Car Accident Lawyers in
Newfoundland & Labrador

How long do I have to file a claim?

In Newfoundland & Labrador, any claim brought before the courts must be filed within a certain period of time following the incident at issue or the right to claim is extinguished. That’s why the days following an accident are crucial from a legal standpoint.

According to Newfoundland & Labrador’s Automobile Insurance Act, all claims for accident victim compensation must be made within two years of the event.

While accident victims can still file a claim within two years of their accident, changes to legislation in 2020 also state that accident victims are required to provide legal notice of intention to make a claim within 120 days of an accident.

Failing to do so doesn’t mean the claim is forfeited, but it may impact the compensation amount. These changes also require claimants to provide certain documentation to insurance companies within specific timeframes. 

Even if it has been over 120 days since your accident, it’s not too late to contact a personal injury lawyer. Our team can still help you receive fair compensation for your injuries. At Roebothan McKay Marshall, we have the knowledge and experience you need to ensure your claim is handled properly. We take care of dealing with the insurance companies – so you can focus on getting better.

What should I do after a car accident?

If you’ve been involved in a car crash, there are steps you can take after the accident to make the aftermath as manageable as possible. If you’ve been injured, the following steps can also help protect your right to compensation.

What To Do Immediately After a Car Accident

1. Check for injuries.

Check yourself from head to toe. Can you see or feel any injuries? Next, check the other passengers in your vehicle. If everyone’s okay and you can get out of your vehicle safely, check on the other driver(s). If anyone is hurt, call 911.

2. Gather information.

Survey the damage to all involved vehicles. Take pictures of the entire accident scene. Take a photo of the other driver’s license, registration number, license plates, insurance information, and any contact information. If a driver flees the scene, there are still legal options for receiving compensation, but it’s important to record as much information as you can in the moment. Collect contact information for any witnesses, as they may be able to provide important testimony.

3. Determine if your vehicle is driveable.

If not and you are uninjured, call a tow truck. If you have sustained an injury from the accident, the process may be more involved. If an ambulance is on its way, wait and discuss the next steps with the paramedics.

4. Report the incident to the police.

In Newfoundland & Labrador, you’re required to report a car accident to the police within 24 hours if there is any injury or extensive damages. A police report can also serve as important evidence in a lawsuit to determine who was at fault.

What to do the next day after a motor vehicle accident

5. Record the facts.

Write down as much information about the accident as possible, including the date, time, and location, the speed and direction of travel of all vehicles involved, the weather conditions, and the road condition. Record any traffic controls, such as traffic lights or stop signs. Describe the type of collision, such as a rear-end, T-bone, cyclist or pedestrian, etc. Drawing a sketch of the accident scene showing direction of travel, street names, and traffic control may help your lawyer better understand the facts of the case.

6. Visit your healthcare provider as soon as you can.

Many injuries seem minor at first but can get worse over time. Others simply don’t seem to heal at all. The most important thing to do now is to see a professional and start finding out what injuries you’ve sustained, and what you need to do to heal. Treatment records from a healthcare professional, such as your family doctor, a walk-in clinic, or hospital, will become crucial evidence in a personal injury case. If further medical treatment is prescribed, ensure that you follow through with the treatments to help your recovery. You can seek reimbursement for necessary out-of-pocket medical expenses.

7. Document your injuries.

Many injuries seem minor at first but get worse over time. Others simply never seem to heal at all. See a medical professional as soon as possible and find out what injuries you’ve sustained and what you need to heal. Treatment records from a family doctor, walk-in clinic, or hospital may become crucial evidence. If further treatment is prescribed, follow through with the treatments to help your recovery. You may seek reimbursement for necessary out-of-pocket medical expenses.

8. Contact your auto insurer.

Report the car accident to your insurer. If seeking coverage for any vehicle damages, you’ll need to provide the police report number. You can arrange applicable treatment appointments under your own insurance policy.

9. Make the call to a personal injury lawyer.

If you were injured, speak to an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Seeking a professional opinion before giving a statement to an insurer or accepting a settlement offer is the best way to ensure you receive fair compensation.

At Roebothan McKay Marshall, it costs nothing to talk. Your consultation is free.

we’ll review the facts of your case, assess any settlement offers, and explain your legal options. We’re on your side, every step of the way.

How We Help

Roebothan McKay Marshall will guide you through the legal process, keeping you informed every step of the way.

• Protect your right to obtain compensation
• Guide you through court procedures
• Research supporting case law

• Request medical reports documenting your recovery
• Ensure medical costs are covered
• Negotiate a fair settlement

What are the most common causes of car accidents?

The leading causes of car accidents in Newfoundland & Labrador generally span across three categories: driver errors, environmental factors, and vehicle-related circumstances.

What are the different types of motor vehicle accidents?

People use “car accident” to refer to any sort of vehicular accident, but there are many different types. In Newfoundland & Labrador, you can seek compensation for all accidents involving an “automobile” as defined by the Automobile Insurance Act.

At Roebothan McKay Marshall, our car accident attorneys can help recover damages for injuries caused by any of the following types of accidents:

Frequently Asked Questions