Clientele
Persons injured in an automobile accident
To apply for compensation for bodily injuries sustained in a traffic accident, proceed as follows:
- Use the Filing a Claim for Compensation online service. Then, submit the required documents using the Document Submission online service (be sure to have in hand the claim number you were given when you filed your application).
- Telephone the Service aux accidentés at the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec to have a compensation claim file opened and obtain a claim number. Then,
- Fill out the appropriate form depending on the estimated duration of your inability to work, either the Claim for Compensation – for Accident-Related Expenses if your inability to work is expected to last 7 days or less, or the Claim for Compensation – for an Inability to Perform Activities and for Accident-Related Expenses if your inability to work is expected to last 8 days or more. (You can ask the SAAQ for assistance completing the form.)
- Attach the required documents and write your claim number on every page.
- Submit the form and documents by mail or fax to the SAAQ’s Services aux accidentés.
Note
If your inability to work lasts longer than expected, the SAAQ will provide compensation for as long as you are unable to work.
You must apply for benefits within 3 years following the accident or the first signs of bodily injuries. However, we recommend that you file your application as soon as possible, even if you are missing some forms that have to be filled out by other people. (You can submit those documents later.)
You will receive an acknowledgement of receipt by mail.
You will receive the SAAQ’s decision by mail as soon as it has reviewed your file.
The following documents must be submitted with the claim for compensation:
- the initial medical report (the report of the first medical examination made after the accident)
- an accident rapport, if the accident occurred outside of Québec (if the accident occurred in Québec, this report is sent automatically to the SAAQ by the police)
- any invoices and receipts
Depending on the situation, you may be asked to submit additional documents (for example, an attestation of income or school attendance, your income tax return, your notice of assessment, etc.).