If you have been injured due to someone’s actions or negligence, you should receive the necessary support to heal; it sounds like a simple process. However, insurance claims can be declined, the other party may contest your claim, or you may struggle to prove your claim. That’s where the presence of personal injury lawyers are critical.
The role of a personal injury attorney is essential in helping you get back on your feet. It goes far beyond compensation; lawyers help you heal and contribute to a safer society.
In a previous article, article we’ve discussed what you should do after an accident and the steps involved in a personal injury claim. In this blog, we’ll explore three things:
- Types of personal injury cases
- What types of compensation for injuries you can claim
- Why legal representation for accident victims is essential
What Are the Different Types of Personal Injury Cases?
A personal injury accident is one in which the accident victim is injured due to the negligence of another. A person or an organization can be negligent; for example, a driver could have been distracted or impaired while driving. Multiple parties can be deemed negligent for an incident too.
Here are some of the more prevalent types of personal injury cases in Ontario:
- Car accidents – Vehicle accidents involving pedestrians and other vehicles cause the most personal injuries. The Ontario Provincial Police reports over 68,000 accidents every year.
- Slip and fall accidents – Slip and fall accidents, due to ice, debris, or uneven ground, are also common. Over 17,000 people get injured in slip and fall accidents in Ontario annually, and this statistic is exclusive to workplace injuries.
- Medical malpractice – Misdiagnosis, birth injuries, mistakes by healthcare professionals, and device failures are other prevalent causes of personal injury. As Ontario’s healthcare system comes under increasing strain, the risk of mistakes only increases.
- Boating accidents – Boating is a popular pastime for Ontarians and boating injuries spike during the summer months. These include boat collisions, swimming incidents, and injuries during watersports.
- Occupier’s liability: These claims arise from a property owner or manager failing to ensure a safe space. This can include icy driveways or tripping hazards.
- Pet attacks – Dog bites and other pet attacks can cause serious injury and lead to a prolonged recovery.
- Workplace injuries – Injuries suffered during work can be life-changing. Workplace injuries can be different from other personal injury claims as they may fall under the purview of the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board.
Personal Injury Claims & Compensation for Injuries
Compensation for personal injury depends on the severity of the injury, the nature of the accident, rehabilitation needed, and other variables. In addition, the case law around compensation is always evolving.
Here are some types of compensation for injuries that you may be able to claim:
Pain and suffering – This covers the physical pain, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life you suffer after an accident.
Loss of amenity – If you are unable to enjoy life as before, such as participating in sports and other activities, you can claim compensation for loss of amenity.
Medical expenses – This covers medical expenses for your treatment, including hospital bills, medication costs, and assistive equipment.
Lost earnings – You can claim compensation for lost income because of your injuries. This can include past and future earnings if the injuries reduce your ability to work in the future.
Out-of-pocket expenses – You can be reimbursed for other miscellaneous expenses, such as travel costs, modifications to your home, and more.
Long-term care and rehabilitation – If you require prolonged rehabilitative services, such as physical therapy and occupational therapy, these can be claimed as well.
Compensation for family members – Family members who take time off to care for a victim are entitled to compensation too. This can be for lost income, travel expenses, medical appointments, and more.
Importance of Legal Representation for Accident Victims
A serious injury is a time of upheaval for the entire family unit. Schedules will be disrupted, medical expenses will seem unending, and the family will be in a state of emotional distress. At such a time, seeking legal representation for accident victims and their families is vital. Here’s why:
- Steadying the ship – The time after a serious injury is extremely traumatic for victims and their families. Personal injury lawyers offer a knowledgeable guiding hand and help you make objective decisions.
- Filing the insurance claim – In most cases, an insurance claim is the first step to getting compensation. Your lawyer will ensure the claim is filed correctly and attended to promptly by the insurance company.
- Gathering evidence – Preparing a strong claim for compensation begins with evidence-gathering. Lawyers will gather documentary evidence, witness testimony, and investigate the accident to build a strong case for you.
- Ensuring appropriate medical treatment – Lawyers can connect you to medical experts, ensuring you receive the best medical care.
- Receiving accident benefits – People involved in vehicle accidents in Ontario are entitled to receive accident benefits regardless of fault. Lawyers will ensure the severity of your injuries is communicated clearly, and you receive the correct benefits.
- Negotiating with the party at fault – Negotiations can begin soon after the accident, which is why you need a team that advocates vigorously for you. Lawyers will put forward a strong case for you and negotiate vigorously on your behalf, protecting you from lowball offers.
- Preparing an effective legal strategy – Your fight for justice will depend heavily on the effectiveness of your legal strategy. Your lawyers will develop and pursue a clear legal strategy from the outset.
- Achieving favourable outcomes – Your personal circumstances determine what your ideal outcomes are. Your personal injury lawyers will spend time understanding your case and your situation, helping you achieve your preferred outcomes.
The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney: Asserting Your Rights
At Lancaster Chown & Welch, we are acutely aware of our responsibility. Our team doesn’t just fight for compensation; we are your experienced guides through some of the most turbulent experiences of your life. When you work with us, you will work with a patient team that takes the time to understand your needs, supports you from start to finish, and advocates for your best interests.
Schedule a complimentary consultation with an experienced lawyer today to discuss your accident.