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The Top Causes Of Personal Injury Accidents In Autumn

The Top Causes Of Personal Injury Accidents In Autumn

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Autumn has arrived and with it, a change in weather. While many find this change refreshing and love what the season brings, the reality is that new environmental hazards come into play. 

New Hazards Arrive With the Change of Seasons

During autumn, two types of personal injury accidents are likely to occur. 

Slip and Fall Accidents

It’s essential for property owners and managers to ensure that every area is safe and hazard-free during the fall when weather changes increase: 

  • Standing Water
  • Mud
  • Fallen Leaves
  • Fallen Branches
  • Snow

Storms can also cause damage to structures like steps and sidewalks, creating unsafe walking conditions. 

Car Accidents 

Car accidents are more likely to occur for the same reasons listed above. Even safe drivers can lose control when tires hit a wet patch of leaves or ice. 

The change in seasons also results in shorter days. The loss of light earlier in the day can not only impact driving conditions but can also impact a person’s sleep cycle. Fatigued driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving, as sleeping drivers completely lose control over their vehicle. 

What to Do if You Are Injured This Autumn

If you or a loved one are seriously injured in an accident this autumn you could be eligible for a personal injury lawsuit. The compensation obtained through a lawsuit could pay for medical bills, lost earnings, physical pain and suffering, and more. 

Protect yourself and the evidence by taking the following steps after an accident: 

  • Seek immediate medical care. 
  • Take photographs if possible of the scene of the accident and the resulting injuries. 
  • Collect witness contact information.
  • Begin collecting medical records. 

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

At Hilborn and Konduros, our experienced team of Cambridge ON personal injury attorneys can help. Contact us for a no-cost consultation at (519) 658-6341. 

Steps To Take After A Pool Accident

Steps To Take After A Pool Accident

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As the weather continues to get warmer more home and business owners will take steps to open their pools for the season. While the majority of visitors will safely enjoy all that a pool has to offer, others will sustain serious injuries. 

Pool Accidents & Injuries 

The most common type of pool accident is slip and fall accidents. These accidents are caused by wet surfaces and foreign objects like hoses, pool accessories, and outdoor furniture. 

Slip and fall accidents can result in serious injuries, such as: 

  • Brain Injuries 
  • Spinal Injuries
  • Broken Bones

These injuries can not only be expensive to treat but are frequently life altering. 

Pool Owners Have A Duty To Protect 

It doesn’t matter if a pool is owned by an individual homeowner or a business, pool owners must take steps to keep the pool area safe. In Ontario, the first step that every pool owner must take to increase pool safety is the installation of a fence. 

If pool owners fail to take reasonable steps to create a safe environment, they can be held legally liable for any injuries that occur as a result. 

Pool Accident Lawsuits 

If you’ve been injured in a pool accident you may be feeling alone and unsure of your legal rights. At Hilborn and Konduros, our experienced team of Cambridge ON pool accident attorneys can help. Contact us for a no-cost consultation or call us at (519) 658-6341.

You have the right to fight for compensation for your injuries. Don’t hesitate – call today. 

Can I Sue After A Construction Zone Accident

Can I Sue After A Construction Zone Accident?

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Although distracted driving, speeding, and a failure to yield can cause car accidents at any time, the risk of being involved in an accident is greatly increased in a construction zone. 

Construction Zone Accidents Cause Catastrophic Injuries 

It’s no secret that construction zones can slow down traffic and cause traffic jams. This congestion, paired with dangerous driving habits, creates a dangerous environment. If a driver fails to stop, not only will they likely hit another vehicle, but they may also send that first vehicle crashing into several others. 

In addition to other cars, the crash could easily involve and injure workers in the construction zone. 

Construction zone accidents frequently result in: 

  • Head Trauma
  • Neck Injuries
  • Spinal Cord Damage
  • Lacerations
  • Amputations
  • Burns
  • Broken Bones

It can take months or even years to heal from traumatic injuries and in many cases, it may not be possible to regain full function. 

Car Accident Victims Deserve Compensation For Their Injuries 

Car accident injuries can impact a person’s ability to work and enjoy life. This is why the law allows accident victims to take legal action against those responsible. 

A car accident lawsuit can provide compensation for past and expected future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

Can I Sue If My Loved One Was Killed In A Car Accident? 

Yes, you may have the right to sue if your loved one was killed in a car accident. This type of lawsuit is known as a wrongful death lawsuit. 

To learn more about car accident lawsuits and wrongful death lawsuits, contact the experienced legal team at Hilborn and Konduros. Our law firm offers a no-cost consultation.  Call us at (519) 658-6341.

What Type Of Compensation Can Drunk Driving Accident Victims Get?

What Type Of Compensation Can Drunk Driving Accident Victims Get? 

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If you or a loved one have been seriously injured in a car accident that was caused by a drunk driver you have the right to take legal action. A drunk driving civil lawsuit helps accident victims recover the compensation they need to move forward. 

When a court awards compensation, that compensation is known as “damages”. Plaintiffs in drunk driving lawsuits can be awarded compensatory damages that help to cover medical bills, lost wages, and physical pain and suffering. 

The total amount awarded to each plaintiff varies greatly and is based on the actual losses that were sustained, as well as expected future expenses. 

Who Can an Accident Victim Sue in Ontario? 

The answer might seem simple – accident victims can take legal action against the drunk driver who caused the accident. However, there could be another party that can be held legally liable. The establishment that provided the alcohol. 

In Ontario, Section 39 of the Liquor Licence Act R.S.O. 1990, c. L.,19 holds establishments liable for selling liquor to individuals who become intoxicated and then cause injury to another party. Basically, bar and restaurant owners have a duty to protect the public from harm by not allowing patrons to become intoxicated. 

An establishment can accomplish this by not overserving patrons, ensuring that intoxicated patrons leave in a taxi or rideshare, or by making sure a designated driver takes the patron home. 

Who is More Liable, The Driver or the Establishment? 

Typically, the drunk driver will be considered more liable than the establishment which served them alcohol. However, depending on the circumstances, liability could be considered 50/50. 

Contact an Experienced Ontario Car Accident Attorney

Our legal team offers no-cost consultations to the victims of drunk drivers. We will review your case and inform you of all legal options available to you. Don’t wait – there are strict timelines during which a claim must be filed. 

Call our Cambridge ON legal office at (519) 658-6341 or contact us using our online form

Who is the Responsible Party in a Slip & Fall Accident? 

Who is the Responsible Party in a Slip & Fall Accident? 

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Thousands of Canadians are injured in slip and fall accidents each year. Of those, more than half that are hospitalized are senior citizens. What many accident victims don’t realize is that they often have the right to take legal action against the responsible party. 

Who is the Responsible Party in a Slip & Fall Accident?

According to the law, property owners in Ontario are responsible for keeping their property reasonably safe for visitors. If they fail to do so and a visitor is injured as a result, the accident victim can file a lawsuit against them. 

What is Considered Reasonably Safe? 

What is considered reasonably safe will change from property to property.  For example, it is reasonable to find acres of uneven surfaces and slopes on a farm. The same would not be considered reasonably safe at a shopping center. 

The courts take into account the type of property and expected use when a slip and fall lawsuit is filed. 

Common Causes Of a Slip & Fall Accident 

The following are the most common causes of slip and fall accidents: 

Uneven Sidewalks 

It doesn’t matter if a sidewalk is made from brick, concrete, or stone, just a fraction of an inch can cause someone to catch their foot and fall. 

Ice 

While property owners can’t control the weather, they can take steps to remove snow and ice from the walkways of their property. This must be done in a reasonable amount of time following a winter storm. 

Poor Lighting 

Poor lighting, especially in stairwells, makes it difficult to see and also makes it easy to miss a step. 

Unsecure Handrails 

Handrails exist to help provide support both on level walkways and in stairwells. When a handrail fails, the person using it typically falls. 

Wet Surfaces 

Again, it’s not possible to control the weather, however, property owners should ensure that the entryway has non-slip surfaces. Any spills should be cleaned up immediately and wet floor signs placed in any moist area to keep visitors aware of the risk. 

Slip & Fall Lawyers in Cambridge Ontario 

If you or a loved one were injured in a slip and fall accident, contact our experienced lawyers to learn more about your legal options. We offer no-cost case reviews. Schedule yours now by calling (519) 658-6341 or contact us using our online form.

Common Injuries Sustained In Pedestrian vs Car Accidents

Common Injuries Sustained in Pedestrian vs Car Accidents

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When a car hits a pedestrian it’s no surprise that it’s typically the pedestrian that typically sustains the most damage. Often, the injuries sustained by pedestrians can be catastrophic and can impact their overall quality of life. 

The Most Common Injuries Sustained by Pedestrians 

Here are the most frequently diagnosed injuries in pedestrians who have been hit by a car. 

  1. Spinal Injuries: Fractured vertebrae, spinal cord injuries, and herniated discs can result in partial or full paralysis. 
  2. Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries can impact nearly every bodily function. Patients with a TBI frequently have difficulty with speech, memory, and fine motor functions. 
  3. Amputations: Pedestrians hit by cars often lose a limb. 
  4. Internal Injuries: The force of impact can cause serious damage to any of the internal organs. 
  5. Broken Bones: It can take weeks or months for one fracture to heal. If complications arise, that time period can be extended. 

Pedestrians in Ontario are Protected by The Highway Traffic Act 

According to Section 193(1) of the Highway Traffic Act, when a car vs pedestrian accident occurs, the driver is always initially considered at fault. This means that if the pedestrian chooses to pursue a personal injury lawsuit, the driver must prove that the pedestrian was actually at fault. 

Working With A Car Accident Attorney Drastically Increases Chances Of Recovering Compensation 

The legal team at Hilborn and Konduros have helped many car accident victims recover the compensation they need to pay for medical care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. We offer no-cost consultations to pedestrians who have been hit by a car. 

Our team can help by: 

  • Collecting documentation to support your case; 
  • Collecting witness statements;
  • Speaking with the insurance companies.

We fight aggressively to obtain the maximum possible compensation for our clients, whether it be through a settlement or verdict. 

To schedule your no-cost consultation and learn more about your case, call our Cambridge ON office at (519) 658-6341.

What To Expect During A Personal Injury Lawsuit In Ontario

What to Expect During a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Ontario

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As an accident victim, you may have been relieved to hear that you can file a legal claim seeking compensation from a negligent party. This legal claim, commonly known as a personal injury lawsuit, isn’t a simple process. Below you’ll see an outline of the legal process so that you and your loved ones know what to expect. 

The Steps in a Personal Injury Lawsuit

Here are the phases of a personal injury lawsuit.

  1. Hiring An Attorney: Choosing the right legal team is perhaps the most important decision in the legal process. When you choose Hilborn and Konduros, you can rest easy knowing you have an experienced legal team on your side. 
  2. Document Gathering: This step involves gathering as many documents that are related to your case as possible. This might include police reports, insurance paperwork, medical records, income statements, and even video evidence. 
  3. Pleadings: The pleadings outlines the case for the court and names the defendants. The defendants then have a set period of time to respond to the legal claim. 
  4. Discovery: During discovery, all involved parties are required to list and provide copies of all documents that are relevant to the case. Oral discovery often takes place in the form of interviews. 
  5. Pre-Trial: A Pre-Trial judge is assigned and the attorneys present a theory. The judge and attorneys will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the case. The hope is that this process will end with a settlement. 
  6. Trial: If a settlement agreement the case will go to trial where our legal team will fight aggressively for the compensation you deserve. 

Our legal team understands how stressful this time is and will help to guide you through this process step by step. 

Is it Better to Settle or Go to Trial? 

The decision to settle or go to trial is a very personal one. Our legal team will always present all offers to settle, however, the choice is ultimately yours. In some cases, no offer is made and the case must proceed to trial. 

Don’t Wait – Call Our Cambridge ON Law Firm Today

Our law firm offers no-cost consultations to accident victims. Call (519) 658-6341 to learn more about your legal rights.  

Common Mistakes That Are Made After a Car Accident in Ontario

Common Mistakes That Are Made After a Car Accident in Ontario

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Nobody is ever prepared for a car accident and, unfortunately, when they happen, few understand what they should do. It’s critical to understand how to react to a car accident, especially if it may result in an accident claim. 

Report the Accident

Ontario law requires that you report the accident to police if damages appear in excess of $2,000. Otherwise, you have 24 hours to report it. Better that you report the accident immediately. A police report offers critical evidence and collects important information. 

In addition, you typically must report your accident within seven days to your insurance company in order to qualify for statutory accident benefits. 

Don’t Admit Fault

Although saying you are sorry after an accident does help diffuse the tension, never say anything that may be construed to mean that you are admitting fault. Unfortunately, this may be used against you if the accident results in a tort claim.

Collect Evidence, If Possible

If you are able, you should collect information from the other drivers and witnesses, such as contact and insurance information. Take photos of all the damage and the scene of the accident. 

Get Immediate Medical Attention

While you may not feel injured in the moment, your body is on adrenaline overload after an accident. And adrenaline mutes the body’s response to pain. You may begin to see and feel symptoms hours and even days after the accident, especially if it concerns a brain injury or concussion. 

It’s best for your health and a possible injury claim if you seek medical intervention immediately so you can address injuries proactively. Furthermore, insurance claims will require proof of injury and a paper trail to support benefits. 

Contact a Skilled Legal Professional 

If you have been injured in a car accident due to the fault of another driver, you may be entitled to compensation from that driver. But Ontario laws are complicated when it comes to pursuing an injury claim. At Hilborn and Konduros, our experienced team of Cambridge ON car accident attorneys can help. Contact us for a no-cost consultation or call us at (519) 658-6341.

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Recognizing the Signs of Traumatic Brain Injuries

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From sporting event injuries to car accidents, science is having a new understanding of the effects of traumatic brain injury, from post-concussion syndrome to longer-term connections with things such as dementia. With children heading back to school, we do so with the knowledge that brain injuries are now the leading cause of death and disability in both children and teenagers, according to the Brain Injury Association of America. 

Causes of Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries are caused by sudden and abrupt damage to the brain, with the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries being falls and motor vehicle accidents. Interestingly, falls cause nearly half of all brain injury hospitalizations today. 

In the case of car accidents, even minor ones, it is very common for individuals to feel soreness afterwards, especially if they have been forcefully constrained by the seatbelt or an airbag has deployed. But in cases where there is head trauma, or the head has been jerked back and forth, it is critical to watch for signs that may indicate a TBI. 

The Subtlety of Symptoms

Car accident head trauma can result in two different types of injuries. Primary brain damage can occur at the point of impact when the head hits an object, such as the steering wheel. This can result in skull fracture and bleeding in the brain. Secondary damage, including brain swelling and increased blood pressure inside the skull, is not always immediately detectable and may take time to develop. Often, an individual can seem fine after an accident but symptoms will develop over hours or even days afterward. 

If you have been in a motor vehicle accident, it is important to be watchful for these signs of traumatic brain injury:

  • Dizziness and balance issues
  • Blurred vision
  • Headache
  • Confusion
  • Slow reaction time
  • Neck pain
  • Light or sound sensitivity
  • Ringing in the ears

Signs of a potentially more serious TBI can include

  • Loss or alteration of consciousness
  • Unresponsiveness
  • Bleeding
  • Dilated pupils
  • Eyes not tracking correctly
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Convulsions

It is always critical to get a medical evaluation as soon as possible after a car accident to rule out any possible injuries, even without overwhelming symptoms.

Getting Help

If you have been involved in a car accident or fall and have suffered a traumatic brain injury, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries from the at-fault party. Contact the skilled Cambridge personal injury lawyers at Hilborn and Konduros at (519) 658-6341 or contact us online to schedule a no-cost consultation to discuss your rights. 

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.

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