Overview
An experienced snowmobiler suffered an incomplete spinal cord injury after hitting a pressure crack on Lake Simcoe and being thrown from his snowmobile. A dispute with his insurer over accident benefits was ultimately resolved for more than $1.3 million.
Key Takeaways
- Settlement: More than $1.3 million
- Accident type: Snowmobile accident
- Primary injury: Incomplete spinal cord injury
- Additional injuries: Not specified
- Resolution method: Accident benefits settlement
- Notable legal issues: Dispute with the client’s insurer over accident benefits for wheelchair-accessible home renovations
- Medical treatment: Not specified
- Long-term impact: Limited function in his legs and use of a wheelchair for mobility
The Case
Our client was an avid and experienced snowmobiler who was riding on Lake Simcoe when his snowmobile struck a pressure crack. The impact threw him from the snowmobile, causing him to land on his back.
He suffered an incomplete spinal cord injury that left him with little function in his legs. As a result of the injury, he used a wheelchair to get around.
A dispute arose with his own insurance company over the payment of accident benefits to fund renovations needed to make his home wheelchair accessible. His accident benefits claim was ultimately settled for more than $1.3 million.
Why It Matters
This case demonstrates the significant impact of a spinal cord injury on a person’s mobility and living environment. The client’s limited leg function and wheelchair use created a need for modifications to make his home accessible.
The resolution addressed the client’s accident benefits claim following a dispute with his insurer over funding for those home renovations.