Category: Personal Injury

How Long Traffic Camera Footage is Kept

By Mitchell Rogers Injury Law, Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyers Traffic camera footage can be a powerful piece of evidence in legal proceedings. Whether you’re handling a car crash claim, a traffic violation defense, or a criminal matter involving a roadway, being able to retrieve footage quickly can drastically change the trajectory of a case. […]

What You Need to Know About Dirt Bike Laws

By Reiff Law Firm, Bethlehem Car Accident Lawyers Dirt bikes are lightweight, powerful machines built for thrills, not traffic laws. That’s fine when they stay on the trails—but when riders venture onto streets, private property, or get injured in avoidable crashes, the legal consequences can get complicated fast. From regulatory compliance to landowner immunity and […]

Understanding Liability: Are You Responsible for Your Dog’s Actions?

Owning a dog is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with significant responsibilities. Beyond providing proper care, training, and a loving home, dog owners must also be aware of the legal implications of their pet’s actions. If your dog injures someone or damages property, you could be held liable. Understanding your legal responsibilities can […]

Best Training Techniques to Reduce Dog Bite Risks

Dog bites can result in serious injuries, emotional distress, and even legal disputes. While responsible pet ownership plays a significant role in preventing dog attacks, proper training is one of the most effective ways to reduce bite risks. Training helps dogs develop positive behaviors, improves their socialization skills, and minimizes aggressive tendencies. Whether you are […]

The 7 Most Common Types of Personal Injury Cases

Getting injured unexpectedly can turn your life upside down instantly, especially when it wasn’t your fault. If you are feeling overwhelmed dealing with medical bills, time off work, or long-term effects from an accident, you might be wondering whether you have legal options. From car accidents to medical mistakes, personal injury law holds individuals and organizations accountable when their negligence causes harm. Below is a breakdown of the seven most common types of personal injury cases:
1. Car Accidents
This is by far the most common type of personal injury case. Whether it is a fender-bender or a more serious crash, if someone was driving carelessly and caused injuries, you might have a case. Insurance typically comes into play, but getting fair compensation is not always a simple process.
2. Slip and Fall Accidents
These cases fall under premises liability. If someone slips on a wet floor in a store, trips over uneven pavement, or falls because a property was not maintained properly, the owner may be held responsible. It depends on whether they knew, or should have known, about the danger.
3. Medical Malpractice
Unfortunately, sometimes mistakes can occur when we receive medical care. Medical malpractice cases can involve misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication mistakes, or neglect. These cases are complex and often require expert testimony.
4. Dog Bites
In many states, dog owners are legally responsible if their dog bites someone, especially if the dog has a history of aggression. Even if it’s the first time the dog has bitten anyone, the owner may still be liable, depending on local laws.
5. Workplace Accidents
If you get injured on the job, you generally turn to workers’ compensation rather than filing a lawsuit. But there are exceptions, especially if a third party caused the injury. For instance, a delivery driver injured in a car crash while working may have a claim against the at-fault driver and workers’ comp.
6. Product Liability
If a defective product injures you, like a faulty airbag, a dangerous toy, or even contaminated food, the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer could be held responsible. These cases often require a thorough investigation to prove the product was defective and caused the injury.
7. Wrongful Death
When someone dies because of another person’s negligence, such as in a car accident, medical procedure, or other situation, the family may be able to file a wrongful death claim. These cases seek compensation for things including lost income, funeral expenses, and emotional suffering.
Final Thoughts
Facing an injury is difficult enough without the added stress of wondering what to do next. Understanding the most common types of personal injury cases can give you a clearer picture of your rights and whether you might be entitled to compensation. Remember, every case is unique, and even minor injuries can have lasting consequences. If you suspect someone else’s actions contributed to your injury, speaking with a skilled personal injury attorney can help you get clarity about your next steps.

Proportional Fault Indemnification Provisions Held Enforceable in Alabama

The Alabama Supreme Court found that an indemnification provision was enforceable that required a subcontractor to indemnify a general contractor on a proportional-fault basis against liability for death or personal injury. 
JohnsonKreis Construction Company, Inc. subcontracted with Howard Painting, Inc. to perform work on a hotel project in Birmingham, Alabama. The subcontract included an indemnification provision that required Howard to indemnify JohnsonKreis for “personal injury, death […] and/or property damage arising out of or related to Subcontractor’s […] negligence or fault […] but only to the proportional extent of Subcontractor’s responsibility for same.” The subcontract also required Howard to name JohnsonKreis as an additional insured. During the project, an employee of one of Howard’s subcontractors died after falling from a window on an upper floor of the hotel. The deceased employee’s estate filed a lawsuit against JohnsonKreis and Howard.
Disputes arose between Howard and JohnsonKreis regarding the scope of indemnity and coverage. JohnsonKreis and its insurer sued Howard and its insurer for breach of the subcontract for various claims, including (a) failing to comply with safety protocols, (b) failing to comply with stated insurance requirements (which included naming JohnsonKreis as an additional insured), (c) bad faith against Howard’s insurer, and (d) subrogation/contribution. 
Howard argued in its motion for summary judgment that JohnsonKreis was not entitled to indemnification because Alabama does not permit the apportionment of damages among joint and several tortfeasors. The trial court agreed with Howard’s argument and entered summary judgment in its favor.
JohnsonKreis and its insurers appealed. The Alabama Supreme Court held that the subcontract’s proportional indemnification provision was valid and enforceable and reversed the trial court. Specifically, the court explained:
It is true, as [Howard] argues, that the damages available on a wrongful-death claim under Alabama law are punitive in nature and that a wrongful-death plaintiff is entitled to a single recovery that “cannot be apportioned [by a jury] among joint tort-feasors,” i.e., neither Alabama’s wrongful-death statute, see § 6-5-410, Ala. Code 1975, nor our common law provides for indemnity or contribution in a wrongful-death case. Tatum v. Schering Corp., 523 So. 2d 1042, 1045 (Ala. 1988). However, this is not a wrongful-death case — it is a contractual dispute based on the language of a particular subcontract agreement — and that general rule may be altered by an indemnification agreement between the parties. See Holcim (US), Inc. v. Ohio Cas. Ins. Co., 38 So. 3d 722, 728 n.1 (Ala. 2009) (“Here, the indemnity agreement is part of a contractual relationship between two parties, and the dispute between them is not one of a claimant and a tortfeasor.”). Specifically, as we most recently reiterated in Mobile Infirmary Ass’n v. Quest Diagnostics Clinical Laboratories, Inc., 381 So. 3d 1133 (Ala. 2023), this Court has recognized that “parties may enter into agreements that allow an indemnitee to recover from the indemnitor even for claims resulting solely from the negligence of the indemnitee,” i.e., this Court has recognized that parties may freely reach “a contractual agreement providing a form of otherwise barred joint-tortfeasor contribution.” 381 So. 3d at 1141. See also Holcim, 38 So. 3d at 729 (“[I]f two parties agree that the respective liability of the parties will be determined by some type of agreed-upon formula, then Alabama law will permit the enforcement of that agreement as written.”), and Parker Towing Co. v. Triangle Aggregates, Inc., 143 So. 3d 159, 167 (Ala. 2013) (“The general rule in Alabama is that, in the absence of a statutory or contractual basis otherwise, there is no contribution or indemnity among joint tortfeasors.” (emphasis added)). Cf. Industrial Tile, Inc. v. Stewart, 388 So. 2d 171, 176 (Ala. 1980) (“[I]f the parties enter into an agreement whereby one party agrees to indemnify the other, including indemnity against the indemnitee’s own wrongs, if expressed in clear and unequivocal language, then such agreements will be upheld.”). In fact, in Mobile Infirmary, supra, the main opinion specifically referenced the legality and the enforceability of an agreement requiring “that each party was required to indemnify the other for any proportional share of fault in the case of potential joint liability” — almost the exact language included in the subcontract agreement at issue in this case. 381 So. 3d at 1143.
Thus, the subcontract agreement, to the extent that it required Howard to indemnify JohnsonKreis against liability for personal injury or death occurring on the project site to the proportional extent of Howard’s responsibility for such injury and death, appears, contrary to the trial court’s sole finding, to have been valid and enforceable under Alabama law. Accordingly, the trial court’s decision is due to be reversed.

The Alabama Supreme Court remanded the case to the trial court for further proceedings. A copy of the court’s entire decision can be found here.
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Tragic House Fire and Explosions in Trenton, NJ: What You Need to Know

In the early hours of Wednesday, April 30, 2025, a devastating house fire in Trenton, New Jersey, left five people injured and caused nearby evacuations after loud explosions were heard from the scene. The fire and subsequent explosions have raised significant concerns about the safety of the neighborhood and the immediate aftermath of such a tragic event. Here’s a closer look at what happened, the aftermath, and the legal options available for victims of such devastating incidents.
The Incident in Trenton
At approximately 1 a.m., neighbors near Boudinot Street and Murray Street were awakened by the sounds of loud explosions and the sight of a blazing fire. Firefighters rushed to the scene to contain the fire, which had started in a duplex home and quickly spread, heavily damaging the neighboring house. According to reports, one male victim suffered severe burns to his face, and four other people were hospitalized, though their injuries were not considered life-threatening.
The explosion, as captured in eyewitness videos, added a frightening element to an already tragic situation. While the exact cause of the fire and explosions remains unclear, the aftermath left neighbors in shock, with some expressing fear that the fire might spread further, fueled by the wind. Fortunately, firefighters were able to contain the blaze before it could cause more widespread damage .
The Impact on the Community
The explosion and fire not only affected the victims directly involved but also caused widespread disruption for the surrounding community. Trenton Police went door-to-door evacuating nearby residents, ensuring their safety from the growing danger posed by the fire. A nearby resident, described his emotional state after the incident, stating, “Emotional still. Scared. I’ve never experienced anything like that.” This testimony highlights the trauma that often accompanies such disasters, not only for the victims but also for the wider community affected by the destruction.
In addition to the physical injuries sustained by the victims, the fire has also caused significant emotional and psychological distress for both the victims and the witnesses. The fear of further explosions, the potential for the fire to spread, and the loss of homes and belongings can all take a long-term toll on the affected individuals.
What Caused the Fire?
As of now, the cause of the fire and the explosions remains under investigation. Various factors, including possible gas leaks or faulty electrical wiring, could have contributed to the blasts heard during the incident. However, until authorities complete their investigation, it’s impossible to say for sure what caused the explosions that escalated the fire so quickly.
While we await further information, it’s crucial for all homeowners and renters to take proactive steps in ensuring their homes are safe from fire hazards. Regular maintenance of electrical systems, heating systems, and gas lines can significantly reduce the risk of house fires. Additionally, ensuring that fire safety measures, such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers, are in place and working can save lives during such emergencies.
Legal Options for Victims
In the wake of such a tragic event, it’s essential to understand the legal rights of the victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been injured in a house fire or explosion caused by negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other related damages. In this case, several legal options may be available to the victims:
1.Personal Injury Lawsuits
Victims who sustain injuries in accidents like house fires and explosions may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit. Depending on the cause of the fire, the responsible parties could include landlords, utility companies, or other third parties. For instance, if faulty wiring or gas lines caused the fire, the company responsible for installing or maintaining those systems could be held liable.
2.Insurance Claims
In addition to pursuing legal action, victims should also contact their insurance providers to report the damage to their property and personal injuries. Depending on the specifics of the case, homeowners’ insurance or renters’ insurance may cover certain types of damages. However, insurance policies can be complex, and it’s important to understand what is covered and what isn’t.

Strategic Steps Post-Accident: Leveraging Medical Treatment for Legal Advantage

When you’re involved in a car accident, the immediate aftermath is often a whirlwind of stress, confusion, and adrenaline. In these moments, many people ask themselves whether they should go to the hospital after a car accident. The answer is a resounding yes—and not just for your health. Seeking medical attention immediately after an accident […]

Top 3 Reasons You Need a Maritime Lawyer After a Boating Injury in Hampton Roads

Lukas from Pexels A day on the waters of Hampton Roads can quickly turn serious if a boating accident occurs. Injuries sustained on navigable waters often fall under a complex web of federal and state laws known as maritime law (also called admiralty law). This differs significantly from standard personal injury law applicable to land-based […]

The Role of Demand Letters in Car Accident Settlements: What Victims Need to Know

When you’re involved in a car accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Beyond physical injuries, there’s the financial strain of medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost income. In such situations, a car accident demand letter plays a pivotal role in securing fair compensation. Whether you’re handling the claim independently or with the assistance of a […]