Posts by Charles M. Merkel, Jr.
Addressing the Hidden Costs of Catastrophic Injuries
When we think of catastrophic injuries, the immediate focus often falls on the mounting medical bills. However, these injuries entail a range of hidden costs that extend far beyond hospital expenses. Catastrophic injuries impact individuals mentally, physically, and emotionally, leading to a host of other financial burdens. In this blog, we will explore six of…
Read MoreWhy the Blues Highway Is Such a Dangerous Route
Blues Highway, also known as US 61 and US 278, is one of the busiest routes in Mississippi. It is frequently used by residents commuting to work, school, and appointments, and by people from all over the country visiting to experience the rich history of blues music. Despite its fame among music lovers, Blues highway…
Read MoreWhen Bad Policy Leads to Dangerous Truck Drivers
Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that their drivers do not put themselves or anyone they share the roads with at risk of accidents. Therefore, they should have specific rules and policies to encourage their truckers to drive safely. The sad reality is that there are many trucking companies that do the complete opposite and…
Read MoreManaging Cerebral Palsy: A Guide for Parents
Discovering that your child has cerebral palsy can be overwhelming and emotional. This type of diagnosis is never easy to accept as it sets families on a long path of needing treatment and medical care. However, your child needs you to be strong and find ways to provide them the best possible future. As a…
Read MoreWhat Is Pain and Suffering in a Catastrophic Injury Case?
Catastrophic injuries can profoundly affect the lives of accident victims and their families, causing immense physical pain, emotional suffering, and long-term trauma. In addition to seeking compensation for medical expenses and lost wages, individuals who have sustained catastrophic injuries may also be entitled to recover damages for pain and suffering. However, navigating the complexities of…
Read MoreAVs Are Hitting the Streets in Mississippi. Are We Fully Prepared?
Autonomous vehicles hold the promise of transforming the streets of Mississippi, potentially addressing the challenges posed by unsafe driving practices. With their ability to adhere strictly to traffic rules, avoid collisions, and eliminate the risk of impaired driving, AVs could contribute to enhanced road safety. However, the state’s existing infrastructure may pose a significant hurdle…
Read MoreCan You Claim Workers’ Compensation for Medical Conditions Caused by Injuries?
Unfortunately, workers who develop certain medical conditions from their injuries cannot claim workers’ compensation specifically for those conditions. The reason for this is because the conditions themselves are simply complications that arise from the injuries. If you were to suffer a brain injury on the job, for example, and that brain injury affected your memory…
Read MoreMedical Malpractice and the Risks of Anesthesia
While anesthesia can be a wonderful tool during surgeries, it also comes with several potential risks and complications. In fact, one simple error or mistake made by an anesthesiologist or medical professional can lead to long-term, permanent consequences, such as brain damage, cardiac arrest, permanent nerve damage, chronic pain, and even death. While many doctors…
Read MoreAgricultural Equipment Poses Safety Risks for Mississippi Farmers
Farming is one of the toughest—and dangerous—jobs in the United States. Working on a farm requires long hours, lots of manual labor, and operating heavy machinery. When those three things are combined, it can become a recipe for disaster. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mentions that more than 120,000 farmers sustain tragic…
Read MoreWorkers’ Compensation Claims for Mississippi Warehouse Workers
Consumers and workers understand all too well how the pandemic has transformed shopping nationwide. To say that online shopping has increased would be an understatement. Businesses in all occupations have adapted to the needs of the consumer, from offering remote shopping options like curbside delivery to only providing delivery options for consumers. While the increase…
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