Rosenberg, Kirby, Cahill, Stankowitz & RichardsonRosenberg, Kirby, Cahill, Stankowitz & Richardson2024-03-08T21:45:56Zhttps://www.rkcslaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1503499/2023/04/cropped-siteicon-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Rosenberg, Kirby, Cahill, Stankowitz & Richardsonhttps://www.rkcslaw.com/?p=558002024-02-10T15:24:01Z2024-02-10T15:24:01ZPersistent pain
Construction back injuries can result in persistent pain that permeates every aspect of a person's daily routine. Simple tasks, such as bending, lifting or even sitting for prolonged periods, become excruciatingly challenging. This persistent pain affects a worker's ability to perform job duties and spills over into their personal life. It hinders activities that they once took for granted.
Restricted mobility
Back injuries often restrict mobility. Construction workers who once navigated job sites with agility may struggle to move comfortably. This restricted mobility also hinders engagement in recreational activities, further isolating the individual from a normal, active lifestyle.
Impact on employment
The consequences of construction back injuries extend beyond physical discomfort. They can also result in significant time away from work. Many workers may face extended periods of disability, impacting their ability to earn a livelihood. The financial strain from lost wages can lead to stress and anxiety, compounding the overall impact on the individual's well-being. New Jersey is a top-paying state for construction laborers, who earn a mean of $31.53 per hour.
Emotional toll
Many people underestimate the emotional toll of construction back injuries. Chronic pain, limited mobility and the challenges of employment can lead to feelings of frustration, depression and helplessness.
Strained relationships
The repercussions of construction back injuries can extend beyond the individual, affecting relationships with family and friends. The emotional and physical toll may strain interpersonal connections. For example, the injured worker may struggle to fulfill family responsibilities or participate in social activities.
Construction back injuries in New Jersey go beyond the physical realm, affecting various aspects of an individual's life. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach to help individuals regain a sense of normalcy in their lives.]]>On Behalf of Rosenberg, Kirby, Cahill, Stankowitz & Richardsonhttps://www.rkcslaw.com/?p=557922024-01-13T00:04:29Z2024-01-13T00:04:29ZAggravation of pre-existing conditions
In some instances, workplace injuries can exacerbate pre-existing conditions. For example, a workplace accident might aggravate someone’s chronic lower back pain. Chronic pain is a common issue. It affects the everyday activities of as many as 6.9% of adults in the United States.
In such cases, determining the extent to which the workplace injury contributed to the worsening of the pre-existing condition becomes an important aspect of the workers' compensation claim.
Apportionment of benefits
New Jersey law recognizes the concept of apportionment. Apportionment involves dividing responsibility for the compensation between the workplace injury and the pre-existing condition. The process aims to fairly allocate benefits based on how much each factor contributed to the overall impairment.
Challenges in establishing causation
Establishing a direct link between a workplace injury and a pre-existing condition can be tricky. Insurance providers and employers may study claims to see whether the pre-existing condition or the workplace incident is the primary cause of the injury. A thorough medical examination and expert opinions can establish causation. They can support the employee's claim for compensation.
Employees in New Jersey deserve fair consideration and compensation for workplace injuries, even when pre-existing conditions are a factor.]]>On Behalf of Rosenberg, Kirby, Cahill, Stankowitz & Richardsonhttps://www.rkcslaw.com/?p=557842023-12-14T02:39:25Z2023-12-16T02:38:40ZContributing factors
Speeding and impaired driving contributed to 82% of fatalities in New Jersey in 2021, reflecting a rise from the previous year's 56%. Despite this increase, the state is the safest for drivers. The majority of drivers in New Jersey adhere to seat belt regulations, fostering an environment that prioritizes safety.
Comparison with other states
New Jersey's safety record stands out among other states’ records. While speeding accounts for a significant portion of fatal accidents in Hawaii and Texas sees a staggering 91% of driving fatalities due to impaired driving, New Jersey demonstrates a balanced approach. The state's commitment to enforcing driving laws, particularly for new drivers, contributes significantly to the safety of its roads.
Regional context
New Jersey's neighboring states also play a role in its safety standing. Despite experiencing a 19% increase in fatal accidents, the state outperforms others in the region. This shows that while challenges persist, New Jersey's commitment to road safety remains steadfast. Traffic law enforcement, infrastructure and road design, signage, public awareness campaigns and vehicle safety standards are among the factors playing a role in driver safety.
While many challenges persist, New Jersey is the safest state for drivers in the nation.]]>On Behalf of Rosenberg, Kirby, Cahill, Stankowitz & Richardsonhttps://www.rkcslaw.com/?p=557832023-12-14T02:37:07Z2023-12-14T02:37:07ZMedical bills
The aftermath of a car accident frequently involves a surge in medical bills. Emergency room visits, diagnostic procedures, surgeries and ongoing medical care contribute to the substantial financial burden. Individuals find themselves contending with bills for medical services, medications and rehabilitation, all of which may accumulate swiftly. This adds stress to an already challenging situation.
Ongoing medical treatments
For many accident victims, the road to recovery entails ongoing medical treatments and therapies. Physical therapy, chiropractic care and follow-up visits with specialists contribute to the cumulative cost of health care.
Loss of income
The median household income in Toms River is $91,403, and that can drop considerably after an accident. Injuries sustained in collisions may lead to temporary or even permanent disability, resulting in missed workdays and diminished earning capacity. This loss of income compounds the financial challenges.
Daily living expenses
Beyond medical bills and loss of income, car accidents can also affect an individual's ability to meet daily living expenses. From mortgage or rent payments to utility bills and groceries, the financial repercussions of an accident extend to various aspects of everyday life. Juggling these obligations alongside mounting medical bills further complicates the financial landscape.
As individuals in New Jersey focus on their recovery, the looming specter of medical bills and the loss of income requires careful navigation.]]>On Behalf of Rosenberg, Kirby, Cahill, Stankowitz & Richardsonhttps://www.rkcslaw.com/?p=557822023-11-07T18:52:44Z2023-11-07T18:52:44ZDamaged outer shell
Any visible cracks, dents or scratches on the outer surface may compromise a helmet's structural integrity. Even seemingly minor damage can weaken it, making it less effective in the event of a collision. Regularly inspect the outer shell for any signs of wear and tear.
Loose or missing chin strap
The chin strap is an important part of helmet security. A loose or missing chin strap can result in the helmet coming off during an accident, leaving your head vulnerable to injury.
Always ensure that the chin strap is securely fastened and in good condition. If it shows signs of fraying or weakness, consider replacing it to maintain optimal safety.
Deteriorating interior padding
The interior padding of a helmet provides both comfort and impact absorption. Over time, the padding can deteriorate due to sweat, oils and general wear.
If you notice the padding becoming compressed, losing its shape or developing an unpleasant odor, it is a sign that the helmet may not provide adequate protection. Replace the helmet or the padding as needed to maintain safety standards.
Outdated safety standards
Helmet safety standards evolve over time as technology and research grow. If your helmet does not meet the latest safety standards, it may not provide the protection required in modern riding conditions. Check for labels showing compliance with recognized safety standards, and if your helmet is old, consider upgrading to a newer model.
Uncomfortable fit
A helmet that does not fit properly is not only uncomfortable but also unsafe. If the helmet is too loose, it may come off during a crash, while a tight helmet can cause discomfort and may not provide optimal protection. Ensure your helmet fits snugly, with no excessive movement, to guarantee its effectiveness in safeguarding your head.
5,932 motorcyclists in America died in 2021 alone. Your helmet is a small investment with potentially life-saving consequences, so choose wisely and ride safely.]]>On Behalf of Rosenberg, Kirby, Cahill, Stankowitz & Richardsonhttps://www.rkcslaw.com/?p=557812023-10-10T18:25:07Z2023-10-10T18:25:07ZSpeeding
One of the most apparent dangers associated with workplace vehicles is the potential for collisions due to speeding. Whether it is a delivery truck backing up in a loading dock or a maintenance cart navigating through crowded hallways, the speed at which these vehicles operate can turn a routine task into a dangerous endeavor.
Blind spots
Many workplace vehicles come with inherent blind spots that increase the risk of accidents. Forklifts have restricted visibility due to their design, making it challenging for people to detect nearby pedestrians. If your coworkers fail to check for people near them, they may cause a collision and serious injuries.
Reckless maneuvers
While vehicles themselves pose inherent risks, the human factor is important. Reckless maneuvers by coworkers, whether due to haste or a lack of proper training, amplify the danger. Employees walking near a vehicle may find themselves in harm's way when other workers fail to adhere to safety protocols.
Dealing with your health around so many large vehicles may seem overwhelming and stressful at times, especially if you are facing financial hardship after an injury. In fact, work-related vehicle accidents cost American employers $39 billion in 2019. Paying attention to how common these accidents are may give you a better understanding of why they happen in the first place.]]>On Behalf of Rosenberg, Kirby, Cahill, Stankowitz & Richardsonhttps://www.rkcslaw.com/?p=557772023-09-05T02:43:30Z2023-09-05T02:43:30ZPre-existing injuries and their role
Before the accident, you may have a pre-existing back injury that causes you minor discomfort. However, during the accident, the force of the collision can intensify back pain. If you already suffer from back pain or pre-existing injuries, you are more vulnerable to developing worse trauma during a car accident. The impact places stress on your weakened body.
Compensation and pre-existing conditions
Aggravated injuries can still result in medical bills, lost income and rehabilitation costs. Medical records are the most important of all your documents to prove your case. These documents are the direct connection between your injuries and the accident.
If you can prove that you would not have suffered the same losses or difficulties if the accident did not happen, you may have a chance at earning compensation for your accident. For example, if you could work carrying heavy objects but experienced mild back pain and now can no longer lift objects for work, you have a right to demand compensation.
In the U.S., about 63% of all patients with lower back pain have chronic pain due to a motor vehicle accident. Pre-existing injuries do not disqualify you from receiving compensation for your pain. To seek compensation, bring your medical records and meet with an experienced PI attorney.]]>On Behalf of Rosenberg, Kirby, Cahill, Stankowitz & Richardsonhttps://www.rkcslaw.com/?p=557762023-09-05T02:41:58Z2023-09-05T02:41:58ZHooper Avenue
Hooper Avenue is one of the most hazardous roads in Toms River due to its heavy traffic flow and numerous intersections. The high volume of vehicles can lead to congestion, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Motorists and pedestrians must exercise extreme caution while traversing this artery of the town, adhering to traffic signals and yielding appropriately.
Route 37
Route 37, a major thoroughfare connecting various neighborhoods, offers cross-town convenience but at a high price. With multiple lanes and constant merging, drivers must remain vigilant, maintain safe distances and slow down. A recent crash occurred near the intersection of Route 37 and Hooper Avenue when one driver speeding excessively could not stop before rear-ending a stopped vehicle at the light.
Indian Head Road
While not as congested as other roads, Indian Head Road poses unique dangers due to its narrow lanes and lack of shoulders. The absence of designated pedestrian pathways is particularly hazardous for those on foot.
Washington Street
Washington Street, a hub of local commerce, poses threats primarily due to its mix of pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Drivers make sudden stops as pedestrians dart across rather than utilizing crosswalks and signals.
Toms River's roads may offer picturesque views, but they also present a range of hazards that demand careful navigation. By adhering to traffic rules, maintaining focus and exercising caution, drivers can make Toms River's roads safer.]]>On Behalf of Rosenberg, Kirby, Cahill, Stankowitz & Richardsonhttps://www.rkcslaw.com/?p=557752023-09-05T02:40:40Z2023-09-05T02:40:40ZSpinal fracture
Spinal fractures occur when the bones in the spine break due to the impact of the collision. The force generated during a car crash can be immense, causing compression or flexion of the spine, leading to fractures. They can vary in severity, from hairline cracks to more severe breaks that may require surgical intervention.
Many of the Injuries occur to the thoracic spine (upper back) and lumbar spine (lower back). The thoracic spine is relatively stable due to its connection with the ribcage, but severe accidents can still cause fractures. Lumbar injuries are common because the lower back is highly susceptible to the forces generated during a collision.
Herniated discs
The spine is a series of vertebrae with cushion-like discs between them that act as shock absorbers. When a car accident occurs, the impact can cause these discs to rupture or shift out of their normal position. This can lead to intense pain, tingling and numbness in various parts of the body, depending on the location of the herniated disc along the spine.
The symptoms of spinal injuries from a car accident may not be immediately apparent. In some cases, pain or discomfort may surface days or even weeks after the accident. It is important to seek medical attention promptly, as untreated spinal injuries can worsen over time and lead to chronic pain or even long-term disabilities.]]>On Behalf of Rosenberg, Kirby, Cahill, Stankowitz & Richardsonhttps://www.rkcslaw.com/?p=557732023-08-21T20:22:04Z2023-08-21T20:22:04ZMisspelling words and names
According to the National Library of Medicine, a medical professional who is rushing or being sloppy about what they write may misspell the name of your medicine on your prescription. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as distractions around them or a lack of attention to what they are doing.
Mixing up names
Doctors may also confuse two similar medicine names while writing your prescription. If they do not bother to check what they write, this simple mistake could lead to serious consequences for you. These two medicines may have totally different usages and cause you to react in a negative way once you begin to take this medicine.
Writing the wrong dosage
If the doctor confuses just one part of the number in your prescription, you could take a completely different dosage than needed. This can harm your internal organs before you or the medical professional realize the mistake.
Failing to check for other drugs
Taking two medicines that do not interact well can make your body seriously ill. If your doctor fails to check for other medicines you are currently taking, they may prescribe a drug that interacts poorly with your other prescriptions.
No matter what the source of this error is, learning more about negligence in medicine is key.]]>