Adam R. Little CS

My practice focuses primarily on complex personal injury litigation, including catastrophic motor vehicle accident claims, spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and mild traumatic brain injuries and concussions. Concussion and mild traumatic brain injury litigation has become an increasingly important area of our practice.

Approximately 20% of my practice is devoted to medical malpractice litigation, an area in which only a small number of lawyers at Oatley Vigmond practise. I also handle construction-related litigation and subrogated claims arising from workplace accidents. What makes my practice somewhat unique is the combination of catastrophic injury, medical malpractice, and other complex litigation, all of which often involve challenging medical and causation issues.

One of the most common questions clients ask is, “How long will my case take?” The answer depends on the circumstances, but a relatively straightforward motor vehicle accident claim where the facts are clear will often take two to three years to resolve.

One reason is that it can take 18 to 24 months after a serious injury for doctors to provide a reliable long-term medical prognosis. Settling too early can risk undervaluing a claim before the full impact of an injury is known.

Medical malpractice cases typically take longer (often three to five years), because they tend to involve more complex medical evidence, additional expert opinions, and difficult questions about whether the medical care caused or contributed to the patient’s injuries.

One of the greatest challenges is explaining Ontario’s automobile insurance system to people who have been seriously injured in a car accident. In my experience, the system has become increasingly difficult for accident victims to navigate, while the benefits available to them have been progressively restricted.

Clients are often surprised by the limits on the benefits and support available after a serious accident. Part of my role is helping them understand those limitations, challenging insurers when appropriate, and pursuing the compensation and benefits available to them.

I articled at a large litigation firm that handled commercial, franchise, personal injury, and many other types of litigation. Only a small group at the firm practised personal injury law, but I quickly found myself drawn to that work.

I realized that I preferred representing individuals with a personal story and a real problem rather than litigating disputes between corporations. When someone has suffered a catastrophic injury because of a motor vehicle accident, medical negligence, or another event, the consequences can affect every part of their life. I find it rewarding to help clients navigate those challenges and pursue compensation that can make a meaningful difference in their lives.

Running is one of my biggest passions, particularly endurance running. I enjoy taking on challenging distances and events, including a 100-kilometre race in the Yukon. Outside of running and my legal practice, I enjoy boating, travelling, and spending time with my family.