The Link Between TBI and Mental Health

The Connection Between Mental Health and Traumatic Brain Injury Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant public health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. While TBIs are often associated with physical impairments, their impact on mental health is equally profound. A growing body of research highlights the strong connection between TBIs and a wide range … Read more

What Should I Do If I am Injured in Someone Else’s Vehicle?

Being injured in someone else’s vehicle can be a distressing experience, especially if the person is a friend or relative.  However, knowing the proper steps to take can help ensure your health and legal rights are protected. Whether the accident was caused by another driver or the person operating the vehicle you were in, it … Read more

Winter Weather Causes More Personal Injuries

Winter in Alaska brings a unique set of challenges and risks, leading to various personal injuries. It is important to understand how common winter-related injuries occur and how to mitigate them.  Remember, safety is the most important consideration in any winter activity! Common Winter Injuries  There are several types of common winter injuries, including: Slips … Read more

Can I Collect Workers’ Compensation and Unemployment Benefits in Alaska?

In Alaska, workers who are injured on the job or who are unemployed often have questions about whether they can collect both workers’ compensation and unemployment benefits at the same time. While both benefits are designed to provide financial support, they serve different purposes and have different eligibility criteria. Understanding how these benefits work together … Read more

Avoiding Holiday-Related Personal Injuries: Tips for a Safe and Joyful Season

The holiday season is a time for celebration, joy, and togetherness, but it also comes with unique risks that can lead to personal injuries. From decorating mishaps to winter weather accidents, staying mindful of potential dangers can help you avoid injuries and enjoy a safe holiday. Here are some practical tips to keep yourself and … Read more

New Brain Injury Treatments Offer Hope

Recent advancements in brain injury treatment are offering renewed hope for individuals with traumatic brain injuries (TBI). From precision therapies to innovative technologies, researchers are targeting specific causes of brain damage and improving outcomes for patients. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) One groundbreaking approach is the use of deep brain stimulation (DBS) to restore cognitive functions … Read more

Why Are TBIs so Costly?

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) are among the most complex and costly injuries to treat and manage due to the brain’s intricacy, the need for specialized care, and the lifelong implications these injuries often entail. The high costs associated with TBI management stem from several critical factors, including the intensity of acute care, the need for … Read more

Be Careful As Winter Activities Begin!

Winter activities and sports are exhilarating, but they also come with unique risks due to cold temperatures, slippery conditions, and the potential for accidents on ice and snow. Staying safe while enjoying winter sports requires a combination of preparation, proper gear, and awareness of weather and environmental conditions. Here are some tips to help you … Read more

Recovering Compensation in a Hit and Run Case

Recovering compensation in a hit-and-run case can be challenging, but is often achievable when using the right process.  A hit-and-run accident is one in which a driver causes a collision and then leaves the scene without providing contact or insurance information, as legally required. Victims of these accidents may face significant medical bills, property damage, … Read more

Spinal Cord Injuries and Personal Injury Law. A Comprehensive Overview

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are among the most severe and life-altering injuries a person can experience. They often result in long-term or permanent disabilities, such as partial or full paralysis, loss of sensation, and impaired bodily functions. Personal injury law plays a vital role in helping victims of spinal cord injuries seek compensation for their … Read more

Winter Sports Injuries

Alaska, with its expansive wilderness and rugged terrain, is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. From skiing and snowboarding to snowmobiling and ice climbing, the state offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure. However, the exhilarating experiences of winter sports come with inherent risks, and accidents do happen. When they do, personal injury law in Alaska plays … Read more

The Most Difficult Personal Injury Cases

Personal injury law encompasses a broad range of cases, each presenting unique challenges. However, certain types of personal injury cases are considered particularly difficult due to complexities related to proving liability, the severity of injuries, and the legal intricacies involved. Here are some of the most challenging personal injury cases. Product Liability Cases Product liability … Read more

How Personal Injury Lawyers Maximize Settlements

Personal injury lawyers play an important role in helping injured individuals maximize their settlements after an accident or injury caused by another party’s negligence. Their expertise, negotiation skills, and understanding of legal processes empower clients to secure fair compensation for their injuries, damages, and losses. Here is how personal injury lawyers help clients achieve this … Read more

How Alaska Personal Injury Law Affects TBI Claims

Alaska personal injury law encompasses various legal issues related to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).  These laws focus on ensuring that victims receive proper compensation, protection, and support. Understanding the nuances of these laws is important for victims and their families to navigate the legal landscape effectively.  A personal injury lawyer can provide guidance during this … Read more

What Is Involved In Treating Spinal Cord Injuries?

Treatment for spinal cord injuries (SCI) is a complex and evolving field aimed at maximizing recovery and improving quality of life for those affected. Spinal cord injuries can result from various causes, including trauma, diseases, or medical conditions, and the severity of the injury dictates the course of treatment. Immediate Medical Care Immediate medical care … Read more

Car Accident Law and Alaska Personal Injury

In Alaska, personal injury law provides a framework for addressing the legal consequences and compensation associated with vehicular accidents. Understanding this framework is crucial for victims seeking justice and compensation for their injuries and losses.  A personal injury lawyer is often able to help victims of car, motorcycle, truck or RV crashes obtain much more … Read more

Litigating a Large Truck Accident

Truck accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the large size and heavy weight of commercial trucks. Unlike a typical car-to-car collision, an accident with a heavy truck can cause much more serious damage, especially to any drivers or occupants of smaller vehicles. Litigation following such accidents is also typically complex, involving … Read more

Important Considerations for Personal Injury Lawsuits in Alaska

Personal injury lawsuits in Alaska, as in other states, provide a legal avenue for individuals who have been injured due to the negligence or intentional acts of others to seek compensation. These lawsuits cover a wide range of incidents, including car accidents, slip and falls, workers compensation, product liability, and more. The specifics of personal … Read more

The Long-Term Trauma of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are devastating events that can have profound and lasting effects on an individual’s physical, psychological, and social well-being. The long-term effects of SCIs vary widely depending on the severity and location of the injury, but may include motor and sensory deficits, secondary health complications, and significant lifestyle changes. Physical and Neurological … Read more

How Insurance Companies Use Social Media Against Plaintiffs

Attorneys for defendants and insurance companies often utilize social media posts as powerful tools in legal cases, particularly to challenge the credibility and claims of plaintiffs. In personal injury lawsuits, for instance, defense attorneys and insurance company lawyers scrutinize plaintiffs’ social media activity to find evidence that contradicts their claims of injury, pain, and suffering. … Read more

Car Accident Injuries. What You Should Know

Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. Knowing the appropriate steps to take immediately after an accident can help protect your health, legal rights, and financial interests. Here is a detailed guide on what to do if you are injured in a car accident. Immediate Actions at the Scene … Read more

What To Do If You Are Injured At Work

If you are injured at work, taking the right steps promptly is the only way to ensure your safety, receive appropriate medical care, and protect your legal rights. It is also important to understand that your employer, your employer’s insurance company, or both, may not have your best interests in mind when trying to negotiate … Read more

How Personal Injuries Affect Mental Health

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it is time to talk about how personal injury has a huge impact on the mental and emotional life of its victims.  Personal injuries not only inflict physical harm but also profoundly affect an individual’s mental health, often triggering a range of emotional, psychological, and cognitive challenges. Understanding … Read more

The Most Common Problems Associated with SCI

Spinal cord injury (SCI) can result in a wide range of physical, functional, and psychosocial challenges that significantly impact individuals’ lives. The specific effects of SCI depend on the level and severity of the injury, as well as individual factors such as age, pre-existing health conditions, and access to medical care. However, several common problems … Read more

The Most Common Problems Associated with TBI

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a complex condition that can lead to a number of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social challenges. The effects of TBI vary widely depending on the severity, location, and specific circumstances of the injury. However, several common problems are frequently associated with TBI, impacting individuals’ daily functioning, quality of life, and … Read more

Why Should I Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?

Hiring a personal injury attorney can be the most important decision anyone makes following an accident or injury.  Seeking the advice of a personal injury lawyer provides numerous benefits that can significantly impact your case’s outcome and your overall well-being. However, many victims are faced with an insurance company pushing them to settle quickly.  The … Read more

How Brain Injuries Impact Everyday Life

Brain injuries are some of the most devastating personal injuries imaginable.  Even a minor traumatic brain injury, or TBI, can have a significant impact on a person’s everyday life. These injuries can result from falls, car accidents, sports injuries, or medical conditions like strokes. When the brain is injured, it can affect almost every aspect … Read more

Preventing Spinal Cord Injuries

The spinal cord is one of the most important parts of human anatomy, responsible for transmitting messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Spinal cord injuries or SCIs can have severe and lifelong consequences, affecting a person’s mobility as well as organ function. However, many spinal cord injuries are preventable through awareness, … Read more

The Most Common Types of Personal Injury Accidents

Personal injury accidents happen every day, even to people who are normally very careful and cautious.  They happen unexpectedly and can have long-lasting effects on individuals and their families. Understanding the common types of personal injury accidents can help people be more aware of the risks and take precautions to prevent these types of accidents. … Read more

How a Personal Injury Victim Recovers Compensation

When someone is injured due to the negligence of another person or party, the person who was injured may be entitled to receive compensation for damages and losses. This is often done by filing a personal injury claim. It is very important for the person who was injured, and needs help, to understand the steps … Read more

The Lifelong Consequences of Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious medical condition that occurs when a sudden blow or jolt to the head disrupts the normal function of the brain. It can result in a wide range of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social difficulties. TBI can happen to anyone, and its effects can last long after the initial … Read more

Spinal Cord Injuries: Understanding the Impact

The spinal cord is a vital part of our body’s central nervous system. It serves as a messenger, transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Unfortunately, accidents can happen that lead to spinal cord injuries. These injuries can have a profound and lasting impact on a person’s life. In this article, … Read more

Winter Activites Can Be Fun, But Be Careful!

Winter brings with it plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks and hazards that also exist during cold weather. From skiing and snowboarding to ice skating and sledding, there are potential dangers and risks associated with most winter sports. While these recreational pastimes can be thrilling, it is also important to prioritize safety to prevent accidents and injuries.

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Prevent Traumatic Brain Injury From Outdoor Activities

Everyone loves enjoying the summer months with outdoor activities, especially in places where winter is so cold!  However, being outdoors can also pose safety hazards that should not be ignored.  There is often a surge in personal injuries during the summer months as people are outside and more active.  Following some basic safety tips may help to prevent many of these injuries.

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Beat The Heat By Avoiding Summertime Injuries

Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy great activities with friends and family.  Unfortunately, summer is all too often a time when people wind up being injured in a wide range of accidents, as well.  In order to have fun over the summer but also stay safe, it is important to be aware of the most common types of injuries that occur during the warmer months.  Here is a list of summer’s most common injuries and how to avoid them, stay safe, and have a great vacation!

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Why You Need a Personal Injury Attorney for Your Spinal Cord Injury Case

Sometimes experience is the best teacher.  When it comes to some personal injury lawsuits, this is especially true.  There are certain types of personal injury cases that require the services of an experienced lawyer who has already handled a number of similar cases in order to give you the best outcome.  For example, because of their complicated nature, spinal cord injury cases are best handled not only by a personal injury attorney but by one who has experience in working with spinal cord cases in particular.

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How Serious is a Concussion?

A recent injury televised nationally to millions of fans has put the spotlight on concussions as a form of traumatic brain injury, or TBI.  When Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was injured on the field, many people began to ask:  how serious is a concussion?  Is it something to worry about?  Can it cause long-term disability or injury?  The answers to these questions may surprise you, particularly if you have been involved in a slip-and-fall or car accident that involved a mild head injury.

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Spring Thaws Mean Slippery Surfaces

Spring is here once again, and many Alaskans are rejoicing over longer, warmer days and melting snow. However, there are still hazards, even during this beautiful season, that can lead to personal injury, particularly car accidents and slip-and-falls.  If you are going to be out and about in the spring sunshine, take care to note these hazards and prepare for them accordingly so that you can stay safe!

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This Man Turned Down a $50,000 Settlement Offer But Was Awarded $1.63 Million

After being offered just $50,000 by his employer following an injury on the job, a former employer was awarded $1.63 million by a jury.

Rather than taking the low-ball settlement offer, the victim was wise to secure the services of a personal injury lawyer who was not afraid to take the case all the way to court.

In this issue, the Alaska personal injury lawyers will talk about the specifics of the case, and the importance of selecting a lawyer with the courage to refuse a settlement and proceed to court.

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How Dangerous Are Takata Airbags?

If you own a vehicle that has airbags made by Takata, you definitely need to have them replaced. In July, the latest death known to be caused by the faulty Takata equipment occurred in Louisiana.

In this issue, we’ll talk about why the Takata-made airbags are so dangerous, and talk about what you should do if you feel that you’ve been a victim.

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Classic Case of Why You Shouldn’t Deal Directly With Insurance Co. After Injury

We’ve warned our readers numerous times about not accepting lowball offers from insurance companies after being injured because of someone else’s negligence.

In this issue, we have a perfect example of a victim who – wisely – rejected a $18,000 payoff from an insurance company, and went on to win an $1.8 million judgment against them.

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Find Out If Personal Injury Awards & Settlements Are Tax-Free

With tax season upon us, we’d like to take this opportunity to share with you just how a jury award or settlement from a personal injury suit will be looked at by the taxman.

How the Tax Code Looks at Personal Injury Awards & Settlements

Before legislation was changed in 1996, practically all personal injury settlements and jury awards were ruled to be non-taxable – meaning you didn’t have to pay taxes on what you were given or awarded.

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What’s Behind the Multi-Million Dollar Jury Awards in Seattle?

Two separate jury awards in Seattle –reached within days of one another – have resulted in multi-million dollar awards for bicyclists who were hit by vehicles. One verdict was against the City of Seattle, while the other was against a driver’s employer.

We’ll talk about them both in this issue.

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You’ll Never Guess What Happened on This “Death Trap Escalator”!

The family of a man who was strangled to death after his clothing became ensnared in an escalator has received a settlement of $1 million from King County, Washington.

The Case at a Glance

As the 42-year-old victim was nearing the bottom of an escalator at University Station, he fell and the drawstring on his hooded sweatshirt became caught in the moving steps, which caused the rest of his clothing to become trapped.

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Traffic Deaths Jump by More Than 10% in the First Half of 2016

A stunning report from the U.S Department of Transportation last week revealed that traffic fatalities across the nation rose by an estimated 10.4% in the first half of 2016. The sharp jump comes on the heels of a 7.2% increase in 2015.

The Hard (and Difficult) Numbers

17,775 people lost their lives on the roads during the first half of 2016. That’s compared to 16,100 over the same period in 2015. There were eventually 35,092 traffic deaths last year.

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Jury Awards Couple $20 Million for Tractor-Trailer Wreck

A couple has been awarded $20 million by a jury after the man was left with permanent brain damage and other injuries when his vehicle was hit by a tractor-trailer.

Background on the Case

The incident occurred in 2013 when the driver of the tractor-trailer ran a red traffic signal and plowed into the victim’s car.

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Holding Bars & Restaurants Responsible for Drunk Driving Injuries

Drunk drivers aren’t the only ones who can be held responsible for injuries they cause. Thanks to dram laws, bars and restaurants can also be found liable.

Dram Laws in Alaska at a Glance

In general, licensed alcohol providers in Alaska have immunity from liability when a drunk driver causes injuries. There are exceptions, though. They CAN be held liable if:

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Pay Attention to $17 Million Award from Federal Jury

If you’ve been exposed to asbestos, you need to pay attention to a recent federal jury’s decision – especially if you’re a U.S. Navy veteran, power plant worker or refinery worker.

Jury Awards $17 Million to Family of Man with Exposed to Asbestos

A federal jury in Arizona recently awarded $17 million to the surviving family members of a man who passed away because of mesothelioma. The man developed the condition after being exposed to asbestos during his years of working at the U.S. Naval Shipyard in Virginia.

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Understanding Comparative Liability

Sometimes victims of a personal injury accident do not take action to recover damages because they are afraid that they will be blamed for their own injuries. This is true, for example, if someone is speeding and is hit by another car. While the accident may be the other driver’s fault, the victim may fear … Read more

New Hope for SCI Victims

A new study presented at the November 2014 Society for Neuroscience convention holds promise that patients with severe spinal cord injuries may be able to breathe on their own without the help of a ventilator. This research represents a large step forward in efforts to reverse damage that is caused to the muscles of the … Read more

Distracted Driving Can Have Tragic Consequences

The recent case of a 17-year-old Anchorage boy sentenced to a year in prison after a distracted-driving collision speaks to the tragic consequences that can occur when someone chooses to text and drive. Murphy Madison Gross, 17, was convicted of criminally negligent homicide and three misdemeanor assault charges as part of a plea agreement. He … Read more

Older TBI Patients At Higher Risk for Dementia

A new study suggests that even a mild concussion after the age of 65 could increase the risk of developing dementia. Head injuries seem to be much more damaging to older people than to those of middle age or younger, but experts are not sure why. Some have suggested that the younger brain is simply … Read more

The Worldwide Web of Danger – More Drivers Browsing the Internet While Driving

We have all been nearly inundated with news stories regarding the newfound dangers relating to taking our focus off of the road while driving.  Most of us already understood the basic premise that paying attention to our driving environment was advisable, but in recent years many different studies have been done that have attempted to … Read more