Increasing settlement amount for Ottawa
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When someone is hurt as a result of the negligence of another party, it is possible a lawsuit could be filed, against the party that acted negligently, to recoup damages. The parties held accountable in this manner could be individuals or entities. Even the City of Ottawa can face such accusations. According to a recent report, the city paid a total of $14.5 million to settle claims filed against it, including those due to personal injury lawsuits. Over the course of the last five years, that amount has increased nearly threefold.
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While personal injury lawsuits account for very few of the between 500 and 600 claims it resolves via settlement each year, these particular matters are the ones that cost the city the most. Last year, $10 million was paid to resolve 21 larger injury claims.
There are a variety of different types of injuries that could prompt someone to file a lawsuit against the city. Among others, these include injuries suffered:
- When struck by a city vehicle
- While riding public transit
- After falling on city sidewalks
These accidents can result in serious injuries including spinal injuries, brain injuries and in the worst cases, death.
Regardless of who the party responsible for injuries is, it is important those who are hurt understand they may have legal options. Because these claims can be complex and there is a time limit during which the claims must be filed, it is important that if you find yourself in this situation, you contact a lawyer for assistance, sooner, rather than later. That individual can help determine whether a case is viable and the best approach to take.
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