Author Archives: Daniel A. Bridgman

Q. What if my disability is caused by alcohol or drugs?

Congress has passed legislation that severely limits the receipt of SS benefits if your substance abuse problems contribute to your disability. While the current law is very unfavorable to these…

Q. How much will a lawyer cost me?

The ALJ must approve any fee charged by a lawyer. Lawyers will take Social Security cases on a contingency or percentage (%) basis. The standard percentage is twenty-five percent (25%)…

Q. How do I select a social security lawyer?

Social Security law changes regularly with new Congressional legislation and Court decisions. You should select a lawyer who regularly practices in SS court. The lawyer should be experienced, knowledgeable and…

Workers Compensation Overview

How do I handle myself at the scene?

You must stop and help anyone who is injured at the scene. Take precautions to make sure other cars are warned of the wreck. North Carolina Law requires you to…

Should I go to the hospital if I don’t have pain?

Most health care providers recommend that you go to the Emergency Room to make sure you don’t have hidden or delayed injuries. Even if you don’t go to the Emergency…

How long do I have to bring my claim?

North Carolina law generally gives you three (3) years to file a lawsuit for personal injury. Wrongful death claims usually have a two (2) year time limit. North Carolina law…

How can I pay my bills while I am out of work?

You should consider all possible sources of insurance such as health and disability. Depending on your condition, you may become eligible for Med Pay, Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid or Worker’s…

How much money should I get for my damaged car?

Property damage claims are generally handled separately from personal injury claims. North Carolina law permits you to recover the difference between full market value of the car before and after…

Does it matter whether I am at fault or not in causing the accident?

Yes. North Carolina is one of the few states in the country that continues to follow the “Contributory Negligence” doctrine of liability. This harsh law means that even if the…

How much money should I receive for my injuries?

You should recover past and future medical expenses, lost wages, lost earning capacity, scarring, pain and suffering and any other loss you have endured as a result of the accident.…

If I employ a lawyer, do I have to go to court?

No. Most lawyers will try and settle the case before filing a lawsuit and going to court. While the time between filing a lawsuit and the time of getting a…