Your Personal Injury Lawyers
5 Signs it’s Time to Call a Car Accident Lawyer in Ontario
As an accident victim, how do you determine if you should contact a car accident lawyer in Toronto? Minor fender benders with no injuries and very little property damage generally don’t warrant legal intervention. More serious car accidents, however, may benefit from the insights a car crash lawyer can offer.
It is best to contact a lawyer quickly after the accident – ideally, as soon as your immediate medical needs have been addressed. Ontario’s automotive insurance laws require you notify your insurance company of the accident within seven days. You must apply for Accident Benefits within 30 days. Working with a lawyer from the outset can help you avoid the mistakes that otherwise would damage your claim.
Below are five signs it is time to contact a car accident lawyer.
1. Contact a Lawyer If the Injuries and Damages are Severe
Quickly healed bruises and scrapes likely do not necessitate a lawyer’s assistance. However, accident injuries like spinal cord trauma, traumatic brain injury, amputation, scarring, fractures, chronic pain, torn ligaments, scarring, internal bleeding and paralysis can result in serious healthcare costs and lost wages.
A car accident lawyer can fight for fair classification of such injuries (such as ensuring a brain injury is classified as catastrophic). A lawyer can quantify the short- and long-term costs of life-altering accident injuries.
2. Contact a Lawyer If the Insurance Company Denies Your Claim
Ontario’s no-fault insurance system means you are entitled to Accident Benefits even if you caused the crash. However, the insurance company may attempt to deny parts of your claim. It may do this by stating you were not eligible for certain benefits at the time of the crash. Contact a car accident lawyer immediately if your claim is denied. A lawyer may be able to defend your right to fair compensation.
3. Contact a Lawyer If You are Blamed for the Accident
A negligent driver may attempt to deflect blame or liability by accusing you of causing the accident. This may impact your ability to seek fair compensation in an injury lawsuit. It even can impact your car insurance rates. A lawyer may be able to collect the evidence and witness testimony necessary to support your version of events.
4. Contact a Lawyer If You are Confused About the Claims Process
It is all too easy to make a mistake when applying for accident compensation.
Consult a trained professional if the Accident Benefits forms and other aspects of the claims process are confusing or overwhelming. A lawyer can walk you through the process at the outset.
5. Contact a Lawyer If You Have Received an Insufficient Offer
An insurance company may offer you a certain amount of compensation that fails to address the severity of your injuries and other accident losses. A car accident lawyer in Ontario may be able to build a case that supports your right to comprehensive compensation.
Were you injured in a accident in Ontario? Call Preszler Injury Lawyers to schedule your free case evaluation with a car accident lawyer – 1-800-JUSTICE®. Or simply complete our online evaluation form.
