What Kind of Personal Injuries Can You Sue For in Alberta?

In Alberta, those who have suffered personal injuries because of negligence or misconduct of others are eligible to pursue legal action. A personal injury lawyer can guide plaintiffs through the complexities of the legal process. They can protect their rights and advocate for fair compensation.

Understanding the range of personal injuries for which one can file a lawsuit is essential for making informed decisions about legal recourse. By knowing the types of injuries eligible for legal action, individuals can better navigate their options and seek appropriate compensation for their damages.
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Let’s take a look at those injuries:

​Motor Vehicle Accidents

Alberta's roads witness a significant number of motor vehicle accidents each year, ranging from car collisions to incidents involving trucks and bicycles.
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Injuries sustained in these accidents can vary from minor to severe, impacting victims physically, emotionally, and financially.
Whether you're a driver, passenger, or pedestrian involved in such accidents, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.

​Motorcycle Accidents

Alberta's picturesque landscapes make it an attractive destination for motorcycle enthusiasts. However, motorcycle accidents can lead to devastating injuries because of the inherent risks associated with riding.
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From head injuries to spinal cord damage, the consequences of motorcycle accidents can be life-altering.
If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident, pursuing a personal injury claim can help cover medical treatment, ongoing care, lost wages, and other related expenses.​

Slip and Fall Accidents

Not all injuries involve vehicles, such as slip and fall accidents. These occur frequently, especially during the winter months when icy sidewalks and poorly maintained premises pose significant hazards.
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These accidents can result in:

• Head injuries
• Sprains
• Fractures
• Other serious conditions

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Property owners and managers are legally obligated to keep their premises safe and address potential hazards promptly.
If you've been hurt in a slip-and-fall accident as a result of negligence and poor maintenance, you may be eligible for compensation to cover expenses such as medical bills, rehabilitation, and other associated costs.

​Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, and they face significant risks of injury when involved in accidents with motor vehicles.

In Alberta, pedestrian accidents can occur at intersections, crosswalks, and other areas frequented by foot traffic.
Victims of pedestrian accidents may sustain injuries such as:

• Fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Other severe injuries

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If you've been hit by a vehicle while walking, speak to a personal injury lawyer. They can help get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries,  including rehabilitation expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Public Transportation Accidents ​

Accidents that involve public transportation, such as buses and trains, can result in serious injuries to passengers and bystanders.
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In Alberta, public transportation providers have a duty to ensure the safety of their passengers and the public. If you've been injured in a public transportation accident due to negligence or misconduct, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim to recover damages for medical treatment, rehabilitation, lost income, and other losses.

Commercial/Social Host Liability ​

Alberta's laws hold commercial establishments and social hosts accountable for injuries that occur on their property due to negligence or inadequate safety measures.
Whether it's a slip and fall in a grocery store or an injury at a private residence, property owners and hosts may be liable for damages.
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If you've been injured due to the negligence of a commercial establishment or social host, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Government Liability ​

When injuries result from negligence or wrongdoing by government entities or employees, victims have the right to seek compensation through legal channels.
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In Alberta, government liability cases may arise from accidents on public roads, sidewalks, or government-owned properties.
Whether it's a slip and fall on a poorly maintained sidewalk or an accident caused by negligent road maintenance, victims may pursue personal injury claims against the government to obtain compensation for their injuries, financial losses, and other damages.

Wrongful Death

In tragic cases where a loved one has died due to someone else's negligence or misconduct, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim.

Wrongful death claims hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions and provide compensation to surviving family members for their loss. While no amount of money can replace a lost life, a wrongful death settlement can help ease financial burdens, provide closure, and ensure that justice is served.

What is the Process for Suing in Alberta?

Suing for personal injury in Alberta involves several steps, beginning with the initial consultation with a qualified injury lawyer.

During this consultation, the lawyer will assess the merits of your case and determine the best course of action.
If the decision is made to proceed with legal action, the next steps typically include:

• Gathering Evidence: Your lawyer will collect evidence to support your claim, including medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and other relevant documentation.
• Filing a Statement of Claim: Your personal injury lawyer will draft and file a statement of claim with the appropriate court, outlining the details of your case and the damages sought.
• Service of Documents: The statement of claim must be served on the defendant(s) named in the lawsuit, informing them of the legal proceedings against them.
• Discovery: Both parties exchange relevant information and evidence through a process known as discovery. This may involve depositions, interviews, and requests for documents.
• Mediation or Settlement Negotiations: Before proceeding to trial, parties may attempt to resolve the case through mediation or settlement negotiations. This allows for a potentially quicker and less costly resolution.
• Trial: If the case cannot be resolved through settlement, it will proceed to trial. During the trial, both parties present their arguments and evidence before a judge or jury, who will ultimately determine the outcome of the case.
• Judgment and Appeal: Following the trial, the court will issue a judgment based on the evidence. If either party is dissatisfied with the judgment, they may have the right to appeal the decision to a higher court.

Navigating the legal process can be complicated and stressful, which is why having an experienced lawyer on your side is essential. They can guide you through each step of the process, advocate for your rights, and work towards achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

Personal Injury Lawyers in Alberta - We’re Here To Help

If you've been injured in any of the aforementioned accidents, it's crucial to seek legal guidance from an experienced personal injury lawyer in Alberta.
Braithwaite Boyle specializes exclusively in accident cases, ensuring focused expertise in advocating for your rights and helping you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us put our dedicated experience to work for you.

**Please note that this article is to only provide general information. It cannot be considered as legal advice. If you have any questions or concerns, or have been involved in a motor vehicle accident,  please contact Braithwaite Boyle Injury Law and one of our lawyers would be happy to assist you.