Compensation after an Ottawa bike accident
If you have recently been injured in an Ottawa bicycle accident, you may be wondering what kinds of compensation you may be entitled to. Many people believe that the only compensation you can receive is monetary reimbursement for medical expenses. This is in fact, not the case. There are a number of other kinds of damages for which you can make a claim and receive compensation. The following will briefly describe some types of compensation that victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to.
There may be compensation for medical expenses after a bike accident
The first and perhaps more well-known kind of compensation is for medical expenses. While many medical treatments are covered by OHIP some are not. For example, physiotherapy and massage therapy are often recommend for people who have sustained injuries, but they are not covered by OHIP. In addition, prescriptions, ambulance bills, and some medical equipment are not covered by OHIP either. Some people may be covered by insurance provided through their employer, but even if that is the case, it may not cover 100% of your expenses. All this being said, if you are seriously injured in an accident, do not hesitate to check yourself into a hospital for medical attention. Don’t let the fear of medical expenses deter you from receiving the medical help you need. Just make sure to keep a complete record of your medical expenses so that you are ready with any records you may need if you decide to file a lawsuit.
Sometimes there is compensation available for lost wages
Another kind of compensation is for wage and income loss. This kind of compensation can vary depending on the extent of your injuries and the impact they have on your ability to work. For example, if your injuries prevent you from working for more than one week, you will be entitled to be reimbursed for your lost wages up to a pre-determined amount per week. On the other hand, if your injuries render you unable to work at your existing job or if you have to find work in a different field where you will be paid less, you may be able to claim damages due to the reduction in future earning capacity. This can include compensation for salary as well as for any bonuses, commissions and health benefits you may have received.
Compensation for Pain and Suffering After a Bike Accident in Ontario
If your injuries are so severe that you have suffered permanent scarring or other kind of disfigurement, you may be entitled to compensation. Severe disfigurement, particularly in children, can lead to lasting emotional and psychological damage. These kinds of damages are often taken into consideration in determining compensation.
Lastly, you may also be able to receive compensation for pain and suffering. This includes physical as well as psychological and emotional suffering. In order to receive this kind of compensation your injuries need to meet certain criteria, or a legal “threshold”. A personal injury lawyer will be able to assess your case and tell you if you meet the necessary criteria.
Next Step?
Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to see if you have a case for any of the compensation outlined. Call Auger Hollingsworth at 613 233-4529.
