Did you know that as a state, New Jersey has the 3rd most personal injury cases per capita? In fact, personal injury cases occurred at a rate of 30.34 per 100,000 capita, which is 218% higher than the national average of 9.53%. Perhaps even more alarming, personal injury cases account for 31% of New Jersey's entire caseload - 166% higher than the U.S. average, which lies at 11.65%. One look at those stats, and it's clear that thousands of men and women in New Jersey suffer from the unfortunate negligence of others.
The truth is, when an accident happens out of nowhere, even the most prepared New Jersey native can become a victim. Imagine driving home after a tough day at work, looking forward to relaxing, but suddenly, your life takes an unexpected turn due to someone else's negligence. Coping with the aftermath of personal injury accidents is a daunting task involving long-lasting pain, concerns about work, and worries about your loved ones.
Unfortunately, victims often fall prey to lowball settlement offers and provide official statements to insurance companies without a personal injury attorney in Hillsdale, NJ. Once you accept a settlement offer or make an official statement, it becomes challenging to correct the situation. That's where William Gonzalez Law Group comes in - to protect your rights and fight on your behalf for the compensation you deserve.
William N. Gonzalez was Born in 1961 in the Bronx. He moved to Puerto Rico in 1973, where he attended Middle School, High School, and freshman year at the Catholic University of Ponce, Puerto Rico. Ultimately, he transferred to John Jay College of Criminal Justice C.U.N.Y., earning a B.A. degree in 1984.
After completing that achievement, he attended Seton Hall School of Law from 1987 through 1990, earning a J.D. and admission into the New Jersey State Bar. Shortly after, he began working for various law firms until2002, when he became a solo practitioner in the Township of West New York.
Since that time, he has dedicated his practice to serving the community with honesty, integrity, and hard work. His practice was founded with the main purpose of helping those who face crisis and are in need of a personal injury lawyer in Hillsdale, NJ, who sticks by their side.
Mr. Gonzalez focuses on a range of personal injury cases, including but not limited to.
If you're looking for a fearless attorney to fully represent you and to fight the good fight on your behalf, look no further than the William Gonzalez Law Group. Now that you're up-to-date on William Gonzalez's background and accomplishments, let's dig a little deeper into the nuances of personal injury law and the areas of law in which he focuses.
While there are many different types of personal injury cases in New Jersey, some are more common than others - especially those that involve motor vehicles and driving under the influence. Some of the most common types of personal injury cases that William Gonzalez helps clients overcome include.
Did you know that driver error is the leading cause of car accidents in New Jersey? The truth is that negligent drivers don't pay attention. They also don't adhere to traffic laws or use the right safety precautions. They often cause serious injuries by.
If you have been injured in a car accident that was caused by someone else's negligence, it is important to have a personal injury attorney in Hillsdale, NJ, whom you can rely on. Your lawyer will help protect your rights and fight for the maximum compensation possible according to local laws. Your car accident attorney will also collaborate with specialists such as investigators and accident reconstruction experts to determine the cause of your injury and establish who is responsible for any damages.
There are more than eleven million trucks that operate daily across the United States, with drivers who work long hours and carry sensitive materials. In 2016, there were over 470,000 large truck and semi accidents, with human error accounting for 90% of those accidents. Truck accidents can cause injuries in several ways, such as if a truck carrying hazardous materials explodes or spills its contents, causing damage to surrounding drivers and property. Commercial trucks can also jackknife or lose control of their steering wheel, which can result in injuries to the driver or others involved in the accident.
Due to the massive size of semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles, accidents involving these vehicles often result in catastrophic injuries. If you have been injured due to a negligent truck driver who was speeding, distracted, impaired, or whose vehicle was poorly maintained, it's time to hire a trucks accident lawyer. Doing so quickly after your accident will help protect your rights against insurers and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
If you ride a motorcycle in New Jersey, you are at a higher risk of dying in an accident compared to other drivers. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are on the rise. The good news? William Gonzalez is highly skilled when it comes to representing motorcycle accident clients and the injuries they sustain, including.
If you were recently involved in a motorcycle accident because of another party's negligence, you can count on William Gonzalez as your advocate. It all starts with an initial consultation with a motorcycle injury attorney who truly understands New Jersey injury law.
If you have been injured while working, it can be a painful, confusing, and emotional experience. It can also be financially devastating for you and your family. Therefore, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and seek the guidance of a qualified workers' compensation lawyer in New Jersey. The William Gonzalez Law Group has been successfully assisting injured workers for years. Mr. Gonzalez's goal is to get the full compensation you need to cover your medical bills and take care of your family while you recover. If you've suffered an injury while on the job that resulted in lost wages or ongoing pain and suffering, it's time to fight for financial compensation.
Injuries resulting from trips, slips, and falls can be severe and may include fractures, brain trauma, neck, and back injuries, among others. Recovering from a serious fall can take months, and the victim may experience lifelong health issues and incur substantial medical bills.
However, in New Jersey, property owners have a legal obligation to maintain their property in a safe manner. If someone gets injured on their premises or property due to their negligence, the owner can be held liable. The victim has the right to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for the cost of medical treatment, lost income, and pain and suffering caused by the injuries.
Some of the most common contributors to slip-and-fall accidents in New Jersey include.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of a drunk driving accident, a personal injury lawyer in Hillsdale, NJ, can provide assistance. Despite decades-long efforts by civic organizations to curb drunk driving, it remains a problem throughout the United States, including in New Jersey, which has strict DUI laws and enforcement.
William Gonzalez believes that prosecuting drunk driving accidents not only helps clients recover compensation for their injuries but also serves as a warning to others who may consider driving under the influence.
When an accident, incident, or illness causes you physical injury or emotional pain and suffering, it is referred to as personal injury. For example, suppose you are involved in a car accident and experience a traumatic brain injury. In that case, you have the right to seek compensation for the expenses related to treating and recovering from your physical injuries. You're also entitled to financial compensation for the emotional distress you may have suffered as a result of the injury.
There are three general terms you should be familiar with as it relates to personal injury law in New Jersey:
Experiencing pain and suffering is not always limited to physical injuries. It can also affect one's emotional well-being, which may require the help of a mental health professional to properly document. Consulting with a mental health professional can help determine the extent of any potential psychological issues that may have arisen from your incident.
To provide accurate documentation of your emotional pain and suffering, it is important to record how your daily activities have been impacted and how you may no longer be able to participate in activities that you once enjoyed. This might include difficulties in communication or the inability to enjoy outings that were once pleasurable.
When someone experiences physical injury as a result of an accident, such as a car accident, they may sue for compensation for the harm done to their body. This compensation can help cover the costs of medical bills, surgeries, physical therapy, home care equipment, or any other expenses needed to aid in their recovery from the injury.
Emotional distress can be difficult to prove, especially when it involves defamation of character or threats to one's physical safety. It's important to understand, however, that emotional distress is valid. You have the right to seek compensation for any fear or trauma you have experienced and should not hesitate to fight for what you deserve.
If you have suffered a serious injury due to an accident, it's time to protect yourself and your family with the help of a personal injury attorney in Hillsdale, NJ. Unlike your lawyer, the insurance companies involved in your personal injury case are not on your side and are known for presenting offers that don't fairly compensate you for your losses.
In New Jersey, determining who is legally responsible for an accident usually involves assessing the negligence of the person at fault. Proving negligence or negligent acts as the cause of serious injuries and damages can be one of the most challenging aspects of a personal injury case. While some accidents are just that - accidents - in other cases, such as drunk driving car accidents, it is clear that the act of criminal negligence caused the accident, and the person responsible should be held liable for the damages.
According to New Jersey law, there are four elements that must be covered when trying to prove negligence in personal injury cases. Those elements include the following.
In New Jersey, determining who is legally responsible for an accident usually involves assessing the negligence of the person at fault. Proving negligence or negligent acts as the cause of serious injuries and damages can be one of the most challenging aspects of a personal injury case. While some accidents are just that - accidents - in other cases, such as drunk driving car accidents, it is clear that the act of criminal negligence caused the accident, and the person responsible should be held liable for the damages.
According to legal duty, the defendant has a responsibility to ensure the safety of the victim and prevent harm. In New Jersey, drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles safely in regard to other vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. Businesses are legally obliged to maintain their premises in a safe manner, ensuring there are no hazards such as ice, snow, or slippery floors.
To prove that the defendant is responsible for an accident, it must be shown that they behaved in a way that they knew could cause harm to others. Additionally, it must be demonstrated that a reasonable person in the same situation would have acted differently. For instance, it is common knowledge that driving a car, truck, or motorcycle under the influence can lead to an accident.
One of the biggest reasons to hire a personal injury lawyer in Hillsdale, NJ, is so they can prove that your injuries are a direct result of the other party's breach of duty. This means that you need to demonstrate that your injuries occurred due to the defendant's actions. To do so, it is recommended that you seek medical attention from a physician who can document your injuries and confirm that they were caused or worsened by the defendant's negligence. It is crucial to document your injuries with a doctor, as it can be difficult to obtain compensation for injuries that were not properly documented.
When filing a claim, you must show proof of loss, which may include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering compensation.
If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, you should act fast to file a claim and hire a lawyer. In New Jersey, you only have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit or claim. If you fail to file a claim within the time frame set by the statute of limitations, you will lose your opportunity to do so. In most cases, if you attempt to file a claim after the two-year deadline, the defendant will file a motion to dismiss. There are very few exceptions where a personal injury claim may be filed beyond the two-year mark.
The William Gonzalez Law Group specializes in helping you get back on track after a setback. With decades of experience in personal injury law, Mr. Gonzalez can assist you in cases such as car crashes, truck accidents, slip and fall incidents, motorcycle accidents, DUI accidents, workers' compensation cases, and more.
When you are unable to work, have mounting bills and medical expenses, and your quality of life is affected, you need a strong and reliable advocate on your side, and William Gonzalez is the man to call for help. Whether you need assistance with a complex personal injury case or need trustworthy, easy-to-understand legal advice, contact the William Gonzalez Law Group today.
Fortunately, all lanes are open, and traffic flow has resumed in the area. The severity of the injuries has not yet been fully disclosed, but authorities are actively investigating the cause of the crash. The injured individuals were treated and transported to nearby hospitals for further care.Though the lanes have been reopened, drivers should remain cautious and aware of the traffic conditions in the area.Our thoughts are with those affected, and we wish for a full and speedy recovery for the injured.The Garden State P...
Fortunately, all lanes are open, and traffic flow has resumed in the area. The severity of the injuries has not yet been fully disclosed, but authorities are actively investigating the cause of the crash. The injured individuals were treated and transported to nearby hospitals for further care.
Though the lanes have been reopened, drivers should remain cautious and aware of the traffic conditions in the area.
Our thoughts are with those affected, and we wish for a full and speedy recovery for the injured.
The Garden State Parkway is a heavily trafficked route, and accidents, even minor ones, can lead to significant delays. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining safe driving practices, particularly when traveling on busy highways.
To reduce the likelihood of accidents, drivers should always obey traffic laws, maintain a safe following distance, and be mindful of road conditions. Distracted driving, such as texting or using mobile phones while driving, should be avoided, especially when traveling on high-speed roads like the Garden State Parkway.
Additionally, ensuring that vehicles are properly maintained, including brakes and tires, can help prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures. Drivers should also be mindful of their speed and adjust it to match traffic and weather conditions.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a vehicle collision, understanding your legal rights is important. Victims of accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Consulting with a personal injury attorney ensures that your case is handled properly, and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Insurance companies may offer quick settlements, but these offers often fail to cover long-term medical care or rehabilitation costs. Legal representation ensures that all aspects of your case are thoroughly reviewed and you receive the compensation you deserve.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a vehicle collision, particularly one involving injuries or significant delays, it is important to understand your rights. For more information or assistance after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports. Our team is here to guide you through the legal process and help ensure you receive the support and compensation you deserve.
Note: These posts are created solely for the use of Local Accident Reports. We have not verified the information in these posts as the information is gathered from secondary sources. If you have personal knowledge that the information contained in these posts is inaccurate, please contact Local Accident Reports immediately so we can make the necessary corrections or remove the story.
Disclaimer: We are providing this information to the general public as a resource to use in the event you or a family member are injured in a similar incident. Every effort is put forth to honor the victims of accidents, and hope the information presented helps others avoid the same type of accidents in the future. The photos depicted in these posts are not representative of the actual accident scene. Please contact Local Accident Reports at (888) 657-1460 to be connected with an attorney in your area who will answer any legal questions you may have.
HILLSDALE, N.J.—The Hillsdale Education Foundation (HEF) will host its lively, lovely Fourth Annual Hillsdale Music and Arts Festival on Sunday, June 8, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Beechwood Park. The event is open to the public and celebrates the creative talents of Hillsdale’s K–8 student community through live music, dance, and visual art.The family-friendly festival will feature student performances scheduled throughout the day, as well as art exhibits from George G. White Middle School, Meadowbrook Elementary Scho...
HILLSDALE, N.J.—The Hillsdale Education Foundation (HEF) will host its lively, lovely Fourth Annual Hillsdale Music and Arts Festival on Sunday, June 8, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Beechwood Park. The event is open to the public and celebrates the creative talents of Hillsdale’s K–8 student community through live music, dance, and visual art.
The family-friendly festival will feature student performances scheduled throughout the day, as well as art exhibits from George G. White Middle School, Meadowbrook Elementary School, and Ann Blanche Smith Elementary School.
HEF (HEFNJ.com) organizers say they are working closely with school art teachers to ensure student artwork is displayed prominently throughout the park.
This year’s event will also include food and craft vendors, as well as free face painting for children.
“Our events are community-based and shine a light on the talents of our students,” said Carolyn A. Amores, interim president of the Hillsdale Education Foundation. “We’re proud to create space for students to share what they’ve been working on and for families to come together in support of our schools.”
HEF is a nonprofit, community-based organization that raises funds for enrichment programs and classroom technology at Hillsdale’s three K–8 public schools. The foundation awards grants based on teacher proposals and demonstrated needs, with funding since 2009 supporting more than 40 programs totaling over $40,000. Initiatives have included LEGO robotics, early literacy programs, gardening projects, iPads for music classes, WeatherBug stations, and voice recorders for foreign language learners.
In addition to the Music and Arts Festival, HEF organizes Discover Hillsdale — Restaurant Week and the Hike for Hillsdale. Restaurant Week, launched last year, partners with local businesses while raising funds for school programs—generating a $1,000 donation to Hillsdale schools in its first year. The Hike for Hillsdale, traditionally held in spring at Sapienza Gardens, was not held this year due to scheduling conflicts but is expected to return in 2026.
Amores said that after a period of uncertainty last year, HEF has reorganized under new leadership — backing her are Swetha Chamala as secretary and Stephanie Grein as treasurer — and is seeking sponsors and volunteers to support its work in the 2025–2026 school year.
“Our goal is to continue building relationships with business sponsors and volunteers. Without them, none of this would be possible,” Amores said.
To volunteer, sponsor, or participate in the June 8 Music and Arts Festival write schamala.hef@gmail.com or camores.hef@gmail.com.
HILLSDALE, N.J.—The Hillsdale Board of Education on May 12 honored six members of its staff who are set to retire this school year, celebrating what amounts to more than 100 years of combined service to the borough’s public schools.The group includes classroom teachers, office staff, and administrators—individuals who’ve helped carry the district forward through everything from curriculum changes and leadership transitions to the upheaval of the pandemic, and, more recently, the early stages of a districtwide f...
HILLSDALE, N.J.—The Hillsdale Board of Education on May 12 honored six members of its staff who are set to retire this school year, celebrating what amounts to more than 100 years of combined service to the borough’s public schools.
The group includes classroom teachers, office staff, and administrators—individuals who’ve helped carry the district forward through everything from curriculum changes and leadership transitions to the upheaval of the pandemic, and, more recently, the early stages of a districtwide facilities renewal.
Several served at George G. White Middle School, which is itself on the cusp of a historic, multimillion-dollar transformation.
Superintendent Robert Lombardy Jr., Ed.S., called the honorees “pillars of our school community” and noted that each brought “steadiness, warmth, and deep professionalism to their roles.”
At the same meeting, the district lauded three top educators who show no signs of slowing down: See “How it’s done: three Hillsdale Teachers of the Year” by Michael Olohan, in your May 19 Pascack Press.
The following staff members will retire by the end of June. One—Don Bergamini—concluded his service earlier this year.
Via Superintendent Robert Lombardy Jr., and edited for length:
Eileen Thomas, a dedicated special education teacher at Meadowbrook Elementary School since 1999, will retire in June after more than 25 years of service. Known for her compassionate approach and deep commitment to inclusive education, she has been a steady force in adapting evolving practices to meet the needs of her students.
“Ms. Thomas has been a steadfast advocate and invaluable resource for countless students with diverse learning needs,” said Lombardy. “She consistently adapted and innovated to ensure her students received the best possible support and opportunities to thrive academically and personally.”
Lisa Lang, Meadowbrook Elementary School’s beloved computer teacher, will retire in June after more than two decades of service. She joined Hillsdale Public Schools in 2002 and has been instrumental in developing students’ digital literacy, helping them navigate a world of ever-changing technology. She also played a vital role during the district’s pivot to virtual instruction during the pandemic.
“Mrs. Lang served as computer teacher and facilitator during the COVID-19 pandemic when schools began virtual instruction overnight,” said Lombardy. “Her passion for fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills through computer education and supporting the staff she works with has left a lasting impact.”
Don Bergamini, who retired Feb. 28, served as principal of George G. White Middle School for a decade and brought more than 30 years of experience in education to the role. His steady leadership was especially noted during the COVID-19 pandemic, when his thoughtful, student-centered approach helped guide the safe reopening of the school.
“His colleagues and the school community will particularly remember his exceptional problem-solving skills and the steadfast approach he exhibited daily,” said Lombardy.
Cindy Roberts, a cherished teacher at Ann Blanche Smith School, is retiring in June after joining Hillsdale Public Schools in 2004. Over the past two decades, she has created a nurturing and engaging classroom environment that helped countless children develop a love of learning and a strong academic foundation.
“Her passion for education and unwavering commitment to her students have left an indelible mark,” said Lombardy. “Her tireless efforts have shaped countless young minds, fostering a love of learning and building a strong foundation for future success.”
Trina Wolf, secretary at George G. White Middle School, will retire in June after 28 years of service. She began her time in Hillsdale in 1997 as a card reader and became known as the calm, reliable presence behind the front desk — supporting staff, students, and parents with efficiency and warmth.
“Trina’s reliability, kindness, and tireless efforts have significantly contributed to the smooth operation and positive atmosphere of our schools,” said the superintendent.
Joy Goodman, Child Study Team secretary since 1997, will retire in June. Her meticulous work and compassionate spirit have been central to the smooth delivery of student services for nearly three decades, guiding families through complex processes with care and professionalism.
“Her years of service are a testament to her commitment and the positive impact she has had on the lives she has touched,” said Lombardy.
“She has provided a comforting and reliable presence for those navigating often complex situations.”
In closing the ceremony, Lombardy said, “It’s not just what these staff members did—it’s how they did it. They served with care, consistency, and an unwavering belief in the power of public education.”
HILLSDALE, N.J.—The Hillsdale Board of Education has approved a $4.1 million contract with MobileLease Modular Space Inc. to lease and install modular classrooms that will house George G. White Middle School students during a two-year renovation of the school’s century-old building.The May 12 approval marks what Superintendent Robert Lombardy called “a crucial phase” in the renovation project. He said the temporary modular campus—now under construction on former baseball fields across from the school&mdas...
HILLSDALE, N.J.—The Hillsdale Board of Education has approved a $4.1 million contract with MobileLease Modular Space Inc. to lease and install modular classrooms that will house George G. White Middle School students during a two-year renovation of the school’s century-old building.
The May 12 approval marks what Superintendent Robert Lombardy called “a crucial phase” in the renovation project. He said the temporary modular campus—now under construction on former baseball fields across from the school—is expected to be ready by late July to allow for a seamless start to the 2025–26 academic year.
The modular units will house students in grades 6–8, while fifth grade students will remain at Meadowbrook and Smith elementary schools for the duration of construction. District officials say this shift will reduce the number of modular classrooms needed and ease scheduling pressures at George White.
Under the contract, Hillsdale will lease 26 modular classrooms for 24 months. The cost includes delivery and installation but excludes utilities, maintenance, and site restoration. Business Administrator Sacha Pouliot said site restoration, estimated at $500,000, will take place after the units are removed in summer 2027. If the district requires additional time, it may extend the lease month-to-month at a rate of $54,800 per month.
According to district officials, the modular classrooms—refurbished rather than brand new—are commonly cycled between schools, cleaned, reset, and leased again by manufacturers. Each unit will sit atop concrete piers and be securely tied down to prevent movement from wind. Metal skirting will enclose the space between the modular floor and ground, and all units will undergo state inspection before use.
Each classroom will have its own heating, cooling, and ventilation system and be connected to the district’s electrical and communication infrastructure, including telephone service, fire alarms, and bells. While not all units will have plumbing, a dedicated modular restroom facility will serve the campus.
The campus will consist of four classroom “pods,” each with six to eight classrooms and restrooms. Interior corridors and raised walkways will simulate the layout and experience of a traditional school building. Office space at the modular campus will be limited to essential functions, with other staff working from the district’s Anthony S. DeNorchia Administration Building or other campuses.
District officials said instruction and support services will continue with minimal disruption. While some specials—such as Spanish and English Language Arts—may share classroom space at different times, the district emphasized it will not reduce staffing or combine positions to save costs.
The modular classrooms will sit within the existing fenced perimeter of the George White campus, which will remain secured and potentially enhanced. Entry and exit points will be limited, and Special Law Enforcement Officers (SLEOs) will patrol the grounds. Teachers will continue to monitor student movement during the day, just as they do inside the current building.
At Meadowbrook and Smith, modular units may be added to support small-group services such as speech therapy or basic skills instruction. These decisions will be made once the district has more information on enrollment and site capacity.
The $4.1 million modular lease is part of the $62.4 million school bond referendum approved by voters in September 2023. In December, the district issued a $15 million, 20-year bond to fund early project costs. Officials estimate the bond will cost the average assessed home about $120 annually, or $10 per month.
“As June unfolds, we anticipate significant activity in the establishment of the modular campus,” Lombardy said. “Following the commencement of this construction activity, the modular campus is slated to be ready by late July to welcome students for the start of the 2025–26 school year.”
The board awarded the contract through a cooperative purchasing agreement with the Educational Services Commission of New Jersey.