or call/text 226-203-1243

Motorcycle Crash

Remove The Social Stigma About Motorcyclists From Your Case

Is your motorcycle case being taken less seriously because other people consider you a risk taker?

Motorcycle cases should be just like any other auto accident case, but they're not. Many judges, jury members, and others tend to consider motorcycles to be a high-risk activity where riders "are asking for it".

You might need special help from an attorney if you see that:

They are devaluing your case because riding a motorcycle is a "known risk".

There is an unfair assumption that you were more at fault than you were, simply because of the vehicle you were riding.

You weren't asking to get hurt just because you enjoy a ride on two wheels instead of four. That shouldn't be a factor in your case, but it is likely to be.

Assumptions of you being a risk taker aren't the only issue in your case. Chances are, your injuries are more limiting and/or disfiguring than those who were in a car crash. It's an unfortunate reality with motorcycle crashes, due to the open-air nature of motorcycles.

I can help to make sure that your case is treated fairly and your injuries are accurately recognized, so that you don't have to deal with the stereotypes and misunderstanding about your chosen vehicle.

Did You Know?

Motorcyle crashes are more likely to result in more substantial scarring which can impact your case.

The principles of fault and liability are the same as an auto accident, but in practice, motorcycle accidents can be treated differently.

Know your rights if you've been injured in a car accident

If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, your rights to compensation are defined by some very specific and complex provisions of insurance legislation in Ontario.

You may be entitled to benefits from your own insurance company, which are referred to as Statutory Accident Benefits. You may also be entitled to bring a claim against the at-fault driver for:

Pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life;

Out of pocket expenses incurred as a result of the motor vehicle accident;

Income lost as a result of the motor vehicle accident (both past and future lost income); and

Expenses for any future care you may require.

How I Can Help

Case review and guidance

Get A Free Consultation

Recent Settlements

Some of the case results that Catherine has recently helped her clients to win.

$2.3 Million Settlement

Man suffers traumatic brain injury after being hit by truck.

Catherine's client was walking across the street to work when a motorist driving a truck struck him in the crosswalk. The police charged the driver with careless driving, failing to yield to a pedestrian, improper tires, improper breaks, and failing to surrender proof of insurance. The Defendant's plates were seized and the vehicle was classified as unfit.

As a result of his injuries, medical doctors opined the client would not work again, and require extensive, life-long medical care.

$1.3 Million Settlement

Man deemed catastrophically injured.

Catherine's client was injured when a vehicle ran a red light, resulting in a front-end collision. After years of fighting with the insurance companies, Catherine's client was deemed to be catastrophically injured due to physical and psychological injures. Medical experts found he would never be able to work again and would require significant future care.

$935,000 Settlement

CPA suffers brain injury in head-on collision.

Catherine's client was injured when an elderly driver crossed the centreline, causing a head-on collision. Catherine's client made a remarkable recovery and was not deemed to have sustained catastrophic injuries. A partial return to work was successful and a settlement was reached for income losses, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a lawyer, or can I settle my personal injury case on my own?

If you're unsure whether you need a lawyer or think you can handle your case on your own, we invite you to contact us for a free initial case review. We only take on cases where we are confident we can add value, and we will never pressure you to hire us if we believe you can manage without our assistance.

The severity of your injuries is a major factor in deciding whether you need a personal injury attorney. If your injuries are minor, your case may not be worth more than a few thousand dollars, and you might be able to handle it on your own.

How long do I have to file a claim against the driver that hit me?

You have two years from the date of the collision to bring an action against the at-fault driver. However an accident benefits claim must be commenced before you are eligible to proceed with a lawsuit against an at-fault driver.

What do I need to do if I was injured in a car accident ?

If you were injured in a car accident and you have sustained injuries, the first thing you need to do (after seeking medical attention) is complete your application for accident benefits. Accident benefits provide you no-fault coverage for medical and rehabilitation benefits, and weekly indemnity benefit if you are unable to go to work or have a complete inability to engage in normal life.

You must notify your insurance company within 7 days of the collision or as soon as reasonably possible. Once you have received the initial application, it must be submitted within 30 days.

Whose insurance company pays accident benefits?

Typical lawyer answer, it depends. If you have a policy of car insurance, you go through your own insurance. If you do not have your own policy or are not a named as insured on any policy, the initial OCF 1 Form will help you determine which insurance company should receive your application.

Will hiring a lawyer be expensive?

I work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you win your case. This arrangement can make legal representation more accessible, as you won't need to pay upfront legal fees. Always discuss fee arrangements with your lawyer during the initial consultation.

Book A Consultation With

Guelph's Trusted Personal Injury Lawyer

If you've been hurt in an accident in Ontario, it pays to have Catherine in your corner. With her compassionate approach she'll take the time to understand your situation so that she can then fight to protect your future.

When booking your consultation, you can rest easy knowing that:

There is no obligation if you take a consultation. This is simply your chance to share your story with Catherine and decide if she's the right lawyer to represent you.

Everything you share is completely confidential.

You pay nothing out of pocket. If you decide to work with Catherine, her fees are covered as a percentage of the verdict or settlement. She only gets paid when you win!

CONNECT WITH CATHERINE TODAY

Request your free consultation

Full Name

Phone

Tell Me Your Story - What happened, how long ago, what you've done since, etc.

Providing this information will help me to best prepare for your free consultation. I appreciate you taking the time to tell me your story.

Request Your Free Consultation

By providing your number, you agree to receive communications, including text messages, from McKenzie Lake. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies.