Collision Reporting Centre Ottawa: Locations, Hours & Requirements
Last updated: 2026 | Essential guide for Ottawa drivers | Posted by Ontario Towing
After a car accident in Ottawa, you need to report to a collision reporting centre unless police explicitly told you otherwise at the scene. Knowing which location to visit, what hours they operate, and what documents to bring saves you time and stress during an already difficult day. This guide covers all three CRC locations in Ottawa and walks you through the entire process.
Quick Answer: Ottawa has three collision reporting centres: West End (Kanata), Downtown (Elgin), and East End (Orleans). The West End location is the only one open on weekends and holidays. You must report within 24 to 48 hours of the accident. Bring your licence, registration, insurance documents, and photos from the scene.
When Must You Report to a Collision Reporting Centre?
✔ You Must Attend a CRC If:
Damage exceeds $2,000This applies to combined damage across all vehicles involved in the accident.
Anyone was injuredEven minor injuries require official reporting for insurance and legal purposes.
Your vehicle is not drivableA towing company can transport your vehicle to the CRC of your choice.
You need an official accident report for insuranceThe CRC report is the documentation your insurer needs to process your claim.
Police did not attend the sceneIf officers were not present, the CRC visit serves as your official accident report.
⚠️ Important: A police case number from the scene does not mean you can skip the CRC. Only skip it if police explicitly told you that you do not need to attend. When in doubt, go to the CRC.
Ottawa Collision Reporting Centre Locations
OPEN WEEKENDS & HOLIDAYS
West End (Kanata)
Address: 211 Huntmar Road, Kanata, ON
Monday to Friday: 08:00 to 18:00
Saturday and Sunday: 09:00 to 17:00
Holidays: Open
Best for: West Ottawa residents, accidents on the 417 or 401 west of downtown. Only location with weekend and holiday hours.
Downtown (Elgin)
Address: 474 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON
Monday to Friday: 10:00 to 18:00
Saturday and Sunday: Closed
Best for: Downtown residents and central Ottawa accidents. Latest closing time at 18:00.
East End (Orleans)
Address: 3343 St-Joseph Blvd, Orleans, ON
Monday to Friday: 09:00 to 17:00
Saturday and Sunday: Closed
Best for: East Ottawa residents, accidents on the 174 or in Orleans and surrounding areas.
What to Bring to the Collision Reporting Centre
1
Driver's licenceValid Ontario driver's licence for the person who was driving at the time of the accident.
2
Vehicle registration (ownership)The green slip or permit showing the vehicle is registered in Ontario.
3
Insurance documents (pink slip)Your proof of insurance showing the policy number, insurer, and coverage dates.
4
Photos from the accident scenePhotos of all vehicles, damage, road conditions, and the surrounding area.
5
Other driver's informationName, phone number, licence plate, insurance company, and policy number of the other driver.
6
Police report number (if applicable)If police attended the scene, bring the case number they provided.
What Happens at the CRC
Plan for 30 to 60 minutes depending on wait times and accident complexity. A CRC officer will review your documents, inspect your vehicle for damage, take photos, and complete the official collision report. This report goes to your insurance company and starts the claims process. Arriving early in the day typically means shorter waits.
Pro Tip: Bring everything you need in one trip. Arriving without documents means returning later, which wastes time and delays your claim.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Ottawa's CRC
You should report within 24 to 48 hours of the accident. Reporting sooner is always better for your insurance claim. Some insurers expect same-day reporting when possible.
Most CRCs operate on a walk-in basis with no appointment required. Arriving within 1 to 2 hours of opening typically results in faster service. Call ahead to check current wait times if you prefer.
A professional towing service can transport your vehicle to the CRC of your choice. Many towing companies bill insurance directly, covering the cost. Call for towing immediately after the accident.
Typically, the vehicle owner or insured driver should attend in person. Some CRCs may allow a representative with proper documentation. Call the CRC location first to ask about their specific policy.
Plan for 30 to 60 minutes depending on wait times and accident complexity. Arriving early in the day usually means shorter waits. Bring everything you need so you do not have to return.
You can request a second opinion or dispute the assessment through your insurance company. Provide photos and documentation of any additional damage. Your adjuster will review and may authorize a supplemental estimate.
Only the West End location at 211 Huntmar Road in Kanata is open on weekends and holidays. Saturday and Sunday hours are 09:00 to 17:00. The Downtown and East End locations are closed on weekends.