A woman has been fatally injured following a two-vehicle collision that shut down a major stretch of Highway 401 between Chatham and London early Sunday morning.
According to Elgin County OPP, emergency responders were called to the eastbound lanes near Iona Road in Dutton at approximately 2:35 a.m. on December 7. Investigators say a 64-year-old woman suffered life-threatening injuries and was transported to hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased.
Four additional individuals were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The eastbound lanes of Highway 401 remained closed for nearly 10 hours as police and the West Region Traffic Incident Management and Enforcement Team (TIME) conducted an on-scene investigation. The roadway reopened around 12:30 p.m.
The OPP continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. Anyone with dashcam footage or information about the crash is asked to contact OPP or Crime Stoppers.
Injured in a Highway 401 Crash? We Can Help
High-speed collisions on the 401 often result in devastating injuries and complex insurance claims. If you or a loved one was harmed in a multi-vehicle crash, you may be eligible to pursue compensation for medical care, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
At Greg Monforton & Partners, our firm offers free initial consultations, and there are no upfront fees. We are only paid if we secure compensation on your behalf. To help determine if you have a case, contact the lawyers at our firm for help with your Chatham-Kent auto accident. We’re ready to help you today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I witnessed a collision on Highway 401?
If you safely can, pull over and contact 911. Provide as much detail as possible to police. If investigators request statements or dashcam footage, sharing that information can significantly support the investigation.
Can I file a claim if I was injured as a passenger?
Yes. Passengers almost always have the right to pursue accident benefits and potentially a claim against the at-fault driver, even if that driver was operating the vehicle you were in.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a fatal crash in Ontario?
Under Ontario law, most wrongful death and injury claims must be filed within two years of the date of the collision. However, some claims may require notices to be submitted much sooner, therefore obtaining legal guidance as early as possible is important.
What compensation is available after a fatal accident?
Families may be eligible for damages related to funeral costs, loss of guidance and companionship, loss of financial support, and other related expenses. Every case depends on specific circumstances.
Will insurance cover medical bills after a major highway crash?
Ontario’s accident benefits system provides coverage for medical and rehabilitation costs, regardless of who was at fault. However, the available benefits may not cover all losses, and additional claims may be necessary.