Hamilton Car Accident Lawyer

Over $45 Million Recovered for Ontario Car Accident Victims Since 2003. No Fees Unless We Win.

Free Consultations Provincewide. Call 905-333-8888 or Send us a Message Today.

In the blink of an eye, a car accident can irrevocably change the course of your life or the life of a loved one. The profound impact of a serious collision extends far beyond the physical injuries sustained; it can lead to emotional turmoil, financial strain, and a pervasive sense of uncertainty about the future. If you or a family member has been involved in a severe car accident, you may find yourself grappling with a myriad of complex emotions and daunting questions.

Our Hamilton personal injury team is dedicated to helping clients recover from accidents and ensuring justice for those affected by negligence. We emphasize our local presence and commitment to providing personal attention during these challenging times.

As you navigate this difficult journey, it is crucial to remember that you are not alone. Our Hamilton Car Accident Lawyers understand the profound impact a severe car accident can have on every aspect of your life. Our team of compassionate and knowledgeable attorneys is dedicated to helping accident victims and their families navigate the complex legal landscape and secure the resources they need to rebuild their lives. We recognize that no two accidents are alike, and we take the time to listen to your unique story, assess your needs, and develop a personalized strategy to help you move forward.

While the road ahead may seem daunting, it is important to remember that you have the strength and resilience to overcome even the most formidable challenges. By taking proactive steps to protect your legal rights and seek the support you need, you can begin to reclaim your sense of control and work towards a brighter future. Our Hamilton Car Accident Lawyers are here to walk alongside you every step of the way, providing the guidance, resources, and unwavering support you need to heal, recover, and ultimately triumph over adversity.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious car accident, please do not hesitate to reach out to us for assistance. You can contact our team by emailing us through our website or by calling our Hamilton office at 905-333-8888. We serve clients throughout Ontario and are here to help you navigate this challenging time.

Hamilton Car Accident Lawyer Matt Lalande

Matt Lalande is a Hamilton Car Accident Lawyer who has dedicated his career to advocating for car accident victims throughout the province. Since 2003, he has successfully recovered millions of dollars in compensation for his diverse range of clients, from those involved in devastating head-on collisions and high-speed highway car accidents to individuals struck by impaired or distracted drivers. His experience encompasses a wide array of serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, multiple fractures, and permanent disabilities.

Hiring a Hamilton personal injury lawyer like Matt Lalande offers numerous benefits, particularly the financial structure of their services. Many clients are hesitant to seek legal help due to potential costs, but Matt operates on a contingency fee model, making his services affordable and accessible. This means clients only pay if they win their case, providing support during difficult times without the burden of upfront legal fees.

Matt’s extensive trial experience as a Hamilton Car Accident Lawyer sets him apart from other lawyers who may not possess the same courtroom expertise. His proficiency in the courtroom often enables him to secure more substantial compensation for his clients, as defendants and insurance companies are more likely to propose higher settlements to avoid the uncertainty, time commitment, and potential financial implications of a trial.

Furthermore, Matt’s strategic approach to presenting evidence and delivering compelling arguments to a jury maximizes the likelihood of obtaining optimal damages for his clients. His ability to effectively communicate the severity of his client’s injuries and the impact on their lives can be instrumental in securing a favourable outcome.

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Proven Success

Over $45 Million for car accident victims across Ontario since 2003.

Our Success

Hamilton Car Accident Lawyer Free Consultation

At Lalande Personal Injury Lawyers, we believe that everyone should have access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why our Hamilton car accident lawyers offer free, no-obligation consultations to all potential clients. When you reach out to us, you can schedule your free consultation to discuss your personal injury claim with one of our experienced car accident lawyers at no cost to you. During this consultation, we will listen to your story, assess the merits of your case, and provide you with honest advice about your legal options.

How do Car Accident Lawyers get Paid?

Lalande Personal Injury Lawyers will never ask personal injury victims for money upfront. If somebody is seriously hurt or killed because of someone else’s negligence, the last thing a person or a family needs to deal with is a legal bill. There are no up-front legal fees, ever.

Our Hamilton car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if we win your case. Our payment comes from a percentage of the money we recover for you, typically from a settlement or a court award in a lawsuit. If you have suffered injuries in a due to someone else’s negligence, you may have a valid personal injury claim. Our legal team is here to support you in navigating the complexities of such cases.

If your case is lost, our personal injury lawyers will not receive a fee, and we will not send you a bill for disbursements, such as court filing fees, medical record retrieval costs, and expert witness fees, which are typically reimbursed from your settlement or court award.

This type of arrangement levels the playing field and allows individuals who might not be able to afford a car accident lawyer’s regular hourly rates.

How to Find a Hamilton Car Accident Lawyer Near Me

“How do I hire a car accident lawyer near me?” is a common question. Our lawyers understand that you are likely to be in a difficult state and have never had to hire a lawyer before. Hiring a car accident lawyer in an era of mass advertising can be confusing, as billboards, bus advertisements, commercials, radio ads and various other media outlets are flooded with ads for legal services.

Many lawyers utilize these platforms to reach a large audience. Still, the sheer number of advertisements can make it challenging to distinguish the right Hamilton car accident lawyer for your case.

Over $60M Recovered for Hamilton Victims

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Start your search by leveraging the power of personal referrals. Family, friends, or colleagues who have used a Hamilton car accident lawyer in the past can be excellent sources of information. They can share their experiences, the lawyer’s communication style, and the results they received. These personal insights can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from the lawyer.

Also, consider checking online reviews and testimonials to get an idea of past client’s experiences. The internet can be a valuable tool in assessing the credibility and capability of a lawyer you’ve noticed through mass advertising.

These advertisements are just one tool to identify potential lawyers; they should not be the deciding factor. After identifying potential lawyers, schedule consultations to get to know them better. Ask about their experience, fees, and how they handle cases similar to yours.

This way, you can evaluate their suitability beyond the flashy advertising and decide based on their ability to meet your specific needs. Remember, you only have one chance at hiring a Hamilton car accident lawyer. The last thing you want is to hire the wrong lawyer and end up in a worse place financially than you are now.

When Should I Hire a Hamilton Car Accident Lawyer?

If your accident has caused you severe life-changing injuries, we always recommend that you contact our Hamilton car accident lawyers sooner rather than later. We can help get the proper no-fault insurance issues into place, ensure proper post-discharge care is set up, and your home is fully accommodated to welcome your current disabilities.

We can also ensure that any income replacement you’re entitled to, whether through auto insurance or your long-term disability policy, is paid immediately. Our Hamilton car accident lawyers and occupational therapy team will ensure that all insurance benefits are put in place. We will also ensure that your home is a comfortable and welcoming environment, your attendant care is ready to be provided, and that your case is started without delay.

Never let the insurance company adjuster take control and dictate your case. It’s best to have an experienced Hamilton car accident lawyer on your side from day one. They can help you make decisions, determine what benefits you’re eligible for, hire the proper occupational therapy team, help you get home, ensure your home is a safe environment when you return, and ensure money is coming in.

Remember, insurance companies are not your friends. You need an advocate, and at our firm, it’s always free to talk to our car accident lawyers in Hamilton.

What You Should Know Before our First Meeting

No one expects to need an accident lawyer, and many victims of devastating Hamilton car crashes have never worked with one before. Feeling nervous about your free consultation is normal, especially when you don’t know what to expect. Hollywood often portrays accident lawyers as unprofessional, manipulative, and unsympathetic to injured claimants, but nothing could be further from the truth. At Lalande Personal Injury Lawyers, our experienced and compassionate car accident lawyers are dedicated to guiding you through your case with care and understanding. We believe in building strong, trusting relationships with our clients, ensuring that you feel supported and informed every step of the way.

Here’s what to expect during your free consultation with our personal injury lawyers:

1. We Will Explain the Case Process

During your initial consultation, our Hamilton personal injury lawyers will provide a clear overview of what is involved with pursuing a claim. We will explain the steps we will take on your behalf, the timeline you can expect, and the potential outcomes of your case. Our goal is to ensure that you have a thorough understanding of the process and feel confident in our ability to represent your interests effectively.

2. We Will Listen to Your Car Accident Story

Our Hamilton law firm understands that every crash is unique and has the potential to turn your life upside down. During your consultation, we will create a safe, comfortable environment where you can openly share your story about the accident and how it has impacted your life. By listening with empathy and without judgment, we aim to alleviate some of your stress and anxiety while gathering important details to provide you with personalized legal advice and representation.

3. We Will Discuss Your Legal Options

Based on the unique circumstances of your case, our Hamilton car accident lawyers will discuss the various legal options available to you. This may include pursuing a settlement with the insurance company, filing a lawsuit, or exploring alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or arbitration. We will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about the best course of action for your situation.

4. We will Discuss Our No-Fee Policy

Our Hamilton car accident lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning we only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for your claim. We don’t charge consultation or case review fees, and our fee is a percentage of the settlement or award. This no-fee policy allows you to pursue your claim without the added stress of upfront costs or ongoing legal bills.Do not sign any agreement that requires upfront payment before checking with the injury lawyers at Lalande Personal Injury Lawyers.

5. We Will Discuss Your Accident

Car accidents happen suddenly, so lawyers know that many claimants can’t fully explain how the accident occurred. However, we will need to understand how the accident happened from your point of view as best we can.

Our Hamilton car accident lawyers must understand exactly how the accident occurred—even if it means admitting to some fault. Under Ontario’s Fault Determination Rules, contributory negligence does not bar financial recovery.

6. We Will Discuss Your Life Changing Injuries

Nearly all serious car accidents cause claimants financial damages, including vehicle repair costs and lost wages. We will discuss your injuries in detail, emphasizing the importance of securing compensation for your medical bills, rehabilitation costs and other medical expenses, and how we might expect such injuries to affect your life in both the short and long term.

7. We Will Talk About You

Your Hamilton car accident lawyer must know about your life, family, job, friends, activities, and hobbies. This helps them understand the full extent of the accident’s impact on your life. Your lawyer needs to understand your immediate injuries and how these have disrupted your day-to-day activities and personal relationships.For instance, if the accident prevents you from working, engaging in hobbies you once loved, or spending quality time with your family and friends, this should be considered when pursuing compensation.

A lawyer who knows your story can effectively illustrate the totality of your loss, ensuring that any potential damages awarded reflect the true impact the accident has had on your life, livelihood, and personal happiness. This holistic understanding of your circumstances enables your lawyer to represent you more effectively and argue for a comprehensive and fair settlement or verdict.

8. We Will Complete the Intake Paperwork

To build a strong case and prove your losses, our Hamilton car accident lawyers will need access to various records and documents. During your initial meeting, we will guide you through completing the necessary authorizations and intake paperwork. These authorizations will allow us to obtain crucial evidence, such as medical records from hospitals, family doctors, rehab providers, and occupational therapists. By thoroughly documenting your injuries and treatment, we can demonstrate the extent of your damages and fight for the compensation you deserve.

I call Matt my knight in shining armour. After I was struck by a car while cycling and permanently crippled, he fielded all communications with my especially difficult and downright nasty insurance adjuster. Every step of my care was a battle and I did not have the strength to fight alone.

What Questions Should I ask a Car Accident Lawyer?

Our experienced Hamilton car accident lawyers expect you to ask specific questions upfront. Asking the right questions often helps car accident victims and their families find the right lawyer and avoid the wrong ones.

Consider asking potential Hamilton car accident lawyers these questions during your initial personal injury legal consultation:

• Have you handled cases like mine before involving serious injuries, and if so, what were the results?
• What happens if you can’t get a fair settlement or verdict in my personal injury case?
• How long have you been practicing personal injury law?
• Do you have any client testimonials I can review?
• What are the potential challenges or obstacles you foresee in my personal injury case, and how do you plan to address them?
• How much is my case likely worth?
• How long will it take to get compensation from auto insurers?
• How long do I have to file car accident litigation, if necessary?
• When should I expect you to follow up, and what’s your general client communication policy?
• How often will your personal injury law firm provide updates on the progress of my case, and what is the best way to reach you if I have questions or concerns?
• Will you be the car accident lawyer handling my case, or will other lawyers or staff members be involved?

What is my Car Accident Case Worth?

The answer is we cannot give you an answer at the moment. We also suggest to exercise caution if any other lawyer provides you with this answer.

We cannot estimate a reasonable value for your case until you reach maximum medical recovery.  Maximum Medical Recovery (MMR), also called Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), is when a person seriously injured in a car accident has recovered as much as possible, and no further improvement is expected with additional treatment. At this stage, the individual may have fully healed or reached a plateau in their recovery despite ongoing efforts to address their serious injuries.

At this point, our Hamilton personal injury lawyers would have your injuries examined by independent medical professionals who would provide us with medical opinions in regard to your future. A medical opinion at the point of Maximum Medical Recovery (MMR) helps establish the full extent of your injuries, including any permanent impairments, ongoing symptoms, and future care needs, which are crucial for quantifying compensation.  It’s at this point, your MMR, that we would be able to discuss where the case is headed and a “range” of damages with you.

Experience Matters

A few of our recent results are noted below. It’s very important to understand that no two cases are the same. Past results are not necessarily indicative of future results and litigation outcomes will vary according to the facts of individual cases. The information below are examples of Matt Lalande’s cases that he has settled or tried to verdict over his career and is for informational purposes only.

View More Case Results

$2.7M

Motorcycle Accident

For a young man who lost 2 limbs in a terrible motorcycle accident.

$1.7M

Trucking Accident

For a Truck driver who suffered 3rd degree burns in a California trucking accident.

$2.0M

Car Accident

For a middle-aged woman who suffered severe brain trauma in a t-bone crash. Tort + AB

We Also Specialize in Helping Hurt Kids

Hamilton Car Accident Lawyer Matt Lalande has developed a particular focus on representing children who have suffered devastating injuries in car accidents throughout Ontario. When a child is seriously injured in a car accident, the emotional toll on the family can be immeasurable. Parents often find themselves grappling with feelings of helplessness, anger, and an overwhelming sense of concern for their child’s future. Matt understands these complex emotions and is dedicated to providing compassionate, attentive legal representation that addresses the specific needs of injured children and their families.

Drawing upon our extensive experience in handling child injury cases, our car accident lawyers in Hamilton know that the road to recovery can be long and arduous for young victims. Children may require ongoing medical treatment, specialized therapies, and accommodations to ensure their physical, emotional, and educational well-being. Our legal team works tirelessly to secure the resources necessary to support these needs, advocating for comprehensive compensation that accounts for both immediate and future expenses.

Helping Car Accident Victims Since 2003

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Moreover, our Hamilton car accident lawyers recognize that the impact of a child’s injury extends far beyond the present moment. As children grow and develop, the full extent of their injuries may become more apparent, affecting their ability to reach critical milestones and participate in activities that many of us take for granted. By fighting for fair and just compensation, our car accident lawyers aim to provide injured children with the best possible chance at a bright and fulfilling future, despite the challenges they may face.

If your child has been seriously injured in a car accident, our Hamilton car accident law firm is here to help. With our specialized knowledge, unwavering dedication, and compassionate approach, we will stand by your side, guiding you through your case and working relentlessly to secure the best possible outcome for your child and your family. Together, we can ensure that your child receives the support, care, and resources they need to heal, thrive, and look forward to a promising future.

Common Car Accident Cases Handled by Our Hamilton Lawyers

Since 2003, Matt Lalande has represented hundreds of victims and recovered millions of dollars for those injured in various types of accidents. These cases are significant among various types of accidents due to the range of injuries that may arise and their impact on victims’ lives. Some of the more common ones include:

1. Intersection Car Accidents

When a driver fails to stop at a stop sign or red light, they put themselves and others at risk. These violations can lead to T-bone collisions, where the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another. The consequences of such accidents can be severe, resulting in serious injuries or even fatalities. In these cases, the driver who failed to stop is typically found to be at fault for the accident.

Left-turn accidents are another common type of intersection collision. These accidents occur when a driver attempting to make a left turn fails to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic. In most cases, the driver making the left turn is found to be primarily at fault for the accident. This is because the left-turning driver has a duty to ensure that the turn can be made safely and without causing harm to others.

However, it’s important to note that the driver proceeding straight through the intersection may also bear some responsibility in a left-turn accident. If the driver going straight was speeding or driving recklessly at the time of the collision, they may be found partly liable for the accident. This is because all drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles in a safe and responsible manner, regardless of whether they have the right-of-way.

Intersection accidents can be caused by various factors, including drivers failing to stop at stop signs or red lights and making improper left turns. While the left-turning driver often bears the majority of the blame in a left-turn accident, the driver proceeding straight through may also be found partly liable if they were engaging in unsafe driving practices. As an car accident victim, understanding these common causes and liability issues and seek the compensation you deserve.

2. Distracted Driving Car Accidents

Did you know that sending or reading a single text takes your eyes off the road for approximately five seconds. At ninety kilometres per hour, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed.  Distracted driving still remains a significant concern in Ontario and across Canada, contributing to a substantial number of road accidents and fatalities.

In Ontario, deaths from collisions caused by distracted driving have doubled since 2000.

According to the Preliminary 2023 Ontario Road Safety Annual Report, inattentive driving was a contributing factor in 64 fatalities, accounting for 10.4% of all road deaths in the province.  Unfortunately, many people inaccurately think distracted driving is only talking or texting. Distracted driving is being focused on anything that diverts your attention from the road. Activities like using a GPS device, putting on makeup, fiddling with a radio, shaving, using a smartphone, eating, drinking, watching a video, and texting can take your attention away from the road and cause a crash.

If you have become the victim of someone else’s failure to focus on the road, our Hamilton car accident lawyers can help you recover the compensation you need to move forward with your life. Book a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about your rights and options.

3. Head-on Collisions

Head-on collisions are a common form of car accidents responsible for numerous fatalities every year. Some common causes include adverse weather and road conditions, failure to properly navigate intersections, distracted driving (particularly due to smartphone use), multi-vehicle accidents, and sleep deprivation. Adverse weather and road conditions can reduce visibility and bring debris into the path of unsuspecting drivers, while factors such as malfunctioning traffic lights, driver inattention, misjudging speed and distance, and turning left into oncoming traffic can contribute to accidents at intersections.

Distracted driving, especially due to cell phone use and texting while driving, has become the number one cause of accidents in Ontario, contributing to a significant percentage of fatal and serious injury collisions. Multi-vehicle accidents can also lead to head-on collisions when one car forces another into the opposing lane. Lastly, sleep deprivation, particularly among truck drivers and shift workers, is another common cause of head-on crashes in Ontario, highlighting the importance of proper rest before operating a vehicle.

4. Rear-End Collisions

While rear-end collisions are often considered minor car accidents, some violent rear-end crashes can be devastating and life-changing. The severity of a rear-end collision depends on various factors, such as the speed of the vehicles involved, the size and weight of the vehicles, and the presence of safety features like airbags and seatbelts.

In a high-speed rear-end collision, the force of impact can be significant, causing severe damage to the vehicles and serious injuries to the occupants. When a vehicle is struck from behind, the sudden jolt can cause the occupants’ heads and necks to snap forward and backward violently, resulting in whiplash or more severe neck and spinal cord injuries. In extreme cases, rear-end collisions can even lead to traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, or death.

Moreover, if there is a significant size disparity between the vehicles involved, such as a large truck rear-ending a smaller passenger car, the consequences can be catastrophic. The smaller vehicle may be crushed, and its occupants may suffer life-threatening injuries.

5. Pedestrian Car Accidents

Pedestrians have absolutely no means to protect themselves when a driver fails to yield or fails to stop at a stop sign or red light. When pedestrian car accidents happen, injuries are often extremely severe and result in serious orthopedic trauma and head injury.

Other common car accident pedestrian injuries are internal bleeding and organ damage, injuries to the head and neck, and wrongful death. These types of pedestrian accidents are almost always preventable if drivers simply take the time to look both ways before proceeding through an intersection, whether there is a stop sign or not.

Unfortunately, many drivers do not take this simple precaution and, as a result, cause devastating pedestrian car accidents, often leaving victims with lifelong injuries. Common injuries include knee fractures, hip fractures, femur fractures, internal bleeding, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries.

These injuries can all have long-term effects on a person’s health, including chronic pain, disability, and even death. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pedestrian accidents are the ninth leading cause of death for adults aged 65 and over.

6. T-Bone Car Accidents

T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, can be among the most devastating types of accidents. When a vehicle is struck on its side, the occupants are particularly vulnerable, as there is less protection compared to the front or rear of the vehicle. In high-energy t-bone accidents, the consequences can be catastrophic. Occupants on the side of the impact often suffer serious orthopedic injuries, such as severe hip, knee, and shoulder fractures, due to the direct force of the collision. Additionally, the sudden and violent motion can cause occupants’ heads to strike the side window or door frame, often resulting in traumatic brain injuries, skull fractures, or even death. The severity of these injuries can lead to long-term disabilities, extensive medical treatment, and a profound impact on the victims’ quality of life.

7. Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents are among the most terrifying and dangerous types of car wrecks. When a vehicle rolls over, the occupants are at risk of being thrown around inside the car or even ejected from the vehicle, leading to severe and life-threatening injuries. In high-speed rollover accidents, the roof of the vehicle may collapse, causing devastating crush injuries, degloving, and traumatic amputations. Occupants can suffer severe head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and skull fractures, as a result of the violent motion and impact with the vehicle’s interior. Additionally, the twisting and compression forces experienced during a rollover can lead to spinal cord injuries, resulting in paralysis or even death. The physical, emotional, and financial consequences of these catastrophic injuries can be overwhelming for victims and their families.

Read more about the following types of car accidents:

• Rear-End Collisions
• Brake Check Accidents
• T-bone Accidents
• Highway Collisions
• Drunk driving accidents
• Drugs and Car Accidents
• Cell Phone Accidents
• Pedestrian Accidents
• Distracted Driving Accidents
• Rollover Car Accidents
• Head-on collisions
• Speed and Stunt Racing Accidents
• Intersection Collisions
• Hit-and-Run Accidents
• Rented Vehicle Accidents
• Uber & Lyft Accidents
• Parking Lot Accidents
• Texting-and-Driving Accidents
• Accidents in the US and Florida
• Car Accident Passenger Injuries
• Trucking Accidents in the US

Proven Success: Hamilton Car Accident Case Results

Our dedicated Hamilton personal injury lawyers have recovered millions for clients injured in traffic accidents in Hamilton and throughout Ontario. Their expertise in addressing complex cases, such as chronic pain resulting from accidents, and the personal attention they provide to clients have led to significant case results.

Of the thousands of cases we’ve handled, here are some notable examples:

• $2.0 million for a middle-aged woman who suffered a terrible head injury
• $2.8 million for a young man who suffered an amputee injury
• $2.0 million for a middle-aged woman hurt in a t-bone crash
• $1.2 million for a yount man with a spinal injury
• $1.13 million for a medical professional injured in a pedestrian accident
• $1.3 million for a middle age woman in a motorcycle crash
• $1.32 million for a Cambridge driver suffering from spinal cord damage after being struck by a drunk driver
• $855,000 for a boy hit by a truck
• $650,000 for a woman and her daughter involved in a head-on crash
• $960,000 for an injured motorcyclist
• $700,000 after a young pedestrian was run over in Oakville
• $1.0 million for a middle-aged man who suffered life-long injuries in a head-on vehicle crash
• $189,000 for a young woman injured in a head-on collision
• $400,000 for the family of a woman wrongfully killed by a speeding drunk driver
• $980,000 for a client who sustained a severe traumatic brain injury in Caledonia
• $955,000 for a pedestrian who a distracted driver ran over
• $250,000 for a senior pedestrian who suffered orthopedic injuries
• $244,000 for a senior struck by a negligent driver in Milton
• $185,000 for a client who suffered from multiple fractures in a Hamilton car accident
• $230,000 after our client developed CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) from a chest injury sustained in a Sudbury car crash
• $260,000 for shoulder injuries sustained in a head-on car accident in Milton
• $1.3 million for a middle-aged woman hurt in a head-on crash by the Hamilton airport

Our dedicated Hamilton car accident lawyers settle many personal injury cases within insurance policy limits; however, sometimes, we must take your claims to trial. Importantly, we have experience obtaining damages in cases involving clear injuries (fractures), complex conditions (spinal cord damage), and non-obvious trauma resulting in disabilities (brain injuries and CRPS).

We’ve recovered damages for substantial lost wages, uncovered medical expenses, and emotional suffering after pedestrian, motorcycle, and car crashes.

Can I change Car Accident Lawyers in the Middle of a Personal Injury Case?

Yes – and many clients who first hire in Toronto do end up coming home and retaining our Personal Injury Lawyers. Like switching doctors, you are fully entitled to switch lawyers in the middle of your personal injury case if you are not happy with your current lawyer. It’s always a good idea to try and address any concerns directly with your current lawyer, as open communication can often resolve misunderstandings or issues. However, if there is an irreconcilable difference or a complete breakdown in communication, seeking a new lawyer may be necessary to ensure your case is handled effectively.

An remember – if you do change lawyers, you are not paying two sets of legal fees. Your new lawyer will pay your former lawyer out of your settlement or judgment – but effectively split the legal fees.

If you decide to switch car accident lawyers, the process is very easy and seamless and you do not have to be involved in any way – your new lawyers will do all the work to communicate the termination of your former lawyer’s services, obtain your file and transition into the case quite seamlessly.  Call us to dicuss your issue or for a free case evaluation today.

Car Accident Experts since 2003

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Is my Car Accident Settlements Taxable?

No, car accident settlements are not taxable in Ontario. According to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), any settlement or award received as compensation for personal injuries sustained in a car accident is considered non-taxable income. This includes all components of the settlement, such as compensation for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, future rehabilitation expenses, and lost earnings (although a present value may be applied) that you would have earned had you not been hurt by a negligent driver.

The reason for this tax exemption is that the purpose of the settlement is to help restore the injured person to the same financial position they would have been in had the accident not taken place. The funds are meant to compensate for losses and are not considered a taxable gain or income.

Determining Fault in a Car Accident Case

In the context of driving in Ontario, negligence occurs when a driver fails to operate their vehicle with the level of care and attention that a reasonable and prudent driver would exercise in similar circumstances. This often leads to a personal injury case, which involves legal disputes stemming from harm caused by another party’s negligence. Handling a personal injury case can be complex, involving both legal and emotional aspects, such as dealing with insurance, potential settlements, and the significance of legal representation.

The standard of care for drivers in Ontario is determined by the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) and the common law.

The HTA sets out various rules and regulations that drivers must follow, such as obeying speed limits, signalling turns, and maintaining a safe following distance.

The common law, on the other hand, establishes the general principle that drivers must exercise reasonable care to avoid causing harm to others.

To prove negligence in a car accident case, the plaintiff (the person bringing the claim), through their personal injury lawyer must establish four elements:

• Duty of care: The defendant (the person against whom the claim is made) owed a duty of care to the plaintiff. All drivers owe a duty of care to other road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists.
• Breach of duty: The defendant breached their duty of care by failing to act as a reasonable and prudent driver would in similar circumstances. Examples of breaches include speeding, running a red light, or driving while distracted.
• Causation: The defendant’s breach of duty caused the plaintiff’s injuries or damages. The plaintiff must show that, but for the defendant’s negligence, the harm would not have occurred.
• Damages: The plaintiff suffered actual losses or injuries as a result of the defendant’s negligence. These may include physical injuries, property damage, lost income, and other quantifiable losses. If the plaintiff successfully establishes these four elements, the defendant may be found liable for negligence and ordered to pay damages to compensate the plaintiff for their losses.

It is important to note that in some cases, both parties may be found to have contributed to the accident. In Ontario, the Negligence Act allows for the apportionment of liability based on the degree of fault attributed to each party. This means that if the plaintiff is found to be partially at fault for the accident, their damages may be reduced in proportion to their degree of responsibility.

Helping Car Accident Victims Since 2003

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What are Accident Benefits, and why do I Need Them?

Accident benefits (often called SABS or Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule) are complicated and often difficult to understand. Often, the process does not make sense, and your car insurance company will make you feel like the process is adversarial.

Our Hamilton car accident lawyers often tell our clients that as a part of their auto insurance premiums every month, “accident benefit protection” is also included. This means that if you are hurt in a car accident, your own insurance company will help pay for your rehabilitation to assist you in getting better. Depending on the severity of the injury, you will be entitled to a certain amount of money to apply toward reasonable and necessary rehabilitation to help get you better.

It is crucial to consult a personal injury law firm after an accident to navigate the complexities of your legal rights and compensation. A personal injury law firm specializes in handling personal injury claims and can provide the expertise needed to support you through challenging situations.

After you’ve been involved in a car accident and speak to your insurance company, the insurer must send you an application package containing the appropriate application forms and a written explanation of the benefits available to you.

What are Some of the Accident Benefits Available to me After a Car Accident?

If you’ve suffered injuries in a car accident, you may be entitled to apply for certain benefits, depending on how seriously you were hurt:

• Income Replacement Benefits (IRB). These are designed to partially compensate for lost income if you are unable to work as a result of a car accident. Accident benefits provide up to 70% of your gross income, up to a maximum of $400 per week. You would be eligible to apply for this benefit if you were employed at the time of the accident and are unable to return to work due to your injuries. This benefit is meant to cover the period from the week after the accident to the point when you are able to return to work or two years after the accident if you’re unable to return to any employment. After two years, you may continue to qualify for the benefit if you’re unable to engage in any employment or self-employment for which you’re reasonably suited by education, training, or experience.
• Non-earner benefits. Ontario’s accident benefits system provides a non-earner benefit for individuals who are not employed or significantly employed at the time of a motor vehicle accident and, as a result, suffer a complete inability to carry on a normal life. The benefit typically provides $185 per week for up to two years following the car accident.
• Housekeeping benefits. These benefits are part of Ontario’s accident benefits system, designed to provide financial compensation for individuals who, due to a car accident, are unable to perform their usual duties around the home. These benefits are only available for individuals who have been catastrophically impaired as a result of the accident, as determined by specific criteria outlined in the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS). If eligible, this benefit can provide up to $100 per week to pay for reasonable and necessary additional expenses for someone to complete your housekeeping and home maintenance duties.
• Attendant Care benefits. These benefits provide compensation for necessary and reasonable expenses incurred for an aide, attendant, or long-term care facility if a person is unable to care for themselves following a car accident. The amount available for these monthly benefits depends on the severity of the injury. For non-catastrophic injuries, the maximum limit is $3,000 per month, up to a maximum of $72,000 over two years. For catastrophic injuries, the amount increases significantly, with up to $6,000 available per month, to a maximum of $1,000,000 over the injured person’s lifetime.
• Medical and Rehabilitation Benefits. These benefits cover necessary and reasonable medical and rehabilitation expenses that are not covered by any public health care or disability insurance plan. This can include a wide range of expenses such as physiotherapy, chiropractic treatment, medication, and home modifications to accommodate the injured person’s condition. For non-catastrophic injuries, these benefits provide up to $65,000 in coverage for a period of up to five years. For injuries designated as catastrophic, the benefits increase significantly, providing up to $1,000,000 in coverage over the injured person’s lifetime.
• Death and Funeral Benefits. These benefits are paid in the event of a death resulting from a motor vehicle accident. If an insured person passes away as a result of the accident, a one-time lump sum of $25,000 is paid to the deceased’s spouse, $10,000 to each of the deceased’s dependents, and $10,000 to the individual upon whom the deceased was dependent. In addition, up to $6,000 is provided for funeral expenses. It’s important to note that these amounts can be increased if additional coverage is purchased as part of the auto insurance policy. As always, it’s advisable to consult with our Hamilton car accident lawyers for proper information.
• Lost educational expenses. This is designed to help compensate you for expenses lost due to not completing a course in elementary, secondary, post-secondary or continuing education up to $15,000.
  Visitor expenses. This covers travel expenses for certain close relatives to visit you.
• Miscellaneous expenses. This can include such things as damage to clothing, glasses, hearing aids, and other similar expenses that you might have sustained in your car accident. These pay for the small items that may have been damaged in your accident and that are not otherwise covered by a property damage claim.

Car Accident Information and Questions

Below are some car accident questions commonly posed to our Hamilton car accident law firm:

• How do I hire a car accident lawyer?
• Do I need to pay legal fees upfront?
• What will it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?
• What is my car accident case worth?
• What are Ontario’s distracted driving laws?
• What are the laws about drugs and driving?
• What if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?
• What are the leading causes of car accidents?
• 3 things to remember after a car accident
• Distracted Driving and teens – what to know
• Punitive damages car accident cases
• What are some common car accident injuries?

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can result in a wide range of life altering injuries, from minor bruises to life-altering conditions. Matt Lalande is an experienced personal injury lawyer who has extensive experience helping clients who have suffered various types of injuries due to car crashes. Understanding the common types of car accident injuries can help you seek the appropriate medical attention and legal representation.

Brain Injuries: Traumatic closed-head brain injuries are incredibly common in car accidents, particularly in serious T-bone collisions. Traumatic brain injury often presents in various forms, ranging from mild alterations of consciousness to an unrelenting comatose state and death. Concussions, extra-axial hematomas, contusions, traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage and diffuse axonal injury are also common.

Amputations: In severe car accidents, victims may suffer from traumatic amputations or injuries that require surgical amputation. These injuries can occur when a limb is crushed, severed, or severely damaged during the collision. Amputations can have a profound impact on a person’s life, requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and prosthetic devices. Our experienced lawyers understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges faced by amputation victims and work tirelessly to secure the compensation they deserve for their losses.

Spinal Cord Injury and Back Injuries: Serious high-energy collisions could cause paralyzing spinal cord injuries. Although traumatic spinal injuries compose just a minority of all traumatic car accident victims, these injuries are brutally disabling and so have a significant influence on the patient’s quality of life and social and financial situation.

Orthopedic Trauma: Serious car accidents can result in torn muscles, joint damage, and complex fractures. Although bones are strong, they do bend or “give” somewhat when a serious outside force is applied. The severity of the orthopedic trauma usually depends on the force that caused the bones to fracture. In car accident crashes, we have helped clients who have suffered open fractures (when a bone breaks and sticks out through the skin), open compound fractures, transverse, oblique and comminuted fractures.

Disfigurement and Degloving: These can occur in the most serious of pedestrian car accidents, or if an accident happens with an arm hanging out the window, in a convertible car or if a person is ejected. Degloving happens when the skin and tissue are ripped from the underlying muscle. Degloving injuries typically occur when vehicle-pedestrian accident victims are run over.

Burn Injuries: In accidents involving fire or explosions, victims may suffer from severe burn injuries. These injuries can cause extreme pain, scarring, disfigurement, and may require multiple surgeries and skin grafts.

Facial Injuries: Injuries to the face can occur due to impact with the steering wheel, airbag, dashboard, or shattered glass. These injuries can include fractures, lacerations, dental damage, and eye injuries, which may lead to permanent disfigurement and vision problems.

Psychological Trauma: Car accidents can also cause mental and emotional injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and phobias. These psychological injuries can have long-lasting effects on a person’s quality of life and may require ongoing therapy and treatment.

Severe Back Injuries (Discectomy and Laminectomy): Car accidents can cause severe damage to the spine, leading to debilitating back injuries that may require surgical intervention. Discectomy and laminectomy are two common surgical procedures used to treat herniated discs and spinal stenosis resulting from car accidents. These procedures involve removing damaged portions of the disc or lamina to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, but they often require extensive recovery time and may result in long-term consequences such as chronic pain and limited mobility.

Car Accident Experts since 2003

Call our Hamilton Car Accident Lawyers Today

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If You’ve Been Hurt, Call our Hamilton Car Accident Lawyers Today.

As experienced personal injury lawyers, Lalande Personal Injury Lawyers has been dedicated to fighting for the rights of car accident victims since 2003. With a strong focus on car accident cases, we have helped our clients recover substantial settlements and verdicts, contributing to our impressive track record of securing over $45 Million in compensation for our clients.

Our Hamilton Car Accident Lawyers understand the life-altering consequences that can result from a serious car accident, and we are committed to providing compassionate, expert legal representation to help you navigate the complex legal claim process. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Hamilton, we are here to guide you through every step of your motor vehicle claim and fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

At Lalande Personal Injury Lawyers, we take pride in being trusted Hamilton car accident lawyers since 2003. Over the years, we’ve helped our clients recover more than $45 Million in settlements and verdicts in personal injury, disability, and employment law cases. Whether you’re dealing with a life-changing injury, a denied disability claim, wrongful death, a hurt child or employment termination, we are here to provide compassionate and experienced legal representation. If you believe you have a case, call us today—we’re ready to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Call Lalande Personal Injury Lawyers today, no matter where you are in Ontario, at 905-333-8888 for your free consultation. Alternatively, you can contact us online, confidentially, by filling out a contact form.

Hamilton Car Accident Lawyer FAQ

If you have been seriously injured in a car accident, it can mean a sudden and tragic change in your life. Serious car accident injuries may prevent you from going to work, enjoying your life, sleeping, spending time with your loved ones, exercising, and living your life with the comfort and enjoyment you are used to.

You also may be overwhelmed and suffering from emotional, physical, and financial burdens. Our personal injury lawyers also understand you will have many unanswered questions. The following are some of the more common questions we receive that our Hamilton car accident lawyers have answered: