Common car accident injuries in Ontario: a practical guide for claimants

December 04, 2025, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Car crashes can cause more than visible damage to vehicles. In Ontario, many injuries are soft-tissue in nature, while others are more serious and require long-term treatment. This guide outlines common car accident injuries, why they occur, and how a personal injury lawyer can help you pursue appropriate benefits and compensation under Ontario law.

Key injuries to watch for after a collision

• Whiplash and neck strain: Sudden acceleration and deceleration can whip the head forward and back, injuring neck muscles, ligaments, and discs. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and limited range of motion.
• Concussions and traumatic brain injuries: Impacts can cause a concussion or more serious brain injury. Symptoms range from dizziness and confusion to memory problems, mood changes, and sleep disturbances.
• Back injuries: Herniated discs, sprains, and strains are common after a crash. Chronic back pain can develop if injuries are not properly diagnosed and treated.
• Shoulder and elbow injuries: Dislocations, rotator cuff tears, and fractures can occur from forceful impact or bracing during a collision.
• Chest injuries: Rib fractures, sternum contusions, or soft-tissue injuries can result from seatbelt impact or blunt trauma, sometimes with delayed symptoms.
• Pelvic and hip fractures: Higher-energy crashes can cause fractures that require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
• Wrist and hand injuries: Fractures or sprains from bracing against impact are frequent in low-speed crashes or when passengers jolt forward.
• Soft tissue injuries and chronic pain: Strains, contusions, and widespread pain can persist for months, affecting daily function and work abilities.
• Psychological injuries: Post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances are increasingly recognised as legitimate injury claims needing treatment and documentation.

What to do in the aftermath to support your claim

• Seek prompt medical assessment: Even seemingly minor symptoms deserve medical evaluation. Early documentation helps establish causation and treatment needs.
• Document everything: Keep copies of medical reports, invoices, therapy notes, and any employment impact. Note dates, symptoms, and the effect on daily activities.
• Report to the insurer: Notify your insurer promptly about the crash to access Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS) benefits and no-fault coverage.
• Follow prescribed treatment: Adhere to physiotherapy, chiropractic care, medications, or other recommended therapies to improve outcomes and support any claim for damages.
• Record independent evidence: If possible, obtain a police report, vehicle damage photos, and witness statements to corroborate the incident.
• Consult a personal injury lawyer early: An Ontario lawyer can assess your eligibility for accident benefits, advise on evidence gathering, and explain when a tort claim for non‑economic losses (pain and suffering) may be appropriate.

What are the insurance and legal considerations if you are injured in a car crash in Ontario?

• No-fault benefits under SABS: Ontario drivers and residents typically access medical, rehabilitation, attendant care, and wage-loss benefits regardless of fault. An experienced lawyer can help optimise entitlements and coordinate care.
• Tort claims and non‑economic damages: Depending on injury severity and the accident’s circumstances, you may pursue additional compensation through a civil claim against the at-fault party for pain and suffering, out-of-pocket expenses, and future damages.
• Limitations and timelines: In Ontario, most personal injury claims must be started within two years of the accident, with exceptions. It’s important to seek legal advice promptly to protect your rights.
• Evidence and causation: Demonstrating a clear link between the crash and your ongoing symptoms strengthens your case for both no-fault benefits and potential civil compensation.

Bottom line

Common car accident injuries in Ontario span from whiplash and concussions to fractures and psychological effects. Early medical assessment, thorough documentation, and timely legal guidance are critical to maximise no-fault benefits and potential compensation. If you’ve been injured in a crash, consulting an Ontario personal injury lawyer can help you navigate SABS, evaluate the need for a tort claim, and plan a path to recovery and financial security.

About Deutschmann de Koning Law

Deutschmann de Koning Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann and Nick de Koning focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.ddinjurylaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.