Accident Lawyer Chilliwack
Motor vehicle accidents remain one of the largest public safety issues in our region. The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) reports that between 300,000 and 350,000 auto accidents occur within the province every year. Between 60,000 and 70,000 of these accidents result in at least one reported injury. While some accidents thankfully only result minor injuries, sadly, tens of thousands of victims sustain serious injuries in motor vehicle accidents each year.
Injured victims need to be able to access their full financial benefits as quickly as possible after an accident. Unfortunately, in practice, this can often prove difficult. At Preszler Injury Lawyers, our Chilliwack ICBC lawyers are advocates for victims and their families. We work aggressively to ensure that accident victims can maximize their financial recovery. If you or a loved one was hurt in an auto accident in Chilliwack, please contact our legal team today for a free, no obligation initial consultation.
ICBC Injury Benefits (Part 7 Benefits)
In British Columbia, injured auto accident victims are generally entitled to compensation regardless of who was at fault for the wreck. This is because all drivers are required to carry mandatory ICBC auto insurance that includes ‘no fault’ coverage. If you are covered, you are entitled to ‘no fault’ benefits or Part 7 benefits, no matter the specific circumstances of your collision. You may be able to recover ICBC benefits for:
- Any related medical costs;
- Rehabilitative care or physical therapy;
- Housekeeping assistance;
- Lost wages or employment income; and
- The death of a family member.
Still, even though Part 7 benefits can be obtained on a no fault basis, getting fair compensation can be a challenge. As such, it is highly recommended that you consult with an experienced ICBC lawyer in Chilliwack before you pursue your claim with the insurance company.
You Must Follow the Claims Procedure
Injured accident victims must follow a claim process to be eligible for ICBC benefits. Seemingly minor errors can lead to a victim’s claim being delayed, underpaid, or even denied altogether. You do not want to take a risk with ICBC claims. You should get your claim into the hand of an experienced Chilliwack ICBC lawyer immediately after your accident. Your lawyer will make sure that you follow all protocols. This includes:
- Reporting your motor vehicle crash to ICBC;
- Providing a well-drafted written description of the crash and your injuries; and
- Submitting your proof of claim form to the insurer.
Notably, your report and description of the accident should be submitted within 30 days of the crash, and your proof of claim form should be submitted within 90 days. Delays could impair your ability to bring a successful claim.
A Third Party May be Liable for Your Accident
Beyond the ‘no fault’ benefits that are available under Part 7, injured accident victims may also be eligible to file a legal claim against a negligent third party. At Preszler Injury Lawyers, our skilled Chilliwack ICBC lawyers can help you prepare and file a third party liability claim. Our law firm is prepared to help you explore all of your available legal options, so that you can get the maximum compensation.
In order to prevail in a third party accident claim, you will be required to prove that another party, most often another driver, caused your accident due to negligence. There are many different examples of driver negligence, including:
- Running red lights;
- Running stop signs;
- Speeding;
- Reckless driving;
- Tailgating;
- Texting while driving;
- Talking on a cell phone while driving;
- Distracted driving;
- Drunk driving; and
- Drugged driving.
Our Chilliwack Accident Lawyers can Help You Handle ICBC Adjusters
As of 2010, the Insurance Company of British Columbia is required to pay dividends to the government. This is notable because ICBC adjusters are incentivized to pay out as little compensation to accident victims as possible. You cannot rely on a claims adjuster for advice. You need a legal advocate by your side. If you personal injury claim is not well presented, you will not able to get the full benefits that you are owed. Our Chilliwack ICBC lawyers can help. We have extensive experience dealing with insurance adjusters.
Were You Injured in an Accident in Chilliwack?
You need to take action. At Preszler Injury Lawyers, our skilled Chilliwack accident lawyers are committed to providing elite legal representation to injured victims in British Columbia. We will work diligently to help you recover the full and fair financial compensation that you deserve.
If you were hurt in an accident in Chilliwack, please do not hesitate to contact our legal team today at 1-844-373-8202 for a free, no obligation initial consultation. We handle all accident claims on a contingency basis — our lawyers only get paid if we win your case.