On Thursday, February 11, 2021, a pedestrian was struck and seriously injured at the intersection of Kennedy Road and Avoca Drive.  According to early reports the pedestrian was struck by a white Honda Odyssey.

The pedestrian involved in this pedestrian accident, is a 65-year-old man from the City of Markham, and he was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries. The driver of the vehicle, a 36-year-old man from the City of Markham, remained at the scene and was not injured.

The accident is under investigation by the York Regional Police Major Collision Investigation Unit, and a request has been made for any witnesses who have not yet spoken with police, or anyone who may have dashcam footage from the area, to come forward.  York Regional Police is asking anyone with information to contact the Major Collision Investigation Unit by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 2710, or to call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

At this time, we do not know all of the circumstances of this Markham Ontario pedestrian accident.  However, in Ontario any pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle will have rights to make claims for their losses and injuries.  There are also special provisions in our law that protect pedestrians and enhance their chances of making a recovery against an at-fault driver.  These claims on behalf of pedestrians injured in motor vehicle accidents are almost always paid by auto insurance policies.  In our experience the majority of auto insurance policies have a million dollars or more in coverage, although there are circumstances where more or less insurance coverage is available.  Every case and circumstance is different and that why it is so important for injured victims and their families to get the advice of a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Ontario, Canada, we can help.  Our law firm serves all of Ontario and we only represent injured victims.  To learn more about your rights, request a FREE CONSULTATION with an experienced injury lawyer.  Appointments are available virtually by phone or video and there is absolutely no charge or obligation.  To learn more about your rights, call us 24 hours per day 7 days per week at 10866-234-6093 or visit out website to request a FREE CONSULTATION.  

Andrew Iacobelli is an experienced personal injury lawyer who established Iacobelli Law Firm with offices located in Ontario, Canada as well as offices in Florida, U.S.A. Andrew restricts his practice to the representation of personal injury victims in claims involving serious injuries and wrongful death.  Andrew is the author of "Are You a Canadian Injured in the United States? Claim the Damages and Insurance Coverage the Right Way". 

A fatal accident occurred on the early morning of October 12, 2020, on Highway 412 between Highway 401 and Taunton Road.  According to reports, a Dodge Caravan rolled over and a 46 year old male died as a result of this collision.  

First and foremost, the injury lawyers and staff at Iacobelli Law Firm offer sincere condolences to the family and friends of the man that was killed in this recent fatal highway accident.  

Ontario highway accident fatalities occur regularly.  Often times, fatal highway accidents are the result of someone's error or negligence while operating a motor vehicle. When a serious injury or wrongful death occurs, the family of the deceased may have rights to a civil claim for their loss.  These claims do not impose any criminal punishment, but instead seek to redress the harm by providing money damages to the family of the victim.  Although money will never undue the harm and loss of a wrongful death, it can provide some financial security to a grieving family.  Wrongful death claim in Ontario for fatal motor vehicle accidents are almost always paid by an insurance policy.  

If you have lost a loved one as a result of a fatal motor vehicle accident anywhere in the province of Ontario, we can help.  Iacobelli Law Firm is a dedicated personal injury firm and our lawyers only represent victims and their families. If you are not sure whether you want to bring a claim, it is important to get informed and learn about your rights.  Consultations are always completely confidential and their are no fees or obligation.  Speak with an experienced lawyer to learn about your rights.  

We offer a FREE Consultation so please feel free to call us 24/7 day or night at 1-866-234-6093 or complete our online contact form here. 
​
​Andrew Iacobelli is an experienced personal injury lawyer who established Iacobelli Law Firm with offices located in Ontario, Canada as well as offices in Florida, U.S.A. Andrew restricts his practice to the representation of personal injury victims in claims involving serious injuries and wrongful death.

A female pedestrian, age 67, was killed on Thursday October 8, 2020 in Newmarket, Ontario.  This fatal pedestrian accident occurred in the area of Stonehaven Avenue and Best Circle at around 7:40 pm. 

First and foremost, the team at Iacobelli Law offer sincere condolences to the family and friends of the victim of this fatal pedestrian accident. 

We have learned that the accident is under investigation by the York Regional Police Major Collision Investigation Unit.  The driver of the vehicle that struck the pedestrian is a 50 year old woman, also from the Town of Newmarket.  Police are appealing to witnesses or anyone with information to come forward by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7704, or to call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

In addition to any changes or prosecution that may result from a fatal car accident, the family and the estate of the victim are also entitled to bring a civil claim for wrongful death.  A civil claim can only provide the family with money damages for the loss of their loved one and cannot result in any criminal penalty.   Civil wrongful death claims are almost always paid the at-fault party's auto insurance policy.  A civil claim is not compensation for the loss, but can assist a grieving family with feeling that their has been some civil remedy, and providing some financial assistance in the aftermath of a sudden loss.  

We are a dedicated Ontario Personal Injury Law Firm that provides compassionate legal counsel for families that have lost a loved one due to another person's fault.  We offer a FREE Consultation so please feel free to call us at 1-866-234-6093. We are honored to serve our clients and our community.
​
​Andrew Iacobelli is an experienced personal injury lawyer who established Iacobelli Law Firm with offices located in Ontario, Canada as well as offices in Florida, U.S.A. Andrew restricts his practice to the representation of personal injury victims in claims involving serious injuries and wrongful death.

Autumn is a great time of year to ride as the scenery is quite spectacular on our Ontario roads.   During the fall, motorcyclists remain vulnerable to inattentive drivers.  As the weather cools, some drivers forger that motorcycles may still be on the roadways, so it is important to pay attention and look for the presence of motorcycles around your vehicle.   

Here are some safe riding tips to keep in mind for every motorcycle rider this fall season:

• Always be weather ready - in particular if you are going for a longer ride, have wet weather gear including a helmet shield or goggles and a rain suit. You should also be ready for cold too if you’re riding early in the day or later into the evening.  The autumn weather fluctuates drastically from daytime highs to early morning and evening lows. In the cold, your muscles stiffen, which can slow your reaction time and make handling the motorcycle more difficult and more dangerous.
• If the day is warm and sunny, that doesn’t mean you should drop all of your protective gear. Unlike driving a vehicle, there is nothing much between you and the road, so even a small accident or spill can cause serious injury if you’re not properly equipped with pads, jacket and pants.
• Double check the tread on your tires. You need more traction than ever in the autumn months with variable weather conditions.  A worn out tire can result in loss of traction or worse, a tire blowout.  
• If you are riding in the rain, slow it down and leave more space around you to account for vehicles that also take longer to stop in the rain. Taking a corner too fast is a bad idea when the roads are dry, never mind when they are slippery and wet as hydroplaning is possible.
• Be prepared to pull over. Whether at a rest stop or under an overpass, heavy rain and cross winds that can blow you sideways can definitely make riding more dangerous.
• Early mornings in the autumn can also mean frost or even black ice on some roads so you must remain mindful of that. Unless you have a lot of experience, avoid unpaved roads that could have mud, ice patches and other hazards.
• Wear motorcycle gear. Motorcycle gear protects you from the elements, debris and road rash. Appropriate gear includes a DOT-approved helmet, goggles, leather jacket, leather pants or chaps, over the ankle boots and non-slip gloves. Dress in layers to adjust to any changing weather throughout the day.
• Inspect your motorcycle before each ride.  It’s a good idea to inspect your bike before you ride to ensure it is as safe as possible. Check your headlights, taillights, turn signals, brakes, fuel, oil, tire pressure, mirrors, handlebars and horn.
• Stay at a safe distance.  Tailgating is not safe. It is good to have an escape route in mind such as moving to the shoulder should you not be able to stop in time.
• Never ride tired – know your limits and ride with people you trust.  Set your rule. Stop. Stretch
• Riders must always avoid other drivers’ blind spots. Drive with your headlights on even during the day, wear reflective or bright clothing and always use your turn signals and hand signals.

As Ontario motorcycle accident lawyers, we are often contacted by riders that have been involved in a motorcycle crash. If you are involved in an accident while riding a motorcycle here are four important steps to keep in mind.
​

1. Call first responders. Short of a very mild bump or scrape, there’s a good chance that there will be some sort of injury.  Let the first responders check you over, on site or at the hospital. Some injuries aren’t apparent right away, as your adrenaline will be high.
2. If you were in a collision with another vehicle, call the police to make a report.  If you can, or if someone can do it for you, get pictures of the scene and the damage to your bike, and the other vehicle. It’s much easier to describe what happened if you have visuals.
3. See your doctor preferably the same or next day. You could have an injury that hasn’t manifested yet, so you will want to make sure that your condition is being documented.
4. Call a personal injury lawyer. It is important to have the advice of an experienced Ontario Motorcycle Lawyer before you speak with or provide statements to your insurance company. If your insurance company is requesting a statement, you need to seek legal advice first. The sooner they are on the case, the sooner they can make sure that your file is properly documented.

There is nothing like a ride through back country roads in the beautiful scenery that autumn has to offer. Please ride with courtesy, care and awareness as we want you to enjoy every minute of riding and to go home to your family safely.

If you have been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, our Ontario Motorcycle Accident Lawyers have extensive experience representing families who have been injured and we realize how difficult and life-changing it can be for you and your family.  We are a dedicated Ontario Personal Injury Law Firm that provides compassionate and competent legal counsel for the injured and we offer a FREE Consultation so please feel free to call us at 1-866-234-6093. We are honored to serve our clients and our community.
​
​Andrew Iacobelli is an experienced personal injury lawyer who established Iacobelli Law Firm with offices located in Ontario, Canada as well as offices in Florida, U.S.A. Andrew restricts his practice to the representation of personal injury victims in claims involving serious injuries and wrongful death.

​
​When fall arrives in Ontario the new season brings many different factors that drivers need to be aware of because as autumn moves into winter, we have less daylight hours. In the later afternoon, pedestrians, cyclists and children playing on streets will also be more difficult to see.  With the wetter conditions, fallen leaves and fewer hours of daylight, it’s a good idea to be prepared for the roads ahead. 


We are pleased to provide you with some driving tips to keep in mind this fall season.

• Fallen leaves are not just a problem on your lawn.  Hitting a patch of wet leaves on the road can be almost as bad as hitting black ice so you need to pay attention to the road and keep your speed down.
• Rainfall increases during the autumn season.  When it is raining, you need to maintain a safe following distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you.  This can make the difference of having ample time to avoid a car accident.
• Temperatures during the fall tend to decrease drastically in the evening, which can create frost on the windshield of your vehicle.  Clear your windows completely of frost before driving as it can be hard to see the road.  Colder temperatures can also mean icy patches on our roadways so you must remain alert.
• Fallen foliage can present a wide array of road hazards.  When it rains, wet leaves can create slippery road conditions and cause your vehicle to lose traction.  Leaves may also cover road lines, potholes and other dangers on the road.  Be sure to reduce your speed when approaching areas covered with foliage.
• Autumn is also a back to school time for children.  This will mean more pedestrians, school buses and vehicles on the road.  Motorists should be wary of pedestrians in the morning and late afternoon.
• Be on the lookout for animals such as deer when driving in rural areas.  Fall is considered the peak season for deer and the best defense to avoid striking an animal is to reduce your speed and to keep your eyes on the road.  Slow down where there are deer crossing signs and pay attention to the shoulders and sides of the roads.
• Check weather conditions before you drive.  Be prepared for quickly changing weather conditions that could lead to challenging driving conditions.  Slippery black ice is common in the fall.  Pay extra attention on wet and damp days when temperatures are around the freezing point.
• Changing fall weather conditions mean its time to make sure your car is ready for colder weather.  Simple things like checking your washer fluid, lights and wiper blades can go a long way in keeping you safe.

Driving for pleasure in the fall can be vibrant with color but you will also need to be prepared for the changing light conditions, fog and reduced visibility.  Our Team at Iacobelli Law Firm wants you to enjoy your fall driving and to remain safe.

If you have been injured in an accident caused by the negligence of a driver, Iacobelli Law Firm has extensive experience representing families who have been injured in a motor vehicle accident and we realize how difficult and life-changing it can be for your family.  We are a dedicated Ontario Personal Injury Law Firm that provides compassionate and competent legal counsel for the injured and we offer a FREE Consultation so please feel free to call us at 1-866- 234-6093. We are honored to serve our clients and our community.
​
Andrew Iacobelli is an experienced personal injury lawyer who established Iacobelli Law Firm with offices located in Ontario, Canada as well as offices in Florida, U.S.A. Andrew restricts his practice to the representation of personal injury victims in claims involving serious injuries and wrongful death.

There are reports of a serious accident in Richmond Hill, Ontario on the evening of Friday June 26, 2020.  According to early reports, the accident resulted in the death of a 27 year old male, and four other people were taken to hospital with serious injuries.  

First and foremost, the injury lawyers and staff at Iacobelli Law Firm offer their sincere condolences to the family and friends of the young person that was killed in this accident.  

The collision remains under investigation with the York Regional Police, and witnesses are being asked to come forward.  This accident occurred in the area of Bayview and 16th Avenue in Richmond Hill, at around 10 p.m. on Friday June 26, 2020.   One of the involved vehicles rolled over in this Richmond Hill accident.  The area of this accident is very well known to us, as this is only a few minutes  away from our office and in our community.

This tragic accident is a sad reminder of how serious car accidents can be.  A momentary lapse in judgment can have life altering consequences.  Please drive safe.   

If you or a family member was seriously injured due to the negligence of another driver, you have rights.  We can help you obtain justice for your injury or loss.  

Andrew Iacobelli is an experienced personal injury lawyer who established Iacobelli Law Firm with offices located in Ontario, Canada as well as offices in Florida, U.S.A. Andrew restricts his practice to the representation of personal injury victims in claims involving serious injuries and wrongful death.

​Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere and people are distracted more than ever. An accident can happen when you’re driving or even when you are not. This is why it’s important to always be alert when doing anything – especially when crossing the road.  As we embrace warmer weather, people are getting out of their homes to exercise and we have recognized that there are more and more pedestrians on the road.  Accidents involving pedestrians—and sadly, often children—remain all too common in Ontario. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable in road accidents as they are unprotected and if struck by a vehicle, are more likely to sustain a serious injury or worse.

Pedestrians cannot rely solely on drivers to keep them safe when crossing or walking along the street.  The primary cause for pedestrians getting hit or killed on our roads is driver misconduct, vehicle speed and deficient infrastructure that allows pedestrians to cross the street safely.  All vehicles must look for, and yield to, pedestrians regardless of where and when they are on the roadway.  In order to assist in providing safe crossing to pedestrians, municipalities are required to build infrastructure that allows them to do so. Not only should they assist in allowing all individuals to safely cross, they must pay particular attention to areas where children play and the elderly live.

When Drivers Ignore Stop Signs
One example of a traffic control device to protect motorists and pedestrians is a stop sign. A STOP sign is one of the most valuable, low cost, and effective traffic control devices when used at the right location and under the right conditions.  The purpose of the STOP sign is to clearly assign right-of-way between vehicles approaching an intersection from different directions.  The STOP sign requires the driver to STOP the vehicle before entering the intersection, yield to any traffic in or approaching the intersection and then proceed when SAFE to do so.  When misused, the STOP sign can create an inconvenient, and even dangerous situation for motorists and pedestrians.

Stop signs may often seem like a good solution to neighborhood speeding, but when stop signs are installed to slow down speeders, drivers may actually increase their speed between signs to compensate for the time they lost by stopping. Some drivers tend to accelerate rapidly after a stop, possibly creating an even more dangerous situation. In fact, most drivers reach their top speed within 100 feet of a stop sign. Too many stop signs could cause motorists to ignore the right of way rule, and some may simply choose to ignore the stop sign all together.

Road Safety is Important in a Community
It is crucial to raise awareness about safety at our intersections in order to create safer communities.  In all cities and towns, citizens elect an individual to act as a representative for their neighborhood or ward in their local government. This individual is responsible for ensuring the concerns of their citizens are heard and, where necessary, acted upon. If you notice that there is an issue with road safety in your community, it is important to connect with your local Councillor and/or Mayor to share your concerns.  Don't be afraid to connect with them as municipalities have the responsibility to keep our communities safe and you could potentially stop a tragedy from taking place.

If you are a pedestrian injured in an accident caused by the negligence of a driver, Iacobelli Law Firm has extensive experience representing families who have been injured as a pedestrian and we realize how difficult and life-changing it can be for your family.  We are a dedicated Ontario Personal Injury Law Firm that provides compassionate and competent legal counsel for the injured and we offer a FREE Consultation so please feel free to call us at 1-866-234-6093. We are honored to serve our clients and our community.

​Andrew Iacobelli is an experienced personal injury lawyer who established Iacobelli Law Firm with offices located in Ontario, Canada as well as offices in Florida, U.S.A. Andrew restricts his practice to the representation of personal injury victims in claims involving serious injuries and wrongful death.

With so many restrictions on recreational activities due to the outbreak of COVID-19, at least Ontario motorcycle riders can still enjoy the open roads.  As we have seen warming temperatures over the past week, it is a pleasure to see motorcycles back on our roadways.  For many motorcyclists, riding these days is a great escape from the isolation we are all experiencing.  Taking to the open road, even when riding alone, is a lot of fun.  There's simply nothing else like it.  Motorcycle riders are also enjoying our less busy roadways. 

For other motorists, this is the time of year when you need to start becoming more aware of your surroundings and check for the presence of motorcycles.  Sadly, many motorcycle riders are involved in crashes due to other motorists failing to check their surroundings.  It is especially important for motorists to look carefully before changing lanes, and before making left turns.  These two scenarios are common in motorcycle accidents because drivers often do not see the motorcycle or mistakenly believe that the motorcycle is further away than it actually is.  Please give motorcycles plenty of space and be courteous.  

To all my motorcycle loving friends and family, enjoy the open roads while it lasts and stay safe.  Happy Riding!!

Driving in the winter can be extremely hazardous and unfortunately our Ontario highways have already experienced numerous pile-ups this season. Pile-ups typically occur in low-visibility conditions as drivers are caught off guard by driving too close to the vehicle in front and not adjusting to the road conditions. While the weather may play a big part in these types of accidents, distracted driving and impaired driving can also cause multi-car pile-ups. Being stranded on a major highway as a motorist in treacherous weather conditions is terrifying for everyone involved including first responders. 

Although any type of motor vehicle accident can create unexpected medical, financial and legal issues, multi-car crashes can magnify these matters. Multiple cars involved in an accident such as an unexpected chain reaction can amplify the chaos, making it more difficult to ascertain fault and making insurance claims much more complex. If you are involved in a multi-vehicle accident, here are some reminders to keep in mind.

Consider Your Safety First

• ​If you have been in a multi-car crash, your first priority should be staying safe. Stay in your car with your seatbelt fastened until the police or EMS tell you it is safe to exit. The biggest risk is getting hit by another car after leaving your vehicle.
• Make sure everyone else in your vehicle is okay. If you are badly injured, call 911 to alert them to the fact that you need an ambulance and wait for EMS to come help you and transport you to a hospital.
• If possible, put your hazard lights on to warn oncoming traffic to slow down.
• Seek a medical professional as soon as possible after the accident. Some injuries are not immediately apparent, especially soft tissue injuries.

Keep Calm
When an accident involves multiple cars, the accident scene invariably turns more chaotic. If you can, use your phone to take photographs of the accident. With more than two cars involved, the attending police officers will likely collect eyewitness statements and contact information themselves. Try your best to write down how the accident happened, what transpired, and any mitigating circumstances that may have contributed to the accident (such as inclement weather, debris in the road, a detour, or a reckless driver). In the chaos of a multi-car accident, your memories may fade quickly and writing it down will help you keep your memories clear.

Questioning at the Scene
When involved in any type of motor vehicle accident, the less you say, the better off you are. If police interview you, respond truthfully with short answers that address only the exact questions that the officers ask you. In multi-car crashes, ascertaining who is at fault is more complicated than in two-car accidents, and you do not want to place unwarranted fault on yourself.

Because of the complex nature of chain reaction car accidents, it is wise to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to get advice on how to proceed with your claim. If you were injured in a multi vehicle pile-up, you owe it to yourself to get a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer.

At Iacobelli Law Firm, we have extensive experience representing clients who have been seriously injured in multi-vehicle accidents and we realize how difficult and life-changing it can be for you.  We are a dedicated Ontario Personal Injury Law Firm that provides compassionate and competent legal counsel and we offer a FREE Consultation so please feel free to call us at 1-866-234-6093. We are honored to serve our clients and our community.

Andrew Iacobelli is an experienced personal injury lawyer who established Iacobelli Law Firm with offices located in Ontario, Canada as well as offices in Florida, U.S.A. Andrew restricts his practice to the representation of personal injury victims in claims involving serious injuries and wrongful death.