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Moving a loved one to a nursing home is an emotional decision for families in Pennsylvania and the Ohio Valley. When a move is finally made, everybody wants to believe the community chosen will provide the highest quality of care and service. And often, a positive experience is exactly what happens. But sometimes, nursing homes fail, neglecting their residents — and putting those residents’ health at risk. Negligence cases are unfortunately more common than you think, such as this case in Warren County in which four nursing home employees allegedly failed to provide care to a resident, resulting in the person’s death. Negligence may not be as severe as the Warren County case, but it is nonetheless painful for residents and their families. Recognizing the signs of nursing home negligence and understanding your family’s rights and options is important to protecting your loved ones. Nursing Home Resident Rights in Pennsylvania Pennsylvania has established strong legal rights for nursing home residents under the Older Adults Protective Services Act (OAPSA). Combined with federal rights, Pennsylvania seniors in nursing homes have the right to: Be treated with respect Not be discriminated against Be free from abuse and neglect Proper medical care Information on community services and fees Proper privacy, property, and living arrangements Spend time with visitors Receive social services Financial independence (the right to manage your own money or choose someone to do so) Complain without fear of retaliation Be informed of their medical conditions, including changes to their care Knowledge of the fees they are being charged by the nursing home These rights are broad, and taken as a whole, form a blueprint on how nursing homes must serve and respect their residents. Signs of Nursing Home Negligence Nursing home negligence can differ from outright senior abuse, which is often malicious, is sometimes violent, and has signs that may be hard to miss. Neglect may be nothing more than understaffing, staffers who are apathetic or not sufficiently trained/qualified, or inadequate facilities or resources. That’s still abuse—and it’s just as morally and legally wrong as willful mistreatment of a senior living resident is. Here are some signs that your loved one isn’t being taken care of the way they should be: Bedsores Bedsores are a clear indication that staff isn’t paying enough attention to your loved one. Senior living residents shouldn’t be left in bed or the same chair all day. Even less mobile residents should be moved so that they can change clothes, use the restroom if possible, bathe, and have bedding changed. Lack of Cleanliness/Hygiene If your loved one has body odor or bad breath, looks disheveled, is wearing dirty or soiled clothes, or has any other basic hygiene issues, they likely aren’t getting the help they need with activities of daily living (ADLs). Weight Loss and Poor Nutrition If the meals a senior living resident is getting from the community aren’t sufficient, eventually, you may notice they are losing weight or otherwise just don’t look well-nourished. This could be blamed on the person’s health, but in the absence of a medical condition, a nursing home resident should be well-fed and not underweight. Poor Health Similarly, if your loved one’s health goes immediately downhill after moving into a senior living community, or it suddenly plummets with no explanation, they might not be getting the medical care they need and that your family is paying for. This negligence can include staff not seeking medical assistance if a resident is ill or injured, as well as residents not being administered prescribed medications. Staffers Who Don’t Get Back to You When you call the nursing home to inquire about your loved one’s well-being, you should reasonably expect to talk to a live person and get an answer in a reasonable amount of time. If you don’t, or the staffer you talk to can’t give you any information about your loved one, that could be a sign they are being neglected. Behavioral Changes If you notice a significant change in your loved one’s mood or personality, it could be an indication that they are being neglected at the nursing home. Some seniors are reluctant to move to nursing homes, but the best communities work to make them feel engaged and loved. If that isn’t happening, it’s negligence. What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Negligence Seeing your loved one suffer after moving into a nursing home can be heartbreaking—and it can make you feel helpless. Signs of negligence are more nuanced than blatant abuse, and it’s natural to think, “I’m overreacting.” Don’t ignore your hunches. If you suspect negligence, act immediately to protect your loved one. At worst, your hunch is wrong—but it’s better to be wrong and have a little egg on your face than to be right and do nothing about it and risk your loved one’s well-being or even their life. Take these steps if you think your loved one is being neglected at a senior living community: Document the Neglect Collect every email, text, and correspondence with your loved one, their care team, and the nursing home staff and management. Take pictures and videos of the conditions your loved one is experiencing, from the meals they are getting to the quality of their room or apartment. Contact the Charge Nurse or Another Manager If the charge nurse isn’t available, go up the ladder to managers and administrators until you get answers. Be a pest if necessary—don’t settle for voicemails, emails that don’t result in a reply, and promises to call later. And don’t be afraid to show up in person to demand answers. Talk to the Staffers Thinking a certified nursing assistant (CNA) or orderly is the cause of the neglect is frightening. However, staffers may be committed to your loved one’s care and are doing the best they can when no one else is. Talk to your loved one’s caretakers. Do they look frazzled or sad? Do they complain about conditions? They may hold clues to the extent of the neglect. Seek Help from the State Pennsylvania maintains a helpline, 800-490-8505, that is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, that people can call if they suspect nursing home negligence or any other elder abuse. Individual counties, including Allegheny County and Washington County, offer agency-level senior resources to help your family if you suspect neglect. (In West Virginia, you can call 800-352-6513 for help, and in Ohio, call 855-OHIO-APS.) Seek Emergency Medical Care Your loved one’s health is the top priority. If you feel they need immediate medical attention, take the initiative to get them help — don’t rely on the nursing home to seek the proper care. Contact your loved one’s primary care physician for next steps, but if you can’t get that information quickly, arrange a trip to an emergency room for care. Move Them Out If you feel that your loved one will continue to be neglected in their senior living community, your family’s best option may be to move them out, whether it’s temporarily to someone’s home or permanently to another community. Transferring out of a nursing home is a protected legal right, and though it may be extreme and expensive (though the cost can be litigated — more on that in the next section), it may be necessary to guarantee your loved one’s health. When to Contact an Attorney Families place enormous trust in nursing homes to provide an outstanding quality of life for their loved ones. When that doesn’t happen, it becomes more than a case of a dissatisfied customer — it is a serious, sometimes legal, and maybe even criminal breach of that trust. Senior living communities that neglect their residents must be held to a higher standard, particularly if their negligence causes harm. For that reason, you should contact an attorney if you suspect neglect, especially if you suspect a continued pattern of neglect. Even if your loved one escapes the negligence relatively healthy, your family is still paying for services they didn’t receive. A qualified attorney can help your family recover damages for: Pain and suffering Medical care Caregiving after moving your loved one out of the nursing home Costs for another nursing home Financial loss (i.e., the nursing home not providing contracted services) Punitive damages Attorneys experienced in nursing home negligence know how to proceed with this type of litigation, how the nursing home will respond, and which legal strategies work best to negotiate a fair settlement or proceed to trial. Protecting Your Family Thankfully, nursing home negligence and abuse in Pennsylvania and the Ohio Valley is rare, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen, or that you should look the other way if your loved one is not being treated with respect and love. A law firm with experience with cases against nursing homes can help you determine if you have a case, if financial losses incurred can be recovered, and, perhaps most importantly, how to best protect your loved one. If you suspect senior living negligence, the attorneys at Bordas & Bordas can guide your family through your options. Contact us for a free consultation.

If you or someone in your family has been in a car accident, or suffered an injury for which you weren’t at fault, or are dealing with uncooperative insurance companies, talking to a personal injury attorney about your options might not be the first thing on your mind. That’s understandable, and it’s also understandable that when you are ready to discuss your situation, a call to a law firm might seem daunting. We get it: The legal process can be complicated and intimidating. At Bordas & Bordas, our goal is to make the experience as welcoming as possible to everyone who calls our offices for a free consultation. We want you to feel comfortable speaking with us as we work through your legal options. And we want you to call, even if you’re unsure that you have a case. Here’s what you can expect when you call Bordas & Bordas and talk to our team. Who Will I Speak to When I Call? When you call Bordas & Bordas, a receptionist will answer and ask how we can help you. If you are seeking legal help, you will be transferred to one of our intake representatives, who are specialists in gathering your information and guiding you toward next steps. Our intake representatives are local to the Ohio Valley and southwest Pennsylvania—you won’t be sent to a call center outside the region or outside the U.S. If you call our firm after hours, on the weekend, or on a holiday, you will get our voicemail service asking you to leave a message. Please leave a detailed message, including your name and the best number and time to get a hold of you. An intake representative will return your call early the next day or after the weekend—and we prioritize those calls as soon as we’re back in the office. And if our intake representatives are busy during the day and you don’t get through right away, don’t be discouraged: Our receptionist will pass along the information, and our intake representatives will get back to you ASAP. What Will the Intake Representative Ask? Our intake representatives will start the conversation by asking for some basic information from you: Name Address Phone number Email address How you heard about Bordas & Bordas After you give us this info, we will ask about your situation: What happened to you, how you were injured, what pain and suffering you and your family have endured, and what relief you are hoping for by contacting a personal injury attorney. This is your opportunity to tell your story, and we are eager to hear it and guide you through next steps. Supporting documents such as police reports, insurance correspondence, medical records, and photos can be helpful when you first call, but don’t worry if you don’t have them readily available. Those documents will be vital later in the process, but for now, telling us your story is most important. During the call, the intake representatives will encourage you to ask questions you may have. Some questions can be answered only by our attorneys, but with others (e.g., “What is a contingency fee?”), our intake specialists will answer the best that they can. Unlike other personal injury lawyers who require you to sign a consultation agreement that limits you from contacting other attorneys while your case is being considered, Bordas & Bordas won’t make you sign anything until both sides have agreed to representation. Your trust is valuable to us, and making you commit to our firm before you feel comfortable with us doesn’t build a good lawyer-client relationship. What Happens After the Intake Call? After our intake representatives get all your information on your call, they will forward it to our attorneys, who will determine if we accept your case, require more information, or decline to represent you. A paralegal may contact you to set up a call with an attorney to discuss the possibility of taking your case. Whether we decide to take your case or not, someone from our office will get back to you, usually in a few days, though there are times it may take longer.  We consider all the factors of your situation and will always call you personally if we decline to represent you. Why Might I Be Told That Bordas Can’t Help Me? Our firm wishes we could help everybody who contacts us; however, there are some basic circumstances in which we won’t be able to take your case. Some of these situations include: You’re being sued: The attorneys at Bordas & Bordas specialize in helping people who have been wrongly injured, either physically or through bad faith claims by insurance companies. Although defendants in such cases deserve quality representation on their side, we represent only plaintiffs in such cases. It’s an area of law we don’t practice: Bordas & Bordas represents clients in a broad range of personal injury cases, but there are some areas we don’t practice, including divorce, criminal law, slander/libel, and probate. It’s outside our jurisdiction: Our firm’s attorneys primarily operate in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, and we are licensed in a couple other states. Most civil cases are litigated at the state level, so if, for example, you are calling from outside our attorneys’ jurisdiction, we likely will be unable to take your case. Bordas & Bordas: An Ally When You Need One Everyone at Bordas & Bordas is dedicated to helping every person who contacts our offices. We value your initial conversations with us, and even if we don’t take your case, we hope to earn your trust so that if the unthinkable happens and you need a personal injury lawyer, you can reach out to us again. You can call Bordas & Bordas at 888-4JUSTICE (888-458-8423) or call one of our offices directly: Pittsburgh (and Pennsylvania): 412-502-5000 Moundsville: 304-845-5600 Wheeling (and West Virginia): 304-242-8410 St. Clairsville (and Ohio): 740-695-8141 And if you are more comfortable connecting with us online, visit our website and request a consultation, or interact with our 24/7 automated live chat. We carefully review every request and go through the same steps we do with people who call our offices. Whether by phone or online, we look forward to helping you.

The legal process is filled with plenty of terms that lawyers, paralegals, and judges recognize instantly but are unknown to plaintiffs and defendants. Many of these terms are important for you to understand but really aren’t so mysterious—including the concept of a dispositive motion. Dispositive Motions, Explained At first glance, you may think the “dispositive” of dispositive motion relates to a positive or negative request or outcome. That’s not quite correct: The “dispositive” comes from dispose, which makes understanding this term much easier. A dispositive motion is meant to dispose of the case. It asks the court for a ruling that addresses the legal issues of the case and terminates it in advance of the trial. Generally speaking, there are two kinds of dispositive motions, both of which you may already be familiar with: 1. Motion to Dismiss Motions to dismiss are usually made early in the case and provide a way to test the sufficiency of the pleadings. This isn’t a look at the facts of the case—just the allegations to determine if the case should or shouldn’t continue. Basically, a motion to dismiss asks: If you accept as true everything the other party says, have they alleged enough to state a claim under state or federal law? If the answer is yes, the judge will deny the motion, and the case will proceed. If the answer is no, the judge will enter a motion explaining their reasoning and dismiss the case. 2. Summary Judgment Unlike a motion to dismiss, a summary judgment motion specifically looks into the facts of the case. However—and this is important to understand—the summary judgment process isn’t a substitute for jury trials, which remain a vital part of the legal system and are constitutionally protected by the Seventh Amendment. Basically, a summary judgment motion determines if there are issues of fact that require a jury in the first place. For example, if Party A says the traffic light was green and Party B says it was red, the judge will deny the summary judgment and let the jury decide. Even if Party A has given contradictory statements, is a friend with another of the parties to the case, or has a prior conviction for false swearing (i.e., lying under oath), these are issues of credibility that a judge can’t decide. The case will proceed to trial, where the jury will be presented with and weigh the evidence—and reach its own verdict. However, if Party A and Party B both state the light was green and there is no other evidence to dispute that fact (and it’s the only material fact of the case), a summary judgment could be issued. Every case is unique, of course, but the general idea of a summary judgment is to determine whether there is enough evidence to proceed to a trial phase. Qualified attorneys can guide you through dispositive motions to help you understand the process and next steps. If you live in the Ohio Valley or greater Pittsburgh and need help with a personal injury case, reach out to Bordas & Bordas to learn more about your options.

How Insurance Companies Find Loopholes to Avoid Paying Claims When you pay for an insurance policy, you expect that your insurer will honor and fulfill the terms of said policy when you need it. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. A large number of policyholders find themselves baffled by claim denials or delays, as insurance companies take advantage of technicalities to avoid honoring policies. With how insurance companies find loopholes to avoid paying claims, it is important to know that a denial or delay is not the end. An attorney at Bordas & Bordas may be able to help you. Common Ways Insurers Deny Claims Through many policy loopholes, technicalities, and more, insurance companies try to avoid paying claims in full. There are some common methods insurance companies employ to do this. Vaguely Written Policies Long, drawn-out clauses in policies may be intentionally confusing for policyholders to dissect. If part of a policy seems vague or open-ended, the insurer may have left an opportunity for themselves to make a decision that benefits them over you. This may result in a denial or delay based on the wording. Policy Exclusions Many insurance companies have a list of policy exclusions readily available that policyholders may not be aware of. Should the policyholder file a claim, insurers will often rely on an exclusion as a means to reduce or deny the claim, even if it seems outlandish. Deadlines and Errors Often, with claims, insurance companies set strict deadlines. Policyholders must provide documentation and follow specific procedures while still meeting these deadlines. The intricacy of the process may allow insurers to take advantage of any small issues that occur, giving the insurer an opportunity to deny your claim. Pre-Existing Damages Insurance companies may also argue that certain damages or injuries were not a part of the reported incident. They may allege that the damage existed before the incident, allowing insurers to try and place the responsibility on the policyholder. Intentional Process Delays Some insurance companies intentionally try to make the claims process as long as possible to deter policyholders from pursuing full claims or settlements. Signs of intentional delay may include consistent requests for the same information, going through multiple inspections, as well as purposefully taking long pauses between communications. The Importance of Legal Advice Navigating the insurance claim process in the aftermath of an accident that may have caused injuries or the loss of a loved one can be difficult. Many insurance companies rely on the average policyholder not knowing enough about the loopholes insurance companies use and being unable to fight for the full benefits of their policies. Having an advocate with experience in challenging insurance companies in court may significantly impact how an insurance company responds to your claim. A legal representative may help you learn about the full breadth of your claim, talk you through denials, and help protect you from underhanded tactics. Contact an Experienced Attorney Who Understands the Tricks Used by Insurance Companies To Avoid Paying Facing insurance companies after a denied claim is not a task that you need to handle alone. Considering how insurance companies find loopholes to avoid paying claims, working with experienced legal professionals is essential. Our bad faith insurance attorneys at Bordas & Bordas are dedicated to standing up for you against insurance companies. Schedule a consultation with our team today to learn how we can help you hold insurance companies accountable.

Why Legal Representation Matters During the Holiday Travel Season The holidays are the perfect time of year to visit family and friends. These joyous occasions are also some of the most popular and busiest times to travel. The holiday travel months are filled with hazards due to heavy traffic, severe weather, increased driver impairment, and the rush to get home, which increases accident rates. That is why it is so important to understand why legal representation matters during the holiday travel season. Keep reading to learn how having a Bordas & Bordas attorney on speed dial could help you manage increased risks of accidents when most law offices are unavailable. Legal Representation During Holiday Travel Combats Early Settlements Your personal injury claim does not go on vacation, despite periodic court closures and unavailable legal teams during the holidays. Insurers are often busy during this timeframe as well, leading to delayed processing. Adjusters may take advantage of this time of year to rush victims like you into accepting a low settlement while attempting to close your case quickly. Your Bordas & Bordas attorneys would ensure you do not accept a payment that fails to cover long-term medical costs or lost wages, even during the busy holiday season. We Would Help You Handle Increased Risks and Manage Complex Logistics During the travel season, we see higher rates of impaired driving and dangerous, crowded, or icy conditions. Holiday-related accidents require fast action, as surveillance footage can be overwritten and witness memories fade during these busy times of year, making legal representation essential. Our lawyers are well-versed in gathering time-sensitive evidence during the holiday travel season and beyond. Managing Complex Logistics is Essential During the Holidays If you become injured out-of-state, our legal professionals have the experience to navigate complex jurisdictional issues and coordinate care between your vacation location and home. With us on your side, we would handle insurers and legal paperwork, while you focus on your recovery and spending time with loved ones. Taking prompt legal action helps ensure your claim is not compromised by the logistical challenges of the holiday travel season. Legal deadlines and statutes of limitations continue to run, even during the holidays, so it is important not to delay action. Learn the Importance of Connecting with a Skilled Bordas & Bordas Attorney Before the Holiday Travel Season Reach out to the experienced personal injury attorneys at Bordas & Bordas before you embark on your holiday travels. We could help you prepare for the worst by reducing risk and formulating contingency plans, so you have the peace of mind to enjoy the visit. If you are injured during this time of year, our team is ready to guide you through the necessary legal process of filing a claim. When you schedule a free consultation with our team, we can review your case and explain your legal rights to a fair settlement. Give us a call to learn more about why legal representation matters during the holiday season.

What to Know About Dog Bite Law in Pennsylvania A neighbor’s pet biting you is more than just frightening. It can also be quite dangerous and cause serious injuries and infections from puncture wounds that require immediate medical attention. If you or your loved one has experienced psychological trauma and tissue damage as a result of a dog bite, you need experienced legal advice from the personal injury team at Bordas & Bordas to help you interpret our state’s regulations. Read on to learn what you need to know about dog bite law in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania Dog Bite Law Provides Strict Liability for Medical Bills Pennsylvania dog bite law ( 3 P.S. § 459-502) sets a strict liability policy, meaning that in the case of an attack, dog owners are automatically responsible for all of the injured individual’s medical costs, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. A judge may also classify a dog as “dangerous” if it inflicts severe injury without provocation, attacks a person or a domestic animal, or is used in a crime. However, the owners may not be held liable if you were trespassing, committing a crime, or provoking the animal at the time of the attack. What About Non-Economic Damages? Most people walk away from a dog bite incident with more than just medical expenses. These types of encounters often traumatize victims. If you experience non-economic damages like pain, suffering, or disfigurement, your Bordas & Bordas attorney would work hard to prove negligence, as the owner may have violated state leash laws. We may also show the dog’s dangerous history and potentially prove the owner ignored their pet’s known aggression. Is There a Statute of Limitations on Dog Bite Claims? In Pennsylvania, you have just two years from the date the dog bite occurred to file a lawsuit and hold the owner and their insurance company liable for your losses. If it were your child or another minor who was injured by a dog bite, this deadline would be extended until their 18th birthday. When filing a compensation claim, it is vital to understand state dog bite law and what deadlines may apply. What to Do If You Are Bitten by a Dog in Pennsylvania If you or your child is bitten by a dog, take prompt action. Immediately report the incident to local police or animal control, then seek medical care. If possible, have someone, such as a family member or trusted bystander, document the scene and injuries with photographs or video. Once everyone is safe, connect with the skilled personal injury attorneys at Bordas & Bordas to discuss the next steps and understand how Pennsylvania dog bite law may affect your claim. Talk With Us About Your Dog Bite Claim and State Law Recognizing what to know about dog bite law in Pennsylvania is the first step in filing your claim, and if you still have questions, reach out to the skilled personal injury attorneys at Bordas & Bordas. When you are injured by an aggressive dog, our team stands ready to guide you. We could review your case and explain your legal rights during your free consultation, so schedule a time to have a conversation with our team. A fair and just settlement could cover your medical bills and so much more. Give us a call to learn more.

What to Look for in a Dangerous Drug Lawyer If you or a loved one suffered injuries, illnesses, or death caused by defective medications, you need the help of a Bordas & Bordas dangerous drug lawyer. We could hold pharmaceutical companies accountable and help victims like you secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Navigating complex liability issues between manufacturers and doctors is not an easy task. Only a few dangerous drug lawyers have the skills and experience to maximize your settlement. Read on to learn what to look for in a dangerous drug lawyer and contact our team for help protecting your rights. What Makes a Drug Dangerous? Even big pharma makes mistakes, and while medications are designed to help, dangerous outcomes like severe side effects, drug-drug interactions, and overdoses are a significant public health issue. Pharmaceuticals may cause harm even when you use them as intended. This can happen due to improper FDA approval, a manufacturing defect, contamination, dangerous interactions with other drugs, undisclosed side effects, improper labeling, or inadequate warnings. Taking these dangerous drugs comes with risks that far outweigh their prescribed benefits and could lead to very serious side effects. From severe allergic reactions and organ failure to neurological damage and birth defects, taking these medications could be life-threatening. What Should You Look for in a Dangerous Drug Lawyer? When you look for a dangerous drug lawyer, prioritize attorneys with specific, proven experience in product liability. It is essential to ensure they have handled cases involving the exact or similar medications and understand the complex scientific and medical data involved. This professional legal advocate should have a strong track record of settlements against Big Pharma, as well as ample resources for complex investigations. Dangerous drug cases are long and costly, and a reputable firm should have the financial stability to handle extensive litigation, hire expert witnesses, and manage massive documentation. Does the Dangerous Drug Lawyer You Hire Really Matter? Yes. The lawyer you hire makes all the difference in achieving the very best outcome in your dangerous drug claim. They should keep you informed and make you feel supported, and not like just another case file number. Poor communication or difficulty reaching the attorney is a red flag that could delay your case or even risk your compensation altogether. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, you need an attorney who is not afraid to go to court and litigate on your behalf. Warning signs may not be easy to spot at first. So, be wary of a dangerous drug lawyer who makes vague promises about the outcome of your case or one who lacks the specialized experience that is essential in these types of matters. Learn What Our Dangerous Drug Lawyers Deliver and Reach Out The dangerous drug lawyers at Bordas & Bordas have won many multimillion-dollar settlements for our clients, and we stand ready to offer you the same quality legal services. With our contingency payment structure, let us take on your claim’s risk while you recover. Schedule an appointment for your free consultation to learn more about what to look for in a dangerous drug lawyer.

What Is the Average Payout for a Car Accident Injury? In Pennsylvania, a variety of factors determine car accident injury payouts, from the severity of your injuries to the quality of legal representation. Minor, soft-tissue injuries typically settle for between $10,000 and $25,000, plus the cost to repair or replace your vehicle, which averages $4,700. However, compensation for catastrophic or fatal cases could exceed $1 million. The legal team at Bordas & Bordas could help you research this topic. We explain the factors that go into this determination and how we could help you maximize the payout for your unique car accident injury. To learn more about what the average payout for a car accident injury is, reach out to our team. What Determines the Amount of Money Received in a Car Accident Lawsuit? In Pennsylvania, several key factors determine the amounts of car accident settlements, including the severity of your injuries as well as your medical expenses and treatment. The total costs for your past, present, and future medical care, such as surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication, directly impact your potential payout. Compensation for missed work, as well as the loss of future income due to long-term disability, typically increases your settlement, while pain, suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, and loss of quality of life also play a significant role. However, the at-fault driver’s auto policy limits may cap the initial settlement amount, though your underinsured motorist coverage may help bolster that amount. Pennsylvania’s Modified Comparative Negligence Matters Pennsylvania utilizes a 51% rule for comparative fault that allows partial recovery for victims who contributed to the accident. If you are partially at fault, your percentage of blame would likely reduce your compensation, and that is not the only consideration. Your insurance selection at the time of policy purchase (Full Tort vs. Limited Tort) dictates your right to sue for pain and suffering. However, in rare cases of extreme negligence, a judge may choose to award you punitive damages, in addition to your economic and potentially non-economic losses. Because of these intricate details, the average payout for car accident injuries depends heavily on each specific case. How the Attorneys at Bordas & Bordas Help Maximize Your Claim Hiring an experienced car accident injury attorney is vital to counteract common insurance tactics that seek to reduce average claim payouts. The skilled attorneys at Bordas & Bordas would work hard to help maximize your settlement after a car accident. As discussed, your payout is based on a number of factors, and with diligence, we could investigate liability, document comprehensive damages, and leverage our skillful negotiation tactics against insurance companies. Learn What the Average Payout for Your Car Accident Injury Could Be If you were injured in a car accident, you need aggressive legal representation to ensure all of your damages are covered. The team of skilled personal injury attorneys at Bordas & Bordas is dedicated to guiding you through the claims process while maximizing its potential. Trust us to do what it takes to ensure you walk away with anything but average service. Get in touch with us today to set up your free consultation and find out what the average payout for a car accident injury is.

How Much Do Most Personal Injury Attorneys Charge? If you were injured in a car accident, slip and fall, or even a dog bite, you are probably considering hiring a personal injury law firm to help you file your claim and negotiate a fair settlement. That is definitely a wise decision, as a legal team could help you navigate complex legal procedures and protect your rights against insurance company tactics. When you face mounting medical bills and lost wages, and do not know where to turn, Bordas & Bordas could be the right choice to partner with if you need a lawyer. Of course, you need to know how much quality legal services will cost you. In Pennsylvania, that is typically 33 percent of your final award. Stick with us to learn how much most personal injury attorneys charge, what that fee covers, and why you benefit in the end. Standard Rates for Most Personal Injury Law Firms Not every personal injury attorney in Pennsylvania charges the same fees; however, standard rates generally range from 25 to 33 percent of your claim’s total recovery. If your case proceeds to trial, the fee may be increased to around 40 percent. In addition to the attorney’s percentage, you may be responsible for various expenses, including court filing fees, expert witness fees, and medical records costs. A law firm typically deducts these from your settlement rather than invoicing you separately. What Do Personal Injury Attorneys’ Charges Cover? What does this common 33 percent fee from your settlement typically cover? This charge pays for your attorney’s services to manage your case, including time spent negotiating with insurance companies, drafting documents, and representing you in court. This fee also covers or reimburses the law firm’s upfront costs, such as hiring investigators, obtaining police reports, and gathering medical records. There may be additional hard costs to win your case, including expert witness fees, court filings, depositions, and travel, when necessary. Why Is a Contingency Fee Beneficial for Injured Parties? Most personal injury attorneys work on a “no-win, no-fee” basis, which means you owe the law firm nothing upfront and only pay if you win a settlement or verdict. As a Bordas & Bordas client, you do not have to pay retainer fees or hourly rates to begin your case, which is critical when facing lost income and high medical bills. Contingency fees are highly beneficial for injured parties because they eliminate upfront costs and allow access to legal representation regardless of financial status. As the victim, you would only pay a fixed percentage of the settlement. This structure aligns a lawyer’s incentives with the client’s, as they are motivated to maximize your compensation. How Much Do You Need to Pay Bordas & Bordas Out of Pocket? When you hire the experienced personal injury attorneys at Bordas & Bordas, you owe us nothing out of pocket. We work on a contingency fee basis, and our payment comes out of your settlement, never your bank account. We do not charge you a retainer to get your case started, either. Simply connect with us to set up your free initial consultation for a case review and to learn the details of our easy-to-manage fee structure. Reach Out to Bordas & Bordas to Discuss How Much Our Attorneys Charge Contingency fee agreements are common in personal injury cases, including car accidents, slip and falls, and medical malpractice. This payment structure is often considered essential for accessing justice, and since Bordas & Bordas takes on the risk of the case, we allow you to focus solely on recovery without financial stress. Set up a time for us to talk and learn more about how much most personal injury attorneys charge.

WHEELING, WV / PITTSBURGH, PA — An Ohio County, West Virginia jury has returned a $3.77 Million verdict in a medical malpractice case against a doctor and a physician’s assistant at WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital. Following a four-day trial, the jury found both Dr. Barry Mitchell and Physician’s Assistant Michelle Porembka negligent in their medical care of 64 year old Julie Daley when she presented with abdominal complaints at the Wheeling Hospital emergency room in June 2022. As a result of the medical care providers’ failure to timely and properly treat her condition, Daley ultimately sustained a perforated colon along with necrosis which ultimately lead to her needing to have a permanent colostomy. The jury found that the conduct of both Mitchell and Poermbka fell below the standard of care for medical care providers in their field and that their negligence proximately caused injuries and damages to Mrs. Daley.  Daley was represented at trial by Geoff Brown and Tyler Smith of the Wheeling law firm of Bordas & Bordas. Following the verdict, Smith commented, “We are pleased that the jury recognized that this should not have happened to Julie Daley and that they compensated her for the life-long effects that she will have as a result of the negligence of the medical providers.” Mark Robinson and David Givens of Flaherty, Sensabaugh, and Bonasso represented the medical providers at trial.  Circuit Court Judge Jason Cuomo presided over the case. Brown stated “Our practice is based upon fighting for justice for people who have been injured or wronged by others.  Helping others is at the root of everything that we do and we are glad that we were able to help Julie and her family obtain a measure of justice through this case and this result.” About Bordas & Bordas Founded in 1985, Bordas & Bordas Attorneys PLLC has earned a reputation as one of the region’s premier personal injury and plaintiff litigation law firms. With offices in Wheeling and Moundsville, West Virginia; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and St. Clairsville, Ohio, the firm represents clients in cases involving automobile and trucking accidents, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, nursing home negligence, product liability, wrongful death, insurance bad faith, and more. The firm operates on a contingency fee basis (clients pay only if there is a recovery) and offers free initial consultations. Rooted in its core values of experience, family, community, and results, Bordas & Bordas continues to stand as a trusted advocate for individuals and families across the Ohio Valley and beyond. Visit www.bordaslaw.com for more information.

The Most Common Types of Medical Malpractice in Pennsylvania Not all medical treatment goes as planned. Poor medical care can have a detrimental effect on your health and leave you feeling betrayed and lacking trust in your health care provider. At Bordas & Bordas, our attorneys help individuals and their families take action against those responsible for preventable medical injuries. Learning about the most common types of medical malpractice in Pennsylvania could help you determine if your experience qualifies as medical malpractice. How Does the Law Define Medical Malpractice? Medical malpractice occurs when a doctor or health care facility fails to provide care that meets accepted medical standards. These standards are based on what another reasonably skilled provider would have done in a similar situation. A medical provider or hospital that does not meet this standard of care, causing someone to suffer a preventable injury or die as a result, may be considered negligent. Under 42 Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5524, most people have two years from the date they discover their injury to file a lawsuit. Additionally, Pa. R.C.P. No. 1042.3 requires a Certificate of Merit from another licensed medical professional that confirms the care you received likely violated the standard of care. What Types of Medical Malpractice are Most Common? Medical malpractice can occur in any medical setting, but some types are more common than others in Pennsylvania. These can include: Incorrect or late diagnoses Surgical mistakes, including wrong-site surgeries, operating on the wrong patient, or leaving instruments inside the body Medication errors, including administering the wrong drug or dosage, or failing to identify harmful drug interactions. Anesthesia complications, such as errors with dosage or monitoring Birth-related injuries Each of these errors can have life-changing consequences for those involved. A dedicated lawyer from our firm could help investigate your experience and determine whether it qualifies for legal action. Reach Out to Our Pennsylvania Attorneys To Learn About the Most Common Types of Medical Malpractice Mistakes in medical care can have a detrimental effect on your health. If you have experienced one of the most common types of medical malpractice in Pennsylvania, taking legal action against the responsible party could help you secure the compensation you need to move forward. At Bordas & Bordas, an attorney from our team could review your case and assess your legal options for seeking accountability from the negligent provider or their insurers. We offer free consultations and do not charge a fee unless we obtain compensation on your behalf. To start the legal process, contact our office today.

Medication Errors in Nursing Homes: How to Spot the Signs No one expects their loved one to suffer harm in a place meant to provide care and safety. Sadly, medication errors in nursing homes occur more frequently than they should, and the effects can be life-changing. Understanding medication errors in nursing homes and knowing how to spot the signs is the first step toward protecting someone you care about. At Bordas & Bordas, our attorneys help families throughout Pennsylvania understand their legal options and stand up to care facilities that harm or take advantage of vulnerable residents. What Constitutes a Medication Error? In legal terms, a medication error is any preventable event that leads to improper use of medication that harms a resident, such as: Giving the wrong medication Administering the incorrect dose Delivering medication at the wrong time or skipping doses Failing to check for harmful drug interactions Medication errors in nursing homes are often the result of systemic problems such as poor staff training or insufficient supervision. State law, under 28 Pennsylvania Code § 211.12, requires nursing homes to provide the care and services necessary to attain or maintain the highest practicable well-being of each resident. This includes accurate and appropriate medication administration. According to 28 Pa. Code § 211.10, nursing homes must also design and implement policies that ensure the protection of their residents from injury and infection. This includes those caused by medication mismanagement. How to Recognize a Medication Mistake Family members are often the first to notice that something is wrong. Signs that might suggest your loved one is receiving the incorrect medication in their nursing home include: Confusion, disorientation, or sudden behavioral changes Lethargy, fatigue, or unresponsiveness New or worsening health conditions Changes in eating or sleeping habits Unexplained injuries Discrepancies in medication records If you spot these symptoms, do not ignore them. In many cases, they are the earliest indicators of negligent medication management. A skilled attorney familiar with medication errors in Pennsylvania nursing homes could assess whether these signs indicate a deeper problem. Reach Out to a Nursing Home Negligence Lawyer About Medication Errors and How to Recognize the Signs No one should have to question whether their loved one is receiving the right medication. If your loved one shows symptoms of a medication error, you have the right to ask questions to protect them. An experienced nursing home negligence lawyer could help you identify medication errors in nursing homes, understand how to spot the signs, and hold the responsible care facility to account. At Bordas & Bordas, we have helped numerous families through these difficult situations, and we are ready to help you navigate yours. We do not charge a fee unless we secure compensation on your behalf. Start the legal process today by scheduling a free consultation.