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29 August

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Choosing Your Car Accident Attorney: Why Belleville, IL Needs Specialized Representation

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Motor Vehicle Accidents, Personal Injury

Auto Accident Attorney in Belleville IL

When a car accident turns your world upside down, finding the right attorney is paramount. But in the Metro East, where cities like Belleville, O'Fallon, Swansea, and Fairview Heights are so close, why does choosing a Belleville car accident attorney with local expertise matter? It's more than just proximity; it's about understanding the unique legal landscape and community nuances. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC, we understand these distinctions and are dedicated to serving Belleville residents with unparalleled local insight. The Metro East: A Tapestry of Towns, Similar Yet Distinct While cities across the Metro East share the bustling I-64 corridor and numerous...

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25 July

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Top 5 Mistakes People in Belleville Make When Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Personal Injury

Dealing with a personal injury in Belleville, IL, whether from a car accident on West Main Street, a slip and fall at a local business, or any other act of negligence, can be a stressful and confusing time. Hiring the right personal injury attorney is crucial to protecting your rights and maximizing your chances of a fair recovery. Unfortunately, many people in Belleville make common mistakes during this important decision. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC, serving the Metro East area, we want to help you avoid these pitfalls and choose the best legal representation for your needs. Here are the...

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30 May

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Attorney Daniel Katzman Volunteers in North St. Louis Tornado Relief Effort

Posted by Daniel Katzman

Danny Katzman

It was an honor to volunteer with Big Mama's BBQ who generously cooked and passed out free food for hours to people in North St. Louis. Many of these people lost everything in the recent tornado. We helped serve over 300 plates of BBQ on this Memorial Day. We could not be more thankful for Big Mama's BBQ and proud to be a small part of this wonderful act of generosity for our community....

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25 April

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Preventing Distracted Driving: Tips for Safe Roads

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Motor Vehicle Accidents, Personal Injury

Keep Your Focus on the Road: Simple Steps to Avoid Accidents In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to let our attention wander, even when we're behind the wheel. However, distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents, often resulting in serious injuries and even fatalities. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC, we've seen firsthand the devastating consequences of distracted driving. We believe that awareness and proactive steps can significantly reduce these preventable incidents, making our roads safer for everyone. What Exactly is Distracted Driving? Distracted driving encompasses any activity that diverts your attention away from the primary task of operating a vehicle safely....

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14 March

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Medical Malpractice: When to Seek Legal Help

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Personal Injury

Protecting Your Rights After Medical Negligence When we seek medical care, we place our trust in healthcare professionals to provide competent and safe treatment. Unfortunately, medical errors do occur, and when they result in patient harm, it may be a case of medical malpractice. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC, or medical malpractice attorneys in Belleville, IL understand these devastating consequences and are dedicated to helping victims seek justice and compensation. What is Medical Malpractice? Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional's negligence or failure to meet the accepted standard of care results in injury or death to a patient. This can include doctors,...

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14 February

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Attorney Daniel Katzman selected as a 2025 Rising Star by Super Lawyers

Posted by Daniel Katzman

Congratulations to Danny Katzman on again being named a Rising Star in Illinois Personal Injury by Super Lawyers. A Rising Star recognition is limited to a small number of attorneys in each state, earning the respect of colleagues as one of the top-rated attorneys in the nation. With a legal practice that spans across Illinois and Missouri, Danny has become a highly regarded lawyer in the fields of personal injury, medical malpractice, nursing home malpractice, and workers’ compensation. Daniel Katzman is a dedicated partner at Katzman & Sugden, LLC, a personal injury law firm based in Belleville, Illinois. Practicing in both Illinois...

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17 January

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Common Causes of Car Accidents

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Motor Vehicle Accidents, Personal Injury

Stay Safe on the Roads: Understanding the Most Frequent Causes of Car Crashes Car accidents can happen unexpectedly, leaving victims with injuries, property damage, and emotional distress. Understanding the most common causes of car accidents can help drivers be more aware and take steps to prevent these unfortunate events. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC, we understand the devastating impact car accidents can have on individuals and families. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping victims recover the compensation they deserve. Here are some of the most frequent causes of car accidents in our area: Distracted Driving: This is a leading cause of...

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08 November

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How to Protect Your Assets in a Divorce

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Family Law & Divorce

Divorce can be a complicated and emotionally taxing process, and one of the most pressing concerns is often how to protect your assets. From family homes and retirement accounts to businesses and personal property, safeguarding what you’ve worked hard to earn is crucial. In Illinois, divorce laws follow an “equitable distribution” approach, which means marital property is divided fairly, though not always equally. Understanding the basics of asset division, and working with an experienced family law attorney, can help you protect your financial future as you go through the divorce process. Understanding Marital vs. Non-Marital Property A key step in protecting your...

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17 October

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How to Identify Nursing Home Neglect and Take Legal Action

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect

Placing a loved one in a nursing home is a significant decision that comes with the hope they will receive the care and support they need. Unfortunately, not all nursing homes meet these expectations. Nursing home neglect can have serious consequences for vulnerable residents, leading to deteriorating health, emotional distress, and even life-threatening situations. Recognizing the signs of neglect and understanding how to take legal action is crucial for safeguarding your loved one’s well-being. Signs of Nursing Home Neglect Identifying nursing home neglect can be challenging, especially if you are not visiting regularly. However, there are several red flags to watch for...

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13 September

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Workers’ Compensation Claims: Navigating the Process After a Workplace Injury

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Personal Injury, Workers Compensation

Suffering an injury at work can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Aside from dealing with physical pain, you may be facing medical bills and time away from work. Fortunately, workers’ compensation is designed to help employees recover lost wages and cover medical expenses after a workplace injury. However, navigating the workers’ compensation claims process can be challenging, and knowing your rights is crucial to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury After any workplace injury, your first priority should be seeking medical attention. Even if the injury seems minor, getting checked by a healthcare...

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16 August

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The Impact of Motorcycle Accidents: Common Injuries and Legal Options

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Motor Vehicle Accidents, Personal Injury

Motorcycle accidents can be life-changing events, often resulting in serious injuries and significant financial stress for the victims and their families. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to understand the types of injuries that commonly occur and the legal options available to you for seeking compensation. Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents Motorcycles offer little protection compared to cars and trucks, which makes motorcyclists more vulnerable in a crash. Some of the most common injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents include: Head and Brain Injuries: Even with a helmet, motorcyclists can suffer from concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBI). These...

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17 May

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The Invisible Wounds: How Personal Injury Impacts Mental Health

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Personal Injury

When we think of a personal injury, we usually picture broken bones, scars, or hospital stays. However, the impact of an accident often goes much deeper than what is visible to the eye. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC in Belleville, IL, our injury attorneys know that the psychological aftermath of an injury—such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD—can be just as debilitating as the physical damage. Understanding this connection is the first step toward a full recovery. Common Mental Health Struggles After an Accident A traumatic event, whether it's a car crash, a workplace fall, or a slip-and-fall, can trigger complex psychological responses. If...

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10 May

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Navigating Car Accident Personal Injury Claims

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Motor Vehicle Accidents, Personal Injury

Getting into a car accident is scary. Once the chaos ends, you’re left with the headache of filing a personal injury claim. This process is complex, but understanding a few key points can make it much easier. We’re breaking down what you need to know about car accident claims, how to prove fault, and why getting a lawyer is your best next step. The 4 Essential Legal Terms You Need to Know To win your case, we focus on four basic ideas: Liability: Who is legally responsible for causing the crash? Negligence (or Fault): Did the person who caused the crash fail to...

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05 April

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Medical Treatment Options After a Slip and Fall Injury

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Personal Injury, Slip & Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can lead to unexpected injuries, ranging from minor bruises to severe fractures. Seeking immediate medical attention after such an incident is crucial for your health and well-being. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC, we understand the importance of obtaining proper medical care after a slip and fall injury. In this article, we'll discuss the various medical treatment options available to individuals who have experienced a slip and fall accident. Emergency Room Care: In cases of severe injuries such as head trauma, spinal cord injuries, or multiple fractures, it's imperative to seek emergency medical care without delay. Emergency...

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02 February

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The Legal Process of Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Personal Injury

The legal system often feels like it's designed to be a maze, but when you're recovering from an injury, the last thing you need is more confusion. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC, we believe that transparency is the best way to lower your stress. Filing a personal injury lawsuit in Belleville, IL, is a marathon, not a sprint. Here is a clear, step-by-step breakdown of how we get you from "what happened?" to "case closed" in 2026. The Roadmap to Justice: Step-by-Step 1. The Strategy Session (Initial Consultation) Everything starts with a conversation. We’ll meet—either in person at our Belleville office or virtually—to discuss...

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26 January

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Attorney Daniel Katzman selected as a 2024 Rising Star by Super Lawyers

Posted by Daniel Katzman

Attorney Daniel Katzman is recognized by peers and was selected to Rising Stars for 2024. This selection is based off of an evaluation of 12 indicators including peer recognition and professional achievement in legal practice. Daniel Katzman chose to pursue a career in law after completing undergraduate studies. He attended Saint Louis University School of Law and graduated in 2011. Daniel Katzman passed the bar exam and was admitted to legal practice in 2011. He represents clients with Personal Injury - General: Plaintiff issues in Illinois. Being selected to Rising Stars is limited to a small number of attorneys in each state. As...

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06 October

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Do I Need a Personal Injury Lawyer? 5 Clear Signs It’s Time to Call

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Personal Injury

After an unexpected accident, figuring out your next steps can be confusing. Many people wonder if they truly need a lawyer or if they can handle the insurance company alone. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC in Belleville, IL, we know that if your case involves serious injury or complex issues, attempting to handle it yourself is a huge risk. Here are the five clearest signs that you should immediately hire a personal injury attorney to protect your rights and your future. 1. You Have Severe Injuries or Need Ongoing Care If your injuries are more than minor—meaning you required hospitalization, surgery, or will...

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05 May

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Katzman & Sugden, LLC Sponsors The 20th Belleville Law Day Run

Posted by Daniel Katzman

Katzman & Sugden

Katzman & Sugden LLC, Personal Injury Attorneys in Belleville IL, is proud to support the 20th Belleville Law Day Run. It's a great event to benefit two organizations that we are honored to be a part of; Belleville Running Club and Land of Lincoln Legal Aid. ...

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17 February

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Hurt in an Accident? Your 4-Step Checklist After a Personal Injury

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Personal Injury

Personal Injury Attorneys

If you've been injured because of someone else's carelessness, the steps you take immediately after the incident are critical to protecting your health and your legal rights. Knowing what to do can make all the difference when it comes time to file a claim. Here is a simple, 4-step checklist from Katzman & Sugden, LLC, one of Belleville's best personal injury law firms, on what to do next. 1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately Your health is the top priority. See a doctor right away, even if you feel okay. Some serious injuries show delayed symptoms. Why this step is critical for your case: Proof...

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30 December

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What should I do after a slip and fall accident?

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Personal Injury

Slip and Fall Injury Attorneys

When an individual suffers a slip and fall injury, the accident can range from minor to catastrophic. In any case, victims of slip and fall injuries may be entitled to compensation for their losses that result from the incident. Since proving liability in these cases is often complex and requires knowledge of personal injury law, consulting with a lawyer who has experience in handling slip and fall claims is often the best course of action. A lawyer can help victims to understand their legal rights, advise them on how to proceed with their claim, and provide assistance throughout the entire process. It...

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10 December

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Danny Katzman wins 1st place in 2022 Illinois State Bar Association Lincoln Award Writing Competition

Posted by Daniel Katzman

Congratulations to Partner, Danny Katzman , who won 1st place in the 2022 Illinois State Bar Association Lincoln Award Writing Competition. In addition to winning the $2,000.00 grand prize, his article, A Brave New World of Digital Payments for Lawyers, will be published in the February 2022 issue of the Illinois Bar Journal. This is the 3rd time in the past 4 years that he has been a winner of this writing competition. View more information here: https://www.isba.org/barnews/2021/12/2022lincolnawardlegalwritingcontest0...

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22 January

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Danny Katzman wins 2nd place in 2021 Illinois State Bar Association Lincoln Award Writing Competition

Posted by Daniel Katzman

Congratulations to Katzman & Sugden, LLC Partner and Personal Injury Attorney in Belleville IL, Danny Katzman who won 2nd place in the 2021 Illinois State Bar Association Lincoln Award Writing Competition. In addition to the $1,000.00 prize, his article, "Are E-Signatures E-nough Under Illinois Law" will be published in an upcoming issue of the Illinois Bar Journal. It is the 2nd time in the last 3 years he has received this award! View the article here: https://www.isba.org/barnews/2021/01/2021lincolnawardlegalwritingcontest...

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13 November

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What is Pain and Suffering?

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Personal Injury

Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering is not just what you feel you’re entitled to for listening to political advertisements on TV, radio, and social media. In the context of a personal injury lawsuit, pain and suffering (the physical and mental anguish caused by an injury) is an element of damages aimed to make an injured person whole after an accident. In addition to lost wages and the cost of medical bills, you will also experience non-economic (and more subjective damages) damages, such as pain and suffering and loss of a normal life. Despite all the promises you hear by politicians, it is...

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06 November

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I was injured in a hit and run accident, there is nothing I can do though right?

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Motor Vehicle Accidents

Auto Accident Attorney Belleville IL

This is a common misconception that leaves many victims paying for someone else’s recklessness. The short answer is: No, you are definitely not out of options. Even if the other driver vanished into thin air, Illinois law provides a safety net specifically for this situation. Here is how you can still secure compensation after a hit-and-run in the Metro East area. The Secret Weapon: Your Own Insurance Policy It feels counterintuitive to look to your own insurance when you didn't cause the crash, but that is exactly what Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage is for. By Illinois law, every auto insurance policy issued in the...

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22 July

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Katzman & Sugden, LLC, Announces that Daniel Katzman, has Been Elected President of the St. Clair County Bar Association for 2020-2021

Posted by Daniel Katzman

Belleville, IL - Katzman & Sugden, LLC, one of the leading personal injury law firms in Belleville, IL, announces that Daniel Katzman, a partner in their distinguished firm, has been elected President of the St. Clair County Bar Association for the period 2020-2021. Daniel Katzman has been a member of this non-profit organization for many years, bringing his extensive legal experience as well as his genuine interest in the development of his community. The St. Clair County Bar Association is known for its strong roots in the local community and focuses on professionalism, continuing legal education and community service; values...

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07 May

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What does undue influence look like?

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Probate

Not many people believe that their family or their loved ones could be the victim of undue influence. That is something saved for fiction that adds an exciting twist to a story. However, undue influence is one of the most common reasons people contest the will of their loved one during probate. Unfortunately, there is no stable definition The definition of undue influence varies by state. Illinois law states that undue influence occurs if something prevents the creator of the will from establishing or executing their wishes. And the influence must connect directly with the execution of the will during probate. That is a...

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30 April

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The True Cost of Understaffing: Why Illinois Nursing Homes Are Facing New Penalties

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect

Understaffing isn’t just a "logistical issue"—in a nursing home, it is a direct threat to life. While facilities often cite high turnover or costs as excuses, the reality is that many corporations prioritize profits over the humans in their care. In response, Illinois has entered a new era of accountability. As of January 1, 2025, Illinois began enforcing strict monetary penalties for facilities that fail to meet mandated staffing ratios. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC, we believe these fines are a necessary step toward stopping the cycle of neglect that has plagued our state for years. The Direct Link Between Staffing and...

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26 April

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Who Gets What? A Guide to Property Division in Illinois

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Family Law & Divorce

Dividing a life’s worth of assets is often the most contentious part of a divorce. From the family home to retirement accounts, deciding how to split property requires a clear understanding of Illinois law. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC, our divorce attorneys in Belleville, IL navigate these disputes to ensure they walk away with their fair share and future financial stability. Step 1: Marital vs. Separate Property Before anything can be divided, the court must categorize every asset. Only marital property is subject to division. Separate Property: Anything owned by one spouse before the marriage, as well as personal gifts or inheritances received...

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10 April

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Have higher speed limits made roads less safe?

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Motor Vehicle Accidents

One of the basic rules we learn when we start driving as a teenager is to obey the speed limit. Maintaining a safe speed is one of the easiest things a driver can do to avoid accidents -- and a traffic ticket. However, people still speed. And it's not just going over the legal limit that puts them at risk of getting in a crash. Increasing speed limits across the country mean that people may not get a ticket for going over the limit, but they could still get into an accident when they are driving dangerously fast. Higher speeds, more fatalities According...

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19 February

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Understanding Child Support in Illinois: It Covers More Than You Think

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Family Law & Divorce

Going through a divorce means making tough decisions about property, custody, and finances. Even if you and your ex plan to share parenting time equally, you may still wonder why child support payments are necessary. The truth is, raising children is expensive, and child support covers far more than just food and shelter. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC in Belleville, IL, we help parents understand what these payments cover and how the court determines a fair amount. What Expenses Does Child Support Cover? While basic necessities are covered, Illinois child support payments are designed to ensure your children can truly thrive. Support is...

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11 February

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3 steps to preventing a winter weather crash

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Motor Vehicle Accidents

The winter weather across Illinois and surrounding states has already contributed to multiple serious car accidents this year. People are slipping, getting stuck, losing control of their cars and crashing into people and objects because of ice and snow. In fact, Illinois ranks as one of the deadliest states for winter weather driving. However, despite the powerful impact Mother Nature has on our driving, there are steps individuals can take to stay safe and avoid crashes caused by bad roads and weather. Focus on visibility Being able to see and be seen is crucial in staying safe on the roads during the winter....

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08 February

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Avoiding driving while freezing

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Motor Vehicle Accidents

Recently, Illinois and the Midwest endured some of the coldest days we’ve seen in a while. During the “Polar Vortex,” over 20 people lost their lives from either freezing to death or getting in a car accident. When it comes to hazardous driving conditions in the winter, most drivers probably think about icy roads or snowstorms. However, these temperatures remind us how the cold itself can contribute to dozens of car crashes even if there is little snow or ice involved. It can create further chaos on the road by affecting a person’s concentration and driving habits. These dangerous temperatures cannot...

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08 January

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Watch out for this distracted driving myth

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Motor Vehicle Accidents

Auto Accident Attorney in Belleville IL

In recent years, there have been a lot of efforts to increase driver awareness here in the U.S. of the dangers of using a cellphone while driving. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, there remain prevalent myths on this topic that could cause considerable problems out on the roads. Today, we’ll go over one such myth. This myth regards using a cellphone while stopped at an intersection. Most drivers understand that using a cellphone behind the wheel when a car is moving can be a dangerous distraction. However, a myth persists that using a phone behind the wheel is safe as long as...

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19 December

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Might low unemployment make for less safe nursing homes?

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect

Here in the U.S., recent times have seen unemployment rates hit their lowest levels in nearly half a century. While this is generally good news for workers, it might not be as good of news for nursing home residents. This is what a recent study suggests. The study looked at employment data and nursing home data covering the 2001 to 2015 period. The study found that, generally, higher levels of unemployment were associated with higher levels of care quality at nursing homes. Why might nursing home care be better in times of high unemployment? The study points to one of the drivers...

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05 December

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3 types of dangerous drivers to watch for this holiday season

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Motor Vehicle Accidents

Every time we get in our cars to drive somewhere, we face at least some risk of getting into an accident -- even when we take precautions and comply with traffic laws. This is because there are countless drivers on the road who fail to take these same steps to avoid crashes. And in the coming weeks, the risk of getting into an accident can be particularly high, as certain kinds of dangerous driving can increase during the holiday season. Below, examine three types drivers to be especially wary of this month as well as what you can do if you...

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30 November

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Is Your Dog “Dangerous” in Illinois? What Dog Owners Need to Know

Posted by Daniel Katzman

Dogs are wonderful, but sometimes they can cause serious harm. If you own a dog in Illinois, it’s crucial to understand the state laws that classify a dog as "dangerous" or "vicious." These laws set rules for owners and determine what happens after a dog bite incident. Understanding the Illinois Animal Control Act protects both your community and your dog. What Makes a Dog "Dangerous" in Illinois? In Illinois, a dog is legally considered dangerous if it meets one of these conditions: Serious Threat: It acts in a way that would make a reasonable person believe it poses a serious and immediate threat...

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29 November

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When does child support payment end in Illinois?

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Family Law & Divorce

Child support is always a difficult subject when it comes to divorce. Many spouses do not want their case to end with them getting minimal custody of their kid and having to pay for additional support without seeing them. Unfortunately, it is a common occurrence for many fathers in Illinois. Recent studies indicate that the average noncustodial parent in Illinois gets to spend 23.1 percent of the year with their kid, which is one of the worst percentages in the nation. After evaluating the incomes of each party, the respective living conditions and the amount of children they have, the court...

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31 October

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Preparing a prenup: what every Illinois couple should know

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Family Law & Divorce

Whether you are in your 20s and getting married for the first time or a little older and getting married for the second or third time, you may very well be considering your options for a prenuptial agreement. Regardless of your age and marital experiences, prenuptial agreements can be an attractive -- or necessary -- option. As such, you should understand some important facts about these legal documents so that you can make wise, informed decisions. They are not all enforceable Prenuptial agreements are legal documents and they must be valid to be enforceable. In accordance with Illinois laws, this means they must: ...

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26 October

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Are teen drivers more likely to crash?

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Motor Vehicle Accidents

Auto Accident Attorney in Belleville IL

Unfortunately, car accidents with a teen-driver at fault are not uncommon. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, teens between 16-19 are three times more likely to suffer a life-threatening crash than drivers who are 20 and older. Why is this the case? What can you do to stay safe with teen drivers on the road? Why are teens more likely to get into an accident? New to driving: Teens on the road have less experience dealing with possible troubling or confusing situations while behind the wheel. This can make them more likely to get into an accident. Distracted driving:...

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04 October

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Drowsy Driving: The Hidden Killer in Illinois Trucking Accidents

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Motor Vehicle Accidents

Long-haul trucking is the backbone of the Illinois economy, but the pressure to meet tight deadlines often leads to a deadly side effect: driver fatigue. As of 2026, drowsy driving remains a leading factor in catastrophic commercial vehicle crashes on major interstates like I-55 and I-57. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC, we have seen firsthand how a single moment of "microsleep" by a truck driver can change a family’s life forever. If you’ve been injured, understanding the signs of fatigue and your legal rights is the first step toward recovery. The 2026 Reality: Statistics & Regulations Recent data shows that large trucks are...

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03 October

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How do Illinois courts decide if I will receive alimony?

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Family Law & Divorce

If you are getting divorced, your post-divorce financial stability can be one of your biggest concerns. This can be especially true if your spouse was the primary earner in your family. In many cases, people in this position wonder about the availability of alimony, or maintenance, which allows a financially disadvantaged party to receive monetary support from a former spouse indefinitely or for a specific period of time. If you are in this position and wondering whether you might receive alimony, you should understand the factors that the courts use to make these decisions. Factors the courts consider When considering a petition for...

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31 August

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Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce: Which Path is Right for You?

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Family Law & Divorce

Deciding to end a marriage is never easy, and the legal process that follows can often feel like a maze. In Illinois, divorces generally fall into two categories: contested and uncontested. The path your divorce takes will depend on your ability to communicate with your spouse, the complexity of your finances, and the best interests of your children. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC, we help you navigate either path with the goal of protecting your rights and your future. The Contested Divorce: When Agreement Isn't Possible A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on one or more major issues. While "contested" sounds...

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08 August

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Navigating the Illinois Probate Process: What to Expect

Posted by Daniel Katzman

in Probate

Losing a loved one is an incredibly emotional experience. Dealing with the legalities of their estate while grieving can feel overwhelming. Understanding the probate process, the legal method of settling a person’s affairs, can help demystify the steps ahead and provide some peace of mind. At Katzman & Sugden, LLC, our probate attorneys in Belleville, IL help families navigate these complexities so they can focus on what matters most. What is Probate? Probate is the court-supervised process used to verify a person’s will and distribute their assets. It typically begins when an estate executor files a case with the court. If your loved...

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