Motor vehicle accidents can result in more than just visible injuries. For many Albertans, these incidents lead to chronic pain conditions that last well beyond the physical healing process. Chronic pain cases are complex, requiring an understanding of Alberta law and precedent-setting cases to secure fair compensation.
What Is Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain is defined as persistent pain lasting beyond the typical healing period, often over six months. It may stem from nerve damage, soft tissue injuries, or even psychological trauma. For victims, chronic pain can lead to physical limitations, emotional distress, and financial challenges due to medical costs and lost income.
Statistics Highlighting Chronic Pain in Alberta
According to Statistics Canada, over 20% of Canadians live with chronic pain, with a significant portion linked to injuries sustained in accidents. Chronic pain is one of the leading reasons individuals file long-term disability claims, costing the economy billions annually.
Key Alberta Cases on Chronic Pain
Several Alberta court rulings have shaped how chronic pain claims are handled:
- Wittmeier v. Scholes, 1999 ABQB 4: This case emphasized the need for thorough medical evidence to validate chronic pain claims, setting a standard for expert testimony in Alberta.
- Dirk v. Toews, 2019 ABQB 176: The court awarded significant damages for chronic pain that interfered with the plaintiff’s ability to work, stressing the importance of proving the pain’s impact on daily life.
- Dushinski v. Rumsey, 2001 ABQB 513: This decision highlighted the court’s willingness to recognize chronic pain even when the initial injury seemed minor, provided evidence supports the ongoing pain claim.
- Russell v. Turcott, 2009 ABQB 19: This ruling focused on the psychological toll of chronic pain, including depression and anxiety, influencing the damages awarded.
How Personal Injury Lawyers Help Chronic Pain Victims
In Alberta, proving chronic pain requires comprehensive documentation, including medical records, expert opinions, and evidence of how the pain has affected your life. A skilled personal injury lawyer in Calgary or Edmonton can help build a strong case, ensuring victims receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Moving Forward with a Chronic Pain Claim
If you or a loved one suffers from chronic pain following a car crash, understanding your rights under Alberta law is crucial. These injuries may not be visible, but their impact is life-altering.
For more information about chronic pain claims in Alberta, visit the Alberta Courts website at www.albertacourts.ca or consult a trusted personal injury lawyer.