Posted On: November 30, 2011

New Jersey State Trooper Injured in Crash

A woman and a New Jersey State Trooper were recently injured in a three-car collision. According to a news report in The Republic, the car accident occurred on Route 46 near the Budd Lake firehouse in Mount Olive Township. The patrol car ended up off the roadway and the woman's vehicle was crushed under the axle of a work truck. The trooper sustained a concussion in the accident and the woman suffered broken bone injuries. The cause of the collision is under investigation and it is not yet clear if anyone will be cited for the crash.

Any time there are more than two vehicles involved in an injury accident, there is the potential for a complicated claim process. In such cases, investigators will have to determine which driver was at-fault, if speed, distracted driving, or recklessness was a contributing factor, and if any of the motorists should be cited for the crash. In accidents involving negligence or wrongdoing, the at-fault motorist can be held liable for the injuries suffered.

In such cases, injured victims can seek compensation to cover medical bills, hospitalization, lost wages, the cost of physical therapy, and other related damages. In cases involving multiple drivers, there is an increased risk of claims being denied and insurance companies passing the blame. A skilled car accident attorney will protect the rights of the victim while ensuring that the negligent parties are held accountable.

The reputed auto accident attorneys in NJ at Lependorf & Silverstein have a successful track record of obtaining the highest possible compensation for injured victims and their families. We have extensive experience dealing with hostile insurance companies. Please call our offices today at (609) 240-0040 before you talk to an insurance adjuster.

Posted On: November 28, 2011

Protecting Yourself and Your Family on the Road

In Part Four of our auto accident prevention blog series, we discuss how practicing safe and defensive driving habits is the key to staying safe on the road and decreasing your chances of being involved in a New Jersey car accident. Defensive driving is commonly defined as going beyond mastery of the rules of the road and anticipating dangerous situations. Skilled defensive drivers remain focused and cautious and they make it a habit to not assume that other drivers will do the right thing.

Family SafetyDrivers can drive defensively by staying attentive and limiting distractions. Not only should cell phones be turned off before getting on the road, but passengers should also make sure that they do not distract the driver. Drivers that have to use the phone, turn to talk to a passenger, check their navigational device, or read a map should pull over first so it is safe to do so. It is critical that you give the road your undivided attention.

Remember the basics you learned as a teenager when you started to drive. After many years of safe travel, it is common for drivers to take their safety for granted. It only takes one moment of distracted driving or negligence to result in a serious injury accident. Motorists must remember the basics they learned in driver's education involving right-of-way laws (never assume another driver will properly yield), traffic safety devices (always wear a seatbelt), and traffic control devices (always remember to obey stop signs and red lights). If you have a teenager in the household, remind your son or daughter of the basics of safe travel on a regular basis.

A skilled New Jersey motor vehicle accident attorney at Lependorf & Silverstein can help injured victims and their families obtain the compensation they need and rightfully deserve. If you or a loved one is ever involved in an injury accident, please do not hesitate to call our New Jersey offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

Posted On: November 25, 2011

The Least Expected Causes of Motor Vehicle Collisions

As Part Three of our auto accident prevention blog series, this blog will discuss the causes of vehicle accidents that drivers least expect. The dangers of drunk driving, distracted driving, and exceeding the speed limit are well known; however, there are many other causes of New Jersey car accidents that motorists would be well advised to avoid, as well. An accident is an event that happens unexpectedly. As drivers, although we hope for the best, we understand that we are at risk every time we get behind the wheel. Here are some types of accidents drivers least expect to encounter.

One unexpected cause of New Jersey car accidents involves wildlife on the roadway. Autumn is the time of year when drivers are most likely to strike deer in New Jersey. These types of accidents may be difficult to prevent, but drivers can help avoid striking animals by staying focused and attentive with their eyes on the roadway at all times.

Fatigued and drowsy driving is another cause of car accidents. It is important for all drivers to understand that that this is often as dangerous as drunk driving. If you find it difficult to keep your eyes open while driving, you should immediately pull over and rest before you get back on the road. Individuals with sleep apnea or who are up late driving are more likely to close their eyes, nod off, or lose focus than well-rested drivers. Drowsy drivers put themselves and others on the roadway at risk.

Other unexpected causes include dangerous roadway conditions and mechanical malfunctions. All drivers have it in their best interests to check their vehicles' tire pressure, routinely change their oil, make sure their brakes are in proper working order, and replace their headlights and taillights promptly. During rainy or cold weather, it is also important to ensure that your windshield wipers are working properly.

The skilled Princeton car crash injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long and successful track record of getting injured victims of New Jersey car accidents the compensation they need and rightfully deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, please call our offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

Part Four of our car accident prevention blog series will address the many ways to keep you and your family safe on the road.

Posted On: November 23, 2011

Car Crash Prevention Tips from New Jersey Auto Accident Attorneys

crash_178398.jpgThis is Part Two in a four-part blog series where we will discuss car crash prevention tips to help you and your family travel safely.

Not all car accidents are preventable, especially if they occur as a result of someone else's negligence or wrongdoing. However, there are several preventive steps we can take in order to avoid car accidents that can result in serious injuries or even tragic fatalities.

Here are some easy-to-follow tips.

Driving Near Trucks
If you are driving near a large truck, keep a safe distance and avoid lingering in the truck's blind spots. Truck drivers have difficulty seeing immediately in front of their truck, directly behind the trailer, and near the back of the trailer on either side. Driving defensively and assuming that a truck driver cannot see you will help keep you from being involved in a New Jersey truck accident.

Proper Speed
Adjusting your speed for the conditions on the roadway is another important way to avoid being in an accident. When the roadway is wet, icy, or slippery it will be more difficult to slow down or control your vehicle. Under normal conditions, obey the speed limit. But it is important that drivers adjust their speed depending on weather, roadway, and traffic conditions.

Vehicle Maintenance
Another way to help reduce the chances of being involved in a car accident is to properly inspect and maintain your vehicle. Make sure you have properly working brakes and tires. Finding a mechanic whom you trust to regularly inspect your car for potential problems is key to preventing car crashes.

If you or a loved one is ever injured in a car accident, please contact an auto accident lawyer in New Jersey at Lependorf & Silverstein at (609) 240-0040. Our experienced law team not only fights for your rights and helps you secure fair compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses, but also help ensure that the at-fault parties are held accountable.

Visit our blog again for more on auto accident prevention tips to help keep you and your family safe!

Posted On: November 22, 2011

Thanksgiving Travel Safety Guide

This is Part One in a four-part blog series where we will discuss car crash prevention tips to help you and your family travel safely.

The AAA Safety Foundation estimates that approximately 42.5 million Americans will travel this Thanksgiving, reflecting a 4 percent increase from last year. The group also estimates that 90 percent of all Thanksgiving travelers will choose an automobile for their mode of transportation. This means there will be a significant increase in the number of cars on New Jersey's roadways. Families taking to the roadway this Thanksgiving would be well advised to follow a number of safety tips to decrease their chances of being involved in a New Jersey car accident.

Before even getting into your car for a long trip, check the air pressure in your tires and to make sure they are not aged, worn, or bald. There are several questions you could put on a checklist to ensure that your vehicle is ready for the road. When was the last oil change done? Are the windshield wipers, taillights, turn signals, and headlights properly working? Are any of your passengers planning on packing something that will obstruct your view? Are your brakes in proper working condition? Do you have an emergency supply of food, water, and blankets in your vehicle in case you get stranded? These seemingly minor details can make all the difference.

When driving this holiday weekend, remember that there is an increased chance of drunk driving accidents on the roadway. You should keep a safe distance from vehicles in front of you and if you see a vehicle swerving or see someone driving erratically, you should pull over and notify the police. If you have consumed alcohol during a gathering or party, do not drive. Take a cab or designate a sober driver to take you home.

The car accident injury lawyers in Princeton at Lependorf & Silverstein wish you and your family a safe and happy Thanksgiving. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident due to someone else's negligence, please call our offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation.

Visit our blog again for more driving safety tips!

Posted On: November 21, 2011

Pedestrians Struck by Drunk Driver in Glassboro

Two women, aged 22 and 20, were injured in a New Jersey pedestrian accident, which officials report involved a drunk driver. According to a news report in The Gloucester County Times, the DWI accident occurred on Delsea Drive north of New Street in Glassboro. Officials say three women were crossing the road when a car driven by a 27-year-old woman from Franklin Township struck two of them. One of the victims sustained severe injuries and the other refused medical treatment at the scene. The driver has been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) and three counts of aggravated assault with a motor vehicle.

Drunk driving continues to be one of the leading causes of New Jersey car accidents. According to the 2010 Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash Report, of the 530 fatal crashes that occurred that year in New Jersey, 12.8 percent of the drivers were legally intoxicated. During that same year, 129 people were killed as a result of 137 DWI accidents throughout New Jersey.

Victims of pedestrian accidents often suffer substantial injuries that can be life-changing. In cases involving negligence or wrongdoing, injured victims would be well advised to discuss their rights with a skilled personal injury attorney. Compensation may be available to victims for their medical expenses, lost wages, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation services, and other related damages.

The experienced Princeton drunk driving accident injury lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein have a proven track record of holding drunk drivers accountable for the damages they cause. If a drunk driver in New Jersey has injured you or a loved one, please call our offices at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

Posted On: November 18, 2011

The Cost of Drunk Driving Truck Accidents in New Jersey

According to the Motor Carrier Management Information System, there were 2,357 large trucks involved in New Jersey injury crashes in 2010. Because of the size and weight of big rigs, truck accidents often result in serious injuries. This is why it is crucial that truck drivers in New Jersey practice safe driving habits at all times. Sadly, there are many cases each year caused by truck drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Because of the substantial damage trucks cause in New Jersey accidents, officials enforce severe restrictions on drunk driving for truck drivers. While passenger vehicle drivers are considered under the influence when their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08 percent or higher, under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Act, truck drivers may face DWI charges for having a BAC of .04 percent or greater. In DWI accident cases involving such negligence and wrongdoing, the at-fault truck driver and his or her employer may be held financially liable for the injuries and damages caused.

Victims of truck accidents would be well advised to exchange information with the truck driver, seek immediate medical attention, and contact an experienced truck accident attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer will stay abreast of the official investigation to ensure that the at-fault truck driver is held accountable for the injuries suffered. Truck accident victims can seek compensation for medical bills, the cost of rehabilitation services, lost wages, and other related damages. The family of a deceased truck accident victim can seek compensation by filing a wrongful death claim against the driver and the trucking company.

The skilled NJ big rig crash attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have years of experience holding truck drivers and trucking companies accountable for the injuries they cause. If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI truck accident in New Jersey, please call our law offices at (609) 240-0040 to find out how we can help.

Posted On: November 17, 2011

New Jersey Head-On Collisions Result in Devastating Injuries

car-crash-9847419.jpgSome of the most devastating New Jersey car accidents involve head-on collisions, which are often the result of drivers who allow their vehicles to drift across double yellow lines. Those responsible may be held accountable for the injuries they cause. Victims of such accidents would be well advised to discuss their legal rights and options with a skilled personal injury lawyer who has experience handling similar cases.

According to the New Jersey Department of Law & Public Safety's 2010 Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash report, there were 55 head-on collisions in New Jersey involving vehicles traveling in opposing lanes of traffic. During that same year, an additional 19 head-on collisions involved vehicles making a left turn or a U-turn.

Some of the most common causes of wrong-way accidents include fatigued driving, distracted driving, and driving under the influence. A motorist only has to take his or her eyes off the roadway for a moment for his or her vehicle to cross over a double yellow line or center divider and cause a major injury from a head-on crash. In such cases, the negligent driver can be held liable for the resulting damages. Head-on collisions often occur at high speeds, which lead to devastating injuries for vehicle occupants.

Drivers responsible for causing a head-on collision can be held financially liable for losses such as hospitalization, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other related damages. Victims of New Jersey head-on collisions would be well advised to discuss their case with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney.

The skilled car accident attorneys in NJ at Lependorf & Silverstein have years of experience handling cases involving head-on collisions in New Jersey. Our reputed personal injury lawyers know how to hold at-fault motorists accountable for the injuries they cause while protecting the rights of injured victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been injured in a head-on collision in New Jersey, please contact our law offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free, comprehensive and confidential consultation.

Posted On: November 16, 2011

Five Injured in Tanker Truck Explosion on New Jersey Turnpike

Five people were injured in a recent car accident on the New Jersey Turnpike that involved a tanker truck explosion. According to an NBC News report, the truck accident occurred at a toll booth on the New Jersey Turnpike near Interchange 18W in Carlstadt. Officials say a 2000 Honda Odyssey minivan was backing up to enter the E-ZPass speed lane when a tanker truck crashed into it. The tanker exploded into flames after crashing into a concrete barrier.

Of the nine minivan occupants, three victims, aged 9, 14, and 27, suffered critical injuries. The 45-year-old driver of the minivan sustained a moderate head injury and the 50-year-old truck driver escaped from the burning vehicle with a minor leg injury. It is unclear if anyone will be cited for the crash.

This incident is an example of how a truck accident can be devastating for occupants of passenger vehicles. Very often, we see that when a passenger vehicle and truck collide, the occupants of the smaller vehicle are the ones who suffer serious, critical, or fatal injuries. In such cases, it is important to look into whether the truck driver's negligence caused the crash. Was the driver impaired, fatigued, or speeding at the time? Was the accident caused by mechanical malfunction such as brake failure?

Injured victims of New Jersey truck accidents may seek financial compensation from the driver as well as his or her employer by filing a personal injury claim. In cases involving negligence, compensation may be sought for losses such as medical bills, the costs of rehabilitation services, lost wages, and other related damages.

The experienced truck accident injury attorneys in Princeton at Lependorf & Silverstein help seriously injured victims of New Jersey truck accidents get the compensation they need and rightfully deserve. To discuss your legal rights and options with a skilled attorney, please call (609) 240-0040 today.

Posted On: November 15, 2011

Defective Seatbelts Can Result in Serious Injuries or Fatalities

seat-belt4346447.jpgThe National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that approximately 13,000 lives are saved by seatbelts every year in the United States. These necessary and useful safety devices greatly decrease the chances of a serious injury or fatality in the event of a car accident. There are cases, however, where seatbelts fail to work properly and put vehicle occupants at great risk for injury or death. There are many ways in which a seatbelt can be defective and there are a number of options available for victims who have suffered injuries as a result of defective seatbelts.

Seatbelts can be defective when they are improperly designed, have a manufacturing or assembly error, or when the warning labels are inadequate. When seat restraint systems or seatbelts fail, victims are in danger of suffering life-threatening injuries or even fatalities as a result of blunt force trauma or ejection from the vehicle.

There are a number of defective seatbelts that have been recalled because of the dangers they present to drivers and passengers. Recent recalls include:

  • Honda Pilot models from 2009 to 2011 that have incomplete or missing anchor webbing;
  • GM crossover utility vehicles including Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook that have buckle mechanisms that jam;
  • Dodge Ram 1500 pickup trucks that do not tighten properly on child seats;
  • Kia vehicles that fail to engage properly when used with child seats;
  • Lexus vehicles with defective winding devices; and
  • Ford Escapes from 2001 that have issues with latching.

Victims of New Jersey defective seatbelt injuries can file an auto products liability claim against the manufacturer of the vehicle or the defective seatbelt to seek compensation for their injuries and losses. The skilled New Jersey auto product liability lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein can help you and your family hold the negligent manufacturer responsible and assist you in obtaining compensation to cover damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and cost of hospitalization and treatment. Please contact us at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

Posted On: November 11, 2011

Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving in New Jersey

cellphone-distracted-driving-6557101.jpgAccording to a study by The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 20 percent of all injury crashes in the United States in the year 2009 involved reports of distracted driving. The Fatality Analysis Reports System (FARS) reports that 5,474 people were killed and approximately 448,000 were injured during that same year as a result of distracted driving accidents. These staggering numbers show just how important it is for New Jersey drivers do their part to avoid driving distracted.

Distracted driving can be visual (not watching the road), manual (not holding the wheel), or cognitive (not thinking about your driving). Therefore the simplest way to avoid driving distracted is to keep your eyes on the road, your hands on the wheel, and your mind focused on the task at hand – driving.

Common forms of distracted driving include cell phone use, eating, drinking, talking to passengers, using a navigation system, changing the radio, and grooming. While these simple activities seem harmless, doing them while driving can result in a serious injury accident. It only takes a moment of distraction for a life-changing accident to occur. All New Jersey drivers would be well advised to keep their cell phone off, stay focused and not drive while fatigued, stressed, or emotional.

Remember, distracted driving is negligent driving. If you or a loved one has been injured by a distracted driver, the experienced New Jersey distracted driving accident injury lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein can help. We will work diligently to secure fair and full compensation for all your losses and hold the at-fault driver accountable. Please contact us today at (609) 240-0040 for a no-cost consultation and a comprehensive evaluation of your potential claim.

Posted On: November 10, 2011

New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer's Tips for Safe Winter Driving

snow_4949276.jpgNew Jersey and other northeastern states have recently been hit by a rare October snow storm. New Jersey's snowbound roadways have seen a number of injury and fatal car accidents over these last few days. As we head into winter, it is a good time to refresh our memories about dealing with adverse weather and unsafe roadway conditions and the steps that New Jersey motorists can take to drive safely in cold and wintry conditions.

First and foremost, you should never get on the road without first clearing your windows of all ice and snow. Visibility is the key to driving safely during the winter. In fact, it may not be wise to drive at all during a winter storm. If you can avoid going out in inclement weather, please do so. Check the weather conditions before getting in your car. If you do have to drive, remember to keep your headlights on, stay on roadways that get cleared often, and keep a safe distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you.

All motorists should remember that it is not always possible to see ice on the roadway. It is also important to make sure your vehicle is ready for the winter. Brakes should be checked, defrosters should be tested, wiper blades should be replaced, and anti-freeze levels should be monitored. Also, drivers should not allow their gas tank to get too close to empty during the coldest nights of the year.

The experienced NJ car crash attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein hope you and yours stay safe during this upcoming winter season. If you or a loved one is injured in a New Jersey car accident as a result of someone else's negligence, please contact our law offices at (609) 240-0040 to better understand your legal rights and options.

Posted On: November 9, 2011

How to Seek Compensation if You are the Victim of a Drunk Driver

Under New Jersey law, negligent drivers may be held civilly liable for the damages they cause. Driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) is a common form of negligence that results in many injuries and fatalities each year. According to The New Jersey Department of Law & Public Safety, 127 people were killed in alcohol-related car accidents in New Jersey in 2009 while 133 died in 2010. If you or a loved one has suffered a loss because of a drunk driver, please understand that you do have legal rights.

drunk_driving_11181975.jpgIf you are involved in a New Jersey DUI accident, you would be well advised to contact the authorities, take down detailed notes about the accident, exchange information with the other motorist, and seek immediate medical care. If you have suffered a serious injury or if you worry that the at-fault driver's insurance will not provide you with fair compensation for your injuries, you should contact a skilled attorney who can explore other avenues of compensation such as your own auto insurance policy.

In a DUI case where you were the victim, it is important to get a copy of the police report. It is also critical that you stay on top of the criminal case. However, it is important to remember that although it might help you if the driver is found guilty or pleads guilty to drunk driving, you must file a civil claim in order to receive compensation. Such a claim or lawsuit will help you seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, loss of wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

The experienced New Jersey DUI accident injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have a successful track record of holding drunk drivers accountable for the damages they cause. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey DUI collision, please call our offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free, comprehensive and confidential consultation.

Posted On: November 8, 2011

How to Make Your Teen Driver Accident-Proof

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States. No amount of training and supervision can prevent all New Jersey car accidents involving teenage drivers, but there are a number of steps that parents can take to lessen the chances of their children suffering an injury in a car crash.

According to NHTSA, research shows that specific types of behavior often contribute to these tragedies. The inexperience and immaturity of teen drivers can be aggravated by speeding, drunk driving, disuse of seat belts, distracted driving (cell phones, loud music, teenage passengers), drowsy or fatigued driving, driving at night, and drug use. Therefore, eliminating these risk factors will likely decrease the possibility of a serious injury accident.

Teen drivers should not be allowed to drive with more than one passenger because of the increased risk of distractions. Additionally, all young motorists should learn early on to always wear a seatbelt and never use a cell phone while driving. Parents would also be well advised to monitor how late the teenager is allowed to drive and whether or not he or she has access to alcohol.

There are no guarantees that a teen driver will be accident-free, but safe driving habits can greatly decrease the likelihood of him or her getting into an accident. Often, teenagers learn from the examples set by their parents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey car accident, the experienced Princeton car accident lawyers of Lependorf & Silverstein can help. Please call us at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

Posted On: November 7, 2011

How Does Good Car Maintenance Help Prevent Accidents?

car-repair-116448.jpgKeeping your car in proper working order is an important part of staying safe on the roadway. All New Jersey drivers would be well advised to service their vehicles according to the maintenance schedule in their operator's manual and check the condition of their tires every month. A number of New Jersey car accidents involve driver error or negligence, but there are also many accidents every year that can be prevented by proper car maintenance.

Drivers should routinely check their tires. Motorists who consult their owner's manual to determine the proper tire pressure have a greater chance of avoiding tire failure on the roadway. While checking the tire pressure, it is also a good idea to look for signs of leaking, worn spots, uneven wear and tear, and low treads. Always know the age of your tires as older tires are more likely to blow out, deflate, or shred. Tire blowouts or tire tread separation can result in devastating car crashes.

Another car part that should never be taken for granted is your windshield wipers. These should be changed as often as twice a year. Having proper visibility during adverse weather conditions will greatly reduce the chances of an accident.

Drivers should also carefully monitor the effectiveness of their brakes. Brakes that are not in proper working condition can cause devastating highway and intersection accidents. Remember, drivers who cause accidents because they fail to properly maintain their vehicles may be held liable for the damages they cause.

The experienced New Jersey auto accident injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long history of protecting the rights of their clients. If you or a loved one has been hurt by someone else's negligence, call our law offices at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation.

Posted On: November 4, 2011

What is Your New Jersey Personal Injury Case Worth?

Whether you are injured in a New Jersey slip-and-fall accident or a car crash, you may be wondering what your case is worth. That would depend on the type of damages that have been sustained by the victim. In any injury case, the cost of a victim’s injures, not only financially, but also physically and emotionally, must be determined. Injured victims should begin by compiling a list of all medical bills they have accumulated because of the accident. Victims should take into account the emergency room costs as well as related expenses such as prescription drugs, medical devices, rehabilitation services, and surgeries.

The wages lost when a victim is recovering from his or her injuries must also be included in a personal injury claim. How many days of work did the victim miss because of the accident? Did the injuries suffered affect the victim's ability to fulfill his or her job duties? Does the victim now have a permanent disability? Will the injury affect the victim's career or his or her ability to earn a livelihood?

There are a number of non-economic losses that are more difficult to calculate. Here are a few important questions to ask. Did the accident result in substantial physical suffering by the victim? Does the victim now experience fear, anxiety, sleep loss, or stress because of the accident? Has the victim's quality of life suffered? A skilled personal injury attorney can compare recent cases involving similar injuries to estimate the value of these non-economic damages.

The reputed personal injury attorneys in New Jersey at Lependorf & Silverstein fight hard to get our clients fair and full compensation for the injuries, damages, and losses they have suffered. If you would like to discuss the value of your potential claim at no cost, please call our offices at (609) 240-0040 today.

Posted On: November 3, 2011

Steel Worker Burned in New Jersey Construction Accident

A steel worker was airlifted to a hospital after he suffered second-degree burns in a New Jersey construction accident. According to The Hudson Reporter, the construction accident occurred at a county building construction site on Hackensack Avenue. Officials say that the worker was burned when sparks ignited his pants, inflicting second-degree burns on his knees and legs. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) is investigating the Hudson County worksite to determine how the accident occurred and if there were any safety violations.

There are many potential dangers in New Jersey construction sites. Some of the most common construction accidents involve falls, collapsing materials, exposure to harmful substances, contact with dangerous machinery, and transportation accidents. Many New Jersey construction workers are also in danger of suffering a burn injury because of the equipment they use.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 187 workers were killed as a result of fires and explosions in 2010. That number reflects an increase in fatal work-related fire accidents from the 113 suffered in the year 2009. Any time a worker is killed or injured in a workplace accident, the victim or the victim's family would be well advised to discuss their rights with a skilled personal injury attorney.

A workers’ compensation attorney can help victims and their families understand their legal rights and options. Serious burn injuries can have catastrophic effects and can leave a worker permanently disabled and unable to return to work or even earn a livelihood.

The skilled NJ construction accident injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein fight for the rights of injured workers and their families.If you have been injured on the job, please call our offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

Posted On: November 2, 2011

School Bus Driver Cited for Careless Driving after Linden Accident

A 50-year-old South Plainfield woman was injured in a New Jersey car accident after the school bus in which she was a passenger crashed into another vehicle. According to a news report in My Central Jersey, the bus accident occurred on Orchard Terrace at Melrose Terrace in Linden. A 56-year-old male bus driver was attempting to make a left turn when he struck an Acura Integra driven by a 22-year-old man from Linden.

The female bus passenger sustained head injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital. There were no children on the bus at the time of the accident. Officials cited the driver of the Golden Transportation school bus for careless driving.

Under New Jersey Statute 39:4-97: "A person who drives a vehicle carelessly, or without due caution and circumspection, in a manner so as to endanger, or be likely to endanger, a person or property, shall be guilty of careless driving."

Victims of careless, reckless, and negligent drivers should seek the counsel of a skilled personal injury attorney. Dealing with insurance companies in the aftermath of a car accident can be exhausting for a victim who is trying to recover from his or her injuries. An experienced lawyer will not only help New Jersey passenger injury victims secure fair and full compensation for their injuries and damages, but also hold negligent drivers accountable.

The knowledgeable Princeton bus accident injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein fight hard for the rights of injured victims and their families. If you or a loved one is the victim of a negligent or reckless driver, please call (609) 240-0040 today to find out how we can help.

Posted On: November 1, 2011

Motorcyclist Killed in Hillside, New Jersey Car Accident

A 33-year-old man from Orange was killed in a New Jersey car accident after a 1998 Chrysler Sebring struck his motorcycle. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the fatal motorcycle accident occurred at Field Place and Wyndmoor Avenue in Hillside. Officials say the victim was riding his motorcycle southbound when the Sebring turned left in front of him and struck the motorcycle, causing the motorcyclist to suffer fatal injuries. It is not clear if the car driver will be cited for the fatal crash and the collision remains under investigation.

Under New Jersey law, drivers making a left turn must yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic. It is common for motorcycles to be involved in left turn accidents because they are easier to overlook than larger passenger vehicles. Unfortunately, many intersection accidents involving motorcycles result in serious or fatal injuries for motorcycle riders.

The family of a deceased New Jersey motorcycle accident victim would be well advised to seek legal guidance from a skilled injury attorney. In the case of a fatal motorcycle accident, families may file a motorcycle accident wrongful death claim against the at-fault party in order to receive proper compensation for the cost of medical bills, funeral expenses, lost future income, and other related damages. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney will review the circumstances of the crash and help hold the at-fault party accountable for the collision.

The experienced New Jersey motorcycle accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have a successful track record of helping motorcycle accident victims and their families. If you have lost a loved one in a New Jersey auto accident, please call our offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.