Posted on November 19,2024 in Personal Injury

The CDC estimates that Listeria infection is the third-leading cause of death from foodborne illness across the United States. Each year in the U.S., at least 1,600 will be infected with Listeria, while 260 will die from the illness. It is known as a foodborne disease outbreak when two or more people get the same illness from the same contaminated food or drink. Foodborne illnesses can trigger personal injury and wrongful death claims when people are harmed by the illnesses.

These outbreaks are investigated by public health officials so they can be controlled, preventing more people from getting sick and learning from each outbreak so that similar outbreaks can be prevented. The most recent Listeria outbreak was tied to Boar’s Head brand liverwurst. Products sold at a deli, particularly those sliced and prepared at a deli, are often among the foods contaminated with Listeria.

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 Posted on November 05,2024 in Personal Injury

A car accident can have serious consequences, especially when the person who caused the accident was driving while drunk. Physical injury, emotional trauma, vehicle damage, and long-term medical care are all too common after a bad drunk driving incident.

Although the drunk driver is often the person facing a lawsuit, the bar at which the driver got drunk may, under certain circumstances, also be held responsible for the accident, and potentially the bartender as well.

If you have suffered personal injury in a car crash caused by someone driving under the influence, an experienced Joliet, IL personal injury lawyer from Schwartz Injury Law can help you take legal action.

Statistics on Drunk Driving Accidents in Illinois and the United States

Every 79 seconds, someone is killed or injured in a drunk driving crash, with about 31 percent of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involving drunk drivers. Each day, about 37 people across the United States will die in a drunk driving crash, or one person every 39 minutes.

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 Posted on October 30,2024 in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists who practice safe driving may believe they are fully protecting themselves on the road. But even the safest riders can suffer catastrophic injuries due to the negligence of other drivers. In fact, even for the safest riders, motorcycle accidents often result in severe, life-altering injuries that require extensive and ongoing medical treatment. An experienced Illinois personal injury attorney can help injured riders hold negligent drivers accountable, especially when the motorcyclist was not at fault.

Why Do Safe Motorcycle Riders Still Suffer Catastrophic Injuries?

Motorcyclists face unique risks on the road. Even when they drive cautiously, wear helmets, and follow traffic laws, they are still at the mercy of other drivers. Unfortunately, car drivers often overlook motorcycles or fail to respect their space on the road, leading to accidents that can be devastating for riders. 

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 Posted on October 21,2024 in Catastrophic Injuries

When we think of a home, we often envision a safe haven where we are free from harm. However, it is crucial to recognize that catastrophic injuries can occur even within the confines of our own homes. These accidents can have life-altering consequences, and when they occur, consulting with a knowledgeable lawyer is essential to understanding your rights and potential legal avenues.

The Complexity of Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries are severe, permanent injuries that may require lifelong care. They often result in a significant loss of quality of life and can include damage to the brain, spinal cord, and other vital functions. These injuries can stem from numerous sources at home, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) – Falls are one of the leading causes of TBIs, and they can happen anywhere in your home – from slipping in the shower to falling down the stairs. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, impacting memory, cognition, and physical abilities.

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 Posted on October 14,2024 in Personal Injury

After experiencing a personal injury, it might be tempting to decline medical attention, especially if the injuries you sustained seem minor. However, seeking medical assistance is one of the most important things you can do after being injured for your health and any future legal proceedings. A skilled personal injury lawyer in Illinois will tell you that immediate medical care can be a decisive factor in your claim. Here is why getting medical attention is essential and not just recommended.  

Medical Evaluations Can Find Hidden Injuries

Some injuries may not be immediately obvious. For example, what feels like a minor ache after a slip and fall could actually be signs of a more serious underlying problem. Medical evaluations can uncover these hidden injuries:

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 Posted on October 07,2024 in Car Accidents

If you have been injured in a car accident, you might be wondering about the value of your case and how much compensation you can expect to receive. A motor vehicle accident lawyer can provide important insights into this process, helping you navigate the difficulties of the situation. Knowing how to maximize your compensation is key to receiving the money you deserve.

Understanding the Factors that Affect Compensation

Not all car accident claims are worth the same. The worth of your case can depend on many factors, such as:

• Medical costs – The cost of treatment for your injuries can add up rapidly. This includes hospital bills, therapy sessions, and medications. For example, suppose you break both your legs in a car accident. In this situation, your case will likely be worth more than if you had only broken your nose. With both legs broken, you will likely need surgery, rehabilitation, and potentially expensive medication. These factors will likely increase the worth of your case.

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 Posted on September 27,2024 in Truck Accidents

Truck accidents are often traumatic and overwhelming experiences, especially with the complexities surrounding liability and insurance claims. If you find yourself in this situation in Illinois, a knowledgeable lawyer will be instrumental in guiding you through the process. The following is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate a truck accident claim effectively.

Step #1 – Ensure Safety and Health First

Before diving into the claims process, you must:

• Prioritize the safety and health of yourself and others.

• Ensure that you and any passengers receive prompt medical attention for injuries. Even if you and others feel your injuries are minor, get checked out by a medical professional anyway. Failing to receive medical attention will make pursuing compensation related to the accident more difficult.

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 Posted on September 19,2024 in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle riding offers riders a profound sense of freedom, but poor weather conditions can turn that thrill into a full-blown nightmare. If you experience a motorcycle accident due to inclement weather, it is important to understand the connection between bad weather and the various ways it can lead to motorcycle accidents. Contact a personal injury attorney if you suffered injuries while riding your motorcycle.

Understanding How Bad Weather Can Translate to Motorcycle Crashes

Slippery Surfaces and Loss of Control

One of the most immediate effects of bad weather, especially rain and snow, is the drastic reduction in road traction. When rain falls on dry pavement, it mixes with oil and debris, creating dangerously slippery conditions that can catch even the most experienced riders off guard.

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 Posted on September 13,2024 in Truck Accidents

Long-distance trucking is vital for our economy, ensuring goods are transported across vast distances. However, it comes with significant risks, with driver fatigue being one of the most dangerous. This phenomenon not only endangers the trucker but also poses a serious hazard to other road users. Understanding the impact of fatigue and knowing when to seek help from a lawyer can make a difference in the wake of a truck accident.

Understanding Driver Fatigue

Fatigue in long-distance trucking is often the result of long hours on the road, inconsistent sleep patterns, and the general pressure to meet tight delivery schedules. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that drowsy driving is responsible for a substantial number of accidents each year. Factors contributing to fatigue include:

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 Posted on September 09,2024 in Car Accidents

Following too closely, commonly referred to as "tailgating," is more than just an annoying driving habit; it is a dangerous behavior that can lead to serious car accidents. The feeling of impatience seems to dominate the roads, especially during rush hour or in crowded parking lots. If you have found yourself injured in an accident caused by someone tailgating you, you are not alone. Understanding how tailgating contributes to accidents can empower you to take legal action after suffering an injury. Contact a lawyer if you have been injured as a result of tailgating.

Here is Why Tailgating is So Dangerous

Reduced Reaction Time

One of the primary dangers of tailgating is the reduced reaction time it creates in both the tailgater and the driver in front. When a vehicle closely follows another, it hinders their ability to react quickly to sudden changes in traffic or unexpected stops. For instance, if the lead driver needs to brake suddenly due to a red light or a pedestrian crossing the road, a tailgater may not have enough time to stop, leading to a rear-end collision. In fact, many tailgating-related accidents stem from this lack of space and time, underscoring the importance of maintaining safe following distances.

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