People involved in motor vehicle accidents know how disruptive the experience can be, and looking for someone to blame is a reflex response. But, if you’re in a car accident, your first priority is to get the medical attention you need and replace your damaged property.
In Ontario, the no-fault insurance system ensures you get prompt financial help right away, no matter who caused the crash.
Here’s a brief overview of Ontario’s no-fault insurance system.
NO-FAULT VS. AT-FAULT
The Ontario Motorist Protection Plan (OMPP) outlines a policy of no-fault insurance, which provides a way for people to cover their immediate expenses after an accident. No-fault insurance compensation is intended to cover out-of-pocket costs like repairing or replacing damaged property, ambulance fees, expenses related to your hospital stay and more. It doesn’t matter who causes an accident; everyone’s entitled to this support. However, having no-fault insurance in Ontario doesn't mean that nobody is to blame when accidents occur. If you suffer damage because of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation from that party above what you can get under no-fault insurance. A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the system and can determine if you have a case.
FIRST STEPS AFTER YOUR ACCIDENT
Thanks to the no-fault insurance system, you don't have to wait for an investigation or a court decision before getting the funds you need to treat your injuries or replace your damaged vehicle.
However, there are rules to follow.
For example, you need to report the accident to authorities within 24 hours of the event.
Also, you have seven days to open a claim with your insurance company or that of the other driver, and you have 30 days to submit your claim. In rare cases, no one involved in the car accident has insurance, or the other driver can't be located. If this applies to your situation, you may be eligible for compensation under Ontario's Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Fund. A car accident lawyer from Feifel Gualazzi can help you complete the necessary legwork and ensure you file all required documents correctly.
DO YOU HAVE A CASE? SPEAK WITH CAR ACCIDENT LAWYERS IN SAULT STE. MARIE
If you’ve recently been in a car crash, your injuries and life complications can become overwhelming. Why go it alone when you can trust the Feifel Gualazzi team to take care of all the details? Our dedicated lawyers specialize in helping car accident victims like you get the financial support you need after motor vehicle accidents. If you’re in or near Sault Ste. Marie, contact us today to schedule a free consultation and find out if you have a case!