Canada’s Gender Pay Gap, BC Gig Work Updates, Personal Injury Payouts and More
Each month, Spraggs Law publishes Vancouver Legal News, a curated selection of articles about legal issues discussed in the news. This month, we’re spotlighting recent findings about Canada’s gender pay gap, followed by upcoming changes to BC’s gig work law, several personal injury cases resulting in significant payouts, and the conflict of interest posed by BC’s no-fault insurance system.
Canada’s Gender Pay Gap and Gig Work Disparities
The gender pay gap widens for women and visible minorities
With a modern lens of workplace equality and equity, it’s deflating to hear that many women are still being paid less than their male colleagues. And to make matters worse, findings suggest that in some cases, the gender pay gap has been widening. A recent study by The Dais revealed that the gender pay gap in Canada’s tech sector has nearly tripled between 2016 and 2021, with women earning about $20,000 less on average than men. Additionally, visible-minority tech workers also face wage disparities, with Black and Filipino tech workers being among the lowest paid. The report also highlighted the disparity in capital gains among Canadian tech workers compared to non-tech workers. Despite efforts to address equity, diversity, and inclusion, significant wage gaps persist in the industry, raising concerns about the need for action to promote fair pay practices.
New gig worker minimum wage law introduced, but calls for improvements remain
British Columbia introduces a new minimum wage for gig workers, set at $20.88 per hour, but with exceptions during waiting periods between assignments. While the change is a positive step, workers and union leaders argue that key concerns, such as under-compensation for idle time, still need to be addressed. The law also includes worker protections, a minimum vehicle allowance, and a requirement that all tips go to workers delivering the service. However, some believe more comprehensive safeguards, such as the Employment Standards Act coverage and paid sick days, are needed.
Personal Injury Payouts and No-Fault Insurance Flaws
2.9 Million awarded to Victoria driver
A 33-year-old man from Greater Victoria was awarded $2.9 million in a personal injury case after being involved in three car crashes that led to chronic pain, depression, and reduced work capacity. The accidents resulted in physical and mental health struggles, impacting his ability to maintain his job and relationship. Despite challenges, the man continued to work through pain, ultimately leading to a significant loss of earning capacity. The court found him honest about his injuries, resulting in the substantial monetary award to compensate for his suffering and future limitations.
200K awarded 13 years later
In a recent BC Supreme Court case, a driver involved in a 13-year-old accident was awarded $200,000 in damages despite initially seeking $1.3 million. The driver claimed that the accident resulted in injuries that impacted his ability to work and caused chronic pain, while “ICBC said damages should be $30,592.” The judge ruled in favour of the driver, acknowledging the significant impact on his life and finances, but stopped short of awarding the driver for loss of future earning capacity. This decision sheds light on the ongoing challenges individuals face navigating the ICBC system under BC’s new no-fault insurance model.
ICBC ordered to pay for expenses
The BC Supreme Court ordered ICBC to cover a Maple Ridge man’s expenses for medical exams in Vancouver, including hotel stay, meals, and mileage. The man, who suffered injuries in a bike accident, requested financial assistance due to mobility and early appointment times. ICBC initially opposed the request, but the court granted up to $700 for accommodations. This case highlights the challenges plaintiffs face in navigating legal processes and underscores the need for intervention to ensure fair access to rights.
Finding faults in the no-fault insurance system
This recent Times Colonist editorial discusses the flaws in BC’s no-fault insurance system, where ICBC determines financial awards for accident victims, creating a conflict of interest. Victims with serious injuries face challenges in receiving fair compensation. The need for a review and potential changes to the system is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of trust in the settlement process for accident victims. The editorial calls for a fairer solution that prioritizes the well-being of those affected by accidents.
What should have been a fun evening
The BC. Court of Appeal upheld a $1 million jury award to a Vancouver mom who was hit in the head by a roller hockey puck while watching her son play. The incident left her with severe health issues, including a traumatic brain injury.
A tragic, life-altering outcome
For one BC mother, her son’s pursuit of sport turned into an unforeseen nightmare when her son sustained a severe and life-altering brain injury during a martial arts tournament in Burnaby, B.C. Now, the injured man and his mother, who oversees his affairs, are suing various individuals and organizations associated with the event, alleging negligence. The defendants, including tournament organizers, the opponent, and the venue, are denying responsibility for the injury, citing adherence to safety protocols.
What Do You Think?
What do you think about these updates affecting citizens, employers, and employees across Canada? If you have questions about employment law, estate law, business law, personal injury or harassment laws for our team at Spraggs Law, we’d love to hear from you. Contact one of our lawyers in Vancouver today.
Please note: This article does not contain legal advice. If you would like advice on your specific situation, please contact Spraggs Law.
