Hiring a lawyer after being involved in a car crash can be an important decision. Injuries from car accidents can be felt long after the wounds have healed and having an experienced attorney on your side can greatly impact how much compensation is recovered during litigation.
I was very pleased with the results and the process was very easy and not stressful… Thank you for everything.
– Client of Schmidt Kramer
At Schmidt Kramer, our York auto accident lawyers have a comprehensive understanding of the Pennsylvania laws that are often involved in car accident cases and our firm has successfully handled many car accident lawsuits including a $950,000 award for the family of a 19 year old passenger that was fatally injured after the vehicle she was in left the roadway and struck a fixed object.
Our award winning lawyers have many years of experience and our founding partner Charles E. Schmidt, Jr. is a former panel chairman of the Pennsylvania State Supreme Court Disciplinary Committee and certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy.
There are no upfront fees if you decide to hire us and it’s free to talk to a lawyer at our firm about your claim, to help determine if you have a case.
Free Consultation. Ph: (717) 888-8888.
Auto accident victims that hire a lawyer generally recover more financial compensation compared to those that do not have legal representation.
In most instances, crash victims will also be contacted by the at-fault drivers’ insurance company. Depending on the incident and damages involved, the insurance company may push the victim into signing an agreement to settle the claim for much less than the true value of the case.
At Schmidt Kramer, we have handled many auto accident cases against insurance companies and the defense legal teams that represent them. We use that experience to help build our cases and ensure that we are well prepared for litigation.
Our lawyers also have a full support team to help obtain information that may be relevant and important to your case. From witness testimonies to Police accident reports and more, we have the resources and knowledge of how to build a strong argument for your maximum compensation amount.
Free Consultation. No Upfront Fees.
Every case is different and determining the value of a claim can be difficult without knowing the details that are specific to each incident.
$500,000 – RECOVERY
For a passenger that was injured in a collision with two vehicles late at night.
However, we understand that accident victims may not be able to work due to their injury, while others may also have no transportation due to the damage their vehicle sustained in a collision. Understanding the value of a compensation claim is important and we welcome the opportunity to explore the details of your specific incident. We offer a free consultation with a lawyer at our firm to review the details that are available, and if we determine that you have a case, there are no upfront fees if you hire us.
Some of the provisions that may be included in the damages calculation of a lawsuit are:
You can pursue compensation to cover the cost of medical bills for the treatment of your injury. This includes bills for hospital visits, ambulance rides, surgery, medical testing, medical equipment, physical therapy or rehabilitation, doctor visits and prescription medications.
Your York car accident lawyer can try to obtain compensation to cover the cost of repairs to your vehicle or replace it if it was totaled.
In an insurance claim, you can pursue 80 percent of your gross weekly income. If your weekly gross income is $500, you could pursue $400 in your insurance claim. You can try to recover the rest by filing a lawsuit.
The purpose of punitive damages is to punish the at-fault party and deter others from engaging in similar conduct in the future. Under state law, punitive damages may be awarded to you if the at-fault party’s conduct was malicious in intent. This form of compensation is not tied to any damage you suffered. This form of compensation might be awarded in a case involving a drunk driver.
This refers to the physical and emotional pain you have suffered based on your age, type of injury and how the injury affects you. Pain and suffering damages can be difficult to calculate. Your attorney must gather a variety of evidence to establish the value of these damages, including medical records and your own personal account of the pain and suffering you are experiencing on a daily basis.
Our services are provided on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay if we help you recover compensation for your claim.
There are a number of parties that may be held legally responsible for your injuries from a car accident. If your accident was the result of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for any damages suffered.
Negligent parties that may be held liable include:
Our dedicated attorneys have successfully handled various types of car accident cases. A car accident lawyer in York can help review your case to determine all parties who could potentially be held liable for your injuries. This will allow us to pursue the compensation you may be eligible to receive.
For a free legal consultation, call Schmidt Kramer at (717) 888-8888.
Under Pennsylvania Statutes Section 42-5524, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury or property damage claim is two years from the date of the accident. After two years, you are unable to bring a lawsuit forward.
Two years is not that long, and it takes time a lot of time to gather evidence and build a strong case. This is why you should contact an attorney as soon as possible. A York car accident lawyer can deal with the insurance company on your behalf and be prepared to file a lawsuit if we are unable to obtain fair insurance compensation. If we take your case, we will help ensure a lawsuit is filed before the statute of limitations runs out.
Contact our qualified car accident lawyers in York for a free initial consultation to discuss your case in depth and learn more about our services.
Our team is here for you. Call (717) 888-8888 today.
After being involved in a car accident, there are certain steps you must take to act responsibly and comply with state law.
In Pennsylvania, you are required you file a driver’s accident report with the Department of Transportation within five days of the crash if the accident resulted in any deaths, injuries or vehicle damage and if it was not investigated by the police.
To properly file a car crash report, you must have the following from all parties involved:
Other information to record at the time of the accident includes the make, model and body style of all vehicles involved, the license plate numbers, VIN numbers, and a short description of the damage. This can be written or photographed for your reference.
Take your time filling out the report to ensure it contains accurate information. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation will verify all information provided including any insurance coverage. If you fail to report or falsely report information, you may have your license suspended.
The accident report will serve as an official record of what happened. If the report is completed by a police officer at the scene right after the crash occurs, it may contain his or her opinions about who is at fault. This can serve as powerful evidence as you pursue the fair compensation you deserve.
The York car accident attorneys at Schmidt Kramer have the legal knowledge and years of experience that can help you pursue fair compensation.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form to get started.
Car accidents can happen in many different situations as a result of negligent, reckless behavior, which could include speeding, tailgating, texting or aggressively driving.
Our car accident lawyers in York are prepared to take on cases involving:
This occurs when the front ends of two vehicles hit each other. These crashes are often fatal at high speed. This type of crash is often caused by drunk or distracted drivers traveling in the wrong direction.
If another driver behind you does not pay attention or maintain a safe distance, he or she could rear-end your car and cause significant injuries. Even at moderate speeds, whiplash or other neck and back injuries can occur.
When a driver takes his or her focus off the road for even one second, it can increase the chances of being involved in a serious accident. These crashes are also called distracted driving accidents and they are often caused by texting while driving, talking to other passengers, talking on the phone, reaching to grab something, using a navigation device or changing the settings on the car stereo. In 2017 alone, distracted driving accounted for more than 15,000 crashes and 58 deaths in Pennsylvania.
Also known as T-bone collisions, a side-impact crash occurs when the side of car is impacted by the front or rear of another car or fixed object. The injuries from these types of crashes are often more severe than those caused by a front or rear-end collision because vehicles are not equipped to handle side impacts in the same way as front or rear impacts.
When two cars hit each other, or a car hits a pedestrian in a parking lot, it can cause significant injuries and property damage. Even at minimal speeds, the size and weight of a vehicle can cause serious injuries that require costly medical treatment and hospitalization.
Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol can cause dangerous accidents that result in significant or life-threatening injuries. Impaired drivers are more prone to engage in reckless driving, which can include speeding, changing lanes without checking blind spots, violating traffic laws or making other dangerous maneuvers.
Leaving the scene of an accident after hitting another vehicle or pedestrian is not only illegal, but it can cause other serious complications when it comes to obtaining compensation. After this type of crash, it can be difficult to determine the identity of the at-fault driver. This makes it much more difficult to pursue fair compensation.
This accident occurs when a vehicle flips over onto its side or roof. These are often caused by sharp turns at high speed. Any vehicle can be involved in a rollover crash, but some vehicles have a higher risk of rolling over, such as sports utility vehicles. This is because these vehicles have a high center of gravity.
If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident, an experienced York truck accident attorney can help you explore your legal options for pursuing compensation.
Schedule a free consultation today by calling (717) 888-8888.
You may experience a variety of health problems after a car accident, including:
If you experience any of these symptoms after a car accident, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Do not ignore physical trauma or symptoms of trauma even if you think they are not a big deal. Minor symptoms could be signs of a severe injury that could become debilitating if it is left untreated.
Examples of debilitating long-term injuries caused by car crashes include:
Our experienced car accident lawyers in York understand how difficult it can be to manage the effects of short and long-term injuries as a result of a crash. This is why we are prepared to pursue compensation to help you recover financial and emotional losses and help you move on with your life.
Fill out our Free Case Evaluation form today.
The state of Pennsylvania follows a no-fault insurance system, which means that you must go through your own insurance company first to obtain compensation, even if you are not at fault for the car accident.
You have the option of choosing one of two types of car insurance policies: limited tort or full tort. Under a full tort insurance policy, you have the option to sue the at-fault party for economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) and noneconomic damages (pain and suffering). Under limited tort, you cannot sue any at-fault party unless you suffered serious bodily injury which results in impairment or disfigurement.
Even though Pennsylvania is a no-fault state, you are still required by law to purchase liability insurance. The two coverages you are required to purchase include:
In addition to liability insurance, you have the option purchase other types of coverage, including:
If you have sustained injuries in a car accident, it is in your best interest to contact a skilled York car accident attorney who understands what you are going through. We are committed to investigating and building a case that will help us pursue the maximum compensation you are entitled. We understand the life-changing effects a car accident can have on your health and other aspects of your life.
Schedule a risk-free, no obligation consultation with one of our experienced lawyers today. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis. This means there are no upfront costs or legal fees involved. We only get paid if we help you receive favorable compensation.
Schmidt Kramer. Free Consultation. Ph: (717) 888-8888.
Injuries sustained in motorcycle crashes can be life changing for riders, their families and dependents. Hiring an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer after a crash has occurred can have a significant impact on the amount of compensation that may be recovered if a lawsuit is filed.
Many thanks to Michael and the firm in the way my case was handled.
– Client of Schmidt Kramer
If you were injured due to the negligence of another driver, we encourage you to contact the York motorcycle accident lawyers at Schmidt Kramer. For more than 30 years, our attorneys have been representing injury victims throughout Pennsylvania and we have obtained millions in verdicts and settlements for our clients.
Our lawyers have extensive knowledge of Pennsylvania’s laws that may affect your claim and we regularly build cases against the insurance companies and defense law firms that are often involved in these types of cases.
Contact us today by calling (717) 888-8888 and speak to a lawyer about your potential lawsuit. The initial consultation is free, there is no obligation to hire us and there are no upfront fees if you do decide to hire us.
Schmidt Kramer. Local. Trusted. Lawyers. Ph: (717) 888-8888.
Injured riders that hire a lawyer recover more financial compensation compared to those that do not have legal representation.
Insurance companies often view motorcycles as a dangerous liability and are often reluctant to fully compensate a person that has been injured in a motorcycle accident. They may also try to delay your claim by prolonging the adjustment period to prevent you from receiving compensation for your injury and potentially blame you for your injuries by claiming you are partially or fully responsible for causing the motorcycle accident.
Our York motorcycle accident lawyers are familiar with the tactics used by an insurance company to unfairly devalue or deny claims. We will work to protect your claim by constructing a strong case on your behalf by:
An attorney will help you navigate through the claims process and help you understand your rights after a motorcycle accident. He or she will have intricate knowledge about Pennsylvania’s personal injury laws and will help you determine which legal options may be available to pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
Complete our Free Case Evaluation form to schedule a free consultation.
Pursuing compensation for a motorcycle accident can be difficult if an insurance company is unwilling to accept your claim or makes an unreasonably low offer or settlement.
An insurer will likely make you an initial offer soon after you file an insurance claim with the intention of settling the claim as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, too many people are eager to obtain compensation and do not understand the true value of their losses.
It is important that you do not accept any offer an insurance company makes you without careful consideration. The claim should contain a monetary value that accurately reflects the total loss you have suffered because of the motorcycle accident.
As experienced attorneys, we can review settlement offers and explain whether they are fair and compensate you for the full cost of your damages. This includes all economic and noneconomic damages that you might be able to list in your claim.
Economic damages are the financial losses you endured after the motorcycle crash. This is meant to provide you a cash value for your losses, such as:
Noneconomic damages are the intangible losses and suffering you endured after the motorcycle accident, such as:
We can discuss your ability to pursue damages during a free consultation. Our York motorcycle accident lawyers will review your claim and may be able to provide you an accurate estimate as to how much it might be worth.
Call (717) 888-8888 to discuss your claim with our attorneys.
Throughout our experience as motorcycle accident attorneys in York, we have gained the skills and know-how needed to represent a variety of motorcycle accident claims.
Typically, a motorcycle accident involves a collision with another vehicle. To obtain compensation for your injuries, you must be able to prove the other party’s negligence caused the accident. Our attorneys are ready to handle several different types of motorcycle accidents, including:
Motorcyclists are provided the same rights as other motorists when sharing the roadway. This means motorists must avoid causing a collision by driving in a safe and cautious manner.
Some of the most common reasons a motorist can be held liable for a motorcycle accident include:
Due to the lack of protection motorcycles offer riders, a collision with a commercial or semi-truck can result in devastating injuries that may cause permanent disability or death.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle-truck accident, we will review the cause of the collision to determine which factors may have caused the crash. Truck accidents may result from several factors, including:
One of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents is hazardous conditions in the roadway. These may cause you to lose control of the motorcycle and are often difficult to notice until it is too late.
When you are riding a motorcycle, be sure to watch out for roadway hazards such as:
In many cases, it may be difficult to establish the at-fault party breached its duty of care to avoid causing you harm. However, a dedicated York motorcycle accident lawyer will be able to determine how the other party is at fault for the accident and compensate you for your injury.
Call (717) 888-8888 to find out if you have a case.
The appeal most people have towards motorcycles is the freedom the vehicle allows its riders. However, the vehicle’s openness also leaves you with almost no protection in the event of crash.
Far too often, motorcycle accident victims suffer serious injuries that may lead to permanent impairment or death. Some of the most common injuries victims suffer during a motorcycle accident include:
After a motorcycle accident, you should always seek medical attention from a health care provider to diagnose the injuries you acquired during the crash.
Accident victims often suffer an injury with delayed or hidden symptoms that may appear several hours or days after the crash. It is imperative that a health care provider diagnoses any injuries you may have acquired during the accident. This will provide you with the treatment you need and establish a link between your injury and the at-fault party’s negligence.
Then, you should consider contacting an experienced York motorcycle accident lawyer for help with your claim. An attorney will understand how to try to maximize the compensation you can recover to pay for your medical treatment and lost wages.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form today.
A motorcycle accident can be a traumatic event that causes victims to suffer serious injuries and financial losses. In many cases, it is in your best interest to contact an attorney for help with your personal injury claim.
The York motorcycle accident lawyers at Schmidt Kramer understand the difficulties that victims often face when dealing with insurance companies. We know how to effectively present your claim to ensure you are treated fairly during the claims process.
Our team of dedicated attorneys is ready to help you obtain the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free, no obligation consultation to discuss your claim with our attorneys. We provide all of our services on a contingency fee basis and only charge clients if we recover compensation for their claim.
Call (717) 888-8888. Free Consultation.
If you or someone you love was seriously injured or disfigured by a dog bite, hiring an experienced dog bite lawyer can be an important step in the recovery process. Dog bite victims that hire a lawyer to handle their claim recover more compensation compared to those that do not have legal representation.
We never expected the wonderful results we obtained. We felt more like family then a client.
– Client of Schmidt Kramer
At Schmidt Kramer, our award winning attorneys have many years of experience handling injury cases and have recovered millions of dollars in compensation on behalf of our clients.
It’s free to talk to a lawyer at our firm to determine if you have a case and there are no upfront fees if you decide to hire us.
Schmidt Kramer. Ph: (717) 888-8888.
When medical expenses begin to mount, injury victims may begin to think about filing a damages lawsuit – and the potential financial recovery that may be available.
It’s important to note that every dog bite case is different and it can be difficult to determine the potential value of a case without knowing the details for your specific incident.
However, we have handled many injury cases for clients throughout Pennsylvania and if you have legal questions about your potential lawsuit, we can help to provide the answers. We offer a free, initial consultation to talk to a lawyer at our firm and we only get paid when we obtain a recovery on your behalf.
Free Consultation. Ph: (717) 888-8888.
The state of Pennsylvania follows strict liability rules when it comes to dog ownership. Dog owners are held liable for every single injury their dogs inflict on other individuals. It does not matter whether the dog was known to be dangerous or was appropriately restrained at the time of the attack. The dog owner could still be held responsible.
The only exceptions to the rule are if an individual trespasses on property and gets bitten as a result or if the individual intentionally provoked the dog.
While our York dog bite attorneys can build a case with the theory of strict liability, we can also use Pennsylvania’s dangerous dog bite law to pursue compensation. According to Pennsylvania law, a dangerous dog is one that:
The dog must also have either of the following:
If an owner’s dog has been labeled as dangerous, he or she has certain responsibilities, including:
If a dog has attacked you, get legal assistance from our dog bite injury attorneys in York who understand Pennsylvania law and will help fight for your rights to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call (717) 888-8888 now for our free consultation.
Pennsylvania law follows the statute of limitations, a specific time limit on the right to file a lawsuit to recover damages after suffering an injury such as a dog bite.
All personal injury cases, including dog bite cases, must be filed within two years from the date the injury occurred. After two years, you are unable to bring a lawsuit forward.
The attorneys at Schmidt Kramer understand the time limits that apply to your situation. We can help ensure your case is filed before the statute of limitations passes. However, it takes time to build a strong case so you should get in touch with us right away. That will give us the time we need to build a case.
Fill out our Free Case Evaluation form today to have a York dog bite lawyer review your claim.
Being bitten or attacked by a dog can be a scary experience that can happen relatively quickly without warning. While adults are sometimes the victims of dog bites, children are the most common victims of dog bites and more likely to be severely injured by them, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
After a dog bite, you may be unsure about what to do next. Some of the things you can do to protect your health and safety and preserve your claim include:
If you or a loved one was injured because of a dog bite, our knowledgeable dog bite lawyers in York can help determine whether you have a valid personal injury claim.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form to get started on your claim.
Dogs may bite for a number of reasons. Whether they are male or female, big or small, young or old, any dog can become agitated and aggressive, leading it to bite at any time.
A dog may bite if he or she is:
If a dog bites you, it can cause a variety of injuries. These injuries can be broken down into two distinct categories: severe and non-severe. The type of injury you suffer affects the types of compensation you can recover in a dog bite personal injury lawsuit.
Severe dog bite injuries include broken bones, lacerations, permanent facial scarring or disfigurement requiring surgery, soft tissue injuries and traumatic brain injuries. If your injuries are considered severe by a doctor, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the dog’s owner to recover damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages you have suffered.
Non-severe dog bite injuries include cuts and bruises, scratch marks, abrasions and bite or teeth marks. If your injuries are considered non-severe by a doctor, you may still be able to file a lawsuit against the dog owner, but you can only seek damages for medical expenses.
Schedule a free, no obligation consultation with a York dog bite lawyer to discuss your legal options and the kinds of damages you may be entitled to.
If you or someone you love has suffered a dog bite injury, you may be able to take legal action. It is in your best interest to contact a skilled personal injury attorney who understands what you are going through. You need an attorney who is committed to investigating your case and representing you in a personal injury lawsuit if possible.
The attorneys at Schmidt Kramer have decades of combined experience helping injured victims like yourself and will pursue all legal options available to recover any financial and emotional damages you may have suffered.
Contact our skilled lawyers and schedule a free, no obligation consultation to discuss your claim. There are no fees or upfront costs. You pay nothing unless we help you recover adequate compensation.
We look forward to helping you. Call (717) 888-8888.
Social Security Disability (SSD) is an important financial resource for people that are suffering from a disability that prevents them from working. However, SSD benefits are often difficult to obtain and many claims are unfairly denied by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
You all have done a superb job on my case. Thank you very much!
– Client of Schmidt Kramer
Schmidt Kramer’s York Social Security Disability lawyers have many years of experience navigating the SSA’s application and appeals processes. For more than 30 years, our trusted law firm has provided qualified legal help to Pennsylvania residents, including to those applying for disability benefits. We use our skill and knowledge as York Social Security Disability attorneys to help secure benefits for our clients.
It’s free to talk to a lawyer at our firm to help determine if you have grounds to file – or re-file – a Social Security Disability benefits application and there are no upfront fees if you decide to hire us.
Free Consultation. No Upfront Fees. Ph: (717) 888-8888.
Often, filing a successful SSD claim is not a simple process. Many people are unfamiliar with the strict rules imposed by the SSA and submit incomplete or inadequate applications. As a result, many first-time applicants’ claims are denied by the SSA.
This is why you could benefit from working with a reputable Social Security disability lawyer in York. An attorney will know how the SSA’s claims process works. He or she can help guide you through the application and appeal process, pursuing the benefits you deserve.
At Schmidt Kramer, our York Social Security disability attorneys can help you by:
Contact Schmidt Kramer today to learn how our York Social Security Disability lawyers can help you obtain disability benefits.
Our team of trusted attorneys are dedicated to defending our clients’ best interests and will not settle for any amount of benefits that is less than what you deserve. Do not hesitate to contact us today to find out how our Social Security disability lawyers in York can help you.
To get started, complete our Free Case Evaluation form.
You may have earned enough work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits or meet the financial limitations for Supplemental Security Income. However, you will not be entitled to benefits unless you have a condition that meets the SSA definition of disability.
Typically, the SSA will consider you disabled if:
Unfortunately, proving that your disability meets these four criteria can be very difficult. This is why many claims are denied or applicants end up receiving less benefits than they deserve. Schedule a free, no obligation consultation with our Social Security disability lawyers in York to find out how we can help you throughout the process.
Call (717) 888-8888 if your SSD benefits claim was denied.
The SSA offers two main types of benefits to individuals who have a disability and are unable to financially support themselves by working:
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is an employment-focused financial assistance program for people who suffer a disability that is expected to last more than 12 months. The SSA provides SSDI benefits to applicants who are “insured,” meaning you have worked long enough and paid enough Social Security taxes.
To receive SSDI benefits, you must have earned 40 SSA work credits before becoming disabled. You can earn up to four work credits each year. As of 2018, one work credit is equal to $1,320 in wages. To accumulate four work credits throughout the year, you must have earned at least $5,280.
Typically, you will need to earn at least 20 work credits within the last 10 years before you became disabled. However, the number of required credits you need to be considered insured may vary depending on your age when you became disabled:
You can use the SSA’s benefits calculator to get an estimate of the SSDI benefits you could receive.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides monthly cash payments to individuals who are disabled but have not earned enough work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits.
To qualify for SSI benefits, you must earn little or no income and have few available resources. The SSA requires the value of your total assets, which includes everything you own, to be less than $2,000 if you are single or $3,000 for qualified married couples who live together. The SSA will not, however, consider the value of the home you are living in and the vehicle you drive.
In 2018, the monthly maximum federal amounts for SSI benefits are:
In addition to the federal payments you may receive, Pennsylvania also provides eligible applicants state supplemental payments to maximize their SSI benefits.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form today.
Many individual’s applications are denied because they were unprepared to apply for disability benefits. Before you apply for disability benefits, you should gather information required by the SSA to ensure your application is accurate and complete. This may include:
When applying for benefits, the SSA will need detailed information about your disability. This may include:
The SSA may require you to provide certain personal information when applying for disability benefits. This includes your:
You may also be required to provide the following information about your employment history:
In addition to the above mentioned information, the SSA may require you to provide the following materials:
Call (717) 888-8888 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation.
There are several ways you can apply for SSD benefits in Pennsylvania:
The SSA allows applicants to apply for disability benefits online. When you begin your online application, the SSA will assign you a number to access your application at a later date or track its results.
When applying online, you will be required to:
Children, however, may not apply for SSI benefits online. Instead, the disabled child’s parent must complete a Child Disability Report. The SSA provides a Child Disability Starter Kit for parents to review before starting the SSI benefits application.
If you choose to apply for disability benefits in person, you may visit your local SSA office. However, you will need to make an appointment beforehand by calling 1-800-772-1213.
You may apply for disability benefits over-the-phone by calling 1-800-772-1213 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.
If you are deaf or hearing impaired, you may contact the SSA by calling TTY 1-800-325-0778.
Contact a York Social Security Disability attorney right now.
In many cases, first time applicants’ disability claims are denied. If this happened to your claim, you may appeal the SSA’s decision.
Appealing a denied disability claim, however, can be complicated and overwhelming to handle on your own. Applicants who are unfamiliar with the SSA’s appeal process may miss important dates or information that results in their appeal being denied. Hiring a York Social Security disability lawyer to represent your claim may provide you with the guidance you need to successfully appeal your denied claim.
To appeal the SSA’s decision, you or your York Social Security disability attorney must send the SSA a written request within 60 days of receiving the denial decision letter. Submitting a written appeal request is the first step in the SSA’s appeals process:
The SSA’s appeals process starts with your claim being reviewed by a claims examiner who was not part of the original decision to deny your claim. The representative will examine the evidence you provided during your original application, as well as any new information submitted by you or your attorney.
If you disagree with the reconsideration decision, you may request a hearing before an administrative law judge who did not partake in your claim’s original decision or the reconsideration process.
The hearing will likely be held within 75 miles of your home and the administrative law judge will inform you of its time, date and location. Before the hearing, you may be asked to provide the SSA additional evidence and to clarify information about your claim.
During the hearing, the administrative law judge will question you and any witnesses you may bring. Additionally, medical or vocational experts may be allowed to provide information during the hearing. You and your York Social Security disability lawyer may question any witnesses involved with the hearing.
Although you are not required to do so, it is in your best interest to attend the hearing. This will provide you an opportunity to explain your case and defend your claim.
If you are unable to attend the hearing, you must provide a written explanation as soon as possible. However, if the administrative law judge believes it is necessary for you to attend the hearing, you must be present.
After the hearing has concluded, you will receive a letter and a copy of the judge’s decision.
If you oppose the administrative law judge’s decision, the SSA’s Appeals Council may review the decision.
The Appeals Council will consider all requests for a review, but it may turn down your request if it believes the hearing decision was accurate. If the Appeals Council decides to review your case, it will either decide your case or return it to be considered by an administrative law judge.
You will receive a letter explaining the Appeals Council’s decision to review or deny your case. If the Appeals Council decides to review your application, you will receive a letter detailing the outcome of your claim.
If you do not agree with the Appeals Council’s decision or it denied to consider your claim, you may file a lawsuit in a federal district court. The SSA will inform you about how to ask for a court to review your case when it sends you the letter regarding the Appeals Council’s decision.
In this situation, it may be in your best interest to allow a trusted Social Security disability lawyer to represent your case. He or she will be familiar with the SSA’s appeals process and help you understand your rights at every step.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now.
If you suffer from a disability and believe you are eligible to receive disability benefits, we recommend that you contact an attorney for help with your application.
Schmidt Kramer’s qualified Social Security disability attorneys understand how to complete a successful SSD application and can explain the process to you in easy-to-understand terms.
Contact us today to schedule a free, no obligation consultation. We provide all of our services on a contingency fee basis, which means we will represent your case for no upfront charge. We only require payment if we recover the benefits you need.
Call (717) 888-8888 for experienced legal representation.
If you are the victim of personal injury, hiring an attorney can be an important part of the recovery process. Injury victims recover more financial compensation when they hire a personal injury lawyer compared to those that do not have a lawyer handling their damages claim.
Thank you for all your hard work to help me through these tough times and win my case. I greatly appreciate it very much.
– Client of Schmidt Kramer
For more than 25 years, the legal team at Schmidt Kramer have been helping to protect the rights of injured Pennsylvania residents and we have the experience to handle every part of your personal injury lawsuit. Our award winning lawyers have a proven record of success including a $10,043,952 verdict for a volunteer firefighter that suffered a spinal injury when a barn collapsed, a $4,034,000 verdict for a client that lost his eyesight in an hunting incident and a $1,200,000 jury verdict for the parents of a 5 year old that suffered a brain injury after he had a surgical procedure.
It’s free of charge to talk to a York personal injury lawyer at our firm about your potential case and there are no upfront fees if you decide to hire us.
Schmidt Kramer. Free Consultation. Ph: (717) 888-8888.
Hiring a personal injury lawyer can help to ensure that your best interests are being protected while you are recovering from your injuries. Often, insurance companies and the lawyers that represent them will become involved shortly after an insurance claim is filed. The lawyers at Schmidt Kramer know how negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of our clients and we work hard to recover the maximum compensation that they may be eligible to receive.
There are many benefits to having an attorney handle a personal injury case, including:
Having an experienced York personal injury lawyer on your side can make all the difference in the outcome your case. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can help you recover compensation. Our knowledgable attorneys have been recognized by some of the top legal organizations nationwide, including Best Lawyers® and Super Lawyers.
Call (717) 888-8888 now for our free consultation.
Depending on the severity of an injury, some victims may never fully return to full health. Future treatment and long term medical care can become an important component in the damages that are calculated for your lawsuit. Recovering significant compensation can help victims to afford the care that they need.
If your immediate needs are not covered by the insurance company, a lawyer can help discuss the legal options of suing the at-fault party for compensation. We have experience dealing with insurance companies and filing lawsuits to pursue compensation. We understand what it takes to be successful in both situations.
Pennsylvania law allows you to pursue various forms of compensation, including:
You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses including the costs of all medical treatment received as a result of your injury and any required care in the future. This can include payment for hospital bills, surgeries, doctor visits, medical tests, physical therapy sessions, medications, and more.
If you suffer a personal injury, document all medical expenses by keeping records of bills related to your treatment and recovery. This information can help a knowledgeable York personal injury lawyer calculate the value of your current medical expenses and determine the estimated cost of future treatments.
If your injury has prevented you from working, you may be able to receive compensation for any lost wages. This includes wages lost when you were physically incapable of working, and wages lost when you were not at work because you were receiving treatment.
Calculating lost wages for some people can be difficult if you work as an independent contractor, business owner or seasonal worker. This is why you should consult with an attorney who can determine exactly how much income you have lost from your personal injury.
If you can no longer work or physically perform the essential functions of your job, you may be able to recover compensation for loss of earning capacity. If possible, ask your employer for a letter detailing your normal rate of pay, hours lost being unable to work, and the total amount of compensation lost as a result of your accident.
Suffering from a permanent physical disability such as a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury may also allow you to pursue compensation for the way your disability directly affects your decreased and future earning capacity. Consult with a personal injury attorney in York to discuss if your ability to earn money in the future will be impacted as a result of having a permanent disability.
Compensation for pain and suffering depends on the type of injury and the duration of your recovery time. It accounts for any physical pain suffered and the severe discomfort endured during the accident and after your injury.
It can be difficult to calculate the monetary value of these damages because there are no bills for pain and suffering. Having a qualified York personal injury lawyer on your side who knows how to gather any relevant evidence to properly value pain and suffering damages can help you obtain the amount of compensation you deserve.
In personal injury cases, loss of companionship damages relates to the impact your injuries have on your relationship with your spouse. This can include the inability to be affectionate or maintain a sexual relationship. It can also lead to emotional pain if your marriage ends in a divorce.
Recovering compensation for loss of companionship most often requires medical proof of sexual disability. Dealing with insurance companies may require you to also provide a written statement from your spouse describing intimate details which can make you uncomfortable. A personal injury attorney in York can handle negotiating these issues with insurance companies or claim adjusters on your behalf.
In addition to recovering compensation for physical and emotional injuries, you are entitled to compensation for property damage that resulted from the accident. This can include damage to any vehicles, clothing, cellphone, jewelry, or other items.
You can obtain compensation for the cost of replacing or repairing personal property damages. Our York personal injury lawyers can help you gather receipts for any damaged items and calculate the fair market value for each item.
Contact Schmidt Kramer so we can determine the amount of compensation available to you. We understand that recovering compensation for a personal injury cannot change what happened, but it can hopefully help you get closer to where you were before you were injured.
Fill out a Free Case Evaluation form today so we can start reviewing your case.
Every personal injury case has four elements of negligence that must be proven in order to obtain the compensation you are entitled from the at-fault party. These include:
If these elements are present, you may have a valid personal injury case and be entitled to maximum compensation. Call our personal injury attorneys in York to schedule a free, no obligation consultation.
Contact our office today by calling (717) 888-8888.
There is a limit on the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit after suffering some type of harm. This law is called a statute of limitations and once it expires, you lose the right to file a lawsuit. The statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in Pennsylvania is two years from the date of the injury.
You may be able to obtain compensation through an insurance claim, but it can be a complicated process. It can take longer than you think, and the statute of limitations will continue to run while you are dealing with the insurance company. This is why it is so important to contact a York personal injury attorney to get the process started right away.
Our lawyers at Schmidt Kramer understand the time restraints that apply to your specific situation. We know how to deal with the insurance claims process while being prepared to file a lawsuit if we are unsuccessful.
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The moments following a personal injury can be confusing and overwhelming. You may not know what to do or who to turn to if you or a loved one is injured because of someone else’s negligence or recklessness.
By taking the following steps immediately after your accident, you can help ensure your well-being and preserve your claim for compensation:
The first thing to do after an accident is seek medical attention for your injuries, even if you do not consider your injuries to be serious or life-threatening. Sometimes injuries appear less severe at first, only to become much more serious over time. If you wait to seek treatment, your injuries could progress and become more difficult to treat.
This is why it is important to be examined by a medical professional. A doctor can conduct a detailed medical examination to diagnose your injuries and provide you with the proper treatment plan.
After a personal injury, file a police or accident report. Having an official report can help prove your claim and possibly improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation from the insurance company. Ask for a copy of the report as well.
Be sure to be detailed and accurate when completing the report or providing information to the person completing the report. However, do not admit fault or wrongdoing. Let the investigation play out so all of the facts can come to light.
Even if you believe you were somewhat responsible, keep this to yourself because it could hurt your chances of recovering compensation. Your level of fault will be determined during the investigation.
Gather information at the scene by taking notes and photographs to help you remember all the details. Write down a description of what happened, where it happened, and how it happened. Take pictures of the scene, your injuries and anything else you think is important to capture.
As time passes, it can be difficult to recall information. This is why it is important to begin documenting things as soon as you have a chance. Otherwise you could forget important details that could affect the amount of compensation you can recover.
Whenever an accident happens, talk to witnesses who saw the event unfold. Write down the names, addresses and contact numbers from each eyewitness. Obtain a written statement if possible or take detailed notes on what they say they saw. It is possible they saw things you were unaware of that can help prove another party is at-fault for your injuries.
When a personal injury is caused by another person’s negligence, you may have the right to file a lawsuit to pursue compensation for any damages and injuries. A qualified attorney can review the details of your accident and injury and advise you on whether or not you have a valid personal injury claim.
A personal injury lawyer in York can investigate your accident and begin collecting evidence to help hold the at-fault parties liable for your injuries. We offer a free initial consultation to review your case and discuss the kinds of compensation available to you.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form to get started.
At Schmidt Kramer, our York personal injury attorneys have helped countless injury victims over the years. The types of personal injury cases we have handled include:
If you think you may have a personal injury case, you should seek legal advice from an experienced attorney who understands exactly what you or a loved one are going through.
The personal injury lawyers in York are familiar with different types of personal injury cases and can help determine if you have a valid claim.
Our firm is ready to schedule your free consultation: (717) 888-8888
If you or someone you love suffered an injury caused by someone else’s negligent or reckless actions, you have legal rights. Contact one of our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys in York to review your case and determine if you have a valid claim. We are dedicated to defending your best interests and fighting to obtain the compensation you are entitled.
At Schmidt Kramer, we have decades of experience helping personal injury victims like yourself and will aggressively pursue all options available to recover compensation for any economic and emotional damages suffered.
Our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis which means no upfront costs or fees unless we help you recover favorable compensation.
Free Consultation. Ph: (717) 888-8888.
Injuries in the workplace can be life-threatening that may take workers and their families many years to recover from. In some instances, the injuries never heal. If you or someone that you care for has been injured at work, it’s important to hire a legal team that has experience handling workers compensation claims in Pennsylvania. Hiring a lawyer is an important decision as the outcome of a lawsuit can vary greatly depending on what law firm you choose to handle your case.
Your help was beyond value. There is no way I could be where I am today with your efforts. Thank you!
– Client of Schmidt Kramer
The attorneys at Schmidt Kramer have detailed knowledge of workers’ compensation claims and the benefits injured Pennsylvania workers may be eligible to receive. We have a proven record of success including a $742,000 award for the family of a trash worker that was fatally injured while on the job and a $150,000 settlement for a worker that was hurt while attempting to load a swing set on a low bed truck.
Our award winning legal team are led by our founding partner Charles E. Schmidt, Jr. and partner Gerard C. Kramer, who both hold professional memberships to the American Association for Justice, the Central Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Association and the Pennsylvania Association for Justice.
Schedule a free, no obligation consultation today to determine your legal options. There are no upfront costs or fees unless we help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Free Consultation. Ph: (717) 888-8888.
After a work injury report has been filed, a representative from the employers insurance company will become involved in proceedings. It’s important to remember that insurance companies are looking to settle the claim for the lowest financial amount possible. They will use every option available to discredit your claim and attempt to illustrate that you were at-fault.
Injured workers that hire a lawyer recover more financial compensation compared to those that do not have legal representation.
At Schmidt Kramer, we regularly build cases against insurance companies and the legal teams that represent them. We understand the tactics that they use and use that experience to help build a strong argument for each case that we handle. Having the right attorney on your side is very important as injured workers that have legal representation recover more financial compensation compared to workers that do not hire a lawyer.
Being able to fully investigate a case and determine all of the areas where compensation may be available can have a significant effect on the amount that may be recovered in a successful lawsuit. An example of this may be to determine if the workers injuries may become a problem that needs medical treatment later in life. If so, a provision for the costs of that treatment may need to be included in the settlement amount.
Have Questions? We Can Help. Ph: (717) 888-8888.
Injured workers or surviving relatives of a worker who was killed because of a workplace injury may be entitled to receive compensation. Our attorneys may be able to help you recover compensation through a workers’ compensation claim.
If you claim is approved, the type and amount of benefits you may receive will be based on the severity of your injury and the amount of recovery time needed to heal.
There are several different types of workers’ compensation benefits such as:
Employees are entitled to the payment of medical expenses for any reasonable surgical and medical services from a doctor or other health care provider. Expenses covered include hospital treatment and services, doctor visits, medications, medical supplies, lab tests, orthopedic and prosthetic treatments, and any other devices and services related to your injury.
Wage-loss compensation is available if it is determined that you are unable to work and totally disabled or partially disabled. Employees are entitled to wage-loss benefits equal to two-thirds of their average weekly wage, up to the weekly maximum. The maximum weekly compensation rate in 2018 is $1,025 per week.
Total disability benefits apply to workers who are considered totally disabled and unable to work. After 104 weeks while on total disability status, your employer may require a medical examination to decide if you are at least 50 percent impaired based on your work injury. If you are not at least 50 percent impaired, your status can be changed to partial disability. This determination is in accordance with the American Medical Association (AMA) standards for permanent impairment.
Partial disability benefits on the other hand apply to workers who are able to return to work but are earning less post-injury. You may be able to obtain benefits for a maximum of 500 weeks. You may also be able to file a petition for total disability status if you obtain an impairment rating by a qualified physician that is equal or greater than 50 percent impaired based on your work injury.
If you permanently lose the use of limbs or digits, you may qualify for this benefit, which relates to the injury of your hands, fingers, arms, legs, toes and feet. Employees are also entitled to special loss benefits for severe and permanent disfigurement on your head, face or neck.
Death benefits for work-related deaths are paid to your dependent survivors. This includes any surviving spouse, children, parents or siblings. Adult children who are under the age of 23, full-time students or disabled, may also qualify to receive these benefits.
Our York workers’ compensation attorneys can help you determine if you may be entitled to benefits and how much you could receive. We have a detailed understanding of these different types of workers’ compensation benefits and the eligibility requirements for these benefits.
Fill out our Free Case Evaluation form to get started.
One of the ways to prove that you have a valid workers’ compensation case is by gathering as much evidence as possible after developing a work-related injury or illness. If you have more documentation, it may be easier to build a strong case.
Evidence you should gather includes:
A skilled workers’ compensation attorney in York can help you gather the evidence you need to have a chance of obtaining the fair compensation you deserve.
Our team is here for you. Call (717) 888-8888 right now.
If you suffer a work-related injury or illness that is covered by the workers’ compensation system, you have the right to workers’ compensation benefits. The first step to obtaining benefits is to immediately inform your employer of your injuries and seek medical attention.
You are able to choose your own health care provider to evaluate and treat your injuries unless your employer accepts your claim, which means seeing a health care provider from a list approved by the workers’ compensation insurance company. You must visit a provider on the list for initial treatment and continue that treatment for a period of 90 days after the first visit.
If at any point during the 90-day period you visit a different provider not on the approved list, your employer or their insurance company may refuse to pay for your treatment. Once the 90 days have passed, you may be able to choose your own provider to seek treatment with.
If you do not inform your employer of your injuries within 120 days, you lose the right to file a claim. Once you file a claim, it must be approved or denied by your employer within 21 days.
The employer may decide to either accept or deny the claim entirely. There are also cases where the insurance company does not offer you all the compensation you feel you deserve.
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied or you have a problem with the amount of benefits you are awarded, you have the right to appeal the decision and pursue what you feel you deserve. You must file a claim petition with the Workers’ Compensation Office of Adjudication. You can file a petition online or print out and mail in the paper forms.
You have three years from the date of your injury to file a claim petition or you will lose the right to do so. If you were already receiving benefits, you must file a claim for petition within three years of the last payment received from the insurance company.
Once you have filed a claim petition, it is normally assigned to a workers’ compensation judge who then schedules a workers’ compensation hearing for all parties involved. Once one or more hearings are held based on the amount of evidence presented and eyewitness testimony, the workers’ compensation judge will make a decision on the case.
If the rendering is unsatisfactory, any decision from a workers’ compensation judge can be appealed to the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board and then to Commonwealth Court. An appeal made to the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board must be submitted within 20 days after the judge’s decision. An appeal with the Commonwealth Court must be submitted within 30 days after the appeal board’s decision.
If your claim was denied or you were not awarded the benefits you deserve, you need an experienced attorney on your side. Our York workers’ compensation lawyers are committed to pursuing all the compensation you deserve. We can manage every step of the appeals process, fighting for your best interests.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form today.
There are a variety of workplace accidents that give rise to workers’ compensation claims, such as:
If you have been injured in a workplace accident, you need a dedicated workers’ compensation lawyer in York who understands your rights and legal options to obtain adequate compensation. We offer a free legal consultation to help determine if you have a valid case.
According to Section 301(c)(1) of the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act, a work injury is defined as an injury, medical condition or disease related to your employment and that occurred during the course of employment. Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system also covers pre-existing conditions that were aggravated by your job.
The range of accidental work injuries covered can include:
Some of these injuries are caused by overexertion, which means repetitive activities over a period of time that cause damage that accumulates until the workers has a severe injury. Overexertion injuries can be caused by excessive heavy lifting or repetitive motions such as pulling, holding, pushing, carrying, or throwing something at work. These injuries are common in physically demanding work.
Injuries not covered under the law include intentional self-inflicted injuries, injuries caused by use of alcohol or illegal drugs, and any injuries unrelated to your workplace or employer. For example, car accidents that occur traveling to and from work while on break or while under the influence are more than likely not covered under workers’ compensation.
On the other hand, if you develop carpal tunnel syndrome caused by repetitive wrist motions while performing your job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
When you suffer a work-related injury or illness, it is important to consider seeking legal representation. An experienced attorney can help you manage every step of the workers’ compensation process by determining if you have a valid case, helping you file a claim within the time limits, and pursuing the necessary compensation you deserve.
Schedule a free, no obligation consultation with a skilled York workers’ compensation lawyer to learn about your legal rights. There are no upfront fees or costs unless we help you receive favorable compensation.
Give us a call at (717) 888-8888 or fill out our Free Case Evaluation form.
If you have been injured in a truck accident, the driver and other parties may be liable for your damages. This means you may be eligible to receive compensation for medical bills, lost earning capacity, physical injury &/or disability, property damage and more, if you decide to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. Truck accident victims that hire a lawyer to help represent their damages claims recover more financial compensation compared to those that do not have a lawyer.
You guys were amazing! You made a very tough situation, so extremely easy! So, thank you!
– Client of Schmidt Kramer
At Schmidt Kramer, our York truck accident lawyers have many years of experience and we know how to conduct a thorough investigation of your accident to help build a strong case for your compensation claim.
We have a team of award winning lawyers including firm partner Scott B. Cooper – a past president of the Pennsylvania Association for Justice that has also served on the Executive Committee and Board of Governors.
There is no risk in contacting us to discuss what happened and your potential options for recovery. Your consultation is 100 percent free and comes with no obligation to take legal action. We provide our services free of charge, and do not assess legal fees unless you are fairly compensated for your injuries. We represent victims of truck crashes throughout York County, including crashes on Interstate 83.
Contact Schmidt Kramer today. Call (717) 888-8888.
As each case is different, it can be difficult to determine the value of a case until we learn all of the details about the incident. Truck accident cases can be complex as in some instances, there can be more than one person responsible for the crash.
Some of the provisions our York truck accident attorneys may include in a damages claim include:
A truck accident lawyer in York can review your situation to determine the damages you suffered and the value of those damages. Our goal is to pursue maximum compensation. While this cannot change what happened, we know compensation can be a big help to victims and their families after a serious accident.
Fill out a Free Case Evaluation form today.
Not long after a truck accident, you may be contacted by the trucking company or an insurance company for one of the liable parties in the accident. The representative will probably be looking to settle as soon as possible. Unfortunately, the representative will likely offer you much less compensation than you deserve.
This is why you should strongly consider discussing your claim with one of our York truck accident attorneys in a free consultation. We can determine your options for pursuing compensation. If an insurance claim is the way to go, we can ensure it is filed before any deadlines pass.
Accident victims may not realize there are sometimes deadlines for filing insurance claims. This is why it is best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to determine your options. If you wait, we might miss the opportunity to pursue insurance compensation.
Another reason not to wait is because there is a deadline for filing a lawsuit over a truck accident. Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations for these lawsuits is two years from the date of the accident. Once this deadline passes, you lose the right to file a lawsuit.
You may be thinking this does not matter because you are going to file an insurance claim. However, the claims process can take time, and the statute of limitations will not stop running simply because we are pursuing insurance compensation.
The sooner you contact us, the more time we will have to pursue insurance compensation and file a lawsuit if we are unsuccessful. Our attorneys need time to conduct a detailed investigation to build a strong case.
Schedule your free legal consultation right now to determine your options.
When people get injured in accidents with large trucks, they often think the driver is liable. While truck drivers are often the reason for truck accidents, there may be other entities that could be held liable.
One of the benefits of having a trusted York personal injury lawyer representing you is that he or she can determine all the parties that could potentially be held liable for the accident. This can help us to determine who to pursue compensation from so we can obtain full compensation for all your damages.
Some of the parties that can be held liable for truck accidents include:
Many truck accidents are the result of reckless driving on the part of the truck driver. Examples of reckless driving that often result in truck crashes include:
Drivers are under intense pressure to meet deadlines that are often unrealistic. This results in drivers speeding or staying on the road when they are tired, putting everyone else on the road at risk of being in an accident with the truck.
Truck drivers who are tired have some of the same problems as those who are intoxicated. They have a slower reaction time and struggle to be attentive to what is happening around them, particularly any cars around them. Trucks take longer to slow down or make other maneuvers that could prevent a crash, so the driver having a delayed reaction time can dramatically increase the risk of a crash.
Fatigue also makes it more difficult for drivers to judge the distances between vehicles and make sure to do all the things necessary to be a defensive driver, like checking blind spots or watching for hazards in the roadway in front of them.
Some drivers compensate for fatigue by using amphetamines to give them more energy. If the driver in your accident was taking these drugs, he or she could be held liable for your damages.
Our York truck accident lawyers know how to conduct a detailed investigation to find out if the driver was breaking any laws before the crash. This includes reviewing records from his or her employer, taking pictures at the scene, obtaining video footage and consulting with experts to reconstruct the accident to determine what occurred. We will also help you collect the accident report from the police department in York County that responded to the accident.
If our truck accident attorneys in York can prove the trucking company made dangerous or illegal demands from the driver, it could potentially be held liable. For example, maybe the trucking company did not tell the driver to speed or drive recklessly, but the demands placed on him or her were so intense that reckless driving was more likely to occur.
There are also truck accident cases where the company violated trucking industry regulations in the pursuit of profit. For example, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has hours of service regulations for truck drivers. These rules place certain limits on the number of consecutive hours drivers can spend behind the wheel.
Some of these hours of service regulations include:
The trucking company could also be held liable for failing to comply with maintenance requirements or inspection deadlines required by federal regulators.
For example, trucking companies must do an inspection of each segment of a combination vehicle at least once every year. Trucking companies must ensure the inspectors they use are properly qualified. Brake inspectors must have completed a state, federal agency or union training program.
When drivers inspect their vehicles and they report defects or deficiencies, the motor carrier must certify that the defect has been fixed.
Trucking companies could also potentially be held liable for not having required brake systems. Different types of brake systems must be in compliance with certain sections of federal regulations.
A common cause of truck accidents is cargo falling off or out of the trailer. Sometimes cargo hits other vehicles or a truck is overloaded, and the extra weight causes a rollover accident.
Another company besides the driver’s employer may have loaded cargo into the truck. We can review your situation to determine if the cargo company violated regulations when loading the truck.
Federal regulations have specific requirements for loading cargo into a truck, including how much can be loaded and how it must be secured to ensure it stays on the truck and does not put the truck at risk of causing an accident.
According to FMCSA regulations, there are three ways to transport cargo (Section 2.2.1 of the Driver’s Handbook on Cargo Securement):
Sometimes the driver or his employer are not at fault for a truck crash. There are situations when a defective part on the truck led to the accident. For example, maybe the brakes were defective or maybe some part of the engine was defectively manufactured or designed.
If this happens, we may be able to pursue a defective product claim against the manufacturer or designer of the product in question.
Other parties that could potentially be held liable for a truck accident include the owner of the truck or trailer or the company that leased the truck or trailer. Sometimes the employer of the driver does not own the truck. There are also cases when the truck or trailer was leased from another company.
Our York truck accident lawyers can review the situation to determine if these other parties have any liability for your damages.
Schedule a free consultation today by calling (717) 888-8888.
There are many different kinds of truck accidents caused by negligence. This includes the following kinds of accidents:
Our truck accident attorneys in York are prepared to handle cases involving a variety of accidents. Contact us today to find out if you may have a valid claim against the driver or another party involved with the truck or trailer.
Call Schmidt Kramer right now at (717) 888-8888.
Truck accidents are some of the most dangerous motor vehicle accidents that occur on Pennsylvania roadways. Victims should consider contacting an attorney to learn about their rights in the aftermath of these accidents.
You may be entitled to compensation for your damages, including medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Our attorneys can review your situation to determine if another party was at fault for the crash and the best way to pursue compensation.
We will guide you through every step of the legal process to obtain the fair compensation you deserve. This includes launching a thorough investigation into the crash, collecting evidence, negotiating with insurers, and taking your case to trial if necessary.
Your consultation is free and comes with no obligation. You will not be charged legal fees unless you receive compensation at the end of the legal process.
Fill out a Free Case Evaluation form today or call us at (717) 888-8888.
Property owners have an obligation to ensure their property is free from any known hazards that could harm guests and visitors. If a property owner’s negligence resulted in you suffering an injury in a slip and fall accident, you may be entitled to compensation. To find out more about your right to pursue a personal injury claim against a negligent property owner, contact Schmidt Kramer’s York slip and fall lawyers.
We had a very positive experience. Thank you for all of your hard work!
– Client of Schmidt Kramer
We have a proven history of successfully handling injury cases and have recovered more than $100 million in compensation on behalf of our clients.
Our lawyers can review your claim during our free, no obligation consultation and help to determine if you have a case that is eligible to recover compensation. There is no obligation however if you choose to hire us, there are no upfront fees and we only get paid when we win.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form today.
If you are considering filing a personal injury claim after a slip and fall accident, you will likely need to work with the at-fault party’s insurance company to recover compensation.
Although the claims process may seem straightforward, many accident victims are often unfamiliar with the the tactics insurers may use to negotiate a settlement. This may result in the victim receiving much less compensation than he or she needs to pay for his or her medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In some cases, an insurer may deny you compensation altogether.
For this reason, it may be in your best interest to hire a York personal injury attorney to help you with your claim. An experienced attorney will act as your advocate during the claims process. He or she will handle all communications with the insurance company and help you negotiate a settlement that accurately reflects the losses you have suffered due to your slip and fall accident.
Additionally, your attorney will work to build a case on your behalf that supports your claim. This includes obtaining evidence that proves your slip and fall accident resulted from the property owner’s negligence. He or she will also collect copies of your medical records to show the extent of your injury, as well as the medical treatment you were prescribed to heal your injuries.
Furthermore, a York slip and fall lawyer will help you understand your claim’s true value and help you obtain the compensation you deserve. All too often, accident victims are provided inadequate compensation for the injuries they suffered due to the at-fault party’s negligence. This often occurs when an insurance company makes an initial offer that is much lower than what the victim may actually be owed. An attorney will inform you of whether an insurer’s offer is adequate, and work to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
To find out more about how a York slip and fall lawyer can help your claim, contact Schmidt Kramer to schedule a free, no obligation consultation. Our team of accomplished attorneys is dedicated to helping injury victims obtain the justice and compensation they deserve after an accident. We understand the difficulties you may be facing, and will not hesitate to pursue maximum compensation for your claim.
To get started, call (717) 888-8888.
After a slip and fall accident, many victims experience financial difficulties and a reduced quality of life due to the at-fault party’s negligence.
As a result, slip and fall accident victims may be entitled to recover several types of compensation from the at-fault party:
Economic damages refers to the financial losses you suffered as a result of the slip and fall accident. These types of damages can be recovered through a personal injury claim and may include compensation for:
This will cover all of the past, present and future medical expenses associated with the injury you suffered in the slip and fall accident. This may include the cost of:
A York slip and fall accident attorney will also help you pursue compensation for the wages you lost as a result of your injury. This may include any income you would have earned had you not been injured in the slip and fall accident. Your attorney will use your time cards, old paychecks and a statement from your employer to determine the value of your lost wages.
In some cases, an accident victim’s injury may be so severe that it prevents him or her from working and being able to earn an income.
When this occurs, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of earning capacity. This includes the amount of income you would have earned from your occupation throughout your lifetime.
Some accident victims may be entitled to pursue compensation for the noneconomic damages they suffered as a result of their injury. This refers to the intangible suffering you endured as a result of the accident.
However, noneconomic damages can only be obtained by filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party and includes compensation for:
In many cases, victims who file a personal injury lawsuit seek compensation for the physical or mental pain, discomfort and suffering they endured after the accident.
The amount of compensation you may receive for your pain and suffering depends on the severity of your injury. Typically, the more pain and discomfort you experience, the more compensation you may receive.
After a slip and fall accident, your life may drastically change due to your injuries. If you are no longer able to enjoy the hobbies or activities you took pleasure in before the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of enjoyment of life.
However, it may be difficult to prove these losses, so it is important that you carefully document how your life has been affected by the accident.
Emotional distress damages are meant to compensate you for the psychological suffering you have endured since being injured in a slip and fall accident.
This entails the impact your injury has had on your daily life, and may include compensation for:
Call (717) 888-8888 to discuss your claim with slip and fall lawyer in York.
In order for our York slip and fall attorneys to obtain compensation for your case, we must prove the accident resulted from the property owner’s negligence. However, this will require us to establish that the property owner owed you a legal duty of care to ensure your safety.
In slip and fall cases, a property owner’s duty of care varies depending on the visitor’s status when he or she was on the property. There are three different types of legal statuses for visitors to a property:
Once we have established your legal status as a visitor to a property, we will consider several factors when building a case, such as:
Proving liability in a slip and fall case can be difficult. This is why it can be to your advantage to work with a skilled slip and fall attorney in York. He or she will have extensive knowledge of Pennsylvania laws on negligence and premises liability.
Call (717) 888-8888 to find out if you have a case.
Typically, fall accidents are classified into three categories:
These accidents are caused by several types of hazards, including:
To bring a successful slip and fall claim against a property owner, you must be able to show he or she failed to efficiently address any dangerous conditions that were located on the property. This means you must show the property owner failed to show reasonable care by neglecting to fix or warn about a hazardous condition.
Our York slip and fall attorneys will thoroughly analyze your claim and the cause of your accident to help determine if you have a case. We will identify any hazards that existed on the property that the owner should have known about and corrected before you suffered your injury.
Call (717) 888-8888 if you were injured in a slip and fall accident.
There may be several deadlines you need to follow in order to obtain compensation after a slip and fall accident. This includes deadlines imposed by insurance companies and the state of Pennsylvania.
Often, insurance companies have strict deadlines you must follow to file a personal injury claim after being injured in an accident. If you wait too long to inform an insurer of your injury, your claim may be denied. To avoid this, you should notify the at-fault party’s insurer as soon as possible to begin the claims process.
Additionally, Pennsylvania imposes a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits. This legal deadline begins on the date your injury occurred. If you fail to take legal action against the at-fault party within two years of your accident, you will no longer have the right to file a lawsuit.
To ensure your slip and fall case is filed within the required time limits, contact a slip and fall attorney in York as soon as possible. He or she will inform you of where your case stands within the statute of limitations and file a lawsuit on your behalf within the two-year deadline.
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After slipping and falling onto a hard or unstable surface, slip and fall accident victims may suffer serious injuries, such as:
These injuries can have a catastrophic effect on your life, physically, financially and emotionally. This is why you should strongly consider pursuing fair compensation for what you are dealing with. The York slip and fall lawyers at our firm can guide you through the legal process.
Call (717) 888-8888 if you were injured in an accident.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, it is imperative that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. Once you have diagnosed your injuries and determined the type of treatment you may require, contact our slip and fall lawyers in York to schedule a free, no obligation consultation.
During your free, no obligation consultation, we will examine the damages you suffered during the slip and fall accident to help you determine the amount of compensation you may be entitled to receive.
At Schmidt Kramer, we take cases on contingency so there are no upfront fees. We only get paid if you are compensated.
Get qualified legal help after a slip and fall accident. Call (717) 888-8888.