Injured in a Truck Accident in Ontario? Four Things You Must Know
Motor vehicle accidents involving large commercial trucks and vehicles can have devastating physical and financial effects. You may face a number of immediate financial concerns if you or a family member has been injured in a truck accident in Ontario. There may be options available to you and your family as you seek economic recovery after such an accident.
Below are four things you must know now as you seek compensation for your injuries.
1. You Are Entitled to Accident Benefits
As the victim of a truck accident, you qualify for Ontario’s Statutory Accident Benefits. This compensation is offered on a no-fault basis and includes various benefits depending on the severity of your injuries:
- Medical and Rehabilitation Benefit – Addresses all reasonable and necessary medical care (above and beyond what is covered by OHIP or a private health insurance policy).
- Income Replacement Benefit – Offers a partial compensation for lost wages, up to a maximum payment of $400 each week.
- Non-Earner Benefit – Available if you were not employed at the time of the accident, and your injuries prevent you from carrying out normal daily activities.
- Attendant Care Benefit – Addresses the expense of hiring a nurse or other qualified individual to provide assistance with personal care tasks.
- Other Expenses Benefit – Available to compensate for accident-related, out-of-pocket costs, such as transportation or assistive devices.
- Death and Funeral Payments Benefit – Lump-sum payments are available if you have lost a spouse, parent, child or other qualified individual as the result of a truck accident.
Statutory guidelines dictate the amount of compensation available and duration of payment. Additional coverage – beyond the standard minimums – may be available on certain policies depending on whether these optional benefits were purchased. Inspect your insurance policy to determine your policy limitations.
2. You Have a Limited Time in Which to Take Action
You have just seven days from the date of the accident in which to take action. To qualify for Accident Benefits, you must inform your insurance provider of the incident and your intention to apply for Accident Benefits. You then must submit an Application for Accident Benefits within 30 days of receipt. Failure to meet these deadlines may bar you from financial recovery.
3. You May Pursue Additional Compensation through a Tort Claim
You may have the right to pursue a tort claim against an at-fault truck driver if he or she is to blame for the accident. This may allow you to recover compensation in addition to what you collected from your Statutory Accident Benefits. This is especially helpful if you suffered significant injuries and damages in the accident.
4. You Have the Right to Hire a Lawyer
You have the right to hire a lawyer to handle your insurance claim – and any tort lawsuits – on your behalf. Take advantage of a free case evaluation to learn more about the services available to you – call the Preszler Injury Lawyers at 1-800-JUSTICE® or fill out our online case evaluation form.
