Personal Injury Litigation Tips

Personal Injury Advocacy with Tim Louis: Championing Your Rights in Vancouver

Personal Injury Advocacy with Tim Louis: Championing Your Rights in Vancouver

personal injury claim and vancouver lawyer Tim Louis

Fighting for Your Rights with Tim Louis & Company: Personal Injury Law

Fighting for Your Rights with Tim Louis & Company: Personal Injury Law

Life can be unpredictable, and accidents or injuries can happen when you least expect them. When they do, they often bring along with them a cascade of physical, emotional, and financial challenges.

The legal team at Tim Louis & Company, based in Vancouver and proudly serving all of British Columbia, believes that no one should carry the weight of these burdens if the injury resulted from another party’s negligence. We’re dedicated to helping you secure rightful compensation, offering a helping hand to navigate the complexities of personal injury law.

Understanding Personal Injury and Its Wide-Ranging Impact

The aftermath of an accident often extends beyond the immediate physical injuries. It can set in motion a domino effect of financial implications that can be equally, if not more, challenging to handle.

Here are some potential expenses you might face:

  • Urgent medical services and subsequent treatments: This could include the cost of an ambulance, emergency room treatment, surgery, hospital stay, etc.
  • Travel costs related to medical appointments: These include transportation to and from the hospital or rehabilitation center.
  • Medical equipment and assistive devices: Depending on the injury, you may need to purchase items such as wheelchairs, crutches, braces, or home care equipment.
  • Home care or personal support workers: If your mobility or ability to perform daily tasks is affected, you may need to hire help for personal care and household chores.
  • Prescription medications: The cost of medication can add up, especially if you need long-term medication for pain management or other issues related to the injury.
  • Mental health treatments: Traumatic accidents can have a significant impact on mental health, and you might need counseling or other forms of psychological therapy.
  • Rehabilitation and physiotherapy: These therapies can aid your recovery and help you regain your mobility and strength.
  • Loss of earnings: If you’re unable to work because of the injury, you may lose income.
  • Diminished future earning capacity: If the injury leads to long-term disability, it could affect your ability to earn a similar income in the future.
  • Home modifications: If the injury results in a disability, you might need to make changes to your home to accommodate your new needs.
  • Housekeeping services: If your mobility is compromised, you might need to hire help for cleaning and maintaining your home.

These are just a few examples, and the actual costs could be far more extensive, depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident.

The Importance of Recognizing Negligence

At the heart of personal injury law lies the concept of negligence. Simply put, when an individual or organization fails to behave with a reasonable level of care and caution, and this failure leads to harm to others, they can be deemed negligent and held responsible for the resulting damages.

Negligence can be thought of as a lapse in fulfilling a duty of care that a reasonable person would maintain under similar circumstances. Its ramifications can be wide-reaching, affecting not only the victim but also their family and loved ones.

At Tim Louis & Company, we strive to ensure that victims of negligence are not left to deal with these financial repercussions alone. Tim Louis, a highly experienced personal injury lawyer is prepared to guide you through the intricate process of securing the compensation you deserve.

The Crucial Role of a Personal Injury Lawyer

A personal injury lawyer can assist in establishing the critical elements in a negligence claim:

  1. The at-fault party owed you a duty of care: This means they had a responsibility to act (or refrain from acting) in a certain way to avoid causing harm.
  2. They breached this duty: They either did something they shouldn’t have or failed to do something they should have.
  3. Their negligence directly led to your injury.
  4. You suffered damages as a result of this injury.

By thoroughly establishing these elements, we work towards constructing a robust legal argument that accurately and convincingly represents the extent of your suffering and loss. Our team assists in gathering and presenting compelling evidence, drafting persuasive legal arguments, and negotiating fair settlements.

A Closer Look: A Personal Injury Case Example

To provide more insight, let’s examine a hypothetical scenario: Imagine you’re strolling down a bustling Vancouver street when, suddenly, a poorly secured sign from a storefront falls and hits you. This unfortunate incident results in a severe head injury, leading to substantial medical expenses and a prolonged recovery period during which you’re unable to work.

In this situation, the store owner had a duty of care to ensure the safety of passersby. They breached this duty by failing to secure the sign properly. Their negligence directly led to your injury, and you suffered financial losses as a result. In such a case, a personal injury lawyer can help you claim compensation for your medical bills, loss of income, and other related costs.

At Tim Louis & Company, we believe in providing more than just legal assistance. We understand the ripple effects an accident can cause in your life and strive to offer support that extends beyond the courtroom. We are committed to helping you understand your rights and ensuring you have access to necessary resources and services.

By standing up against negligence and seeking rightful compensation, you contribute to a safer community. Your actions can highlight issues that need to be rectified, prevent similar accidents from happening in the future, and hold negligent parties accountable.

Tim Louis fights for justice and rightful compensation. We comprehend the intricacies of personal injury law and the profound implications of negligence. We stand ready to utilize our experience for your benefit.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s navigate these challenging times and secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Promoting Safety, Accountability, and Justice

Personal injury law serves a dual purpose: it offers a pathway for victims to receive compensation for their damages, and it promotes safety by holding negligent parties accountable. By pursuing a personal injury claim, you not only seek justice for yourself, but you also help make our community safer.

At Tim Louis & Company, we’re proud to serve as advocates for victims of personal injury. Our team, led by the reputable and experienced Tim Louis, understands the gravity of these cases. We’re driven by a commitment to justice, a dedication to our clients, and a passion for promoting safety in our community.

If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury due to the negligence of another party, contact Tim Louis & Company. Our team will be there to guide you every step of the way, working tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve. Allow us to navigate the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery.

With Tim Louis at your side, you’re not alone in this journey. We’re here to stand with you, fighting for your rights, and advocating for the justice you deserve. By standing up against negligence, we are also standing up for safety, accountability, and a better future for our community. Reach out to us today, and together, let’s make a difference.

Personal injuries can have a profound impact on your life, leaving you with physical, emotional, and financial burdens. However, it’s essential to remember that if your injury was the result of another’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation. With a dedicated personal injury lawyer like Tim Louis by your side, you can navigate the complexities of personal injury law and secure the justice you deserve.

Secure Your Rightful Compensation with Tim Louis & Company

The journey towards justice begins with a single step. If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury due to someone else’s negligence, don’t delay in seeking the justice and compensation you deserve. Every moment counts when it comes to preserving crucial evidence and asserting your legal rights.

At Tim Louis & Company, our committed team is ready to guide you through this challenging process. Our decades-long experience in personal injury law, combined with our dedication to our clients, ensures that your case will be handled with the utmost care and professionalism.

Act now. Call Tim Louis & Company today at (604) 732-7678, and let’s take the first step together towards justice and rightful compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions about British Columbia Personal Injury Law

A personal injury refers to any harm or damage suffered by an individual due to another party’s negligence or wrongful conduct. This can include physical injuries, psychological trauma, and financial losses resulting from incidents such as slip-and-falls, product defects, and workplace accidents.
Tim Louis & Company provides comprehensive legal assistance to individuals suffering from personal injuries. Our team helps in establishing the at-fault party’s negligence, gathering and presenting evidence, drafting persuasive legal arguments, and negotiating for rightful compensation. We also provide holistic support, guiding clients to understand their rights and access necessary resources and services.
A valid personal injury claim typically involves four key elements: the at-fault party owed you a duty of care, they breached this duty through their negligence, their negligence directly led to your injury, and you suffered damages as a result. If these conditions apply to your situation, you may have a valid claim. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer, like Tim Louis & Company, can help clarify your legal standing.
Compensation in a personal injury claim can cover a wide range of damages, including medical expenses, loss of earnings, pain and suffering, and future care costs. The specific amount will depend on the nature and extent of your injuries, the impact on your ability to work, and various other factors.
To begin the process, reach out to us at (604) 732-7678. Your initial consultation is free, and we operate on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. This commitment shows our belief in your case and our readiness to fight for your rights. By standing up against negligence, you contribute to a safer community and ensure justice is served.

Further Reading

When to hire a Personal Injury Lawyer

when to hire a personal injury lawyer

Insights into when to hire a personal injury lawyer by Tim Louis

 

When should I hire a personal injury lawyer?

As soon as you have suffered a personal injury, you should hire a personal injury lawyer familiar with this area of law. The party that may be responsible for your injury, such as a store if you suffered a slip and fall or a dog owner if you suffered a dog bite, may have insurance. The insurance company will almost certainly attempt to get you to minimize your injuries and your claim. The insurance adjuster may even suggest that you were/are partially or fully responsible for your injury.

It is very important that you hire a lawyer before you are interviewed by the insurance company’s adjuster. Your lawyer will prepare you in advance for any such interview. There are many standard insurance adjuster questions that you can be familiar with before you are interviewed.

For instance:

  • If you suffered a slip and fall or trip and fall, you may be asked if you consumed any alcohol or drugs, prescription or non-prescription, in the 24 hours prior to your injury.
  • You may be asked what type of shoes you were wearing.
  • You may be asked how many hours of sleep you received the night before.
  • You may be asked if you had an appointment coming up, and depending upon your answer, the adjuster will be able to argue that you must have been in a rush.
  • If your injury resulted from a fall down stairs, you will almost certainly be asked if you were hanging on to the handrail and whether or not you were carrying any thing or object such as a purse.

 

Areas of Practice

I have been practicing in the area of personal injury for over three decades. I have acted for clients that suffered injuries due to falling down stairs, slipping/tripping on a foreign substance (such as a liquid or an item) on the floor of retail outlets, dog bites, tooth injuries resulting from a foreign object in a food product, and physical assault.

 

Dealing with Insurance companies

Insurance companies are not your friend. They make their profits by paying out less settling claims when they collect in premiums. You will almost certainly get a better settlement represented by a lawyer than if you are unrepresented. When I act for an injured client it is always my goal to get a settlement without going to trial that is equal to what a court would have awarded if we did go to trial. The best way to avoid a trial is to prepare for a trial.

 

Liability for Property Owners

Property owners are responsible for keeping their property safe for visitors. This means:

  • Keeping pathways clear of snow and ice in the winter and clear of leaves the rest of the year.
  • Making sure that all stairways conform to the municipal building code.
  • If the property owner is a landlord they must adjust the temperature setting on the hot water tank as required by the municipal regulations so that tenants are not at risk of being burned.

 

Proving Liability – Personal Injury Legal Tips

I am known as an aggressive lawyer. I have never had difficulty proving liability. In part, this because I thoroughly prepare my clients. In part this is because I hire experts to confirm liability whenever appropriate. I will not spare any cost to fight for my clients. In part, this is because I thoroughly prepare before I discover the defendant at examinations for discovery.

 

Why hire Personal Injury Lawyer Tim Louis?

For breakfast, I do not eat cornflakes – I eat insurance companies. I really enjoy going to bat for clients that have been injured no matter what the cause of their injury. I have been suing at fault parties and dealing with their insurance companies for over three decades. As my online reviews will attest, I get the job done.

Contact Personal Injury Lawyer Tim Louis for a free consultation at 604-732-7678 or timlouis@timlouislaw.com

 

Further Reading – Personal Injury Law

Injured at work?
Reporting Injuries

 

Personal Injury Lawyer Vancouver

personal injury case

Personal Injury Lawyer Tim Louis

by Tim Louis

I have been fighting for injured clients for over 37 years. My goal is to achieve an out of court settlement for trial dollars. My motto is the best way to avoid a trial is to prepare thoroughly for the trial. This sends a clear message to the other side that I mean business and that if they are not prepared to offer trial dollars, then we will proceed to trial.

For most clients, the foundation of their case is getting excellent expert reports. This begins with my client’s family doctor who I ask to provide not just a clear diagnosis of the injuries, but also the treatments provided and, perhaps most importantly, a prognosis. The length of time an injured person will require to fully recover plays a large role in determining the amount they would receive at trial.

Next, I obtain expert reports from medical specialists. Finally, if my client is never going to fully recover, I obtain expert reports from an occupational therapist and a vocational expert. These two types of reports build a strong case for a claim for compensation for loss of income.

Personal Injury Lawyer: Examinations of Discovery

One of the most important steps in a lawsuit is Examinations for Discovery. At this step, the lawyer for the defendant examines my client over oath. There is no judge present, but there is a court reporter, who takes a transcript of all of the questions and answers. By thoroughly preparing my client in advance of the Discovery, the defendant’s lawyer gets a glimpse of what they will be up against if the case goes to trial.

Throughout my client’s case, I keep them fully informed and up date. This mean copying them on all incoming and outgoing correspondence such that the file they keep in their home is a copy of the file in my office. My law office prides itself on how accessible we are.

Personal Injury Cases

As a personal injury lawyer in Vancouver, I have represented clients with every type of injury including slip and falls, dog bites, and burns. While I get great satisfaction no matter what the type of case, I particularly enjoy fighting for clients who have been turned away by other lawyers who felt the case was too weak. I just settled a case where my client fell while boarding a bus.

The questions was had she slipped or tripped. If she had slipped, then the bus company was probably not at fault. If she had tripped and it could be proven that the cause of her trip was an object that should have been repeal, then the bus company would be at fault. Immediately after her fall, she was taken to the emergency department where the nurse made a note that she said she had slipped.

The first personal injury lawyer she retained would not continue acting for her. I enjoy difficult cases and took her on with open arms. By aggressively and thoroughly examining the bus driver under oath at an Examination for Discovery, I was able to establish that, in all likelihood, she had tripped on a protrusion. We settled out of court for trial dollars.

Many of my clients want to know at the very beginning whether or not they have a case. As the above example shows, even a weak case is worth pursuing if you have an aggressive lawyer willing to put in the time to build your case.

The worth of your claim depends to a large degree on the quality of the expert reports your lawyer obtains for you. I take the time to obtain expert reports that will help you get what you deserve – trial dollars without going to trial.

Personal injury settlements are not taxable. This is a piece of great news most of my clients are unaware of.

Find the Right Personal Injury Lawyer

One of the best ways to find the right lawyer for you is to see what other clients say about them. Google reviews is a great place to start. Once you have selected one or two lawyers, you should discuss the possibility of a contingency fee if you are unable to afford paying hourly.

Contact Personal Injury Lawyer Tim Louis

If you would like a free consultation, call me any time – 778-855-3494.

Learn more about Tort Law in Canada

Personal injury law is categorized under Tort Laws in Canada.
Learn more about Personal Injury and Tort Law

Slip and Fall

Slip and Fall

Slip and Fall Injury

If you are suffering from a slip and fall injury, you do not need to prove that it was not your fault. What you do need to prove is that it was the fault of the owner or occupier of the property where you suffered your injury. Many slip and falls occur in stores, and are caused by something having been left on the floor such as a liquid or an object.

Your lawyer will make a demand for the store’s floor inspection policy. If they do not have such a policy, you have a very strong case. If they have such a policy, your lawyer will make a demand for the floor inspection log. If the log does not confirm that the floors were being inspected as the schedule called for, then you have a very strong case.

Sidewalk Slip and Fall Cases

Sidewalk slip and fall cases are much more difficult, but with the right facts, you may still have a very strong case. BC courts have held that municipalities must have a written policy requiring sidewalks to be repaired if there is a lip above a fixed height. The courts leave it to the municipality to decide what height is specified in the policy.

If you suffer a slip and fall caused by a lip higher than that permitted in the municipality’s policy, then you have a very strong case. However, even here you will lose your case if you or your lawyer do not give written notice to the City Clerk within 60 days of your Slip and Fall. The notice does not need to be fancy: just the date, location and a general description of your injuries.

Some slip and falls occur on stairways. In this case, your lawyer will not be looking for a policy. Instead, your lawyer will hire an architect or an engineer who measures the stairway, and compares it with the Building Code. You would be surprised at the number of stairways, both residential and commercial, that do not comply with the Building Code.

Slip and Fall Cases

One of the first things I ask all of my slip and fall clients for are pictures of the location. This helps me begin to get an idea as to whether or not my client has a case.

Sometimes the defendant owner or occupier will argue that your Slip and Fall was at least partially your fault. The defendant’s lawyer will want to know what type of shoes you were wearing. Had you consumed any alcohol or drugs immediately before the slip and fall. Did you already know of the unsafe condition – for instance, you knew that the stairway was unsafe to use.

Your lawyer will order medical legal reports from your caregivers including your family doctor and any specialists you were referred to. Your lawyer will ask your caregivers to provide a diagnosis of the injury you suffered and also a prognosis – are you going to recover or is it a permanent injury.

If your injury has made it harder for you to work, or worse yet stopped you from working, your lawyer will order an expert report from a vocational consultant and a report from an economist who will measure the worth of your future income loss. If your injury is going to result in care costs into the future, then your lawyer will also order a Future Cost of Care report. Care costs are things such as treatment fees and housekeeping.

Personal Injury Lawyer Tim Louis – Slip and Fall Injury Claims

I recently settled a case for Michael Lesik. He suffered injuries when he fell walking down a stairway. He left the following review:

“If you are looking for a lawyer who is very intelligent, organized, knowledgeable, experienced, knows the law, humanistic and is committed to represent your interests. STOP!! Go no further!! Your search is over!! Your legal representative is Tim Louis. In addition, Karolina and Krista make a formidable legal team. They are knowledgeable, reassuring and a pleasure to work with. Collectively they make a winning team.”

I have been successfully representing Slip and Fall victims for 37 years. If you would like a free consultation, call me at 778-855-3494.

If you would like to know what my previous clients have to say about me, check out my reviews. Testimonials

Learn about the Occupier’s Liability Act:
https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/00_96337_01

 

 

Client Reviews

Personal Injury Questions

Personal Injury

Personal Injury Law Questions

Have you recently suffered injuries because of a personal injury such as a slip and fall? You don’t have to suffer ongoing pain and deal with a loss of income on your own. Personal Injury Lawyer Tim Louis will fight for a fair settlement and the compensation you deserve. When you get injured due to someone’s negligence, you need the best advice possible from an experienced lawyer.

In the last month, I have received a number of questions about personal injury. Here are just a few of these questions with the answers I provided.

“Are personal injury claims taxable?”

The good news here is that personal injury claims are not taxable. However, you should be aware of the fact that if you are compensated for past loss of income (income you did not receive because of the personal injury) the defendant is only liable to you for what your net income would have been. Your net income is your gross income minus all deductions, including income tax.

“How to hire a personal injury Lawyer?”

One of the best ways to choose the right personal injury lawyer is to see what previous clients say about that lawyer. It is next to impossible to fully assess a lawyer’s ability to serve you during an interview. On the other hand, former clients who have been represented throughout their entire claim up to and including settlement or trial, will be able to give you a much more complete and well-rounded assessment of the lawyer you are considering.

Once you have selected a lawyer, you will meet with her/him for an initial appointment at which the lawyer will obtain from you all the information necessary to open your file, draft a contract between you and the lawyer and start the law suit.

“When do I hire a personal injury lawyer?”

There are very few situations I am aware of where the injured party did not require a lawyer. Even where liability is admitted by the at-fault party, it will be very difficult, if not impossible, for the injured party to get full compensation without a lawyer. A lawyer will know how best to go about getting all of the necessary expert reports. These expert reports may not just come from the family doctor and other caregivers, but also from a vocational consultant and an economist.

If you have been injured, contact Vancouver personal injury lawyer Tim Louis at (604) 732-7678.

Tim Louis is a personal injury lawyer who represents your best interests, rather than a big law firm’s bottom line. With over forty years experience in Personal Injury Lawyer, he is your best choice for a lawyer when you get injured. Whether it is a dog bite, or you were injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you deserve the guidance and support of and experienced lawyer who is ready to fight for your rights.

After the trauma of being injured, the last thing you want to do is deal with the stress of legal issues – Tim Louis is here to guide you through the legal issues, answer your questions and fight for you. Settling before a trial is the best way to get the compensation for a personal injury.

Tim Louis’ goal is to obtain for his clients an out-of-court settlement equal to what the client would achieve by going to trial. He does this by thoroughly preparing for trial, even though the goal is to settle before trial. In this way, he is able to get you the very best settlement.

Have more questions? Contact us at (604) 732-7678 or send us an email at timlouis@timlouislaw.com.

 

 

Client Reviews

Disability Claims for Self-Employed Professionals

Disability Claims for Self-Employed Professionals

disability claim for self-employed
If you are self-employed and have purchased a disability insurance policy, you have assumed that this policy serves as income replacement if you are unable to run your business for a period of time due to injury or illness.

Private disability insurance is commonly more expensive than group insurance, and generally, the type of coverage it provides is usually more valuable as it often provides benefits in the event you are unable to work in your regular occupation. Unfortunately, just because you have purchased an insurance policy, this does not necessarily mean that the insurer will not make it challenging for you to receive benefits after you have submitted a claim. Insurers often heavily scrutinize claims submitted by independent, self-employed individuals – this is because of the sometimes-large benefit amounts provided by some of these policies.

Know the Terms & Conditions of Your Insurance Policy

To protect your rights, it is integral that you understand the limitations and restrictions outlined in your disability insurance policy. The definitions of certain disabilities can change over time, so it is important to keep up to date and understand these changes that may apply to you.

Know Your Rights about Disability Claims

Once you have purchased your insurance policy, be sure you are aware that although you have coverage, this does not mean you should “rest easy.” In reality, what you are really buying are rights that you can enforce against your insurer if they fail to provide the protection that was sold to you.

Know the Strict Time Limitations

 Many people do not realize that there are strict limitations with regards to filing a lawsuit against insurers, and oftentimes they are missed. If you do miss a limitation period, the insurance company is not required to pay your claim, and therefore your right to sue them is null in void.

Here some common red flags you should be aware of:

  • The claim is taking an unusually long time to resolve
  • Irrelevant information is asked of you
  • A claim has been denied

Hire An Experienced Disability Lawyer

In many cases, filing a lawsuit is not necessary. The first step involves a demand letter, outlining any discrepancies, pointing out the facts, and the law – with the demand that an insurer complies with the terms and conditions of the insurance policy. Insurance companies are often fully aware when they are not in full compliance, and take advantage of policyholders because most people do not know the law in-depth, and are privy to any red flags before signing off on their policy.

Contact Tim Louis & Company

Insurance companies may deny legitimate disability claims, as the majority of individuals will give up instead of fighting for the monetary compensation they deserve. If you are self-employed and an insurance company has denied your long-term disability claim, the team at Tim Louis and Company is on your side and will fight in your corner.

For a free, no-obligation appointment, contact us today by calling 604-732-7678 or email timlouis@timlouislaw.com

 

 

Client Reviews

Surveillance: How You Can Lose Your Long Term Disability Compensation

long term disability surveillanceHow You Can Lose Your Long Term Disability Compensation

Have you applied for Long Term Disability coverage and have the feeling you are being followed while out in public?

If you have submitted an application for disability or are collecting disability compensation, your intuition may be accurate, as there is a good chance an insurer has hired a professional private investigator to conduct surveillance on you, seeking an excuse to save money and attempt to deny your claim.

Insurance companies, like all businesses, are profit-based and lose money if they approve too many claims — so it is in their best interest to prove that you can work without the need to receive compensation for your reported medical condition.

Disability claims are on the rise, and surveillance is an efficient way for insurance companies to gather evidence against you – intending to prove that you are fully capable of fulfilling your job duties and do not require financial support.

Surveillance May Work Against You

Insurance companies may hire a private Investigator, follow you, or set up surveillance in front of your home to observe your daily activities.

Suppose you applied for Long Term Disability due to back pain and then observed via surveillance moving or twisting your body in a way that contradicts what you detailed in your claim. In that case, your credibility may be diminished and lead to a denial of your Long Term Disability insurance benefits claim.

Be Specific On Your Application for Long Term Disability Compensation

Detailing your injuries and being specific about your abilities on your Long Term Disability application is essential. Provide context and be mindful about anything observed via surveillance that may be used against you.

Such that if you are observed merely walking down the street for a more extended period than you mentioned you were able to in your claim, you could be at risk of losing your Long Term Disability insurance coverage.

The same goes for mental health disability claims. For instance, if you claim that you are chronically depressed and unable to leave your home and then observed via surveillance leaving your home on a daily basis, you may be questioned and risk losing your coverage.

Why Surveillance is Not Reliable

Context is everything when it comes to surveillance with regards to Long Term Disability insurance claims. As mentioned in the example above, surveillance is not a reliable measure to understand one’s abilities.

Video evidence does not present the aftermath of the activity, such as the stiffness and pain you may experience immediately after or the next day resulting from specific activities such as reaching, carrying grocery bags, or shovelling snow.

Fighting Against Surveillance Evidence

  • Ensure that you are truthful regarding your disabilities and injuries from the start. Do not stretch the truth because you think it will be more believable.
  • Take extreme caution when posting on any social media channels. Any comments, videos, or images involving events, activities, sports, or vacations, can be used as evidence to affect your disability claim. Be mindful before you post.

Denied Long Term Disability Coverage? Hire an Experienced Lawyer

If you have Long Term Disability coverage, and if you’re suffering from a debilitating illness or injury, then you deserve compensation, and that’s where Tim Louis and Company can help.

When dealing with a Long Term Disability claim, it is essential that you have an experienced, reputable lawyer on your side that specializes in Long Term Disability cases.

Long Term Disability Lawyer Tim Louis has been representing those who suffer from LTD for over 25 years and has successfully sued some of the world’s largest insurance companies on behalf of deserving clients.

Contact Tim Louis and His Team Today

You owe it to yourself to explore your options. Contact Tim Louis and his compassionate and experienced legal team today by calling 604-732-7678 or email timlouis@timlouislaw.com for a no-obligation consultation. We will make sure to evaluate your situation and advise the best possible options for your unique situation.

 

 

Client Reviews

Disability Insurance: Expansion of Special Costs

Disability Insurance: Expansion of Special Costs

disability insurance
 

Introduction

A recent BC Court of Appeal case, Tanious v. The Empire Life Insurance Company, 2019 BCCA 329 [Tanious], gives disability insurance claimants who take their insurers to court greater prospects of obtaining special costs against their insurer, even absent malicious conduct. However, the specific details of the case are very important. This article analyses Tanious with a view to determining the key requirements that will need to be met in future cases to obtain awards of special costs. Leave to appeal Tanious to the Supreme Court of Canada was denied.

Background

Ms. Tanious was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis shortly before beginning a new job. She nonetheless worked at that job for seven years before ceasing work and claiming disability benefits that she was entitled to through her employment. Following her diagnosis, she developed depression and anxiety, and about a year before ceasing work she started using illicit methamphetamines to cope with her deteriorating cognitive capabilities. The insurer, Empire Life, denied that she became disabled during her employment, and further argued that her substance use disentitled her to benefits. At trial, Mr. Justice N. Brown found that she was entitled to disability benefits, and further awarded her $15,000 for aggravated damages for mental distress, loss of peace of mind and of dignity as a person from Empire Life’s refusal to pay benefits.

At the subsequent costs hearing, Brown J. awarded special costs even though the plaintiff conceded that Empire Life did not commit any litigation misconduct. It is this award that was subject to appeal.

The Appeal of Special Costs

The costs scheme in British Columbia is statutory; Rule 14-1 of the Supreme Court Civil Rules sets out the framework for cost awards. It provides that the court may award special costs, but does not set out the circumstances in which they may be awarded. Generally, special costs are only awarded in cases where there has been litigation misconduct. However, there are exceptions, though these are rarely applied. The Tanious case is an example of one such exception.

Overarching Principles

In order to justify a special costs award, the Court of Appeal stated that it is insufficient to simply have a large discrepancy between taxable costs and actual legal costs. There must be some other “unusual feature” in the case, such as “special importance, difficulty or complexity associated with the litigation” (para. 54). The Court cited a handful of examples where special costs had been awarded despite the lack of evidence of misconduct, and explicitly reiterated that in these cases any award of special costs must be made on a principled basis.

Typically, the objectives of costs awards are to provide the winning party with some degree of indemnity for the costs it has incurred during the litigation. However, the Court of Appeal also recognized that costs awards “encourage settlement, deter frivolous actions or defences and sanction unreasonable conduct committed in the course of litigation” (para. 36). Significantly, the Court also indicated that in some instances, “costs may be awarded to enhance access to justice, mitigate severe inequality between litigants and encourage socially desirable conduct” (para. 36).

The Court cited the leading case of Asselstine v. Manufacturers Life Insurance Co., 2005 BCCA 465, which provides that in the context of these objectives, “the application of ordinary costs rules usually produces a just result,” but goes on to say that this does not mean “that the personal and financial circumstances of a litigant can never be relevant on a costs application” (para. 60). The Court acknowledged that such circumstances may come in to play in exceptional cases.

The Court went on to discuss other cases where special costs were “justified in the interests of justice” (para. 65). Given the circular nature of this proposal – that special costs awards are justified by justice – it is challenging to elucidate principled reasons for these awards when they are not related to reprehensible conduct. Instead, these cases are fact-specific and must be considered based on their own merits.

The Court included in its analysis two analogous cases out of the Court of Queen’s Bench in Alberta where special costs were awarded: Hennessy v. Horse Racing Alberta, 2007 ABQB 178, where a judicial review was required to defend the appellant’s livelihood and restore his reputation; and Meleshko v. Alberta, 2013 ABQB 468, where the appellant sought judicial review to reinstate long-term disability benefits, and punitive damages were not available. As well, the Court cited FIC Real Estate Fund Ltd. v. Phoenix Land Ventures Ltd., 2016 ABCA 303 for the proposition that special costs could be awarded if success in the litigation would otherwise “amount to a strictly pyrrhic victory” (para. 65).

The final significant case referenced in the appeal was Carter v. Canada (Attorney General), 2015 SCC 5, wherein the test for awarding special costs was refined by the Supreme Court of Canada, stating that “the plaintiffs must show that it would not have been possible to pursue the litigation with private funding” (para. 63). In these instances, it is not just to ask the individual litigants or their counsel to bear the cost of pursuing the claim.

Factors in Tanious in support of special costs

On its face, the trial judge in Tanious made the decision to award special costs on the basis of very few factors, none of which are unusual in a long term disability insurance case: the purpose of the insurance contract is to provide subsistence level income, and when the insurer failed to pay these benefits, the plaintiff had to bring a lawsuit, which cost money. However, the Court of Appeal recognized that when the trial judge’s reasons were read as a whole, it was apparent that he also considered “the nature of the case, including its unique characteristics and related litigation challenges, complexities and costs, together with Ms. Tanious’ personal and financial circumstances and her need for counsel as established by the evidence” (para. 21).

The particular litigation challenges of this case included several factors that added to the effort required by counsel. Ms. Tanious was a difficult client to represent. She could not meet at counsel’s office; counsel had to drive to her. Similarly, she could not review documents to prepare for an examination for discovery as it was too stressful, and she likely would not be able to remember what she had reviewed. Additionally, she attended hospital 33 times over the course of the case, and often called her counsel from hospital to ask for help with various other issues. Ms. Tanious attempted suicide more than once as her disease progressed; if she had died, her claim for benefits would have ended. In preparing for this case, it was difficult for counsel to predict what Ms. Tanious would say at trial.

Though the insurer did not commit misconduct, it could have acted better. The trial judge noted that the insurer made only a cursory response to Ms. Tanious’ initial application for disability benefits, but once in litigation, mounted a vigorous defence. In combination with Ms. Tanious’ poor mental health and declining cognitive abilities, the actions taken by the insurer necessitated that she obtain legal representation in order to pursue the benefits to which she was entitled.

Notably, Ms. Tanious had separate counsel for the costs hearing. This was perhaps because her original counsel had to testify at the hearing via affidavit as to the many special circumstances in Ms. Tanious’ case; s. 5.2-1 of the Code of Professional Conduct precludes counsel from testifying to controversial matters. Though it was not mentioned by the Court, as a practical matter, this ethical rule adds to the challenges of obtaining special costs.

Future Implications

The courts now recognize that in matters of insurance disputes and also in other exceptional situations, many people do not have access to justice unless they are able to retain counsel. Access to justice is recognized as being one of the policy objectives of the courts that thus far is not adequately being met (para. 81). As the consequences of these shortcomings become clearer, it may be possible to seek special costs as a means of ensuring adequate access to justice for members of otherwise underrepresented and vulnerable populations.

It can be difficult to make a financially viable practice taking long term disability cases to trial. While aggravated damages are sometimes awarded, they are typically small awards that are woefully insufficient in comparison to the costs of litigation. Punitive damages require misconduct on the part of the insurer. The risk of a special cost award, absent litigation misconduct, provides the plaintiff with more leverage in negotiations with an insurer, and may allow a plaintiff to recuperate the full benefits to which they are entitled, while also appropriately compensating their counsel.

 

 

Client Reviews

Common Workplace Injuries

Prevent Workplace Injuries

When we think about workplace injuries, what often comes to mind are high-risk occupations in construction, manufacturing, or those dealing with hazardous materials – but the fact is, workplace injuries happen across all industries, in all occupations – and most of them are entirely preventable with proper care and preparation.

workplace injuries

Workplace Injuries

Although the types of injury commonly sustained at work are as numerous as the number of jobs that can be listed – some of the more common and preventable injuries are:

Strains/Sprains

These types of injuries also referred to as “repetitive strain injuries (RSI)” or “musculoskeletal disorders” are very common workplace injuries due to the number of occupations dealing with repetitive tasks throughout the day.

Some of the more frequent causes of these injuries can include:

  • Repetitive or vigorous movement over long periods of time
  • Lack of movement/holding your posture or limbs in an unnatural position for long periods
  • Overusing a particular group of muscles
  • Poor posture or a non-ergonomically designed workspace

Back Injuries

back pain

Injuries related to the back are common among numerous occupations and can have an affect — both personally and professionally, long after the initial injury itself. Some of the more common factors resulting in back-related injury can include:

  • Repetitive lifting or moving of heavy objects, reaching or bending
  • Sustained whole-body vibration or jarring from the use of machinery
  • Poor posture, improper or inadequate back support seating in the workplace
  • Prolonged periods of inactivity

Head Injuries

A head injury can be serious and can lead to contusions, hematomas (bleeding in the brain), and concussions. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon in the workplace –, especially in manufacturing and construction industries. ‘Closed’ head injuries do not pierce the skull and “open” head injuries happen when an object has pierced through the skull, causing possible brain injury. Generally, recovery time may be longer than other common workplace injuries, although most people fully recover from minor to moderate head injuries.

Some of the more frequent causes:

  • Being hit by falling or flying objects
  • Slipping or tripping and falling
  • Falling from above such as tumbling down stairs or falling off a ladder
  • Walking into objects such as a wall, cabinet or glass window

Herniated/Bulging Discs

Both herniated and bulging discs can affect a person’s nerves, tendons, muscles, and joints. These are common injuries and can result from repetitive motion trauma and or soft tissue disorders resulting from a workplace injury. If you injure your back or neck, a spinal disc can move out of place and can bulge outward from between the vertebrae — putting pressure on spinal nerves. Sciatica (nerve pain radiating down one leg) is a
common symptom of a herniating disc injury, as well as numbing, tingling pain in the legs and weakness in the back and legs.

Some of the more frequent causes of these injuries can include:

  • Heavy lifting and overexertion
  • Hard blows to the lower back
  • Ongoing, repetitive motion
  • Sitting for extended periods of time in an awkward position
  • Slip, trip or fall

PREVENTION:

workplace safety

With a little care and consideration, most of the workplace injuries we’ve listed can be prevented with proper understanding and preparation. Some of the methods for preventing these common injuries are:

  • Proper lifting techniques
  • Make exercise a part of your daily routine
  • Listen to your body
  • Pay attention to posture and form
  • Proper protective gear such as helmets to protect the head from injury
  • Safety training, preparation, and education on behalf of the employer

These common workplace 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: 604-732-7678

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Experiencing a traumatic event can have a lasting effect — both physically and psychologically. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can remain with you for months, years or even indefinitely if the initial trauma is significant enough. This is why post-traumatic stress disorder is a common condition affecting the mental health of so many people — specifically those who have sustained a personal injury through workplace or traffic-related incidents.

What is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?

post traumatic stress disorderThe Mayo Clinic defines post-traumatic stress disorder as a condition triggered by an extremely horrific experience -– whether a person is directly involved in the event itself, or just an outside observer.

Although popular media and literature commonly associates PTSD with trauma resulting from active military combat, exposure to a natural disaster or violent physical assault, the simple fact is PTSD can be brought on by any trauma that is severe enough to affect the individual on a deep psychological level. This can include trauma and/or personal injuries sustained through workplace injuries, traffic accidents, or many other common traumatic events.

Symptoms of PTSD

Post Traumatic Stress DisorderWhen someone is injured during a traumatic event, they may have more than physical injuries to contend with. They may find themselves feeling anxious or extremely keyed up (also known as hyper-arousal) or on edge.

So, how do can someone know if they have PTSD? Many common signs of PTSD can include:

Avoiding Reminders of the Traumatic Event

Avoiding locations associated with the trauma, such as a frequently used intersection – or even previously common activities such as driving or riding in a vehicle.

Fear and Sensations of Helplessness

When you are in an accident, it makes you feel immensely helpless and at the mercy of outside forces beyond your control. People who suffer from PTSD often suffer rapid onset of extreme fear or feelings of helplessness that can become a real barrier to their day-to-day life.

Physical Symptoms

Dealing with many of the psychological aspects of trauma can also have a direct physical effect on those dealing with PTSD – such as rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, chills, sweating and other physical symptoms. Uncontrollable Thoughts Constant anxiety and fear can lead those who have experienced trauma to have thoughts that simply won’t go away. These negative thoughts can be overwhelming; often needing medical assistance or long-term therapy.

Difficulty Concentrating or Sleeping

insomnia ptsdAn individual dealing with PTSD-related symptoms can often find themselves suffering from exhaustion and will commonly have problems maintaining a regular sleep schedule.

This can become a repetitive and draining cycle as time goes on — often leaving those suffering from these symptoms with little energy and focus during their day-to-day lives.

These and many other PTSD related symptoms may arise in victims of trauma. If you’ve been involved in an accident and think you may have PTSD, it is in your best interest to contact a medical professional as soon as possible.

PTSD Treatment

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a severe condition that requires immediate and careful attention. PTSD may be treated successfully even after time has passed after the traumatic event, which means it is never too late to seek professional help. Your doctor will often conduct an initial assessment, followed by a referral to a licensed specialist who can work with you to create a short to long-term treatment plan.

Hurt in an Accident? Living with PTSD? Tim Louis Law Can Help.

If you or a loved one has symptoms of PTSD, 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. We’re here to help.

source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355967

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