There is a specific definition under Ontario law to define what qualifies as a catastrophic injury and specific criteria need to be met to be classified as “catastrophic” under an injured person car accident insurance policy.
Accidents that result in catastrophic injuries are unexpected, debilitating, and change a life forever. The people who suffered these injuries will require significant medical and non-medical support from family or external caregivers and service providers. On top of the physical impacts of the injury, catastrophic injuries most often have psychological impacts.
The trauma of a serious injury can be compounded by the refusal of an insurance company to offer fair compensation. We understand this because we have spent years advocating for the rights of people with head injuries, concussions, spinal trauma, paralysis, and amputations in the Greater Toronto Area.
This advocacy includes legal action against an at-fault party and securing insurance benefits, including:
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income replacement
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medical and rehabilitation expenses
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caregiver benefits
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housekeeping expenses, and
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attendant care.
With the right team of professionals on your side, you are much more likely to obtain the compensation you deserve after a catastrophic injury. If you have been severely injured in any type of accident, you need a law firm that will work with your doctors and other experts. It is not always obvious whether a person’s injury will be deemed catastrophic.
In many cases, it is necessary to retain one or more doctors or health practitioners to prove that your injuries have had a significant impact upon your life and to prove that you are entitled to increased levels of compensation. Depending upon the severity of your injuries, a host of other medical professionals may be necessary. These professionals may include orthopedic surgeons, vocational therapists, and physiotherapists, among others.
Economic loss experts such as actuaries, accountants, economists, and life-care planners may also be necessary to determine the extent of economic loss caused by the injuries and to prove to the insurance company the amount of money that is necessary to allow you to live with dignity.
We believe a catastrophic injury doesn’t have to define you for the rest of your life, but that mindset can only start with getting full compensation.
For more information, contact us today.