Motor Vehicle Accidents - Stack and Associates

Driving has become second nature for many of us who take to the road, and we often forget the potential risks involved. Even while being the most cautious driver, there’s always risks of becoming a victim of another driver’s negligence.

If you are the victim of a negligent driver, you should receive compensation. At Stack & Associates, our experienced lawyers will ensure your case receives the attention it deserves. Call now to book a consultation with one of our lawyers 709-753-6066.

In Newfoundland & Labrador, every vehicle on the public roadways is required by law to be insured. It is mandatory to have coverage for third-party liability, accident benefits, and for accidents caused by uninsured motorists. The minimum coverage by law is $500,000, but most residents of Newfoundland & Labrador are covered for at least $1,000,000.

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Common Questions

1. I’ve just been injured in a motor vehicle accident. What do I do?

Immediately following the injury, it’s important to contact the police and receive medical attention. It’s also important for you, or another person, to take photos of the accident and get the contact information of any witnesses. You must get the contact information and the insurance information from the other person(s) involved in the accident. Get the license plate numbers of all those involved. Do not give a statement to any insurance adjuster until you have received legal advice.

2. What are my rights after suffering a motor vehicle accident?

If you are injured due to the actions of another person, you have the right to pursue a personal injury claim against the person(s) responsible for the injury. This means you have the right to seek compensation for pain and suffering, past lost wages, inability to perform duties at your home and diminished earning capacity. You are also entitled to be reimbursed for any and all out-of-pocket expenses.

3. How much is my case worth?

Each case is different. Generally, if you experienced a significant injury, which has persisted for a long period of time, and it has had a great impact on you, you may receive greater compensation compared to a “minor” injury that has lasted very briefly with minimal disruption to you. However, in order to give a proper opinion, we would first need to investigate your claim in order to provide an opinion on its worth. A professional opinion will usually be needed in all but the most trivial of injuries.

4. How long will I have to file a motor vehicle accident claim?

In Newfoundland and Labrador, you have 2 years to file a motor vehicle injury claim with the Court. However, that does not mean you have to wait for 2 years to get the claim going. The claim can be started immediately after the time you were injured. A large number of our claims settle long before this 2-year period is reached.

5. How can a lawyer help with my motor vehicle accident claim?

An insurance company may push you to accept a small settlement or take advantage of your inexperience in personal injury claims, or your vulnerability while injured. We stop this. We advocate for you and represent your best interests at every step of the claim. Remember that insurance adjusters represent the insurance company, not you, no matter how friendly and accommodating they may appear.

6. What are the legal fees for a lawyer?

We charge 25% in legal fees for motor vehicle accidents when your case settles. This is much lower than other fee arrangements which can go as high as 33%. Also, we don’t charge you for fees or disbursements, such as the cost to get a medical report on your case, until the file is concluded.

7. How long does it take to settle?

Most of our cases settle within 2 years less than the 2 year legal limitation period. But to seek a quick settlement almost always means you will receive less than one that is reasonably settled over a period of time.