This past week, there were two tragic motor vehicle accidents in Renfrew County — one on Highway 17 near Renfrew and another on Highway 60.  These heartbreaking events serve as sobering reminders of how quickly lives can change, and how deeply families and communities are impacted by the loss of a loved one on the road.

The Aftermath of a Fatal Collision: What You Need to Know

When someone is killed in a motor vehicle accident—whether it’s a car crash, motorcycle accident, or any roadway incident—family members are often left facing not only emotional devastation but also sudden financial and legal concerns. During such an overwhelming time, it can be hard to know where to turn or what steps to take next.

If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal accident in Ontario, you may be entitled to certain benefits and compensation—even if no one is “at fault” in the traditional legal sense.

Statutory Accident Benefits in Ontario

Ontario’s no-fault insurance system provides Statutory Accident Benefits (SABS) to those injured or killed in motor vehicle accidents. In the event of a fatality, eligible family members—such as spouses, children, or dependents—may receive death benefits and reimbursement of some funeral expenses.

These benefits are paid by the deceased’s auto insurance provider, or by another insurer involved if the deceased was a passenger or pedestrian.

Wrongful Death Claims in Ontario

In some cases, families may also have a wrongful death claim.  To bring a successful wrongful death lawsuit, someone else’s negligence must have contributed to the accident.  This could be a distracted or impaired driver, or even someone who made an honest mistake with tragic consequences.

Wrongful death claims can also be advanced when a death is caused by hazardous road conditions that were not addressed in a reasonable and timely fashion.

Compensation may be available for:

• Loss of care, companionship, and guidance
• Loss of financial support
• Out-of-pocket expenses related to care or services the deceased provided to their family

These claims can be complex and emotionally taxing. Having compassionate legal guidance can help families understand their rights while protecting their peace of mind.

We’re Here for Eastern Ontario Families

Our team has represented grieving families across Eastern Ontario, helping them access the benefits and legal remedies they are entitled to. While no amount of money can replace a life lost, we believe in making sure loved ones are not left to struggle alone with financial burdens, unanswered questions, or insurance companies unwilling to explain their rights.

Your Initial Consultation Is Always Free

If you’ve lost someone in a fatal motor vehicle accident and aren’t sure what benefits or compensation may be available, we invite you to reach out for a free consultation. Whether you’re in Renfrew, Pembroke, Ottawa, Kingston, or somewhere in between, we’re here to listen and help you make informed decisions.

Let us handle the legal process so you can focus on what matters most: taking care of yourself and your family.