What Is Considered A Minor Injury In A Motor Vehicle Accident In Ontario?

Have you received a minor injury in a motor vehicle accident in Ontario?

Getting injured in a motor vehicle accident is a difficult experience that can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed. Understanding the extent of your physical injuries will help you determine what benefits and compensation to claim for.

The province of Ontario has specific laws and regulations in place to address these situations, ensuring people receive proper care after a motor vehicle accident.

Learn more about what is considered a minor injury in a motor vehicle accident in Ontario below.

Defining a Minor Injury in a Motor Vehicle Accident

According to the Minor Injury Guidance (MIG) policy under Ontario’s Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS), a minor injury in a motor vehicle accident is generally classified as a less severe injury that doesn’t require hospitalization or have a significant impact on your daily activities. These injuries could include sprains, strains, whiplash-associated disorders, and other minor physical damage.

When it comes to “minor” injuries, the term generally means injuries that are inconsequential or easily manageable. You can take a medical assessment to gain advice from a healthcare professional.

Common Types of Minor Injuries You Can Receive Benefits For

Understanding what injuries are considered minor in a motor vehicle accident in Ontario is essential. These injuries may not be life-threatening, but they can still be painful and require medical attention. Here are some common types of minor injuries you might sustain in a motor vehicle accident:

Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most common motor vehicle accident injuries. It occurs when the head and neck are suddenly jerked back and forth from the crash, causing strain to the neck and surrounding ligaments.

Symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, stiffness around the shoulders, headaches, and limited range of motion.

Some people claim for an orthopedic injury if the whiplash worsens and limits their everyday movement.

However, it is important to understand that not all whiplash type injuries are minor, as some can be quite severe.

Bruises and Contusions

Bruises and contusions are common when a collision suddenly impacts the vehicle’s interior or objects within the car. You might experience pain, swelling, and visible skin discolouration after the motor vehicle accident.

Strains and Sprains

Strains and sprains occur when the muscles or ligaments are stretched or torn. These injuries can affect various body parts, such as your back, shoulders, and knees.

Symptoms include pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in the affected area. You might also need physical therapy to help relieve some discomfort.

If these types of injuries prevent you from performing most or all of your activities of daily living, they may not be minor at all.

Minor Cuts and Abrasions

During a collision, minor cuts or surface wounds, result from contact with sharp objects or broken glass. Minor cuts and abrasions are characterized by superficial wounds that may bleed and require cleaning and bandaging after the motor vehicle accident.

Seat Belt Injuries

Although seat belts are there for protection, they can cause minor injuries when the vehicle experiences blunt force. This includes bruising or abrasions where the seat belt restrains the body. You might notice localized pain and soreness around your chest and rib area where the seatbelt held your body down.

Managing Insurance Claims for Motor Vehicle Accidents

After a motor vehicle accident in Ontario, one of the most crucial aspects of the recovery process is managing insurance claims. Whether you’re at fault or not for a car accident, your insurance company will play a significant role in resolving your claim.

Ontario’s Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS) categorizes minor, major, and catastrophic into three injury types. The more serious an injury is, the more benefits you could claim to cover medical care and rehabilitation. Covered by the Minor Injury Guideline, you can receive up to $3,500 for minor injury treatment. The standard benefits allow for up to $65,000 in treatment while Catastrophic type injuries allow for $1,000,000.00.

Keep one thing in mind, just because your insurance company says your injuries are “minor” doesn’t actually mean that they are minor. As an injured person, you are entitled to get an opinion from your own medical professionals that may disagree with your insurance company.

Getting compensated for a motor vehicle accident to cover medical treatments or physiotherapy can be challenging when you don’t know the steps. However, we have provided a few steps for you to follow below:

1. Notify your insurance company promptly: Ontario’s insurance laws require that you report an accident to your insurance company within seven days, even if you were not at fault. When reporting the accident, provide details about the date, time, location, and a description of the accident.

2. Understand your coverage: Before engaging in any further discussions, you must clearly understand your insurance coverage. Hiring a personal injury lawyer ensures a legal professional reviews your policy and documents deductibles, limits, and additional coverage.

3. Be cautious when speaking to insurance adjusters: An insurance adjuster will likely contact you after the motor vehicle accident. Avoid admitting fault or providing detailed statements until you’ve consulted with legal counsel or thoroughly reviewed your situation.

4. Document everything: Document the motor vehicle accident, written communication with the insurance company, and your medical treatment for minor injuries. This documentation can be valuable if disputes occur.

5. Contact a personal injury lawyer: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when it comes to negotiating a fair settlement. Consider seeking advice from one of our personal injury lawyers at Ristich Law, as we can guide you, negotiate on your behalf, and help you navigate the claims process more effectively.

Contact Us for Minor Injury Claims in a Motor Vehicle Accident Ontario

Are you dealing with a minor injury from a motor vehicle accident in Ontario? Contact Ristich Law to learn more about what minor injuries you can receive compensation for. Our team will put your needs first to ensure you get the best outcome during the claims process.

No one should have to deal with complex legal matters alone. If you’re the victim of an injury, don’t hesitate to hire a personal injury lawyer from Ristich Law today.