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How Can I Determine if I Was Exposed to Asbestos?

Illnesses linked to asbestos fibers can manifest anywhere between 10 and 60 years after the initial exposure. This medically unique latency period can lead claimants suffering from asbestos-related illnesses to wonder if and when they were exposed to asbestos. To determine if you were exposed to asbestos in Williamsport, a...

Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP Attorneys Honored in 2025 Super Lawyers List

At Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP, we take immense pride in our attorneys’ accomplishments. We are thrilled to announce that two of our distinguished lawyers, Adam T. Wolfe and Alexandra D. Sholley, have been recognized by Super Lawyers for 2025—a testament to their unwavering dedication and exceptional legal expertise. Super...

What Compensation Can I Receive for a Car Accident Injury?

By their very nature, car accidents are unintentional. They do not generally involve one driver’s intent to harm another. Rather, they’re typically caused by factors such as texting, speeding, and blind spots. Compensation for Hanover car crash injuries is designed to make injured claimants ‘whole’ after a crash, not punish...

How Do I Know If I Have a Personal Injury Claim After a Car Accident?

The only way to know if you have a personal injury claim after a car accident is to schedule a free and confidential case analysis with an experienced Enola auto accident attorney. Only qualified Pennsylvania personal injury lawyers – such as the legal team at Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP...

What Legal Rights Do Asbestos Victims Have?

Asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and COPD, often manifest 10 to 60 years after the initial prolonged exposure. Many claimants are retired by the time they begin experiencing symptoms, and nearly all asbestos cases arise well after workers’ compensation claims deadlines and the applicable statute of limitations expire....

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Suppose you’ve lost a loved one to someone else’s negligence, such as in a traffic accident, a slip and fall accident, medical malpractice, or on the job. In that case, no amount of compensation can ever return them to you, and the tragic circumstances of your loss can be challenging...

Can I Claim Lost Wages if I Miss Work Because of My Injuries?

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you can seek compensation for your covered losses in a personal injury claim. These legal damages may include lost earnings from your job. Serious injuries can lead to severe losses, which makes reaching out to an experienced personal injury attorney serving...

Female Athlete of the Week

In Central Pennsylvania, the “Female Athlete of the Week” segment by CBS 21 News shines a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of local female athletes, celebrating their dedication, resilience, and contributions to their communities. This initiative not only highlights individual stories but also fosters a culture that values and supports...

How Do You File a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

Employers throughout the State of Pennsylvania – and nationwide – are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. This means that if you’re injured in the course of your work, you can seek recompense through a workers’ compensation claim. If you find yourself in a difficult situation, having...

How to Prove the Other Driver Was at Fault

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, an essential component of your claim is proving the other driver’s fault. While you may be in no condition to take on this challenging task, you can count on your experienced car accident attorneys serving Sunbury, PA, to do everything in their...

What Compensation Can I Receive for a Car Accident Injury?

If you’ve been seriously injured in a car accident that was caused by another driver’s negligence, you can seek compensation for your losses in a range of important categories, and obtaining a fair settlement or court award can play a critical role in your overall recovery. If this is the...

What if the Other Driver Was Uninsured or Underinsured?

Pennsylvania employs a no-fault approach to car accidents, which means that drivers are required to carry personal injury protection (PIP) in the state. This is designed to expedite the claims process by taking the matter of fault out of the equation, which can work well in some situations. If, however,...

How Can I Prove Fault in a Car Accident Case?

If you were injured by another driver’s negligence, resolving your car accident claim fairly will play a pivotal role in your recovery. In order to do so, you’ll need to prove the at-fault driver’s negligence, which is a complicated legal matter that is best left in the capable hands of...

What Is Asbestos, and Why Is It Dangerous?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring compilation of fibers that are resistant to both dangerous chemicals and fire, which made it popular as a means of bolstering safety in the past. Over time, however, the risk factors associated with asbestos outpaced the benefits, and there is now a direct link between...

5 hidden dangers of winter driving in Pennsylvania

Winter driving requires that motorists shift their approach. Drivers need to adjust their daily habits and become more proactive about monitoring road conditions before leaving home and while on the road. Obviously, big drifts of snow are a safety concern, but there are numerous other hazards that can be harder...

How workers' compensation can help when an employee dies

Losing a loved one unexpectedly is tragic in any situation. It can be particularly difficult for survivors to cope with losing a family member due to their employment. The deceased employee’s efforts to support the family result in his or her premature demise. The entire family has to adjust to...

3 important rules that apply to wrongful death lawsuits

The law in Pennsylvania often imposes liability on individuals and businesses when they cause harm to others. In some cases, a party who was negligent or broke the law might have insurance to help compensate the people harmed by their behavior. Other times, the party that harmed others through misconduct...

3 factors to review when evaluating a crash settlement offer

After a car crash, there are certain necessary steps that those affected need to take. For example, working with an insurance company to secure compensation is a common experience following a major motor vehicle collision. Insurance can help cover the basic expenses generated after a collision. The liability coverage carried...

Chemical Exposure in the Workplace: 5 Industries at High Risk in Central Pennsylvania

Some jobs are objectively more dangerous than others. They expose people to particularly consequential workplace hazards. Truckers are at risk of crashes on the job, while security professionals could end up injured by a criminal trying to flee the premises. Chemical exposure is a common job hazard that can cause...

Bitten by a security dog: Understanding your rights

Walking into a commercial establishment that uses guard dogs to ramp up security can make you feel safe. So, it may understandably come as a surprise if a security dog attacks and bites you. Understanding your rights and the steps you need to take after such an incident can be...

There is more than one way for a crash to injure the human brain

It is a surprisingly common occurrence for people to overlook brain injuries immediately after a car crash. There are many reasons why people may not recognize the warning signs of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The delayed onset of symptoms is one consideration. It could take multiple days before symptoms...

The hidden dangers of asbestos: What Pennsylvania workers need to know

Some workers who handle asbestos or have done so previously downplay how dangerous it is. They think because they haven’t fallen ill that they aren’t at risk of developing a medical condition as a result of their exposure. The unfortunate reality for workers exposed to asbestos on the job is...

Why does load securement on semitrucks matter?

Semitrucks carry heavy loads across the country. In some cases, cargo is large or bulky. Regardless of the type of cargo that a semitruck is hauling, it must be properly secured. This effort may be handled by a loading company or by a trucker. There are many unsafe situations that...

When negligent security contributes to criminal activity

Every business that makes its facilities open to the public risks a degree of premises liability. The term premises liability refers to legal and financial responsibility for injuries incurred by others due to the condition of a property. Businesses with public facilities, property owners and landlords have to invest substantially...

Why a lawyer’s early help matters in workers’ comp claims

Employees who get hurt on the job are potentially eligible for certain benefits. Workers’ compensation coverage can replace someone’s lost income if they cannot work due to their medical challenges. Workers’ compensation can also pay for necessary medical treatment for injuries or job-related illnesses. Frequently, employees make the mistake of...

When is a business potentially responsible for a semi-truck collision?

Most collisions are preventable, but drivers aren’t always the ones in a position to prevent a wreck. Crashes of all types, including semi-truck collisions, often take place because of what drivers do or do not do at the wheel. Maintaining an inappropriately high speed, failing to monitor surroundings or getting...

Warehouse workers face serious risks on the job

Warehouse workers have important jobs that help to keep the economy moving. They work to fulfill orders, which can sometimes involve heavy lifting or using machinery. These workers face serious hazards while they’re at work. The onus is on employers to ensure the workers have a safe work environment. The...

Can video footage of a work injury affect someone’s benefits?

If a Pennsylvania employee gets hurt at work, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. State law requires that employers who directly hire workers provide coverage. The Pennsylvania workers’ compensation program theoretically helps injured individuals pay for the cost of their medical treatment and cover basic living expenses while...

The aftermath: Navigating a trucking accident injury

Trucking accidents are a harrowing reality on U.S. roadways. Large, heavy trucks pose a significant danger to smaller vehicles in the event of a collision. If you’ve been unfortunate enough to be involved in a trucking accident and you have sustained injuries, the road to recovery can be long and...

Warmer weather is likely to inspire a spike in car-animal crashes

Some factors that contribute to motor vehicle crash risk are within the control of individual drivers. People decide how fast to drive and how much effort they invest in vehicle maintenance. Choosing not to keep vehicles in ideal condition or making choices that violate traffic statutes can significantly increase someone’s...

When a driver who causes a Pennsylvania crash is underinsured

Getting into a crash caused by an uninsured driver is one of the most frightening situations possible. The fault-based insurance system in Pennsylvania often leaves people dependent on the coverage carried by the person at fault for the wreck. If the person who causes a crash does not have proper...

3 Dog Breeds Most Likely to Bite

When discussing the likelihood of dog bites by breed, it’s essential to consider the influence of popularity on the number of reported incidents. Common breeds are more likely to be involved in biting incidents simply due to their numbers. Their prevalence in the general dog population means more opportunities for...

Trucking companies can help to prevent the worst kinds of semi-truck crashes

The underlying cause of most motor vehicle collisions is driver error.  While environmental factors and vehicle issues cause a small number of wrecks, most crashes occur due to bad decisions by drivers. When looking at semi-truck collisions in particular, a large portion of the crashes between commercial trucks and passenger...

3 types of driver distraction and why distraction is so dangerous

You can break driving distractions down into three main categories, as has been done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The main categories are as follows: Visual distractions: When a driver is looking at their cellphone or passenger, for example, rather than looking at the road or the...

4 of the most dangerous driving habits

Almost every Central Pennsylvania motorist considers themselves to be a skilled and safe driver. It’s other people on the road who are causing all the car accidents with their reckless behavior. While we are sure almost all of our readers are careful and attentive behind the wheel, many people are...

The most dangerous intersections in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

The reality is that every city has some dangerous roads, and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is not an exception to this rule. If you are a resident of this city, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with these dangerous roads so you can use them while exercising extra caution. Even though accident risks...

Slip-and-fall accidents during Pennsylvania winters

As the temperatures fall, winter precipitation begins in Pennsylvania. While many people think about how treacherous this is going to make travel by motor vehicle, they should take the time to think about how much it affects pedestrians as well. People walking around the cities and towns of Pennsylvania count...

Injured in an accident? Here’s why you should stay off social media

These days, many people in the Harrisburg area love to share their personal news on social media, both good and bad. Marriage proposals, weddings, pregnancies and the birth of children all get videos and photos posted on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. So do less cheery announcements of divorce, job loss...

3 health issues that could lead to truck driver non-performance

Many semi-truck collisions occur because of bad decision-making or inadequate surveillance. Truck drivers can and frequently do make the same types of mistakes that those driving smaller passenger vehicles often make. Those errors can lead to severe consequences for people in a smaller vehicle. There are other commonly reported reasons...

Why are fatal car accidents becoming more common?

Historically, fatal car accident rates have declined over time. You can see a stark difference between the number of fatalities today and those in the 1970s, for example. Cars have become much safer as a lot of safety technology has been developed over the past few decades, including cutting-edge tech...

Can you sue a trucking company?

Semi-trucks make up only a minority of the vehicles on Pennsylvania roads, but they are responsible for some of the most severe collisions reported each year. Those in passenger vehicles who get hurt in a crash caused by a commercial truck are likely to suffer extreme injuries and significant property...

How electricity could help reduce the impact of a brain injury

Brain injuries can cause major lifestyle and financial changes for those affected. While the symptoms generated by a TBI may stabilize or improve after the initial injury heals, some of the symptoms people experience will be lifelong health issues. Many people report memory challenges and other cognitive symptoms after a...

3 strict driving rules that help to reduce semi-truck crashes

There are commercial vehicles present on most major roadways in Pennsylvania on any given day. The people operating those semi-trucks generally have more training than the average driver and are also subject to far stricter rules. After all, when semi-trucks cause collisions, the consequences for those in smaller vehicles can...

Which are the most dangerous roads in Pennsylvania?

Driving on Pennsylvania’s roads can be an exhilarating experience, offering picturesque landscapes and charming towns. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that not all roads are created equal in terms of safety. The state boasts a vast network of roadways, ranging from bustling urban streets to winding country lanes. While most...

What exactly is a “severe” personal injury?

Plenty of people get hurt in Pennsylvania each year due to circumstances outside of their control. Some people fall when shopping, while others end up injured in a crash. The majority of such injuries are minor, often resulting in only topical injuries such as bruises, scrapes or cuts. However, sometimes...

Is distracted driving illegal in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania state law requires drivers to operate their vehicles with care. There are various traffic rules and laws that help to ensure drivers meet this expectation. For example, current law makes it illegal to use an Interactive Wireless Communication Device (IWCD), like a cellphone or smartphone, to send, read, or...

Top 10 reasons to get a personal injury lawyer in PA

Accidents can lead to serious injury, frustration, and a list of things the victim must address. First, the victim must deal with the injury itself. This involves a need to figure out how serious the injury is, whether you need medical care, and whether this injury could have a negative...

3 ways to help keep our kids safe when biking

Riding a bicycle is a right of passage. Many of us remember days of our youth spent riding to friends’ homes and activities in the summer. We often took our bicycle to get to school. These days bikes can serve as more than just a way for children to gain...

Don’t let grief deprive your family of a chance for justice

Losing a loved one unexpectedly is a devastating experience. It causes intense grief and can cause major changes to a family’s circumstances. Sometimes, a parent who just lost a spouse will have to take on a second job and absorb a large number of household responsibilities simultaneously while also trying...

Injuries you can sustain from a side-impact car accident

In the unfortunate event of a side-impact car accident, it is crucial to understand the potential injuries that can occur. The impact from the side can lead to severe consequences for drivers and passengers alike. Side-impact car accidents, also known as T-bone accidents, happen when a vehicle is struck on...

What are the most common kinds of truck accidents on highways?

Highway accidents involving trucks are a significant concern for motorists and transportation companies alike. Truck accidents can lead to severe injuries, property damage and even loss of life. By recognizing the most common kinds of truck accidents that occur on highways, road users can take proactive measures to help prevent...

3 situations that may lead to premises liability claims

Those who are visiting an office, apartment building, restaurant or retail establishment expect that the facility will be safe. After all, property owners must adhere to building codes for residential properties and many other standards for spaces open to the public. Unfortunately, not all property owners and landlords are responsible...

Adam T. Wolfe named Super Lawyer for the third consecutive year

There are almost 50,000 attorneys practicing law in Pennsylvania, which can make it very difficult for people to choose the right professional for their legal needs. Personal recommendations can only go so far, as many people will go their entire lives without any major legal challenges, and advertising can be...

How filing a claim and personal fault can affect insurance rates

Those who are involved in a motor vehicle collision in Pennsylvania can typically count on insurance coverage to help address their losses. While not every driver carries enough coverage for the worst crashes that occur, there is typically at least some liability coverage that applies to the expenses inspired by...

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Pennsylvania?

Lawsuits are often the furthest thing from someone’s mind after they get hurt because of someone else’s actions or inactions. After getting hurt as a result of a car crash, product failure or other unusual scenario, people typically focus on their physical recovery. Then, after they resolve their medical issues,...

Who’s responsible when a dog becomes aggressive in Pennsylvania?

Thousands of households in Pennsylvania feature a canine companion animal. Dogs offer friendship and an incentive to obtain daily exercise. They can be therapeutic for those with a traumatic background and can serve as an early lesson in personal responsibility for children. For the most part, dogs help enrich the...

What happens after a distracted driving crash in Pennsylvania?

Distracted driving is a leading cause of Pennsylvania collisions. Motorists trying to eat on their way to work, intervening in an argument between their children or firing off a text message to a friend can cause crashes that injure others and cause major property damage losses. Those affected by such...

When corporate delivery fleets cause car crashes

The risks on the road are in a constant state of flux. Vehicle trends change over the years, and so do the behaviors of individual drivers. As the culture and economy evolve, the top contributing factors that cause serious collisions also shift. In recent years, motorists have had to share...

What if you are in a collision during your work day?

Any car accident can upend a person’s life. When a collision happens during a person’s work day, getting the financial support they need to heal could be even more complex. Thankfully, injured people may be eligible for support, including benefits through the workers’ compensation program. What should you know about...

What happens if an uninsured Pennsylvania driver causes a wreck?

Every motorist on the road in Pennsylvania should have a license. They also need to register their vehicle and pay for liability insurance. When out in traffic, drivers need to abide by traffic laws to minimize the possibility of a collision occurring. Unfortunately, plenty of people in Pennsylvania do not...

What makes an injury catastrophic?

Any time an accident leads to injuries, it can upend the injured person’s life. However, only some injuries are considered “catastrophic.” Catastrophic injuries involve significant physical damage, often leaving a person unable to recover fully. These life-altering injuries often result in high medical costs and disability. 5 types of catastrophic...

5 common injuries after a car accident

Car accidents can be extremely dangerous. In fact, thousands of people die each day globally as a result of car accidents. Additionally, many people survive car accidents, but they may suffer from serious injuries due to the traumatic nature of collision-related impact. These are just five of the most common...

Could a trucking company be responsible for a trucking accident?

While a driver is the one behind the wheel of a semi-truck, they rely on a variety of different people and companies to ensure that their vehicle operates safely. A trucking company, for example, is responsible for many aspects of keeping a truck safe. Unfortunately, if carrier companies do not...

Congratulations to Adam T. Wolfe on being named Champion of Justice

Managing Partner Adam T. Wolfe Esq. has been named a Champion of Justice by the Pennsylvania Associates of Justice (PAJ). The PAJ is a collection of Pennsylvania-based trial attorneys whose sole responsibility is to sustain citizen rights and defend consumers. This esteemed organization was established in 1968 by the Pennsylvania...

Who picks your workers’ comp doctor in Pennsylvania?

When you’re injured at work, you have a right to seek emergency care immediately – without regard to any particular rules. Your health has to come first, above all. Once the emergency has passed or if you can wait to see a physician for a few days, however, you need...

What are the signs of a traumatic brain injury?

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can happen any time that you strike your head with a significant amount of force. An open injury indicates that there is a clear wound, but remember that closed injuries can also happen. An example of this would be a concussion, where the brain moves...

What can you do if your child is injured by another person’s negligence?

If a person or company fails to take appropriate steps to protect you, you may know that you have legal options that allow you to hold them responsible. However, if harm comes to a minor, they cannot bring a claim on their own. What should parents know after the negligence...

Why are fatal accidents happening more often?

For the last 50 years or so, car accident fatalities have generally trended down. There are fewer and fewer of them every year, with a handful of short-term expectations. In a country as large as the U.S., this still means that there are over 30,000 fatalities per year, but the...

What are the most dangerous roads in Pennsylvania?

Any place where there are multiple vehicles traveling near each other or where vehicles and pedestrians might encounter one another, there is the risk of a crash. Collisions occur in sleepy residential neighborhoods and on the highway during rush hour. Drivers need to constantly remain alert for the possibility of...

What must you prove to file a workers’ compensation claim?

If there is any silver lining for a worker who gets hurt on the job, it is likely that their injury could qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Both those hurt in a specific precipitating incident, like a kitchen fire, and those diagnosed with a medical condition related to their job,...

4 of the most concerning dangers on the roads at night

Motor vehicle crash statistics show that being on the road after dark is far more dangerous than driving during the day. Especially for younger, more experienced drivers, nighttime driving is a serious safety concern. According to the National Safety Council, any time it is dark outside, your crash risk is...

3 major risks that make nighttime collisions such a serious issue

You could get hit by a delivery driver the second you back out of your driveway to head to work in the morning, or you could get into a crash caused by someone texting at the wheel on your way to a lunch meeting. However, according to the National Safety...

3 reasons medication mistakes occur in modern hospitals

The medication that you receive while in the hospital may be the cornerstone of the treatment that you undergo or may serve to keep you comfortable enough to continue receiving necessary medical care. In both cases, proper administration of your medication will be crucial both to ensure the efficacy of...

How long do you have to file a claim after a dog bite?

A dog bite can have a long-lasting impact on a person’s life. They may need long-term medical care, including reconstructive surgery. They may need to spend time away from work to care for their health. They may even have permanent scarring or other changes to their appearance. With so many...

2 traffic habits that are very dangerous for truck drivers

The average adult doesn’t treat the responsibility of driving with the seriousness it deserves. People tend to be dismissive about how easy it is to suffer life-altering injuries even when just making a quick run to the nearest grocery store. Anyone might cause a crash that leaves you hurt or...

Amazon’s smart robots still lead to warehouse injuries

There are some people who will tell you, you basically need to be a robot to work at an Amazon warehouse. The shifts are long, and the standards are exacting. There’s little room for error and barely enough time to take a bathroom break. The constant pressure to pack and...

The dangers of workplace chemical exposure

While people think about the risk of workplace injuries due to accidents, workers in many workplaces also face other risks every day. One workplace risk that is common in many different industries is chemical exposure. What should workers know about hazardous substances in their workplace. Employers must prepare workers for...

What types of infections might result from a dog bite?

Dog bites can lead to a variety of serious injuries. Broken bones, nerve and tissue damage, scarring and other serious injuries may impact a person’s life long after the initial incident. Unfortunately, even if a person’s injury initially seems minor, injured people may still face another challenge: infections. What types...

Five slip, trip and fall hazards in the workplace

Stumbling or falling is a common accident, and many workers become injured as a result of these accidents every year. What conditions could lead to a slip, trip or fall accident in the workplace? What can create workplace slip, trip and fall hazards? You may work every day in an...

Do larger vehicles put pedestrians at risk?

Large vehicles like pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) have grown in popularity across the United States in recent years. Unfortunately, while these vehicles can provide a number of benefits to the drivers that choose them, they can also increase the risk of serious injuries for pedestrians in a...

The maneuver responsible for a majority of intersection crashes

Intersections are innately dangerous for drivers. When you have to come into close proximity with other vehicles, especially if they are not traveling in the same direction as you, the potential for collision is always there. Many factors contribute to intersection collisions. Poor urban design that results in intersections with...

2 reasons delivery drivers may increase your crash risk

For the most part, the proliferation of delivery services has made modern life far more convenient. It can also reduce people’s crash risk because they don’t need to drive when they feel tired or sick. You can get more food than just pizza delivered to your home, as well as...

Who can sue for wrongful death in Pennsylvania?

Most residents of Pennsylvania don’t understand the rules that protect them when someone they love dies. After all, people hope to never need to make use of those protections. Unfortunately, not everyone dies of old age in the comfort of their home while surrounded by people who love them. People...

Drowsy drivers are a more serious risk in the colder months

It is essentially human instinct to hunker down indoors when the temperature starts to drop. Socialization tends to decline in the fall and winter months, and people spend significantly more time indoors, which may lead to weight gain. The winter months affect your biological clock or circadian rhythm. When light...

5 tips to reduce your risk of a major vehicle collision

The risk of a car crash is constant. You can get hit pulling out of your driveway or while on your way to the hotel in another state on vacation. Crashes can happen first thing in the morning and just after midnight when the roads are perfectly dark. While it...

Winter weather could increase the risk of fatigued drivers

Some of the most serious motor vehicle crash risks receive near-universal acknowledgment. People understand, for example, that driving after drinking is very dangerous, as is texting while driving. The law in Pennsylvania helps reinforce the idea that distracted driving and drunk driving are bad choices. However, another, very common form...

3 reasons car insurance may not cover all of your crash costs

Drivers in Pennsylvania have a legal obligation to carry insurance coverage. The required liability coverage protects individuals against financial losses when they are to blame for a crash. Instead of facing a lawsuit, drivers who cause collisions only have to worry about an insurance claim against their policies. Since you...

3 ways to prove fault after a Pennsylvania car crash

The blame game is often very unproductive, but it is a necessary part of dealing with a car crash. Police officers and insurance companies have to know who is to blame for the purpose of creating an official report and managing any insurance claims. You know that you didn’t break...

The 2 most dangerous times of day to be on the road

Harm reduction is a philosophical approach to personal and social safety. Harm reduction requires that you acknowledge that there is no perfect solution and that people make mistakes all the time. By being realistic about the circumstances and the risks that you may face, you can use harm reduction to...

2 ways transportation companies cause trucking crashes

Any crash between two or more vehicles can lead to expensive vehicle damage and injuries to the people in the vehicles. However, certain kinds of crashes have the potential to be far worse than others. A low-speed collision between two small vehicles will likely only cause minor property damage. A...

The danger of wrong-way collisions

Any collision can be dangerous, but crashes become even more devastating when vehicles meet head-on. When drivers go the wrong way on a roadway — whether by driving in the wrong lane or driving on the wrong side of a divided highway — that negligent decision can put others at...

How common are distracted drivers?

When drivers dedicate their attention to the task at hand, they can respond to risks and keep both themselves and other drivers safe as they travel. Unfortunately, drivers may become distracted behind the wheel, and this can put you in danger. How many drivers on the road are distracted? Common...

Questionable reliability of the 5-Star Rating program

When considering new vehicle purchases, automobile consumers often turn to the 5-Star Rating Program. However, the high-profile initiative contains certain omissions that may put buyers at risk. According to the National Transportation Safety Board, the ratings are not accounting for cutting-edge technology, precisely collision avoidance. Chairperson Jennifer Homendy claims that...

Do you know the signs that a dog might bite?

Greeting a dog while you are out can bring joy to your day. Between the happy wagging tail and the proud owner, it can seem like they are both thrilled to see you. However, in some circumstances, a friendly greeting can quickly turn into a nightmare. Dog bites can cause...

3 ways a traumatic brain injury can impact your life

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can result from a variety of accidents, including car collisions and workplace accidents. While some of these brain injuries heal with proper care, others have a long-term impact on the way that injured people interact with the world. How can these injuries change your life? A...

How much will my insurance rate increase after a crash?

A collision can be a costly experience. Not only do people have to repair their vehicle, they may also need to address medical bills and other expenses. However, one cost you may not have considered is the increased cost of insurance coverage after a car accident. How much will this...

Why do cars collide with bicyclists?

In recent years, many people have taken up bicycling. However, cyclists face a number of dangers when sharing the roadway. Bicyclists are relatively unprotected compared to the driver or passengers in cars, trucks and other motor vehicles, and this vulnerability can lead to serious or fatal accidents. What causes these...

What if your job causes hearing loss?

When most people think about work-related injuries and health conditions, they often think about accidents or exposure to dangerous substances. However, many people may not think about the risk to their hearing caused by workplace conditions. What should workers know about work-related hearing loss? How common are conditions that contribute...

The cost of treating a spinal cord injury

Medical care for any injury can be costly. Unfortunately, severe injuries like injuries to the spinal cord can involve significant costs that add to the strain injured people already experience. How much does it cost to treat an injury to the spinal cord? Care for spinal cord injuries can cost...

How do health care providers diagnose a TBI?

Some injuries are immediately apparent after a crash or other accident. However, the symptoms of a brain injury are varied and may take time to appear. How do doctors identify traumatic brain injuries (TBI) like concussions? Neurological examination Medical professionals may perform a neurological examination if an injury may have...

The danger of eye injuries on construction sites

On a construction site, workers rely on their eyes to perform tasks and assess danger. However, injuries to their eyes could compromise their vision and their ability to perform this work in the future. What should construction workers know about eye injuries? Eye injuries are a common risk in construction...

How can devices built into a vehicle create distraction while driving?

Many people are aware of the risks of texting while driving. However, cell phones are not the only source of distraction that drivers can face, and potentially distracting technology is built into many vehicles. How might the devices built into a vehicle create risks on the road? How can in-vehicle...

How common are aggressive drivers?

In addition to remaining alert for inclement weather, damaged roadways and other dangers, drivers should also be aware of the risk caused by other drivers’ decisions. One common source of danger is aggressive driving. How common is aggressive driving? Drivers exhibit aggressive behaviors more often than many may expect. The...

3 dangerous types of forklift accidents

In warehouse and production settings, forklifts are a key tool for employees. However, this machinery can also lead to the risk of accidents both for those operating the forklift and for those working around it. What accidents might you experience when working with or around forklifts? Rollovers When a forklift...

4 delayed symptoms that might indicate a severe injury

After an accident, many people’s first response is to check for injuries. Unfortunately, while you may think your injuries are minor, a doctor’s examination might tell a different story. Some symptoms of severe injuries may not appear immediately, and these hidden injuries may pose an even greater threat to your...

How might tire malfunctions put you at risk?

Many people may think of a flat tire as a source of frustration, but you might be unaware that tire malfunctions or failure could put you at serious risk. What should you know about the danger of tire malfunctions? How many people experience harm each year due to tire issues?...

4 hidden workplace hazards

Many workplace hazards are immediately apparent: power tools, heavy machinery, toxic chemicals and other risks. However, other risks may go unnoticed in a workplace. What hidden workplace hazards should you be aware of? 1. Sedentary work While many might think that workers who do not perform heavy lifting, work with...

The impact of scarring and other disfiguring injuries

Many injured people experience pain, medical struggles and physical limitations after an accident. These medical challenges are not the only way injuries can impact a person’s life. While scarring, paralysis, damage to the bone structure and other injuries that change a person’s appearance can also create significant challenges. How might...

What risks can rain cause on the roadway?

Spring rain can bring new growth, but it also brings new risks to people as they drive. How might a rainy day put drivers on Pennsylvania roadways at risk? Why are rainy days dangerous for drivers? Rain can create a wide variety of risks on the road. Especially in heavy...

How much could a dog bite cost you?

A dog bite is a difficult event, and the added financial strain that injured people experience can create even more stress to the situation. How might this costly injury impact your life? What costs might a person face after a dog bite? People may face a variety of different costs...

The potential risks of working around pallet racking

Pallet racking allows warehouse facilities to store more within the same floor plan by storing those objects at a height. However, it can also create risks for the people working in those warehouses. What risks should workers be aware of? Pallet racking often requires employees to work at a height....

What is a property owner’s duty to visitors to their property?

When you visit a business or pass through a neighborhood, you place your trust in the owner of the property. However, some property owners do not uphold their responsibility to visitors and that can put the public at risk. What do property owners owe visitors to their property? Property owners...

What neck, back and spinal injuries might a car accident cause?

Any injury to the neck, back or spine could have a significant impact on your life. Car accidents are a common cause of these injuries throughout the United States. What should you know about car accidents and neck and back injuries? 4 crash-related injuries Neck and spinal injuries caused by...

The dangers of lung disease for construction workers

When you think about work-related injuries in the construction industry, you may immediately think of falls or accidents related to power tools and heavy equipment. However, another danger may be in the air around construction workers throughout their day. What should construction workers know about the risk of lung disease?...

What could happen if a traumatic brain injury goes untreated?

The symptoms of a brain injury like a concussion can take hours, days or even weeks to appear after a crash. Especially if your symptoms are relatively mild, you may think that this delay means that you can skip a visit to the doctor and focus on vehicle repairs. Unfortunately,...

Loading dock injuries: what should workers know?

Warehouses and production facilities alike depend on the workers who unload supplies and load completed products onto trucks for shipment. However, these workers can experience a wide variety of injuries as part of their work. What injuries might workers experience when loading or unloading cargo? Heavy lifting can lead to...

Why are truckers at high risk for musculoskeletal disorders?

When many people think about the workplace injuries that truck drivers can experience, they immediately think about accidents on the road. However, truck drivers can struggle with many other work-related conditions and injuries. One surprisingly common struggle for truck drivers is musculoskeletal disorders. In fact, the Occupational Safety and Health...

What should drivers know about the risks of bright sunlight?

Sunlight can often illuminate the things around us as we drive and make them easier to see. However, the bright light of the sun can also bring risks to the roadway. What should you know about the risks caused by bright sunlight? How much of a risk does bright sunlight...

What is a “specific loss”?

In some cases, workers’ compensation benefits allow workers to take time away from work to heal after a workplace accident. Sometimes, though, workplace accidents or work-related conditions have a permanent impact on your ability to use one or more parts of your body. How does Pennsylvania address these “specific losses”?...

What photos should you take after a crash?

While putting your health and safety first is essential after a crash, collecting photos of the accident scene if you are able can be an important way to support your insurance claim or lawsuit. What photos may support your claim after a car accident? 1. The scene of the accident...

How dangerous are drowsy drivers?

Long days with less daylight often leave us with less energy at the end of the day. Unfortunately, if people get behind the wheel of a car while fatigued, they may put themselves, their passengers and others on the road in danger. How might fatigued drivers impact your safety? Fatigue...

How can you respond to a driver with road rage?

When you have had a stressful day or traffic makes your travel difficult, it can be easy to get frustrated when you are behind the wheel. However, some drivers take this frustration to a dangerous level: road rage. What should you know about sharing the road with these angry drivers?...

What commonly causes rear-end collisions?

When another car collides with the rear of your vehicle, it can cause significant damage to your car and to your health. What is often behind these collisions? 5 common causes of rear-end collisions Rear-end collisions can occur in a variety of different settings, from parking lots to freeways. Causes...

Are you at risk of infection after a dog bite?

Most people are aware of the immediate physical damage that a dog bite can cause: broken bones, cuts and other injuries. However, the damage done by the bite itself is only one challenge that people experience after a dog attacks. If that wound becomes infected, the injured person can face...

What is the most dangerous time of day for pedestrians?

Every time of day brings its own risks for pedestrians. Busy rush hour traffic increases the number of cars on the road, for example. What time of day accounts for the greatest danger for pedestrians? Pedestrians out after dark are more likely to experience an accident. Despite the fact that...

What steps can you take after a denied workers’ compensation claim?

When you applied for workers’ compensation after an injury, you hoped to rely on those benefits to support you and your family while you recovered. As a result, opening a denial letter can leave you uncertain about the future. Is there any way to push back against a claim denial...

3 signs of distraction in another vehicle

Protecting yourself from dangers on the roadway often depends on spotting those hazards before they put you at risk. What signs should you look for to identify distracted drivers on the road? 1. Failure to follow the rules of the road Even before you can see a driver’s behavior within...

What damages might be available after the loss of a loved one?

The personal and financial cost of a loved one’s sudden and preventable death can impact every member of their family in different ways. Thankfully, taking legal action against a person or company whose negligence led to the loss of a loved one is possible, and this legal action may ease...

Do hands-free devices really make roadways safer?

Many people use hands-free devices to use their phone while driving so that they can keep their hands on the wheel. If you believe that hands-free devices and voice control features are safe, you would not be alone. However, these devices may not actually eliminate the danger of phone use...

4 potential risks of forklift operation

Many warehouses depend on forklifts to move and carry products and to decrease the amount of heavy lifting that employees must do. However, while forklifts may ease the risk of some injuries, they can also bring new hazards into an employee’s daily work. What risks might workers experience while operating...

3 reasons to contact an attorney after a car accident

After a car accident, you may need to make a variety of different decisions. With so much to consider, it may be daunting to call an attorney, but you may benefit from reaching out for legal guidance. Why might you want to call a lawyer after a crash? 1. An...

4 tips for driving safely in winter weather

As the days grow colder, it is important for drivers to take steps to protect themselves. What steps can you take to decrease the risks of driving in snowy or icy weather? 1. Be prepared. As the National Safety Council notes, the preparations that you take before winter driving can...

Can you receive workers’ compensation after a car accident?

Workplace injuries can come in a variety of forms. Slips, trips and falls can occur in almost any setting. People working with heavy machinery may risk other injuries like electrocution. Repeated motion can create strain over time. In the United States, transportation-related injuries are common workplace accidents and are the...

Brake failure: a top factor in trucking accidents

Hazards can arise at almost any time on the road, and drivers need to have control of their vehicle to respond to these risks. This is especially true of semi-trucks, which require additional space to steer or stop. When a big rig’s brake system does not function appropriately, it can...

4 common injuries experienced by warehouse workers

Especially as online shopping becomes more common, many workers find employment in warehouses. Unfortunately, work in the warehouse industry is dangerous, and some examinations of the data around workplace injuries indicates that warehouses have a higher than average rate of fatal injuries. What injuries commonly impact warehouse workers? 1. Motor...

What damages are available after a dog bite?

The public relies on dog owners to keep their pets on a leash or in a fenced yard. However, the negligence of dog owners can easily lead to their dogs attacking adults or even children in the area. While Pennsylvania law allows dog bite victims to take legal action in...

Drivers are not slowing down

Last year was different in countless ways. Some changes were predictable, while others were not. Something that caught many by surprise was that the pandemic led to empty roads as businesses shut down or employees worked from home. The wide-open highways and surface roads subsequently led to drivers traveling at...

4 challenges drivers face during fall months

As the leaves change color and weather becomes cool, many people enjoy time on Pennsylvania roadways. However, this season also creates a variety of hazards for drivers. What should drivers know before getting behind the wheel in fall? 1. Fallen leaves can create a variety of hazards. While the fall...

Does being in the third row protect young passengers?

As families expand, many drivers resort to larger vehicles for their daily commutes or the annual family vacation. However, does extra room mean there is a lower risk for injuries during a car accident? The answer depends on the type of accident and the seating arrangement. Currently, there isn’t much...

Why does Pennsylvania see more truck accidents than other states?

Vehicle accidents involving a heavy truck are much more devastating than regular car crashes. The sheer size and weight of the truck mean that it takes longer for them to come to a complete stop, and that they can hit with much more force than a car can. Unfortunately, Pennsylvania...

Common factors for most truck-related crashes

The U.S. trucking industry continues to grow despite the “I needed it yesterday” mindset of the 21st century. It is a fact that 70% of all goods spend time in the back of a truck, which means that business is good for trucking lines and fleets. Unfortunately, it also means...

As pickup sizes increase, so do accident risks

Over the last 20 years, the size of new pickups truck models has grown larger and larger. The grille of these trucks has become higher and bigger – to the point some almost look menacing on the street. However, as supersize pickup trucks have grown in size, so have the...

What every patient should know about medical misdiagnosis

When you are ill and need medical help, you expect your physician to figure out what is wrong with you. You hope your visit will result in getting the medication or treatment you need and you will be feeling better soon. But unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. Doctors at times...

Can listening to loud music increase your chances of a car crash?

You may love to listen to music in your car. You have an iTunes playlist you regularly update or you like to stream Spotify on your way home from work each day. You like keeping your tunes loud and listening to tracks with a fast beat. But sometimes, your girlfriend...

Does car safety technology really help prevent accidents?

With the stimulus money many Americans have received during the last several months, many people have been shopping for big-ticket items. One area seeing an increase in sales is at car dealerships. If you’ve been out car shopping recently, you likely realized that new cars often come with more safety...

What to know about suffering a back injury at work

When you work a job that requires a lot of physical labor – whether in construction, manufacturing, shipping operations or even healthcare – you likely end more than a few days with a sore back. However, what happens if your back goes out while you are at work? Or you...

Is distracted driving illegal in Pennsylvania?

When a driver becomes distracted, that distraction can put other drivers, passengers and pedestrians alike in danger. Despite this danger, Pennsylvania law only addresses some sources of driver distraction. What types of distracted driving does Pennsylvania law prohibit? What can cause distracted driving? Anything that takes a driver’s eyes off...

3 potential injuries from rear-end accidents

When people think of being rear-ended by another vehicle, they often think first of a minor fender-bender. However, these crashes can be more dangerous than many believe. Studies have indicated that rear-end collisions account for about 7 percent of traffic fatalities, and these crashes make up around 29 percent of car...

Tips For Safe Driving During Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day weekend is the signal of the end of summer and is known for an excessive amount of traveling. And after 2020, many Pennsylvania residents will take to the roads to enjoy their long, holiday weekend. However, the holiday weekend also signals more people on the road – which...

Lifting injuries can put healthcare workers at risk

Nurses and doctors dedicate their careers to helping others heal. However, workplace injuries can put them in a position where they need to heal before they can continue that work, and a particularly common source of injury is lifting in the workplace. What should healthcare workers know about these injuries?...

What financial support may be available in a personal injury case?

People injured in a crash often find themselves under a great deal of stress. The emotional strain of an accident coupled with the challenges of recovery, repairing or replacing a damaged vehicle and potential time away from work can have a significant impact on their life. In fact, the National...

Symptoms of a brain injury may be delayed after a crash

It can be tempting to think that a lack of initial symptoms after a car accident shows that you aren’t seriously injured, but that may not be the case. The symptoms of some serious injuries like traumatic brain injuries (TBI) may take hours, days or weeks to appear. What delayed...

3 risk factors of driving at night

For many, evenings are a time to spend time with friends, run important errands or bring their children to extracurricular activities. Driving at night, though, can be risky. What factors make night driving dangerous? 1. Fatigue After a long day, drivers may find themselves tired, and that fatigue can put...

Bezos commits to reducing injuries among Amazon workers

In recent years, Amazon has come under fire for allowing tough working conditions at the company’s warehouses. First, reports surfaced that employees had to pee in soda bottles to meet production goals. Then, workplace safety reports revealed that injury rates are higher at Amazon fulfillment centers than at other warehouses....

How to share the road with large trucks

In the coming weeks and months, traffic levels around cities are expected to return more back to normal. More office workers are heading back to in-person work, and in the fall, many students will return to the classroom full-time. So, if you haven’t needed to head out on the road...

5 summertime driving hazards to prepare for

Summertime and the livin’ is easy – that line from a classic George Gershwin song is how many Americans feel about the warmer months of June, July and August. Everyone is ready to kick back, relax, take a vacation and enjoy spending some time outside. For Central Pennsylvania drivers, there’s...

Is speeding a victimless crime?

You may be running late to a doctor’s appointment or to pick up your child from school. You may decide to push the speed limit, to go close to 70 miles per hour in a 55-mile-an-hour speed zone. You know you are technically breaking the law, but you are keeping...

What if I’m injured in a crash while driving on the job?

Every day, hundreds of delivery drivers and truck drivers transport goods across town, across the Keystone state and beyond. Some drivers decide to pick up some extra money by driving for Uber or Lyft or work for a taxi service. Some employees have to drive to meet clients or from...

5 reasons you should consult a personal attorney after an accident

A serious car accident can happen anywhere and at any time. You may be on your way home from an after-work grocery run and BAM – another vehicle hits you from behind when you stop for a red light. Or you are minutes away from home after an evening out...

What if my workers’ compensation claim is denied?

When you file a workers’ compensation claim after suffering a workplace injury, you expect your benefits to come through. You may check your mailbox each day, hoping to see what compensation you will receive as you recover. But then, instead, you receive a notice that your workers’ compensation benefits have...

What should I know about seeking medical help for a work injury?

Suffering an injury at work is frustrating. If you work in construction, you could hurt yourself while using a defective tool. If you work in manufacturing, you could suffer a shoulder or wrist injury after performing the same task, again and again, for years. For those in healthcare, they often...

What if my doctor makes a surgical error?

If you have an upcoming surgery scheduled, you probably have been a bit fearful about it. You know every surgery comes with risks. Even routine procedures sometimes come with complications. But what if something worse happens? What if your doctor makes a critical surgical error? Surgical errors At least 4,000...

What if a dog bites and injures my child?

Last spring, thousands and of Pennsylvanians decided to add a puppy to their home during the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. Now that spring is approaching, these full-grown dogs will be outside more, increasing the risks your child might get bitten by a neighborhood dog. About 4.7 million dog bites...

5 safety tips for driving through intersections

When you have been a licensed driver for years, it’s easy to forget something you probably learned when you first learned to drive: Intersections often are dangerous places. In fact, 50% of auto accidents with injuries or deaths occur at or near intersections, according to the Federal Highway Administration. Since...

Why is distracted driving so dangerous?

You likely are upset if you pass a vehicle on the freeway and notice the driver is not looking at the road ahead, but rather texting with their phone. You may have a teenage driver and know that teens are more likely to drive while distracted and more likely to...

What if I suffer a repetitive stress injury at work?

When you work hard in construction, manufacturing or at a warehouse, you put a lot of strain on your body. Maybe after spending years working in an Amazon warehouse facility, your back aches in pain from lifting and moving so many boxes. Or if you work on an assembly line...

Suffering a traumatic brain injury in a car accident

No one likes to think about what will happen if they suffer a serious injury in a car accident. Yet, about three million people suffer injuries in car accidents each year in the United States – and two million of those experience permanent injuries. Signs of traumatic brain injuries One...

Protecting your child during the daily car ride

Most parents want to protect their children in every aspect of their lives. They want to make sure their child is safe at home, in school or out in the neighborhood. However, most parents also have to consider car safety for their kids. Before you protect your child in the...

How technology prevents distracted driving

Most people associate technology as the primary reason for distracted driving. The classic example is the smartphone where drivers look at their text messages instead of the road ahead of them and cause a severe accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the accident rate for distracted driving...

How dangerous is drowsy driving?

In the last several years, drivers have become more and more aware of the dangers of distracted driving, particularly texting while driving. However, distracted driving isn’t the only danger drivers need to prevent. They also need to avoid driving while drowsy, which causes a significant number of accidents on Pennsylvania...

Amazon employs more seasonal workers in PA

Amazon recently expanded its payroll to include more than 6,000 seasonal workers across Pennsylvania to help with distribution, transportation and order shipments over the holiday season. Apparently, the expansion for seasonal workers is an initiative across the United States and Canada to keep up with the increasing demand for gift...

5 mistakes to avoid after an accident

The first few moments after a car accident, your world seems in a blur. It’s hard to believe what happened and you look around to make sure you or your passengers didn’t suffer an injury. You might sit in your car for a few moments, not exactly sure what to...

Surgical errors are frightfully common among patients

The average American undergoes around nine surgical procedures in their lifetime, varying from the most basic surgeries to the most complex medical procedures. And each time they go under the knife, they are at risk for major consequences. According to a study from Coverys, surgery is the second most common...

Medical staff still face injuries in hospitals

Healthcare workers are especially important in current times, and most of them are dedicating all their time to take care of others. It makes sense that they might put aside their own health to prioritize the wellbeing of their patients. Unfortunately, many nurses and medical professionals are at risk for...

How to ride safely in the colder months

Some flurries won’t stop most motorcycle enthusiasts from hitting the road, especially in Pennsylvania. However, winter is a brutal season for any driver, including motorcyclists. So how do bikers protect themselves during the colder months? Four ways to stay safe during your winter ride Luckily, there are a few simple...

The severe consequences behind misdiagnosing diabetes

Many medical researchers notice a dangerous pattern among patients where more than one-third of adults over 30 are incorrectly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes while they actually display symptoms of type 1 diabetes. A study released in April 2019 revealed that older patients displayed the same symptoms occurring in younger,...

Common signals that your medication is wrong

Most Pennsylvanian residents know the importance of proper medical care, especially in today’s current climate. However, mistakes happen, and it has detrimental effects on patients. It is particularly stressful when it comes to medication errors. One wrong dose or pill will have significant health ramifications, so it’s critical to know...

How automation is causing more injuries for Amazon

Amazon is always verging on the cutting edge of its industry with new practices, new approaches to distribution and new ways to break into different markets. However, one of their new tactics for automation is causing problems for their warehouse employees. According to a recent report from TechCrunch, Amazon invested...

The reasons behind a dog bite

Dogs are man’s best friend, and most of us believe that dogs act with the best intentions. All our pups want to do is sleep, eat and play all day. But why do dogs turn to biting in some situations? According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, there are multiple...

How to help a parent after a slip and fall

Falls are incredibly common among seniors, and unfortunately, falls are also incredibly detrimental to seniors’ health. It’s well-known that a fall could leave elderly parents in a vulnerable condition – both physically and mentally. Luckily, children can provide support for their elderly parents on a physical and emotional level. There...

The dangers of returning to work too soon after an injury

Many warehouse workers depend greatly on their income to feed their families, maintain a roof over their heads and even fund their true passions outside the workplace. They may even rush the recovery process after an injury to return to work faster. However, there are significant consequences for rushing the...

The dangers of burnout among warehouse employees

Most warehouses and distribution centers rely heavily on their employees to meet certain goals and quotas each day. And as online shopping grows in popularity, the stakes get higher for most of these workplaces. It puts many workers in a tough position as they have to work faster, longer and...

Drivers don’t have to fall for this driving hazard

Autumn is a wonderful time of year for most Pennsylvanian drivers, but there is always one problematic aspect for most drivers, the increase of deer on the road. If a deer jumps in front of your car, it could have deadly consequences for you and the furry friend. According to...

Five ways to deter distracting driving

Distractions are a natural part of life. We tend to even distract ourselves from our daily responsibilities or the larger event happening around us. But there are times when distractions aren’t acceptable, specifically while operating a vehicle. Distractions behind the wheel tend to lead to more accidents. According to the...

Three steps to take before driving this winter

Pennsylvania is known for its gorgeous weather throughout the spring into the autumn. But many residents know that the state also has its fair share of nasty snow storms through December and January. Drivers need to take advantage of the nice fall weather and implement some preparation before the snow...

Where are the self-driving cars?

In the last few years, there has been a consistent buzz surrounding self-driving vehicles, including headlines from Tesla and Uber. However, recent speculation contradicts the rumors and dates a future full of autonomous driving further into the future. According to a recent Vox article, several hurdles stop self-driving vehicles from...

Signs of misdiagnosis for patients

Most patients rely on their doctors when it comes to diagnosis and treatments, as they should. Doctors, nurses and other medical professionals train for years to be experts in their field, and they often rely on minimal information to come to an official plan. However, medical staff members are just...

Why is it challenging to determine fault?

Imagine you’re driving down the road during the Pennsylvania winter. You approach a stoplight and slowly come to a stop. Suddenly, you feel a huge jerk from behind. A car has hit your back end and now you’re dealing with an accident. Who is at fault? While the answer seems...

Does a car accident on the job mean workers’ compensation?

Many occupations require employees to drive from one site to another. Whether it’s to help with distribution, lend a hand for transporting goods or just to bring you from one job site to another job area, driving can be a necessary part of your job. However, what happens if you...

Are remote appointments replacing physical exams?

Before 2020 created new problems across the world, most people would regularly visit their doctors each year for a physical examination. It was always straightforward and routine for a majority of patients. However, 2020 is changing the routine. Many patients now rely on telemedicine as their primary source for treatments...

Do new safety features actually make cars safer?

Almost every car dealer offers a newer, safer model than the year before. Whether it’s more cameras, braking systems or an increase in technology, it seems like cars are packed to the brim with different safety features. However, many people question if the additional features actually make cars safer? Before you...

Does hearing loss qualify under workers’ compensation?

Many adults experience hearing loss over time from natural causes, such as aging. Even technology is working diligently to make it easier for aging adults to address hearing disabilities early on with hearing aids, special headphones and other listening devices. However, there are ways to accelerate the healing loss process...

Four external factors that cause injuries in warehouses

Most people blame themselves when they are injured at work. They assume they mishandled equipment incorrectly or took inappropriate actions that eventually caused a risky situation. However, there are external factors on the warehouse floor that increase the likelihood of work-related injuries. It’s critical for employees to know these factors...

How emotions negatively affect your driving

Most people don’t associate driving with high-intensity emotions, but many people experience extreme feelings behind the wheel. Some drivers even admit to crying or acting out in the car. These visceral emotions can physically affect your ability to drive and your vision. Luckily, there are ways to cope with your...

Passing a bus got a lot more serious in Pennsylvania

Most people are aware of the danger of passing a school bus, especially if children return to school in the fall. However, most people are not exactly sure how or when it is safe to pass a school bus. Luckily, there are a few ways to ensure that you keep...

Differences between an at-home and at-hospital birth

Most mothers-to-be consider every option for their births. They want to ensure that they don’t assume anything and chose the right environment for them and their children. However, there are significant differences between home births and births in hospitals. Births at home Home births encapsulate any births that do not...

How to stay safe on the roads as a senior citizen

Getting older has many benefits, from expanding your family to taking time for yourself. However, there are also is more hazards as you get older. It makes sense that you have to take more precautions to ensure you and your loved ones are safe all the time, including on the...

Watch out for scorching summer temperatures at work

Pennsylvania is known for its beautiful summers that bring along hot temperatures and humid conditions. It’s perfect for days where you are swimming at the pool, relaxing with your family or staying indoors. It’s not perfect for employees who work outdoors or in stuffy warehouses. Heat affects employees physically and...

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court makes major decision surrounding retroactivity

A Workers’ Compensation case, Dana Corporation v WCAB (Smuck) handled of Shollenberger Januzzi and Wolfe caused huge waves where the Pennsylvania Supreme Court analyzed the question: “Should there be retroactive effects if a statute is struck down as unconstitutional in a previous decision?” The implications of the case reach outside...

Congrats to Miracle Graduates of 2020!

Despite being only six months in, this year has been a transformative year for most residents as we tackled pandemics, adversity and social injustice. However, some young folks are transforming from students into graduates in 2020. This year, Penn State Children’s Hospital Miracle Graduates celebrated their accomplishments from home and...

Top ways to make your commute better and safer

The world is starting to settle into its new routine as states begin to reopen and employees return to the workplace. However, returning to a routine also means returning to the daily commute. Luckily, there are ways to reduce your stress and increase your safety during the commute, especially with...

What new riders should know about motorcycle courses

Learning a new skill is exciting for most adults. You have the opportunity to jump headfirst into a new hobby and possibly gain a lifelong passion, but there may be risks with specific activities. For example, riding motorcycles. Motorcycles are fun and a great activity for solo riders. However, they...

Identifying causes for burn injuries at work

Burns are physical-damaging and emotional-draining injuries for all employees. And it’s hard to avoid burns unless you happen to be wearing the right equipment at the right time. It begs the question of how burns happen in the workplace and what employees can do in order to protect themselves from...

Accidents worsen among teen drivers during the summer

Most teenagers love the summer due to the sunshine, the lack of school and the freedom from parents. It’s the best season to relax and reconnect with friends after a hectic school year. However, summer can quickly turn deadly for most teen drivers. According to the AAA, more than 300...

Three accidents that warehouse workers see daily

Most people have negative connotations with Amazon warehouses due to the countless headlines surrounding employees’ treatments and injuries across the United States. However, most people underestimate exactly how many accidents happen on the warehouse floor. Between dangerous equipment, shifting work environments and distracted co-workers, accidents happen almost every day. Some...

The cost of a car may connect to pedestrian accidents

Apparently, most drivers are not good at stopping for pedestrians, according to a recent study from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. And there is one odd factor that may influence those who do stop. The researchers observed 461 cars and found that only 28 percent yielded for pedestrians waiting...

Protecting man’s best friend on the roadways

As summer rapidly approaches, more drivers may bring furry passengers to dog parks, hiking trails or just for a drive around town. However, we must treat our pets like any other passenger and protect them while we’re on the road. So what can drivers do to keep themselves and their...

How common is misdiagnosis?

Most patients rely on doctors or medical professionals to know what is wrong with them and how to treat it. That’s why patients visit the hospital and try to avoid self-diagnosis. However, there is still a small risk that you receive a diagnosis for your ailment. But how common is...

Local lawyers reach out to Pennsylvanian residents

Now more than ever, most folks are looking for signs of compassion throughout their community. They want to feel connected, despite the self-isolation. Luckily, some residents, including the attorneys at Shollenberger, Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP, are making the connections easier by participating in visits across Middletown and Harrisburg. Spreading care...

The deeper changes behind brain injuries

Brain injuries are already extremely challenging to face as a victim or a loved one. However, there is a darker side to brain injuries that are rarely addressed among victims: personality changes. Research suggests that severe brain injuries cause subtle or pronounced changes within individual personalities, including aggression, impulse control...

Specific risks for delivery drivers

Recently, delivery drivers have become critical due to their ability to deliver groceries, household commodities and other necessary goods to people and stores alike. However, with more delivery drivers on the road, it’s important to point out the potential risks that come with the position. Most drivers perform multiple duties...

5 tips for avoiding blind-turn motorcycle accidents

Every motorcyclist wants to avoid accidents whenever possible. Yet accidents occur commonly on turns, especially blind turns and downhill turns. Recently, a serious motorcycle accident occurred in nearby Jefferson County, Pennsylvania. According to the report, four motorcyclists were injured, three of them quite seriously, from a crash that resulted from...

Driving tips to know for short trips

Most drivers associate accidents with long drives up the coast or after a truck driver spend hours driving across the country. In reality, accidents happen when you make a quick trip to the grocery store or run over to a neighbor’s house. You do not have to drive dozens of...

When is it too wet to ride?

Most Pennsylvanian residents love when the weather changes from spring to summer because they can spend more time outdoors and less time in front of the television. The same is true for motorcyclists as well, since they can enjoy the warm weather on their regular rides. However, riders need to...

Four common mistakes associated with medication errors

Healthcare professionals are an essential part of any society. They are the people who sacrifice their time and spend most of their careers helping thousands of people every year. However, they are still people who can make mistakes. Those mistakes lead to significant problems for hospitals and patients as they...

The emotional trauma of facial disfigurement

Most people agree with the common phrase, “don’t judge a book by its cover!” We all want to believe that we look beyond physical appearance to get to know people for who they are and not make assumptions based on their looks. However, that’s rarely the case. Most people associate...

Three questions to ask before returning to work

Most employees feel different types of pain after a work-related injury. They feel the physical pain from the incident itself, the emotional pain of leaving work and the financial pain of medical treatments and reduced incomes. It makes sense that many employees try to return to work as soon as...

Preparing the car for summer vacations

Pennsylvania is in the perfect position for a summer road trip with the family. You could travel to New York and see the big city, or you can go up the coast to Maine and visit historical lighthouses. Either way, you need to make sure to prepare your vehicle for...

The long-term effects of knee injuries at work

Most warehouse employees are fully aware of the physical demand of their job, and they may even feel the physical demands on their bodies. Unfortunately, most of the demand affects the lower body, including the knees. There is a chance where retired or experienced warehouse employees decide to replace their...

Three common causes for truck accidents

Commercial trucks are kings of the road because of their size and consistent presence on the highways. However, even kings fall from grace, and the same is true for semi-trucks due to the severity and frequency of truck-related accidents. Drivers of passenger vehicles must understand that trucking accidents happen for...

Ways to help the birth process

First-time mothers may feel overwhelmed by the delivery process because most people paint labor as one of the most painful experiences your body goes through. You must mentally and physically prepare to give birth, and it only falls on your shoulders. Luckily, there are ways to help new moms get...

Whiplash watch: how to spot signs and treat injuries

Many people know what whiplash is. They know it’s common after car accidents, and it has serious effects on your neck and the rest of your body. However, very few people know how to identify the signs of whiplash and what they should do after the initial injury. Luckily, it’s...

Four safety tips for seasoned motorcyclists to know

Throughout riding season, many bikers enjoy the warm weather by taking frequent trips on their motorcycles. However, even experienced riders can benefit from reviewing road safety tips before putting their kickstands up. Make sure you have the right gloves Most seasoned motorcyclists know that they need the right gear to...

Driving hazards to anticipate this spring

Most Pennsylvanians look forward to the moment that the ice finally melts and the temperatures start to rise. It’s the moment that we get our first taste of spring and realize that only warmer months are ahead. However, with the first moment of spring comes more dangers for commuters across...

A fall at work could lead to falling back in your career

Many employees know the risks that come with working a warehouse floor. You must be diligent about safety protocols, other staff members’ actions and potential hazards in the workplace. However, there are situations that you can’t anticipate like falls. Falls are a significant portion of worker injuries across the country....

The chain reaction in multiple-car collisions

Imagine you are sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic when the vehicle behind you rams into the back of your car. Then, your car crashes into the person in front of you – creating a chain reaction that results in damage to your car and at least two others. It is a...

Could social media hinder patients’ trust?

It seems like there is always a new social media platform popping up. It started with MySpace, and then popularity grew in apps such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. However, the newest app may be causing complications for medical personnel across the nation. The newest app, TikTok, relates the most...

A new ban may affect Pennsylvanian drivers in 2020

Many states took preventative measures against distracted driving in 2019 by deploying cellphone bans where drivers cannot hold a phone while driving. And Pennsylvania may be the next state after a new cellphone ban passed through the House of Representatives. According to the Observer-Reporter, the lower house approved a proposal...

Will smart helmets save motorcyclists’ lives?

One of the first smart technologies was the smartphone, where everything was available at our fingertips. Then we saw smart cars that made driving more convenient for everyone. But tech companies are trying to develop a new smart gadget – a smart helmet. In 2014, SKULLY Technologies tried to tackle...

Amazon warehouses have more injuries than industry standards

A recent investigation found Amazon warehouse employees are experiencing severe injuries, especially in the Fresno fulfillment center in California. The Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration estimates over 300 work-related injuries at one warehouse – almost triple the national warehouse industry standards. According to Lake County Record-Bee, the Fresno center...

How to return home from the hospital stronger than before

People visit the hospital to feel better, whether they are experiencing a common cold, a severe injury or life-threatening illness. However, there are some circumstances where patients leave the hospital in worse shape than they came in. Unfortunately, hospitals are not the optimal environment to recover in, according to Consumer...

How to keep your teen drivers safe this holiday season

Everyone loves the holiday season. Between the food, quality time with family and the gifts, it really is the happiest time of year for most Pennsylvania residents. However, it’s also a very dangerous season for new drivers. With the weather conditions and increased traffic, new drivers have to be vigilant...

Driving at night is more dangerous than you think

Nights are getting longer and longer as we are in the midst of winter. And longer nights usually mean more time indoors and less time driving in the evenings. However, there are circumstances where driving at night is necessary, especially if you work the night shift in your current job....

The most dangerous pieces of workplace equipment

Industrial equipment makes most workers’ lives easier because it lifts, transports and cuts materials into manageable chunks. It’s incredibly convenient for industrial or warehouse employees. However, machinery also is terribly dangerous if misused or defective. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), some of the largest hazards for...

How to teach your children pet safety

Most pets are a part of the family. They live in your home, play in your yard and love your children. However, pets can be unpredictable. You never know how a cat or dog may act if they’re under distress or panic. As the parent, you can protect your children...

Six reasons for infant injuries during birth

Birth is one of the most beautiful and challenging experiences that a mother goes through. You are bringing life into the world and starting a new phase in your future. But unfortunately, the delivery process is more difficult for some mothers. Some parents have to deal with birth injuries after...

Older drivers are more likely to be distracted drivers

Most adults have the misconception that distracted driving is a young person’s problem. It makes sense since most young drivers are reliant on technology for communication, navigation and other tasks. However, a recent report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety and the University of Utah dispelled that myth. According...

How to prepare your vehicle for colder weather

The holidays are quickly approaching, and most Pennsylvania residents want to think about what they will eat on Thanksgiving Day or what to buy online during Cyber Monday. However, one of the first things that should be on your mind is your car. Thanksgiving is the first holiday of the...

The deeper effects of severe burn injuries

Most people have burned themselves slightly on the edge of the stove or a hot teapot. But most people do not understand the debilitating pain that comes with serious burn injuries. Burns often change our appearance through scars or disfigurement in severe cases, but they also leave behind a significant...

Five largest distractions for warehouse workers

Employees in warehouses dedicated a significant amount of time each day to ensure the product is moved and distributed to the proper areas across Pennsylvania – even throughout the United States. However, warehouse workers are still susceptible to distraction like other staff members. But there are more considerable consequences if...

Four road hazards that pop up in the fall

Most people love autumn; it’s the season where you can embrace pumpkin spice lattes and cozy sweaters without the burden of snow. However, fall brings a host of its problems for drivers. There are four main hazards that drivers need to watch out for during the fall season. Long nights...

Conducting yourself on the road with semi trucks

Most drivers are intimidated by semi-trucks, for a good reason. They are large and difficult to maneuver across the highways. They tend to loom over most passenger vehicles as they make their way to the next destination. However, drivers mustn’t be intimidated by truck drivers. Commuters need to understand how...

Violence against healthcare workers increases

Healthcare workers sacrifice their time and energy to help people around the country. Doctors and nurses work long shifts to ensure their patients get the best treatment and receive the proper care they need. However, medical staff is more likely to be suffering from emotional trauma and physical assault due...

Rules to give teenage drivers

Most teenagers are dreaming of the day when they get the car keys and drive into the night with their best friends. However, it’s a parent’s job to bring their child back to reality. Parents may establish specific conditions surrounding their child’s driving. For example, some parents may ask their...

Neil Armstrong’s sons receive a settlement in a malpractice suit

Neil Armstrong will always be regarded as one of the most influential figures in American history. Unfortunately, his life was cut short after receiving heart surgery in a Cincinnati hospital in 2012. At 82, most people assumed it was his time but not his sons. The two sons accused the...

Summer heat causes a physical toll on construction workers

As August approaches, most employees fantasize about autumn leaves and cooler weather on the horizon. However, construction workers are still in the midst of the hot summer days across Pennsylvania. They have to work every day, despite dry heat or extreme humidity. They need to make sure the projects are...

How to be a defensive teen driver

Parents want to help their children navigate the world. They advise children through school decisions, friendship problems and even career aspirations. One of the small ways parents helps their children is by teaching them how to drive. It’s critical for parents to teach their young drivers the tricks to driving...

Radiology may lead to mistakes during diagnosis

Diagnosis is the first and most critical step in the treatment process because doctors need to know what a patient has to treat them properly. Most doctors rely on different testing to assure the correct diagnosis for their patients. Most physicians rely on radiologists, doctors who read diagnostics films from...

Nurses are at risk for sleep deprivation and sleep disorders

Sleep is an essential component of our health. Every doctor or healthcare professional recommends adults and children receive an adequate amount of sleep to support mental functions and our physical bodies. But there is an irony to nurses who recommend sleep to their patients according to a recent study. The...

Falls are common on construction sites

Construction work is in full swing in the summer months across Pennsylvania. While construction workers face hazards every day, one of the most consistent and severe risks is falling. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls are the leading cause of death in the construction industry. In...

Watch out for deer

Pennsylvania has the third highest rates of deer collisions in the United States. On average, one in every 63 motorists will hit a deer while driving in Pennsylvania. Although a deer can run out in front of your car at any time, there is an increased risk between dawn and...

Keeping a teen driver safe, three tips for parents

Summertime is one of the best times of the year, especially for teenagers with newly printed driver’s licenses. For parents of these teenagers, the summer can be as much of a source of stress as it is one of joy. Due to a variety of reasons, the period between Memorial...

Getting child safety seats right

Your child is your most precious cargo, so it’s important that you get it right when you select and install their car safety seat. However, today’s parents are busier than ever before, and most people have to uninstall and reinstall seats so that different drivers can take their infants to...

How Do I Know if My Injury Resulted From My Doctor’s Negligence?

As with any negligence claim, a medical malpractice allegation requires the plaintiff to establish the applicable standard of care, or duty. What distinguishes medical malpractice litigation from other personal injury lawsuits is that this standard is typically established through expert testimony. When Should I Consult with An Attorney? There is...

Perform a motorcycle safety inspection for increased safety

Motorcycle riding season has arrived, so you need to be sure your bike is road worthy. Over the last few decades, motorcycles have been built to higher quality standards than previous generations. In fact, these newer bikes deliver improved comfort, performance and reliability. But components can still break, fail or...

Tips for driving safely alongside cyclists

With summer quickly approaching, cyclists across Pennsylvania have begun to bring their bicycles out from storage for more regular use. While many choose to ride their bike to work or for recreational purposes, preventing accidents between motor vehicles and bikes remains a critical issue. According to the National Highway Traffic...

E-scooters may be on Harrisburg streets soon—but are they safe?

The idea of taking a scooter instead of a car on the city streets is appealing. Picking up an electric scooter, getting your errands done and simply dropping it off on the sidewalk sounds much easier than finding parking and navigating traffic. Electric scooter rentals are the new big thing...

Are virtual doctor’s visits good for your child?

Smartphones can make parenting much more convenient. You no longer have to remember the way to every friend’s house, you can set reminders for when to pick your children up from activities and you can easily talk to your child when they are away with a simple text. Getting help...

Top causes of accidents on construction sites

Warmer spring weather signals the start of construction across Pennsylvania on roads, bridges, buildings and more. This also marks the time for employers, property owners and construction site workers alike to take measures to guard against the potential for serious accidents. Construction sites can pose constant risks for workers. These...

Falls cause more brain injuries for both older and younger people

There can be serious consequences when a person over the age of 65 falls down. Older folks are more susceptible to broken bones and other internal damage. It isn’t very surprising that falls cause the most traumatic brain injuries (TBI) for older adults. It might be more surprising that falling...

Keep your teen driver safe on prom night

The night finally arrives. Your son or daughter spent hours getting ready in the bathroom and preparing for the big night, prom night. Their date finally comes to the door, and your kid is ready to speed off to the local high school. Unfortunately, it is the last moment some...

Harrisburg releases plan to eliminate pedestrian deaths

Pedestrian safety has become a critical issue. In just the past five years in Harrisburg, 19 people were hit and killed by cars while 105 were seriously injured. Nationally, the Governors Highway Safety Association recently released data that shows pedestrian deaths approaching a 30-year high. ‘Vision Zero’ is a campaign...

Join Us In Supporting #ChildrensHospitalsWeek

Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP, LLP helps families in some of their worst moments. @ChildrensMiracleNetworkHershey does too. That’s why we’re supporting #ChildrensHospitalsWeek by making a donation to #CMNHershey and wearing band-aids in support of local kids. Check out our photo album on Facebook for pictures of our staff and their...

Volvo to include a max speed in new cars

While the speed limit in Pennsylvania may be as fast as 70 mph on the freeways, it’s no secret that many people drive much faster. Whether they have a lead foot, are late for an appointment or simply lost track of their speed, many drivers do not obey the posted...

Pennsylvania worker killed by falling shed

A Pennsylvania woman was killed when a temporary shed fell on top of her. According to U.S. News & World Report, a woman and her male coworker were smoking in the temporary structure, when the wind caught the hut and toppled it over on top of them on Feb. 8....

Pennsylvania Supreme Court rules in favor of injured motorcyclist

By Tim Shollenberger and Adam Wolfe Because of a decision authored by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court last week, a biker who gets seriously injured by a careless driver will have a much better chance of getting full and fair compensation for all of his or her injuries, including uncovered medical...

Driving while tired is riskier than you might expect

Falling asleep at the wheel presents obvious dangers to a driver and others on the road, but drowsy driving presents an abundance of other risks as well. Drowsy driving can slow your reaction time, make it harder for you to focus on the road and impact your ability to make...

An employee applied for workers’ compensation in two states

A bridge worker went beyond the standards of traditional process and applied for workers’ benefits in two states, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, after they injured their hand while working on the bridge that crosses the states’ borders. The case is unique because the worker injured their hand during the improvement...

Shocking survey: 75% of Philadelphia drivers are glued to phones

It’s no secret that cellphones are the biggest distraction confronting drivers these days. But just how many drivers are taking their eyes off the road to check a text or scan social media? More than you’d think, it turns out. A recent survey of Philadelphia drivers found that a staggering...

What can you do if an insurance company denies an accident claim?

After an auto accident, your recovery should be your priority. However, if an insurance company denies your claim, this can slow down the process. You have mounting medical bills, and your car needs to be repaired. But without money from the insurance company, you have no idea how to pay...

Dorney Park construction worker receives $2.75 million settlement

Anthony De Santos was operating a forklift at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom on April 23, 2014 to move a steel column. He used a tagline to control the forklift while he walked beside it. De Santos was pulled in front of the forklift’s wheel after a sudden stop, and...

Why refrain from social media after an accident

Social media has become such an everyday part of life that even after a serious car accident, you still may be active on various platforms. However, if you are pursuing damages for your injuries, you may want to think twice about using social media. Defendants in injury lawsuits, such as...

Research shows kids can become active sooner after a concussion

Children sustain concussions more often than most people may realize. According to NPR, about 1.1 to 1.9 million children are treated for head injuries in the U.S. each year. Researchers also think many more head injuries go unreported. The reason these injuries sometimes go unreported is the symptoms can be...

One way to avoid falling at work may be counterintuitive

Slips, trips and falls in the workplace can be very dangerous. In 2016, 849 American workers died because of a slip, trip or fall, and many others suffered serious injuries. Because accidents like these are so serious, many people are afraid that it will happen to them. However, this fear...

What can I do if my workers’ compensation claim was denied?

It is difficult enough to be injured in an accident at work. It can be especially disheartening when your worker’s compensation claim is denied, but do not lose hope. If your claim is denied, you can take steps to appeal the denied claim. However, it is important to understand ahead...

Driving tips for what could be a tough Pennsylvania winter

More than a foot of snow fell in northwestern part of the state over the weekend, a rough and early start to winter in Pennsylvania. And with meteorologists predicting a snowy winter, drivers across the state should prepare for tricky driving conditions. Icy road conditions and large snowfalls cause so many...

What to do after a car accident on the job

Driving for work or owning a company vehicle certainly has its benefits. However, driving on the job also comes with great responsibility given the risk involved. Car accidents are unfortunately part of being on the road. When you are involved in an accident in which another driver was at fault,...

Fatal vehicle accidents spike in Midwest

Driving to work, to school, to get the kids, it always seems like everything is somewhere else and the only way to get there is in a vehicle. There is an element of risk when someone gets behind the wheel, though. The risk of an accident is always present for...

Why you should talk to your teen about driving this week

It is the third week of October, which means it is National Teen Driver Safety Week. The United States Department of Transportation is campaigning for parents to talk to their teenagers about proper driving etiquette, as car crashes remain the leading cause for teen deaths in the nation. Aside from...

Brain injuries are often more complex than the scans show

Traumatic brain injuries are among the most tragic outcomes of serious accidents. A severe injury can leave the victim institutionalized for life. Even milder brain injuries, however, can have far-reaching effects on all areas of life. And science is only beginning to make sense of the most complex organ in...

Are anesthesia mistakes a common problem in hospitals?

Any time you enter a hospital to undergo a procedure, there are risks involved. It is safe to say that most Pennsylvania residents are aware of some of these risks. However, the dangers associated with anesthesia errors often go overlooked. A big part of informing patients about their medical procedures...

How to avoid collisions with deer this hunting season

Fall isn’t just the season for deer hunting; it’s the season for deer-_hitting_, too. Traffic collisions with deer peak during October, November and December. These months coincide with the animals’ mating season. Drivers in Pennsylvania should be particularly cautious. In 2016, our state had the third-highest rate of collisions with...

What to do when you’re the victim of a hit-and-run

It’s a busy Monday morning, and you’re already running late to work when you hit yet another red light. You stop; the car behind you doesn’t. The next thing you know, you’ve skidded to a stop in the middle of the intersection, your airbag has exploded, there’s shattered glass everywhere,...

Should my teen wait to get a license?

A teenager’s sweet sixteen is such a momentous event that MTV has an entire series devoted to airing a young person’s party celebrating the occasion. While most teens don’t experience such extravagance, all of them become eligible for one major milestone: a driver’s license. You may remember that feeling yourself...

Netflix documentary shed lights on defective medical devices

It’s not exactly binge-watching material, but next time you’re browsing through Netflix, you might come across “The Bleeding Edge.” The recently added documentary dives into the dark side of the medical industry. It explores loopholes companies apparently pass through when gaining FDA approval. Multiple women take the spotlight, sharing horrific...

Can I receive workers’ compensation for my psychological illness?

Some job requirements include stressful tasks. Perhaps after years of working, you begin to experience drastic symptoms related to your deteriorating mental health, and you believe that your worsening mental state is a direct result of your workplace. The state of Pennsylvania works to compensate those who experience mental health...

Ghost bikes highlight the prevalence of deadly accidents

Drivers across the country may soon start seeing more “ghost bikes” – bicycles painted all white and placed at the scene of fatal accidents to commemorate fallen cyclists. The memorials have taken on global significance since their grassroots beginnings more than 15 years ago. They help humanize cyclists while serving...

As the need for nurses increases, the profession’s appeal declines

Nurses face daily battles to keep up with the demand for their services. Today, there are more Americans over the age of 65 than any other time in U.S. history. By 2030, there will be an estimated 70 million people over the age of 65. Of that population, many will...

Technology created distracted driving. Now it might end it.

Today’s new drivers have had smartphones for close to six years by the time they earn their driver’s license. Cellphones are so significant in their lives that they’re spending an average of nine hours a day staring at screens. When you look at the rates of distracted driving and see...

How bicycle accidents happen: 5 common scenarios

As every seasoned cyclist knows, riding comes with risks. Poor road conditions, slick pavement, potholes and even pedestrians can present hazards. But the biggest risk, by far, comes from motorists. Drivers are quick to blame cyclists when accidents occur. The reality, however, is that drivers are the culprits far more...

Avoiding work injury requires knowing potential hazards

Harrisburg’s top employers are the state and federal governments. But from a historical perspective, the region is known as a major logistics hub. As products ship from east to west, north to south, they often make stops here. Warehousing and storage facilities abound. Those with experience in workers’ compensation filings...

Motorcycle fatalities spike during summer holidays

Summertime is the perfect time to be cruising down the highway or back roads on your motorcycle. It can also be a deadly time, especially over those three beloved summer holidays – Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the...

Why eyes on the road is not enough

When most people consider distracted driving, they think of someone not watching the road. This form of distracted driving is quite common. If you drive for long enough, you’ll see people reading, looking at passengers, grooming themselves in the rear-view mirror and doing other activities that take their eyes off...

Autonomous Uber accident also a story of distracted driving

The deadly crash involving a pedestrian and a self-driving Uber vehicle from last March has an additional wrinkle: distraction. Uber’s program required that autonomous vehicles in its fleet have safety drivers in case the technology fails. Safety drivers are forbidden from using their cell phones while the cars are operating....

Cycling safely with kids: 5 tips to reduce your risk of accidents

For many families, biking is more than just an enjoyable pastime. It’s a great form of exercise as well as a social and recreational activity. Family bike rides teach kids the value of an active, healthy lifestyle. Biking also gives children a deeper appreciation for the outdoors. Every summer, however,...

When doctors get it wrong (Part 3): Brain-eating amoebas

Living in America, we take it for granted that dreadful parasites like bot flies or malaria inhabit our lands. However, one particularly gruesome parasite does live here. And it’s quite common in freshwater streams, lakes and even tap water. A few weeks ago, in part 2 of this series, we...

When doctors get it wrong (Part 2): Flesh-eating bacteria

It sounds like a nightmare: After vacationing in Florida, a 50-year-old Indiana woman develops a small pimple-like bump. It continues to grow and becomes more and more painful. Left untreated, it eventually develops into a full-blown skin infection, claiming the woman’s life. The cause? Necrotizing fasciitis – a flesh-eating bacterial...

When doctors get it wrong (Part 1): Brain-fluid leak misdiagnosed as allergies

In a story that made national headlines, a healthy 52-year-old Nebraska woman had suffered from a runny nose for years. Her symptoms began after a car accident slammed her face into the dashboard. Doctors initially diagnosed her with allergies, but typical anti-allergy treatments never seemed to help. She finally saw...

The most distracted states: Where does Pennsylvania rank?

Distracted driving is an epidemic that affects nearly every American. When drivers are distracted – by talking on their phones, sending text messages, checking email while driving – all other drivers and passengers are affected. ZenDrive, a San Francisco-based technology company, recently analyzed more than 100 billion miles of driving...

Car hits bicycle…and driver ends up suing cyclist

For cyclists, getting hit by a car is a nightmare. Yet in many cases, the accident itself only the beginning of the nightmare, as the legal troubles that follow can be incredibly distressing. When there’s an auto accident, local cops respond to the scene. While these officers may know how...

Drowsy driving is a big problem for rideshare services

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have skyrocketed in popularity over the past few years. Their convenience and affordability makes them an easy choice when you’re in a pinch. However, these services have drawn scrutiny on multiple fronts – for their displacement of taxicabs, for their model of hiring drivers...

Why do self-employed workers have the highest fatality rates?

Self-employment, like any working arrangement, has its pros and cons. More freedom and independence but longer hours and irregular paychecks, for example. Another downside of self-employment often goes overlooked: the higher rate of work-related fatalities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, fatal injury rates are consistently greater among...

Medical malpractice and painkiller prescriptions

The growing number of lawsuits generated by the opioid epidemic are clear evidence that the problem is out of control. Recently, a number of these lawsuits have included prominent pain doctors. These doctors helped expand the use of addictive opioids in the treatment of pain. In some cases, they profited...

Distraction and the drivers who can least afford it

No one can afford to be distracted while driving. It is impossible to operate a motor vehicle safely while also completing any of the myriad tasks smartphones can perform. While no driver can afford to succumb to distraction, younger drivers are particularly susceptible to accidents caused by distraction. The experience...

Company buy-in is vital regarding workplace safety

The deaths of four workers earlier this year in two separate industrial accidents in south-central Pennsylvania illustrates the dangers that many workers face on the job every day. In February, three workers died and two more injured at the Manitowoc Cranes plant on a windy day in what was reported...

New workers to the workforce suffer the highest rates of injuries

New employees are three times more likely to become injured on the job compared to those who have been on the job for more than a year, according to research from the Institute for Work & Health. While workers are settling into their new roles and becoming familiar with coworkers...

Dangers of silica dust (part 1): Who’s at risk?

Industrial workers, construction workers and miners are exposed to all kinds of hazardous substances on the job. One of the most common is silica dust. With particles 100 times smaller than sand, silica can readily enter the lungs and cause permanent damage, including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)...

$12.5 million verdict against Suzuki in motorcycle crash case

It’s every motorcyclist’s worst nightmare: having your brakes fail, unexpectedly and without warning, at the very moment you need them the most. It’s all the more dire when you later learn that the failure was a result of defective brakes – and that the bike’s manufacturer knew about the problem but...

Could your loved one’s fall have been due to hospital negligence?

When an elderly or vulnerable loved one is hospitalized, you expect them to be treated with the utmost of care. That means taking steps to prevent your loved one from falling. Unfortunately, hospital falls are far too common, and they can cause serious injuries – especially in patients whose health...

Fall hazards: 3 things every construction worker should know

In construction work, dangers come from all corners: powerful equipment, heavy machinery, electrical hazards and, of course, heights. Gravity is the single biggest peril construction workers face. Whether you regularly work at high elevations – for example, as a roofer or sheet metal worker – or only do so for...

How high-tech vehicle features like autopilot can backfire

When it comes to driving, technology is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, features like autobraking, adaptive headlights, electronic stability control, blind spot detection and lane departure warnings have made cars demonstrably safer. Yet other technologies are a mixed bag. Many semi-autonomous vehicle features fall into the latter category....

How ER pharmacists can help reduce medication errors

Medication errors are among the most prevalent types of medical malpractice. Wrong dosages, mistaken prescriptions, overlooked drug interactions or missed contraindications – all can lead to serious harm. And these mistakes frequently happen in emergency rooms and hospitals, where staff members are stretched thin. A recent study has shed light...

5 dangers that cranes pose on construction sites

Cranes play a critical role in construction. Many jobs simply wouldn’t be possible without them. However, as large, heavy pieces of equipment, cranes can be dangerous to both the workers who operate them and those in the vicinity. Anyone who works on cranes or in close proximity to them should...

Lingering effects of concussions aren’t well understood

Concussions are surprisingly common injuries. Nearly 1 in 4 adults have suffered from a concussion, according to an NPR poll, and more than a third of those victims have had repeated concussions. Perhaps because they’re so prevalent, concussions used to be regarded as no big deal. In recent years, however,...

What to look for when you’re buying a car

If you’re in the market for a car, whether new or used, be prepared for decision-making overload. Today’s vehicles come with slews of options – including high-tech bells and whistles. In fact, many seem more like computers than cars. So how do you go about making a wise choice? With...

What every nurse should know about needlestick injuries

Nurses face all kinds of occupational risks: heavy lifting injuries, exposure to biohazards, increased stress and fatigue from overwork, and even violent patients, to name a few. One of the biggest dangers they face on a daily basis, however, is needles. Nurses have the highest rate of needle pricks among...

The long wait for Social Security Disability benefits

Social Security disability benefits are a lifeline for millions of Americans who aren’t able to work due to medical issues. Getting benefits, however, is rarely easy. And it’s only gotten harder in recent years. The Social Security Administration has long labored beneath the weight of a mountainous caseload, insufficient staff...

Balancing the risks and benefits of VBAC

Childbirth is a momentous life event. But it can also be a life-threatening one. Complications at any point during labor or delivery can have a big impact on both mother and baby for a long time to come. Recognizing these risks, many hospitals and OB-GYNs are reluctant to allow VBAC...

The dangers of night shifts for medical workers

Shift work is a way of life for many in the medical field. Emergencies happen around the clock. Doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other medical professionals rarely have the luxury of working 9 to 5. For many, shift work has benefits: more flexible hours, the ability to work part-time and longer...

Don’t let drunk drivers ruin your holiday season

The holiday season is upon us. Along with the festivities, family traditions, shared meals and holiday cheer comes another, more ominous development: a stark rise in deadly traffic accidents. It’s one of the busiest times of year for traffic. An estimated 50 million Americans are hitting the roads during Thanksgiving...

Is it too wet to drive?

Precipitation offers challenges to safe driving, particularly among less experienced drivers. While the rainiest months are behind us, falling temperatures can leave roads wet longer and eventually cause familiar problems with ice and snow. Knowing how to drive in these conditions can help prevent car accidents and make the roads...

No workers’ comp for Uber drivers: A look at an alternative

Life as an Uber driver has pros and cons. On the one hand, drivers have the flexibility to choose when they’re on the clock and how much they want to work. For some, it’s a side gig providing extra cash for a rainy day fund. For others, it’s a sole...

Contagious health care professionals

Whether it is the start of the school year or dropping temperatures, this time of year sees an uptick in contagious illnesses like the flu. Depending on the workplace, employees may be encouraged to stay home or expected to show up no matter what. Few workplaces understand the drawbacks of...

Injured in a friend’s car accident?

You’re out with a friend, and the friend drives into a telephone pole. You crack your head on the dashboard and need to go to the ER. You get bills for $4,000 for surgery, imaging and physical therapy. Who pays? Your friend should. Passenger responsibilities When you are a passenger,...

Question: What profession is more injury-prone than mining?

Hint: it’s nursing. Here is a grim statistic: Of all professions, the one with the highest rate of nonfatal occupational injuries is nursing. Worse than mining, construction, or manufacturing. [U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics]. Aching backs and more These are the kinds of dangers nurses face every day: Back injuries....

Cars designed to make drivers unsafe

New research has confirmed the fears of many safety experts regarding new car features. In-vehicle devices intended to entertain or guide drivers are a serious distraction and encourage hazardous behavior. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety conducted an analysis of some of these systems and found that they left drivers...

Car seat installation key to safety

Car seats are a vital component in keeping children safe. Small children cannot safely wear seat belts and need the protection afforded by car seats and their restraints. Unfortunately, a surprising percentage of car seats are not being used effectively. According to the National Traffic Safety Administration, 59 percent of...

Deadliest jobs list includes usual suspects

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has released its yearly list of the 20 deadliest jobs in the nation. While many of the jobs on the list come as no surprise, there are some that people don’t generally consider dangerous unless they are in the industry. People expect to see...

When Will Autonomous Vehicles Be Commonplace?

Tens of thousands of people lose their lives in automobile accidents every year. Most of those deaths are the result of easily preventable mistakes made by drivers. Distracted driving, drunk driving, aggressive driving, drowsy driving and other dangerous behaviors are not likely to go away by themselves. For many, the...

Workers put in harm’s way

Some jobs force workers to place themselves in vulnerable positions. Some of these jobs, including law enforcement, firefighting and construction, are well known for the hazards faced by workers. Others carry similar, or even greater levels of risk, but are not recognized as dangerous by the public. One such jog...

Alcohol and a lack of sleep are a dangerous combination

Drunk driving laws are intended to deter people from having too much to drink and getting behind the wheel. DUI laws allow for the prosecution of people who drive while impaired by alcohol. The level of impairment is generally tied to a specific blood alcohol content (BAC) when it comes...

A high-tech solution to drowsy driving

Human error is to blame for the large majority of car accidents. Estimates suggest that roughly 19 out of 20 accidents are caused by mistakes made by one or more drivers. Eliminating those mistakes is the key to reducing deaths and injuries on American roads. One of the underlying factors...

Picking the safest hospital

Until recently, patients looking for medical care had little reason to choose one hospital over another. Distance was likely the number one factor in deciding where to go for care. The medical field is not well known for sharing information about its safety record or results. New and better information...

Teen Drivers Face Challenges, But Parents Can Help

As a parent with a newly minted – or soon-to-be – teen driver, you may have worries about how your teen will handle the responsibility of operating a vehicle. Will they make a mistake? How will they react in new situations? Will they be as careful as they should be?...

What did you say? My job puts my hearing at risk?!

Mining, construction and manufacturing jobs place stress on your body and can lead to injury. However, working in one of these industries puts you at a higher risk for developing a commonly overlooked injury – hearing loss. Why are you not given ear protection? If hearing loss is a common...

Commute safely and check your emotions at the car door

You’ve heard it before: “don’t let your emotions get the best of you.” This becomes especially important when you get behind the wheel of a car. Studies show that driving in an emotional state is linked with a higher incidence of accident. This is harder than it sounds, especially after...

Don’t let a fun summer day at the amusement park end in tragedy

It’s summer, and for many, that means time for cherished family traditions like a trip to the amusement park. Kids of all ages enjoy taking in the fun, sun and thrills. Days like these make for fond childhood memories. Yet rides today aren’t what they used to be. Modern parks...

Doctors play a role in reducing opioid addiction

Opioid addiction is a rampant problem nationwide. More than two million people are addicted to these powerful painkillers, and more than 25,000 people die from overdoses each year, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It’s a major public health issue with complex ramifications. How these addictions...

Long-term dangers of construction work

Hazards in the construction industry take many forms. Safety education often focuses on sudden, catastrophic accidents – such as falls, explosions, trench collapses and vehicle accidents. However, another category of injuries takes place over time. Long-term damage to the body is common in construction work. Because these injuries don’t arise...

Cerebral palsy: Making sense of a devastating diagnosis

A diagnosis of cerebral palsy is devastating for parents and children alike. It can mean a lifetime of intensive medical care and therapy. It can mean day-to-day struggles with basic mobility and cognitive development. It can even mean long-term residence in a professional care facility. Whether you’ve had lingering suspicions...

Understanding whiplash: How it happens and how it can affect you

Whiplash is perhaps one of the most misunderstood injuries. Those who haven’t experienced it may be quick to dismiss your symptoms or accuse you of malingering. Yet whiplash is a very real – and sometimes very serious – injury. The term “whiplash” refers to a strain or sprain of the...

Knowing what to do when you witness a workplace accident

Someone got hurt on the job, and although you weren’t able to stop the accident from happening, you had a front-row seat. Whether you like it or not, you’re now a workplace accident witness. Do you know what your next move ought to be? The role of the workplace accident...

Applying for disability benefits? Prepare for these 3 hurdles.

When you live with a disability, it’s only natural to seek assistance. Unfortunately, the process isn’t always easy, and programs that should help individuals in your circumstances might fall short. Could you benefit from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)? Here’s what you should understand about...

Drug overdose a leading cause of death

Drug abuse is rampant in our country – so much so, in fact, that it’s a leading cause of death. Accidental overdoses claim far more lives than most people realize. It surpasses car accidents, falls and accidental injuries in terms of overall death toll. In 2014 alone, for example, more...

With Spring in the air, the chance of distraction is on the roads

Drivers of all ages tend to get excited to hit the roadways at this time of year. Once winter is well behind us, there is nothing quite like the car windows rolled down, music blaring and cruising the roadways while the spring sun sets.  For teens, there can be even...

Labor and delivery complications: What can go wrong

Childbirth is one of life’s most exciting milestones. Of course, it’s also a major medical event. Even with normal pregnancies, complications can arise at any time during labor and delivery, requiring swift intervention to protect both mother and baby. Obstetrics has one of the highest rates of malpractice among all...

Pedestrian deaths skyrocket for second straight year

The last two years were the worst in recorded history for pedestrian deaths, according to a recent report. Nearly 6,000 pedestrians were killed by cars in 2016 – up from nearly 5,400 in 2015. Last year’s spike was the largest in the four decades since national traffic reporting became available,...

Why safety training is so critical for construction workers

The existence of OSHA regulations isn’t the only reason that construction companies need to adhere to rigorous safety training standards. When it comes to reducing risks on the job, the best strategies aren’t always obvious. It’s up to employers to teach their workers the right ways to protect themselves and...

What contributes to medical mistakes?

Our system of medical care isn’t perfect. Yet that’s no excuse for the untold medical errors that harm innocent patients every year. In fact, according to researchers at John Hopkins, medical malpractice is surpassed only by heart disease and cancer as the leading cause of death among Americans. It’s clear...

Industrial fires: Top 5 contributing factors

Industrial fires and explosions are a major risk at worksites across the country. Warehouses, processing plants, mills and the like are fraught with fire hazards. Although detailed safety regulations are designed to prevent tragic fires, they still happen with unfortunate regularity. Nationwide, there are more than 35,000 industrial fires each...

Parking lot accidents: Why most drivers underestimate the dangers

For most Americans, parking lots are an unavoidable part of everyday life. You navigate them while coming to and from work, getting groceries, running errands and going about your life. Even though we spend so much time in them, it’s easy to forget that parking lots can be dangerous –...

How a concussion can impact your everyday life

We tend to think of concussions as mild, temporary injuries. They’re actually a form of traumatic brain injury – in fact, the most common form. Concussions account for a staggering 75 percent of all brain injuries, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They happen in car...

Can injured employees still get workers’ comp if they fail a drug test?

Employers have the right to expect – and enforce – a drug-free workplace. Illegal drug use raises multiple problems. It can not only impair the employee’s ability to do the job, but also jeopardize their safety – and that of everyone else. After a work-related accident or injury occurs, many...

How truckers stay safe – and sane – behind the wheel

With a bird’s-eye view on the traffic around them, truck drivers have seen it all: irresponsible drivers checking their email, surfing the web, putting on makeup, reaching for items in the backseat and even falling asleep behind the wheel. If truckers regularly took these kinds of risks, the fallout would...

Three of the most common medical mistakes in hospitals

Hospital patients are often at their most vulnerable. Their fragile health may be tottering on the brink of life and death. Yet these same patients are also some of the most frequent victims of medical errors. The very institution designed to heal them instead ends up mistreating them – in...

When can employees get workers’ comp for PTSD?

The question recently came to light in a newsworthy case involving two Microsoft employees. The employees sought workers’ comp for PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) after serving on the company’s “Online Safety” team, where they were required to view horrific images and videos involving abuse, rape, murder and child pornography for...

Dram shop laws and liability in Pennsylvania

It is common knowledge that consuming alcohol lowers inhibitions while simultaneously degrading a person’s ability to exercise sound judgment. It is also well known that the combination of those two factors often results in injuries and/or damage. However, less well known is the fact that the liability for injuries and...

Common injuries hospital workers face

Hospitals are hazardous places to work. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, hospitals have nearly twice the rate of employee injuries than the rest of the private sector. And, based on total days away from work, hospital workers are even more prone to injuries than those who earn...

Fire hazards during the holidays

The holiday season is one of the most dangerous times of year when it comes to house fires. In fact, 1 out of every 3 residential fires happens in the months of December, January or February. And nearly 40 percent of fire fatalities fake place during that time period. Understanding...

Tips for safe holiday driving

With millions of people across the country hitting the roads for holiday travel in the coming weeks, the risk of accidents skyrockets – especially when winter weather rears its head. December is one of the worst months for driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In fact, December...

Pay attention to these 7 warning signs of nursing home abuse and neglect

Nursing homes are supposed to be safe places where the most vulnerable among us can receive the care and quality of life they deserve. Unfortunately, issues such as understaffing, overcrowding, poor training and negligent hiring can make a nursing home stay a nightmare. Far too many elders become victims of...

6 tips for staying safe this ski season

As the first official day of winter draws near, thousands of skiers are hitting the slopes across Pennsylvania and gearing up for the season ahead. Unfortunately, this time of year also brings an uptick in skiing accidents and injuries. On the whole, skiing is a relatively safe activity, especially when...

For professional painters, the health and safety risks can’t be ignored

Painting is a critical part of many residential, commercial and industrials projects. There are upsides to earning a living as a painter: It doesn’t require expensive schooling, it offers the flexibility of being your own boss, and there’s generally no shortage of work. Yet it also comes with downsides. As...

Should senders be responsible for texting-while-driving accidents?

We all know that texting while driving – both reading and sending texts – is dangerous. Does that mean we have a legal duty to avoiding texting someone who’s behind the wheel? When one text costs a life …. A Pennsylvania court will address this question next month in the...

How one patient paid the ultimate price for hospital negligence

Undergoing surgery is nerve-wracking for any patient, even when it’s a relatively minor procedure. So many things can go wrong. Ultimately, we have to trust that the surgeon and hospital staff will take extremely good care of us – and most of the time, they do. But for an unlucky...

Will workers’ comp cover parking lot injuries?

Workers’ compensation provides a safety net for employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. Generally speaking, employees can’t get workers’ comp for injuries that took place while commuting to or from work. A car accident on the way to work, for example, probably wouldn’t be covered. However, not all cases...

Will self-driving cars make the roads safer for motorcycles?

As technology continues to revolutionize the auto industry, so, too, the future of motorcycles may look very different in a few decades than it does today. Safety improvements to cars and bikes alike may mean far fewer road deaths. Better safety measures could also spur increased ridership, opening up the...

Every Car Accident Has A Story: A Look Back In Time

Ever since man invented wheels there have been people acting negligently on or around them resulting in injuries and deaths for innocent people.  Today we face myriad challenges with respect to saving lives on our roads, including addressing the societal scourges of driving under the influence and distracted driving. As...

Yes, a mental illness can be a disability

Mental illnesses are far more prevalent than most people realize. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, roughly 1 in 25 adults experience a serious mental illness that impacts their life in a major way. For some, this means an inability to keep a job or earn a consistent...

Safety violations at Pennsylvania chicken processing plant illustrate the many dangers employees face

Meat processing plants count on the hard work of employees to turn a profit. Far too often, however, these plants overlook important safety measures that can make a life-or-death difference for their workers. A chicken plant near Harrisburg recently failed a safety inspection by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational...

Safety is a big issue for coal miners

In less than a year, there have been over 1,100 non-fatal accidents and 8 deaths in coal mines across the United States, according to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). Pennsylvania has some of the highest rates of injury. These figures point to the troubling fact that mining workers...

How distracted driving becomes an addiction

While 98 percent of drivers say they know texting while driving isn’t safe, over half of them still report doing it. The same goes for using the phone and engaging in other distractions while driving. Why do we keep doing something we know isn’t safe? New research may shed light...

The dangers of driving truck

For the average driver of an average vehicle, it’s overwhelming to navigate heavy traffic, unfamiliar roadways and adverse weather conditions. Yet truck drivers often face these challenges – and countless others – on a regular basis. It’s easy to forget the many risks of driving truck. The sheer size, weight...

3 tips for staying safe around forklifts

Semitrucks, cranes and other heavy machinery come with obvious dangers. Their sheer size and power provide a constant reminder of their risks. By contrast, it’s easy to forget that the humble forklift can be incredibly dangerous. In fact, every year, nearly 100,000 workers nationwide suffer injuries from forklift accidents. Because...

What every construction worker should know about hand-arm vibration syndrome

Every industry, no matter the type of work, has certain limitations and potential pitfalls. Unlike a typical office job, however, the construction industry involves numerous dangers – some of which aren’t always obvious. Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) can be a very real problem for construction workers. Because it’s not often...

Fatal motorcycle crash illustrates one of the biggest dangers bikers face

It’s a scene every seasoned biker dreads: A driver isn’t paying attention – or worse, is drunk – and turns left right into you. It’s too late to stop, and the force of the impact throws you from your bike. You end up with life-threatening injuries (if you survive at...

Deadliest jobs: Is yours one of them?

All lines of work involve hazards to one degree or another. For some, though, the risk of injury or death is far greater than others. According to Time Magazine, the following are among the top 25 most dangerous jobs in the United States, measured by fatality rate: Construction workers: It’s...

Widow wins survivor benefits after husband worked himself to death

Most fatal work injuries result from sudden accidents: vehicle collisions, falls, equipment malfunctions and the like. However, as one case illustrates, job-related deaths can happen out of the blue from something as simple as overwork. Two decades of backbreaking labor The wife of a Pennsylvania worker found herself without a...

Tesla Autopilot accidents reflect potential dangers of self-driving cars

No longer relegated to science fiction novels, self-driving cars are becoming more and more within reach. In recent years, companies as diverse as Google and Tesla have made high-profile forays into the realm of autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles. Their goal is to reduce the risk of accidents by taking human...

Top 3 factors that contribute to accidents among teen drivers

It’s a scary statistic: Teen drivers are three times more likely to get into an accident than adults (per mile driven). As the parent of a teen driver, your biggest nightmare is learning that he or she has been in an accident. Understanding some of the biggest risk factors that...

Injuries and fatalities on the farm

If you are a farm or agricultural worker, you are used to long hours and difficult weather conditions. Your work is physically exhausting and places intense stress on your body. On top of that, farm-related injuries and fatalities are all too common, and many job requirements are high-risk. According to...

Become a safer driver by staying vigilant about aggressive driving

Nobody thinks of themself as a bad driver. We all assume it’s the others on the road who drive carelessly and cause accidents. However, many of us engage in dangerous driving behaviors without even realizing it. Unsafe habits can become a pattern of aggressive driving that puts everyone in jeopardy....

6 dangers steel workers face every day

Steel workers often have to endure exhausting hours, strenuous conditions and constant perils. Whether at mills or construction sites, steel workers face a wide range of risks that factor into their everyday duties. The International Labour Organization’s Code of Practice on Safety and Health in the Iron and Steel Industry identifies...

Top 3 things you should do after getting injured on the job

Job-related injuries are commonplace in many fields. When it happens to you, however, the accident takes on a whole new dimension. You may feel panicked and in shock. If the injury is severe, you may not know whether you’ll be able to return to work anytime soon – or ever...

Even Dangerous Jobs Qualify For Workers’ Compensation Benefits

People show up to work every day at what are considered dangerous jobs. But are these workers protected by the same workers’ compensation laws as others? The short answer is, yes. Whether you’re a truck driver, firefighter or work in construction, you are entitled to benefits and compensation through your...

Injured On The Job As An Independent Contractor? You Deserve Benefits.

According to Pennsylvania labor law standards, independent contractors are not entitled to employee benefits, which may include worker’s compensation. But if you are injured on the job while working as an independent contractor, there’s a chance that your employment is misclassified and you should be listed as an employee with...

Drivers need to share the roads with bicyclists and pedestrians

For pedestrians and bicyclists, sharing the roads with cars can be a scary undertaking. A driver’s attention may be averted from the road by talking on the phone, changing the radio station, looking at a text, talking to a passenger or any number of other distractions. When a driver fails...

Injured while driving a company vehicle? You likely have a workers’ comp claim.

Whether you drive a delivery van, are frequently on the road making sales calls, operate a taxi, drive a large commercial vehicle or are otherwise behind the wheel due to the demands of your job, you need to be aware of your options should you be involved in a motor...

How does the Social Security Administration define disability? P.2

Last time, we began looking at the definition of disability in the context of Social Security disability claims. As we noted, the term disability in this context is related to a claimant’s ability to engage in substantial gainful activity.  Generally speaking, then, it is fairly straightforward to determine whether individual...

How does the Social Security Administration define disability? P.1

Disability can mean different things in different contexts. In everyday speech, of course, it generally refers to a mental or physical condition that impairs an individual’s ability to engage in normal activity. For purposes of Social Security disability benefits qualification, though, disability has a more precise definition. The definition of...

Did a drunk driver cause your car accident?

Perhaps you’ve been to a bar or restaurant in Pennsylvania and noticed a bartender or server refuse to provide a visibly intoxicated patron another drink. Not only was the bartender looking out for that individual’s well-being, he or she was complying with the state’s dram shop laws. You may be...

PA Amtrak crash a reminder of safety risks to railroad workers, passengers, P.2

In our previous post, we briefly discussed a recent fatal Amtrak crash here in Pennsylvania. As we noted, investigation of the crash is ongoing and it remains to be seen what will be found in terms of the causes of the crash. When railroad crashes occur, a lot of harm...

PA Amtrak crash a reminder of safety risks to railroad workers, passengers, P.1

Pennsylvania readers may have heard about a train crash earlier this month in Pennsylvania. That crash, which occurred when an Amtrak train headed from New York for Savannah, Georgia, crashed into a maintenance crew, resulted in the death of two Amtrak workers and injury to at least 30 passengers. Fortunately,...

Looking at the medical board complaint process, P.2

In our last post, we looked briefly at the complaint process overseen by the Pennsylvania Department of State for medical board discipline of physicians. We briefly mentioned the various aspects of the complaint itself, which include basic information about the parties involved, the facts, witnesses, and any available related documents....

Looking at the medical board complaint process, P.1

In recent posts, we’ve mentioned the physician discipline process as something that can be taken advantage of by patients who have been harmed by a negligent provider but who are unable to pursue medical malpractice litigation. As we noted, an attorney is not needed to file a complaint, but it...

Is your teen a safe driver?

If you’re like most parents in Pennsylvania and across the country, watching your teenage son or daughter get his or her driver’s license and climb behind the wheel of a car can be a moment filled with mixed emotions. On the one hand, you may be proud and a bit...

Study looks at variations in disciplinary action taken by state medical boards

According to a recent study from the University of Michigan, there is significant variation in how state medical boards regulate physicians. Differences in things like reporting procedures, disciplinary methods and standards for determining appropriate discipline all make a difference–sometimes significant–in how physicians accused of misconduct are handled. The study looked,...

When medical malpractice isn’t an option: pursuing physician discipline

Medical malpractice litigation is an indispensable avenue of recovery for those who are harmed by a negligent physician. One thing that needs to be kept in mind, though, is that not every instance where a patient is harmed in the course of medical care will translate into a viable medical...

The insurance company is not your friend − understanding your rights after a car accident

Insurance companies often recruit customers by using slogans that indicate that they are attentive, available, compassionate, neighborly, and understanding – characteristics you might find in a good friend. But at the end of the day, an insurance company is not a friend – it’s a business. Insurance agents may seem...

Looking at the issue of telemedicine and medical malpractice, P.2

In our previous post, we began discussing both the importance and the risks associated with the increasing practice of telemedicine. While telemedicine holds the promise of increasing health care access for rural communities, there is also the risk of error associated with the practice of telemedicine itself. The fact that...

Looking at the issue of telemedicine and medical malpractice, P.1

Health care is obviously a critical resource for all Americans, especially those with serious health conditions which require ongoing care. Coming up with ways that all people might have access to health care has clearly been a big subject for discussion in recent years, and the debate continues even with...

How can a personal injury lawyer help my claim?

Getting hurt in an accident is a trying experience, whether it is a car accident, a fall, or you are injured by a faulty product. There’s a lot that needs to be done in order to get your life back to normal. You need to physically and emotionally heal from...

SSDI benefits: looking at the work credit requirement, P.2

Last time, we began speaking about the work requirements that must be met by Social Security disability benefits claimants. As we noted, work credits are earned based on income, and a claimant must have earned a minimum number of work credits based on age in order to qualify for benefits....

SSDI benefits: looking at the work credit requirement, P.1

Although most people are aware that Social Security disability benefits are a form of insurance, there is a tendency to speak about them as a welfare program. The reality is that these benefits are insurance, though. As many commentators have pointed out, this should influence how we think and speak...

Vicarious liability in personal injury litigation, P.2

In our last post, we spoke a bit about a car accident case here in Pennsylvania in which a driver and his employer were sued for the injury of a couple and the death of their son. As we noted, the driver was determined to have been on the job...

Vicarious liability in personal injury litigation, P.1

Back in December, a jury unanimously ruled that the defendant was liable for injuries suffered by a couple in an accident back in 2012, as well as the death of the couple’s child. The accident reportedly occurred after the couple parked on the side of the road to address a...

What is comparative negligence in personal injury litigation? P.2

Last time, we began looking at the topic of comparative negligence. Picking up where we left off: here in Pennsylvania, comparative negligence law utilizes a 51 percent bar, meaning that if the plaintiff was not more negligent than the defendant or defendants together, he or she will still be able...

Tired workers cause more accidents

The National Sleep Foundation has conducted studies that show that workplace accidents, including those in the industrial sector, could be caused by workers who are too tired. According to those studies, a worker who is highly sleepy could be up to 70 percent more likely to find himself or herself...

What is comparative negligence in personal injury litigation?

Determining fault is an important part of personal injury litigation, and it is an area where the help of an experienced advocate is really necessary. This is particularly true in cases where the circumstances of the accident make a plaintiff less likely to receive adequate compensation. One such circumstance is...

Giant Food Stores worker dies after fall from ladder

A man who worked for Giant Food Stores fell from a 12-foot ladder on Valentine’s Day. He was rushed to the York Hospital and given care, but he recently passed away from his injuries. He was 56 years old. No one actually saw the man fall from the ladder, but...

Car accident liability and the PA turnpike blizzard debacle

In our last post, we began speaking about the potential impact of inclement weather on determinations of negligence in car accident litigation. As we noted, a finding of liability for a party who causes a gets involved in an accident in inclement weather, but the extent of that person’s liability...

Car accident liability and inclement weather

Getting behind the wheel of a motor vehicle is something most of us do every day, so we tend to see it as a rather routine matter. In reality, there are a lot of risks we face every day when enter onto the roadway. These risks include things like distracted...

Dealing with insurance bad faith after an accident, P.2

Last time, we looked briefly at the case of hedge fund manager and drug CEO Martin Shkreli, who has been charged with securities and wire fraud. As we mentioned, Shkreli has become something of an object of hate because of his decision to engage in price-gouging with long established prescription...

The 3 audiences that arise after deadly accidents

When a deadly accident happens on a construction site in Pennsylvania, three general groups of people are typically going to contact the employer. Experts often refer to these groups as three audiences. The Government First off, the government may carry out an investigation into the accident to see if the...

Dealing with insurance bad faith after an accident

While auto insurance is an important resource for accident victims in terms of recovery, things don’t always go smoothly in filing a claim and receiving benefits under one’s policy. This is why, in addition to exploring potential personal injury issues following an accident, crash victims may also need to explore...

Electronic recording devices and their use in personal injury litigation

In our last post, we spoke a bit about the possibility of using fitness and health tracking devices in personal injury litigation. The details of how this technology might be used were not addressed in any depth, but general possibilities have been suggested. Another technology that can impact personal injury...

Worker claims fall led to catastrophic injuries

A heating and cooling worker who was injured on the job started a lawsuit due to his injuries, but his lawyer has now decided to withdraw from the case. The lawsuit is aimed at a number of different companies and individuals. The companies involved include Kieran Cole Construction, Inc., Concept...

How consumer technology can impact personal injury litigation

The development of the legal system is affected by many factors, including developments in technology and consumer trends. In criminal law, for instance, developments in the area of privacy have been affected by new technology police use to monitor public safety. Estate planning practice has been impacted by the growth...

A brief look at how the Social Security Administration review claims, P.2

In our last post, we began speaking about the decision-making process utilized by the Social Security Administration when reviewing applications for disability benefits. As we noted, the first two considerations are whether the applicant is currently working, and whether his or her condition is severe enough that it interferes with...

The types of injuries to which workers’ comp applies

Workers need to know what types of injuries may be covered by workers’ compensation so that they know when to seek this compensation and what they may be responsible for on their own. Generally speaking, workers’ comp may cover the following: – Preexisting conditions that are made worse or accelerated...

A brief look at how the Social Security Administration review claims, P.1

Social Security disability benefits are an important financial resource for those who are able to qualify for them, but being approved for benefits is not an easy matter.  Those who get in a bad enough spot to consider applying for Social Security disability benefits may expect a positive decision in...

Congressionally-mandated study of truck safety rule is currently under review

Trucking safety is an important factor in highway safety, and fatigued driving is among the most talked-about issue when it comes to the trucking industry. Last month, we wrote a pair of posts on the federal hours-of-service rules, which are aimed at preventing fatigued driving among truckers. Readers who haven’t...

Workplace injuries happen far more than illnesses

Workers in Pennsylvania may have a right to compensation after workplace injuries or illnesses that arise due to conditions in the workplace, so these are often considered together when looking at compensation claim statistics. However, breaking down the numbers shows that injuries are much more common than illnesses. According to...

Study of restart rule: why should we care?

We began speaking last time about a Congressionally-led study of a currently suspended hours of service rule, and the Department of Transportation’s ongoing review of the study. As we noted last time, the suspension of the restart rule was heavily advocated by the trucking industry, which has raised concerns about...

Should you let people move you after a workplace injury?

So you’ve suffered a workplace injury, perhaps after a fall, one of the most common ways that workers get hurt. What happens in the immediate aftermath of the injury is incredibly important. If you’re conscious, should you let people move you? There are some situations where being moved is very...

Where does liability fall when an elderly parent gets in an accident? P.2

In a recent post, we asked whether adult children can be held liable for accidents caused by an aging parent who refuses to quit driving. The concern is one that many people have to deal with at some point. Giving up the ability to drive as an elderly person is...

Shollenberger & Januzzi, LLP honored again with prestigious Litigator Award

In civil litigation, determining which firm to work with can be a challenge, especially for those who aren’t working with any recommendations and who have never worked with an attorney before. How does one determine which firm to work with in one’s case? Certainly, there are a variety of factors...

Young workers have rights, too

Workers who are still minors—under the age of 18—are allowed to work in many situations, even though there are stipulations regarding the hours they can work and what industries they can work in. It’s important for these younger workers to know that they also have rights if they are injured...

Where does liability fall when an elderly parent gets in an accident? P.1

Caring and looking after an aging parent is a challenge in a variety of ways. One of the common issues adult children face is keeping an elderly parent from getting behind the wheel. Ideally, of course, adult children are able to talk things out with the parent and help them...

Automatic driving technology, human error, and liability, P.3

In recent posts, we’ve been looking at how human error factors into the discussion of liability for accidents involving automatic driving technology. As has been pointed out, automatic vehicles as currently designed may, in some instances at least, be more prone to accidents due to the fact that they do...

Jurisdiction being contested in construction accident

A construction accident happened out on the Garden State Parkway, back in 2012, and seriously injured a man. That man was a pile driver who was connected to Local Union 454. While he was working close to mile marker 39.3, which is in Galloway Township, N.J., a steel pipe apparently...

Automatic driving technology, human error, and liability, P.2

Last time, we began looking at how driverless technology, while largely cutting out human error and thus reducing many types of motor vehicle accidents, may simultaneously be increasing the possibility of certain other types of accidents. The data is still rather scant to make definite conclusions, but given what we...

Automatic driving technology, human error, and liability, P.1

Fault is obviously an important issue in car accident litigation, and it is critical for plaintiffs to build a strong case for liability. Without doing so, a plaintiff’s case will not go very far. Fault can be proven in a number of ways depending on the circumstances, but the heart...

Failure to effectively reduce, address medical errors can lead to litigation, P.2

In our last post, we spoke a bit about the challenges health care providers face nowadays in reducing the occurrence of medical errors, and some of the reasons improvement in this area has not been greater. In this context, we began looking at the “Michigan Model,” which has been instrumental...

Cellphones can directly cause workplace accidents

Cellphones can be very useful tools in the workplace, but they can also be very dangerous distractions. It is estimated that 3,000,000,000 text messages are sent out each and every day. More and more often, people are using mobile devices so that they can send and receive these messages while...

Failure to effectively reduce, address medical errors can lead to litigation, P.1

A recent article in the Philadelphia Inquirer highlighted a topic that should concern all of us: errors in health care. As the article pointed out, progress in reducing the number of medical errors has been painfully slow. Part of the reason for that is that there is a lack of...

Workplace injuries don’t always happen at work

Many workplace injures happen while on the job—in a warehouse, on a construction site, or in an office building, for example. However, it is important to note that injuries don’t have to happen at a specific location to count as workplace injuries. For example, you could be hurt while driving...

Truck driver fatigue and the hours of service rules, P.2

In our last post, we began speaking about the federal hours of service rules and their general purpose. As we noted, compliance with the rules has been a challenge over the years, because federal regulations have only required truckers to keep track of their hours via paper logs. The problem...

Truck driver fatigue and the hours of service rules, P.1

Truck driver fatigue is an important issue, or rather problem, when it comes to highway safety. Although most truckers are responsible and don’t take chances behind the wheel, there are some who put both themselves and other motorists at risk by driving without adequate rest. Federal law has sought to...

Study highlights hospital efforts to reduce preventable patient fatalities, readmissions

In our last post, we began speaking about the result of a recently published report concerning hospital mortality and readmission rates in Pennsylvania. As we noted, improvements were seen in many areas between 2009 and 2014 in terms of mortality rates. The report also highlighted the fact that statistically significant...

Can you refuse to drive in dangerous conditions?

If you have to drive as part of your job, you may run into a situation during the winter in Pennsylvania where you just don’t feel safe being on the road. When a big snowstorm blows in and the roads are coated in ice, can you tell your employer that...

Improvement in statewide mortality rates likely due to improved quality of care

Quality of health care is a critically important issue for patients. As consumers of medical services, it is tempting to assume that our lack of ability to effectively shop around for medical care means that health care services are more or less of equal quality wherever you go. That, however,...

Job-related illnesses are harder to prove for compensation claims

Technically, you have a right to seek compensation in Pennsylvania if you get sick while at work because of your job. For example, if the workplace is filled with hazardous materials and you breathe toxic dust for years on end, it could cause respiratory issues that wouldn’t have come about...

Comparative negligence rule and aggressive driving

In our previous post, we spoke a bit about the problem of aggressive driving in general and here in Pennsylvania. One of the issues we mentioned at the end of our last post is that aggressive driving is often not a matter of only one individual losing his or her...

Looking at the problem of aggressive driving in Pennsylvania

Aggressive driving, we’ve all experienced it at some point. There are many different forms it can take, ranging from uncooperativeness in sharing the road to actively attempting to injure another driver. Whatever form it comes in, aggressive driving can cause a great deal of harm. Here in Pennsylvania, aggressive driving...

The law protects you from retaliation

Do you think your workplace is unsafe, but are you scared to speak up? Maybe you don’t want to be seen as a complainer, or maybe you’re afraid that your boss will retaliate in some way if you say what’s on your mind. If you think that a complaint needs...

Study looks at the way teens think about distracted driving

There are many different reasons auto accidents can occur, and it is impossible to blame the problem of negligence in driving on any one factor. As everybody knows, though, distracted driving caused by cell phone use is a particularly common and problematic problem. With people of all ages now carrying...

Preventing common construction site accidents

The best way to keep workers from being hurt on the job in Pennsylvania is simply to understand what the biggest hazards are and to take steps to prevent accidents from happening in the first place. A few ways to do this are outlined below. Electrocutions Electrocutions are consistently among...

Among the risks of childbirth, postpartum hemorrhage, P.2

In our last post, we began speaking about postpartum hemorrhage and the duty doctors have to address pregnant women’s risks in this area. The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, in addressing this issue and others like it, has found that working to improve communication between hospital staff can do...

Among the risks of childbirth, postpartum hemorrhage, P.1

Although childbirth is a natural process, it can be fraught with risks, particularly for women with special medical conditions and complications. Among the risks physicians and nurses have to be on the lookout for is excessive blood loss, or postpartum hemorrhage, which is actually a leading cause of death for...

Looking at the connection between car insurance and damages in PA, P.2

In our last post, we began speaking about the distinction between limited tort and full tort insurance here in Pennsylvania. As we noted, the primary difference between the two is the ability to pursue non-economic damages for serious injuries. Selecting limited tort coverage will allow a motorist to save money,...

Looking at the connection between car insurance and damages in PA, P.1

Insurance is obviously an important resource in many areas of our lives. This is especially the case when it comes to automobile accidents. Depending on the type of accident and its impact on the motorists involved, the costs and losses that come up in the wake of a car crash...

Should you buy the rental company’s insurance coverage?

The holiday driving season will begin in earnest in a couple of weeks, when drivers travel for the Thanksgiving holiday. While a number of people will take to airlines for their travel needs, a large majority will take to the road. For drivers, it has become increasingly common to rent...

Another road worker injured when struck by vehicle

Like other states, Pennsylvania sees more than its fair share of workplace accidents involving motorists. Usually, these accidents impact road maintenance and road construction workers, who must perform their jobs on the state’s busy roads. Last month, at least one road worker suffered injuries in a motorist involved accident, and...

You may be disabled, but does the Social Security Administration think so?

Disability can mean many things to many people, but when it comes to qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits, there is a very specific meaning to the term. When the Social Security Administration looks at an application for Social Security disability benefits, they are looking to make sure that the...

Could seatbelts be included in school buses?

In a prior post, we highlighted the importance of paying attention to school children during the morning hours, as many children are walking to school. However, we do not want to discount the importance of being careful while driving around school buses. Not only is it dangerous for kids getting...

We can help you appeal your workers’ compensation claim denial

Scenario: You have suffered a workplace injury. You carefully fulfill all of the requirements necessary to file a workers’ compensation claim. Now, you feel more secure, believing that you will be compensated for your medical expenses and your lost wages. Then, the unthinkable happens and you receive a notice that...

Looking at the issue of liability for crashes involving self-driving cars

In our last post, we spoke about recent research conducted at the University of Michigan which looked at the incidence of car accidents involving fully automatic vehicles. As we pointed out, that research suggests—contrary to some expectations—that self-driving vehicles may actually be prone to accidents that ordinary vehicles. That finding,...

Research looks at incidence of accidents among self-driving vehicles

As consumers, all of us have come to appreciate and benefit from a continual stream of innovation in the automotive industry. Because of this innovation, a wide variety of safety features have trickled down to consumers, and this occurs continuously. Among the new technologies that are becoming more widely available...

Volkswagen troubles highlight intersection of personal injury, product liability, P.2

In our last post, we began speaking about the failure of automobile manufacturer Volkswagen to report deaths and injuries connected with its vehicles, as well as litigation associated with those accidents. Volkswagen is certainly not the only manufacturer at fault in this area, but is one of the bigger offenders....

Industrial workplace safety: Going beyond the basics

Pennsylvania residents understand the employee risks inherent in the state’s rich industrial landscape. The mining industry in particular is often fraught with hazards due to the challenging locations where these resources are found. While mining and other industries remain crucial to the economical vitality of Pennsylvania, workplace safety should never...

Volkswagen troubles highlight intersection of personal injury, product liability, P.1

Car accidents can occur for a whole host of reasons, and can involve fault not only on the part of the drivers involved, but also third parties. One possibility for third party liability in car accident cases is when there are defects with a vehicle. Here again, the possibilities are...

Construction site auto crash injuries at least 1 worker

Often the most dangerous aspects of a job are not the work itself but rather the environment in which the work takes place. The construction industry is one example of this. These workers must often do their jobs in relatively unsecured locations such as other people’s property or along Pennsylvania’s...

Man paralyzed by anesthesia error awarded $9.2 million

Anesthesia lets surgical patients endure invasive procedures without feeling pain or discomfort during the procedure. But these powerful drugs must be administered and monitored closely, or they can seriously harm the patient. This example did not take place in Pennsylvania, but give an idea of the consequences of negligent anesthesiology...

How dangerous is popcorn lung disease?

It is hard to believe something as delicious as popcorn can pose hazards to a person’s health, but sadly, it is true. Workers employed in industrial settings in which flavored microwave popcorn is manufactured can suffer from serious health conditions. These illnesses occur by inhaling the chemicals used to make...

Could traffic violations affect personal injury lawsuits?

It is uncommon for us to discuss criminal actions on our blog; but when they stem from traffic violations, it is worth reminding our readers of how important criminal violations can be when it comes to personal injury lawsuits. For the uninitiated, all drivers in the commonwealth of Pennsylvania have...

Can I hold my naturopathic doctor accountable for malpractice?

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), which includes a wide variety of disciplines such as naturopathy, homeopathy, and osteopathy, is fairly well-established at this point in the United States. CAM has even earned some recognition from mainstream or “allopathic” medicine. According to the Mayo Clinic, almost 40 percent of adults report...

Where safe driving habits really start for teens

For a teenager who is a newly minted driver, there is nothing like the newfound freedom that comes with being able to drive. Gone are the days of depending on mom or dad to get from Point A to Point B. This means that hanging out with friends at the...

It is important not to ignore even minor office injuries

Working in an office environment seems like the safest way to earn a living. This is certainly the case most of the time, but office workers can be at risk for serious injury the same as those employed in other, more physical industries. Office injuries are more common than many...

How drivers can protect themselves from deer accidents

In a number of our posts lately we have talked about fall hazards. The change in seasons should bring a change in driving habits, especially considering the challenges with weather and visibility. Indeed, fog, rain and occasional icy conditions can prove to be dangerous, but drivers must also look out...

Low visibility possible factor in sanitation worker’s death

Benefits are available for Harrisburg employees who are injured on the job. Workers’ compensation benefits, provided by employer-paid insurance, cover medical costs and wage losses for workplace accident victims. Benefits are also available for immediate family members when a loved one suffers a fatal job-related injury. A Pennsylvania sanitation worker...

Myths that some truckers may still believe

We all know that semi-trucks are among the most dangerous vehicles on the road. After all, the sheer size and weight of these trucks compared to passenger cars makes them hazardous to the health of drivers and passengers in the event of an accident. However, there are a number of...

What drivers should always do to avoid pedestrian accidents

While a number of our posts focus on how drivers must look out for large trucks that may do them harm, or be aware of other distracted or drunk drivers, they have a continuing obligation to look out for pedestrians. Unlike crashes with other vehicles, car-pedestrian crashes can be particularly...

Little things that can help reduce workplace accidents

Workplace accidents may happen suddenly, but they’re not always that surprising. Often, when looking at things retrospectively, it’s easy for people in Pennsylvania to see why the accidents happened. Looking at these things in advance helps employers and workers alike avoid accidents. Poor Lighting People who are forced to work...

Helpful driving tips for construction zones

It may go without saying, but drivers must be especially careful in construction zones. While a number of precautions are taken through clear marking of these zones, they still can be confusing and difficult to navigate. Because of this, it is critical that drivers (especially young drivers) pay attention to...

Fall hazards that drivers should be aware of

If you woke up this morning and felt a difference in the air, your senses are leading you in the right direction. The first full day of fall occurred this week, and we will soon see the leaves on trees change, the air will become chillier and soon enough, fall...

Are illnesses covered by workers’ compensation?

Workers’ compensation will not cover every little ache or pain employers may experience, but this type of employer-provided insurance can cover many serious illnesses. The key factor that decides if an illness is covered is whether it is work-related or not. As workers’ compensation exists to assist those who were...

Two more Toyotas win IIHS honors

Over the past two years, Toyota Motor Corporation has endured a great deal of criticism stemming from the sudden acceleration problems found in Camrys and Lexus ES 300 models. In fact, a man from Minnesota who had been jailed for causing a fatal accident was set free after research showed...

New motorcycle riders must be careful

The last weeks of summer is not commonly known as a time for riding motorcycles. After all, May is known as motorcycle safety month because it is the first full month with favorable riding weather. But as September gives way to October, many riders in central Pennsylvania want to make...

Does safety gear really protect construction workers from injury?

Construction represents a huge portion of the many industries that make Pennsylvania thrive. If not for workers in the construction industry Pennsylvania residents would not be able to enjoy the infrastructure of the state’s cities, not to mention the residential homes the industry provides. Unfortunately, construction workers are at risk...

Is technology necessary to keep drivers safe?

If there is one thing that you may notice with new car commercials, it is that safety features are being highlighted just as much as horsepower or financing options. It is almost as if automakers are trying to convince car buyers that drivers cannot be safe without the latest technology....

Drivers must be aware of students this time of year

If there is one thing that people in central Pennsylvania look forward to in September, it is Labor Day weekend. Now that the last holiday of the summer has come and gone, the focus is now on school; and of course, football. But before people can enjoy the games, they...

Our firm awarded for achievements in brain injury litigation

Brain injuries received during the course of what is ordinarily a routine work assignment have a devastating effect on the worker. This is an obvious statement that most anyone can imagine. What some people do not understand is how this kind of injury creates ripples that spread to every member...

Why Labor Day can be so dangerous for drivers

For many people across Pennsylvania, Labor Day weekend is the last chance for a summer holiday get away. As such, people traditionally take to the road to reach their favorite destination. The American Automobile Association (AAA) predicts that traffic volumes will be higher than usual given that gas prices will...

More Labor Day weekend safety tips

Before we begin today’s post, we have to correct a report that we highlighted in a prior post. We incorrectly indicated that the first stoplight appeared 1915 in Cleveland, Ohio, which would have made the common stoplight 100 years old this year. The first stoplight actually appeared in 1914, which...

Some workplace accidents can be prevented

Pennsylvania can be a busy place. In a typical workday, thousands of people are working hard to meet deadlines or quotas and simply catch up to themselves. Working at such paces has its advantages such as bigger paychecks, promotions and even feelings of accomplishments. It can also have a very...

Will early warning systems be standard on future vehicles?

Labor Day weekend is more than just the last summer holiday. For car dealers, it is an opportunity to give consumers great deals on this year’s models, as they want to clear room for the next year’s models. For many consumers, it is a golden opportunity to get a great...

Could your next surgery be recorded?

There are a number of protocols that hospitals use to reduce the risk of surgical tools being left in patients after a procedure, or being misplaced before or after a surgery. Essentially, some tools are bar-coded so that they can be electronically accounted for. With the increased use of technology...

More sanitation robots being seen in hospitals

In hospitals, cleanliness is a top priority. Not only is it important in maintaining a hospital’s reputation, the eradication of germs is crucial in maintaining patient safety. According to several media reports, more than 1 million infections are reported each year inside of hospitals. Also infections are the primary cause...

Good Samaritan Act to cover any employee providing aid

If you saw someone in need of assistance in your workplace during your working hours, would you rush to render aid? What if helping the person put you at risk of physical injury? It is probably safe to say most people would do their best to help those in need....

Do drivers of emergency vehicles have to use reasonable care?

If you see an emergency vehicle in your rear-view mirror, or one is approaching from ahead, it is expected that you pull over or yield the right of way to such a vehicle. However, when drivers of emergency vehicles see each other, which vehicle should yield? This is the question...

Choosing a doctor for Pennsylvania workplace injuries

When you suffer a workplace injury in the Harrisburg area, the workers’ compensation insurance your employer provides will likely cover any associated medical expenses. While workers’ compensation does allow injured workers to seek treatment from the doctor they desire, physician choice might be limited in some situations. The Pennsylvania Workers’...

Don’t let a technical mistake lead to a denial of disability benefits

You may have heard this fact before: most applications for Social Security disability benefits are denied, even when they are considered a second time. So why? The sad truth is that each year many Pennsylvania residents with legitimate disabilities are denied SSDI benefits because of technical mistakes. A disability may...

The modern traffic light turns 100 this week

If you drive a lot, you probably think that stoplights have been around forever; or at least as long as cars have been on the road. After all, how could a busy intersection ever function with just a stop sign (and a traffic cop)? Believe it or not, cities had...

Can I sue my employer for my work injury?

Unfortunately, workplace accidents in Pennsylvania occur all too often, leaving the state’s workers injured, disabled or even dead. When these accidents occur due to an employer or co-worker’s negligence, it is even more tragic as the accident likely could have been prevented. Many industries in Pennsylvania and elsewhere may have...

The perils of defective sunroofs

Imagine you are driving down the freeway. You could be on your way to work or heading to see family and friends. All of a sudden, the sunroof above you starts to crack and eventually shatters; sending shards of glass raining down on your head. While this scary and spontaneous...

What tends to contribute to road rage

If you are planning your Labor Day holiday weekend road trip, you are not alone. Like the preceding summer holiday weekends, it is expected that millions across America will take to the road for the last holiday weekend of the summer. With this higher volume of traffic comes the higher...

Simple change to patient IDs reduced order errors in neonatal ICU

A new experiment with naming protocols at a neonatal intensive care unit found that medical errors by the NICU’s staff members plummeted thanks to the new naming process. The incredible study, which is so simple at its heart that it makes you wonder why it isn’t done more often, was...

Soft tissue injuries in the construction industry

Work-related soft tissue injuries affect the body’s muscles, tendons, discs, nerves, ligaments and cartilage. Examples of these types of injuries include back issues like strain and, more seriously, herniated discs. Soft tissue injuries can also occur in the upper body affecting the neck, the shoulders and other areas of the...

Will a defective tire recall affect summer travel?

The summer driving season is heading towards the final turn. The Labor Day weekend holiday is a few weeks away, but you can imagine that traffic will be heavy on area highways as people try to get one last summer vacation in before school starts. In a couple of our...

Pennsylvania industries among most dangerous jobs

As the nation’s population continues to grow, so does the amount of workers needed to service and supply the people. While this means more much-needed jobs become available, it also means the possibility of more work-related accidents. Pennsylvania’s bounty of natural resources provides almost endless possibilities for employment in our...

The numbers behind texting and driving should concern you

Earlier this summer we wrote about how parents should be vigilant about talking to their kids about the dangers of distracted driving. Indeed, the longer days and lack of school would mean that younger drivers would be on the road later in the day. This is ostensibly why the summer...

What to do after a car accident – Part II

Let’s face it, no one actively prepares to deal with the aftermath of being in an accident before it happens. Sure, we put on our seat belts, drive within posted speed limits and follow the rules of the road for the most part, but when someone runs into us; we...

Furniture company once again fined for poor workplace safety

Ashley Furniture Industries is once more facing a hefty fine after failing to report a workplace injury. Reportedly, a worker lost his finger this past March while working but the furniture company did not report the incident. Already the target of multiple complaints according to the news report, OSHA (Occupational...

Could an unstable compound cause airbags to explode?

If you thought that you were constantly driving with a potential bomb in your car, how often would you drive it? Indeed, most people understand that if a gas tank became ruptured, the results would be catastrophic. This is why many cars are designed so that the tank will not...

Common defenses to your medical malpractice claim

When interviewing firms to take on your medical malpractice case, there is more to just the number of cases, the firm has won (or is taking on), it is the ability to anticipate a doctor’s (or a hospital’s) defenses and being able to defeat them in order to vindicate you....

Will workers’ compensation cover heat related illnesses?

It is the middle of summer and the heat is definitely on in Pennsylvania. During the warm seasons when temperatures can soar into the high 90s or even the 100s, heat related illnesses start to make their appearance. This is so for everyone, and those performing their work tasks are...

Pennsylvania Work Zone Safety law reduces injuries and deaths

Motorists in Pennsylvania know that traveling on the state’s roads carries risks of receiving personal injuries due to accidents. Most of these motorists try to drive in as safe a manner as possible to preserve their safety. However, they must also consider the safety of other people, and this means...

One important end of summer new car buying tip

If you are waiting for the right time to buy a car, the last weeks of August, and even Labor Day weekend are prime buying periods; especially for new cars. At this time of the year, dealers are pressed to make room for new model year vehicles, so they may...

How accident victims can prove fault

We hope our readers had a great Fourth of July weekend. For many people, the holiday weekend was just the beginning of a larger vacation. However, for an unfortunate few, the weekend led to unanticipated accidents and injuries. Some car accidents (and truck accidents) are easy to resolve, and an...

How motorcycle riders can be safe during the Fourth of July

If there’s any summer holiday that motorcycle riders revel in, it is the Fourth of July. There’s a couple of reasons for this; first, the weather will be spectacular for riding. There’s nothing like a warm summer day to bring out one’s bike. Second, riding a motorcycle exemplifies the freedoms...

What car accident victims can recover through a lawsuit

With the Fourth of July holiday weekend quickly approaching, it is a given that traffic volumes will be higher than usual. The mass exodus for vacation getaways may begin in earnest on Thursday, with the holiday being observed on Friday. The Fourth of July holiday is known for being one...

Job-related vehicle accident risk factors for young people

The youth of today fill an important role in the Pennsylvania workplace. From working in simple delivery jobs to more sophisticated mining and agricultural careers, young people keep the busy world in motion. Driving is one of the most common duties assigned to members of the workforce younger than 25...

Is a car that drives like ‘your grandma’ safe on the road?

Much has been said about the safety potential for driver-less cars as we get closer to them becoming a reality. Essentially, the public won’t have to worry about these cars driving aggressively, succumbing to road rage or even driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. But there are...

Crane accident at Penn State kills 29-year-old worker

We know that construction workers face some of the most dangerous job conditions of anyone in the workforce. That sad fact was brought home here in Pennsylvania on June 12. The Uniontown man, just 29 years old, was killed while working on the Burrowes Building at Penn State. The building,...

Could ‘see through’ trucks end up saving lives?

In a number of our posts, we have noted that the additional cars on the road could increase the risk of accidents. Part of this danger involves the passing of slow moving trucks on two-lane highways. Essentially, impatient drivers stuck behind these trucks may not know when it is safe...

Why PTSD is an important consideration in car accident cases

Being in a car accident is likely going to be the most traumatic event you will experience in your lifetime. The act of suddenly being severely jarred or injured through a car accident is not something that people will go through, even though there are an estimated two million crashes...

Can human error still affect self-driving cars?

In a few of our past posts, we have mentioned that the introduction of fully self-driving cars is not a matter of “if” but more or less a question of “when.” Indeed, some automakers have noted that they will offer such cars by the end of the decade. However, it...

How dangerous are forklifts in industrial settings?

If you look around at several different industrial facilities or job locations, what is the one thing you will likely find at each of them? The answer is a forklift of some type, and you will probably see more than one. Like other equipment or machinery, forklifts can indeed be...

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders

Occupational musculoskeletal disorders are frequently caused by ergonomic hazards in the workplace. Since the 1970s, this type of workplace injury has become an increasing problem to the nation’s workforce. Workers in Harrisburg and other Pennsylvania cities are not immune to these dangers, which can cause lengthy work absences and even...

Could you be about to buy a flood damaged car?

Buying a used car has its benefits. You don’t have to worry about substantial depreciation and sticker mark-up that commonly comes with brand new cars. Also, many dealers offer extended warranty plans that allow you to buy with confidence so that you can have what appears to be a new...

Pennsylvania workers’ compensation 101

Being seriously injured on the job sounds frightening, and it is. Often, the first thing injured workers think about is whether or not they will have to miss work and how they will care for their families. Workers’ compensation is the answer to the latter part of that equation, and...

What every accident victim should know about rehabilitation costs

After an accident, your main focus should be on getting better. However, healing does not always happen in a hospital. Depending on the nature of your injuries, you are likely to do most of your recovery at a specialized rehabilitation center. The difference is that rehab centers focus on helping...

Wal-Mart agrees to settle lawsuit brought by Tracy Morgan

Since his horrific accident last summer, we have chronicled the plight of comedian Tracy Morgan as he attempts to recover from the injuries he suffered when the limousine van he was riding in was struck by a Wal-Mart semi-truck. In the midst of his recovery, he filed a lawsuit claiming...

How to deal with the 100 deadliest days of summer for teens

Now that Memorial Day weekend has passed, the most anticipated days of summer are coming. Who doesn’t like the long, warm days (and nights) where hanging out with friends dominates the season. Summer is nirvana for teen drivers, especially those who recently obtained their licenses during the school year. Indeed,...

Falling remains a major factor in workplace accidents

Despite decades of widespread education about the dangers of falls in the workplace, falling remains one of the top reasons for workplace accidents. While the construction industry remains the primary industry in which fatal falls occur, the risk is present in nearly all other industries as well. Even workplace tasks...

Memorial Day weekend driving in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, Memorial Day weekend is the beginning of the summer driving season. With lower gas prices, you can bet that people will be on the road (especially on Friday) to get to their favorite summer destination. With more people on the road, you can expect traffic delays. You can...

What are the most dangerous hazards in the construction industry?

With tens of thousands of people employed in the Pennsylvania construction industry, safety is often a key concern. This is true for both workers and the contractors who employ these workers. These types of careers involve a variety of tasks such as demolition, roofing, roadwork, carpentry, electrical work and many...

Why teen drivers should be concerned about graduation season

For many teens and young adults, graduation is probably the most exciting time of their lives. It is a chance to celebrate all the hard work they have put in to get to this point, and to be optimistic about their futures. You would be hard pressed to find a...

Helpful tips inspired by motorcycle safety month

If you have seen more motorcycles on the road than usual, it may be because riders know that May is motorcycle safety month. More than just a celebration of motorcycle riders, it is about knowing how drivers can be more diligent about seeing motorcyclists. After all, a car-motorcycle accident could...

Accidents in Pennsylvania’s industrial workforce

By their very nature, industrial companies throughout Pennsylvania are the sites of worker accidents from time to time. From manufacturing to the chemical industry to warehouse careers, these jobs can be dangerous to those who do the heavy lifting and other types of work. While workers’ compensation is an enormous...

What pieces of evidence can help in an auto accident case?

In every personal injury case involving a car accident, proving fault is a necessity. After all, in order for someone to be held liable for causing an accident, there must be some form of proof showing that a driver failed to use reasonable care while behind the wheel.  Naturally, there...

Could your car be hacked?

The modern accoutrements that entice car buyers, such as electronic starters, keyless entry systems and in-car WiFi systems are almost too good to pass up; even on entry level vehicles. However, there is a hidden danger that many people may not even be aware of. In fact, many people are...

Planning ahead reduces heat-related worker injuries

Workplaces that expose workers to extreme heat could inflict heat stress illnesses. Heat stroke presents the worst risk to Pennsylvania workers in hot conditions because it is potentially deadly. The federal Occupational Health and Safety Administration recommends that employers keep workers aware of heat illness risks and establish procedures to...

Could potential tire failures lead to speed limit changes?

With a few weeks before the summer driving season begins (i.e. Memorial Day weekend) the NHTSA has raised a concern about potential truck accidents on highways. New administrator Mark Rosekind recently called for action against states that have raised their speed limits to 75 miles-per-hour and higher because of concerns...

Are unnattentive drivers making bus stops dangerous?

As parents, we expect a certain level of safety when we see our kids off at the bus stop. We expect that the bus will stop safety, the lights and stop signs will alert drivers to stop, the children will board the bus safely and take their seats, and then...

Why teen drivers should keep their eyes on the road

In a prior post, we highlighted several different tips that teen drivers can incorporate during prom season so that they can avoid tragic accidents. Indeed, limiting distractions and not drinking and driving are obvious choices, but some teen drivers may not take seriously the importance of keeping their eyes on...

Electrical accident kills construction worker

On April 15, a construction worker in Pennsylvania died as a result of critical injuries that he had sustained in a workplace accident two days before. The 36-year-old man was working on an expansion project at the King of Prussia Mall outside of Philadelphia when he was electrocuted. According to...

How teen drivers can be safe during prom season

It is late April in central Pennsylvania. That not only means that baseball is back, it also means that prom season is here. It is no secret that teens around the region are looking forward to that special night where they get dressed up and have a great time. Indeed,...

Coal industry allegedly stalls black lung disease benefits

Black lung disease remains a health risk for Pennsylvania coal miners. Statistics from the federal Department of Labor show that black lung disease killed over 70,000 workers from 1970 to May 2013. Historically, the disease has killed more miners than cave-ins and explosions. The Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety...

How certain conditions can be misdiagnosed

When people think about medical malpractice, it is common for the gaffes that garner national headlines to come to mind. After all, it is hard to believe that a surgical team can leave tools inside the patient, or that a procedure could be performed on the wrong side of the...

Pre-bankruptcy ignition switch claims against GM dismissed

There has been little news recently about the ignition switch recall that affected millions of vehicles across the United States last year. However, it is expected that lawsuits will continue to be filed against the automaker as more injuries and deaths are determined to be caused by the defect. In...

Road worker killed on Route 22 in Pennsylvania

According to police, a road construction worker was killed by a utility vehicle on Route 22 in Hanover Township on April 9. The accident occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m. The victim, a 43-year-old Connellsville man, was part of a construction crew working to repair a guardrail near Burgettstown that had...

How to be safe on the roads during spring showers

In our last post, we highlighted some of the common (and favorite) rites of spring. Oh, by the way, congratulations to the Pirates for winning their homeowner. But we digress. In spring, snow gives way to rain. After all, the adage “April showers brings May flowers” has some truth to...

New forms of distracted driving problematic for teen drivers

One of the rites of spring in Pennsylvania is the return of Major League Baseball. The Pittsburgh Pirates have a great deal of promise coming into the 2015 season as they will try to make another playoff appearance. Another important rite of spring is spring break for kids. The week...

Pennsylvania employers required to post worker safety notices

Employers in Pennsylvania are legally obligated by state and federal laws to inform employees about workplace safety and the availability of workers’ compensation insurance for injured employees. All workplaces need to have a poster in a visible location that explains the rights and obligations of workers as mandated by the...

Before you drive your new car off the lot, check for recalls

While spring is not the time when the most cars are sold, there are a number of consumers who will drive off the lot in new cars in April. When they do, they likely expect their new car to be in pristine condition. This means that the vehicle should be...

Could the costs of insurance increase for truckers?

It’s no secret that semi-trucks are the most dangerous vehicles on Pennsylvania roads. Because of their sheer size, the results can be devastating when they collide with a passenger car. This is likely why truck drivers and their parent companies must carry such high amounts of insurance. Under federal law,...

Majority of surgical error claims based on faulty equipment

When we think of medical malpractice, we commonly think about the doctor who botches a diagnosis or the surgeon who leaves gauze or other pieces in the patient after the procedure is complete. However, we may not think about the equipment itself being the culprit in a malpractice action. After...

Amusement park worker hit by roller coaster

A worker at an amusement park in Pennsylvania was injured after being hit by a roller coaster on March 26. The worker was injured while a new roller coaster at Knoebels Amusement Resort was being tested. The man suffered from a broken hand and a laceration on his head when...

New test could distinguish bacterial from viral infections

Innovation is one of the things in medicine that everyone roots for. So when new discoveries are found to make things easier or to ensure patient safety, it is worth reporting. A new test has been developed that can help doctors differentiate between bacterial and viral infections. The test is...

Cross country trip the latest test for self-driving SUV

Automakers know that in order to keep up with customer demand, they must continually make innovations. This is why you see changes with how a car looks each year. Engines and interiors change from year to year, and the technology changes as well. So it is no secret that in...

Fast food workers challenge workplace safety

As some Pennsylvania workers may know, fast food workers face challenges from burn injuries. Multiple complaints have been filed with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The workers contend that workplace safety is compromised due to working conditions. According to the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health’s poll of...

What your attorney will want to know after an accident

Being in a truck accident is undoubtedly a traumatic event. You certainly don’t want to have to relive it, but in the event that you have to bring a legal accident to assert your rights, you will have to procure some important (and emotional) painful information to help your case....

Many eligible workers fail to file for workers’ compensation

Pennsylvania workers may be interested to learn that on March 4, the Labor Department released a report charging that the workers’ compensation system is inadequate and is a contributing factor in the growing gap between the rich and poor. According to the report, an on-the-job injury affected workers’ earnings for...

Do you have to buy insurance from a rental car agency?

If you are planning for a spring break getaway, chances are you thinking of renting a car when you reach your destination. As part of the process, you are likely going to be offered insurance to protect yourself, your family and belongings as well as the car. They will quote...

Can a pothole lead to injuries?

Believe it or not, the snow is gradually melting in our region. It is a telltale sign of spring, which means that Punxsatawney Phil actually knew something that we didn’t know. So with the longer days and warmer weather, our roads should be in better shape, right? After all, we...

Parents of teen deemed brain dead after surgery sue hospital

Having a child injured during what is supposed to be a low risk surgery is a parent’s worst nightmare. Unfortunately the nightmare became true for the parents of a California teen who was undergoing surgery for sleep apnea. The child experienced complications during surgery where her heart apparently stopped beating....

Dangers of silica exposure in Pennsylvania workplaces

Natural stone countertops are extremely popular, resulting in the employment of many in the associated manufacturing, finishing and installation industries. Workers whose regular employment involves working with natural stone have a heightened risk of developing serious health problems through exposure to silica. They should thus take preventative measures in order...

Can a surgical mask protect patients from disease

One of the most common things in a hospital setting has to be the surgical mask. They may be almost as universal as standard hospital scrubs. Masks are used to protect against the transmission of harmful germs that can contribute to disease. During the height of flu season and during...

Dangerous railroad crossings may be too expensive to replace

Car accidents involving moving trains are certainly tragic, but they are unfortunately preventable incidents. It is especially concerning given the number of railroad crossings in Pennsylvania without protective gates. Also troubling are crossings where a car may inadvertently become trapped on the tracks. Such was likely the case in a...

The safety risks in using nail guns on a construction job

Pennsylvania construction firms typically carry workers’ compensation insurance to address on-the-job injuries such as those involving nail guns. Although these tools provide important benefits by allowing for greater construction productivity, their heavy use often results in accidents. Proper safety measures may minimize the risks, but it is also important to...

Nurse who contracted Ebola to sue hospital that employed her

It may seem that the Ebola outbreak was so long ago that people may not remember how pervasive the fear over the disease was. It may also be lost on people how many physicians and nurses were infected with it (or suspected to be infected) and how much controversy the...

American automakers win top honors through Consumer Reports

Over the past year, we have written a number of posts regarding automotive recalls and the inherent dangers present in millions of vehicles that have not been taken to dealers for repairs. However, a recent Consumer Reports story may buck that trend. According to the magazine’s annual automotive rankings issue, American automakers...

Pennsylvania explosion injures worker

A Feb. 15 accident has led to the injury of one worker in Derry Township. The incident reportedly occurred after 5 p.m. An explosion at a natural gas company building resulted in a fire, which apparently led to burns to the arms and face of the worker. Officials indicate that...

How to survive an encounter with black ice

It seems like spring can’t get here fast enough. Just as the region has endured another snowstorm, a round of bitter cold is following behind it. What does that mean? The road conditions around the area will be treacherous. Indeed, there are salt trucks and snow plows that will attempt...

What to do if you encounter black ice

It seems like spring can’t get here fast enough. Just as the region has endured another snowstorm, a round of bitter cold is following behind it. What does that mean? The road conditions around the area will be treacherous. Indeed, there are salt trucks and snow plows that will attempt...

Pennsylvania road construction flagger hit, killed while working

Law enforcement authorities have reported that a woman who was working as a flagger in Perry County was hit by a car and killed while she was on the job on Feb. 11. Reportedly, the accident occurred near Duncannon. According to law enforcement, the 52-year-old woman had parked her vehicle...

How to choose the right lawyer for you

If you have recently been in an accident, or you simply have insomnia, chances are that you have seen TV advertisements for attorneys who tout their ability to help you if you have been injured. Whether you find them entertaining or annoying, the process of finding a lawyer could be...

Rhetoric in Washington suggests SSDI remains a political football

The fate of the Social Security Disability Insurance program is percolating to the surface of debate in Washington again. Not only may individuals in Pennsylvania considering whether to try navigating the SSDI application and appeals process be interested. Those who have already been approved to receive their disability benefits are...

The dangers of working in trenches

Workers in Pennsylvania who excavate or dig trenches can be killed or suffer serious injuries if the trench wall collapses. These accidents often occur without warning, and workers are given little or no time to escape the danger. With a cubic yard of dirt weighing over 3,000 pounds, even small...

Could texting be the culprit in the Bruce Jenner crash?

In 2015, it almost goes without saying that texting and driving is unsafe. Each major cellular carrier has some sort of message indicating that the practice is dangerous, and that reading or sending texts can wait. Also, nearly every state has a law that prohibits texting while driving. However, people...

Airbag recall initiated again

In a prior post, we highlighted dire predictions from federal regulators about the number of automotive recalls that would be initiated in 2015. Unfortunately, it is expected that the number of cars expected to be brought back for repairs may eclipse the record number set in 2014. It appears that...

Telecommuting and workers’ compensation

Pennsylvania residents may be unaware that workers’ compensation coverage may be available to workers who work a portion or all of their jobs at home. In the event an injury happens while they are completing tasks in the course of their employment, they may be able to pursue a claim...

Black ice a threat once again

Groundhog day was especially festive this year as thousands gathered in Pennsylvania to find out what the most famous rodent in America has as his prediction for spring. As you may well know, if Punxsuwtawney Phil sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter. If no shadow...

Modifications to machinery reduces risk for employee injuries

Pennsylvania employees who work with stone-cutting machines or rock cutters may know that the machines can potentially be dangerous or hazardous if used carelessly or incorrectly. What they may not know is that many of the machines available on the market pose serious amputation risks for the employee. The Occupational...

Different brain injuries should be treated differently

Injuries in car accidents can have life-altering consequences. The same can be said with falls and sports injuries. This is especially apparent when it comes to head injuries, and we have written several posts on how people with head injuries could have tough roads to recovery. However, just like not...

A reminder to all Good Samaritans during the winter storm

If you have to go out today, we commend you. A major winter storm is taking aim at parts of eastern Pennsylvania, New York, and Massachusetts and is expected to dump more than a foot of snow over the next couple days. We have written a number of times on...

Safe driver discounts could be realized through OnStar program

Consumers are always looking for ways to save on auto insurance costs. Even if they are not actively searching, providers are apt to show you ways to save, if it can give them a leg up in the marketplace. Forget the commercials about “discount double check” or “accident forgiveness,” what...

Black ice responsible for accidents in the Northeast

While weather is expected to get better across Pennsylvania in the coming days, the flash freeze that gripped the region over the weekend is being blamed for hundreds of accidents. Essentially, black ice is the culprit, the thin sheets of ice that can form over roads once moisture on them...

Roadway construction site accidents

Those who work on roadway construction sites face dangers from moving passenger vehicles, but many accidents are caused by construction vehicles and equipment. Pennsylvania is one of the states with the most worker deaths in these types of situations, and creating and enforcing procedures for construction sites could help prevent...

Could more auto recalls be seen this year?

If you thought last year could have been dubbed “the year of the recall,” you certainly had enough information to support that argument. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, automakers recalled nearly 60 million vehicles in 2014 behind a number of ailments. They included General Motors’ ignition defect...

Latest CES brings us closer to self-driving vehicles

With the conclusion of the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas last week, automakers should have consumers really excited about what is about to come in terms of self-driving vehicles. Based on the showings from Mercedes Benz, Audi and BMW, the debut of autonomous vehicles may be sooner than we...

Bucks County silo collapse turned into recovery effort

Authorities on the scene of a Bucks County silo collapse reported that their initial search and rescue effort turned into a recovery effort. After six hours of searching for a worker trapped by the falling debris, authorities indicated the man was then presumed dead. The accident happened on Jan. 8...

Could more people be at risk to truck accidents?

Drivers in Pennsylvania may be wondering what is worse; the weather or other drivers. After all, snow and ice can send drivers into ditches or into other unsuspecting drivers. However, when it comes to semi-trucks on the road, a completely different danger may arise. As we have mentioned in previous...

The case for including motorcycles in V2V communication systems

Automakers have made tremendous strides over the last decade when it comes to safety technology. Indeed, more vehicles than ever now have previously unheard of safety features, including lane departure warning systems, blind spot monitors and even automated braking assist. As impressive as this is, however, several automakers are hard...

When can an ice missile be hazardous to your health

In prior posts, we have written about the dangers that come with winter driving. Essentially, we have given tips about how to navigate icy roads and when you should stay off the roads altogether. However, with the number of trucks that come through our region, it is about time that...

Injuries that commonly occur in car crashes

We hope our readers had a great New Year’s celebration and we wish them a happy and prosperous 2015. If only we had better weather to welcome in the New Year. Indeed, snow and ice is expected in January, as it is a winter month. Nevertheless, it may still be...

Worker injury and illness rates on the decline

Pennsylvania residents might be interested to learn about some of the key findings from a survey that was conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The federal agency recently announced that there were over three million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2013, according to statistics that it had compiled....

Countering amputation risks in the workplace

Pennsylvania workers know far too well that serious injuries may happen on the job. When faulty equipment or lack of safety precautions is involved, repeat accidents may be the focus of an Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigation. This is the case with a chimney supply company in Scranton. In...

Asbestos-related disease statistics

Although many people in Pennsylvania may have heard of asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma, they may be unaware of the extent of the problem asbestos poses worldwide. A commonly-used material, the substance is carcinogenic to humans and causes the deaths of 107,000 people worldwide from its effects every year. Exposure...

Federal hours of service limits could be amended

Federal hours of service regulations are important because they are designed to save lives. A number of high profile trucking accidents across the country have been a result of fatigued driving. An example of which was the accident last summer involving comedian Tracy Morgan, whose limousine bus was struck from...

What defendants may argue in medical malpractice cases

Medical malpractice cases are not easy cases to bring. In addition to the complexity and costs that come with seeking malpractice damages, there may be some elements to the case that do not favor the client. These include the lack of money a law firm may have to bring the...

Tips for safe travels during the holiday season

With the Christmas holiday coming in a few days, it is expected that thousands of people will take to highways across Pennsylvania to travel to see loved ones. It is also estimated that a greater number of people will travel by car to get to their destination. The higher volume...

Common causes of workplace injury

Pennsylvania workplaces are fraught with the potential for serious injury, with specific causes more common in certain industries. Two of the leading causes of injury in almost every profession are stress and fatigue. Tired or stressed workers are more prone to suffering from impaired judgement and thus making mistakes that...

Avoiding truck accidents during the holidays

Next week, the holiday driving season will likely reach its apex. The Christmas holiday will possibly bring tens of thousands of drivers to highways across Pennsylvania as people travel to spend time with family. Besides the elements, distracted drivers and drunk drivers, those who take to the road will also...

How to avoid being a holiday injury statistic

  The holiday season is a time for family and good cheer. The atmosphere is punctuated with parties, holiday songs as well as light displays on nearly every home. However, as personal injury attorneys, we are unfortunately familiar with the down side of the holiday season, as consumers can be...

Pennsylvania construction worker killed in highway crash

A construction worker died in a Dec. 3 crash on Route 422 in Chester County. According to police, an SUV struck the 60-year-old worker while he was putting up traffic cones in connection with a planned highway improvement project. The worker died at the scene of the accident, officials said....

Why can car accident damages be so large?

Sometimes people wonder what is behind the headline grabbing judgments lodged against insurance companies that cover trucking companies and Fortune 500 companies that injure consumers. Some may think that people who are entitled to these large judgments have just won the lottery, and that any run of the mill slip...

How to deal with the perils of holiday shopping, Part II

Tis the season to go holiday shopping! In our last post, we touched upon the dangers that consumers could face in shopping mall parking lots. Essentially, the growing numbers of shoppers combined with escalating tempers could make parking lots more dangerous than usual. However, the dangers do not end at...

Reducing risks when operating heavy machinery

Most Pennsylvania construction workers know that working around and operating heavy machinery is inherently dangerous. With more than 150,000 reported injuries and 800 deaths nationwide in 2013 alone, it is important that both employers and employees take safety precautions seriously. One of the easiest ways to reduce construction work injuries...

How to deal with the perils of holiday shopping

If you survived the perils of Black Friday shopping, congratulations to you. Chances are that you made out well and will not have to brave the crowds and mall traffic until after Christmas. However, if your shopping is not complete, you should take heed when you go through parking lots....

Preventing falls at the workplace

Pennsylvania workers may benefit from learning more about how to prevent falls, as described by material published by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. According to OSHA, employees should be wearing the appropriate protection when working at least four above ground in general industry or at least six feet high...

Despite the dangers, more people use cell phones while driving

Distracted driving has long since become a national safety issue. 44 states have passed laws prohibiting various forms of cell phone use while behind the wheel; particularly texting while driving. However, a recent report from State Farm Insurance indicates that people are still using their phones while behind the wheel,...

Helpful driving tips for the Thanksgiving holiday

The Thanksgiving holiday is nearly upon us. This means that the busiest travel days of the year will see more than 46 million people travelling more than 50 miles away from their homes later this week. For people in our region, driving may be treacherous with a blast of cold...

Why you should deal with the temptation of road rage

If you spend enough time behind the wheel, you are going to encounter someone who tries to do something stupid while in traffic. Either they cut you off by passing in front of you without signaling, or they follow so close behind you (i.e. tailgating) in order to get you...

Scaffold malfunction leaves workers stranded mid-air

The new World Trade Center officially opened the week before this workplace incident, though it had been in use since June, authorities said. The two window washers were working on the south side of the building when one of the four cables supporting their scaffold gave way. Immediately following the...

Common questions about car accidents answered

As we have noted in a number of posts, no one expects to be in a car accident. Despite this, accidents occur around Central Pennsylvania every day. And the sudden winter-like weather does not make driving any easier. For those who have been in an accident, you may have plenty...

Elements that are considered in car accident cases

Proving fault is car accidents is not always easy. There can be a number of factors that can cloud the determination of liability. Nevertheless, regardless of what type of accident has occurred, there are certain elements that can help in showing who was at fault. This post will highlight them....

2012 workplace fatality statistics in Pennsylvania

According to the regional commissioner of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 163 workplace injuries that proved fatal in Pennsylvania in 2012. She also stated that even though that is a preliminary count, the numbers had declined over the 2011 count by 23. The highest number was in...

What you should know about winter driving

Do you remember the polar vortex? The two most infamous words of last year’s winter are making headlines again, as a major fall storm combined with cold arctic air are combining to bring snow to our region earlier than expected. Because of this roads became treacherous and not all drivers...

About Pennsylvania workers’ compensation benefits

The Pennsylvania workers’ compensation program is designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who suffer an injury while on the job or who become sick due to their work environment. However, the complexity of the claims process sometimes makes obtaining all of the available benefits a challenge for an injured...

20 years later, persistence and perseverance has paid off

There is something to be said about persistence and perseverance. These two elements are the great equalizers over talent and genius. After all, there is an entire world of unsuccessful people who claim to be talented as well as highly intelligent people afraid to take chances. Albert Einstein once played...

Fatal bicycle accidents have increased since 2010

In a prior post, we highlighted some of the dangers drivers face as fall is here. As daylight savings time ends, more people will be commuting to and from work in the dark. This creates another set of hazards for people who ride their bikes to and from work and...

Understanding TBI treatment and risks

Patients in Pennsylvania who suffer traumatic brain injuries might not fully understand their injuries and the treatment and risks involved. TBIs occur when an object violently strikes the head or penetrates the cranium and passes into the brain. The symptoms that the patients experience vary depending on the severity of...

Crash test dummies to gain some girth

In a number of our posts, we have highlighted the latest safety upgrades that automakers are touting in the newest vehicles to enter the marketplace. We have also touched upon the structural updates automakers have incorporated in response to IIHS crash test results. However, we likely did not mention how...

What pedestrians and drivers should be aware of for Halloween

Halloween is a unique event that brings kids of all ages out in search of candy. Unlike the Fourth of July or Memorial Day where people are generally outside, Halloween is distinctive in that people are on the streets after dark. The combination of darkness, pedestrians and possible drunk drivers...

Faulty airbag could be a dangerous hazard, NHTSA says

Automakers across the world are bracing for the worst after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a stern warning directed at car owners with potentially defective airbags. According to a recent ABC News.com report, the canister that sits in the center of the airbag could potentially be over-pressurized when...

Girls more apt to suffer behavioral problems after concussions

Much has been said about the dangers of concussions in football, particularly in high school where in the past, many students suffered concussions but were not diagnosed. As research about concussions has progressed, it has come to light that girls playing sports are just as susceptible to suffering traumatic brain...

Lower back injuries are common in the workplace

Pennsylvania workers, especially those who do heavy lifting, may not be surprised to learn that lower back pain is the most common cause of injuries in the workplace. Only workers with a common cold miss more time from work than back pain sufferers. More than 1 million workers nationwide suffer...

Three things pedestrians can do to be safe

In a prior post, we highlighted the dangers that come with the fall driving season. Essentially, we noted how the change in temperatures may lead to foggy mornings, low levels of sun could lead to temporary blinding views in the mornings and afternoons, and how wet roads covered with fall...

Pennsylvania electrical worker dies after 50-foot fall

It has been reported that a 32-year-old electrical worker died on Oct. 9th when he fell more than 50 feet from a bucket in Delco in Upper Chichester. The accident occurred at around 7:30 am on Winding Way while the man was working on power lines. It is unclear whether...

BMW and Lincoln receive poor crash test ratings

With new model year cars on the market, manufacturers are proud to tout the latest safety enhancements, especially with luxury vehicles. A number of models feature lane integrity warning systems, as well as motion sensors that work with braking systems that will apply the brakes before a driver can react...

Are you susceptible to road rage?

If there are two things that can make a driver crazy, they are discourteous drivers and heavy traffic. Rude drivers can raise a person’s ire by cutting people off in traffic, tailgating and using high beams to get people to move out the fast lane…even when the lead car is...

What workers’ compensation benefits are provided in Pennsylvania?

By law, most Pennsylvania employers must carry workers’ compensation in the event any employee incurs a work-related illness or injury. Under the insurance claim, workers may be entitled to receive certain payments based on the severity of their workplace injury or illness. Under workers’ compensation, eligible employees receive payments for...

GM to start making payments for ignition switch crash injuries

In a number of our posts, we have discussed the responsibility an automaker has to inform consumers of dangerous defects, as well as their potential liability should a driver be injured in a crash caused by such a defect. American automaker General Motors has been a consistent example, given that...

Wal-Mart claims Tracy Morgan did not wear his seatbelt

Earlier this summer, actor and comedian Tracy Morgan was severely injured when his limousine bus was struck by a Wal-Mart truck. Morgan has begun the long road to recovery and has filed a lawsuit against Wal-Mart along with several others who were injured in the crash, including his friend James...

Who can be held liable in a car-pedestrian accident?

The question of who is at fault in a car-pedestrian accident is not always clear-cut. There are a number of factors involved, including where the accident occurred, what traffic levels were like (i.e. clear traffic or bumper to bumper) and whether either the driver or the pedestrian were under the...

Contact with electrical wires kills 1 roofer, injures another

A construction accident killed one Pennsylvania roofer and left another seriously injured. The men, who were working for a private roofing company, were putting an aluminum ladder up against a home when it touched power lines. Both men were electrocuted, and the 55-year-old worker died at the scene. The second...

How to deal with fall driving hazards

In a past post, we highlighted the hazards that can come about on Pennsylvania roads during Labor Day weekend. Essentially, the swath of traffic could lead to accidents and that drivers had to adjust. Now that fall has arrived, drivers must brace for a new set of hazards that are...

GM to recall more than 200,000 cars due to brake problem

In a prior post, we highlighted the fact that there have been more recalls so far in 2014 than there had been for the entire year of 2013. It appears that the recalls will keep coming; especially from General Motors, who promised a revamped effort to root out and address...

Study: More parents may be distracted drivers

  Let’s face it, when we think about drivers who would be prone to distracted driving, we may think about teen drivers and those in their early 20’s. After all, this age group is more likely to be obsessed with their online social profiles, are more inclined to talk on...

Who is covered under Pennsylvania’s Workers’ Compensation Act?

One of the most significant concerns a worker may face if an on-the-job injury occurs is whether the incident is covered by workers’ compensation insurance. In Pennsylvania, a majority of workers are covered, even those who are employed part-time or in seasonal positions. There are some exceptions to the state’s...

Understanding the workplace safety rights of federal employees

Pennsylvania federal employees may be interested in some information about their rights regarding workplace safety. Federal law grants these rights and sets specific requirements for federal agencies. According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration, these federal agencies have to meet certain standards for employee safety. OSHA says that these...

Kia Soul upgraded to IIHS Top Pick

Korean automaker Kia has gone to great lengths to promote its brand in America. Its commercials featuring break-dancing hamsters and hip-hop music is ostensibly directed towards younger, first time car buyers. The same could be said with the series of commercials featuring Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin. However, the...

Insights on how to handle liability issues with driverless cars

The newest offerings from Cadillac, Mercedes Benz, BMW and other luxury automakers will include some of the elements that will eventually be autonomous vehicles. These cars are not expected to hit the road until the end of the decade at the earliest, but the introduction of this technology brings a...

How workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania works

Workers’ compensation protects individuals who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act provides for medical expenses, wage-loss compensation and other such expenses. Businesses are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance or to be self-insured. Nearly all workers in the state of Pennsylvania are covered. If an employer...

Five tips to keep young drivers safe

With the new school year beginning, it is less likely that teen drivers will be driving on week nights. However, some teens will still keep their jobs and even go out with their friends on the weekend. Additionally, there will be new drivers who will get their licenses this fall,...

Construction accident information

A construction accident can result in serious health and financial implications for a Pennsylvania worker, especially if the incident results in a lengthy recovery time without the ability to work. While workers’ compensation is an important benefit for addressing issues such as medical treatment and lost wages, there may be...

Will cars start watching drivers in order to prevent accidents?

It is only a matter of time until the holiday commercials come about where automakers will announce special offers for 2015 model year vehicles. When they come, it is reasonable to think that they will tout the newest safety advancements, including lane integrity warning systems, blind spot warnings, and automatic...

Answering questions about concussions in football

It’s an annual tradition like no other. September in Pennsylvania means that football season is back once again. This means that high school teams across state, college teams, even the Steelers and Eagles will once again be delighting fans and making memories. While the action is thrilling, there are definite...

Who may be liable for a construction injury?

Accidents at construction sites in Pennsylvania often give rise to legal action, such as a personal injury lawsuit. An objective of such a lawsuit is to determine who might be liable for the workplace accident. Depending on the accident, there may potentially be several parties who in the final analysis...

Beware of drunk drivers on Labor Day weekend

As Labor Day weekend approaches, we find it prudent to remind our readers of the dangers that await for many travelers who take to the road. Aside from distracted driving, drunk driving still remains a deadly threat for drivers all over Pennsylvania. Labor Day weekend is one of the deadliest...

The dangers of distracted driving not resolved by new technology

The dangers of distracted driving have become well-known over the last three years. They have led to laws controlling the use of cell phones behind the wheel in many states, and the near-universal prohibition of texting while driving. Nevertheless, drivers across the state of Wisconsin still text while driving. Moreover,...

Helpful tips for driving during Labor Day weekend

The exodus for next weekend’s holiday is probably on the minds of thousands of Pennsylvanians already. Labor Day weekend is the unofficial end of summer, (the official end is September 22) and the opening of the 2014 college football season. With that, traffic to vacation destinations throughout the state, and...

Ammonia leak at brewery sends 1 person to the hospital

An old Pennsylvania brewery was evacuated after an explosion on Aug. 13 that injured one person. The explosion took place at the Lion Brewery in Wilkes-Barre, an establishment that was founded in 1905 and is one of the longest-running breweries in the state. According to a statement from the Luzerne...

Driver-less cars are coming, just not yet

The newest cars for the 2015 model year will likely be released after Labor Day. Of course, commercials touting them won’t likely be seen until later in the fall, but two things are certain: sales will emerge for 2014 models, and more 2015 models will include autonomous driving features. The...

Court ruling grants injured employee workers’ comp benefits

According to an August 11 ruling by the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court, Vitas Healthcare Corporation was ordered to pay a past employee workers’ compensation benefits for injuries he suffered even though the employee had declared to his manager that he was quitting his job. Information from the court ruling showed that...

Three safety tips for motorcycle riders during Labor Day weekend

In the coming weeks, tens of thousands of people will take to Pennsylvania roads for the final holiday of the summer. Labor Day weekend is a time when roads will be jammed with drivers trying to get to weekend destinations for one last summer hurrah. Naturally, motorcycle riders must be...

Could Tony Stewart be held liable in driver’s death?

A sprint car driver who had climbed from his vehicle and was on the track was struck and killed on Saturday night. NASCAR driver Tony Stewart is said to be the driver who killed the 20-year-old. It is reported that the driver was trying to confront Stewart, who reportedly caused...

Hyundai fined for not addressing brake defect

The summer of recalls continues as Korean automaker Hyundai is set to pay a $17.35 million fine levied by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Federal regulators contend that Hyundai was very slow to acknowledge that brake lines in their automobiles were subject to corrosion, which could have put lives...

Oil tank explodes, causes minor injuries to worker

A crude oil tank exploded when it was cut with a large-scale circular saw at a Pennsylvania recycling facility. The worker who was making the cut suffered minor injuries in the workplace accident. The explosion took place on Aug. 5 around 11:20 a.m. No other injuries were reported in connection...

The staggering costs of auto accidents

A recent study released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration highlighted a staggering number that many drivers may take for granted. Essentially, researchers found that cost of auto accidents across the United States costs nearly $1 trillion per year when considering the costs of medical expenses, lost wages, property...

The dangers of taking selfies while driving

It should be obvious that taking selfies while driving is inherently dangerous. After all, the act of posing for a picture, pushing a button on a smartphone, and posting it onto Facebook takes a certain amount of focus. If a driver is doing this while they are behind the wheel,...

The untold limits of auto insurance

When consumers think about auto insurance, they may be more familiar with the spokespeople and jingles that insurance companies peddle to reinforce their respective brands. Ask any consumer, and it is likely that they will know the “like a good neighbor, State Farm is there” jingle. The same could be...

High court rules legal status does not affect workers comp

Immigration issues are a hot-button topic around the country, and the highest court in Pennsylvania has weighed in on the subject of immigration as it relates to workers’ compensation benefits. The ruling concerns a claim filed after a South American immigrant filed for benefits following a workplace accident in July...

What to do after a car accident

Being in an accident can be a jarring event. There is nothing really that can prepare you for such an event, but there are several things that can be done to protect your legal rights after an accident. Depending on the severity of the crash, the helpful tips set forth...

Temp worker’s death prompts scrutiny

A Pennsylvania temp worker was killed in a sugar plant accident in February 2013 in Fairless Hills. The man was breaking up clumps in a sugar hopper when he slid into it and was killed by suffocation. The sugar plant had initially had a safety screen in the hopper, but...

Subaru recalls more than 600,000 vehicles to correct defects

The summer of 2014 has been consumed with news about auto recalls. General Motors has been at the center of this news, with millions of cars recalled because of ignition switch concerns. The embattled automaker has even gone as far as taking out full page ads in newspapers advising consumers...

Subaru recalls more than 600,000 cars to correct defects

The summer of 2014 has been consumed with news about auto recalls. General Motors has been at the center of this news, with millions of cars recalled because of ignition switch concerns. The embattled automaker has even gone as far as taking out full page ads in newspapers advising consumers...

Pennsylvania workers injured in several recent accidents

Workplace safety, particularly at construction sites, has become a major issue of concern for many workers in the Pittsburgh area. Two separate accidents, one at a hotel construction site and another at a moving company, involved a scaffolding fall. A majority of workplace accidents in the area were due to...

Tracy Morgan and injured friends sue Wal-Mart for negligence

Former “30 Rock” and “Saturday Night Live” star Tracy Morgan has been released from the rehabilitative center where he had been recovering after spending several weeks in a New Jersey hospital. Morgan was seriously injured in the midst of a crash with a semi-truck owned by Wal-Mart. The crash occurred...

Why auto recalls can be helpful to consumers

News of General Motors’ numerous recalls have probably fallen on deaf ears by now. After all, what began as a relatively small recall of Chevy Cobalts for ignition switch issues has ballooned into the most active recall of 2014. Other recalls include faulty windshield wipers, problems with headlights as well...

Worker killed in explosion at GM facility

One worker was killed and eight others were hospitalized after an explosion that occurred in a General Motors plant on July 2. Quaker Chemical Corp., a Pennsylvania-based chemical manufacturer that provides contract services at the plant, announced that the decedent was one of its employees. The incident occurred at the...

Comparative negligence in New Jersey

While a number of our posts have focused on the dangers of being on the road in New Jersey. We have not highlighted how the law treats injured parties when their own actions may have contributed to the accident that injured them. For instance, a driver quickly checks his phone...

The perils of riding bicycles in New Jersey metro areas

Summer seems to be the ideal time for people to be on bikes. The weather is great, traffic appears to be lighter (because more motorcycles are on the road) and the exercise that comes with riding a bike is good for a person’s health. Nevertheless, riding a bike in the...

2012 statistics point to the 5 most dangerous jobs

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 3.2 workers out of 100,000 died in workplace accidents in 2012. This means that there were 4,628 fatalities across all occupations that year, which is on the low end of the yearly average 4,500 to 6,500. Some workers in Pennsylvania may be surprised...

Motorcycle riders should be careful during the Fourth

This weekend, scores of people who ride motorcycles will be on the road travelling throughout Pennsylvania. The weather is ideal, and the celebrations for the height of the summer are bound to bring more people out than usual. As a matter of fact, AAA estimates that more than 40 million...

Safe driving tips for the Fourth of July holiday weekend

The Independence Day holiday weekend is the second major summer holiday (with Labor Day being the third). Next weekend, millions of Americans will take to highways to travel to destinations for the long weekend. While gas prices are likely to remain unseasonably high, it is not expected to deter people...

Death of Amazon temp worker prompts OSHA citations

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ preliminary data shows that in 2012 alone, temporary workers and contractors were involved in 708 fatalities, which is 16 percent of that year’s workplace fatality total. A 57-year-old man who was working for a staffing agency contracted by a Pennsylvania-based logistics provider was killed...

Tracy Morgan moved to rehab center

Comedian Tracy Morgan has been moved from a New Jersey hospital to a rehabilitation center. Morgan, who is best known for his characters on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” and “30 Rock” spent nine days in the hospital after an accident that left him in critical condition. According to numerous reports,...

Harrisburg man killed in car crash; several others injured

The consequences of drinking and driving in Pennsylvania can be severe. This is true not only in terms of penalties faced by a person who is charged and convicted with a crime such as DUI, but of course in terms of the human cost of lives potentially lost or forever...

Construction accident injures 5 Pennsylvania workers

Several workers involved in a roofing repair project were injured when the scaffolding used in the setting apparently collapsed, causing the individuals to fall approximately 20 feet. The incident occurred on the morning of June 16 in East Deer Township. The vice president of the company who owned the warehouse...

Caring for autistic children, adults can be expensive proposition

Trends in health care and medicine come and go. Whether it’s because of better understanding of conditions that were previously misunderstood, or a more cynical view that doctors are over-diagnosing certain conditions, there are definite peaks of interest regarding certain conditions. One of those is autism. In decades past, parents...

Progress made on motorcycle fatalities, but more work to be done

Improving safety for motorcycle riders in Pennsylvania takes a concerted effort on the part of lots of different people and groups. In order to decrease the number of motorcycle accidents and fatalities, cooperation between our state’s transportation department and the state police has had to improve — and, by many...

Driver in Morgan crash allegedly hadn’t slept in more than a day

By now, many people in Pennsylvania and all around the country have heard about the accident involving comedian and actor Tracy Morgan over the weekend in New Jersey. According to police, a tractor-trailer rear-ended the luxury bus carrying Morgan and some fellow comedians back from a performance at a Delaware...

Check your insurance coverage before ridesharing

Have you ever used a ridesharing service, such as Lyft, Uber or Sidecar? If so, you know that these increasingly popular services allow consumers to quickly and conveniently schedule a local ride from a private driver. Most people who take advantage of ridesharing services probably assume that they will be...

Turnpike worker killed, another injured

An 8 a.m. accident on the Pennsylvania Turnpike on June 1 resulted in the death of a construction worker and injury to another. A tractor-trailer entered a lane that had been blocked to permit workers to do repair work. Police are continuing to investigate the accident that closed the highway...

Taking ‘time out’ prevents wrong site surgeries

Have you heard of National Time Out Day? For about 10 years now, on June 11, doctors, nurses and other medical professionals have observed National Time Out Day to raise awareness around correct surgical procedure. And if you look at national statistics, then you’ll realize that more awareness in this...

Pennsylvania motorcyclist dies when he hits turning truck

Motorcyclists are out in force on Pennsylvania roads these days, as the weather is nice and the days are longer. People who ride motorcycles will tell you that the feeling of being on a bike is one that is hard to match. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are sometimes difficult for other drivers...

Tractor-trailer strikes turnpike workers in construction zone

Perhaps nobody is as familiar with the inherent danger of highway traffic than those workers who have to maintain our roads. There is often no way to do maintenance on busy roads such as the Pennsylvania Turnpike other than occasional lane closures, so that traffic can continue to get where...

$16.3 million awarded to injured Pennsylvania worker

A settlement was reached on May 28 awards $16.3 million to a construction worker who was maimed by a 3,000-pound base stone that fell at a renovation site in Philadelphia. The man was to receive the settlement from four defendants, those being the site’s contractor, the company overseeing the demolition,...

What holiday is the most dangerous for people who are traveling?

It should come as no surprise that many deadly accidents take place during holiday times in the United States. There are several reasons that this would be so. For one, many people have the day off of work for federal holidays such as Independence Day, so people who might not...

Lack of safety precautions leads to worker’s death

Pennsylvania workers know that following safety precautions in the workplace is essential. A 28-year-old man in a Massachusetts facility was never trained in procedures that might have saved his life. The company had been cited by federal safety inspectors for not following safety protocol. The young man died while trying...

Could medical errors one day be a thing of the past?

In many cases, diagnosing the correct illness of people in Pennsylvania can be tricky for doctors. This is, of course, a critical task; a delay in diagnosis, or an incorrect one altogether, could be a critical or fatal medical error. Depending on the illness, timing can be crucial. The sooner...

Harrisburg Social Security judge grants biggest awards in US

There can be a lot of uncertainty for disabled Pennsylvania residents when they are considering filing for Social Security disability insurance benefits. The paperwork can be daunting, and the documentation that must be produced might seem like a barrier to many residents. And if applicants should be denied Social Security...

Prom season brings reminders for kids to make good choices

The memory of prom night likely conjures up all kinds of memories for Pennsylvanians — some of them funny, some of them cringe-worthy, and others happy. Unfortunately, for many people in Pennsylvania, the thought of prom night reminds them of a loved one whose life was lost in a car...

Pennsylvania railroad worker files claim against employer

The Federal Employers’ Liability Act, passed in 1908 by the U.S. Congress, exists to protect and assist railroad workers who are injured on the job. A resident of Levittown has filed suit in connection with his workplace injury, claiming that his company failed to provide a safe workplace. The man...

U.S. misdiagnosis rate will almost certainly shock you

Researchers have determined just how many Americans are misdiagnosed in outpatient settings on an annual basis and their conclusions will almost certainly shock you. In addition to individuals who are affected by diagnosis errors while hospitalized, approximately 12 million adults are misdiagnosed in outpatient settings every year. Put another way,...

Pennsylvania man killed in construction site accident

A 32-year-old Pennsylvania man died while working on a sewer installation project on May 6. The construction accident occurred in Somerset County southeast of Pittsburgh. The construction work was part of a project to provide the small town of Ursina with its first sewer system. The construction work involved lowering...

3 killed when tractor-trailer smashes into car on freeway

It’s often easy to forget just how dangerous our roads and highways can be. When everything goes as it’s supposed to, traffic moves smoothly and everyone reaches their destinations safely. However, one small error on the part of a driver can lead to a fatal crash, forever changing the lives...

Pennsylvania man killed when he hits turning pickup truck

Almost all of us in Pennsylvania have heard the refrain — and seen the bumper stickers — urging drivers to start seeing motorcycles. Unfortunately, it is still often the case that this is easier said than done. This point is underscored when motorcycle accidents — many of which are preventable...

Man falls 38 feet to his death after 2 motor vehicles collide

It would be fair to say that a person walking down the street on a weekday morning is not expecting his life to change in a flash. But that’s just what happened for one University of Pennsylvania graduate student who was walking down Philadelphia’s Walnut Street earlier this week. The...

OSHA fines oil company in connection with refinery explosion

Pennsylvania workers may be interested in recent news regarding a 2013 explosion at a Mississippi refinery that left one worker dead. On April 24, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration released its findings to a month-long investigation into the explosion and fire at Chevron’s Pascagoula refinery on November 15. OSHA...

Thousands of licenses not suspended because of oversight in court

One of the functions of government is to do its best to keep residents safe. When it comes to driving, this not only means making sure that the roads are in good physical condition, but also regulating the rules of the road. This comes down not only to what people...

Pennsylvania workers face significant risk of falling off ladders

According to a recent study, workers using ladders in Pennsylvania and other parts of the country face a significant risk of falling. Approximately 20 percent of all fall injuries in the U.S. can be attributed to falls from ladders. That number has grown to 81 percent of all fall injuries...

Hard to say how many affected by drug-addicted medical workers

Pennsylvania residents expect that when they require medical treatment, they will be treated by doctors, nurses and other health-care professionals who have their well-being in mind. Unfortunately, and likely more often than anyone realizes, this is not always the case. Nobody expects health care workers to be perfect — either...

Study: More than 50,000 preventable workplace deaths last year

Pennsylvania residents might be disturbed by a recent report published by the National Council on Occupational Safety and Health, which claimed that more than 50,000 people died in workplace-related injuries and illnesses in 2013. Among these deaths, said the report, was that of a 27-year-old camera assistant working on the...

Could accidents be prevented with better distracted driving laws?

Earlier this month on our Pennsylvania personal injury blog, we wrote about how one woman’s life was permanently altered by a distracted driver who crashed into her family’s vehicle. The accident killed her parents and inflicted catastrophic injuries on the woman, who now travels the country to advocate for stronger...

Motorcycle safety can go a long way toward avoiding injuries

This winter has been a particularly tough one for Pennsylvanians and people all over the country. Now that it’s finally warming up, several rites of spring are upon us, including Easter, an abundance of robins, and folks wanting to get out and about after several long, cold months spent inside....

Federal appeals court upholds SeaWorld trainer drowning decision

Pennsylvania SeaWorld fans might have heard about the trainer at the SeaWorld Park in Orlando, Florida, who was interacting with a killer whale on Feb. 24, 2010, when the whale took hold of her and pulled her from a platform and into the pool. She was held underwater and drowned...

Bully of disabled kids gets court-ordered comeuppance

How far should the justice system go to defend the rights of the disabled? Many people might feel that not enough is done on a daily basis, but one case that is getting some international attention is demonstrating how some people are willing to go to bat for the disabled...

Shortly after dad’s funeral, 4-year-old son killed in car crash

It goes without saying that there is never a good time for a car accident to occur. However, there are some circumstances in which the tragedy of losing a loved one in a fatal crash is compounded by other events. This is what a southeastern Pennsylvania family is facing after...

Pennsylvania man survives work-related chainsaw accident

A professional tree cutter was removing a tree when the chainsaw he was using struck his shoulder and embedded itself in his neck. He had been attempting to cut around power lines at the time of the accident. A co-worker assisted the man until EMTs arrived on the scene. Although...

Could left-hand turns become a thing of the past?

Is driving a right, or is it a privilege? While many Americans might suggest that it’s the former, it is actually the latter. Driver’s licenses are granted by the government, and can be revoked for moving violations or more serious crimes. Such actions are taken with public safety in mind....

New vehicles will have rear-view technology to prevent accidents

Car accidents come in many forms, but while sometimes they are essentially impossible to avoid, on other occasions they are very much preventable. As such, automakers have devoted lots of time and energy to technology that would be able to help overcome some of these preventable car accidents. One that...

Woman’s story is harrowing reminder of cost of distracted driving

We’ve all heard about Pennsylvania car accidents that are caused by distracted driving. Many times on our blog, we will write about the details of a fatal crash, but we don’t always hear about the continuing effects of such a crash on the victims and their families. These sorts of...

Woman exits car after accident, is fatally struck by big rig

Following a motor vehicle accident, there are multiple emotions running through the heads of the people involved: worry for the health of the people in their vehicle; anger at the other driver involved; and anxiety at the potential costs that might be on the horizon. However, it is important to...

School worker injured in incident with student

A Pennsylvania school worker was knocked unconscious on March 21 after he was reportedly attacked by a student. The workplace injury happened at John Bartram High School, which is on South 67th Street in Philadelphia. According to authorities, the worker and a student exchanged words while students were changing classes....

Teenagers might say one thing about drunk driving but do another

Pennsylvanians know that the campaign against drunk driving has been successful. Compared with a few decades ago, the incidences of drinking and driving — particularly those that lead to a car accident — are down considerably from where they once were. However, until those figures are down to zero, there...

2 Pennsylvanians injured in roof collapse

Two Pennsylvania workers suffered injuries in an accident in Cambrian County. The construction accident occurred at a Hampton Inn in Richland Township on Wednesday, March 26 at around 10:30 a.m. as the two men were trying to repair a carport ceiling that had been damaged by seasonal weather. While the...

Proposed regulation aims to cut down on drowsy driving

Readers of our Pennsylvania personal injury blog know that drowsy driving has become a real problem on our streets and highways. People who get behind the wheel when they are tired are doing everyone a disservice. Being sleepy while driving can have effects similar to drinking and driving: slowed reaction...

Pennsylvania foundry fined for repeat safety violations

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued citations to Domestic Casting Co. LLC for 26 safety violations at its foundry in Shippensburg. The citations follow a complaint and subsequent inspection of the facility in August 2013, at which time the inspector found violations similar to some that the company...

Bad pothole season boosts risks for motorcycle accidents

As it is, Pennsylvania motorcycle riders are often at a disadvantage on the road compared to other motorists. Drivers may not always see someone on a motorcycle, even in the best of conditions. And when conditions are worse than normal, that problem can intensify. This winter, as we all know,...

SSA proposal could make legal consultation more important

We have written from time to time on our Pennsylvania personal injury blog about how it can be important to have solid legal advice when it comes to applying for Social Security disability insurance benefits. This might become even more important if a proposal regarding requirements for Social Security disability...

Flash fire severely burns Pennsylvania worker

A flash fire at an east Erie industrial plant burned a maintenance worker on the afternoon of March 4. Emergency personnel transported the worker to a local medical center for treatment. He was later transferred to a Pittsburgh hospital burn unit where he has been listed in critical condition. No...

Snowplow fatally strikes elderly man crossing the street

Winter driving in Pennsylvania is dangerous. Roads can be slippery and more narrow than usual; drivers might clean off their windows insufficiently, impairing their vision. Additionally, fewer hours of daylight mean that drives that might otherwise be undertaken in the daytime are done at night, when visibility is worse. Of...

Kennedy uses DUI experience to send controversial message

Though some people think of a “Kennedy” as someone who has it all, members of the Kennedy family have had their share of tragedy in the past. Former President Kennedy’s niece Kerry Kennedy’s recent run-in with the law is not at the tragic level of an assassination, but her impaired...

Elderly patient was wrongly diagnosed as dead

It is the stuff that nightmares or Edgar Allan Poe stories are made of: a person wakes up inside of a body bag. How could someone, who is not dead, end up in a body bag in this day and age? That is a grave question that the national public...

Families workers killed by explosion to receive compensation

When a residential water heater used in lieu of a commercial boiler exploded in a plastics factory in 2009, two people were killed. The former manager of the Solus Industrial Innovations plant and the maintenance supervisor for the facility were charged with felonies related to the workplace accident. On Feb....

Two nights of sleep for truckers improves traffic safety

In regards to traffic safety, people tend to talk about drunk driving or even distracted driving these days. But there is another threat on the roads that leads to truck accidents too often: driver fatigue. What is the longest that you have ever been behind the wheel? How much time...

Parties reach $17 million settlement in workplace death case

A Pennsylvania family will receive what is being called one of the largest settlements for a workplace death in Philadelphia history. The settlement was reached just prior to the start of a jury trial on the matter. In the summer of 2011, at a Philadelphia steam plant run by Veolia...

MADD: Drunk driving accidents mostly caused by first-timers

When a serious accident takes place, it can be the natural tendency to assume the worst about the person who might have caused it. For example, if a victim is injured or killed in a drunk driving accident in Pennsylvania, one might guess that the drunk driver has a history...

Timing is key to prevent teens from driving while distracted

If you have a teen driver in your household, then you probably know how it is bittersweet once they get their driver’s license. It is good because parents no longer have to take their kid everywhere. It is a scary milestone, however, because of the many dangers that come with...

With mild weather coming soon, motorcycle safety tips are due

Today isn’t exactly the picture of beautiful weather. It isn’t a motorcycle rider’s dream to hit the Pennsylvania roads while they are sloppy and the wind is cold. As every year proves, however, the winter has its end; spring will arrive; riders will want to ride again. Though a gorgeous...

One missing, one injured following explosion at natural gas well 

An explosion at a natural gas well in southwestern Pennsylvania has left one worker injured and another one missing. The well, owned by Chevron, is about 50-miles south of Pittsburgh, near the West Virginia border. A company spokesman said that an explosion occurred at about 6:45 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb....

Study: Stress among injured workers results in disability risk

Going to work can be a stress in itself. Now, imagine that someone kisses their kids goodbye in the morning, goes to work and then is injured on-the-job. Or imagine the stress of an injury or illness that keeps someone from being able to go to work. Work is more...

Punitive damages sought after Pennsylvania worker’s death

A judge is allowing a claim for punitive damages to proceed for a widow who is suing a ladder manufacturer and the city of Philadelphia for the death of her husband. The woman claims that a defective ladder caused her husband’s workplace injury and eventual death. On Aug. 15, 2012,...

Pennsylvania proposal seeks to reduce DUI accidents

There is no question about it. Drunk driving is dangerous. People are injured and even killed in drunk driving accidents every day. The prevention of impaired driving is an ongoing struggle in Pennsylvania and this country overall. Pennsylvania lawmakers are trying a new approach to stop the traffic safety danger....

Is need for speedy sandwich delivery a traffic safety threat?

Jimmy John’s sandwiches have found a place in the hearts (and stomachs) of eaters all around the country. What makes the chain’s food so desirable? For many, it might be the taste of the bread and the meats piled-high. For many, the so-called “freaky fast” delivery is as tempting as...

3 homes burnt after suspected gas explosion

A fire damaged three homes in a south Philadelphia neighborhood on Jan. 30, injuring two employees of Philadelphia Gas Works. It is suspected that the fire was caused by a leaking gas line, which may have led to an explosion around 7:30 p.m. However, at the time of the report,...

Pennsylvania gets ‘caution’ rating for traffic safety

How do you feel about the safety of Pennsylvania roads? Could legislators enact stronger laws to reduce the number of traffic accidents in the state? Every year a traffic safety advocacy group tracks the safety improvements and dangers from state to state. The 2014 Roadmap of Highway Safety Laws highlights...

Doctor-to-be let down by other Pennsylvania doctors

She was not far from becoming a pediatrician when her dreams and potential to help others fell victim to the kind of negligence she was trained to avoid. A 26-year-old medical school graduate went to a Pennsylvania facility because she suffered from an ongoing headache. Her condition worsened, and the...

Pennsylvania character hurt in dancing pedestrian accident

Finding the time and joy in one’s life to dance is admirable. There is, however, a time and place to partake in the carefree activity. For example, while walking the roads of Pennsylvania, pedestrians would be wise to focus on the task at-hand: to get from one place to another...

Pennsylvania worker killed by falling electrical box

According to a York County deputy coroner, a one- to two-ton electrical box fell on and killed an Adams County electrician on Jan. 20. The workplace accident occurred at a water authority pumping facility that is undergoing expansion in Windsor Township. According to police, the worker was attempting to move...

How much bacteria are on your Pennsylvania doctor’s lab coat?

For hospitals and patients, infections are a very real concern after a surgery has been completed. A post-operative infection can lead to very serious complications that could even prove to be fatal for the patient. This is why there are very strict rules for hygiene both in the operating room...

Pennsylvania doctors support stricter motorcycle helmet laws

Ideas for legislative change come from many sources. If laws are a matter of safety, perhaps it is no surprise that emergency room doctors would form some opinions about how certain injuries and illnesses could be prevented. Doctors in the state are weighing in on the matter of motorcycle safety....

Worker injured at Dura-Bond Industries by steel pipe

A man who was identified as a temporary employee for Dura-Bond Industries in Pennsylvania was injured in a workplace accident when, according to police, a large steel pipe hit him in the back. Workers were moving the pipes at the Duquesne facility a little after 8 a.m. on Jan. 13...

25 conditions added to SSDI Compassionate Allowances list

Applying for disability benefits isn’t always described as the easiest process. Whether seeking benefits under the Social Security Disability Insurance program or the Supplemental Security Income program, any missed detail, medical document or other requirement could lead to a denial. The complexity or an initial denial is what often prompts...

Health law covers habilitative services but will insurers comply?

As some people in Pennsylvania may know, habilitative treatment can be an extremely helpful tool for those who live with developmental disabilities. Unlike rehabilitation, habilitation helps someone learn and retain a skill rather than helping them re-learn how to do it. For a long time, however, insurers have not been...

Pennsylvania resident wins workers’ compensation appeal

A Westmoreland resident recently won an appeal in Commonwealth Court to receive workers’ compensation benefits. The appellant worked as a caregiver for her 33-year-old son for nine months in her home. Her son had myriad significant health issues that qualified him to receive care in a private residence under a...

International ad puts tragic visual to dangers of speeding

Though various things differ from country to country, at least one thing remains constant: speeding is dangerous no matter where someone is driving. A New Zealand public service announcement serves as a PSA not just to its country’s drivers but to all drivers, including in Pennsylvania. The traffic safety ad...

Worker burned at metal plant

A Pennsylvania worker was injured and transported to a care facility when his clothing caught fire as he was warming himself and got too close to an open flame portable propane heater. His co-workers helped to put out the flames by rolling him on the ground and using a fire...

Fatal Pennsylvania accident costs trucker a mere fine

What is a life worth? It is a rhetorical question, really, and one that nobody hopes to ever have to contemplate in their lives after they lose a loved one. In the case of a 55-year-old who died in a Pennsylvania truck accident, it sounds as though his life was...

New Year holiday added dangers to Pennsylvania roadways

Finally, the holiday season is behind us. It is bittersweet. Of course, getting and giving gifts, having festive foods and having time off of work are just some of the wonderful aspects of the season. Then there is the dangerous situation of the holidays: unsafe Pennsylvania roads. New Year’s Eve...

Worker crushed to death in trucking accident

The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration is looking into the cause of an industrial accident at a Pennsylvania trucking company that claimed a man’s life in late December. The fatal workplace accident occurred on the morning of Monday, Dec. 30, 2013. A representative of the local police department said...

Hope continues for family of child declared ‘dead’ after surgery

In a recent post we shared how a young girl underwent surgery for her tonsils but suffered major complications following the hospital procedure. Those complications have left the child, 13, in a condition that medical professionals, lawyers, family and other critics are passionately debating. The basic matter of controversy is...

A white Christmas made for hazardous Harrisburg roadways

Just as many central Pennsylvania motorists were likely headed home or out for more holiday visits on Dec. 26, they got an unexpected visitor of their own: a heavy snowstorm. That snowstorm not only added white to Christmas, but it added a long day of stress on the roads because...

Worker injured by an explosion at Pennsylvania plant

A worker at the Wolfe Dye & Bleach Works Inc. in Perry Township suffered injuries as a result of an explosion that occurred on Dec. 21 sometime after 1 p.m. After the workplace accident, the 47-year-old man fled the scene and crossed Route 61, where a motorist pulled over and...

Motorcycle permit limits closer to law in Pennsylvania

Based on the premise of a legislative effort in Pennsylvania, there is a right and wrong way to use a learner’s permit. Motorcycle riders in the state, according to lawmakers, have been abusing the existing motorcycle learner’s permit system. That supposed abuse has traffic safety implications and therefore, has inspired...

Holiday aggression an issue for 32 percent of drivers

There are only a few days left before Christmas Eve. This means that there are only a few days left to buy the last few presents, wrap them, purchase the groceries for the big meal and make sure the house is in order for guests. Of course, the weather in...

Liquor store worker injured on the job by pistol-whipping robber

A female Pennsylvania liquor store employee was pistol-whipped by a black-clad robber, and the attack was caught on store video surveillance footage, according to police. The mid-morning robbery that left the worker injured on the job started when a man pulled out a gun as soon as he entered the...

Family mourns loss after child’s surgery takes tragic turn

Many people might think that getting one’s tonsils removed sounds like a simple, routine surgery. That doesn’t mean that the procedure never goes wrong or endangers a person’s life. An out-of-state family has learned in the most tragic way possible that even a tonsils surgery can be deadly. CNN reports...

Why having rich parents supposedly caused drunk driving deaths

When a drunk driving accident occurs, the simple and obvious thing to blame the wreck on is the alcohol. Of course, there is the person who drinks and then drives, who is certainly deserving of the blame — right? Not according to a recent out-of-state case involving a deadly DUI...

Temporary workers have little protection

Pennsylvania workers may be surprised to learn that temporary workers make up approximately 2.8 percent of the workforce, and they have little or no protection when they are hurt at work. These workers are often told to report any workplace injuries to the temporary-labor companies that placed them, but these...

Political fodder falsely implies SSD payments are easy to get

Worry and stress about the economy tends to result in strong opinions regarding all sorts of ways that our country could better utilize its money. While economic stability is an important cause, the means of getting there must be based on well-rounded, honest information. Representatives from the Social Security Administration...

OSHA suggests public database on workplace safety

The U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration has suggested that some workplaces in Pennsylvania and across the nation be required to put their records of injuries and sicknesses online once every three months. The information would be public and available in a database. OSHA believes that mandatory reporting will hold...

Last week’s holiday included fatal Pennsylvania traffic accidents

Though many people are likely looking back on the recent Thanksgiving holiday vacation with fond memories of family, food and time off, accident reports indicate that there are too many in the state whose holiday was tainted by tragedy.  The Morning Call reports that traffic accidents of various kinds made...

Older drivers pose specific safety risks on the roads

This week is Older Driver Safety Awareness Week. Some will make jokes about an elderly person behind the wheel, but when it comes to safety, it isn’t a joke. Most have been taught to respect their elders, and fostering an environment wherein seniors are safe drivers is a way to...

OSHA encourages safety for the holiday shopping season

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued a list of safety guidelines for retail stores in Pennsylvania and nationwide in preparation for the shopping season. The assistant secretary of labor for the organization stated that the holiday season should not be a reason for workers to be at...

Peers in medicine face internal struggle over reporting errors

There is what in TV and movies at least some characters might call a “snitch.” Among groups of kids, there is the “tattle tale.” These are not ideal classifications that most would want to take on. But there are situations when telling the truth is of utmost importance. A medical...

Holiday brings to mind anti-DUI efforts in Pennsylvania

Most people’s Thanksgiving turkeys are probably thawing, with the cooks prepping for a big day on Thursday. While cooks have their traditional concerns this holiday, safety officials and police have classic concerns of their own. Drunk driving accidents are on the list of concerns. That traffic safety concern makes a...

Colorado miners killed, sick from mining accident

Pennsylvania workers may be subjected to dangerous working conditions due to the large amount of factories and associated industrial accidents. However, a recent mining accident in Colorado was the site of the latest large-scale workplace accident. The mining accident occurred in southwestern Colorado. The Ouray County Sheriff’s Office received an...

Mental health coverage change highlights impact of mental illness

What can keep a person from being able to work? There are various situations, work injuries, other injuries and illnesses that can keep employees from performing their jobs. Often, the inability to work is a short-term, temporary hurdle. For others, their injury or illness could make for a long-term disability....

Last year showed increase in number of motorcycle crash deaths

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that U.S. roads are safer today than they were in the 1950s. But that is more than 60 years ago. Surely laws and knowledge alone would result in better drivers and fewer traffic fatalities, right? Comparisons are important to make on more of...

Trooper qualifies for workers’ compensation

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled in favor of a state trooper who sought workers’ compensation benefits after a fatal pedestrian accident. Originally, the Commonwealth Court and Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board denied benefits to the trooper, saying that dangerous situations should be expected in his line of work. The Supreme Court,...

Distracted driving isn’t a danger posed only by young drivers

The stereotypical visual that might pop into a person’s head at the mention of distracted driving is probably an 18-year-old with music blaring and the windows of her car rolled down as she is staring at her phone and laughing at her latest text message. Maybe it is time to...

Lawmakers seek changes to black lung benefits program

Lawmakers are working on a piece of legislation that will help overhaul workers’ compensation for black lung, a condition that affects many Pennsylvania coal miners. The program was started in the 1960s to help coal miners who suffered from the disease unique to the occupation. Advanced black lung is a...

Pennsylvania court holds the line on medical malpractice verdict

Nobody wants to go through the experience of being hospitalized for a serious medical condition. However, patients might feel comforted by the knowledge that medical staff is on hand to provide care as needed. The unfortunate reality is that medical institutions don’t always provide the level of care people come...

Celeb’s motorcycle-related controversy highlights safety concern

It is all fun and games until someone gets hurt. That’s the saying, right? It is a philosophy that motivates many people to take on as many safety precautions that they can in order to avoid accidents. Unfortunately, accidents will happen, usually because another person failed to act responsibly. That...

Common causes of Pennsylvania worker accidents

There are a wide variety of reasons that workplace accidents occur, many of which are preventable. When organizations are proactive about ensuring the safety of their employees, a workplace injury is less likely to occur. Some of the most common causes of accidents are wet floors, hazardous materials and unsecured...

Did Halloween prove more hazardous than happy?

Well, the treats have been handed out. The tricks have been played. The string of horror movies are no longer playing on TV like they have been the past couple of weeks. Halloween is behind us for the year. Some, however, might not be able to so casually forget that...

Elderly pedestrian killed by careless bus driver in Pennsylvania

It is difficult to imagine that an everyday activity could turn to tragedy with just one reckless moment. Recklessness, particularly behind the wheel of a vehicle, can lead to severe traffic accidents. One elderly woman didn’t survive the reckless behavior of a bus driver last month. The bus driver involved...

Hit motorcycle leads to 5 deaths in Pennsylvania crashes

In a recent post on this personal injury site, we shared a Pennsylvania motorcyclist’s thoughts about a recent incident involving a death and an assault involving motorcycle riders. He tried to make the point that not all who ride motorcycles cause mayhem like those involved in the New York incident....

Computer problems slow down workers’ comp claims

An update to a government computer system in Pennsylvania has brought the workers’ compensation system to a stop. The new system was supposed to improve and overhaul the process for filing workers’ compensation claims, but the new system seems to be having the opposite effect. Problems range from the inability...

Discovery of suspected cause of Fibromyalgia could help disabled

Most people don’t want to live with pain. They want to live healthy lives and engage in the activities of healthy people. Those activities might be leisurely such as walking, swimming, etc. Those activities might be of the professional kind like typing, driving or other physical tasks that financially support...

State motorcycle group speaks out about recent attack by riders

Though the Sep. 29 incident wherein an SUV driver was attacked by a motorcyclist didn’t take place in Pennsylvania, the behavior of the motorcyclists involved is having an impact on motorcycling enthusiasts everywhere. The extreme nature and the footage available of the New York ride and attack could give the...

Government shutdown severely hampers OSHA

Workers in Pennsylvania who perform dangerous jobs may be especially concerned about the government shutdown which began on Oct. 1. The investigation of workplace accidents by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, has all but shut down, with 90 percent of the agency’s inspectors furloughed. Manpower levels are...

New phone option meant to keep drivers in ‘driving mode’

Do you use your cellphone while driving? If you do, you are not unlike the many drivers who either talk or even text while behind the wheel. Some will do so even if their state has laws against texting and driving. It is a hard habit to break, but also...

Your hospital might have some dangerous secrets, part 2

Our previous post this week began a list of some of the dangers that can threaten patients’ safety. We mentioned how the ratio of nurses to patients can make a difference in patient health. We also shared how not all medical workers are the experienced, qualified doctors that all would...

Preliminary objections overruled in workplace injury case

A Pennsylvania judge has overruled a defendant’s preliminary objections to being named in a joinder complaint to an initial workplace injury case. The judge stated that the defendant had 20 days from the judicial order to file a response to the suit. An employee of the defendant who was working...

Your hospital might have some dangerous secrets, part 1

It is pretty normal for people to dread doctor or hospital visits. There is the common dread, but then there is a level of dread that should be avoidable — that is if all health care facilities and workers lived up to proper safety standards. In an ideal world, patients...

Subcontractor files lawsuit after on-the-job accident

A Philadelphia worker filed a lawsuit on Sept. 23 after he was injured on the job and broke his arm while working as a subcontractor when items on a forklift fell off onto him. The construction accident happened as he worked on a commercial loading dock on April 30. His...

Are teens put on the roads while too apt to cause accidents?

For adults who have been driving for decades, signaling a turn or slowing and accelerating just right for a turn become sort of unconscious habits, hopefully. Experience is traffic safety’s best friend. So what does that make inexperienced teen drivers? Are teen drivers the enemy of safety? That might be...

Breath test phone apps: Will they prevent drunk driving crashes?

“There is an app for that,” is a marketing slogan that is true for just about any situation. There are cellphone applications that can track budgets, help us lose weight, keep us from getting lost, etc. There are cellphone apps that can tell us whether we are too drunk to...

Disability insurance is a help anyone should consider

For some, disability is a removed idea. Some people have never suffered injuries or illnesses that disable them. But more people than some might think will suffer from conditions that not only are painful and unpleasant but they are severe enough that it keeps people from doing their jobs and...

Chemical leak in Pennsylvania business sends one to hospital

One person was sent to the hospital and several homes and businesses were evacuated after a chemical leak at a Pennsylvania business occurred. The report did not indicate what the chemical was but authorities stated that it posed no threat to the public. According to the report, the evacuation occurred...

Off-duty officer is DUI suspect in fatal Pennsylvania car crash

People want to believe that anyone, regardless of their gender, age, income or profession, are treated the same in the eyes of the law. A Pennsylvania community is debating whether the case of a police officer who was part of a recent car accident is being handled in a fair...

Malpractice can happen to anyone, even an infamous Yankee

One doesn’t have to be a baseball player to know that Alex Rodriguez of the MLB Yankees has been in some trouble with the league recently. While he has always been a player that people either love or hate, this past couple of months have given everyone a reason to...

12 workers injured in fire at Pennsylvania munitions factory

A dozen factory workers were hospitalized as a result of a factory fire in Jamestown on Sept. 10. The fire began at about 5:45 a.m. that morning in the Kinsman Road plant which manufactures tear gas and other tactical munitions. According to the local fire chief, the blaze occurred in...

Most states miss out on anti-distracted driving funds

Government plays a significant role in creating safer roads in Pennsylvania as well as in other states. Without government funding, various safety efforts would never get started that serve the best interests of their communities. Drunk driving prevention is just one example of how funding is used to implement traffic...

Alcohol impacts sobriety and severely changes safety beliefs

It is the weekend. It is very common for adults to consume some alcoholic beverages during their down time, and that in and of itself isn’t a bad thing. However, a recent psychological study regarding drunk driving supports why safety advocates worry about the risks of drunk driving in Pennsylvania...

Pennsylvania teacher, 2 others die in car accident

Some people leave a lasting impression on almost everyone they meet. Losing these unforgettable and influential figures can be incredibly difficult. Unfortunately, a Pennsylvania community is dealing with the recent loss of two women who were respected by many. One of women was a teacher at the Western Pennsylvania School...

Family kidney transplant goes wrong with hospital mix-up

Surgery is a big deal, whether you are a healthy person or someone who is sick. Both a healthy and a sick patient were the subjects of a kidney transplant effort in an out-of-state medical case. A brother, 21, felt honored to be able to try to help his sister...

Workers in D.C., Pennsylvania seek money after 9/11

Some emergency workers in Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C., are pursuing legal claims and health benefits similar to those that their New York counterparts received after the Sept. 11 attacks, federal officials say. Federal reports listed at least 91 people who claimed they were injured on the job at the two...

Pennsylvania construction worker hurt trying to avoid accident

A Pennsylvania construction worker sustained serious injuries Aug. 30 he became trapped under an asphalt roller. The man was trying to avoid an accident on Saunders Station Road near Monroeville when the roller tipped over on him. The Suit-Kote employee was driving the heavy equipment from one construction site to...

Negligence, not collision, suspected as cause of motorcycle crash

Negligence comes in all forms. Negligence on the roads tends to take the shape of car crashes. But head-on collisions are not the only catastrophes that make the roads dangerous. Sometimes, all it takes is a wrong move for a lone driver to lose control of his vehicle and crash....

Law enforcement takes no time off from DUI crackdown over holiday

Hopefully, you are currently enjoying the beginning of your Labor Day break. While many U.S. workers are ready to take a breather over the weekend and relax, law enforcement in Harrisburg and throughout Pennsylvania are hard at work. Holiday weekends like this one, particularly in the summer, tend to be...

Pennsylvania man trapped in truck sustains little injury

A Pittston man feels lucky to be alive, much less up and moving around, just a day after having been in a potentially fatal accident. The workplace accident involved a 17-ton piece of wall falling on the man’s truck, trapping him inside of his vehicle. On Aug. 28, the man...

Construction and gas among most dangerous work industries

Good news tends to come with at least a bit of bad news on the side. That’s true in regards to statistics of workplace safety in the U.S. According to the Labor Department, fewer workers died in workplace accidents in 2012 than in 2011. Fewer work-related fatalities overall doesn’t mean...

Mother sues over loss of son in Pennsylvania accident

No parent wants to outlive her child. There are enough uncertainties and dangers in the world that can cause a parent to worry. When someone is negligent and adds to the dangers that a child might face, a parent has the right to get mad. She has the right to...

Pennsylvania nearly worst in U.S. for work injury numbers

A study shows that rate of workplace injury and illness varies between U.S. states. Social Security Disability Insurance provider Allsup said that workers even in the same industry saw a different number of people getting sick or injured on the job depending on what state they worked in. Maine ranked...

Two drunk drivers lead to one fatal Pennsylvania motorcycle crash

Last night, destruction took place and is the likely result of a known dangerous behavior. Drinking and driving is deadly, no matter what kind of vehicle is involved. In the case of an accident in Pennsylvania yesterday, drivers of a motorcycle and standard vehicle learned the hard way that drunk...

Doctor in legal trouble has had history of malpractice complaints

Most doctors are professionals and deliver to patients only the best of care. Unfortunately, a small number of doctors are responsible for making medical mistakes over and over again and bring a black eye upon the profession. One particular doctor involved in a Medicare fraud suit has also been sued...

Sleeping pills: Blessing for bedtime, but curse on the roadways?

When someone isn’t feeling well or is having trouble sleeping, the goal tends to become singular: to fix that condition. For the most part, it is a blessing that there are various types of medications available that can ease people’s troubles (assuming that people use the drugs responsibly.) Therein lies...

Worker crushed in Pennsylvania mining accident

Pennsylvania and federal authorities are investigating an accident at a Greene County coal mine that sent one worker to the hospital. A 35-year-old contractor was injured on the job when an empty rock dust platform fell off its supply car and landed on him, crushing him below the waist. The...

Pennsylvania man killed in mining accident

A Pennsylvania man who had been working in Pennsylvania as a mechanic for a mining company was identified by the state police and the U.S. Mine and Safety Health Administration. According to the report, the workplace accident occurred when the man was crushed between a tire and a truck’s frame...

Bus driver’s texting didn’t lead to crash, but suggests danger

People of all ages, walks of life and professions have something in common. They love their cell phones. Love and law, however, don’t necessarily mix, and the love of phone activity like texting can get someone in trouble with the law — especially if someone is a commercial driver. Last...

Cause of accident involving motorcycles still under investigation

It can feel peaceful to be out driving at night. Outside it is still and quiet. It might even feel like a driver has the road all to himself. No matter what time it is, however, drivers must drive with the mindset that every action they make could significantly impact...

Tree-trimmer dies after striking high-voltage power line

A 42-year-old Pennsylvania man was killed while trimming tree branches for a subcontractor of PPL Electric Utilities. His job included scaling a ladder in order to trim branches growing too close to a high-voltage power line. At the time of his fatal workplace accident, he was trimming trees in preparation...

Could recent pedestrian deaths make for safety change to roadway?

Lessons can be learned from loss. The friends and family of the four who died on a Pennsylvania roadway last week hope that the pedestrian accidents will teach their city that the road could be safer. A news report out of Philadelphia covered the fatal accident and noted how not...

Most commonly missed illnesses are serious conditions

Researchers looked at reports of malpractice claims at an international level. The study confirmed what other studies have found in the past. The majority of medical malpractice incidents are not extreme surgical errors; rather, most doctor errors are diagnosis errors. The international study gets more specific by identifying the conditions...

Injured Pennsylvania worker’s lawsuit moves through courts

A Pennsylvania man’s lawsuit for compensation for workplace injuries is headed back to state court after a recent ruling by a federal judge. The injured man’s lawyers had sought the return of his lawsuit to the Philadelphia Common Pleas Court because complete diversity was not present. While granting the victim’s...

Facebook family member dies in motorcycle accident

People of all kinds enjoy the lifestyle of riding a motorcycle. Take a famous, celebrated chef, for example. Josef Desimone was the chef for Facebook and impressed its many employees with his passion and talent. Outside of his cooking, he also volunteered. He also rode a motorcycle. Mark Zuckerberg, the...

Crash victim blames Pennsylvania car shop for his injuries

Most people don’t have an in-depth knowledge about their vehicles. They depend on the knowledge and skills of professional mechanics to ensure that their cars are running safely. But what happens when a layman’s trust is betrayed by a car shop? Based on the outcome in at least one incident,...

Workers trapped following construction accident

On July 11 at approximately 1:17 p.m., the fourth floor of the science building at Temple University in North Philadelphia collapsed. The building had been under unspecified construction. Following the collapse, workers on the fifth and sixth floors were temporarily unable to leave the building. The portion of the building...

Spotlight’s on mental illness and how it doesn’t discriminate

Chances are that most people have either suffered from mental illness or at least know someone who has. Conditions like depression, mood disorders, etc. impact people of all demographics. According to research, however, not all people are equally likely to seek the medical help that they might need when faced...

State money to go toward preventing aggressive driving crashes

While just a few years ago the term “distracted driving” was a stranger, now, it is a common topic of conversation and matter of legislation. There are other categories of risky driving, however, and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is targeting a particular type of recklessness. What is aggressive driving?...

Use of hospital alarms may have alarming impact on safety

A person can barely get through one hour of a day without hearing some sort of technological beep or alarm. Whether it is an alarm clock, the microwave, a car door, etc., we are living in a world of alarms. That reality is even more intense within the walls of...

Coal miners’ widows finally receive benefits

Pennsylvania residents may be interested in a ruling that occurred in a Richmond, Virginia court, in which changes in health care reform will allow widows of coal miners to receive benefits. Originally, widows were unable to receive benefits unless they were able to certify that their husbands’ deaths were caused...

The Fourth celebrates independence, but love of beer, too

The Fourth of July holiday is officially over for the year, but there still might be some residual matters related to the holiday that some people are struggling with. Most likely, those matters are related to alcohol and drivers’ irresponsible use of what is reportedly the alcohol of choice in...

Pennsylvania worker injured in fall

A Philadelphia construction worker recently sustained injuries after falling from a cherry-picker lift. The accident happened at a South Philadelphia warehouse where demolition work was underway. According to police, the construction accident happened a little after 11 a.m. on June 24. According to a police spokesperson, the cherry-picker malfunctioned and...

Law paves way for doctor compassion but loss of malpractice proof

Generally, compassion is perceived as a positive quality for a person to have. If a patient is sick or injured, it can be reassuring for him to feel that his doctor actually cares about more than the condition but cares for the patient as well.  With the forward movement of...

What distracted teen to result in fatal Pennsylvania car crash?

Distraction is everywhere. Some distraction is avoidable; some isn’t. When a teen argues that he got distracted behind the wheel when a bird crossed his path, he is addressing a distraction that could happen to anyone. However, prosecutors allege that it wasn’t a bird that contributed to a Pennsylvania teen’s...

Miners Injured in Pennsylvanian Mine Collapse

A mine collapse in Western Pennsylvania on June 24 has reportedly left two miners injured. The mine collapse and workplace accident was reported by authorities to be a partial ceiling collapse that took place in a coal mine that was located approximately 40 miles northeast of Pittsburgh. The collapse was...

More women living with Alzheimer’s, supported by husbands

Generally when people get married and say “Until death do us part,” they assume that there will be a level of taking care of one another in their older ages. Everyone hopes that life will be made up of more of the “better” rather than the “worse,” but hardships come...

If distracted walking is a risk, distracted driving is too

Most people have heard of distracted driving. States have their own distracted driving laws. Pennsylvania, for example, bans texting and driving for all drivers. It is a primary offense that can get someone a ticket, but most importantly, can get someone injured or even killed. If there were ever any...

Lawsuit gaining momentum following building collapse

A lawsuit filed against a Philadelphia contractor involved in a recent building collapse has been picking up steam as the rescue operation slows down. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of a Salvation Army worker who was buried under rubble when a building wall being torn down next door collapsed...

Patient’s good news is bad news for doctor who misdiagnosed him

Finding out that one’s has longer to live than he thought is good news, right? Right. But that revelation is tainted by the emotional stress that the person went through when he believed that he was going to die of a serious illness. A man who went through this dramatic...

Study shows that distracted driving solutions may be ineffective

Over the years, efforts to educate people on the dangers of driving while distracted have increased significantly. This means that by now, drivers all across Pennsylvania should be aware of just how dangerous it can be to take their eyes and focus off the road. Drivers who are paying more...

Building collapse fatal for 2 Salvation Army employees

The collapse of a building onto a Pennsylvania Salvation Army thrift store on June 5 has led to the death of two Salvation Army employees. A neighboring four-floor Philadelphia building on Market Street was scheduled for demolition, but a construction accident caused it to collapse sideways and trap workers and...

Law would push more learning riders to get fully licensed to ride

The desire to learn is generally celebrated, right? Yes, unless lawmakers believe that learning might be creating an unsafe environment on their roads. This might be the case in regards to motorcycle riders with learner’s permits in Pennsylvania. Last week, a traffic safety bill passed in the House that seeks...

Increase in production could put workers at risk of carpal tunnel

Chicken is the protein of choice for many. It is an easy favorite for kids and a favorite among families because of its relatively low cost. The availability and low price of chicken comes at a different type of cost, however. The U.S. workers in poultry factories work hard to...

Pennsylvania excavating company cited by OSHA

A Pennsylvania excavating company has been cited by OSHA with 12 safety violations after two inspections were conducted following the discovery of unsupervised trenches. The violations involved trenching hazards that have the potential to cause serious workplace accidents. Two of the alleged willful violations involved failing to provide a protective...

Crash involving infant victim proves other kind of impairment

A family was out walking a couple of years ago when their lives changed. Though the incident could have been more severe, the threat to the life of a newborn baby isn’t one to take lightly, even if the baby survived the Pennsylvania DUI accident.  A court sentenced a 36-year-old...

Does rise in fatal motorcycle crashes support helmet law revival?

Pennsylvania residents have lived with the freedom of getting to ride a motorcycle helmet-free for about a decade. Could state riders be in for a change now that media reports are buzzing about the controversial topic of helmet laws again? With spring and summer upon us and motorcyclists taking to...

Pennsylvania: No Vested Rights in Pay Increase For Workers

Pennsylvanian workers’ compensation judges, considered management-level government employees, have recently gone to court regarding raises that were given to them and then later rescinded by the government. A three percent raise was instituted in March of 2008 and then recalled in Dec. of 2008 due to difficulties with the state...

Has new bicycle law made for a ‘win’ on Pennsylvania roads?

What makes a law successful? It has been more than a year since Pennsylvania enacted a traffic safety law intended to prevent bicycle accidents. Motorists are required to leave at least four feet of space between their vehicles and a bike. Not dong so would result in a fine. Few...

Family challenges use of robot as medical malpractice

The dependence on technology reaches into just about every aspect of life. People tend to put a lot of faith in machines, as though they are infallible. But technology comes with glitches, and a family in an out-of-state case believes that the untimely loss of their loved one is partly...

Construction worker killed by fall

A construction worker was killed as a result of a fall at a farm in Pennsylvania. The 28-year old man was working on trusses of a barn that was being constructed when the construction accident happened. The man fell 25 feet onto the construction site below. The fall happened during...

SUVs put through special crash safety test; most fail

What inspires you to purchase a vehicle? Do you base your buying decision on the looks of a vehicle? Is it all about the budget and getting a good deal? If you are like many parents, it is likely that you’d choose you family vehicle based on safety ratings, space...

Is change to drunk driving limit the way to prevent U.S. crashes?

The nation is buzzing with conversations regarding the National Transportation Safety Board’s recent discussion about drunk driving in the U.S. It is no secret that driving drunk is a traffic safety problem, putting motorists in Pennsylvania in danger of being hurt or killed in alcohol-related accidents every day. The NTSB...

On-the-job deaths exceed 50,000 per year

The AFL-CIO released a report at the beginning of May that indicated about 13 people died on the job each day in 2011. In addition, work-related illnesses claimed the lives about 137 individuals per day during the same year. The number of fatalities on the job initially declined after the...

Cancer is leading disability among U.S. workers

Various types of injuries and illnesses can keep someone from working. Unum, an insurance provider, reports that there is a leading cause among workers who file disability claims. Not only is cancer impacting individuals on personal, emotional, medical and family levels; it is preventing U.S. workers’ abilities to return to...

On-the-job safety needs national improvement

Pennsylvania residents know that May Day and, by association, the entire month, is connected with the rights of workers around the globe. Employees in Bangladesh, for example, seek justice after 400 individuals died when a building collapsed. Other workers look for benefits, increased money or better conditions at their jobs...

Drunk driver who killed motorcyclist didn’t have valid license

After a certain amount of time on this earth, every person knows that accidents do happen. Bad things happen even to good people. That is the truth with just the natural state of things. When people go out of their way and create danger, it’s reasonable for the public to...

Misdiagnosis can allow cancer to worsen and shorten lives

Patients and society in general are seemingly starting to question the quality of their medical treatment more these days. They might seek second or third opinions. Maybe they will do a thorough examination of their doctor’s background. The threat of medical mistakes and the toll that they can take on...

Teens’ risk-taking tendencies cause distracted driving concern

It is a validated fear: Teens make dangerous and irresponsible decisions. Sure, it is worrying if a teen chooses to try smoking. It is worrying if a teen decides not to do his homework because his video games were just too tempting the night before. It is alarming, however, if...

Motorcycle safety: Not just about helmets

Wearing a motorcycle helmet is not likely to hurt anyone if they get into a motorcycle accident. Therefore, many bikers might think it is a worthwhile investment to buy a helmet and a worthwhile habit to wear the head protection during their joyrides. But would those “joyrides” be less joyful...

Disney contractor fined $60,000 after worker hurt

Employers from Pennsylvania to California are considering the implications after a contractor for Disney was fined almost $61,000 by Cal/OSHA on April 19 after they violated a number of safety rules. A 37-year-old contractor sustained broken bones in Nov. 2012 while working on the Space Mountain attraction when the ropes...

Hospital errors come in various forms, including misdiagnosis

The U.S. is a society driven by media. Gruesome often brings in viewers and readers. Medical malpractice stories involving surgery on the wrong body part or leaving behind a tool in a patient are undoubtedly horrifying. Maybe that is why the public tends to think of such cases when presented...

Most Pennsylvania employers see worker’s comp rates fall

Pennsylvania has just reduced the rate that employers are required to pay for worker’s compensation. The rate decreased by 4.01 percent, effective beginning April 1. It is good news for employers in the state. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance, employers will save an estimated $110 million in annual...

Hospitals paid more for patients who suffer surgical errors

Having to put trust in other individuals – particularly when it relates to your health – can be an unnerving and challenging proposition. Unfortunately, in some cases, especially when serious medical intervention is necessary, there may be no other choice. For people who must undergo a surgical operation, a recent...

Pennsylvania school intersection endangering pedestrians?

If a trend of danger is evident, a community might want to do something to fix that danger, right? The community of and around the University of Pennsylvania is looking at a busy intersection near the school and asking whether safety improvements are needed, maybe even past-due. Yesterday, a student...

Man responsible for killing 2 motorcyclists fights punishment

Motorcyclists are in danger when they take to the roads. It is generally not the fault of their own; rather, it is the fault of the many drivers who are reckless behind the wheel. Even a sober driver often endangers motorcyclists. Add alcohol to the equation, and a motorcyclist is...

Fracking jobs may increase lung cancer risk

People in Pennsylvania have been hearing about the environmental dangers of fracking for some time, but few realize that the danger for workers is not limited to eco-damage. A dangerous type of workplace injury in fracking operations is the penetration of lung tissue by fine sand particles called silica. This...

Aging, surviving population impacts need for disability payments

The public certainly tends to make Social Security and disability benefits a heated political issue. Rather than argue any side of the argument, this blog post is merely meant to provide some information and encourage thought about disability claims in the U.S. CNN Money reports that there are various reasons...

Could closed medical malpractice cases prevent more malpractice?

Learning from our mistakes is sometimes easier said than done. A medical malpractice lawyer out of another state wants all health professionals to learn from other medical professionals’ mistakes. Is it doable? It seems like an obvious solution. If hospitals want to avoid cases of negligence on their floors, they...

Fracking industry brings silicone exposure to the forefront

One workplace safety expert recently observed fracking in person and saw huge amounts of silica dust swirling in the air around workers. The silica is a result of workers drilling into the rock with a combination of water, chemicals and sand to extract oil and gas. Sand and silica have...

Pennsylvania driving laws working to prevent teen deaths

Teens and driving bring to mind a time in most adults lives when they felt like they were invincible, that they were finally growing up. Getting one’s license to drive as a teenager really is a step toward adulthood. A license is more than just the ability to drive. It’s...

Will 2013 be safer on Pennsylvania roads than 2012?

Traffic safety advocates follow trends on the roads, always with the hope that fewer people were hurt or killed than in years before. Unfortunately, last year was not a major safety improvement for Pennsylvania motorists. More people were lost to fatal crashes than in 2011. Being that we are already...

Employer faces charges over disputed Social Security funds

The 53-year-old owner of a business headquartered in Pennsylvania faces allegations of failing to provide worker’s compensation insurance for employees after a 57-year-old employee had a finger cut off on the job. When he tried to have worker’s compensation pay for his medical expenses, he discovered that the company no...

Are shorter hospital shifts safer shifts? Part 2

The previous post began a discussion about how the change in shift durations has impacted patient safety. Though the goal behind requiring medical residents to work shorter shifts was to reduce incidents of hospital errors, research suggests that no such improvement has taken place. According to a study published in...

Pennsylvania worker injured in hit-and-run accident

During morning rush hour in the Liberty Tunnels in Pittsburgh on March 14, a vehicle hit a worker for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, or PennDOT. The vehicle had moved into the traffic around a single-vehicle accident inside the tunnels. The driver who hit the worker immediately fled the crime...

Are shorter hospital shifts safer shifts? Part 1

If you had more hours outside of work, what would you do with them? Schedule changes for medical interns have been made various times in the past, with the hope being that the residents would rest while outside of hospital walls. Shorter shifts would mean more rest and less fatigue...

Fatal Pennsylvania bus accident sparks concern over charter rides

In the past couple of years, various bus accidents that have taken the lives of passengers have shaken up not just the communities where they occurred, but the nation. Are tour buses really a safe way to travel? What about charter buses that so commonly carry students, young lives that...

Study suggests employers are blind to the abilities of the blind

There are many things that hiring manages and businesses must keep in mind when building its group of workers. There are laws that must be followed in order for the hiring process to be ethical and fair to candidates. Having a diverse workforce can be a significant strength to a...

Saylorsburg woman sues manufacturers of garage door after injury

A former support manager at the Stroudsburg location of PetSmart is suing two Pennsylvania-based garage door manufacturers over injuries she sustained nearly two years ago while on the job. The workplace accident resulted in several serious injuries to the woman. The incident took place back on July 27, 2011 when...

Pennsylvania patient wins medical malpractice suit against doctor

It can be difficult to put trust in someone. But when one’s health and quality of life rely on a medical professional, there is little choice but to trust that he will perform his job according to safety regulations. A Pennsylvania patient unfortunately came to the realization that his trust...

Vat fall kills Philly sugar plant employee

According to authorities, a New Jersey resident working at a sugar processing facility in the Philadelphia suburbs fell into a vat and died after an unknown period of time. Although none of the man’s coworkers actually witnessed the accident, it was reported that he had previously been observed attempting to...

Tough enforcement of local anti-texting law prevents traffic tickets

Whereas distracted driving legislation is supposed to prevent distracted driving, a year after Pennsylvania’s texting while driving law has been passed, research shows that a different kind of prevention is the problem. When a law is difficult for officers to enforce, they will avoid citing suspects for violations. Therefore, the...

Pennsylvania boy’s death: Result of bullies or hospital error, too?

Not just the public in Pennsylvania but the entire country is heartbroken by the news that a 12-year-old boy died after an alleged attack on him by so-called bullies from his school. More recent reports of the bullying incident present another possible reason why the young victim didn’t survive his...

Heroin treatment: Cause of impaired driving in Pennsylvania?

No one wants to see their loved ones suffer, whether they are suffering from drug and alcohol addiction or suffering from car accident injuries. A push for reform regarding heroin treatment takes both addiction and Pennsylvania traffic safety into account. In 2010, a 26-year-old driver (and recovering heroin addict) was...

Defendants claim protection in Pa. workplace accident suit

An individual injured by a crane at the Fairless Hills U-Haul factory brought allegations of negligence leading to an unsafe working environment against four related defendants. The injury occurred in March of 2012 when a crane fell on the worker and caused several serious injuries, including disc injuries and spinal...

Fatal workplace injuries reported at Pennsylvania coal company

CONSOL is a mining company based in Pennsylvania considered by many to be among the safest coal-mine operators in the country. Despite a better track record than most, however, CONSOL had three workers fatally injured on the job over a period of four months with two of those deaths occurring...

Disabled workers no longer required to show ‘job readiness’

Pennsylvania residents with disabilities face any number of employment-related obstacles. Many people who want to work have a physical or intellectual disability that prevents them from performing a job. Even those who have the ability to work, either full time or part-time, have for years been required to prove to...

Pickup truck crashes into car in eastern Pennsylvania, killing 2

While we all know in theory that fatal car accidents happen countless times a day — every day — across the country, we tend not to think about the possibility that one of these accidents will happen to us or someone we love. Even the act of putting on a...

Truck driver dies in collision triggered by mattress in road

Everyone knows that driving defensively will decrease the chances of being involved in a car accident. But sometimes even following all the rules of the road and keeping an eye out for aggressive drivers or potential road hazards isn’t enough to avoid a crash. That’s especially true on interstate highways...

Shale industry fraught with health challenges

Business is booming in some Pennsylvania towns where hydraulic fracturing, known as “fracking,” for oil and natural gas has increased the population. However, along with the increased growth comes increased problems related to workplace accidents and health issues. Job-related illnesses, mental health issues and other physical work-related problems can take...

Pennsylvania motorcyclist dies in collision with SUV

When sport utility vehicles saw a meteoric rise in popularity in the 1990s, many buyers in Pennsylvania and across the country were attracted to them based on the belief that they were safer than smaller passenger cars. The larger the vehicle, the reasoning went, the more protection its occupants had...

Simple tips enhance hospital patient safety, prevent malpractice

Going into the hospital can be a frightening experience. Many Pennsylvania residents have heard horror stories about patients who developed additional illnesses or infections while hospitalized, or were the victims of medical malpractice. There are things patients and their families can do to avoid medical errors and missteps in hospitals,...

Crane accident leads to construction worker’s brain injury

Many workers go through their entire careers without any serious injuries, but that’s not the case with everyone who works in the construction field. One of the most dangerous positions in the construction field is that of a crane operator. It may seem as though they’re pretty safe where they...

Driver to stand trial for accident that killed New Castle boy, 7

Fatal car accidents are always tragic, but especially when they take the lives of young children. And when the accident is caused by circumstances under a driver’s control, it can be that much harder for the victim’s family to overcome their loss. A recent accident that killed a 7-year-old boy...

Some injuries that keep workers down are emotional

It has almost been two months since the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary shook the world. While hearts everywhere were broken by the deaths of the 20 children and six adults, those who were not directly connected to the victims can’t know the pain that family and friends are going...

Criminal charges possible in crash that killed 2 Pennsylvania men

A crash that killed two Gordon, Pennsylvania, men earlier this week is being investigated as a criminal matter, according to police officials in Mount Carmel Township. That news may offer some comfort to the victim’s devastated family members, who could decide to file a wrongful death lawsuit as a result...

Pa. State Police: ‘Dusting’ led to fatal motorcycle crash

Everyone knows that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and can cause traffic accidents. But another dangerous habit that appears to be growing in popularity among teens has been blamed for an accident that killed a motorcyclist and several others in Green County, Pennsylvania, last fall....

Social Security recipients should prepare for end of paper checks

Social Security disability insurance provides a financial lifeline for people who are unable to work due to illness or disability. For decades, those benefits have come to Pennsylvania residents in the form of a paper check in the mail. But beginning in March, that delivery system will officially end. Instead,...

Pennsylvania deck collapse likely due to bad material choice

So much goes into the erection of a building. Every piece of material is held to another with another piece of material. The safety of a structure depends on the right materials being used in the right way. Two young workers were injured in a Pennsylvania construction accident earlier this...

Study claims obese drivers more likely to die in car accidents

Although our culture is often accused of being obsessed with thinness, in reality we’re a nation that suffers from a growing epidemic of obesity. This dichotomy often results in social disadvantages for people who are overweight. Of course, being obese also comes with physical setbacks that have little to do...

Mistakes in electronic health records endanger patients

With more and more hospitals and other medical providers switching over to the use of electronic health records, more mistakes and missing data are being reported. Some mistakes in these records can cause serious problems for patients and result in medical malpractice. In Pennsylvania alone, there were twice as many...

Fatal fall at construction site brings work to a halt

Stopping the building of a hotel is the least of the serious consequences related to a construction accident that occurred this week. In an out-of-state incident, a construction worker was working on an apartment building when he fell and was injured by materials at the site. The victim reportedly fell...

Passengers injured, driver cited in Pennsylvania bus crash

Most people who rely on public transportation don’t think twice about their safety before hopping on board a bus, train or ferry. They tend to assume that the driver is a licensed, trained and experienced transit employee, and in many cases, that’s true. But just as when we go behind...

OSHA sets rules to inspire safer workplace for railroad workers

The tune of “I’ve been working on the railroad” makes working for a railway sound like a joyful, carefree time. Just like any job, however, the industry comes with its particular workplace safety threats. Just like any industry, its workers have the right to report job-related injuries and unsafe work...

Criminal trials may not determine civil trial outcomes

In past blog posts we’ve discussed how the outcome of a criminal trial can affect a civil lawsuit in the event of a car accident that causes injury or death. If a driver who caused a car accident is convicted of drunk driving, for example, the attorney of a person...

Scaffolding, plus elevator shaft made for work danger

Using an elevator is an everyday thing for many people, whether they live in an apartment complex or work in a multi-floor office. It can be easy to forget that such an everyday convenience can also be a danger, particularly for those responsible for fixing it. Two construction workers were...

Pennsylvania man faces charges in fatal motorcycle accident

For many people, one of the most difficult aspects of aging is a loss of independence. Elderly Pennsylvania residents who begin to lose their mental and physical dexterity may be told by their children or other family members that it’s time to move into assisted living or give up the...

CDC: 1 in 24 drivers admit falling asleep while driving

It’s happened to many of us: You’re driving down the highway, lulled by the hum of the engine and the repetition of the scenery. You start to feel sleepy and your eyelids begin to droop, and perhaps you find your head dipping down. Suddenly you’re jolted wide awake by the...

Why are more people getting Social Security disability insurance?

A recent examination of the number of people receiving Social Security disability insurance shows a substantial rise in the past several years, but the reason behind it is unclear. Those who have been denied access to these funds might find this statistic frustrating. Has the Social Security disability approval process...

OSHA: Pennsylvania hospital workers need violence protection, too

When dealing with persons who are vulnerable, such those who are physically or mentally ill or developmentally disabled, it is natural for caregivers put their well-being ahead of their own. However, there can be times when the efforts made to keep these populations safe may put those caregivers in danger...

New Year’s Eve carries accident risks for Pennsylvania drivers

As you celebrated the end of 2012 and rang in 2013, you may have been aware of the risks the last night of the year carries for those who venture out onto Pennsylvania’s roads. Unfortunately, no matter how many police are out on patrol looking for intoxicated or otherwise careless...

Police work is getting safer in the United States

Many assume that working as a police officer is one of the most dangerous professions. But safety efforts to protect officers throughout the United States have apparently paid off, according to numbers of police fatalities that occurred this year. Certainly there are still risks that officers face when they are...

Pennsylvania woman dies in fiery chain-reaction crash

Fatal car accidents are always tragic events, but they’re especially difficult for families to handle when they occur just before the holidays. Instead of celebrating, the family and friends of one Pennsylvania woman have been forced to make plans to put her to rest after she was killed in a...

Medical malpractice study finds ‘never events’ happen frequently

If the idea of surgery makes you nervous, you certainly aren’t alone. Friends, relatives and doctors may try to allay your fears by telling you that surgical errors are very rare and that the chances of them happening to you are slim to none. Unfortunately, some of those errors are...

Pennsylvania man charged after hitting man in wheelchair with car

A man who already used a wheelchair to get around will now need skilled nursing care for the rest of his life after he was struck by a car last month. The driver who hit him, a 53-year-old man from Rostraver, Pennsylvania, is set to go to trial for the...

Speedy movements can make the medical workplace dangerous

A heightened sense of urgency coupled with an innate desire to treat needy patients puts medical facility staff in constant physical jeopardy. Healthcare venues typically possess extremely hard floors constructed with materials designed to decrease any allowance for infectious diseases to take hold. Yet, these very same surfaces cause many...

Driver in fatal motorcycle crash convicted of manslaughter, DUI

Earlier this year we told you about the case of a retired police officer who caused a motorcycle crash that killed two people and injured several others. The 50-year-old was convicted in Northampton County, Pennsylvania, this week on charges of involuntary manslaughter, driving under the influence and reckless endangerment. But...

Distractions cause inexperienced doctors to make surgical errors

Inexperienced doctors performing surgery can all too easily become distracted by a variety of things, resulting in dangerous and even deadly errors. A new study found that such distractions included questions, noises and a variety of other commonplace occurrences. Medical malpractice in the form of significant surgical errors occurred among...

Family man falls to his death in Pennsylvania work accident

This holiday, a Pennsylvania family and community will mourn the loss of a loved one. Last week, a 31-year-old man was working in a water tower when terror ensued. Somehow, the worker fell a significant distance and sustained fatal injuries in the workplace accident. According to reports, the rescue attempt...

Pennsylvania school bus crash leads to charges against bus driver

If you have school-aged children who rely on bus transportation to get to and from their classes each day, you have a reasonable expectation that they’ll be transported safely and on time. The job of a school bus driver isn’t always easy, but those who take it on know that...

Better workplace injury protection proposed for flight attendants

In a draft agreement, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration have agreed to expand the workplace protections for flight attendants. Under current law, the FAA has jurisdiction to enforce workplace health and safety protections for flight attendants, but airline unions have been fighting to change...

Car accident in western Pennsylvania kills 2, injures 1

Often in this blog we discuss some of the most egregious causes of traffic accidents. Drunk driving, for example, takes countless lives across Pennsylvania and injures many more. Distracted driving is another common cause of car accidents causing injury or death. But sometimes there’s no obvious cause to point to...

Medical malpractice suit filed against Pennsylvania pathologist

One of the great benefits of modern medicine is the ability to detect many types of cancer at an early stage. Although some cancer screenings can be uncomfortable, they often prevent patients from finding out too late that they have a life-threatening illness. But for the screenings to be effective,...

Pennsylvania driver convicted for car accident that killed friend

A 27-year-old western Pennsylvania man has been sentenced to more than two years in prison for his role in the death of his best friend. The Mercer County resident caused a drunk-driving car crash in 2011 that killed his friend. The crash occurred just miles from a fatal 2002 wreck...

Opinion piece challenges Wal-Mart’s care for worker safety

Because most people who read this blog or news in general likely don’t follow Bangladesh news, readers might not know of a tragic fire that took place in a warehouse in Bangladesh last weekend. More than 100 workers reportedly died in the fatal workplace accident. The faraway tragedy does have...

Western Pennsylvania tractor-trailer crash kills mother, daughter

Although car accidents take the lives of thousands of people every year, most of us don’t think about the risk of serious injury or death we take every time we get into a car. Actively fearing an accident so often is not only a nerve-wracking way to go through life,...

Returning to work after injury or illness: Be prepared

When you have taken a leave of absence from your job due to illness or injury, the prospect of returning to work can be both excited and frustrating. Chances are that you are still recovering from whatever workplace accident, illness or other circumstance led you to take a leave of...

9-car accident on I-83 in Pennsylvania leads to multiple injuries

It’s tempting to believe that if you’re a careful enough driver and always wear your safety belt, you don’t have to worry about getting injured or killed in a car accident. If there were no other vehicles sharing the road with you, that might actually be true. Unfortunately, we can’t...

HIV/AIDS patients may qualify for Social Security benefits

Although a diagnosis of HIV was once considered a death sentence, advances in knowledge and treatment of HIV and AIDS have allowed countless numbers of patients with these viruses to live healthy, productive lives. But for those with advanced cases who are too sick to work, the Social Security Administration...

Medical mistakes kill 250,000 annually, injure millions

Most patients put themselves in the care of doctors and hospitals trusting that their health and well-being will be carefully monitored. In too many instances, this is not the case. Medical mistakes are far more common than many people believe. Such errors rising to the level of medical malpractice wind...

Table saw modification could prevent serious construction injuries

Some people, perhaps less handy people, shudder at the thought of using a table saw. It is a sharp, powerful tool that could take a limb if things went extremely wrong. For those who work in construction, a table saw is an everyday tool just as a computer might be...

Pennsylvania resort owner sued after DUI car accident kills teen

Most parents of teenagers have some concern about whether their children use alcohol. If you’re the parent of a teen, restricting access to the alcohol in your home and talking with your teen about the risks of underage drinking are two good steps to take. But there’s no guarantee that...

Fatal motorcycle crashes up in some Pa. counties, down statewide

A northern Pennsylvania county analyzing its rate of fatal motorcycle crashes reports an increase in 2012, though statewide, the numbers have been falling in recent years. Erie County’s motorcycle accident report offers a snapshot of the primary causes of accidents across Pennsylvania and the reasons many of them are fatal....

Officer’s push-up injury classified as work-related

An appeals court in an out-of-state case recently awarded a police sergeant who was forced to do pushups in preparation for a fitness test more than $12,000 in workers’ compensation benefits. The somewhat unique case could have far-reaching implications for companies across the country. The Post-Crescent newspaper recently reported on...

Answers come slowly in fatal pedestrian accident in Harrisburg

The investigation of a fatal pedestrian accident that occurred in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, last week started out slowly as emergency responders tried to identify both the victim and the driver. The young woman who died in the accident has since been named, and the driver is said to be cooperating with...

High court: Not all doctor-patient affairs medical malpractice

Most people would agree that a doctor who has a sexual relationship with a patient is engaging in some extremely unethical behavior. But does that behavior justify a medical malpractice suit? Not necessarily, according to a recent ruling by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. While psychiatrists and other mental health professionals...

Pennsylvania woman dies after SUV rear-ends buggy

Like all other drivers across the country, Pennsylvania motorists are advised to keep an eye out for pedestrians, bikers and users of other non-motorized vehicles. But our state is one of several where motorists may encounter vehicles that are bigger than bikes but slower than cars. Pennsylvania’s Amish and Mennonite...

Dangerous U.S. jobs of 2011 might surprise you

Every year, the Bureau of Labor Statistics releases a report on illness and injuries in workplaces across the country. The information is interesting, but is also important because it helps industry and safety officials determining which workplaces could possibly use more safety regulations. The data from 2011 reveals a list...

Pennsylvania skateboarder hit by driver

If you’re a motorist, it is always important to remember to share the road with cyclists, skateboarders and pedestrians. As the days get shorter in the upcoming Pennsylvania winter months, it will be getting darker much earlier. Therefore, it is crucial that drivers keep a watchful eye out for others...

Pennsylvania woman seriously injured in car accident

When it comes to determining the cause of car accidents, some explanations are fairly cut-and-dry. The driver who caused the accident may have been distracted or made a simple error in judgment, and may even take responsibility immediately for the crash. Other accidents take some investigation, particularly if the fault...

Man sentenced for Harrisburg car accident that claimed 2 lives

A man deemed responsible for a Harrisburg car wreck that claimed the lives of two people was recently sentenced in a local courtroom. After pleading guilty to the charges that resulted from the car accident, the 33-year-old man was sentenced to 2½ to 12 years behind bars at a state...

Experienced worker killed in tuna canning accident

Many people know and love their Bumble Bee Tuna. What they tend to forget is the work that goes into canning their favorite lunchtime protein. A 62-year-old man, a father of six, had worked canning in the tuna plant for several years before he recently died in an unthinkable way....

Driver remorse doesn’t remove pain of accident victims’ families

Many times when people think of personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits, they imagine money-hungry plaintiffs who are simply out to profit from another person involved in an accident. But as anyone who’s been involved in a serious accident knows, medical costs can add up quickly, as can funeral and...

Work-related illness hits Pennsylvania workers in store warehouse

Trader Joe’s grocery stores are a hit in Pennsylvania and in other areas across the nation. As average consumers, many of us forget the work that goes into stocking the stores we love with the products that we love. There are workers at different levels who are responsible for getting...

Medical malpractice alleged after expectant mother dies

A Pennsylvania family claims medical staffers from Temple University Hospital are guilty of negligence that resulted in the death of a woman who was nine months pregnant. The medical malpractice allegations stem from an incident that began when the family found the mother-to-be barely breathing at the bottom of a...

More Pennsylvanians relying on Social Security disability

Disabled residents of Pennsylvania who relied on the state’s General Assistance program have been struggling since Gov. Tom Corbett cut the program from the state budget. Many are turning to Social Security disability insurance, which can seem nearly as unattainable as the recently axed state funds. The program that provided...

Is your work giving you a repetitive motion disorder?

You may have never heard the term “repetitive motion disorder” before, but it is very possible that you have felt its effects. Repetitive motion disorders (RMDs) are found most commonly in people who work doing repetitive tasks or motions. These may include assembly line workers, musicians, and people who spend long...

Pennsylvania driver charged in fatal hit-and-run motorcycle crash

Accidents that result in someone’s death are undeniably tragic, but especially so when the crash results in multiple deaths. A recent double-fatal motorcycle accident was made even worse when the driver of the car that collided with the motorcycle left the scene. Two men from Pittston Township, Pennsylvania, both age...

Pennsylvania resident takes pedestrian safety into own hands

Many of us have attended neighborhood or city council meetings in hopes that civic leaders might listen to our concerns and requests about public safety or crime. Sometimes these efforts are met with action, while other times they appear fruitless and we continue to be frustrated. And every once in...

Pennsylvania man hits, kills two motorcyclists in a parking lot

With seemingly endless amounts of open roads across Pennsylvania, it’s no surprise that people like to get on their motorcycles and go for pleasure cruises. Most riders understand the risks, and most motorists know how to be on the lookout for riders who may sometimes be hard to see. But...

Man fired for cause also denied workers’ comp

A recent ruling in Pennsylvania denying an injured man workers’ compensation benefits should leave many people scratching their heads about how well workers are treated. The man was fired from his job after it was discovered that he had a loaded weapon inside a company vehicle, and his benefits were...

An average of 13 people die on the job each day

It seems like a staggering statistic when broken down by day. An average of 13 workers lose their lives while working each day. That is thirteen people who leave for work in the morning only to never come home. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis made a statement last week...

10 students taken to hospital after pickup, bus collide in Vinco, Pennsylvania

Authorities say that the sun may have been in the eyes of a pickup truck driver when he pulled out in front of a school bus in Vinco, Pennsylvania Thursday morning. Authorities say that the pickup truck driver pulled onto Route 271 around 8:30 Thursday morning. A school bus transporting...

Most deadly professions involve driving

When people are asked to think about the most dangerous jobs they might think about jobs like firefighters or those that involve heavy machinery. Although those professions do have risks, it turns out that more sales reps and truck drivers are killed while working. This is because sales reps that...

Concrete barrier fatally strikes construction worker in Bethlehem accident

A 29-year-old construction worker was killed in a workplace accident in early September. Bethlehem Police say that the man was working for a construction company that was making improvements to Route 412. Authorities say that the worker was struck by a roughly 2,000 pound concrete barrier. The concrete barrier reportedly...

Fatal Pennsylvania motorcycle crash leaves all parties grieving

The family of one Pennsylvania man has been grieving his death for the past month after his motorcycle crashed into a car with a reportedly drunk driver behind the wheel. At the intersection of Route 114 and Interstate 81, a woman with a blood-alcohol content of nearly three times the...

Pennsylvania Worker Injured When Concrete Barrier Falls

A tragic accident happened in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania last week. A construction worker was severely injured when a concrete barrier, estimated to weigh 2,000 pounds, fell on top of him. The man was employed by HRI Inc., who was contracted by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to make improvements on...

Can disabled Pennsylvanians keep benefits while trying to work?

For Pennsylvania residents who are unable to work due to a disability, Social Security disability insurance can be a lifesaver. But the Social Security Administration also has resources for disabled workers who are ready and able to give work a try. And you may not need to give up the...

Car accident caused by senior driver raises questions

In a society where most adults are fiercely dependent on their cars, it can be hard to tell an elderly parent or friend that perhaps it’s time to hang up the keys. Especially for senior citizens with active work and social lives, giving up their independence when driving becomes hazardous...

Pennsylvania Company Cited for Workplace Hazards

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently cited a die manufacturer in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania for 14 safety violations, 13 of which are considered serious. Danco Precision Inc. faces $55,000 in proposed penalties for the assorted workplace safety violations. The company employs about 40 workers who manufacture dies, electrical magnetic...

Sun glare possible factor in Pennsylvania motorcycle crash

You don’t have to be a personal injury attorney to have heard the most common excuse for motorcycle accidents: “I didn’t see the motorcycle.” This reasoning tends not to satisfy those who have been seriously injured or lost a close friend or family member in a motorcycle crash. Motorcyclists are...

Report Reveals High Number of Youths Injured at Work

When most Americans consider the issue of workplace injuries, they imagine adults getting injured while on the job. Child labor issues rarely receive much attention in the U.S. Every year, however, many young people die or are injured in workplace accidents. A recent report points to poorly regulated workplaces as...

CDC to baby boomers: Get tested for hepatitis C now

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention made a startling recommendation to baby boomers earlier this month: Get a blood test to see if you have hepatitis C, a disease that attacks the liver and if left untreated, can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer, all of which...

Pennsylvania hit-and-run drivers to see higher penalties soon

Pennsylvania motorists who drive away from a fatal car accident without stopping to render aid will soon face stiffer penalties under a law that takes effect Sept. 4. The current maximum prison sentence of seven years will be raised to 10 years under the new law, which was inspired by...

Hospital technician may have exposed many patients to hepatitis

A newly hired radiology technician at a Pennsylvania hospital was accused in 2008 of stealing an addictive painkiller in a syringe from hospital premises, taking the syringe right out of an operating room. Subsequently, an investigation and drug test found him in possession of a number of other such syringes,...

Recent Court Decisions Impacting Pennsylvania Workers’ Comp – Part 2

Last week we discussed two recent Pennsylvania cases dealing with workers’ compensation issues. This week we will highlight two additional decisions. In Rhonda Walker v. Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board a worker fell at work and injured her nose. This resulted in the woman having a slightly crooked nose, and the...

Pennsylvania motorcycle crash with sedan kills driver

As we’ve discussed before on this blog, motorcycle accidents have the ability to cause serious injury or death. But sometimes in the aftermath of a crash that kills a motorcyclist, it can be extremely difficult to accurately determine the circumstances that led up to the accident, often because the driver...

TV star’s estate sued for wrongful death over fatal car accident

When a fatal car accident happens, it’s common for the family members of the person who died to file a wrongful death lawsuit if they suspect a driver’s negligent actions caused the crash. But what if that driver also died? In many cases, there are still options for recourse. One...

Recent Court Decisions Impacting Pennsylvania Workers’ Comp – Part 1

So far in 2012 Pennsylvania Courts have decided several important workers’ compensation cases. We will highlight some of these cases during the next two weeks. One recently decided case is Lancaster General Hospital v. Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board. This case dealt with how a worker’s average weekly wage is calculated....

Disease affecting veterans makes Social Security disability list

One of the many frustrating aspects of war for veterans is a disability that prevents them from working after returning home to civilian life. While prosthetics to replace limbs are getting better all the time and conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder are now more widely acknowledged as obstacles to...

‘Jackass’ star’s estate sued after fatal Pennsylvania crash

The accident occurred in Pennsylvania just over one year ago in June 2011. The accident involved Ryan Dunn, a star on the reality television show “Jackass,” which is known for its inappropriate, daring or often reckless stunts. While it was the television star’s death in the accident that was widely...

Energy Plant Workers Received 8 Billion in Workers’ Comp Since 2000

The U.S. Department of Labor has acknowledged that some work environments, such as nuclear power plants and energy powered facilities, pose a special risk to workers. Over the last 12 years, in fact, the risks associated with nuclear energy facilities have resulted in the granting of over eight billion dollars...

Are teen driving laws enough to keep Pennsylvania motorists safe?

For generations parents have been reluctantly handing their teens the keys to the family car and urging them to be careful, all the while worried that their sons or daughters will get into an accident as a result of too little experience, too many distractions or both. In recent years...

Pennsylvania study focuses on avoidable patient injury

Many Pennsylvania residents who have a doctor, nurse, or medical student in their families are aware of the long hours and exhausting shifts that healthcare providers endure. Once taken as just a part of the job, there is growing awareness that overworked and under-slept staff at hospitals has real consequences...

More health services could mean more medical malpractice cases

As more medical facilities and health services become available in smaller Pennsylvania communities, more residents have access to care for which they once had to travel a considerable distance. Local medical care means that people can keep themselves healthier while staying close to home. But there is some speculation that...

Falls: Number One Cause of Fatalities for Construction Workers

Last week we discussed OSHA’s campaign to prevent heat illness among outdoor workers. This week we will touch on another one of OSHA’s major initiatives, fall prevention in the construction industry. Many people may be surprised to learn that falls are the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry....

Too many ignoring ban on texting while driving

Texting while behind the wheel is illegal in Pennsylvania and many other states, and most people will even acknowledge that it is unsafe. But the sad truth of the matter is that so many motorists ignore the law that sending and receiving text messages while driving has almost become the...

Pennsylvania man sentenced for car accident that killed friends

Many of us have received speeding tickets or warnings from police to slow down. But speeding remains one of those traffic violations that people too often commit without taking the potential consequences seriously. The excuse that “everybody does it” doesn’t seem unreasonable until a serious car accident occurs. A driver...

Nationwide Campaign to Prevent Heat Illness Among Outdoor Workers

For large areas of the U.S., this summer has been one of the hottest on record. Many workers are able to cool off in air-conditioned offices, but for those who work outdoors there is no relief from the sweltering heat. In an effort to prevent heat illness among workers, the...

Harrisburg taxi driver pleads guilty for fatal motorcycle crash

A diabetic taxi driver who admitted to causing a fatal crash as a result of his low blood sugar pleaded guilty Monday to five counts of homicide by vehicle and other charges. The Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, man had been scheduled to stand trial for the motorcycle accident that killed five bikers...

Pennsylvania accident victim’s dad sells car to afford funeral

One of the many burdens that families of accident victims must face is the cost of funeral and burial expenses. It can be difficult for families to afford these costs, and most haven’t budgeted for them because it’s the last thing they expected to have to pay for, especially in...

Changes at the Pennsylvania Workers’ Insurance Fund

Yesterday the Pennsylvania State Workers’ Insurance Fund (SWIF) announced it would be consolidating two departments. The divisions of claims and field operations will be combined into the new claims services division. The SWIF was created in 1915 and is operated by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry. According to...

Pennsylvania police officer killed in motorcycle accident

Often in this blog we’ve discussed the deadly consequences of car and truck drivers’ failure to keep an eye out for motorcycles. But there’s another danger that leads to motorcycle accidents, one that affects motorists in any vehicle: drunk drivers. People who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs...

OSHA Launches Construction Safety Initiative in Pennsylvania

Construction workers face a variety of hazards on the job, making construction sites some of the most deadly workplaces in America. A new campaign in Pennsylvania is hoping to change that by focusing on construction accident prevention. The U.S. Labor Department’s Occupational Safety a Health Administration (OSHA) recently launched a...

Pennsylvania woman sentenced for accident that killed mother of 2

The loss of a parent can be traumatic at any age, but it’s particularly hard on young children. When a parent’s death comes unexpectedly, such as in a car accident, children and other surviving family members are left in shock, unprepared to continue life without their mother or father. A...

Disabled Pennsylvanians have much to gain from health care ruling

The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the highly controversial Affordable Care Act could have a significant impact on people with disabilities in Pennsylvania, according to many advocates. With so many residents being denied Social Security disability insurance or the benefits to their employers’ long-term disability plans, the changes to...

Shippensburg, Pennsylvania Foundry Cited for Repeat Safety Violations

Employers have a duty to provide their employees with safe working conditions. This makes it all the more concerning when they fail to correct known safety issues. Unfortunately, this seems to be what may be happening at an iron foundry in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. The company was recently cited by the...

Misused surgical device can be lethal for kidney donors

Relatives and other properly matched donors are able to make a sacrifice of one of their own kidneys to save the life of someone suffering from kidney disease. Most of the time the willingness to help the recipient of the kidney overrides any worries about the transplant surgery, or medical...

Trooper charged in car accident that killed Pennsylvania woman

A Pennsylvania State Police trooper who caused a crash that killed a 21-year-old woman has been charged with homicide by vehicle while under the influence, DUI, careless driving and reckless driving. The car accident happened last month while the trooper was off duty. According to a police report, it was...

Pennsylvania Workers Overexposed to Lead and Silver Metal

Earlier this month the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a release detailing citations against Heraeus Materials Technology LLC for exposing workers to dangerous levels of silver and lead. The company’s West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania facility was cited for five violations, and proposed penalties total over $45,000. Heraus Materials Technology...

Pennsylvania boy hurt while riding motorcycle of suspended driver

Whether you’re a babysitter, an uncle or just a friend put in charge of a child, it’s your duty to look out for the best interests of a young person, if you agree to take on that responsibility. If a child is hurt while under your care, you’re obligated to...

Texting behind the wheel still common among teens, study finds

In previous blog posts we’ve discussed the dangers of distracted driving, particularly among younger drivers. A recent national survey confirmed that one bad habit, sending or reading text messages behind the wheel, is particularly common among older high school students, despite the high risk of car accidents. Texting and driving...

Pennsylvania Court Rules Subcontractor Has Statutory Employer

In a recent unanimous decision, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled a subcontractor was entitled to workers’ compensation benefits from the business who hired him. This is a “game-changing” decision, giving many more contractors the right to claim workers comp benefits if they are injured on the job. In the case,...

National Safety Month Highlights Working Ergonomically

June is National Safety Month, and during the week of June 10th through the 16th the National Safety Council is focusing on the issue of working ergonomically. Ergonomics involves making sure a person’s work environment and equipment appropriately fits their body. It is important both to create a comfortable work...

Photos in patient files could reduce medical malpractice

Most people don’t like going to the hospital, but if you or a family member needs treatment, you probably want the most personal care possible. You may even assume doctors and nurses will remember your name, your face and your symptoms. But hospitals are chaotic places and even the best...

Judge: No liability for sending texts to drivers who crash