Ontario Lawyers Call: (416) 625-2122

Gary Mazin helps procure LAT award that could change insurer behaviour

Lawyer Gary Mazin has helped a man who was injured in an ice fishing accident acquire an “outsized award” after his insurance company offered minimal help. The insurer’s estimate for the injured man’s monthly needs were just over a sixth of what occupational therapists thought he should receive. The adjudicator described the insurer’s behaviour as “imprudent, inflexible, and immoderate.”

To learn more about this case, click here.


Ten Dead, Fifteen Pedestrians Injured in Toronto Van Attack

Authorities are reporting that ten people are dead and fifteen others were injured when a man drove a rental van into pedestrians in Toronto. While the reason is still unknown, they do have reason to suspect that the act was intentional. The suspect was taken into custody by police after a short standoff.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted out his condolences to the victims: “Our thoughts are with all those affected by the terrible incident at Yonge and Finch in Toronto.” and “Thank you to the first responders working at the scene – we’re monitoring the situation closely.”

For more information on this developing story, visit read more on the BBC website and check back here for updates.


Personal Injury Law: Basic Definitions

Sustaining an agonizing, long-lasting, or life-threatening injury is a devastating, traumatic experience in and of itself. For an individual struggling with such an injury, taking a case to court can feel like just another pain. Sometimes people who deserve financial compensation—even need it—never contact a lawyer at all because they assume the law is too confusing or complicated. However, with just a little bit of knowledge and a skilled legal practitioner at your side, you can navigate a personal injury case while you physically, mentally, and emotionally heal.
The personal injury lawyers at Mazin & Associates, PC are committed to making the process of seeking justice as straightforward and easy as possible. A basic understanding of the key terms involved in personal injury law can give you the confidence you need to explore your own case.

Some Basic Terms

Even before speaking with a lawyer, you can teach yourself some foundational principles. A few important terms to know are:

  • Civil law: A branch of law involving a plaintiff suing a defendant. Civil law can be distinguished from criminal law, which involves the Crown prosecuting an accused for a crime.
  • Tort: A civil wrong that has caused injury to someone. A tort case might involve a plaintiff seeking compensation from a defendant because they have been hurt or because their property has been damaged.
  • Personal injury law: A type of civil law in which the plaintiff feels they have been hurt emotionally, physically, or mentally by a situation the defendant caused. Often, personal injury cases rest on charges of negligence.
  • Negligence: The lack of proper care. The law dictates that a person or organization can be at fault even if they are not deliberately causing harm. If they behave irresponsibly or carelessly, they could be guilty of negligence.
  • Liability: The condition of being under a legal obligation. In a personal injury case, if the defendant was “liable,” or responsible, for the plaintiff’s injuries, they will most likely be asked to pay damages.
  • Damages: Monetary compensation awarded to a plaintiff in a civil case.

How We Can Help

Learning the basics of civil law is a great first step towards getting monetary compensation for an injury. If you or a loved one has been hurt due to the actions or the negligence of a third party, you can benefit from the legal experience of the knowledgeable personal injury lawyers at Mazin & Associates, PC. Call us at (416) 625-2122 to discuss the specifics of your situation with a skilled legal professional.


$10K fine imposed on Canadian Natural Resources after 2007 fatal mishap

The Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. was fined $10,000 after investigations revealed that they have been negligent in a 2007 oil tank construction accident that resulted in two fatalities and five personal injuries in Fort McMurray, an article of OHS Canada reported on January 5.

In the investigation conducted by the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA), they confirmed that the company was negligent in consulting incompetent engineers in constructing the 20-metre oil tank in question. The incident, which took place in April 2007, reportedly took the lives of two workers, while five others were injured, after debris from a steel roof support fell into them. The APEGA found out that the engineer who designed the roofing structure was not properly qualified and that the design itself was flawed. Aside from the fine imposed on the company, they will also need to pay $150,000 for the development of a standard procedure in working with qualified professionals outside Alberta.

In the tough situation that you lost a loved one or have been injured in a construction accident in Toronto, the lawyers of Mazin & Associates, PC may work for you. We understand that victims of such accidents should be fairly compensated to recover from their injuries. Call us today at (416) 625-2122 to learn more about your options.


Six injured in Toronto vehicular mishap

At least six people were hospitalized in Toronto due to injuries they received after they were involved in a three-vehicle accident, a report of Global News stated on January 3.

Initial reports said that two vehicles collided on the east lanes of the Gardiner Expressway in the vicinity of Highway 427. Traffic Services Sergeant Brett Moore told reports that a vehicle containing three persons struck the back portion of another vehicle containing four persons. Toronto Police revealed via Twitter that a third vehicle was involved in the crash but fled the scene. Police told reports that one of the persons injured, only identified as a 24-year-old, was listed in critical condition. The identities of the people involved were withheld and authorities were conducting an investigation to figure out the cause of the crash.

If you have been involved in a car accident, enlisting a skilled legal team is important to increase your chances of claiming the accident benefits you need for recovery. Get in touch with a Toronto lawyers of the Mazin & Associates, PC today by calling (416) 625-2122 to find out how we may work on your behalf.


Thousands of GM police vehicles with fire risk recalled

Approximately 50,000 SUV’s used by police in the US are being recalled by General Motors (GM) due to a problem that may result in the vehicles catching fire, an article of Fortune reported on December 10.

In the recall notice issued by GM to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an electrical problem could occur in the cooling fan of the vehicles. The problem may result in the vehicles catching fire if certain fluids contact the cooling fans of the affected vehicles. GM reported there are 49,927 Chevrolet Tahoe Police Pursuit vehicles affected by the recall. GM did not clarify if an injury or an accident had taken place before they issued the recall.

The Toronto personal injury lawyers at Mazin & Associates, PC understand that faulty vehicle designs endanger the lives of many families. If you were hurt by a defective vehicle, we may be able to help you file a legal claim to help you receive the compensations you need from negligent parties. Call us today at (416) 625-2122 to learn more about your options.


Changes in Drivers License Fee

Did You Know?

Importantly, poor road conditions or maintenance contribute greatly to the cause of motor vehicle accidents. Poor road conditions can include missing guardrails, erosion, pot holes and faulty design. Problematic signs, blind curves and shoulder drop-offs also contribute to motor vehicle accidents. In an effort to improve road safety for all, Ontario is investing $160 billion over 12 years in public infrastructure, which supports 110,000 jobs each year with projects in transit, bridges, schools and roads. More specifically, since 2003, the province has committed over $25 billion to design and repair highways and bridges throughout Ontario.

With the effort to improve and maintain Ontario’s transportation infrastructure, driver license fees have increased. The increase in fees will help to provide resources to help keep Ontario’s roads safe and consistent with recommendations made by the Auditor General of Ontario.  It is important to note the following changes:

Effective September 1, 2016:

  • Driver’s License Original and Renewal Fee will increase from $81.50 to $90
  • Vehicle License Validation in Northern Ontario will increase from $54to $60
  • Vehicle License Validation in Southern Ontario will increase from $108 to $120

Effective January 1, 2017:

  • Driver’s License Reinstatement Fee (after suspensions and administrative monetary penalty) will increase from $180 to $198
  • Driving Instructors License Replacement will increase from $28 to $31
  • Oversize/Overweight Permit Replacement will increase from $28 to $31
  • Original and Replacement Plate/Permit Fee for Manufacturer motor vehicle and motorcycle and dealer plate will increase from $20 to $25
  • Original and Replacement Plate/Permit Fee for Manufacturer motor vehicle and motorcycle and dealer permit will increase from $10 to $32

Winter Driving Tips

When weather conditions are unpredictable, increased demands are placed on a driver and their vehicle. The following winter driving tips should be considered well in advance of the first snowfall, so that all motorists are prepared for the unpredictability Canadian winters often bring. Consider the following:

Vehicle Readiness

Performing a maintenance check-up is critical to winter readiness. Make sure the tires, brakes, oil, lights, exhaust system, heater/defroster and windshield wipers are examined.

Keeping your fuel tank at least half full is recommended. When an emergency situation requires you to remain in your vehicle on days when there is freezing weather, being able to stay warm is critical to your health and safety.

Make sure you have enough windshield washer fluid in your vehicle, and make sure you keep an extra container in case you run out.

Clear all snow and ice from your roof, windows, mirrors and lights. Wait to ensure that all fog is cleared from the inside of your vehicle before putting the car into motion.

Make sure your tires are properly maintained, as tires that are worn or damaged can affect your ability to drive safely. It is important to replace your tires before the tread depth reaches 1.5 mm, as studies have shown that that tires with a tread of 3 mm deep are able to stop a vehicle on wet pavement in 25% shorter distance than a tire with a 1.5 mm tread.

Handling Your Vehicle in Winter Driving

Most collisions that occur during the winter season are a result of drivers travelling too fast for weather conditions. Most important is that drivers slow down, and allow for extra space between your vehicle and other motorists.

Take care to look for reflections on the road, as what looks like water might actually be ice. Be especially careful as you approach shaded areas, bridges and overpasses, as these areas of road freeze faster and stay frozen for longer periods of time. Make sure to steer gently in slippery conditions, and avoid quick acceleration and hard breaking which may cause your vehicle to skid. A skid occurs when a vehicle loses traction over a slippery surface. If your vehicle is skidding, release your breaks and steer in the direction of the skid. Make sure not to over-steer.

Also, avoid using cruise control in slippery weather conditions, as this function reduces overall reaction time and vehicle control.

Finally, never pass a snow plow. Accidents that occur between motorists and snow plows have resulted in many fatalities. Passing between or around snow plows is very dangerous due to whiteout conditions and the ridge of snow being passed between plows. Be sure to maintain a safe distance from snow plows when you see their blue flashing lights.

Be Prepared

Finally, it is important to be prepared with emergency supplies in case you find yourself needing them. Make sure you have a charged cell phone in your vehicle, along with non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, blankets, warm clothes and jumper cables.

Be sure to check weather and travel conditions before getting into your vehicle. Plan extra travelling time, and consider delaying your travel if weather conditions are bad. Stay safe this winter and be road ready!

Visit http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/ontario-511/pdfs/winter-safe-driving.pdf for more information around safety practices and winter driving.


Protecting Minors and Their Legal Rights

Children are vulnerable human beings, and ensuring their safety is of paramount importance. Most of us know that properly installed and secured car seats are critical in the event of a motor vehicle accident. Additional safety measures for children include:

  • Seat children younger than 13 in the back.
  • Use appropriate restraints for a child’s age and size.
  • Follow the directions in the instruction manuals for both the child restraint and vehicle.
  • Pick a vehicle with top crash test ratings.
  • Never leave kids alone in or around vehicles.

At Mazin & Associates PC we know how important it is to protect the rights of minors involved in serious car accident or personal injury claims. We have extensive experience representing minors with serious injuries, and are well versed with how sensitively their claims must be managed. There exist special legal considerations when it comes to protecting minors, including appointing a litigation guardian on behalf of the child to make decisions, and having the Ontario Court approve settlement of a minor’s claim for it to be legally binding.

The team at Mazin & Associates PC is proud to ensure that all of our claims involving minors with serious injuries are properly taken care of. We recently won a motion that allowed our client, a young boy who sustained a traumatic brain injury, to add the City of Sudbury as a defendant to the action, which was not considered by the original lawyers who handled the file. This ruling has significant implications, and the recent news release from Sudbury.com can be found at: https://www.sudbury.com/local-news/city-added-to-lawsuit-that-dates-back-to-2007-356106.

If you are the parent or legal guardian of a minor who has been seriously injured, it is critical that you obtain legal advice from an experienced personal injury lawyer who is able to protect the child’s rights, and advance the claim appropriately. Contact Mazin & Associates, PC for your Free Consultation at (416) 625-2122.


Stunt Driving, Racing and Dangerous Driving Offences

Stunt Driving, Racing and Dangerous Driving Offences often come with hefty sanctions. The Highway Traffic Act, and Regulation 455/07, defines stunt driving and racing. “Racing” can include chasing another vehicle, or when two or more cars race one another at a ‘marked departure’ above the designated speed limit, in a competitive manner. The term “stunt” can mean popping wheelies, drifting, doing donuts, and exceeding the speed limit by of 50 km/hour. Less commonly known definitions of stunt driving include driving in a manner that may endanger another person by intentionally preventing passing, stopping, or cutting off another vehicle.

An individual who is charged with a stunt driving or racing offence will immediately receive an administrative driving suspension for seven days (effective right away), a 7 day vehicle impound, and incur the associated towing and impound fees.  If convicted, they may also receive:

  • Fines anywhere from a minimum of $2,000.00 up to $10,000.00 (To put these figures in perspective, a first time drunk driver will receive a $1,000.00 fine);
  • A driver’s license suspension of up to 10 years; and
  • The accumulation of 6 demerit points

In addition to these sanctions, an individual who is convicted of stunt driving or racing may be subject to large insurance hikes (and possible ineligibility), an inability to drive for an extended period of time, and all costs or fees associated with reinstating licenses, or victim fine surcharges.

Aggressive driving behaviors such as stunt driving and racing endanger the lives of others. In fact, the risk of serious injury and fatality is 5 times higher for vehicles travelling at 50 km/hour or more above the speed limit on a highway, with a posted speed limit of 100 km/hour. At lower posted speed limits, the risk is even greater. Studies show that when vehicles are travelling at 50 km/hour or above in speed limit zones of 60 km/hour or less, the risk of serious injury or fatality is 8 times greater.

Visit the Highway Traffic Act at https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90h08o learn more about stunt driving, racing and other dangerous driving offences.

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  • "I‌ wanted‌ to‌ thank‌ Gary‌ Mazin‌ for‌ everything‌ he‌ did‌ for‌ me. ‌ Retaining‌ him‌ was‌ the‌ best‌ decision‌ I‌ had‌ ever‌ made. Gary is the best personal injury lawyer. His‌ expertise,‌ professionalism‌ and‌ kindness‌ were‌ always‌ present. ‌ He‌ was‌ able‌ to‌ get‌ me‌ the‌ fair‌ settlement‌ that‌ I‌ deserved‌ because‌ of‌ his‌ knowledge‌ and‌ support. He‌ is‌ a‌ truly‌ dedicated‌ personal‌ injury‌ lawyer‌ to‌ whom‌ I‌ am‌ forever‌ grateful."
  • R.‌ Chertok,‌ Richmond‌ Hill
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We Don't Get Paid Until You Get Paid!

Mazin & Associates PC dedicates itself to achieving maximum settlements in serious personal injury and accident cases. Our areas of practice include car accidents, motorcycle injuries, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, slip and falls, wrongful death, product liability, long-term disability and medical malpractice.

  • Toronto
  • Tel: (416) 625-2122
  • Toll Free: 1-800-432-HURT (4878)
  • Fax: (416) 250-1238
  • 5 Park Home Ave #501
  • Toronto, ON M2N 6L4