What Happens If You Can't Return to Work After a Motorcycle Accident in Calgary

Motorcycling brings a sense of freedom and adventure but comes with its share of risks. One of the most daunting scenarios you can face is not being able to return to work after a motorcycle accident in Calgary

Given the city’s bustling streets and unpredictable weather conditions, this situation becomes especially crucial to understand if you’re a motorcyclist in Calgary. This blog will explore what happens when the unthinkable occurs and you can’t return to work due to accident-related injuries. 

We’ll cover the financial implications, insurance options, and the legal routes you must consider. Knowing your rights and available avenues can make the difference between a life of struggle and regaining stability. 

Motorcycle Crash in Calgary

Motorcycle crashes can mess up your life, hurting you physically, emotionally, and financially. According to CTV News Calgary, police believe that speeding and drinking played a role in a motorcycle crash that severely injured a motorcyclist.  

Another article points out that if a motorcycle accident stops you from working for a little while or forever, you could get money to compensate for lost wages and job benefits.

Actions in the Aftermath of the Accident

Processing the moments right after a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. But, taking the right steps can significantly impact your health and any future legal or financial proceedings. You should follow these steps immediately after the accident:

  1. Move to Safety: If you can, move yourself and your motorcycle from traffic to a safer location.
  2. Call for Help: Call emergency services immediately to ensure medical and police assistance.
  3. Check for Injuries: Perform a quick self-assessment and check if other parties are injured.
  4. Gather Information: If possible, collect contact details from other parties involved and any witnesses.
  5. Take Photos: Document the scene, including your motorcycle, other vehicles, and relevant road conditions.
  6. Seek Medical Attention: Consult a healthcare provider for a thorough check-up regardless of how you feel.
  7. Preserve Medical Records: Keep all medical documentation safe. This will be a crucial evidence for insurance claims or potential legal actions.
  8. Report the Accident: Notify your insurance company immediately, providing them with the gathered details and documentation.
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Understanding Insurance Coverage

Working your insurance after an accident is often a complex task. But understanding your options can make a world of difference. This is a breakdown to help guide you:

Types of Insurance Policies That Can Cover Loss of Income:

Insurance TypeCoverage Details
Disability InsuranceCovers a portion of your income if you become disabled.
Income Replacement PolicyProvides income if you cannot work for a specific period.
Comprehensive PolicyWould include elements of both disability and income replacement.

How to File a Claim:

  1. Contact Your Insurance Provider: Call them immediately after the accident.
  2. Collect Necessary Documents: Gather medical records, police reports, and other required paperwork.
  3. Submit Claim: Fill out the claim form and attach the necessary documents.
  4. Follow-up: Keep track of the claim status and adhere to any deadlines or additional requirements.

Common Pitfalls to Watch Out For:

  • Delay in Reporting: The longer you wait to file a claim, the more complicated it can become.
  • Incomplete Documentation: Missing out on key papers can slow down or invalidate your claim.
  • Ignoring Fine Print: Always read your policy’s terms and conditions to understand what’s covered and what’s not.

Financial Impacts

The financial toll of a motorcycle accident can be significant and often extends well beyond immediate medical bills. Preparing adequately to understand the short-term and long-term impacts on your finances is necessary.

Short-term: 

Medical BillRehabilitation Costs
The immediate healthcare costs include hospital stays, surgeries, medication, and emergency room visits.Physical therapy, psychological counselling, and other rehabilitative services are everyday short-term expenses.

Long-term:

Lost IncomeJob Retraining
Being out of work for a long period significantly disrupts your income stream, impacting your immediate financial situation and long-term earning potential. 
This could jeopardize your ability to meet ongoing financial commitments like mortgages, car payments, and routine household expenses. 
This often requires an investment in job retraining or further education. While this presents an opportunity for a fresh start, it also adds a financial burden. 
The costs of vocational training, certification courses, or educational degrees can be high, and you’ll likely still have to manage other expenses while in this transition phase.

Legal Considerations

The aftermath of a motorcycle accident isn’t just about physical recovery. You must also consider your legal options to ensure you’re financially secure. The following are some critical legal considerations laid out in an organized manner:

Worker’s Compensation:

AspectDetails
EligibilityYou can qualify for worker’s compensation if the accident happened during work.
Application ProcessNotify your employer, then fill out the claim forms as your workplace or jurisdiction instructed.

Lawsuits:

ConsiderationDetails
When to ConsiderIf another party is at fault or your insurance falls short, consider a lawsuit.
How to ProceedConsult a specialized personal injury lawyer to assess your case and guide you.

Importance of Legal Consultation:

  • Professional Guidance: An attorney can provide tailoured advice for your situation.
  • Avoid Mistakes: Missteps in the legal process can be costly. Consulting a professional can help you avoid pitfalls.

The Psychological Toll

Beyond the evident physical and financial strains, being unable to return to work after an accident can also have a significant psychological impact. Here’s a closer look:

Psychological Impact

  • Loss of Identity

Work often defines a part of who we are. Being unable to work can cause feelings of aimlessness or loss of self.

  • Stress and Anxiety

Worrying about finances, job security, and future prospects can lead to heightened stress and anxiety levels.

Coping Mechanisms and Support Systems

  • Therapeutic Support

Consider talking to a mental health professional. They can offer coping strategies tailoured to your situation.

  • Family and Friends

Don’t underestimate the power of a strong support network. Loved ones can provide emotional support and practical help.

Rehabilitation and Alternative Employment

Coming to terms with not being able to return to your previous job after a motorcycle accident is a significant life adjustment. However, there are options to help you get back on your feet, career-wise.

Rehabilitation Programs in Calgary

  • Physical Rehab: Programs tailoured to your physical needs, such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
  • Emotional Rehab: Mental health support services to help you cope with the emotional toll.

Vocational Training and Alternative Employment

  • Skill Assessment: Vocational training centers can evaluate your skills to determine alternative career paths.
  • Training Programs: Various vocational courses can help you acquire new skills that are in demand.

Government Assistance and Programs

Government assistance can be a lifeline in these challenging times, especially if you face hurdles returning to your original line of work.

  • Employment Insurance: Temporary financial aid while you’re out of work or training for a new job.
  • Disability Benefits: Long-term assistance for those who cannot return to employment.

Eligibility and Application Process:

  • Criteria: Eligibility often depends on your employment history, disability, and other factors.
  • Application: Forms are typically available online or at government service centers, and often require medical documentation.

 

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Trust Your Accident Aftermath To a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Recovering from a motorcycle accident involves much more than just physical healing; it’s a complicated process that demands attention to financial, legal, and emotional aspects. If you are in such a situation, remember you don’t have to go alone. 
We at Sidhu Personal Injury Lawyers are here to help you navigate after a motorcycle accident in Calgary. Consulting professionals—from medical practitioners to legal advisors that can provide tailored advice—is most needed to help you go through this complicated period in your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Suppose you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident and are facing challenges such as injuries, inability to work, or potential legal disputes. In that case, contacting a motor vehicle accident lawyer as soon as possible is advisable. 

Legal experts can immediately guide you through insurance claims, potential lawsuits, and other legal matters. The earlier you consult with a lawyer, the better positioned you’ll be to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.

The type and compensation you can expect after a motorcycle crash vary depending on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your financial losses, and the laws governing personal injury claims in your jurisdiction. But, some common types of compensation you could be eligible for include:

Medical Expenses
This can cover hospital bills, ongoing treatments, rehabilitation, and future medical costs related to the accident.

Lost Income

If the accident impacts your ability to work, you can be entitled to compensation for lost wages and potentially for future lost earning capacity.


Property Damage
Compensation for damages to your motorcycle and any other property affected by the crash.


Pain and Suffering
This is a more subjective category and could include emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and physical pain.


Legal Costs
You can sometimes claim compensation for legal fees incurred while pursuing your claim.


Other Special Damages
These could include travel expenses for medical treatment, home modifications needed due to injuries, and other out-of-pocket costs.

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