If you are commuting to work, running errands, dropping your child off at school, or traveling with friends and family, the last thing on your mind is the possibility of a car accident. The truth is, a car accident can happen to anyone at anytime. Since many people are unfamiliar with Canada’s car accident laws when they are injured in a collision, it can be an overwhelming experience when trying to claim compensation.
A Kitchener car accident lawyer can guide you through the process and work to get you the benefits you deserve. If you have been in an accident, contact an experienced injury lawyer as soon as you are able to begin your case today.
Our car accident lawyers can meet with you in Kitchener for a free initial consultation. Call (416) 364-2000
What to Do After a Car Accident
The aftermath of a car accident can be confusing. However, it is important for someone to follow certain steps to ensure the safety of themselves and those around them, as well as gather evidence if possible. Immediately following an accident, someone needs to remember to do the following:
- Stop their vehicle and call the police
- If it is safe to do so, move their vehicle out of the road to avoid further collisions
- While they are still at the scene, they should take photographs with their cell phone and collect information from the other drivers involved
If they are in pain or have suffered a serious injury, these steps are not necessary. The main priority after an accident should be their safety and well-being.
Kitchener Car Accidents Lawyer Near Me (416) 364-2000
Filing a Car Accident Claim
In Kitchener, there are two ways to receive compensation for car accident injuries: through an Accident Benefits claim or by filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. An Accident Benefits—or “no-fault”—claim is available under a person’s auto insurance policy, regardless of who caused the collision. Immediately following an accident, a person has seven days to contact their insurance company and 30 days to file an application for benefits.
Unfortunately, filling out the complex paperwork, providing the right information, and meeting these strict deadlines can make it difficult to apply for Accident Benefits alone. To ensure that they get the maximum compensation available, it is beneficial for someone to work with a Kitchener car accident lawyer. They can deal with insurance companies, fight for a fair settlement, and work to avoid potential complications in the legal process.
If the accident was not a client’s fault, they can also choose to file a lawsuit—or “tort action”—against the other driver in order to claim additional benefits. They have 120 days after the accident to notify the at-fault party of their intention to sue and two years to actually file the lawsuit. If they think they may have a claim against another driver, they should contact Kitchener auto accident lawyers right away.
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Compensation Available After an Accident
An Accident Benefits claim may provide compensation for:
- Lost wages
- Medical and Rehabilitation Benefits
- Attendant
- Caregiving costs (optional)
- Housekeeping services (optional)
- Death benefits
However, there are often more costs associated with a car accident injury, especially if their injuries are serious or life-threatening. By filing a tort claim against the at-fault driver with the help of a Kitchener car accident lawyer, a person could receive additional compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Future income losses
- Future health care costs
- Other out-of-pocket expenses
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Working with a Kitchener Car Accident Lawyer
A car accident has the potential to change your life in an instant and leave a lasting impact on you and your family. That is why car accident lawyers in Kitchener are dedicated to helping those injured in collisions get the help, support, and compensation they deserve. Get in touch with a skilled lawyer today to learn how they can fight for fair compensation in your case.
Call or text (416) 364-2000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
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