Personal Injury

August 30, 2025

Massachusetts Personal Injury News for August and Early September 2025

Late summer in Massachusetts brought a cluster of developments that matter to anyone who handles or follows personal injury cases. A catastrophic assisted-living fire moved quickly into civil litigation. Automated traffic enforcement in bus lanes and around school buses took concrete steps toward real-world deployment. The Commonwealth’s minimum auto insurance limits increased, which is already affecting claim valuations. Agencies ran an end-of-summer impaired driving crackdown. A Massachusetts food manufacturer initiated an allergen-label recall that reached local grocery shelves. The Superior Court also refreshed model jury instructions on personal injury damages and wrongful death. This roundup explains what changed, why it matters, and how to adjust your approach in ongoing and upcoming cases.

Assisted-living fire in Fall River, and the surge of civil filings

The July 2025 fire at the Gabriel House assisted-living residence in Fall River resulted in multiple fatalities and dozens of injuries. In early and mid-August, survivors and families began filing lawsuits in Bristol Superior Court. The complaints focus on alleged failures in life-safety systems and emergency planning, along with claims about training, supervision, and oversight. Several filings also name third-party vendors that serviced alarms and suppression equipment, suggesting that the litigation will involve a web of contractual relationships and maintenance records.

July 16, 2025

Tragic Fire at Fall River Assisted Living Facility: A Call for Accountability and Justice

by Jeffrey S. Glassman

As a personal injury attorney with decades of experience representing victims and their families in Massachusetts, I am deeply saddened by the recent tragedy at the Gabriel House assisted living facility in Fall River. On a quiet Sunday night, a devastating fire claimed the lives of nine elderly residents and sent dozens more to the hospital, leaving families shattered and a community in mourning.

At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we have seen far too many cases where preventable accidents in care facilities lead to unnecessary loss of life. As experienced fire and explosion lawyers, we recognize that this incident underscores the vital importance of fire safety protocols in assisted living facilities, where vulnerable populations rely on facility operators for their protection.

In this article, we’ll explore the details of the fire, provide a legal overview of potential liabilities, and discuss how affected families can seek justice. Our goal is to empower readers with knowledge while honoring the victims and highlighting the need for systemic improvements.

August 19, 2024

Know Right Of Way Laws in Boston, MA

by Jeffrey S. Glassman

Understanding right-of-way laws is crucial for all drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists in Massachusetts. These laws help manage the flow of traffic and ensure safety on the roads. As a personal injury attorney at Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, I’ve seen numerous cases where ignorance or disregard of these laws has led to accidents and injuries. In this blog post, I’ll provide a comprehensive guide to understanding right-of-way laws in Massachusetts, helping you navigate the roads more safely and responsibly.

Intersections Without Traffic Signals

At intersections without traffic signals or where the signals are not functioning, the vehicle arriving first has the right of way. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the vehicle on the right should be given the right of way. This rule also applies to four-way stops, where drivers must come to a complete stop and may proceed in the order they arrive.

January 19, 2024

The Most Dangerous States for Bicyclists and Motorcyclists

by Jeffrey S. Glassman

At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, our commitment to the safety and rights of bicyclists and motorcyclists is a defining element of our mission. Recognizing the unique challenges these road users face, we dedicate ourselves to an in-depth analysis of traffic data, accident reports, and safety studies. This isn’t just about providing legal representation; it’s about a comprehensive understanding and mitigation of the risks our clients face daily. Our approach goes beyond the courtroom, aiming to develop strategies that protect and advocate for the well-being of bicyclists and motorcyclists.

This commitment is exemplified by our attention to studies like the recent analysis by Anidjar & Levine, which reviewed National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data on fatal crashes involving two-wheeled vehicles. By understanding these regional trends and the specific challenges bicyclists and motorcyclists face, we can tailor our legal strategies effectively. This focus on data enhances our ability to provide robust legal representation and underscores our dedication to fostering safer roads for all bicyclists and motorcyclists.

The Startling Statistics

December 28, 2023

How Slip and Fall Lawyers Can Help After an Ice-Related Accident

by Jeffrey S. Glassman

With its snow-covered landscapes, winter in Boston also ushers in the less welcome risk of slip-and-fall accidents due to ice. These incidents, frequently overlooked in their potential severity, can result in significant injuries. In such situations, the guidance and expertise of specialized attorneys are invaluable. Understanding your rights and the nuances of premises liability law is essential following an ice-related slip and fall accident, and this is where a knowledgeable legal team can make a substantial difference.

At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we know the challenges and dangers posed by the icy winters in Massachusetts. Our team of personal injury lawyers is committed to providing expert legal assistance to those affected by such accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in an ice-related slip and fall, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We provide legal counsel and are dedicated to advocating for clients, ensuring the most favorable outcome. Continue reading to discover key insights on how to prevent slip and fall incidents on ice.

Understanding the Risks of Ice-Related Falls

December 20, 2023

Essential Tips for Holiday Party Hosts in Massachusetts

by Jeffrey S. Glassman

In Massachusetts, the holiday season transforms into a picturesque scene of merriment, with homes decorated and filled with the laughter and warmth of family and friends. This time of year is marked by a series of gatherings that bring people together in the spirit of joy and togetherness. However, as enchanting as these gatherings are, they come with a set of legal responsibilities that hosts must be mindful of. The winter season in Massachusetts, with its unique charm and challenges, adds layers to these responsibilities, whether it’s a small family get-together, a large corporate holiday party, or a festive neighborhood gathering.

At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we recognize the importance of balancing festive cheer with the need to be aware of and adhere to legal obligations. Navigating the legal aspects of hosting a holiday event in Massachusetts can seem daunting, but it is crucial for ensuring the safety and legality of your celebrations. We will provide you with essential legal tips, tailored specifically to the laws of Massachusetts, to help you host a holiday event that is not only memorable and enjoyable but also compliant with state laws. By understanding these key legal considerations, you can confidently embrace the holiday season, ensuring that your celebrations are as safe and secure as they are joyful.

Understanding Massachusetts Social Host Liability

December 14, 2023

Choosing Rideshare Over Drinking and Driving This Holiday Season

by Jeffrey S. Glassman

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and social gatherings. However, during the festive cheer, there lies a hidden danger that often gets overlooked — the increased risk of drunk driving incidents. The combination of holiday parties, end-of-year celebrations, and the general spirit of merriment means that alcohol often plays a significant role in these gatherings. Unfortunately, this leads to a rise in the number of individuals who unwisely choose to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. As a responsible law firm dedicated to promoting safety and awareness, Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers is deeply concerned about this issue and strongly advocates for the use of safer transportation alternatives, such as ridesharing services, during these festive times.

There are alarming statistics that highlight the severity of this issue during the holiday season. Understanding these figures is not just about comprehending numbers; it’s about recognizing the human lives impacted and the families forever changed by these preventable tragedies. We aim to provide you with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions, thereby contributing to a safer holiday season for everyone.

Holiday Drunk Driving Statistics

November 29, 2023

The HIV and Hepatitis Exposure at Salem Hospital—Blog

by Jeffrey S. Glassman

In a concerning development that has raised alarms in the medical community, Salem Hospital in Massachusetts recently disclosed a significant health scare involving the potential exposure of nearly 450 patients to bloodborne pathogens, including HIV, hepatitis B, and C. This incident, stemming from endoscopy procedures conducted over two years, has put a spotlight on critical issues surrounding patient safety and healthcare practices.

The nature of the exposure, as reported, involved inconsistencies in the administration of IV medications during endoscopy procedures, a standard practice in internal examinations. This revelation has prompted a thorough investigation into the hospital’s protocols and procedures. In response, Salem Hospital has initiated a series of corrective measures. It has been working closely with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) to mitigate any potential health risks to affected patients.

The goal is to provide an in-depth analysis of the incident, examine how such an exposure could occur in a modern medical setting, examine the immediate and long-term responses by Salem Hospital, and examine the broader implications for public health and patient safety standards. Many legal and ethical considerations arise in such situations, underscoring the importance of rigorous healthcare protocols and patients’ rights in the face of medical uncertainties.

November 13, 2023

Understanding Daylight Saving Time: Safety Tips and Awareness

by Jeffrey S. Glassman

Adjusting our clocks for Daylight Saving Time (DST) is a practice made in history and surrounded by debate. Instituted during World War I as a measure to conserve energy by extending daylight hours, DST has had a lasting impact on how we manage our time and activities. When we “spring forward,” we move our clocks an hour ahead, effectively shifting an hour of morning light to the evening. Conversely, when we “fall back,” we return to standard time, reclaiming the hour of daylight in the morning. This shift, although seemingly minor, can have profound effects on our daily lives.

The idea behind DST hinges on the thought that by aligning our active hours with daylight hours, we can reduce the need for artificial lighting and save energy. However, the effectiveness and benefits of DST have been a subject of ongoing debate. Critics argue that the energy savings are marginal and do not justify the disruption caused to human circadian rhythms.

Beyond the discussions of energy conservation, the time change can pose real dangers, particularly in modern society where schedules and routines are tightly packed and finely tuned. The loss of an hour’s sleep in spring can lead to increased sleepiness and distraction, which can be particularly hazardous when it comes to activities such as driving or operating heavy machinery. The change can also exacerbate health issues, affecting everything from cardiac function to mental health.

October 31, 2023

Trick-or-Treating Safety 101: What Every Parent Should Know

by Jeffrey S. Glassman

Halloween is more than just a holiday; it’s a season of joy, creativity, and community. For children, the allure of transforming into their favorite characters and embarking on a neighborhood adventure for candy is a source of immense excitement. Families come together to decorate their homes, carve pumpkins, and partake in local festivities, making it a cherished time of year for many. Yet, amid the laughter and the rustle of costumes, it’s easy to overlook the importance of safety.

As the streets fill with young witches, superheroes, and princesses, the risks associated with this fun-filled night also rise. From navigating dark roads to interacting with strangers, Halloween presents a unique set of challenges that require careful attention. That’s why safety precautions should not be an afterthought but an integral part of your Halloween planning.

At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we are committed to the well-being of our community, and we want to help ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween experience for your young trick-or-treaters.