Ontario winters are beautiful but can be hazardous, with icy sidewalks and parking lots causing slips, trips, and falls. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the process of filing a personal injury claim.
1. Prioritize Medical Attention
Your health comes first. Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention immediately. Proper diagnosis and documentation of your injuries are essential for your claim.
2. Document the Scene
Take photos or videos of the icy conditions, your injuries, and the area where the accident occurred. These can serve as crucial evidence.
3. Determine Responsibility
The responsible party could be a homeowner, business owner, or municipality. Property owners in Ontario must keep their premises reasonably safe, including timely snow and ice removal.
4. Notify the Property Owner or Municipality
Report the incident to the property owner or manager. For municipal property accidents, it is imperative that you provide written notice within 10 days, as required by law.
5. Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
An experienced lawyer can assess your case, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurers. Many lawyers in Ontario work on contingency, meaning you only pay if you win.
6. Track Your Expenses
Keep records of medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to your injury. These can be included in your claim for compensation.
7. Be Aware of Deadlines
Ontario law generally requires claims to be filed within two years of the accident. Municipal claims have stricter timelines for when to give notice of an incident, thus timely action is critical.
8. Prove Negligence
To win your case, you must show the responsible party failed to address hazards within a reasonable timeframe. Evidence like photos, maintenance logs, or expert opinions can strengthen your claim.
If you have been involved in an incident causing you injury, it is always best to consult a professional lawyer who has experience arguing these types of claims to protect your interests. Please contact our team at JEWELL RADIMISIS JORGE LL.P for a free initial consultation at 1 (855) DIAL JRJ.