Catastrophic injuries are most often caused by motor vehicle accidents and medical malpractice. The serious injuries sustained in these types of accidents can have life-altering implications and lead to significant physical, emotional and financial suffering.
At Feifel Gualazzi, we recognize the stresses that individuals and their families have to deal with as the result of an accident. That’s why we provide affordable legal services to help you get the compensation and benefits you deserve.
WHAT’S A CATASTROPHIC INJURY?
Catastrophic injuries can significantly impact an individual’s ability to perform day-to-day tasks, earn a living and maintain meaningful relationships. In addition, the physical and psychological effects of a catastrophic injury can lead to a reduced quality of life. In Ontario, the law defines a catastrophic injury as one of the following:
Paraplegia or tetraplegia
Traumatic brain injury
Loss of vision in both eyes
Amputation
Severe impairment in the mobility or use of an arm
Physical impairment that affects 55% or more of the whole person
Mental or behavioural impairment that affects 55% or more of the whole person
It can be difficult to prove the extent of such injuries and they need to meet specific criteria to be classified as catastrophic. This is why it’s important to seek the legal advice of an experienced personal injury lawyer. By doing so, you’ll increase your chances of receiving fair compensation.
WHAT BENEFITS CAN YOU CLAIM?
In Ontario, if you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury as a result of another person’s reckless or negligent behaviour, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party to recover both financial and non-economic losses such as:
Hospital, housekeeping and childcare expenses
Medical and rehabilitation expenses
Attendant care and case manager expenses
Loss of care, guidance and companionship
Lost income
The amount awarded for each benefit depends on the severity of the injury.
RECENT CHANGES TO CATASTROPHIC INJURY LAW IN ONTARIO
The benefits cap for catastrophic injuries in Ontario was recently reduced. Before the changes, victims could receive up to $2 million for medical, rehabilitation and attendant care benefits. However, under the new law victims can only receive up to $1 million to cover these expenses. In addition, benefits for non-earners, including stay-at-home parents, students and retired individuals, have also been dramatically reduced.
WORK WITH A CATASTROPHIC INJURY LAWYER IN SAULT STE. MARIE & WAWA
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, a personal injury lawyer from Feifel Gualazzi can help you navigate the required legal proceedings and assist you in applying for benefits. We offer our legal expertise to clients in Sault Ste. Marie, Wawa and the surrounding areas. We’re committed to helping you every step of the way and will fight to help you get the benefits you’re entitled to as quickly as possible. Contact us today for a free consultation.