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Unveiling America’s Maternal Mortality Crisis: Seeking Justice through Medical Negligence Attorneys at Lantz & Robins PC

Introduction The maternal mortality crisis in America demands urgent attention and comprehensive reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of mothers. While various factors contribute to this crisis, including medical malpractice, it is important for affected individuals and their families to understand their rights and seek justice. In this article, we shed light on the role of medical negligence in the maternal mortality crisis and encourage readers to consider contacting experienced medical negligence attorneys at Lantz & Robins PC to protect their rights and pursue legal remedies. Understanding Medical Negligence Medical negligence occurs when healthcare providers fail to meet the accepted standards of care, resulting in harm, injury, or death to patients. In the context of maternal healthcare, medical negligence can have devastating consequences for mothers and their families, exacerbating the maternal mortality crisis. Taking Legal Action If you or a loved one has experienced harm or loss due to medical negligence during pregnancy, childbirth, or the postpartum period, it is crucial to consider taking legal action. Seeking the guidance and representation of experienced medical negligence attorneys, such as those at Lantz & Robins PC, can be instrumental in pursuing justice and holding accountable those responsible for substandard care. Investigating Cases of Medical Negligence Medical negligence cases require a thorough investigation to establish liability and build a strong legal claim. Attorneys at Lantz & Robins PC possess the expertise and resources to conduct comprehensive investigations, gathering evidence, consulting medical experts, and analyzing medical records to determine if negligence occurred. Their goal is to ensure that negligent healthcare providers are held responsible for their actions. Navigating the Legal Process The legal process surrounding medical negligence cases can be complex, involving intricate medical and legal considerations. By consulting with experienced attorneys, you gain valuable guidance throughout the entire legal journey. They will advocate for your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court to seek fair compensation for the harm you have endured. Seeking Compensation and Accountability Taking legal action against medical negligence not only provides an opportunity for compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering but also serves as a means to hold healthcare providers accountable. By pursuing legal remedies, you contribute to the broader effort of improving patient safety and ensuring that no other mother experiences the same hardships. Contacting Lantz & Robins PC Lantz & Robins PC is a reputable law firm dedicated to fighting for the rights of individuals affected by medical negligence, including those impacted by the maternal mortality crisis. Their skilled team of attorneys understands the complexities of medical malpractice cases and is committed to providing compassionate legal representation. Conclusion As we confront America’s maternal mortality crisis, it is essential to recognize the role of medical negligence and empower affected individuals to seek justice. If you or someone you know has suffered harm or loss due to medical negligence, we encourage you to reach out to the experienced medical negligence attorneys at Lantz & Robins PC. By taking legal action, you not only protect your rights but also contribute to the ongoing fight for improved patient safety and accountability within the healthcare system.

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Recognizing the Importance of Preeclampsia Awareness: Seeking Legal Assistance for Misdiagnosed or Untreated Cases

Introduction Pregnancy is a remarkable journey that requires careful attention to both the well-being of the mother and the unborn child. While most pregnancies progress smoothly, complications can arise, such as preeclampsia. In some unfortunate cases, misdiagnosis or inadequate treatment of preeclampsia can lead to significant harm. If you believe you or a loved one has experienced negligence in the management of preeclampsia, it is important to understand your rights and seek appropriate legal assistance. In this article, we will discuss the signs, symptoms, and the potential need for legal recourse in cases involving misdiagnosed or untreated preeclampsia. Understanding Preeclampsia Preeclampsia is a serious condition that typically emerges after the 20th week of pregnancy, characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage. Timely diagnosis and proper management are crucial to prevent complications for both the mother and the unborn child. Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of preeclampsia to ensure early detection and appropriate medical intervention. These may include high blood pressure, proteinuria (excess protein in the urine), swelling, persistent headaches, visual disturbances, and upper abdominal pain. If you or your loved one have experienced these symptoms and believe there has been negligence in the diagnosis or treatment of preeclampsia, it may be essential to explore your legal options. Seeking Legal Assistance In cases where preeclampsia is misdiagnosed or inadequately treated, resulting in harm to the mother or the baby, seeking legal assistance can help protect your rights and ensure appropriate compensation for the damages incurred. Medical negligence attorneys, such as Lantz & Robins PC, specialize in handling cases related to obstetric malpractice and can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process. Why Legal Assistance Matters Conclusion Preeclampsia is a condition that requires timely and accurate diagnosis, as well as appropriate medical intervention. If you suspect that you or a loved one has suffered harm due to misdiagnosed or untreated preeclampsia, it is important to understand your rights and seek legal assistance. Professional medical negligence attorneys, such as Lantz & Robins PC, can evaluate your case, provide expert guidance, and advocate for the compensation you deserve. Remember, taking action can not only help you obtain justice but also raise awareness about the importance of proper preeclampsia management, potentially preventing similar incidents in the future.

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Hiring Injury Attorneys Lantz & Robins PC: Safeguarding Your Legal Rights After a Car Accident at Work

Introduction: Experiencing a car accident while on the job can be a challenging and overwhelming ordeal. It’s crucial to protect your legal rights and secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. This article will guide you through the necessary steps, emphasizing the importance of hiring the dedicated injury attorneys at Lantz & Robins PC to navigate your legal journey effectively. Your health and well-being should always be the top priority after a car accident. Seek immediate medical attention for your injuries and ensure a thorough evaluation. By focusing on your recovery, you’ll also gather essential medical records that will serve as crucial evidence in your case. Notify your employer about the accident promptly, following your company’s reporting protocols. Provide accurate details of the incident and ensure that your employer is aware of the situation. Reporting the accident early helps establish a clear timeline and strengthens your case. Gather as much evidence as possible to support your case. Capture photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any other relevant factors. Obtain contact information from witnesses who observed the accident. This evidence will provide a strong foundation for your legal claim. Maintain organized copies of all documents related to the accident, including medical records, accident reports, insurance correspondence, and any other paperwork. These records will substantiate your injuries, treatments, and associated expenses, supporting your legal claim. It is crucial to seek legal advice from experienced personal injury attorneys who specialize in workplace accidents. Lantz & Robins PC has a proven track record of successfully advocating for injured individuals. Their team will evaluate your case, protect your rights, and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf. Inform your auto insurance provider about the accident, adhering to their specific reporting requirements. However, avoid providing a recorded statement without consulting the attorneys at Lantz & Robins PC, as they will guide you through the process and protect your best interests. Lantz & Robins PC will assist you in navigating the complex workers’ compensation process. They will ensure you understand your eligibility for benefits and help you file your claim accurately. With their guidance, you can secure the necessary support for your medical expenses and lost wages. Maintain a detailed record of all accident-related expenses, such as medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and other out-of-pocket expenditures. Lantz & Robins PC will utilize this information to assess the financial impact of the accident and seek appropriate compensation on your behalf. Be cautious when considering settlement offers from insurance companies. The attorneys at Lantz & Robins PC will review any offers and advise you on their fairness and adequacy. They will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. Throughout the legal process, rely on the expertise of Lantz & Robins PC. Their dedicated attorneys will guide you through the complexities of your case, provide regular updates, and represent your best interests. With their support, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal aspects of your claim. Conclusion: When you experience a car accident at work, it’s essential to safeguard your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. By hiring the experienced injury attorneys at Lantz & Robins PC, you’ll have dedicated professionals by your side, fighting for your rights and advocating for your best interests. Don’t navigate this challenging process alone—trust Lantz & Robins PC.

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Seeking Justice and Support: Contact Injury Attorneys Lantz & Robins PC

Introduction: When faced with a workplace injury, it’s crucial to have the right support and guidance to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. One of the best ways to ensure your interests are represented is by enlisting the expertise of skilled injury attorneys. In this article, we highlight the benefits of reaching out to the renowned legal team at Lantz & Robins PC. With their extensive experience and commitment to client advocacy, they can be your trusted partners in navigating the complexities of your injury claim. Lantz & Robins PC is a law firm with a strong track record in personal injury and workers’ compensation cases. Their team of dedicated attorneys possesses in-depth knowledge and understanding of the intricate legal landscape surrounding workplace injuries. With their vast experience, they can effectively assess your case, identify relevant laws and regulations, and develop a strategic approach to maximize your chances of success. Understanding that every case is unique, Lantz & Robins PC prioritizes providing personalized attention to their clients. When you contact their firm, you can expect a compassionate and attentive legal team that will take the time to listen to your story, assess the details of your case, and tailor a legal strategy to suit your specific needs. Their lawyers are committed to keeping you informed at every stage, ensuring that you are empowered to make well-informed decisions. One of the key strengths of Lantz & Robins PC is their commitment to conducting thorough investigations and gathering compelling evidence. They work diligently to gather all relevant documentation, interview witnesses, consult experts if necessary, and build a strong case on your behalf. By leaving no stone unturned, they strive to present a compelling argument that supports your claim for fair compensation. The attorneys at Lantz & Robins PC possess excellent negotiation skills and are adept at engaging with insurance companies and other parties involved in the claims process. They understand the tactics employed by these entities and work tirelessly to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. In the event that a resolution cannot be reached through negotiation, they are prepared to litigate aggressively on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected. Dealing with a workplace injury can be overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. Lantz & Robins PC is committed to providing comprehensive support throughout the entire legal process. They will guide you through each step, offer sound advice, and alleviate the burden of dealing with legal complexities. Their compassionate team will fight to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation and support you deserve, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Conclusion: When it comes to protecting your rights and securing fair compensation after a workplace injury, the assistance of skilled injury attorneys can make a world of difference. Lantz & Robins PC stands out as a trusted and experienced law firm committed to advocating for injured workers. By reaching out to their team, you can access personalized guidance, thorough investigation, skilled negotiation, and robust litigation support. Let Lantz & Robins PC be your dedicated legal allies, fighting tirelessly to help you achieve justice and obtain the compensation you need to move forward with your life. Call them today for a consultation and take the first step towards securing your rights.

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Maternal Mortality and Medical Negligence

Introduction: The United States, known for its advanced healthcare system, has been grappling with an alarming rise in maternal deaths in recent years. While childbirth should be a joyous occasion, it has become a source of anxiety for many expectant mothers due to the increasing instances of medical negligence. The failure to provide appropriate care during pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period has led to devastating consequences, leaving families shattered and raising serious concerns about the quality of maternal healthcare in the country. The Sobering Reality: Maternal mortality refers to the death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days after delivery. Shockingly, the United States has one of the highest maternal mortality rates among developed nations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 700 women die each year in the United States due to pregnancy-related complications, with a disproportionate impact on women of color. Moreover, for every maternal death, there are countless more cases of severe morbidity and long-term health complications. Factors Contributing to Maternal Deaths: Medical negligence encompasses a range of failures in maternal care, including misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, inadequate monitoring, and communication breakdowns between healthcare providers. Several factors contribute to the prevalence of medical negligence in the United States: 1.     Fragmented Healthcare System: The lack of a unified healthcare system in the United States can lead to fragmented care, with patients often receiving treatment from multiple providers who may not have access to the complete medical history. This fragmentation can result in miscommunication, mismanagement, and missed opportunities for timely interventions. 2.     Racial Disparities: Maternal mortality rates are disproportionately higher among women of color, particularly African American and Native American women. These disparities stem from systemic issues such as racial bias, inadequate access to quality healthcare, and socioeconomic challenges, all of which contribute to substandard care and poorer outcomes. 3.     Inadequate Prenatal Care: Insufficient access to prenatal care is another significant factor contributing to maternal deaths. Early detection and management of conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and infections are crucial in preventing complications. However, many women, particularly those from marginalized communities, face barriers such as lack of insurance coverage, limited transportation, and limited availability of healthcare facilities. 4.     Provider Shortages and Burnout: A shortage of qualified healthcare providers, including obstetricians and midwives, puts additional strain on the system and compromises the quality of care. Overworked healthcare professionals dealing with excessive patient loads are more prone to errors and may miss critical warning signs. Addressing the Issue: To combat the rising tide of maternal deaths caused by medical negligence, a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach is required: 1.     Improved Training and Education: Ensuring healthcare providers receive comprehensive training on maternal care, including the recognition and management of potential complications, is crucial. Additionally, training programs should focus on cultural competency and addressing implicit biases to minimize disparities in care. 2.     Enhanced Access to Prenatal Care: Efforts should be made to expand access to prenatal care services, particularly for underserved communities. This includes increasing funding for community health centers, implementing telemedicine initiatives, and addressing social determinants of health that hinder access to care. 3.     Strengthening Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication and collaboration among healthcare providers, including obstetricians, nurses, midwives, and support staff, are essential to providing optimal care. Establishing clear protocols and enhancing teamwork can help prevent errors and ensure timely interventions. 4.     Identifying High-Risk Populations: A targeted approach to identifying high-risk populations, such as women from disadvantaged backgrounds or with preexisting health conditions, can help provide tailored care and interventions to reduce maternal mortality rates

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What To Do if You’ve Been Hurt by a Tractor Trailer

Introduction: Being involved in an accident with a tractor trailer can be a devastating experience, often resulting in severe injuries and substantial financial burdens. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, it’s crucial to understand your rights and take appropriate steps to pursue compensation for your injuries. This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to navigate the process of seeking compensation after being injured by a tractor trailer. 1.     Seek Immediate Medical Attention: After a tractor trailer accident, your health should be your top priority. Ensure that you and any other injured parties receive prompt medical attention. Even if your injuries appear minor, it’s essential to get a thorough medical evaluation as some injuries may have delayed symptoms. 2.     Document the Accident Scene and Injuries: Collect as much evidence as possible to support your claim. This includes taking photographs of the accident scene, damaged vehicles, your injuries, and any visible road conditions or signage. Additionally, gather contact information from witnesses who may have observed the accident. 3.     Report the Accident: Contact the police and file an accident report. The police report will serve as an official document that details the incident, including important information such as the time, date, location, and parties involved. Request a copy of the report for your records. 4.     Preserve Evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the accident and your injuries. This includes keeping copies of medical records, bills, receipts for out-of-pocket expenses (e.g., medication, medical equipment), and any correspondence with insurance companies or other parties involved. 5.     Consult an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney: Seeking legal representation from experienced personal injury attorneys like Michael Lantz and Rand Robins is crucial to navigate the complexities of the legal process and maximize your chances of obtaining fair compensation. An attorney can assess the strength of your case, guide you through the necessary steps, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if needed.  Attorneys Michael Lantz and Rand Robins have extensive experience litigating against freight hauling companies and are not afraid to take a case to trial if settlement fails.   6.     Determine Liability: Identifying the party or parties responsible for the accident is crucial in pursuing compensation. In tractor trailer accidents, liability may rest with the truck driver, the trucking company, vehicle manufacturers, maintenance providers, or other third parties. An attorney will investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident to establish liability. 7.     Explore Other Avenues of Compensation: Depending on the circumstances, you may be eligible for additional compensation. This could include pursuing a workers’ compensation claim if the accident occurred during the course of employment or exploring other potential sources of liability beyond the truck driver and trucking company. 8.     Negotiate or Litigate: Your attorney will work to negotiate a fair settlement with the involved parties and their insurance companies. If a suitable settlement cannot be reached, they may advise filing a lawsuit. Litigation can be a lengthy process, but it provides an opportunity for a court to determine the appropriate compensation if liability is contested. 9.     Focus on Recovery: While pursuing compensation, prioritize your physical and emotional recovery. Follow your doctor’s advice, attend all necessary medical appointments, and participate in rehabilitation programs. Taking care of yourself is crucial to ensure the best possible outcome for your case. Conclusion: Being injured in a tractor trailer accident can have long-lasting consequences, but with the right approach, you can pursue compensation for your injuries. By seeking immediate medical attention, documenting the accident, consulting an attorney, and following the necessary legal steps, you increase your chances of obtaining fair compensation to aid your recovery and rebuild your life.

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What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident in Virginia?

A serious car accident represents a traumatic and life-changing experience for many people. You may be overwhelmed at the prospect of pursuing a personal injury claim against the other driver. The good news is that an injured person has two years to file a claim in court for personal injuries.  However, it is critical to contact a personal injury attorney promptly after a serious car wreck for two important reasons:  1) the insurance company for the at-fault driver will begin working against you immediately with the goal of convincing you to take a low-ball settlement and 2) evidence of the crash must be obtained as soon as possible because vehicles get repaired and memories fade. Read on to learn more about the statute of limitations on car accidents in Virginia. You are entitled to recover compensation for your injuries and damages following a car accident and you don’t want to forfeit that right by pursuing your claim too late. What Is a Statute of Limitations for a Virginia Car Accident? Virginia code § 8.01-243 dictates the statute of limitations for a Virginia car accident. However, a few separate statutes of limitation may play a part after your Virginia car accident.  Personal Injury Statute of Limitations  Under the umbrella of personal injury claims, Virginia law permits individuals to bring a claim within two years of the date of the accident. Two years may seem like a long time, but it goes by quickly if you have sustained a serious injury. It is important to promptly contact an experienced personal injury attorney to protect your interests from the earliest possible juncture. Insurance company adjusters will try to buddy up to an injured person, hoping to talk them into taking a low-ball settlement before it is even possible to know the extent of the injuries or amount of medical bills. INSURANCE ADJUSTERS ARE NOT YOUR FRIENDS. Their job is to pay as little as possible to get your signature on a release.  They do not care if you get stuck with big medical bills or needing surgery several months after a crash. They will call you as soon as they get your number, which an attorney cannot do under Virginia ethical rules.  Just like speaking to law enforcement, remember that “anything you say to an insurance adjuster can and will be used against you.”   Vehicle Damage Statute of Limitations The statute of limitations for recovery of compensation related to vehicle damage following a car accident in Virginia is five years. Claims under this section also include damage to property resulting from a car accident in Virginia.  Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations The surviving family members of a deceased person have the option to file a wrongful death claim. If a Virginia car accident caused the death of a loved one, a surviving spouse, child, or another family member may bring a wrongful death claim against the driver. The statute of limitations for a wrongful death claim after a Virginia car accident is two years from the date of death.  Few exceptions exist for the extension of this statute of limitations. However, in certain situations, your claim may not be barred despite filing past this two-year mark. For instance, if a surviving child was a minor at the time of the death, the statute of limitations does not begin running until the child reaches the age of 18.  Other than very limited exceptions, court extensions to the statute of limitations are rare. This will get the ball rolling sooner rather than later, and help you avoid the dismissal of your claim.    There are procedural steps that must be followed before filing a lawsuit for a deceased person.  This means it is even more important to contact an attorney as soon as possible after someone is killed as a result of carelessness or worse. How Is Fault Determined in a Virginia Car Accident?  After a car accident in Virginia, it’s vital to call a police officer to respond to the scene. Virginia law requires a police officer to file a car accident report if a car accident causes more than $1,500 in property damage. Law enforcement officers interview involved parties, witnesses, and vehicle occupants. Additionally, the responding officer may provide observations in the report of their understanding of the cause of the car accident.  In addition to the car accident report, other factors aid in the determination of fault in a car accident in Virginia, including: Evidence gathered at the scene,  Photographs,  Witness statements, and Videos, particularly from body worn cameras, security cameras, and even dash cameras.  Additionally, write down your immediate recollection of the car accident, if possible. Memories fade quickly; however, recording an accurate diary of the events leading up to the accident assists in your claim. A personal injury attorney can assist you in gathering this supporting evidence. An attorney also aids in ensuring you do not miss the statute of limitations after a car accident in Virginia.  What Is Contributory Negligence?  In addition to the strict statute of limitations laws after a Virginia car accident, Virginia also exercises a policy of contributory negligence in personal injury cases. Contributory negligence provides that one must be without fault to recover. In other words, if you were negligent, even if your negligence was relatively nothing compared to the defendant’s, and your negligence was a proximate cause of the crash, you may lose your case and you can be sure the insurance company will deny your claim.  For this reason, it’s vital to retain an experienced personal injury attorney to assist in your claim for damages.  What Can I Recover in a Virginia Car Accident? Under Virginia law, after a car accident, you are entitled to recover both economic and non-economic damages.  Economic Damages Economic damages are quantifiable monetary losses. Common examples of economic damages include: Past and future medical expenses,  Loss of past and future earnings, Loss of use of property, Costs of repair or replacement, Loss of services. Retain all documentation of expenses. Economic damages […]

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What Is the Average Settlement Amount for Car Accidents in Virginia?

There are no two ways about it: car accidents are painful. They aren’t just physically painful either. Car accidents often also cause mental pain and anguish and can hurt our financial situation as well. Despite our best efforts as drivers, car accidents are sometimes unavoidable. In Virginia, a fault state, you typically seek compensation for car accidents through the at-fault party’s insurance provider. When clients come to Lantz & Robins for help with their car accident claim, we often find ourselves answering similar questions. One of the most common questions we get from our clients is, what do you think my case is worth?  The question seems like a relatively simple one, but the answer is not. Unfortunately, there are no typical car accident settlement amounts. Thus, without looking at your case specifically, including how the crash happened, what injuries you had, whether the other driver was properly or adequately insured, what medical treatment you get or may need in the future, we can’t provide an accurate estimate of your claim’s worth.  Why Is There No Average Car Accident Settlement? There is no typical or average car accident settlement because there is no typical car accident. Every car accident has numerous factors that impact what any final settlement will look like.  Even if the exact same accident occurs between the same people, a different settlement may arise in different circumstances. Add to that the fact that non economic damages, such as those for pain and suffering, can depend upon the factors that make each human being and case unique, and you can see how the same accident might produce different results. Different judges, attorneys, insurance providers, and jurors can also have an impact on a final settlement amount. In sum, there are simply too many different factors that go into car accidents to come up with any sort of average car accident claim. What Factors Impact the Amount of a Car Accident Settlement? One of the biggest factors that impacts a given car accident settlement is the damages that arise. The severity of each type of damage also impacts final settlement amounts. The following list shows some of the types of damages that can arise out of a car accident: Emergency medical transport, Emergency medical care, Surgery, Rehabilitation, The loss of the use of a bodily function, The loss of a loved one, Physical pain and anguish, Mental pain and anguish, Treatment for psychological issues arising from the accident, Property damage (usually damage to your vehicle), Requiring in-home care permanently or temporarily, and Permanent or temporary disability. Essentially, the more of these damages that apply to your specific case, the greater your eventual settlement will be. Furthermore, the more severe each of these damages are, the more it will amplify your settlement. Please note, however, that this is not an exhaustive list. There are many other relevant damages that may apply to your case. While there are other factors that may come into play, the type and severity of damages is often the most consequential. How Can I Make an Estimate of My Virginia Car Accident Settlement’s Worth? Some websites offer car accident settlement calculators. These tools cannot factor everything relevant into their calculations and you can bet your bottom dollar that these tools are not trial experienced attorneys who practice in the jurisdiction where your case would be filed.  Thus, instead of using such a calculator for your estimate, it’s best to consult with a personal injury attorney who is familiar with judges and juries in your area.  To help your attorney estimate your damages, you will first need a record of any economic damage that you suffered. You can estimate these damages by looking at the applicable bills, payments, or invoices. Once you have that information, add it up, and you have the value of your economic damages.  Unfortunately, because they are intangible and subjective, non economic damages like mental anguish and physical pain and suffering are far more difficult to place a value on. But an experienced attorney can help you do so. Better than any settlement calculator, your attorney knows how to take the numerous relevant factors into account. Things like future medical bills and the cost of non economic damages are difficult to place a value on yourself. However, drawing on their experience from previous cases, your car accident attorney can help you make an accurate estimate. Ready to File a Virginia Car Accident Claim? If you are ready to file your Virginia car accident claim, Lantz & Robins is here to help you. Our team of car accident attorneys has the experience necessary to get you the settlement you deserve. We are proud to say that we limit our attorneys’ caseloads so that we can give your case the attention it deserves. In doing so, we get better results for our clients than some of the other law firms that take on any case that comes their way.  Lantz & Robins is proud to be a member of the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, The American Association for Justice, and Super Lawyers. Our consultations are always free, so there is no risk in giving us a call. Let us take care of your Virginia car accident claim. Call Lantz & Robins today!

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Why a Personal Injury Attorney in Richmond, VA, Will Not Take Your Case

It might discourage you if a Richmond personal injury attorney does not take your case. If someone rejects your case, no one can blame you for thinking that there is something wrong with it. However, don’t let a lawyer not taking your case dissuade you from pursuing your claim. The rules are pretty cut and dry: if someone else’s negligent actions injure you, they are liable for the associated damages. This fact remains unchanged regardless of whether a given attorney decides to take up your claim.  There Are Many Reasons to Not Take a Case If a lawyer rejects your claim, your claim might have a flaw. But there could be other reasons. Lawyers have to assess each claim that prospective clients bring them to determine whether to take it. The number of reasons lawyers have to accept or reject a given claim is practically infinite. Many of the reasons have little, if anything, to do with the quality of a claim. To figure out why your claim was rejected, your best option is to ask the lawyer. Barring that, however, consider a few of the many reasons why personal injury attorneys do not take certain claims to see what might apply to your case.  You Are Liable for the Injury This reason not to take a given case has everything to do with the quality of a claim. If a personal injury attorney looks into the facts and circumstances around a given claim and believes the claim has little or no chance of success in court, they will likely reject it. For example, a lawyer might reject your personal injury case because you are trying to hold someone else liable for an accident that you are at fault for.  Lawyers, particularly personal injury lawyers, are reluctant to take on losing cases. Many personal injury attorneys work on the basis of contingency fees. This means they only receive payment if they win or otherwise settle a case. Thus, if a case has a very limited chance of success, a personal injury lawyer who works on that case has a very limited chance of seeing payment. Law firms are businesses like any other; without revenue they cannot continue to operate successfully. There Was No Negligence or Intent Involved A person who causes someone else to injure themselves is not always liable for the relevant damages. In fact, there are four cumulative requirements to demonstrate civil liability in personal injury cases: A duty of care exists at the time of the incident; Someone breaches that relevant duty of care in the incident; There is a causal link between the breach of duty and subsequent injury; and The injury/incident leads to real damages. Essentially, the first two elements represent one concept as a whole: negligence or intent. Someone acts negligently when they fail to uphold a duty of care that they owe to someone else. A duty of care, for example, exists between all drivers on the road. All drivers have a duty of care to follow the rules of the road and avoid driving in an unsafe manner. Someone breaches that duty of care when they are careless or disobey traffic laws. Without negligence or intent, a personal injury case falls apart. Thus, if a lawyer listens to your story and determines that the at-fault party did not act negligently, they will likely reject your case.  They Have a Full Caseload If a Richmond personal injury lawyer will not take your case, they may have a full caseload already. Like other businesses that provide services, there is a limit to the amount of services law firms can provide. Each lawyer has a finite amount of time, so they cannot take every case that a client brings them. Having a full caseload may be the only reason a personal injury attorney in Richmond, VA, rejects your case. Your Damages Are Insufficient Some personal injury lawyers only take cases that involve damages that exceed a set number. If the estimated damages fall below that number, they will not take the case. Some personal injury attorneys use this practice to maximize profit, while others use it because their expertise lies with catastrophic injuries specifically. In addition, some lawyers will use this strategy to elevate their law firm’s reputation. By only taking big cases, these firms hope to differentiate themselves from others in the area by demonstrating their ability to litigate the biggest cases around. If the total damages in your personal injury case are below a certain amount, some personal injury attorneys will reject your claim. The Lawyer Has a Conflict of Interest Sometimes a personal injury lawyer will reject your claim due to a real or potential conflict of interest. A conflict of interest arises when someone has a vested interest in one outcome that conflicts with their vested interest in another outcome. The American Bar Association prohibits its members from allowing their own interests to adversely affect their representation of a given client. The best way for attorneys to avoid conflicts of interest is to avoid any situations with potential conflicts of interest. Thus, if you consult with a personal injury attorney and they foresee a potential conflict of interest, they might reject your case. Such a situation may arise, for example, if the attorney you consult with already has the responsible party as a client. It Is Too Late to File a Claim If you can no longer file a claim for your personal injury, any lawyer you consult with will likely reject your case. There is always a time limit to recover damages after a personal injury. Once the time limit, known as a statute of limitations, expires, you cannot legally file a claim to recover damages. If the claim goes to court, a judge will reject it.  The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Virginia is two years. Thus, you have two years from the date of your personal injury to file a claim to recover damages. Virginia’s […]

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I Got Hit By a Car While Crossing the Street—Now What?

Getting hit by a car is every pedestrian’s worst nightmare. When a pedestrian is hit by a car, catastrophic injuries are not uncommon. When a collision occurs, the human body doesn’t stand a chance against the impact of a car. Everybody knows that if you get hit by a car while you are crossing the street in Virginia, the person driving the car owes you money for any injuries you suffer. After all, if you cross the street when allowed to do so, why should you pay for your injuries? You followed all the relevant traffic rules, so you have a legitimate expectation that you can cross the street without being struck by a vehicle. It is true that the person who hit you is typically responsible for compensating you for your injuries, but how do you make that happen? Our experienced Richmond, Virginia car accident lawyers will explain. For assistance, please contact our firm online or call (804) 404-7870 to set up a free consultation. If you have been hit by a car while crossing the street, here are the steps you should take immediately following the accident: Seek Medical Attention The first thing you should do if you get hit by a car while crossing the street is seek immediate medical attention. If your injuries are serious enough to warrant an emergency room visit, call an ambulance immediately. Otherwise, if you can safely walk away from the scene of the accident, you should seek a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Many injuries that pedestrians suffer after being hit by a car are obvious. However, internal injuries, which are often even more serious than external injuries, may not be visible to the naked eye. As a result, an evaluation from a medical provider after a pedestrian-vehicle collision can save the pedestrian’s life. Furthermore, seeking medical attention provides a basis on which you can seek compensation.  Track All Injury-Related Expenses After seeking medical attention, the next thing you should do is track all your expenses that are related to the injury. When you receive treatment for injuries, the only way you can get compensation is by keeping track of the resources you used to treat those injuries. To do so, you should make sure you have a copy of every medical bill you receive. Without tracking the bills, you have no proof of your injuries and subsequent treatment and, as a result, can’t get compensation. Medical bills are not the only expense you should track after a pedestrian accident in Virginia. If you miss work due to your injury, keep track of the wages you lose as a result. You may need therapy to work through the emotional trauma of the injury or your injury may require continuing treatment like physical therapy. Keep track of all those bills. They will serve as evidence of the damages you suffered as a result of the injury. Without them, you may jeopardize your claim. Retain the Services of a Virginia Injury Attorney After you have received the proper medical attention for your injuries and kept track of all expenses related to your injury, you should contact and retain the services of a personal injury attorney in your area. Without a lawyer, it may be impossible to recover the damages you suffered. Your attorney will listen to your side of the story, help you craft a legal strategy, file the claim on your behalf, and, generally, guide you through the claims process. There is no substitute for an experienced Richmond, Virginia pedestrian injury lawyer in this regard. Personal injury attorneys have the requisite experience and expertise to help you get the compensation you deserve without running into roadblocks along the way. Are You Ready to Call an Attorney? If you are looking for a Virginia personal injury attorney to help you after getting hit by a car while crossing the street, contact us online or call Lantz and Robins at (804) 404-7870 today! Our team of Virginia personal injury attorneys will help you with whatever you need. Whether you need to file a claim, track your expenses, or negotiate a settlement offer, the personal injury lawyers at Lantz and Robins will advocate on your behalf to fight for the compensation you deserve. If you want to know how we have helped our clients in the past, check out our testimonials and case results pages for more information. Whatever you decide to do, don’t forget to call Lantz and Robbins for a free consultation!

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