Overview
An active middle-aged couple suffered physical and psychological injuries after an oncoming vehicle lost control on ice, crossed the centre line, and struck their SUV head-on near Huntsville. Legal proceedings were commenced against both the other driver and the Ministry of Transportation. The case was resolved at a pre-trial mediation for more than $950,000.
Key Takeaways
- Settlement: More than $950,000
- Accident type: Head-on motor vehicle collision
- Primary injury: Physical injuries
- Additional injuries: Psychological injuries
- Resolution method: Settlement at pre-trial mediation
- Notable legal issues: Claims against the Ministry of Transportation and the other driver; repeated loss-of-control incidents at the same location
- Medical treatment: Not specified
- Long-term impact: Not specified
The Case
Our clients, an active middle-aged couple, were travelling on a provincial highway near Huntsville on a sunny but very cold winter day when an oncoming vehicle lost control on a patch of ice. The vehicle crossed the centre line and collided head-on with their SUV.
The collision caused both clients to suffer physical and psychological injuries. The location of the collision had a documented history of similar incidents, with this being the tenth time a vehicle had lost control on ice in the same area over a five-year period.
Legal proceedings were commenced against both the Ministry of Transportation and the other driver. The matter was ultimately resolved at a pre-trial mediation, where the parties reached a settlement of more than $950,000.
Why It Matters
This case highlights that serious motor vehicle collision claims may involve multiple defendants where road conditions and roadway management are alleged to have contributed to a collision.
It also demonstrates that head-on collisions can result in both physical and psychological injuries, and that these issues may be addressed through settlement before trial.