Q: I have been injured in an accident. What can Rizzotto Law Firm do for me?

A: If you are injured in an accident, whether or not you were at fault, you have rights that need protecting within the time limits permitted by law. Rizzotto Law Firm will help you obtain the benefits and compensation for your losses.

There are two sources of benefits and compensation for the injuries and losses suffered because of a motor vehicle accident. The first, the accident benefit claim, is to seek and collect accident benefits through your own automobile insurance company or from the insurance policy of any other vehicle involved in the accident. The second, the tort claim, is to sue the driver who is at fault.

Q: How long does the whole claims process take?

A: The process varies from case to case. Rizzotto Law Firm tries to maximize your return, and minimize your waiting period

Q: What accident benefits are available to me?

A: The accessibility of accident benefits, commonly called no-fault benefits, vary from case to case. They are obtainable regardless of who caused the car accident. Accident benefits available include:

- income replacement benefits;
- non-earner benefits;
- medical and rehabilitation benefits;
- care giver benefits;
- attendant care benefits;
- housekeeping expenses;
- death benefits; and
- funeral expenses.

Q: If I sue the other driver, what can I recover?

A: You can recover damages (that is, money) to compensate you for the following:

- pain and suffering;
- loss of enjoyment of life;
- loss of a family member’s guidance, care and companionship;
- economic losses: income, earning capacity, competitive advantage, housekeeping; and
- medical, rehabilitation, health and care costs.

There are significant restrictions. To pursue a claim or lawsuit for pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life, your injuries must reach a certain threshold. You must suffer:

- permanent serious disfigurement (that is, a scar); or
- permanent serious impairment of an important physical, mental or psychological function.

Any damages recovered for pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life is subject to a deductible. You can also sue for damages to compensate you for the loss of a family member’s guidance, care and companionship. These damages are also subject to a deductible.

Importantly, there is no restriction upon your right to sue for economic losses.

It is often difficult to determine whether your injuries reach the threshold. This affects what damages you are entitled to from the other driver. A knowledgeable professional like Rizzotto Law Firm can accurately advise you about your right to sue for damages.