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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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 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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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 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,...
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...
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?...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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,...
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...
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...
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,...
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...
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,...
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....
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...