Erie, Pennsylvania, Crush Injury Lawyers

Jed Dietrich, Esq., Recognized as a Top Three Personal Injury Lawyer in Erie, Pennsylvania, Represents Individuals Injured in Crush Accidents in Erie, Pennsylvania.

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A startling accident occurred at a Sam’s Club in Erie, Pennsylvania, when a loading dock door descended suddenly on an employee. The employee was crushed beneath the door, resulting in injuries that were ultimately fatal. Whether it occurs in the workplace, behind the wheel of a car, or out on an ATV trail, a crush injury can be a life-altering and sometimes fatal occurrence. Unlike breaks or sprains, which are more easily diagnosed, crush injuries might be left untreated for too long. In such instances, an individual might suffer the loss of a limb or other, more deadly, side effects.

No matter the circumstances that lead to a personal injury, any accident that results in an injury can permanently affect your way of life. At the Dietrich Law Firm P.C., we are dedicated to providing expert and timely legal advice tailored to your specific situation. With over $175,000,000 secured in settlements and verdicts for our clients, we are experienced in personal injury law and will know how to assist you in your crush injury case best. Call us today at 814-839-3939 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation.

What Is A Crush Injury?

Crush injuries fall into one of two categories: compartment syndrome and crush syndrome. Compartment syndrome is a localized injury, meaning it occurs in one part of the body. If, for example, a beam fell on Treatment of Crush Injuries a construction worker and pinned his arm, compartment syndrome might result as blood and other fluids build up in the injured area, creating a painful blockage that restricts circulation. If left untreated, compartment syndrome can lead to the death of nerves and muscles, requiring amputation.

In contrast to the restriction that occurs in compartment syndrome, Crush syndrome is a systemic injury. A systemic injury impacts all parts of the body. In cases of crush syndrome, the force of a crushing blow destroys cell structure in the body, allowing fluids to leak from the damaged tissue into the body via the bloodstream. A systemic injury creates medical complications that can be life-threatening.

With over two decades of professional experience as a personal injury attorney, Jed Dietrich, Esq. is highly qualified in personal injury litigation and dedicated to representing the victims of crush accidents in Erie, Pennsylvania, and beyond. If you, or a loved one, are seeking advice or legal representation in relation to a crush accident, contact the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. now at 814-839-3939 or online for your free consultation.

Crushes Vs. Breaks

Crush injuries, as mentioned above, result from the violent application of considerable weight and pressure on a portion of the body. This weight results in injuries that either restrict natural flow in the body or create a breakdown in barriers that flood the body with harmful fluids. Compartment syndrome can be diagnosed using the Five Ps:

• Pain: Physical discomfort that occurs when the area is touched or moved.
• Pallor: Paleness in the skin tone of the injured area.
• Paraesthesia: A tingling sensation in the limbs, similar to the feeling of a hand or foot falling asleep.
• Pulselessness: Weak or nonexistent pulse in the injured area.
• Paralysis: Loss of mobility or sudden weakness in the injured area.

A break, also known as a fracture, occurs when a sudden blow, such as a fall, causes a bone to snap. The symptoms of a fracture can include pain, swelling, tenderness, and limited mobility. Unfortunately, a fracture can present very similar symptoms to those of a crush injury. Following any accident, one of the most important steps is to seek medical attention. Symptoms do not always appear right away, and when it comes to a crush injury, it is crucial that an injury is diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.

We all want to keep our loved ones safe, but sometimes the unthinkable occurs. In the aftermath of an accident, knowing what steps to take or who to speak with can be overwhelming. At the Dietrich Law Firm P.C., our team of experienced Erie, Pennsylvania, crush accident injury attorneys is prepared to assist you in answering those difficult questions. Allow us to represent you in your case – you do not have to fight alone. Call today at 814-839-3939 or visit us online to begin the process.

Where Do Crush Injuries Happen?

Unfortunately, the situations that lead to compartment syndrome and crush syndrome are similar to the accidents that cause fractures, sprains, and concussions. Two of the most common situations that lead to a crush injury are motor vehicle collisions and workplace-related accidents.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions: In most motor vehicle collisions, one or more vehicles traveling at great speed collide. The resulting impact is often great enough to destroy a vehicle’s integrity. It can shatter windows, cause the roof or doors to cave in, and even cause vehicle rollover.
• Workplace Accidents: Workplace accidents that lead to crush injuries typically occur on construction sites. The heavy machinery, building components, and precariousness of unstable zones can easily lead to a life-changing accident
• Sports-Related Crush Accidents: A third, but no less important, category for crush-causing injuries involves outdoor sporting activities. Snowmobiling, ATV off-roading, skiing, and snowboarding, all involve heavy snow or machines that could squash an individual in the event of an avalanche or vehicle roll-over. Rock climbing, spelunking, and snorkeling, have the potential for rock formations to shift and consequently trap an individual.

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Call the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. immediately at 814-839-3939 so that our aggressive, tenacious, and hardworking personal injury lawyers can fight to obtain the best result for your personal injury claim in Erie, Pennsylvania. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and there is never a fee until we WIN for you!

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