Severely Injured Man Loses Out on Much Needed Benefits Due to Auto Insurance Rule Change
Severely Injured Man Loses Out on Much Needed Benefits Due to Auto Insurance Rule Change
Motor vehicle accidents involve much more than physical injuries and property damage. Accidents also have a significant financial component that can be detrimental to an injured individual depending on how serious the injuries are. A Canadian man has learned just how financially devastating an auto accident can be, as he and his family are now facing bankruptcy as a result of piling medical bills, according to a Canadian news report.
The man was involved in a motorcycle accident that left him in a coma for one month, resulting in traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and damage to his internal organs. His condition was so bad that he was mistakenly pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. Investigators concluded that another driver was at fault for causing this motorcycle accident, and criminal charges were filed against the driver of the other vehicle that struck the motorcycle.
The timing of this man's accident was unfortunate. In Ontario, Canada, the insurance rules changed in a way that the injured man and his family could never imagine, and they happened to change on the day the man was involved in the motorcycle accident. Had this accident occurred a mere twelve hours earlier, the man would have been eligible for up to $2,000,000 in benefits. But because his accident occurred on the day insurance rules changed, he only received $86,000 in benefits.
Considering the catastrophic nature of this man's injuries, $86,000 most certainly is not enough to pay for medical care that could continue for years if not the rest of this man's life, especially taking into account that the man cannot work nor can any family member taking care of him. The definition of what is considered a "catastrophic" injury changed in a way that limited the amount of coverage available to individuals who suffer traumatic brain injuries, such as this injured man.
The overall goal of the change in insurance rules was to reduce the cost of premiums for the vast majority of people. While a significant number of people benefit from these new rules, those individuals that suffer what used to be considered catastrophic injuries are likely to suffer the same financial side effects of being involved in a serious accident.
The Importance of Understanding Your Auto Insurance Policy
Even though the motorcycle accident discussed above occurred in Canada, Americans have experienced similar situations where either insurance rules or the terms of insurance policies change without drivers being fully aware of such changes. A seemingly minor policy change could have a significant impact on coverage depending on the type and severity of an auto accident. As such, it is crucial that all drivers are aware of what coverage is available to them. Additionally, if you have been involved in an accident, you consult with an attorney at Montlick & Associates to learn about your rights and options.
Contact Montlick & Associates, Attorneys at Law Today to Schedule Your Free Consultation
When auto insurance benefits do not provide enough support for a severely injured individual, that injured person along, with loved ones, suffer the consequences. If you have been injured in any auto accident, you know all too well how difficult it can be to recover physically, emotionally and financially. At Montlick & Associates, Attorneys at Law, our law firm has more than 38 years of professional experience helping injured Georgians fight to receive the benefits and compensation they deserve.
If you would like to discuss your situation with one of our Georgia Auto Accident Attorneys, contact Montlick & Associates, Attorneys at Law today by calling (800) LAW-NEED (529-6333) to schedule your free consultation. You may also visit us online at www.montlick.com to complete a Free Case Evaluation Form, and you may also participate in a 24-hour Live Online Chat.
Montlick & Associates, Attorneys at Law
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Atlanta, GA 30329
Telephone: 1 (404) 529-6333
Toll Free: 1 (800) LAW-NEED
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Related Pages: Columbus car collision lawyers, Augusta GA car collision lawyers, Car collision lawyers in Georgia, Car collision lawyers in Atlanta, Car collision lawyers in Athens, Albany car collision lawyers.
Source:
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/ontario-insurance-change-1.3796126