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Celebrate Safely: Mitigating Risks for a Worry-Free Holiday Season in Canada

Mitigating Risks for a Worry-Free Holiday Season

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As the holiday season approaches, the focus on joy and celebration doesn’t mean neglecting safety precautions. In this blog post, we’ll delve into crucial tips to ensure a worry-free holiday season in Canada, minimizing potential risks and fostering a safe environment for all.

1. Navigating Winter Hazards: Preventing Slips and Falls

Canadian winters bring snowy and icy conditions. To reduce the risk of slips and falls:

  • Prompt Snow Removal: Keep driveways, walkways, and stairs promptly cleared of snow and ice.
  • Proper Footwear: Encourage appropriate winter footwear to lessen the risk of slips.
  • Caution Signage: Place caution signs in slippery areas to warn guests and ensure a safe environment.

2. Liability-Free Decorating: Secure and Safe Practices

Decking the halls is a delightful tradition, but it’s essential to do so responsibly to avoid potential incidents:

  • Secure Decorations: Ensure decorations are properly fastened to prevent injuries or property damage.
  • Fire-Safe Displays: Keep flammable decorations away from heat sources to prevent fire hazards.
  • Professional Assistance: Consider hiring professionals for high-risk decoration installations to enhance safety.

3. Illuminating Safety: Prudent Holiday Lighting Practices

While holiday lights add charm, they also come with potential safety concerns. Mitigate risks to foster a secure environment:

  • Quality Lights: Invest in certified, high-quality lights to minimize the risk of electrical issues.
  • Outdoor-Certified Lights: Use lights designed for outdoor use for exterior decorations to reduce potential fire hazards.
  • Timed Switch Off: Set a timer to automatically switch off holiday lights during non-use hours to enhance safety.

4. Responsible Festivities: Managing Alcohol-Related Risks

Holiday celebrations often involve alcohol, and responsible consumption is crucial to prevent incidents:

  • Designated Drivers: Encourage designated drivers or alternative transportation to avoid potential DUI incidents.
  • Hydration Stations: Promote the consumption of non-alcoholic beverages to encourage responsible drinking.
  • Limited Risk Exposure: By ensuring guests have safe transportation options, hosts can minimize risks associated with alcohol-related incidents.

5. Safe Journeys: Reducing Travel-Related Risks

For those travelling during the holidays, taking precautions can minimize potential incidents:

  • Winter-Ready Vehicles: Encourage travellers to equip their vehicles with winter tires for safer journeys.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Remind travellers to have an emergency kit on hand to reduce potential risks associated with travel emergencies.
  • Weather Monitoring: Stay informed about weather conditions and adjust travel plans accordingly to minimize risks.

6. Fire Safety: Avoiding Incidents in a Cozy Setting

A warm fireplace or candlelit ambiance is quintessential during the holidays, but precautions are necessary to minimize incidents:

  • Candle Safety: Place candles in secure holders and away from flammable materials to reduce fire risk.
  • Fireplace Screens: Use fireplace screens to prevent sparks and minimize potential incidents.
  • Regular Safety Checks: Conduct regular safety checks and ensure smoke alarms are functional to reduce incidents associated with fire hazards.

7. Cooking Safely: Incident-Free Kitchen Practices

Safe kitchen practices during holiday cooking contribute to a carefree celebration:

  • Attentiveness: Avoid distractions while cooking to reduce the risk of incidents.
  • Safe Handling: Promote the proper handling of hot pots and pans to minimize the risk of injuries.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Have a fire extinguisher on hand in the kitchen to quickly address potential fire incidents.

A Worry-Free Holiday Celebration

In the spirit of the season, adopting these safety measures ensures a joyful celebration with minimized risks. By prioritizing safety and responsible practices, hosts and participants can enjoy a festive holiday season filled with warmth, cheer, and worry-free celebrations. Wishing everyone a safe and joyful celebration!

Firework Safety: Minimizing Fire-Related Accidents and Injuries

Firework Safety: Minimizing Fire-Related Accidents and Injuries

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As the May long weekend approaches, many Canadians look forward to celebrating with fireworks displays. While fireworks can be a dazzling spectacle, it’s crucial to prioritize safety to prevent fire-related accidents and injuries. In this blog post, we will explore essential tips and guidelines for firework safety, specifically focusing on the upcoming May long weekend.

1. Familiarize Yourself with Local Laws and Regulations:

Before planning any firework activities, it’s essential to research and understand the specific laws and regulations governing fireworks in your province or municipality. Each region may have restrictions on the types of fireworks allowed, age restrictions, permitted usage locations, and designated times for fireworks displays. Adhering to these regulations ensures a safe and legal celebration.

2. Purchase Fireworks from Reputable Sources:

When purchasing fireworks, it is crucial to obtain them from authorized and reputable sources. Avoid buying fireworks from unreliable or unauthorized vendors, as they may not meet safety standards. Look for certified fireworks that bear the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) label, ensuring they have undergone proper testing and are approved for use in Canada.

3. Designate a Responsible Adult:

Ensure that a responsible adult takes charge of the fireworks display. This individual should be knowledgeable about firework safety practices and prepared to enforce safety guidelines. This person should also be sober and free from distractions to maintain a safe environment during the event.

4. Choose the Right Location:

Select a suitable outdoor location for the fireworks display. The area should be clear of any flammable materials, including dry grass, trees, or structures. It is recommended to perform fireworks displays in open spaces, away from buildings and vehicles, to minimize the risk of fires and accidents.

5. Read and Follow Instructions:

Carefully read and follow the instructions provided by the firework manufacturer. Each firework has specific handling and ignition guidelines that must be adhered to for safe use. Pay attention to recommended safety distances, lighting procedures, and any additional precautions mentioned on the packaging.

6. Keep Water and Fire Extinguishers Nearby:

As a safety precaution, have a water source, such as a hose or bucket of water, readily available in case of emergencies. Additionally, keep a fire extinguisher nearby to quickly extinguish any fires that may occur. Ensure that the fire extinguisher is suitable for handling different types of fires, including those caused by fireworks.

7. Maintain a Safe Distance:

Always maintain a safe distance from ignited fireworks. Follow the recommended safety distances specified on the packaging to prevent injuries caused by fireworks launching debris or malfunctioning fireworks. Encourage spectators to keep a safe distance and establish a designated viewing area.

8. Dispose of Used Fireworks Properly:

After the fireworks display, dispose of used fireworks safely. Submerge used fireworks in a bucket of water to ensure they are fully extinguished before disposal. Avoid throwing used fireworks into trash bins or leaving them lying around, as they may still pose a fire risk.

Celebrating the May long weekend with fireworks can be an enjoyable experience for all, but it’s essential to prioritize safety to prevent fire-related accidents and injuries. By familiarizing yourself with local laws, purchasing fireworks from reputable sources, designating a responsible adult, choosing a suitable location, following instructions, maintaining a safe distance, and disposing of used fireworks properly, you can ensure a safe and memorable celebration. Remember, prioritizing firework safety is crucial not only for your well-being but also for the well-being of those around you.

Water Safety and Liability: Know Your Rights at Public Pools, Beaches, and Water Parks

Water Safety and Liability: Know Your Rights at Public Pools, Beaches, and Water Parks

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As the summer season approaches, many Canadians seek relief from the heat by visiting public pools, beaches, and water parks. While these aquatic environments offer fun and relaxation, it’s essential to be aware of water safety measures and understand your rights regarding liability. In this blog post, we will explore water safety considerations and the legal aspects associated with public water recreation areas.

When visiting public pools, beaches, or water parks, it is important to pay attention to the level of supervision and lifeguard services available. Adequate supervision and trained lifeguards can significantly enhance water safety. Look for designated lifeguard stations, signage indicating the presence of lifeguards, and clear instructions on their areas of coverage.

While lifeguards play a crucial role in ensuring water safety, it is important to take personal safety precautions. Swim with a buddy to avoid swimming alone, and always have someone nearby who can provide assistance if needed. Be aware of your swimming abilities and avoid venturing into deep water or dangerous currents beyond your skill level. Respect warning signs that indicate strong currents, shallow areas, or hazardous conditions. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially when spending extended periods in the sun. Use appropriate flotation devices, such as properly fitted life jackets, especially for non-swimmers or children.

When visiting water parks, follow safety guidelines provided by the park management. These may include height restrictions, proper use of slides and rides, and guidelines for children’s play areas. Pay attention to instructions from staff and adhere to the recommended safety practices to prevent accidents and injuries.

Owners and operators of public pools, beaches, and water parks have a duty of care to ensure the safety of visitors. They are responsible for maintaining a safe environment, properly functioning equipment, and adequate supervision. In the event of negligence or failure to fulfill this duty, liability may be established.

However, it’s important to recognize that personal responsibility also plays a role in water safety. Individuals should adhere to safety rules, respect warning signs, and act responsibly to prevent accidents. Failure to do so may contribute to any resulting injuries and affect liability and compensation claims.

If you or a loved one sustains an injury due to water-related incidents at public pools, beaches, or water parks, it is advisable to seek legal advice. Our team of experienced personal injury lawyers at Hilborn & Konduros can evaluate the circumstances of the incident, determine liability, and guide you through the legal process to protect your rights and seek appropriate compensation.

In conclusion, when enjoying public pools, beaches, and water parks, it’s important to prioritize water safety and be aware of your rights regarding liability. Follow safety measures, pay attention to lifeguard services, take personal safety precautions, and respect posted guidelines. Remember that owners and operators have a duty of care, but personal responsibility is also essential. If an injury occurs, consult a personal injury lawyer to understand your rights and seek legal recourse. By staying informed and acting responsibly, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable water recreation experience.

Cyclist Safety and Canadian Road Laws: Rights and Responsibilities

Cyclist Safety and Canadian Road Laws: Rights and Responsibilities

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Cycling has become a popular mode of transportation and recreation in Canada. While cycling offers numerous benefits, it is crucial for cyclists to be aware of their rights and responsibilities under Canadian road laws to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of cyclist safety, discuss key Canadian road laws pertaining to cyclists, and highlight the rights and responsibilities that cyclists should be aware of.

1. Sharing the Road: Understanding Rights and Responsibilities

Cyclists in Canada have the right to use public roads, and they are considered legal road users. However, with this right comes the responsibility to adhere to traffic laws and regulations. Cyclists must obey traffic signals, signs, and speed limits, just like any other motorist. It is essential to understand that while cyclists have the right to share the road with vehicles, they must also respect the rights of other road users.

2. Bike Lane Usage and Infrastructure

Many Canadian cities have designated bike lanes and cycling infrastructure to promote cyclist safety. Cyclists should use these bike lanes whenever available and follow the designated cycling routes. When using bike lanes, cyclists should ride in the same direction as traffic, stay to the right, and signal their intentions when turning. It is crucial to be aware of local bylaws and regulations regarding bike lane usage in your specific jurisdiction.

3. Helmet Laws and Safety Equipment

In several provinces and territories across Canada, there are laws mandating the use of helmets while cycling. Wearing a properly fitted helmet is an essential safety measure that can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in the event of an accident. Cyclists should also consider wearing reflective clothing, using front and rear lights, and equipping their bicycles with bells or horns to enhance visibility and communicate with others on the road.

4. Right of Way and Interactions with Motorists

Understanding the rules regarding right of way is crucial for cyclist safety. Cyclists must yield to pedestrians when using crosswalks and pedestrian crossings. When sharing the road with vehicles, cyclists should be cautious at intersections, signal their intentions, and maintain a predictable riding pattern. It is important to be vigilant and make eye contact with motorists to ensure they are aware of your presence on the road.

5. Importance of Defensive Cycling and Hazard Awareness

Defensive cycling involves actively anticipating and avoiding potential hazards on the road. Cyclists should be attentive to their surroundings, scanning for potential dangers such as opening car doors, potholes, or debris on the road. Maintaining a safe distance from parked cars and riding in a straight line can help prevent accidents. Being proactive and practicing defensive cycling techniques can significantly enhance cyclist safety.

6. Advocacy and Education for Cyclist Safety

Cyclist safety is a shared responsibility among cyclists, motorists, and policymakers. Cyclist advocacy groups and organizations play a vital role in promoting safe cycling practices, lobbying for improved cycling infrastructure, and raising awareness about cyclist rights and safety. Staying informed and participating in educational initiatives can help create a safer environment for cyclists on Canadian roads.

Conclusion:

Cyclist safety on Canadian roads is paramount, and understanding the rights and responsibilities of cyclists is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling experience. By adhering to Canadian road laws, using designated cycling infrastructure, wearing safety equipment, practicing defensive cycling, and advocating for cyclist safety, cyclists can contribute to a culture of safety and ensure a positive coexistence with other road users. Remember, staying informed and continuously educating oneself about cyclist safety practices is key to creating a safer cycling environment for everyone.

Philips Canada Recalls CPAP Machines

Philips Canada Recalls CPAP Machines

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In August 2021, Philips Canada, the manufacturer of various CPAP and BiPAP machines issues a recall, stating that the noise-reducing foam used in various models may degrade and potentially enter the air pathway of the device. Once in the air pathway, the particles may be inhaled by the user. 

CPAP and BiPAP Foam Could Contain Carcinogens

The company has announced that while they have not received any notice of death relating to the foam degradation, it has received notices of possible patient impact. 

The listed possible risks of particle exposure include headache, irritation, inflammation, respiratory issues, and possible toxic and carcinogenic effects. In response, nationwide class action lawsuits have been filed against the company, stating that it knowingly manufactured and sold a defective product. 

Here is a full list of the products listed in the recall: 

  1. REMSTAR AUTO WITH SD CARD, A-FLEX, CANADA
  2. REMSTAR AUTO WITH HUMIDIFIER, WITH SD CARD, A-FLEX, CANADA
  3. RESTAR PLUS WITH SD CARD, C-FLEX, CANADA
  4. RESTAR PLUS WITH HUMIDIFIER, WITH SD CARD, C-FLEX, CANADA
  5. RESTAR PRO WITH SD CARD, C-FLEX +, CANADA
  6. RESTAR PRO WITH HUMIDIFIER, WITH SD CARD, C-FLEX +, CANADA
  7. BIPAP AUTO BI-FLEX, WITH HUMIIFIER, WITH SMARTCARD, CANADA
  8. BIPAP AUTO BI-FLEX, WITH SMARTCARD, CANADA
  9. BIPAP PRO BI-FLEX, WITH HUMIDIFIER, WITH SMARTCARD, CANADA
  10. BIPAP PRO BI-FLEX, WITH SMARTCARD, CANADA
  11. RESTART, WITH HUMIDIFIER, WITH SMARTCARD, CANADA
  12. RESTAR, WITH SMARTCARD, CANADA
  13. BIPAP AVAPS, C SERIES VENTILATORY SUPPORT SYSTEM-DOMESTIC
  14. BIPAP AVAPS, C SERIES VENTILAROTY SUPPORT SYSTEM-CORE PKG, DOMESTIC
  15. BIPAP ST, C SERIES VENTILATORY SUPPORT SYSTEM-CANADA
  16. BIPAP ST, C SERIES VENTILATORY SUPPORT SYSTEM-CORE PKG,DOMESTIC
  17. BIPAP ST, C SERIES VENTILATORY SUPPORT SYSTEM, CORE PKG, CANADA
  18. OMNILAB ADVANCED, DOMESTIC
  19. OMNILAB ADVANCED, DOMESTIC CORE
  20. BIPAP AUTOSV ADVANCED SYSTEM ONE
  21. DREAMSTATION CPAP
  22. DREAMSTATION AUTO BIPAP
  23. DREAMSTATIN BIPAP PRO
  24. DREAMSTATION CPAP PRO
  25. DREAMSTATION AUTO CPAP
  26. DREAMSTATION BIPAP AUTOSV, CA
  27. DREAMSTATION BIPAP AUTOSV, W/HUMIDIFIER, CA
  28. DREAMSTATION BIPAP AUTO SV W/HUMID/HEATED TUBE, CA
  29. BIPAP AVAPS VENTILATORY SUPPORT SYSTEM-CANADA
  30. BIPAP AVAPS VENTILATORY SUPPORT SYSTEM-CORE PKG, CANADA
  31. DREAMSTATION GO CPAP
  32. DREAMSTATION GO AUTO CPAP
  33. DREAMSTATION EXPERT
  34. DREAMSTATION GO CPAP WITH HUMIDIFIER, CANADA
  35. DREAMSTATION GO AUTO CPAP WITH HUMIDIFIER, CANADA

Facts About Defective Products Lawsuits 

When a product is produced and sold to the public, the designer and manufacturer of that product are responsible for ensuring that the product won’t cause harm when it is used as intended. Sadly, many products are not properly tested or safety test results are overlooked in favor of profits. 

When an individual is harmed by a defective product they have the legal right to seek compensation for their losses. This is accomplished by filing a defective product lawsuit, a type of personal injury lawsuit. The class action lawsuit filed against Philips Canada is just one example of this type of legal action. 

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney in Ontario 

If you believe that you or a loved one have been harmed by a defective product, the attorneys at Hilborn and Konduros can help. Contact us for a no-cost consultation or call us at (519) 658-6341

Personal Injury Tips to Stay Safe This Winter

Personal Injury Tips to Stay Safe This Winter

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Here in Ontario, we already feel the fingers of winter, gently reminding us that it’s right around the corner. And we know better than anyone that driving and walking conditions here can set us up for accidents and injuries if we aren’t careful. Before you suffer a winter injury, consider these tips to keep winter hazards away from your door — and from causing an injury. 

Be a Good Property Owner

If you are injured on someone else’s property in Ontario, you can hold that individual liable for your damages. The same holds true for you. Don’t set yourself up for a premises liability claim. Make sure you are a good property owner and keep others safe by using sand or salt and shoveling or plowing any areas where people walk or drive. This will keep you safe as well as anyone who is on your property. 

And Speaking of Premises Liability

If you have sustained an injury on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Make sure you contact the owner or manager of the property to report the accident. Take plenty of photos of the area and get immediate medical attention. If you have been seriously injured, get the help of an experienced Cambridge ON personal injury lawyer. 

Keep Your Eyes on the Road and SLOW DOWN

Car accidents are the number one cause of devastating injuries in Ontario and throughout Canada. Obviously, maneuvering our roads is far more dangerous in winter than during warmer weather. 

Taking your time to safely get to your destination is critical for you, your passengers, and anyone else sharing the road. If you have been injured in a car accident in Cambridge caused by another motorist, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Getting the advice and guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your options and legal rights after a car accident. 

Whether you love or hate our winter months, nobody wants to be injured. If you have sustained an injury, we may be able to help. Contact the Cambridge ON personal injury lawyers at Hilborn and Konduros for a no-cost consultation or call us at (519) 658-6341.

he SPECT Scan is Now Available Enabling Quicker Diagnosis of Neuropsychiatric Disorders and Brain Injuries

The SPECT Scan is Now Available Enabling Quicker Diagnosis of Neuropsychiatric Disorders and Brain Injuries

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In a landmark decision in May of this year, the Canadian Association of Nuclear Medicine adopted procedural guidelines enabling the use of brain single photon emission computed tomography, or SPECT imaging, in neurobiology and psychiatry. The CANM has endorsed this imaging for the assessment of

  • Neuropsychiatric disorders, such as PTSD, ADHD, depression, and other disorders
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Dementia
  • Strokes
  • Addition

SPECT imaging measures blood flow and brain activity which can indicate where in the brain there is too much, too little, or healthy brain activity. It is very different from the common imaging that has been traditionally used for diagnosis, such as MRI and CT scans, which are more anatomical in nature. 

Used But Not Fully Accepted

While SPECT imaging has been widely recognized and used to evidence disorders and injuries, CANM had not previously published guidelines for its usage. These guidelines now tell the medical community how and when to use these scans. While they have been used as far back as the 1980s and have been used to diagnose traumatic brain injuries since 2014, the decision means that SPECT will now be accepted in many diagnoses and prognoses. 

This means that, for individuals who suffer from neuropsychiatric disorders, brain injuries, and other brain issues

  • A diagnosis can be made sooner, offering quicker treatment
  • There will be less issues with having symptoms dismissed as imagined
  • There may be less stigma surrounding “mental health” issues
  • There will be earlier and better access to accident and disability benefits 

More Acceptance, Better Treatment, Easier Access to Benefits

Unfortunately, over the years, individuals who suffered from brain injuries and what were commonly called “mental health” issues faced incredible ignorance and stigma. It was frequently a struggle to get compensation for them in the way of accident or disability benefits. 

With SPECT imaging being accepted to show positive findings of injury or other neuropsychiatric disorders, it will bring more acceptance and better treatment as a result and enable those who need it to be properly compensated for treatment or injury damages. 

If you have suffered a brain injury or are disabled due to a neuropsychiatric disorder, the Cambridge, ON injury lawyers at Hilborn and Konduros may be able to help. Call us at (519) 658-6341 or contact us online to learn more about how SPECT imaging may help you get needed compensation after an injury or disability.

Links Between Traumatic Brain Injuries and Dementia

Links Between Traumatic Brain Injuries and Dementia

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According to Brain Injury Canada, by the year 2031, traumatic brain injury is expected to become the most common form of neurological conditions affecting our population, right up there with Alzheimer’s and dementia. The interesting thing is that we now know that there is a link between the two. 

A traumatic brain injury is one caused by a blow or jolt to the head. While mild TBIs were thought to temporarily affect brain cells, with more serious brain injuries having long-term consequences, ongoing studies have found that certain types of TBIs may increase a victim’s risk of developing dementia years after the initial injury took place. 

Even a History of Moderate TBIs Can Create a Greater Risk for Dementia

One of the most important studies showed that older adults with a history of a moderate traumatic brain injury had a 2.3 times greater risk for Alzheimer’s than those without a history. Those with a history of a severe TBI showed a 4.5 greater risk for dementia. In addition, a study published by the Journal of Neurology found that a history of TBIs can accelerate the age at which cognitive decline can happen. 

While there is no current evidence suggesting that a history of mild TBIs shows any greater risk for dementia, the current emerging data shows that repeated injuries such as those experienced in contact sports show a higher risk of chronic traumatic encephalopathy, another form of dementia. 

Chemical Changes in the Brain

While further research will be needed to fully understand the link between traumatic brain injury and dementia, we are beginning to understand how TBIs change brain chemistry. Within hours of a traumatic brain injury, levels of beta-amyloid, a hallmark Alzheimer’s protein, increase in the brain. Chronic traumatic encephalopathy shows deposits of another Alzheimer’s hallmark, tau protein. 

While not everyone who experiences a traumatic brain injury will go on to develop dementia, it’s important to get any head trauma looked at immediately by a health care provider after an injury or accident. If you or a loved one has sustained a TBI in an accident, let our Cambridge personal injury lawyers help. Contact us for a no-cost consultation. (519) 658-6341

How COVID-19 is Impacting Personal Injury Claims in Ontario

How COVID-19 is Impacting Personal Injury Claims in Ontario

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For those who have suffered injuries in Ontario, the COVID-19 virus just added one more layer of difficulty in getting needed medical care and injury compensation. Over the past year, COVID has placed additional stress on those who have been injured in accidents, especially those whose injuries have prevented them from earning a living. 

Injury Victims Left to the Devices of the Insurance Industry

Ontario’s no-fault benefits entitle accident victims to receive accident benefits from their own insurance. Unfortunately, we know that the insurers take a very superficial approach to investigating a victim’s claim and have a history of consistently minimizing or even denying those claims to curtail their financial exposure. 

Prior to COVID, an injury victim would have the ability to seek remedies to insufficient accident settlements by getting additional assessments and opinions through their providers to prove their claim. Unfortunately, these were hampered by medical providers not being able to address victims’ needs in person. In addition, most in-person treatments or in-home care were unavailable to those seeking assistance, leaving injured victims without the needed assessment to overturn insufficient settlements or insurance denials. 

The Added Impact to Legal Recourse

The demands of COVID have also led to a substantial delay in our legal system, leaving many victims without the ability to get fair compensation for their injuries through litigation. As of January 12, 2021, the courts are still in a state of suspension regarding in-person attendance at courthouses. Not having legal recourse has led to a quiet desperation for many who have been left to accept unfavourable settlements due to dire financial circumstances or worsening health. 

This has also been compounded by law firms that have had to abide by quarantine remedies, deal with staffing issues, and all the other demands of work-from-home requirements. We are now experiencing a backup of cases, possibly taking an additional year or more to resolve. 

We Are Here to Help

If you have been injured in Ontario and find that you are caught in our seemingly no-win COVID situation, we may be able to help. Call the personal injury lawyers at Hilborn & Konduros Law Firm for a free consultation at (519) 658-6341 to disc

How Will COVID-19 Impact Long-Term Disability in Ontario?

How Will COVID-19 Impact Long-Term Disability in Ontario?

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COVID-19 has disrupted life as we knew it one short year ago. We have continued to see the health and economic consequences of the virus throughout Canada and learn more about its potential repercussions each day. 

As we learn more, it appears that the pandemic may have an impact on long-term disability in Ontario and worldwide. While our government has taken important steps to curtail the spread of the virus, for those 808,000 Canadians who have been infected, some will likely be suffering serious health effects both short-term and long-term. This may have a significant impact on long-term disability claims in the future. 

According to Mary Ann McColl, academic lead for Canadian Policy Disability Alliance and an epidemiologist at Queens University, “This is a whole new source of disability.”

Understanding the Consequences of COVID-19 Long Term

Worldwide, we are still trying to understand the effect that COVID-19 will have on our health in the future. The Lancet published information indicating that people who were hospitalized for COVID-19 but were discharged were still suffering from symptoms six months later. The Mayo Clinic has published a list of serious long-term and chronic issues that may be caused by the virus, including

  • Heart damage — imaging has indicated that COVID-19 recovery patients have shown lasting damage to the heart, even if they only suffered a mild case of COVID-19
  • Lung damage — COVID-related pneumonia has been shown to cause damage to alveoli in the lungs as well as scar tissue that can cause breathing issues.
  • Brain damage — COVID-19 has been shown to cause strokes, seizures, and Guillain-Barre syndrome in COVID-19 sufferers. It is even suggested that COVID increases the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease as well as Alzheimer’s. 

Depending on the terms of the policy, long-term disability benefits may be available to you if you are unable to work because of the complications and long-term effects of COVID-19. If you aren’t sure about your rights to long-term disability, contact the Ontario long-term disability lawyers at Hilborn and Konduros at (519) 658-6341 to understand if you may be covered.  

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