Aug 18 2022 |
I Was in an ATV Accident – What Now?
With most of Ontario being city dwellers, there’s a lot more real estate in the vast rural landscape for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Outdoor lovers never run out of things to do and terrains to explore.
This is why ATV riding is massively popular—it’s one of the most adventurous ways to experience the outdoors. And beyond adventures, they also have more practical uses, such as in farms and raches.
But don’t get on ATV just yet. Like any vehicle, riding an ATV poses risks of motor accidents, only increased by off-road terrains in private properties. Find out what to do in case of a crash, and when to call a personal injury lawyer.
The Risk of ATV Accidents in Ontario
Unfortunately, ATVs aren’t all fun and adventure. And despite their utility, they come with major risks due to their nature as off-road vehicles. ATV accidents are known to cause serious injuries—and at alarmingly increasing rates. From wipe-outs to crashes and rollovers, the lack of protection and the nature of terrains they’re typically ridden on greatly increases the risk of serious and even fatal injuries.
Common Personal Injuries from ATV Accidents
- Fractures to the ribs. lower legs, ankles, feet, knees, shoulders, and upper arms
- Head injuries
- Lower back and spinal cord injury, resulting in partial or full paralysis
- Internal injuries, such as organ damage and internal bleeding
- Cuts and bruises.
What to Do After an ATV Accident on Private Property
Were you or a loved one recently in an ATV accident? During this difficult time, it’s important to know that there are resources available to help with recovery. This includes getting in touch with a personal injury lawyer to help you seek damages against whoever is found liable for your accident.
1. Get medical help
As in any emergency, the first thing you need to do after an ATV accident is to get medical treatment. Even if the crash was minor and you don’t have obvious injuries, it’s important to get checked out to detect any internal injuries and treat them right away.
Now, keep in mind that under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), most medical expenses are covered. This includes emergency room treatment, surgery, and consultation with a doctor. However, OHIP doesn’t cover medications, any long-term care expenses, and lost income while you’re recovering.
2. Remain on scene
Stay on the scene until help arrives. Document the accident and take photos. If another ATV is involved, get the owner’s contact and insurance information.
Once the police arrive, note the name and contact information of the responding officers. Ask for a copy of the police report to make sure that the accident was properly documented. You will need this for the insurance claim, as well as a personal injury lawsuit later on.
3.File an ATV accident insurance claim
Notify your insurance provider of the ATV accident right away. Make sure to document your injuries and the impact of the accident on your life. These include pain and suffering, loss of income, and effects on your daily routine. You will need this information to support your insurance claim.
Navigating the ATV Accident Insurance Claims Process
Riding your ATV safely by avoiding roads and highways, and never driving under the influence is step one in protecting yourself against accidents and long-term impacts. The next step is to make sure that you have the right insurance coverage.
In case of an ATV accident, your insurance coverage will offer crucial financial protection. ATV insurance can cover the damage to your vehicle, replace lost wages, and cover the cost of any treatment or rehab not typically covered under OHIP. Your statutory compensation—or the amount you receive—depends on your coverage amount, the severity of your injuries and losses, and recovery time.
However, keep in mind that ATV insurance will only cover these costs if you were a responsible rider. If you were injured because you did not wear a helmet, or you had been drinking, your insurance provider may not only reduce your statutory compensation, but declare you entirely at-fault and deny your claim.
Denied Claims and Liability: When to Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer in Ontario
If your ATV insurance provider denies your claim, another source of compensation is looking at liability. By working with a personal injury lawyer, you can find out who owns the ATV and determine if there was any negligence. For example, if they failed to properly maintain the vehicle, they may be held liable for causing your accident.
Similarly, if the ATV was made with defective parts, the manufacturer may be found liable for your accident. Finally, if you had an ATV accident on a private property with poorly maintained trails, the owner may also be held liable for failing to keep trails clear and safe.
In all of these scenarios, a personal injury lawyer can help you navigate a complex legal landscape. They can help determine liability, file a personal injury lawsuit for your ATV crash, and claim the compensation you deserve. A personal injury lawyer can help make sure that your documents are in order and your claim is filed on time, while providing support that extends outside the court.
Injured in an ATV accident? Call Zayouna Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one were injured in an ATV accident, our personal injury lawyers are here to support you. Zayouna Law Firm can help you navigate the legal system to claim the compensation that you need and deserve.
Our lawyers can help you compile documentation of the injuries and losses you suffered, and advocate for your recovery in and out of the courtroom. We will represent you in a personal injury lawsuit against the liable party for the accident, and ensure that the compensation you receive can help with your medical treatments and rehabilitation, and replace your lost income. Get in touch with us as soon as possible to start your claim.
Were you or a loved one in an ATV accident in Ontario? Book a consultation with Zayouna Law Firm to start your personal injury claim today.
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