Prince Edward Island

Personal Injury Lawyers In PEI For Canadians Involved In US Car Accidents

Prince Edward Island is one of the three Maritime provinces on the East coast of Canada. A large island, but the smallest province, PEI is home to red sand beaches, fertile farmland, delicious seafood, and beautiful lighthouses.

 A province that is tight-knit, friendly and full or rural charm, it is easy to fall in love with the place.

Charlottetown, the capital city of PEI, has a Victorian-era charm full of heritage buildings, art galleries, theatres, and museums. You know the place that is home to many children’s favourite book character is going to be one full of beauty and charm.

However, like many places in Canada, Prince Edward Island gets very cold come winter. For those who prefer sunshine, warmth and putting away the snow shovel, traveling down south to wait out the winter is an easy solution for many.

Travelling Is Not Risk-Free

Snowbirds who reside in Prince Edward Island but vacation in the US may find themselves in need of legal services while down there. The unfortunate reality is that car accidents and other serious personal injury accidents happen every day.  Since many Canadian – PEI residents opt to drive to their winter residences, driving long hours through unfamiliar locations can increase one’s risk of misfortune. If the fun comes undone due to catastrophic or serious personal injury, Snowbird Accidents is here for you.

Need help with any legal issues?

Need help with any legal issues?

Before travelling south, PEI residents need to review their current medical and travel insurance. Firstly, you should understand what you are actually covered for. If you’re not sure or you want to purchase extra travel and medical insurance, you should speak to an insurance broker.  You must do this prior to leaving your province.  

Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Many US drivers have little to no car insurance coverage.  Importantly most of, if not all, PEI car insurance policies provide underinsured and uninsured coverage. PEI residents should check with their brokers and top up all their insurance benefits especially UMC.  If you are involved in an accident with a US car driver your own car policy will offer you extra protection should they not be insured.  Every individual needs to make sure they have the best car insurance they can afford.  Especially when planning to drive for long distances south, as most snowbirds do, to escape Canada’s cold northern climate.

Tort Claims, Car Insurance and Contractual Accident Benefits In Prince Edward Island

 Prince Edward Island, along with most US and Canadian jurisdictions, has a “tort-based” liability system. This means an injured party is allowed to bring a claim against the the party who caused their pain and suffering and/or financial losses.  There are additional aspects.  As an example if you are involved in an accident in PEI an action must be commenced within two years. 

In Prince Edward Island, you legally need a car insurance policy to drive. The minimum liability coverage is $200,000. You must have Third-Party Liability Insurance, as well as direct Compensation-Property Damage, Accident Benefits and Uninsured and Unidentified Car Insurance.  There are many optional coverages that you can add to your car insurance, such as Collision or Upset Insurance, Comprehensive Insurance, SEF 44 Family Protection and GAP Insurance.

It is therefore very important to speak to a personal injury lawyer in PEI to get the most up-to-date information, as well as to speak about your individual case. This way you can ensure that your rights and remedies are properly protected.

What Should You Do If You’re Involved in An Accident Outside Of Prince Edward Island

PEI Residents Should Seek Legal Services If Involved In A Personal Injury Accident In The US

The law of the state where the accident happened dictates the rights and remedies you have (Tort rights). In most states, you can sue (or be sued) for pain and suffering and any economic losses suffered. Furthermore, each state has different procedural rules as to when and how a claim can be made.  If a claim is not brought against the defendant within the statutory time limits, it will be statute barred and can result in you being denied the compensation you deserve.

Very few lawyers understand the complexity of cross-border accidents. After a car accident or other serious accident, has occurred, you will need a lawyer in both the state the accident occurred and in your home province too. It’s crucial that the two lawyers work collaboratively to ensure your rights and remedies are properly protected.

Snowbird Accidents can arrange for some of the best personal injury lawyers and attorneys to help you navigate this process quickly, without added stress.  Both lawyers share one contingency fee based on the work performed. Since these lawyers work on a contingency basis, you will only pay for the services rendered once your settlement has been received. This helps you to focus on your recovery, not your finances.

Contact The Snowbird Helpline Today!

1-800-436-0353