Car accidents can have devastating consequences, particularly when they result in catastrophic injuries. These injuries are defined as severe, life-altering conditions that significantly impair an individual’s ability to function physically, emotionally, or cognitively. Unlike minor injuries, catastrophic injuries often require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and ongoing support, placing immense strain on the injured person and their family.
Catastrophic injuries from car accidents can take many forms, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, amputations, and multiple fractures. The severity of these injuries often means that the individual may never fully recover their pre-accident level of independence. For example, a traumatic brain injury can affect memory, communication, and motor skills, while a spinal cord injury may lead to partial or complete paralysis. In many cases, these injuries also come with secondary complications such as chronic pain, infections, or psychological conditions like depression and anxiety.
The impact of catastrophic injuries extends far beyond physical impairments. Victims often face emotional and financial challenges that can persist for years. Medical bills for surgeries, hospital stays, and specialized therapies can quickly accumulate, leaving families burdened with significant financial stress. Additionally, the injured person may lose their ability to work, either temporarily or permanently, leading to a loss of income and career opportunities. This financial strain is compounded by the need for assistive devices, home modifications, and professional caregiving services to adapt to a new way of living.
In Ontario, the legal system recognizes the profound impact of catastrophic injuries through the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS). This framework provides enhanced benefits to individuals who meet the criteria for catastrophic impairment. Under SABS, those with catastrophic injuries may be eligible for significantly higher compensation to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and attendant care services. These benefits are critical in helping victims rebuild their lives and regain some sense of normalcy after a life-altering accident.
The following table is an example of benefits you may be eligible for if you have been involved in an accident. But please note that some of these benefits are being offered to you as optional as of 2026. Read more on this here
| Type of Benefit | Benefits in 1996 | Anticipated as of July 1, 2026 |
| Medical and Rehabilitation (Non-Catastrophic) | Up to $100,000 over 10 years. | $3,500 for injuries within the guideline.
Up to $65,000 over 5 year for those with injuries outside the guideline. |
| Attendant Care (Non-Catastrophic) | Up to $72,000 | Included in the combined $65,000 limit for Medical and Rehabilitation. |
| Medical and Rehabilitation (Catastrophic) | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000.
Included in the combined $1,000,000 limit for Medical and Rehabilitation. |
| Attendant Care (Catastrophic) | $1,000,000 | |
| Income Replacement Benefit | 80% of net income up to $1,000 per week (approximately $1,700 in 2024 dollars) | Optional coverage; standard policies may not include this benefit unless selected. |
| Caregiver Benefit | Up to $250 per week for the first dependant, plus $50 for each additional dependant | Optional coverage; standard policies may not include this benefit unless selected. |
| Housekeeping and Home Maintenance Expenses | Up to $100 per week | Optional coverage; standard policies may not include this benefit unless selected. |
| Death Benefit | $25,000 to spouse; $10,000 to each dependant | Optional coverage; standard policies may not include this benefit unless selected. |
| Funeral Benefit | Up to $6,000 | Optional coverage; standard policies may not include this benefit unless selected. |
Despite these available benefits, navigating the legal and insurance processes can be challenging, particularly for individuals and families dealing with the aftermath of a catastrophic injury. Insurance companies may dispute the severity of the injury or the classification of impairment, making it difficult to access the full range of benefits. In such cases, working with an experienced personal injury lawyer is crucial. A car accident lawyer can advocate for the injured person’s rights, ensure that proper medical evidence is presented, and negotiate fair compensation that reflects the true extent of the injury’s impact and if a negotiation cannot be reached you can be rest assured that having an extensive trial record in our pocket will result in a fair resolution.
Beyond the legal and financial aspects, it is essential to recognize the emotional toll that catastrophic injuries take on victims and their families. Support systems, including counseling, peer networks, and community resources, play a vital role in helping individuals cope with the psychological challenges of adjusting to a new reality. Recovery is often a lifelong journey that requires resilience, determination, and access to comprehensive care.
Car accidents that result in catastrophic injuries change lives in an instant, but understanding the resources and support available can make a significant difference in the aftermath. For individuals facing these challenges, seeking professional guidance and advocating for their rights is a critical step toward recovery.
Car Accident Lawyer
In our 40 years devoted to being car accident lawyers, we have come to know the most effective rehabilitation teams in York Region and GTA, and will introduce you to the case managers, rehabilitation support workers, cognitive and behavioural therapists, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists, that will become instrumental to you achieving your recovery goals. Contact us today to arrange for a free consultation to hear more about how Boland Romaine can help.