As they become more popular as a means of transportation, e-scooters also carry risk of injury for its users. While the devices can provide a quick and efficient way for getting around town, users should also be aware of the common causes for accidents and injury.

It’s not uncommon for accidents involving e-scooters to result in serious injury for which the user may want to consider seeking compensation. If that injury is due to the fault of another person, the user may want to consider obtaining legal representation.

Common causes for e-scooter accidents

One of the most common causes for e-scooter accidents is riders failing to follow basic traffic rules and regulations. Many times, accidents are caused by riders not following speed limits and failing to stop at stop signs and traffic lights. It’s also not uncommon for riders to be distracted by using their phones or other electronic devices.

Additionally, first-time riders may not understand exactly how to use e-scooters, including the overall knowledge for how to use them. E-scooters tend to accelerate quickly, which can surprise first-time users and lead to accidents. Other riders may not wear protective equipment such as helmets. 

Other causes for accidents can include weather conditions, poor road conditions, and faulty mechanics of the e-scooter itself.

Common injuries resulting from e-scooter accidents

It’s not uncommon for injuries resulting from e-scooter accidents to include head and neck injuries, soft tissue injuries, lacerations and abrasions along with internal injuries. Concussions and spinal injuries in addition to fractured bones and joint dislocations can occur if riders collide with an automobile or a stationary object.

Riders should inspect any e-scooter before they ride it to ensure that it is in proper working order. Once using the e-scooter they should also follow all traffic rules and regulations and be aware of their surroundings, including road conditions and traffic patterns around them.

Reasons for legal action with e-scooter accidents

Claims that are often made in legal cases made on behalf of e-scooter riders who suffered injury through no fault include the e-scooter manufacturer not providing enough information or warning about potential hazards related to use of an e-scooter. Such claims may also reference an insufficient amount of training or information for riders to safely operate the e-scooter.

Legal action may also be taken against automobile drivers or against municipalities for poor road maintenance that led to poor riding conditions.

What to do if injured while using an e-scooter

If you’re injured through no fault of your own while riding an e-scooter and want to seek compensation for injuries suffered, it will be incumbent on you to gather evidence and prove the defendant was negligent in some way to cause the accident. For these reasons it is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney and gather evidence such as eye witness accounts, photos of the accident scene or damaged e-scooter in addition to documentation of any medical treatments. 

Personal injury attorneys at Herrling Clark Law Firm are ready to provide a no-cost consultation with anyone who believes they are eligible for compensation resulting from an e-scooter accident. Visit herrlingclark.com to learn more.

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If you’ve been injured in an accident through no fault of your own, you may be in a position where it makes sense to contact a personal injury attorney to determine if there are legal options for you to pursue. 

However, there are initial steps to take prior to pursuing legal help. First and foremost, your health and safety should be your top priority. You should immediately seek medical attention for any injuries suffered in the accident to avoid additional repercussions on your health that may come from a delay in getting help.

Make sure to share all of the accident details you can with your doctor, it’s very important to be as transparent as possible, even if an injury seems minor.

After seeing to your immediate physical wellbeing, the next step should be to gather as much evidence and documentation of the accident as you can, especially any medical bills.

Upon collecting all the documentation, you can then contact an attorney for an initial consultation about your case and possible next steps. 

Why is it important to contact a lawyer if you’ve been injured?

Navigating the legal system as an individual is daunting. The medical expenses, lost wages, and inability to care for your family when recovering from a personal injury can be overwhelming. Trying to quickly recover money from an insurance company can also prove to be a formidable task.

Getting in contact with an attorney gives you the ability to focus on your personal well-being and give you the peace of mind you deserve. 

An attorney can help identify your options to move forward, expedite the process for timely compensation, and could be the difference in the outcome of your case

An attorney can help clarify your options

Many people choose to hire an attorney shortly after an accident, however, even if many months have passed since the accident, it still makes sense to reach out to a competent personal attorney.  But it’s important to keep in mind there are statutory deadlines that require legal action to be filed or a settlement reached by a certain deadline.  Accordingly, it is best to contact counsel early in the process to avoid any issues with the statute of limitations prohibiting your ability to recover.

In some simple injury cases, you may not need an attorney.  For example, if you have only sought out care on one or two occasions and are entirely healed, you likely can handle your own claim. However, for anything more complicated or with injuries that result in ongoing symptoms, you are best served by seeking out an attorney. 

If you are unsure about moving forward with an attorney, you can always schedule a consultation free of charge at Herrling Clark Law Firm to clarify your decision.

Call an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer

At Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd., we understand just how significantly an accident can impact your life, and we strongly believe that victims deserve full and fair compensation. Dedicated to helping you get the most out of your settlement, we will stand up for your rights and protect your interests. Schedule a free initial consultation with our personal injury attorneys to learn more. Call 920-739-7366 for an appointment today.

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Appleton-based firm again chosen as top choice among Fox Valley consumers

APPLETON, WI – Herrling Clark Law Firm has been voted the Fox Valley’s best law firm for the 20th consecutive year by readers of the Appleton Post Crescent. The annual survey asks consumers to select top businesses in different categories, ranging from professional service providers to entertainment and leisure outlets. 

This 20th year of recognition stands as a testament to Herrling Clark’s unparalleled dedication to getting results and serving the needs of its clients throughout the Fox Valley. Since its founding more than 50 years ago, Herrling Clark has been committed to providing high-quality legal services in Appleton and throughout northeast Wisconsin.

“We are deeply honored and humbled to be named Best of the Valley for the 20th consecutive year,” said Richard Elrod, partner and personal injury attorney at Herrling Clark. “We are immensely grateful for the ongoing trust of our community, and we look forward to continuing to provide expert legal services to our current and prospective clients.”

About Herrling Clark:

As a hometown law office, Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd. is closely tied to the Fox Valley. In 1959, Don Herrling opened his law practice in downtown Appleton, Wisconsin. Since then, the firm has grown along with Appleton and the Fox Valley but maintains a strong local connection to the community where many of the firm’s attorneys and staff live and support community events and civic activities. From personal injury to estate planning, family law to business law, our practice areas are built around meeting our clients’ needs. Herrling Clark has offices in Appleton, Oshkosh, Green Bay, and Waupaca.

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APPLETON, WI – Herrling Clark Law Firm is proud to announce that Emily Pinzl has joined the firm as an attorney in the Family Law practice group, focusing on divorce cases, paternity actions, child support claims, and custody and placement disputes. 

Pinzl worked at Herrling Clark previously as a law clerk and brings a wealth of experience and a unique background to her legal practice. She holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis, and earned her Juris Doctorate from Marquette University Law School, where she graduated with honors. Her commitment and passion for family law matters distinguished her throughout her legal education.

Pinzl’s extensive experience in social work uniquely positions her to approach legal matters with empathy and a deep understanding of the emotional complexities involved in family law cases.

“We are thrilled to welcome Emily Pinzl back to our firm as an attorney,” said shareholder and family law attorney Kelly Kelly. “Her diverse background and dedication to helping others make her an invaluable asset to our family law practice group. We have no doubt that her commitment to achieving positive outcomes for our clients will allow her to flourish in her new role.”

About Herrling Clark:

As a hometown law office, Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd. is closely tied to the Fox Valley. In 1959, Don Herrling opened his law practice in downtown Appleton, Wisconsin. Since then, the firm has grown along with Appleton and the Fox Valley but maintains a strong local connection to the community where many of the firm’s attorneys and staff live and support community events and civic activities. From personal injury to estate planning, family law to business law, our practice areas are built around meeting our clients’ needs. Herrling Clark has offices in Appleton, Oshkosh, Green Bay, and Waupaca.

The post Emily Pinzl Joins Herrling Clark Law Firm as Attorney in Family Law Practice Group appeared first on Herrling Clark Law Firm.

Wisconsin law requires all automobile operators to carry auto insurance. At the very minimum, drivers are required to have liability and uninsured motorist coverage. The insurance marketplace provides many different options to choose from and deciding on the appropriate policy can be complex. The following is a primer for the basic types of auto insurance available.  

Liability Coverage

There are two types of liability coverage – bodily injury liability coverage and property damage liability coverage, both are required for automobile operators to have in the state of Wisconsin.

If you are at fault for causing an accident that leaves others injured, bodily injury liability coverage protects you from their claims up to the specified amounts in the insurance policy for medical expenses, lost wages and other losses. It does not protect you or your vehicle directly. 

Property damage liability coverage pays for damages caused to the property of others up to the stated amount provided by the policy. 

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage protects you and your passengers in case of injuries caused in a car accident by a driver who doesn’t have insurance or in the case of a hit-and-run scenario. This coverage ensures there are funds to compensate for your losses at the expense of another driver. This coverage is also required by law.

Underinsured Motorists Coverage

Underinsured motorists (UIM) coverage expands the bodily injury protection to you and others in your vehicle up to the amount of coverage you purchase if the person who caused the accident has a lower limit of bodily injury liability coverage than your UIM coverage limits. 

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage pays for the physical damage to your vehicle resulting from hitting another vehicle or a stationary object, or if your vehicle overturns. Even if you are at fault for the collision, your insurer will pay for repairs. Such coverage will pay for vehicle repairs up to the amount equal to the vehicle’s value prior to the accident. 

Medical Payments Coverage

Payment for medical or funeral expenses for you or others injured or killed in an accident is covered by insurance known as medical payments coverage. These payments  usually cover remaining expenses that are not covered by health insurance. Payments will be made even if you were the at-fault party.

Contact a personal injury attorney

If you or a loved one is injured in a driving accident that results in medical attention, contact an attorney to discuss the options available. The personal injury attorneys at Herrling Clark Law Firm are highly experienced in recovering compensation for those who have been injured in driving accidents and can provide consultation at no cost.

Frequently Asked Questions – Automobile Insurance

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As the weather warms up and plans are made for spring and summer activities, enjoying local waterways on a boat is a common pastime. While recreational boating is fun and can make for lasting memories, it is made even better when following basic safety guidelines.

In 2021, nearly 5,000 recreational boating accidents occurred according to the U.S. Coast Guard. By following basic safety practices the risk of an accident resulting in injury or even death can be significantly reduced. The following are five simple boating safety steps to follow:

1. Life jackets are essential

Even the strongest swimmers can find themselves in challenging conditions when in the water, particularly if the unexpected happens. That’s why wearing a  life jacket while on a boat is highly recommended. Of all fatal boating accidents, 81% are drowning victims. Of those drowning victims, 83% were not wearing a life jacket. Simply put, wearing a life jacket can save your life. 

2. Familiarize yourself with state boating laws

Just like driving a car, there are laws that must be followed when boating. Keeping yourself and your passengers safe starts with obeying the rules of the water to minimize the risk of accidents and injury.

3. Perform regular equipment checks

Just because things appear to be working properly, doesn’t mean that there won’t be an underlying issue with your boat. Before launching from the dock be sure to check that engines, propellers and any other equipment are in good working order.

4. Don’t drive under the influence

Operating a boating vehicle while under the influence is never a good idea. It is illegal to drive a boat while intoxicated and you will be cited with an OWI if your blood alcohol content is above the legal limit.  Worse yet, if you are in an accident while driving a boat while intoxicated, you can be charged with significant criminal charges.

You endanger yourself and others when you choose to operate a vehicle while impaired. Reaction times are slower, motor skill function worsens and the ability to concentrate declines while under the influence of intoxicants. The key to safe boating is staying alert and aware of your surroundings.

5. Check the weather before heading out on the water

Weather can change in an instant. Know the weather forecast and be prepared to cut your time on the water short if inclement weather is on the horizon. Always keep an eye out for changing weather patterns and never go out on the water when a storm is approaching. Poor weather can create choppy, unmanageable water conditions that increase chances of accidents and injury.

If injury does occur, contact an attorney

If you or a loved one is injured during a boating activity that results in medical attention, contact an attorney to discuss the options available. The personal injury attorneys at Herrling Clark Law Firm are highly experienced in recovering compensation for those who have been injured in boating accidents and can provide consultation at no cost.

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If you’ve ever been in a car accident, or know someone who has, you know the immediate aftermath can be very chaotic. 

Sometimes it’s hard to know exactly what to do. Between trying to figure out exactly what happened, how your car will be repaired, and whether there are alternative transportation options, seeking medical attention is not always the highest priority, particularly if you think any injuries incurred will heal on their own.

However, it’s critical that the first action you take after an accident is to ensure that everyone involved is OK and to seek medical attention yourself as soon as possible. Even if you haven’t suffered any noticeable injuries or those suffered seem relatively minor, it’s important to undergo a thorough medical examination.

Medical attention results in documentation

Some injuries may not become apparent until days after the accident, which is why it’s important to have your health and any injuries accurately diagnosed by a qualified medical professional. This is important not only for your own health, but for legal reasons as well.

For example, internal injuries may not manifest themselves immediately and foregoing medical attention may lead to what could have been an avoidable medical emergency down the road.

Additionally, when you seek medical treatment after an accident, it results in official medical documentation of your condition and helps connect any injuries suffered to the accident that caused them.

Not having such documentation opens the door for insurance companies to argue that injuries suffered as a result of the accident are not as serious as claimed or that they didn’t result from the accident itself.

In these cases, seeking medical treatment serves as a level of protection of your legal right to recover compensation for injuries suffered.

Follow your doctor’s orders

Upon receiving a medical diagnosis, it is imperative to follow your doctor’s orders and any prescribed treatment plan. This means filling all prescriptions ordered, participating in physical therapy, and taking the required time to rest and, as recommended, take a break from activities such as work, school, and recreational activity.

Particularly if you start to feel better it is important to continue following your doctor’s orders and to not skip follow-up appointments or stray from the prescribed treatment plan.

Insurance companies may seize upon any failure to comply with the doctor’s treatment plan as justification to reduce any settlement or even deny a claim altogether.

Speak with a personal injury attorney

If you’ve been injured in an accident and have questions on how to protect your rights to receive compensation for injuries incurred in the accident, personal injury attorneys at Herrling Clark are available to provide a free consultation regarding your legal options. Contact us today.

The post Getting Medical Attention After An Accident Is Critical To Protecting Your Health, Legal Rights appeared first on Herrling Clark Law Firm.

Dogs may be man’s best friend, but our four-legged friends are still animals who bite to defend themselves when they are in stressful situations. According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control, more than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the United States. Whether you’re bitten by a friend’s dog or that of a stranger at the dog park, the following are actions you should take.

Seek medical attention & gather information

If you suffer a dog bite, wash the wound with soap and water, and determine if medical attention is necessary. If the dog’s owner is present, request proof of rabies vaccination and get the owner’s name and contact information. Be sure to take pictures of the injury and the dog, and be sure to document your medical expenses.

Report the dog bite incident

It’s important to report all incidents involving animal bites so the proper authorities can take any appropriate action to prevent future injuries. If the injury requires a visit to the emergency room, medical staff will file a report on your behalf. Ask for the report number to keep for your records. 

If you need to file a dog bite report on your own, contact your local city or county authorities, which are most commonly the police department or animal control agency.

Speak with a personal injury attorney

It’s understandable to feel apprehensive about pursuing legal action over a dog bite, however, it’s important to keep in mind the financial liabilities incurred as the result of such an incident. By speaking with experienced personal injury attorneys such as those at Herrling Clark, you can receive professional counsel on compensation you may be able to recover through the dog owner’s insurance policy. Contact us today. 

There’s no cost to consult with an attorney, so it pays to take that step if you feel there’s a need to pursue legal help.

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If you’ve been in a car crash do not dismiss aches and pains that develop after the incident.

Such injuries often mean that soft tissue like muscles, or connective tissue, like tendons and ligaments have been damaged, possibly resulting in long-lasting physical limitations and pain. In some cases, these injuries could also lead to significant medical costs.

Upon suffering soft tissue injuries visit a medical professional to receive proper diagnosis and appropriate care as soon as possible. Once you’ve started the recovery process, contacting a trusted personal injury attorney may be in your best interests.

The attorney can assess your situation and provide counsel on whether you should pursue legal action to protect your right to fair compensation and a stable future.

What are soft tissue injuries?

Soft tissue injuries occur when muscles and connective tissue are stretched, torn or become inflamed. Examples of these injuries include whiplash, sprains, strains, and contusions or bruises. Such injuries are often associated with trauma resulting overuse of particular body parts or blunt force trauma due to an accident.

Factors that contribute to legal ramifications involving soft tissue injuries in an accident, include:

• Significant limitations resulting from the injury;
• Length of time for such injuries to heal, in some cases they never do;
• Inability to use arms, hands, feet and legs; and
• Blood collecting around an injury sometimes resulting in irreversible damage, particularly in cases of internal bruising.

Injuries can have a broad impact on one’s lifestyle, which is why it’s important to consider the full cost of the damages caused by soft tissue injuries. A personal injury lawyer at Herrling Clark Law Firm can help calculate the value of one’s losses resulting from injury.

Securing compensation for soft tissue injuries

In addition to consulting with an attorney about securing compensation for soft tissue injuries suffered in an accident, securing testimony of a qualified doctor with experience treating such injuries can be helpful in building a case.

Additionally, collecting supporting proof of the impact that the injuries have had on your lifestyle can be critical to helping the court determine the extent of your losses.

Contact Our Green Bay Car Accident Lawyers

The attorneys of Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd. can assist you if you have been in a motor vehicle accident. We can help you start the legal actions required to recover compensation for damages to your vehicle and injuries to yourself or your passengers. Contact an Appleton vehicle accident attorney at 920-739-7366 for your free consultation today.

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