Uninsured motorists are more common than you think. According to a 2016 study, 13.7% of Illinois drivers, or about 1 in 8, were uninsured, ranking the state 18th for most uninsured motorists. Not only are uninsured motorists a threat to you, they are also a threat to themselves. Being involved in an accident without insurance is a huge cost for both parties. Not to mention, it is illegal to drive uninsured. Having uninsured motorist (UM) coverage on your insurance policy is necessary to ensure your physical and financial safety on the road.…Read More
Today, virtually everybody has an online presence. From Facebook, to Twitter, to Snapchat, social media has become a core part of our lives. People can use these platforms to document every second of their life, from who they’re with, to where they are, to what they’re eating. While sometimes it can be refreshing to post exactly what we’re thinking online, it is important to keep in mind that some things should stay off the internet. If you are currently involved in an ongoing legal battle of any kind, from personal…Read More
Office workers are exposed to more hazards than one might think. Workplace hazards come in many forms including slip-and-fall accidents, ergonomic hazards, poor indoor air quality, electrical fires, as well as many other dangers. It was reported in 2016 that on average, about 78 people lose their lives each year from occupational injuries or illnesses. It was also reported that thousands more become so severely injured on the job that they require ongoing medical treatment and lose the ability to work. It is important to become aware of workplace hazards…Read More
Intense work load in the office can lead to distraction in your personal life. Often, when the workplace demands attention outside of work hours, this can take shape in the form of distracted driving. Employees can frequently find themselves using their cell phones to communicate with the office during their commutes to and from work. If these distractions cause a car accident, the employer can be held responsible for any injuries or damage, even if it occurs outside of work hours. Work-related distracted driving is a very prevalent problem in…Read More
A deposition is a pre-trial oral testimony. Although it is pre-trial, it is still taken under oath and the testimony can be used in court. If you are currently involved in a legal battle, it is important to understand that the deposition can be vital in reaching a verdict and should be taken very seriously. Deposition can prove very useful to the opposing counsel, so being prepared for your testimony and knowing what to expect is very important. Always tell the truth. Since this testimony is still being given under…Read More
As a resident of Illinois or the surrounding areas, it is important to be aware of what legal changes have been made this year. 1. Insurers must cover MRI for some women. Under this new law, when risk factors for cancer are shown in mammogram results, an MRI of the affected area must be covered as a follow-up by insurance. 2. Changing gender on birth certificates is allowed. As long as an individual is in the care of a primary physician, transgender and intersex individuals will be allowed to change the gender…Read More
If you have been recently involved in a car accident, slip and fall (premises liability), or other type of personal injury, it is important to take these necessary steps to ensure you can get the most out of your settlement. Sharks At Law can ensure you maximize your settlement amount by following these steps: 1. Have a settlement amount in mind. By putting together your demand letter, you have figured out a range of what you believe your settlement is worth. Before doing anything else, decide what is the minimum…Read More
Most motorists drive defensively, take driver education courses, and use caution when on the road, however car accidents still occur. An auto collision can be an emotionally exhausting and stressful situation, so knowing what to do in advance can help you handle the unexpected. The best way to avoid problems after an accident is to be prepared. Keep a pen, piece of paper, camera, and a copy of your insurance card easily accessible at all times. Drivers are responsible for knowing what to do following an accident, so it is…Read More
Brats on the grill? Beer in the cooler? With the Fourth of July here at last, the Sharks expect that many of our clients and readers will be lighting off fireworks in their backyards. The sharks have seen plenty of fireworks injuries, but we’d rather you and your family stay safe. Of course, fireworks are never totally safe (not to mention mostly illegal in Chicago and most of Illinois). On that note, follow these tips for a safer firework experience: Keep water nearby – preferrably a running hose, but a…Read More
The sharks have been enduring this winter like anyone else in the midwest: lots of warm clothing and an endless amount of hot chocolate. But remember, a long and snowy winter means lots of snowy, icy roads. Remember to: Slow down, slow down, slow down. Leave lots of extra room between you and the car in front of you. Increased sopping distance is one of the main reasons for accidents in icy and snowy conditions. Have your tires and brakes checked: your tires are MUCH more effective in snow if…Read More
