There was a serious multi-vehicle crash that occurred on Kennedy Road near 16th Avenue in Markham, on Tuesday, October 28, 2014.  According to information released by York Regional Police, the crash involved a 2006 Honda Civic, which was travelling northbound on Kennedy Road when it collided with a 2010 Toyota Corolla that was in the center lane, waiting to turn left.  Apparently, the Honda continued on and also collided with a 2008 Infiniti,and then struck a 2012 Chrysler van.   

It was reported that the driver of the Honda, and occupants in the other vehicles sustained serious injuries.  First and foremost, Iacobelli Law Firm wishes all involved a speedy and full recovery from their injuries.  

With regard to the cause of this accident, the police have indicated that the investigation remains ongoing. Police are asking anyone with information to come forward and contact the Collision Investigation Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7704, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.


While we do not know the full details of how this accident occurred, the injured persons will be entitled to compensation for their injuries and losses through insurance policies and benefits.  In Ontario, all occupants of a motor vehicle may claim Statutory Accident Benefits, regardless of fault.  In addition to these no-fault insurance benefits, the injured parties may also recover other losses through the insurance provider for the at-fault driver.  Auto insurance law in Ontario is ever-changing and increasingly complex.  If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a Markham or Ontario car accident, it is a good idea to seek the advice of an experienced Ontario car accident lawyer.  We offer free, no obligation, consultations with a car accident lawyer.  


To learn more, or to request a free consultation, call us at 416-900-1070 or toll free at 1-866-234-6093.


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As a personal injury lawyer, I have learned that most people do not know what benefits are available to them following a Toronto or Ontario motor vehicle accident.  Most of my clients are surprised to learn that the insurance benefits available from their own auto insurance policy were slashed in September 2010, when the Ontario government amended statutory accident benefits.  One of the most significant changes to accident benefits was the reduction in the medical and rehabilitation benefits available under your auto insurance policy for injuries sustained in a Ontario motor vehicle accident.  In short, prior to September 2010, the medical and rehabilitation benefits were capped at $100,000 for treatments not covered by OHIP (with the exception of catastrophic claims).  This was cut in half, and the limit is now $50,000.  Nonetheless, very few accident victims in Ontario have access to the $50,000 limit.  In fact, the vast majority of Ontario residents injured in a car or motorcycle accident after September of 2010 have only had access to $3,500 available for their medical and rehabilitation costs.  This limit of $3,500 was introduced for injuries deemed to be predominantly minor injuries, also known as the Minor Injury Guideline or MIG.

While the term "Minor Injury Guideline" suggests that the $3,500 cap is limited to minor injuries, this is not the case at all.  The definition of a minor injury is so broad that the insurance companies often take the view that it encompasses any and all soft tissue.  The problem with this position should be readily apparent to anyone that has even a rudimentary understanding of the human anatomy.  Other than bones and skeletal structure, the human body is comprised almost entirely of soft tissue.  Many soft tissue injuries to tendons, ligaments and muscles can actually take much longer to heal than fractures to bones.  What is more, a fracture to a bone is exactly the type of injury that is covered by OHIP and treated by orthopaedic surgeons and other physicians. Soft tissue injuries on the other hand, often require physiotherapy, massage, or chiropractic treatment, all of which is not covered by OHIP.  So, shouldn't it be these soft tissue injuries that are more expensive for the injured accident victim?  I thought that the reason why people need auto insurance in the fist place is to cover the unexpected expenses in the event of an accident or injury.

There have been recent decisions that are helping to restore some rights to accident victims in Ontario.  Our law firm has also had success in persuading insurance companies to provide treatment beyond the Minor Injury Guideline in cases involving soft tissue injuries.  

Iacobelli Law Firm is a personal injury law firm that represents those injured in car accident throughout the province of Ontario.  We have offices in Toronto and York Region and offer free consultations to car accident and personal injury victims.  If you would like to learn more about your rights following a car accident, contact us to request a free consultation.  We can be reached at your convenience 24 hours per day 7 days per week at 1-866-234-6093 or 416-900-1070, or you can complete our online contact form here. 


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There are reports this morning of a serious multi-vehicle car accident that occurred at Highway 404 in York Region, Ontario.  According to the early reports from the OPP, several people were injured in this Highway 404 crash, including a motorcyclist.  The injured were transported to hospital and at least one occupant of an involved vehicle was transported via air ambulance to a Toronto trauma hospital with serious injuries.  Four people reportedly suffered serious and life threatening injuries.  

This Highway 404 multi vehicle accident is under investigation by the OPP, and the northbound and southbound lanes of Highway 404 have been closed between Stouffville Road and Bloomington Road for the investigation.   It is expected that the accident scene will remain closed for several hours.  Anyone that may have witnessed the collision is being asked to contact the OPP.  According to early information, this Highway 404 collision may have been caused when a vehicle crossed the centre median onto oncoming traffic.  

First and foremost, Iacobelli Law Firm offers its support to those that were injured as a result of this highway 404 multi-vehicle accident.   We hope that all of the people involved will make a speedy and complete recovery from their injuries.  This will no doubt be a very difficult time for the families of those that have been injured.  

In Ontario, there are insurance laws in place to afford some level of financial protection when people are injured or killed in car accidents or motorcycle accidents.  The drivers and passengers that were injured in this muti-vehicle accident on Highway 404, will be able to make insurance claims for accident benefits.  While there healthcare and recovery are priority, the families of those injured will also need financial help and support during their difficult time.  Ontario car insurance policies include coverage for accident benefits, which provides coverage for loss of income and medical and rehabilitation expenses.  In addition, those that are injured due to the fault of another vehicle, can also advance a tort claim against the at-fault driver.  This type of claim provides additional compensation, and is typically paid by the at-fault driver's insurance policy.  Any of the passengers of vehicles, will also have the right to make a tort claim for additional compensation.

Navigating the insurance claims process following a serious motor vehicle accident is difficult, and it is important to speak with an Ontario personal injury lawyer without delay.  An injury lawyer will assist with coordinating benefits with the insurance company and file the appropriate documents in order to preserve your claim.  There are time limits that must be adhered to in order to advance claims following an Ontario car accident.  

If you or someone you love has been hurt or killed in a  serious motor vehicle crash, call our Ontario car accident law firm for a complimentary and confidential consultation.  We charge no fees until your claim is resolved.  Call us at 416-900-1070 or toll free at 1-866-234-6093 or complete our online contact form here.

One of the most frequent questions that I hear from people that have recently been injured in a car accident, is "Do I need an Ontario car accident lawyer?"   The answer depends on the circumstances of your accident and the nature of your injuries.  

Although anyone can handle there own case without a lawyer, in most instances it is advisable to consult with an experienced lawyer, especially when trying to navigate complex areas of law, such as insurance claims. Also, injury victims who attempt to recover compensation on their own typically receive smaller settlements than those who obtain the services of experienced personal injury lawyers.  By consulting with and retaining a personal injury lawyer immediately, you and your family can focus on your medical care and recovery.  Your personal injury lawyer and his team will take care of investigating your claim and dealing with the insurance company in order to obtain a fair settlement for your claim.   

One reason that some people are reluctant to hire a lawyer following an Ontario car accident, is because lawyers are expensive.  Following a serious car accident in Ontario, you may be off work and facing financial hardship.  The last thing you can afford is to pay a lawyer to help you with your Ontario car accident claim.  Some personal injury lawyers, like our law firm, will take on your case on a contingency fee basis, so that you will not have to pay any legal bill until your case is settled.  A contingency fee retainer in one in which the lawyer typically charges a percentage of the amount recovered from the insurance company.  At our office, we don't charge any fees unless we are able to recover money for our clients.  With such an arrangement, even the most vulnerable have access to justice.  

Another common reason why some people may delay in speaking to an Ontario car accident lawyer is because they "trust" that the insurance company will be "fair." While most insurance adjusters and insurance representatives are polite, friendly and overall good people, they still have a job to do for their employer.  Insurance companies are big businesses that seek to make profits.  To make profits, they need to limit and minimize their exposure to claims, such as your car accident claim.  Before you put your faith in the insurance company to do the right thing, it is probably a good idea to speak with an injury lawyer.  Most of the time, we find that the insurance company has offered far less than the value of the claim.  Knowledge is power, and you will be in a better position to recognize a fair settlement only if you know what compensation is available under your particular circumstances.  We can help you make an informed decision.  

Finally, and maybe the most important reason to speak with an Ontario car accident lawyer, there are time limits to filing claims for Ontario car accident injuries. You must file a claim before the time limit expires.  Also, before these time limits expire, your Ontario personal injury lawyer will need to gather information and prepare documents to advance your claim.  Delay can be harmful to your claim, and you may simply run out of time.  When the time limits expire in your case, you may be barred from making any claim for money damages, no matter how strong your case was.  If you contact a lawyer at the last possible moment, the lawyer may not be able to take on your case even if it has merit.  

If you have questions about your Ontario car accident claim, call me and request and free consultation.  We offer prospective clients a consultation that is absolutely free.  There is no obligation to hire our law firm, and any information you share with us will remain confidential.  To start your free case review, call us at 416-900-1070 or toll free at 1-866-234-6093 or complete our online contact form here.  

Iacobelli Law Firm represents serious injury victims throughout the province of Ontario, and we can arrange to have a lawyer travel to your home or hospital if you are unable to come to us.  


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Serious car accidents and injuries occur in Ontario as a result of distracted driving.  Although Ontario has implemented legislation to combat the risks of distracted driving, many drivers in Ontario continue to operate their vehicle while distracted.  Using hand-held devices, cell phones, or text messaging remain common practices on Ontario roads.  

Sadly, it is often young drivers that are involved in Ontario car accidents as a result of texting or reading messages while driving.    Some of the most serious car accidents I have seen as an Ontario personal injury lawyer involve instances of distracted driving.  Ontario distracted driving accidents are often high speed collisions, because the driver is not paying attention to the traffic conditions and, therefore, fails to take any evasive action to avoid the collision, such as braking or swerving.  As a result, these Ontario car accidents can result in catastrophic injuries and sometimes result in fatal car accidents.  

The video posted below is a sad reminder of the dangers of texting while driving.  Many young drivers continue to text while driving.  Please remind your friends NOT to text while driving. 

If you have been injured in a car accident in Ontario because the other driver was distracted, you may be able to  advance a claim for your losses.   We will conduct a thorough investigation to help you prove that the other driver is at fault.  We locate witnesses  and review the police records. If necessary, we may also consult with accident  reconstruction experts, human factors experts and other professionals to help prove your case.

For a free consultation with an Ontario car accident lawyer, call us at 416-900-1070 or toll free 1-866-234-6093 or complete our on-line contact form here. 

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Very often, following a serious injury accident in Ontario, the insurance company will require an injured person to submit to a medical examination with a doctor selected by the insurance company.  In most instances, the injured person will be required to attend this examination, which is sometimes referred to as an Independent Medical Examination or IME.  The phrase is misleading, as there is nothing independent about the examination.  The doctor is being paid for his opinion by the insurance company.  Some of these doctors frequently perform assessments on behalf of insurance companies.  While many physicians that perform insurance medical assessments are fair and reasonable, there are some that will look for every reason to minimize or undermine your claim.