Being “Too Canadian” is one of the reasons why Canadian insurance companies are some of the most profitable in the world. Canadian Insurance companies benefit off our reluctance to ask for what we deserve.
You probably remember the “I AM CANADIAN” slogan introduced and made famous by Molson in the mid-’90s and then again in the early 2000s. If you’re interested in reliving this part of our history, you can watch the commercial here.
Canadians living all over the world identified with this commercial and the slogan was printed on just about any type of merchandise you could imagine. While I have nothing against passionate patriotism, there is something to be said for a more ‘American’ approach when you’re injured.
Let me explain…
Americans are litigious! Remember the lady who sued McDonald’s because her coffee was too hot?
When I meet with a potential client, more often than not, one of the first things they will tell me is that they don’t want to sue anybody while they wince with pain from injuries they can’t afford to treat. If you wait too long to consider a lawsuit, you may have lost your right to sue.
Consider this — you slip and fall on an icy city sidewalk resulting in serious injuries. Many don’t consider the potential costs that will follow such events, and because of this, many don’t think to sue.
Londoners, did you know that you only have 10 days to notify the city (in writing) that you may sue them for your injuries or you’ll lose your right to sue them?
Or, maybe you wait too long to talk to a lawyer because you don’t want to sue a friend, family member or perfect stranger since you think it might be rude or may “ruin their life.” But what happens if you’re in a car accident, severely injured and your spouse was driving? You probably need to sue your spouse! This is why we have insurance. Yes, you’d have to sue your spouse, but his or her insurance company is where the money is coming from. It is not offensive to sue in this situation, but it may be a necessity for your recovery!
There are a lot of things to consider when you’re injured, but one of the first things should be talking to a lawyer to make sure your rights are protected. My two cents— be informed and know your rights. Sometimes a lawsuit is the only way to make sure you get the treatment and compensation you require and if your first thought is “I don’t want to sue anyone” then maybe you’re a little too Canadian.
Contact Millars Law for a free consultation to see if you do have grounds to sue. (519) 657-1LAW or Info@ml-dev.thirdeyeinsights.ca
By: Melissa Scott
