Transport Canada reports that there were more than 165,000 people injured in motor vehicle accidents during 2013. Individuals who sustain injuries in accidents that are caused by the negligence of others are often entitled to financial compensation under the laws of British Columbia. As a result, anyone who is involved in any type of preventable accident should retain a lawyer as soon as possible. There are many ways that a skilled lawyer can help the victims of motor vehicle accidents, some of which are detailed below.
Investigate your claim
In order for a legal claim to be valid, an injured party must generally be able to establish that his or her accident was caused by someone else’s negligence. In contested accident cases, establishing negligence can be an extremely complicated process requiring expensive and time-consuming investigation. When victims retain a lawyer, they can be certain that their case will be fully investigated and any evidence of negligence is uncovered.
Negotiate on your behalf with the ICBC
The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) provides universal insurance coverage to drivers in B.C. As a result, people who are injured in car accidents generally file a claim with ICBC in order to recover for their losses. When you retaina lawyer , your lawyer will negotiate any settlement offer on your behalf with ICBC. In many cases, people who are represented by an experienced lawyer will obtain a much higher settlement amount than people who choose to represent themselves.
Help you obtain rehabilitation and other accident or ‘no fault’ benefits
Victims of motor vehicle accidents in B.C. are entitled to ‘no fault’ benefits pursuant to Part 7 of the Regulations to the Insurance (Vehicle) Act from ICBC. Those benefits include reimbursement of medical/dental expenses and rehabilitation treatments provided by physiotherapists, chiropractors and occupational therapists. Disabled workers and homemakers are also entitled to cash benefits. Your lawyer can assist you to obtain the benefits you are entitled to, both to promote your recovery from your injuries, and to reduce the financial stress of being disabled from working.
Represent you in court
If you are unable to come to an acceptable settlement arrangement with ICBC, it may become necessary to file a lawsuit in order to recover for your losses. Anyone considering taking legal action after a motor vehicle accident should wait to retain a lawyer before filing any paperwork or discussing the matter with another party.
Ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries
Your claim for damages will be assessed, either by ICBC in a negotiation/mediation, or by the Court at a trial, on the evidence of your pain and suffering, and on the financial impact of your injuries on your life such as lost wages or ‘earning capacity’ and care costs. Your lawyer will assemble the facts and obtain the medical and other expert reports needed to fully explain your injuries and the financial losses you have suffered.
Contact a Vancouver auto accident lawyer today to schedule a consultation
People who are hurt in car accidents that take place in Vancouver and the surrounding areas are often entitled to significant compensation. The experienced lawyers at McLarty Wolf are dedicated to helping individuals who have been injured by the negligence of others recover for their losses. To schedule a consultation with one of our Vancouver personal injury lawyers, call our office today at 604-688-9542.