Transportation Accidents

Canadians are involved in thousands of transportation accidents in other countries every year. These range from minor fender-benders to train derailments to plane crashes, and sometimes result in considerable loss of life. The most important preparation you can make must be done before you leave Canada: give your detailed flight and travel itinerary to a friend or family member and buy the best insurance - medical, trip cancellation and other transportation insurance - you can afford.

How Can Consular Officials Help?

Canadian consular officials at the nearest Canadian government office abroad will be able to provide guidance and assistance specific to the circumstances. Below are several suggestions:

• Where possible, provide assistance to others who may be injured. Ensure that the appropriate authorities are advised, especially if medical attention is required.
• Make notes on the circumstances of the accident and, if possible, take photographs.
• Obtain the names and addresses of others involved in the accident and of witnesses.
• Account for your own belongings and those of others.
• Be prepared to provide information on your medical and other insurance.
• Have information available on any pre-existing medical conditions that could affect your treatment. Know your blood type.
• Legal procedures in other countries can be markedly different from those in Canada, and it is possible that you could be detained by the police. If so, make no statements until you can consult a lawyer.
• If you can do so, get in touch with your family and friends and, if they are in Canada, have them contact the Emergency Operations Centre at Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada.

Related Links Insurance Medical Matters Emergency Operations Centre