Injured? Hire a personal injury Lawyer | Tim Louis and Company

Leading Accidents that Result in Concussion

A concussion is a mild form of Traumatic brain injury (TBI) that affects brain function and usually caused by a blow to the head, bump, violent shake or any blunt force to the area. Concussions are usually temporary but are a common result of motor vehicle accidents or any other form of personal injury. It’s important to note that even a violent shake of the upper body can cause a concussion.

Most of those who suffer from a concussion, recover quickly and fully. However, in more serious cases, symptoms can last for weeks or longer.

Symptoms of a Concussion

It’s important to know that concussions don’t always present symptoms. If symptoms do show up, they may not present themselves right away and can last for days, weeks or longer. The most common symptoms of a concussive traumatic brain injury are amnesia (memory loss), headaches and disorientation.

Physical Symptoms of Concussion:

Ears ringing
Headaches
Nausea
Vomiting
Fatigue
Blurry vision
Fluid or blood draining from the nose or ears

Other symptoms may include:

The inability to remember the traumatic event that caused the concussion
Confusion
Feeling of dizziness / Confusion
Problems with speech
Sleep disturbances
Feelings of depression, nervousness and/or anxiety
Feeling isolated or alone

When to Seek Medical Attention

Seek medical attention immediately if you or your child has suffered from a head injury – even if emergency care isn’t required.

Leading Accidents that Result in Concussion:

Motor Vehicle Related Injury

Motor vehicle accidents are a common cause of mild or severe TBIs or concussions. These head injuries can occur from any head injury such as hitting the dashboard, driver window or another passenger.

Slip & Falls

When you think about a slip and fall injury, you probably imagine sprains, broken bones, bad bruises or pulled tendons. Head injuries though are very common – so common in fact that they are one of the leading causes of mild to very severe, life-changing forms of concussion.

Any of these slip and fall accidents can result in a mild to severe concussion:

Slipping on the wet floor
Falling in a store and knocking your head on the floor or against a shelf
Tripping over an obstacle or crack on the sidewalk resulting in a blow to the head
Falling in around someone’s residence and knocking your head

Assaults

It’s obvious that victims of any type of physical assault are at risk for having a concussion. Any blow to the head, twist and or fall can result in a mild to serious head injury.

Playing Sports

The Public Health Agency of Canada Reports that for females, approximately 20,000 (45%) of brain injuries result from sports and recreation. For males, approximately 26,000 (54%) of brain injuries result from sports or recreational injuries.

According to the Canadian Hospitals Injury Reporting and Prevention Program (CHIRPP), Ice Hockey, Rugby and Ringette are the most common sports with the highest the proportion of brain injuries among children and youth 5-19 years of age, ranging from 27% to 44% of all injuries that happened while playing these sports.

According to the government of Canada, 1 in 2 Canadians has little to no knowledge about concussions. Since only 4 in 10 Canadians are aware of available concussion tools and resources, we have added some reliable and trusted sources below to learn more about the causes and treatment of mild or severe concussions.

Contact A Trusted Personal Injury Lawyer

If you or a loved one has suffered from a mild or severe concussion resulting from a motor vehicle collision, or slip and fall, Tim Louis and his compassionate and talented legal team can give you the reliable, trusted advice you require. Contact us today for a free consultation at 604-732-7678 or TimLouis@TimLouisLaw.com

Sources:

https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/concussion-sign-symptoms/concussion-sport-infographic.html

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15038-concussion

Personal Injury Claim for Your Kids | Tim Louis & Company Law in Vancouver

Personal Injury Claims for Children

For any parent or guardian, knowing that a child in their care has been injured can be a stressful ordeal. Of course, the number one concern after a vehicle collision is the child’s well being. However, if you are unsure about the next steps to take after an accident, we have gathered essential information necessary to ensure your child’s personal injury claim is filed. Note it is always best to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to alleviate the stress of dealing with a complex claim involving children.

Personal Injury Claims for Minors

Personal injury claims for children can be an intricate and complex process. As much as you may want to just focus on your child’s health during this difficult, stressful time, it’s important to be aware of the steps necessary to ensure that your child’s injury resulting from an accident is documented and a personal injury claim is submitted as soon as possible.

Start a Claim As Soon As Possible

It is always ideal to start a claim sooner rather than later. If a claim is submitted immediately, key evidence can be submitted before it is lost and any witnesses will still have clear details of the accident fresh in their mind — which will, in turn, help the claim.

Children do not always have the ability to articulate express their feelings – so documenting any changes in mood and behaviour is important. Children’s claims can span a number of years — another good reason to start a claim immediately and document every detail along the way.

How Long Does a Child Have to Make a Personal Injury Claim?

Another good reason to start a claim right away is the fact that there can be certain time limits to adhere to. As an example, if a child has been injured in a vehicle collision, he or she may be entitled to ICBC part 7 benefits (a no-fault portion of ICBC insurance coverage). http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/447_83_07

ICBC Part 7 Benefits include the following:

Medical and rehabilitation benefits
Funeral and death benefits
Disability (lost earnings) benefits

The most commonly known limitation for child claims is 2 years, which doesn’t start until the child turns 19. Another less common limitation in relation to ICBC is also 2 years, but begins right after the crash occurred – and can end as early as the 1-year mark after the accident occurred.

Compensation Settlements for Children

BC law recognizes that children under the age of 19 may be unaware of their rights and may not be able to fully understand the complexities of the situation and are unable to represent themselves. For this reason, minors are prohibited from representing themselves and require an adult to submit the personal injury claim on their behalf. There are 2 options available:

1. A litigation guardian can be appointed
(Typically a parent or close relative will pursue a claim on the child’s behalf)

2. The child may wait until their 19th birthday to pursue a claim. When this happens, he/she has 2 years in which to submit a claim (must be settled by his/her 21st birthday).

Speak to a Lawyer Right After Your Child’s Accident

Personal injury cases involving children are extremely complex. If you or your child has been injured in a motor vehicle collision in Metro Vancouver, Tim Louis and his compassionate and experienced team can give you the reliable and trusted advice you deserve, deal with ICBC on your behalf and ensure that the limitation for your child’s Part 7 ICBC benefits does not get missed. Contact us today for a free consultation and we’ll do everything we possibly can to get the personal injury settlement your child deserves. Contact 604-732-7678 or timlouis@timlouislaw.com. We’re here to help.

Sources:
http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/447_83_07

Hit and Run | Tim Louis & Company Law in Vancouver

Hit and Run Crashes: What You Should Know

A hit and run can be one of the most frustrating experiences for a driver. Whether the driver who causes a collision fails to stop, or flees the scene of a crash without providing their information, a hit and run is a serious offence.

Hit and run Crashes

What is a Hit and Run?

A hit and run is when an unidentified driver flees the scene after damaging a vehicle/property, and/or injures a pedestrian. When filing a hit and run claim, a judge or jury decides whether or not you made “all reasonable efforts” to confirm the identity of the unknown driver and owner – that is if ICBC decides that you did not take these measures. If you are involved in a hit and run, below are some of the steps you should take to help ensure you meet the requirements:

(Note: you should seek legal advice immediately in the case of a hit and run accident).

Steps To Making a Hit and Run Claim

Contact the police immediately and identify the vehicle/driver if possible

Try your best to identify the other vehicle and if possible, the other driver. If you can, jot down the vehicle’s license plate number – this will assist authorities with the investigation. The more information you can collect the better such as the colour, make and model of the vehicle, and what direction the car was heading.

If you Have Been Injured, Seek Medical Attention Immediately

If you have been injured, seek a medical professional right away to get checked out.

Observe and Photograph the scene of the Crash

Look around the scene for any skid marks or any debris left behind from the vehicle that caused the crash. Take measurements of any skid marks on the pavement and take clear photographs of the crash location — as these details can be used as evidence. Only collect any evidence if police have not done so – or contact your lawyer to find out if an accident reconstruction engineer should be assigned.

Report the Claim to ICBC

You should report a claim to ICBC as soon as possible – even though you do have up to 6 months to claim a report. It’s important to note that you cannot report a claim online and must report via ICBC Dial-A-Claim

Speak to Businesses and Residents in the Area Surrounding the Crash

Speak with any residences or businesses that are close to the scene of the hit and run crash that may have witnessed the incident and in turn may be able to note the make and model or even the colour of the vehicle, which can assist the investigation.

witnesses

Spread the Word to Locate Witnesses

Near the scene of the crash, put up notices clearly outlining the date and time of the incident, along with any other details that would be useful for potential witnesses. Also submit ads to online community classifieds, forums and newspapers and the best way for them to contact you.

Follow Up with Police

Follow up with police on a regular basis for the latest details on the investigation and take notes along the way.

How Much Am I Covered?

Residents in British Columbia are covered for up to $200,000 for any injuries, property damage or death resulting from a hit and run.
Non BC residents are also covered – however, depending on where they live limitations may vary.

What Do I have to Pay?

For hit and run damage to your vehicle or property, ICBC requires drivers pay a $750 deductible, or your ICBC collision deductible, whichever is less.
If you suffer from an injury resulting in a hit and run crash, there is no ICBC deductible and your insurance premium will not be affected.

Contact An Experienced, Trusted Personal Injury Lawyer

Tim Louis and his compassionate and talented legal team can give you the solid, trusted advice you need and can deal with ICBC on your behalf. If you or your loved one has been injured in a hit and run motor vehicle collision in Metro Vancouver and would like to consult with our legal team who will do everything they possibly can to get you the personal injury settlement you deserve, contact us today for a free consultation at 604-732-7678 or email timlouis@timlouislaw.com

sources:
https://www.icbc.com/claims/repair-replace/Pages/Hit-and-run.aspx

Repetitive Strain Injuries: What You Need to Know

When we think about workplace injuries, we often think about slip-and-fall accidents, injuries resulting from falling objects or the various back and neck strains that come with the territory within many workplaces. However, some work-related accidents are often far less dramatic.

A number of injuries occur over time, through constant repetition of daily tasks, which negatively impact the body causing strain to sensitive joints and muscle groups. These repetitive strain injuries, or RSI, can have a long-lasting effect on our health and daily life.

Injuries Resulting From Repetitive Motion

A Repetitive Strain Injury, whether it is temporary or permanent, will need rest or a change in daily habit that provides time to heal. It is crucial to see a medical professional right away to prevent any further damage to the muscles, ligaments, nerves or tendons through continuous, repetitive motion.

Most Common Repetitive Strain Injuries

typing Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) can result from a buildup of damage to muscles, tendons, and nerves from repetitive motion or strain on specific parts of the body. Repetitive Strain Injuries are quite common and may be caused by a variety of common work activities, including:

Using a computer mouse or trackpad
Excessive typing (data entry)
Swiping items at a supermarket checkout/cash register use
Grasping and manipulating tools
Working in an assembly line environment
Training for sports or other athletic activities

Some commonly diagnosed Repetitive Strain Injuries are:

Tendonitis (inflammation of the tendon)
Pertendonitis (inflammation of the sheath of a tendon)
Trigger finger (difficulty bending or straightening any of the fingers which is caused by inflammation and thickening of the tendon)
Tenosynovitis (inflammation of the fluid-filled sheath that surrounds a tendon causing joint pain and stiffness)
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (numbness, tingling and pain in the hand or arm resulting from compression of the median nerve which is squeezed as it travels through the wrist
Epicondylitis (inflammation of tendons surrounding an epicondyle)
Bursitis (inflammation of the bursa sac which is common around the elbow, hips, knees and shoulder)

Repetitive Strain Injuries

What Are the Symptoms?

There are many possible causes of repetitive strain injuries and a wide range of symptoms that result. Tenderness or pain the affected muscle or joints are common, a throbbing or pulsating sensation in the affected area and or tingling in the hands or arms. Any other symptoms will depend on which part of the body is affected.

It’s important that you visit a medical professional for a proper diagnosis as soon as you experience symptoms to prevent any further damage over time.

Repetitive Strain Injury Prevention

The primary ways in which you can reduce the risk is to stop or limit the intensity of the activity. If the activity cannot be stopped, tips for reducing the risk may include:

Taking breaks: Taking regular breaks from any repetitive task may help reduce the strain on your body.

Stand up: Standing up, stretching and frequently moving your limbs may reduce the risk. Stretch your back, arms, fingers and legs regularly.

Vision break: Rest your eye muscles by looking up and staring for a moment at objects in the distance or simply looking around the room. The key is to give your eyes a regular break from screen time.

Overall health: Eat healthy and get regular exercise to keep your body as resilient as possible, and try to avoid smoking, as this reduces blood flow and oxygen in the body.

Posture: Try to keep yourself from slouching. Ensure your desk, chair and computer screen are aligned as much as you can in an ergonomic setting.

Wrists: Avoid bending or overextending your wrists, and keep the arms, wrists and fingers aligned when typing as much as possible.

Typing: Try to touch type as much as possible and avoid hitting your keys too hard.

Keyboard Shortcuts: Try to use keyboard shortcuts whenever possible, as this can reduce the amount of typing needed.

Mouse or Track-pad: Do not grip too tight or press too hard, and try to slow your speed in order to reduce muscle tension in your hand and wrist.

Temperature: Keep an eye on the temperature of your work area and regulate where necessary.

Phone Use: If you need to use a phone while working, try wearing a headset as this will keep you from needed to grip the phone for long periods or needing to clamp the phone between your head and shoulder.

You can trust Tim Louis & Company to ensure the best possible outcome for your personal injury case

These common RSI injuries can have a lasting impact on one’s health and quality of life. If you or a loved one has experienced a serious injury while on the job, contact Tim Louis and his compassionate and experienced legal team today by calling 604-732-7678 or email timlouis@timlouislaw.com.

Sources:
https://www.enjuris.com/workplace-injury/repetitive-strain-injuries-work.html

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17424-repetitive-stress-injury

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/overuse-injury/art-20045875

Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain

Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain – we can help!

Fibromyalgia is a neurological condition that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain that can be triggered by physical trauma to the body from an accident or from the mental stress of dealing with an injury.

For years, Fibromyalgia was often misdiagnosed. Today, medical professionals recognize Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain as a chronic medical condition that can cause extreme pain for both men and women. According to the Arthritis Society, Fibromyalgia affects 2% of Canadians with 80 to 90% of patients with Fibromyalgia being women.

Fibromyalgia is not life-threatening; nor is it damaging to muscles, joints or organs. However, it does impact one’s quality of life. Living with chronic pain can prevent patients from working, socializing and even completing day-to-day tasks.

If you or a loved one is suffering from Fibromyalgia resulting from an accident, contact our trusted and experienced team at Tim Louis & Associates.

Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain - Get the help you need Pain is the most common symptom of Fibromyalgia. Patients may experience widespread or specific pain in certain areas of the body, which may include the neck, back, chest, arms and/or legs. Often the pain is felt when firm pressure is applied to muscles, tendons and or soft tissue.

Other symptoms may include:

Headaches
Extreme sensitivity to touch
Stiff muscles
Irritability
Widespread pain all over the body, with some areas worse than others
Fatigue
Cognitive issues also known as ‘brain fog’
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Disturbed sleep
Abnormal temperature regulation

Other Symptoms

Restless leg syndrome
Depression and or anxiety
Painful periods
Occasional dizziness
Extreme sensitivity to temperature and scents

Fibromyalgia Causes

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown. For certain people, FM can be the result of a stressful, traumatic event such as a vehicle collision or can be triggered as a result of repetitive injuries, certain diseases, or illness. Research studies have also found that there is a genetic component to Fibromyalgia.

Diagnosis

While there are no lab tests to confirm a Fibromyalgia diagnosis, there may be other illnesses that present the same symptoms. A doctor may want to order blood tests to rule out other conditions that may include:

Cyclic sedimentation rate test
Complete blood count test
Rheumatoid factor test
Thyroid function test
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate

Additional tests may be ordered depending on symptoms, which may include X-rays or an EMG to test the muscle’s electrical activity.

Treatment

Although there is no cure for Fibromyalgia, certain medications that can help reduce and manage pain or other symptoms associated with FM. Your doctor will recommend the best options for your unique needs. These medications may include:

Pain relievers (over-the-counter or prescription)
Anti-seizure medication
Anti-depressants

Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain Relief

Research has shown that Fibromyalgia patients can reduce symptoms with proper self-care and lifestyle changes. Adequate sleep, managing stress and practicing low impact exercises such as water therapy and aerobics can help reduce symptoms over time. It’s important to consult with a medical professional that can recommend the right treatment to benefit a Fibromyalgia patient’s unique needs.

We Will Help Get You Compensation for Your Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain

Fibromyalgia is a painful illness that can affect one’s quality of life and cause chronic pain. If you or a loved one is suffering from Fibromyalgia resulting from an accident, contact our trusted and experienced team at Tim Louis & Associates. Our goal is to help you get the compensation you deserve. Book a free consultation with us today by contacting us at 604-732-7678 or email: timlouis@timlouislaw.com

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibromyalgia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354785

https://arthritis.ca/about-arthritis/arthritis-types-(a-z)/types/fibromyalgia

Injured on Someone Else’s Property? What You Should Know

Vancouver Slip and Fall Lawyer

Injured on Someone Else’s Property?

Contact Tim Louis – Long-Term Disability and Personal Injury Lawyer

According to a 2017 Canadian Institute for Health Information report, falls were the number one cause of injuries leading to hospitalization in Canada. It is common for these types of falls to be caused by businesses or property owners who neglect their duty to ensure that their property is reasonably safe.

If you are injured on someone else’s property due to unsafe conditions, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your injury. The property owner (known legally as “occupier”) is responsible for keeping their premise safe, and failure to do so can result in a potential injury that would otherwise not have happened.

An occupier may refer to the person in charge of caring for the property, or the physical owner of the premises, which may include:

Business Owners
Homeowners
Landlords
Companies
Government Agencies

Injured? Occupier’s Liability Act

In British Columbia, slip and fall claims are Occupier’s Liability Act (OLA) claims.

http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/96337_01

If an individual slips and falls or is injured on someone else’s property due to hazardous conditions, they may be entitled to compensation that could cover one’s medical costs, out of pocket costs, lost income and or pain and suffering resulting from the injury.

How Much is Your Slip and Fall Claim Worth?

This is a common question clients ask lawyers and is complex to answer. A number of factors are considered before assessing the value of a claim such as the severity of the injury and how much the injury has impacted your life, your ability to earn a living and your personal well-being.

Do You Have a Slip and Fall Case?

In order to determine whether you are entitled to slip and fall compensation is dependent on whether you have a valid claim.

If you have suffered from a slip and fall injury resulting from a dangerous condition on a property (i.e. lack of lighting, unmarked spills, icy driveways) the owner or occupier may be liable if it can be proven that they were aware of the hazard and neglected to take reasonable measures to rectify the issue.

Document Your Injury Experience for Evidence

documentation Insurance companies can make your life quite difficult during a slip and fall claim and will deny cases due to a lack of evidence.

If you are injured, it is important to cross your T’s and dot your I’s when it comes to documenting your experience so you have as much evidence as possible to support your personal injury claim.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately After a Slip or Fall

If you suffer from a fall on someone else’s property, ensure that you seek medical attention straight away. Whether your injury is serious or not, it is always recommended that you visit your doctor or hospital as soon as possible (ideally within 24 hours of being injured).

Keep in mind that symptoms for injuries don’t always present themselves immediately – another important reason to get checked out regardless of how your body feels.

Document Any Witnesses

If there are any witnesses, write down their names and numbers to assist with your case. Your insurance company or lawyer will ask for witness contact information as this will help with your claim.

If you are able, pull out your phone and take photos of the exact location your injury occurred. You can never have too much documentation to support your liability claim. If you were unable to take pictures of the scene, ask a friend or family member to take photos on your behalf.

Speak to Your Lawyer Before Signing Any Document

It’s integral to know that you should never sign anything without speaking to a lawyer first. An experienced personal injury lawyer will ensure your rights are not being violated and protect the integrity of your claim.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer You Can Trust

You can trust Tim Louis & Company to ensure the best possible outcome for your slip and fall-related personal injury case. Contact us today (604) 732-7678 or email timlouis@timlouislaw.com

Sources:

https://globalnews.ca/news/4315219/falls-most-common-injury-canada/

https://globalnews.ca/news/3576912/injury-related-hospitalizations-canada/

http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/96337_01

Winter Tires: What You Need to Know

Winter Tires

Winter Tires: What You Need to Know

Driving in the lower mainland during winter months can be stressful for those who do not have experience driving in snowy and icy conditions. With a generally temperate climate, it is rare for drivers in the greater Vancouver area to experience heavy snowfall all winter long like in the prairies or eastern Canada. That being said, the importance of having proper tires on your vehicle to match winter conditions may help drivers feel safer on roads and help drivers have a safer driving experience during winter months.

Police Can Pull You Over If They Suspect You Do Not Have Winter Tires

winter weather driving According to BC law, drivers must have winter tires with a 3-peak mountain and snowflake symbol or M+S (Mud and Snow) symbol located on the tire sidewall. Failing to have proper tires between Oct 1st – March 31st can result in a $109 fine and can alter how much you’re considered at fault if you’re in an accident according to I.C.B.C.

Did You Know:
At 0°c, snow and ice become slippery
Between +4°c to –4°c, black ice forms

Identifying Winter Tires

There are a couple of options available to you depending on your needs:

Mud & Snow (M+S) Tires

The all-season Mud and Snow (M+S) winter tires are a safe option if you seldom drive in winter conditions. ICBC recognizes Mud and Snow winter tires as legal requirements between Oct 1-March 31st as long as they have a minimum 3.5 mm tread depth. It’s important to note, however, that these tires are safe for most conditions, but are not
designed to grip ice or suitable for sub-zero weather conditions.

How to Identify Mud & Snow (M+S) Tires:

M+S located on the sidewall of the tire
Perform best in milder or slightly wet conditions

Mountain/Snowflake Tires

Considered to be the safest winter tire available, this is your best option if you are living in an area where you expect more severe snow, ice and slush on a regular basis.

Mountain/Snowflake tires offer the best traction and performance during winter months.

How to identify Mountain/Snowflake Tires:

The three peak Mountain/Snowflake symbol located on the sidewall of the tire

tire tracks

Tire Performance & Safety

Install all four winter tires at the same time to help maintain control and stability of your vehicle.
Do not mix tires with different construction, tread patterns and or sizes.
Tires with worn tread have reduced traction and less effective in snow and severe road conditions. Ensure your vehicle’s winter tires are not worn down to the tread wear indicators.
Keeping tires inflated with the proper tire pressure not only prolongs the life of your tires but also increases safety. Check your vehicle’s tire pressure at least once a month, as tire pressure decreases as temperature levels drop.

Storing Your Winter Tires

Ensure your winter tires last as long as possible by storing them in a cool, dark and dry place.

Hurt In An Accident? Tim Louis Law Can Help

Tim Louis and his compassionate and talented legal team can give you the solid, trusted advice you need and can deal with ICBC on your behalf. If you or your loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Metro Vancouver and would like to consult with our legal team who will do everything they possibly can to get you the personal
injury settlement you deserve, contact us today for a free consultation at 604-732-7678 or email timlouis@timlouislaw.com

Sources:

https://www.icbc.com/brochures/Pages/winter-tires.aspx

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/winter-tire-regs-in-effect-bc-1.5303484

The Most Common Personal Injuries During the Holidays & How to Avoid Them

During the holidays, we should all take the time to relax and enjoy the season. However, in reality – constraints on time, multi-tasking, or overextending ourselves and even bad weather all have the potential to lead to an injury.

We’ve compiled a list of the most common personal injuries that happen during the holidays and how you can prevent them.

Slipping Outside On Ice or Snow

We all know that ice and snow are common hazards. Wearing appropriate footwear with reasonable tread goes a long way. Take extra care going down steps or hills and be sure to hang on to any railings available to you if possible. Take your time and don’t rush! If you own property, it is your legal obligation to ensure snow and ice are cleared on the premise.

Driving in Bad Weather

Drivers in Metro Vancouver tend to have a sense of urgency during the holidays. Even when the weather is not optimal, which can be hazardous. Installing the appropriate winter tires is a give-in as well as practicing safe driving techniques, which include lowering your speed and planning your route ahead – allowing yourself extra time to reach a destination.

winter driving

Holiday Events

Tis’ the season for holiday parties and corporate gatherings – it’s an exciting time for many. However, since alcohol is offered at many of these gatherings, car accidents increase around the holiday season. Planning ahead and arranging a taxi ahead of time or having a designated driver accompany you is the simple solution to avoid drunk driving accidents.

Don’t Overexert Yourself

During the holidays we tend to overextend ourselves – whether it is at work trying to meet a deadline before the Christmas holiday rush or struggling to get those decorations set up for an upcoming Christmas party. Holiday shopping, cleaning, and even cooking can be a hazard if you rush through or overextend yourself to complete these tasks faster.

If you are lifting alone, remember to practice safe lifting techniques by bending your legs at the knees. Always have a spotter when climbing a ladder – you’d be surprised at how many people suffer from ladder accidents during the holidays.

Workplace Injuries

During the holidays, business booms, putting extra pressure on employees to keep up with additional work demands. Extended hours and an increase in customer demand can put employees at higher risk for slips and falls and general accidents. Overextension, extra lifting, and moving at a faster pace than usual can potentially cause injury to one’s back and or neck. While working at a quicker pace, employees can easily forget to practice safety procedures, resulting in a musculoskeletal injury.

Plan enough time to complete your tasks
Avoid rushing if possible
Practice safe lifting techniques
Always take extra care climbing ladders (have someone spot you)
Wear shoes with good traction
Be cautious – watching out for wet floors

If you do get injured at the workplace, ensure that you report it immediately and seek the proper documentation. Follow all procedures, and fill out any documentation necessary. If you need to visit a doctor, make sure you communicate all details of the injury to your doctor for documentation purposes.

Employers should provide a safe environment for their employees. Ensuring a safe workspace with no visible hazards and providing mandatory safety training is a proactive way to prevent employees from injuring themselves on the job. Practicing safety protocols year-round and planning ahead to anticipate the holiday rush – this can help lower the risk of employee injuries during the holidays.

wet floor sign

Ensure Gifts Are Safe

It’s important to ensure that toys given to our loved ones are safe. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recalls millions of toys each year. Take Justice Back published a list of the ten most dangerous toys of all time in 2012:

http://www.takejusticeback.com/news/10-most-dangerous-toys-all-time

Even today, there are still many products released that can be considered unsafe for children and adults. You can check an updated list of recalled items here:

https://www.healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/index-eng.php

What You Should Do When Holiday Accidents Happen

Sometimes you can follow all safety precautions yet still get injured or find yourself involved in an accident. Always document your injury and seek treatment right away – this will ensure the process is as smooth as possible. If you find yourself involved in an accident with another party, make sure you document all details of the incident from beginning to end and seek medical treatment immediately.

If you find yourself in need of legal representation, contact a trusted, experienced personal injury lawyer who can provide you with the monetary compensation you deserve. You can trust Tim Louis & Company to ensure the best possible outcome for your personal injury case. Contact us today (604) 732-7678 or email timlouis@timlouislaw.com

sources:

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/careers-myhr/managers-supervisors/occupational-health-safety/worksafebc-reporting

Winter Cycling Safety in Metro Vancouver

snow bike road

In Metro Vancouver, cyclists are fortunate to have a surplus of designated bike lanes to use — allowing riders to cycle through the city as safely as possible.

The downside in BC, however, is the fact that optimal weather for cycling is limited to a few months out of the year. Rainfall in the lower mainland is typical in spring, fall and winter, causing slippery and in some cases, icy road conditions. We’ve compiled a few tips to make your ride as safe and as comfortable as possible.

Stay Warm

It is the law in BC for cyclists to wear helmets while riding. Studies have shown that in the event of a crash, a helmet will significantly reduce your chances of a severe brain injury. Your helmet should have CSA, ANSI, ASTM, or SNELL standards approval clearly marked on it. Ensure that your headgear fits properly and add a well-fitted liner to your approved bicycle helmet to stay comfortable and warm. Check the wear of your bicycle helmet from time to time to make sure it stays in good, safe condition. Warm gloves are also a must when cycling in winter — keeping your fingers warm and flexible — allowing you to shift gears and apply the brakes with ease.

Watch Out for Fallen Leaves

Fallen leaves are pretty in the fall, but after a rainfall during winter months, leaves can be slippery on roads and pathways. Stopping your bike on a leaf-covered street can lead to accidents and potential injury. Be aware of your speed and slow down if necessary.

Stay Visible to Drivers & Pedestrians

As winter days get shorter and nightfall arrives sooner, ensure that you stay visible to drivers and pedestrians. Cyclists in BC must wear reflective gear while cycling when visibility is low.

Make sure that your lights are in working order before riding after dark. According to ICBC, cyclists must have a white headlight at the front of their bicycle, which must be visible for a minimum of 150 meters and a red light/reflector installed at the rear of their bicycle, which should be visible for a minimum of 100 meters. It’s wise to be as visible as possible by adding reflective lighting on your wheels and pedals. If you are unsure, check with your local bike shop for advice on the best set up for your needs.

Ride in Bike Lanes

Use designated bike lanes or routes wherever possible – these options are the safest choice and will reduce any chance of collision with vehicles or pedestrians.

Follow the Rules of the Road

Follow road safety rules. Know your hand signals and perform shoulder checks before turning, obey all traffic signs, ensure you are aware of specific road markings and what they mean in your local municipality. Leave adequate distance from other drivers and use caution around parked vehicles.

Use Winter Tires

Just like how you might change your vehicle’s tires in the winter to avoid an accident, changing over to winter bicycle tires can make all the difference while riding in wet, cold and icy weather. There are a variety of options available such as metal studded tires that grip ice while driving and specially formulated rubber tires designed for cold and icy weather. Ensure that your tires are in good condition and inflated to their recommended pressure.

Plan Ahead

Be prepared for low light conditions and poor weather. Install a weather app to keep up-to-date with the latest weather patterns and give yourself extra time.

If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a traffic accident, contact our compassionate and experienced legal team at Tim Louis Law & Associates. We will help build your claim for the compensation you deserve. To book your free consultation, call 604-732-7678 or email timlouis@timlouislaw.com

sources:

https://www.icbc.com/road-safety/sharing/Pages/cycling-safety.aspx
http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/234_96/
https://vancouver.ca/files/cov/bikeSense1105.pdf

Is Eating Considered Distracted Driving?

distracted driving

Distracted Driving

When you are short on time, it can often be tempting to get in that last bite while driving. However, as we have seen in recent news, eating while driving can be a significant distraction and hazard on the road.

Distracted Driving Does Not Just Include Cell Phone Use

In 2017, a BC motorist was pulled over by a police officer and fined for eating ramen noodles with chopsticks while operating a vehicle. The judge ruled that the violation was not necessarily the nibbling while driving that cost her a fine, but the fact that the driver was using chopsticks to eat her meal. The RCMP stated “a reasonable and
prudent person should have at least one hand on the wheel while the car is in motion.”

A year ago, BC RCMP posted via social media warning that motorists will be fined $368 + 6 points for driving without due care. Drivers will not only feel the financial burden if pulled over for this violation, but common sense dictates that distracted driving is also a severe hazard for pedestrians, cyclists and other drivers.

#DYK you can’t eat a bowl of soup while driving? Drive without due care= $368 Fine + 6 points #TicketTuesday pic.twitter.com/TlOXWtvgOW

— BC Highway Patrol (@BCHwyPatrol) September 12, 2017

Know the Dangers of Eating While Driving

When a driver’s eyes or hands are distracted while the vehicle is in motion, the driver is not paying 100% full attention on the road ahead or surroundings — proving to be a hazard to others and puts the driver at a higher risk of being hit by another vehicle. Authorities may use their discretion to ticket motorists in BC who are eating while driving if they deem that motorists are unable to operate their vehicles safely.

Distracted Driving Is One Of The Leading Causes Of Vehicle Collisions

In 2017, according to ICBC, distracted driving caused more deaths in BC — accounting for nearly 78 deaths on BC roads every year. Distracted driving can lead to decreased reaction times leading to an accident. A study found that in 80% of collisions, the driver was found to be distracted and looked away from the road 3 seconds prior to the
collision.

What Qualifies As Distracted Driving?

distracted driving Any item or device that distracts a driver from paying full attention to the road including:

Cell phone use (hand held calls and texting)
Reading maps or books
Watching videos, movies or GPS
Adjusting the radio, earphone use and listening to extremely loud music
Smoking and personal grooming
Eating and Drinking

How to Prevent Eating While Driving

As we mentioned above, authorities may use their own discretion if they deem a driver is operating their vehicle with undue care. That being said, it is always best to focus on the road and avoid any distractions that will put yourself and others in danger.

Keep your phone out of sight to reduce the temptation of accepting calls and texting or turn off notifications. Lower (or turn off) your ringtone until you’ve reached your destination.
Keep music volume at a level that does not distract your focus on the road.
Plan your route ahead of time.
Often it’s tempting to eat a snack and drink while driving. If you must, wait until you are stopped at a light. The best option is to eat and drink before or after you operate your vehicle.
Reduce the temptation of being distracted while driving by keeping all items out of sight while driving.

If you are injured as a result of a distracted driver, you have the right to pursue legal action against the responsible party and receive monetary compensation. Contact our trusted team at Tim Louis & Company today to learn more about the options available to you at 604-732-7678 or email timlouis@timlouislaw.com.

sources:
https://www.icbc.com/about-icbc/newsroom/Pages/2017-Sept6.aspx
http://www.leavethephonealone.ca/en/facts

Author: Tim Louis

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Distracted Driving

Distracted Driving Does Not Just Include Cell Phone Use

Know the Dangers of Eating While Driving

Distracted Driving Is One Of The Leading Causes Of Vehicle Collisions

What Qualifies As Distracted Driving?

How to Prevent Eating While Driving

Contact Tim Louis & Company Law Firm

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