Rochester Personal Injury Law Blog

Many New York residents prefer to care for their elderly family members themselves, but sometimes health issues require medical care and equipment that is only available in a nursing home. While most nursing homes provide exceptional care, there are some instances of neglect and abuse. Nursing home injuries are usually related to simple accidents, but they are sometimes indicators of substandard care. Knowing the most common signs of abuse and neglect may help people protect their loved ones.

The National Center on Elder Abuse provides resources to help prevent the mistreatment of elderly people. According to the NCEA, some of the common signs of physical abuse include bruises, broken bones and abrasions. Sexual abuse may cause bruising or other injuries to genital areas. Nursing home injuries may also affect a resident's emotional and/or mental state. Some warning signs of mental or emotional abuse include depression, unusual behavior, anxiety or refusal to participate in standard activities. Weight loss, poor hygiene and bedsores may indicate neglect or insufficient care.

Injuries you suffer as the result of a collision with a commercial truck can be serious and have ramifications for the rest of your life. While a New York civil trial may take some time, pursuing the compensation you deserve for your pains remains your right. However, some trucking companies may try to persuade injury victims to settle a collision claim through alternative means. While an injury victim can benefit from settling with a trucking company, there are still drawbacks to watch out for.

Per FindLaw, the obvious benefit to avoiding a trial is that you save money in legal costs and do not have to wait as long to receive compensation. An alternate method of resolution, like mediation or negotiation, can also induce a trucking company to be more forthcoming about the facts of the accident since they do not have to publicly admit guilt. Also, the proceedings can be calmer and more pleasant than a trial, which may help the parties come to an agreement.

Numerous potholes plague New York streets. The recent winter storm has brought a new batch of potholes, and this spells danger for any motorists out there. 

A pothole can contribute to a crash with another vehicle. However, it can also cause damage to only one car, and that damage comes with any injuries the people inside sustain. Many wonder what their options are when a pothole clearly shares some of the blame. Above all else, it is vital to have professional assistance to help guide you through this process. 

When it comes to e-cigarettes, there are a number of potential reasons why they can be dangerous behind the wheel. First, these devices can be very distracting, and distracted driving has claimed countless lives over the years. Aside from taking a driver’s attention off of the road, they can also result in intoxication. For example, someone who is inexperienced with these devices may become dizzy or feel lightheaded behind the wheel, which can be very dangerous too.

The use of e-cigarettes, also known as vape pens, is especially prominent among young adults and teenagers, some of whom may be inexperienced drivers as well. As a result, the potentially distracting and intoxicating effects of e-cigarettes can be especially dangerous for younger drivers. If you have a child who likes to vape, it is important to discuss these risks with them and make sure that they stay safe and focused while driving.