News: 3 people hurt, 1 seriously, after dump truck collides with 4 other vehicles in Newmarket Monday afternoon
- 27.11.2024
- News
In an unfortunate accident, York police say a dump truck struck four vehicles travelling in the opposite direction just before 3 p.m. on Nov. 25, in the area of Davis Drive and Warden Avenue.
Of the four drivers in the passenger vehicles, one person was transported to a trauma centre with life-altering injuries, say police. Another driver was taken to hospital with serious injuries while a third had minor injuries, say police.
The driver of the dump trick was not injured and remained at the scene, add police.
The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to call 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7704.
What to do after a car accident like this?
Car accidents can have devastating consequences, particularly when those injured in the accident suffered “catastrophic impairments” as defined under the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (“SABS”) - the legislation that governs entitlement to accident benefits. Section 3.1 of the SABS sets out eight discrete legal criteria that define what is and what is not a “catastrophic impairment.”
Catastrophic impairments from car accidents can take many forms, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, amputations, and multiple fractures. Generally, catastrophic impairments are severe, life-altering conditions that significantly impair an individual's ability to function physically, emotionally, or cognitively. The severity of these injuries often means that the individual may never fully recover their pre-accident level of independence. For example, a traumatic brain injury can affect memory, communication, and motor skills, while a spinal cord injury may lead to partial or complete paralysis. In many cases, these injuries also come with secondary complications such as chronic pain, infections, or psychological conditions like depression and anxiety.
Unlike those who are found to suffer “minor injuries,” those who are deemed catastrophically impaired often require enhanced medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and ongoing support for the remainder of their lives.
The impact of catastrophic impairments extends beyond physical impairments. Victims often face emotional and financial challenges that can persist for years. Additionally, the injured person may lose their ability to work, either temporarily or permanently, leading to a loss of income and career opportunities. This financial strain is compounded by the need for assistive devices, home modifications, and professional caregiving services to adapt to a new way of living.
Under the SABS, those with catastrophic impairments receive access to enhanced benefits to individuals who meet the criteria for catastrophic impairment. Further, the policy limits increase for those with catastrophic impairments, meaning that the most seriously injured may be eligible for significantly higher compensation to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and attendant care services. These benefits are critical in helping victims rebuild their lives and regain some sense of normalcy after a life-altering accident.
The following table is an example of benefits you may be eligible for if you have been involved in an accident. But please note that some of these benefits are being offered to you as optional as of 2026. Read more on this here
| Type of Benefit | Benefits in 1996 | Anticipated as of July 1, 2026 |
| Medical and Rehabilitation (Non-Catastrophic) | Up to $100,000 over 10 years. | $3,500 for injuries within the guideline.
Up to $65,000 over 5 year for those with injuries outside the guideline. |
| Attendant Care (Non-Catastrophic) | Up to $72,000 | Included in the combined $65,000 limit for Medical and Rehabilitation. |
| Medical and Rehabilitation (Catastrophic) | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000.
Included in the combined $1,000,000 limit for Medical and Rehabilitation. |
| Attendant Care (Catastrophic) | $1,000,000 | |
| Income Replacement Benefit | 80% of net income up to $1,000 per week (approximately $1,700 in 2024 dollars) | Optional coverage; standard policies may not include this benefit unless selected. |
| Caregiver Benefit | Up to $250 per week for the first dependant, plus $50 for each additional dependant | Optional coverage; standard policies may not include this benefit unless selected. |
| Housekeeping and Home Maintenance Expenses | Up to $100 per week | Optional coverage; standard policies may not include this benefit unless selected. |
| Death Benefit | $25,000 to spouse; $10,000 to each dependant | Optional coverage; standard policies may not include this benefit unless selected. |
| Funeral Benefit | Up to $6,000 | Optional coverage; standard policies may not include this benefit unless selected. |
Despite these available benefits, navigating the legal and insurance processes can be challenging, particularly for individuals and families dealing with the aftermath of a catastrophic impairment. Insurance companies may dispute the severity of the injury or the classification of impairment, making it difficult to access the full range of benefits. In such cases, working with an experienced personal injury lawyer is crucial. A car accident lawyer can advocate for the injured person’s rights, gather the necessary medical evidence, ensure that the insurance company is handling the claim in good faith, and negotiate fair compensation that reflects the injured person’s entitlement to benefits, or, if a negotiation cannot be reached, apply to the Licence Appeal Tribunal to have the insurance company’s denial adjudicated.
Beyond the legal and financial aspects, it is essential to recognize the emotional toll that catastrophic injuries take on victims and their families. Support systems, including counseling, peer networks, and community resources, play a vital role in helping individuals cope with the psychological challenges of adjusting to a new reality. Recovery is often a lifelong journey that requires resilience, determination, and access to comprehensive care.
Car accidents that result in catastrophic impairments change lives in an instant, but understanding the resources and support available can make a significant difference in the aftermath. For individuals facing these challenges, seeking professional guidance and advocating for their rights is a critical step toward recovery.
