Answers to frequently asked questions about personal injury,including injuries from a car accident,dog bite,faulty product or from a fall on an icy sidewalk. Click here to return to the Home Page of Kelly Greenway Bruce, Lawyers, Oshawa and Lindsay, Ontario.



Frequently Asked Questions - Personal Injury

CAN I CLAIM FOR INJURIES FROM A CAR ACCIDENT?

Since 1990, Ontario has been a "No Fault" Province. We are currently in our fourth system of no fault insurance, and many people believe that this leaves them with few rights. This simply is not so. It is important that you be aware of the benefits that are available to you, if you are injured in a motor vehicle accident.

Regardless of fault, you are allowed to make claims for many losses and expenses you may incur as a result of an injury, including:

  • Loss of income
  • Medical and rehabilitation expenses

If the accident was caused by someone else's negligence, you may also be able to sue for pain and suffering. However, in order to pursue such a claim, the injury must be serious and permanent. If you have suffered an economic loss you may, in certain situations, be able to claim that loss from the other driver's insurance company as well.

The legislation is complex and there are many time limits to be aware of, that may affect your ability to claim. You should move quickly to obtain legal advice regarding your entitlement. We would be pleased to answer any questions that you may have regarding your rights.



CAN I CLAIM IF I AM ATTACKED BY A DOG?

If you have been injured by a dog, you may be able to claim for your injuries and out-of-pocket expenses. The law in Ontario is very strict towards the owner of a dog that has caused an injury. Unless there are extreme circumstances, the owner will be responsible for the damages suffered. You should seek legal advice to determine your rights and to protect your claim.



CAN I CLAIM FOR AN INJURY CAUSED BY A FAULTY PRODUCT?

If you have been injured as a result of using a faulty product, you may be entitled to claim damages. To receive compensation, it must be shown that someone is "responsible" for the injury. You may have a claim for damages if a company:

  • Has failed to properly inspect a product
  • Has used defective material in manufacturing the product
  • Has failed to provide adequate warnings

The law governing this type of claim is very complex and there are many strict timeframes that must be adhered to. If you have been hurt in this type of circumstance, you should seek legal advice without delay.



WHAT IF I FALL AND INJURE MYSELF?

There are many circumstances under which you may be entitled to compensation, if you are hurt in a fall. Some of the conditions under which you could make a claim for damages are:

  • Icy sidewalk or driveway
  • Damaged steps or walkway
  • Obstructed walkway
  • Slippery floors

To claim compensation, it must be shown that someone is "responsible" for your injury. Common claims involve someone neglecting to repair a faulty walkway or failing to properly sand or salt their driveway.

The legislation governing this type of claim is complex and there are many strict timeframes that must be met. If you have been hurt in circumstances similar to these, you should seek legal advice without delay. We would be pleased to answer any questions you may have regarding your right to claim compensation.



The above information is of a general nature and is not intended to provide legal opinions. Readers should seek professional legal advice on the particular issues which concern them. We would be pleased to elaborate on any information contained above and how it may apply to your specific circumstances.