Personal Injury Lawyer Hamilton

Dedicated Personal Injury Lawyers in Hamilton

Life can change in an instant. A sudden accident or injury can turn your world upside down, leaving you facing physical pain, emotional distress, and financial uncertainty. When these challenging times arise due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, you need a trusted advocate who can stand up for your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

At Avanessy Giordano LLP, we understand the profound impact an injury can have on your life and the lives of your loved ones. Our team of dedicated personal injury lawyers is proud to serve clients in Hamilton, Ontario. We are committed to providing compassionate, client-focused legal representation to help you rebuild your life and secure your future.

With decades of experience handling a wide range of personal injury cases, we have the knowledge, skills, and resources to take on even the most complex claims. Whether you’ve sustained injuries in a car accident, slip-and-fall incident, or any other type of accident resulting from someone else’s actions or inaction, our Hamilton personal injury lawyers are here to guide you through the legal process.

Hamilton Personal Injury Lawyers Who Put Clients First

Hamilton, a vibrant port city known for its rich industrial history and natural beauty, is home to over 530,000 residents. With its diverse neighbourhoods and thriving business community, Hamilton also sees its fair share of accidents and injuries. When such events occur, working with a knowledgeable and experienced personal injury lawyer can make a world of difference in your recovery and financial stability.

At Avanessy Giordano LLP, our founders, Michael Giordano and Aline Avanessy, bring decades of combined experience to every case we handle. Having worked at large law firms before establishing their own practice, Michael and Aline recognized the need for a more individualized approach to personal injury law. Our goal is to combine the resources of a large firm with the personalized attention and care that every client deserves. We believe in building strong, trusting relationships with the people we serve.

Our team of Hamilton personal injury lawyers thoroughly understands Ontario’s personal injury laws and how they apply to various accidents. We stay up-to-date with the latest legal developments and precedents so that we can provide you with the most effective representation possible.

Our approach to personal injury cases in Hamilton is comprehensive and meticulous. We will thoroughly investigate your accident’s circumstances, gather all relevant evidence, and consult with medical experts and other specialists when necessary. This process allows us to build a robust, compelling case to maximize your compensation.

No matter the nature or severity of your injury, our Hamilton personal injury lawyers have the skills and resources to provide you with high-quality legal representation.

The Benefits of Working with Hamilton Personal Injury Lawyers

When you’ve suffered bodily harm due to someone else’s negligence, you might wonder whether hiring a personal injury lawyer is necessary. While you’re not legally required to have legal representation, working with an experienced Hamilton personal injury lawyer can significantly strengthen your case.

Here are some key benefits of partnering with the skilled personal injury lawyers at Avanessy Giordano LLP:

Experienced Legal Guidance

Personal injury law can be complex and confusing, especially when you’re also dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of an accident. Our lawyers will explain your rights, help you understand your options, and enable you to make informed decisions about your case.

Maximizing Your Compensation

Insurance adjusters often attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Our Hamilton personal injury lawyers know how to negotiate effectively with insurance adjusters and can help ensure that your injuries, lost income, and other losses receive the fair consideration they deserve. We will carefully calculate the total extent of your losses, including any medical expenses not covered by the Ontario health care system, as well as the long-term consequences for your earning capacity, to make sure you don’t inadvertently settle for less than your case is worth.

Handling All Legal Paperwork

Filing a personal injury claim involves a high volume of paperwork and strict deadlines. Our team will handle all the necessary documentation, ensuring everything is filed correctly and on time. This means you can focus on your recovery while we take care of the legal details.

Access to Resources

Building a solid personal injury case may require expert testimony from medical professionals and accident reconstruction specialists. Our firm has established relationships with a network of trusted professionals who can offer valuable insights and testimony to support your claim.

Representation in Court

While many personal injury cases reach out-of-court settlements, some must eventually proceed to trial. If your case goes to court, you’ll want an experienced litigator in your corner. Our Hamilton personal injury lawyers are skilled litigators who will ardently advocate for your rights in the courtroom.

Peace of Mind

Perhaps most importantly, working with a skilled personal injury lawyer gives you peace of mind during a challenging time. Knowing that a seasoned legal professional is handling your case allows you to focus on the other important aspects of your life.

Personal Injury Law: Cases Our Lawyers Can Handle

At Avanessy Giordano LLP, our Hamilton personal injury lawyers have extensive experience handling all types of cases.

Here are some of the primary types of personal injury cases our lawyers take on:

Traffic accidents are among the most common causes of personal injury in Hamilton. Whether the incident was a relatively “minor” collision or a catastrophic crash, our team can help you build a solid claim. We’ll work tirelessly to establish liability, deal with insurance companies, and help you understand your immediate and long-term financial needs so you are eligible to claim appropriate compensation.

We handle cases of injured individuals who have sustained injuries in:

• Car accidents – Our team can help you deal with insurance companies and fight for fair compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses.
• Motorcycle accidents – Motorcycle riders are particularly vulnerable on the road, and accidents often result in severe injuries.
• Truck accidents – Due to their size and weight, collisions involving large commercial trucks can be catastrophic. These cases often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and potentially the manufacturer of truck parts.
• Pedestrian accidents – Hamilton’s efforts to become more walkable have not eliminated the risks of pedestrian accidents, which can leave individuals with life-altering or even fatal injuries.
• Bicycle accidents – With more Hamiltonians choosing bicycles as a mode of transportation, bicycle accidents have become increasingly common. In fact, bicycle accidents in Hamilton are twice as common as the provincial average.
• Public transit accidents – Accidents involving HSR buses or other forms of public transportation can be highly complex due to the involvement of government entities. Our team understands the specific regulations and limitations these cases involve, and we can shepherd your case through the claims process.

In Ontario, motor vehicle accident cases fall under a “no-fault” insurance system. Regardless of who caused the accident, you typically turn to your own insurance company first for benefits. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t pursue a claim against an at-fault driver in some circumstances. If your injuries meet the threshold for serious and permanent impairment or disfigurement, you can hold the other party accountable for your losses.

Our Hamilton personal injury lawyers will fight for all the statutory accident benefits you are entitled to under your own insurance policy, which may include:

• Income replacement benefits
• Medical and rehabilitation benefits not covered by Ontario’s healthcare system
• Attendant care benefits
• Non-earner benefits (for those who were not employed at the time of the accident)

In cases of serious injuries, we can also help you pursue a tort claim against the at-fault driver. This can provide compensation for:

• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of income and future earning capacity
• Family member claims for loss of care, guidance, and companionship

Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can occur in shopping centres, on sidewalks, in office buildings, and in private homes. Property owners are legally required to take steps toward maintaining safe premises for visitors. If you’ve suffered harm because someone did not fulfill their responsibility to clear debris from a corridor, mop up a spill in the aisle, or repair a broken staircase, you have a right to hold them accountable for their negligence.

Workplace Injuries

While workplace insurance covers many workplace injuries, there are situations where you may be able to file a personal injury claim. This could include cases of third-party liability or injuries resulting from defective equipment. Our team can assess your case and advise you on the best course of action.

Product Liability Cases

Faulty products can cause severe injuries. Whether it’s a defective appliance, a defective vehicle part, or a dangerous pharmaceutical drug, our lawyers can help you hold manufacturers, distributors, and retailers accountable for injuries resulting from their products.

Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

Dog bites and other animal attacks can result in serious physical injuries and emotional trauma. In Ontario, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets. Our team can help you pursue compensation from the animal’s owner to cover your out-of-pocket medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord injuries (SCIs), traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or severe burns, can have life-altering consequences. These cases often involve complex medical evidence and substantial long-term costs. Our experienced lawyers can consult with medical experts to help you determine the long-term rehabilitation, home modification, and assistance costs your injury may require. We will then fight tenaciously for the comprehensive compensation you need to secure your future.

Wrongful Death Claims

Losing a loved one due to someone else’s actions or negligence is a devastating experience. While we at Avanessy Giordano LLP understand that a financial award will never make up for your bereavement, a wrongful death claim can provide financial security and a sense of justice for your family. Our compassionate lawyers can guide you through this difficult process with sensitivity and skill.

Long-Term Disability Claims

If you’re unable to work due to a long-term disability, you may be entitled to benefits through your employer’s insurance policy or a private disability insurance plan. However, insurance companies often deny or undervalue these claims. Our team can help you fight for the benefits you deserve, whether through negotiation or litigation.

Medical Malpractice

When healthcare professionals fail to meet an acceptable standard of care, the consequences can be severe. Medical malpractice cases are complicated, requiring a thorough understanding of both medicine and the law. Our lawyers work with medical experts to build comprehensive cases for victims of medical negligence.

Personal Injury Lawsuit Process in Hamilton

A personal injury lawsuit in Hamilton can be a complex and often protracted process. At Ava Gio, we believe that understanding the steps involved can help reduce some of the stress and uncertainty you may be feeling. While every case is unique, here’s a general overview of what you can expect when pursuing a personal injury claim in Hamilton:

Initial Consultation

The claims process begins with a free initial consultation with one of our experienced Hamilton personal injury lawyers. During this meeting, we’ll discuss how your injury occurred, assess the strength of your case, and explain your legal options. This meeting is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and determine whether our firm is the right fit for you.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

If you elect to proceed with your claim, we’ll begin a thorough investigation of your case. This may involve:

• Collecting police reports and accident records
• Gathering medical records and bills
• Interviewing witnesses
• Consulting expert witnesses (such as medical professionals or accident reconstruction specialists)
• Collecting photographic or video evidence of the accident scene or your injuries

Filing a Claim and Negotiations

Once we’ve gathered sufficient evidence, we’ll file a claim with the appropriate insurance company and commence negotiations with them. Our experienced lawyers will advocate aggressively on your behalf, presenting the evidence we have gathered and a compelling argument for fair compensation. Many personal injury cases in Hamilton are resolved at this stage through a settlement agreement. Our skilled negotiators have significant experience securing fair settlements for our clients without the need for a lengthy court battle.

Issuing a Statement of Claim

If we can’t reach a fair settlement via negotiations, the next step is to issue a Statement of Claim. This formal legal document outlines your case against the at-fault party and officially starts the lawsuit process in the court system.

The defendant can then respond to your claim by filing a Statement of Defence. This document outlines their side of the story and any defences they plan to raise.

Discovery Process

The discovery phase is a crucial part of the lawsuit process. It involves the exchange of relevant documents between parties and examinations for discovery (also known as depositions). During an examination for discovery, lawyers for both parties can question the opposing party under oath. This process helps each side understand the strengths and weaknesses of their case and the other party’s position.

Mediation

In many Ontario jurisdictions, including Hamilton, mediation is a mandatory step in the civil litigation process. Mediation involves a neutral third party who facilitates discussions between the parties in an attempt to reach a settlement. Our lawyers will prepare you thoroughly for this process and advocate for your interests during the mediation.

Pre-Trial Conference

A pre-trial conference is typically the next step if the case doesn’t settle at mediation. This is a meeting between the lawyers, their clients, and a judge to discuss the issues of the case and explore the possibility of settlement. The judge may offer their opinion on the strengths and weaknesses of each side’s case, which can often lead to renewed settlement negotiations.

Trial

If all attempts at settlement fail, your case will proceed to trial. During the trial, both sides will present their arguments and evidence to a judge or jury. While going to trial can be stressful, our experienced litigation team will be by your side every step of the way, presenting a compelling case and fighting for your rights.

Judgment and Potential Appeals

At the end of the trial, the judge or jury will make a decision on your case. If either party disagrees with the decision, they may have the option to appeal to a higher court.

Enforcement of Judgment

If you win your case, the final step is enforcing the judgment to obtain the compensation awarded. Our team can assist with this process if necessary.

The duration of a personal injury lawsuit can vary significantly depending on the nature of the case, the severity of the injuries, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate. Some cases may be resolved in a matter of months, while more complex cases can take several years to reach a conclusion. Throughout this entire process, the personal injury lawyers at Avanessy Giordano LLP will be your advocates and guides. We will keep you informed at every stage, explain complex legal concepts in understandable terms, and always act in your best interests.

Get Expert Guidance for Your Personal Injury Claim

If you have suffered injuries in Hamilton due to someone else’s negligence, the personal injury lawyers at Avanessy Giordano LLP are here to fight for the compensation you deserve. During your free, no-obligation consultation, we’ll listen to your story, assess the strength of your claim, and provide clear, honest advice on how to proceed.

Ontario has strict time limits for filing personal injury claims. The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can start building your case and protecting your rights. Contact us today for your free consultation. Our dedicated team of Ontario personal injury lawyers is ready to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Injury Claims in Hamilton

At Avanessy Giordano LLP, we understand that pursuing a personal injury claim can raise many questions. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from our Hamilton clients:

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Hamilton?

In Ontario, you generally have two years from when you sustain or discover the injury to file a claim. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and it’s always best to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after your injury.

How much is my personal injury case worth?

The value of your case depends on many factors, including the severity of your condition, its impact on your life, and the circumstances of the accident. During your free consultation, we can provide a more accurate and informed estimate based on the details of your specific case.

What if I can’t afford a lawyer?

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you are not responsible for fees unless we win your case. This arrangement permits you to access high-quality legal representation without the stress of upfront costs.

What types of compensation can I receive?

Depending on your case, you may be eligible for compensation for out-of-pocket medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, future care costs, and more. We will take careful stock of all your present and future losses as we prepare your claim.

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Ontario uses a contributory negligence system, which means you can still recover compensation even if you were partly at fault. However, the court may reduce any award they grant you by your percentage of fault.

Every personal injury case is unique, and these general answers may not apply to your specific situation. For personalized advice about your case, we encourage you to reach out to our Hamilton personal injury lawyers for a free consultation. We’re here to answer your questions and guide you through every step of the legal process.

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