Posts by Michael Phelan
Most 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…
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 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…
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