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Frequently Asked Questions
Most people who engage the services of a personal injury lawyer have never done so before. We understand the stress and confusion that can come with these situations. To provide you with some insight and answers, the legal team at Singer Kwinter have put together a list below of some of the most frequently asked questions. Choose one of the sections below to find out more.
General FAQ
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In most situations, there are very strict time limits in which claims must be issued or notices served. It is wise to consult a lawyer immediately after an accident or insurance denial to ensure that time frames are not missed.
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Canadian law today is very specialized. It is integral to the success of your case that you consult with a lawyer who has the proper knowledge and experience in dealing with the field of your inquiry. Clients should be very wary of lawyers who are known as “dabblers”—these lawyers will usually handle anything that comes through the door. Competent general practitioners will always refer matters beyond their scope of practice to firms specializing in the area that you require expertise. The dedicated team of lawyers at Singer Kwinter are specialized in dealing with serious personal injuries, disability, property loss and insurance claims.
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Although you are not required to hire a lawyer when dealing with an insurance company, you will be at a severe disadvantage if you choose to go without one. Insurance companies retain professional adjusters that work in the company’s best interests; while they may claim that they want to assist you, the bottom line is that they are hired to save the insurance company money. In the case of an injury, you could not know the true value of your claim without proper legal advice. Retaining a lawyer can result in a substantially higher settlement for you. The lawyers at Singer Kwinter are here for you, dedicated to obtaining the full compensation that you deserve.
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Hiring a lawyer does not mean your case will go to trial. A highly competent lawyer will work hard to settle all cases outside of the courtroom. At Singer Kwinter, we are ready to take your case to trial, if necessary, to achieve the best possible outcome. We have taken cases all the way to the Superior Court of Canada.
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Any one of our lawyers who are experts in the area of your specific claim will handle your case. In addition to the lawyers handling your claim, we maintain a large staff of professional legal assistants and law clerks that are there to assist you with your case.
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No. The lawyer handling your case must have your authority before accepting any final settlement. The lawyer can suggest a settlement figure to the insurance company’s representative, however, it is you who has the final say.
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Our compassion towards our clients, as well as our proven track record in the courtroom, makes us one of the most highly regarded personal injury firms in Ontario. With this is mind, the lawyers at Singer Kwinter will advise you as to the fairness of the settlement offer.
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You have the option of speaking to the lawyer who is handling your case or their assistants. Depending on the complexity of the question, the assistant or law clerk should be able to provide most of the information you need.
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At Singer Kwinter, our fee arrangement means that you will pay no legal fees until your case has been won or settled. At the free initial consultation, a lawyer will request information from you in order to determine whether they wish to proceed with your case. They will then explain to you what your case will entail. If you have any questions during your initial consultation or interview please do not hesitate to ask.
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These are the most common and frequently asked questions. Unfortunately, neither can be answered during the initial stages of a claim. As the claim develops and more information becomes available, your lawyer may be able to provide you with an estimate as to the amount of compensation recoverable, and the time period in which your claim will be resolved.
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At Singer Kwinter, we offer a free consultation. After that, our retainers are available on a contingency fee or on an hourly rate, depending on the nature of the matter. Our contingency rate will not exceed 33% plus HST. Our fee structure ensures that you have equal access to the justice system, regardless of your financial situation. View the Contingency fees: What you need to know guide from the Law Society of Ontario.
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Yes. Singer Kwinter takes great care to provide services that are sensitive to our clients’ disabilities. View our Accessible Customer Service Plan in accordance with the AODA.
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Punitive damages are usually awarded if a party acted in an outrageous, vindictive, and/or high-handed manner that shocks the conscious of the court. They are meant not only to punish but also to deter the defendant, insurance company and others from acting in a similar manner.
Accident FAQ
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If you are involved in a car accident, it is important to contact Singer Kwinter right away to protect your rights and guide you through the process. A lawyer from our firm will advise you on communications with police, insurers, and other drivers, assist in gathering key evidence, and ensure all required legal reports are completed properly.
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It is important not to admit fault, apologize, or make statements that could be used against you later, as this may impact your legal rights. You should also avoid negotiating directly with the other driver’s insurance company without first consulting a lawyer at Singer Kwinter, as insurers may try to settle your claim quickly for less than you deserve. Finally, do not delay seeking medical attention or reporting the accident to a Collision Reporting Centre if required, as these steps are critical to both your health and the success of your legal claim.
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To apply for accident benefits, you must notify your insurance company within seven days of the accident and complete the necessary application forms they provide. Singer Kwinter can guide you through this process, ensuring that all forms are completed accurately and submitted on time to protect your right to benefits. With legal support, you can maximize your entitlement to benefits such as medical and rehabilitation expenses, income replacement, and attendant care, while avoiding mistakes that could lead to delays or denials.
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In Ontario, you should always seek medical attention after a car accident, even if you do not feel injured right away. Some injuries, such as concussions, whiplash, or internal trauma, may not show symptoms immediately and can worsen over time if untreated. Proper medical records are vital for your health and any future claims.
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Yes, you can still file a claim for compensation even if you were partially at fault for a car accident. Ontario uses a “contributory negligence” system, which means your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you, but you are not barred from making a claim. An experienced personal injury lawyer at Singer Kwinter can help protect your rights, minimize fault assigned to you, and ensure you receive the maximum benefits and compensation available.
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The police report, Collision Reporting Centre report, medical records, treatment plans, witness statements, photos of the accident scene, and your insurance information, are some of the documents required for your claim. These records provide essential evidence of how the accident happened, the extent of your injuries, and the financial losses you’ve suffered. Singer Kwinter can help you gather, organize, and present these documents effectively to strengthen your claim and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation.
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In Ontario, you have two years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury claim, though some deadlines for accident benefits are much shorter. For example, you must notify your insurance company within seven days of the accident and submit certain benefits applications within thirty days. Singer Kwinter can ensure you meet all required deadlines, protect your rights, and help you avoid losing out on valuable compensation due to missed timelines.
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The Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS) is a set of laws in Ontario, that outlines the benefits available to anyone injured in a motor vehicle accident, regardless of who was at fault. These benefits can include medical and rehabilitation expenses, income replacement, attendant care, and other benefits to help accident victims recover and manage their losses.
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You do not have to accept a low settlement offer from an insurance company after a car accident in Ontario. Insurance companies often try to settle quickly and for less than what your claim may truly be worth, which is why having an experienced personal injury lawyer at Singer Kwinter is essential. One of our lawyers can review the offer, negotiate on your behalf, and pursue fair compensation through settlement discussions or court action if necessary, ensuring your rights and long-term needs are fully protected.
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After a car accident in Ontario, you may be able to claim damages for medical and rehabilitation expenses, lost wages or loss of earning capacity, attendant care, and out-of-pocket expenses related to your injuries. In more serious cases, you may also pursue compensation for pain and suffering, future care needs, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Insurance Claims FAQ
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If your insurance claim is denied after a car accident, you should not give up, as you still have legal options to challenge the decision. Insurance companies may deny claims for reasons such as missing paperwork, disputes over coverage, or questions about the severity of injuries. Singer Kwinter can review the denial, gather additional evidence, and advocate for your right to benefits. With legal guidance, you can appeal the decision, negotiate with the insurer, or take further legal action to secure the compensation you deserve.
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To dispute a delayed or denied insurance claim after a car accident in Ontario, you should first review the insurer’s reasons for the delay or denial and gather all supporting documents, such as medical records, accident reports, and receipts. Our experienced lawyers at Singer Kwinter can step in to communicate with the insurance company, challenge unfair decisions, and ensure deadlines are met. With legal representation, you can appeal the denial, negotiate for a fair resolution, or escalate the matter to the Licence Appeal Tribunal (LAT) if necessary, protecting your right to full compensation.
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Car accident insurance claims are most commonly denied due to incomplete or late paperwork, disputes about whether the injury is accident-related, missed medical appointments, or lack of sufficient medical evidence. Insurers may also deny claims if they believe you failed to report the accident properly, gave inconsistent statements, or did not follow prescribed treatment. As experts in insurance claim denials, Singer Kwinter can identify the reason for the denial, gather the necessary evidence, and fight to overturn the decision so you can access the benefits and compensation you are entitled to.
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When filing an insurance claim after a car accident, you should avoid admitting fault, providing incomplete or inaccurate information, or delaying your claim, as these mistakes can harm your case. You should also avoid signing documents or accepting settlement offers without first consulting a lawyer at Singer Kwinter, since insurers may pressure you into agreements that limit your compensation. By working with an experienced personal injury lawyer, you can ensure your claim is filed correctly, supported with strong evidence, and positioned for the best possible outcome.
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You generally must notify your insurance company of a car accident within seven days and submit a completed Accident Benefits Application within thirty days. For personal injury lawsuits, the standard limitation period is two years from the date of the accident, though certain exceptions may apply.
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Yes, you can appeal or fight an insurance company’s decision if your car accident claim is denied, delayed, or unfairly reduced. This process may involve submitting additional evidence, negotiating directly with the insurer, or bringing the dispute before the Licence Appeal Tribunal (LAT).
Product Liability FAQ
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In Ontario, several parties can be held responsible in a product liability case, including the manufacturer, distributor, wholesaler, and retailer of the defective product. Liability may arise if the product has a design flaw, a manufacturing defect, or inadequate warnings or instructions that cause injury. Our experienced personal injury lawyers at Singer Kwinter can investigate your case, identify all potentially liable parties, and pursue the compensation you deserve under Ontario product liability law.
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A product may be considered defective if it has a design flaw, a manufacturing error, or lacks proper warnings or instructions that make it unsafe for normal use. Signs of a defective product can include unexpected malfunctions, safety hazards not disclosed by the manufacturer, or injuries caused while using the product as intended. Singer Kwinter can review your situation, determine if the product meets the legal definition of “defective,” and help you pursue compensation through a product liability claim.
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If you purchase a defective product in Ontario, you should stop using it immediately, keep the product and any packaging as evidence, and document any injuries or damages it caused. You should also seek medical attention if you were hurt and report the defect to the retailer or manufacturer. Singer Kwinter can advise you on your legal options, help preserve evidence, and pursue a product liability claim to recover compensation for your injuries and losses.
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You may be able to claim damages for medical expenses, lost income, and rehabilitation expenses if the defective product caused injury. You can also pursue compensation for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and future care needs in more serious cases.
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The statute of limitations for product liability claims is generally two years from the date you knew or ought to have known about the injury and its connection to the defective product.
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You must show that the product had a design flaw, a manufacturing defect, or inadequate warnings that made it unsafe when used as intended. Evidence such as expert reports, photos, medical records, and documentation of how the product was used can be critical to building your case. Singer Kwinter can gather the necessary evidence, consult industry experts, and present a strong claim to establish liability and secure fair compensation.
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To protect yourself from defective products in Ontario, always purchase items from reputable retailers, carefully read labels and instructions, and register products with the manufacturer so you are notified of recalls. Keep receipts, warranties, and packaging, as these documents can be essential if a defect later causes injury. If you are harmed by a defective product, an Ontario personal injury lawyer at Singer Kwinter can advise you on your rights and help you pursue compensation through a product liability claim.
Medical Malpractice FAQ
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One of the most common types of medical malpractice is misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis, where a healthcare provider fails to identify a condition correctly or in time, leading to worsening illness or complications. Other frequent examples include surgical errors, medication mistakes, and lack of informed consent.
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You may be a victim of medical malpractice in Ontario, if your healthcare provider failed to meet the standard of care expected in their field, resulting in harm that could have been prevented. Warning signs include a misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, surgical errors, incorrect medications, or complications that were not disclosed to you beforehand. Singer Kwinter can review your medical records, consult with experts, and determine whether you have grounds for a medical malpractice claim.
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In Ontario, you generally have two years from the date you knew, or reasonably should have known, that malpractice occurred, and caused you harm, to file a medical malpractice claim. Singer Kwinter can help you determine the exact timelines that apply to your case and ensure your claim is filed before important deadlines expire.
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If you have been injured due to medical negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for both financial and personal losses. This can include reimbursement for medical expenses, lost income, and future care costs, as well as damages for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. In some cases, additional compensation may be available if the healthcare provider’s conduct was especially reckless or caused further harm.
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Yes, you should have a lawyer if you are filing a medical malpractice lawsuit in Ontario, because these cases involve complicated medical and legal issues that require expert testimony and thorough investigation. Without legal representation, it is very difficult to meet the high burden of proof needed to show that a healthcare provider’s negligence caused your injuries.
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To support a medical malpractice claim, you will need evidence such as detailed medical records, test results, hospital reports, and documentation of your treatment history. Expert opinions from qualified medical professionals are also crucial to show that the healthcare provider failed to meet the accepted standard of care. Singer Kwinter can help gather this evidence, work with medical experts, and build a strong case to prove negligence and secure fair compensation.
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In a medical malpractice lawsuit in Ontario, medical experts play a critical role by reviewing your records and providing professional opinions on whether the healthcare provider met the accepted standard of care. Their testimony helps the court or tribunal understand complex medical issues and determine if negligence directly caused your injuries.
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Yes, in Ontario, you can sue a hospital or doctor if errors during surgery or treatment caused you harm due to negligence. Surgical mistakes, anesthesia errors, or failures in post-operative care, may all form the basis of a medical malpractice claim if they fall below the standard of care. Singer Kwinter can review your case, gather expert medical evidence, and pursue compensation for the damages you suffered.
Property Loss Claims FAQ
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If you experience property damage or loss in Ontario, you should first document the damage thoroughly with photos, videos, and written notes, and report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. It is also important to keep receipts for repairs, replacements, or any emergency expenses related to the damage.
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To file a property loss claim in Ontario you must notify your insurance company promptly, provide details about the damage, and submit supporting documents such as photos, receipts, and repair estimates. Your insurer will likely send an adjuster to assess the damage before making a coverage decision. Singer Kwinter can guide you through the claims process, ensure your paperwork is complete, and advocate for fair compensation if the insurance company undervalues or denies your claim.
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Property insurance policies often exclude coverage for certain types of damage, such as wear and tear, gradual deterioration, mold, infestations, or damage caused by intentional acts. Some policies may also exclude flooding, earthquakes, or sewer backup unless you have purchased additional coverage.
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The value of damaged property is usually determined by your insurance company based on either the actual cash value (the cost to replace the item minus depreciation) or the replacement cost (the amount needed to replace the item with a new one of similar kind and quality). The method applied depends on the terms of your insurance policy and the type of coverage you purchased.
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To support a property loss claim, you should provide documents such as photographs or videos of the damage, receipts or invoices for the damaged items, repair estimates, insurance policy details, and any police or fire department reports if applicable. Keeping an organized record of communication with your insurer, including claim forms and adjuster notes, is also important. Singer Kwinter can help you gather the right documentation, present a strong claim, and challenge the insurer if they undervalue or deny your losses.
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If your property insurance claim is denied in Ontario, you should first review the denial letter carefully to understand the insurer’s reasons, then gather additional evidence such as photos, receipts, and expert reports to challenge their decision. It is important not to accept the denial at face value, as insurers may misinterpret policy language or undervalue your losses.
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In Ontario, most property insurance policies require you to report damage or loss to your insurer as soon as reasonably possible, and often within a specific period such as seven to thirty days. Failing to report promptly may give the insurer grounds to delay or deny your claim. The team of lawyers at Singer Kwinter can review your policy deadlines, ensure your claim is filed on time, and protect your right to fair compensation.
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If you disagree with your insurer’s decision in Ontario, you should request a detailed explanation in writing and gather supporting evidence such as repair estimates, expert opinions, or additional documentation to strengthen your position. Avoid signing any settlement or waiver until you have fully reviewed your options.
Personal Injury FAQ
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You may have a personal injury case in Ontario, if you were harmed due to someone else’s negligence, such as with a car accident, slip and fall, defective product, or medical malpractice. Key factors include proving that another party owed you a duty of care, that they breached that duty, and that their actions caused your injuries and losses. Singer Kwinter can evaluate your situation, explain your legal options, and determine whether you have a strong case for compensation.
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In Ontario, personal injury compensation can include medical and rehabilitation expenses, lost wages or loss of earning capacity, and cost of future care. You may also be entitled to damages for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and out-of-pocket expenses related to your injury. Singer Kwinter can assess your case, calculate the full value of your losses, and fight to ensure you receive fair compensation under Ontario law.
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You generally have two years from the date of the accident or injury to file a personal injury claim, though certain exceptions may extend or shorten this period depending on the circumstances. For example, if your injury involves a municipality, you may need to provide written notice within 7 to 10 days of the accident. Contact Singer Kwinter to review your situation, and to ensure all deadlines are met.
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Yes, hiring a lawyer at Singer Kwinter for a personal injury case is highly recommended because these claims can be complex and insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A lawyer can gather medical evidence, calculate the full value of your damages, and negotiate or litigate on your behalf.
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Yes, in Ontario, you can claim compensation for pain and suffering or emotional trauma as part of a personal injury case. These non-economic damages are meant to compensate you for the impact your injuries have on your quality of life, relationships, and mental well-being.
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Fault in a personal injury case is determined by examining whether another party breached their duty of care and whether that negligence directly caused your injuries. Evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert testimony is used to establish liability. A personal injury lawyer at Singer Kwinter can investigate your case, gather the necessary evidence, and build a strong argument to prove fault and maximize your compensation.
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Your insurance may cover your injuries, however, coverage limits vary, and insurers may deny or reduce benefits without proper documentation or legal guidance. Singer Kwinter can review your policy, ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to, and pursue additional compensation if another party’s negligence caused your injuries.
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To support a personal injury claim in Ontario, you will need evidence such as medical records, hospital reports, rehabilitation notes, accident or police reports, witness statements, and photographs of the accident scene and your injuries. Financial documents such as pay stubs or employment records may also be required to prove lost income.
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In Ontario, contingency fees in personal injury cases mean that you do not pay your lawyer upfront; instead, the lawyer’s fee is a percentage of the compensation you receive if your case is successful. This allows injured individuals to access legal representation without worrying about immediate legal costs. Singer Kwinter will explain their contingency fee agreement in detail, ensuring transparency and that you understand how fees will be calculated before proceeding with your claim.