Posts by Nick Verderame
Insurance Demands for Social Media Data and Phone Accounts
Insurance policies almost always contain a “cooperation clause,” which mandates that policyholders cooperate with the insurance investigation when there is a claim for loss. Insureds who fail to cooperate may lose their right to their claim. In liability cases, the insurance carriers for the defendants will likely ask for phone records, social media data, and…
Read MorePeople with Minor COVID-19 Symptoms May Be At-Risk for Serious Brain Disorders
A recent study in the United Kingdom revealed that a brain condition called Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM), triggered by COVID-19, is serious and may be potentially deadly. ADEM is similar, though more severe, than multiple sclerosis. While some patients with ADEM can make a good recovery, some become permanently disabled. As scientists continue to work…
Read MorePPP Loans and Future Whistleblower Claims
Businesses throughout Arizona and the rest of the country have been struggling to stay afloat ever since the COVID-19 pandemic reached the United States. Arizona is slowly reopening the state, including non-essential businesses. Thousands of businesses applied for and received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans from the federal government to help prevent laying off employees.…
Read MoreUnderstanding Class Actions and Multi-District Litigation
When many people are injured in the same way or suffer a common type of loss, those lawsuits can be consolidated into a multi-district litigation (MDL) or a class action claim. The goal of this consolidation is to move cases through the courts more quickly and efficiently, so that plaintiffs can have justice. What are…
Read MoreJuul E-Cigarette Litigation Continues
Juul, like other e-cigarette manufacturers, is under scrutiny by FDA with regard to its unsafe products. Multiple lawsuits have been filed, claiming that vaping can cause serious lung injuries, seizures, strokes, and other medical problems. The lawsuits also claim that Juul’s nicotine levels can lead to addiction. Time is reporting that one of those lawsuits…
Read MoreTypes of Healthcare Fraud That Can Lead to a Qui Tam Claim
Employees, contractors, and anyone who is aware of healthcare fraud may be eligible to receive a percentage of any recovery the government obtains if their disclosure is useful to the government. The False Claims Act authorizes awards, generally between 10 and 30 percent, for disclosing fraud by doctors, medical practices, laboratories, pharmacies, hospitals, and any…
Read MoreImportant Information about COVID-19 for Arizona Residents
Everyone is deeply concerned about the novel coronavirus which has created a worldwide pandemic. The disease is shutting down most of the world. Our clients should know that our firm is keeping current with the latest health information and governmental requirements. We are working to advise our clients about the efforts of Plattner Verderame, P.C.…
Read MoreWhat, Exactly, Is a Whistleblower?
A whistleblower is a legal term. It refers to someone who discloses fraud, illegal conduct, or severe wrongs in accordance with a whistleblower statute. Many whistleblower claims are brought through the False Claims Act, in qui tam actions. This law, which was enacted during the administration of Abraham Lincoln, rewards people who disclose fraud involving…
Read MoreAutomated School Bus Safety Cameras
Automated school bus stop-arm cameras are being used in some locations across Arizona and in many other places across the nation. The goal of the cameras is to help monitor drivers who fail to obey the legal requirement to stop when a child enters or exits their school bus. The cameras are operable when the…
Read MoreCan a Car Accident Cause Chiari Malformation?
Motor vehicle accidents and car crashes can cause various types of injuries. Some of these are easy to identify, like a broken leg or fractured hand. However, other injuries or physical trauma might not be so readily apparent. Head and brain injuries fall into this category. One subset of brain injuries and conditions is known…
Read More