Posts by Michael Phelan
How Insurance Companies Minimize Payouts After a Car Crash (and How to Fight Back)
The stark reality is that insurance companies are businesses, and their primary purpose is to turn a profit by making more money than they spend. They make money by accepting premiums, and they spend money by paying claims. Consequently, insurance companies train their adjusters to make money for their employers by minimizing claims or denying…
Read MoreWho is Liable if You’re Hit by Cargo Falling Off a Truck?
Trucking cargo accidents are among the most frightening of all accidents. Falling cargo and truck debris can shatter windshields and result in catastrophic injury, sometimes even death. Truck accident cargo claims can become surprisingly complex, however, if two or more parties share liability. Possible defendants Below is a list of potentially liable parties. The truck…
Read MoreBurned by a Pressure Cooker? What to Know About the SharkNinja Foodi Recall and Your Legal Rights
Pressure cookers might be a popular appliance, but recent recalls highlight the potential risks associated with these devices. The SharkNinja Foodi OP300 Series Multi-Function Pressure Cookers recently became the subject of a massive recall. Already, more than 100 injuries have been reported related to these devices. What you need to know about the recall The…
Read MoreMost Dangerous Roads in the Greater Richmond Region
Everyone who’s traveled in the United States knows that, unfortunately, some highways can be just plain risky. There are a range of factors that influence how hazardous road systems are, but a few of the most common are worn-out infrastructure, congestion, extreme weather, and challenging terrain. One other less common but equally serious factor contributing…
Read MoreHow Long Could My Virginia Truck Accident Case Take to Settle or Resolve?
It could take months or years to settle or resolve your Virginia truck accident case. How long it takes depends on your case’s complexity, the severity of your injuries, settlement negotiations with an at-fault party or their insurer, and other factors. By working with Richmond truck accident attorneys, you have a better opportunity to achieve…
Read MoreSeat belt laws in Virginia: How they may impact your injury claim
Did you know that wearing a seat belt in Virginia in 1987 was a personal choice, and no police officer could stop you for the violation? Today, it’s funny to imagine driving around Richmond or Charlottesville with no belt on, carefree even while passing through a police checkpoint. It took considerable time and a large…
Read MorePhelan Petty’s Brielle Hunt Selected to 2025 Virginia Lawyers Weekly Influential Women of Law
Phelan Petty Injury Lawyers is proud to announce that partner Brielle Hunt has been named to Virginia Lawyers Weekly Influential Women of Law, Class of 2025. The award honors women attorneys and judges for their outstanding work within the justice system, dedication to their communities, and service to the legal profession in the commonwealth. The…
Read MoreUber Sues Over Alleged Fake Car Crash Scheme
The rideshare giant Uber has filed a lawsuit against several law firms, doctors, and pain management clinics in New York. Uber claims these groups have been faking car accidents to exploit the state’s no-fault insurance system. This means they’re allegedly staging minor crashes or approaching those involved in a minor crash and then having the…
Read MoreVirginia’s Rules for Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs)
Many — but not all — truck drivers need a commercial driver’s license. Cargo van, semi-truck, and bus drivers are three categories of drivers who may need a CDL. If a truck driver operates a vehicle without a valid license, this individual or their employer is subject to penalties. On top of that, the trucker…
Read MoreWhat are the Car Seat Laws in Virginia?
Car seat laws protect infants and children riding in a vehicle by ensuring they are correctly restrained. These seats must be age and size-appropriate to offer maximum protection to a child should an accident occur. States have varying laws about car seats, including when they should be rear-facing, when they need to be switched to…
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