Frequently Asked Questions: Injury Lawyers in Edmonton

Our office is conveniently located in West Edmonton, making it easier for clients to visit us without the heavy traffic and parking challenges often associated with downtown offices. While we are based in West Edmonton, we proudly serve clients throughout Edmonton and the surrounding communities. In West Edmonton, we frequently assist clients from neighbourhoods such as: Glastonbury, Granville, The Hamptons, Secord, Rosenthal, Callingwood, Summerlea, Terra Losa, and West Jasper Place. We also represent clients across the greater Edmonton area, including: Windermere, Terwillegar, Riverbend, Mill Woods, Downtown Edmonton, North Edmonton, St. Albert, and Sherwood Park. Our experienced auto accident injury lawyers are trained to handle injury claims arising out of motor vehicle accidents occurring anywhere in Alberta.

After a car accident in Edmonton, you should: • Check yourself and others for injuries. • If there are any injuries or the vehicles are not safe to move, dial the public emergency helpline number. • Move vehicles out of traffic if it is safe to do so. • Exchange information with the other driver, including name, phone number, driver’s licence number, licence plate number, and insurance details. • Take photographs of the vehicles, damage, road conditions, and surroundings. • Report the accident to the police or to a collision reporting centre if required under Alberta law. • Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Consult an injury lawyer in Edmonton if you sustain injuries or are uncertain about your rights.

In Alberta, you must report an accident to the police or a collision reporting centre if: • There are injuries, or • The total damage appears to exceed $2,000. If the police do not attend the scene, you should report the accident to a local police station or collision reporting centre within 24 hours. Even in a minor accident, proper reporting protects your legal position.

Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately. A medical assessment creates an official record of your condition and ensures you receive proper treatment. Delaying medical care can affect both your recovery and your claim. If you later develop symptoms, early documentation will support your case.

You should collect: • photos of vehicle damage and the accident location • contact information for witnesses • the other driver’s insurance and licence details • road and weather conditions • notes about what happened, while your memory is fresh Clear evidence helps establish fault and supports any insurance or legal claim.(https://www.mccourtlaw.ca/services)

Most insurance policies require prompt notice. You should report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible, ideally within a few days. For legal claims, Alberta generally has a two-year limitation period from the date of the accident to start a lawsuit. However, certain notice requirements may apply sooner, especially if a municipality or a hit-and-run driver is involved. It is important to act without delay.

You should contact a personal injury lawyer in any of the following circumstances: • You suffered injuries due to someone else’s fault • Fault is disputed • The insurance company denies or reduces your claim • You are offered a settlement and are unsure if it is fair • Your injuries affect your ability to work Early legal advice helps protect your rights and prevents mistakes that may reduce your compensation. Speaking with a lawyer soon after the accident allows proper handling of evidence and communication with insurers.

In most cases, personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay legal fees upfront. The lawyer is paid a percentage of the settlement or court award.

Compensation depends on several factors, including: • The severity of your injuries • Medical expenses • Loss of income • Cost of future care • Pain and suffering

In Alberta, your insurance policy provides Section B accident benefits, regardless of who caused the accident. These benefits typically cover medical treatment, rehabilitation expenses, and a portion of lost income, up to certain limits.