Being involved in an accident is always
stressful. An accident that has long term health or financial consequences can
be doubly painful. When making claims with insurance companies, it’s important
to understand the legal and personal implications. An experienced insurance
lawyer can make all the difference to a smooth and successful claim process.
When
to Call a Lawyer
Insurance companies need to be
profitable to stay viable. They often take difficult legal positions. When
there has been an accident or a death in the family, people are vulnerable, and
making a claim can be complicated and disheartening. Having a lawyer who can
advocate is the most important step towards making a beneficial claim.
A lawyer should be involved when the
insured client is considering making a claim for:
- motor vehicle accident
- accidents
- transit accidents
- benefits
- long-term disability
- slip-and-fall accidents
- while at work
The
Value of a Personal Injury Lawyer
A personal injury lawyer understands
the legal ramifications and language involved in insurance policies and how to
work their way through the system. They can help fill out forms, give sound
legal advice, and answer questions such as:
- Can a client make a claim for a car
accident if they are at-
- What if debilitating symptoms show up
some time after an accident?
- What if the accident occurred while
working?
- Is it possible to make claims with two
different insurance policies?
- Can I make a claim for pain and
suffering?
Here’s how a lawyer may help. There are
specific legal terms and definitions that can define the outcome of a
claim. For instance, the term
"catastrophic injury” or "catastrophic impairment” can indicate significantly
more financial compensation. If a claimant is deemed eligible under this term
they may claim for up to a combined $1 million for both attendant care and
medical rehabilitation benefits. However, understanding the definition of the
term and its various categories can be difficult for a layperson.
Victims may also be able to make a
"tort claim”. This is a claim for compensation for physical, emotional or
financial damages caused by a wrongful act made against another person who is
held legally responsible. Tort lawis a complicated and ever-evolving part of Canada’s legal system and rulings
are often based on legal precedent.
If
You Have an Accident
Seek medical help. If possible,
document the circumstances and ramifications of the accident by taking pictures
and gathering names of any witnesses. Call a lawyer early in the process,
preferably one that is experienced in personal injury law. If injured, a lawyer
should be able to come to you, and supply you with a free consultation of your case. Most
personal injury lawyers charge fees based on a percentage of successful claims.
If you have an accident in Toronto, find an insurance lawyer based in Toronto,
so they can help you personally get the best compensation for your
circumstances.