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AlpernSchubert P.C. 2020 Super Lawyers
May 27, 2020
AlpernSchubert P.C. is excited to announce that attorney, Richard J. Schubert, has been selected to this year’s 2020 Super Lawyers list. Richard was previously selected to Super Lawyers in 2005 to 2006, as well as each consecutive year since 2008. In 2018, Richard was also selected to the Top 50: 2018 Pittsburgh Super Lawyers...Read More >>
How Long Do I Have to Report My Work Injury?
March 16, 2020
The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act provides benefits for workers who are injured on the job, but in order to qualify for them, there are deadlines that must be met. Failure to report your injury within the time limit can mean losing your right to benefits. Reporting an Injury If you were injured on the...Read More >>
What Evidence Do I Need to Sue My Health Insurance Company?
March 9, 2020
Sometimes, health insurance companies deny valid claims. Policyholders may appeal such adverse benefit determinations, first to the insurance company’s internal appeal board and then to an independent party for external review. Those who believe they received an unjustified denial may be able to sue their health insurance company in a bad faith lawsuit to...Read More >>
Common Workers’ Compensation Denials
March 2, 2020
Employees who are injured at work while performing the prescribed job duties are entitled to Workers’ Compensation benefits. Worker protection laws specifically require businesses to establish a system for these insurance benefits to provide a safeguard for employees in case a work accident leaves them unable to work. These benefits allow injured employees to...Read More >>
What Should I Consider When Offered a Lump Sum Insurance Buyout?
February 28, 2020
It may be tempting to accept a lump sum disability buyout or settlement; however, it may not always be the right choice. An insurance company is motivated to offer a lump sum settlement to save costs. Essentially, when the insurance company offers a buy-out, it is requesting that the policy-holder release the insurance company...Read More >>
Unnoticed Effects of a Car Accident
February 27, 2020
Serious car accidents can have life-altering consequences. Those effects can be in the form of physical injuries or emotional impact. When a motor vehicle accident leaves a person with severe emotional trauma, it can be difficult to prove. This becomes a problem when seeking compensation from the liable parties involved in the accident. Severe...Read More >>
Why was My Permanent Disability Cancelled?
February 18, 2020
Suffering a work injury that causes a permanent disability is a traumatic and life-changing experience, so finding out that your long term permanent disability benefits have been cancelled can come as a second shock. Unfortunately, there are many different reasons why insurance companies cut off these monthly payments. To maintain your benefits for as...Read More >>
What are the Types of Compensation Recovered in a Bad Faith Claim?
February 17, 2020
If a flood or fire damaged your home, first you must contend with the physical damage to your property. You must also salvage your belongings, prevent further damage, find another place to live, and pay for the repairs that could take weeks or months to complete. Anyone who has experienced this type of catastrophe...Read More >>
Can Workers’ Compensation and the Americans with Disabilities Act Intertwine?
February 12, 2020
In a hypothetical situation where an employee is injured on the job, would the employer be required to retain the employee if they were no longer able to fully perform their job? These types of questions arise on occasion and involve a careful analysis of the interplay between two laws that are both designed...Read More >>
How Should I Drive on Black Ice?
February 5, 2020
We have reached the coldest month of the year in Pennsylvania and throughout the mid-Atlantic region. Freezing temperatures combined with wet roadways can create black ice. According to the Federal Highway Administration, upwards of 150,000 car accidents occur every year on icy roads across the country. Many of these serious crashes are caused by...Read More >>
Scaffolding Injuries and Workers’ Compensation
January 29, 2020
Scaffolding is a necessary part of construction projects, as well as building restoration, cleaning, and repair projects. It allows workers to access otherwise unreachable areas and work at heights, but when scaffolding is erected or disassembled hastily and without proper safety precautions, it can cause serious injury to workers using it. A fall from...Read More >>
Gig Workers Make Up a Significant Portion of Worker Deaths
January 22, 2020
Plenty of people have decided that they no longer want or need to be traditional employees. Instead, they have joined the growing gig economy to enjoy the freedom that comes with being an independent worker. However, numbers from the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI) indicate that full-time freelancers and independent contractors are not...Read More >>
What Should I Do If I Spot a Distracted Driver on the Road?
January 16, 2020
Distracted driving, although dangerous, is a common problem among drivers. One of the main reasons of distracted driving lies in the use of cell phones. According to a report by the Governors Highway Safety Association, texting and other electronic usage cause up to 25 percent of all car accidents. If you or someone you...Read More >>
Social Media and Your Disability Claims
January 14, 2020
If you are depending on disability insurance payments, you should pay close attention to your online image and what your social media posts might convey to insurance company investigators. Be careful what you post on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and other online platforms, as insurance investigators routinely comb these sites looking for proof that...Read More >>
Winter Weather Liability
January 10, 2020
What happens when winter weather becomes a factor in your recent car accident? Pennsylvanians should be aware that in the past, Pennsylvania ranked in the top five states for the most fatal car accidents during winter weather conditions. Between 2011 and 2015, according to data from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), Pennsylvania...Read More >>
Welding Eye Injuries
January 8, 2020
Welding is a physically demanding and potentially dangerous profession. And nearly one-tenth of the manufacturing workforce is comprised of men and women who weld, melt, and forge different materials together for a variety of different purposes. Of the 30 different types of welding that take place in factories and workshops across the country, all...Read More >>
Pennsylvania Turnpike Accident Leaves Five Fatalities, 60 Injuries
January 6, 2020
A multi-vehicle accident on the Pennsylvania Turnpike left five victims fatally injured and about 60 individuals with varying injuries. The crash occurred on Sunday morning around 3:33 am in Mount Pleasant Township, Pennsylvania and involved a passenger bus, three tractor-trailers, and several passenger vehicles. During the accident on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, the bus rolled...Read More >>
Beware of Deadlines for Filing Private Disability Insurance
January 3, 2020
Disability insurance policies are a contract between the insurer and insured. If the policy terms are not strictly adhered to, one can risk denial of the claim. When filing a claim for disability insurance, the claimant needs to prove the disability through medical evidence and comply with contractual deadlines established by the disability policy....Read More >>
Keeping the Workplace Safe
December 30, 2019
Under the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act, employers have a duty to provide workplaces that are free of known health and safety hazards. They must also comply with the safety and health standards set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to safeguard employees from these known risks. Keeping the workplace...Read More >>
Dangers of Drinking and Driving During the Holiday Season
December 27, 2019
The holidays are a time for celebrations and getting together with friends, family, and co-workers to eat, drink, and be merry. Unfortunately, a fun holiday event can become tragic when drunk drivers cause car accidents. While drunk driving fatalities have been on a steady decline over the past two decades, drunk driving deaths remain...Read More >>
Foggy Windows and Accidents
December 23, 2019
Winter is upon us and soon we will be dealing with the elements. When driving, something as seemingly harmless as a bit of fog on the windows can lead to a serious car accident. Fog on any of the windows will impede the driver’s ability to navigate traffic and see the road clearly. The...Read More >>
How Much is My Personal Injury Case Worth?
December 18, 2019
If you sustain a serious injury because of the actions or inactions of another party, you may file a personal injury lawsuit to receive compensation. Such compensation may include economic and non-economic damages. The value of the former is relatively straightforward, while that of the latter is more subjective. Under Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence law,...Read More >>
Slip and Falls at the Office
December 11, 2019
Slip and fall accidents are common across all industries. Many people do not associate the office environment with the risk of a slip and fall; however, office workers are 2.5 times more likely than non-office workers to sustain injuries from a slip and fall accident. The most common causes of office slip and falls...Read More >>
Private Disability versus Workers’ Compensation
December 2, 2019
When someone is unable to work due to a disability, they may be entitled to benefits provided through private disability and Workers’ Compensation. There are various factors for workers to consider when deciding which disability compensation is right for their case. The Pittsburgh disability lawyers at AlpernSchubert P.C. handle both Workers’ Compensation claims and...Read More >>
OnMyWay App Rewards Safe Drivers
November 22, 2019
New tracking technology has been developed to reduce unsafe driving behaviors, including distracted driving and speeding. Reckless driving is a leading cause of fatal car accidents throughout the country. Many safety programs hope to motivate drivers to stop reckless driving by focusing on the deadly risks and consequences associated with their unsafe driving behavior....Read More >>
Arriving Safely to Thanksgiving Dinner
November 21, 2019
At the start of every holiday season, safety advocacy groups remind everyone that Thanksgiving weekend is one of the most dangerous times of the year to drive. This year is no exception; record numbers of travelers are expected. Factors such as unfamiliar roads and poor weather conditions all contribute to the amount of accidents...Read More >>
Are Insurance Adjusters Liable for Bad Faith Claims?
November 20, 2019
Most states have laws designed to protect consumers from bad faith insurance. Under the insurance contract, consumers have direct claims against their insurance company for alleged bad faith. However, many courts are finding that insurance personnel, such as agents and adjusters, can also be named individually as defendants in bad faith insurance claims. Insurance...Read More >>
Is Arthritis Considered Workers’ Compensation?
November 15, 2019
Arthritis is inflammation of the joints and encompasses many rheumatic conditions that affect the joints and connective joint tissue, such as fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and systemic lupus erythematosus. If you were injured at work and your arthritis is accelerated or reactivated by your work injury, you have the right to file for...Read More >>
Can I Be Fired While on Short Term Disability?
November 13, 2019
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law designed to prevent employment discrimination based on disability. The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is designed to secure employment while an employee is on unpaid leave for certain qualifying reasons for a limited term. However, neither the ADA nor the FMLA guarantees protection of...Read More >>
Common Bad Faith Insurance Tactics
October 31, 2019
Although insurance companies are expected to act as fiduciaries to their customers when handling a claim, they may not always act in good faith.  Insurance companies may be motivated by profits while investigating a claim. As an insured entity, it is vital to be aware of ways an insurance company may be circumventing its...Read More >>
Hazardous Road Conditions and Car Accidents
October 24, 2019
It is common for car accidents to occur as a result of driver error or vehicle malfunctions, but some accidents involve the road itself. Improving road infrastructure has been an ongoing goal for many state governments. The need for upkeep and repairs of our roadways has far-reaching effects. Besides being responsible for significant repair...Read More >>
Does Mental Illness Fall Under Disability Insurance?
October 17, 2019
People suffering from mental health issues can sometimes find it hard to report to work each day and maintain steady employment. The nation is beginning to recognize the effect that mental illness has on people in our society, but getting disability insurance when mental illness prevents a person from working is still very difficult....Read More >>
Bad Faith Insurance Claims and Car Accidents
October 15, 2019
Auto insurance companies, like all other business, must act fairly and in good faith when dealing with their policyholders and any injured person who may qualify for coverage under their policies. If an insurance company denies coverage under a policy without a reasonable basis or contrary to the terms of the insurance policy, they...Read More >>
Dealing with a Workers’ Compensation Deposition
October 11, 2019
When an injured worker files for Workers’ Compensation, the insurance company may require a deposition. Although a deposition may seem like a stressful, overwhelming prospect, it can be very positive for the hurt employee. After all, a deposition puts testimony taken under oath into record, which can help a worker prove their need for...Read More >>
Liability for a Lane-Splitting Accident
October 9, 2019
Traffic jams happen regularly along two-lane highways. Whether caused by heavier than anticipated vehicle flow, an emergency, or construction, they frustrate drivers. During these situations, motorcyclists may be tempted to drive between the stopped or slow-crawling lanes to make up for lost time. This type of lane-splitting is prohibited in Pennsylvania. Yet, despite its...Read More >>
My Supervisor Rejected My Workers’ Compensation Claim
October 2, 2019
It may surprise you if your supervisor or boss rejected your Workers’ Compensation claim. However, it is not uncommon. An employer rejecting a Workers’ Compensation claim does not mean that you should give up. If your insurance claim was rejected, you have the right to seek legal counsel to help you obtain compensation for...Read More >>
“Activities of Daily Living” and LTD Claims
September 25, 2019
Understanding the terms “activities of daily living” can be the difference between obtaining coverage or not for individuals applying for or seeking payments under a long-term disability insurance policy. To obtain compensation under many long-term disability insurance policies an individual must show they are unable to perform certain everyday tasks categorized as the “activities...Read More >>
Whiplash Injuries
September 19, 2019
One of the most common injuries resulting from a car accident is “whiplash.” The term is used to describe a soft tissue injury that results when a person’s head swiftly and forcefully snaps back and forth. Whiplash will often cause misalignment of the bones of the neck. This will sometimes put pressure on spinal...Read More >>
Differences Between Individual and Group Disability Insurance
September 5, 2019
By purchasing disability insurance, employees can protect themselves from financial worries should they suffer a long-term disability resulting in their inability to work. Unlike Workers’ Compensation insurance, most long-term disability insurance policies cover the loss of future wages for medical conditions that are not work-related. Some workers face the choice of obtaining either individual...Read More >>
How are Workers’ Compensation Payments and Settlements Determined?
August 28, 2019
Eligible workers who have been hurt on the job in Pennsylvania should always file for Workers’ Compensation benefits. Employers are required to hold this type of insurance, whether through themselves as a self-insured entity, a state-run organization, or a private insurance company. However, getting Workers’ Compensation checks can be a complicated process. Injured individuals...Read More >>
What are the Elements of a Bad Faith Insurance Claim?
August 23, 2019
Insurance companies, due to their greater bargaining power, are held to a standard of care when upholding their insurance agreements with their insurers. A bad faith insurance claim can be made whenever an insurance company fails to process an insurance claim in a reasonable manner. Bad faith can be found in the following instances:...Read More >>
Can I Still Collect Workers’ Compensation If I Was At-Fault for the Injury?
August 21, 2019
Workers’ Compensation is there to protect workers who are injured on the job. Yet, what if the worker believes they caused the workplace injury? Many workers may not realize that even if they caused or contributed to the injury, they may still be eligible to receive Workers’ Compensation benefits for their medical care and...Read More >>
Attorney Richard J Schubert of AlpernSchubert P.C. Achieves Recertification in Civil Law With the National Board of Trial Advocacy
August 20, 2019
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA: The National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) is pleased to announce that Richard J. Schubert of the law firm, AlpernSchubert P. C. has successfully achieved recertification as as a Civil Trial advocate.  The NBTA was formed out of a strong conviction that both the law profession and its clients would benefit from...Read More >>
Liability for Traffic Light Malfunctions
August 14, 2019
Car accidents happen for many reasons. Often, one or more drivers may be clearly at fault. However, if the accident occurred at an intersection with a malfunctioning traffic light, proving liability is much more complicated. While it may be more difficult to obtain full compensation for injuries sustained in a car accident involving a...Read More >>
Safety Tips for Heavy Machinery
August 8, 2019
Accidents involving heavy machinery, especially cranes and forklifts, account for too many injuries and fatalities in the workplace. The manufacturing and construction industries each account for 42 percent of heavy machinery accidents and deaths, with the construction industry responsible for 24 percent of forklift accidents. Forklift Accidents Accidents involving forklifts include rollovers, often due...Read More >>
Who is Liable for an Accident at a Four-Way Intersection?
August 6, 2019
Determining liability at a four-way intersection can be difficult, especially when the accident is caused by poorly designed roads and more than two vehicles are involved. If you or someone you know was involved in a four-way intersection accident, you may have questions about liability. Four-way intersection accidents are common because many drivers do...Read More >>
Why Were My Long-Term Disability Benefits Denied?
July 24, 2019
Long-term disability benefits provide much needed compensation for individuals with chronic illnesses or disabling injuries that can no longer work. While most long-term disability policies are provided by an employer, independent policies are also available. In some cases, benefits are initially denied, but benefits can still be awarded through an appeals process. It is...Read More >>
My Company Does Not Have Workers’ Comp… Now What?
July 10, 2019
Suffering any workplace injury naturally leads to worries. Who will pay the mounting medical bills? Are lost wages recoverable? Will the injury be compensated fairly and justly? Usually, those concerns are somewhat alleviated when the injured employee begins to receive regular Workers’ Compensation benefits. In Pennsylvania, employers must carry Workers’ Compensation insurance by law...Read More >>
100 Deadliest Days of Summer
July 2, 2019
Parents, educators, coaches, and youth mentors have a tremendous opportunity to use the months between Memorial Day and Labor Day as a chance to educate teens about the dangers of driving. Why this period? Dubbed by AAA as the “100 Deadliest Days”, it is a time when teens are most vulnerable to being injured...Read More >>
What is the WARN Act?
June 26, 2019
The federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act applies to certain employers and requires notice to employees if there is a mass layoff. Like many laws, details are vital when an employee is trying to determine whether their employer’s actions fall under the protections of the WARN Act and what benefits the employee...Read More >>
Failure to Use Turn Signals Causes Accidents
June 19, 2019
Drivers who do not use their turn signals correctly are a danger to other drivers, whether they realize it or not. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) reports that two million accidents occur every year due to drivers who fail to signal. A separate survey showed that 71 percent of drivers between the ages...Read More >>
Roller Machine Accidents
June 12, 2019
A Homer City Generating Station employee was severely injured when his arm became stuck in a 13,000-pound coal-crushing roller in Indiana County. The first responders on site wasted no time coming to his rescue. The employee was taken to Conemaugh Hospital in Johnstown. Whether the injury was due to equipment failure is unknown. If...Read More >>
Motorcycle Accidents Due to Tailgating
June 5, 2019
Every motorcyclist knows that highways can be dangerous places. Cars, SUVs, and trucks are notorious for not sharing the road with motorcycles. Additionally, many drivers tend to tailgate. Pennsylvania reported nearly 3,500 motorcycle accidents in 2016 alone. Although motorcyclists feel as if they have little recourse, those who are tailgated can apply key strategies...Read More >>
Staying Safe on Memorial Day Weekend
May 22, 2019
Memorial Day is a special holiday in the United States. During this weekend, Americans across the country salute all members of the military who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Memorial Day also marks the beginning of summer, and for most workers across the country, it marks the beginning of vacations. Citizens of...Read More >>
Workplace Robots and Workers’ Compensation
May 15, 2019
It has been over 60 years since the earliest robots were brought into workplaces. They are capable of increasing productivity and completing certain jobs better than humans. Today, they are being used in all types of workplaces, including warehouses and factories. Collaborative robots complete a myriad of tasks and can work alongside humans. However,...Read More >>
Richard Schubert Selected to Super Lawyers 2019
May 9, 2019
Attorneys and staff at AlpernSchubert P.C. proudly announce that Super Lawyers has chosen one of our partners for recognition in 2019. Attorney and partner Richard J. Schubert was honored by Super Lawyers in 2005 and 2006 and every consecutive year since 2008. Super Lawyers selects outstanding lawyers throughout all 50 states and Washington, D.C....Read More >>
National Safety Stand-Down Week
May 6, 2019
For the sixth consecutive year, businesses across the country will participate in the National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction campaign during May 6 to 10. This week-long campaign offers an opportunity for companies to raise awareness about preventable safety issues pertinent to new and seasoned workers. Small companies with fewer than 25...Read More >>
Returning to Work Too Early
May 1, 2019
When someone is severely injured on the job, Workers’ Compensation, paid for by the employer’s insurance, takes care of the employee’s medical bills and provides income while the worker recuperates. While is it important for the worker to take time to heal completely, employers want workers back on the job as soon as possible....Read More >>
Prom Night Safety Tips
April 24, 2019
Prom season is meant to give teenagers across the country a night of fun and unforgettable moments. Unfortunately, prom season is also full of dangers and concerns for parents and their teenagers as both try to navigate the night safely. Parents and teenagers should have open lines of communication to ensure that prom night...Read More >>
Work Zones and Worker Safety
April 8, 2019
Construction, utility, and maintenance workers who spend time working on roadways depend on safety measures to prevent accidents. Work areas should be clearly marked with signs, lights, and pavement markings. Barriers, cones, drums, and other devices are also used to warn motorists of the work ahead. Yet even with all of this diligence, from...Read More >>
Safety Hazards and Car Dashboard Features
April 3, 2019
If you purchased a new car within the past few years, it is likely it came with the latest technological features. Those features are supposed to make driving safer, but recent research shows they are a distraction to many drivers. A new car’s dashboard has become a source of danger as drivers pay more...Read More >>
Walmart Eliminates Greeters
March 27, 2019
Across the country, Walmart is making serious changes to about 1,000 of its stores. Once known for one of the few companies that opened its arms to workers with special needs, it is now under scrutiny due to eliminating their greeters. As people who have visited Walmart know, the greeter positions were often staffed...Read More >>
Semi-Trucks and Sideswipe Accidents
March 20, 2019
Semi-trucks populate the nation’s highways, and other vehicles have no choice but to share the road with them. When accidents, such as sideswipes, happen with these big rigs, the consequences can be much more severe because of their size. Sideswipe accidents occur when a vehicle collides with another that is traveling alongside of it,...Read More >>
How Layoffs Impact Workers’ Compensation Benefits
March 13, 2019
When an individual has suffered an injury at work, the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act provides the employee with missed wages and medical benefits to help them. It is important to note that employers cannot retaliate against an employee for filing a Workers’ Compensation claim. Employers can fire an employee for another legal reason, even...Read More >>
Work Injuries Caused by Poor Ergonomics
March 6, 2019
When people think of work-related injuries, images of broken bones and occupational diseases may come to mind. Although these are prevalent, less obvious musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) that develop from working conditions are the most common. Lower back and shoulder injuries, carpal tunnel, trigger finger, and tendonitis may not be easy to see, but employees...Read More >>
Things You Should Not Do When Driving
February 28, 2019
Accidents happen every day due to distracted driving. Driving requires focus and is not something to be taken lightly. Both drivers and passengers have responsibilities while in a moving vehicle to keep themselves safe. Unnecessary distractions take a driver’s attention off the road, causing them to potentially lose control of their vehicle and crash....Read More >>
Pennsylvania Impairment Rating Evaluations Return
February 22, 2019
After an accident occurs, a worker’s ability to function can be compromised by injuries. This impairment can be partial, total, temporary or permanent. Workers who suffer these on-the-job injuries may have their Workers’ Compensation benefits determined by an impairment rating evaluation (IRE). In June of 2017, the State Supreme Court proclaimed that certain provisions...Read More >>
Black Lung
February 13, 2019
In Allegheny County and across western Pennsylvania, numerous men and women work in coal mines. In fact, the Pittsburgh area’s coal mining region has become somewhat of a tourist attraction in recent years. However, it hides a dark side that has come to light in past decades. Coal mining companies have negligently exposed employees...Read More >>
Most Dangerous Jobs in Pennsylvania
February 6, 2019
No job is free of risk. Regardless of what your occupation may be, there is always the chance of getting injured while on the job. Luckily, most jobs do not pose high risks for injuries and fatalities. However, there are certain professions that have a much higher risk than others. The following are the...Read More >>
Handling Workplace Sexual Discrimination
January 30, 2019
There are many categories of workplace discrimination, and they are all defined by treating a person or persons unfairly on the basis of their religion, sex, race, age, or other protected class. Some of the most frightening of these can be gender discrimination and sexual harassment. Clear examples of sexual harassment include inappropriate comments...Read More >>
Uninsured and Underinsured Drivers
January 23, 2019
The results of a car accident can be made exponentially worse if an uninsured driver is involved. Although all drivers are required by law to possess insurance, many are driving without. In some states, drivers need only to have minimum insurance requirements. This means that even if a motorist that causes a crash has...Read More >>
Cleaning Snow Off Cars
January 16, 2019
With winter finally here, it is well known that there are many precautions that we must take, and many conditions which we must be aware of when it comes to driving. While most drivers are very aware to drive cautiously in wintery weather such as snow, sleet, and ice, what many fail to consider...Read More >>
Can I Retire While on Workers’ Compensation?
January 10, 2019
Workers’ Compensation is payment provided to workers who are temporarily or permanently not able to work due to injury. Whether or not a worker can retire while receiving Workers’ Compensation will depend on what type of benefits they are receiving, and their definition of retirement. For example, those receiving wage loss benefits or temporary...Read More >>
What Are Employees Entitled to While Pregnant?
January 3, 2019
Being a mother and a working woman at the same time is not always the easiest situation. Though most women can work without much change during pregnancy, some face complications that leave them unable to perform their usual tasks. Working While Pregnant Under federal law, employers are legally obligated to treat pregnant women in...Read More >>
Parking Lot Slip and Fall Liability
December 12, 2018
The winter season in the northeast brings hazards of snow and ice. Slip and falls can happen at any time, but if someone falls on another owner’s property, what happens next? A fall on snow or ice can cause anything from minor to major limb, back, and head injuries, among others, and anyone at...Read More >>
Workers’ Compensation for Work Party Injuries
December 5, 2018
This time of year, many companies sponsor holiday work parties for their employees. These events are great opportunities for socializing and networking with co-workers – but things can get out of hand. Some provide open bars, which can lead to overindulgence and unfortunate consequences like car accidents. It is always wise to take it...Read More >>
Ignoring Car Recalls
November 28, 2018
Each year, motor vehicle manufacturers issue recalls. Last year alone, there was a total of 30.7 million. Yet the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that just 70 percent of these vehicles get the needed repairs. The question this raises is, why? In the first place, many car owners do not receive the...Read More >>
Pursuing Justice After a Personal Injury
November 26, 2018
People fear and criticize lawsuits, however it is important to recall why the civil justice system was created. It was created to protect you and your family and hold people and businesses accountable.  Financial compensation does not replace what you have lost, however AlpernSchubert will strive to ease your pain and help you move...Read More >>
Blackout Wednesday
November 21, 2018
You have certainly heard of Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving when holiday shopping kicks into high gear. But the day before Thanksgiving also has a nickname. That unfortunate nickname is Blackout Wednesday, also known as Drinksgiving, because it is a day when people tend to consume alcohol and drive while drunk, before heading...Read More >>
Truck Accident Injuries
November 14, 2018
Commercial trucks can be seen everywhere on our nation’s roads and highways, and it appears they are getting bigger than ever. The maximum weight for a commercial vehicle is 80,000 pounds. This is one reason why truck accidents are more fatal than those involving two cars. In fact, the National Institute of Traffic and...Read More >>
Personal Injury vs. Workers’ Compensation
November 7, 2018
Personal injury and Workers’ Compensation claims are not at all similar and require different kinds of expertise. However, in certain situations, such as a car accident that happens in the course of work, the employee may be entitled to Workers’ Compensation benefits and also have grounds for a personal injury claim based on negligence....Read More >>
AlpernSchubert P.C. Law Firm Recognized by Best Lawyers®
November 1, 2018
The legal team at AlpernSchubert P.C. is pleased and proud to announce that the firm has again been named as a Best Law Firm by The Best Lawyers in America©, a respected organization that highlights the top 5 percent of practicing lawyers in the United States as organized by state, city, and practice areas....Read More >>
Subrogation in Pennsylvania’s Workers’ Compensation System
October 24, 2018
Most people’s eyes glaze over at the legal term subrogation, but it can be important when you have been injured on the job and are awarded financial compensation to pay for medical bills and time away from work. Subrogation may become problematic. For example, if you are injured by a power saw at work,...Read More >>
Apps Prevent Cell Phone Use Behind the Wheel
October 17, 2018
Apple’s Do Not Disturb While Driving feature seems to be encouraging some drivers to put down the phone behind the wheel. According to the creators of EverDrive, (an iOS and Android app that monitors users driving habits) 80 percent of EverDrive users utilized the feature, decreasing their overall cell phone use while driving by...Read More >>
Workplace Construction Injuries Related to Opioid Abuse
October 10, 2018
Recent reports suggest that construction workers are more susceptible to substance abuse because of the physical nature of the work. Injury rates for construction workers are 77 percent higher than other occupations. Workers return to work before their bodies are completely healed because of the need for income. They are either forced to return...Read More >>
Red Light Accidents
October 3, 2018
Red light accidents were the cause of 673 fatalities and 122,000 injuries in 2010, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). However, despite efforts to reduce drivers running red lights, those numbers continue to increase. The IIHS reports that approximately 137,000 people were injured in 2015 and 811 people were fatally injured...Read More >>
Fatal Four Construction Site Injuries
September 26, 2018
Some jobs are inherently more dangerous than others. Construction is one of those jobs. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), nearly one in five workplace fatalities occurred in the construction industry. Of the more than 990 workers who died in construction site accidents, more than half were involved in what OSHA...Read More >>
Have I Been Sexually Harassed?
September 19, 2018
With the #MeToo movement currently at the forefront of national news, many men and women find themselves reflecting on their own encounters with employers and other authority figures. They may wonder if some of the behavior they have been exposed to constitutes sexual harassment. When do suggestive jokes or playful flirting cross the line...Read More >>
Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Bill
September 12, 2018
The Pennsylvania Legislature is considering a bill that would change Workers’ Compensation law and benefits. The bill, H.B. 1840, would allow an insurer to request a review of a worker’s status after they have received permanent disability benefits for two years. The bill would authorize an insurance carrier to require an employee to submit...Read More >>
Study Finds Teen Drivers Less Cautious After Obtaining a License
September 5, 2018
Many children behave better when they know their parents are watching. It appears this may also hold true for teenagers learning to drive. According to a new study, teens are less cautious and take more risks once they have obtained their license and can drive without supervision. A Reputation for Risky Behavior Teenage drivers...Read More >>
Back to School Safety Tips
August 22, 2018
Millions of children will be returning to school soon after enjoying a long summer break. One of the main topics on any parent’s mind is the safety of their children returning to the classroom. Unfortunately, accidents can happen anywhere, and children are at most risk for serious injury while traveling to and from school....Read More >>
Richard J. Schubert Honored in “Best Lawyers in America”
August 15, 2018
The legal team at AlpernSchubert P.C. proudly announces that partner Richard Schubert has once again been included in the prestigious Best Lawyers in America publication for plaintiff’s personal injury litigation. Richard has received this honor every year since 2005, making this his fourteenth consecutive year. For more than 37 years, Richard has had noteworthy...Read More >>
Filing a Discrimination Claim in Pennsylvania
August 13, 2018
Every state has laws in place to protect workers’ rights. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) protects residents from unlawful discrimination based on several protected categories, including age, race, and religion. The PHRA addresses discrimination in housing, commercial property, education and public accommodations, and employment. The PHRA makes it illegal for an employer to...Read More >>
Car and Bike Accidents
August 6, 2018
Accidents involving bicyclists and cars can be caused by the bicyclist, the vehicle driver, or both. The bicyclist is more subject to injury or fatality because their only protection is a helmet and motor vehicles are more powerful in size. There are laws that apply to bicyclists and how vehicles should be operate around...Read More >>
Pennsylvania Superior Court Rejects Unusual Non-Hire Clause
July 30, 2018
The Pennsylvania Superior Court recently rejected an uncommon type of non-hire clause between two competing trucking companies. The non-hire clause invalidated in Superior Court was an agreement between Pittsburgh-area firms, Pittsburgh Logistics Systems (PLS), Inc. and BeeMac Trucking, LLC, to not to hire each other’s employees. This type of clause is different from traditional...Read More >>
Risk of Electric Shock Around Swimming Pools
July 16, 2018
Millions of Americans spend the long days of summer swimming in their backyard or community swimming pool. However, there is a hidden danger in the water of which many people are unaware. Electric shock in water is virtually undetectable by swimmers, and it can be deadly. Common electrical devices like sump pumps, power washers,...Read More >>
Government Makes Rearview Cameras Mandatory
July 9, 2018
New federal regulations making rearview cameras mandatory for all new cars sold in the United States took effect on May 1. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the regulations four years ago and set the 2018 deadline to give car makers time to implement the changes. The NHTSA expects the numbers of...Read More >>
Larry Chaban Honored by PAJustice
June 27, 2018
The legal team at AlpernSchubert proudly announces that partner Larry Chaban has been honored with the Milton D. Rosenberg Award. This prestigious recognition is given annually to a trial lawyer whose devotion to injured victims, qualities of leadership, and service to the Pennsylvania Association for Justice (PAJustice) organization best represent the life of the...Read More >>
Falls From Heights a Leading Cause of Workplace Injury
June 25, 2018
Some of the most devastating workplace injuries are those caused when an employee falls. In fact, working just six feet above the ground puts workers at serious risk for fall-related injuries. It may be hard to imagine fatal injuries resulting from falling relatively short distances; however, research has shown that regardless of height, when...Read More >>
Tips for Recovery After a Slip and Fall Accident
June 13, 2018
Falls are the leading cause of injuries and death among American seniors. In fact, falls send senior adults across the United States to the emergency room every 11 seconds on average. Falls can lead to cuts, bruises, broken bones, and knee, neck, and head injuries. After a slip and fall accident, seniors often become...Read More >>
100 Deadliest Days of Summer
June 7, 2018
According to the safe driving advocacy group, We Save Lives, summer is one of the most dangerous times of the year, especially for teens. On average, teen car accident fatalities increase 26 percent in the summer compared to the rest of the year. Teens are out of school, have more free time, and are...Read More >>
At-Will Employee FAQs
May 28, 2018
An at-will employee is one who can be terminated at any time without the employer having to give a reason. They also may or may not give notice of termination. At-will employees have very few remedies available to them unless the employer breaks a law or violates their employee rights. In fact, in every...Read More >>
Memorial Weekend Driving
May 21, 2018
The Memorial Day Weekend is one of the deadliest for travelers. Serious and fatal car accidents related to drunk driving increase over the holiday weekend as people travel to barbeques, parades, parties, and celebrations. This is an annual issue. The American Automobile Association (AAA) estimates there will be nearly 37 million people hitting the...Read More >>
Richard J. Schubert Honored as Super Lawyer
May 18, 2018
Richard J. Schubert, Managing Partner of AlpernSchubert, P.C. has once again been honored as a Super Lawyer for 2018. Mr. Schubert has been recognized each consecutive year since 2008. This recognition reflects the personal attention and dedication he provides to each of his clients, and the foundation of experience he has built for more...Read More >>
Teens Admit to Riding with an Impaired Driver
May 14, 2018
A new study reveals that one third of recent high school graduates have ridden with an impaired driver in the past year. According to the study, published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, young adults are also more likely to ride with a driver who is under the influence of marijuana...Read More >>
Workers’ Compensation and Pre-Existing Conditions
May 7, 2018
The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act provides for Workers’ Compensation benefits for employees who suffer a work-related injury. This no-fault system covers medical expenses, lost wages, and disability for injured workers. This may be true even if the employee has a pre-existing condition. If the pre-existing condition is aggravated or worsened by the work an...Read More >>
Richard Schubert Receives Judicial Ranking from Martindale Hubbell
May 3, 2018
We are proud to announce that Richard J. Schubert of AlpernSchubert P.C. received a judicial ranking from Martindale Hubbell, which is the highest possible designation granted by the organization. This prestigious honor is bestowed upon those who have been recognized by both peers and judges in the legal industry and denotes professional excellence in...Read More >>
Sexual Orientation Discrimination
April 30, 2018
In a landmark decision, a New York federal appeals court ruled that the protections in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 extend to claims of employment discrimination based on sexual orientation. While it has long been established that Title VII prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national...Read More >>
Tire Maintenance Key to Safety
April 26, 2018
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 11,000 crashes happen every year due to tire-related issues. Maintaining your tires is critical to your safety and that of passengers traveling with you, as well as other drivers sharing the road. Good Tire Maintenance Certain drivers think engine maintenance is the key to a car’s...Read More >>
Bill Reclassifying Asbestos Claims as Workers’ Compensation Proposed
April 17, 2018
The House and Senate in Pennsylvania are close to approving a bill that would classify asbestos claims under the umbrella of Workers’ Compensation. Five years ago, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court removed asbestos and other related claims from the realm of Workers’ Compensation. However, the proposed bill to reverse that action is gaining traction. Labor...Read More >>
April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month
April 11, 2018
For the second consecutive year, more than 40,000 people were killed in motor vehicle accidents. Preliminary estimates from the National Safety Council (NSC) reveal that the number of deaths in 2017 is six percent higher than in 2015. Many of these fatal accidents are caused by distracted driving, a behavior that the National Highway...Read More >>
Fatal Gas Leak Spurs OSHA Fines
April 4, 2018
The largest power plant in Pennsylvania and an Ohio-based engineering company have been issued fines by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for their roles in an industrial accident that led to the deaths of two workers and injury of four others. The workers were exposed to a toxic gas, hydrogen sulfide, while inside...Read More >>
Bill Weakens ADA
March 28, 2018
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in 1990 to prevent workplace discrimination based on disabilities. It also guarantees the civil rights of people with disabilities to participate in state and local government programs and services, and in everyday life as consumers. Now a bill has been passed by the U.S. House of...Read More >>
Fatal Work Injuries Spike
March 21, 2018
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has released a report for 2016 that shows double-digit increases in workplace violence and overdose fatalities. Fatal work injuries increased by seven percent over 2015 numbers to the highest level seen since 2008. A total of 5,190 people died in the U.S. in 2016 from work injuries vs....Read More >>
Operation Safe Driver Week Results
March 12, 2018
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance holds an annual event in October geared toward driver safety. This year during Operation Safe Driver Week, law enforcement throughout the United States and Canada increased their enforcement of traffic safety rules and educational efforts with the goal of raising awareness of dangerous driving behaviors. Over the course of...Read More >>
Daylight Saving Associated with Spike in Accidents
March 8, 2018
Many people do not enjoy changing the clocks for daylight saving time, especially in the spring when moving the clocks forward means losing an hour of sleep. Research shows that losing this hour of sleep is linked to a spike in the accident rate during the week that follows daylight saving time. Daylight Saving...Read More >>
Snow and Ice Accidents
February 20, 2018
In winter months the weather can wreak havoc for commuters. Snow and ice can make highways slick resulting in multi-car pileups. In cities, slippery roads and side streets can cause fender benders and increase the risk of pedestrian accidents. The injuries from snow and ice accidents can vary widely including: Soft tissue injuries like...Read More >>
Allegheny County Has the Most Crashes
February 13, 2018
Although it is not the most populous county in Pennsylvania, Allegheny County has the most motor vehicle collisions. In fact, 10 percent of all crashes in the state happen there. Philadelphia County has more people per square mile, but 700 fewer crashes. A new study examined Allegheny County’s crash data to determine exactly where...Read More >>
House to Vote Again on Drug Formulary Bill
February 12, 2018
Votes on Senate Bill 936 were split 98-98 in the House last week, creating an urgent need for opponents to the drug formulary bill to make their voice heard before the next vote takes place in March. To learn more about this bill, read our earlier post. Offering his view on the matter, Pittsburgh Workers’...Read More >>
How the Insurance Industry is Trying to Take Control of Your Health Care
February 6, 2018
A decision will soon be made on a bill that could jeopardize the care you would need and deserve after a workplace injury. The bill – SB 936 – proposes a “drug formulary” that could take decisions out of your doctor’s hands and give the power to a system that is commanded by the...Read More >>
Too Drowsy to Drive
January 31, 2018
Nearly everyone is aware of the dangers associated with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Yet few people know that driving while drowsy can be just as dangerous. Many drivers cannot tell when they are too tired to drive, or do not realize just how much drowsy driving affects their judgment and...Read More >>
Protecting Workers in Cold Weather
January 24, 2018
Winter weather comes with an added danger to workers who spend time outdoors. Even temperatures above freezing can expose workers to the risk of hypothermia, frostbite, and in extreme cases, death. Employers have a responsibility to provide their employees with a safe work environment that is free from unnecessary or known risks, including cold...Read More >>
Study Highlights the Dangers of Distracted Driving
January 15, 2018
Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Age Lab and Touchstone Evaluations, a human factors engineering firm from Michigan, have released a study in which they are attempting to describe human “attentional awareness” with a mathematical algorithm. Ultimately, they hope that with this kind of knowledge, cars of the future will be better designed...Read More >>
Liability Laws in Alcohol-Related Car Accidents
December 20, 2017
Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol is a recipe for disaster. Alcohol lowers a person’s inhibitions, affects their ability to react quickly to certain situations, and impairs good judgment. While it is common knowledge that drunk driving is a bad idea under any circumstances, what may come as a surprise...Read More >>
Robots and Workplace Safety
December 14, 2017
Robots are already at work in many industries doing packaging, assembly, material handling, and quality testing tasks. A new alliance partnership between the Robotics Industry Association (RIA), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) ensures that worker safety will continue to advance as installation of...Read More >>
Holidays May Lead to More Truck Accidents
December 5, 2017
For decades, Black Friday has been known as the biggest shopping day of the calendar year. However, Cyber Monday is overtaking Black Friday as people choose the convenience of shopping online at home. There are no crowds to battle and the deals are just as good or better. Free shipping is also a big...Read More >>
Pennsylvania Supreme Court Ruling on Bad Faith Claims
November 27, 2017
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has ruled on a case concerning a bad faith insurance claim, unanimously upholding the decision of the state Superior Court in favor of the plaintiff. At issue was whether a policyholder must demonstrate ill will on the part of an insurer as well as lack of a reasonable basis in...Read More >>
CarMax Open Safety Recalls
November 22, 2017
A recent study by safety advocates found that more than 25 percent of vehicles sold at CarMax had unrepaired safety recalls. The study used about 1,700 cars listed for sale at eight different CarMax locations in three states. Some cars contained recalled Takata airbags, which have been linked to fatal malfunctions in accidents. The...Read More >>
Thanksgiving Travel Safety Tips
November 16, 2017
Thanksgiving is one of the most popular American holidays with millions of people driving to meet their friends and family to celebrate. Unfortunately, this also means heavy traffic on all roads throughout our communities and more car accidents, some of which result in serious or fatal injuries to passengers. By preparing for your trip...Read More >>
Self-Driving Vehicles Bill
November 10, 2017
Self-driving automobiles may seem like a futuristic fantasy, but they are already here. In fact, there is currently a U.S. Senate bill to address self-driving vehicles. The bill – The American Vision for Safer Transportation through Advancement of Revolutionary Technologies Act – was recently amended. Lobbyists from companies that are developing self-driving technology wanted...Read More >>
Trial Lawyers Push Back Against Pennsylvania Drug Formulary
November 3, 2017
The state senate recently passed a bill mandating a drug formulary for Workers’ Compensation. Although insurers are welcoming of the bill, it is being rigorously opposed by trial attorneys, who believe it is an attempt to curb utilization review organizations. Formularies have been historically used by medical insurers to control prescription costs by listing...Read More >>
Most Dangerous Jobs in America
October 25, 2017
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) records data on all fatal work-related accidents across the country every year. The data is compiled in the BLS Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries. In 2015, there were nearly 5,000 fatal work injuries – the highest number in a single year since 2008. Some professions are more prone...Read More >>
Lawrence R. Chaban Named One of Pittsburgh’s Finest 2017
October 20, 2017
We are proud to announce that Lawrence R. Chaban of AlpernSchubert P.C. has been recognized as one of Pittsburgh City Paper’s “Pittsburgh’s Finest 2017” for his achievements in the fields of Workers’ Compensation, Social Security disability and short and long-term disability claims. The Pittsburgh City Paper’s Profile Series features businesses and professionals in the...Read More >>
Safe Halloween Decorating
October 19, 2017
With Halloween right around the corner, thousands of children across the state will be donning elaborate costumes and running from door to door in their town, hoping to gather up some sweet treats. In Pittsburgh, late October means shorter days and colder weather, putting children and adults alike at risk of becoming the unwitting...Read More >>
Permanent Headlight Usage Linked to Fewer Accidents
October 18, 2017
Many studies, both national and international, have shown that the use of daytime running headlights reduces the risk of being in a car accident. Motorists and pedestrians can better see vehicles with headlights than vehicles without headlights even during the daytime. Despite the evident benefits of permanent headlight usage, there is a debate regarding...Read More >>
Non-Compete Clauses Clash with U.S. Labor Laws
October 2, 2017
Employment contracts for executives and other top management positions typically contain non-compete clauses prohibiting the person from working for a competing firm within a specified time frame after leaving their position. This is to prevent people with valuable company knowledge from leaving and taking trade secrets with them to industrial rivals. The number of...Read More >>
Conveyor Belt Accidents
September 21, 2017
Many types of industries from construction to airlines use conveyor belts to move products and materials in the work environment. Considering the many moving parts and the machinery required to keep conveyor belts working, there is a high level of risk of injury for workers using them. Conveyor belts were responsible for approximately 35...Read More >>
Brain Injuries Caused by Car Accidents
September 13, 2017
Car accidents are one of the leading causes of brain injuries in the U.S. However, many victims do not realize that they have suffered brain trauma after an accident. This could potentially make the situation more dangerous for victims. A brain injury can even be overlooked in an emergency room. This results in an...Read More >>
How to File for Workers’ Compensation Benefits in PA
September 5, 2017
Workers’ Compensation insurance is obligatory for all employers in Pennsylvania, even companies that have only one part-time employee. If you are injured on the job in Pennsylvania, Workers’ Compensation will likely cover your medical expenses, as well as pay a portion of your lost wages. Below are the procedures you need to take in...Read More >>
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A Message to Our Clients About Coronavirus COVID-19:

At Alpern Schubert P.C., we view the safety and well-being of our clients, staff and business partners as our highest priority.

The situation regarding the COVID-19 virus is continually changing, and we are following all recommended guidelines to stay healthy. As a result, our lawyers and staff are working remotely in accordance with the CDC's recommendations. We continue to work for all of our clients and are happy to arrange for phone or email consultations. We are also able to exchange documents via secure drives or email.

Please contact us online or call 800-243-6095 with any questions.

Thank you and take care.