Posts by Michael Phelan
Virginia’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…
Read MoreContributory Negligence Laws in Virginia: What are They and What Do They Mean?
Virginia is one of a handful of states that recognizes pure contributory negligence. When contributory negligence applies, it can produce extremely harsh results. Contributory negligence is the failure to act as a reasonable person (i.e., the plaintiff) would have acted for his own safety under the circumstances of the case. How is contributory negligence different…
Read MoreFire Pit Recall Follows Reports of Injuries and Deaths
Tabletop and indoor fire pits are advertised as fun, decorative products that create a sense of ambiance. Some of these devices are marketed and sold as indoor “s’mores makers.” A recent recall warns that their use can lead to severe burn injuries. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a warning on December 19, 2024,…
Read MoreHarley Davidson Recalling Over 41K Motorcycles Due to Wiring Issue
Harley Davidson filed a recall notice with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) with concerns that the wiring inside the bikes could experience a short circuit resulting in a loss of power. The NHTSA recall site notes that the voltage regulator harness may short, causing unexpected loss of drive power and electrical power while…
Read MoreHow to Drive Safely Around Commercial Trucks
At the recent Delaware State Fair, fair-goers were able to learn what it is like to sit in the driver’s seat of a commercial truck. People could sit in the truck and see a big rig’s blind spots from the truck driver’s perspective. All of this was to help educate people on avoiding accidents with…
Read MoreWhat Are Punitive Damages in Virginia?
When you file a personal injury claim, the judge or jury may award compensation to help you recover your losses from the accident. However, in some cases, the judge or jury may also award additional compensation not necessarily to help you pay for your losses but to punish the defendant for their reckless or malicious…
Read MoreWhat Can You Sue for in a Lawsuit for Personal Injury?
When you become injured due to another person’s negligence, you may feel lost and confused about your legal options. This is because you likely have a lot on your plate, trying to determine how you will pay your bills and cover your expenses while also being out of work and healing and recovering. However, it…
Read MoreVirginia Is an At-Fault State? What Does That Mean?
If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident and want to file a claim to hold the other driver accountable, you need to know whether Virginia is an at-fault or no-fault state. Determining this is important because it can change how you hold the negligent driver accountable and receive compensation for your injuries…
Read MoreNavigating Truck Accidents on I-95 in Richmond
Interstate 95, also known as I-95, stretches from Florida all the way to Maine. Here in Richmond, I-95 serves as an important artery, connecting the city to major economic hubs and facilitating the flow of goods and people. However, the sheer volume of traffic, coupled with the presence of large commercial trucks, can transform I-95…
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