What are the expected steps in a usual personal injury case?
If you have been injured because of someone else’s fault, you have every right to commence a lawsuit and fight for fair and reasonable compensation for your losses, damages and pain and suffering. A personal injury lawyer can be a valuable resource to turn to if you have questions about commencing a lawsuit or how to go about reaching an out of court settlement of your claims. A personal injury lawyer can provide you with an assessment and estimate of what your case may be worth and then work towards obtaining an out of court settlement for you. As personal injury lawyers, we are trained in alternate dispute resolution techniques which includes settlement negotiations.
The length of time it takes obtain a fair settlement in a personal injury case depends on the particular facts of each case. This article focuses on cases that do not go to Court and are settled outside of the court process.
For more complicated cases with several injuries and/or long term consequences such as permanent disability, it will take longer to settle the case than the typical straightforward single fractured limb or minor injury case that heals in 4 to 8 months.
These are some of the usual steps taken in a personal injury case and some of the factors that are to be considered when estimating the amount of time a settlement will be obtained:
Steps in a typical personal injury case
1. Initial call to a personal injury lawyer to set up a meeting to discuss the case.
2. Initial meeting with a personal injury lawyer to discuss the facts of the case, the legal principles applicable to your case and an assessment is completed of your rights and interests. Although we conduct an in depth interview at the initial meeting, we will obtain more detailed information as the case progresses.
3. If the case is sound, the lawyer is retained in writing, usually on a contingency fee basis where the lawyer is paid only if he recovers a settlement for you. The lawyer will formally open a file at the law firm.
4. We will begin by organizing the file and the facts that we have obtained and we will begin preparing as if your case was going to proceed to trial. We prepare each file as if it was going to trial, even though approximately 95% of all cases are settled short of an actual trial occurring. We do this so that we do not miss any relevant information or issues on your case. At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, we tale no short cuts.
5. The lawyer writes and delivers a formal “notice” letter to the person or persons who caused your injuries. These persons are called “tortfeasors”. That letter politely provides notice of your intention to sue the tortfeasors unless reasonable compensation is paid as a result of the injuries you sustained.
6. The tortfeasors will send the notice letter to their insurer who will appoint a lawyer or an insurance adjuster to take over carriage of the claim, investigate the claim and hopefully settle it.
7. The lawyer or insurance adjuster will contact your lawyer advising that they have carriage of the personal injury case and will want to arrange for a meeting with you and your lawyer. That meeting takes place at your lawyer’s office (unless you are unable to travel due to medical reasons in which case, the meeting can be held at your home). The purposes of the meeting are for the insurance adjuster to assess your credibility, obtain your version of the events and to discuss the progress of the file, such as obtaining medical documents and other documents supporting your claims such as income tax returns, medical receipts etc...
8. In some cases, the insurance adjuster may want you to see doctors they hire to complete an independent assessment. These are called independent medical examination or defence medicals.
9. As you recover, we write to the hospitals you attended and to the treating physicians who cared for you, notify them that we have been retained as your personal injury lawyers and ask for copies of their entire files. We ask your physicians not to disclose information to any third parties. We also hire experts that are needed to support your claims such as actuarial consultants to prepare loss of income reports, doctors to provide medical reports and accountants, etc... The medical reports we seek are highly specialized and answer specific medical legal questions and addresses specific medical issues.
10. If necessary, and after discussion with you, a private investigator may be hired to assist us in gathering information and witness statements.
11. We consult with you throughout the process to obtain information on how the injuries affected you personally and changed your life and also how it affected members of your family.
12. We also contact witnesses and obtain witness statements.
13. We also attend the scene of the accident and take photographs of the scene, if needed.
14. In many cases, we also take photographs of your injuries.
15. Your personal injury case should be settled until you have reached maximum medical recovery or what we call in the industry “crystallization” of your injuries, all investigation has been completed and all relevant medical documents and other supporting documents have been obtained.
16. It may be impossible to obtain all the necessary medical information because your health care providers are unable to provide answers to many questions we have until your treatment has been completed. In this case, we have to wait to receive a final medical report from your health care providers who can provide us with a professional opinion about your medical condition and possible future medical treatment and expenses.
17. Once you have reached a point where you are fully recovered or have reached maximum medical recovery or what we call in the industry “crystallization” of your injuries, we start determining more specifically the values of your claims. Crystallization means that you will not get any better or worse medically speaking than the status at that point in your recovery.
18. As soon as the investigation has been completed, all necessary medical information is obtained and we have received all of the supporting documents (medical reports, expert reports, test results, income information, out of pocket expense documents, impact statements, photographs, witness statements, etc...), we will complete a full evaluation of your case. We explain our assessment to you and we never settle your case without your consent.
19. As part of the assessment, we complete comprehensive legal research researching all aspects of your case and review what we believe a Court would award if your case went to a trial and you won. This is an assessment of the value or quantum of your claims.
20. We then prepare a comprehensive settlement brief which includes all the material facts of the incident, the impact of the incident on you and your family, a summary of the clinical notes and records obtained from your health care providers, a summary of the medical legal reports obtained, a summary of the expert reports obtained, a summary of any witness statements and of your account of the events causing the injuries, details of the legal research completed, an assessment and detailing of all of your claims in terms of the value of each of the claims (pain and suffering, loss of income, out of pocket expenses, special damages etc..)and supporting facts and documents and finally, a proposal for a comprehensive total settlement. The settlement brief is reviewed by you before being submitted to the other side.
21. That medical brief is submitted to the relevant insurance companies, adjusters and lawyers involved and they review the proposal.
22. Once the relevant insurance companies, adjusters and lawyers involved have reviewed the proposal, we either meet with them in person or discuss the case by telephone in an attempt to settle your claims. If the settlement amount discussed falls within the acceptable range you would be happy to accept, we confirm the settlement with the insurance adjuster.
23. The insurance adjuster then forwards the settlement cheque to our office with a full and final release which is a document in which you sign and promise that you will never sue over the incident again.
24. We usually wait 10 business days for the cheque to clear (normal banking clearing rules) and then, after deducting our agreed upon costs, we deliver the cheque to you with a full reporting letter outlining what has occurred on your case together with a copy of relevant documents.
How long does it take to settle a personal injury case?
The length of time it takes to reach a settlement of a personal injury claim depends on many factors, including the following:
1. How fast you are able to respond to your lawyer’s requests for various information and documents relevant to your case.
2. Any difficulties your lawyer experiences with the insurance company or adjuster.
3. How long it takes you to recover from your injuries.
4. How long it takes for your health care providers to provide a prognosis which is a professional opinion on the nature and severity of your injuries going forward.
5. How long it takes for your health care providers to provide the requested medical legal reports and clinical notes and records.
6. If necessary, how long it takes for the insurance adjuster to arrange for independent medical testing and examinations.
7. How long it takes for the insurance adjuster to review the file and settlement proposal, seek instructions from their principals (usually a boss at the insurance company and provide a position on settlement.
Each case is different. On average, it takes 8 to 16 months to obtain a settlement, providing the healing time is about 4 months.
If you need a respected and experienced personal injury lawyer, contact us at 613-315-HURT or 613-315-4878. Marc Quinn, Mediator, Personal Injury Lawyer, Law Instructor. Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network Founder
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
Dental Negligence - Personal Injury Caused by Dentists - Compensation - Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyers - Ottawa Dental Negligence Lawyers
Dental Negligence - Personal Injury Caused by Dentists - Compensation - Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyers - Ottawa Dental Negligence Lawyers
Dental negligence is commonly associated with work completed by either unethical, inexperienced, improperly trained or poorly prepared dentists who use incorrect or substandard materials or incorrect tools or improper procedures. In some cases, the injury caused is permanent, sometimes resulting in disfigurement and permanent pain and disability.
If injured by a negligent dentist, you have the right to claim compensation for pain and suffering as well as other losses. You also have the right to claim compensation for the cost of hiring a competent dentist to repair the damage (restorative work) caused by an incompetent dentist.
Many cases we see involve nerve damage, incorrectly pulled teeth, wrong teeth pulled, teeth puled unnecessarily, unnecessary dental work, improper application of fillings or other dental work which could have been avoided.
If you suspect you have been injured because of dental negligence, contact one of our personal injury lawyers who has experience in dental negligence cases.
Contact us at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Lawyer and Mediator
Dental negligence is commonly associated with work completed by either unethical, inexperienced, improperly trained or poorly prepared dentists who use incorrect or substandard materials or incorrect tools or improper procedures. In some cases, the injury caused is permanent, sometimes resulting in disfigurement and permanent pain and disability.
If injured by a negligent dentist, you have the right to claim compensation for pain and suffering as well as other losses. You also have the right to claim compensation for the cost of hiring a competent dentist to repair the damage (restorative work) caused by an incompetent dentist.
Many cases we see involve nerve damage, incorrectly pulled teeth, wrong teeth pulled, teeth puled unnecessarily, unnecessary dental work, improper application of fillings or other dental work which could have been avoided.
If you suspect you have been injured because of dental negligence, contact one of our personal injury lawyers who has experience in dental negligence cases.
Contact us at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Lawyer and Mediator
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Ottawa Accident Lawyers - What is the impact of pre-existing medical conditions on my personal injury case?
What is the impact of pre-existing medical conditions on my personal injury case?
As personal injury lawyers, we often see clients who are injured in a variety of ways. Often the injuries are entirely new injuries. Other times, the injuries are exacerbation or worsening of pre-existing medical conditions or of prior injuries.
The question arises: Should you disclose the existence of pre-existing medical condition and will disclosing the pre-existing medical condition or conditions hurt your personal injury case?
In short, all medical evidence that is relevant to any of the issues in the personal injury matter must be disclosed. The existence of pre-existing medical conditions or injuries does not necessarily hurt a personal injury case. There is no need to hide any medical evidence because the law protects persons injured, even those with pre-existing medical conditions. In reality, a pre-existing medical condition that is aggravated by an accident is arguably a new injury in and of itself and is compensable - meaning you can receive compensation for an old injury made worse by a new accident. In some cases, the compensation can be more because if you had recovered from the pre-existing injury and it is aggravated, the injury sustained is often much worse.
How does the legal principle of exacerbation of a pre-existing medical condition work?
If a person is injured because of another person’s negligence, the injured person can recover damages and compensation from the person responsible. That person is called a tortfeasor. The tortfeasor will be held liable for the aggravation of the pre-existing medical condition and for any new injuries sustained.
There is a well established legal principle in Canadian law called “a tortfeasor takes his victim as he finds him” and therefore, anyone who suffers an aggravation of a pre-existing injury can recover damages and compensation. That legal principle applies hand in hand with the principle of a “thin skull” Plaintiff (a Plaintiff is the injured person in a law suit). That principle applies in cases where someone is particularly weak and suffers a much greater injury than other people may have suffered in a similar accident. For example, many people fall and are not injured. Some other people may fall and fracture their leg, simply because they are more prone to injury than other people, perhaps because of weak bones or pre-existing injuries or particular disabilities such as arthritis.
Are the rules applied the same in every case? Showing symptoms versus no symptoms prior to accident.
In practical terms, the rules will be applied differently depending on whether, before the accident, the injured person demonstrated symptoms of the pre-existing medical condition. In the event the injured person’s pre-existing medical condition is aggravated, the tortfeasor will have to provide full compensation, despite there being a pre-existing medical condition. In the event the injured person’s pre-existing medical condition is aggravated, but the injured person was experiencing pain or other symptoms prior to the accident and new injury, the tortfeasor will have to provide some compensation, despite there being a pre-existing medical condition. The amount of compensation is directly proportionate to the level of aggravation of the pre-existing medical condition.
This article provides a summary of the principles at play where pre-existing medical conditions is in issue. The matter is more complicated than explained in this article. At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, we regularly deal with issues such as this and we are happy to provide free consultations for any personal injury case. The information in this article is not intended to replace legal advice. For more information and a free consultation on your accident or personal injury matter, contact us at 613-315-HURT or 613-315-4878.
As personal injury lawyers, we often see clients who are injured in a variety of ways. Often the injuries are entirely new injuries. Other times, the injuries are exacerbation or worsening of pre-existing medical conditions or of prior injuries.
The question arises: Should you disclose the existence of pre-existing medical condition and will disclosing the pre-existing medical condition or conditions hurt your personal injury case?
In short, all medical evidence that is relevant to any of the issues in the personal injury matter must be disclosed. The existence of pre-existing medical conditions or injuries does not necessarily hurt a personal injury case. There is no need to hide any medical evidence because the law protects persons injured, even those with pre-existing medical conditions. In reality, a pre-existing medical condition that is aggravated by an accident is arguably a new injury in and of itself and is compensable - meaning you can receive compensation for an old injury made worse by a new accident. In some cases, the compensation can be more because if you had recovered from the pre-existing injury and it is aggravated, the injury sustained is often much worse.
How does the legal principle of exacerbation of a pre-existing medical condition work?
If a person is injured because of another person’s negligence, the injured person can recover damages and compensation from the person responsible. That person is called a tortfeasor. The tortfeasor will be held liable for the aggravation of the pre-existing medical condition and for any new injuries sustained.
There is a well established legal principle in Canadian law called “a tortfeasor takes his victim as he finds him” and therefore, anyone who suffers an aggravation of a pre-existing injury can recover damages and compensation. That legal principle applies hand in hand with the principle of a “thin skull” Plaintiff (a Plaintiff is the injured person in a law suit). That principle applies in cases where someone is particularly weak and suffers a much greater injury than other people may have suffered in a similar accident. For example, many people fall and are not injured. Some other people may fall and fracture their leg, simply because they are more prone to injury than other people, perhaps because of weak bones or pre-existing injuries or particular disabilities such as arthritis.
Are the rules applied the same in every case? Showing symptoms versus no symptoms prior to accident.
In practical terms, the rules will be applied differently depending on whether, before the accident, the injured person demonstrated symptoms of the pre-existing medical condition. In the event the injured person’s pre-existing medical condition is aggravated, the tortfeasor will have to provide full compensation, despite there being a pre-existing medical condition. In the event the injured person’s pre-existing medical condition is aggravated, but the injured person was experiencing pain or other symptoms prior to the accident and new injury, the tortfeasor will have to provide some compensation, despite there being a pre-existing medical condition. The amount of compensation is directly proportionate to the level of aggravation of the pre-existing medical condition.
This article provides a summary of the principles at play where pre-existing medical conditions is in issue. The matter is more complicated than explained in this article. At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, we regularly deal with issues such as this and we are happy to provide free consultations for any personal injury case. The information in this article is not intended to replace legal advice. For more information and a free consultation on your accident or personal injury matter, contact us at 613-315-HURT or 613-315-4878.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
If I am partially to blame for the accident, can I still receive compensation? What is contributory negligence?
If I am partially to blame for the accident, can I still receive compensation? What is contributory negligence?
Contributory negligence is a common law defense to a claim based on allegations of negligence, applied in the area of tort law. It applies to circumstances where a Plaintiff (person injured) through his/her own negligence in part causes or contributed to the accident and harm suffered. A good example is not wearing proper footwear in winter and falling as a result of unattended accumulated snow or ice on someone else’s property.
If a person is contributory negligent, the amount of the compensation will be decreased proportionate to the level of contribution. However, compensation can nevertheless be paid.
If you have been injured in an accident, contact us for a free consultation at 613-315-4878.
Contributory negligence is a common law defense to a claim based on allegations of negligence, applied in the area of tort law. It applies to circumstances where a Plaintiff (person injured) through his/her own negligence in part causes or contributed to the accident and harm suffered. A good example is not wearing proper footwear in winter and falling as a result of unattended accumulated snow or ice on someone else’s property.
If a person is contributory negligent, the amount of the compensation will be decreased proportionate to the level of contribution. However, compensation can nevertheless be paid.
If you have been injured in an accident, contact us for a free consultation at 613-315-4878.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Releases in Car Accident and Personal Injury Cases - How to Settle a Personal Injury or Car Accident Case. Ottawa Accident Lawyers
Releases in Car Accident and Personal Injury Cases - How to Settle a Personal Injury or Car Accident Case. Ottawa Accident Lawyers
The majority of personal injury court actions and claims are resolved before trial. They are resolved on the basis of negotiated settlements reached between the injured person and the person at fault - tortfeasor which is the person who is alleged to have caused the accident.
As part of most settlements, the injured person must agree to execute a full and final release (release agreement) which provides that the injured person will never in the future pursue the person responsible for compensation arising out of the accident in question. In return for the release, compensation is paid to the injured person by the person responsible for the accident.
If you are negotiating an agreement yourself without a lawyer, it is advisable that the proposed settlement is reviewed by a personal injury lawyer who can review the settlement, the terms of the settlement, the related documents and the compensation offered. The personal injury lawyer can ensure the terms of the settlement and the provisions of the release are reasonable and fair.
Some of the issues to consider when settling a personal injury matter include the following:
1. The terms of the release are fair and reasonable;
2. The compensation reflects a fair assessment of the consequences of the injury on your life;
3. The payment is made in exchange for a release, meaning it is paid upon delivery of a release that is signed;
4. The compensation addresses contingencies for future losses;
5. The tax consequences of the monetary settlement are considered; and
6. The compensation addresses all heads of damages including pain and suffering, out of pocket expenses, loss of income and/or opportunity and other damages.
Settlement of a personal injury claim is more than just agreeing on a number. There are many factors to consider and an experienced personal injury lawyer can ensure that the terms of the settlement, including any releases and the amount of compensation is fair and reasonable.
Hiring an accident and personal injury lawyer can have a significant impact on the success of your personal injury claim. A full assessment can be made so that you receive the maximum amount possible in a negotiated settlement.
Contact us for a free consultation for more information on how to settle a personal injury, disability or accident claim. Ottawa Accident Lawyers - Ottawa Injury Lawyers, Plant Quinn Thiele LLP. 613-315-HURT or 613-315-4878. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Lawyer and Mediator focusing on personal injury cases.
The majority of personal injury court actions and claims are resolved before trial. They are resolved on the basis of negotiated settlements reached between the injured person and the person at fault - tortfeasor which is the person who is alleged to have caused the accident.
As part of most settlements, the injured person must agree to execute a full and final release (release agreement) which provides that the injured person will never in the future pursue the person responsible for compensation arising out of the accident in question. In return for the release, compensation is paid to the injured person by the person responsible for the accident.
If you are negotiating an agreement yourself without a lawyer, it is advisable that the proposed settlement is reviewed by a personal injury lawyer who can review the settlement, the terms of the settlement, the related documents and the compensation offered. The personal injury lawyer can ensure the terms of the settlement and the provisions of the release are reasonable and fair.
Some of the issues to consider when settling a personal injury matter include the following:
1. The terms of the release are fair and reasonable;
2. The compensation reflects a fair assessment of the consequences of the injury on your life;
3. The payment is made in exchange for a release, meaning it is paid upon delivery of a release that is signed;
4. The compensation addresses contingencies for future losses;
5. The tax consequences of the monetary settlement are considered; and
6. The compensation addresses all heads of damages including pain and suffering, out of pocket expenses, loss of income and/or opportunity and other damages.
Settlement of a personal injury claim is more than just agreeing on a number. There are many factors to consider and an experienced personal injury lawyer can ensure that the terms of the settlement, including any releases and the amount of compensation is fair and reasonable.
Hiring an accident and personal injury lawyer can have a significant impact on the success of your personal injury claim. A full assessment can be made so that you receive the maximum amount possible in a negotiated settlement.
Contact us for a free consultation for more information on how to settle a personal injury, disability or accident claim. Ottawa Accident Lawyers - Ottawa Injury Lawyers, Plant Quinn Thiele LLP. 613-315-HURT or 613-315-4878. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Lawyer and Mediator focusing on personal injury cases.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Why Choose Plant Quinn Thiele LLP - The Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network to Handle your Accident, Injury or Disability Claim?
Why Choose Plant Quinn Thiele LLP - The Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network to Handle your Accident, Injury or Disability Claim?
Victims of injuries in Ontario and their families have entrusted Plant Quinn Thiele LLP with their personal injury, disability or car accident claims for many reasons. The main reason is that we win and settle cases and we get the job done. We provide answers to your questions, professional and well informed legal advice and we provide action on your claims. We move as fast as the law and facts allows to advance and obtain your claim for compensation. We deal with insurance companies and their adjusters every day. We are respected in the field of personal injury law cases. We work on the basis that we do not get paid until you do. It costs you nothing to meet with one of our lawyers and we do not charge any fees until we win your case and receive compensation for you. In other words, if we obtain no recovery for you, you owe us nothing.
We have handled thousands of claims and have enjoyed good success for our clients. We are proud of our proven track record. Our reputation is important to us. Most of our clients come to us referred by friends, family and former clients, in addition to general advertisement of our accomplishments. At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, we have a strong passion for justice. We hold the belief that all victims deserve legal representation and the right to exercise their rights. Through our own efforts and in supporting organizations like the Advocate’s Society, the Canadian Bar Association and the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association, we help protect victims who have sustained injuries through the negligence or wrongdoing of others.
What sets us apart? We focus on personal injury and accident claims. We don’t dabble in personal injury cases, we are experts at it. One of the most important factors to consider when hiring a personal injury lawyer is experience and a proven track record or success and we have it.
If you are looking for a personal injury lawyer supported by personal injury lawyers, personal injury law clerks and personal injury paralegals who focus on personal injury claims, then we are right for you. Call us for a free consultation at 613-315-HURT or 613-315-4878. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Law Instructor, Lawyer, Mediator and Author.
Victims of injuries in Ontario and their families have entrusted Plant Quinn Thiele LLP with their personal injury, disability or car accident claims for many reasons. The main reason is that we win and settle cases and we get the job done. We provide answers to your questions, professional and well informed legal advice and we provide action on your claims. We move as fast as the law and facts allows to advance and obtain your claim for compensation. We deal with insurance companies and their adjusters every day. We are respected in the field of personal injury law cases. We work on the basis that we do not get paid until you do. It costs you nothing to meet with one of our lawyers and we do not charge any fees until we win your case and receive compensation for you. In other words, if we obtain no recovery for you, you owe us nothing.
We have handled thousands of claims and have enjoyed good success for our clients. We are proud of our proven track record. Our reputation is important to us. Most of our clients come to us referred by friends, family and former clients, in addition to general advertisement of our accomplishments. At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, we have a strong passion for justice. We hold the belief that all victims deserve legal representation and the right to exercise their rights. Through our own efforts and in supporting organizations like the Advocate’s Society, the Canadian Bar Association and the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association, we help protect victims who have sustained injuries through the negligence or wrongdoing of others.
What sets us apart? We focus on personal injury and accident claims. We don’t dabble in personal injury cases, we are experts at it. One of the most important factors to consider when hiring a personal injury lawyer is experience and a proven track record or success and we have it.
If you are looking for a personal injury lawyer supported by personal injury lawyers, personal injury law clerks and personal injury paralegals who focus on personal injury claims, then we are right for you. Call us for a free consultation at 613-315-HURT or 613-315-4878. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Law Instructor, Lawyer, Mediator and Author.
Dog Bite Injuries - What Are Your Rights? Ottawa dog bite injury lawyers explain your rights when dealing with a dog bite or dog attack injury case.
Dog Bite Injuries - What Are Your Rights? Ottawa dog bite injury lawyers explain your rights when dealing with a dog bite or dog attack injury case.
If you have been bitten by a dog or attacked by a dog in Ontario and you have suffered a dog bite mental, psychological or physical injury, you are protected by the law in most cases. In addition to provincial and local prosecution pursuant to local by-laws and the provincial Dog Bite Owners’ Liability Act, you are entitled to seek compensation for injuries sustained in dog bite cases. The remedies available include compensation for pain and suffering, reimbursement of medical expenses, reimbursement for out of pocket expenses, reimbursement for medical treatments such as counselling and reimbursement for loss of income. These remedies can be exercised with the involvement and support of one of our personal injury lawyers.
After being attacked or bitten, it is vital that you identify the dog owner. Identifying the responsible person means that the police and local municipality can prosecute the dog owner. Also, it allows your lawyer to immediately contact the dog owner and place them on notice of your claim so that any policies of insurance that may cover the loss is triggered. Sometimes, identifying the dog owner is an onerous task, especially if the incident occurred in a public place and you do not know the owner. It is important that you speak to witnesses on the scene right away, as dog owners have a habit of disappearing.
Once you have obtained medical attention, you should contact a personal injury lawyer who deals with dog bite and dog attack cases. Special legislation applies to dog bite and dog attack cases and special rules of law apply as well. Your dog bite liability lawyer will want to obtain a description of the dog attack or bite, photographs of the injuries and the name and address of the owner of the dog or dogs in question.
In Ontario, legal responsibility and liability for dog bites and attacks are generally governed by the provisions of the Dog Owners’ Liability Act . As the case law as interpreted the provisions of the Dog Owners’ Liability Act, dog owners are held to a high standard and they can be liable on the basis of strict liability, which provides dog owners with very limited defences to claims for compensation by victims.
This standard protects victims of dog bites and attacks. A person who has suffered any type of injury by reason of a dog bite or attack simply has to identify the dog and its owner and prove that the dog caused the injuries and the dog owner must pay compensation.
It is important to note that, in most cases, claims for compensation arising from injuries sustained as a result of dog bites or dog attacks are generally covered by the owner’s home insurance policies or tenant’s insurance policies.
Once notified of the claim, the dog owner merely places their insurer on notice and the insurer appoints an adjuster to resolve the claim or a lawyer to defend the claim. The insurance coverage applies whether the dog bite or dog attack occurred at the dog owner’s property/home or somewhere outside their home.
In terms of prosecution, the dog owner can face many consequences, including having the dog put down, fines, penalties, muzzle orders, jail time and other protective orders.
In simple terms, if you have been injured by a dog bite or dog attack, the owner of the dog must provide compensation, whether or not they have insurance. At Plant Quinn Thiele, LLP, we will make the dog owner pay, one way or the other. Contact us for a free consultation. If we do not settle your case, we will charge you nothing. We only get paid if you receive compensation. Call 613-315-HURT or 613-315-4878. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Lawyer, Mediator and Author.
If you have been bitten by a dog or attacked by a dog in Ontario and you have suffered a dog bite mental, psychological or physical injury, you are protected by the law in most cases. In addition to provincial and local prosecution pursuant to local by-laws and the provincial Dog Bite Owners’ Liability Act, you are entitled to seek compensation for injuries sustained in dog bite cases. The remedies available include compensation for pain and suffering, reimbursement of medical expenses, reimbursement for out of pocket expenses, reimbursement for medical treatments such as counselling and reimbursement for loss of income. These remedies can be exercised with the involvement and support of one of our personal injury lawyers.
After being attacked or bitten, it is vital that you identify the dog owner. Identifying the responsible person means that the police and local municipality can prosecute the dog owner. Also, it allows your lawyer to immediately contact the dog owner and place them on notice of your claim so that any policies of insurance that may cover the loss is triggered. Sometimes, identifying the dog owner is an onerous task, especially if the incident occurred in a public place and you do not know the owner. It is important that you speak to witnesses on the scene right away, as dog owners have a habit of disappearing.
Once you have obtained medical attention, you should contact a personal injury lawyer who deals with dog bite and dog attack cases. Special legislation applies to dog bite and dog attack cases and special rules of law apply as well. Your dog bite liability lawyer will want to obtain a description of the dog attack or bite, photographs of the injuries and the name and address of the owner of the dog or dogs in question.
In Ontario, legal responsibility and liability for dog bites and attacks are generally governed by the provisions of the Dog Owners’ Liability Act . As the case law as interpreted the provisions of the Dog Owners’ Liability Act, dog owners are held to a high standard and they can be liable on the basis of strict liability, which provides dog owners with very limited defences to claims for compensation by victims.
This standard protects victims of dog bites and attacks. A person who has suffered any type of injury by reason of a dog bite or attack simply has to identify the dog and its owner and prove that the dog caused the injuries and the dog owner must pay compensation.
It is important to note that, in most cases, claims for compensation arising from injuries sustained as a result of dog bites or dog attacks are generally covered by the owner’s home insurance policies or tenant’s insurance policies.
Once notified of the claim, the dog owner merely places their insurer on notice and the insurer appoints an adjuster to resolve the claim or a lawyer to defend the claim. The insurance coverage applies whether the dog bite or dog attack occurred at the dog owner’s property/home or somewhere outside their home.
In terms of prosecution, the dog owner can face many consequences, including having the dog put down, fines, penalties, muzzle orders, jail time and other protective orders.
In simple terms, if you have been injured by a dog bite or dog attack, the owner of the dog must provide compensation, whether or not they have insurance. At Plant Quinn Thiele, LLP, we will make the dog owner pay, one way or the other. Contact us for a free consultation. If we do not settle your case, we will charge you nothing. We only get paid if you receive compensation. Call 613-315-HURT or 613-315-4878. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Lawyer, Mediator and Author.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Scars and Disfigurement - Experienced Ottawa Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers
Scars and Disfigurement - Experienced Ottawa Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers
Scars and disfigurement provide special challenges when it comes to assessing general damages for pain and suffering. These type of injuries can have lasting consequences and cause significant emotional psychological trauma in addition to the obvious physical pain and suffering. The types of consideration in terms of damages for scars and disfigurement are different than other types of injuries and can include damages for loss of interdependent relationship, negative impact on employability, loss of self esteem and self confidence etc...
In addition, cases involving scars and disfigurement can include additional medical expenses such as plastic and reconstructive surgery, services of a counselor, psychologist or psychiatrist. These types of medical and health care services are very expensive and the costs associated with them are compensable. In cases of scars and/or disfigurement, lifestyle is impacted in significantly different ways, facial scars and disfigurement in particular are difficult to handle by injured persons. There are self confidence and esteem issues that may require psychological assessment and treatment which can be life long.
There are many people express a sense of significant embarrassed by their scars and disfigurement and this has an impact on them emotionally, socially and psychologically. Scars can have a significant impact on a person's ability to feel confident about their appearance. People who suffer disfigurement and/or scarring often tell us they have profound feelings of anger and embarrassment. Their personal relationships suffer or they have an inability or difficulty with new relationships. They feel isolated and alone. Psychological and emotional treatments can help but they are expensive.
At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, our experienced personal injury lawyers assist clients obtain the compensation that is needed for their physical, emotional and psychological treatment. When necessary, our lawyers work with medical professionals to fully understand our clients' injuries and assess the additional costs of health care services and the additional compensation for pain and suffering associated with scar and disfigurement cases. We prepare each case carefully, consider all elements of the pain and suffering and additional and special costs/expenses incurred and likely to be incurred. We are very effective in representing clients who have suffered the lasting effects of scars and disfigurement.
Scars and disfigurements can occur as a result of any type of accident. In Ottawa, the lawyers at Plant Quinn Thiele have helped clients recover damages as a result of all types of injuries, including accidents causing scars and/or disfigurements from accidents at work, car accidents, accidents in restaurants and other businesses, burns form all sources, birth injuries, motorcycle accidents, bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, unsafe properties and general negligence of others.
Contact Us
If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident that has caused scars or disfigurement, contact us and speak with a lawyer free of charge. Our case assessments are free.
The lawyers at Plant Quinn Thiele understand the types of special issues that affect clients who suffer scarring and disfigurement accidents. Contact us to schedule an appointment for a free initial consultation. We take cases on a contingency basis. Call us in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Accident Lawyer, Scarring and Disfigurement Lawyer.
Scars and disfigurement provide special challenges when it comes to assessing general damages for pain and suffering. These type of injuries can have lasting consequences and cause significant emotional psychological trauma in addition to the obvious physical pain and suffering. The types of consideration in terms of damages for scars and disfigurement are different than other types of injuries and can include damages for loss of interdependent relationship, negative impact on employability, loss of self esteem and self confidence etc...
In addition, cases involving scars and disfigurement can include additional medical expenses such as plastic and reconstructive surgery, services of a counselor, psychologist or psychiatrist. These types of medical and health care services are very expensive and the costs associated with them are compensable. In cases of scars and/or disfigurement, lifestyle is impacted in significantly different ways, facial scars and disfigurement in particular are difficult to handle by injured persons. There are self confidence and esteem issues that may require psychological assessment and treatment which can be life long.
There are many people express a sense of significant embarrassed by their scars and disfigurement and this has an impact on them emotionally, socially and psychologically. Scars can have a significant impact on a person's ability to feel confident about their appearance. People who suffer disfigurement and/or scarring often tell us they have profound feelings of anger and embarrassment. Their personal relationships suffer or they have an inability or difficulty with new relationships. They feel isolated and alone. Psychological and emotional treatments can help but they are expensive.
At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, our experienced personal injury lawyers assist clients obtain the compensation that is needed for their physical, emotional and psychological treatment. When necessary, our lawyers work with medical professionals to fully understand our clients' injuries and assess the additional costs of health care services and the additional compensation for pain and suffering associated with scar and disfigurement cases. We prepare each case carefully, consider all elements of the pain and suffering and additional and special costs/expenses incurred and likely to be incurred. We are very effective in representing clients who have suffered the lasting effects of scars and disfigurement.
Scars and disfigurements can occur as a result of any type of accident. In Ottawa, the lawyers at Plant Quinn Thiele have helped clients recover damages as a result of all types of injuries, including accidents causing scars and/or disfigurements from accidents at work, car accidents, accidents in restaurants and other businesses, burns form all sources, birth injuries, motorcycle accidents, bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, unsafe properties and general negligence of others.
Contact Us
If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident that has caused scars or disfigurement, contact us and speak with a lawyer free of charge. Our case assessments are free.
The lawyers at Plant Quinn Thiele understand the types of special issues that affect clients who suffer scarring and disfigurement accidents. Contact us to schedule an appointment for a free initial consultation. We take cases on a contingency basis. Call us in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Accident Lawyer, Scarring and Disfigurement Lawyer.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Witness Statements in Personal Injury Cases - Ottawa Accident Lawyers - Ottawa Personal Injury Law Firm
Witness Statements in Personal Injury Cases - Ottawa Accident Lawyers - Ottawa Personal Injury Law Firm
In personal injury cases, obtaining witness statements can mean the difference between reaching settlement and having to litigate. In many cases, the version of events between the injured person and the person alleged to be responsible for the accident can be extremely different. In such cases, courts, injury lawyers, insurance lawyers and insurers look to corroborating and independent evidence, independent eye witness accounts.
Witness statements can be important for determining liability and damage in a personal injury case. The injured person is one witness. In order to buster or support an account of events causing the injury, obtaining and disclosing a statement of what occurred provided by a third-party witness to the incident is very useful. The best witness statement is from a person who is not involved in the incident in any way except as a witness, is not related to any party to the incident and is otherwise credible. Obtaining witness statements early in the case is also important - witnesses’ account of events are more reliable if obtained at the time or near the time of the accident.
As part of our function as injury lawyers, we often obtain witness statements to assist our personal injury clients. Call us at Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT for a free consultation about any injury case. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Partner, Lawyer and Mediator.
In personal injury cases, obtaining witness statements can mean the difference between reaching settlement and having to litigate. In many cases, the version of events between the injured person and the person alleged to be responsible for the accident can be extremely different. In such cases, courts, injury lawyers, insurance lawyers and insurers look to corroborating and independent evidence, independent eye witness accounts.
Witness statements can be important for determining liability and damage in a personal injury case. The injured person is one witness. In order to buster or support an account of events causing the injury, obtaining and disclosing a statement of what occurred provided by a third-party witness to the incident is very useful. The best witness statement is from a person who is not involved in the incident in any way except as a witness, is not related to any party to the incident and is otherwise credible. Obtaining witness statements early in the case is also important - witnesses’ account of events are more reliable if obtained at the time or near the time of the accident.
As part of our function as injury lawyers, we often obtain witness statements to assist our personal injury clients. Call us at Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT for a free consultation about any injury case. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Partner, Lawyer and Mediator.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Compensation in Shoulder Injury Cases - Ottawa Accident Lawyers - Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyers - Ottawa Shoulder Injury Lawyers
Compensation in Shoulder Injury Cases - Ottawa Accident Lawyers - Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyers - Ottawa Shoulder Injury Lawyers
At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, we see many clients each year who suffer shoulder injuries from a variety of causes - car accidents, assaults, trip and falls, slip and falls and sporting injuries. Shoulders are a very flexible and obviously useful part of the body. The joints in the shoulders are very useful in particular and used in many daily activities. However, they can be injured quite easily it seems. Shoulder injuries include strains, sprains, rotator cuff injury and usually tears, fractured shoulder bones, dislocation of shoulder, subluxation of shoulder, bruises to muscles, shoulder separation, nerve injury, and other soft tissue injuries. Shoulders are especially vulnerable to injury in motor vehicle and car accidents since they are supported by seat belts that strap across the shoulders. The impact can cause significant injury to the shoulders.
Because of the nature of shoulder injuries, they tend to last a long time and cause permanent disability of varying degrees. Also, given the type of injuries shoulders sustain, they usually result in a requirement of physical therapies such as physiotherapy. Recovery from shoulder injuries can be frustrating. Try getting dressed by yourself with a shoulder injury.
Like other injuries, some shoulder injuries can seem minor but then become more serious over time. Symptoms may first be mild and then develop into severe pain and agony. Shoulder injuries can develop into chronic medical conditions, causing significant pain and disability.
At Plant Quinn Thiele, LLP, Ottawa Accident and Injury Lawyers, our trained personal injury lawyers have experience in dealing with all types of injury cases, including shoulder injury cases. We have helped many clients throughout Ontario receive fair compensation for shoulder injuries.
If you have suffered a shoulder injury in an accident, contact us at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT, for a free consultation. We will discuss your case with you at no cost. We work on no fee until you win basis (contingency fee retainer arrangements). Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Partner, Lawyer and Mediator
At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, we see many clients each year who suffer shoulder injuries from a variety of causes - car accidents, assaults, trip and falls, slip and falls and sporting injuries. Shoulders are a very flexible and obviously useful part of the body. The joints in the shoulders are very useful in particular and used in many daily activities. However, they can be injured quite easily it seems. Shoulder injuries include strains, sprains, rotator cuff injury and usually tears, fractured shoulder bones, dislocation of shoulder, subluxation of shoulder, bruises to muscles, shoulder separation, nerve injury, and other soft tissue injuries. Shoulders are especially vulnerable to injury in motor vehicle and car accidents since they are supported by seat belts that strap across the shoulders. The impact can cause significant injury to the shoulders.
Because of the nature of shoulder injuries, they tend to last a long time and cause permanent disability of varying degrees. Also, given the type of injuries shoulders sustain, they usually result in a requirement of physical therapies such as physiotherapy. Recovery from shoulder injuries can be frustrating. Try getting dressed by yourself with a shoulder injury.
Like other injuries, some shoulder injuries can seem minor but then become more serious over time. Symptoms may first be mild and then develop into severe pain and agony. Shoulder injuries can develop into chronic medical conditions, causing significant pain and disability.
At Plant Quinn Thiele, LLP, Ottawa Accident and Injury Lawyers, our trained personal injury lawyers have experience in dealing with all types of injury cases, including shoulder injury cases. We have helped many clients throughout Ontario receive fair compensation for shoulder injuries.
If you have suffered a shoulder injury in an accident, contact us at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT, for a free consultation. We will discuss your case with you at no cost. We work on no fee until you win basis (contingency fee retainer arrangements). Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Partner, Lawyer and Mediator
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Wet Floor Accident Lawyers - Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyers
Wet Floor Accident Lawyers - Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyers
Have you or someone you care about suffered an injury or injuries in a wet floor accident or slippery floor accident? If so, you have the right to claim compensation for your injuries, losses and suffering. We can help you exercise those rights.
At Plant Quinn Thiele, LLP, Ottawa Accident Lawyers, we have trained and experienced personal injury lawyers who have handle hundreds of premises liability cases (Occupiers Liability Act matters). We have dealt with all aspects of fall cases in which our clients have suffered injuries as the result of wet floors, spills and other dangerous conditions of floors. We are experienced in maximizing the compensation you deserve and proving liability on the part of the owner of the premises where our clients have fallen.
As personal injury lawyers, we investigate every aspect of our clients’ personal injury cases, including slip and falls, trip and falls and other fall accidents. We have the staff needed to visit the scene of the accident, take photographs and interview witnesses. We handle every aspect of the case from beginning to end. We seek maximum compensation for our injured clients and we do not charge unless we obtain a settlement.
Contact Marc Quinn, Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer - Wet Floor Accident Lawyer, at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Free consultations and no fee until you win agreements.
Have you or someone you care about suffered an injury or injuries in a wet floor accident or slippery floor accident? If so, you have the right to claim compensation for your injuries, losses and suffering. We can help you exercise those rights.
At Plant Quinn Thiele, LLP, Ottawa Accident Lawyers, we have trained and experienced personal injury lawyers who have handle hundreds of premises liability cases (Occupiers Liability Act matters). We have dealt with all aspects of fall cases in which our clients have suffered injuries as the result of wet floors, spills and other dangerous conditions of floors. We are experienced in maximizing the compensation you deserve and proving liability on the part of the owner of the premises where our clients have fallen.
As personal injury lawyers, we investigate every aspect of our clients’ personal injury cases, including slip and falls, trip and falls and other fall accidents. We have the staff needed to visit the scene of the accident, take photographs and interview witnesses. We handle every aspect of the case from beginning to end. We seek maximum compensation for our injured clients and we do not charge unless we obtain a settlement.
Contact Marc Quinn, Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer - Wet Floor Accident Lawyer, at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Free consultations and no fee until you win agreements.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Some Helpful Tips for Accident Victims - Ottawa Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers - Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network - Plant Quinn Thiele
Some Helpful Tips for Accident Victims - Ottawa Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers - Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network - Plant Quinn Thiele LLP
Here are some helpful hints to keep in mind after suffering injuries in an accident:
1. Seek medical attention immediately following any accident. You may be surprised on what may first seem to be a small injury turns out to be a much more significant injury or injuries.
2. File a police report, especially if the accident is due to a motor vehicle incident, bicycle or motorcycle accident. Police reports provide names and addresses of all parties to the accident as well as important insurance information.
3. When talking to others at the scene of the incident, do not admit fault in any way.
4. In motor vehicle cases, ask for a copy of the other driver’s licence and insurance documents as well as their name and address.
5. Take as many photographs of the accident, scene, vehicles, and any objects involved in the accident as you can. The more the better. Develop them right away and keep an electronic copy if possible.
6. Get the names, telephone numbers and addresses of all witnesses. Often, cases turn on the evidence of independent witnesses.
7. Save copies of any and all receipts for medical and non-medical expenses incurred relating to the incident and injuries. You must document your losses to obtain reimbursement of out of pocket expenses and other expenses.
8. If you have lost work or business income, keep a detailed list of days off and lost contracts, profits etc... Obtain confirmation of the days off, position held, salary and benefits lost due to your recovery from injuries sustained in the accident.
9. Make and save copies of any medical documents received, such as the emergency report and prescriptions.
10. Keep a list of all health care providers you see with their names, and full contact particulars, with a summary of the treatment received and date treatment was given.
11. Report the accident in writing to your insurance representative (your insurer).
12. Ask your insurer to send you a list of any benefits you may be entitled to receive under your policy of insurance. This is especially important in motor vehicle cases because you are entitled to accident benefits from your own insurance regardless of who caused the accident
13. If you refuse to cooperate with your insurance company, that may cause you to lose benefits. However, you have the right to have a lawyer present for all interactions with your insurer. When in doubt, hire a personal injury lawyer / insurance lawyer and they can assist you in cooperating with your insurer while also protecting your rights and interests.
14. Do not sign any documents without having your personal injury lawyer review it first. Seek legal advice prior to signing anything.
15. Never give a recorded or written statement without first consulting with your personal injury lawyer, even if you have nothing to hide. It can be used against you or used out of context.
16. Most importantly, after seeking medical attention, seek legal advice early. We provide free consultations. Obtaining legal advice early can prevent significant and costly complications later in your personal injury case.
At the Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network, we work on a no fee until you win basis. If you don’t recover, we charge you nothing. Call us at (613) 315-4878 or 613-315-HURT for details. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Ottawa car accident and personal injury lawyer.
Here are some helpful hints to keep in mind after suffering injuries in an accident:
1. Seek medical attention immediately following any accident. You may be surprised on what may first seem to be a small injury turns out to be a much more significant injury or injuries.
2. File a police report, especially if the accident is due to a motor vehicle incident, bicycle or motorcycle accident. Police reports provide names and addresses of all parties to the accident as well as important insurance information.
3. When talking to others at the scene of the incident, do not admit fault in any way.
4. In motor vehicle cases, ask for a copy of the other driver’s licence and insurance documents as well as their name and address.
5. Take as many photographs of the accident, scene, vehicles, and any objects involved in the accident as you can. The more the better. Develop them right away and keep an electronic copy if possible.
6. Get the names, telephone numbers and addresses of all witnesses. Often, cases turn on the evidence of independent witnesses.
7. Save copies of any and all receipts for medical and non-medical expenses incurred relating to the incident and injuries. You must document your losses to obtain reimbursement of out of pocket expenses and other expenses.
8. If you have lost work or business income, keep a detailed list of days off and lost contracts, profits etc... Obtain confirmation of the days off, position held, salary and benefits lost due to your recovery from injuries sustained in the accident.
9. Make and save copies of any medical documents received, such as the emergency report and prescriptions.
10. Keep a list of all health care providers you see with their names, and full contact particulars, with a summary of the treatment received and date treatment was given.
11. Report the accident in writing to your insurance representative (your insurer).
12. Ask your insurer to send you a list of any benefits you may be entitled to receive under your policy of insurance. This is especially important in motor vehicle cases because you are entitled to accident benefits from your own insurance regardless of who caused the accident
13. If you refuse to cooperate with your insurance company, that may cause you to lose benefits. However, you have the right to have a lawyer present for all interactions with your insurer. When in doubt, hire a personal injury lawyer / insurance lawyer and they can assist you in cooperating with your insurer while also protecting your rights and interests.
14. Do not sign any documents without having your personal injury lawyer review it first. Seek legal advice prior to signing anything.
15. Never give a recorded or written statement without first consulting with your personal injury lawyer, even if you have nothing to hide. It can be used against you or used out of context.
16. Most importantly, after seeking medical attention, seek legal advice early. We provide free consultations. Obtaining legal advice early can prevent significant and costly complications later in your personal injury case.
At the Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network, we work on a no fee until you win basis. If you don’t recover, we charge you nothing. Call us at (613) 315-4878 or 613-315-HURT for details. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Ottawa car accident and personal injury lawyer.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Back Injuries - Soft Tissue Injuries - Compensation - Ottawa Back Injury Lawyers
Back Injuries - Soft Tissue Injuries - Compensation - Ottawa Back Injury Lawyers
Back injuries are very common and often result from a sudden blow to the body like motor vehicle accidents or falls such as slip and fall or trip and fall incidents. With back injuries comes back pain. Back pain is caused by a range of conditions that affect muscles, tendons and soft tissues; also from a serious injury to the spinal cord, or nerves. Back pain is also caused by nerve damage or pinged nerves such as sciatica. Feeling jolting pain in the lower back affects emotions and causes significant stress and it is not uncommon for injured persons to also develop depression secondary to a back injury.
In most cases, back pain disappears quickly (within days or weeks) since it does not normally involve serious damage to the back or a related disease. In other cases, back injuries result in permanent disability and complete inability to work. The degree of back pain or injury has no real affect on an injured person's right to bring a back injury claim. However, the amount of compensation will vary depending on the severity of the injury, its affects on the injured person and the duration of the pain and injury.
A trip and fall or slip and fall related back injury can be extremely painful and is one of the most common types of injury we see in fall cases. Suffering a back injury can have devastating consequences and affect every aspect of a person’s life. We also often see our clients who injure their back in a motor vehicle accident unable to work for months and years after the incident. In addition to being unable to work, back injuries can result in the inability to perform normal daily tasks and activities.
The back is an important part of the human body. It supports and assists many other body parts to function and any injury to it can be serious and life-threatening given that damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis and death. Some of the most common back injuries we see in our personal injury law practice include: slipped disks, herniated disks, injured nerves, sciatica, broken vertebrae, spinal cord injuries, soft tissue injuries to the muscles, tendons and other soft tissue in the back and development of arthritic medical conditions.
If you have suffered a back injury, contact us at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT for a free consultation. We offer No Fee Until You Win agreements. We focus on personal injury cases and can get you the compensation you deserve. Call Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network Founder. Personal Injury Lawyer and Mediator
Back injuries are very common and often result from a sudden blow to the body like motor vehicle accidents or falls such as slip and fall or trip and fall incidents. With back injuries comes back pain. Back pain is caused by a range of conditions that affect muscles, tendons and soft tissues; also from a serious injury to the spinal cord, or nerves. Back pain is also caused by nerve damage or pinged nerves such as sciatica. Feeling jolting pain in the lower back affects emotions and causes significant stress and it is not uncommon for injured persons to also develop depression secondary to a back injury.
In most cases, back pain disappears quickly (within days or weeks) since it does not normally involve serious damage to the back or a related disease. In other cases, back injuries result in permanent disability and complete inability to work. The degree of back pain or injury has no real affect on an injured person's right to bring a back injury claim. However, the amount of compensation will vary depending on the severity of the injury, its affects on the injured person and the duration of the pain and injury.
A trip and fall or slip and fall related back injury can be extremely painful and is one of the most common types of injury we see in fall cases. Suffering a back injury can have devastating consequences and affect every aspect of a person’s life. We also often see our clients who injure their back in a motor vehicle accident unable to work for months and years after the incident. In addition to being unable to work, back injuries can result in the inability to perform normal daily tasks and activities.
The back is an important part of the human body. It supports and assists many other body parts to function and any injury to it can be serious and life-threatening given that damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis and death. Some of the most common back injuries we see in our personal injury law practice include: slipped disks, herniated disks, injured nerves, sciatica, broken vertebrae, spinal cord injuries, soft tissue injuries to the muscles, tendons and other soft tissue in the back and development of arthritic medical conditions.
If you have suffered a back injury, contact us at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT for a free consultation. We offer No Fee Until You Win agreements. We focus on personal injury cases and can get you the compensation you deserve. Call Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network Founder. Personal Injury Lawyer and Mediator
Head and Brain Injuries - Personal Injury Cases - Closed and Open Head Injuries and Their Consequences - Ottawa Car Accident and Fall Injury Lawyers
Head and Brain Injuries - Personal Injury Cases - Closed and Open Head Injuries and Their Consequences - Ottawa Car Accident and Fall Injury Lawyers
A head injury is any trauma that leads to injury of the scalp, skull, or brain. The specific injuries can range from a minor bump on the skull to very serious brain injury causing comas, paralysis and even death. In general terms, head injury is classified as either closed or open (penetrating the skull) head injury. A closed head injury is usually caused by a blow to the head from striking an object (be it an item such as the sidewalk, street, ice, floor, fallen object or a blow by a hit such as a punch or ball in sporting accidents), but the blow did not result in a break of the skull. An open (or penetrating) head injury results from a blow to the head that breaks the skull and entered the brain. This type of injury often occurs from serious car accidents where a person travels at a high rate of high speed and their head comes into contact with the windshield or dash of the car. Other common causes are blunt hits or gunshot to the head.
Brain injuries are very serious. There are several types of brain injuries. Examples are concussions, which is the most common type of traumatic brain injury we see. A concussion results form a shaken brain, often resulting from a fall, such as a trip and fall or slip and fall on ice. We also see a lot of contusions, which is a bruising of the brain.
Head injuries occur often and fortunately, most are minor since the skull provides the brain with significant protection. Experiencing symptoms of minor head injuries are serious nevertheless, but it seems that they often go away on their own. Other symptoms are more serious and long term and sometimes require hospitalization and surgery. Some head injuries are permanent and cause non reversible brain damage and permanent disability, often caused by bleeding in the brain or brain tissue damage. Examples of serious consequences of head injuries are coma, chronic head syndromes, cognitive deficits, paralysis, loss or change in sensations in vision, hearing, taste and smell, speech impairments and seizure disorders.
The most common causes of head injuries we see are car accidents, slip and falls, trip and falls, strikes to the head in an assault, hits during sporting activities and fallen objects.
If you have suffered a head injury due to an accident, please contact us at 613-315-HURT or 613-315-4878 for a free case assessment and free consultation. Our firm takes on cases on a contingency basis and we do not charge any fees unless we win your case. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, founder of the Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network, Lawyers of Plant Quinn Thiele LLP.
A head injury is any trauma that leads to injury of the scalp, skull, or brain. The specific injuries can range from a minor bump on the skull to very serious brain injury causing comas, paralysis and even death. In general terms, head injury is classified as either closed or open (penetrating the skull) head injury. A closed head injury is usually caused by a blow to the head from striking an object (be it an item such as the sidewalk, street, ice, floor, fallen object or a blow by a hit such as a punch or ball in sporting accidents), but the blow did not result in a break of the skull. An open (or penetrating) head injury results from a blow to the head that breaks the skull and entered the brain. This type of injury often occurs from serious car accidents where a person travels at a high rate of high speed and their head comes into contact with the windshield or dash of the car. Other common causes are blunt hits or gunshot to the head.
Brain injuries are very serious. There are several types of brain injuries. Examples are concussions, which is the most common type of traumatic brain injury we see. A concussion results form a shaken brain, often resulting from a fall, such as a trip and fall or slip and fall on ice. We also see a lot of contusions, which is a bruising of the brain.
Head injuries occur often and fortunately, most are minor since the skull provides the brain with significant protection. Experiencing symptoms of minor head injuries are serious nevertheless, but it seems that they often go away on their own. Other symptoms are more serious and long term and sometimes require hospitalization and surgery. Some head injuries are permanent and cause non reversible brain damage and permanent disability, often caused by bleeding in the brain or brain tissue damage. Examples of serious consequences of head injuries are coma, chronic head syndromes, cognitive deficits, paralysis, loss or change in sensations in vision, hearing, taste and smell, speech impairments and seizure disorders.
The most common causes of head injuries we see are car accidents, slip and falls, trip and falls, strikes to the head in an assault, hits during sporting activities and fallen objects.
If you have suffered a head injury due to an accident, please contact us at 613-315-HURT or 613-315-4878 for a free case assessment and free consultation. Our firm takes on cases on a contingency basis and we do not charge any fees unless we win your case. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, founder of the Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network, Lawyers of Plant Quinn Thiele LLP.
Friday, June 11, 2010
What is pain and suffering? Ottawa Car Accident and Injury Lawyers
What is pain and suffering? Ottawa Car Accident and Injury Lawyers
Whether you are injured in a car accident, slip and fall, trip and fall or other accident due to the negligence of someone else, chances are that you have suffered pain and suffering and are entitled to receive compensation. The extent of pain and suffering depends entirely on the person injured and the severity of the injuries.
Pain and suffering is the legal term for the physical, psychological and emotional stress caused from an injury or injuries sustained due to the wrongdoing of another. It is a type of monetary damages that an injured person can recover for physical, psychological or mental pain that results from a wrong done, usually in the form of an injury to the person. Pain and suffering is a non economic loss, unlike loss of income or out of pocket expenses that are more easily calculated, and is meant to compensate someone for the kinds of distress and discomfort felt and endured from a wrong done by someone else.
Placing a specific value on pain and suffering is probably the most difficult task for a judge and jury in any personal injury case, aside from determining liability. For personal injury lawyers, a large part of the legal research focuses on pain and suffering and its monetary value. A great deal of investigation goes into providing an opinion on the monetary value of the pain and suffering damages is fair and reasonable in the circumstances. In reality, there is no pure or scientific formula, table, chart or reference to use in calculating pain and suffering. The specific facts of the case and particulars of how the injuries or wrong has affected a person’s life in every respect and prior decided cases (case law) are the most useful tools in assessing the value of pain and suffering. Every injured person and every injury is different and each case deserves a specific assessment and thorough evaluation. Everyone reacts to injury differently; two people can have almost identical injuries but suffer completely differently and to completely different degrees.
At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyers, we assess each case on its own merits and we complete all the research needed to maximize our client’s compensation for all aspects of their personal injury case, including pain and suffering damages. Contact us for a free consultation at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Lawyer and Mediator focussing on personal injury and insurance law.
Whether you are injured in a car accident, slip and fall, trip and fall or other accident due to the negligence of someone else, chances are that you have suffered pain and suffering and are entitled to receive compensation. The extent of pain and suffering depends entirely on the person injured and the severity of the injuries.
Pain and suffering is the legal term for the physical, psychological and emotional stress caused from an injury or injuries sustained due to the wrongdoing of another. It is a type of monetary damages that an injured person can recover for physical, psychological or mental pain that results from a wrong done, usually in the form of an injury to the person. Pain and suffering is a non economic loss, unlike loss of income or out of pocket expenses that are more easily calculated, and is meant to compensate someone for the kinds of distress and discomfort felt and endured from a wrong done by someone else.
Placing a specific value on pain and suffering is probably the most difficult task for a judge and jury in any personal injury case, aside from determining liability. For personal injury lawyers, a large part of the legal research focuses on pain and suffering and its monetary value. A great deal of investigation goes into providing an opinion on the monetary value of the pain and suffering damages is fair and reasonable in the circumstances. In reality, there is no pure or scientific formula, table, chart or reference to use in calculating pain and suffering. The specific facts of the case and particulars of how the injuries or wrong has affected a person’s life in every respect and prior decided cases (case law) are the most useful tools in assessing the value of pain and suffering. Every injured person and every injury is different and each case deserves a specific assessment and thorough evaluation. Everyone reacts to injury differently; two people can have almost identical injuries but suffer completely differently and to completely different degrees.
At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyers, we assess each case on its own merits and we complete all the research needed to maximize our client’s compensation for all aspects of their personal injury case, including pain and suffering damages. Contact us for a free consultation at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Lawyer and Mediator focussing on personal injury and insurance law.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
OTTAWA PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS - INJURIES SUFFERED BY CHILDREN - TYPICAL WAYS CHILDREN ARE INJURED - COMPENSATION FOR CHILDREN WHO SUFFER INJURIES
OTTAWA PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS - INJURIES SUFFERED BY CHILDREN
Children and Injuries in Public Places
Shopping is a part of everyday life. We all shop and eat out from time to time. We take walks on public walkways, streets and parks. Whether it is for entertainment or necessity, we all use public places and our children do as well. Our children accompany their parents and other adults on outings and excursions. In the process, they are exposed to the everyday risks associated with life and they can be injured. Because of their size, injuries to children can have greater impact and can be very serious and permanent.
Typical Ways Children are Injured
Other than injuries in motor vehicle accidents, which is the subject of another article of the Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network, the most common injuries sustained by children we see are slips and falls, trip and falls, falling objects from store shelves, escalator injuries, sporting injuries, playing - rough play injuries, play structure injuries, falling down stairs, incidents in stores and malls, incidents at friends homes and parking lot injuries such as trip and fall in pot holes.
Children can trip on items located on store or other establishment floors; they may slip on wet or uneven surfaces, trip in pot holes located on private or municipal property; usually the slips are caused by wet surfaces from spilled substances. Trips are caused by items dangerously placed in open areas, uneven surfaces or holes in floors and other places.
In all cases, owners and occupiers of the stores and establishments are responsible for ensuring the safety of everyone, including children, by creating a reasonable maintenance program and adhering to it. They must keep aisles of stores free of objects, keep surfaces even, shelves safe, clean floors, remove spillages and take whatever other steps needed to ensure children are safe and so as to prevent potential injuries .
If the dangerous condition existed for a long enough period of time when the incident happened, the owner and/or occupier of the premises will be held liable. They will be held liable for known dangers and liability is also possible where they did not know, but should have known of the dangerous conditions, through reasonable inspection steps.
In some cases, items fall on children seriously injuring them. We often see extremely heavy objects - merchandise in large stores (bulk stores), stored 5-20 metres high. These items are extremely dangerous. If an item falls and injures a child, store owners and/or occupiers will be held responsible and will have to pay damages.
Other common ways children are injured are trips in pot holes and shopping centres are often the place where you can find pot holes. Parking lot injuries are common since most people drive to the big shopping malls and must walk from the lot to the mall.
In the end, whatever the cause of the injury, be it a trip or slip and fall or fallen object, owners and occupiers of stores, restaurants, business establishments, shopping malls etc... owe a duty to everyone, and including children of course, to ensure the premises are safe. The owners and occupiers are legally responsible for protecting the health and safety of customers on their premises.
Free Legal Advice and Opinions
If your child is injured because of a store owner’s fault, contact Ottawa Personal Injuries Lawyers - We are Experienced in Children and Injuries cases. We provide free legal advice regarding your legal rights and the rights of children to seek fair compensation for their injuries. We work on a NO FEE UNLESS YOU WIN basis. Call us at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Marc Quin, Lawyer, Mediator, Personal Injury Law Author.
Children and Injuries in Public Places
Shopping is a part of everyday life. We all shop and eat out from time to time. We take walks on public walkways, streets and parks. Whether it is for entertainment or necessity, we all use public places and our children do as well. Our children accompany their parents and other adults on outings and excursions. In the process, they are exposed to the everyday risks associated with life and they can be injured. Because of their size, injuries to children can have greater impact and can be very serious and permanent.
Typical Ways Children are Injured
Other than injuries in motor vehicle accidents, which is the subject of another article of the Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network, the most common injuries sustained by children we see are slips and falls, trip and falls, falling objects from store shelves, escalator injuries, sporting injuries, playing - rough play injuries, play structure injuries, falling down stairs, incidents in stores and malls, incidents at friends homes and parking lot injuries such as trip and fall in pot holes.
Children can trip on items located on store or other establishment floors; they may slip on wet or uneven surfaces, trip in pot holes located on private or municipal property; usually the slips are caused by wet surfaces from spilled substances. Trips are caused by items dangerously placed in open areas, uneven surfaces or holes in floors and other places.
In all cases, owners and occupiers of the stores and establishments are responsible for ensuring the safety of everyone, including children, by creating a reasonable maintenance program and adhering to it. They must keep aisles of stores free of objects, keep surfaces even, shelves safe, clean floors, remove spillages and take whatever other steps needed to ensure children are safe and so as to prevent potential injuries .
If the dangerous condition existed for a long enough period of time when the incident happened, the owner and/or occupier of the premises will be held liable. They will be held liable for known dangers and liability is also possible where they did not know, but should have known of the dangerous conditions, through reasonable inspection steps.
In some cases, items fall on children seriously injuring them. We often see extremely heavy objects - merchandise in large stores (bulk stores), stored 5-20 metres high. These items are extremely dangerous. If an item falls and injures a child, store owners and/or occupiers will be held responsible and will have to pay damages.
Other common ways children are injured are trips in pot holes and shopping centres are often the place where you can find pot holes. Parking lot injuries are common since most people drive to the big shopping malls and must walk from the lot to the mall.
In the end, whatever the cause of the injury, be it a trip or slip and fall or fallen object, owners and occupiers of stores, restaurants, business establishments, shopping malls etc... owe a duty to everyone, and including children of course, to ensure the premises are safe. The owners and occupiers are legally responsible for protecting the health and safety of customers on their premises.
Free Legal Advice and Opinions
If your child is injured because of a store owner’s fault, contact Ottawa Personal Injuries Lawyers - We are Experienced in Children and Injuries cases. We provide free legal advice regarding your legal rights and the rights of children to seek fair compensation for their injuries. We work on a NO FEE UNLESS YOU WIN basis. Call us at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Marc Quin, Lawyer, Mediator, Personal Injury Law Author.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Risks of Negotiating a Settlement Too Early in Your Personal Injury Case - Ottawa Accident and Injury Lawyers
Risks of Negotiating a Settlement Too Early in Your Personal Injury Case - Ottawa Accident and Injury Lawyers
If you are a victim of a slip and fall, trip and fall or car accident and want to seek compensation for injuries you sustained, it is never too early to advance a claim against the legally liable person, business, corporation, municipality or group of people who was negligent. Liability will include damages for general pain and suffering, special expenses, out of pocket expenses, medical expenses, future care expenses, medical devices, loss of income etc...
While it is never too early to start a claim (give notice of your intention to seek compensation and perhaps sue), it is in many occasions too soon to settle the case. Most personal injury cases should only settle once the injuries have “crystalized”, meaning the full extent of the injury is known and a medical expert has opined that you will not get any better or any worse so that a final prognosis and full understanding of disability, if any, is known.
In some cases, an injured person believes their injuries are minor, but then find out that surgery is required or that the pain is permanent will never go away. All injured persons should obtain a full diagnosis by a health care provider prior to settlement. Do not make the mistake of rushing into an early settlement. Once a settlement is obtained, it can not generally be undone absent proving things like fraud; settlements are final and legally binding; courts will enforce settlement agreements. In signing as settlement, you release the liable party or parties from any and all liability of any known and unknown damages associated with the accident. Patience goes a long way in personal injury cases and we always recommend waiting a few months after you believe you have healed fully; then obtain a medical assessment confirming it; only then settle the case.
To better illustrate the point, consider these facts: You suffer a fractured leg in a slip and fall or car accident. You have initial surgery and are placed in a cast. After 3 months, you feel wonderful and the cast comes off, you then proceed to settle so as to quickly receive money. You sign a full and final release and get your settlement cheque. Some time later, you resume your normal routine but something is off; you are re-assessed medically; you are told that the injury requires more surgery or long term therapy because the pain has returned and it seems that you have developed a slight walking deficiency. You then hire a personal injury lawyer who assesses the case and informs you that s/he could have obtained a settlement more than ten times the amount you settled the case for on your own but the release is binding and there is nothing that can be done; no further compensation can be claimed. We see this scenario occur many times in our practice each year.
If you have been injured in an accident, invest in a meeting with one of our personal injury lawyers, the consultations are free. We take on personal injury cases on a no fee until you win basis so you have little risk when it comes to our fees. We do not charge unless we win for you.
Call us at Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network, 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Ottawa Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyer.
If you are a victim of a slip and fall, trip and fall or car accident and want to seek compensation for injuries you sustained, it is never too early to advance a claim against the legally liable person, business, corporation, municipality or group of people who was negligent. Liability will include damages for general pain and suffering, special expenses, out of pocket expenses, medical expenses, future care expenses, medical devices, loss of income etc...
While it is never too early to start a claim (give notice of your intention to seek compensation and perhaps sue), it is in many occasions too soon to settle the case. Most personal injury cases should only settle once the injuries have “crystalized”, meaning the full extent of the injury is known and a medical expert has opined that you will not get any better or any worse so that a final prognosis and full understanding of disability, if any, is known.
In some cases, an injured person believes their injuries are minor, but then find out that surgery is required or that the pain is permanent will never go away. All injured persons should obtain a full diagnosis by a health care provider prior to settlement. Do not make the mistake of rushing into an early settlement. Once a settlement is obtained, it can not generally be undone absent proving things like fraud; settlements are final and legally binding; courts will enforce settlement agreements. In signing as settlement, you release the liable party or parties from any and all liability of any known and unknown damages associated with the accident. Patience goes a long way in personal injury cases and we always recommend waiting a few months after you believe you have healed fully; then obtain a medical assessment confirming it; only then settle the case.
To better illustrate the point, consider these facts: You suffer a fractured leg in a slip and fall or car accident. You have initial surgery and are placed in a cast. After 3 months, you feel wonderful and the cast comes off, you then proceed to settle so as to quickly receive money. You sign a full and final release and get your settlement cheque. Some time later, you resume your normal routine but something is off; you are re-assessed medically; you are told that the injury requires more surgery or long term therapy because the pain has returned and it seems that you have developed a slight walking deficiency. You then hire a personal injury lawyer who assesses the case and informs you that s/he could have obtained a settlement more than ten times the amount you settled the case for on your own but the release is binding and there is nothing that can be done; no further compensation can be claimed. We see this scenario occur many times in our practice each year.
If you have been injured in an accident, invest in a meeting with one of our personal injury lawyers, the consultations are free. We take on personal injury cases on a no fee until you win basis so you have little risk when it comes to our fees. We do not charge unless we win for you.
Call us at Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network, 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Ottawa Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyer.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
How can an injury lawyer help you? Ottawa Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers
How can an injury lawyer help you? Ottawa Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers
An injury lawyer (or personal injury lawyer) is a trained lawyer who represents the victims of accidents caused by the negligence of others. Personal injury lawyers assist victims of accident in various injury situations such as trip and falls, slip and falls, workplace accidents, malfunctioning product cases, car accidents, motorcycle accidents, etc...
As a personal injury lawyer, all aspects of the case will be reviewed and researched. Documents substantiating the injury and liability will be obtained. Witnesses statements will be obtained so that third parties can give evidence of what they saw to support the allegations of negligence. A personal injury lawyer will conduct legal research to assess the value of the damages and compensation and make a recommendation as to a fair settlement. They will negotiate a settlement of all the issues, failing which they will litigate the case for the victims of accidents.
Personal injury refers, in general terms, to injury to a person’s body, but can also include mental and psychological injuries and injury to a person’s reputation
At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, we handle all types of personal injury cases. We also operate on the basis of a contingency fee arrangement, meaning, that we do not get paid until you win the personal injury case. If you lose, we charge nothing. Our credentials and experience are clearly indicated on our web sites www.ottawapersonalinjurylawyernetwork.com and www.pqtlaw.com.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, contact us at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Ottawa injury lawyers, Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Lawyer, Mediator, Author, Law Instructor. For mediation in personal injury cases, visit us at www.ottawamediationservices.com.
An injury lawyer (or personal injury lawyer) is a trained lawyer who represents the victims of accidents caused by the negligence of others. Personal injury lawyers assist victims of accident in various injury situations such as trip and falls, slip and falls, workplace accidents, malfunctioning product cases, car accidents, motorcycle accidents, etc...
As a personal injury lawyer, all aspects of the case will be reviewed and researched. Documents substantiating the injury and liability will be obtained. Witnesses statements will be obtained so that third parties can give evidence of what they saw to support the allegations of negligence. A personal injury lawyer will conduct legal research to assess the value of the damages and compensation and make a recommendation as to a fair settlement. They will negotiate a settlement of all the issues, failing which they will litigate the case for the victims of accidents.
Personal injury refers, in general terms, to injury to a person’s body, but can also include mental and psychological injuries and injury to a person’s reputation
At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, we handle all types of personal injury cases. We also operate on the basis of a contingency fee arrangement, meaning, that we do not get paid until you win the personal injury case. If you lose, we charge nothing. Our credentials and experience are clearly indicated on our web sites www.ottawapersonalinjurylawyernetwork.com and www.pqtlaw.com.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, contact us at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Ottawa injury lawyers, Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Lawyer, Mediator, Author, Law Instructor. For mediation in personal injury cases, visit us at www.ottawamediationservices.com.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Dog bites occur more frequently than you may think. Ottawa dog bite lawyer experts.
Dog bites occur more frequently than you may think. Ottawa dog bite lawyer experts.
We see more dog bits and attacks during the spring and summer months. Dog bites and attacks for both adults and children can occur any time anywhere and can have serious consequences, including permanent disfigurement, emotional and psychological trauma. In extreme cases, dog attacks may result in death. It is not possible to know in advance whether a particular dog will attack or bite. Even the most docile and quiet dogs can attack and bite.
The laws governing dog attacks in Ontario favour victims of dog attacks. There are statutory and common law causes of action (right to sue) which create liability for dog owners who’s dogs injure someone. Under the Dog Owner’s Liability Act of Ontario, as interpreted by the case law, dog owners are strictly liable to pay compensation for the injuries sustained by someone because of their dog. In most dog bite cases, there are limited defences available to dog owners. For instance, in Ontario, there is strict liability for dog bite cases and in general terms, a person needs only to prove that the dog attacked them and caused them injury in order to receive compensation.
In addition to dog bites or attacks, dogs can cause injury by knocking people over, scaring them causing emotional trauma, running into people jogging or biking etc... No matter how a dog causes injury, the dog owner is liable and compensation must be paid.
If you have been injured by a dog bite or attack, try to identify the dog, identify the dog owner, file a police complaint, file a complaint with the local municipality. In most cases, home owners or tenant’s insurance will cover the loss.
Our personal injury lawyers can help you receive the compensation you are entitled to receive as a result of a dog bite or dog attack. We can help you receive compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, lost business income, our of pocket expenses, permanent scarring, etc...Let us negotiate with the insurance company to maximize your compensation. In some cases, we can identify additional people who can be held liable besides the dog owner, such as landlords, store owners and municipalities.
If you wish to consult with a personal injury lawyer about a dog bite or dog attack case, contact us at 613-315-HURT. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Ottawa dog bite law expert.
We see more dog bits and attacks during the spring and summer months. Dog bites and attacks for both adults and children can occur any time anywhere and can have serious consequences, including permanent disfigurement, emotional and psychological trauma. In extreme cases, dog attacks may result in death. It is not possible to know in advance whether a particular dog will attack or bite. Even the most docile and quiet dogs can attack and bite.
The laws governing dog attacks in Ontario favour victims of dog attacks. There are statutory and common law causes of action (right to sue) which create liability for dog owners who’s dogs injure someone. Under the Dog Owner’s Liability Act of Ontario, as interpreted by the case law, dog owners are strictly liable to pay compensation for the injuries sustained by someone because of their dog. In most dog bite cases, there are limited defences available to dog owners. For instance, in Ontario, there is strict liability for dog bite cases and in general terms, a person needs only to prove that the dog attacked them and caused them injury in order to receive compensation.
In addition to dog bites or attacks, dogs can cause injury by knocking people over, scaring them causing emotional trauma, running into people jogging or biking etc... No matter how a dog causes injury, the dog owner is liable and compensation must be paid.
If you have been injured by a dog bite or attack, try to identify the dog, identify the dog owner, file a police complaint, file a complaint with the local municipality. In most cases, home owners or tenant’s insurance will cover the loss.
Our personal injury lawyers can help you receive the compensation you are entitled to receive as a result of a dog bite or dog attack. We can help you receive compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, lost business income, our of pocket expenses, permanent scarring, etc...Let us negotiate with the insurance company to maximize your compensation. In some cases, we can identify additional people who can be held liable besides the dog owner, such as landlords, store owners and municipalities.
If you wish to consult with a personal injury lawyer about a dog bite or dog attack case, contact us at 613-315-HURT. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Ottawa dog bite law expert.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Ottawa personal injury mediation - What is personal injury mediation?
What is Personal Injury Mediation?
Personal injury mediation can occur before or after a court action is commenced. Mediation may be mandatory under the Court Rules (personal injury actions commenced in Ottawa must go to mediation) or elective such as in family law disputes. While in a personal injury court action the parties may be required to attend mediation, neither party is bound to come to an agreement. If, however, they do come to an agreement, the agreement reached at mediation will become legally binding.
Since the process of litigation is extremely costly and can take many years to resolve, mediation is now required to be completed at an early phase of the court action. The parties must attend mediation before their case can even proceed to trial.
A mediation is carried out with a trained mediator, usually over a half a day (3 hours) or a whole day (6 hours) in an attempt to bring the parties together and reach agreement on the issues in dispute. The lawyers for each party file with the mediator and exchange with each other a statement of issues setting out the important facts and legal issues of the case and attach any important supporting documents.
Mediation usually occurs in one room with each party presenting their views separately after the mediator gives his opening statement. At some point, the parties usually separate into different rooms and the mediator handles the mediation by going back and forth between the parties trying to find common ground to resolve all the issues between them. If an agreement is reached, the parties agree to cease the litigation and a settlement agreement is signed and adhered to.
Mediation is informal in that you can speak openly since mediations under the Rules of Civil Procedure are confidential (closed mediations). Mediation is a great way to resolve disputes in a civil and expeditious manner at the least expense to the parties.
Ottawa Mediation Services
Ottawa mediation services was formed by the mediators practising at Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, Lawyers and Mediators - Personal Injury Lawyers. We handle all types of mediations, but focus on personal injury mediations and family mediations. Our experienced and skilled roster of mediators are ready to assist you with any conflict resolution needs you may require. Our mediators are trained and listed as court connected mediators with the Ministry of the Attorney General. Our mission is to work with parties who are in dispute (whether out of court or court connected) to resolve their differences and move forward with their lives, by providing competent, caring, comprehensive and professional mediation services. We are an affordable alternative to litigation. We are able to assist organizations, businesses, government and families with conflict resolution by offering non adversarial means of resolving conflict. We offer a wide range of conflict resolution services with multiple options to resolving disputes. Some of your questions may be answered by reading the information on this web site. If you have any further questions or want to discuss how mediation can assist you, feel free to contact us in confidence at 613-315-4878 or by e-mail at mquinn@pqtlaw.com.
Personal injury mediation can occur before or after a court action is commenced. Mediation may be mandatory under the Court Rules (personal injury actions commenced in Ottawa must go to mediation) or elective such as in family law disputes. While in a personal injury court action the parties may be required to attend mediation, neither party is bound to come to an agreement. If, however, they do come to an agreement, the agreement reached at mediation will become legally binding.
Since the process of litigation is extremely costly and can take many years to resolve, mediation is now required to be completed at an early phase of the court action. The parties must attend mediation before their case can even proceed to trial.
A mediation is carried out with a trained mediator, usually over a half a day (3 hours) or a whole day (6 hours) in an attempt to bring the parties together and reach agreement on the issues in dispute. The lawyers for each party file with the mediator and exchange with each other a statement of issues setting out the important facts and legal issues of the case and attach any important supporting documents.
Mediation usually occurs in one room with each party presenting their views separately after the mediator gives his opening statement. At some point, the parties usually separate into different rooms and the mediator handles the mediation by going back and forth between the parties trying to find common ground to resolve all the issues between them. If an agreement is reached, the parties agree to cease the litigation and a settlement agreement is signed and adhered to.
Mediation is informal in that you can speak openly since mediations under the Rules of Civil Procedure are confidential (closed mediations). Mediation is a great way to resolve disputes in a civil and expeditious manner at the least expense to the parties.
Ottawa Mediation Services
Ottawa mediation services was formed by the mediators practising at Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, Lawyers and Mediators - Personal Injury Lawyers. We handle all types of mediations, but focus on personal injury mediations and family mediations. Our experienced and skilled roster of mediators are ready to assist you with any conflict resolution needs you may require. Our mediators are trained and listed as court connected mediators with the Ministry of the Attorney General. Our mission is to work with parties who are in dispute (whether out of court or court connected) to resolve their differences and move forward with their lives, by providing competent, caring, comprehensive and professional mediation services. We are an affordable alternative to litigation. We are able to assist organizations, businesses, government and families with conflict resolution by offering non adversarial means of resolving conflict. We offer a wide range of conflict resolution services with multiple options to resolving disputes. Some of your questions may be answered by reading the information on this web site. If you have any further questions or want to discuss how mediation can assist you, feel free to contact us in confidence at 613-315-4878 or by e-mail at mquinn@pqtlaw.com.
Soft Tissue Injuries and Personal Injury Law - Compensable Injuries - Ottawa Car Accident Lawyers
Soft Tissue Injuries and Personal Injury Law - Damages, Compensation and Injuries - Ottawa Car Accident Lawyers
As personal injury lawyers, we represent clients who suffer all types of injuries from a great variety of sources. In most cases, in addition to other injuries, our clients suffer some form of soft tissue injury.
What is soft tissue injury? We hear the term used frequently but the term is often misunderstood. Physicians and sports injury experts use the term often to describe a injury, but what exactly is an injury to the soft tissue?
In general terms, soft tissue refers to ligaments, tendons and muscles throughout the body. Soft tissue injury refers to injury to ligaments, tendons and muscles throughout the body. Soft tissue injuries are painful and often takes a long time to heal. In many cases, soft tissue injuries are permanent.
Some soft tissue injuries are caused by a single impact to the body or multiple blows to the body and is usually caused due to stress placed on a joint and/or muscles. Soft tissue injuries can also be caused by overuse of the body (tennis elbow for instance). In personal injury cases, we usually deal with multiple or single blows to the body causing soft tissue injuries which is what you expect to see in slip and fall, trip and fall accidents or car accidents.
No matter how the soft tissue injury is caused, the end result is still the same - pain and disability. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, redness, and instability. Soft tissue injuries can be minor or severe and it is important that the injury be properly diagnosed and treated by a physician experienced in dealing with soft tissue injuries.
There are all kinds of injuries that constitute part of the soft tissue injury group. These most common soft tissue injuries we see as personal injury lawyers are sprains, strains, contusions, tendinitis and bursitis. A sprain is caused by a stretched or even torn ligament. A strain is the stretching and tearing of soft tissue, specifically associated with tendons and muscles as opposed to ligaments. A contusion is a bruise (broken blood vessels). Tendinitis is caused by overuse of muscles, usually secondary to a greater injury. Bursitis is simply an inflamed bursa (or sac) that helps relieve friction in your joints.
Soft tissue injuries can cause significant pain and fatigue. It is not uncommon for our clients to feel depressed because of severe soft tissue injuries. We have often seen clients become completely debilitated by soft tissue injuries.
If you have suffered any injury, including soft tissue injuries, due to the negligence of someone else, soft tissue injuries are compensable. Contact us for a free consultation. We handle personal injury cases on the basis of you don’t pay until you win basis (contingency fee basis). Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer - Ottawa Soft Tissue Injury Lawyer - Call us at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT.
As personal injury lawyers, we represent clients who suffer all types of injuries from a great variety of sources. In most cases, in addition to other injuries, our clients suffer some form of soft tissue injury.
What is soft tissue injury? We hear the term used frequently but the term is often misunderstood. Physicians and sports injury experts use the term often to describe a injury, but what exactly is an injury to the soft tissue?
In general terms, soft tissue refers to ligaments, tendons and muscles throughout the body. Soft tissue injury refers to injury to ligaments, tendons and muscles throughout the body. Soft tissue injuries are painful and often takes a long time to heal. In many cases, soft tissue injuries are permanent.
Some soft tissue injuries are caused by a single impact to the body or multiple blows to the body and is usually caused due to stress placed on a joint and/or muscles. Soft tissue injuries can also be caused by overuse of the body (tennis elbow for instance). In personal injury cases, we usually deal with multiple or single blows to the body causing soft tissue injuries which is what you expect to see in slip and fall, trip and fall accidents or car accidents.
No matter how the soft tissue injury is caused, the end result is still the same - pain and disability. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, redness, and instability. Soft tissue injuries can be minor or severe and it is important that the injury be properly diagnosed and treated by a physician experienced in dealing with soft tissue injuries.
There are all kinds of injuries that constitute part of the soft tissue injury group. These most common soft tissue injuries we see as personal injury lawyers are sprains, strains, contusions, tendinitis and bursitis. A sprain is caused by a stretched or even torn ligament. A strain is the stretching and tearing of soft tissue, specifically associated with tendons and muscles as opposed to ligaments. A contusion is a bruise (broken blood vessels). Tendinitis is caused by overuse of muscles, usually secondary to a greater injury. Bursitis is simply an inflamed bursa (or sac) that helps relieve friction in your joints.
Soft tissue injuries can cause significant pain and fatigue. It is not uncommon for our clients to feel depressed because of severe soft tissue injuries. We have often seen clients become completely debilitated by soft tissue injuries.
If you have suffered any injury, including soft tissue injuries, due to the negligence of someone else, soft tissue injuries are compensable. Contact us for a free consultation. We handle personal injury cases on the basis of you don’t pay until you win basis (contingency fee basis). Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer - Ottawa Soft Tissue Injury Lawyer - Call us at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
What does a personal injury lawyer do to settle my personal injury case? Ottawa Car Accident and Personal Injury Law Firm
What does a personal injury lawyer do to assist injured clients settle their personal injury case?
Ottawa Car Accident and Personal Injury Law Firm
People are injured everyday through no fault of their own. Often, the injuries suffered arise because of someone else’s carelessness or negligence. In some cases, the injuries occur intentionally. In all cases, we seek compensation for our injured clients.
Our goal is to make sure that our injured clients receive fair and reasonable compensation for their injuries and that they understand their rights and interests. Personal injuries require personal case management and each personal injury client we take on is important to us.
We assist and assume the responsibility associated with finding medical and other experts needed to prove the elements of your case.
We value each component of injuries suffered and associated affect on your life and calculate the monetary damages that fairly compensates victims of accidents.
We demand payment for those losses from the persons, corporations or other legal entities that are responsible for the accident and the injuries suffered by our clients.
Finally, we research the value of the case and negotiate a fair settlement by using alternative dispute resolution techniques (ADR). If the responsible person will not settle, we litigate. We never give up.
Throughout the process, we keep you informed of the developments in your case and explain the progress of the case. We are always only a phone call or email away.
Marc-Nicholas Quinn - Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer and Mediator - We offer free consultations, free case evaluations and a no fee until you win guaranty in writing.
Call us at 613-315-4878.
Ottawa Car Accident and Personal Injury Law Firm
People are injured everyday through no fault of their own. Often, the injuries suffered arise because of someone else’s carelessness or negligence. In some cases, the injuries occur intentionally. In all cases, we seek compensation for our injured clients.
Our goal is to make sure that our injured clients receive fair and reasonable compensation for their injuries and that they understand their rights and interests. Personal injuries require personal case management and each personal injury client we take on is important to us.
We assist and assume the responsibility associated with finding medical and other experts needed to prove the elements of your case.
We value each component of injuries suffered and associated affect on your life and calculate the monetary damages that fairly compensates victims of accidents.
We demand payment for those losses from the persons, corporations or other legal entities that are responsible for the accident and the injuries suffered by our clients.
Finally, we research the value of the case and negotiate a fair settlement by using alternative dispute resolution techniques (ADR). If the responsible person will not settle, we litigate. We never give up.
Throughout the process, we keep you informed of the developments in your case and explain the progress of the case. We are always only a phone call or email away.
Marc-Nicholas Quinn - Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer and Mediator - We offer free consultations, free case evaluations and a no fee until you win guaranty in writing.
Call us at 613-315-4878.
How are personal injury cases resolved? Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyers - Ottawa Car Accident Lawyers
How are personal injury cases resolved? Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyers - Ottawa Car Accident Lawyers
Personal injury cases resolve one of three ways. They are either settled in Court following a trial; settled before or during a trial; or prior to litigation being commenced. Out of court settlements refers to settlements obtained without any litigation necessary. Most cases settle on a out of court settlement basis. It is uncommon for personal injury cases to reach trial. Based on most statistics, only 5% of ALL cases filed in Court actually reach trial; most (95%) are resolved prior to trial.
If litigation is necessary, cases settle at either the end of the exchange of pleading (documents starting the court matter and the defences) stage, mediation stage or settlement conference stage. Litigation involves parties who are unable to settle the case without litigation. This happens for many reasons: either the compensation sought is too high, the injuries are too serious, the injuries are ongoing and not fully known, there is a dispute over responsibility for the accident (i.e. legal liability) or the quantum of damages claimed.
If the person responsible is not willing to settle, there are really two options left: A. Walk away from the claim or B. Commence legal action against the responsible party or parties. The hope with filing a personal injury action is to obtain fair compensation. After an action is commenced, there is hope for settlement; after hearing the facts, receiving documentation supporting the allegations of negligence and supporting the damages claimed, the responsible party may acknowledge fault for settlement purposes and offer a suitable amount of compensation to settle the case.
Why would someone settle only after an action is commenced? There are various reasons and the most common is simply a difference in views on legal responsibility or a strategy being employed in that they wait to see if the injured person will actually follow through and commence a court action. With litigation, there is risk for everyone involved. The general rule is that the losing party must pay their own legal expenses AND also the legal expenses of the winning party. Litigation tends to include complex legal procedures and law that can also result in unpredictable results which makes settlement the better option for all involved.
At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, we will litigate any case if necessary. We have experience in litigation and WILL NOT BACK DOWN. However, we ALWAYS encourage pursuing settlement because of the risks and stress involved in litigation. The most important reason behind attempting settlement is that the parties will finally dispose of the issues. We always try to have the parties acknowledge that the matter should be resolved without a trial. In the end, no party to litigation wishes to incur unnecessary legal expense and deal with the stress associated with the court process.
The process of obtaining a personal injury settlement is not as easy a process as it appears to be. The injured person must prove several elements of their case. They include:
1. They were, in fact, injured;
2. They were injured due to someone else’s act or omission;
3. There existed a duty for the responsible person to act or omit to act;
4. The act or omission was the direct or foreseeable cause of the injury;
5. The injuries must be proven by reliable and admissible medical evidence;
6. The alleged negligence must be proven by reliable and admissible evidence, usually by direct evidence of witnesses and sometimes by a mix of lay witness evidence and expert evidence in complicated personal injury cases;
7. The expenses, damages and losses must be proven by reliable and admissible evidence such as health care providers, actuaries, accountants, other professionals and experts;
8. All of the above must be proven by facts and solid reliable admissible evidence;
9. The amount of the claims for compensation must be based on acceptable and proper evaluations, opinions and estimations demonstrating, in a reliable way, the quantum of the claims; and of course,
10. Professional legal advice is needed to assess and opine on all of the above.
Any case can be settled without a lawyer. However, a personal injury lawyer can provide vital legal advice in every aspect of the case and, our experience is, that settlements obtained are much higher with the assistance of a personal injury lawyer. The guidance of a personal injury lawyer is very important in many aspects. Advice on the list above for instance. A personal injury lawyer can encourage and negotiate a settlement on an injured person’s behalf at any stage of the process. A personal injury lawyer can compensate for the injured persons’s inexperience in legal matters and lack of legal knowledge and information.
A personal injury lawyer can assess and assist in obtaining the needed facts and evidence to make a stronger case for settlement and trial. Examples are (a) obtaining the right medical evidence such as clinical notes and records, independent test results, medical legal reports and finding reliable and fair medical experts to provide professional opinions; (b) documenting the incident with authorities; (c) filing claims;. (d) obtaining witness statements; (e) obtaining photographs of the scene of the accident and injuries; (f) assessing income and other special losses; (g) assessing the full extent and severity of the injuries and impact of the physical, mental and psychological injuries on the client’s life; (h) assessing the value of the compensation and various damages based on case law (I) assessing any other evidence needed to present a favourable case for settlement and, if needed, court appearances and eventually trial.
The content of this article is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be comprehensive legal advice. This article is a summary only.
If you have been injured in an accident, let us help you. We are experienced and dedicated personal injury lawyers. Call us for a free consultation at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Plant Quinn Thiele LLP. Marc Quinn - Personal Injury Lawyer, Law Instructor, Mediator and Founder of the Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network.
Personal injury cases resolve one of three ways. They are either settled in Court following a trial; settled before or during a trial; or prior to litigation being commenced. Out of court settlements refers to settlements obtained without any litigation necessary. Most cases settle on a out of court settlement basis. It is uncommon for personal injury cases to reach trial. Based on most statistics, only 5% of ALL cases filed in Court actually reach trial; most (95%) are resolved prior to trial.
If litigation is necessary, cases settle at either the end of the exchange of pleading (documents starting the court matter and the defences) stage, mediation stage or settlement conference stage. Litigation involves parties who are unable to settle the case without litigation. This happens for many reasons: either the compensation sought is too high, the injuries are too serious, the injuries are ongoing and not fully known, there is a dispute over responsibility for the accident (i.e. legal liability) or the quantum of damages claimed.
If the person responsible is not willing to settle, there are really two options left: A. Walk away from the claim or B. Commence legal action against the responsible party or parties. The hope with filing a personal injury action is to obtain fair compensation. After an action is commenced, there is hope for settlement; after hearing the facts, receiving documentation supporting the allegations of negligence and supporting the damages claimed, the responsible party may acknowledge fault for settlement purposes and offer a suitable amount of compensation to settle the case.
Why would someone settle only after an action is commenced? There are various reasons and the most common is simply a difference in views on legal responsibility or a strategy being employed in that they wait to see if the injured person will actually follow through and commence a court action. With litigation, there is risk for everyone involved. The general rule is that the losing party must pay their own legal expenses AND also the legal expenses of the winning party. Litigation tends to include complex legal procedures and law that can also result in unpredictable results which makes settlement the better option for all involved.
At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, we will litigate any case if necessary. We have experience in litigation and WILL NOT BACK DOWN. However, we ALWAYS encourage pursuing settlement because of the risks and stress involved in litigation. The most important reason behind attempting settlement is that the parties will finally dispose of the issues. We always try to have the parties acknowledge that the matter should be resolved without a trial. In the end, no party to litigation wishes to incur unnecessary legal expense and deal with the stress associated with the court process.
The process of obtaining a personal injury settlement is not as easy a process as it appears to be. The injured person must prove several elements of their case. They include:
1. They were, in fact, injured;
2. They were injured due to someone else’s act or omission;
3. There existed a duty for the responsible person to act or omit to act;
4. The act or omission was the direct or foreseeable cause of the injury;
5. The injuries must be proven by reliable and admissible medical evidence;
6. The alleged negligence must be proven by reliable and admissible evidence, usually by direct evidence of witnesses and sometimes by a mix of lay witness evidence and expert evidence in complicated personal injury cases;
7. The expenses, damages and losses must be proven by reliable and admissible evidence such as health care providers, actuaries, accountants, other professionals and experts;
8. All of the above must be proven by facts and solid reliable admissible evidence;
9. The amount of the claims for compensation must be based on acceptable and proper evaluations, opinions and estimations demonstrating, in a reliable way, the quantum of the claims; and of course,
10. Professional legal advice is needed to assess and opine on all of the above.
Any case can be settled without a lawyer. However, a personal injury lawyer can provide vital legal advice in every aspect of the case and, our experience is, that settlements obtained are much higher with the assistance of a personal injury lawyer. The guidance of a personal injury lawyer is very important in many aspects. Advice on the list above for instance. A personal injury lawyer can encourage and negotiate a settlement on an injured person’s behalf at any stage of the process. A personal injury lawyer can compensate for the injured persons’s inexperience in legal matters and lack of legal knowledge and information.
A personal injury lawyer can assess and assist in obtaining the needed facts and evidence to make a stronger case for settlement and trial. Examples are (a) obtaining the right medical evidence such as clinical notes and records, independent test results, medical legal reports and finding reliable and fair medical experts to provide professional opinions; (b) documenting the incident with authorities; (c) filing claims;. (d) obtaining witness statements; (e) obtaining photographs of the scene of the accident and injuries; (f) assessing income and other special losses; (g) assessing the full extent and severity of the injuries and impact of the physical, mental and psychological injuries on the client’s life; (h) assessing the value of the compensation and various damages based on case law (I) assessing any other evidence needed to present a favourable case for settlement and, if needed, court appearances and eventually trial.
The content of this article is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be comprehensive legal advice. This article is a summary only.
If you have been injured in an accident, let us help you. We are experienced and dedicated personal injury lawyers. Call us for a free consultation at 613-315-4878 or 613-315-HURT. Plant Quinn Thiele LLP. Marc Quinn - Personal Injury Lawyer, Law Instructor, Mediator and Founder of the Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Slip and Fall Accidents - Owner and Occupier Liability - Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyers Seek Compensation for Injured Clients
Ottawa is the nation’s capital and the centre of tourism for Canada. It is a place where people from all over the world attend to visit and live. Tourists and residents rely on business establishments to provide a safe environment for shopping. Unfortunately, most cases of fall accidents happen in local businesses where hundreds and perhaps thousands of people attend each day.
Under the provisions of the Occupier’s Liability Act of Ontario, it is not the customer who is responsible to maintain property and keep it safe for use, it is the owner and/or occupier’s responsibility.
If a property has hazardous conditions that may present a danger to others, it must be maintained so as to avoid accidents. Occupiers and owners have a legal responsibility to keep their customers and everyone using the property safe. Customers should not be concerned or worried about their safety when shopping.
If an injury occurs because of a careless owner or occupier, our lawyers can help you seek the compensation you deserve. Our lawyers handle premise liability and all other personal injury cases caused by falls of all types. Our personal injury lawyers represent injured persons to settle cases and attend court hearings where settlement is not possible but for litigation.
Whether the cause of the fall is because of obvious or hidden hazardous conditions of the property such as slippery floors, wet floors, uneven floors, uneven surfaces, obstructed surfaces, obstructed walkways or aisles, etc..., owners and/or occupiers must ensure the property is safe. If they do not, they will be held liable to pay the injured persons compensation. We help clients obtain millions in compensation each year.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall or trip and fall accident and you believe it was due to the negligence of another person, you have the right to claim compensation. Hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer is the best way to ensure you obtain fair compensation.
To consult with one of our personal injury lawyers and obtain a free personal injury case analysis, call us at 613-315-HURT (4878). Marc Quinn, Founder of the Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network.
Under the provisions of the Occupier’s Liability Act of Ontario, it is not the customer who is responsible to maintain property and keep it safe for use, it is the owner and/or occupier’s responsibility.
If a property has hazardous conditions that may present a danger to others, it must be maintained so as to avoid accidents. Occupiers and owners have a legal responsibility to keep their customers and everyone using the property safe. Customers should not be concerned or worried about their safety when shopping.
If an injury occurs because of a careless owner or occupier, our lawyers can help you seek the compensation you deserve. Our lawyers handle premise liability and all other personal injury cases caused by falls of all types. Our personal injury lawyers represent injured persons to settle cases and attend court hearings where settlement is not possible but for litigation.
Whether the cause of the fall is because of obvious or hidden hazardous conditions of the property such as slippery floors, wet floors, uneven floors, uneven surfaces, obstructed surfaces, obstructed walkways or aisles, etc..., owners and/or occupiers must ensure the property is safe. If they do not, they will be held liable to pay the injured persons compensation. We help clients obtain millions in compensation each year.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall or trip and fall accident and you believe it was due to the negligence of another person, you have the right to claim compensation. Hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer is the best way to ensure you obtain fair compensation.
To consult with one of our personal injury lawyers and obtain a free personal injury case analysis, call us at 613-315-HURT (4878). Marc Quinn, Founder of the Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer Network.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Ottawa Injury Lawyers - We have relocated to 310 O’Connor Street, Ottawa, Ontario.
I write to advise of some exciting news regarding our practice in the area of personal injury and our new law office. We have relocated to a building we purchased at 310 O’Connor Street, Ottawa, Ontario.
A few years ago, our law firm restructured as a personal injury boutique law firm in an effort to create a boutique litigation office dedicated almost exclusively to assisting people who have been injured in an accident. We focus on personal injury, disability insurance claims, including CPP and ODSP claims. We have enjoyed great success as a personal injury law firm.
We have helped to represent hundreds of individuals with various injuries and disabilities such as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, depression and other disabilities to secure their just entitlement to disability and other insurance benefits, Canada Pension Plan disability pension benefits, ODSP benefits and other benefits.
In order to enhance our service in the areas of disability, accident and personal injury law, we are adding new members to our personal injury litigation group. Our personal injury practice group members are passionate about helping injured persons in Ontario.
Please contact us at 613-315-HURT if you require assistance of a personal injury law firm. Marc Quinn, Ottawa personal injury, disability law and accident lawyer.
A few years ago, our law firm restructured as a personal injury boutique law firm in an effort to create a boutique litigation office dedicated almost exclusively to assisting people who have been injured in an accident. We focus on personal injury, disability insurance claims, including CPP and ODSP claims. We have enjoyed great success as a personal injury law firm.
We have helped to represent hundreds of individuals with various injuries and disabilities such as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, depression and other disabilities to secure their just entitlement to disability and other insurance benefits, Canada Pension Plan disability pension benefits, ODSP benefits and other benefits.
In order to enhance our service in the areas of disability, accident and personal injury law, we are adding new members to our personal injury litigation group. Our personal injury practice group members are passionate about helping injured persons in Ontario.
Please contact us at 613-315-HURT if you require assistance of a personal injury law firm. Marc Quinn, Ottawa personal injury, disability law and accident lawyer.
I don’t want to look like I am just chasing money- Ottawa personal injury lawyers.
I don’t want to look like I am just chasing money- Ottawa personal injury lawyers.
We often hear from clients that they are apprehensive about pursuing a personal injury matter and often they delay in contacting a personal injury lawyer. The main reason is that they do not wish to appear like they are greedily chasing money.
In reality, hiring a personal injury lawyer is only partly about the money, or should we say about compensation that fairly addresses the pain, suffering and impact the accident has had on a person’s life. Starting a personal injury action or seeking compensation is perfectly valid, fair and appropriate. In most cases, insurance covers the losses and that is what insurance is for after all.
If you have been injured in an accident, the person responsible ordinarily will have liability insurance who will cover the compensation paid. There is no point in feeling bad about the person responsible, they are unlikely to pay the claim out of their own pocket anyways. The insurance company will pay pursuant to a policy of insurance. In motor vehicle cases, Ontario law requires drivers to carry auto insurance and this is the purpose for having auto insurance.
Inevitably, an accident will cost you- you will incur expenses and likely miss work. Not all expenses are covered by OHIP, or private benefit plans. The injuries may be significant requiring you to change work or careers entirely to accommodate your injuries and disabilities caused by the accident. In the end, there is nothing wrong with seeking compensation. The legal system in Ontario is set up to provide an ethical and fair way to compensate victims of accidents.
If you have been injured in an accident, contact us at 613-315-HURT, Marc Quinn - Ottawa personal injury lawyer, founder of the Ottawa Persona Injury Lawyer Network.
We often hear from clients that they are apprehensive about pursuing a personal injury matter and often they delay in contacting a personal injury lawyer. The main reason is that they do not wish to appear like they are greedily chasing money.
In reality, hiring a personal injury lawyer is only partly about the money, or should we say about compensation that fairly addresses the pain, suffering and impact the accident has had on a person’s life. Starting a personal injury action or seeking compensation is perfectly valid, fair and appropriate. In most cases, insurance covers the losses and that is what insurance is for after all.
If you have been injured in an accident, the person responsible ordinarily will have liability insurance who will cover the compensation paid. There is no point in feeling bad about the person responsible, they are unlikely to pay the claim out of their own pocket anyways. The insurance company will pay pursuant to a policy of insurance. In motor vehicle cases, Ontario law requires drivers to carry auto insurance and this is the purpose for having auto insurance.
Inevitably, an accident will cost you- you will incur expenses and likely miss work. Not all expenses are covered by OHIP, or private benefit plans. The injuries may be significant requiring you to change work or careers entirely to accommodate your injuries and disabilities caused by the accident. In the end, there is nothing wrong with seeking compensation. The legal system in Ontario is set up to provide an ethical and fair way to compensate victims of accidents.
If you have been injured in an accident, contact us at 613-315-HURT, Marc Quinn - Ottawa personal injury lawyer, founder of the Ottawa Persona Injury Lawyer Network.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Car Accidents and Other Accidents - Plant Quinn Thiele LLP (Ottawa personal injury lawyer network lawyers) - Protecting Injured Persons in Ontario
At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP (Ottawa personal injury lawyer network lawyers), our personal injury lawyers are dedicated to protecting the rights of injured persons in Ontario. Sometimes that means having to take a firm stand on issues like the amount of compensation a client deserves and litigate a case. We litigate cases and are not intimidated by defence lawyers or insurers.
As personal injury lawyers, we provide effective and ethical legal counsel to injured persons throughout Ontario, with a team of experienced personal injury litigators who focus on personal injury cases in Ontario.
We are committed to honesty, integrity and professionalism and we are a law firm made up of dedicated advocates / lawyers who fight for our clients. At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, we are personal injury lawyers who continually strive for justice and fairness in every aspect of our client’s cases and we do all we can to maximize the compensation our injured clients deserve.
Through settlements, we have obtained many substantial settlements in excess of $1 million dollars. We take all forms of personal injury cases, big and small.
We invite you to learn more about us by reviewing our site and once you have done so, you will see that we provide dedicated, competent, fair and compassionate services to injured persons in Ontario.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, car accident, slip and fall, trip and fall or other type of accident causing injury, please contact us for a free consultation. Let us fight for you. Contact us at mquinn@pqtlaw.com or 613-315-HURT. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Founding Partner, Ottawa personal injury lawyer and mediator.
As personal injury lawyers, we provide effective and ethical legal counsel to injured persons throughout Ontario, with a team of experienced personal injury litigators who focus on personal injury cases in Ontario.
We are committed to honesty, integrity and professionalism and we are a law firm made up of dedicated advocates / lawyers who fight for our clients. At Plant Quinn Thiele LLP, we are personal injury lawyers who continually strive for justice and fairness in every aspect of our client’s cases and we do all we can to maximize the compensation our injured clients deserve.
Through settlements, we have obtained many substantial settlements in excess of $1 million dollars. We take all forms of personal injury cases, big and small.
We invite you to learn more about us by reviewing our site and once you have done so, you will see that we provide dedicated, competent, fair and compassionate services to injured persons in Ontario.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, car accident, slip and fall, trip and fall or other type of accident causing injury, please contact us for a free consultation. Let us fight for you. Contact us at mquinn@pqtlaw.com or 613-315-HURT. Marc-Nicholas Quinn, Founding Partner, Ottawa personal injury lawyer and mediator.
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