Daylight Savings Driving Tips

The annual change from Daylight Saving Time (DST) in the fall includes a spike in deadly car wrecks. It’s critical for Maryland motorists to be aware of this fact and exercise caution on the roads as we head further into the holiday season.

The end of DST in November is celebrated for bringing along an extra hour of sleep, but it also means driving more in the dark and interrupted sleep patterns — both of which increase the chance of crashes for several weeks following the switch, according to AAA.

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University and Stanford University, in a collaboration with the Insurance Bureau of British Columbia, also believe that a rise in drowsy driving accidents after the fall time change is partly due to the fact that people stay up later, believing that the extra hour of sleep from “falling back” will allow them to catch up the next day. But according to the Sleep Health Foundation, sleeping in can only repay some sleep debt. It’s not a replacement for regular, healthy sleep habits.

“Springing Forward” Is Hazardous, Too

Losing an hour of sleep when DST begins in the spring is responsible for a six percent increase in fatal car wrecks, according to a University of Colorado study recently published in the journal Current Biology.

The increase translates to an average of 28 additional deaths each year. The spike is even higher — roughly eight percent — for those who live on the western edge of their time zones.

Researchers suggest that DST may harm our health more than previously thought. The time switch is believed to cause a rise in workplace injuries, sleep difficulties, stroke, and heart attack.

Why Do Accidents Spike After the Fall Time Change?

Sleep deprivation is not the only factor that contributes to a rise in car accidents when DST ends. After the switch, people drive in the dark more often. Depth perception, color recognition, and peripheral vision can be limited by darkness.

In addition, the glare of headlights from an approaching vehicle can be blinding. This combination of factors can contribute to reduced reaction times and limited visibility for drivers, increasing the risk of a deadly wreck.

Safety Tips for Driving at Night

The National Safety Council offers these tips for safe night driving:

• Make sure your headlights are clean and accurately aimed.
• Dim your dashboard.
• Glance away from oncoming lights.
• If you wear glasses, make sure they have anti-reflective lenses.
• Keep your windshield clean to eliminate streaks.
• Slow down to better deal with limited visibility and reduced stopping time.

Contact a Waldorf Car Accident Lawyer If You’ve Been Injured

Were you injured in a Maryland crash? You could be entitled to compensation if another party is to blame. A Waldorf car accident lawyer at Trollinger Law LLC can fight for the compensation that you’re entitled to.

Don’t wait until your injuries get worse to make your claim. Call or contact us for a free consultation today. There’s no fee unless we win.

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Hit By an Out of State Driver?

Anyone who’s traveled the nation’s highways knows that motor vehicle crashes can be deadly and result in catastrophic injuries. In 2019, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 36,120 people died in car accidents across the United States.

Americans are known for being mobile. In southern Maryland, thousands crisscross the state and into the District of Columbia for work every day. Sometimes, through no fault of our own, we’re hit by out-of-state drivers.

If you live in Maryland and were hit by an out-of-state driver, you can still pursue compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, and other losses in your home state. A car accident lawyer at Trollinger Law LLC can help you with injury claims in Maryland and Washington, D.C. Get started by scheduling a free consultation today.

Call or contact us now.

What Happens If I Got into an Accident with an Out-of-State Driver?

Resolving car accident claims can be simpler when both drivers are in the same state. With out-of-state car accidents, there are other considerations.

For example, not all states have the same statute of limitations when it comes to car accident claims. If you’re planning on filing for compensation, you need to know which statute of limitations applies to your claim so that you don’t lose out because of a missed deadline.

In addition, states differ in how they determine who is eligible for compensation. Maryland is one of a handful of states that uses a contributory negligence doctrine to determine liability. It’s a harsh standard. If a driver is found even one percent responsible for a wreck, he or she can’t recover any compensation at all.

By contrast, the majority of states operate under some form of comparative negligence. This law allows claimants to collect a portion of money depending on their percentage of fault for the accident. The stakes are high in either case, but there’s much less flexibility in a contributory negligence state like Maryland. For that reason, it’s a good idea to talk to a car accident lawyer about how the laws apply in your case.

Which State Will I File My Claim In?

If you are hit by an out-of-state driver in Maryland, state laws apply and you can file the action in a Maryland court.

Steps to Take After an Accident in Maryland Involving Non-Resident Drivers

No matter who is at fault in an accident, you can protect your case by following these tips:

• Don’t leave the scene of the accident.
• Notify law enforcement.
• Offer assistance to everyone involved.
• Get medical attention, even if you feel fine.
• Exchange information (driver’s license, insurance info, etc.).
• Gather evidence (take pictures, get names of witnesses, etc.).
• Notify your insurance company.
• Never admit fault.
• Contact an experienced Maryland car accident lawyer at Trollinger Law.

How Trollinger Law Can Help with My Car Accident Claim

Trollinger Law LLC is here to protect your best interests. We represent clients in Waldorf, Charles County, southern Maryland and the greater D.C. area. You can rely on us to fight for full and fair compensation in your car accident case, both during settlement talks and at trial, if necessary.

Put us to work for you. Get started by arranging a no-cost case review with Attorney Matt Trollinger now.

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Sponsoring the Southern Maryland GRIT

Digging deep and working hard to achieve a goal are qualities that every personal injury lawyer respects. And at Trollinger Law LLC, we believe that fostering those qualities starts early. That’s why we’ve signed on as a Home Run Sponsor for the Southern Maryland GRIT, a competitive travel baseball team for boys 10 and under.

The GRIT is part of the Chesapeake Baseball Association. The purpose of the team goes beyond simply playing ball. Organizers use baseball as a way to teach children about the importance of a growth mindset and developing the strength, or grit, to persevere in the face of challenges.

The team is playing in two to four tournaments during 2020 and likely double that number in 2021.

“Trollinger Law is happy to support athletics in southern Maryland and specifically, the Southern Maryland GRIT baseball team,” says attorney Matt Trollinger, the firm’s founder. “Coach Perry and his team are committed to developing young athletes who embody courage, resolve, and strength of character. These are the same qualities that we see in the families that we are proud to represent every single day.”

A Tradition of Giving

If there’s one thing that the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us at Trollinger Law, it’s that showing gratitude and giving back are vital for a community’s physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing.

Earlier this year, we had the opportunity to provide meals to the brave medical workers at Calvert Memorial Hospital, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital, the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center, and Righttime Medical Care, as well at first responders at the La Plata Police Department. These professionals are at the forefront of a public health battle that rages on, and we applaud their “grit” as they fight to save lives while risking their own.

About Trollinger Law LLC

Trollinger Law LLC is a respected Waldorf personal injury law firm. For years, Attorney Matt Trollinger has fought for the rights of injured people throughout Charles County, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.

The firm represents clients in a wide range of legal matters, including personal injury, workers’ compensation, car accidents, motorcycle crashes, truck collisions, pedestrian accidents, slip and fall, and wrongful death.

If you or a loved one was hurt in an accident, call or contact Trollinger Law LLC to learn your legal options. All initial consultations are free, with no obligation.

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Maryland Workers’ Comp FAQ

Most Maryland workers are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits if they are hurt on the job or diagnosed with an occupational illness. Workers’ compensation provides payment of medical expenses, partial wage replacement, and disability benefits for eligible employees.

Securing maximum workers’ compensation benefits can be critical to keep families afloat while an individual is out of work. But the process of applying for and obtaining benefits can be filled with obstacles. Knowing what to do from the very beginning can improve your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve.

When you have questions, Trollinger Law LLC has answers. Check out the following Maryland workers’ compensation FAQ or call us today for a free consultation.

How Do I File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Maryland?

Deadlines are important throughout the workers’ compensation process. You must let your employer know as soon as possible if you are hurt on the job. You should do this in writing and include your name, address, date of injury and a short account of what happened. An employer usually has their own internal work injury or incident reports available when one of their employees is hurt on the job.

An employer must file a report with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission within 10 days after they have knowledge of a work injury causing three or more days of missed time from work or disability. This is called the Employer’s First Report.

You must file your own report with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission if you are seeking any benefits from your workers’ compensation claim (e.g., lost wages, medical bill payment, mileage, or permanent partial/total disability benefits). This form can be found on the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission website. This is called an Employee Claim Form or C-1. This can be done online and in nearly every case, it must be done within two years of your injury or you will be barred from all benefits.

If you filed the claim, the Workers’ Compensation Commission will notify your employer and its workers’ compensation insurer that you are seeking benefits. Your employer or its insurer will then investigate your claim and determine that your injury or illness should be compensated. If there are disputes (or “issues”) with the claim, the insurer will file what are called “contesting issues” and it will be set in for a hearing in front of a commissioner.

Because the claims process is so document-sensitive, it’s a good idea to have an experienced workers’ compensation attorney review your claim and prepare your forms to prevent errors from delaying your benefits.

How Long Will My Claim Take to Process?

Many people ask how long their workers’ comp claim will take. After you file a claim for a work injury or occupational illness, your employer or its workers’ compensation insurer has 21 days to either accept your claim or file contesting issues, which will lead to the claim being filed with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission. Within 30 days of your claim being filed with the commission, a commissioner will either issue an award or schedule your claim for a hearing if your employer challenged the claim.

What Is Involved in a Workers’ Comp Hearing?

A workers’ compensation hearing operates much like a trial. Both you (and your lawyer, if you hire one) and your employer (and its insurer) will be present. During the hearing, all parties may review each other’s evidence and cross-examine witnesses. The commissioner may also ask questions in order to reach a resolution.

Can I Hire My Own Work Injury Doctor?

Yes. In Maryland, you can choose to be treated by any physician you wish. All reasonable and necessary treatments must be covered by your employer or its workers’ compensation insurer.

However, when a doctor accepts a patient for a workers’ compensation injury or illness, the payment he or she can receive is established in a fee schedule set by the state. The provider can only receive the payment listed on the fee schedule and may not bill the patient for the difference of his or her usual and customary fee.

How Are Workers’ Compensation Payments Determined?

If you receive temporary total disability (TTD) payments while receiving workers’ compensation, you are entitled to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, calculated over the 14-week period prior to your injury. However, your pay cannot exceed 100 percent of the average weekly wage in Maryland, calculated annually by the state.

If you can return to work, but your injuries prevent you from earning your pre-accident level of income, you are entitled to receive 50 percent of the difference between your average weekly wage and your current wage-earning capacity, capped at 50 percent of the state average weekly wage. This is called temporary partial disability (TPD).

Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits are paid out according to a schedule set forth by the state, which lists the payment amounts based on the type of disability. Workers who are permanently and totally disabled (PTD) are also entitled to indefinite two-thirds wage replacement, subject to reduction for any Social Security disability payments.

Can I Work a Second Job While Receiving Workers’ Compensation?

No. If you take a second job while receiving workers’ compensation benefits, your employer may determine that you have the capacity to return to your first job and terminate your benefits.

What Should I Do If My Claim Has Been Denied?

If your claim for benefits is denied by the insurance company, you may request a hearing before the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission but only after an Employee’s First Report is filed. Because hearings have formal procedures that resemble trials, including applying the Maryland rules of evidence, you’d be well advised to work with a workers’ compensation attorney rather than try to handle the matter yourself.

How to Appeal Workers’ Comp Claims

There are several levels of appeal if you are denied workers’ compensation benefits. If the insurance company denies your claim but you have not yet had a hearing, you can request a hearing before a workers’ compensation commissioner. If, after a hearing, you are dissatisfied with the commissioner’s decision, you may request reconsideration or rehearing of the decision, which is usually only granted for newly discovered evidence that could not have been obtained prior to the original hearing or when the commissioner makes a clear error of law.

Following a request for reconsideration/rehearing or as an alternative to such a request, you may decide to appeal an adverse claim decision to the circuit court in Maryland by filing a complaint. If the circuit court enters a ruling against you, you will need to follow the appellate system of the Maryland courts.

Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer for My Claim?

You are not required to hire an attorney to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. However, if you are having trouble getting anything involving your claim approved by the adjuster with the insurance company or your employer, or if you are scheduled for a hearing before a workers’ compensation commissioner, you are highly encouraged to seek out legal representation. Oftentimes there are unreasonable delays when injured workers do not receive calls back from the adjuster. This is because they do not fear an injured worker without an attorney, because that employee will have less likelihood of success holding them accountable for their actions at a hearing.

Why Should I Choose Trollinger Law to Help Me?

At Trollinger Law LLC, you’ll benefit from the top-quality experience and legal resources associated with a big firm and the personalized attention you’d expect from a small firm. Waldorf workers’ compensation attorney Matt Trollinger and his legal team understand how important it is to receive maximum benefits if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. We know that you deserve respect and dignity as well. You can count on our legal team to push for the best possible resolution for your case.

Learn more about what we can do for you in a free consultation. Call or contact us today.

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Pet of the Month: July 2020

Meet Roxie!

Roxie is a 3-year-old Greyhound mix. She is already vaccinated,  spayed and microchipped. Roxie is outgoing, friendly, loving and energetic. She is house trained and will alert you when she needs to go potty. She is a smart and active young lady who needs daily exercise and mental stimulation. With a proper introduction she is good with kids and other dogs. She is not good with cats. Roxie is a great all-around dog and should fit in well in almost any home. She weighs 50 pounds and is fully grown.

We believe you can always teach an ‘old’ dog new tricks, so we highly recommend continued obedience training for this smart pup; it stimulates the dog’s mind and establishes a good dog/adopter relationship. This pup, like all pups, should be on heart-worm preventative; an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

If you are interested in adopting Roxie, please submit an adoption application online: http://www.lastchanceanimalrescue.org/adoptus.html

You can also email dogs@lastchanceanimalrescue.org with questions. Please put “Roxie #5395” in the subject line.

For More Information, Click Here: Roxie today!

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Using Your Vehicle for Deliveries? Check Your Auto Insurance First

Many Americans are social distancing and self-quarantining in light of the coronavirus pandemic. To help reduce the effects of the drop in business, more companies are seeking drivers to deliver groceries, takeout meals, and other items to customers. If you are looking for work as a delivery driver and plan to use your own vehicle, you need to be aware of possible auto insurance consequences if you’re in a crash in Maryland.

Have you been injured in a wreck? An experienced Waldorf car accident attorney at Trollinger Law LLC can help you navigate the complex insurance issues you might be facing. Call or contact us today for a free and confidential consultation.

Can Delivery Drivers Use Their Own Car Insurance?

Check your auto insurance policy to find out if crashes that occur while you are making deliveries will be covered. You may have an exclusion in your personal car insurance policy that means you aren’t covered if you are involved in an accident while using the car for business purposes. That means that you would be required to pay for any injuries and property damage out of pocket.

What Is Commercial Auto Insurance?

Companies that use vehicles to carry out business tasks are required to have commercial auto insurance policies. These policies are purchased to cover the company’s entire fleet of vehicles. They are typically much more expensive than personal policies because the businesses are exposed to greater liability than others.

Commercial auto insurance may cover:

• Delivery trucks
• Pickup trucks
• Taxis
• Limousines
• Construction vehicles
• Tow trucks

There are instances when a driver who uses his/her car for work may be covered under a company’s commercial policy. For example, Uber and Lyft drivers may be covered either by their personal auto insurance policy or the corporate one depending on their status at the time of the crash.

What Happens If I Get Hit by a Delivery Driver With No Commercial Insurance?

If the delivery driver who hit you was not covered by a commercial policy, the accident may be handled like a typical car accident. You (or a car accident lawyer if you choose to hire one) will file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company requesting compensation. Then an investigation would get underway to determine fault.

In Maryland, your ability to receive compensation could be strongly impacted by the state’s contributory negligence law. Under that statute, a person can only recover money if he or she can prove that the other driver was 100 percent at fault for the car accident. With so much on the line, Trollinger Law LLC strongly recommends that you hire a lawyer to review your claim and help develop your argument for full and fair compensation.

If you were injured in a delivery-driver accident in the Waldorf area, call or contact us today to arrange your free consultation.

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Supplying Lunch for ICU Workers

Our team at Trollinger Law wanted to give back to the front line workers who have been giving their all in these unprecedented times. To say thank you to these hard-working, life-saving, dedicated men and women, our law firm provided lunch to the ICU workers at Calvert Memorial Hospital last Friday, May 15th, 2020.

We know we cannot fix what is going on in this world, but we are so thankful for the men and women who continue to do for our community what we cannot. We cannot thank you all enough!

We would also like to say a big thank you to Heavenly Chicken and Ribs in Dunkirk, MD for supplying us with the food to give to our local heroes.

 

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Americans Don’t Trust Self-Driving Cars

Autonomous vehicles are widely regarded as the wave of the future for automakers. Also called “self-driving vehicles,” these cars are intended to fully operate on their own without a driver. Right now, autonomous cars are only in the testing phases in certain parts of the country. But according to a recent study, approximately half of Americans do not have confidence in the safety of autonomous vehicles.

People are right to be cautious. More than 500 people died and nearly 50,000 were injured in Maryland car accidents in a single year, according to the most recent data from the state Department of Transportation. If you’ve been injured in a crash, contact Waldorf attorney Matt Trollinger immediately for a free consultation.

Most Americans Do Not Trust Self-Driving Cars

According to a study conducted by Reuters, around 50 percent of Americans do not trust autonomous vehicles. Two-thirds of people stated that they would not purchase an autonomous vehicle. Additionally, 63 percent of individuals that responded to the study said they would not spend more money on a self-driving vehicle, and 41 percent of respondents said that they would not pay more than $2,000 for a comparable non-autonomous vehicle.

The concern is well-founded. There have been several highly publicized self-driving car accidents across the U.S. since the cars have been deployed, even with a backup human driver in the car who is supposed to intervene if a crash is imminent.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic brought the country to a halt, some carmakers are using the time to work on additional safety features until the U.S. reopens, while others have stopped entirely, according to a recent Forbes article. Efforts will likely get underway again as the country recovers.

Are Autonomous Vehicles Safe?

Whether or not autonomous vehicles are safe remains to be seen. It is clear that when self-driving cars require someone to be in the car and ready to take control of the vehicle at any time, these individuals must be ready to do so. Unfortunately, even if there is a human present in the vehicle, there is no guarantee of safety when an autonomous vehicle is in charge. In one self-driving car accident, the backup driver was found to be streaming video at the time of the crash.

In these types of cases, accident victims may be able to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent driver. Similarly, in cases where the autonomous cars fail and cause an accident, injured victims could have a product liability claim against the vehicle manufacturer.

Trollinger Law will continue to monitor the evolution of self-driving cars and how they may impact the safety of Marylanders.

How Can Trollinger Law Help Me?

If you have been involved in a crash involving an autonomous car, you need the legal help of an experienced car accident lawyer. Attorney Matt Trollinger is an accomplished trial lawyer with a track record of success representing accident victims in Waldorf, Charles County, and Washington, D.C. We know how to file car accident claims, determine liability, and negotiate with the insurance company to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

To learn more about how we can help, contact us today for a free consultation.

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Waldorf Attorney Matt Trollinger Named a “Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Trial Lawyer” by The National Trial Lawyers

Trollinger Law is proud to announce that Attorney Matt Trollinger has been selected as a “Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Trial Lawyer” by The National Trial Lawyers. The organization is invitation only and limited to only 100 attorneys in each state.

Lawyers are recognized for their outstanding trial results, leadership abilities, and excellence in practicing law. Selection is determined after a rigorous multi-phase evaluation which includes peer nominations and a third-party review.

Specifically, The National Trial Lawyers looked at Trollinger’s reputation, achievements over the past year, membership in professional organizations, and rankings and ratings by other legal organizations.

“During Matthew Trollinger’s first year as a Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Trial Lawyer, [he] has shown that he has continuously exemplified superior qualifications, leadership skills, and trial results as an admirable trial lawyer,” The National Trial Lawyers said in a press release.

In order to remain in the organization, members must be reviewed every year.

“It’s an honor to be included in the Top 100 again,” says Trollinger, founder of the Maryland personal injury law firm. “Providing top-quality legal services to injured people is what we do at Trollinger Law, and it’s a job we take seriously.”

To learn more about The National Trial Lawyers and their selection criteria, click here.

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Trollinger Law Gives Back During COVID-19 Crisis

The coronavirus outbreak has demanded a nationwide emergency response. While many of us are fortunate enough to quarantine at home, it is the brave first responders who are on the front lines battling COVID-19 at great personal risk to themselves and their families.

To thank them for their service and support local restaurants, Trollinger Law has spent April delivering delicious meals to healthcare facilities throughout Southern Maryland. If anyone deserves some comfort food to keep their energy and spirits up, it’s our dedicated medical workers.

Do you want to help, too? What Trollinger Law hears most from health workers is that they just want people to stay at home. We know it’s hard, but social distancing is the best method we have to tackle COVID-19 and avoid overloading hospitals. Let’s keep Maryland Strong together!

Trollinger Law Thanks COVID-19 Medical Workers’ and First Responders

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COVID-19 at Work: Your Legal Rights and Responsibilities

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on the way we work. Some Americans have been fortunate enough to work from home during this unsettling time. Others have lost their jobs. Then there is the segment of the workforce who are deemed “essential” workers. These are the people who are employed at businesses that are allowed to continue operating throughout the pandemic, regardless of stay-at-home orders.

Understanding your obligations as an employee is always important, but even more so in the middle of a national crisis. Trollinger Law is already assisting first responders who have been infected with the coronavirus. Below, Waldorf attorney Matt Trollinger answers questions about worker rights and responsibilities during COVID-19 in Maryland.

Can Your Employer Make You Go to Work During the Pandemic?

Maryland has been under a stay-at-home order since March 30, along with many other states across the country. Only businesses that provide essential services are allowed to stay open, such as:

• Grocery stores
• Hospitals
• Medical facilities, including mental health and rehabilitation services
• Police stations
• Fire stations
• Law firms
• Auto repair shops
• Gas stations
• Educational centers to pick up food or materials for distance learning
• Restaurants (take-out, drive-through, or delivery only)

Essential workers can be required to come in on a regular basis or even on special schedules. Employees who have the capacity to work from home are also obligated to do so if their employer requires it. If you choose to take vacation time to avoid going to work during the pandemic, your employer can cancel your scheduled vacation time and make you work instead.

If there is evidence that the coronavirus has spread in your workplace, your employer would likely not be able to force you to come into the workplace until it has been decontaminated and sterilized, as that would mean knowingly exposing employees to a direct threat of infection.

What If an Employee Comes to Work Sick?

If an essential employee comes to work with obvious signs of illness, he or she needs to be sent home to prevent others from becoming sick. An employer is not under obligation to provide work to an employee with symptoms of a contagious disease. If the employee must miss time from work, the employer can afford the worker sick leave. The employee may also be entitled to take unpaid sick leave pursuant to the Family and Medical Leave Act or similar state laws.

The trickier question is whether employees can learn the identity of a co-worker who is diagnosed with coronavirus. Medical privacy laws protect workers’ health information, but employers should certainly mention to their workers that someone in the workplace was infected, especially to those who worked closely with the individual. But whether than person can be named officially is a gray area that has not been clearly defined yet.

If it can be established that an employee was infected with COVID-19 at work, they may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which can provide coverage for medical care and partial wage replacement during the recovery period.

COVID-19 Legal Responsibilities If You Test Positive

Currently, the law is unclear as to a worker’s responsibility if they receive a positive test for coronavirus. Public health authorities are asking individuals who test positive to provide lists of people that he or she has been in close contact with in the past few weeks. Knowingly exposing others to a communicable disease can be considered criminal assault and battery.

In addition, an employee who knowingly comes into work following a positive coronavirus test (or even while awaiting test results) may give an employer grounds for termination for knowingly or recklessly endangering the health and welfare of co-workers and customers.

COVID-19 Legal Questions? We’re Here to Help

The coronavirus pandemic has impacted us all. At Trollinger Law, we’re already working with Maryland’s brave first responders who have become sick while performing services in the line of duty. We all need to know our rights and responsibilities as a worker and a citizen in order to get through this stressful period as safely as possible.

If you have questions about your rights the COVID-19 pandemic, contact a Waldorf workers’ compensation attorney at Trollinger Law for a free consultation today. Contact us today – our clients will tell you that we get the results and compensation you deserve.

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Trollinger Law COVID-19 Update

You Don’t Need to Leave the House to Meet with Our Lawyers.

Concerned About Coronavirus?

We all have a duty to keep ourselves, our families, our neighbors, and our communities safe right now. This means temporarily reshaping the way we live our lives to combat the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). At Trollinger Law we are taking this duty seriously and are practicing the “social distancing” guidelines recommended by health officials. To ensure you still have access to us, our lawyers are available to meet with you remotely so we can answer your legal questions and discuss your case.

Across the nation, people are limiting in-person contact as much as possible to help slow the spread of the virus and allow our health care system to operate within its capacity. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to provide important guidance about what we all can do to protect ourselves and others from exposure. (Visit the CDC website for the most up-to-date information and recommendations.)

During this challenging time, our legal team remains available to talk about your legal issues over the phone or via free video conferencing services such as:

• GoToMeeting
• Facetime
• Skype
• Zoom

If you are ready to speak with a lawyer now, please contact us to schedule your free consultation. Our team can meet with you remotely and get started on your case immediately without having to talk in person.

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Trollinger Law Announces Winners of 2020 Hometown Heroes Awards

Trollinger Law LLC is proud to announce the recipients of its first annual Hometown Heroes Awards, nominated by the community. The recognition honors the commitment, dedication, and bravery demonstrated by first responders throughout Southern Maryland.

“The selfless work done by our Hometown Heroes is truly inspiring,” says Matt Trollinger, founder of the Waldorf personal injury law firm. “Even more significant is that fact that none of these first responders see themselves as heroes. Serving people in times of trouble just comes naturally to them.”

Two of this year’s winners began saving lives as teenagers, turning that early work into lifelong careers. Each of the Hometown Heroes has steadily been promoted in their chosen profession, always striving to make their contributions more meaningful to Maryland families.

Meet the winners here:

Sgt. Tabitha Long is a longtime member of the Maryland State Police Aviation Command. In that role, she supervises medevac teams that transport critically injured Marylanders to hospitals for treatment. Long has a history of providing life-saving services in the state. At age 16, she joined the Ridge Volunteer Rescue Squad, going on to be fully trained as a paramedic by 18. At 21, she was accepted into the Maryland State Police Academy and served in the Leonardtown Barracks before becoming became a flight paramedic for the police’s aviation unit. All of this work was accomplished while she earned her bachelor’s degree and today, she is completing coursework to become a registered nurse. This devotion to protecting the public and furthering her own expertise makes Sgt. Long a true Hometown Hero.

Kevin “Jake” Mattingly has provided emergency assistance to the Leonardtown community for 35 years. As a member of the Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department, Mattingly has served in various roles as a firefighter, committee chairman, and recording secretary. Today, he is a life member, the highest rank an officer can achieve. Mattingly has an unwavering commitment to service in every possible way. Knowing that a fire department can only function best with the right resources, he has organized the department’s annual carnival, golf tournament, and annual Christmas Tree Lighting to raise money for supplies. In addition, Mattingly has performed life-saving measures to help people beyond the call of duty, such as saving a patron who was choking at a local restaurant. Jumping into action — whenever and wherever it’s needed — encompasses everything Trollinger Law looks for in a Hometown Hero.

Matthew E. Gilroy joined the La Plata Volunteer Fire Department as a junior firefighter at the tender age of 16. He excels at providing emergency services to the Town of La Plata and Charles County. Over the years, Gilroy has continually sought to develop his career by pursuing extra training and ensuring that citizens are served by the most qualified firefighters with the best possible equipment. He helped lead the design and purchase of several fire and rescue vehicles and is an instructor for the University of Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute. His dedication to education extends beyond his co-workers. Gilroy regularly speaks to senior citizens, church groups, and members of the special needs community about fire safety. He has also advised town officials on how to enhance fire safety in upcoming construction projects. Gilroy’s widespread efforts to protect Maryland’s communities through direct service and education is at the heart of what a Hometown Hero does.

Please join Trollinger Law in extending a hearty thanks to the work of these fine first responders. Though none look for special credit, it must be given where it is due.

Learn more about the Hometown Heroes contest by visiting Trollinger Law’s website today.

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Daylight Savings Increases Risk for Deadly Car Accidents

Start preparing now. Daylight Saving Time (DST) begins on March 8. Marylanders and most Americans will push their clocks ahead at 2 a.m., losing an hour of sleep.

The time change has more implications than one might think. The number of fatal car crashes increases by six percent in the workweek immediately following the switch, according to research recently reported in the journal Current Biology.

Disrupting the sleep cycle by “springing forward” significantly impacts people’s ability to stay alert, researchers say. That’s a bad combination for drivers, many of whom will be getting behind the wheel in darkness to begin their morning commutes.

The riskiest time for crashes is the Monday immediately following the change. After about a week, traffic accident data tends to return to its baseline numbers.

Around 28 lives could be saved every year if states eliminated Daylight Savings Time, the study said. The federal government is considering a permanent change, and many states have already introduced bills in their legislatures supporting the proposal.

Dangers of Drowsy Driving

Only about 61 percent of people in Maryland get a good night’s sleep, according to an article in Live Science. That’s defined as at least seven hours of rest each night.

The remaining 39 percent of Marylanders who are operating on a sleep deficit may experience symptoms that could affect their driving ability. However, it’s difficult to know how many crashes are related to drowsy driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that fatigue was a factor in 91,000 car accidents in a recent year, resulting in nearly 800 deaths and 50,000 injuries.

Drowsy drivers are dangerous because:

• They are less able to pay attention behind the wheel.
• Their reaction times are impaired, making it difficult to respond quickly to emergencies.
• They have a decreased ability to make good driving decisions.

Fortunately, there are ways that you can try to eliminate the negative effects of the time change in the weeks leading up to DST.

Steps You Can Take To Prevent Drowsy Driving

Sleep experts say there are some ways that you can help make the transition to Daylight Saving Time easier. Here are some suggestions:

• Make the switch slowly: Try to go to bed 15 minutes earlier each night in the week leading up to the time change. Adjust your wake times accordingly.
• Lights on: Make your room bright as soon as you wake up. Light and dark plays a huge role in human sleep cycles, so turn on the lights swiftly.
• Exercise: Even a short walk during the day can help you sleep better. Make sure to do it at least two hours before bedtime, or you could actually wake up more.
• Lay off the caffeine: Stimulants can help you wake up if you’re groggy, but they can also keep you up at night. Avoid coffee and other caffeinated beverages for at least six hours before bed.

Maryland Injury Lawyer Serving Car Accident Victims

Have you or a family member been involved in a traffic accident involving a fatigued driver? Attorney Matt Trollinger will fight for you to received the compensation that you deserve.

Contact our team at Trollinger Law today for a free consultation.

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Trollinger Law Looking for Southern Maryland’s Hometown Heroes

First responders run towards a crisis, not away from one.

That’s how the U.S. First Responders Association defines them — and Trollinger Law wants to hear about the ones who have made a difference in the lives of families throughout Southern Maryland.

The Waldorf personal injury law firm is seeking nominations for its first annual Hometown Heroes Awards. Nominations can be submitted online until Feb. 21, 2020 and are open to first responders in Waldorf, Charles County, and the rest of Southern Maryland.

“First responders are the unsung heroes of the community,” says Attorney Matt Trollinger. “When we’re hurt and can’t take care of ourselves, they’re there. When there’s a natural disaster, they’re there. And when we’re caught up in the chaos of an emergency, we forget to say thank you. They’re not in it for the acknowledgment. But they deserve it.”

Supporting first responders has long been a tradition at Trollinger Law. Firm founder Matt Trollinger has dedicated funds and participated in programs for the LaPlata Police Department Safety Committee and Crime Watch; the LaPlata Police Department, Kent Avenue Cleanup and Block Party; Charles County Sheriff’s Office donation drive for domestic abuse victims, Marine Corps Toys for Tots program, and Tunnels to Towers Foundation for fallen heroes.

He also assisted in Wills for Heroes for Charles County, Prince George’s County, and Frederick County. The volunteer program recruits lawyers to prepare legal documents such as wills, living wills, and powers of attorney for first responders free of charge.

“First responders dive headfirst into dangerous situations without hesitation,” says Trollinger. “Helping them make future plans if tragedy strikes is one way that attorneys can honor their selflessness.”

Law enforcement officers in Charles County responded to more than 235,600 phone calls in 2018, according to the county’s most recent Government Report. That same year, three officers received the Bronze Medals of Valor for bravery and three others received meritorious awards. Six others were given life-saving awards and 16 received Sheriff’s Awards for outstanding field service.

The Hometown Heroes Award is a way for the public to express their own gratitude, says Trollinger.

The online nomination form asks people to write an essay-style submission of at least 300 words explaining why their nominee should be selected as a Hometown Hero. Three winners will be selected to receive $1,000 each from Trollinger Law.

Who’s Eligible?

The contest is open to first responders who work in Waldorf, Charles County, and the rest of Southern Maryland. This includes communities such as LaPlata, Indian Head, Port Tobacco, Bensville, Bryantown, Cobb Island, Hughesville, Pomfret, Potomac Heights, Rock Point, and St. Charles, among others.

Examples of first responders may include individuals or agencies, such as:

• Charles County Sheriff’s Office
• Maryland State Police
• LaPlata Town Police
• Charles County Fire & EMS
• Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department
• American Red Cross of Southern Maryland
• Paramedics
• Emergency medical technicians (EMTs)
• Emergency response teams
• Public safety providers
• Emergency hospital facilities and workers
• Military service members
• Security guards
• Lifeguards
• 911 dispatchers

“So many amazing stories of kindness and bravery go untold,” says Trollinger. “I’m looking forward to learning how first responders have changed the lives of the people around me.”

Winners will be announced on March 13, 2020 on Trollinger Law’s Facebook page. To submit a nomination now, click here.

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Matt Trolllinger One of AIPOIA Top 10 Personal Injury Attorneys in Maryland

Matt Trollinger Named One of AIOPIA’s Top 10 Personal Injury Attorneys in Maryland

Waldorf, MD — Waldorf personal injury attorney Matt Trollinger was recently chosen as one of Maryland’s Top 10 Best Personal Injury Attorneys for Client Satisfaction for 2019. 

The recognition is given by the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys (AIOPIA) every year. It honors the top 10 lawyers in each state for their dedication to professionalism and their reputation for excellence in building client relationships. 

“It’s humbling to be named among Maryland’s best personal injury attorneys by AIOPIA,” says Trollinger. “Fostering close client relationships has always been a cornerstone of my practice, and I think a client’s sense of confidence in their attorney correlates with positive outcomes in many cases.” 

AIOPIA Personal Injury Attorney Awards

Candidates for the AIOPIA award underwent a rigorous selection process based on client or peer nominations, detailed research, and an independent evaluation by the organization. The annual list is intended to be used as a tool for clients during the attorney selection process. 

“AIOPIA places the utmost emphasis on selecting lawyers who have achieved significant success in the field of personal injury law without sacrificing the service and support they provide,” the agency said in a press release. 

This latest award is not the first time that Trollinger has been recognized for his outstanding legal service. He has consecutively been named as a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” since 2014 — an achievement only given to 2.5 percent of Maryland attorneys. 

Who Is Matt Trollinger?

Matt Trollinger has also been recognized as one of the “Top 40 Under 40,” by the National Trial Lawyers, National Academy of Personal Injury Attorneys, and the American Society of Legal Advocates.  

In addition, he is an active member of his community. Trollinger sponsors an annual Hometown Hero Award contest honoring first responders in Charles County and Southern Maryland and contributes to other community organizations, such as Toys for Tots, Farming 4 Hunger, and LifeStyles of Maryland. 

Trollinger’s law firm, Trollinger Law, LLC, is based in Waldorf and serves injured clients in Charles County, Southern Maryland, and throughout Washington, D.C. His primary practice areas include: 

• Personal Injury 
• Car Accidents
• Truck Accidents
• Motorcycle Accidents
• Pedestrian Accidents
• Bicycle Accidents
• Workers’ Compensation
• Premises Liability
• Slip and Fall Accidents
• Wrongful Death

Contact a Top Waldorf, MD Personal Injury Lawyer Today!

“People turn to personal injury lawyers in their darkest hours,” says Trollinger. “Before a client hires me, I make sure that he or she knows that their case matters to me. They aren’t just business. They are human beings who deserve justice.”

Trollinger has obtained top-dollar settlements and verdicts on behalf of his clients, including: 

• $2.5 million for a family injured in a trucking accident
• $2.2 million for a family struck by a negligent tractor-trailer driver
• $575,000 for a mother and daughter injured in a Carroll County truck accident
• $325,000 for a car accident victim
• $250,000 for a carpenter injured in a Charles County car accident
• Over $200,000 in a Charles County workers’ compensation case

For more information, contact our office today!

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