Car Accident Lawyers In Kingston
Negligent drivers pose a significant threat to all road users. Drivers and their passengers, cyclists, motorcycle riders, pedestrians, and other members of the local community can lose their lives in violent, senseless collisions caused by another driver’s failure to consider the possible outcomes of their wrongful actions.
According to a recent annual report of road safety statistics released by the provincial Ministry of Transportation, 535 Ontarians were killed as the result of a collision in one year alone. When negligent drivers ignore the rules of the road, lives can be lost and families can be torn apart. And, sadly, fatal accidents in the province are only increasing in frequency. In fact, traffic fatalities recently reached an all-time provincial high.
The people who are lucky enough to survive serious car crashes often sustain a number of injuries. Accident-related injuries can range in severity from moderate to catastrophic. In Kingston, injuries resulting from motor vehicle collisions caused by negligent drivers often include:
- Whiplash
- Soft tissue injuries
- Broken or fractured bones
- Cuts and lacerations
- Strains and sprains
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Facial and dental injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Neck and back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Amputations
- And more
If you sustained compensable injuries in a motor vehicle collision caused by someone else’s negligence, the at-fault party might be considered liable for injury-related damages you have incurred. That is because, in accordance with the province’s Highway Traffic Act, anyone who operates a motor vehicle on Ontario roads and highways is required to do so with a reasonable degree of caution. Drivers are required by law to fulfill a duty of care to other road-users. If a driver violates local traffic laws, they have, in essence, failed to uphold the duty of care they are obligated to provide. Therefore, if their wrongful actions lead to injurious collisions, they may be responsible for compensating victims of their negligence financially.
Common examples of negligence that often leads to injurious or fatal car accidents in Kingston include:
- Texting while driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Fatigued driving
- Distracted driving
- Improperly changing lanes
- Ignoring traffic signs/signals
- And more
Our car accident lawyers serving Kingston believe that no one should be forced to suffer physical trauma, psychological distress, and financial insecurity because of someone else’s failure to take the safety of others into consideration. If you are eligible to pursue a civil claim against the negligence driver whose misconduct behind the wheel caused your injurious collision to occur, our Kingston car accident lawyers may be able to help you recover the compensation to which you are rightfully entitled. To learn more, schedule a free initial consultation with Preszler Injury Lawyers by calling 1-800-JUSTICE today.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Kingston
Ensure Safety and Report the Accident
After being involved in a car accident in Kingston, your immediate priority should be ensuring the safety of all parties involved. Move to a safe location if possible and call emergency services to report the incident. It’s crucial to document the scene by taking photos and gathering details from witnesses, as this information can be invaluable for your claim.
Seek Medical Attention
Regardless of how minor your injuries may seem, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately but could lead to serious impairments down the road. A medical professional can provide a comprehensive assessment, which is vital for both your recovery and any injury claim.
Consult with a Kingston Car Accident Lawyer
Contacting a Kingston car accident lawyer for a free consultation can significantly impact your ability to secure fair compensation. Personal injury lawyers have extensive experience dealing with insurance companies and can assist you in navigating the legal process.
How to Choose the Right Car Accident Lawyer in Kingston
When choosing a law firm, prioritize those with an experienced team of personal injury lawyers who have a track record of dealing with motor vehicle accident cases. Extensive experience in car accidents and personal injury claims in Ontario is crucial for a successful outcome.
Find a law firm that offers a transparent approach to legal fees. Many personal injury lawyers in Kingston work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This can alleviate financial stress during the legal process.
Common Car Accident Injuries in Kingston
There is a wide range of injuries that can be sustained in a car accident, from minor to catastrophic. Catastrophic injuries can include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe fractures and even severe mental health impairments. These injuries often require long-term medical care and can have a profound impact on the victim’s life.
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries resulting from car accidents. Though it may seem minor, it can cause prolonged pain and discomfort, affecting a person’s ability to work and perform daily activities. Whiplash injuries often turn into chronic pain affecting the neck and back. Whiplash injuries can also cause severe headaches or migraines.
Accidents can also lead to psychological injuries such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and major depression, which can be just as debilitating as physical injuries. Recognizing and treating these injuries is crucial for the recovery of personal injury victims.
How to Get Compensation for Your Car Accident Injuries
Navigating the Insurance Claims Process
Dealing with the insurance company can be daunting. An experienced Kingston personal injury lawyer can help ensure that you are able to access all of the benefits you should be entitled to, not to mention help you seek fair compensation for your losses, including medical expenses and lost wages.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim
In Ontario, filing a claim in court is almost always necessary to receive fair compensation for pain and suffering and financial losses. Your lawyer will work to prove your case by demonstrating the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life. A skilled Kingston personal injury lawyer will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
What to Expect in a Car Accident Lawsuit in Kingston
Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
When you contact a Kingston car accident lawyer, the first step will typically involve a free consultation. During this meeting, the lawyer will evaluate the details of your case, assess fault, and discuss your legal rights and the types of damages and compensation you might be legally entitled to for your injuries. They will also explain what can be expected from the law firm and what will be expected from you over the course of your claim.
Investigation and Gathering Evidence
Your legal team will then conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, gathering all necessary evidence, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements. This step is crucial to building a strong case to support your claim.
Filing the Lawsuit
Once your lawyer has a comprehensive understanding of your case, they will file a lawsuit on your behalf. This initiates the legal process and sets the stage for either negotiation with the insurer or a trial.
Discovery and Negotiations
During the discovery phase, both sides exchange information and evidence. At discovery, the lawyers for each party are afforded the opportunity to ask questions from the other party. Generally, this entails questions surrounding how the accident occurred, the nature of your injuries, how your life and your ability to work was affected among many other things. Your injury lawyer will prepare your for the discovery process. Following discovery, the parties may attempt to negotiate a settlement with the insurer, aiming for a successful outcome without the need for a trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to court.
Trial
If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will present evidence and argue your case before a judge or jury. They will work tirelessly to prove the other party’s fault and demonstrate the extent of your injuries and the impact on your life, seeking the justice and compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Lawyers in Kingston
How Do I Know If I Need a Lawyer?
If you’ve been injured in an auto accident due to someone else’s negligence, consulting with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your options and legal deadlines that must be met. Even if you’re unsure about your case, a free consultation can provide valuable insights.
What Can I Be Compensated For?
Compensation may cover medical bills, recovery costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. An experienced injury lawyer will help you identify all possible areas of compensation to ensure you are fully covered.
How Much Will a Lawyer Cost?
Most personal injury lawyers in Kingston operate on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless they win your case. During your free consultation, they will explain their fee structure and any costs you might expect.
How Long Does a Lawsuit Take?
The duration of a lawsuit can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the case, the amount of evidence, your recovery, and the willingness of parties to negotiate. Your lawyer will be able to give you a more accurate timeline after reviewing your case details.
SPEAK WITH OUR CAR ACCIDENT LAWYERS SERVING KINGSTON
At Preszler Injury Lawyers, all prospective clients have access to a free initial consultation. That means, even if you are unsure whether the circumstances of your collision should entitle you to financial compensation, you can speak with our Kingston car accident lawyers at no initial cost.
By taking advantage of your free initial consultation, you can receive the benefit of case-specific, personalized legal advice and learn about courses of legal action that might be available to you. To learn more, contact Preszler Injury Lawyers.
