You are walking down a sidewalk in Hartford and trip on a raised slab. Your child gets hurt on a broken swing at a city park. You lose control of your car in a pothole the town left unrepaired for months.

The natural reaction is to think, "I have time. Let me heal first and figure it out later." That is, by far, the most expensive mistake you can make.

When the responsible party is a city or the government, the rules change completely. In Connecticut, the law requires formal written notice within roughly 90 days. Miss that window and a perfectly valid case can be closed for good, no matter how serious your injuries are.

At Dressler Law, we know the system, because we are licensed in Connecticut and in Puerto Rico. If you were hurt on public property, do not wait. We Got You.

A fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Your car weighs about 4,000. When those two numbers meet on I-95 or I-84, the injuries are severe and a family's life changes in seconds.

Here is what almost nobody tells the victim: while you are still in the emergency room, the trucking company has already sent out its rapid response team. Investigators, adjusters, and defense attorneys are at the scene taking photos and securing the truck.

They went to work the same day. You should too. At Dressler Law, we have been taking on these companies since 1978. If a truck hit you, you are not alone. We Got You.

Driving on Connecticut's highways can test anyone's nerves. If you have ever traveled on I-91 South toward New Haven, or merged onto I-84 near the infamous "Mixmaster" interchange in Waterbury, you know exactly what we mean.

Suddenly, a massive 18-wheel tractor-trailer appears in your rearview mirror. Next to you, a delivery van speeds up to meet an impossible delivery schedule. The disparity of force is striking: your 3,000-pound family vehicle is running alongside a commercial giant that can weigh up to 80,000 pounds.

That feeling of intimidation is real and completely valid. Heavy commercial trucks are not just large cars; they are massive forces of inertia that, when colliding, transfer all of their destructive energy to the weakest link: the occupants of the smaller vehicle.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of such an accident, we know you feel overwhelmed. But remember this right now: you are not alone. At Dressler Law, We Got You.

For us, Latinos—and especially for the large Puerto Rican community in Connecticut—a Jeep is more than just a car: it's a lifestyle. It’s the music blasting on a sunny day, our flag waving with pride, the crew gathering for a get-together, and that unmatched feeling of freedom when driving doors-off and top-down.

From massive events like the Jeep takeover at the Stamford Juneteenth parade organized by Black Jeep Nation CT, to the off-road adventures of the Connecticut Jeep Association or ECOJOCS, the Jeep culture in our state is one giant family.

Being hit by a drunk driver brings a paralyzing mix of pain, anger, and confusion. It is a completely preventable tragedy that often leaves families grappling with catastrophic injuries and overwhelming medical debt. Sadly, it is during these moments of profound crisis that legal scammers and unscrupulous law firms see an opportunity for profit.

After a severe DUI-related crash, it is crucial to protect yourself from legal predators who promise the world but ultimately leave you stranded with a settlement that doesn't even cover half of your needs. At Dressler Law, we are committed to educating our community on how to identify and avoid these deceptive practices.

Suffering a motorcycle accident changes your life in an instant. Due to the lack of physical protection, riders often face devastating injuries, from traumatic brain injuries to severe fractures and months of rigorous rehabilitation. In a moment of such profound vulnerability, the last thing you need is to fall into the trap of a legal scammer or a massive law firm that treats you like just another file number.

Unfortunately, the legal industry has a dark side. Some law firms, which invest millions in loud TV commercials and highway billboards, actually operate as "Settlement Mills."

If you have been in a motorcycle crash, entrusting your case to one of these high-volume firms or out-of-state lawyers can cost you your financial and medical recovery. At Dressler Law, we want to expose how these schemes operate and explain why choosing a dedicated, local team is your best defense.

Many Connecticut drivers purchase car insurance believing they will be 100% protected in the event of a claim. However, the reality of the insurance industry is different: these companies often prioritize their corporate profits over your well-being, using tactics designed to minimize or deny your payouts.

To avoid losing the compensation you are legally entitled to, it is vital to know how to choose your policy from the start and understand what steps to take if the unthinkable happens.

After a car or motorcycle accident, the logical thing to think is that your insurance company will be there to support you. After all, you've been paying your premiums on time for years, right? Unfortunately, the reality in Connecticut is very different.

The insurance industry operates under a fundamental understanding: their marketing promises protection, but their true corporate objective is profitability. To maintain their earnings, they have developed a sophisticated infrastructure designed to minimize payouts, delay the process, and exploit legal complexity against victims.

If you have suffered an accident, facing an insurer without legal representation is like entering a battle blindfolded. At Dressler Law, we want to reveal the tactics these companies use and why retaining an accident attorney is not a luxury, but an absolute necessity.

Riding a motorcycle offers an unparalleled sense of freedom, but it also comes with inherent vulnerability. Unlike collisions between cars, a motorcycle accident rarely ends in minor damage. The physical impact, emotional trauma, and financial stress can change your life in an instant.

If you or a loved one have been injured on the road, you are likely facing overwhelming medical bills and lost wages. Worse still, you will be up against insurance companies whose main goal is to pay out as little as possible.

When you go to a hospital or clinic, you put your life in the hands of professionals. You expect to heal, not leave with worse injuries. However, the reality of our healthcare system is alarming.

Recent studies indicate that medical errors are the third leading cause of death in the United States, resulting in over 250,000 fatalities annually. Behind these cold statistics are destroyed families, shattered futures, and incalculable pain.

If you have just suffered a fall on someone else's property in Hartford, Waterbury, or New Britain, act fast. The evidence disappears in minutes, and insurance companies will immediately start working against you.

If you slipped on a frozen sidewalk or stumbled on a dark staircase in Hartford or Waterbury, stop blaming yourself.

At Dressler Law, we know the truth: You are not clumsy. You are a victim of a property owner who chose to save money rather than keep you safe. Connecticut law is clear: if there is ice, cracks, or hidden dangers, the owner is responsible.

Accidents can happen when you least expect them — on the road, at work, in a store, or even walking down the sidewalk. In those moments, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next.

At Dressler Law, our work goes beyond the courtroom. We believe that supporting our community — especially children and educators — is just as important as fighting for our clients. This month, we were proud to take part in two meaningful initiatives that reflect those values.

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and celebration — but it’s also one of the most common times of year for home injuries, kitchen accidents, dog bites, and slip-and-fall claims.

Whether you’re a guest or a host, it’s important to understand how liability works and how to protect yourself if someone gets hurt.

November marks the start of the holiday season — family gatherings, busy travel days, and colder weather arriving in Connecticut. But with all the excitement comes a clear rise in car accidents, slip and falls, and travel-related injuries.

At Dressler Law, we understand how quickly a joyful moment can turn stressful. Here are the most important safety tips to keep in mind this November, plus what to do if an accident happens.

October is one of the most exciting times of the year in Connecticut — crisp air, neighborhood decorations, and kids preparing for a night of costumes and candy. But behind the fun, Halloween is also one of the most accident-prone holidays of the year.

At Dressler Law, we’re committed to keeping families safe and informed. Whether you’re out trick-or-treating, hosting guests, or driving through your community, here’s what you should know to prevent accidents — and what to do if one happens.

October in Connecticut brings cooler air, colorful foliage, and plenty of community events — but it also brings an increase in car accidents, slip and falls, and weather-related injuries.

At Dressler Law, we see how these seasonal hazards affect families every year, and we’re here to help you stay informed, safe, and protected.

September in Connecticut brings crisp mornings, shorter days, and — more often than we like — wet, rainy weather. While the season is beautiful, it also creates some of the most dangerous driving conditions of the year. At Dressler Law, we’ve handled countless cases involving car accidents caused by rain, poor visibility, and slippery roads. Here’s what you should know to stay safe this September.

As the school year kicks off this September, excitement is in the air — new teachers, fresh school supplies, and routines falling back into place. But with all this activity, there’s also an increase in school-related accidents and safety risks. At Dressler Law, we know that prevention and preparation can make all the difference when it comes to protecting your children.

Summer is a time for travel, adventure, and relaxation—but it’s also a time when roadways and tourist areas become more congested. Whether you're relying on a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, renting a car, or simply exploring new places on foot, accidents can happen. When they do—especially far from home—it can feel overwhelming. At Dressler Law, we want you to enjoy your summer safely and know your rights in case the unexpected occurs.

There’s nothing quite like a summer barbecue—grilling good food, enjoying time with friends and family, and soaking up the warm weather. But hosting a cookout also means taking responsibility for the safety of your guests. If someone gets hurt at your gathering, you could be held legally liable under premises liability laws.

Understanding your responsibilities as a host and taking simple precautions can help prevent injuries and protect everyone involved.

Summer brings barbecues, warm nights—and of course, fireworks. Whether it’s a small backyard celebration or a large public display, fireworks are a cherished part of the season. But with their excitement also comes risk. Each year, thousands of people suffer serious injuries from fireworks, and many of these accidents could have been prevented.

As summer temperatures rise, so do the risks of heat-related illnesses. While sun and warmth are part of what makes summer enjoyable, they can also pose serious health threats—especially to outdoor workers, children, and elderly individuals. In some cases, these illnesses are not just unfortunate accidents—they’re preventable injuries caused by negligence. When proper precautions aren’t taken, legal liability may come into play.

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on one of the most common—and preventable—causes of car accidents. Every day, drivers take their attention off the road for just a few seconds to glance at a text, adjust the radio, or sip a coffee. And all it takes is that one second for everything to change.

At Dressler Law, we’ve seen firsthand how distracted driving can lead to devastating injuries and lifelong consequences. This month, we’re raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving, how to prevent it, and what you should do if you’re hurt by someone who wasn’t paying attention behind the wheel.

As spring arrives and more people are out walking, jogging, and enjoying parks and neighborhoods, the risk of dog bites increases. That’s why each April, Dog Bite Prevention Week serves as a reminder to both dog owners and the public about how to prevent incidents—and what to do when they happen.

While most dogs are friendly and beloved members of the family, even the most well-behaved pet can bite under the wrong circumstances. And when they do, the consequences can be serious. At Dressler Law, we believe prevention is key—but when injuries occur, it’s just as important to understand your rights.

Winter brings its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to safety. Snow-covered sidewalks, icy driveways, and slippery parking lots are common sights during the colder months—but they can also lead to serious accidents. Slip-and-fall injuries caused by snow and ice are not only painful but often preventable. Understanding who is responsible for maintaining safe pathways during winter can help you protect your rights and avoid unnecessary risks.

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and connecting with family and friends. However, holiday gatherings also come with their share of risks, from alcohol-related accidents to slip-and-fall injuries. At Dressler Law, we want to help you stay safe and ensure your holiday celebrations are memorable for all the right reasons. Whether you’re hosting a party or attending as a guest, these tips can help prevent accidents and protect everyone involved.

As the holiday season approaches, decorating homes with lights, inflatables, and seasonal displays is a beloved tradition. While holiday decorations bring joy and festivity to neighborhoods, they can also create safety risks for visitors, delivery personnel, and even neighbors if not carefully managed. Homeowners have a responsibility to ensure that their decorations and property are safe. In this article, we’ll discuss potential hazards related to holiday decorations, the legal responsibilities of homeowners, and tips for preventing accidents.

As winter approaches, driving conditions will soon become more challenging, with snow, ice, and freezing rain affecting roads. Proper preparation and a commitment to safe driving are crucial for avoiding accidents and staying safe. In this post, we’ll cover key tips to prepare your vehicle for winter and discuss your legal responsibilities to ensure a safe driving experience for everyone on the road.

Halloween is a time of excitement and fun for children and families as they dress up in costumes, head out for trick-or-treating, and enjoy the spooky festivities. But with all the excitement comes the need for safety to ensure the night doesn’t end with an unfortunate accident or injury. Whether you’re trick-or-treating with little ones or driving through neighborhoods, it’s essential to take precautions to keep everyone safe. Here are some Halloween safety tips to prevent personal injuries and ensure a fun and safe celebration.

As the crisp air of fall sets in and the leaves begin to change, so do road conditions. While the beauty of the fall season is undeniable, it also brings unique challenges for drivers. From slippery leaves to reduced daylight, driving in the fall requires extra caution and preparation. In this blog post, we’ll explore common fall driving hazards and share essential tips to help you stay safe on the road as the weather changes.

Each year, Child Passenger Safety Week in September serves as an important reminder to parents and caregivers about the critical importance of properly securing children in vehicles.

Car crashes remain one of the leading causes of death for children, but many injuries and fatalities can be prevented with proper car seat use. At Dressler Law, we want to help raise awareness of this crucial safety issue, ensuring that every child is protected while traveling.

Every year on September 22, we observe Falls Prevention Awareness Day—a reminder that falls are a serious public health issue and that many fall-related injuries can be prevented with simple precautions. Whether it’s a slip in a public place or a fall at home, these accidents can lead to significant injuries, medical expenses, and even long-term complications. At Dressler Law, we believe that raising awareness about fall prevention is critical to protecting yourself and your loved ones.

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized the way we travel, offering convenience and ease of access to transportation with just a few taps on a smartphone. However, while rideshare services are generally safe, there are inherent risks that both passengers and drivers should be aware of.

As summer temperatures rise, so do the risks associated with working in hot environments. For many workers, especially those in outdoor or physically demanding jobs, the summer heat can pose serious health hazards.

The summer season is here, and pools are a hub of activity for families and friends looking to cool off and enjoy the outdoors. While pools offer relaxation and fun, they also present potential hazards that owners and users must address to ensure safety. At Dressler Law, we are committed to educating our community about pool safety practices and the legal responsibilities associated with pool ownership.

Dog bite injuries can be traumatic and have long-lasting physical and emotional effects on victims. Understanding your legal rights and options is crucial if you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog. In this article, we'll explore the legal framework surrounding dog bite injuries, your rights as a victim, and the steps you can take to seek recourse.

As the summer season approaches and outdoor activities become more prevalent, it's crucial to prioritize safety to prevent common personal injuries. Whether you're enjoying a backyard barbecue, cooling off at the pool, or engaging in recreational sports, being aware of potential risks and taking preventive measures can help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer experience for everyone involved.

As more people turn to bicycles for transportation and recreation, the roads are becoming increasingly shared spaces for cyclists and drivers alike. However, this coexistence doesn't always come without risks. Understanding the rights and responsibilities of cyclists and drivers is crucial for promoting road safety and preventing accidents. In this article, we'll explore the legal framework surrounding bicycle accidents, including the rights of cyclists, the responsibilities of both cyclists and drivers, and practical tips for preventing accidents.

Strong medical records are the backbone of a successful personal injury claim.  In the aftermath of an accident, seeking medical attention and maintaining thorough records may seem like an afterthought. But medical documentation serves as vital evidence to establish the extent of injuries, demonstrate damages, and support legal claims. In this article, we'll delve into the importance of medical records in personal injury cases and how they contribute to securing fair compensation for the injured party.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most severe consequences of accidents and injuries, and can lead to long-term physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Often caused by a blow to the head, TBIs can range from mild concussions to life-threatening injuries. The challenge lies in the fact that mild TBIs can go unnoticed, especially after seemingly minor accidents.

As we transition into spring, it's crucial to remain mindful of potential safety hazards that come with the change in seasons. From outdoor activities to household chores, being proactive about safety can prevent accidents and injuries. In this article, we'll explore essential spring safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe.

Experiencing a personal injury can be a daunting and overwhelming experience, but taking immediate steps in the aftermath is crucial. Not only does it prioritize your health and well-being, but it also lays the groundwork for potential legal action. In this article, we'll outline the essential steps to take after suffering a personal injury to protect your rights and pursue justice.

In the realm of personal injury law, negligence is a pivotal concept that underpins many legal claims. At its core, negligence refers to the failure of individuals or entities to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to others. Understanding the role of negligence is essential for both plaintiffs seeking compensation and defendants defending against allegations of wrongdoing.

Slip and fall accidents are a common occurrence in the workplace, posing significant risks to employees' health and safety. Whether it's a wet floor, uneven surface, or poorly maintained walkway, these hazards can result in serious injuries that have lasting consequences for both employees and employers.

Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, from icy sidewalks to grocery store aisles, and the consequences can be severe. Victims can experience sprains and bruises on the mild side to broken bones and even head trauma in worst case scenarios. In such cases, understanding negligence and how it plays a crucial role in establishing liability is essential. If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

As a property owner, ensuring the safety of those who visit your premises is paramount. This becomes especially crucial when considering slip and fall accidents, which can have devastating consequences for victims, and by extension the property owner.

As we approach the end of another year, it's essential to not only celebrate our accomplishments but also to prepare for the future. One often-overlooked aspect of this preparation is ensuring that your legal matters are in order. Whether it's protecting your home and vehicle with the right insurance coverage or enhancing safety measures, a year-end legal checkup can provide peace of mind and safeguard you from unexpected legal and financial challenges in the coming year.

Winter brings a picturesque landscape covered in snow, but it also brings treacherous driving conditions that can turn a serene winter wonderland into a perilous journey. As temperatures drop and snow and ice blanket the roads, it's crucial to be well-prepared for winter driving. In this article, we'll explore essential tips to help you navigate winter roads safely and reduce the risk of winter car accidents.

The holiday season is often a time of joy, family gatherings, and cherished traditions. However, beneath the surface of merriment and excitement lies a hidden danger: the pervasiveness of holiday stress. While the festive atmosphere and social engagements may seem inviting, they can also contribute to heightened stress levels, which can lead to a surprising risk of personal injuries.

As the holiday season approaches, the air is filled with festive cheer and an undeniable sense of celebration. From office parties to family gatherings, there's no shortage of reasons to raise a glass and toast to the joys of the year. However, amidst the merriment, it's crucial to acknowledge a sobering reality – the heightened risk of alcohol-related accidents and injuries during this time.

In today's digital age, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. It's not just about protecting your financial information or personal data; it also extends to safeguarding sensitive information, harassment, employer-employee relationships and much more.

Participating in school sports can be a great way for students to stay active and healthy. However, they can also be dangerous. In fact, millions of students are injured each year while participating in school sports.

If your child is injured in a school sport, it is important to understand your legal rights and safety considerations. In this article, the Dressler Law team looks at various aspects of school sport injuries and how they are affected by the law.

The back-to-school season is a time filled with excitement and anticipation for both children and parents. New beginnings, new friends, and new opportunities await, but it's also a period that comes with its fair share of challenges and safety concerns. As we prepare our children for another school year, it's crucial to be aware of the potential hazards they may encounter and take proactive steps to ensure their safety.

Imagine waking up to the sound of sirens blaring and the ground shaking beneath you. It's a scenario none of us want to face, but disasters can strike at any time, and when they do, personal injury can be a significant concern. At Dressler Law, we understand the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. In this article, we'll explore disaster preparedness and its crucial role in personal injury cases.

Vacations are meant to be enjoyable and relaxing, but it's crucial to prioritize safety while exploring new destinations. In this post, we will provide you with valuable tips and insights to ensure your vacation is a safe and memorable experience.

Summer is here, and with it comes the scorching heat that can pose risks to our health and safety. High heat and humidity can have potentially devastating effects on health. At Dressler Law we are committed to the well-being of the community and believe that staying cool and safe during this season is essential.

In this blog post, we provide practical tips to beat the heat and ensure a safe and enjoyable summer.

As we get into the full swing of summer, more and more of us are turning to bicycle riding for exercise, fun, and transportation. Some embrace cycling as a way to stay fit, enjoying the cardiovascular benefits and muscle toning it provides. For others, cycling offers an environmentally friendly and sustainable mode of transportation, reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to a greener planet. It can also be a great way to connect with your neighborhood and local community.

For many, cooling off from the summer heat with good food and loved ones by the pool is the highlight of the summer months. However, amidst the joy and relaxation, we can’t forget the importance of pool safety.

Pool accidents can turn an otherwise happy occasion into a nightmare. Residential pools are a common setting for unintentional drownings, particularly involving young children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children under the age of 5, and there are more than 4,000 drowning deaths each year.

No one ever expects to experience a personal injury. While the immediate physical ailments can be significant, the physical and mental trauma that comes after an incident can be even more devastating. The mental health consequences of personal injuries should not be overlooked or underestimated.

It's important for victims—and their families—to recognize signs of psychological distress during the healing process. No two people will experience trauma in the same way. Everyone reacts differently and it can take time to process emotions, fully understand the impact of an injury, and find ways to move forward.

This article provides insight to help deal with trauma, post-traumatic stress and other mental health problems related to a personal injury.

When Spring arrives, we often think about cleaning our homes and getting organized. But we sometimes forget other essential aspects of spring cleaning: protecting ourselves and our families from potential dangers and incidents.

As homeowners, parents, or renters, it's important to ensure that our living spaces are safe and secure. The safety checks in this article can help you identify potential hazards that could lead to devastating consequences.

By taking the time to assess the safety of your home, you can mitigate risks, avoid unnecessary expenses, and improve your family's overall well-being.

No one ever expects to suffer an injury from a dog bite. After all, dogs are known as "man's best friend."

But unfortunately, dog bites are all too common, and can be quite serious. To ensure you get the support you need in such a situation, it's important to be familiar with your rights and legal options.

Are you, or someone close to you, dealing with the aftermath of a dog bite?

This article provides insight and understanding into what a dog bite situation entails from a legal standpoint. Knowing your options and steps to take is crucial - don't put your safety, or that of someone you care about, at risk.

What To Do If You Were Injured by an Uninsured Driver – Expert Advice From Dressler Law

Being injured in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, and even more so when the driver who hit you is uninsured. It can leave you feeling helpless, wondering how you will ever pay for your medical bills, car repairs, and other expenses.

An Employer Can Be Sued for the Actions of Employees

Vicarious liability holds an individual or company responsible for another’s neglect. It is based on the principle that, because a business owner has entrusted their employees with the power to act on their behalf, the employer should be held responsible for their actions. In many cases, an employer can be held financially liable for the wrongful actions of their staff, even if they were unaware of the illegal act and had no control over it.

Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating and freeing experience, which helps explain why nearly 90,000 people in Connecticut alone have chosen to join the 8.6 million registered riders across the US (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety).

With every season comes possible driving hazards. For us in the New England area, I’m sure icy snowy conditions come to mind. But have you ever considered the danger of fallen leaves? More particularly, wet leaves? Living in Connecticut, drivers may be zipping around before winter rolls in. We all love our football games, fairs, and firepits; but we may need to slow down getting there.

As a high school student, there was one teacher every year that would lecture us new drivers about the dangers of wet leaves. That may seem silly but wet leaves can be just as dangerous as hitting a patch of ice. So next time there are wet leaves covering the roadway, slow down.

#SafetySarah

I had the unfortunate experience of getting rear ended by a tractor trailer a couple weeks ago. While I wish that had not happened, it could have been so much worse. I am thankful for that. I was sitting in traffic on a Friday afternoon. The highway was shut down from a big crash ahead. The same tractor trailer had been following me for about 20 minutes. He was 15 or more feet behind me when all of a sudden, he started driving ahead. He was not going to stop. I threw my hands on the horn and pushed down hard on the brake, but he kept coming. Everyone was stopped around me. No one was moving except this tractor trailer that was forging ahead into my little blue car.

I have been working in the field of personal injury law since the early 90s. I have seen a lot of things change during that time.  One of the things that has not changed.  All too often the lack of sufficient liability insurance to go around, to fully compensate all the people in the collision for injuries they suffer, becomes a major issue. There are a lot of people who carry minimum limits of insurance (in Connecticut $25,000 for any one person and $50,000 for the entire accident, regardless of the number of people injured), or no insurance at all.

Is this the beginning of the end?  I think yes!  No one needs a recap on what the last year has been like living in a world plagued-literally- by the coronavirus. 

It is common knowledge that if you are driving your vehicle and as a result of your negligence, you cause a collision, you are responsible. The primary insurance is the coverage for the at-fault vehicle. Even if the driver is not the owner of the vehicle and has his or her own insurance.  It is the coverage of the owner that applies first. So if you let your friend drive your car, your insurance company is on the hook when your friend rear-ends someone in your car.

Let us be honest.  Reading about automobile insurance coverage is about as exciting as watching grass grow.  This stuff is dry.  It is boring.  But it really matters.

Any one of us can make a bad decision. But it is what we do after that sheds light on who we really are. I always guess before I meet a defendant what that defendant is going to say. Is that person going to take accountability?  I’ve had people lie to my face. I’ve had people say they are sorry. And I’ve even had people sob across the table.

It was more than 30 years ago; you were young and just starting out in adult life.  You had a child and needed help those first few years and the state of Connecticut had programs to assist you, like aid to parents with dependent children.  It helped you when you needed a hand up and did not send you a bill at the time for that service.

A tenant, a middle aged lady, rents an apartment in Hartford where she looks forward to spending time with family and friends.  Christmas and New Years are approaching.  Her landlord tells her that the property will be maintained, including yard care and snow removal, so she feels secure and safe in her new home.  A snow storm occurs and the snow and ice block the sidewalks and exits and entries to her apartment. Twenty Four hours after the snow stops falling, she calls the landlord and asks when the snow will be removed.  She is told that it will be removed soon.  On the second day, the snow still has not been removed. 

If you have seen any of my social media posts, you might have noticed #SafetySarah. I grew up a cautious kid. Whether that is good or bad- the nickname stuck. And at this point, its fitting for this personal injury trial attorney who wants to keep the community safe. And unfortunately, we often learn best from other people’s misfortune. So I want to share a cautionary tale based on an old case of mine.

As I'm sitting here in the office this early evening (March 18, 2021) I'm looking out the window watching what maybe this year's last winter storm.   Hopefully anyway.  It’s raining right now, but the weather forecast is for overnight rain and snow with a low temperature of 28 degrees - which will inevitably lead to the formation of black ice. And black ice inevitably leads to people slipping, falling and getting hurt.

Let’s talk about “The Gap.”  No.  I’m not referring to your favorite clothing store!  I’m talking about a classic excuse the insurance companies use to try and pay injured people less money than they deserve. 

Injured people do not always go to the doctor immediately.  Injured people sometimes miss doctors’ appointments.  Injured people sometimes get discharged from treatment, try to go about their normal lives, and then get tired of living with continuous pain, so they go back to the doctor, or look for another doctor, hoping for a solution.

Every great law blog should start with a profound quote. “Children are born innocent. Before they are domesticated they in the moment, love without fear, and don’t even think about the opinions of others.” – Miguel Angel Ruiz. This quote describes the natural state of children before nurture and nature take hold. They have no concept of violence, destruction, or other behaviors that interfere with societal harmony. In this layman’s opinion, the same can be said of puppies.

The recent case of Maldonado v. Flannery is a cautionary tale about how unpredictable Connecticut juries and courts can be.  The case involved a routine rear end car accident that happened on June 6, 2016 in Farmington, CT.  The injured plaintiffs were William Maldonado and Geovanni Hernandez.  William was the driver and Geovanni was his passenger.  The person who rear-ended their car was the defendant, Kelly Flannery. 

As we all know, the Coronavirus is much more dangerous and lethal to the elderly and those with chronic health conditions and this same population of people are the ones that make up the vast majority of patients in our nursing homes. One would think that this would mean that nursing homes, the care that they, and the health and safety protocols they put in place to protect their high-risk patients would be held to the highest of standards. You would also expect that if a nursing home did not have proper protocols in place or if staff flagrantly disregarded those protocols and caused a loved one to get sick or pass away, that they could be punished and held accountable.