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Andrew K. Shumlas Attorney < Back Attorney Andrew Shumlas is a dedicated and skilled personal injury lawyer at Hourigan, Kluger, & Quinn (HK&Q®). He’s an Associate Attorney who focuses on handling personal injury cases, workers’ compensation, and Social Security disability claims. Attorney Shumlas was admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar in November 2013. He earned a Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law in May 2013, where he distinguished himself as an Associate and then Executive Editor for the Syracuse Journal of Science and Technology Law. Prior to his current role at HKQ, Attorney Shumlas worked at Cefalo & Associates in West Pittston, PA, where he managed personal injury litigation and workers’ compensation matters. His experience has equipped him with a deep understanding of the intricacies of personal injury law, making him a strong advocate for his clients. Attorney Shumlas’ keen interest in the law was evident early in his career, during his time as a student attorney at the Securities and Consumer Arbitration Clinic at Syracuse University College of Law and as an intern at the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office. These experiences laid the groundwork for his successful career, providing him with a broad perspective and a robust skill set in legal research, case analysis, and client representation. Outside the courtroom, Attorney Shumlas is deeply involved in his community. He resides in Old Forge, PA, with his wife, Laura, and their two daughters, Emelia and Rose. When not advocating for his clients, he enjoys spending quality time with his family and actively volunteering at his local church. Attorney Andrew Shumlas's career is marked by a dedication to justice, a passion for helping others, and a deep commitment to his family and community. His professionalism and personal endeavors make him a respected and valued member of the legal community in northeastern Pennsylvania. AShumlas@hkqlaw.com (570) 287-3000, Ext. 1187 Workers' Compensation Social Security Benefits Personal Injury Areas of Practice No One Will Work Harder For You. ®

< Back Have You Been Victim of a Boating Crash? Michael A. Lombardo, III, HKQ Attorney Aug 5, 2024 What do I need to know if I've been involved in a boating accident? Comprehensive Guide: What to Do After a Boating Crash in Pennsylvania Experiencing a boating crash can be frightening, but knowing the right steps to take can protect your legal rights. This guide provides advice on what to do if you're involved in a boating crash in Pennsylvania, offering practical steps, legal insights, and guidance on pursuing any compensation you may deserve. Understanding Boating Crashes in Pennsylvania Boating crashes in Pennsylvania can happen on just about any type of water including rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. Just like car crashes, boating crashes may involve negligence or violations of boating regulations, resulting in injuries or property damage. Key factors in boating crashes include: Negligence : Operators failing to follow navigational rules, operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or engaging in reckless behavior. Safety Equipment : Requirements for safety equipment onboard boats, such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, and distress signals. Legal Responsibilities : Obligations to report crashes, render aid to injured individuals, and exchange information with other parties involved. Immediate Actions After a Boating Crash Safety and Assistance : The safety of everyone involved should be the priority immediately following a boating crash: Call for Help : Dial emergency services (911) to report the crash and request medical assistance if anyone is injured or if there is a risk of further danger. Assist Injured Individuals : Provide aid to injured parties and make sure they receive medical attention as soon as possible. Prompt medical treatment can prevent worsening injuries and support legal claims for compensation. Documenting the Crash : Gathering information and evidence from the crash scene is crucial for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings: Collect Information : Get contact details, boat registration numbers, insurance information, and statements from witnesses who saw the crash. Documenting these details can help establish liability and support your version of events. Photograph and Video Evidence : Use a smartphone or camera to capture images of boat damage, injuries suffered, the location of the crash, and any contributing factors such as weather conditions or navigational hazards. Legal Considerations and Assistance : Understanding your legal rights and seeking guidance from a knowledgeable attorney specializing in boating crashes is essential for protecting your interests and pursuing compensation: Legal Expertise : At Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn, our attorneys have extensive experience handling boating crash cases. We offer comprehensive legal services, including: Crash Reconstruction : Using experts to reconstruct the crash scene and determine liability based on navigational rules and regulations. Insurance Negotiations : Advocating on your behalf in negotiations with insurance companies to make sure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, property damage, and other losses. Pennsylvania Boating Laws and Regulations Pennsylvania imposes specific regulations and responsibilities on boat operators to ensure safety on waterways: Boater Education : Boat operators born after January 1, 1982, must complete a boating safety course in order to legally operate motorized vessels. Reporting Requirements : Boating crashes resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $2,000 must be reported to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission within 48 hours. Steps to Building a Strong Case Building a strong boating crash case requires preparation and evidence gathering: Medical Records : Get the medical records that detail any injuries suffered in the crash, the treatment received, and the prognosis for recovery. Expert Testimony : Consult with maritime experts and crash reconstruction specialists to provide professional opinions on liability and the cause of the crash. Legal Strategy : Work closely with your attorney to develop a strategic approach, including legal action in court if a settlement outside court cannot be reached. How Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn Can Help If you have been involved in a boating crash and need legal guidance, contact Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn for a consultation. Our attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and advocating for fair compensation for your injuries and losses. For more information on our legal services or to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced personal injury attorneys, please call us at 570-287-3000 or visit us online at HKQLaw.com . Conclusion Handling the aftermath of a boating crash requires prompt action, thorough documentation, and legal expertise. By following the steps outlined above and getting help from the knowledgeable team at Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn, you can take proactive steps toward securing your rights and pursuing justice for any harm caused in a boating crash. 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Tara Giarratano Attorney < Back Tara Giarratano is one of our newest additions to the Hourigan, Kluger, & Quinn (HK&Q®) team, joining the law firm’s commercial department as an associate attorney. Attorney Giarratano has experience representing victims of police brutality and of discrimination in housing, employment, and education. Attorney Giarratano was honored as a member of the Woolsack Honor Society because she graduated in the top ten percent of her law school class. Attorney Giarratano also received CALI Awards for earning the highest grade in her class in Business Entities, Evidence, and Pennsylvania Criminal Law. Originally from Mountain Top, Pennsylvania, Attorney Giarratano received her Bachelor of Arts degree summa cum laude from Wilkes University. She continued her education with a full scholarship to Penn State Dickinson Law, where she earned a Juris Doctor degree cum laude . She is admitted to the Pennsylvania Courts, the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Before obtaining her law license, Giarratano served as a legal intern with the Luzerne County Office of the Public Defender, the Carlisle Community Law Clinic, and the Federal Public Defender for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. As an attorney, she is passionate about developing relationships with her clients and helping them achieve a solution to their problems. Attorney Giarratano has extensive litigation experience for a young attorney. She began her career representing clients in hard-fought civil rights matters and has appeared in federal court, state court, and college Title IX proceedings, where she used her expertise to help her clients receive the best possible outcome. In just her first year of practice, Attorney Giarratano worked as a member of the defense team for two serious criminal trials; the first resulted in the client being acquitted of murder, and the second resulted in the client being acquitted of attempted murder. Becoming a lawyer was Giarratano’s lifelong dream. She is honored to work for Hourigan, Kluger, and Quinn, where she can make a positive change in her clients’ lives and serve members of her community. Attorney Giarratano is married to her college sweetheart, Nick, and together, they share a daughter. She is a member of St. Jude’s Church in Mountain Top. TGiarratano@hkqlaw.com (570) 287-3000, Ext. 1106 Commercial Litigation Corporate Law Banking & Finance Areas of Practice No One Will Work Harder For You. ®

< Back How Vehicle Type Impacts Your Personal Injury Claim HKQ Attorneys Jun 10, 2024 Does vehicle type impact your personal injury claim? Find out from a Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn Personal Injury Attorney. When dealing with personal injury law, it’s important to know that the outcome of your claim could be affected by the types of vehicles involved. Whether it’s a truck crash governed by federal regulations or a car collision subject to state laws, the types of the vehicles involved can significantly shape the legal strategies and potential outcomes of your case. The Role of Insurance Coverage in Vehicle-Related Crashes One critical factor in personal injury claims that is influenced by vehicle type is insurance coverage. Federal regulations require minimum insurance coverage on commercial trucks. These regulations are designed to make sure that crash victims have access to sufficient financial compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other losses. However, crashes involving private vehicles may not benefit from the same type of comprehensive insurance coverage, and that could limit the compensation available to those injured in a crash involving private vehicles. Regulatory Compliance and its Legal Implications Different types of vehicles are also subject to specific regulations when it comes to safety standards, operational practices, and driver qualifications. Complying with these regulations is crucial to prevent crashes. It can also establish liability in cases where the regulations are violated. For example, commercial trucks must have regular safety inspections, truck drivers must complete strict driver training programs, and their vehicles must be maintained according to industry standards. If any of these regulations are violated, it can be compelling evidence of negligence in any personal injury cases involving truck crashes. State laws govern the operation and maintenance of passenger vehicles, motorcycles, and other modes of transportation. In cases involving car crashes, legal questions often center on whether drivers were obeying traffic laws and whether any violations contributed to the crash and resulting injuries. Specialized Legal Expertise Across a Range of Vehicle-Related Incidents At Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn, our team of dedicated personal injury attorneys brings extensive experience and specialized expertise to handle vehicle crash cases, including but not limited to: Truck Crashes : We fight for victims of truck crashes, using our in-depth knowledge of federal regulations and industry standards to make sure our clients receive fair and just compensation. Car Crashes : Our legal team provides comprehensive representation to clients injured in car collisions. Our team handles everything from negotiating with insurance companies to taking a case to court if necessary to get the maximum compensation for our clients' injuries and losses. Motorcycle Crashes : We understand the challenges faced by motorcyclists who are injured because of the negligence of other drivers. We work diligently to protect the rights of motorcycle riders and we fight to get just compensation for their injuries. Boating and Aviation Crashes : Our attorneys have the specialized knowledge needed to handle complex cases involving crashes on water or in the air. We know the maritime and aviation laws involved and serve as qualified advocates for crash victims and their families. Contact Our Experienced Legal Team Today If you or a loved one has been injured in any type of vehicle-related incident, it is crucial to get help and guidance from knowledgeable legal professionals who can navigate the complex personal injury laws on your behalf. At Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn, we are committed to providing compassionate legal representation, and achieving unrivaled results for crash victims and their families. For more information on our legal services or to schedule a consultation with one of our personal injury attorneys, please call us at 570-287-3000 or email us at info@hkqlaw.com . Conclusion Understanding the different ways that “vehicle type” impacts personal injury claims is essential. Whether it involves making sure federal regulations in trucking crashes have been followed, or advocating for fair compensation in car collision cases, having skilled legal representation can have a big impact on the outcome of your claim. Previous Next

< Back Comprehensive Guide: Safety Tips for Handling Fireworks and Enjoying Displays Michael Lombardo Sep 2, 2024 Your Rights and Responsibilities: Fireworks Safety and Legal Considerations Comprehensive Guide: Safety Tips for Handling Fireworks and Enjoying Displays Fireworks can add excitement to celebrations like the Fourth of July, but they also pose risks if not handled properly. This guide offers safety tips for both enjoying professional fireworks displays and safely handling fireworks at home. It includes practical advice, safety measures, and insights to help make sure your fireworks experience is safe and enjoyable. Understanding Fireworks Safety First, a definition: fireworks are explosives designed to produce visual and auditory effects through combustion. Improper use or mishandling can lead to serious injuries, fires, or property damage. Whether attending a professional display or using fireworks at home, safety should always be the top priority. Tips for Attending Professional Fireworks Displays Choose Professional Displays : Choose to attend organized and licensed fireworks displays put on by trained pyrotechnicians. These displays follow strict safety regulations and are supervised by professionals. Observe from Safe Distance : Stay in designated viewing areas and maintain a safe distance as recommended by event organizers. Do not enter restricted zones or approach the firing area. Stay Sober and Alert : Enjoy fireworks displays while sober. Avoid consuming alcohol or substances that impair judgment or coordination. Safety Measures for Using Fireworks at Home Legal Considerations : Check local laws and regulations concerning the purchase, possession, and use of fireworks in your area. In Pennsylvania, certain types of fireworks are legal for consumer use, while others may require special permits. Designate a Shooter : Assign a responsible adult to handle fireworks. This person should be knowledgeable about safety precautions and proper handling techniques. Safety Equipment : Prepare safety equipment, including: Fire Extinguisher : Keep a working fire extinguisher nearby to quickly extinguish any fires that may ignite. Water Source : Have a bucket of water or garden hose ready to douse fireworks or extinguish small fires. Safety Goggles and Gloves : Wear protective eyewear and gloves when handling fireworks to protect against sparks or debris. Safe Handling Practices for Home Fireworks Read Instructions : Carefully read and follow the manufacturer's instructions and warnings on each firework device. Do not modify or attempt to relight malfunctioning fireworks. Use Open Space : Ignite fireworks in a clear, open area away from buildings, dry grass, or other flammable materials. Avoid overhead obstructions like trees or power lines. Keep Distance : Maintain a safe distance between spectators and the fireworks launch area. Encourage observers to stay back and do not approach fireworks once ignited. Emergency Preparedness Know Emergency Contacts : Keep emergency contact numbers readily accessible, including local fire departments and medical services. First Aid Kit : Have a basic first aid kit available to treat minor burns, cuts, or injuries suffered during fireworks activities. Legal and Safety Compliance Understanding legal responsibilities and safety protocols is crucial to prevent accidents and to make sure you comply with local regulations: Liability : Individuals using fireworks are liable for any injuries or damages caused by mishandling or negligence. Penalties : Violating fireworks laws can result in fines, legal penalties, or civil liabilities if injuries or property damage occur. How Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn Can Help At Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn, we prioritize safety and legal compliance in all aspects of fireworks use and enjoyment. Our services include: Legal Guidance : Clarifying local fireworks laws and regulations to ensure compliance and to avoid legal repercussions. Personal Injury Representation : Advocating for individuals injured in fireworks accidents, and pursuing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact Our Legal Team Today If you have been injured in a fireworks accident or have legal questions regarding fireworks use, contact Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn for a consultation. We offer confidential evaluations of your case and strive to protect your legal rights. For more information on our legal services or to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced personal injury attorneys, please call us at 570-287-3000 or visit us online at HKQLaw.com . Conclusion Fireworks safety involves responsible behavior, following legal guidelines, and prioritizing personal and public safety. By following the safety tips outlined above and seeking legal advice from Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn when needed, you can enjoy fireworks responsibly and reduce any risks. Additional Safety Resources For further information on fireworks safety, visit trusted sources such as: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) : Provides guidelines and resources on fireworks safety and prevention. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) : Offers safety tips and recalls related to fireworks and consumer products. Local Fire Departments : Often provide community outreach programs and safety demonstrations during holidays involving fireworks. Previous Next

Kevin M. Walsh, Jr. Attorney < Back Attorney Kevin M. Walsh, Jr. provides legal counsel to Commercial clients throughout northeastern Pennsylvania , focusing on real estate transactions, Banking and Creditors’ Rights, Zoning, and Real Estate and General Litigation matters. Attorney Walsh was born in Philadelphia, PA, and raised in Drums, PA, where he currently resides with his wife, Lindsay, and their two children. He graduated from Bucknell University with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. Attorney Walsh pursued his legal career at Syracuse University College of Law. He was selected as a recipient of the Lampe Bar Scholarship and received the CALI Award for Achievement in Insurance and Society Seminar Activities. For nine years, Attorney Walsh worked as an Associate Attorney with Donald G. Karpowich, Attorney-at-Law, PC, where he litigated numerous cases in various jurisdictions, including Courts of Common Pleas, the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania, the Superior Court of Pennsylvania, the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Previous to this role, he was an Associate Attorney at the Law Offices of Tullio DeLuca, handling commercial litigation and estate planning. Attorney Walsh also served as Law Clerk to the Honorable Terrence R. Nealon. Attorney Walsh is a member of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. KWalsh@hkqlaw.com (570) 287-3000, Ext. 1121 Business Law Banking & Finance Real Estate Zoning Areas of Practice No One Will Work Harder For You. ®

What You Need To Know Sep 2, 2024 Comprehensive Guide: Safety Tips for Handling Fireworks and Enjoying Displays Your Rights and Responsibilities: Fireworks Safety and Legal Considerations Read More Aug 19, 2024 Passenger Rights in Car Crashes What Are My Rights as a Passenger in a Crash? Read More Aug 5, 2024 Have You Been Victim of a Boating Crash? What do I need to know if I've been involved in a boating accident? Read More Jul 22, 2024 Things You Need To Do If You've Been In A Crash What do you need to do if you've been in a crash? Read More Jul 8, 2024 Understanding Medical Treatment Options in Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Cases What medical treatment options do I have following a workplace injury? Read More Jun 24, 2024 Understanding Workers' Compensation in Pennsylvania: A Guide for Injured Workers What should I do if I've been injured at work? Read More Jun 17, 2024 Understanding Pennsylvania's Statute of Limitations in Personal Injury Cases How long do you have to file a personal injury lawsuit? Read More Jun 10, 2024 How Vehicle Type Impacts Your Personal Injury Claim Does vehicle type impact your personal injury claim? Find out from a Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn Personal Injury Attorney. Read More

Results Business Results Litigation Results Car Accidents Medical Malpractice Truck Accident Personal Injury $5.5 Million Settlement in Lackawanna County Medical Malpractice Wrongful death case against multiple providers for 12-hour delay in giving antibiotics to a septic patient. Published on 6/5/2024 $30,000,000 Settlement in Electrocution Deaths The families of two young Susquehanna County men, electrocuted while installing a new roof on a house, received nearly a $30-million settlement after trial had commenced. $25,000,000 Settlement for Plaintiffs Injured by Pickup Truck Recklessly Operated by National Company Attorneys Joseph A. Quinn, Jr., Michelle M. Quinn, Michael A. Lombardo IlI, and Kathleen Quinn DePillis successfully represented two (2) Northeastern Pennsylvania families who received a $25 Million Dollar settlement from a national contracting company whose driver recklessly disregarded a stop sign and caused severe injuries to the two (2) victims. No One Will Work Harder For You. ® NOTE: EVERY CASE IS FACT SPECIFIC, AND THESE RESULTS DO NOT GUARANTEE THE SAME RESULTS WILL BE OBTAINED IN A DIFFERENT CASE