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Personal Injury AttorneyYou Deserve with Help from William Gonzalez
William Gonzalez-Black

The Personal Injury Attorney in Wallington, NJ, You Can Trust

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 Wallington, 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.

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Personal Injury Attorney Wallington, NJ

The William Gonzalez Law Difference

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 Wallington, NJ, who sticks by their side.

Mr. Gonzalez focuses on a range of personal injury cases, including but not limited to.

  • Auto Accidents
  • Truck Accidents
  • Car Accidents
  • Motorcycle Accidents
  • Slip-and-Fall Accidents
  • Workers' Compensation Cases
  • DUI Cases
  • Municipal Court Cases

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.

Common Types of Personal Injury Cases in New Jersey

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.

Car-Accidents

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.

  • Driving Too Fast
  • Talking or Texting While Driving
  • Driving Under the Influence
  • Making Improper Lane Changes
  • Running Stop Signs and Red Lights
  • Rear-Ending Other Drivers

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 Wallington, 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.

 William Gonzalez Law Wallington, NJ

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.

 Auto Accidents Wallington, NJ

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.

  • Injury from negligent drivers who are reckless, distracted, or are involved in blind-spot wrecks
  • Injury due to serious road defects such as unsafe intersections, potholes, and more

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.

 Truck Accidents Wallington, NJ

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.

 Car Accidents Wallington, NJ

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.

  • Poor Lighting
  • Narrow Stairs
  • Wet Floors
  • Missing Handrails
  • Uneven Flooring
  • Defective Sidewalks

 Motorcycle Accidents Wallington, NJ

If you or someone you know has been a victim of a drunk driving accident, a personal injury lawyer in Wallington, 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.

What are Personal Injuries in New Jersey?

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:

  • Pain and Suffering
  • Bodily Harm
  • Emotional Distress

Pain and Suffering 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.

Bodily Harm in New Jersey

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 in New Jersey

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 Wallington, 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.

How Negligence Affects Your Personal Injury Case in New Jersey

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.

Personal Injury Attorney Wallington, NJ

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.

Legal Duty

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.

Breach of Duty

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.

Causation

One of the biggest reasons to hire a personal injury lawyer in Wallington, 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.

Damages

When filing a claim, you must show proof of loss, which may include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering compensation.

William Gonzalez Law Pro Tip

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.

A Personal Injury Attorney in Wallington, NJ, You Can Count On

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.

 William Gonzalez Law Wallington, NJ

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Wallington football bound for better things in 2024 | State of the Program

Wallington finished winless last season, but does not feel completely defeated.Nor should it.Life was never going to be easy last year with the Panthers moving up to a higher division and confronting that challenge with only four senior starters.But rather than wallow in a humbling experience, the Panthers (0-9) resumed training about a week after the season with the help of Jimmy Abboud. An assistant with the Panthers' football team, Abboud was brought on in 2021 as the school's full-time strength and conditioning coach...

Wallington finished winless last season, but does not feel completely defeated.

Nor should it.

Life was never going to be easy last year with the Panthers moving up to a higher division and confronting that challenge with only four senior starters.

But rather than wallow in a humbling experience, the Panthers (0-9) resumed training about a week after the season with the help of Jimmy Abboud. An assistant with the Panthers' football team, Abboud was brought on in 2021 as the school's full-time strength and conditioning coach.

"It was four days a week of working out in the weight room, doing plyometrics and agility stuff on the field," coach Justin Avedissian said. "We can definitely see the benefits of that up to this point. Kids are a little more agile. A couple kids put on some size. So it's been a big help."

That is hardly the only change taking place in Wallington. Sal Aiello was brought over from Secaucus to run the defense and clean up a unit that allowed close to 40 points per game. The Panthers are also switching to a 3-3-5 formation, which could help a team more predicated on speed than size.

Participation is stable with around 35 players on the roster. Avidissian likes how much internal competition there is across the board.

"I'm going into my third summer," Avedissian said. "It's been the best in terms of player buy-in, kids showing up and working as hard as they can. Honestly it really started in the offseason."

Tradition

Wallington has won three sectional titles, including two since the playoff era began in 1974. The last one came in 2010 when former coach and current athletic director Charlie Vellis quarterbacked the Panthers to the top.

Firetrucks have become synonymous with the Wallington program due to the home-game tradition of blaring sirens after a touchdown.

The challenge

Challenges are everywhere across the new NJIC Patriot division. Wallington will take on five schools that all finished above .500 last season.

But first up is an important crossover game to start this season.

"Every coach says that we're only worried about the next game but this Week 0 game against Newark Academy is certainly being treated like a Super Bowl to get over that hangover from last year and hopefully put us in the right direction," Avedissian said. "It's a monumental game for our program. Everyone is eager and chomping at the bit for that game."

Expectations

Getting back in the win column is Step 1.

While the vast majority of the team is back, there will be a change at some key positions. The open job at quarterback will likely go to Robert Miller, a promising sophomore returning from an ACL last summer. His arm strength and attitude are seen as major pluses.

"He's been the hardest worker I've ever been around, to be quite honest with you," Avedissian said. "That's going back to coaching at Wayne Hills."

If Miller wins the job, he'll have the chance to throw to his twin brother, Michael, a wide receiver who is moving from corner to outside linebacker after putting on about 20 pounds.

The Panthers also return their leading receiver in junior Joey Roman (461 yards) and another exciting target in junior Max Lettsome. Avedissian plans on using a committee approach at running back with four players battling it out in camp.

On defense, junior Jason Mallon will be the centerpiece at middle linebacker, entrusted to get the play call and coordinate teammates.

"We have the most competition we've ever had at pretty much every position honestly," Avedissian said. "We don't really have a group of starters and backups. It's more like 1A, 1B. Every position group has competition and it's bringing out the best in these kids."

Schedule

Aug. 29: vs. Newark Academy

Sept. 6: vs. Bogota

Sept. 13: at Park Ridge

Sept. 20: vs. Wood-Ridge

Sept. 27: at Weehawken

Oct. 4: vs. St. Mary

Oct. 18: TBD

Oct. 25: TBD

Wallington, NJ public school junior football, cheer teams at risk of season cancellation

WALLINGTON, New Jersey (WABC) -- The Wallington Jr. Panthers public school football program has mere hours to register new players and coaches in order to participate in the upcoming youth football and cheer seasons, team organizers warn, saying the probable season cancellation would have ripple effects on high school programs."Time is not on our side, so in 72 hours, we have to make decision how we're going to move forwards," said Rick Ray, President of the Wallington Jr. Panthers.The team needs a minimum of 10 playe...

WALLINGTON, New Jersey (WABC) -- The Wallington Jr. Panthers public school football program has mere hours to register new players and coaches in order to participate in the upcoming youth football and cheer seasons, team organizers warn, saying the probable season cancellation would have ripple effects on high school programs.

"Time is not on our side, so in 72 hours, we have to make decision how we're going to move forwards," said Rick Ray, President of the Wallington Jr. Panthers.

The team needs a minimum of 10 players at each of its five levels to qualify for participation in the upcoming season.

"This program has been a cornerstone of Wallington since 1974," the Jr. Panthers Board posted to social media. "We do not want to make the difficult decision to cancel, but without immediate support from our community, we may have no other choice."

Quarterback David Orzechoski has enjoyed being part of the Jr. Panthers, and wants to continue on the team.

"I was six when I started, and now I'm eight. I started last year," he told Eyewitness News. "Join my team, it's fun to play football."

Wallington High School Athletic Director Charles Vellis emphasized how vital the team has been for the local community.

"It's tough because I played for the Jr. Panthers," Vellis said. "I don't want to see it collapse."

High school senior Jordan Kasstea remembered time in the program fondly. Nearly 90% of the current high school team started out as a Jr. Panther.

"It's sad because it's a really fun experience, especially when you're younger. It's just not a lot to worry about, it's just a lot of fun and you get to make a lot of friends and it teaches you things for when you get older," Kasstea said.

Team leadership urges parents and community members to consider helping the team continue.

"If you've ever thought about volunteering, coaching, or simply helping out -- we need you more than ever. This program runs on the dedication of our parents and community volunteers, and without that support, we simply cannot move forward," the Jr. Panthers Board said.

"If you are interested in having your child play football or want to learn how you can get involved, reach out to us at info@wallingtonjrpanthers.com as soon as possible."

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Wallington hires former Wayne Hills standout as new football coach

Justin Avedissian, a former Wayne Hills standout, was approved as new football coach at Wallington High School on Monday night.The 28-year-old takes over for Charlie Vellis Jr., who moved up to the athletic director position at Wallington. Avedissian’s hiring leaves Dumont High School as the only open head football coaching job in North Jersey.Avedissian is a 2016 Montclair State graduate with a degree in physical education and health. He is a teacher and assistant basketball and baseball coach at Manchester Regional....

Justin Avedissian, a former Wayne Hills standout, was approved as new football coach at Wallington High School on Monday night.

The 28-year-old takes over for Charlie Vellis Jr., who moved up to the athletic director position at Wallington. Avedissian’s hiring leaves Dumont High School as the only open head football coaching job in North Jersey.

Avedissian is a 2016 Montclair State graduate with a degree in physical education and health. He is a teacher and assistant basketball and baseball coach at Manchester Regional.

“I got to see Wallington kids up close when I was coaching at Manchester, they have a real gritty tough kid that never quit,” Avedissian said. “I knew that if I ever had the opportunity to work with kids like that, we would be able to achieve some pretty big things.”

This will be Avedissian’s first varsity head coaching job.

“Justin is an ambitious young football coach who brings the enthusiasm and leadership that we were looking for in our next coach,” Vellis Jr. said. “He comes from a great pedigree, not only as a player but as a coach, and we believe he has the potential to continue moving our program forward and even take it to the next level.”

At Wayne Hills, Avedissian played for iconic Patriots coach Chris Olsen and was part of back-to-back sectional championship teams in 2010 and 2011. He was a two-way lineman who was first-team All-County as a senior for the Patriots.

Olsen made a big impact on Avedissian.

“What I will take away from Coach Olsen is the fact that he demanded the best out of you every day,” Avedissian said. “I really think, when you take a step back, that the kids born on the Wayne Hills side of town weren’t born with any more athletic gifts than any other town, but it was a testament to coach Olsen, his refusal to accept anything less that 110 percent, that maximized our potential.”

At Montclair State, Avedissian played both football and baseball. He credits veteran Montclair State football coach Rick Giancola for educating him on the proper way to scheme and attack your opponent.

After graduating from Montclair State, Avedissian joined the staff at Wayne Hills working with the freshman team, then moved up to varsity assistant under Patriots coach Wayne Demikoff.

Avedissian also praised Demikoff for putting him on the path to become a head coach.

Wallington is coming off a 6-3 season that ended with a first-round playoff loss to Becton. It last won a sectional crown in 2010.

The Panthers fight the same adversity as many other Group 1 schools in North Jersey: participation numbers that fluctuate and a balanced conference schedule.

Avedissian will retain the bulk of Vellis Jr.’s staff to ease with the transition and will remain in his current teaching roles at Manchester, but he’s not putting any limits on what the Panthers can achieve.

“I will tell the kids I don’t care who lines up across from us or what our record is in the past, every time we line up to play, we expect to win,” Avedissian said. “We will outwork teams, play aggressively and win the turnover battle. You can’t play with the emergency brake on in football. At its roots, football is a physical game that must be played aggressively.”

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