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Fireworks, Food Trucks & Falls: Common Summer Event Hazards

Fireworks, Food Trucks & Falls Common Summer Event HazardsSummer in Virginia is packed with celebrations—from Fourth of July fireworks and county fairs to food truck festivals and neighborhood block parties. But with these festivities come increased risks of injury. Whether you’re watching a fireworks show in Fairfax, grabbing a bite at a food truck rally in Alexandria, or enjoying a local carnival in Arlington, it’s important to understand your legal rights if an accident happens.

Fireworks Accidents: More Than Just a Bang

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, fireworks cause an estimated 9,700 injuries in 2023.. Even when handled by professionals, fireworks can malfunction or misfire, leading to burns or eye injuries.

In Virginia, only certain types of fireworks are legal for personal use, and displays require proper permitting and adherence to Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code standards (source). If an event organizer or pyrotechnics vendor fails to follow safety guidelines, they may be held liable for injuries caused by negligence.

Food Truck Burns and Illnesses

Food trucks are a summer staple, but they also pose unique risks. Propane tank explosions, cooking equipment malfunctions, or even simple grease spills can lead to serious burns. Additionally, foodborne illnesses can occur if food is not stored or prepared at the right temperature.

Slip, Trip, and Fall Hazards

Temporary setups at festivals and block parties often include electrical cables, tent stakes, and uneven walkways. Poor lighting or lack of signage can turn a fun night out into an ER visit. In Virginia, property owners and event organizers have a duty to maintain safe premises for guests.

Under Virginia premises liability law, if someone slips on a spilled drink at a carnival or trips over exposed wiring at a food truck event, they may be eligible for compensation if the hazard was known or should have been known by the property owner or organizer (source).

What To Do If You’re Injured

  1. Seek Medical Attention – Your health comes first.

  2. Document the Scene – Take photos, gather witness names, and note the conditions.

  3. Report the Incident – Notify the event organizer or vendor.

  4. Contact an Attorney – Especially before speaking with insurance companies.

How Hilton and Somer Can Help

The experienced attorneys at Hilton and Somer, LLC are here to support injury victims in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. We investigate liability, collect evidence, and negotiate with insurers to secure the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you’ve been hurt at a summer event, don’t face it alone. Contact Hilton and Somer today for a free consultation. We’ll help you determine whether you have a case and guide you every step of the way.

Hilton & Somer, LLC: Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC Personal Injury Attorneys

If you have suffered an injury, don’t go through it alone.  Help is available today.  Get in touch with the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hilton & Somer, LLC today to discuss your case with one of our Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C. Attorneys. You can contact us toll-free at (703) 560-0700.

References:

https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacodefull/title8.01/chapter3/

https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks

https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/statewide-fire-prevention-code

Road Trip Gone Wrong: What Happens If You’re Injured Far from Home?

Road Trip Gone Wrong What Happens If You’re Injured Far from HomeRoad trips are a classic American pastime—windows down, music up, and miles of adventure ahead. But what happens when your journey through Virginia or Washington, D.C. takes an unexpected and painful turn? If you’re injured in a car accident far from home, it can be overwhelming to navigate medical treatment, insurance claims, and legal processes in an unfamiliar state. That’s where the experienced team at Hilton & Somer steps in.

Injured While Traveling Through Virginia or D.C.?

Virginia and D.C. are major travel corridors, especially during spring and summer. With interstates like I-95, I-66, and I-495 (the Capital Beltway) buzzing with out-of-state drivers, accidents involving non-residents are common.

If you’re visiting from another state and are injured in a crash in Virginia or D.C., your case must be handled under the local jurisdiction’s laws—not your home state’s. This includes following Virginia’s unique “contributory negligence” rule, which prevents an injured party from recovering damages if they are found even 1% at fault for the accident.

Washington, D.C., follows a more lenient comparative negligence system, where injured parties can recover damages even if they are partially at fault, though compensation may be reduced by their percentage of fault.

What Should You Do After an Out-of-State Accident?

If you’re involved in a car crash while on vacation or passing through the region, here are key steps to take:

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, visit a local hospital or urgent care. This ensures your health is prioritized and creates essential documentation.
  2. Call the Police and Get a Report: Virginia and D.C. law enforcement will respond and file official reports—critical evidence for your claim.
  3. Gather Information: Take photos of the scene, exchange contact and insurance info with other drivers, and collect witness details.
  4. Notify Your Insurance Company: Promptly report the accident to your insurer.
  5. Contact a Local Personal Injury Attorney: Working with a lawyer who knows the local laws is vital, especially with differing state regulations.

How Hilton & Somer Helps Non-Residents

At Hilton & Somer, LLC, we’ve represented countless travelers who were injured while visiting Virginia or Washington, D.C. We understand the added stress of dealing with an injury when you’re far from home, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Our firm assists with:

  • Navigating Virginia’s strict liability laws
  • Coordinating with your home-state medical providers
  • Communicating with out-of-state insurance companies
  • Filing personal injury lawsuits in local courts

We also help coordinate remote consultations, digital document signing, and long-distance communication so you don’t have to worry about returning to Virginia for every step of the process.

Hilton & Somer, LLC: Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC Personal Injury Attorneys

If you have suffered an injury, don’t go through it alone.  Help is available today.  Get in touch with the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hilton & Somer, LLC today to discuss your case with one of our Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C. Attorneys. You can contact us toll-free at (703) 560-0700.

References:

https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/16-2701

https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title8.01/chapter3/section8.01-58/

Who’s at Fault in a Bike Accident?

Who’s at Fault in a Bike AccidentCycling offers numerous benefits—from reducing carbon emissions to improving personal health—but it also comes with risks, especially when sharing the road with cars and trucks. In Virginia and Washington, D.C., bicycle accidents are unfortunately all too common. If you’ve been injured in a crash, understanding who’s at fault and what legal rights you have is critical.

Common Causes of Bike Accidents

While every accident is unique, certain causes appear frequently in cases we see at Hilton and Somer:

  1. Driver Inattention or Distracted Driving:
     Motorists who are texting, talking on the phone, or simply not paying attention often fail to see cyclists, especially at intersections or when making turns. In Virginia, distracted driving is a major safety concern, prompting the enactment of handheld cellphone bans in 2021.

  2. “Dooring” Incidents:
     Dooring occurs when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist. Under Virginia Code § 46.2-818.1, it’s illegal to open a vehicle door on the traffic side unless it’s safe to do so. These cases often result in serious injuries due to the sudden nature of the collision.

  3. Failure to Yield the Right-of-Way:
     Drivers often underestimate cyclists’ right to the road. Whether it’s during a left-hand turn or at a stop sign, failing to yield is a frequent cause of collisions. D.C. law, for instance, explicitly states that bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists.

  4. Unsafe Passing or “Close Passing”:
     Virginia law requires drivers to allow at least three feet of clearance when passing a cyclist. Failing to do so not only puts riders at risk but can be used as evidence of negligence in an injury claim.

Determining Fault in Virginia and D.C.

Liability in bicycle accidents depends heavily on the laws of the jurisdiction:

  • Virginia:
     Virginia follows a pure contributory negligence rule, which means if a cyclist is even 1% at fault, they may be barred from recovering damages. This makes it critical to gather evidence—photos, witness statements, and police reports—to prove the driver was entirely at fault.

  • Washington, D.C.:
     D.C. offers more leniency. Under its modified comparative negligence law, a cyclist can recover damages as long as they are less than 50% at fault, per the D.C. Code § 50–2204.52. This offers greater protection to injured riders compared to Virginia.

Legal Rights and Next Steps

If you’re hurt in a bike accident, you have the right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Acting quickly is essential—both Virginia and D.C. have strict statutes of limitations (usually two to three years) for filing personal injury claims.

Hilton & Somer, LLC: Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC Personal Injury Attorneys

If you have suffered an injury, don’t go through it alone.  Help is available today.  Get in touch with the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hilton & Somer, LLC today to discuss your case with one of our Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C. Attorneys. You can contact us toll-free at (703) 560-0700.

References:

https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title46.2/chapter8/section46.2-818.2/

https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/50-2204.52.html

https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title46.2/chapter8/section46.2-818.1/

https://ddot.dc.gov/page/bicycle-laws

Heat, Hazards & Hard Labor

Heat, Hazards & Hard LaborAs spring temperatures rise across Virginia, outdoor workers—especially those in construction, landscaping, and agriculture—face heightened risks of injury and illness. From heat-related illnesses to equipment accidents, the hazards are real and often preventable. At Hilton and Somer, we’re committed to helping injured workers secure the medical care and compensation they deserve.

Heat Stress & Dehydration: A Growing Threat

Outdoor laborers are particularly vulnerable to heat stress, which can lead to heat exhaustion or even fatal heat stroke. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics  reported 36 work-related deaths due to environmental heat exposure in 2021, highlighting the severity of this issue 

In Virginia, the Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) has recognized the dangers of heat exposure. Their 2021 Annual Report emphasizes the need for employers to implement heat illness prevention programs, including providing water, rest breaks, and shade.

Despite these guidelines, many employers fall short, leaving workers at risk. If you’ve suffered from a heat-related illness on the job, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the steps to take for compensation.

Falls and Equipment Accidents: Persistent Dangers

Falls remain a leading cause of injury in the construction industry. OSHA reports that in 2023, falls accounted for 421 of the 1,075 construction fatalities recorded . In Virginia, construction workers face similar risks, with common injuries including sprains, strains, and fractures resulting from falls and equipment-related incidents.

Equipment accidents, such as being struck by or caught in machinery, also pose significant threats. These incidents often result from inadequate training, lack of safety protocols, or malfunctioning equipment.

Employers are legally obligated to maintain safe work environments. When they fail to do so, and workers are injured as a result, legal recourse is available.

How Hilton and Somer Can Help

Navigating the aftermath of a workplace injury can be overwhelming. At Hilton and Somer, we specialize in personal injury law with a focus on workplace accidents. Our experienced attorneys can assist you in:

  • Securing Workers’ Compensation: Ensuring you receive the benefits you’re entitled to, including coverage for medical expenses and lost wages.

  • Pursuing Third-Party Claims: If a third party’s negligence contributed to your injury, we can help you seek additional compensation.

  • Providing Legal Guidance: Offering clear, compassionate advice throughout the legal process to help you make informed decisions.

Our goal is to alleviate the burden on injured workers, allowing you to focus on recovery while we handle the legal complexities.

Hilton & Somer, LLC: Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC Personal Injury Attorneys

If you have suffered an injury, don’t go through it alone.  Help is available today.  Get in touch with the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hilton & Somer, LLC today to discuss your case with one of our Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C. Attorneys. You can contact us toll-free at (703) 560-0700.

References:

https://www.osha.gov/stop-falls-stand-down

https://www.osha.gov/heat-exposure

https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2023/36-work-related-deaths-due-to-environmental-heat-exposure-in-2021

Who’s Liable in a Construction Zone Accident?

Who’s Liable in a Construction Zone AccidentConstruction zones are inherently dangerous, not just for workers but also for pedestrians and drivers passing nearby. From falling debris to poor traffic control, accidents in these areas can lead to serious injuries—or worse. At Hilton and Somer, we help victims navigate the complex legal landscape of construction zone accidents to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.

Common Hazards in Construction Zones

In urban areas across Virginia, construction is a constant. Unfortunately, with that comes risk. Some of the most common causes of construction zone accidents include:

  • Unsafe scaffolding or falling tools 
  • Lack of warning signage for pedestrians or drivers 
  • Improper traffic redirection or barriers 
  • Negligent heavy machinery operation 
  • Failure to secure hazardous materials

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls, struck-by objects, electrocution, and caught-in/between accidents are among the “Fatal Four” construction hazards. These accidents can affect not only workers but also bystanders and passing motorists.

Who’s Liable?

Liability in construction zone accidents depends on the circumstances and the parties involved.

For Injured Workers:

In Virginia, workers injured on the job are generally covered under Virginia Workers’ Compensation Law. However, if a third party—such as a subcontractor or equipment manufacturer—was negligent, the injured worker may also file a third-party personal injury claim.

For example, if faulty scaffolding supplied by a third-party vendor collapses, the injured worker could pursue compensation beyond workers’ comp by suing the vendor directly.

For Injured Bystanders and Drivers:

Construction companies and site managers have a duty to ensure safety for the public. If you were injured walking past a site or driving through a work zone due to a lack of proper signage, barriers, or flaggers, you may be entitled to damages. In these cases, potential defendants could include:

  • General contractors 
  • Subcontractors 
  • Municipalities (if the work zone was improperly supervised) 
  • Private property owners

For instance, Virginia’s Work Zone Safety law (§ 46.2-878.1) mandates speed reductions and visible signage in designated work zones. If these rules aren’t followed and you’re injured as a result, this could demonstrate negligence.

How Hilton and Somer Can Help

At Hilton and Somer, our experienced personal injury attorneys know how to investigate construction zone accidents thoroughly. We:

  • Collect eyewitness and expert testimony 
  • Analyze site safety protocols and OSHA violations 
  • Identify all potentially liable parties 
  • Negotiate aggressively with insurers and defendants

We understand the unique liability challenges these cases pose, especially in Northern Virginia and the D.C. metro area, where multiple contractors and agencies often overlap on a single project.

Don’t Let Negligence Go Unchecked

Whether you’re a construction worker injured on the job or a bystander harmed due to negligence, you deserve justice. Let Hilton and Somer fight for the compensation you need to heal and move forward.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you uncover the truth and hold the right parties accountable.

Hilton & Somer, LLC: Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC Personal Injury Attorneys

If you have suffered an injury, don’t go through it alone.  Help is available today.  Get in touch with the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hilton & Somer, LLC today to discuss your case with one of our Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C. Attorneys. You can contact us toll-free at (703) 560-0700.

References:

https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/46.2-878.1/

https://www.workcomp.virginia.gov/

https://www.osha.gov/data/commonstats

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