Many people in Ontario spend time away from the big city life by visiting cottage country. Whether visiting, renting or enjoying your own property, finding time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life often includes spending time at the dock and enjoying the many activities the outdoors offer. Unfortunately, there are many injuries and accidents prone to cottage country that require filing an insurance claim. It is important that if you sustain your injury at the property of a friend, restaurant, dock, outdoor venue, etc., you obtain any insurance information those entities may have. This information may be pivotal to your case and filing an insurance claim to receive the proper benefits needed to support you in a time of healing. Furthermore, you may be entitled to damages as a result of the incident.

Potential Cause of Injury

Many long-term disability and short-term disability claims, as well as claims for coverage of certain medical assistance (such as from a physical or occupational therapist), are sustained from slips and falls. Slips and falls are more prone to happening in wet areas, such as on a dock or boat, but also can be obtained from staircases or pathways. It is important to avoid poorly maintained areas of a property in order to avoid possibility of injury.

Another thing to watch out for are cottages that are ridden with hazardous living conditions such as toxic mould, leaks or exposed wires. It is important to inspect areas of any improper ventilation or faulty utilities. Do not touch areas of mould or exposed wires.

If you have maintained an injury from a poorly maintained property, be sure to obtain the property owner’s legal name, address, and any insurance information they have. We also advise that you take photos of the area where an injury is obtained. Visual evidence may be useful in your case.

It is important that any equipment one may operate at the cottage is used only by those who are adequately experience and/or licensed to do so. Whether be the barbecue, chainsaw, boat, dirt bike or ATV, it is important that these pieces of equipment are managed responsibility. If not, major injuries and even death can occur.

The Law: Long Term Disability Possiblities

Under the Ontario Occupiers’ Liability Act, if someone is the owner of a cottage, or manager who is required to overlook property responsibilities, it is their duty to make sure that the premise is safe and properly maintained. All occupants on the property must be surrounding by a safe dwelling, one not full of potential danger. It is their duty to ensure that all areas, including outdoor spaces such as docks and porches, follow construction code and are properly inspected.

Besides providing any verbal warnings of possible dangers, it would be wise to put up warning signs that may help dwellers avoid possible injuries. Signage can be placed wherever areas are prone to slips or falls, such as docks and steep inclines. Shallow water and sharp rocks should also be noted with visual signs, and pointed out verbally once guests view the property. If leisure equipment is provided, such as hunting equipment, fishing gear, firewood, fireworks, and hiking equipment, make sure any vital instructions are read and equipment is used with all mandatory caution.

If any watercraft is offered for use at the property, it is important that you know that the watercraft is insured. Watercraft insurance is often extended to machines that have horsepower engines. It is also important that you wear a life vest and have the proper emergency equipment (such as an inner tube, flare gun etc.) stowed on larger boats.

Drinking-Related Incidences

Another primary cause for accidents or injuries at the cottage include those resulting from excessive alcohol consumption. If alcohol is served or consumed on a property you do not own, and the owner/manager has failed to prevent a safe environment, they may be liable for any harm that is endured on their property.

Consult With a Toronto Long Term Disability Lawyer

If you have succumbed to illness or injury as a result of the negligence of a cottage owner, be sure to speak with a personal injury lawyer. Many Ontarians have received a denied insurance claim related to an injury or accident that has occurred at a cottage. You may require short-term disability or long-term disability from work in order to properly recover and heal from a summer cottage incident. It is impotent that you take optimal care of yourself, and are supported by a legal team that is knowledgeable in injury law and cottage related accidents. TSF Law offers free consultations and esteemed services to those seeking legal aid when filing a claim for a cottage related injury. We are committed to obtaining the best results for our clients, in a timely and unstressful manner.