Scott C. Gottlieb, Injury Law Attorney

As we draw closer to deciding who will be our next president, many of us in the legal community are wondering whether we will see the passage of tort reform laws. Generally speaking, it has been the Republican party that has been in favor of reducing awards to accident victims and those hurt by medical malpractice or bad medications. However, it is still uncertain whether or not the election of a Democratic president would translate into tort reform. For example, many large drug companies have supported Democratic candidates, which could mean that promises have been made to limit lawsuits against drug manufacturers. Fortunately, thus far, there have been no substantial changes in our state or federal tort laws. However, this issue is likely to again be raised after the seating of a new president.

Labels: general

You may have read recently that the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile was involved in an accident. Many people might wonder whether or not such a vehicle falls within the same category as the family sedan. In New York, it does. It is still a motor vehicle as defined by law. As such, any injured passengers would be entitled to no-fault benefits for medical expenses, lost wages, etc... Provided their injuries meet the threshold for a serious injury pursuant to the Insurance Law, they would also be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering. In addition, if the driver or any of the passengers were working at the time, they might also be entitled to claim Workers Compensation benefits.

Labels: accidents, injury