Attorney Blog

11 Month Old Injured in Dog Attack in Upper Darby

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)17467 — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Dog bites seem to be increasing, or at least media coverage of them have. Whenever children are involved, dog attacks can be serious and sadly, fatal.

According to a 6abc local news article, an 11 month old and her mother were attacked by a pair of dogs in an Upper Darby home yesterday evening. Many times, homeowner's insurance can provide coverage for such attacks and such coverage will depend on the facts of each particular case.

To find out out about Pennsylvania dog attack law and your rights, read our articles or order our book.

New Jersey Pedestrian Accident Law

leej@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)38066 — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

Now that the summer is just about over, we can look forward to fall and then the holidays. Before we know it, the hustle and bustle of the holiday season will be upon us. However, we all need to be aware of one simple fact: car accidents and pedestrian accidents are just as common in the fall and holiday season as they are in the summer. And, pedestrian accidents in New Jersey have risen over the past few years.

In 2009, 157 pedestrians were killed in accidents in New Jersey. As a result, New Jersey beefed up its pedestrian decoy progam, which allows plain clothes police officers to pose as pedestrians and give tickets to drivers who fail to follow pedestrian laws. Also, the legislature changed pedestrian laws. Effective April 1, 2010, New Jersey law now clearly provides that drivers must stop for all pedestrians who are in a marked crosswalk. For pedestrians in unmarked crosswalks, which exist at every intersection, drivers must yield. Under the new law, whenever a driver strikes a pedestrian in a marked or unmarked crosswalk, there is a presumption that the driver was at fault for the accident.

Philadelphia Car Crash Leaves Woman Dead

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)17229 — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

Just one week ago, a fatal car accident in Kensington left one woman dead. The incident occurred when a man driving a 2002 Suzuki motorcycle was headed north on his bike on Kensington Avenue, not far from Somerset Street, just after 1:30 a.m. The man's identity has not yet been revealed.

According to the accident report, the man somehow lost control of his motorcycle, which skidded 150 feet and struck the rear bumper of a car stopped at a traffic signal. The impact of the crash propelled a female passenger into the back of the car, and when ambulances arrived she was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim's identity was not released either.

In their investigation, Philadelphia police found that the driver of the 2002 Suzuki motorcycle had marijuana on him. After being treated for a broken leg at Temple University Hospital, he was arrested and charged with drug possession. Other charges are currently pending.

If you have been involved in a similar Philadelphia car accident, you may be eligible for compensation. To claim damages such as medical expenses, pain and suffering, and the loss of future wages, you can get the professional help of a Philadelphia car accident attorney.

Help After a Philadelphia Car Accident

If you have been severely injured in a Philadelphia car accident, you shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person's negligence. Contact a Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Motorcyclists, Be Careful This labor Day Weekend

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)37686 — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

This Labor Day will be the last holiday weekend before the unofficial end to the motorcycle season. And you can bet that there will be a number of riders on Philadelphia's highways. Therefore, motorists need to be especially careful this coming Labor Day weekend.

Some of the common dangers that motorists should be careful of include:

Drunk drivers;
Inexperienced motorcycle riders;
Road hazards, such as potholes, puddles, and debris, all of which can result in a fatal Philadelphia motorcycle accident;
Poor motorcycle manufacturing, or poor tire alignment, which can lead to "speed wobble" (an instability or shaking of a motorcycles front tire), and
Poor visual recognition of the other vehicles around you.

If you are injured in a motorcycle accident this Labor Day weekend, you may want to get the professional help of a Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorney. An attorney can investigate your case, and tell you whether you are eligible for compensation in an injury claim.

A Philadelphia motorcycle injury lawyer may help you claim damages for:

Any medical expenses that you incurred as a result of the motorcycle accident;
Any pain or suffering that was caused; and
Lost wages due to your inability to return to work.

If you are planning to ride a motorcycle this Labor Day weekend, you need to be very careful. You can learn more about motorcycle safety and motorcycle accidents by visiting our article library.

Help After a Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident

If you have been severely injured in a Philadelphia motorcycle accident, you shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person's negligence. Contact a Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

New Jersey Defective and Dangerous Products-Negligence

leej@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)37421 — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

According to a Philly.com news article, New Jersey based, Johnson and Johnson has been on the hot seat since its eight recalls of various over the counter medicines. Since September, J&J has issued the recalls, citing various problems with bacteria, strange smells, and tiny metal shavings.

According to the article, J&J has received subpoenas from federal prosecutors related to the repeated recalls. Two plants, one in Fort Washington, PA and the other in Lancaster, PA have been found to have issues related to manufacturing problems. The Fort Washington plant was shut down in April, 2010.

We blindly rely on manufacturers for safety and in many instances, our safety becomes a bottom priority. New Jersey law recognizes multiple types of dangerous, defective products claims. Our recent article on negligence claims in dangerous products litigation discusses the ins and outs of New Jersey law.

Use Caution When Notifying Your Insurer After a New Jersey Truck Accident

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)37131 — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

When notifying your insurer after a New Jersey truck accident, you must be careful in how you choose your words. This is because whatever you say can be used to reduce the value of your claim.

Even a seemingly innocuous answer to a seemingly harmless question may cause harm to your New Jersey truck accident claim, if it can be determined that your injuries are less severe than you have stated or your life hasn't been impacted in the way in which you have claimed.

Some of the questions an adjuster may ask you include:

What were you doing just before the New Jersey truck accident occurred?
What did you do immediately after the New Jersey truck accident?
How have the injuries which you suffered from the accident affected your daily life?
What medical treatments have you received?

Questions that require more than a "yes" or "no" answer are the riskiest. Stick to the plain and simple facts of the accident. Any additional information which you provide can be used against you. This is true whether you speak to your own insurer, or to another driver's insurance company.

In fact, before speaking to an adjuster, it is best that you first consult a New Jersey truck accident lawyer. An attorney can advise you on how to handle your New Jersey truck accident claim or even handle all of the communications on your behalf.

To learn more about the steps to take after a trucking accident in New Jersey visit our article library.

Contacting a New Jersey Truck Accident Lawyer

If you have been severely injured in a New Jersey truck accident, you shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person's negligence. Contact a New Jersey truck accident lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

3 Steps to Take After a New Jersey Truck Accident

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)37130 — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you are involved in a New Jersey truck accident, there are recommend steps which you should take to ensure your safe recovery. These steps will not only ensure your medical recovery, but a financial recovery from the damages that you've suffered. These 3 steps are:

Immediately after the truck accident, check on everyone involved to see if they've been injured. Because of the severe damages typically involved in a truck crash, it is likely that the police and emergency medical responders will need to be called to the scene immediately.
While waiting for the police to arrive and if your injuries will allow, you should document the accident by taking photographs of the scene. When making a New Jersey truck accident claim, these photographs may be used as evidence to demonstrate the damages you suffered in the crash, as well as provide important clues about what caused the truck accident.
Secure the help of a New Jersey truck accident lawyer, particularly if you plan to file a New Jersey truck accident claim. An attorney can advise you on how to make your statement to your insurance company as well as handle additional communications with the adjustors on your behalf. By having an experienced attorney on your side, you can avoid making costly mistakes in your New Jersey truck accident claim.

To learn more about the steps to take after a trucking accident in New Jersey visit our article library.

Contacting a New Jersey Truck Accident Lawyer

If you have been severely injured in a New Jersey truck accident, you shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person's negligence. Contact a New Jersey truck accident lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Truck Driver Arrested in New Jersey For 2008 Death of Firefighter

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)16910 — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

Aug. 11, 2010 - New Jersey - In December of 2008, volunteer firefighter Jerry Patrick was killed in a truck accident when his emergency vehicle was suddenly hit by a commercial truck.

The Clark Fork Chronicle reports that at the time of the incident, Patrick was answering an emergency call on the side of Interstate Highway 90. The truck, which was driven by Sergey Buslayev of Emmerson, New Jersey, crashed into Patrick's truck. Patrick died at the scene of the accident.

According to an accident report, Patrick's fire truck had its emergency lights flashing at the time of the incident.

The report states that Buslayev, 56, had lost control of his truck while approaching Patrick's vehicle, and that the truck spun out of control, crashed into Patrick's vehicle, and crushed the front compartment. Patrick had been inside the front compartment at that time.

Officials have determined that Buslayev was driving between 63 and 72 mph when his truck spun out of control. "At a speed of 69 mph," court documents stated, "The Patrick vehicle would have been visible to Mr. Buslayev for about 25 seconds before impact."

On July 24, 2010, Buslayev was arrested by police of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and charged with negligent homicide. The highest penalty for a conviction of negligent homicide is 20 years in prison and a $50,000 fine.

.Have you been involved in a New Jersey truck accident?

If you have been severely injured in a New Jersey truck accident, you shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person's negligence. Contact a New Jersey truck accident lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Honda Issues Massive Recall

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)16911 — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

August 11, 2010 - A major Honda recall has been issued in the U.S. and includes 384,000 of the company's vehicles.

This recall comes after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) discovered that because of a defect in the shift interlock system, the cars may be shut off without the transmission being put in park. If this happens, the vehicle may roll away after it has been turned off.

The Honda recall includes 2003 Accord models, 2003 Civic models, and 2003-2004 Elements. This new recall is in addition to an earlier Honda recall in which vehicles suffered from the same problem. Including the new Honda recall, 1.4 million cars have been recalled because of the defect in the shift interlock system.

As of August, there have been 17 reported crashes as a result of this problem, but, thankfully, no serious injuries have been reported.

The Japanese automaker recently released a statement that the new Honda recall will start in September, and will involve 197,000 Accords, 117,000 Civics and 69,000 Elements. Honda said that there have been various complaints regarding this issue, and that one of the incidents resulted in a "minor injury."

According to the company, the Honda recall will be implemented at no cost to the vehicle's owners.

If you have been severely injured in a New Jersey accident caused by a vehicle involved in the Honda recall, you shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person's negligence. Contact a New Jersey defective product lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

My Husband Was Killed In a Truck Accident, and I Can't Afford the Funeral Costs. What Can I Do?

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)36883 — Sun, 08 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

If someone you love has been killed in a Philadelphia truck accident, there is the possibility that you are not responsible for paying the funeral costs. In fact, you may be compensated for the victim's medical bills, burial expenses, as well as the funeral costs. This is why after a Philadelphia truck accident, one of the first things you should do is contact a Philadelphia truck accident lawyer. A lawyer can investigate your case, and tell you whether you and your family are eligible for compensation.

You may be eligible for compensation if the victim was killed because of an act of negligence by the truck driver, such as:

Speeding or disobeying traffic laws;
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol; or
Driving without regard for poor road conditions.

Liability may fall to the trucking company if they failed to:

Properly maintain their vehicle;
Properly secure a load;
Properly train the truck driver; or
Set a lawful schedule for the truck driver.

If it can be proven that one of these reasons was the cause of the truck accident, you may not have to pay for your loved one's funeral costs. You may also be compensated for your loss of companionship, as well as your emotional pain and suffering.

To learn more about truck accidents in Philadelphia, including the most common types of fatal truck accidents that occur, visit out article library.

Help After a Philadelphia Truck Accident

If you have lost a loved one in a truck accident in Philadelphia, you may be eligible to seek damages in a wrongful death lawsuit. Contact a Philadelphia truck accident lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Tow Truck War Leads To New Rules In Philadelphia

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)16823 — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

Because of a recent turf war by rival tow-truck companies, news of a Philadelphia car accident will no longer be dispatched over Philadelphia airwaves. Instead, when an accident occurs, police will be alerted by written electronic messages delivered to laptop computers in their cars. Authorities hope that this will lead tow-truck companies to stop harassing motorists after accidents.

This new rule took effect following a recent incident in which one tow truck driver was shot, and properties linked to two tow truck companies were torched and riddled with gunfire.

The deadly incident began when Jose LaTorre Jr., of J & Sons Autobody, arrived to the scene of an accident in a Cadillac Escalade, and claimed his company's right to a damaged vehicle. When a tow truck from Mystical Towing arrived, that company claimed the right because they had a tow truck at the scene. When tensions escalated, LaTorre shot the other driver in the thigh.

Days later, 13 cars were torched while under one of the company's care, while the other's property was vandalized with fire and gunshots. Later in the week, LaTorre turned himself in to Philadelphia police, and was charge with aggravated assault.

As to the new rules regarding accident dispatches, exceptions will be made for accidents that involve serious injuries.

Help After a Philadelphia Car Accident

If you have been seriously injured in a car accident in Philadelphia, you shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person's negligence. Contact a Philadelphia car accident lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)36800 — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

When some one experiences a blow to the head in a car accident (or any other type of accident), there is a chance that they may suffer from a traumatic brain injury (TBI). While a majority of TBIs are concussions, a severe TBI can lead to permanent brain damage.

If someone you know has suffered a blow to the head, symptoms of a TBI may include headaches, blurred vision, fatigue or lethargy, and sudden behavioral changes. If you suspect a traumatic brain injury has occurred, then the victim should receive immediate medical attention. In severe cases, a CT scan may be needed to determine the extent of the damage. It may also be necessary to administer oxygen, so that the brain gets its necessary supply.

In the most severe cases, the victim of a traumatic brain injury may need various types of therapy, including physical therapy, speech therapy, and emotional counseling These types of therapy can be very expensive, especially when the victim needs them over an extended period of time. However, if the victim received the TBI due to some one else's negligence, then they can seek compensation through a personal injury claim. To find out if you are eligible for tile a personal injury claim related to your traumatic brain you can get the expert advice of a Philadelphia injury lawyer.

If you know someone who has experienced a blow to the head, then they may have suffered a traumatic brain injury. You can learn more about traumatic brain injuries by visiting our article library.

Help After a Traumatic Brain Injury in Philadelphia

If you or someone you love has suffered a traumatic brain injury, the consequences can be devastating. With the help of Philadelphia injury lawyer, you may be able to receive compensation that can aid you in your recovery.

If you have suffered a traumatic brain injury in Philadelphia, you shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person's negligence. Contact a Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Two New Models Announced in Latest Toyota Recall

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)16795 — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been following the news about the Toyota recall over the last year, you can add two more models to the list. In July, Toyota announced two more major recalls. One recall is for 373,000 Toyota Avalons, and the other is for 39,000 Lexus LX 470s sport utilities. The new Toyota recall is due to issues that may result in a loss of steering control. The specific models that are affected in the latest Toyota recall are:

Toyota Avalon model years 2000 to 2004
Lexus LX 470 model years 2003 to 2007

According to the Associated Press, this brings the total number of recalled vehicles in the US to 9.5 million.

According to a statement made by Toyota, the problem with the Avalon models is that the steering lock bar may break, which could cause the steering wheel to lock while the car is in motion. There have been 3 unconfirmed accidents, but no injuries reported due to this problem.

In the Lexus SUVs, Toyota said that a snap ring on the shaft may disengage after an impact, which may disengage the steering shaft. So far no accidents were reported because of this problem.

If you or someone you love was injured in an accident with a recalled Toyota in Philadelphia, you should get the professional help of a Philadelphia injury attorney.

Help After a Car Accident in Philadelphia

If you or someone you love has been in a car accident, the consequences can be devastating. With the help of Philadelphia injury lawyer, you may be able to receive compensation that can aid you in your recovery.

If you have suffered a serious injury due to a recalled vehicle, you shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person's negligence. Contact a Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

New Jersey Defective Products-Design Defects

leej@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)35991 — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

In our modern world where consumer choices for goods and products are as varied as the number of people, we are at the mercy of the manufacturers and sellers of the goods we buy.

These goods are mass produced and component parts come from other countries where quality and safety standards also vary greatly. What this means for the consumer is increased risks for injuries.

Under New Jersey law, manufacturers and sellers of good must make and sell goods that are reasonably safe and fit for their intended or forseeably intended use. New Jersey law protects not only the direct consumer, but also those who could come into contact with the product.

There are three types of dangerous product claims or product liability claims-manufacturing defects, failure to warn, and defective design claims.

One of the most common types of claims is the defective design claim. Under the defective design umbrella are three different types of claims-Consumer Expectation Test, Risk-Utility, and Reasonable Safer Design. Each of these subclaims require different levels of proof and will apply to a case depending on the facts.

For more information, access our recent article about New Jersey dangerous products law and defective design claims.

How Severe Is My Spinal Cord Injury?

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)35723 — Sun, 25 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Spinal cord injuries can be quite severe. If your spinal cord injury is a complete injury, the spinal cord has completely lost its ability to convey messages to the brain. This means that you have likely lost all of your bodily functions below the point of the injury.

If your spinal cord injury is an incomplete injury, you will likely retain some of your bodily functions below the point of the injury. But whether your spinal cord injury is complete or incomplete, you will likely encounter some complications. Many people who survive a spinal cord injury will suffer from health issues such as:

Chronic pain;
Bladder and bowel dysfunction;
Respiratory problems;
Heart problems; and/or
Partial or total paralysis.

There is treatment, however, to help manage the difficulty of living with a spinal cord injury. Treatment and rehabilitation can help mitigate the damage that is done by a spinal cord injury. In some cases, treatment may help restore some of the victim's bodily functions. With physical therapy, skill building, and emotional counseling, you may have an easier time coping with your spinal cord injury.

If you have been injured in an accident in Philadelphia and would like to learn more about spinal cord injuries, please visit our article library.

Contacting a Philadelphia Injury Lawyer

If you have suffered a spinal cord injury in Philadelphia, you shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person's negligence. Contact a Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

You Don't Need To Purchase a Product to File a Defective Product Claim

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)16452 — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

July 23, 2010 - If you are injured by a defective product, you don't need to be a buyer of that product in order to file a defective product claim. For instance, The U.S. Consumer Protection Agency recently recalled more than 2,500 outdoor steel stadium light poles made by a company called Whitco Co. The problem with the poles is that they may fall over and injure or kill somebody.

In one incident, one of these poles fell through the roof of a school gymnasium, and in two other incidents, the poles fell down on top of some outdoor bleachers. There have been 11 confirmed similar incidents, mostly in the state of Texas. Thankfully, no one has been injured as a result of the defective poles thus far.

However, the poles are at least 70 feet tall, they weigh 1 to 4 tons, and they could easily injure or kill someone who is sitting underneath them. In all likelihood, this hypothetical victim would not have been the purchaser of the defective lighting poles.

If a manufacturer makes a defective product, which results in someone's injury or death, that manufacturer may be held liable in a defective product claim. Product liability law dictates that if someone is injured or killed because of a defective product, it doesn't matter whether or not they were the purchaser of that product.

Help After a Philadelphia Defective Product Accident

If you have been severely injured in a Philadelphia accident caused by a defective product, you shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person's negligence. Contact a Philadelphia defective product lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Falls in the Winter-Snow and Ice

leej@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)35446 — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

With the heat waves of the summer, the last thing on anyone's mind is winter. But for some of our clients, their injuries which occurred in icy/snowy conditions, prevent them from enjoying the fun and sun of the summer.

Falls on ice or snow can be devastating, leading to broken bones, surgeries, and sometimes serious head injuries. Proving liability of a property owner for snow and ice is complex and requires thorough analysis of not only weather factors, but also property defects and details such as slope or grade.

Our article, "Did You Fall on Snow or Ice-What You Need to Know About Pennsylvania Law" provides a brief summary of the two main theories of liability in these situations.

Summer is almost over and winter will be here before we know it. Preventing these falls is as every bit important as getting fairly compensated for a serious injury. Property owners should take the time to read our article, because in some situations, property owners contribute to snow/ice accumulations by either creating dangerous hazards that contribute to unusual snow/ice accumulations or failing to take notice of them.

Defective Product Recall Affects Healthcare Facilities

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)16322 — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

July 16, 2010 - Washington, DC - A large recall of defective imported televisions is affecting healthcare facilities nationwide. Because of a fire hazard, a voluntary recall of PDi Communications televisions has recently been issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

The defective product recall affects about 2,700 televisions that were imported from China and installed between September of 2008 and July of 2009. All of these dangerous televisions are located in healthcare facilities across the U.S. The CPSC said the danger is in the television's capacitors which can fail and cause a fire hazard.

This defective product situation illustrates one of the circumstances that can arise in a product liability claim. Even though the TV sets are not likely owned by individual consumers, if a consumer-such as a hospital patient-were to suffer an injury because of the defective TV sets, the victim may be eligible for a defective product claim against the manufacturer. That is because you do not need to be the owner of a defective product in order to file a product liability claim in Pennsylvania, or anywhere in the U.S.

Contacting a Philadelphia Product Liability Attorney

If you have been injured by a dangerous product or a product that has recently been recalled, a Philadelphia product liability attorney can talk to you about issues of negligence and compensation in a defective product claim.

For a trusted legal team that will give your case the personal attention it deserves, contact a Philadelphia product liability attorney at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Things to Avoid After a Pennsylvania Car Accident

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)35388 — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been involved in a car accident and plan to file a Pennsylvania car accident claim, there are a number of things you can do that will help your personal injury case. However, there are also many things you should absolutely avoid doing after a Pennsylvania car accident.

What Not to Do After a Pennsylvania Car Accident

There are several things you should not do after a Pennsylvania car accident, both on the scene and in the days and weeks to follow. Listed below are a few of the biggest "Don'ts" after a Pennsylvania car accident:

Moving your vehicle from the scene;
Putting yourself at risk by waiting for help in a hazardous area, such as an area of high traffic;
Leaving the scene of the accident before the police arrive and say it is safe to do so;
Disposing of potential evidence, such as torn or bloodied clothing;
Discussing who you believe is at fault for the accident with anyone prior to speaking with a Pennsylvania car accident attorney;
Apologizing for anything (this could be construed as an admission of guilt); and
Agreeing to any type of settlement before speaking with your Pennsylvania car accident lawyer.

Hiring a Philadelphia Car Accident Attorney

Before you hire a Philadelphia car accident attorney, order our FREE consumer guide; A Primer on Pennsylvania Insurance for the Automobile Accident Victim. For a trusted legal team that will give your case the personal attention it deserves, contact a Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Leading Causes of New Jersey Car Accidents

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)35240 — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

It is said that we risk our lives every time we step into an automobile. Car accidents are commonplace on news channels and even on the commute to and from work; but why? Learning the causes behind these serious accidents is the first step to car accident prevention.

Most Common Causes of a New Jersey Car Accident

Driver Distraction: the inspiration for the current wave of cell phone laws, driver distraction is listed as the leading cause of America's car accidents. Any time you take your eyes off the road, whether it is to answer a text message, get a better view of another accident or even kill a mosquito, you could be risking your life and health.
Driver fatigue: studies have found that driving drowsy is comparable to driving drunk; a fatigued driver is a danger to themselves and anyone else with whom they share the road.
Bad Weather Conditions: Ice, snow, fog and rain are just a few weather conditions that can make the roads more dangerous. Car accidents are more likely to occur any time your visibility is greatly limited, or your traction on the road anything less optimal.
Medical or Emotional Impairment: the driver's state of mind is important. Drugs that make your drowsy or a recent breakup can impair your judgment in ways similar to alcohol inebriation.

To learn more about the most common types of car accidents, visit our article library

Hiring a Philadelphia Car Accident Attorney

If you have been injured in a New Jersey or Pennsylvania car accident, recuperating from your injuries should be your main focus. Speaking to an experienced Philadelphia car accident attorney can help you determine liability for your car accident and seek the compensation your injuries require.

For a trusted legal team that will give your case the personal attention it deserves, contact a Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

CPSC Orders Voluntary Recall on Cadmium Infected Children's Jewelry

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)16248 — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

July 13, 2010 - About 137,000 pieces of children's jewelry has been recalled due to findings that revealed toxic levels of an unsafe substance. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) ordered this voluntary recall after the discovery of toxic levels of cadmium in certain children's jewelry.

The children's jewelry was sold through two companies, Justice and Limited Too, which are both very popular with pre-teen girls. The cadmium infected jewelry includes earrings, necklaces and bracelets. The jewelry came in styles and shapes such as, hearts, heart locks, peace signs, cupcakes, crowns, butterflies, and various forms of "Best Friends" and "BFF" charms. Neither company has made any comment thus far.

The CPSC has warned consumers to stop using the contaminated children's jewelry products immediately. The CPSC went on to state the illegality of making the products in question available for any kind of resale.

As the CPSC stated, "Consumers should immediately take the recalled jewelry away from children and return it to any Justice or Limited Too store for a full refund."

Cadmium is toxic to children if ingested and can cause a number of adverse health effects.

Contacting a Philadelphia Product Liability Attorney

If your child has been seriously injured because of a defective product, such as the recalled children's jewelry products, then you may be eligible to file for a product liability case to recover any expenses related to your child's injuries. The Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at White & Williams LLP represent product liability victims in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, contact us today - (877) 944 - 8396

Pennsylvania's Dangerous Dog Statute

leej@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)35090 — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Under Pennsylvania law, dog owners can be found guilty of harboring a dangerous dog and the dog can be declared dangerous. The only way this can be done is if an injured victim, a police officer or other official files a complaint in the local magisterial district court. That party must then prove that the dog is dangerous.

If a magisterial district justice finds a dog dangerous and finds the owner guilty of the summary offense of harboring a dangerous dog, then the owner is subject to specific requirements for the duration of the life of the dog. For instance, the owner must register the dog each year, must muzzle and leash the dog when out of the owner's home, must spay/neuter the dog and must carry $50,000 of liability coverage.

My article on Pennsylvania's Dangerous Dog Statute explains the procedure, law and owner requirements in more detail.

Who Is Responsible For My Construction Accident?

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)34755 — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a Philadelphia construction accident, there are a number of people who may have played a role in your accident and resultant injuries.

This can include the site's landowner, design and engineering professionals, contractors (including general, prime, and sub-contractors), construction managers, and equipment and material suppliers. Liability will depend on the particular project and the events that led to your specific construction accident.

Remember that if you accept Workers' Compensation after a Philadelphia construction accident, you lose the right to sue your employer or any fellow employees, even if they were directly responsible for your injuries.

Generally speaking, large commercial construction sites involve dozens, or hundreds, of people. Various individuals are employed to manage and delegate responsibility. In accidents on these types of sites, an investigation may be needed to find out who was ultimately responsible for your construction accident.

Depending on who was in control of the site, and the details of the accident, a third-party may be held liable for:

Unsafe work practices;
Unsafe equipment;
Unsafe working conditions;
Failure to control the job site; and/or
Product liability.

In many cases, related third parties, such as architects or manufacturers, may also be held responsible for a site's unsafe design or equipment. This is particularly relevant in cases where you are not able to bring a case against your employer, but must instead pursue a third-party lawsuit.

If you have recently been injured in a Pennsylvania construction accident, you may be eligible for compensation in a personal injury claim. Learn more by visiting our article library.

Hiring a Pennsylvania Injury Lawyer

Recovering from your injuries and returning to your life is much more difficult if you're weighed down with accident-related expenses. A Pennsylvania injury lawyer can help you fight for a fair settlement after a Philadelphia construction accident. Contact White & Williams LLP today for a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Philadelphia Duck Boat Accident-Two Missing

leej@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)34813 — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

According to an ABCNEWS article, two young tourists from Hungary are missing and several people were injured after a Philadelphia boating accident on July 7, 2010 . The popular "duck boat," an amphibious vehicle, was reported to have collided with a 250 foot long barge at around 2:00 p.m. near Penn's Landing in Philadelphia . The collision caused the boat to capsize.

According to the news report, the boat began having mechanical issues shortly after it entered the water. A fire started onboard and the boat's engine was shut down. As it waited for rescue, the collision occurred. Over 30 people, some children, went overboard and a handful of rescued passengers were taken to a nearby hospital. The National Transportation and Safety Board will conduct an investigation.

The firm of White and Williams LLP has extensive experience litigating these kinds of boating accidents in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and New Jersey area. We recently wrote a free article on the antiquated limitation of damage defense in boating accident cases.

Injured on Philadelphia Duck Boat Accident

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)16056 — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Search crews continue into a second day for missing passengers from a duck boat that sank after a collision with a Philadelphia city-owned vessel. The accident occurred on July 7, 2010 when a duck boat, operated by Ride the Ducks Corporation, became disabled on the Delaware River in Philadelphia due to mechanical failure and was impacted by a 250 foot city-owned barge that was being pushed by tugboat. The collision caused the duck boat to sink and cast its thirty-seven passengers into the forty foot deep waters. News outlets have reported injuries to those aboard the duck boat and two passengers remain missing.

The attorneys at White and Williams know how to handle maritime accidents and position our clients to avoid the potential pitfalls that come with these complex cases. Please see the article we wrote on how the

Duck Boat Accident in Philadelphia Presents Significant Legal Hurdles to those Injured.

If you have been injured in a boating accident, contact Daniel O'Brien, a Pennsylvania and New Jersey personal injury lawyer, who can talk to you about your options and help to fight for compensation. Dan can be reached at 877-944-8396 or email: obriend@whiteandwilliams.com and he will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case.

Is The Property Owner Liable For My Slip And Fall?

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)34753 — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a slip and fall on someone else's property, then the property owner may be held liable if:

They fail to provide adequate warning to indicate that a floor is wet;
They fail to provide barriers preventing access to a dangerous floor;
They use too much wax or polish;
They fail to fix torn or worn areas of a carpet;
They fail to properly maintain stairs; or
You are injured on an escalator or elevator because of glitches in the machinery that cause you to fall.

If any of these conditions or incidents led to injuries in a slip and fall accident, then you may be eligible for compensation in a personal injury claim.

A Pennsylvania injury lawyer can investigate the evidence in your slip and fall accident. If you do have cause for a personal injury claim, an attorney can try to negotiate a settlement with the responsible property owner. If the property owner does not want to compensate you for your damages, then an attorney can file an injury claim in a formal court of law.

To learn more about conditions that can lead to a serious indoor slip and fall accident, visit our article library.

Hiring a Pennsylvania injury lawyer

Recovering from your injuries and returning to your life is much more difficult if you are hindered by accident-related expenses and the stress of trying to negotiate a settlement with an insurance company. A Pennsylvania injury lawyer can help you fight for a fair settlement that will adequately address your current and ongoing medical costs and lost wages.

For a trusted legal team that will give your case the personal attention it deserves, contact a Pennsylvania injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Natural Gas Incident At Pennsylvania Well Injures Two

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)16022 — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

July 6, 2010 - An equipment failure at a natural gas well injured 2 workers in June 2010 in an incident that occurred in the Gaines Township of Northern Pennsylvania.

While the Pennsylvania work accident was initially reported to have been a natural gas explosion, a director at the Department of Environmental Protection stated that equipment was to blame. According to reports, one injured worker suffered skull lacerations after being hit in the head with a piece of metal, while the other suffered broken ribs. Both were flown to Robert Packer Hospital where they were treated for their injuries.

According to the Department of Environmental Protection, the cause of the worksite accident was probably "excessive pressure in the hammer union", but the director questioned whether the union had been properly installed. The well, which was being prepared for production, was shut down for further investigation. The Tioga County Emergency Management Agency called the incident an industrial accident.

Authorities didn't know the conditions of the workers immediately following the worksite accident, but said that just because they were airlifted didn't mean that their injuries were necessarily life-threatening.

Meanwhile, preparation of the natural gas well was restarted, and production is expected to remain on schedule. There is an ongoing investigation to determine how the worksite accident occurred.

Hiring a Pennsylvania Work Injury Lawyer

If you've been injured in a worksite accident in Pennsylvania, contact a Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

One Step Ahead Recalls Children's Toys

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)16023 — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

July 6, 2010 - A product recall has been issued for Animal Crackers Giant Stacking Toys, which are manufactured by One Step Ahead of Lake Bluff, Illinois.

The voluntary recall has been issued because of a hazard with the product's fabric covering. According to the recall, the fabric covering the stacking ring's center pole can come apart at the seam, exposing the foam material inside. The foam material poses a choking and aspiration hazard to young children.

No serious injuries have been reported in connection with the dangerous children's product.

The dangerous toy was manufactured in China and was sold in One Step Ahead's catalogue, and through the company's website, between October 2008 and April 2010.

Consumer Reports says that more than 80% of defective products that were recalled in 2007 and 2008 were made in China and shipped to the United States for sale.

If your child was injured because of a defective product or dangerous toy, you may be eligible for a product liability claim. These are complicated cases, as it can sometimes be difficult to prove that a manufacturer defect was responsible for your child's injuries.

Your Philadelphia injury lawyer will gather all necessary evidence-including records of past negligence and product recalls-to build a strong case of consumer product liability.

The Philadelphia injury lawyers at White & Williams LLP are well-versed in product liability cases and can talk to you about your child's injuries and your options for legal recourse. Contact us today - 1-877-944-8396.

West Philadelphia Car Accident Involving a Police Car

leej@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)34269 — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

On June 10, 2010 philly.com reported that a teen was hit by a police car in West Philadelphia. According to the article, the accident occurred at 9:30 p.m. near 60th Street and Washington Avenue and the boy was transported to CHOP for treatment.

In a situation like this, the natural question is whether the officer was negligent in causing the accident. If the officer was negligent, then the City of Philadelphia may be liable for the accident.

Pennsylvania's Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act generally states that local agencies, like the City can never be held liable for accidents. However, there are some exceptions. One exception allows liability for car, bus/transit or pedestrian accidents.

Because, however, the case involves the City/local agency, there are multiple requirements for injured victims. The most important one is that they notify the government within 6 months of their accident.

My article, In Pennsylvania is the Government Immune from Liability for Car Accidents? explains the law and notice requirement in more detail.

Product Liability and a Philadelphia Work Accident

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)33818 — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

It's a common misconception that once you accept Workers' Compensation after a Philadelphia work accident, you are out of legal options in the event that your settlement isn't enough to cover your medical bills and lost wages.

What many people don't know is that by taking Workers' Compensation you only lose the option of filing suit against your employer or any fellow employees. You still maintain the option of pursuing a third-party liability claim against any companies or individuals whose negligence contributed to your worksite accident.

A fairly common option when looking at third-party liability claims after a Philadelphia work accident is that of product liability. These types of lawsuits stem from a defective product that has caused serious injury or illness. Some examples of product liability in a work accident claim include:

A manufacturer of defective scaffolding that collapses at a construction site, causing serious or fatal injuries to workers using the structure;
A retailer who continues to sell defective safety goggles after learning of a safety recall on the product;
The manufacturer that creates faulty brakes which are used on a city garbage truck; and
An assembly plant that puts together a defective piece of factory equipment.

These are just some of the types of negligence that would lead to a product liability claim after suffering a work-related injury. To learn more about third-party liability lawsuits after a Philadelphia work accident, visit our library.

You shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills which were caused by another person or company's negligence. Contact a Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396.

Child Injuries Associated With Defective Products

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)33817 — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Parents rely on the child and baby products they purchase to be safe and protect their children from harm. Unfortunately, unsafe baby products are an all-too-common sight on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's listing of defective and recalled consumer products.

Common child injuries associated with defective products can include;

Lead poisoning;
Burns;
Spinal injuries;
Head trauma or traumatic brain injury;
Broken bones; and
Loss of fingertips, digits or limb.

Some recent examples of unsafe baby products and associated injuries include:

A recall on Simplicity cribs, which were linked to the suffocation death of at least 1 baby;
A massive recall on Graco drop side cribs that were linked to multiple types of child injuries and the potential for suffocation;
Evenflo recalled top-of-the-stair wood gates that were defective and resulted in numerous child fall injuries, including head injuries; and
Infantino SlingRider baby slings were recalled after 3 infants died of suffocation.

These are just a few examples of the types of injuries that can occur that may result in a product liability claim. To learn more about the types of injuries caused by unsafe products, visit our article library.

Your child shouldn't have to suffer and your family should not have to pay for expensive medical bills which were caused by another person or company's negligence. Contact a Philadelphia product liability lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396.

New Jersey Dangerous Products Law - Manufacturing Defects

leej@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)33900 — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

In our fast-paced and technical world, the products we use at home, work and play are often made overseas by the lowest bidder. Many overseas countries simply don't adhere to U.S. standards for quality control. These factors can lead to increased incidents of manufacturing defects. Under New Jersey law, a manufacturing defect occurs when there's a malfunction of a product during manufacture.

The recent Tylenol recalls illustrate manufacturing defects well. Late last year, Tylenol manufacturer, McNeil Healthcare began recalling various Tylenol brands of over the counter drugs. The presence of a chemical, 2,4,6-tribromoanisole (TBA) was detected. TBA results from the breakdown of a chemical in wood pallets used during transport and store packaging materials for the drugs.

Then, in April, 2010, many children's and infant's Tylenol products were recalled. According to a McNeil news release: "Some of the products included in the recall may contain a higher concentration of active ingredient than is specified; others may contain inactive ingredients that may not meet internal testing requirements; and others may contain tiny particles."

Just last week, McNeil expanded its recall to include additional products, including certain types of Benadryl.

These recalls are classic examples of manufacturing defects. The presence of foreign materials and chemicals in these situations point to malfunctions in the manufacturing process.

My recent article on New Jersey dangerous products law discusses manufacturing defects at length.

Your Child Was Injured During Field Day At School - Who Was Paying Attention To Safety?

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)33896 — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Child injuries often happen at school's Field Day events. This is because every student in the school is invited to participate in athletic events and competitions. These often include things like running races, home run contests, free throw competitions, soccer competitions and the like. Students with athletic experience may be allowed to compete against the star athletes. Girls may compete against boys.

However, attention to safety at these events are completely lacking and leads to numerous injuries to the students. For example, helmets may not be required on Field Day. Students may be allowed to mill around the outfield during a homerun derby, or may actually be competing in other events in the outfield while batters are hitting balls. This would (or should) never take place at formal team practice. When this takes place on Field Day, there is a serious breach of safety standards and avoidable, unnecessary injuries occur.

I have seen firsthand the tragic, life-altering consequences that this type of loose supervision and enforcement can have for the students participating in these events. To learn more about Safety at School Field Day, please see the free article I wrote about Field Day Safety.

Pop Singer Injured in Pennsylvania Dog Bite Attack

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)15655 — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

June 7, 2010 - Shohola, Pa. - Pop singer Vanessa Carlton was bitten on the leg by a pit bull on May 2 in Shohola, roughly 100 miles north of Philadelphia.

Fox News reports that the alleged animal attack occurred when Carlton was jogging on the street, near her father's home. Carlton said that a neighbor's pit bull puppy bit her on the leg. The singer was treated with antibiotics to prevent infection. Bacterial infections are common with any animal attack or dog bite that results in broken skin.

The pit bull was placed into a 10-day home quarantine. According to the Pocono Record, Carlton filed formal charges against the owners of the dog and local animal control officials labeled the puppy a "dangerous dog."

When a dog is labeled as a dangerous dog in Pennsylvania, the owner must pay special registration and insurance fees. The dog must also wear a muzzle any time it is taken off the owner's property and it must be kept in a special enclosure while on the property.

Dog bite injuries are a serious problem in Pennsylvania and across the country. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that each year, 4.5 million Americans are injured by dog bites or animal attack.

If you or your child has suffered a serious dog bite, don't sign any insurance settlements or hire an attorney until you read The Pennsylvania and New Jersey Dog Bite Book. This FREE consumer guide will help you to protect your claim in the event of a serious dog bite injury. The Philadelphia injury lawyers at White & Williams LLP are well-versed in Pennsylvania dog bite claims and are ready to answer your questions. Contact us today - 1-877-944-8396.

GM Recalls 1.5 Million Vehicles Because of Fire Hazard

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)15656 — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

June 16, 2010 - Another major automobile recall has been announced in the United States, this one affecting more than a dozen models of General Motors (GM) cars, trucks and SUVs.

The GM recall was announced in the early part of June and affects more than 1.5 million vehicles worldwide, most of which were sold in the U.S. The automobile recall stems from a fire hazard associated with the affected vehicles' heated windshield wiper fluid system. Included in the GM recall are 2006-2009 models, among them:

Buick Enclave and Buick Lucerne;
Various models of Cadillac, including the Escalade;
Various Chevrolet models (Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe and Traverse);
GMC Acadia, GMC Sierra and GMC Yukon;
Hummer H2; and
Saturn Outlook.

The faulty electrical component could result in a fire, which could lead to serious burn injuries or automobile crashes. So far, no injuries have been reported.

Also announced this week is an automobile recall on roughly 16,000 Volkswagen 2009 Routans. The recalled Volkswagen vehicles have defective wiring that could lead to a short circuit and a potential for fire in the sliding door. Again, this unsafe product could result in serious or even fatal burn injuries. Contact your local Volkswagen dealership for instructions on how to handle the safety issues.

If You Are Injured in a Recalled Automobile

If you have suffered a serious burn injury or crash in a defective automobile, or if you've suffered an injury in any type of defective product, you might have the grounds for a product liability claim. A New Jersey product liability lawyer can help gather evidence and secure expert witnesses in order to build a strong case that fully details the way in which a manufacturer's negligence caused your injuries.

You shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person or company's negligence. Contact a New Jersey product liability lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396.

Dog Attacks Mom and Two Children in South Philadelphia

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)15546 — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

A mother and her two children were attacked by a pit bull in South Philadelphia earlier this month. According to a CBS3.com news report, the dog was being kept at a local business. Fortunately, this attack was not fatal. Such vicious dog attacks on children can often be fatal.

Pennsylvania's Dog Law has undergone some changes in the past 20 years. Under its most recent version, a dog owner can be held liable for a dog attack or dog bite if the dog shows signs of viciousness. The "one free bite rule" no longer applies. In fact, dog owners can and often are held liable for a single, first attack.

Also, liability does not always stop with the dog owner. Others can be held liable as well. Trainers, dog sitters, and even breeders can be held liable.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog, contact the White and Williams team, experienced in dog attack and dog bite law. We serve all accident victims in Pennsylvania and New Jersey and always offer a free consultation. 1-877-944-8396

Is your worksite compliant with OSHA Fall Protection?

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)33571 — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Many would think that with OSHA’s regulations and requirements for fall protection, the number of falls, injuries and deaths would be decreasing. In fact, OSHA reported that falls actually increased in the last several years.

In our practice, we’ve seen many cases where employers and construction sites violate the OSHA regulations and do not have the proper fall protection systems. To learn more about the OSHA requirements for fall protection, please see the free article I wrote on OSHA Fall Protection Regulations.

Dog bite and dog attack lawyer in Philadelphia

leej@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)33585 — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

The recent dog attack cases in the Philadelphia area are quite alarming. Week after week, we've heard of dog attacks, some of them fatal.

Just last week, a mother and her two children were attacked by a dog that appeared to have run out of a neighboring business. The dog attacked the mother and her children and then went after a man who tried to intervene. Such attacks are on the rise and can be devastating and fatal.

Under Pennsylvania law, dogs must be leashed and licensed. Many times, these kinds of attacks occur because dog owners fail to properly leash their dogs. In this recent attack, a local news agency reported that the dog came from one of the local businesses and had in fact, been kept there. If this is indeed true, then that business owner or the actual dog owner may be liable for this attack.

Also, other people can be held liable as well. In some situations, breeders, trainers and even dog sitters might also share liability for dog attacks.

Dan O'Brien and I wrote a free book on Pennsylvania and New Jersey dog bite law and I recently wrote an article about Pennsylvania's dog bite law.

Fatal Car Crash on Schuylkill near Philadelphia

leej@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)33593 — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Drunk driving is a topic near and dear to my heart. I've represented many clients who were victimized as a result of a DUI driver. It absolutely drives me mad that a drunk driver's irresponsibility leads to serious accidents and injuries and sometimes, even death. Just today, Philly.com posted a news article about an off-duty state trooper, John Quigg, Jr., who often investigated crashes on the Schuykill. He was charged with a DUI this past December. He was killed early this morning when he drove his car the wrong way on I-76, severely injuring an innocent driver, a young woman from Philadelphia. It is believed he was driving while intoxicated when he caused this accident.

In these DUI car accident cases, punitive damages can sometimes be another source of recovery for the injured victim. Punitive damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and send a message. Pennsylvania law recognizes punitive damages in DUI car accident cases and we've been successful in adding these claims to our clients' cases.

I recently wrote an article on Pennsylvania law, DUI accidents and punitive damages.

Amusement Park Accidents in PA and NJ

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)33399 — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Amusement park ride accidents can result in serious, devastating injuries.

Negligence on the part of the amusement park can often be shown in many ways. For example, we often prove any of the following:

1) failure to train employees;
(2) failure to properly design and build the equipment;
(3) failure to maintain the equipment;
(4) failure to enact proper rules and policies;
(5) failure to enforce rules and policies;
(6) failure to properly supervise employees.

My article about amusement park accidents discusses these issues at length.

Numerous Violations Led to Massive Recall on Children's Drugs

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)15467 — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

June 7, 2010 - Washington, DC - Drug manufacturers Johnson & Johnson continue to face scrutiny as more reports surface of production inefficiencies in relation to the massive spring 2010 children's drug recall.

More than 40 types of popular over-the-counter children's drugs-including Tylenol, Zyrtec and Motrin-were recalled when it was discovered that the Pennsylvania plant where they were manufactured suffered numerous "quality-control problems," according to The Los Angeles Times. The newspaper also reports that an additional drug recall has been issued on 100,000 bottles of PediaCare that were manufactured at the plant.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is overseeing the recall and investigation, said it has received reports of several hundred illnesses and 7 deaths in association with the recalled drugs. There currently is no definitive proof to link the drugs to the injuries or deaths.

The FDA has said that the plant, which is run by Johnson & Johnson subsidiary McNeil Consumer Healthcare, was found to have numerous violations, including:

Inadequately trained staff;
Contaminated supplies; and
Poorly maintained equipment.

The company also neglected to investigate nearly 50 consumer complaints about its products.

These types of violations would be important evidence in a product liability claim. In cases of product recalls that stem from dangerous or defective products, a Philadelphia product liability lawyer will investigate the history of the product and its maker to determine who was ultimately responsible for your injuries.

The Philadelphia injury lawyers at White & Williams LLP are well-versed in product liability cases and can talk to you about your accident and your options for legal recourse. Contact us today - 1-877-944-8396.

Tracing the History of a Defective Product

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)33285 — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

In some personal injury claims, it's fairly easy to determine who is liable for your injuries. For instance, if someone were to run a red light and broadside your car, it would be relatively easy to assign fault in your case. But other types of personal injury claims-such as those caused by defective products-are a bit more difficult to navigate.

Because there are numerous parties who have a role in getting a defective product into the hands of unwitting consumers, product liability claims are particularly complex.

An Example of Fault in a Product Liability Claim

Let's say, for instance, that your child suffered a serious head injury after falling from a defective high chair. Your child must cope with severe, life-changing injuries and your family is left with mounting medical bills that you should not have to pay. In order to determine who is liable in such a case, you can trace the history of the product that caused your injury.

For the sake of our example, let's say that some of the key components of the chair were manufactured in China with materials that did not meet U.S. safety standards. They were shipped to a factory in Ohio for assembly, where the plant manager recognized the inadequacy of the materials, but as a cost-cutting measure, proceeded to use them to assemble the high chairs. Next, the defective products made their way to a national store in Philadelphia, where, after a few months, the store's management received notice of a product recall on the high chairs, but neglected to remove them until several weeks after the fact.

In such a case, your Philadelphia product liability lawyer may be able to prove negligence on the part of the manufacturer, the assembler and the retailer. If the company that owned the brand of high chair had knowledge of the defects, but continued to market and sell the chairs in order to avoid a costly product recall, they also might be held liable for damages.

To learn more about product liability and who is to blame in such a case, visit our library.

You shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person or company's negligence. Contact a Philadelphia product liability lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Tripping or Falling Down Stairs Caused by "Wear Strips"

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)33019 — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

People often trip and fall down stairs at public places such as hotels, resorts, restaurants, museums and other public establishments, and as a result, become seriously injured. One of the causes is the "wear strips" placed on carpeted stairways, which are plastic or metal strips or "nosings" on the leading edge of the stairs. The primary purpose or function of these strips is to reduce the amount of wear on the carpet. Simply put, these strips are placed on the carpeted stairs to increase the life of the carpet, thereby saving the business owner money in replacing the carpet.

Often times, the "wear strips" are not secured, inspected or maintained properly and easily catches an individual's heel or toe. As a result, the individual trips and falls down the stairs. However, this can all be avoided by properly securing the "wear strips". Click on the title above to access the article I wrote on the dangerous tripping hazard of "wear strips" on stariways.

If you've been injured from tripping and falling down stairs, contact an experienced premises liability lawyer at White and Williams. Our team will provide quality representation every step of the way. 1-877-944-8396.

Child Product Recalls in 2010

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)15391 — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

June 4, 2010 - While no industry is immune to the issue of manufacturing defects and product recalls, it seems that products made for and/or marketed to babies, children and parents are especially affected by the prevalence of defective products.

According to a story in The Baltimore Sun that cited the senior director of product safety for Consumer Reports, "at least half of more than 500 recalls by the federal Consumer Product Safety Commission each year are for children's products." That doesn't even include product recalls that are overseen by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA), such as the recent recall on more than 40 types of children's over-the-counter medicines including Tylenol, Motrin and Zyrtec.

This year has been an especially busy year for product recalls on dangerous baby products and products for young children, with several high-profile recalls of widely-used defective products. Some of the most notable baby product recalls of the first half of 2010 include:

Infantino baby slings;
Simplicity drop side cribs;
Graco drop side cribs;
Graco Harmony high chairs;
Generation 2 drop side cribs;
ChildESIGNS drop side cribs; and
Graco strollers.

These defective products have been shown to cause serious injury and in some cases-such as the Infantino baby slings and some of the models of drop side cribs-even death.

Consumer Reports says that more than 80% of defective products that were recalled in 2007 and 2008 were made in China and shipped to the United States for sale.

If your child was injured because of a defective product, you may be eligible for a product liability claim. These are complicated cases, as it can sometimes be difficult to prove that a manufacturer defect was responsible for your child's injuries.

Your Philadelphia injury lawyer will gather all necessary evidence-including records of past negligence and product recalls-to build a strong case of consumer product liability.

The Philadelphia injury lawyers at White & Williams LLP are well-versed in product liability cases and can talk to you about your child's injuries and your options for legal recourse. Contact us today - 1-877-944-8396.

Pain and Suffering and Your Product Liability Claim

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)32993 — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

One of the most commonly used phrases during the course of a personal injury case is "pain and suffering." Pain and suffering is often an important factor in determining the dollar amount of a product liability settlement. If you were injured because of a defective product and your injuries have had a lasting impact on your life, your New Jersey product liability lawyer will likely aim to include pain and suffering among the damages you seek in a claim.

Pain and suffering is somewhat of a fluid legal concept. There are no universal charts or standards by which a judge can determine the dollar amount that a victim should be awarded for his or her pain and suffering in a product liability claim. The amount can vary significantly from state to state and case by case. Even if two people have suffered similar injuries after using a defective product, they may get vastly different settlements for their pain and suffering.

Factors that may be considered when determining the pain and suffering damages include:

Your tolerance for pain;
Your actions after suffering the injury and whether they are consistent with someone who was in significant and constant pain;
Your line of work and how your suffering has impacted your ability to remain employed;
Your previous health and any pre-existing injuries;
How your injuries have impacted your day-to-day life;
Witness testimony that supports your claims; and
Your New Jersey product liability lawyer's ability to convince the judge and/or jury that your life has been significantly and permanently impacted by your injuries.

Pain and suffering is just one of the factors in determining the value of your product liability claim. To learn more about the types of compensation in a product liability lawsuit visit our article library.

A New Jersey product liability lawyer with experience in defective product claims can work with you to determine issues of negligence and liability in your defective product case. The lawyers at White & Williams LLP will investigate your product liability claim so that you can focus on healing from your injuries and moving on with your life. Contact us today - 1-877-944-8396.

Finding Out About Defective Products and Product Recalls

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)32875 — Sat, 05 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

On any given day, you can find dozens of consumer safety alerts and news of product recalls on the websites for official government agencies like the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Food and Drug Administration and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

These agencies, among others, are charged with alerting the public to dangerous defective products that may cause serious injury, illness or even death. The consumer alerts and recalls on defective products serve to both protect and inform the public of the existence of defective products.

Some high-profile examples of defective products that resulted in serious injury and product recalls in 2010 include:

The various Toyota recalls that were related to unexpected acceleration among other manufacturing and design defects;
A massive recall on Infantino baby slings after reports of several infants suffocating in the unsafe baby products;
A drug recall on millions of bottles of children's drugs, including Tylenol, Motrin, Benadryl and Zyrtec; and
The recall on the common food additive hydrolyzed vegetable protein that was contaminated with salmonella bacteria and affected dozens of products by numerous manufacturers.

If you've been injured after using a defective product, the official safety recall and other information-such as research and injury reports-provided by these organizations may prove helpful as your Philadelphia product liability lawyer works to assemble evidence for your injury claim.

To learn more about defective products, visit our article library.

A Philadelphia product liability lawyer with experience in defective product claims can work with you to determine issues of negligence and liability in your defective product case. The lawyers at White & Williams LLP will investigate your product liability claim so that you can focus on healing from your injuries and moving on with your life. Contact us today - 1-877-944-8396.

Johnson & Johnson Investigated After Product Recalls

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)15354 — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

June 1, 2010 - Washington, D.C. - Johnson & Johnson, the manufacturer of such popular over-the-counter medications as Motrin and Tylenol, is currently under investigation for numerous manufacturing and quality-control issues.

The drug manufacturer's public relations and legal problems surfaced earlier this year with the announcement of a massive drug recall involving more than 40 products, including children's medications such as Tylenol, Motrin and Benadryl.

Officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are considering criminal charges against the company for its potentially negligent response to addressing various manufacturing defects. In addition, the U.S. Congress is investigating reports that in 2008, Johnson & Johnson tried to cover up the need for a drug recall by sending representatives of the company out to buy up tainted products circulating on the shelves.

If you have been injured because of a recalled drug manufactured or sold by

Johnson & Johnson, it is important to contact a Philadelphia injury lawyer who understands issues of product liability and product recalls. Companies have a responsibility to ensure that the products they manufacture and sell are safe for consumer use.

It can be complicated and sometimes difficult to prove that a manufacturer defect was responsible for your injuries. Your Philadelphia injury lawyer will gather all necessary evidence-including records of past negligence and product recalls-to build a strong case of consumer product liability.

The Philadelphia injury lawyers at White & Williams LLP are well-versed in product liability cases and can talk to you about your injuries and your options for legal recourse. Contact us today - 1-877-944-8396.

Tanning and the Risk of Cancer

leej@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)32692 — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

We all know that rates of cancer are increasing. In fact, skin cancer rates have risen since 1997 and will continue to do so. Melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, is now clearly associated with tanning beds.

A recent University of Minnesota study shows that those who use tanning beds have a 74% increased risk of developing melanoma. The study was published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention.

Young people are often at increased risk because of the popularity of tanning bed use.

The FDA may soon require additional warnings on tanning beds and may also require parental consent for those under the age of 18.

Click on the title above to access my recent article on cancer and tanning beds.

If you have melanoma and regularly used tanning beds, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer today for your free consultation. 1-877-944-8396

Unintended Acceleration-The Toyota Recall and Fatalities

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)32477 — Sat, 29 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

The death toll from unintended or sudden acceleration of certain Toyota models is now estimated at 89, according to a recent report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

There is evidence that Toyota knew of unintended or sudden acceleration problems by 2002, the year it installed a new electronic system in the accelerator. However, it wasn't until 2009 when Toyota actually issued recalls of certain models, citing the acceleration problem. Initially, Toyota claimed that floor mats were the probable cause of the acceleration problem. Even after fixing the floor mat acceleration problem, complaints of sudden acceleration continued. Then Toyota claimed that pedal mechanisms caused friction, resulting in stuck accelerators. But its own supplier went on record stating that the friction problem was not the issue.

Eight million Toyota's have been recalled worldwide. Toyota now faces multiple lawsuits in both federal and state courts. It has also paid a record $16.4 million fine for its slow response to the acceleration problem. Although the death toll stands at 89, that number is likely to increase as the investigation continues.

Click on the link above to access a full article on the acceleration issue.

If you have been in a car accident with a recalled Toyota, it is important that you get the answers you are looking for. The Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at White & Williams LLP represent accident victims in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, contact us today 1- 877- 944- 8396.

Two Killed in Northampton County

leej@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)32489 — Sat, 29 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

On May 27, 2010, two men were killed in a car accident on Route 33 in Lower Nazareth Township in Northampton County, Pennsylvania. A man driving a sedan crossed the center line of Route 33 and struck a man on a motorcycle. Both were declared dead at the scene. On May 4, 2010, there was another fatal car accident in North Whitehall Township, also in Northampton County. In that accident, a young man crossed the center line on Route 873 and struck two women, causing a head-on collision that killed both women. These types of accidents are unfortunately, much more common than we all think.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2008 there were over 34,000 fatal car accidents in the U.S, and over 26,000 people died in fatal car accidents.

The personal injury lawyers at White and Williams have represented many clients in Northampton County. Below, you'll hear from one of our former clients, who suffered severe injuries in a dump truck versus car accident in Northampton County.

For a trusted legal team that will give your car accident case the personal attention it deserves, contact a Philadelphia and New Jersey injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

The Importance of Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)32324 — Thu, 27 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Imagine driving down the road and getting into a catastrophic accident--the kind that results in serious, permanent injuries. You spend weeks in the hospital and your career is over because of the extent of your injuries. Assume that the driver of the car that hit you had no insurance at all. In this scenario, if you do not have uninsured coverage, you will recover nothing and will be left to face the economic consequences of the accident all on your own. Now assume that the driver of the car that hit you had a minimum policy worth only $15,000. In that scenario, if you do not have underinsured coverage, you will only recover the $15,000 and nothing else.

This situation is entirely avoidable by purchasing the right amount of uninsured and underinsured coverage. Under Pennsylvania law, the default amount equals the amount of bodily injury coverage you purchase. If you opt for amounts lower than the bodily injury coverage, you must sign a special waiver or what is called a "sign down" form.

Many times we buy car insurance without fully understanding our options and without understanding the full importance of our selections. Since 1960, the number of cars on the road in the U.S. has gradually increased. The Department of Transportation estimates that there are over 250 million cars on the roads in the country. Serious, devastating car accidents are much more common than we all think and one step we can take to protect ourselves and our families is to purchase uninsured and underinsured coverage.

Click on the title above to access my article on uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.

For a trusted legal team that will give your case the personal attention it deserves, contact a Philadelphia and New Jersey injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Wet Paint in Parking Lots--A Hidden Danger

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)32118 — Mon, 24 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Slip and falls in parking lots are common. The most often cause is wet paint, and this situation can be avoided by one very simple solution--adding a gritty substance to the paint to provide traction. Otherwise, people getting out of their cars or walking across a parking lot can slip and sustain serious injuries.

Paint is applied to parking lot surfaces to mark parking lots spaces, walking areas and even crosswalks to buildings. However, these painted surfaces can become slippery when wet. That is because paint applied to a rough, uneven surface, like asphalt creates a slick surface. Paint fills in the tiny grooves of asphalt and a person can slip on the resulting smooth surface.

However, this can all be avoided by adding a gritty material to the paint when it is applied. Paint manufacturers warn of the danger of wet paint and if such warnings go unheeded, a very dangerous condition results.

Click on the title above to access the article I wrote on wet paint in parking lots.

If you've been injured in a slip and fall in a parking lot, contact an experienced liability lawyer at White and Williams. Our team will provide quality representation every step of the way. 1-877-944-8396.

Fatal Trucking Accident in Chesterfield, New Jersey

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)32005 — Fri, 21 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a report in 2008 about trucking accidents in the United States. 4,229 people were killed in accidents involving at least one large truck and another 90,000 were injured. This means that 11 people per day are killed in trucking accidents and another 246 people are injured per day.

Also according to NHTSA, most fatal trucking accidents occur in rural areas, during the daytime and on weekdays. In 2008, during the week, 74% of crashes happened between the hours of 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. On the weekends, 63% of the accidents happened between the hours of 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

The fatal accident in Chesterfield, New Jersey occurred at 1:00 a.m. on the New Jersey Turnpike when a box truck struck a trailer which had become separated from another large truck. A second accident occurred when a tanker hit an axle which had fallen off the tractor trailer.

Needless to say, trucking accidents are dangerous. In fact, trucking accident fatalities accounted of 11% of the total number of traffic fatalities in the U.S. in 2008.

One step in the right direction to curb traffic fatalities is a recent ban implemented by the U.S. Department of Transportation. As of January, 2010, drivers of commercial buses and trucks are prohibited from texting while driving.

Click on the title above to access my recent article on trucking accidents.

For a trusted legal team that will give your case the personal attention it deserves, contact a Philadelphia and New Jersey injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Exercise Equipment Recalled Because of Risk of Head and Neck Injuries

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)15055 — Thu, 20 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

ICON Health and Fitness has issued a voluntary recall on thousands of weight machines because of a risk of the user falling and suffering a serious head or neck injury during use.

The products in the ICON inversion bench recall include:

Nordic Track Revitalize
Gold's Gym
Weider Club

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the ankle clamp on a recalled inversion bench can break unexpectedly, posing a risk of serious spinal, neck or head injuries. So far, there have been at least 75 reports of the straps breaking and 23 reported injuries in connection with the recalled fitness equipment.

The inversion bench recall includes roughly 33,000 benches, sold at sporting good stores and other retailers, such as Walmart and Sears. The benches were priced at $200-$300 and were sold throughout the United States between April 2008 and February 2009.

Consumers who are injured while using a defective product, including defective or recalled exercise equipment, have the right to pursue a personal injury or product liability claim in order to receive compensation for their injuries.

When talking to a Philadelphia product liability lawyer about the strength of your potential product liability case, you will discuss the cause of your injuries, current and future medical treatments, and how your injury from a defective product has impacted your life and ability to work as all of these factors play a role in your claim.

A defective product will typically fall under one of the 3 following categories:

Possesses critical design defects
Product malfunctions or was poorly manufactured
The product was mislabeled or failed to carry adequate safety warning

Contacting a Philadelphia Product Liability Lawyer

If you have suffered a head or neck injury because of a recalled inversion bench or defective exercise equipment, you may have the grounds for a product liability lawsuit. A Philadelphia product liability lawyer can talk to you about your options for filing an injury claim and help to fight for compensation. You shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by a manufacturer defect. Contact a Philadelphia product liability lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Massive Recalls Issued on Dangerous Toys in May 2010

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)31942 — Thu, 20 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

This month the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued two separate product recalls on dangerous toys that have been implicated in child injuries and even several wrongful deaths.

The CPSC has issued a toy recall for an estimated 1.8 million toy dart gun sets that were sold exclusively in Family Dollar stores throughout the United States. The discount retail chain has numerous locations throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Small parts on the recalled toy-which was manufactured in China and imported by Family Dollar-present a choking hazard. The recall was prompted based on reports of two children, ages 9 and 10, who died from asphyxiation after choking on the plastic darts included in the recalled toy dart set.

Listed below are the CPSC details about the Family Dollar recalled toy dart set:

The "Auto Fire" set comes with an orange and yellow toy gun (item #P238) or blue and yellow gun (item #9328), 8 orange darts and a target numbered 1 to 20.
The sets were priced at about $1.50 and were sold throughout the country between Sept. 2005 and Jan. 2009.
Take the dangerous toys away from children and dispose of all parts, including all darts. Or, return to store for a full refund.

The CPSC this month also issued a recall on 2.5 million dangerous toys manufactured by Step2 Company. The recalled toys include Push Around and Whisper Ride Buggies. A manufacturing defect on the plastic buggies can cause the handle to detach, resulting in serious child injury. Buggies that have a pin with a yellow knob are included in the recall. Those with a handle that is attached by a bolt with a white or black head and nut are not being recalled.

There have been 28 reported child injuries attributed to the recalled toy.

The buggies were sold at various retailers throughout the United States for $29-$59 between Aug. 1999 and March 2010. Safety officials advise you to take the recalled toy away from children and contact Step2 for a repair kit. - 1-866-860-1887

If your child has suffered an injury because of either of these dangerous toys, or any other recalled toy, you may be eligible for a product liability claim. A Philadelphia product liability lawyer at White & Williams LLP will be well-versed in product recall injury cases and dangerous toys and can talk to you about your options for legal recourse if your child has been injured because of manufacturer defect. Contact us today - 1-877-944-8396.

No Texting for Commercial Truck and Bus Drivers

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)31840 — Wed, 19 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Effective immediately, drivers of commercial trucks and buses cannot text while driving. Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Transportation issued new guidelines prohibiting texting while driving.

The statistics regarding texting while driving are overwhelming.

Drivers take their eyes off the road for an average of 4.6 seconds out of every 6 six seconds while texting. Drivers who text are more than 20 times more likely to get into an accident than nondistracted drivers. (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)

Nearly 6000 people died in 2008 as a result of a distracted or inattentive driver and more than 500,000 were injured. (National Highway Traffic Safey Administration)

Drivers who use handheld devices are four times more likely to get into crashes serious enough to injury themselves. Every year, 28% of car crashes or 1.6 million accidents can be attributed to cell phone use or texting while driving. (National Safety Council)

Order your Free Report on Distracted Driving.

Rotator Cuff Injuries and Construction Trip and Fall Accidents

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)31397 — Thu, 13 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Rotator cuff injuries are one of the most common reasons for chronic shoulder pain. This injury, which is frequently seen in construction accidents, can greatly diminish your ability to work, as well as your enjoyment of life. If you suffered a rotator cuff injury during a Philadelphia construction accident, you may be eligible for compensation to pay for the treatment of your injuries.

Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries

There are many causes for rotator cuff injuries, among them:

Wear and tear - Caused by the natural break-down of collagen in the rotator cuff tendons and muscles that comes with age.
Repetitive motion - A common occurrence in athletes and those that must do a lot of overhead lifting in the course of their employment (such as construction workers).
Bad posture

Another significant cause of a rotator cuff injury is falling. This is a significant factor in rotator cuff injuries that occur due to construction accidents. Construction trip and fall accidents are common because of the various tripping hazards that accompany a poorly monitored worksite, such as holes, debris, loose equipment, poorly marked walkways and so on.

Construction workers who experience trip and fall construction accidents are at great risk of experiencing a serious rotator cuff injury. Such an injury typically occurs because as you fall, you use your arm to brace yourself for impact, or you simply land on your arm in a way that causes damage to the muscles and tendons.

A rotator cuff injury may prohibit you from being able to return to work and can cause debilitating pain and a decrease in your normal range-of-motion. The medical costs associated with such an injury (including physical therapy and surgery) can be costly and the treatments are time-consuming.

To learn more about common construction accidents and construction injuries, visit our library.

If your rotator cuff injury was caused by unsafe work conditions that led to a Philadelphia construction accident, you may have grounds for an injury claim in order to recover compensation. A Philadelphia injury lawyer can talk to you about issues of negligence by your employer or any liable third parties. Contact a Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

OSHA Scaffolding Regulations

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)31396 — Wed, 12 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Scaffolding accidents are all-too-common on construction sites throughout the United States and like many types of "accidents," these worksite incidents are often preventable. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has put into place specific scaffold regulations that are intended to reduce or eliminate scaffold accidents from occurring.

OSHA scaffolding regulations include extensive requirements related to size, design, building materials and use of a scaffold. Listed below is a very brief overview of the OSHA scaffolding regulations:

How the scaffold is made - The scaffold must be designed, manufactured and installed according to OSHA regulations, including weight-bearing requirements:
the scaffold and components all must be able to support its own weight, plus 4 times the potential maximum load
each scaffold suspension rope has to be strong enough to support 6 times the potential maximum load
How the scaffold is used - A Philadelphia construction employer must ensure that every scaffold is properly inspected at initial installation and before each shift. If there is any indication that part of a scaffold is defective or in disrepair, it must immediately be taken out of use.

If your scaffolding accident occurred because of a manufacturer defect-such as a scaffold that wasn't constructed to withstand the required amount of weight-you may be able to file a product liability claim against a negligent third party. A product liability claim or personal injury lawsuit may help you to collect the compensation you need in order to pay your medical bills and make up for lost wages suffered after a scaffolding accident.

To learn more about issues of liability in scaffolding accidents, visit our article library.

A Philadelphia product liability lawyer can talk to you about your options for filing an injury claim and help to fight for compensation. You shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by a manufacturer defect. Contact a Philadelphia product liability lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

43 Types of Over-the-Counter Children's Medicines Recalled

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)14676 — Tue, 11 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

A massive recall has been issued on more than 40 types of child and infant over-the-counter medications manufactured by McNeil, a division of Johnson & Johnson. The children's medicine recall has been issued because of manufacturing defects found in liquid forms of Tylenol, Motrin, Zyrtec and Benadryl. The recall comes after an inspection by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in April in which various manufacturing errors were identified.

WebMD Health News reports that although there have been no reported injuries associated with the recalled children's drugs, parents are urged to cease use of the recalled products and to closely monitor any child that has taken the recalled drug.

Defective Consumer Products and Product Liability Claims in Pennsylvania

When a manufacturer or retailer makes, ships, and sells a consumer product that is defective, mislabeled or dangerous, there is often a potential for injury or even death. While there have been no injuries associated with these particular recalled children's drugs, the story demonstrates how a product that is meant to make a person's life better in some way can actually cause harm.

When a consumer is injured because of a defective product, they may choose to file a product liability claim in order to collect damages to pay for their resultant medical bills and lost wages. Product liability claims protect consumers and provide financial restitution when consumer/manufacturer trust is violated in a profound way.

If you or your child has been injured by a defective product, you shouldn't have to deal with the medical bills or lost wages that were a result of someone else's negligence.

Contacting a Philadelphia Product Liability Lawyer

If your child has been injured because of a recalled drug or another type of defective product, a Philadelphia product liability lawyer can talk to you about your options for product liability case. Your child and your family shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by a manufacturer defect. Contact a Philadelphia product liability lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Recalled Baby Slings Blamed For Infant Deaths

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)14677 — Tue, 11 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

In recent years, baby slings and other devices that allow a baby to be carried close to an adult's chest have become popular items for modern parents. But a recent massive recall on Infantino baby slings may have some concerned parents questioning the safety of baby slings and similar products.

On March 24, 2010, baby product manufacturer Infantino announced a recall on 1 million Wendy Bellissimo and SlingRider baby slings. The baby product recall was ordered by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) because of critical safety issues with the cloth baby slings. So far, 3 child deaths have been linked to the recalled baby product, including a 3-month-old baby who died while in an Infantino sling.

According to the CPSC, there is a risk of suffocation with the recalled baby slings, because loose fabric may fall across a baby's nose and mouth, hindering the airways. Additionally, the sling forces a baby to curl into a "C" shape, pushing the baby's chin into the chest, making breathing difficult, if not impossible.

While it has been found that children ages 4 months and older are generally strong enough to safely lie in an Infantino baby sling, infants should never be placed in such a sling.

Consumers who purchased a recalled baby sling from Infantino can contact the company at 1-866-860-1361 for a replacement product. The recalled baby products were sold at Wal-Mart, Target and Babies "R" Us.

If your family has been impacted by the Infantino baby sling recall or any other recalled baby product, you have the right to seek compensation for your child's injuries. The Philadelphia injury lawyers at White & Williams LLP are well-versed in baby product recall injury cases and can talk to you about your accident and your options for legal recourse. Contact us today - 1-877-944-8396.

Toyota Recall Expands to Include 600,000 Sienna Minivans

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)14536 — Thu, 06 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

The Toyota recall debacle continues, as the popular automaker has announced that it will recall 600,000 Sienna Minivans due to safety issues. The recall was announced on April 16, 2010 around the time that Toyota was faced with a record-breaking $16.4 million fine levied by the federal government in connection with the massive recall from earlier this year.

The Sienna Minivan recall was prompted by a danger of rusting spare tire cables that could potentially snap while driving, causing a serious roadway hazard for the minivan and other drivers. The latest Toyota recall includes Sienna Minivans manufactured between 1998 and 2010 with two-wheel drive.

Because the issue of rusting is related to the road salts used to melt ice during winter months, only vans sold and driven in certain parts of the country are affected.

Only Sienna Minivans sold in the following states are included in the Toyota recall: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin and West Virginia, as well as the District of Columbia.

There have been no reported accidents associated with the recalled Toyota vans, but consumers are urged to stay alert to the safety risk in the interest of preventing unnecessary dangers. A car accident caused by a defective product that results in serious injury may be grounds for a product liability lawsuit, personal injury or wrongful death claim.

The Philadelphia injury lawyers at White & Williams LLP are well-versed in product liability cases and can talk to you about your accident and your options for legal recourse. Contact us today - 1-877-944-8396.

Toyota Pays Record-Setting $16.4 Million Fine

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)14535 — Wed, 05 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

After a spring filled with various recalls and resultant legal battles, Toyota has agreed to pay a $16.4 million fine levied by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in connection with the massive Toyota recalls of 2010.

The auto manufacturer said that while they would pay the record fine, they were not admitting to accusations that Toyota purposely hid evidence of the defects and various safety issues with the recalled vehicles.

Los Angeles Times reports that problems with sudden acceleration issues led to the recall of more than 2.3 million Toyota vehicles. Some NHTSA officials have asserted that Toyota knew about the problems with faulty accelerator pedals for at least 4 months before taking action. Federal law dictates that an auto manufacturer must make such issues known within 5 business days.

For months, reports have been streaming in from across the country of Toyota owners experiencing unintended and unexpected acceleration in their vehicles. This unintended acceleration can lead to car crashes with fatal consequences. There have been numerous lawsuits filed against Toyota for consumer safety breaches and product liability.

Although Toyota continues to deny guilt, many are saying that by paying the fine, they have made a very public acknowledgement that the law was broken. In turn, those seeking compensation from Toyota for accidents with recalled Toyota vehicles may use the NHTSA payment as evidence in personal injury and product liability claims against the automaker.

The Philadelphia injury lawyers at White & Williams LLP are well-versed in product liability cases and can talk to you about your accident and your options for legal recourse. Contact us today - 1-877-944-8396.

Common Dog Bite Injuries in Children

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)31040 — Tue, 04 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

There is no such thing as a "safe" dog bite, as any wound or injury caused by an animal can lend itself to infection. So even if the attack was nothing more than a seemingly innocuous nip, you should take any dog bite injury to your child seriously and seek medical attention to ensure your child doesn't suffer unnecessary long-term effects.

While the nature of each dog bite attack varies and the seriousness of the injuries will depend on the dog's size and strength, their level of aggressiveness and your child's size, among other factors, there are certain commonalities that can be found with dog bite injuries.

Listed below are some of the most common types of dog bite injuries:

Lacerations
Puncture wounds; very susceptible to infection
Tissue loss or significant tissue damage
Risk of infection; rabies, capnocytophaga canimorsus (a bacterial infection) or cellulitis
Broken bones or sprained muscles

Because of the way most dogs attack, dog bite injuries are particularly common to the face or neck. Both of these areas are especially vulnerable for anyone, but even more so on a small child who may be at eye-level with a dog or have limited means of defense. Any of these types of dog bite injuries can lead to permanent scars, disfigurement, disability or even death.

If your child suffered serious or debilitating injuries in a dog bite attack in the Philadelphia area, you probably have a lot of questions about where to go from here. Visit our article library for details on what to do when a dog attacks your child.

A Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP can work with you to ensure that your child's needs are met in a timely and compassionate manner. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case and help you get back what you've lost - 1-877-944-8396.

Treating Dog Bite Injuries

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)31041 — Tue, 04 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Dog bite attacks can leave a child with serious, sometimes life-altering or life-threatening, injuries. As with any injury or trauma that is ultimately caused by another person's negligence, your family shouldn't have to pay for the medical expenses associated with your child's dog bite injuries.

Treating dog bite injuries can be a costly endeavor, and there is always the risk that your insurance company will not adequately cover all applicable expenses, particularly if your child will need long-term or life-long care. To understand the nature of the types of medical bills that you and your child may be facing now and in the future, it's helpful to know that the common methods for treating dog bite injuries.

Listed below are a few potential treatments for children who have suffered a serious dog bite injury:

Cleaning and dressing of the wound to prevent infection (this is always a MUST)
Tetanus shots or rabies treatment when applicable
X-rays to determine fractures to face or limbs
Treatment of traumatic brain injuries, if the child suffered blunt trauma to the head
Nerve damage repair
Cosmetic surgery to treat scarring or disfigurement
Post-trauma therapy to address mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression

These treatments are necessary to ensure your child can properly move on with their lives and get back to being a kid. Unfortunately, these treatments come with a steep price tag and insurance doesn't always cover the costs.

If your child suffered serious or debilitating injuries in a dog bite attack in the Philadelphia area, you probably have a lot of questions about who you need to contact and what your next steps should be. Visit our article library for details on what to do when a dog attacks your child.

A Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP can work with you to ensure that your child's needs are met in a timely and compassionate manner. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case and help you get back what you've lost - 1-877-944-8396.

Massive Baby Product Recall on Generation 2 Cribs

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)14427 — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

In March 2010, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) expanded a recall on baby cribs manufactured by Generation 2 Worldwide. The baby product recall included full-size cribs carrying the Generation 2 Worldwide and ChildESIGNS label.

According to ConsumerReports.com, these drop-side cribs were recalled because the plastic hardware can easily break, causing one side to detach from the crib. This could create a space in which a baby or small child could become entrapped, risking injury, suffocation or even death. On top of that, it has been reported that the mattress supports can come loose, allowing the mattress to sag, creating another dangerous gap.

The Generation 2 Worldwide crib recall includes an estimated 500,000 baby products. It is difficult to gauge the exact number of consumers affected by the recall, as Generation 2 ceased business in 2005. Because of this, the CPSC has very limited information about how many recalled cribs were sold and where, or even which model numbers should be included in the baby product recall.

There have been at least 3 suffocation deaths and 20 reports of child injury in conjunction with the recalled Generation 2 cribs. Common injuries associated with the recalled cribs include bruising and broken bones.

Parents who have a Generation 2 Worldwide or ChildESIGNS crib are encouraged to cease use immediately and contact the store where it was purchased to determine an appropriate remedy.

The Philadelphia injury lawyers at White & Williams LLP are well-versed in baby product recall injury cases and can talk to you about your options for legal recourse if your child has been injured because of manufacturer defect. Contact us today - 1-877-944-8396.

Head Injuries Caused By Sports and Recreational Activities

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)13783 — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Though you may not read about them everyday, or feel that the issue only affects you or your family, head injuries are one of the top health concerns in the United States. Every year, thousands of people are killed or permanently disabled because of a traumatic brain injury. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most recent statistics show that on average, 1.7 million people sustain a traumatic brain injury every year.

The damage from a head injury can range from mild to severe. Some of the symptoms of a head injury include:

brief or permanent loss of consciousness;
brief or permanent change in mental status;
amnesia; and
concussion

Many head injuries are a result of sports and recreation activities. Sports that have a high number of head injuries include hockey and football. Other sports/recreational activities that commonly result in head injuries include biking, skateboarding, skiing, and skating.

The most common type of head injury is a concussion. However, further injuries-including fatal injuries-can occur if a person doesn't seek immediate medical treatment after suffering a head injury.

Children can be especially vulnerable to head injuries resulting from sports and recreational activities and should always be examined by a medical professional if they experience head trauma during a physical activity, especially if they show signs of a concussion, including:

Memory loss (including events leading up to and after the accident)
Nausea or vomiting
Headaches
Blurred vision or light sensitivity
Feeling dizzy, lightheaded or your child seems dazed
Slurred or incoherent speech
Difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decision
Difficulty balancing or with coordination

If you or someone you love has been the victim of a head injury due to a sports or recreational accident in New Jersey or Pennsylvania then you may wish to contact a personal injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP. The Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at White & Williams LLP represent accident victims in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, contact us today - (877) 944-8396.

Potholes: Property & Personal Damage in Pennsylvania

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)30378 — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Pothole damage is one of the most common causes of single-car accidents in Pennsylvania. Winter weather causes these hazards to be hidden by snow and made worse by ice expansion. Come spring, many roads are littered with dangerous potholes.

Unfortunately for drivers, the state government cannot be sued for pothole damage to your vehicle. They can only be sued for personal injuries. Even more difficult is that the victim has to be able to prove that the State was aware of the pothole before their car accident. Only municipal governments can be sued for vehicle pothole damage, and only up to what your insurance deductibles cover.

A new iPhone application launched for residents of Pittsburgh, iBurgh, allows drivers to instantly report potholes to the city utilities department in hopes of getting them attended to quickly. City hotlines, as well as the pittsburghpothole website also allow for quick and easy reporting with the hopes they'll be fixed before more pothole damage occurs.

Philadelphia has its own program, Operation Smooth Streets where you can report a pothole, cave-in (sinkhole), or ditch that makes for unsafe driving conditions.

If you or your vehicle has suffered pothole damage, you may not have to foot the entire bill on your own. A Philadelphia car accident attorney will know what rights you have, how your insurance company should handle your claim, and whether or not you have the option of suing the city or state for your pothole damage.

Contact White & Williams LLP today for a free case evaluation - 1-877-944-8396

Graco Recalls 1.2 Million Harmony High Chairs

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)13781 — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

A recent child product recall has affected more than 1 million consumers in the United States. Graco has announced a voluntary recall of their Harmony high chairs due to the risk of children falling out of the high chairs, possibly resulting in serious injuries. Graco received 464 reports concerning unstable high chairs that either tip over or cause children to fall out of them.

According to the complaints, screws holding the front legs of the Harmony high chairs can loosen, leading to the risk of the child falling. Not only were there faulty screws, but the plastic cover on the front legs and the bracket on the rear legs of the high chair can crack. If any of these cracks were to occur, the recalled high chair could become unstable and unexpectedly tip over.

Of the 24 injuries reported in connection with these faulty high chairs, most included bumps, bruises and scratches. More serious child injuries reported include a hairline fracture to the arm and several reports of child head injuries.

The recalled Graco high chairs that are affected by this voluntary action include Harmony high chairs that were sold between December 2003 and March 2010. Graco issued a statement that consumers can send for a repair kit to fix the problems.

If your child has sustained a serious injury caused by a recalled Graco Harmony high chair, you will need a lawyer who can assist you in your product liability case. The Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at White & Williams LLP represent accident victims in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, contact us today - 877- 944- 8396

Graco Recalls 1.5 Million Baby Strollers

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)13782 — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

In the largest baby stroller recall in history, Graco is recalling nearly 1.5 million baby strollers because of child injuries connected with the defective product. The point of concern is an uncovered hinge on the canopy of the stroller which can cause injury to a child's fingers. There is a repair kit available for the stroller, but some children have already sustained injuries because of the defective Graco strollers.

So far, there have been 7 reported injuries associated with the strollers, with 2 of them resulting in a child's fingertips being amputated. This massive stroller recall comes on the heels of yet another recall by Graco of their Harmony high chairs. There were 464 reports concerning the high chairs either tipping over or children falling out of them.

Unfortunately, defective children's products of this type are nothing new. Recalls on defective products-especially when they involve children's products-always should be taken seriously.

If you own a product that has been recalled you should stop using it immediately and contact the manufacturer about what to do next. Most product recalls involve returning the defective product, or sending for a repair kit from the manufacturer.

If your child has been seriously injured because of a defective product, such as the recalled Graco products, then you may be eligible to file for a product liability case to recover any expenses related to your child's injuries. The Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at White & Williams LLP represent product liability victims in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, contact us today - (877) 944 - 8396

Toyota Recall Problems Are Not an Easy Fix

blog@www.ThePANJInjuryLawyers.com (news Author)13780 — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

In light of the latest news concerning Toyota's recall of 8.5 million cars, it appears the answer to their problems is not an easy one. There is no easy fix to the sticking accelerator problem, and it is turning out to be a much more complicated issue than originally expected.

Experts are saying that the accelerator problems in the recalled Toyotas are not caused by a single problem, but rather, an assortment of complicated and interconnected issues. In fact, there doesn't seem to be an agreement on what exactly the root of the problem is.

Toyota has said the accelerator problem is caused by a friction problem which makes pressing the pedal harder to do with a slower return or leads to the pedal becoming stuck. However, the supplier that makes devices for Toyota said that friction problems were the issue in just a handful of cases.

At one point, the issue seemed to be related to the interference of floor mats. But now Toyota is saying that the latest recall of 2.3 million vehicles is connected to worn pedal mechanisms that increase friction in certain circumstances, which can cause the accelerator to stick.

Outside resources cite other possible reasons for the problem. It is important however, that you seek immediate assistance from Toyota if you are currently driving any of the recalled Toyota vehicles or experience similar issues in your car.

If you were injured in a car accident involving a recalled Toyota vehicle, you may be wondering if you are eligible to file a personal injury claim. You will need an experienced personal injury lawyer to assist you. The Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at White & Williams LLP represent accident victims in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, contact us today - (877) 944 - 8396

The Real Meaning of a No-Fault State

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)30005 — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Pennsylvania is one of 12 states in the U.S. that follows no-fault insurance rules for drivers. This means that regardless of who caused your car accident, each individual's insurance company pays up to the minimum amount of coverage for their damages. This process was done to reduce the amount of personal injury and property damage lawsuits that arise from car accident claims.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage required in no-fault states only allows for medical damages and lost income up to the limits you have set. The other drivers' PIP coverage will determine how much you can recover for your injuries in the event you were injured in your crash.

Pennsylvania state laws require only $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident in bodily injury liability, with only $5,000 in both property damage liability and medical expense benefit. Consider also that there are numerous uninsured and underinsured drivers out there, and you have a decent chance that your car accident may be with someone whose insurance cannot cover the damages you sustained.

If your car accident in a no-fault state involved an underinsured or uninsured driver, chances are you will be in need of a larger settlement than what their insurance company has to offer.

Visit our library for more information about filing property damage claims after a car accident in Pennsylvania.

For a trusted legal team that will give your case the personal attention it deserves, contact a Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396

Collision Coverage in New Jersey Auto Insurance

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)29837 — Sun, 11 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Your auto accident has caused you both physical and emotional harm and you're probably focused on recovering from your injuries before anything else. With everything else to consider following your New Jersey auto accident, you also still need to drive to doctors' appointments and other daily errands - and that means getting your car repaired or even replaced.

New Jersey is a no-fault state, so your own insurance coverage is key to how you'll be compensated for your vehicle damage. If you don't have enough collision coverage, you may be left to pay the difference.

The other drivers' property damage liability insurance mainly only covers damage to immobile objects such as buildings or utility poles - it would only apply to your vehicle if it was struck while legally parked.

With this limited help from the insurance companies and most car repairs costing thousands of dollars, you're most likely to come up short when trying to recover damages to your vehicle and personal property.

If you opted out of collision coverage, or your auto insurance policy limits were set too low to cover your property damage from your New Jersey auto accident, you may need to consider filing a property damage claim.

Read our article, Filing a Property Damage Claim in New Jersey, to learn more about property damage liability coverage and how a New Jersey auto accident attorney can help you file a property damage claim.

For a trusted legal team that will give your case the personal attention it deserves, contact the offices of White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case and help you get back what you've lost - 1-877-944-8396.

Family Dies in a Fiery Crash with a Recalled Lexus

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)29272 — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

A California highway patrolman and his family were killed on August 28, 2009 when their Lexus experienced unexpected acceleration resulting in a fatal crash. The vehicle, a Lexus ES350, was a loaner car that the family was using while their vehicle was in for repairs.

The Lexus was driven by Mark Saylor, 45, and his passengers included his wife, Cleofe, 45; his brother-in-law Chris Lastrella, 38; and his daughter Mahala, 13. A call to 911 from someone within the vehicle stated that the car's accelerator was stuck.

Witnesses to the car accident report that the Lexus was traveling about 100 mph when it slammed into the back of a Ford Explorer. It then went over a curb, through a fence, hit an embankment and then went airborne. After rolling over several times, the vehicle eventually burst into flames.

Toyota recalled the floor mats in the 2008 version of that Lexus model because of complaints of them getting stuck under the accelerator. This tragic car accident sparked the first apology from Toyota concerning complaints of unexpected acceleration. To date, Toyota's recalls include nearly 8.5 million vehicles due to floor mat interference and unexpected acceleration issues.

Anyone who drives a Lexus should be aware of the current Toyota and Lexus recalls, as well as the unexpected acceleration issues associated with these recalled vehicles. If you have been in a car accident with a recalled Lexus and wonder if what you experienced was due to these safety problems, it is important that you get the answers you are looking for. The Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at White & Williams LLP represent accident victims in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, contact us today - 877- 944- 8396

Woman Dies in a Crash with a Recalled Toyota

obriend@whiteandwilliams.com (blog Author)29271 — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

While the massive Toyota recalls currently underway will help save consumers lives, they came too late for some Toyota drivers, including a 77-year old woman who died from the injuries she sustained when her 2003 Toyota Camry sped straight into a building going at full speed in March 2004.

Witnesses, including the emergency medical technicians, said that the elderly victim, Juanita Grossman, was found with both of her feet still jammed on the Camry's brake pedal.

Juanita Grossman was still alive just after the accident and in the days following, she would repeat over and over again to her family that "the car ran away on me." Despite her claims and the collaboration of witnesses, Toyota and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration did nothing to further investigate the crash.

Later, when insurance adjustors arrived to inspect the vehicle, a technical analyst from Toyota also took a look. According to the analyst, Juanita Grossman was at fault for the crash. It was stated that she had abused the accelerator pedal. No explanation was given as to why her feet were jammed on the brake pedal. The family contacted an attorney who investigated the inspection and found that it was lacking in several areas.

The explanation given in the end was the same one given to many other customers who have complained about Toyota vehicles experiencing unexpected acceleration. Sadly, the case was dropped, but with the recent Toyota recall, victims of similar car accidents involving recalled Toyotas may be able to recover the compensation they deserve.

If you have been in a car accident with a recalled Toyota in New Jersey or Pennsylvania it is important that you understand your rights. The Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at White & Williams LLP represent accident victims in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, contact us today - 877- 944- 8396