When we get behind the wheel, we assume that other drivers on the road are following the same safety guidelines, including having the necessary insurance coverage. However, that assumption may be dangerously wrong. Unfortunately, the number of uninsured drivers and underinsured drivers is on the rise, leaving responsible drivers exposed to significant financial risks.

In the unfortunate event of an auto accident, the financial aftermath can be devastating, especially if the at-fault driver is inadequately insured or worse, not insured at all. Understanding how to shield yourself from uninsured drivers is crucial for safeguarding your finances and ensuring peace of mind. Thankfully, there are effective measures to protect yourself from these risks, with one of the most potent being the acquisition of uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.

The Growing Problem: Uninsured Drivers and Underinsured Drivers

The issue of auto accidents involving uninsured and underinsured drivers is a growing concern across the United States. It’s important for all drivers to be aware of this trend and take steps to protect themselves.

Across the United States, the number of uninsured drivers is increasing. According to the Insurance Information Institute, “a 2023 report by the Insurance Research Council found that 14% of motorists, or about one in seven drivers were uninsured.”

Even more troubling – the number of underinsured drivers with insurance but insufficient coverage limits to pay for serious auto accident injuries or damage also continues to rise. According to a 2023 report from the Insurance Research Council, 15.7% of drivers in the U.S. have insufficient coverage. Several factors contribute to this alarming trend, including rising insurance premiums, economic challenges, and lapses in coverage.

Liability Limits Fall Short in Many States

In many states, including Pennsylvania, the liability limits required by law are simply too low to cover all the costs associated with a serious auto accident. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, all motor vehicles subject to registration must have liability insurance. You are complying if you have liability insurance in PA in the following amounts:

  • $15,000 for injury or death of one person in an accident
  • $30,000 for injury or death of more than one person in an accident
  • $5,000 for damage to the property of another person

Those amounts are deficient by today’s standards, leaving thousands of Pennsylvanians driving without adequate coverage. This can be devastating in the event of a car accident.

Uninsured Motorist (UM) &Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage

Relying on other drivers to carry adequate coverage is insufficient to protect yourself financially. This is where Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage become essential.

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage protects you in cases where you are hit by a driver who has no insurance at all. This could be a hit-and-run accident or an accident with a driver who neglected to purchase insurance.

Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage comes into play when the at-fault driver has some insurance, but their policy limits are too low to cover the full extent of your losses. For example, if you were involved in an accident where the other driver had the state minimum coverage of $15,000 and your injuries and damages totaled $50,000, UIM coverage would help bridge that gap.

Together, UM and UIM coverage are designed to protect you in situations where the responsible party either has insufficient liability coverage or no coverage at all. These coverages can be a financial lifeline after a serious car accident.

Why Minimum Liability Limits Are Insufficient

It’s important for many drivers to realize that the minimum liability limits mandated by their state may not be sufficient to cover the costs associated with a severe accident. Costs associated with medical expenses, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering can quickly accumulate. If the at-fault driver’s liability coverage is insufficient, these costs may end up on your plate.

Having adequate UM/UIM coverage is not just a precaution, it’s a proactive step towards shielding yourself from these financial risks.

Tips for Checking Your Insurance Policy

Reviewing your auto insurance policy carefully is essential to ensure you’re adequately protected. Here are a few tips for checking your coverage:

  1. Review Your Current Liability Limits: The first step is to examine your existing coverage closely. What are your current liability limits for bodily injury and property damage?
  2. Check for Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage: While UM/UIM coverage is required in some states, it may be optional in others. If you’re not sure whether you have this coverage, now is the time to check your policy documents. If you don’t have UM/UIM coverage, consider adding it.
  3. Assess Your Coverage Limits: Just like liability coverage, your UM/UIM coverage comes with limits. Evaluate whether your current UM/UIM limits are high enough to protect you in the event of a serious accident.
  4. Consider Additional Coverage: In addition to UM and UIM, you should review your First Party Benefits also known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP) which includes medical benefits, income loss benefits, accidental death benefits, funeral benefits, and provide coverage regardless of fault .

Speak with Your Insurance Agent

Insurance policies can be complex, and it’s easy to overlook important details. That’s why speaking with your insurance agent is an excellent idea to ensure you’re adequately covered. Ask your agent to explain the details of your UM and UIM coverage and inquire about the cost of increasing your coverage limits. Many agents can provide personalized advice based on your driving habits, risk factors, and budget. Ask questions or request a policy review to ensure you’re fully protected.

Shopping Around for Better Rates

If you find that your current insurance policy doesn’t offer adequate UM/UIM coverage or if you’re concerned about the cost, it may be time to shop around for a better rate. The insurance market is competitive, and many companies offer discounts or lower premiums for drivers who bundle policies, have a clean driving record, or take advantage of safety features like anti-theft devices or telematics programs.

Be sure to compare quotes from multiple insurers and review their coverage options to find a policy that offers the protection you need at a price you can afford.

Protect Yourself from Uninsured Drivers

With the rise of uninsured and underinsured drivers, protecting yourself on the road is more important than ever. Minimum liability limits in many states are insufficient to cover the full cost of damages in a serious auto accident, leaving you financially vulnerable if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient coverage.

By purchasing Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage, reviewing your policy, and speaking with your insurance agent, you can ensure you’re adequately protected. Taking the time to assess your coverage now can save you from potentially devastating financial consequences down the road.

Contact Distasio, Kowalski & Yelen if You’ve Been Injured in an Auto Accident

The DKY Auto Accident Firm can ensure you get the best representation and compensation for your injuries in the event of a serious accident. DKY Law’s experienced car and truck accident attorneys are available to meet with you to discuss the best course of action after an auto accident.

 

Michael J. Kowalski, a partner with DKY Law Firm, has been representing individuals and their families in personal injury matters for 30 years. These include cases involving medical malpractice, medical errors, birth injuries, and auto and truck accidents, among others. If you are injured, you want Attorney Kowalski and the DKY Law Firm fighting for you. Contact Attorney Kowalski today

 

Jeffrey A. Yelen, a partner with DKY Law firm, has been representing clients with a broad range of legal issues for over 25 years.  These include cases involving Elder Law, Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice, Workers Compensation, Wills, Trust & Estates and Powers of Attorney and the general practice of law.  If you are injured, you want Attorney Yelen and the DKY Law Firm fighting for you. Contact Attorney Yelen today.

 

Fetal demise or newborn death during or shortly following delivery is a profoundly tragic event, often resulting in deep emotional and psychological impacts on the parents. Understanding the warning signs of fetal distress, the potential dangers, and the causes is crucial in improving outcomes and advocating for the unborn child’s well-being. Additionally, having dedicated health providers focused on the infant during delivery can significantly enhance care and reduce the risk of adverse outcomes.

Importance of Staff & Care Protocols in Preventing Newborn Death

Ensuring hospitals adhere to proper protocols in staffing and medical care during labor and in the care of an infant during and immediately following birth is critical for the health and safety of both mother and child. Proper staffing means having a sufficient number of trained medical professionals, including obstetricians, midwives, pediatricians, and nurses, who are equipped to handle the complexities of childbirth. Adhering to established protocols ensures that every aspect of the birthing process is managed according to the highest standards of medical care, minimizing risks and enhancing outcomes. When hospitals prioritize these elements, they provide a safe and supportive environment, leading to healthier mothers and babies.

Failure to Adhere to Proper Protocols Puts Infant Lives in Jeopardy

A recent article published in The Morning Call, a Lehigh Valley newspaper, reported that “a baby born at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Hazleton suffered a collapsed lung and died shortly after birth. About seven months later, another newborn died under similar circumstances.” According to the article, “These two incidents at LVH-Hazleton were the subject of an inspection by the Pennsylvania Department of Health in January, which found numerous deficiencies and violations of federal and state regulations. Specifically, state investigators found that the hospital failed on multiple occasions to ensure that on-call-pediatricians arrived at the hospital in 30 minutes or less.”

Adequate Healthcare Staffing is Vital During Labor & Delivery

As evidenced by the state inspection mentioned above, adequately trained staff during labor and delivery is crucial. Each professional plays a vital role. It is also essential that a skilled pediatrician be on hand to provide immediate care for a newborn. Potential issues like fetal distress, preeclampsia, or unexpected delivery complications can be promptly addressed when proper protocols are followed. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that any complications are swiftly and effectively managed, reducing the likelihood of adverse outcomes such as emergency C-sections or prolonged labor, which can increase risks for both the mother and the baby.

Inadequate staffing or failure to follow protocols can lead to dire consequences. For example, without a sufficient number of trained professionals, signs of distress in the mother or baby might be missed or misinterpreted, leading to delayed or inappropriate interventions. This can result in complications such as hypoxia, where the baby does not receive enough oxygen, potentially causing brain damage or even stillbirth. For the mother, lack of proper care can lead to severe hemorrhaging or untreated preeclampsia, both of which can be life-threatening unless promptly addressed. These outcomes underline the necessity for hospitals to maintain rigorous standards in their staffing and procedural protocols.

Immediate Post-Birth Infant Care is Critical

The immediate care of an infant post-birth is equally crucial. Proper protocols include ensuring the baby can breathe adequately, maintain body temperature, and initiate breastfeeding. Pediatricians and nurses must be vigilant in monitoring vital signs and responding to any signs of distress or abnormality. Proper protocol also involves the timely administration of necessary medications and conducting essential screenings. Failure to follow these procedures may cause complications such as neonatal jaundice, infections, or respiratory issues, which, if not managed promptly, can have long-term health implications.

Ultimately, the importance of hospitals following proper protocols in staffing and medical care during labor and the immediate care of infants cannot be overstated. It is a matter of life and health for both mother and child. Hospitals must commit to rigorous training, maintaining adequate staff levels, and adhering to evidence-based protocols to ensure the best possible outcomes. When these standards are met, the risks of complications or infant death are significantly reduced, leading to safer deliveries and healthier futures for newborns.

Warning Signs of Fetal Distress

Fetal distress refers to indications before and during childbirth that the fetus is not well. Some common warning signs include:

  1. Decreased Fetal Movement: A significant decrease in the baby’s movements might indicate distress.
  2. Abnormal Heart Rate: A fetal heart rate outside the normal range (110-160 beats per minute) can signify problems.
  3. Meconium in Amniotic Fluid: The presence of meconium (the baby’s first stool) in the amniotic fluid can indicate fetal stress.
  4. Fetal Growth Restriction: A very tiny baby.
  5. Abnormal Amniotic Fluid Levels: Too much or too little amniotic fluid can be a warning sign. 

Advocating for Your Unborn Baby

Advocacy for an unborn baby begins with being well-informed and proactive. Here are steps parents can take to advocate effectively:

  1. Educate Yourself: Understanding the risk factors and warning signs of fetal distress is essential.
  2. Prenatal Visits: Regular check-ups allow healthcare providers to monitor the baby’s development and identify potential issues early.
  3. Birth Plan: Create a detailed birth plan outlining your preferences and concerns and discuss it with your healthcare provider.
  4. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to speak to your healthcare provider about any concerns or symptoms you experience.
  5. Monitor Fetal Movements: Monitor your baby’s movements, especially in the third trimester, and report any significant changes to your healthcare provider immediately. 

Importance of Dedicated Health Providers in Preventing Newborn Death

The presence of a health provider focused solely on the infant during delivery is crucial. This professional, often a neonatal nurse or neonatologist, can provide immediate and specialized care to the newborn, addressing any complications promptly. Their roles include:

  1. Monitoring Fetal Heart Rate: Continuously monitoring the baby’s heart rate during labor to detect any signs of distress.
  2. Immediate Response to Complications: Being prepared to handle emergencies, such as respiratory distress or meconium aspiration.
  3. Newborn Resuscitation: Skilled in neonatal resuscitation techniques if the baby has difficulty breathing at birth.
  4. Postnatal Care: Providing necessary care immediately after birth, including assessments and interventions to ensure the baby’s health. 

When Medical Negligence Ends in Tragedy

The death of an infant during or shortly after delivery is a heartbreaking event with various causes and risk factors. By recognizing the warning signs of fetal distress and advocating effectively for their unborn child, parents can play a pivotal role in ensuring the best possible outcomes. Furthermore, the presence of dedicated healthcare providers focused on the infant during delivery can make a significant difference, providing specialized care that addresses any complications promptly.

If your family has suffered an unexpected newborn death as the result of the negligence of a healthcare provider, our infant wrongful death attorneys will advocate for your rights and help you get the justice you deserve. The birth injury lawyers at DKY Law are highly experienced in cases involving infants who have sustained injuries or died due to medical malpractice before, during, and after delivery.

“Our son suffered HIE, a very serious birth injury caused by lack of oxygen to the brain,” commented a DKY Law birth injury client. “This injury left him with the need for a lifetime of medical and other special care. We met with Mike Kowalski and immediately felt comfortable and confident that Distasio, Kowalski & Yelen was going to do their absolute best for our son. Although the damage to our son can never be undone, when Mike Kowalski successfully settled the case, we gained the peace of mind in knowing that all of our son’s special needs will be met and that he will receive the best care possible.”

Contact the DKY Birth Injury Law Firm

Contact a dedicated Distasio Kowalski & Yelen birth injury and wrongful death lawyer in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania today for a confidential case evaluation.  We will fight to get you the justice you deserve.

Michael J. Kowalski, a partner with DKY Law Firm, has been representing individuals and their families in personal injury matters for 30 years. These include cases involving medical malpractice, medical errors, birth injuries, and auto and truck accidents, among others. If you are injured, you want Attorney Kowalski and the DKY Law Firm fighting for you. Contact Attorney Kowalski today.

 

 

Jeffrey A. Yelen, a partner with DKY Law Firm, is an Elder Law Attorney who brings 25 years of estate planning, probate and estate litigation experience to the clients he serves. He is head of the firm’s Elder Law and Estate Services division and is highly experienced in Wills, Estates, and Trusts.  When you are searching for an Elder Law Lawyer, Attorney Yelen can provide the skilled legal representation you and your family need. Contact Attorney Yelen

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have innovated travel, providing an efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional taxis. However, with the growth of rideshare usage comes a rise in rideshare accidents. Understanding the causes, consequences, and legal recourse available is crucial for passengers and drivers involved in rideshare-related accidents. A rideshare accident attorney can guide you in navigating this complex landscape.

The Rising Frequency of Rideshare Accidents

The convenience of rideshare services has led to a significant increase in their usage. According to recent statistics, rideshare trips have grown exponentially, leading to a corresponding rise in Uber and Lyft accidents. A Research Brief released by the University of Chicago  found that the introduction of ridesharing accounts for a roughly 3 percent annual increase in traffic fatalities. This uptick in accidents highlights the pressing need for passengers to know the risks and their legal options.

An article published in the University of Illinois UIC Today found that one-third of rideshare drivers surveyed in a new study reported being involved in a crash while working. 

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Several factors contribute to the frequency of Lyft and Uber accidents. Understanding these causes can help passengers stay vigilant and improve safety.

  1. Distracted Driving: Rideshare drivers rely heavily on their smartphones for navigation, accepting rides, and communicating with passengers. This constant use of mobile devices can result in distracted driving, increasing the risk of accidents.
  2. Fatigue: Many rideshare drivers work long hours, often juggling multiple jobs. This can result in fatigue, which impairs reaction times and decision-making abilities, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
  3. Speeding: Some rideshare drivers exceed speed limits to complete more rides and earn higher fares, which can lead to dangerous driving conditions.
  4. Inexperience: A lack of driver experience or unfamiliarity with local roads and traffic patterns can contribute to errors and accidents.
  5. Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Unlike traditional taxi services, rideshare drivers are accountable for their vehicle upkeep. Lack of periodic maintenance can result in mechanical failures and accidents. 

Consequences of Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents can have severe consequences, affecting both passengers and drivers.

  • Injuries: Passengers, drivers, and other road users can suffer various injuries. This can range from lacerations and bruises to critical, life-altering conditions such as traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage.
  • Financial Loss: Medical bills, lost wages, and property damage can accumulate quickly, placing a significant financial burden on those involved.
  • Emotional Trauma: The emotional effect of an accident can be profound, leading to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  • Legal Complications: Determining liability in a rideshare crash could be complex, involving multiple parties such as the driver, the company, other drivers, and insurance companies 

Your Rights as an Uber or Lyft Passenger

As a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, you have specific rights, especially if you suffer an auto accident injury:

  1. Right to Safety: You have the right to a safe ride. If a driver’s negligence or misconduct causes an accident, you can hold them accountable.
  2. Right to Compensation: If you are hurt in an auto accident, you can fight for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
  3. Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to hire the best car accident lawyer to assist with your case and assure you receive fair compensation for injuries. 

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

If you find yourself injured in a rideshare accident, it’s critical you take the following steps to safeguard your rights:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the absolute priority. Though your injuries may seem minor, get a thorough medical examination. There may be hidden or more severe injuries.
  2. Report the Accident: Notify the rideshare company about the accident through their app or customer service. This establishes an official record of the incident.
  3. Document the Scene of the Accident: If physically able, take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
  4. Gather Driver Information: Obtain the driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details.
  5. File a Police Report: Ensure a police report is filed, as it is an official accident record, which can be crucial for your case.
  6. Consult a Rideshare Accident Attorney: Contact an auto accident attorney in Wilkes-Barre to examine your case and discuss legal options. 

Frequently Asked Rideshare Accident Questions and Answers 

Who is liable in a rideshare accident case?

Liability can be complex in rideshare accidents. It may involve the rideshare driver, another driver, vehicle or parts manufacturer, or even the rideshare company. A rideshare accident lawyer can help determine the responsible parties. 

What kind of compensation can I receive?

It may be possible to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. The amount depends on the severity of your injuries and the specifics of your case.

 How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims varies by state. Pennsylvania has a two-year statute of limitations on personal injury lawsuits. It’s vital to consult with a rideshare accident lawyer promptly to avoid missing the deadline.

Do I need an attorney to handle my claim?

While not legally required, hiring a personal injury attorney can considerably improve the likelihood of appropriate compensation. They can navigate the legal complexities and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. 

A Rideshare Accident Attorney Can Protect Your Rights

Hiring a rideshare accident attorney is crucial for five reasons:

  1. Experience in Rideshare Accident Cases: Attorneys who focus on rideshare accidents understand the unique legal issues and can provide knowledgeable guidance.
  2. Determining Liability: Establishing fault is the first step in seeking compensation. Fault may rest with the rideshare driver, another motorist, a trucking company, or possibly the rideshare company if negligence can be proven. An accident claims lawyer can help.
  3. Negotiation: Filing a claim can be complicated, and insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts. Rideshare collision lawyers are skilled negotiators who can deal with insurance corporations to ensure you receive fair compensation.
  4. Representation in a Personal Injury Lawsuit: If your case goes to court, a Pennsylvania accident attorney can represent you and advocate for your rights.
  5. Peace of Mind: Dealing with the aftermath of a rideshare crash is stressful. An auto accident attorney can tackle the legal complexities, enabling you to concentrate on recovery. To sum it up, an experienced rideshare lawyer can guide you through the claims procedure, negotiate with insurance, and represent you in court if necessary. 

Take Prompt Action if Involved in a Rideshare Accident

Rideshare accidents are a grim reality in our increasingly mobile world. The hidden dangers associated with these accidents highlight the importance of being informed and prepared. By understanding the causes, consequences, and legal recourse available, you can better protect yourself and your rights.

If you are injured in a rideshare accident, taking swift action and seeking professional legal advice can make a major difference in securing the compensation you deserve. Don’t let the complexities of a rideshare accident overwhelm you; contact a rideshare accident attorney in Wilkes-Barre today. The auto accident attorneys at Distasio, Kowalski, & Yelen have years of experience protecting and fighting for the rights of car accident victims. Call or email DKY Law today.

Read our latest blog to learn more about selecting a personal injury attorney for your case.

 

 

Michael J. Kowalski, a partner with DKY Law Firm, has been representing individuals and their families in personal injury matters for 30 years. These include cases involving medical malpractice, medical errors, birth injuries, and auto and truck accidents, among others. If you are injured, you want Attorney Kowalski and the DKY Law Firm fighting for you. Contact Attorney Kowalski today.

 

 

 

Jeffrey A. Yelen, a partner with DKY Law Firm, is an Elder Law Attorney who brings 25 years of estate planning, probate and estate litigation experience to the clients he serves. He is head of the firm’s Elder Law and Estate Services division and is highly experienced in Wills, Estates, and Trusts.  When you are searching for an Elder Law Lawyer, Attorney Yelen can provide the skilled legal representation you and your family need. Contact Attorney Yelen

WILKES-BARRE, PA – May 21, 2024 – Distasio, Kowalski & Yelen LLC is pleased to announce that Attorney Michael J. Kowalski has been named a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer for the 16th consecutive year. He has been top rated in the categories of Personal Injury Attorney and Medical Malpractice.

Distasio, Kowalski & Yelen handles the most complex cases, including birth injury, medical negligence, wrongful death, medical malpractice, auto and tractor trailer crash cases.

Super Lawyers rates lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high level of peer recognition and professional achievement. The objective is to create a comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys. Candidates are first nominated by their peers and then subjected to a multi-phase comprehensive state-by-state selection process. Each year, no more than five percent of the lawyers in the state receive this honor bestowed by Super Lawyers magazine. The annual selections are made using a process that includes a statewide survey of lawyers, an independent research evaluation of candidates and peer reviews by practice area. Attorneys are evaluated based on peer recognition and achievements including verdicts/settlements, representative clients, experience, honors/awards, bar and/or professional activity and pro bono and community service and other outstanding achievements among other criteria.

Distasio, Kowalski & Yelen LLC is located at 15 Public Square in Wilkes-Barre. The law firm specializes in Personal Injury, Auto & Truck Accidents, Medical Malpractice, Birth Injury, Wrongful Death, Criminal Law, Business Law, Real Estate, Workers’ Compensation, and Estates & Wills.

To contact the attorneys or for more information on Distasio, Kowalski & Yelen LLC, please visit dky.law or call 570-970-5400.

Pennsylvania Super Lawyer Michael J. Kowalski

Michael J. Kowalski, a partner with DKY Law Firm, has been representing individuals and their families in personal injury matters for 30 years. These include cases involving medical malpractice, medical errors, birth injuries, and auto and truck accidents, among others. If you are injured, you want Attorney Kowalski and the DKY Law Firm fighting for you. Contact Attorney Kowalski today.

When you find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance of selecting a personal injury attorney or a medical malpractice lawyer, the barrage of lawyer advertisements on billboards, social media, and TV commercials can be overwhelming. Is a flashy ad promising swift justice the best way to search for a “personal injury lawyer near me” and find capable legal representation for your injury case? These advertisements, while eye-catching, often fail to reflect a lawyer’s true experience, skill, or success rate. Relying solely on a billboard or an ad can be deceptive and perhaps detrimental to your case. Therefore, taking matters into your own hands and conducting thorough research when selecting a medical malpractice or personal injury attorney is crucial.

Bigger is Not Always Better

One essential aspect to review is the size of the personal injury law firm you work with. While large mega-firms may seem impressive, smaller firms offer unique advantages that can significantly benefit your case. Smaller personal injury firms often provide a more personalized approach to legal representation, ensuring you are not just another case number in a sea of clients. Instead, you become a valued individual deserving of a strong focus on your personal injury case.

In smaller firms, it’s common for firm partners to be directly involved in evaluating your case and guiding its progress. This level of personal involvement ensures that your case receives the attention it deserves from experienced professionals deeply invested in its success. In a mega firm, your case may be passed off to junior associates or paralegals, while smaller firms prioritize quality over quantity. This assures that every client receives the highest level of legal representation.

Moreover, smaller firms can handle cases of all sizes, from minor accidents to complex medical malpractice claims. Their versatility and agility allow them to adapt to the unique needs of each case, providing tailored strategies and solutions to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients.

Tips for Selecting a Personal Injury Attorney 

Choosing the right attorney for your personal injury or medical error case requires careful consideration and research. Here are some essential tips to help you make an informed decision:

  1. Evaluate Experience and Expertise: Seek out attorneys who specialize in personal injury or medical malpractice cases and have a proven history of success. Review a medical malpractice attorney’s credentials, case history, and client endorsements to gauge their level of expertise and competence.
  2. Consider Communication and Accessibility: Effective communication and collaboration are crucial in any legal proceeding. Choose a personal injury attorney who is accessible, responsive, and prepared to keep you informed throughout the process. You should feel comfortable asking questions and vocalizing concerns.
  3. Assess Resources and Support Staff: Inquire about the resources and support staff available to assist with your case. A well-equipped medical malpractice law firm with experienced paralegals, investigators, and other professionals can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your legal representation.
  4. Discuss Fees and Payment Structure: Ask about fees and payment arrangements upfront to avoid any surprises later on. Some injury lawyers prefer a contingency fee agreement. This means they only get paid if they settle or win your case and there is a monetary recovery. Other attorneys may require upfront retainer fees. Make sure you understand the terms of engagement before proceeding.
  5. Trust Your Instincts: Choose a personal injury lawyer who provides you with a sense of confidence and support throughout the legal process. Your personal injury attorney should be your advocate and ally, fighting tirelessly on your behalf to achieve the justice and compensation you deserve.

Benefits of Working with the Distasio, Kowalski & Yelen Personal Injury Firm

Working with the DKY Personal Injury Firm offers many benefits that larger firms often struggle to match. The personal injury attorneys at Distasio, Kowalski & Yelen have the experience and flexibility to handle the most complex medical malpractice claims, ensuring that every client receives individualized attention and dedicated support. The accomplished team of DKY injury lawyers achieves maximum results, leveraging their years of experience and know-how to secure favorable outcomes. DKY personal injury and medical malpractice lawyers prioritize maintaining a stellar reputation within the legal community, earning respect from judges, fellow attorneys, and insurance companies. This reputation for excellence enhances their credibility and serves as a valuable source of referrals, demonstrating a dedication to delivering outstanding service and achieving justice for their clients.

Select the Most Qualified Personal Injury Attorney

While billboards and advertisements may catch your eye, they should not be the sole basis for selecting a personal injury lawyer or medical malpractice attorney. By conducting thorough research, considering the advantages of smaller firms, and following the essential tips we mentioned, you can select the right attorney to represent your interests and confidently navigate the complexities of your case. Your selection of an attorney can impact the outcome of your case, so make an intelligent choice based on the best advocate for your rights.

Contact a DKY personal injury lawyer in Wilkes-Barre today.Meet with a personal injury or medical malpractice lawyer for a no-obligation case evaluation. Tap to learn more about DKY personal industry cases.

 

Michael J. Kowalski, a partner with DKY Law Firm, has been representing individuals and their families in personal injury matters for 30 years. These include cases involving medical malpractice, medical errors, birth injuries, and auto and truck accidents, among others. If you are injured, you want Attorney Kowalski and the DKY Law Firm fighting for you. Contact Attorney Kowalski today.

 

 

Jeffrey A. Yelen, a partner with DKY Law Firm, is an Elder Law Attorney who brings 25 years of estate planning, probate and estate litigation experience to the clients he serves. He is head of the firm’s Elder Law and Estate Services division and is highly experienced in Wills, Estates, and Trusts.  When you are searching for an Elder Law Lawyer, Attorney Yelen can provide the skilled legal representation you and your family need. Contact Attorney Yelen.