligibility criteria and include all necessary documentation and fees to facilitate a smooth processing experience.