What to Do if You’re In an Auto Accident
A car accident can be a terrifying and overwhelming experience, but it is important to remain calm and handle yourself appropriately. Here are some steps you can take after a car accident:
1. Check for injuries: The first thing you should do after a car accident is to check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately and request medical assistance.
2. Move to a safe location: If the accident is minor and there are no injuries, move your vehicle to a safe location, such as the side of the road. If the accident is more serious or you cannot move your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights and wait for help to arrive.
3. Call the police: Even if the accident is minor, it is important to call the police and report the accident. The police will create a report, which you may need for insurance purposes.
4. Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver involved in the accident. Be sure to get their name, phone number, address, insurance company, policy number, and license plate number.
5. Take pictures: Take pictures of the damage to both vehicles and the surrounding area. This can be helpful when filing an insurance claim.
6. Contact your insurance company: Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. They will guide you through the next steps and help you file a claim.
7. Seek legal advice: If you are injured or the accident was not your fault, consider seeking legal advice. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Remember, it is important to remain calm and stay focused after a car accident. Take these steps to protect yourself and ensure you receive the help you need.
Feel free to call our office if you have been involved in an accident – no matter what type. 516-801-8100
DO I NEED A REAL ESTATE LAWYER IN NEW YORK?
The weather is heating up — and so is the housing market. Whether you’re looking to sell your property or are shopping for your first home, spring and early summer are typically a peak time for home sales. More homes are put on the market during this time of year, which creates more opportunities for both buyers and sellers.
Deciding to buy or sell a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make. Real estate transactions can be long and complicated, so it is important to work with experienced professionals to ensure your process is as smooth as possible. Connecting with a qualified, savvy real estate broker or agent is as easy as conducting an internet search or visiting a listing website. What can be more complicated — and often overlooked — is finding a good real estate lawyer.
WHY DO I NEED A REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY?
Your real estate agent or broker can help you find the perfect home or buyer, but they cannot provide you with legal counsel or advice. Your attorney, however, can help you structure your deal and ensures you have the resources and information you need to understand where you are at through every part of the home buying or selling process.
If you are buying or selling a home in the state of New York, it is required that you work with an attorney to process all contracts and represent you at the closing. In addition, your attorney will assist you by:
- Preparing the first draft of the sales contract
- Finalizing the contract between the buyer and seller
- Helping process the downpayment for your home
- Ordering a title report for the property
- Helping you communicate with lenders and gather the appropriate documents
- Helping you calculate the costs associated with your purchase and what is due at closing
- Advising you on the documents you are signing, including the deed, transfer tax returns, and mortgage documents
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT TO WORK WITH A LOCAL REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY
In real estate, location is everything, and this idea extends to the professionals you hire to guide you through the home buying and selling process. By working with a local attorney, you can count on receiving advice and feedback from someone who lives, works, and is invested in your community. Your real estate agent or broker may have recommendations for attorneys to work with, but you are not required to work with a specific lawyer.
While New York State has overarching laws and regulations, a local attorney will have the knowledge and experience to help you navigate any town, county, or city laws that may affect your transaction. In addition, working with an attorney with knowledge of the local real estate market is always beneficial to both buyers and sellers alike.
WHAT SETS CHIARIELLO & CHIARIELLO APART FROM THE REST
Chiariello & Chiariello not only represents clients in real estate transactions — we have firsthand experience in residential property sales and property development, giving us unique insight into the challenges and experiences facing our clients. We have experience handling real estate transactions of every size, and our attorneys are here to protect your rights and financial health.
Our firm is based in Glen Cove, NY, and serves clients across Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, and New York City. For two generations, we have provided trusted real estate representation. To receive more information about our real estate services, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us today at (516) 360-2869.
COMMON SPRINGTIME ACCIDENTS & PERSONAL INJURY CASES
The transition into spring is a wonderful time of year here in New York. The temperatures are rising and soon the trees and flowers will begin to bloom. With each passing day, we gain a little more sunlight and can begin to shed our layers of winter clothing. This winter has been long and cold, but as we near the end of March, it’s important to remember that spring has sprung!
As with any season, spring does present some hazards. When it is nicer outside, more people are getting out to parks, riding their bikes, walking their dogs, or simply going out for a drive. With more people on the roads and in public spaces, it opens up the opportunity for increased accidents or potential for injury. We’ve taken some time to compile a list of common springtime accidents so you can continue celebrating the start of spring — and protect yourself from injury.
BICYCLE ACCIDENTS
There is nothing better than jumping on a bicycle for a ride around town or the park. As the temperature rises, so does the number of cyclists out on the road. While motorists need to remain conscious of the increased number of bikes on the road and respect their right to use the road, it is also important for cyclists to obey traffic laws. This means wearing reflective clothing, using appropriate hand signals, and following right-of-way laws.
DOG BITES
Like their humans, dogs like warm weather! Spring is the perfect time for dog owners to get their pets outside to burn off extra energy — but it also leaves people susceptible to dog bites. As more and more owners leave their dogs outside in the warmer weather, it is best to practice caution around unfamiliar dogs and learn how to read their body language. Do not approach dogs that are walking on their own. If a dog is with its owner, it is best to ask if it is safe to pet the dog before making any sudden movements.
SLIP & FALL ACCIDENTS
While snow and ice on sidewalks and pathways may certainly pose a slip-and-fall risk, these wintery elements also create a more level surface to walk on. As the snow thaws, it can expose uneven pavement, cracked sidewalks and walkways, which poses risks to pedestrians as foot traffic increases. If someone is injured on another person’s property due to these factors, a property owner may be liable.
PLAYGROUND & SCHOOL INJURIES
Outdoor exercise is important for a child’s physical, mental, and emotional health, and playgrounds provide a fun place for kids to expend extra energy. While children are prone to minor bruises and scrapes, not all playground accidents are due to a child’s carelessness. The CDC estimates up to 200,000 children each year are injured and treated in emergency rooms for playground-related injuries. These injuries are due to improper playground construction, poor maintenance, and inadequate supervision.
MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS
The rumble of motorcycles in the spring is a sure sign that winter is in the rearview. As the number of bikers increases on the road, it is important for both motorists and motorcyclists to remain cautious and aware on the road. In addition to the lessened safety mechanisms on a motorcycle, road conditions can greatly increase the likelihood of an accident. For instance, ice and snow plows can cause existing cracks in the pavement to expand into full-blown potholes, which pose a risk to car drivers, and an even bigger hazard to motorcyclists. No matter what type of vehicle you are driving, remain aware of the conditions around you and how they can affect both you and others on the road.
DON’T LET AN ACCIDENT HOLD YOU BACK. CALL CHIARIELLO & CHIARIELLO TODAY
For over 50 years, Chiariello & Chiariello has served families and clients across Long Island and New York City. Our clients are more than cases to us — they are a part of our family and are treated as such. If you have been involved in an accident, we know you are suffering due to another’s negligence. It is our goal to help you get your life back on track and make your recovery process a little easier.
To receive more information about our personal injury services, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us today at (516) 360-2869.
AVOIDING CAR ACCIDENTS THIS WINTER
“I’m from New York…I know how to drive in the snow!”
During inclement weather, how many times have you or one of your friends said this? Here in New York, we’re no stranger to harsh, cold winters and facing hazardous winter road conditions. Many of us flaunt our winter driving skills like a badge of honor. Regular driving through snow, ice, and winter weather can give you a lot of confidence — but that doesn’t mean you are actually safe on the road.
According to the Federal Highway Administration, nearly 21% of crashes each year are weather-related. Of this percentage, winter weather conditions account for 13-18% of weather-related accidents.
HOW CAN I STAY SAFE ON THE ROAD IN WINTER?
The easiest way to avoid an accident in wintry conditions is, of course, to stay off the road. If you must brave the elements, it is important to be prepared, not only for your own safety, but for the safety of other drivers.
THOROUGHLY CLEAN OFF YOUR CAR
We’ve all been there: running a few minutes late and the car is covered in snow. To save a few minutes, you clear off your windshield, side windows, and rear window, and then set off, leaving a large pile of snow or ice on your hood, trunk lid, and roof. While you are able to see outside of your vehicle, the remaining snow and ice on your car can be hazardous to both you and other drivers.
For example, if you are traveling at high speeds, the remaining debris on your car can fly off and hit other vehicles. Or, if you brake abruptly, it can slide onto your windshield or rear window and cause visibility problems.
In addition, it is important to clear off your headlights and brake lights, as they help you see the road — and help other drivers see you.
CREATE A SURVIVAL KIT
In case of an emergency, keep a survival kit in your trunk. Supplies can include: a shovel, flashlight, battery-powered radio, booster cables, road salt, a first-aid kit, matches, emergency flares, snacks, and a blanket.
SLOW DOWN!
One of the most important things you can do as a driver in wintry conditions is reduce your speed and keep your focus on the road. By doing this, you can increase your stopping distance, better identify slippery patches on the road, and adjust to your surroundings. A reduced speed also can increase the your wheel traction, which helps to keep you on the road.
BRAKE GENTLY
If your car begins sliding, your first instinct may be to brake aggressively, but in truth, this may make things worse, as it causes the weight of the car to shift. Instead of slamming on the brakes, sometimes just taking your foot off the gas and letting the car slow down this way is all you need to regain control.
MAINTAIN YOUR DISTANCE
Along with reducing your speed, you will want to lengthen the distance between your vehicle and others on the road. This can help you maintain control of your vehicle and avoid a collision, as well as help you judge what road conditions are ahead of you.
INVOLVED IN A WINTER WEATHER CAR ACCIDENT? COUNT ON CHIARIELLO & CHIARIELLO
No matter how carefully you drive or what precautions you take, an accident may be unavoidable. If you have been involved in a winter weather auto accident due to another driver’s carelessness or negligence, the attorneys at Chiariello & Chiariello are here for you. We represent clients across Queens, Long Island, NYC, and surrounding areas in a full range of personal injury matters.
For more information, please give us a call at (516) 360-2869 today. We are happy to answer any questions you may have.
PREVENTING WORKPLACE INJURIES
According to the National Safety Council, every seven seconds a worker is injured on the job. More often than not, injuries on the job are entirely preventable. Taking measures to create safer working conditions not only reduces the likelihood of injury but also improves productivity and your bottom line.
Common Workplace Injuries Include:
- Slips, Trips, & Falls
- Neck & Head Injuries
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Repetitive Motion Injuries
- Broken Limbs
- Strains
- Lacerations
- Burns
- Electrical Shocks
- Chemical Burns
- Vehicle & Moving Equipment Injuries
TIPS FOR REDUCING INJURIES ON THE JOB
FOR EMPLOYERS
While you can never completely prevent work accidents as an employer, you can take certain measures to increase the safety of your employees.
This includes:
CONDUCTING SAFETY SEMINARS & TRAINING
Misuse of equipment is a common cause of injury. By providing your employees with training opportunities, it increases their skill set and helps establish stronger safety standards on your production floor. In addition to equipment training, it is important to reiterate proper lifting techniques.
PROPERLY SCREENING APPLICANTS
In some instances, an accident is caused by an employee’s inexperience or an inability to physically perform a position. Conducting pre-placement physicals ensures you are matching applicants with positions matching the physical abilities.
ENCOURAGE EMPLOYEE FEEDBACK
There is no better resource on how to improve a task or job than the people performing it. Receiving input from your employees regarding safety concerns can help you create a safer work environment while giving them an opportunity for their voices to be heard.
KEEPING WORKPLACES CLEAN AND UNCLUTTERED
To help prevent slip and fall incidents, make sure to store all materials safely and securely. It is also important to have proper signage to warn employees of any dangers, as required by law. In addition, you can build guards, shields, or barriers to protect employees for hazards. Installing non-slip flooring can also help prevent incidents.
ENCOURAGE EMPLOYEES TO TAKE BREAKS
Overworked or tired employees are more likely to make errors or cause harm to themselves or others. By encouraging reasonable breaks, it can help keep your workers alert and awake.
FOR WORKERS
There are also many things workers can do to increase their safety on the job.
This includes:
WEARING PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Safety goggles, earplugs, muffs, hard hats, and other protective equipment may not look fashionable, but it does play an important role in staying safe on the job. Wearing anti-slip shoes can also help prevent accidents. For drivers, it is important to wear your seatbelt.
KEEPING YOUR WORK AREA TIDY
Keeping your workspace organized and clear not only improves your workflow, but it can also keep you and your co-workers safe. Work with your employer to create a proper layout of your workspace with foot markings and stations for spills. If you discover a spill, clean it up immediately to prevent injury or accidents. It is also important to properly stack materials to avoid sliding and unnecessary obstacles.
MAKING SURE EQUIPMENT IS REGULARLY INSPECTED
When you use something day in, and day out, it is easy to let malfunctions go unnoticed. This is why it is important to have your tools, ladders, scaffolds, vehicles, and other equipment inspected and regularly maintained. Routine maintenance can go a long way in preventing avoidable accidents.
DON’T TAKE SHORTCUTS
It can be tempting to skip a step in a process to hurry it along, but taking shortcuts can result in costly accidents. Communicate with your team members and employer to ensure production instructions are well-organized and clear for all involved. This can help prevent unnecessary injuries.
PRACTICING PROPER LIFTING TECHNIQUES
It is important to know your physical limits for lifting and how to lift heavier objects properly. If you need help with a task, ask for assistance, or use equipment to help lift heavier loads. This will help prevent unneeded injuries and create a safer work environment for all involved.
Chiariello & Chiariello is a personal injury law firm based in Glen Cove, NY. We serve clients across Long Island, New York City, and surrounding areas. To receive a free consultation and learn more about our services, please contact us today at (516) 360-2869.
KEEPING PEDESTRIANS SAFE THIS WINTER
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, 6,283 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in 2018. While the cause of these accidents is varied, both drivers and pedestrians can take precautions to prevent and lower the rate of pedestrian accidents, especially in the cold winter months.
FOR DRIVERS
SLOW DOWN AND OBSERVE CONDITIONS
In the winter, it is especially important to remain alert and observant while on the road. Keeping an inventory of your surroundings — other vehicles, pedestrians, and so on — is an essential part of reducing your chance of an accident.
When inclement weather hits, it is natural to want to get home or to work as fast as possible, but in reality, this puts you at a higher risk of a collision or pedestrian accident. Slowing down and taking note of other cars and pedestrians in the road will keep you and those in and around your vehicle safer.
SIDEWALKS MAY NOT BE CLEAR
During snowstorms, public works employees work tirelessly to make sure roads, sidewalks, and other areas are cleared and safe for drivers and pedestrians. Unfortunately, it can be hard to keep up with rampant snowfall, and clearing roads often takes priority over clearing sidewalks. This can cause pedestrians to walk in the road.
While it is recommended that pedestrians walk against traffic, many do not follow this rule, leaving them exposed in traffic. If you have to pass a pedestrian walking in the road, take care to slow down, and if you can, put extra distance between you and the walker.
MAINTAIN COMMUNICATION
There are several ways drivers and pedestrians can communicate, the most important being eye contact. If the weather conditions allow, try to make eye contact with any pedestrians to communicate who is going where on the road.
BE CAREFUL BACKING UP
As of May 2018, all newly manufactured vehicles sold in the United States are required to have backup cameras installed as a standard safety feature. While this feature is very beneficial for many drivers, it is important to do a quick visual check of your surroundings as you are backing up. Limited visibility from weather or from being bundled up may make it harder for a pedestrian to see your car, so take extra caution when moving out of your parking space.
FOR PEDESTRIANS
SEE AND BE SEEN
Wear bright, reflective clothing. Whether you are taking a stroll around your neighborhood or walking home from work, as a pedestrian, it’s important to wear bright, reflective clothing. This helps alert drivers of your presence and can help you avoid an accident.
Walk facing traffic. If conditions do not allow you to walk on the sidewalk, it is best to walk facing traffic. It can be daunting to have vehicles driving toward you, but this method allows you to see all cars on the road and anticipate if any are losing control.
USE CROSSWALKS
Drivers expect pedestrians at crosswalks, so it is best to cross streets at these designated points. It is important to look for vehicles coming from all directions. If you are unable to cross at a crosswalk, go to an area that is well-lit and gives you a good view of traffic. Allow yourself extra time to get across the street in slippery, snowy, or low-visibility conditions.
MAKE EYE CONTACT
Communication is key for telegraphing your way through traffic conditions. Making eye contact with drivers helps you establish who is going where and if it is safe for you to cross the street or move through a parking area. Don’t assume every driver sees you — get confirmation!
STAY ALERT & BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS
Many of us like to walk and listen to music or podcasts, but in winter weather, it is best to remain alert and aware of your surroundings. This means paying attention to incoming and outgoing traffic from driveways, parking spaces, and other roadways.
If you are forced to walk in the road, keep your eyes on the road and off your phone. Seeing what drivers are doing around you can make all the difference in preventing an accident.
Have you been in an accident? Wondering if you need to file a personal injury case? Count on Chiariello & Chiariello for the legal representation you deserve. Proudly representing clients across Long Island, Queens, and New York City. Call (516) 360-2869 today.
DO I NEED A PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER?
After an auto accident or workplace injury, you may be left with questions about your right to compensation. There are many misconceptions about personal injury cases and how to pursue them. One of the most prominent questions individuals have is if they need to hire a lawyer or pursue the claim on their own.
BENEFITS OF HIRING A PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER
While many individuals have filed insurance claims, not everyone has the skills and experience to protect their legal rights after an accident. Personal injury attorneys have expertise in a number of areas of the law and will guide you through the legal claims process. This includes filing all necessary paperwork, meeting legal deadlines, and making an effort to help you receive the compensation you deserve.
WONDERING IF YOU NEED A LAWYER? ASK YOURSELF:
HAVE YOU SUFFERED SEVERE INJURIES?
One of the biggest factors in determining if you should hire a lawyer is what injuries you suffered. Your injuries influence the cost of your medical bills, time away from work, and the amount of compensation you may receive.
For example, if you were involved in an accident and received minor injuries, filing a claim through your insurance company (or the other person’s) will often be enough to cover your medical expenses and the costs to repair your car.
ARE YOU RECEIVING THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT AVAILABLE?
An insurance policy will only pay out to its policy limits. So if the policy limit is $150,000 and you are receiving $150,000, it may not be worth taking additional legal action to pursue a higher amount.
HOW HIGH ARE YOUR MEDICAL COSTS?
After an accident, your medical costs are often the biggest hurdle you face. In no-fault states like New York, you do not have to prove to your insurance company that an accident was not your fault before receiving compensation.
As mentioned above, if your injuries were minor, you may not need a lawyer to help you navigate receiving payment for your medical expenses. However, if you did suffer severe injuries and had to undergo extensive medical care, you can sue the other driver/party for compensation.
TIMES WHEN AN ATTORNEY MAY BE NECESSARY
MULTIPLE PARTIES WERE INVOLVED IN THE ACCIDENT
You’ve heard the term “too many cooks in the kitchen,” and the same idea applies to personal injury cases. When multiple parties are involved in an auto accident, it can complicate things with the insurance companies, especially when liability is not clear. If multiple parties are involved, it may lessen the amount of settlement money you can receive, especially if you are deemed liable.
YOU HAVE SUFFERED LONG-TERM INJURIES OR PERMANENT DISABILITY
If your accident resulted in you needing long-term care or with permanent disabilities, it is crucial to contact a lawyer. An experienced attorney will help you determine how your injuries are affecting your life and future income. While your insurance company may offer a settlement amount, it may be in your best interest to pursue further forms of compensation for your losses and injuries.
THE INSURANCE COMPANY REFUSING TO PAY
In some cases, an insurance company will refuse to make a settlement offer. If your insurance company (or that of other parties involved in your accident) is refusing to pay, it is important to seek legal counsel. Your attorney will work to help you receive the recovery you deserve after an accident.
Chiariello & Chiariello is a law firm based in Glen Cove, NY. Have questions about personal injury claims and cases? Give us a call at (516) 360-2869 today!
HOW TO AVOID COMMON DENTAL MALPRACTICE CLAIMS
For most healthy individuals, it is recommended they visit the dentist twice a year for check-ups, cleanings, and exams. Because of this, it is common that patients will see their dentists more than they see their primary care doctors.
>> Contact Chiariello & Chiariello by clicking here for a dental malpractice legal consultation. <<
As with any other healthcare profession, dentists must uphold specific ethical standards and moral codes. They must provide safe, effective care to their patients. You deserve the assurance that every time you sit in the dental chair that you are receiving the care you need from a committed professional.
WHAT ARE GROUNDS FOR A DENTAL MALPRACTICE SUIT?
In general, dental malpractice suits refer to injuries caused by a dental professional’s negligence. This includes failure to detect oral cancer or periodontal disease; permanent injuries to the jaw, chin, lips, or tongue; unnecessary extraction of multiple teeth; or even wrongful death.
PREVENTION IS THE KEY TO AVOIDING MALPRACTICE CLAIMS
Like maintaining good oral health, preventative care is the key to avoiding dental malpractice suits. This idea applies to both patients and providers. By taking steps to improve your dental services — or recognize when you need a new provider — it can lessen the need for legal action.
FOR PATIENTS
CHOOSE A PROVIDER YOU’RE COMFORTABLE WITH
Feeling comfortable at your dentist’s office can make all the difference in your quality of care. When you feel safe and secure, it encourages a better dialogue with your provider. If you are looking for a new dentist or need a dental specialist, do your homework! Take the time to research providers in your area to see who has a good reputation and the credentials to provide the care you need.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO GET A SECOND OPINION
The American Dental Associations recognizes ten separate dental specialties and their certifying boards. While your general dentist is no doubt skilled, it is also possible that there are procedures that are out of their scope of practice. Receiving a second opinion on a proposed treatment can help you — and your provider — gain the peace of mind that you are receiving the care you deserve.
FOR PROVIDERS
BUILDING LAST RELATIONSHIPS IMPROVES THE QUALITY OF CARE
Because dentists see their patients more frequently, it provides them with the opportunity to build deeper relationships. Many malpractice cases are a result of miscommunication between the patient and provider. By taking steps to get to know your patients, it can improve your in-office atmosphere and the quality of care.
When patients feel genuinely cared for, it encourages them to speak honestly about their needs and goals for their smile. In turn, providers are able to manage expectations and make recommendations for treatments that help them reach the milestones they’re aiming for.
REFERRALS ARE INVESTMENT IN YOUR PRACTICE
It’s okay if a procedure or situation is out of your realm of expertise. Offering a referral to a dental specialist is an investment in your quality of care. It helps you maintain honesty with your patients and provide them with the solutions they deserve.
Chiariello & Chiariello is based in Glen Cove, NY, and offers legal services to clients across New York City and Long Island. To schedule a consultation, please contact us today at (516) 360-2869.
Remodeling or renovating your home is an exciting yet sometimes stressful experience. It is your chance to bring new life to your space and add value to your property. Embarking on a home improvement project is a big decision and one that can be further complicated if you need to hire someone to complete the work.
Finding the right contractor can be a challenge. You are counting on them to care for and improve your home. Furthermore, you are trusting them to work efficiently and effectively so you and your family can return to your lives without interruption. It is essential to choose a contracting team that can complete the project on time and within budget.
MALPRACTICE CASES ARE NOT LIMITED TO DOCTORS & LAWYERS
While cases against medical providers are certainly most associated with malpractice, professional malpractice cases can extend to any vocation. When a builder or contractor has not completed the work agreed upon, has damaged a home or building, or compromised its safety, the owner may have grounds to file a malpractice suit. However, steps can be taken at the beginning of the home building or remodeling process to vet contractors properly.
KNOW WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING YOUR VISION TO LIFE
Whether you are building a new home, creating an addition, or remodeling existing spaces, it is essential to know what your project will entail. This includes projected cost, completion time, and materials needed. While you certainly do not have to have top-to-bottom knowledge on what will go into your project, having an understanding of the time, labor, and costs involved will help you better identify a contractor to fit your needs.
HAVE THEY OBTAINED THE APPROPRIATE PERMITS?
Filing for building permits not only ensures your project complies with local zoning, construction, and land use codes — it holds your contractor or builder to a certain standard of safety and quality. Starting a project without the appropriate permits can result in fines for the homeowner. If your contractor hesitates to file for the appropriate permits, it may be a red flag — securing permits is part of their job and the bidding process.
ARE THEY LICENSED, BONDED, AND INSURED?
While not every trade requires licensure, it is important to work with contractors who are bonded or insured. When contractors invest in contractor’s insurance or a contractor’s bond, it ensures you are protected in the event of damage to your property, failure to complete a job, or other factors. Before you hire a contractor, verify if they are required to have a license, and ask for proof of insurance or bonds.
HOW LONG HAVE THEY BEEN IN BUSINESS?
When it comes to project management, budgeting, and remodeling, experience matters! Working with a contractor who has an established reputation, portfolio, and repertoire is important. With time comes an enhanced ability to manage budgets, deadlines, and obstacles that arise.
WHERE DID THE REFERRAL COME FROM?
Did your neighbor refer you to a particular contractor? Alternatively, did you find them through internet research? If you received a word-of-mouth recommendation, it is important to clarify what the referrer hired the contractor for. Many contractors may be able to handle a wide range of project types, but it is important to pay attention to what their specialties or special interests are.
WHAT SUPPLIERS DO THEY WORK WITH?
The lumber yards, wholesale supply houses, and manufacturers your contractor works with can give you insight into the quality of their work. When contractors use the best materials and have good relationships with their suppliers, it is a testament to the quality of their work and service they provide to their customers.
WHAT ARE GROUNDS TO FILE A PROFESSIONAL MALPRACTICE SUIT?
One of the most common factors in filing a malpractice suit against a contractor is a failure to fulfill a contract. Having a written agreement between you and your contractor provides you with expectations for your project and an outline of services rendered. When a project is not completed, results in injury or economic loss, or creates liabilities, it may give you grounds to file a malpractice suit.
WE PROVIDE SOLUTIONS YOU DESERVE
Chiariello & Chiariello is based in Glen Cove, NY, and serves clients across Long Island, New York City, and surrounding areas. We offer free consultations and case evaluations to new clients. Our firm has extensive experience in personal injury, professional and legal malpractice cases. If you would like to explore your options and have us review your case, please contact us today at (516) 360-2869.
SIGNS OF NURSING HOME NEGLECT & ELDER ABUSE
Deciding to move a loved one into a nursing home is a big decision. For many, it means giving up their home, comfortable surroundings, and the routine they have has for many years. However, for many older adults, living in a nursing home helps them enhance their quality of life. It removes the stress of having to manage a household, healthcare appointments, and more.
When a nursing facility is well-run, it is a blessing to both the residents and their families. It provides individuals with a safe, healthy living environment, social activities, healthy food options, and access to the care they need when they need it. However, when a facility fails to meet the appropriate standards, it can lead to neglect and abuse of residents.
KEEPING YOUR LOVED ONES SAFE & HEALTHY
Moving into a nursing home is an act of trust. You and your family put trust in the facility staff to care for your loved one and keep them safe. It can be difficult to trust that others will give your loved one the proper amount of care and attention. This is what makes elder abuse, or nursing home negligence cases, so heartbreaking — it is not only a betrayal of trust to the resident, it is a betrayal to their families.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent nursing home negligence and identify the warning signs that your loved one is being mistreated.
MAKE VISITING A PRIORITY
Moving into a nursing facility is a major life change for both the resident and their families. It is important to make visiting a priority. Regular visits help you maintain your relationship with your loved one but also gain an understanding of the quality of care offered. Varying the times and days of your visit will expose you to the performance and attitude of the care staff at different shifts!
ASK QUESTIONS & ACT AS AN ADVOCATE
If you have played a role in designing a care plan for your loved one, it is important to follow up with the facility to make sure they are receiving the care they deserve. During admission, the facility staff should review the resident’s rights and your rights as a resident’s representative. Knowing what rights you have as an advocate for your family member one can help prevent negligence and create accountability for the facility.
BUILD RELATIONSHIPS
Getting to know the team caring for your loved one can go a long way. Not only does it help to create familiarity between your family and the facility staff, but it can also help the staff get to know their residents better. When the staff has a better idea of what your loved one likes and dislikes, it can help them provide more personalized care. In addition, it is important to recognize when the staff is doing a good job.
IDENTIFY THE WARNING SIGNS
The most important factor in identifying and preventing abuse is remaining active in your loved one’s life. Also, you should learn the signs of nursing home abuse, and if your loved one is affected.
Signs to Look Out For:
- Bruise marks anywhere on the body
- Isolated personality
- Lack of interest in social events
- Visible weight loss
- Lack of medical aids such as medication, glasses, walkers, and so on
- Basic hygiene issues
- Sunken eyes
- Skin breakdown & bed sores
- Frequent falls
- Signs of restraints
- Extended drowsiness
- Dried and cracked lips
- Vacant stares
SUSPECT ABUSE OR NEGLECT? REACH OUT & TAKE ACTION
We understand the sensitive nature of these cases. If you suspect your loved one is a victim of nursing home neglect, do not hesitate in taking steps to ensure their safety. By remaining proactive about their health and wellbeing, you can improve their quality of life and living situation.
For those looking to receive legal counsel on nursing home abuse and negligence, Chiariello & Chiariello can help. Our attorneys have over 50 years of experience in proving fault and standing up for the rights of the injured and vulnerable.
To schedule a consultation, please contact us today at (516) 360-2869.
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