What Are Damages?
Damages are compensation, usually in monetary form, awarded in a civil court case for an injury or loss caused by another person’s negligence.

What Are Damages?
According to the American Bar Association (ABA), damages are tangible and non-tangible losses that can be quantified and documented, providing direct financial assistance to an injured party. Examples of damages can include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
Damages are important in restoring the injured party to the position they would have been in had the wrongdoing not occurred. This concept is fundamental in both tort and contract law, where it addresses breaches of duty or contract, provides a financial measure of reparation, and is even more important in personal injury cases where the injured party receives compensatory damages for medical bills and pain and suffering.
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Philadelphia, PA – Person Struck and Killed By SEPTA Train
Philadelphia, PA (January 23, 2025) – A person died after being struck by a SEPTA Broad Street Line train in Center City, Philadelphia, on January 23.
According to news reports, the accident happened around 5 a.m. in the 300 block of North Broad Street at the Race-Vine Station. Rescue crews responded to reports of a person under a train. The person was pronounced dead at the scene.
Express service was temporarily suspended in both directions as SEPTA police investigated the accident. It has since resumed.
SEPTA Train Accidents in Philadelphia
SEPTA train accidents can be quite complex. Under Pennsylvania law, SEPTA is considered a “commonwealth agency,” which affects how the claim is handled. Unlike a personal injury claim against another individual or private business, there are special notices and shorter deadlines when filing claims against the agency. […]
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Wrong-Way Car Crash Leaves Multiple Injured in Cumberland County, PA
Multiple people were injured following a wrong-way crash along U.S. Route 15 in Cumberland County on January 18.
According to news reports, the accident occurred around 4:40 p.m. on the northbound side of the road. According to the Upper Allen Township Police Department, the vehicle had entered the northbound lanes near mile marker 41.5 and traveled south for at least four miles before the crash.
Police say the wrong-way driver struck at least four other vehicles around mile marker 37. As emergency personnel responded to the scene, both north and southbound sides of Route 15 were shut down.
Multiple people suffered serious injuries in the accident. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, one person was flown to Penn State Hershey.
Police are investigating the crash.
Wrong Way Car Accidents in Pennsylvania
Wrong-way driving accidents represent some of the most dangerous accidents in Pennsylvania. […]
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Construction Accident Lawyer
Construction accidents can devastate workers and their families, leading to severe injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and lost wages. At Munley Law, our construction accident lawyers have spent the last 65 years fighting for injured workers, securing multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements while helping our clients navigate workers’ compensation claims and third-party lawsuits.
Construction accidents often involve multiple responsible parties—contractors, subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, and property owners, to name a few. Our experienced personal injury attorneys know how to prove who is at fault for your injuries so you can receive full compensation for your accident.
Don’t let a construction accident derail your future – contact Munley Law today for a free case evaluation.
Common Construction Accident Claims Munley Law Handles
Construction sites present countless hazards that can lead to severe injuries to workers and visitors alike. […]
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How Long Does a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit Take in Pennsylvania?
How long does a medical malpractice claim take in Pennsylvania? It can take anywhere between 1-5 years to resolve, depending on the complexity of the case. After suffering serious injuries, this timeline can seem like an eternity. However, an experienced attorney at Munley Law will make you and your family their top priority.
At Munley, we equip our clients with as much information about their claim as possible. After all, knowledge equals power. We are going to do a deep dive into the details of a claim, which will help explain the process you’re going through.
If you have more questions and want to speak with an experienced medical malpractice lawyer who can guide you through your claim, call the Munley law firm. Our attorneys have been successfully litigating medical malpractice claims since 1959. We deeply understand the trauma and stress you and your family are facing. […]
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What Are the DOT Requirements for Reflective Tape on a Truck?
Have you noticed red and white reflective tape on the trailers of large trucks? Commercial trailers must install reflective tape that conforms to Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. Trucking companies can guard against rear-end collisions and other accidents by doing so.
Be aware that these requirements may be relevant to you even if you’re not a trucker or otherwise involved in the trucking industry. For example, perhaps you were injured in a truck accident. If the truck didn’t have the proper reflective tape installed, you could potentially highlight this fact when pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other such losses. Discuss your case with our truck accident team at Munley Law for more information.
DOT Reflective Tape Regulations
DOT reflective tape consists of an alternate red-white pattern. You’ve likely noticed this red and white tape on the trailers of large trucks. […]
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Uber Passenger Dies After Driver Crashes Into Tractor Trailer in Philadelphia
An Uber passenger died after her Uber driver crashed into a tractor trailer on December 31 in Philadelphia. According to news reports, the crash happened at Nedro and Ogontz Avenues around 10:45 p.m. when the driver crashed the vehicle into a parked truck. Video footage shows the front passenger side was squeezed partially underneath the tractor-trailer.
Both the Uber driver and the passenger were taken to Jefferson Einstein Hospital where the passenger was pronounced dead at 11:10 p.m.
The Uber driver, who was pregnant, was listed in stable condition.
Police are currently investigating what caused the crash.
Uber Accidents in Philadelphia
Thousands of rideshare-related accidents occur in our state annually, affecting both passengers and drivers across Pennsylvania. According to Uber’s annual safety report, the number of fatalities related to Uber car accidents have been steadily increasing since 2017 — […]
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What Age Can a Child Ride on the Back of a Motorcycle in PA?
Is there a motorcycle passenger age limit in Pennsylvania? You may have questions about the minimum age for motorcycle passengers in the Commonwealth if you’ve been thinking about taking your child on the back of your bike.
Pennsylvania’s motorcycle laws have little to say about the minimum legal age of motorcycle passengers. However, they address other critical safety issues.
At Munley Law, serving the area since 1959, we know obeying the law can’t always prevent harm. If you or your child has been hurt in a motorcycle accident, contact our Pennsylvania motorcycle accident attorneys for a free consultation.
Pennsylvania Law on Child Motorcycle Passengers
The Pennsylvania law addressing motorcycle passenger safety doesn’t establish a minimum age for passengers. This isn’t uncommon. Most states don’t have laws prohibiting motorcyclists from riding with child passengers as long as they abide by other applicable safety requirements. […]
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Pottsville Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, you may be facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and stress about what to do next. At Munley Law, our experienced Pottsville car accident lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way.
With decades of combined experience in handling car accident cases in the Pottsville area, Munley Law has earned a reputation as the region’s leading personal injury law firm, providing compassionate service, expert legal guidance, and a track record of success. If a negligent or reckless driver caused you or your loved ones harm, you deserve to be compensated for your losses.
For a no-obligation, free consultation, contact our Pottsville car accident lawyer at Munley Law today.
Why You Need a Pottsville Pennsylvania Car Accident Lawyer
Car accidents in Pottsville can present some complicated legal challenges. […]
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The At Fault Driver Wants to Pay Out of Pocket. Should I Accept?
Medical bills. Repair costs. A painful recovery from your injuries.
These are just some of the potential consequences of a motor vehicle crash. If you’ve been injured in such a wreck, particularly one another negligent motorist caused, compensation may be available for your losses. The most common ways to recover it are to file an insurance claim or a lawsuit.
However, sometimes, the at-fault driver will offer cash immediately or shortly after an accident. Understanding the pros and cons of accepting a cash offer can help you better determine whether doing so is the best option now. For more information, contact Munley Law today and discuss your car accident case with a free consultation.
Understanding Out-of-Pocket Settlement Offers
There is no law in most other states requiring motorists to settle car accidents via traditional processes, […]
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Multi-Vehicle Crash in Lancaster County Sends Two to Hospital
Police are currently investigating a multi-vehicle car accident that sent two people two people to the hospital on December 13 in Lancaster County.
According to news reports, the accident occurred in Manheim Township where one of the vehicles overturned in the middle of the highway. Police officials say the southbound lanes of Route 222 were closed for several hours as the crash were investigated.
Authorities say two people sustained serious injuries in the accident.
The Difficulties Surrounding Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Multi-vehicle accidents, often called chain-reaction crashes or pileups, can be particularly devastating events that frequently occur on highways and major roadways, especially during adverse weather conditions or periods of heavy traffic. These accidents typically begin when one collision creates a cascade effect, with subsequent vehicles unable to stop in time to avoid the initial crash. Common triggers include sudden braking in dense fog, […]
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Upper Darby Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
When you place an elderly loved one in a nursing home facility, you expect them to be treated with dignity and respect. But when you start to notice signs of elder abuse, you can feel like you let your family member down and now have to fight another battle. The Upper Darby nursing home abuse lawyers of Munley Law understand the devastating impacts elder abuse can have on the victim and their family.
At Munley Law, we have 65 years of experience in complex personal injury cases, including those involving neglect in assisted living facilities. If you suspect medical malpractice, sexual abuse, or any form of nursing home negligence, call our law office today for a no-obligation, free consultation.
What is Nursing Home Abuse in Upper Darby, PA?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), […]
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General Attorney vs Trial Attorney: What’s the Difference?
Not all attorneys are the same. You might already understand that some types of attorneys practice law differently from others. For example, district attorneys prosecute those accused of crimes in criminal cases while defense lawyers represent them.
However, it’s also important to understand the difference between general and trial lawyers. This is particularly true if you have a personal injury case or similar matter that may go to trial. Hiring a lawyer with courtroom experience could provide you with a significant advantage during settlement negotiations.
At Munley Law, we’d be happy to discuss our trial experience when reviewing your personal injury case. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Why a Trial Attorney Makes a Difference in Personal Injury Cases
A trial attorney can play a significant role in the outcome of your case should you ever file a personal injury claim or lawsuit. […]
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Fatal Crash in Northeast Philadelphia Claims Passenger’s Life
A 26-year-old passenger died in the early morning hours of December 11 when a BMW crashed into a parked van in Philadelphia’s Mayfair neighborhood, police reported.
The incident occurred at 1:30 a.m. on the 6600 block of Frankford Avenue. According to news reports, the BMW’s driver lost control of the vehicle and struck a parked van, forcing it onto the sidewalk. The passenger was ejected from the BMW and pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment. Philadelphia police say excessive speed appears to be a factor in the crash.
The investigation remains ongoing.
The Causes of Car Accidents in Philadelphia
Unfortunately, auto accidents occur regularly in Philadelphia. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s latest data shows approximately 8,549 car crashes in the city in 2023. These statistics reflect various contributing factors, […]
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Who Can I Sue After a Ruptured Gas Line Causes an Explosion?
A natural gas explosion can leave victims with severe burns and other such injuries. You may deserve compensation for the cost of medical treatment and related damages if you’ve been injured in such an accident.
However, you might not know how to recover compensation after being injured, perhaps because you don’t know who you can sue when a gas explosion occurs. At Munley Law, our gas explosion attorneys can provide answers about your legal rights. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Potential Parties Liable in Gas Line Explosion Cases
Seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other such losses from gas explosion injuries generally involves filing a personal injury claim with the liable party’s insurer. In some cases, compensation can be sought from other liable parties. Potentially liable parties when gas explosion accidents occur include:
- The local gas company
- Property owners and managers, […]
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What Are Typical Pain and Suffering Awards?
Understanding pain and suffering awards is essential for victims seeking compensation. Pain and suffering involve physical discomfort and emotional distress resulting from an injury. These awards can vary based on the severity of the injuries, as well as their impact on the victim’s quality of life. Here, we’ll explore the factors that influence typical pain and suffering awards, how to calculate them, and the evidence needed to prove your case.
Defining Pain and Suffering in Personal Injury Cases
In personal injury cases, physical pain can include everything from mild discomfort to severe agony, while emotional distress refers to anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress. In these types of claims, it’s important to differentiate between short-term and long-term suffering.
Short-term suffering represents pain experienced immediately after an injury that may resolve over time. Long-term suffering, however, can lead to chronic pain, ongoing mental health issues, […]
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How Are Medical Bills Paid After a Car Accident in Bensalem?
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, you may be facing not only physical and emotional challenges but also the daunting prospect of dealing with medical bills. In such a stressful time, understanding how medical bills are paid can provide you with valuable information and peace of mind. At Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys, our Bensalem car accident lawyers have extensive experience in helping car accident victims in Bensalem and the surrounding areas navigate the complex process of medical bill payment.
Insurance Coverage for Medical Bills
One of the primary sources of payment for medical bills after a car accident is insurance coverage. In Pennsylvania, drivers are required to carry a minimum amount of auto insurance, which includes:
Medical Benefits (Med Pay)
Medical Benefits, often referred to as Med Pay, […]
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What Happens If You’re in an Accident with a Rental Car?
When you’re in an accident with a rental car, the last thing you need is more stress trying to figure out insurance coverage. You likely have multiple layers of protection available. Your auto insurance may cover the incident, the rental company’s optional coverage could kick in, and even the credit card you used to rent the vehicle might provide insurance benefits.
If you’ve been hurt in a rental car accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to a car accident attorney at Munley Law who can guide you through this challenging time. They’ll work hard to protect your interests and help you get the compensation you deserve while taking the burden of dealing with multiple insurance claims off your shoulders.
Who Covers a Rental Car Accident?
When you’re involved in a rental car accident, there can be several sources of coverage. First, […]
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Internal Bleeding from a Car Accident
Car accidents often involve blunt force, which can cause an array of injuries like broken bones, organ damage, and more. Auto accidents may also cause internal injuries and internal bleeding. When you are involved in an auto crash, you must seek immediate medical attention to ensure that you do not have any injuries and receive proper care if you do. It is also of the utmost importance that you wear a seat belt every time you are in a motor vehicle to help prevent serious injuries in the case of a traffic crash.
The Causes of Internal Bleeding After a Car Accident
There are a variety of causes of internal bleeding after a car accident. Internal bleeding can be caused by damage to blood vessels, a traumatic brain injury, broken bones puncturing internal organs, and more.
The Visible Signs of Internal Bleeding
There are many signs and symptoms of internal bleeding to look out for. […]
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Average Settlement for a Pedestrian Hit By a Car
Pedestrians are often far more vulnerable than motorists when navigating busy cities and towns. In a car, a motorist or passenger is surrounded by a steel frame that absorbs the shock of impact during a collision. A pedestrian is not afforded nearly the same degree of protection.
You may deserve compensation if you’ve been harmed in a pedestrian accident you believe resulted from the negligence of another party. Although settlement amounts can be substantial in these cases, as injuries in a pedestrian accident are often serious, the “average” settlement after a pedestrian accident varies widely. Factors like whether a victim has proper representation can play a significant role in the outcome of a case.
Still struggling with the physical and emotional aftermath of being struck by a vehicle, wondering if legal action is your next step? At Munley Law, our pedestrian accident attorneys have guided countless pedestrians through this exact situation, […]
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Where Do Pedestrians Get Hit the Most?
Where do pedestrians get hit the most, and who is liable for their injuries or deaths? At Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys, we represent personal injury victims and their families who have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence.
If you were a pedestrian who was hit in a car accident, contact the compassionate pedestrian accident attorneys at Munley Law for a free case evaluation.
Where Are Pedestrian Accidents Most Likely to Occur?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in six people who died in car accidents in 2020 were pedestrians; this equates to more than 7,000 pedestrians killed in collisions in the year alone.
Of reporting pedestrian accidents, the CDC finds that pedestrians get hit the most in urban areas, on roadways away from intersections where drivers travel at higher speeds, […]
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