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What to Ask in Your Free Consultation with a Car Accident Lawyer

What to Ask in Your Free Consultation with a Car Accident Lawyer 

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The days and weeks since your car accident have felt like a mad rush between therapy sessions, doctor appointments, and never-ending paperwork from the insurance company. It’s all you can do to deal with the pain in your neck, legs and back; the concussion they say you’ve suffered causes confusion and anxiety.

With your regular flow of income at a standstill, how will you ever cover the cost of all those treatments? Since the accident itself was not your fault, you expected help from your insurance company. Instead, it feels as if you’re getting the runaround. The tone of the emails and letters you have received is upsetting – they appear to imply that you’re exaggerating your issues in order to avoid going back to work. You’re being put under pressure to meet with medical experts for new testing. You’re being asked to sign forms you don’t understand.

After resisting the idea up until now, you’ve reached the point of needing legal advice. While you’ve never been the type of person who’s always threatening “I’ll sue!”, you need to speak with someone who knows what it all means and who can guide you through the paperwork and the process. There has to be an end in sight to this nightmare….

Where should you begin?  What questions should you be asking when aking advantage of a lawyer’s offer of a free consultation? Beginning with the accident, everything has seemed to go wrong — you just have to get this meeting “right”. How will you know if this person is the “right” fit for your situation? How will you demonstrate that you are someone the lawyer would want as their client?

The Short Answer:

In your free consultation with a car accident lawyer, ask about their experience with cases like yours, how they handle accident benefits (SABS) and insurer exams (IME), who will work on your file, how updates work, and how fees and disbursements are paid. The right lawyer will explain your options clearly, without pressure to sue.

Preparing for your free consultation with a car accident lawyer (10-minute prep list):

 Start by gathering the basic pieces of information. No need for a fancy binder or an index – just make sure to include:

  • where you worked prior to the accident
  • date and location of the accident
  • your insurance information
  • copy of the police report of the accident
  • letters or emails you’ve received from the insurer
  • list of your symptoms and how they affect your daily existence

Prepare to be believed.

While the insurance company does not appear to take your concerns and complaints, seriously, this consultation with a car accident  lawyer is your chance to share your worries — about your health, about money, about what the future holds for you.

Prepare to be reassured

You have worried that hiring a car accident lawyer will make the insurance company punish you or stop paying you benefits.  An experienced accident lawyer will be able to reassure you that your fear of retaliation is not founded in fact.

The consultation is a two-way street — prepare to get answers about:

  • the injury lawyer’s experience:
  1. What percentage of your practice is focused on car accident work?
  2. Do you have experience with clients suffering from chronic pain, PTSD, and psychological (not just physical) injuries?
  3. What kinds of results have you achieved in cases like mine?
  4. Do most of your car accident cases settle, or do they go to trial?
  • process, timeline, and who actually does the work:
  1. What are the next 3-5 steps if I decide to work with you?
  2. Who will be working on my file day to day? (Will it be the lawyer, an associate, or a law clerk?)
  3. How long do cases like mine usually take?
  • communication and fit:
  1. How often will I hear from you?
  2. What is your preferred method of staying in touch – phone? email? video?
  3. How quickly may I expect you to respond to my calls or emails?
  • fee structure and money matters (even if you hate asking – ask!)
  1. How does your contingency fee work? (What percentage of any settlement do you keep?)
  2. Who covers the cost for experts, records, and reports? (Are these recovered from the settlement?)
  3. Can you walk me through a sample settlement, showing what I would pay and what I’d receive?
  • vision for the future:
  1. How do my symptoms fit with what you see in other clients?
  2. How might the accident and this case affect my ability to work and earn income over time?

Question to ask yourself after a consultation with an Ontario injury lawyer

Were there “red flag” signals (Uh-oh – this might not be the right one for me!) or were there “green flags” (Yes, this is the type of lawyer I need):

  • Green flags – 
  1. The lawyer’s explanations were clear, calm, and realistic.
  2. The lawyer was very direct about fees, timelines,, and about who would be handling your file.
  3. All your questions were answered.
  4. You were under no pressure to sign any agreements.
  5. There were no grandiose promises or guarantees of “winning big.”
  6. You felt “heard” and respected.
  7. You were not rushed through the appointment.
  8. The lawyer was interested in the symptoms you described which are not easily visible.
  • Red flags – 
  1. The lawyer used aggressive, fear-based language in referring to the insurance company.
  2. The lawyer was evasive about fees, timelines, or about who would be handling your file.
  3. You felt pressure to rush through the details and conclude the appointment.
  4. You felt pressure to hire the attorney and sign a contract immediately.
  5. You did not feel as if your questions had been answered fully.
Rob Konduros Disability, Employment & Personal Injury Lawyer

At Hilborn and Konduros, we’re at your your side every step of the way, guiding you through the process, answering your questions, helping you complete the paperwork to build your case, and ensuring you receive fair treatment from your insurer.

How You Should Feel After a Free Consultation

Use this as your final gut-check:

☐ I feel believed

☐ I understand my options better than before

☐ I know what happens next

☐ I understand fees and costs more clearly

☐ I did not feel pressured to “sue” or decide on the spot

If those boxes aren’t mostly checked, it’s okay to speak to another lawyer.

FAQ: What to Ask in Your Free Consultation with a Car Accident Lawyer

 

Get The Compensation You Deserve

Start with a Free, No-Pressure Case Review
Call Rob
How to Choose a Car Accident Lawyer in Ontario (Even If You Don’t Like the Idea of Suing)

How to Choose a Car Accident Lawyer in Ontario (Even If You Don’t Like the Idea of Suing)

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You’re still finding it hard to believe how everything can go downhill so suddenly, with your entire life changed in just a few short seconds. There you were, driving back to work after an appointment, and next you know, you’re dealing with a disabled car and a serious injury.

Doctor appointments and therapy sessions have meant missing, not only days and week at work, but certain important business planning sessions. Even after filling out endless paperwork from the insurance company, you feel they’re giving you the run-around rather than representing your interests. 

You’re stressed, to say the least, about paying for all those treatments, having lost not only time, but wages. Getting a real person from the insurance company on the phone to explain your rights and expedite the process? Forget it! Since the accident itself was not your fault, you had assumed your insurance company would just step in and do the job you’d been paying them for – providing benefits! Instead, the emails you’ve received from the insurer seem to imply that you’re just exaggerating your problem. They are pressuring you to sign some forms that you really don’t understand.

At this point you’re not only physically hurting, but tension is also causing you to lose sleep over the situation. You’re angry.  However, you’ve never been the type of person to sling around threats of “going to court”. Can a car accident lawyer be of help to me even if you don’t end up suing either your own insurance company or the careless driver who caused the accident?

How do Ontario car accident claims actually work? 

  • The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario supervises the auto insurance sector, and SABS, the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule. is included in all automobile insurance as standard coverage.
  • The Ontario Motorist Protection Plan is the official name of the legislation introduced in 1990 dictating how claims for medical care, rehab, and wage replacement are filed by a driver with his or her own insurer, regardless of who was at fault in a crash.
  • Claims for property damage, meanwhile, are paid by the insurance on the damaged car (under the Direct Compensation Property Damage clause), then recovered from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. 

What things do insurance companies actually consider when evaluating a claim?

In evaluating your claim for medical benefits, your Toronto insurance company will be scrutinizing your medical records, looking for several things:

  • any pre-existing conditions (that cannot be blamed on the accident)
  • the kinds of treatment you’ve needed
  • evidence of pain and suffering (the insurer may possibly hire
  • their own examiners to do CMEs)
  • wages you’ve lost that are directly related to the accident

As a result of the accident, you may very well have sustained “invisible injuries,”  such as:

  • soft-tissue injuries
  • concussions
  • psychological trauma

These types of injury are especially difficult to prove and are often questioned by insurers.

Signs you’ve reached the “I-can’t-do-this-alone-any-longer” point and need legal advice:

  1. You’ve endured weeks and months of treatments, exams, questionnaires, and interviews with no sign financial help is on the way.
  2. You’re being pressured by the insurer to sign forms accepting a low settlement.
  3. Your inquiries are being ignored or rebuffed; you’re being treated as being dishonest.

If you’re not considering a lawsuit, how might consulting an auto accident lawyer be of help?

An experienced, knowledgeable auto accident lawyer:

  • is used to dealing with IME medical consultants and with insurance adjusters, demonstrating  the validity of “invisible” but very real sources of your pain and suffering
  • can help you avoid falling into “traps” through casual statements and social media posts 
  • understands the intricate language of any settlement offer and can help you decide whether to accept or reject it

What qualities should I seek when hiring an auto accident lawyer?

  1. When visiting the lawyer’s website, you found a lot of helpful information, with no pressure to “sell” the practice. The testimonials sound like they come from “ordinary folks” like you – workers and parents (not like “professional plaintiffs” boasting “gotcha” stories)
  2. You want someone who has handled cases like yours many times, one who has experience with not only physical injuries after car crashes, but psychological damage, chronic pain, and PTSD.
  3. You want someone who will be honest with you, “telling it like it is”, helping you have realistic expectations rather than making empty promises. Because this lawyer has such a calm demeanor, the encounter seems to relieve your stress.

Even if it feels awkward, ask these questions about the process:

  • Who will be handling my file on a day-to-day basis? (Will the lawyer remain involved, or will your case be turned over to assistants or office staff?)
  • How often will I be hearing from you?
  • What are my next steps if I hire you?

Even if it feels awkward, ask these questions about money:

In Ontario, Canada, almost all auto accident lawyers work for a contingency fee — if you don’t get money from the insurer, they don’t get any from you. (No win? No fee.) When there is a settlement or award, costs – the cost of expert reports and court fees will be repaid from the settlement before the lawyer takes his/her fee. Typical lawyer contingency fees in Ontario are 25% to 33%.

  • “What is your contingency fee and what does it cover?”
  • “What happens if my case doesn’t settle?”
  • “Will you be giving me these answers in writing?”
  • “Can you walk me through an example, using numbers?”


At the end of the consult with the auto accident lawyer, you should feel:

  • believed
  • taken seriously
  • clear about your options and next steps
  • under no pressure to sign anything now
Rob Konduros Disability, Employment & Personal Injury Lawyer

As a veteran litigator who has dealt with car accidents many, many times before, my role is simple:

  • protect your rights

  • deal with both insurance companies

  • de-mystify the paperwork

  • help you move forward with dignity and support (whether you end up filing a lawsuit or not)

No surprises.  No upfront costs (we offer contingency fee options)

For a no-obligation chat, call 519 658 6341

What Should You Look For in a Car Accident Lawyer (Beyond Billboards)?

To choose a car accident lawyer in Ontario, look for clear explanations, real experience with injuries like concussion, chronic pain, and PTSD, and a calm communication style that matches your values. Ask how they handle accident benefits, insurer paperwork, and timelines, and how fees work. A good lawyer protects you without pushing you into a lawsuit.

Checklist: 7 traits of a good Ontario car accident lawyer

  • Clear, patient explanations (no legal fog)
  • Experience with motor vehicle claims and “invisible” injuries
  • Honest about timelines and uncertainty
  • Transparent about fees and disbursements
  • Responsive communication and a clear point of contact
  • Evidence-driven approach (medical records, function, documentation)
  • Treats you like a person, not a file number

Quick Comparison: Good Fit vs. Red Flags

Good Fit

Red Flags

Explains options clearly, without pressure

Pushes you to “sign today”

Discusses evidence and function

Makes big promises or guarantees

Transparent about fees and costs

Vague about money or disbursements

Calm, respectful tone

Loud, aggressive, or dismissive

Clear who works on your case

You can’t tell who handles your file

 

You do not need to become a different person to protect yourself after a crash. You can be reasonable and still ask for what’s fair. You can hate conflict and still get clear advice. And you can choose a lawyer who treats you like a person, not a payout.

Not sure if you even need a lawyer? Get a free, no-pressure case review.

We’ll listen, explain your options in plain language, and you decide what feels right, no obligation, no upfront cost.

Privacy note: Your initial consultation is confidential and does not obligate you to move forward.

FAQ: How to Choose a Car Accident Lawyer in Ontario

 

Get The Compensation You Deserve

Start with a Free, No-Pressure Case Review
Call Rob
Why “Invisible Injuries” Can Be the Hardest to Prove

Why “Invisible Injuries” Can Be the Hardest to Prove

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When we think of car accidents, we often picture visible injuries—broken bones, cuts, or bruises. But some of the most serious and long-lasting consequences are those we can’t see. Concussions and other mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) fall into this category of “invisible injuries,” and they can be the hardest to prove in a personal injury claim.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of brain injury caused by a sudden jolt or blow to the head. Even without direct contact, the force of a car accident can cause the brain to move inside the skull, leading to injury.

Unlike cuts or fractures, concussions don’t show up on X-rays and often won’t appear on CT scans or MRIs. Diagnosis relies heavily on symptoms and medical evaluations, which can make them more difficult to document in a legal case.

Common Symptoms of Concussions

Concussion symptoms are often delayed and can last for weeks, months, or even years. They include:

  • Headaches and dizziness

  • Memory problems or difficulty concentrating

  • Sensitivity to light or sound

  • Fatigue and sleep disturbances

  • Mood changes, such as anxiety, irritability, or depression

Because these symptoms aren’t always immediate or visible, accident victims sometimes don’t realize they’ve suffered a concussion until days later.

Why Concussions Are Hard to Prove in Legal Claims

  1. No visible evidence

    • Unlike a broken bone, concussions can’t be confirmed by a simple scan, making them easier for insurers to dispute.

  2. Delayed onset

    • Symptoms may not appear right away, leading to questions about whether the injury was caused by the accident.

  3. Subjective symptoms

    • Many concussion effects—like headaches or difficulty focusing—are self-reported, which insurers may challenge as exaggerated or unrelated.

  4. Pre-existing conditions

    • If a person already had migraines, mental health challenges, or learning difficulties, insurers sometimes argue the accident didn’t cause the new problems.

Strengthening a Concussion Claim

If you’ve suffered a concussion in a car accident, there are steps you can take to build a strong case:

  • Seek medical attention immediately. Document your symptoms from day one, even if they seem minor.

  • Follow up regularly. Ongoing medical records help prove the persistence of your injury.

  • Consult specialists. Neurologists, neuropsychologists, and rehabilitation therapists can provide expert opinions.

  • Keep a symptom diary. Tracking headaches, fatigue, or memory lapses can show the day-to-day impact of your injury.

  • Get legal advice early. A personal injury lawyer can ensure proper evidence is gathered and insurers don’t minimize your claim.

The Human Impact of “Invisible Injuries”

For many people, the most frustrating part of a concussion isn’t just the symptoms—it’s the lack of understanding from others. Friends, coworkers, and even family may not realize how deeply an invisible injury can disrupt daily life. Victims may look “fine” on the outside, but internally they are coping with exhaustion, brain fog, and mood changes that affect work, relationships, and quality of life.

This disconnect is why strong medical documentation and legal advocacy are so important in these cases.

Concussions are more than just “mild” brain injuries—they can change lives. But because they’re invisible, they’re also some of the hardest injuries to prove in a personal injury claim.

At Hilborn & Konduros, we understand the challenges of invisible injuries. We know how to work with medical professionals, gather the right evidence, and advocate for clients whose injuries aren’t always obvious to the eye—but are life-changing nonetheless.

If you’ve suffered a concussion after an accident, don’t let the invisibility of your injury prevent you from getting the compensation and support you deserve.

The Rise of E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents

The Rise of E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents

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In recent years, e-scooters and e-bikes have become a common sight on Ontario streets. They’re convenient, affordable, and eco-friendly—but they also come with risks. As more people use these micromobility devices, accident rates have climbed, and the legal questions that follow are not always straightforward.

Whether you’re a rider, driver, or pedestrian, it’s important to understand the rules of the road, your rights, and what to do if an accident happens.

Ontario’s E-Scooter Pilot Program

Ontario introduced a five-year pilot program in 2020 to test the use of e-scooters on public roads. Under the rules:

  • Riders must be 16 years or older.

  • Helmets are required for those under 18.

  • Maximum speed is capped at 24 km/h.

  • Riding on sidewalks is prohibited.

  • Municipalities decide whether to allow or ban e-scooters locally.

E-bikes have been legal for longer, but they must meet federal safety standards and cannot exceed 32 km/h.

Because rules vary by city, it’s important to check local bylaws before riding.

Common Accident Scenarios

  1. Collisions with Motor Vehicles

    • E-scooters and e-bikes are smaller and harder to see, especially at intersections. Drivers may fail to notice them until it’s too late.

  2. Pedestrian Accidents

    • Riding on sidewalks is illegal, but still common. When riders ignore this rule, pedestrians are at risk of being struck.

  3. Loss of Control

    • Potholes, uneven pavement, or sudden braking can easily cause riders to fall, leading to serious injuries.

  4. Shared Responsibility

    • In some cases, both the rider and another party (such as a driver or municipality responsible for road maintenance) may share liability.

Who Is Liable After an E-Scooter or E-Bike Accident?

Liability is often complex because unlike cars, e-scooters don’t require license plates or insurance. This can leave victims uncertain about who should cover damages.

  • If hit by a driver: The at-fault driver’s auto insurance typically applies.

  • If a rider causes an accident: Riders may be personally liable, and homeowners’ or renters’ insurance could come into play.

  • If poor road conditions caused the crash: A municipality might share liability for failing to maintain safe roads.

Because these cases involve new and evolving laws, working with a lawyer experienced in personal injury claims is crucial.

Injuries from E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents

Despite their small size, these devices can cause serious harm in a crash. Common injuries include:

  • Concussions and traumatic brain injuries.

  • Broken bones and fractures.

  • Soft tissue injuries (neck, back, and shoulder pain).

  • Facial injuries from falls without helmets.

These injuries often require medical treatment, time off work, and long recovery periods—sometimes with lasting consequences.

What to Do After an Accident

If you’re involved in an e-scooter or e-bike accident:

  1. Seek medical care immediately. Even minor injuries should be documented.

  2. Gather evidence. Take photos of the scene, road conditions, and any vehicles involved.

  3. Get witness information. Independent accounts can be critical in proving fault.

  4. Report the accident. If a motor vehicle was involved, notify police and your insurance company.

  5. Consult a lawyer. Early legal advice helps protect your rights and ensures proper claims are filed.

E-scooters and e-bikes are here to stay in Ontario—but with their rise comes new legal challenges. Whether you’re a rider injured by a negligent driver, or a pedestrian struck by an e-scooter, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses.

At Hilborn & Konduros, we stay on top of emerging legal issues to protect our clients. If you’ve been hurt in an e-scooter or e-bike accident, we’re here to help you navigate the complex rules and fight for the compensation you deserve.

What to Expect from Your Free Consultation with a Personal Injury Lawyer

What to Expect from Your Free Consultation with a Personal Injury Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in an accident, scheduling a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer is an important first step. But many people don’t know what to expect or how to prepare.

At Hilborn and Konduros, we offer free consultations to help clients across Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridgeunderstand their rights and whether they have a case.

Here’s what you can expect during your first meeting with us.

We’ll Listen to Your Story

You’ll have a chance to explain what happened in your own words. Whether it was a car accident, a fall, or another injury, we want to understand how the event occurred, what injuries you’ve suffered, and how your life has been affected.

We’ll Ask Some Questions

To give you the best possible advice, we’ll ask questions about:

  • The date, time, and location of the incident

  • Any reports filed (police, WSIB, property manager, etc.)

  • Medical treatment you’ve received

  • Insurance coverage, if applicable

  • Any communication you’ve had with other parties

We’ll Review Any Documents You Bring

If you have medical records, accident reports, photos, or correspondence with insurance companies, bring them with you. These materials help us better assess your case.

We’ll Explain Your Options

Once we understand the details, we’ll let you know if we believe you have a legal claim. We’ll also explain how the claims process works, what compensation you may be entitled to, and what the next steps would look like if you choose to move forward.

There’s No Pressure

Your consultation is a chance to get honest, practical legal advice—without any obligation. We’ll answer your questions and give you the information you need to decide what’s best for you.

Book Your Free Consultation Today

If you or a loved one has been injured, don’t wait to get help. Contact Hilborn and Konduros to schedule your free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Kitchener or Waterloo.

Slip and Fall Accidents in Kitchener: Do You Have a Case?

Slip and Fall Accidents – Do You Have a Case?

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Slip and fall accidents can lead to serious injuries that affect your ability to work or enjoy everyday life. If your fall happened on someone else’s property and was caused by unsafe conditions, you may be entitled to compensation.

At Hilborn and Konduros, we help people in Kitchener, Waterloo, and surrounding areas understand whether they have a claim and what steps to take next.

Common Places Where Falls Happen

We often see slip and fall cases involving:

  • Icy sidewalks and driveways

  • Wet floors in stores or restaurants

  • Uneven pavement or damaged stairs

  • Poor lighting in hallways or parking lots

These types of hazards can occur on private, commercial, or municipal property.

Who Is Responsible?

Property owners, landlords, and managers are legally required to keep their premises reasonably safe. If they fail to address hazards or warn visitors about them, they can be held liable for injuries under Ontario’s Occupiers’ Liability Act.

What to Do After a Fall

If you’re injured, here’s what you should do:

  • See a doctor right away, even if the injury seems minor

  • Take photos of the scene and what caused the fall

  • Get names and contact information for any witnesses

  • Report the incident to the property owner or manager

  • Speak with a lawyer before accepting any settlement offer

Know Your Rights

If your injuries have caused you to miss work, require ongoing treatment, or affect your quality of life, you may be eligible for compensation. A local personal injury lawyer can help you understand your options and guide you through the claims process.

Hilborn and Konduros is here to support you. Book your free consultation today and let us help you take the next step toward recovery.

WSIB Claims in Ontario: Common Mistakes That Could Cost You

Common WSIB Claim Mistakes That Could Cost You

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If you’ve been injured at work, you may be entitled to benefits through Ontario’s Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB). Unfortunately, many claims are delayed or denied because of avoidable mistakes.

At Hilborn and Konduros, we’ve worked with injured workers across Kitchener-Waterloo to help them get the compensation they deserve. Here are some of the most common missteps we see—and how to avoid them.

1. Waiting Too Long to Report the Injury

Reporting your injury to your employer as soon as possible is crucial. Delays can raise questions about when and how the injury occurred, which could hurt your claim. Always document the incident in writing, even if you speak to someone in person.

2. Skipping Medical Treatment

Even if your injury seems manageable, it’s important to get checked by a doctor. Medical records are a key part of your WSIB file. If you don’t follow through with appointments or treatment, the WSIB may assume your injury isn’t serious.

3. Downplaying Your Symptoms

Some workers try to “tough it out” or return to work too quickly. But if you aren’t fully recovered, this can make things worse and impact your claim. Be honest about your pain and limitations, both with your doctor and the WSIB.

4. Trying to Handle It Alone

The WSIB system can be complicated, especially if your claim is denied. A WSIB lawyer in Kitchener or Waterloo can help you gather the right evidence, meet important deadlines, and guide you through appeals if needed.

You Don’t Have to Face It Alone

If your benefits were denied, cut off, or delayed, legal advice can make all the difference. Hilborn and Konduros offers free consultations, and we’re here to help injured workers throughout the region move forward with confidence.

Injured in a Car Accident in Ontario? Your Next Steps Explained

Injured in a Car Accident in Ontario? Your Next Steps

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Being involved in a car accident is overwhelming—and knowing what to do next can make a big difference in protecting your health, your rights, and your ability to seek compensation.

Here’s what Hilborn and Konduros recommends if you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Kitchener, Waterloo, or anywhere in Ontario.

1. Get Medical Attention Immediately

Even if your injuries seem minor, see a doctor right away. Some conditions (like concussions or soft tissue injuries) may not show symptoms until later. Having a medical record is also crucial for any personal injury claim.

2. Document the Scene

If you’re able, gather the following:

  • Photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage

  • Names and contact information of witnesses

  • A copy of the police report or incident number

3. Notify Your Insurance Company

In Ontario, you’re required to report a car accident to your insurer within 7 days (or as soon as possible). You may be entitled to accident benefits even if the crash was your fault.

4. Speak to a Personal Injury Lawyer Before Signing Anything

Insurance companies may offer early settlements that don’t fully account for your long-term injuries or losses. Before accepting any offer or giving a statement, contact a car accident lawyer in Kitchener or Waterloo.

5. Know Your Rights

You may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for:

  • Pain and suffering

  • Lost income or reduced earning capacity

  • Medical and rehabilitation costs not covered by insurance

At Hilborn and Konduros, we offer free consultations to help you understand your options and protect your rights after an accident.

How Ontario Law Handles Injuries Caused by Dog Bites

How Ontario Law Handles Injuries Caused by Dog Bites

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Dog bites can happen suddenly, even with dogs that seem friendly or familiar. If you’ve been bitten or injured by a dog in Ontario, it’s important to know that the law takes these incidents seriously—and that victims often have a clear path to compensation.

Ontario’s Dog Owners’ Liability Act makes the rules very clear: the owner is legally responsible for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of the animal’s breed or past behaviour. This means you don’t need to prove the dog had bitten someone before or that the owner was negligent. Simply put—if the dog caused harm, the owner is liable.

This law applies whether the bite happened in a public place, on the owner’s property, or even in your own home if the dog was visiting. It doesn’t have to be a bite either—if a dog knocks you over, causes a cycling accident, or otherwise injures you, the same rules often apply.

If you’re injured, start by getting medical attention right away. Dog bites can lead to infection or scarring and may require antibiotics, stitches, or even surgery. Make sure your injury is well documented, both by healthcare providers and with your own photos if possible.

Then, gather information about the dog and the owner. Get their name, phone number, and the dog’s vaccination history if available. If the owner refuses or the dog is loose, try to photograph the dog or speak with any witnesses nearby who may have seen what happened.

You should also report the incident to your local public health unit. In most Ontario municipalities, this is mandatory. They will likely investigate to confirm that the dog is vaccinated against rabies and may issue restrictions or other orders.

When it comes to seeking compensation, a lawyer can help you file a claim for damages. This may include medical expenses, lost income, emotional trauma, and cosmetic concerns such as scarring. Homeowner’s insurance or renter’s insurance may cover the dog owner’s liability—even if the bite didn’t happen on their property.

While the law is on your side as a victim, things can still get complicated—especially if the owner disputes the facts or tries to shift the blame. That’s why having a lawyer on your side makes a difference.

At Hilborn and Konduros, we’ve helped many clients recover after serious dog bite injuries. If you’ve been hurt by a dog and aren’t sure where to turn, give us a call. We’ll walk you through your options and help you pursue what you’re entitled to.

What to Say When the Insurance Company Calls

What to Say When the Insurance Company Calls

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After an accident or injury, hearing from the insurance company might feel routine—but what you say on that call can have long-term consequences. The person on the other end may sound friendly, but their goal is to protect the company’s bottom line, not necessarily to help you.

Start by being polite but cautious

You can confirm your name, contact info, and the date of the incident, but you don’t need to go further right away. If the adjuster starts asking for details about how the accident happened or how you’re feeling, it’s okay to pause. You’re not required to answer everything on the spot, and you certainly don’t have to go into detail before you’re ready.

Avoid guessing or minimizing

One of the most common mistakes people make is downplaying how they’re feeling. Saying something like “I’m doing okay” can seem harmless, but it may be used to argue that your injuries aren’t serious. On the flip side, guessing or speculating about what happened—especially when you’re still processing it—can open the door to misinterpretation later.

Don’t give a recorded statement right away

If they ask to record the call, you can decline or ask to reschedule. A simple response like “I’d prefer to speak with my lawyer before giving a recorded statement” is more than enough. Once something is on record, it can be replayed and dissected—and sometimes, innocent comments get twisted or taken out of context.

Never admit fault

Even casual phrases like “I didn’t see them” or “maybe I was going too fast” can be viewed as admissions. It’s human nature to want to be polite or take some of the blame, but in legal terms, that can have consequences. Stick to what you know and avoid making assumptions or accepting fault.

It’s okay to ask for more time

If you’re caught off guard or feeling unsure, there’s nothing wrong with asking to continue the conversation later. Say something like, “I’m not in a position to speak right now—can I get back to you once I’ve had time to review things?” Taking time to prepare is a smart move that helps you avoid saying something that could affect your claim.

Why having legal guidance matters

Insurance adjusters work for the insurer, not for you. They’re trained to gather information in ways that might limit what you receive. Having someone in your corner—especially early on—can make a big difference in how your claim is handled.

If you’re feeling unsure about how to deal with an insurance call after an accident, you’re not alone. At Hilborn and Konduros, we can help you navigate these conversations, protect your rights, and make sure you’re not taken advantage of. Reach out to us before you speak to the insurer—we’ll make sure you’re prepared.

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