Toronto is Canada’s busiest city, filled with nonstop action and unlimited distractions. This is especially true when dealing with the aftermath of an accident. Navigating the complexities of personal injury law can be daunting, especially after you’ve been seriously hurt in an accident. Whether you've been injured in a car crash, slip and fall incident, or workplace accident, finding the right legal representation is essential to ensuring your rights are upheld and guaranteeing you get the proper compensation you deserve. Toronto has countless personal injury law firms all fighting for your business. Understanding how to distinguish which is best is key to [...]

Scarborough, Ontario, is a beautiful suburb of Toronto that is filled with amazing parks, perfect for a day outdoors with your dog.  These dog parks range in size and features and are all fantastic locations for any local dog lover to explore. In this guide, we'll list the top 10 dog parks located in and around Scarborough Ontario, to help you explore both well-known dog parks and a few hidden gems as well with your dog. Dog parks are amazing for helping maintain your dog's physical and mental well-being. These green, open spaces provide opportunities for exercise, socialization, and mental [...]

A brain injury throws your life, and the lives of those who love you, into turmoil. Everything changes – familiar routines become overwhelming, emotions feel harder to control, and your career and financial future may become uncertain. The physical symptoms of a brain injury, like headaches and memory loss, are challenging enough. Sadly, the financial strain of medical care and lost income can worsen the stress. Canadian law recognizes the far-reaching impact of brain injuries. If your injury was caused by someone else – a negligent driver, an employer who disregarded safety, or a careless medical professional – you may have legal options to secure compensation. This compensation is designed to ease the [...]

In everyday language, a catastrophic injury is one with severe, life-changing consequences. Such injuries dramatically impact a person's ability to function the way they did before the injury. Catastrophic injuries significantly change someone's ability to function the way they did before, leading to lasting or even permanent disability. Beyond everyday understanding, the term also holds specific legal meaning in the Toronto context. Specific types of severe injuries qualify for enhanced insurance benefits, affecting the type of compensation you may be entitled to seek. We understand that if you or someone you care about has sustained a catastrophic injury, your world [...]

Main Highlights Slip and fall accidents can result in serious injuries, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, neck and spinal cord injuries, joint injuries, and chronic pain. Falls are a common occurrence, with approximately 25% of people over the age of 65 experiencing a slip and fall each year. Slip and fall accidents can happen in various settings, including homes, workplaces, and public places. Many slip and fall accidents are caused by hazardous conditions, such as wet floors, loose carpets, and throw rugs. Injuries from slip and falls can have long-term impacts on an individual's ability to work, perform daily [...]

Personal injury law has a specific language where terms like "tort claims" and "A/B claims" are common. The definitions of these terms may be obvious to anyone with a legal background, but to those outside the legal world these terms can be confusing. What do these legal terms mean, and what more specifically, what are the differences between tort claims and accident benefits claims? Now, why would someone outside of the legal world need to know the difference between “tort claims” and “A/B” claims? The answer is that without a clear understanding of what these terms mean, including how they [...]

Is there anything better than after a long day of work, curling up on your couch at home, turning on the TV and watching a legal based TV show? It could be a comedy about lawyers or a legal thriller, TV shows focused on the law profession have consistently been huge ratings winners. At Bergel Magence, we love a good law themed TV show, as much as anyone else. This is why we polled the team at Bergel Magence to create our list of the top 10 TV shows about lawyers and the law profession. So, without further adieu, here [...]

Canada's Wonderland is one of Canada's premier amusement parks, captivating visitors with its thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions. Cedar Fair owns Canada's Wonderland, and the park is in Vaughan, Ontario. It is the most popular amusement park in Canada, attracting over 3.78 million visitors annually. While the park has a good safety record, it has had many incidents over the years, which is normal for any large entertainment venue. So, how does Canada’s Wonderland keep guests safe? This blog post will discuss real-life incidents at the park, safety measures in and around Canada’s Wonderland, and how the theme park keeps [...]

Toronto is a walking city. Pedestrians can be seen everywhere, in all parts of the city. From North York to Etobicoke, Scarborough to Mississauga, pedestrians can be found everywhere regardless of the time of year. The unfortunate truth though, is that walking in Toronto can often be dangerous. With crowded streets and busy traffic, pedestrian accidents more likely. If you’ve been seriously injured in a pedestrian accident in or around the city of Toronto, it's important to understand your legal rights and steps to take to possibly receive compensation for your pain and suffering. We'll go over what to do [...]

As Ontario continues to navigate its way through the aftermath of lockdowns and evolving pandemic measures, the lingering threat of COVID-19 remains a pressing concern. Emerging research continues to shed light on the long-term effects of the virus, with a growing understanding of the challenges posed by Long COVID. For individuals grappling with persistent symptoms, accessing long-term disability benefits can provide crucial support during uncertain times. Here's what you need to know to navigate this complex landscape effectively. Understanding Long COVID and Its Impacts While most COVID-19 cases result in relatively mild symptoms that resolve within a few weeks, a [...]

You’ve been in a serious injury. It could have been a car accident, a slip and fall situation or maybe you were attacked by a dog. In the aftermath of any accident or injury, finding the right legal representation can make all the difference in your ability to seek justice and receive proper compensation. However, with countless law firms vying for your attention, the process of finding the right injury lawyers near you can seem daunting. You type in “how to find a personal injury lawyer near me” into your online search thinking you’ll instantly find the right law firm, [...]

Brampton, Ontario, is a vibrant city with a deep appreciation for its furry residents. Dog owners in Brampton are fortunate to have access to a variety of well-maintained parks where their canine companions can run, play, and socialize. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, exploring Brampton's top dog parks promises unforgettable experiences for both you and your four-legged friend. Here, we unveil the ten best dog parks in Brampton, where tails wag and friendships flourish. Chinguacousy Park Off-Leash Dog Park: Located within the expansive Chinguacousy Park, this off-leash area offers ample space for dogs to romp and roam. [...]

When we talk about dangerous dog breeds, various stereotypes and misconceptions often come to mind. Media sensationalism and urban legends have contributed to a skewed perception of certain breeds as inherently aggressive or unsafe. While certain dog breeds may have a higher tendency for being aggressive, it’s not fair to generalize all dogs within the breed as dangerous. It's essential to understand that a dog's behavior is shaped by various factors, including genetics, upbringing, training, and environment. In this blog post, we'll delve into some commonly labeled "dangerous" dog breeds, debunking myths and shedding light on the realities behind their [...]

Are you or a loved one facing the aftermath of a personal injury in Oshawa or another part of Durham Region? Whether it's a car accident, slip and fall, or any other unfortunate incident, seeking legal representation is crucial for ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you may be entitled to. But with numerous law firms claiming to be the best, how do you find the right personal injury lawyer that serves Oshawa for your case? Not all law firms are created equal. Here are tips to help find the best personal injury lawyer in Oshawa. [...]

Since the beginning of film, movies about lawyers and the law have always been incredibly popular with filmgoers. Whether it’s because of they contain dramatic scenarios, intense courtroom scenes, or intricate character dynamics, many law based films have struck a chord with the public. In this blog post, we’ll highlight Bergel Magence’s picks for the 10 of the best movies about lawyers that have cemented their place as some of the best and most popular films of all time. What are the 10 best movies about lawyers? 1. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962) – 93% Fresh on Rotton Tomatoes Harper Lee's classic novel [...]

What To Look For When Choosing a Car Accident Lawyer in Toronto is a question that becomes significantly important in the wake of a vehicular accident. The path to recovery, both physically and financially, hinges on the decisions made immediately following such an incident. In this critical juncture, the expertise of a car accident lawyer becomes indispensable. At Bergel Magence LLP, we recognize the complexities and hurdles you may encounter during these challenging times. It's our mission to provide not just legal representation but also guidance and support as you navigate through the intricacies of the legal landscape. As we [...]

What are Toronto 5 worst streets? This question is more than just a matter of local trivia; it touches on the daily realities and safety concerns of millions who navigate Canada's largest city. With a bustling population exceeding 5 million, the streets of Toronto are arteries of commerce, life, and, unfortunately, congestion. The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) rankings for 2023 have spotlighted several streets for their notoriety, marking them as some of the most challenging and dangerous in the province. For us at Bergel Magence, understanding the intricacies of these urban thoroughfares is not just academic—it's a critical aspect of [...]

Sustaining a personal injury is a challenging experience, and finding the right legal representation is crucial for securing the compensation you deserve. In a city as large as Toronto, the task of finding a trustworthy and experienced personal injury lawyer may seem overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate through the maze of options and answer the burning question: How do I find a personal injury lawyer in Toronto? Understanding Your Needs: Why are you looking for a personal injury lawyer? Before embarking on your quest for the perfect personal injury lawyer, take a moment to understand your specific [...]

Understanding Medical Malpractice and Your Rights is an essential endeavor for anyone who has experienced or is concerned about the quality of medical care received. The term "medical malpractice" often brings a mix of apprehension and uncertainty, laying bare the vulnerabilities patients face when healthcare does not meet the expected standard. In this blog post, our objective is to clarify what constitutes medical malpractice, providing insight into its various forms, the legal framework surrounding it, and the actions you should consider if you suspect you've been adversely affected by inadequate medical treatment. At Bergel Magence, our expertise in handling medical [...]

Car accidents can often result in being seriously hurt. Whether it's a minor fender bender or a major collision, the consequences of a car accident can be life-changing. Injuries sustained in accidents can range from minor cuts and bruises to life changing severe brain damage or spinal cord injuries. Understanding which injuries are considered serious in automobile accidents is crucial, especially when seeking compensation and protecting your rights. Understanding Serious Injuries in Car Accidents When we talk about serious injuries resulting from car accidents, we are referring to those that have significant physical, emotional, and financial consequences. These can result [...]

Car accidents can be traumatic and devastating, causing injuries that range from minor bumps and bruises to severe physical and psychological trauma. In the aftermath of a vehicle crash, it's important to understand the common injuries that can occur and the rights you have to seek compensation for your injuries. By knowing your rights and understanding the impact of different car accident injuries, you can take the necessary steps to protect yourself and ensure that you receive the medical care and financial compensation you deserve. Understanding Car Accident Injuries Auto accident injuries can vary widely depending on the severity of [...]

Car accidents can be traumatic and overwhelming, especially if you or your loved ones are injured. In such situations, it's crucial to have a car accident lawyer by your side who can provide the legal representation you need. A car accident lawyer specializes in personal injury law and can help you navigate the complex legal system. A personal injury attorney can handle negotiations with insurance companies, guide you through the process of filing a car accident claim, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Their expertise can be invaluable, as they understand the intricacies of [...]

Dog bites can be a terrifying and traumatic experience, leaving victims with physical injuries and psychological trauma. In Ontario, dog owner liability is governed by the Dog Owners' Liability Act, which outlines the responsibilities of dog owners and the rights of bite victims. Understanding the law and knowing your rights as a dog bite victim is crucial for seeking compensation and navigating the legal process. Here is a detailed breakdown on everything you need to know about dog bites and attacks, including what are your rights when attacked by a dog in Ontario. What is Dog Owner Liability in Ontario? [...]

Product liability is an essential area of law that affects consumers and manufacturers alike. Understanding product liability is essential, as product liability involves holding manufacturers, distributors, and sellers responsible for the safety of their products. In Ontario, product liability laws are designed to protect consumers from harm caused by defective products, while providing them with legal recourse in case of injury or property damage. Understanding product liability is crucial for both consumers and manufacturers, as it ensures consumer safety and promotes fair compensation in case of harm. What is Product Liability? Product liability is a branch of law that deals [...]

Product liability is a significant aspect of consumer protection, ensuring that individuals who are harmed by defective products can seek legal recourse. If you have suffered from personal injury or property damage caused by a defective product, it is essential to understand the process of filing a product liability claim. This blog will guide you through the process of filing a product liability claim in Toronto, including understanding product liability laws, identifying a defective product, determining liability, the legal basis for product liability claims, the process of filing a claim, and the possibility of criminal liability for defective products. Whether [...]

Exploring the Long-term Impact of Spinal Cord Injuries Spinal cord injuries are life-altering events that can have a profound impact on an individual's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. The spinal cord, a bundle of nerves, plays a critical role in transmitting messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Controlling essential functions such as muscle movement, blood pressure, and bladder control, the spinal cord is key to a healthy full functioning individual. When the spinal cord is damaged due to accidents, medical conditions, or sports injuries, the consequences can be devastating. We will explore the long-term impact of [...]

In Canada, workplace accidents are a significant concern, affecting numerous employees annually. These incidents range from minor mishaps to serious, life-altering events. Understanding your rights as an employee is crucial, especially in the aftermath of a workplace accident. In such scenarios, expert legal advice is invaluable. Understanding Workplace Accidents in Canada Workplace health and safety are critical concerns in Canada, impacting employees across all sectors. Understanding what constitutes a workplace accident is the first step towards fostering a safer environment. Typically, these incidents range from minor injuries requiring basic first aid to more serious injuries that might necessitate extended medical [...]

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) represent a significant health concern, often leading to profound changes in an individual's life. In Ontario, the causes of spinal cord injuries span a broad spectrum. Some examples are traumatic events like motor vehicle crashes and sports injuries being predominant contributors. These injuries not only disrupt the bundle of nerves within the spinal column but also affect the rest of the body in ways that can be life-altering for the injured person. Spinal cord injuries can be catastrophic. Not only do they affect the person with the injury, but also the lives of their family and [...]

A Comprehensive Guide on How to File a Medical Malpractice Claim in Ontario   Definition of Medical Malpractice: Medical malpractice is a key aspect of personal injury law and occurs in Ontario when a healthcare provider fails to meet the standard of care expected in the medical community, leading to patient harm. This failure, often termed as medical negligence, involves a range of errors or omissions that result in harm to the patient, which can range from minor injuries to severe cases like wrongful death. Understanding Standard of Care: The standard of care is a legal benchmark used to determine [...]

Personal injury law in Ontario encompasses legal remedies and defenses involved in civil lawsuits brought as a result of wrongful conduct. While this sounds complicated, it's actual quite easy to understand. Essentially, it refers to a scenario where a person suffers harm from an accident or injury, and someone else maybe legally responsible for that harm. The law covers a broad spectrum of cases. These can range from car accidents and workplace injuries to medical malpractice and slip-and-fall incidents. Understanding personal injury cases is crucial for victims. It helps them recognize their rights and the potential avenues for legal recourse. [...]

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be a daunting experience, especially when it involves dealing with insurance claims. Understanding the claims process is critical to ensure that you're adequately compensated for property damage, medical expenses, and any other losses. This guide offers a clear, step-by-step approach to filing a car accident insurance claim in Ontario, Canada. It's designed to empower you with knowledge, from understanding the basics of auto insurance policies to documenting the accident scene for a successful claim. The team at Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers understands all necessary steps required to properly file a car [...]

Soft tissue injuries are a common and often painful occurrence that can significantly impact one's daily life and overall well-being. These injuries involve damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, the use of which are crucial for everyday movement and stability. When experiencing a soft tissue injury, it is essential to understand the potential severity of the damage and how it may affect your ability to perform everyday tasks, engage in sports, or enjoy your favorite hobbies. In some cases, soft tissue injuries may result from the negligence or carelessness of others, such as in an accident or workplace incident. When [...]

Head injuries are dreaded, and for a good reason. Although most head injuries are mild, a serious blow or repeat injuries can result in serious damage to the brain leading to disability, mental impairment, and, in worst-case scenarios, death. In this blog post, we'll cover the different types of head injuries, their symptoms, available treatment options and tips to prevent injuries. Before we dive into the details, note that if you suffer a head injury due to someone else’s negligence or carelessness, you may be entitled to monetary compensation to cover your treatment, rehabilitation, lost wages, and more. At Bergel [...]

Every month, individuals and companies pay premiums to their insurance providers as a way to have a safety net when unfortunate events happen. In personal injury cases, insurers compensate victims for damages and losses resulting from injuries sustained in accidents. This ensures that accident victims are financially protected and cared for as they recover. Insurance companies play a significant role in personal injury cases, including car accidents, medical malpractice, premises liability, animal attacks, and slip and fall accidents. Depending on the type and level of insurance, injured persons can obtain varying compensation for damages suffered. However, obtaining the compensation you [...]

Personal injuries are injuries sustained by one’s physical body or emotions. The most common types of personal injuries in Toronto are unintentional injuries, which mostly result from accidents caused by the negligence or carelessness of another party. In such an incident, the injured party can file a personal injury case against the negligent party and seek financial reparations. In this educational post, we’ll explore the most common types of personal injury cases in Toronto and the injuries associated with each. We’ll help you understand the rights of an injured party and when one can file a personal injury claim for [...]

Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers has once again been named the best (Diamond level) personal injury lawyers in the Toronto Star Readers’ Choice Awards (2022). This award is truly meaningful, as it is voted on by the public that we have been honoured to serve for over 50 years. We extend our most sincere gratitude for allowing us to do so. To learn more about the award, please visit: https://www.thestar.com/readerschoice-toronto/categories/professional-services/subcategories/personal-injury-law-services

Thank you Ontario! For 50 years, you’ve let Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers take care of your families, and we are humbled and sincerely appreciative that you have named us the best Personal Injury Law Firm in the 2021 Toronto Star Readers’ Choice Awards. We are so proud to receive the top (Diamond level) award, and will continue to serve accident victims throughout Ontario with the utmost pride and passion. Thank you to everyone who voted for us!

Over the past 12 months, pet ownership and adoption has increased substantially. While our furry friends provide love and companionship, sometimes they can get aggressive, leading to bites, attacks and various other injuries. Most dog owners aren’t aware that they can be held liable if their pet chases someone, leading to that person being injured. The injury doesn’t have to be caused by the dog’s teeth. Further, owners can be held liable for psychological trauma caused by their dog’s behaviour. Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers has been handling dog bite/attack claims for nearly 50 years. Andrew Bergel recently appeared on [...]

So here is a great way to get a bad rating as an Uber driver: push the passenger out of the vehicle. (You can read the sordid details here.) However, while you probably do not have to worry about being pushed out of a vehicle while in your next Uber, you do have to be prepared if your Uber does get into an accident. First thing: get as much information as you can regarding the parties involved, including the drivers, the license plates, and insurance information for all parties. Pictures are always helpful, so click a few screens back and pull [...]

Something is rotten in the state of Denmark. Well, maybe not quite rotten. But consider the facts of a recent, real-life scenario: a Licence Appeal Tribunal (LAT) catastrophic determination decision that is then, internally, changed by a superior, which is then brought to the attention of the plaintiff through an anonymous note, who then brings an application before the Divisional Court to have the decision set aside. See, all the excitement of a Shakespeare play. Call us paranoid, but personal injury lawyers collectively were aghast after reading the fact pattern that led to the decision of Mary Shuttleworth v. Licence Appeal [...]

We’re pleased to welcome you to Bergel Magence LLP’s new look! We invite you to have a look around our updated website, subscribe to our various social media pages including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. While we may look a little different, we will continue to provide you with the stellar legal expertise that we have been demonstrating for nearly 50 years. We live by our motto that we treat all of our clients as if they’re family, and through our new website, blog and social media channels, we will endeavour to bring you important information regarding personal injury law, helpful safety tips, as well [...]

Bergel Magence LLP is pleased to be listed on the Canadian Lawyer annual survey of the top personal injury law firms in Canada. After over 40 years in the field of personal injury law, we continue to advocate for our clients and their families, and achieve the best results possible. We would be honoured if you would help recognize the firm by voting in the Canadian Lawyer survey by clicking here and acknowledging Bergel Magence as the top personal injury law firm in Canada. We sincerely appreciate your consideration and look forward to seeing the results

Unfortunately, working with victims of motor vehicle accidents for close to 45 years, we have pretty much seen it all. But every now and then, a car accident is so bizarre that it even causes our collective eyebrows to raise a little. Such was the case last week in Los Angeles, California when a Lexus ended up on a roof. Luckily, neither the homeowner nor the driver was injured too badly. If bizarre accidents are your thing, you can read more about it here:https://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/lexus-ends-roof-los-angeles-home-crash-article-1.2519835?barcprox=true If there is anything we can learn from this incident is that you can never know [...]

You may remember (way back to early September) when Canadian tennis star Eugenie Bouchard had to pull out of the US Open—due to a concussion—after she slipped and slammed her head in a darkened training room at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. The details of the story, at least from her perspective, are that she went back to the locker room to take an ice bath. Once she got there, she was a little disoriented as the lights were off and the floor was slick; subsequently, she slipped and fell backward. Athlete or not, she did what [...]

It is undeniable: the Jays are good. So good that this past Saturday fans threw their hats on the field to celebrate Encarnacion’s hat trick. This is Canada, and Edwin Encarnacion did launch his third home run of the game — a grand slam — in the seventh inning against the Tigers. Hat trick it is, even if it isn’t on the ice. But throwing things at things always puts up red flags for us (after all, we are personal injury lawyers). In fact, many people do get hurt at sporting events. In order to deny liability, owners and operators of [...]

TORONTO, Ont.—Feb. 19, 2015—Canada’s favourite NBA stars and BALLnROLL teamed up for an online charity auction whose success scored more than 90 sets of winter clothing for youth in need. All the memorabilia sold out, providing enough money to stock up on winter jackets, snow pants, gloves, hats and more for children of all ages across Toronto. BALLnROLL publisher Gad Elmaleh personally handed the garments off to members of the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) Tuesday. The TDSB’s trained child and youth counselors will now distribute the winter gear to the school kids who need them most. “It was a [...]

In our last blog, we introduced spinal cord injuries in general. This week we discuss spinal cord injuries that result in quadriplegia and paraplegia.  As defined bySpinal Cord Injury Ontario: Quadriplegia is paralysis of all four limbs (from the neck down) resulting from injury to the neck.  Fractures or compression of the vertebrae, which cause permanent damage to the spinal cord may lead to loss of sensation, movement, pain management, bladder and bowel control, as well as affecting sexual function. Paraplegia is the loss of sensation and movement in legs and in part or all of the trunk, usually resulting [...]

Too often we see clients who have unfortunately experienced spinal cord injuries due to a bad fall or a motor vehicle accident. With a spinal cord injury, there are two major factors that will affect a person’s mobility: the place of the injury along the spinal cord and the severity of injury to the spinal cord. The severity of the spinal cord injury is classified as either of the following: Complete: If almost all feeling (sensory) and all ability to control movement (motor function) are lost below the spinal cord injury, the injury is called complete. Incomplete: If there is some motor [...]

You can already smell the summer. After the brutal weather we had in Toronto this past winter, we can’t get enough sniffs. But although it may surprise you, summer driving is as dangerous, if not more so, than winter driving. That is bad news. Here are some reasons why summer driving could be dangerous: No school means there are more teen drivers on the road during the summer months. Due to the lack of experience, teens tend to be involved in more motor vehicle accidents than any other age group; Also, there is usually much more construction in the summer [...]

If you were raised with siblings then you know the concept of shared fault. Whether you started the fight or you were just the innocent victim, you would probably hear the same thing I don’t care who started it. Seemingly, in the eyes of our parents our mere existence warranted at least some blame. At some point in our legal history, courts started to take cues from parents and adopted- albeit in a slightly different fashion- a shared fault system known as contributory negligence. In a nutshell, contributory negligence means that you, the injured party, may have contributed to your injuries because [...]