Accident Benefits

Every automobile insurance policy in Ontario carries coverage for statutory accident benefits. These benefits are available to anyone who has been injured in a motor vehicle accident regardless of who is at fault (hence they are often called "no fault benefits"). Benefits are available even if the injured person does not own a vehicle and is not listed on an insurance policy.

In years past, the benefits available to victims of motor vehicle accidents were extensive, and included assistance with caregiving and housekeeping if needed. Unfortunately, statutory accident benefit coverage has steadily eroded in recent years. Presently, the majority of people injured in accidents are limited to income replacement benefits (up to a maximum of $400 per week, assuming they qualify) and medical/rehabilitation benefits of up to $3,500 for treatment such as massage, physiotherapy and chiropractic adjustments.

There are several reasons why it is extremely important for an injured person to retain a lawyer or paralegal with extensive experience in preparing and managing accident benefit claims. The application process itself is complex — numerous forms must be completed and deadlines must be met. An experienced advocate will know what is required medically and legally to maximize a person's benefit entitlement. And if the person has a companion tort claim against the at-fault driver(s), the accident benefit claim must be properly built to support it.

At Wolfe Lawyers we have been handling statutory accident benefit claims for decades. We have seen all the legislative changes over the years and know how to use that experience as leverage to obtain outstanding results.