If you’ve been injured in an accident, the best time to contact a personal injury lawyer is now.
Whether it’s a car accident, slip and fall, medical malpractice concern, boating accident, dog bite or any incident causing injury, delays can significantly affect your ability to recover compensation. In Ontario, strict deadlines apply to most personal injury claims—and missing them could mean losing your legal rights.
As experienced personal injury lawyers in Ontario, we explain why it’s critical to act quickly after an accident.
Strict Deadlines Apply in Ontario Personal Injury Cases
In Ontario, personal injury claims are governed by statutory deadlines. If you miss these timelines, your right to claim benefits or file a lawsuit may be lost.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
If you are injured in a car accident in Ontario, you must report the collision to your own auto-insurance company within 7 days (or as soon as possible). This allows you to access Statutory Accident Benefits, including:
- Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
- Massage therapy
- Psychotherapy and mental health support
- Income Replacement Benefits
- Attendant care and medical equipment
If you plan to sue the at-fault driver, you must provide written notice of your intention to sue within 120 days. This not only preserves your legal rights but also starts the clock for interest payable on your future compensation.
Slip and Fall Accidents Can Have Even Shorter Deadlines
If you slip and fall on municipal property, such as a city sidewalk or parking lot, you must notify the municipality in writing by registered mail within 10 days. The notice must include:
- The date and time of the fall
- The exact location
- A description of your injuries
Failure to meet this deadline under Ontario’s Municipal Act may result in a denied claim—even in cases of serious injury.
There are still quick timelines where an injury occurs as a result of ice or snow on private property, the Occupier’s Liability Act requires that proper notice by registered mail is given to at least one Occupier of the property within 60 days after the occurrence.
Early Legal Advice Protects Your Rights
Hiring a personal injury lawyer early ensures:
- Critical evidence is preserved (e.g., video footage, witness statements)
- Insurance forms and medical reports are properly completed
- You understand your full entitlement to compensation
Early intervention prevents insurers from taking advantage of injured people who may not know their rights.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer in Ontario Today
Don’t wait. If you’ve been injured, contact a personal injury lawyer in Ontario immediately. We offer free consultations and can help you understand your rights, timelines, and options.
Time matters—protect your health, your rights, and your future.
SAMUEL DAVIES
Sam is an associate lawyer at Bergeron Clifford LLP.
His range of experience in civil litigation includes advocating in medical negligence, mental health, motor vehicle and boating accident actions, statutory accident benefits and various other personal injury matters.
