Alberta Car Accident Settlements Explained: What Benefits You Can Claim

posted in: Personal Injury

What to Expect from Car Accident Settlements in Alberta

If you have been injured in a car accident in Alberta, you may be wondering what kind of compensation you can expect from your settlement. You may have heard of car accident settlement payouts in Alberta that include damages for pain and suffering and medical expenses. But did you know that there are other benefits that you may be entitled to as well?

In this blog, we will explain some of the less obvious benefits that may be included in your car accident settlement, such as cost of care, housekeeping, and expenses recovered over and above your own policy benefits. We will also discuss why quantifying your losses is more complex than what you may have heard from friends and family, and why you should consult a lawyer to ensure you get the full compensation you deserve.

Lost Income and Earning Capacity in Alberta Car Accident Settlements

A significant aspect of a car accident settlement in Alberta involves compensation for lost income and the potential loss of future earning capacity. The repercussions of an accident may hinder your ability to work, either temporarily or permanently, affecting not only your current earnings but also your long-term financial prospects. The calculation of these losses extends beyond a simple multiplication of missed work hours. It requires a nuanced approach that takes into account various personal factors, such as career trajectory, skill set, and the potential for wage increases, as well as broader economic considerations like inflation.

To navigate this complexity, it may be necessary to engage financial experts who specialize in quantifying economic loss. These professionals can construct a detailed forecast of your lost earnings, incorporating the many variables that influence earning potential. Their expertise is particularly valuable when injuries lead to a need for career change, reduced work hours, or early retirement, all of which have profound implications for your financial future.

Claiming the Cost of Care in Alberta Auto Accidents

Another benefit that you may be able to claim in your car accident settlement in Alberta is the cost of care. This refers to the amount of money that you have spent or will spend on medical and rehabilitation services, equipment, and supplies that are necessary for your recovery and well-being. If you have to pay for physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage, medication, surgery, assistive devices, home modifications, or personal care, you may be able to recover these expenses from the at-fault party or their insurer.

Unfortunately, not all costs of care are covered by your own insurance policy or the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan, and there are significant out-of-pocket costs for services or items that are deemed “non-essential” or “unreasonable” by your insurer or the government. You may also have to pay for some services or items that exceed the limits or caps imposed by your policy or the law. However, all of these costs are claimable against the insurance company of the at-fault driver.

Navigating the intricacies of insurance policies and healthcare coverage can be daunting. Legal expertise can be instrumental in ensuring that all relevant costs are accounted for and that you receive the maximum allowable compensation for your care needs.

Compensation for Housekeeping Services in Alberta Car Accident Settlements

Finally, loss of housekeeping capacity can often be overlooked when calculating car accident settlements in Alberta. This compensable area refers to the amount of money that you would have spent or will spend on hiring someone to perform the household tasks that you would normally be capable of completing, but for your injuries. This type of loss includes a wide range of activities, from cleaning and cooking to childcare and maintenance.  If you have to rely on your family or friends to help you with these daily tasks, you may also claim these expenses as part of your settlement.

However, calculating the loss of housekeeping capacity is not as simple as totalling receipts or invoices for hired services. You must consider the value of the services you used to provide, the impact of your injuries on your ability to perform these tasks, your need for assistance, and how this affects your quality of life. Accurately assessing this depends on the unique circumstances of your case and the supporting evidence.

Overcoming Challenges in Alberta Car Accident Settlement Claims

Ultimately, a car accident settlement in Alberta can and should reflect the full spectrum of your losses. Beyond the immediate medical expenses and pain and suffering, it’s important to consider the long-term financial impact, the cost of ongoing care, and the value of lost services within the home. Each of these elements contributes to your overall recovery and quality of life.

The process of claiming these additional benefits is fraught with challenges, from complex calculations to negotiations with insurers. To ensure that you are fully compensated, it is advisable to seek guidance from professionals who can help you navigate the legal and financial complexities of your settlement. They will work to gather evidence, consult with experts, and advocate on your behalf, aiming to secure a settlement that truly reflects the extent of your losses.

Let KMSC Law’s Injury Team Help You Secure Your Full Alberta Car Accident Settlement

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Alberta, understanding your rights and the compensation you’re entitled to can be challenging. At KMSC Law, our experienced Injury Law Team is here to guide you through the settlement process, ensuring that no potential compensation is overlooked.

We offer free, no-obligation consultations to help you fully understand your options and what benefits you may be entitled to. Whether you need compensation for medical expenses, lost income, or other damages, we’re committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome. Our injury lawyers are available to meet with you across Alberta, making it easy to get the legal support you need no matter where you are.

Contact KMSC Law today to schedule your consultation and let us help you navigate your Alberta car accident settlement with confidence.