ALBERTA MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT LAWYER

Motor vehicle accidents can result in life-altering injuries, property damage, or even loss of life. Under Alberta’s Traffic Safety Act, a motor vehicle is defined as any vehicle powered by something other than muscle or a moped, including cars, motorcycles, trucks, semi-trailers, and buses. However, bicycles, power bicycles, aircraft, farm equipment, and rail vehicles are excluded from this classification.

In Alberta, an average of 22,000 motor vehicle accidents are reported annually, with many leading to severe consequences for those involved. If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident, you deserve compassionate and experienced legal support to navigate the complexities of your case.

IMMEDIATE ACTIONS AFTER A MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT

1.Ensure Safety:

• Call an ambulance if anyone is seriously injured or unconscious.

• Report suspected impaired driving by calling 911.

• If safe, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further collisions.

• Obtain a Police Report:

  If any vehicle is undrivable, damages exceed $2,000, or there are injuries, call 911 for police assistance and a report. This report is critical for any personal injury claim. Ensure you get a copy or know how to access it online.

2.Collect Information:

• Exchange names, contact details, and insurance information with all drivers involved. Take photos of licenses, registrations, and insurance details.

• Record the date, time, and location of the accident, vehicle details, driving directions, speeds, weather conditions, witness contacts, and police officer information.

• Note the tow truck driver’s information if your vehicle is towed.

• Seek medical attention immediately if you or any passengers are injured.

What to Avoid After an Accident

• Do not admit fault or apologize.

• Do not agree to pay for damages or settle without consulting your insurer.

• Do not discuss any settlements with the other party.

Reporting to Your Insurer

Regardless of fault, report the accident to your insurer and provide the necessary information, including the police report. Consult your motor vehicle accident lawyer if you have questions.

Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer

Before speaking with the at-fault driver’s insurer, consult a personal injury lawyer. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, physical therapy, and pain and suffering. We offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing until your claim is settled.

In Alberta, compensation for injuries sustained in a car accident is referred to as "damages." There are two main categories:

1. General Damages:

• These cover non-quantifiable losses, such as pain and suffering. To claim general damages, evidence such as medical reports and doctors' notes are used to demonstrate the impact of the injuries on your life.

• For minor injuries, general damages may be subject to a cap under the Alberta Minor Injury Regulations.

  THE CAP AMOUNTS OVER THE PAST FIVE YEARS ARE:

Many injuries are not subject to this cap. Insurance companies are not required to disclose this, so it's advisable to consult a car accident lawyer.

2. Special Damages:

Special damages cover quantifiable expenses, such as:

• Medical expenses not covered by insurance

• Lost wages from missed work and future job opportunities

• Medical supplies (e.g., braces)

• Prescription and over-the-counter medications

• Personal property damaged in the accident (e.g., prescription glasses)2A. Housekeeping:

• Injuries may affect your ability to perform household tasks like snow shoveling, laundry, and cleaning. You may be eligible for compensation to hire help or to cover the cost of family members taking on these tasks.

2B. Future Care Costs:

• Some injuries require ongoing care and may prevent you from returning to work, either temporarily or permanently.

2 C. Loss of Income:

• Even if you continue working, your injuries might force you to change careers, retire early, or slow your career advancement. In such cases, you may be entitled to compensation for future care costs and loss of income.

Our Services

Our experienced motor vehicle accident lawyers assist with:

• Gathering witness statements and evidence.

• Assessing the extent of your injuries.

• Negotiating with the at-fault party’s insurer.

Time Limit for Filing a Claim

In Alberta, the limitation period for filing a claim is two years from the accident date. Failure to file within this period may prevent you from pursuing a claim. It's essential to seek legal advice early.In Alberta, the limitation period for filing a claim is two years from the accident date. Failure to file within this period may prevent you from pursuing a claim. It's essential to seek legal advice early.

A motor vehicle accident is a collision involving a motor vehicle that causes property damage, injury, or death. According to Alberta's Traffic Safety Act, a "motor vehicle" includes vehicles powered by anything other than muscle or a moped, such as cars, motorcycles, trucks, semi-trailers, and buses. Bicycles, power bicycles, aircraft, farm equipment, and rail vehicles are not classified as motor vehicles.

Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers

In Alberta, approximately 22,000 motor vehicle accidents are reported annually, some leading to severe injuries or fatalities. If you've been injured in a motor vehicle accident, our motor vehicle accident lawyers can help guide you through the legal process. Below, you'll find essential steps to take after an accident and information on the compensation you may be entitled to.

PURSUING CLAIMS AGAINST UNINSURED OR UNIDENTIFIED

If you are injured in a motor vehicle accident and the at-fault driver is either uninsured or leaves the scene, your options for seeking compensation may be limited. The Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Program (MVAC) offers a legal avenue for victims to pursue claims against uninsured or unidentified drivers for personal injuries. Compensation through MVAC may be awarded up to $200,000, with any settlement amount being divided proportionally if multiple claimants are involved.

To initiate a claim with the Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Program (MVAC), you must notify them of the accident. In hit-and-run cases where the at-fault driver is unknown, you must file a lawsuit against ‘The Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Act’ and notify MVAC within 90 days. Failure to do so may result in your claim being denied.

 For accidents involving uninsured drivers, it is recommended to notify MVAC as soon as possible. Legal assistance is advised to navigate this process.

HIT AND RUN ACCIDENTS

A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver leaves the scene without providing their contact or insurance information or offering help to injured parties. Under Alberta's Traffic Safety Act, drivers involved in an accident must remain at the scene, assist injured individuals, and provide their contact, vehicle, and insurance details to those affected, including witnesses and law enforcement.

In the event that you are the victim of a hit-and-run incident, it is imperative that you promptly report the occurrence to the police authorities. It is also advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney to ascertain your legal rights and explore available avenues for pursuing compensation.

PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS

Most car insurance policies include liability coverage for accidents involving pedestrians. Whether the policy covers the pedestrian's claim depends on the policy terms and who was at fault. If the driver is known, the pedestrian can sue the driver and vehicle owner, who may have insurance to cover the injuries. Legal action must be taken within two years of the accident.

If the driver is unidentified, uninsured, or underinsured, the pedestrian may seek compensation through the Motor Vehicle Accident Claims (MVAC) Program.

Contact Us

To navigate the legal complexities and secure your rights, contact a personal injury lawyer who can help you pursue the maximum compensation. Our experienced Motor Vehicle Accident lawyers in Edmonton, Alberta, are here to assist you with your claim.