The decision to put an elderly parent or another family member in a nursing home is a difficult one to make. You trust that the nursing home will provide the care that you are unable to give—from medical care to round-the-clock nursing in a safe environment. It is terrible to discover that your trust has been violated. It is incredibly painful to learn that your loved one has been neglected or abused by the nursing home that promised to be caring and nurturing.

Many nursing home residents are too weak to defend themselves from the neglect and elder abuse that they may suffer. The personal injury lawyers at Gould Injury Law are here to defend them. We advocate for the rights of the elderly and use the law to bring them justice–fast.

When a nursing home is negligent in Hartford, it can be held accountable by a Connecticut court. For this, you need an attorney. To receive justice and a fair settlement as quickly as possible, contact the Gould Injury Law nursing home abuse lawyers. Call 888-WIN-FAST or fill out the online form for a free consultation.

Types of Nursing Home Injuries

By 2015, some 1.3 million people were living in nursing homes or assisted-living facilities in the United States. And there are 65 nursing homes here in the county of Hartford, Connecticut. Many of these are quality nursing homes that take good care of their patients. Unfortunately, though, there exist nursing home management and staff that may neglect the care of their patients, abuse them, and steal from them.

The circumstances surrounding abuse and neglect cases in nursing homes are diverse. Nursing home abuse injuries are often because of lacking staff, unqualified or untrained staff, poor management, or poor communication by the nursing home administration.

Nursing home abuse and neglect frequently include the following:

• Physical violence and abuse
• Preventable slip-and-falls
• Unsuitable confinement and isolation
• Emotional abuse
• Verbal abuse
• Intimidation
• Failure to help the patient remain clean
• Failure to ensure proper nutrition
• Sexual assault and inappropriate physical contact
• Bedsores and other serious infections
• Identity or other theft and forgery
• Extortion of patients and their families
• Overmedicating abuse of patients, either intentionally or unintentionally

Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

How can you know if your loved one is experiencing nursing home neglect or abuse? Of course, not all cases are the same, but there are signs of abuse you should be aware of and keep an eye out for.

These are some of the most common indications of elder abuse in a nursing home that you may notice with your loved one:

• Displaying fear of physical contact
• Socially withdrawn
• Completely uncommunicative
• Residents strangely sedated
• Disarranged living conditions
• Bank account withdrawals without explanations
• Inadequate hygiene maintenance
• Weight loss
• Poor skin condition and bedsores
• Injuries that are unexplained
• Indications of dehydration
• Marks on the body from restraints
• Fractures and broken bones
• Genital bruising indicating sexual abuse
• Unknown injuries and bruises

Why bedsores are a serious symptom of neglect

Bedsores might not seem serious, but they definitely are. Do not ignore the symptoms of bedsores, also called pressure ulcers or pressure sores. It can be a serious sign of nursing home neglect. These skin lesions are painful and dangerous. When not treated quickly, bedsores result in serious health problems.

Patients that are restricted to bed must be regularly turned and moved. This reduces the risk of the patient developing an ulcer. Nursing home staff must remain attentive to their patients and make sure they do not develop bedsores. An understaffed or negligent nursing home can fail to regularly attend to your loved one, which can cause painful complications.

What causes bedsores?

Mainly, bedsores are the result of reduced blood flow under the skin. Skin injuries can come about after rubbing against clothing or bedding for a long time. Other common factors that contribute to bedsores are:

• Malnutrition
• Dehydration
• Overmedicated patients
• Immobility

Do Not Let a Nursing Home Get Away with Elder Abuse or Neglect

Don’t ignore the signs of nursing home neglect and abuse. If you suspect that your loved one is being abused or neglected in a nursing home or assisted-living facility, it’s vital to report it. First, call the authorities and seek the safety of your relative. Then file your complaint of nursing home abuse or neglect with the Connecticut Facilities Licensing and Investigation Section.

Next, don’t delay in contacting our nursing home abuse lawyers at Gould Injury Law to make sure the nursing home is held accountable. Victims and their families may be able to file a nursing home abuse lawsuit against the facility responsible for their pain and suffering. Our nursing home abuse lawyers will aggressively pursue legal action against the nursing home facility for subjecting its residents to danger in the name of profit.

A lawsuit can provide abuse victims and their loved ones:

• A monetary settlement for medical expenses, pain and suffering, a better nursing home facility for the victim, and other restitution
• The opportunity to hold the responsible facility accountable for elder abuse

How Long Will a Nursing Home Settlement Take?

Personal injury lawsuits have many factors that affect how long it can take to receive compensation. In general, a settlement is less expensive than a trial and requires less time. A case that goes to trial usually takes 1 to 3 years to reach a verdict.

The vast majority of nursing home abuse cases settle out of court. A settlement can be reached within six months to a year. No doubt you want to reach a conclusion and receive fair compensation as fast as possible. The lawyers at Gould Injury Law in Hartford will work quickly to get your settlement in the shortest possible time.

Other advantages of pursuing a settlement out of court include:

• The amount of compensation can be negotiated, agreed upon, and guaranteed
• In general, if you do not have a lot of evidence, you will have better results settling out of court
• Privacy is maintained with a settlement; in a trial, the record is public.
• The decision is final; there is no appeal

How Much Can I Get in a Nursing Home Abuse Settlement?

Based on a recent study in the journal Health Affairs, the average amount recovered in nursing home abuse cases is $406,000. They also reported that “nursing home wrongful death cases have some of the highest settlement amounts of any nursing home abuse case type.” Of course, each case is different. Many circumstances can affect the value of your claim.

Primarily, the value of a nursing home abuse case is determined by the extent of the injuries to the victim, property losses, as well as the pain and suffering the victim experienced from the abuse and neglect. The damages fall into two categories.

Economic damages–Including hospital bills and stolen property or money
Non-economic damages–Such as compensation for pain and suffering the victim experienced
After the settlement or judgment is reached, the financial recovery process is brought to a close. The settlement money of the elder abuse case goes to the victim’s lawyer. The distribution of funds includes paying the medical bills and other expenses incurred. Finally, the victim is compensated with the remaining funds.

As you can see, the more money you get, the more money is left over for you and your family. Discuss your case with a lawyer at Gould Injury Law to make sure you get the full compensation of your specific claim fast.

Contact Gould Injury Law for Fast Results

We know your loved one is precious to you. The thought of him or her experiencing elder abuse is distressing. Having an experienced nursing home abuse lawyer on your side can help to reduce your emotional stress. Let us do the difficult legal work for your case, thus allowing you to focus on helping both your loved one and your family heal.

Settling a nursing home abuse lawsuit is a complex process. Having the assistance of a Gould Injury Law nursing home abuse lawyer could mean the difference between receiving a small settlement offer and receiving the just compensation your loved one deserves. Either way, you could find yourself waiting far too long to find out what you will receive.

The lawyers at Gould Injury Law in Hartford, Connecticut, can help you and your family on the road to recovery to get results fast. Contact us at 888-WIN-FAST today or fill out the online form and schedule your free consultation.
 

Hartford Nursing Home Abuse Cases

In Connecticut, personal injury cases for elder or nursing home abuse can only be pursued for 2 years after the incident. That’s why it’s so important to get legal help–fast! At Gould Injury Law, our nursing home abuse lawyers take pride in having our client’s best interests at heart. If your loved one was the victim of nursing home abuse, we want to help you.

We know that you and your loved ones need the compensation that you deserve from your case to live your best lives going forward. That’s why our lawyers are committed to helping you, faster than the other guys. Each and every attorney in our law firm wants to get you justice fast. Call us today for a free consultation to get started on your Connecticut nursing home abuse case.

Imagine you’re driving home on I-91 in Hartford, CT, after a long day at the office. You’re eager to sit, relax, and spend some time with your family. Then, all of a sudden, your vehicle is rear-ended by a distracted driver breaking the law. Depending on the severity of the crash, an accident like this might not only ruin your evening, but it could alter your life for weeks, months, and even years to come.

If you were a victim in an accident by car, you may be feeling afraid, frustrated, and angry. Car accidents often leave victims in physical pain, without work, and unable to take part in the daily activities they previously enjoyed. If you or someone you loved sustained a personal injury in a car accident, the Hartford personal injury lawyers at Gould Injury Law are here to offer support and get your claim settled faster than you would have thought possible. A lawyer will help guide you through the legal process, handle negotiations with the insurance companies, and ensure that you and your family get the financial compensation that you are due.

If you or someone you love was injured in a car accident, call 1-888-WIN-FAST to speak to one of our accident lawyers and schedule a free consultation! We pride ourselves on being the “fast firm,” and we understand that receiving financial compensation after your accident is essential to you getting your life back on track. Each lawyer on our legal team works together to act fast and ensure that you receive your settlement as quickly as possible.

Why Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?

After your motor vehicle accident, you have a decision to make. Do you know the law well enough to handle any legal issues and negotiations with the insurance company yourself? Or, should you hire a lawyer to ensure success?

Our law firm understands that after an accident you may be needing a quick payout to cover medical bills and other expenses, and that’s why we pride ourselves on getting claims settled faster than our competitors. We know it can be tempting to take the first offer that the insurance company gives you. However, insurance companies can be very deceptive. Their primary motivator is profit, and their goal is to get you to settle for the least dollar amount possible.

After your initial free consultation with a lawyer at Gould’s “fast firm”, we will handle all negotiations with the insurance company, and ensure that you are not taken advantage of. Our law firm is familiar with the deceptive tactics the insurance companies use, and we will aggressively fight for your rights. We will handle any complex legal issues surrounding your case and work hard to make sure that you receive your settlement quickly.

The following are some common damages you may be entitled to after your accident:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Vehicle repair or replacement
• Permanent disability caused by your injuries
• Emotional distress
• Pain and suffering

Identifying Who is Liable for the Accident

After hiring a firm to handle your case, your lawyer will investigate who caused the accident. This is an essential step; you can only hold other parties liable for the accident if you can prove that they acted against the law and were at fault due to negligence. Some motor vehicle accidents can be attributed to multiple parties.

There are some situations where it will be obvious that the party was negligent and broke the law–such as when a driver was clearly intoxicated at the scene of the accident. In other cases, liability is more difficult to prove, and our legal team will need to thoroughly investigate the accident to determine liable parties.

The following are some common examples of negligence that have led to car crashes in Hartford, CT:

• Speeding
• Driving while intoxicated
• Distracted driving
• Tailgating
• Driving while fatigued
• Failing to yield
• Running red lights and stop signs
• Improper lane changing

How Our Law Firm Helps Car Accident Victims

After enlisting the legal help of our law firm, we will immediately take action to support you and protect your rights. You can count on our legal firm to:

• Conduct a thorough investigation to establish facts surrounding your case. Our law firm will act quickly to gather every piece of evidence necessary to determine who was at fault for your injury.
• Immediately send out letters of legal representation. Once our law firm represents you, we will inform creditors, insurance brokers, and others that we are your lawyers.
• Quickly and aggressively negotiate a settlement or file a lawsuit. Our firm prepares each case as if it is going to court. However, most cases end with a motor vehicle accident settlement. If our firm is not able to reach a proper settlement for you, our dedicated accident lawyers will be ready to put forth a strong personal injury case before the jury.
• Regularly update you on the status of your case. You will get to know the members of our law firm well. As your lawyers, it is our job to make sure your case keeps moving forward and is handled fast, within the time the law allows. We pride ourselves on handling our client’s cases swiftly while keeping the lines of communication open; a lawyer will keep you regularly informed as to the progress of your case.

Identifying Injuries Sustained in the Accident

After your collision, you likely went to the hospital if you were injured. If you haven’t seen a doctor yet, it is imperative to do so as soon as possible. Some victims might write off stiffness, soreness, or a little pain as “normal” after a motor vehicle accident when in reality, they actually have suffered whiplash, a concussion, or other serious injuries that require medical attention. There are other injuries sustained in vehicle accidents, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding that may not become apparent for days after the crash.

A medical professional will provide official documentation of your injuries caused by the car accident. This documentation is important when you list your injuries in your claim for compensation. The greater the severity of your injuries, the more compensation you may be entitled to receive.

The following injuries are commonly sustained by victims of motor vehicle accidents in Hartford, Connecticut:

• Back and spinal damage
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Burns
• Amputations
• Broken or fractured bones
• Organ damage
• Internal bleeding
• Death

Contact a Lawyer at Gould Personal Injury Law Firm Today

At our personal injury law firm, we care about the residents of Hartford, Connecticut. The skilled and aggressive members of our “fast firm” will work hard to ensure you get the financial compensation you are due after your car accident.

Call 888-WIN-FAST to schedule your initial free consultation. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis. This means that our attorneys at law don’t get paid until you get paid for your settlement. If your claim isn’t successful, you don’t owe us a cent.

Motor vehicle accidents can not only disrupt lives but leave victims with life-altering injuries. Put a knowledgeable, compassionate, and dedicated team of legal advocates on your side today. The sooner you contact us for your free consultation, the sooner a personal injury lawyer can get started working on your case.

It’s impossible for words to capture the emotions involved when facing the loss of a loved one in death. Litigation may be the last thing on your mind. But if one of your family members has suffered a wrongful death, you need legal help from an experienced wrongful death lawyer. Gould Injury Law can help you get the justice that you and your family deserve as fast as possible.

Gould Injury Law has been helping the residents of Hartford, CT, successfully litigate wrongful death lawsuits and claims since 2012. We take time to understand you and your family’s unique case and how the death of your loved one has affected you. We sincerely want to understand your story.

Our Hartford personal injury lawyers will work tirelessly for you, building the strongest case possible. You will obtain maximum compensation to cover medical bills, funeral arrangements, lost income, and other costs that have come up as a result of your tragedy. Call Gould Injury Law today at 1-888-WIN-FAST to learn about your options.

How Do You Know If You Have Grounds for a Wrongful Death Case?

A wrongful death suit can be filed for any number of causes where someone else’s carelessness led to an unexpected death. This might have involved a car accident, medical malpractice, mistreatment, abandonment by a caregiver, failure to maintain equipment that contributed to personal injury, defective or dangerous products, diseases traced back to a known and specific cause, or any other case where someone’s misconduct cost your loved one his or her life.

Who can file a wrongful death claim? In Connecticut, this type of claim must be filed by the executor or administrator of the deceased person’s estate. What if your loved one died without making an estate plan? Then the court may appoint an executor.

In Harford, CT, executors are usually immediate family members—the spouse, parents, or children of the deceased. In exceptional cases, siblings and other relatives may be able to file a claim.

If you are seeking justice for a loved one’s wrongful death, you must know that you bear the burden of proving that the other party was negligent or even reckless leading to loss of life. Wrongful death cases can be challenging to prove. That’s why you need a legal team that knows personal injury and wrongful death cases inside and out.

The wrongful death attorneys at Gould Injury Law can work with you to see if you have solid grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. We understand that compensated damages won’t return your family member to you. But many people find that they get a sense of closure when guilty parties are held to account and the costs incurred from their relative’s passing are covered.

Please ask yourself, ‘Would compensation for the neglect that caused my loved one’s death help my family navigate the grieving process? Would getting help with funeral expenses, medical bills, and other costs help reduce our anxiety, giving us time and energy to heal?’

If you answered yes to the above questions, we strongly believe we can help you. Let Gould Injury Law work with you to build the strongest case possible and get a favorable outcome that will help your family–fast!

How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Hartford, CT?

The state of Connecticut allows for wrongful death claims to be filed within two years of the death of your loved one. This defined time frame means that you must act fast and that you need a lawyer who will do the same.

Don’t miss out on receiving the compensation that you and your family deserve. At Gould Injury Law, we pride ourselves on getting cases settled as fast as possible. Start the process today by connecting with a wrongful death law firm that prioritizes you and your best interests. Call us at 1-888-WIN-FAST today.

What Kind of Compensation Can You Expect?

Wrongful death cases hinge on being able to clearly prove that another person’s negligence or recklessness led to events resulting in the passing of your family member. By helping you prove that your deceased loved one was the victim of someone else’s neglect, you may be able to recover damages for the following:

• Pain and suffering
• Loss of income, both present and future
• Loss of support that the deceased would have provided
• Loss of enjoyment of life activities</li
• Medical bills incurred prior to the death
• Funeral expenses
• Loss of companionship

The above list is not meant to be exhaustive. And how could it be? There are countless costs related to the loss of your loved one that could never be measured in dollars and cents. While monetary restitution cannot resolve your emotional loss, it is worth your time and energy to recover these damages. Why?

Many people who have suffered a similar loss are surprised at the financial burden incurred upon the death of a loved one. These bills should be the least of your worries. Instead, leave the work to recover these costs to a lawyer and afford your family time to focus on healing. Take a look at some of our recent case results to get an idea of what kind of compensation you could expect from your wrongful death claim.

To maximize your compensation, you need a legal team that knows Connecticut state law. For example, Connecticut General Statutes declare that if your loved one was the victim of a car accident in Hartford, double or triple damages could be awarded if the other driver deliberately violated traffic laws.

Hartford has been nicknamed the “Insurance Capital of the World,” and with good reason. The many aggressive insurance companies in the area will try to pressure you into settling out of court. They don’t want you to get legal representation, because they’d rather give you less money than you’re worth.

Navigating the legal system can be intimidating. It’s necessary to team up with someone who has experience in the field, takes time to understand you, and works diligently to get you the compensation you deserve.

Why Should You Choose Gould Injury Law?

Make no mistake–your choice of representation matters. Your wrongful death attorney should work tirelessly to defend your rights and get you the highest amount of compensation possible. What’s more, a respectful attorney will dignify you and your loss by listening to your concerns and respecting your wishes.

Good law firms are able to do all of the above. But the best law firms do all these things with speed and accuracy, to get you results fast.

We are “The Fast Firm,” Gould Injury Law. Hailing from historic Hartford, we love our city and are passionate about helping our neighbors. We want to help you during this difficult time by committing to settling your case as fast as possible to make sure you are satisfied with the results.

Wrongful death cases are incredibly personal. Your loss means something to you no one else can fully understand. While we cannot comprehend the full intensity of your loss, we do want you to have confidence in your choice of representation.

During your free, no-risk consultation and case assessment, you will get a chance to see how our legal team works. You will be able to see first-hand that our caring, fast-working attorneys are a great fit for your needs.

Winning a wrongful death case demands in-depth knowledge of state law, an understanding of how our country’s judicial system works, and the ability to connect the dots between what happened to your family and the guilty party’s wrongful actions. We have the required experience and toughness to make sure you get the justice you deserve. We will stand by you and fight for you until the job is done.

Reach the faster personal injury attorneys at Gould Injury Law today at 1-888-WIN-FAST today.

If you were injured at work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. The workers’ compensation lawyers at Gould Injury Law in Hartford, Connecticut, have represented many workers in your situation to get what they deserve fast.

If you suffered an injury at work that is costing you medical bills and missed workdays, you need help! If you need to get your compensation fast, you have come to the right place. At Gould Injury Law, we pride ourselves on helping our clients get the results they need as quickly as possible. Our legal team of workers’ compensation lawyers is here to help you.

What is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation (also known as workmen or workmen’s compensation) exists to pay for medical expenses and lost wages when you get injured at work. This may involve a new injury, an illness, or a flareup of an existing condition caused by the work that you perform. Workers’ compensation benefits fill the gap between the time when you are first injured until you can start working again.

However, not all claims are approved. There are many cases of workers’ comp being denied for different reasons. For example, workers’ compensation may try to disprove that the injury occurred at work. If your workers’ comp claim was denied, you need to talk to a Hartford workers’ compensation lawyer who knows the answers to your questions.

Some work-related injuries lead to a long-term condition or disability. Consequently, workers’ compensation benefits may run out before you are able to return to work. If this has happened to you or someone you love, you need legal help from an experienced Hartford, CT, workers’ compensation attorney from Gould Injury Law firm. We aim to get you results as fast as possible. Contact us today for a free consultation on your case with a knowledgeable and caring Hartford personal injury attorney.

Why Your Claim is Worth Fighting For With Workmen Compensation Lawyers

Some employees feel that, out of loyalty to their company, they shouldn’t file a workers’ compensation claim. No matter how loyal an employee you are, though, you still have rights which include the right to compensation for a work-related injury. There is no need to hold back.

At Gould Injury Law, we believe that each client has a claim worth fighting for. We are not intimidated by employers’ insurance companies, and you shouldn’t be either. The Hartford, CT, workers’ compensation lawyers at our law firm are here to fight your battles for you. We want to get you the fast legal results you deserve.

What You Can Claim

A typical workers’ compensation claim should cover medical expenses and lost wages. In addition to these things, depending on the type of injury sustained, you may also be eligible for a “specific loss” payment. Specific loss payments are for the loss of a body part or function, even if you are still able to work after its loss.

What You Should Do If You are Injured at Work

If you are injured at work, you must immediately inform your supervisor or employer and fill out an incident report. Make sure that there is a record of any injury, even if it seems minor at the time. When you receive medical treatment, it will initially be from an employer-designated physician. Only after that initial treatment may you select a different attending physician and continue to have your treatment covered under your workers’ compensation benefits.

It’s important to know your legal rights. That’s why a personal injury attorney can help you to know what to do in the aftermath of an injury. At Gould Injury Law, we want to help you recover from your injury as fast as possible.

Why You May Need To Appeal With the Help of a Workmen Compensation Lawyer

Connecticut workers’ compensation laws make it clear that the responsibility of covering medical bills and lost wages connected to a work-related injury lies with the employer. Unfortunately, not all employers or insurance companies are willing to pay without a fight. If your claim is denied, you may need to appeal this decision before you can get the benefits you deserve.

Also, if your payments stop before you are able to go back to work, you must defend your rights. You need someone who will fight for you fast, like Gould Injury Law. We are here to aggressively defend the residents of Hartford, CT, to get each of you the protection and compensation you need as fast as possible.

Have Peace of Mind With a Hartford, CT, Workers’ Compensation Lawyer on Your Side

The workers’ compensation attorneys at Gould Injury Law firm believe that every employee has the right to feel safe at work. If you have been injured on the job, you have a right to be compensated for your medical bills and lost wages. Workers’ compensation benefits are in place to help do just that–to protect Connecticut employees from workplace injury-related medical expenses.

After a workplace injury, you may be worried about losing your job or spending more in fighting for compensation than you would gain in benefits. Meanwhile, your employer may give you the impression that the only way to be a loyal employee is to settle for less than you deserve. If your employer or your employer’s insurance company is refusing to pay you workers’ compensation benefits, you need a workers’ compensation lawyer who can stand up for what’s right on your behalf.

Don’t let intimidation or the fear of losing money stop you from pursuing what is rightfully yours. At Gould Injury Law in Hartford, CT, our workers’ compensation lawyers operate on a contingency basis, meaning that we only get paid if we win your claim. We are known for our aggressive representation which can get you fast results. Contact us today to get started on your Hartford, CT, workers’ compensation case.

Trucks, trailers, and tractor-trailers are essential in our nation’s supply chain. But, when
commercial truck drivers or trucking companies put profits first, above other road users’ safety, it
puts all at risk.

As a result, accidents can happen. If you or a loved one has been in a truck accident in
Hartford, you need a highly-skilled truck accident lawyer in Hartford, CT, who can work fast to
get you fair compensation.

At Gould Injury Law, every truck accident lawyer is familiar with the nuances and technicalities
of a truck accident. And this matters. Each of us is dedicated to providing fast results and knows
how to help you get your compensation quickly.

Gould Injury Law has a great track record of helping clients get their claims settled fast. Let our
truck accident lawyers do the same for you. Get in touch with us today at 888-WIN-FAST to
schedule a free consultation and discuss your case.

What’s Expected of Commercial Truck Drivers on the Roads?

Most truckers are commercial drivers, working for at least one trucking company. As a result, every commercial driver is held to higher roadway standards. He or she is expected to adhere to and utilize all safety precautions while behind the wheel.

When truck drivers ignore these safe road usage directives, the consequences can be severe for them and their victims. Unfortunately, accidents between 18-wheelers and similar or smaller vehicles are hardly mild. If anything, they’re ghastly and, in many cases, fatal.

Major Causes of Truck Accidents in Hartford, CT

Large commercial trucks and tractor-trailers are big machines. Their build is quite different from that of an average private or commercial vehicle. This means that only qualified individuals are expected to drive and given the license to drive these commercial vehicles.

As a rule, truck drivers are mandated by federal and state laws to be extra careful on inner-city roads, highways, and interstate routes.

Every truck driver is required to follow a set of driving rules that’s stricter than that of other road users. Unfortunately, not all commercial and regular truck drivers adhere to these guidelines. This usually results in truck accidents that cause significant personal injury.

But, the main causes of these accidents include:

• Distracted driving–For example: texting, phone calls, eating, looking for something, using CB radio, and fiddling with controls
• Excessive speeding
• Poor road design–This particularly applies to Hartford’s roads and other roadways across the state, which are often found to be badly designed
• Overall rashness behind the wheel
• Bad driving habits –Locals are known for either driving too slow or too fast; tailgating is also a common occurrence in Hartford, CT, which drastically increases the chances of people getting in an accident
• Driving under the influence of illicit drugs, alcohol, and/or prescription meds
• Driving while fatigued–Also known as drowsy driving
• Poor maintenance routines for the trucks–Resulting in weak parts causing failure
• Truck driver sleeping behind the wheel
• Brake failure
• Not adhering to the required hours of service–This can be the fault of the trucking company or truck driver
• Sudden illness while driving–Such as a stroke or heart attack
• Running stop signs or red lights
• Not yielding to other road users’ right of way
• Not indicating before changing lanes, making turns, or overtaking other vehicles
• Aggressive driving
• Not paying attention to the weather while driving–This may include speeding or driving aggressively during the winter
• Not paying attention to the state of the road

Please note that on the subject of poor road design, Connecticut has many issues. For instance, some of our left-hand exits and lanes aren’t obvious until you’ve nearly passed them. This means motor vehicle drivers suddenly cutting in front of other drivers or braking suddenly to take those exits. While these poorly planned roads are scattered across Connecticut, they’re even more prevalent in Hartford, CT.
Specifically, the stretch dissecting the city has drastically increased the risk of accidents. It’s probably why everyone comments on the erratic drivers of Hartford.

Common Injuries Sustained in Truck Accidents

Trucks can weigh tons. Thus, accidents between trucks and similar-sized or smaller vehicles are usually very serious. In fact, it’s almost impossible for a smaller motor vehicle and its occupants to escape this sort of accident unscathed.

This is probably why truck drivers are involved in about 7.2 percent of all accident fatalities in Connecticut. When trucks are barreling down the highway, it’s not just the speed that’s involved.

It’s a combination of the weight, size, and sheer force that does the damage. A commercial vehicle or truck going 70 miles an hour carries just about the same force as a regular-sized vehicle traveling at nearly 400 miles an hour.

This is why runaway trucks can crush or climb over up to 10 smaller stationary vehicles. It’s also why occupants of smaller vehicles or pedestrians, bikers, and cyclists often either suffer life-threatening injuries or die on impact.

Some more common injuries caused by truck accidents are:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries–These can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis
• Back and hip injuries
• Soft tissue injuries
• Whiplash
• Internal bleeding and damaged organs
• Broken bones
• Head, neck, and shoulder injuries
• Major bruises, cuts, and burns
• Physical disfigurement
• Psychological trauma–Post-traumatic stress syndrome is often common afterward
• Loss of sight and hearing
• Arm and leg injuries

While these injuries are quite common, there are other possible injuries not listed here. Get in touch with Gould Injury Law to speak to a qualified truck accident lawyer in Hartford, CT, if you’ve been in a truck accident.

This is very important even if there’s no sign of personal injury yet. Sometimes, these injuries–whiplash, for instance–don’t show up until later. Our Connecticut truck accident attorneys will make sure that you get the compensation you deserve and the help you need.

Call us today at 888-WIN-FAST to schedule a free consultation and see if you have a case.

What to do Right After a Truck Accident in Hartford, CT

If you or a loved one has been in a truck accident, there are a few crucial steps you must take to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones:

• Call 911 immediately
• Check for any personal injury on yourself and your loved ones
• Try to get yourself and your loved ones to safety–Usually, the side of the road works, unless the truck is carrying flammable materials. In that case, you’ll need to get as far away as possible from the scene. Please look out for other vehicles while you’re trying to get to safety (most of the time, other motorists stop to help when they see an accident)
• Gather and document the evidence–This is not easy after an accident, but it’s important to take videos and photos of the scene
• Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver if you can
• Get yourself and/or your loved one(s) to the hospital–Emergency services will typically assist with this
• Say nothing to anyone unless you want them to find something or someone important at the scene
• Call the experienced truck accident lawyers in Hartford, CT, at Gould Injury Law
• Don’t speak to an insurance adjuster or company until your truck accident attorney is present

We understand that doing some or any of these things might be hard. Still, it’s vital to take as many of these steps as possible. If you’re able to check all of the above off your list, it’ll dramatically increase your chances of getting your compensation sooner.

Bills tend to pile up quickly while you’re in the hospital. And even when you have extensive health insurance, it may not be enough to cover everything, which means you may have to pay out of pocket. This isn’t something you want to deal with while you and your loved ones are healing. You should focus on getting better, instead of worrying about your medical bills.

Instead, let the truck accident lawyers at Gould Injury Law handle this for you. Robert Gould is a seasoned personal injury and truck crash lawyer with a reputation for delivering fast results to truck accident clients in Hartford and the state of Connecticut.

Call Gould Injury Law at 888-WIN-FAST to schedule a free consultation and have us represent you.

What if You Lost a Loved One in a Truck Accident?

Truck accidents are usually catastrophic and often fatal. Losing a loved one is never easy, and when it’s caused by a truck crash, it can be particularly heart-wrenching and emotionally destabilizing.

If your loved one was killed in a truck accident, you have the opportunity to pursue justice and compensation. You’ll have to file a wrongful death claim which will allow you to recover any financial losses incurred.

In Connecticut, the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate must file the lawsuit. If no executor or administrator was named before the death occurred, then the court will decide who will serve in that role. From there, the executor of the estate files a wrongful death suit on behalf of the relatives of the deceased person. If the crash was attributed to the commercial driver’s negligence, this suit is likely to be filed against the truck driver or even possibly also all the trucking companies that the driver works for.

Going through this process as a family can be particularly tough while grieving, but it’s best to get started as soon as possible in ensuring that your loved one did not die in vain.

Gould Injury Law’s truck accident attorneys in Hartford, CT, can help you take care of this while you grieve. We offer experienced legal guidance and representation designed to ensure that you get both the financial compensation and justice you want while focusing on yourself and your family during this difficult time.

Who is Liable in a Commercial Truck Accident in Hartford, CT?

Accidents involving trucks can be complex. This is because there are usually many factors and entities involved.

When we take on truck collision cases at Gould Injury Law, we first conduct a comprehensive analysis of the people who could be responsible for you or your loved one’s pain and suffering.

The entities likely to be held liable include:

• The truck driver
• The trucking companies–These entities play a role in determining the worker’s state of mind, health, and schedule
• The truck’s owner–Which can be different from the trucking company
• The trucking company or entity responsible for loading the truck
• Auto repair professionals who handle the truck’s maintenance
• Other drivers at the scene of the accident
• Manufacturer of faulty commercial vehicle parts–If it’s established that the accident was caused by a faulty part
• Haulage or the trucking company’s schedule

Finding the people or organizations responsible for the accident is what we do here at Gould Injury Law. Once we identify these entities, we’ll then quickly bring an action against them on your behalf.

What Can You Do if You’re in an Accident with an Out-of-Towner?

Connecticut’s highways are a common transit route for drivers in New England. Since the state is conveniently located between NYC and Boston, you can be sure that there’s a lot of out-of-town traffic and drivers.

The state is home to three major highways:

• Interstate 84 (I-84)–Cuts through Hartford and connects with I-91
• Interstate 91 (I-91)–Connects to New Haven and Hartford
• Interstate 95 (I-95)–One of the most-trafficked highways in the US

If you take one or more of these routes daily, you’re likely to get in an accident with trucks that are passing through.

Accidents involving out-of-state commercial vehicles tend to be more complicated than those involving local drivers. This means that you may experience delays in getting your compensation if you get in an accident with these drivers.

This is why you need a fast-paced truck accident lawyer to handle your truck accident claims. Robert Gould of Gould Injury Law works quickly and is an experienced truck accident lawyer who understands the complicated nature of these cases and will help bring them to a favorable conclusion. His entire legal team shares the same values and is waiting to receive your call.

Is the Legal Process for Truck Accidents the same as Car Accidents?

While regular vehicles and trucks are both automotive vehicles, the processes involved in claiming compensation and justice for accidents are different between the two.

Truck accident claims are way more complex. Here’s why:

• Injuries are usually more severe–The medical costs will be higher, so the insurance companies are even more likely to aggressively fight compensation claims
• The nature of the negligence–Truck accidents caused by driver’s negligence are often linked to sleep deprivation, medication, and poor driver training
• Federal and state laws
• Mechanical problems–Brake failure, truck overturning, sudden jackknifing, excess weight, and so on
• The number of entities involved–Truck accident cases are hardly ever linear; there’s usually more than one party to sue

These issues are hardly ever present in regular vehicle collisions and are best handled by an experienced, aggressive truck accident attorney at Gould Injury Law.

How Gould Injury Law Can Help You

Truck accident claims take time. It’s not unusual to have a case take a year or more to be fully resolved. However, Gould Injury Law works faster than the other guys because we know how to get the job done efficiently without cutting any “essential” corners.

Are you wondering how much compensation can you get? This depends on many factors including:

Loss of life–In this case, you may need to bring a wrongful death damage claim
Total cost medical treatment and projected cost of possible future medical costs
Pain and suffering
Loss of income and wages (present and future)
Damages to your car or property
Impact of the accident on the victim’s life–More specifically, considerations about disability
The truth is: The complex nature of truck accidents requires the services of lawyers with specific expertise in the field. You need truck accident lawyers like Gould Injury Law. We’re highly accomplished and reputable truck accident attorneys in Hartford, CT.

Our priority is to make sure that you receive what you deserve as quickly as possible. But we’re also mindful of the complexity of each case. Therefore, we probably wouldn’t advise you to take the insurance company’s first offer.

Why? Because the initial offers from insurance companies are usually far less than what you’re entitled to. Just because we want to get your claim settled quickly doesn’t mean that we’ll settle for a payout that’s less than what you should get.

When you come to us, we’ll weigh all the factors, give you a realistic timeframe along with honest legal advice and representation. Let experienced truck accident attorney Robert Gould and his legal team help you today. Call Gould Injury Law at 888-WIN-FAST to schedule a free consultation.

Dog ownership is on the rise, and with good reason, dog’s provide unconditional love, reduce loneliness and increase activity level of owners, leading to positive health benefits. Of course a lot of children love dogs, begging parents for a puppy is almost a right of passage in America. The 2019-2020 American Pet Products Association survey reveals that 63.4 million households own at least one dog. While there are many positive benefits to dog ownership, there are also legal responsibilities required of a dog owner. Responsible dog owners are aware of the specific state laws and regarding dog ownership and follow them.

Unfortunately, even responsible animal owners can have an accident with their dog and be liable for damages. The American Humane Society reports over 4.5 million Americans are bitten by a dog every year, and half of those attacked are children. Tragically, in the years between 2005 and 2019, there were 521 fatalities due to dog attacks.

A Connecticut dog bite lawyer can help victims of an animal attack and those who suffer dog bite injuries by filing a Connecticut personal injury claim. A Hartford, CT dog bite attorney can help victims of a dog attack recover compensation for the damage a dog causes.

Gould Injury Law is an experienced law firm of skilled attorneys ready to help Hartford dog bite victims recover the financial compensation they deserve. Robert Gould and his team of attorneys fight hard for children and adults who have been bitten or attacked by an animal. With over 20 years experience in personal injury law, Robert Gould settles cases quickly for the maximum value possible. If you have suffered a dog bite personal injury in the state of Connecticut, the dog bite lawyers at Gould Injury Law can help. For a free consultation call 888-WIN-FAST.

Connecticut Dog Ownership Regulations

Dog laws in Connecticut are in place to regulate the actions of dog owners, keep the public safe, and protect animals. Preventing dog attacks is the goal of the Hartford Animal Control Unit. The Animal Control Unit is responsible for investigations regarding property damage, attacks, and nuisance dog complaints against the owner of a dog. The Animal Control Unit also investigates complaints of a dog owner’s cruelty or neglect.

Whether you own a dog in Hartford, New London or any other city in Connecticut, the basic regulations regarding dog ownership are the same.

• Dogs over six months old must be licensed in the town or city they will be kept in.
• Dogs three months of age and older must be vaccinated against rabies. Rabies vaccinations must be kept current.
• Dogs must be in control of the owner or keeper at all times. Dogs are not allowed to run free.

If observed, these basic Connecticut dog regulations lower the incidents of dog attacks, dog bites, and property damage in Hartford and throughout Connecticut.

If you have been injured by a dog running free, in violation of Connecticut legal statute, contact Gould Injury Law as soon as possible. The Connecticut dog bite attorneys at Gould can help you recover damages even if the dog was let loose by accident. To start the compensation recovery process, call today. 888-WIN-FAST.

Connecticut Dog Bite And Attack Injuries

Personal injury from dog attacks and bites vary in their severity and seriousness. All dog bites need to be reported to authorities even if the bite doesn’t appear to require medical treatment. Damage from a bite may not appear immediately and it is recommended that any bite from a dog be seen by a health care provider to minimize future complications.

Individuals attacked by a dog are often knocked to the ground, especially if the victims are children, and serious injuries can occur even if the child isn’t bitten. Dog owners are liable for all damages and injuries caused by their dog regardless if the injured person is actually bitten in the attack.

Common dog bite injuries and dog attack injuries include but are not limited to:

• Puncture wounds
• Bone fractures
• Avulsion, muscle and or skin that is torn away from the body
• Lacerations, cuts to the skin
• Abrasions, removal of the top layer of skin
• Traumatic Brain Injury, mild or severe concussion

The damage caused to a victim of an animal attack, whether or not they were actually bitten, can be extensive with long-term negative consequences.
Injuries from a dog attack and dog bites can lead to:

1. Infection. Infections can happen from dog bites and scratches. Infections can cause very serious illnesses like rabies, tetanus, and sepsis. All of which, if left untreated, can lead to death.
2. Loss of Body Parts. Severe avulsions from a dog attack can sever ears, fingers, toes resulting in permanent deformity and disability.
3. Scarring. Lacerations and abrasions often leave scarring. Some scarring from a dog bite may be temporary in nature while other, more severe injuries will leave permanent disfiguring scars. Most traumatically, scarring often occurs on the face of the victim.
4. Brain Damage. Brain damage can occur in adults and children who are knocked to the ground by a dog and hit their head on a hard surface. Brain damage can lead to memory loss, chronic headaches, seizures, coma, vertigo, blood vessel damage etc.

Dog bites and dog attacks have the potential to cause extremely serious and long-lasting personal injury. A Connecticut dog bite lawyer can help you recover damages if you or a loved one have been bit by a dog in an attack. Dog bite injuries of any kind should be seen by a medical professional immediately for assessment and medical treatment and then injured victims should contact an attorney.

The Hartford, Connecticut dog bite lawyer, Gould Injury Law offers a free consultation to dog bite victims. If you or a loved one have been injured by a dog bite you may be entitled to damages including but not limited to medical bills, pain and suffering, and other medical expenses. Insurance company negotiation, gathering evidence of pain and suffering and filing a your claim are just a few of the ways the legal dog bite team at Gould Injury Law can help you or a loved one. Call for a free consultation 888-WIN-FAST.

Connecticut Dog Bite Liability

Connecticut dog bite statutes operate under strict liability. In the state of Connecticut, strict liability means that subject to certain exceptions, a dog’s owner or keeper is liable for any personal injury or property damage their dog causes. According to Connecticut law, a victim injured by a dog does not need to prove negligence or that the owner knew the dog was vicious in order to seek compensation for medical treatment, etc.

Personal injury compensation for a victim bit by a dog can also be sought through common law negligence. In these cases proof of negligence or knowledge of dog aggression by the owner is required. Common law is best pursued using the services of a Hartford personal injury lawyer or attorney with experience.

Liability for damage caused by a dog is always on the owner except in cases where the victim had no legal reason for being on the property, such as trespassing, teasing or tormenting the dog, or engaged in any other illegal pursuit.

A defendant’s home owners insurance policy may cover all or part of damages depending on the severity of the dog bites and insurance limits. A lawyer or team of attorneys can often negotiate with insurance companies to increase the amount of compensation a victim receives.

Hartford residents seeking compensation for their injuries can contact a Connecticut dog bite lawyer at Gould Injury Law. Working on a contingency fee basis, you don’t pay unless you win compensation for your injuries. Contact a Gould lawyer for a free consultation if you have injuries from being attacked by a dog.

Find Legal Help Fast With a Lawyer at Gould Injury Law

Following your injury, the financial stress, emotional pain, and mental anguish is a lot to handle on your own. You want to recover quickly, and we want this for you too. We feel that you should not have to continue to suffer after your accident. When you need a Connecticut workers’ compensation attorney, you need Gould Injury Law. Our workers’ compensation lawyers will use our experience to help you obtain the legal benefits you have worked so hard for. The strength and determination of our law firm will be behind your personal injury case. We will get you fast and satisfying results. Call our workers’ compensation attorneys at 888-WIN-FAST or fill out the online form for a free consultation and helpful legal advice.