Winter Cycling Safety: Tips to Prevent Bicycle Accidents
The Soo has seen an uptick in cycling activity within the last couple of years. New bike routes and an increased interest in winter fat biking have multiplied the number of cyclists on the roads year-round. Although cycling is a great way to commute or enjoy the outdoors, it involves sharing the road with motor vehicles, which comes with risks.
If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury following a bike accident, the team of lawyers at Feifel Gualazzi can help. We have the knowledge and experience to help you navigate the local legal landscape and help get the compensation and benefits you deserve. Don’t hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation.
BICYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER IN SAULT STE. MARIE
ONTARIO CYCLISTS: KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Did you know that Ontario cyclists have the same rights as drivers? Consequently, if you’ve been injured in a cycling accident involving a motor vehicle, regardless of whether you’re at fault, you’re entitled to claim accident benefits.
In fact, cyclists are given significant legal protection as they’re among the most vulnerable road users. When determining fault, the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) applies and sets out a reverse onus. This means the motorist is presumed to be at fault for the crash with a cyclist unless proven otherwise.
HOW TO CLAIM COMPENSATION
If you have car insurance, you can claim accident benefits through your insurer. If you don’t own a vehicle or have car insurance, you can file a claim through the insurance policy of the owner of the motor vehicle involved in the crash.
Additionally, if you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident with a vehicle, you can make a claim to the Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Fund. Speak with us today to learn more about how we can help navigate accident benefits claims and make sure you get the compensation that you deserve.
WHAT CAN BE COVERED AFTER AN ACCIDENT?
The injuries sustained in a collision or cycling accident with a motor vehicle can range from moderate to catastrophic. Unfortunately, cyclists hit by vehicles will often sustain head, spine and brain injuries. Healing from these injuries can be difficult – both emotionally and physically - and not to mention expensive. Some of the expenses covered by accident benefits include:
-
Loss of wages and earn earning capacity
-
Pain and suffering
-
Psychological damage
-
Loss of enjoyment of life
-
Medical and hospital expenses
-
Future healthcare expenses
-
Housekeeping services
-
Loss of care, guidance and companionship
TEAM UP WITH AN EXPERIENCED PERSONAL INJURY LAW FIRM IN SAULT STE. MARIE
Filing an accident benefits claim is a complicated process fraught with tight deadlines, detailed forms and procedural provisions that can be difficult to navigate alone. When you contact the team at Feifel Gualazzi, we’ll take over the entire legal process to ensure you get all the benefits and treatments you’re entitled to.
If you’re injured following a cycling accident involving a motor vehicle, immediately seek the professional advice of a personal injury lawyer. At Feifel Gualazzi, our team understands that personal injuries can be life-changing and costly. We’ve represented thousands of clients in Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District. We are committed to getting you compensation for your damages.
Contact us today for a free consultation.