Driver Injured in Single-Vehicle Crash on Mersea Road in Essex County

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to the scene of an Essex County crash on Thursday morning that left one individual with serious injuries.

OPP attended the January 8 single-vehicle crash on Mersea Road 8, closing the road between Highway 77 in Staples and Essex Road 31 in Ruthven for a “prolonged period” while they investigated the scene.

Emergency crews transported one person to hospital with serious injuries. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Read the full details from the original news report here.

Understanding Single-Vehicle Crashes

Many people assume single-vehicle crashes are always the driver’s fault. That assumption prevents some injured people from exploring their legal options when they may actually have a valid claim.

Single-vehicle crashes can be caused by factors beyond a driver’s control:

• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven pavement, shoulder drop-offs, or debris on the road can cause drivers to lose control.
• Inadequate Maintenance: Municipalities have a duty to maintain safe roadways. Missing guardrails, faded lane markings, or overgrown vegetation can all contribute to crashes.
• Vehicle Defects: Brake failures, tire blowouts, steering malfunctions, or other mechanical problems can cause sudden loss of control.
• Dangerous Road Design: Sharp curves without adequate warning signs, improper banking, or insufficient sight lines put drivers at risk.
• Other Drivers: Another vehicle may force a driver off the road without making contact. These “phantom vehicle” situations still create liability for the negligent driver.

If any of these factors contributed to your crash, you may have legal options beyond your own insurance coverage.

Injured in a Single-Vehicle Crash? You May Have a Claim

Just because only one vehicle was involved doesn’t mean you’re without recourse. Ontario law recognises that road authorities, vehicle manufacturers, maintenance facilities, and other drivers all have duties to keep roads safe.

Our experienced personal injury lawyers are prepared to investigate what really caused your crash. We can determine whether poor road conditions, vehicle defects, or another driver’s negligence played a role.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pursue a claim if I was the only vehicle involved?

Yes, you may have a claim if another driver or third-party negligence contributed to the crash. Road authorities may be liable for poor maintenance or design. Vehicle manufacturers may be liable for defects. Other drivers may be liable even without direct contact if they forced you off the road.

What should I do after a single-vehicle crash?

Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Report the crash to police. Document the scene with photos showing road conditions, skid marks, and vehicle damage. Don’t give recorded statements to insurance companies before speaking with a lawyer.

Need Legal Help After a Car Crash in Essex County?

If you were seriously injured in a single-vehicle crash, don’t assume you have no claim. Greg Monforton & Partners serves Ruthven, Staples, Leamington, Windsor, and all of Essex County.

When we represent you, our highly qualified legal team will fully investigate the cause of your crash, determine if any third parties bear responsibility, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

You pay nothing upfront — our experienced car accident lawyers in Windsor only get paid if we win your case.

Call Greg Monforton & Partners at (866) 320-4770 now for a free consultation.