Legal Assistance

Distracted or Impaired Driving Accident Lawyer in Ottawa, Ontario

McNally Gervan is one of the leading law firms in handling serious injury claims arising from distracted or impaired driving accidents in Ottawa.

Distracted and Impaired Driving Accidents in Ottawa

Public awareness of the dangers of impaired driving has been rising steadily over the past few decades, meanwhile, the statistics regarding distracted driving are more and more alarming each year.

As per Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation, the number of deaths caused by distracted drivers has doubled since the use of smartphones became widespread. In 2023, driver inattention accounted for 10.4% of driving deaths, according to the Province of Ontario’s most recent statistics. At no time is distraction more dangerous than behind the wheel.

The Canadian Automobile Association notes that distracted drivers are eight times more likely to be in a crash, or near crash event, than non-distracted drivers.

Contact Us Today

    Contact Us For A Free Consultation

    McNally Gervan
    (613) 238-1424
    Local
    1-855-592-1669
    TOLL FREE
    Contact Us For A Free Consultation

    McNally Gervan
    (613) 238-1424
    Local
    1-855-592-1669
    TOLL FREE

    Were You Involved in a Distracted or Impaired Driving Accident?

    The lawyers at McNally Gervan have advanced many claims and personal injury cases for serious injuries and damages arising from accidents caused by impaired and distracted driving. Contact us for a free initial consultation.

    What Are Common Causes of Distracted Driving Accidents?

    Distracted driving is governed by Section 78.1 of Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act which prohibits drivers from texting, emailing, typing, dialing, and calling without hands-free mode on a hand-held communication or entertainment device while driving. Violators of this law may be subject to a fine between $500.00 and $1,000.00 for a first offence, and may also have three demerit points applied to their driving record. Most drivers are not aware that a first offence also results in a suspension of their driver’s licence for 3 days. This increases to 7 days for a second offence and 30 days for a third offence.

    The use of a hand-held device while driving is one of the main causes of motor vehicle accidents as it pertains to distracted driving. Such devices include smartphones and GPS devices (if not dashboard mounted). However, even non-hand-held devices that are operated by voice command can be just as distracted.

    The driver’s attention is divided, and studies show that their reaction time and perceptions are not as quick as they would be if they were focused entirely on driving. The easiest way to avoid distracted driving is to pull over safely and use your device while your vehicle is not in motion.

    The following driving behaviours are dangerous distractions and can also cause serious accidents:

    • Eating or drinking;
    • Attending to children or pets;
    • Searching for something in a bag;
    • Reading maps or printed directions;
    • Setting GPS coordinates, a dashboard clock, or other instrumentation; and
    • Engaging in a stressful or demanding conversation with a passenger or on the phone.

    How The Driving Accident Lawyers At McNally Gervan Can Help

    Are you or a loved one dealing with the aftermath of an accident and struggling to navigate the complex legal system to obtain the compensation you deserve? Look no further than McNally Gervan.

    Our car accident lawyers understand how devastating accidents caused by a distracted or drunk driver can be. We offer comprehensive legal services to help accident victims navigate the complex aftermath of such accidents.

    Our team of personal injury lawyers will help you understand their legal rights and obligations, explain the types of compensation you may be entitled to, and gather evidence to build a strong case against the distracted driver. We can also negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company on your behalf, ensuring that you are not lowballed when it comes to your accident claim.

    We can also help you access medical treatment and rehabilitation services, as well as support them through any legal proceedings that may arise.

    Our goal is to help you get back on your feet and move forward with your life after such a traumatic experience. If you or a loved one has been in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, don’t hesitate to contact us for compassionate and effective legal representation.

    Distracted Driving, Accident Benefits Claims & Personal Injury Cases

    Driving is a serious responsibility that requires complete attention and focus. Impaired or distracted driving is a major cause of accidents, particularly among young people. The consequences or distracted or drunk driving accidents can be devastating, as these accidents often involve multiple passengers, including friends and family members. To prevent such tragedies, it’s important for both drivers and passengers to prioritize safety on the road.

    A personal injury claim arising from accidents caused by an impaired driver or distracted driver can be complex and demanding. The investigation of an impaired driving case can lead to questions about who served the driver alcohol and whether a party host or bar might be partially responsible. Contact us to learn how we can help you get the compensation you deserve.

    Recent Articles

    Latest articles

    McNally Gervan – Effective and Compassionate Legal Assistance

    If you were hurt in an accident involving an impaired or distracted driver, we’re ready to help. We’ll explain your rights in plain language and shape a strategy that fits your situation. Our team gathers the proof needed, manages the insurer, and pushes for a fair settlement.

    We also account for the real financial impact—treatment costs, pain and suffering, and lost wages now or in the future. You’ll get clear updates and steady advocacy from start to finish.

    As a leading personal injury law firm, our experienced legal team understands that every car accident claim is unique, and we work hard to ensure that our clients are fairly compensated. We know it’s personal.

    OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

    Car Accidents

    $2.2 Million

    CONTACT US FOR A FREE DISTRACTED DRIVING ACCIDENT CONSULTATION

    Common Questions About Car Accident Claims

    Yes, drunk driving is considered a form of negligence under Canadian civil law. A drunk driver is not only violating criminal laws but also putting other vehicles and road users at risk. Victims of accidents caused by drunk driving may be eligible for compensation through a personal injury claim, especially if the crash led to serious harm. In some cases, a licence suspension or history of dangerous driving may strengthen your civil case.

    Police officers may use witness statements, dashcam footage, and records of cell phones to prove distracted driving. Being observed not paying attention to traffic signs, like red lights, or drifting between lanes is often enough for charges. In collisions caused by distracted driving, victims may sue the at fault driver for damages. If you’ve been injured, documenting the scene early can help an experienced legal team build a strong case.

    Yes, you can sue if someone else caused the crash and you were injured. Even with no fault benefits available, a lawsuit may be the only way to recover full compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and long-term impacts. Victims of fatal collisions or serious injuries caused by the at fault driver can pursue additional damages. Many cases are successfully resolved without trial when handled by the best lawyers in personal injury law.