Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are among the most serious types of motor vehicle collisions, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, accidents involving these vehicles can leave victims with severe physical, emotional, and financial burdens. At Odette Rwigamba Lawyers, we understand the unique challenges of truck accident claims and are dedicated to helping injured victims and their families secure the compensation they deserve.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Ontario
Truck accidents can occur for various reasons, often due to negligence by the truck driver or trucking company. Some of the most common causes include:
- Driver fatigue from long hours on the road
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Distracted driving, such as texting or phone use
- Improper loading or securing of cargo
- Mechanical failures or poor truck maintenance
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Weather-related hazards such as icy roads
Our legal team will investigate your accident thoroughly, identifying all contributing factors to build a strong case for compensation.
Liability in Truck Accident Claims
Truck accidents are more complex than regular car accidents because multiple parties may be held liable, including:
- The truck driver for negligent or reckless driving
- The trucking company for improper training, poor maintenance, or overworking drivers
- Cargo loaders for improper loading or securing of cargo
- Truck manufacturers for mechanical defects or faulty parts
We work with accident reconstruction experts and investigators to determine all liable parties and hold them accountable for your injuries.
Common Injuries in Truck Accidents
Due to the sheer size and force of trucks, injuries sustained in these accidents are often severe or life-threatening. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis
- Fractures and broken bones
- Internal injuries and organ damage
- Severe burns or amputations
- Psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Our experienced lawyers understand the long-term impact these injuries can have on your life. We fight to ensure you receive compensation not only for immediate medical needs but also for ongoing care and rehabilitation.
Compensation Available for Truck Accident Victims
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation through Statutory Accident Benefits (SABS) and a tort claim against the at-fault party. Compensation may include:
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses
- Income replacement benefits for lost wages
- Pain and suffering for physical and emotional distress
- of future earning capacity if you cannot return to work
- Housekeeping and home maintenance expenses
- Future care costs for long-term or permanent injuries
We assess the full extent of your losses and fight for maximum compensation to help you recover and move forward.
Filing a Tort Claim Against the At-Fault Party
While you can receive accident benefits through your own insurance, they may not fully cover all your losses, especially for severe injuries. A tort claim allows you to seek additional compensation from the at-fault party.
Our lawyers will evaluate whether your injury meets the serious and permanent impairment threshold required to pursue a tort claim. We handle every step of the legal process, from filing the claim to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court if necessary.
Statutory Accident Benefits (SABS)
Regardless of who was at fault, you are entitled to accident benefits through your insurance policy. These benefits cover:
- Medical and rehabilitation costs
- Income replacement benefits (capped at $400 per week)
- Non-earner benefits if you cannot return to normal activities
- Attendant care benefits if you need personal assistance
- Catastrophic injury benefits for severe injuries, up to $1,000,000
Our team ensures that all accident benefit applications are filed correctly and that you receive the full benefits you are entitled to.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies may try to minimize your compensation by denying claims or offering low settlements. We handle all communications and negotiations with insurers to ensure your rights are protected. If necessary, we will dispute denied claims through mediation or litigation to secure the compensation you deserve.
How to Protect Your Rights After a Truck Accident
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, taking the right steps can protect your legal rights and strengthen your claim. Follow these steps:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Call the police and ensure an accident report is filed.
- Document the scene with photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any injuries.
- Collect contact information from the truck driver, witnesses, and other parties involved.
- Notify your insurance company within 7 days.
- Consult a personal injury lawyer to explore your legal options.
Our lawyers will guide you through each step, ensuring that all necessary actions are taken to build a strong case.
How Long Do You Have to File a Truck Accident Claim?
In Ontario, you must report the accident to your insurer within 7 days and submit your accident benefits application within 30 days. If you are pursuing a tort claim against the at-fault party, the limitation period is generally two years from the date of the accident. Missing these deadlines can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation. We make sure your claim is filed correctly and on time.
Why Choose Us for Your Truck Accident Claim?
At Odette Rwigamba Lawyers, we understand the devastating impact truck accidents can have on victims and their families. When you work with us, you benefit from:
- Experienced legal representation in complex truck accident cases
- Access to top experts, including accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals
- Comprehensive support from filing accident benefit claims to negotiating tort settlements
- Contingency fee arrangements, meaning you pay no legal fees unless we win your case
- Compassionate advocacy focused on securing the best possible outcome for you
We are committed to holding negligent parties accountable and ensuring you receive the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
