Ohio's Move Over Law Designed to Protect Lives

Ohio’s Move Over law was designed to protect lives and requires drivers to shift lanes when passing any vehicle that has flashing lights pulled over on the side of a road. This includes police officers, street construction vehicles, maintenance and utility crews, emergency responders and tow trucks.  If changing lanes is not possible, drivers are required to slow down and continue passing with caution. 

The Ohio Move Over law applies to all state highways and interstates and may be enforced by local police, County Sheriff deputies and state highway patrol officers. The Move Over law originally introduced in 1999 addressed the risks to emergency responders and law enforcement officers. The law was expanded in December 2013 to include all stationary vehicles with flashing lights such as road construction workers. 

Move Over to Save Lives

This is a serious problem with hundreds of people working on our nation’s roadways injured or killed every year when struck by a moving vehicle while parked or pulled over to the side of the road.  These types of car accidents involving a stationary vehicle are attributed to the death of one law enforcement officer every month, 23 highway workers every month, five firefighters each year and one tow truck driver every 6 days. General motorists are also struck and killed when stranded and pulled over to the side of the road.

Citations for Move over Law Violations

Move Over violations are attributed to at least 49 crashes involving a patrol car from 2015 to 2019, resulting in 49 injuries and one death. Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) officers wrote over 18,000 citations for violations to the Move Over law from 2014 to 2018.  Because the issue is such a serious one, the fines for violators are doubled. A first violation will result in two $150 fines, a second violation within the same year of the first results in two $250 fines, and two $500 fines for more than two violations within a year.

For victims injured in a “struck-by” accident because a motorist did not move over, the injuries are usually severe and can be life altering. For families that lost a loved one who was struck and killed on a highway while doing their job, no amount of a settlement can cover the pain and suffering. If you or a loved one experienced a severe injury or tragic loss due to a Move Over violation of a motorist on Ohio’s roadways, contact an experienced car accident attorney in Ohio.

Schiff & Associates has been providing trusted legal counsel for over 38 years, with a deep understanding of the laws in Ohio.  We have a history of getting our clients the maximum settlement they deserve. Contact us to learn more and speak with a top rated accident and personal injury lawyer in Ohio.

Impaired Driving Increases Over the Holidays

Holiday season is upon us, it seems to come faster every year.  While holiday travel might look a little different in 2020, statistics show a sharp increase in car accidents and fatalities caused by car accidents when comparing Christmas, the month of December, and New Year’s to the rest of the calendar year.  In fact, according to the National Center for Statistics and Analysis, nearly 40% of fatal car accidents during the holiday season occur when at least one of the drivers is under the influence of alcohol.

The reason for this is obvious, friends and family are celebrating together at different times throughout the month of December. Many family celebrations include the consumption of alcoholic beverages and in most cases, people think they are okay to drive after having a couple of drinks. Company Christmas parties are in full swing and while we all know that it may not be wise to drink too much with your coworkers or your boss whether you’re driving or not, holiday celebrations are a major cause of impaired driving.

Many families decide to take vacations during the holidays in addition to celebrating with friends or coworkers. More people on the road focused on vacation and getting away from the daily stress of work and home, means more people on the road under the influence.  If you are traveling over the holidays, be on the lookout for impaired drivers and definitely be smart about your own alcoholic intake if planning to get behind the wheel.

What to Do When Injured in a Car Accident While Traveling

If you have been injured in a car accident while traveling over the holidays, the first thing to do is keep calm and make sure to get the medical care you need a check on the medical condition of the other driver. Never say too much at the scene of an accident until you speak with a car accident attorney.  An automobile accident can cause serious injuries which may or may not be obvious at the time of the accident. 

A serious accident on the highway can lead to traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, whiplash, broken bones, fractures, serious personal injury and wrongful death. An experienced auto accident attorney can guide you in your next steps and help to protect your rights when injured in a car accident.

Schiff & Associates is a top car accident attorney in Ohio, with over 38 years of experience in getting our clients the settlement they deserve. We understand the complexities of automobile accidents and injury claims which is why we consult with medical experts and field investigators. Contact us if you have been injured on the road to speak with an experienced auto accident attorney in Ohio.

‘Tis the Season...for More Car Accidents?

The holiday season is a time for joyous celebrations, catching up with old friends and family and reflecting on all of the things we have to be thankful for. Unfortunately, for a lot of people, the holidays can be the furthest thing from joyous if you or a loved one or injured in a car accident. There are many reasons why automobile accidents increase during the holiday season and winter months. 

Every motorist should be aware of the challenges for safe driving during the winter which include more motorists on the road while under the influence of alcohol, distracted drivers and treacherous winter weather.

Drunk Driving Increases over the Holidays

According to the US Department of Transportation, hundreds of lives are lost each year over the holiday season due to drunk drivers. An average of 300 people nationally were killed in drunk driving accidents just during the week between Christmas and New Year’s from 2011 – 2016.  781 people were killed in drunk driving accidents just during the month of December. If you’ve been injured in a car accident due to the negligence of an impaired driver, contact the top car accident attorney in Ohio to protect your rights.

Look out for Distracted Drivers

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents with drivers using their cell phone as the main reason for driving distracted. We’ve all seen it, the car in front of us swerving in and out of their lane as they try to talk or text on their phone while driving. These are obviously cars you do not want to drive next to, unfortunately you do not always see a distracted driver coming.  

Add the stress of the holidays, friends, family, road trips, shopping, and there are a lot more distracted, stressed out drivers on the road over the holidays than any other time.  You should always practice defensive driving and especially when you suspect a distracted driver. If you or a loved one have experienced an automobile accident due to the negligence of another, you need an experienced automobile accident attorney. 

Winter Weather Conditions

A good portion of the United States experiences wintry weather conditions especially the Midwest including Ohio. A light snowfall might give a picturesque, winter wonderland view, but there is most likely ice on the road under those pretty snowflakes. Whether you’re driving in light snow, rain and sleet, freezing rain or a winter storm, Mother Nature causes more car accidents during the cold winter months. Be sure to slow down when driving in harsh weather conditions and give yourself extra travel time so you are not hurried.

If you have been injured in a car accident you need the advice of an experienced car accident attorney. Schiff & Associates has been helping the good people of Ohio recover the settlement they deserve since 1982.

Schiff & Associate is a top automobile accident attorney in Ohio with experience in serious personal injury and wrongful death cases. We help you on a contingency basis which means you pay nothing unless we make a recovery for you. Contact us to learn more about what your case is worth and speak with an experienced car accident attorney.

Strengthen Your Personal Injury Lawsuit

If you have been injured due to the negligence of another party, you are entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim. Do not wait to contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you prepare your case and tell you what your case is worth. An experienced personal injury lawyer will help to determine a fair settlement, will fight for your rights through negotiation or take your case to court through litigation when necessary.

There are some things that you can do to strengthen your personal injury claim, and things you should not do that could hurt your case. Listen to your attorney and follow these tips to strengthen your claim of personal injury. 

1) Do not hesitate to seek medical treatment.  Seek medical treatment quickly as soft tissue injuries could worsen over time and you may have encountered injuries that you are not completely aware of. It will help your case to document your injuries as soon as possible as soft tissue injuries may worsen over time.

2)  Keep good records of all medical expenses and missed work.  Be sure to keep good records of all injuries and medical expenses including prescriptions and hospital records. Keep all your pay stubs and document your income lost due to injuries.

3)  Do not say too much after an accident. It is difficult to know exactly what to do following an accident and you may be in shock following a serious injury. It is important to speak to a personal injury lawyer, or car accident attorney when involved in an automobile accident, before saying too much to the other party, police or bystanders. Details may emerge that could help your claim although saying too much could jeopardize your case.

4)  Do not post on social media. This is extremely important and is one of the worst things someone can do to hurt their case. If someone posts themselves out waterskiing or playing sports when claiming serious personal injury, they could very well lose their case.  Do not post anything about the accident or any activities that may contradict your claim. Social media accounts are often a Goldmine for the insurance adjuster of the other party.

5) Do not speak with the other party’s insurance company.  It is important to not speak with the other party’s insurance company until you have retained your own personal injury lawyer.  It is their job to find a weakness in your case to either reduce your settlement or altogether deny it.

Follow these tips if you’ve been injured due to the carelessness, recklessness or negligence of another and contact the experienced law firm of Schiff & Associates

Schiff & Associates has recovered the maximum compensation allowed under the law for personal injury victims for over 35 years. We offer trusted legal representation through skilled negotiation and litigation and fight for the settlement you deserve. Contact us for experienced legal representation to get the most for your personal injury claim in Ohio.

Ohio Attorney for Truck Accident Victims

If you have been involved in a highway accident involving a semi truck, also known as an 18-wheeler or a tractor-trailer, you may have incurred devastating injuries or experienced the wrongful death of a loved one.  Commercial trucking accidents can turn your world upside down as the people in any other type of vehicle will sustain the most serious injuries or fatalities in accidents involving large commercial trucks.  It can feel overwhelming knowing what to do following a serious accident with a large truck.  

It is important to take the proper action immediately to receive the compensation that you deserve for your injuries. Commercial trucking companies are covered by large insurance companies who are often quick to respond to the scene of the crash and will immediately try to gather information to discredit your claim. Drivers of semi-trucks are backed by their corporate lawyers and if you have been injured by a semi truck, you need a truck accident lawyer with equal experience who is not afraid to fight for your rights.

Schiff & Associates Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer

Schiff & Associates understands the devastation following an accident with a large commercial truck. We have over 35 years of experience helping Ohioans get the settlement that they deserve from car accidents, truck accidents, personal injuries or wrongful death. We offer free initial consultation, will prepare your case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies and take your case to court to get the settlement that you deserve.

We hold the negligent driver and their company responsible for truck accidents caused by negligence, distracted driving or other reasons. Semi-truck drivers are often fatigued and may fall asleep at the wheel or engage in reckless driving due to fatigue such as speeding or aggressive driving. 

Schiff & Associates offers a free initial consultation and works for you on a contingency basis, you don’t pay anything unless we make a recovery for you.  We have a history of getting our clients the compensation they deserve.  Contact us today for trusted legal representation for your car or truck accident from Ohio’s top car accident attorney.

Victim of an Accident Caused by Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving continues to be a problem in Ohio with already 7,356 distracted driving violations issued by the Ohio State Highway Patrol in 2020. This year-to-date total is already more than the entire year of 2019 which recorded 6,922 distracted driving violations logged for the full year.

Texting while driving is one of the biggest culprits of distracted driving although any use of your cell phone such as looking at social media, online shopping or even reading emails is also considered distracted driving and is illegal.  The law allows drivers to use their phone for a GPS function if mounted on the dash only. 

The “Hands-Free Ohio” bill is meant to toughen up on drivers using their cell phones while driving and imposes similar penalties to those faced by drunk drivers. It also provides law enforcement with the ability to pull over drivers for using their phone on the road.  If you’ve been in an accident on Ohio roads and you feel it was due to the other party driving while distracted, contact an experienced car accident attorney in Ohio who understands the laws and will fight for your rights to a just settlement.

Distracted driving may be caused by using a phone while driving and could also include any other non-driving activity with the potential to distract the driver away from the primary task of driving. Distractions could be manual by taking your hands off the wheel, cognitive when taking your mind off of driving or visual by taking your eyes off of the road. Texting while driving falls in all of these categories, is extremely dangerous and is the main cause of many car accidents and fatalities.

Car Accident Attorney Will Determine Who Should Pay

Schiff & Associates is a car accident attorney in Ohio with over 35 years of experience in helping victims of reckless, careless, and criminally negligent automobile accidents. Car accidents may cause serious spinal cord injuries, soft tissue damage, brain injuries, many other serious personal injuries and even wrongful death.  Our experienced attorneys work with accident investigators and medical specialists to recover the maximum compensation due to you under the law.

Schiff & Associates offers a free initial consultation and fights for your rights on a contingency basis. This means you do not pay unless we make a recovery for you. Contact us to learn more and to speak with a top car accident attorney in Ohio that will fight for the compensation you deserve.

Get the Most for Your Personal Injury Lawsuit

If you have been injured due to the negligence or recklessness of another, you are entitled to damages for economic and noneconomic losses. An individual who has suffered personal injuries can, in certain circumstances, also file a claim for punitive damages.

Punitive damages are made separately from, and are in addition to, any economic or noneconomic losses. A civil trial journey assesses noncriminal fines to penalize reckless and negligent behavior which also serves as an example to others. The amount of compensation that your claim is worth will depend upon the unique facts of the case.

Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is the best way to get the settlement that you deserve.

Types of Personal Injury Claims

Victims who sustain injuries due to many types of accidents, including automobile accidents, can file a personal injury lawsuit for economic, noneconomic and possibly punitive damages. In the case of a wrongful death claim, the surviving family member or legal executor may file for damages.  Some examples of accidents where victims are entitled to compensation occur from:

• Automobile accidents including car, truck or motorcycle

• Highway accidents with semi-trucks

• A slip or fall

• Drowning, near drowning

• Electric shock and electrocutions

• Medical malpractice

• Anesthesia error

• Animal attack or dog bite

• Nursing home abuse or neglect

• Dangerous or defective products

• Assaults

• Bicycle or scooter accident

• Pedestrian accident

These are some of the more common types of accidents resulting from the negligence of one party causing serious injury to another. After 38 years in business, Schiff & Associates has helped victims from many types of accidents get the most for their personal injury claim. We are an experienced team of professionals utilizing subject matter experts including investigation experts and medical specialists.

Schiff & Associates is the Columbus Ohio area’s top personal injury and car accident attorney. We pursue aggressively the maximum amount of compensation you are entitled to under the law. Contact us for a free consultation and to get the most for your personal injury or wrongful death claim.

Ohio Work Comp Hearings: Why Your Lawyer Should be There

The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) is the State Insurance Fund that makes the initial determinations on employer claims for coverage.  For the smaller types of claims such as those that only entail an urgent care or emergency room visit, the BWC will typically give a favorable decision.  These types of claims would not require any more involvement from the employee or the employer. 

Workers’ Compensation Hearings 

The Ohio Industrial Commission (IC) will oversee hearings for matters in dispute, such as issues related to medical treatments, diagnostic testing and payments for claims of compensation.  These hearings are typically held in a conference room rather than a courtroom and the hearing officer, an attorney who has been trained by the IC to decide over disputed matters, acts as the judge.  The employer will be present with their legal representation and the injured employee will be present with their legal representation, which should be an attorney with experience in workers’ compensation claims. 

Your Work Comp Attorney Protects Your Rights

While these types of hearings are usually kept civil, they can be emotionally charged, especially if your employer is disputing your injuries or working capacity.  In the event that this happens, your work comp lawyer will most certainly address this behavior and stand up for your rights. Your attorney will help to keep the hearing focused on the facts and not let an angry employer try to divert attention away with unfounded allegations. 

Schiff & Associates is an experienced workers’ compensation law firm, with a positive track record for more than 35 years.  We have helped thousands of people in the state of Ohio to recover millions of dollars due to them under the law for workers’ compensation claims, personal injury lawsuits, car accident claims and many others. We work for you on a contingency basis, meaning you owe nothing until we make a recovery for you. 

Schiff & Associates understands how devastating an on-the-job injury can be. We represent you in all matters from administrative hearings to court appeals. Contact us to have a highly skilled attorney on your side to guide you through the complex system of workers’ compensation claims.  

Motorcycles and Car Accidents: Why You Need a Lawyer

The freedom of the open road and the wind in your face is a thrill that motorcycle riders love.  Unfortunately, the thrill can also lead to very dangerous situations and debilitating or deadly accidents.  When a motorcycle rider is in an accident, either with another vehicle or skidding off a road, they are much more likely to encounter more severe injuries or death as opposed to a driver of an automobile. 

If you or a loved one has been in a motorcycle accident and experienced slight or serious injury, it is important that you consult with a car accident attorney experienced in motorcycle accidents. Severe injuries may occur from a motorcycle accident such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, loss of limbs or loss of life.  

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

There are various causes of motorcycle accidents as well as car accidents, although the outcomes can be very different.  Some of the most common cause of motorcycle accidents include:

• Unsafe road conditions – roads that are slick or wet may be risky when riding a motorcycle, as well as roads that have been damaged and are not repaired.

• Animals in or crossing the road – coming across an animal in the road suddenly could cause a motorcycle accident.

• Drunk or impaired driving – impairment from alcohol either on the part of the motorcycle rider or the driver of a vehicle are often the cause of an accident. 

• Road rage – driver aggression is a common cause of many accidents on the road and riders of motorcycles encounter the same driver aggression as drivers of automobiles.

• Illegal turning – this is a common cause of a motorcycle accident and happens when someone is turning left and does not signal their intention. A rider may continue straight through an intersection only to be hit by a driver who did not signal their turn. 

Determining who was at fault after a motorcycle accident can be tricky.  Proving fault may not always be clear and could be difficult to prove. This is one of the biggest reasons for obtaining an experienced automobile and motorcycle accident attorney.

Schiff & Associates for all Motor Vehicle Accidents

Schiff & Associates is recognized as a leading car accident attorney in Ohio, with over 35 years of experience.  We provide the legal expertise you need to win your claim including investigative services.  We’ll get to the bottom of who was to blame and hold any negligent party responsible.  

Our experienced team is skilled in all negotiation and litigation, standing by your side every step of the way until you receive the compensation you deserve.  If you have experienced any type of personal injury, car accident or an accident at work, Schiff & Associates will get the settlement you deserve.

Schiff & Associates has the experience and the expertise necessary to help you through any accident case for the compensation you deserve.  We know that your financial recovery is critical to your physical recovery.  Contact us for a free consultation and learn more about what your case is worth and how we can help with motorcycle and car accident claims.

Spinal Cord Injury from Car Accident: Ohio Attorneys

Car accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries, including a spinal cord compression.  Motor vehicle accidents put tremendous pressure on the spinal cord causing compression and damage to the nerves.  Symptoms of a spinal cord injury include: 

• Loss of sensation in your feet

• Weakness in your foot that causes a limp

• Pain in your back and neck

• A burning sensation in your legs and arms

• Trouble with hand to eye coordination

Symptoms of a spinal cord compression can have a profound effect on your personal life and could make it nearly impossible to work.  These effects can be temporary or permanent and create significant financial difficulties for you and your family.  The cost of medical visits, treatments, therapies, rehabilitation and lost wages can be devastating.  Constant pain and financial burdens can also affect a person psychologically and lead to major depression. 

It is critically important that you speak with a personal injury lawyer if you have experienced a spinal cord injury or any type of injury from an automobile or workplace accident. 

Spinal Cord Compression Treatment

Treatment for a spinal cord compression injury includes a variety of physicians such as orthopedic doctors and surgeons, neck or back surgeons, physical therapists and neurologists.  Treatments may include injections in the spine, physical therapy or surgery depending on the severity of your injuries.  Victims of spinal cord injuries face a long road to physical recovery, on top of mounting financial burdens. 

Personal Injury Attorneys are Key to Recovery

It is imperative that you speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer with expertise in spinal cord injuries and automobile accident law.  Schiff & Associates consists of the leading personal injury attorneys in Ohio, fighting for your rights and the financial settlement you deserve.  We help you every step of the way with your financial recovery so that you can focus on what’s most important, your physical recovery. 

Schiff & Associates is a leading personal injury attorney in Ohio, helping our clients to receive maximum compensation due under the law for more than 35 years.  We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients with personal injury and car accident claims.  Contact us for a free consultation and learn how we can help you on the road to recovery after a spinal cord injury or car accident in Ohio.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Legal Representation

A spinal cord injury can be devastating and may cause nerve damage leading to permanent loss of bodily function either below the injured area, partial or full paralysis.  Victims of a spinal cord injury may experience a loss of sensation and strength and may never make a full recovery. 

Complete loss of motor and sensory functions can lead to the inability to control bowel and bladder functions, unusual muscle spasms, constant pain, difficulty breathing, prolonged respiratory problems and many other medical symptoms.  Some people may experience a lack of mobility that requires assistance with daily living and makes working impossible.  The physical pain and psychological scars may last a lifetime. Seeking financial recovery for your injuries with the help of an experienced personal injury attorney may ease the financial burden so you can focus on what is most important. 

Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in Ohio

Many types of accidents may lead to spinal cord injuries.  Some of the most common causes of spinal cord injuries include:

• Car accidents – the leading cause of spinal cord injuries are motor vehicle accidents

• Falls – falling from heights is the second leading cause of spinal cord injuries, this may occur on construction sites or at a workplace

• Sporting activities – extremely physical sports put athletes at a greater risk for a spinal cord injury

• Medical malpractice – medical negligence and errors during surgical procedures can cause a spinal cord injury, paralysis, stroke or even death

No matter the cause, the party at fault should hold financial responsibility for a spinal cord injury to yourself or a loved one. Any spinal cord injury (SCI) that leads to any type of ongoing medical issues, partial or complete paralysis requires the expertise of a personal injury attorney skilled in spinal cord injury cases.  

Schiff & Associates Experienced Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys

Schiff & Associates is experienced in all personal injury law cases, including spinal cord injury claims.  If you or a loved one has been injured through the negligence or fault of another person or organization, you need the representation of an experienced attorney to obtain the financial recovery you deserve.  We have helped people in Ohio for over 35 years to recover maximum settlements to cover the wide range of costs and expenses you will incur. 

You are entitled to recover compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering and the many types of medical expenses that have been incurred and that will be ongoing such as physical, vocational and mental therapy and assistance with daily living needs. 

Schiff & Associates is Ohio’s foremost spinal cord injury lawyer, with experience in pursuing the maximum compensation that you deserve.  We offer a free initial case evaluation and work for your rights on a contingency basis.  Contact us to learn more about your rights and compensation due for any spinal cord injury. 

Scaffolding Safety to Avoid Workers Comp Claims in Ohio

Construction workers are often put in challenging positions and unsafe environments on a regular basis, all in the name of speeding up jobs for profitability.  Construction employers who put profits over safety are risking much more than complaints from workers or even OSHA fines.  Serious accidents and wrongful death may occur from unsafe work practices when it comes to scaffolding and employees must be aware of the dangers and required safety practices. 

Construction workers can take steps on their own to protect themselves against serious workplace accidents, especially when working on scaffolding.  Here are some tips to keep yourself safe and avoid unstable and unsafe working conditions:

• Always follow safety training practices – be sure to complete all training and know the requirements for safety in erecting structures and scaffolding.  Training will help you to identify any potential hazards with a structure before risking a collapse that may cause serious injuries or worse.  OSHA requires professional inspections of all scaffolding rigs although a personal inspection is always in your best interest. 

• Be aware of new hazards – scaffolding may be safe one day and not the next.  Regularly check for new hazards that may have been caused by wind or rain that may jeopardize the stability of a rig. 

• Never become complacent – complacency on construction worksites has led to serious accidents and even death.  Avoid complacency and always remember, safety first! 

• Take your time – never let a deadline make you feel rushed to where you avoid following your training and safety precautions. 

• Identify risks of electrocution – always be on the lookout for power lines and keep your distance.  Never climb a scaffold that is near any electrocution hazards. 

• Evaluate scaffold safety after each reposition – do not forget to go through your safety checklist every time your scaffold is repositioned. 

In spite of following the best safety practices you have been trained for, a construction site accident with unsafe scaffolding may occur.   The negligence of another worker or your employer may cause a debilitating injury.  If this occurs, filing a workers’ compensation claim in Ohio is best done with the help of a qualified workers’ compensation attorney.  

Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Ohio Helps Through Complex Claims

Schiff & Associates is an experienced workers’ compensation attorney in Ohio, with a track record of helping people recover a fair settlement since 1982.  We are skilled in dealing with the complex Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) and interacting with all parties involved.  Our attorneys represent you in all administrative hearings and any necessary court appeals to protect your rights. 

If you’ve experienced a workplace injury in Ohio, remember to call Schiff & Associates for experienced legal representation to guide you through the complex workers’ compensation system.  We have recovered the maximum settlement for people in Ohio for a variety of accident claims including: 

• Construction accident claims

• Car, truck and motorcycle accidents

• Personal injury including brain and spinal cord injuries

• Drunk driver accidents

• Commercial vehicle and semi-truck accidents

• Many others

Schiff & Associates has provided the people of Columbus, Ohio and surrounding area with trusted legal representation for over 35 years.  We have recovered millions of dollars in claim settlements, getting you the financial outcome you deserve.  Contact us for assistance with any workers’ compensation issue from an experienced Ohio worker’s compensation attorney. 

Why You Need Legal Representation for a Brain Injury

If you or a loved one have experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI), it is critical that you speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.  A TBI is one of the most difficult injuries for someone to deal with as the symptoms usually affect the entire body.  If the brain injury has been caused by a serious blow to the head, there may be additional considerations that must be examined.  

When someone experiences a hard blow to the head, the area that is hit as well as the area near the point of impact are also affected.  This may cause serious, long term impairments which can be devastating as the functions that are controlled by the area of exact impact are not the only areas or functions affected. 

The type of blow to the head is also an important factor.  If injured by a spinning jolt type of injury, widespread damage may occur due to severing or stretching of cellular structures.  If injured by multiple points of contact, this may lead to catastrophic brain damage, and a blast type of injury could cause serious injuries across the brain. 

Recovering from a Brain Injury

It is a long road to recovery following a traumatic brain injury.  This can lead to very expensive medical costs, loss of wages and changes in lifestyle.  You need a personal injury attorney who understands the importance of your physical recovery and your financial recovery.  It is important to work with a skilled personal injury lawyer to get all the information right and help you through your recovery while protecting your future. 

Schiff & Associates is recognized as a trusted and experienced personal injury law firm in Ohio with a team of highly skilled attorneys, professionals and investigators.  We are experienced in negotiating with insurance companies to get you the maximum settlement possible.  We have helped thousands of clients, recovering millions of dollars for personal injury, wrongful death, workers’ compensation, auto accident and other claims.  

Schiff & Associates offers a team of highly skilled attorneys and professionals with experience in litigation for catastrophic injuries and wrongful death claims.  We understand that your financial recovery is just as important as your physical recovery.  Contact us for experienced legal representation that gets results and the settlement you deserve.

What are Workers Compensation Benefit Laws in Ohio?

If you have been injured on the job in the state of Ohio, you may be wondering what rights you have and how the workers compensation benefit laws affect you.  You should first make sure to follow your employer’s procedures for filing an accident report and seek medical attention.  Make sure the doctor knows that the injury occurred at work.  Your employer is responsible for reporting the injury to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC). 

Temporary Total Disability Benefits

If you have been injured on the job or contracted a disease due to your occupation and are completely unable to work, you are entitled to receive temporary total disability benefits. You must be unable to work for at least two weeks as the first week is not included.  Your benefit amount is determined by your average earnings prior to the injury or illness.  Minimum and maximum amounts are determined by the statewide average weekly wage (SAWW).  

Temporary total disability benefits are paid in two different stages:

• The first 12 weeks – benefit payments are 72% of your wages prior to your injury up to your take-home pay pre-injury or the maximum SAWW, whichever is less. 

• After 12 weeks – benefit payments are adjusted to 2/3 of your wages pre-injury, up to the maximum SAWW. 

The cap on benefits determined by SAWW are adjusted each January.  If you are injured in 2020, the maximum amount is $980 and reduced down to $653.33 if you are receiving Social Security retirement benefits. 

Temporary total disability benefits can last up until you are able to get back to work, until your doctor releases you or states that your condition will not improve or until a maximum time period of 200 weeks.  Your employer can make another position available to you if you cannot yet perform your old job to get you back to work sooner. 

Temporary Partial Disability 

There are also benefits for lost wages due to temporary partial disability, if you cannot perform your normal work but you can perform work in some capacity.  Temporary partial disability benefits are based upon 2/3 of the difference between your wages earned pre-injury and what you are able to earn now.  For example, if your income used to be $1000/week, but now you can only earn $400/week, 2/3 of the difference of $600 is $400 which would be your benefit. 

These benefits are also available for up to 200 weeks, whether your employer placed you on different, light-duty work or you started a new, lower paying job. 

Permanent Total Disability Benefits

If you receive temporary total disability benefit payments at 200 weeks and still have permanent limitations, you will be evaluated to determine any permanent limitations.  You may be considered totally and permanently disabled if:

• You have a complete loss of the use of both arms, legs, hands, feet, eyes or any combination of two of these body parts

• You cannot hold long lasting employment with your current skills or any that you could reasonably develop

If deemed as permanently and totally disabled, you would continue to receive payments for a lifetime. 

Permanent Partial Disability Benefits

Permanent partial disability occurs if you have been permanently impaired although not totally.  This type of disability is calculated in three different ways; by a percentage of overall disability, according to the loss of body parts or limbs or awarded for long term disfigurement. 

Additional rules apply and other benefits may be awarded to injured workers or survivors.  It is important to speak with an experienced personal injury or workers’ compensation lawyer with experience in dealing with the BWC.  

Experienced Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Ohio

Schiff & Associates is an experienced workers’ compensation law firm in Ohio, with vast expertise in dealing with workplace accidents and the Bureau of Workers Compensation. 

Schiff & Associates has over 35 years of experience in providing trusted legal representation in personal injury, auto accidents and workers’ compensation claims. We work with you on a contingency basis so you do not incur any fees unless we make a recovery for you.  Contact us for help in navigating the complex workers’ compensation system and for skilled and experienced legal representation.

How to Get Workers Compensation After an Injury?

Being injured while on the job can leave long lasting injuries which are devastating to your livelihood and overall health.  It can be confusing to try to navigate through the complex workers’ compensation system without someone on your side.  Very specific rules and laws apply to workplace accidents and there may be several parties involved depending on your employer, where and how your injury occurred. 

If you have any questions at all about the process or feel that you are being treated unfairly, it is important to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer.  A workers compensation attorney can help you understand your rights and fight for the settlement you deserve.  Be sure to seek medical attention and follow all medical advice and follow the procedures that your employer has laid out for workplace accidents and injuries. 

What to Do After a Workplace Accident

If your employer has not communicated procedures to follow after an accident, here are some of the most important things that you should do on your own to protect yourself when injured at work: 

1)  Seek medical care – this is critical to begin the basis for your claim and to make sure your medical bills are covered if your condition worsens. 

2) File an accident report  - your employer may have a specific form for this, if not make sure that you write down what happened and give a copy to your supervisor. 

3) Tell your coworkers what happened – you may find that your injury is a common occurrence and may be a safety issue that other employees have complained about in the past. 

4)  Follow medical advice – be sure to attend all appointments and follow the doctor’s advice and treatment plan. 

5)  Keep good records – keep detailed records and copies of all paperwork from each doctor visit, prescription or therapy visit.  Save texts and emails with other employees regarding your accident and take notes on each phone call with your employer. 

6)  Contact a workers comp lawyer – a workers comp lawyer will help you to understand the laws in your state and will fight for your rights if you are not receiving fair treatment. 

You should know that laws protect whistleblowers against speaking out about unsafe work conditions and you have legal protections if retaliated against for filing a claim.  Talk with your personal injury or workers compensation lawyer about how to best protect yourself and your work comp claim as some employers will argue that you were not injured badly enough to require compensation or time off from work.  

While you do not need an attorney to apply for and receive workers’ compensation benefits, an attorney can help to protect your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. 

Schiff and Associates has a successful history of getting our clients the settlement they deserve.  We work for you on a contingency basis meaning we do not get paid unless you get compensation.  Contact us to learn more about your rights under Ohio’s workers compensation insurance and to speak with a skilled workers comp lawyer. 

Do I Need a Lawyer for My Workers Compensation Claim?

Many people are injured on the job and most of the time their employer follows the rules and helps them recover physically and financially.  Workers’ compensation insurance helps to pay your medical bills if you are injured at work and will compensate you for lost wages while you cannot work due to a workplace injury.  

In Ohio, for the first 12 weeks workers’ comp insurance will pay 72% of your pre-injury wages up to either your take-home pay or statewide average weekly wage (SAWW), whichever is less.  After the first 12 weeks, work comp insurance will pay 2/3 of your pre-injury wages, up to the maximum of SAWW.  Contact a workers’ compensation attorney if you have any questions about work comp laws in Ohio, or if you feel you are not being treated fairly or not receiving what you deserve. 

What Should I Do to Help My Workers’ Comp Claim? 

It is important to know the procedures that you should follow when injured at work. What you do next can affect the success of your workers’ comp claim.  Some employers have specific rules that must be followed for each workplace accident.  Many companies send an injured employee to a specific medical facility where they can be evaluated and given specific instructions which might entail follow-up visits, physical therapy or work restrictions.  

Following all the procedures set forth by your employer will help you to have a successful workers’ compensation claim.  Be sure to attend each medical appointment and follow the physician’s instructions.  If you feel you are not being treated fairly or not taken seriously for your injuries, you should definitely contact a workers comp lawyer for advice. 

Workers Compensation Lawyer in Ohio

Schiff & Associates is an experienced workers comp law firm in Ohio with knowledge on handling all types of personal injury, auto accident and workplace accident claims from minor injuries to accidental death claims.  It can be difficult and confusing to navigate the legal system on your own and many employers do what they can to get out of paying a work comp claim. 

We’ll help you with highly skilled legal representation and guide you through every process such as hearings, motions, court appeals, temporary or total disability, even failure of post-accident drug tests.  Do not go it alone when you can have skilled and experienced representation to protect your rights. 

Schiff & Associates has provided skilled legal representation for workers compensation claims for over 35 years.  We get you the settlement you deserve on a contingency basis so there are no fees unless you get compensation.  Contact us today to learn more about your rights and to speak with an experienced workers compensation lawyer.

Should I Call an Attorney After a Car Accident?

Car accidents can cause serious injuries leading to permanent disabilities or even death and create long-term financial hardships.  In most auto accidents, both drivers and occupants do not have time to brace themselves prior to a crash happening.  Most people are understandably shaken up with emotion, grief or pain and are unable to process the best way to respond after a car accident. 

The first thing to do when in a car accident is to tend to any immediate medical needs and police officers taking accident reports.  Do not ever say that you are sorry or admit fault as this could be misconstrued later.  After the initial emergency items are taken care of, you should absolutely call a car accident attorney if you or any passenger in your car are left with any injuries. 

Why You Need a Car Accident Attorney

There is no real prevention for car accidents, they happen unexpectedly and without warning.  If you experience the misfortune of an auto accident, you need the right car accident lawyer to obtain the justice and compensation you deserve.  The party at fault can be held legally responsible to compensate you for all medical expenses from your injuries, pain and suffering which may include disfigurement, lost wages, property damages and even punitive damages. 

Your auto accident lawyer will help you to know how to respond to the other insurance party and advise you on what you should or should not say as well as exactly what you should do after the accident.   Do not speak with the insurance company of the other party without first talking with your own accident attorney. This is very important as even the most innocent statement could be twisted to try to deny your claim. 

Schiff and Associates is an experienced auto accident attorney in Ohio, dedicated to helping you receive the settlement you deserve.  We make sure that you know what to say or not say and what to do after your accident to help you receive just compensation. We have provided trusted legal representation since 1982 for car accidents, personal injury cases, workman’s comp claims, wrongful death and more as we recover the maximum settlement for our clients.  

Schiff & Associates is recognized as a law firm that gets our clients the financial recovery they deserve.  We have recovered millions of dollars in thousands of car accident cases just like yours. Contact us if you have any questions about what to do next and to let us protect your legal rights after your car accident.

How to Determine Medical Expenses from a Car Accident

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, approximately three million people are non fatally injured in a car accident each year in the United States.  Costs for medical care from crash related injuries combined with productivity losses topped $75 billion in 2017. Injuries sustained from automobile accidents can result in many injuries which may not even be apparent at the time of the crash. 

The most common types of injuries from automobile accidents include whiplash, skull fractures and pelvic fractures with whiplash the most common type of injury incurred by a rear end collision.  Whiplash can cause many symptoms, some that may get better after a few weeks, a few months or may linger for many years in severe cases. Whiplash may cause many symptoms: 

• Neck pain and stiffness

• Headaches

• Dizziness

• Tingling or numbness in your arms

• Fatigue

• Loss of range of motion in your neck

• Worsening of pain with neck movement

Some of these symptoms may get better over time, while in other cases whiplash can cause traumatic brain injury that affects your ongoing earning ability and quality of life with symptoms such as:

• Blurred vision

• Ringing in the ears

• Memory problems

• Difficulty concentrating

If you experience any of these symptoms following a car accident it is important to seek medical attention right away and speak with a car accident attorney.  Medical expenses may continue after an initial emergency room visit and could develop into long term medical conditions.  You may experience ongoing medical expenses, physical therapy, surgery or lost wages. Speak with an experienced auto accident attorney to recover full medical expenses and damages for loss of wages, pain and suffering.   

How Auto Accident Attorneys Help Determine Medical Costs

Schiff & Associates Co., LPA is an experienced personal injury lawyer in Ohio, offering a full team of experts and respected specialists.  We analyze your current injuries and expenses, forecast future losses and fight for your rights.  Since 1982, we have been helping accident victims to receive the compensation they deserve from a multitude of injuries, including damages for whiplash, serious nonfatal injuries and wrongful death cases. 

Our team of experts fights on your behalf to recover the full medical expenses and range of damages you are entitled to under the law. We work with our respected in-house CPA and a broad range of medical experts including vocational rehabilitation counselors to assess your total current and future losses. 

Schiff & Associates offers an experienced legal team with a history of getting our clients the results they deserve since 1982.  We know that your financial recovery is just as critical as your physical recovery following an auto accident.  Contact us for a free initial consultation and speak with a leading personal injury attorney in Columbus, Ohio.