The Benefits of a Personal Injury Lawyer

Personal Injury Lawyer DC

As a personal injury lawyer in DC from The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. has seen in past cases, after being in an accident victims may feel anger, pain, and confusion about the entire situation. To add to this, you will likely have to deal with legal issues and bureaucratic challenges from insurance claims adjusters. This type of hoop-jumping can add to encompassing stressors and hinder your recovery. The good news is that you can significantly ease these burdens by turning to a dedicated personal injury law firm, like Frederick J. Brynn, P.C.

5 Benefits of a Personal Injury Lawyer

A personal injury can alter your life forever. It is important to address all of your medical needs; however, you must not forget the importance of your legal rights and interests. After an accident, it is your right to contact a personal injury law firm. This proactive decision can have many benefits including:

  • A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Handle the Insurance Company – Insurance companies have one goal in mind, and that is to make money. Their formula is simple: they make a profit by paying out fast settlements to clients who have been injured in an accident. These companies have many tactics up their sleeves to encourage you to settle without a lawyer. They might tell you that “we accept responsibility” and “will settle now.” As tempting as this could be, you will likely get far less than what you deserve or could get with the help of a lawyer.
  • A Law Firm Can File a Personal Injury Lawsuit & Go to Trial – Most personal injury claims are settled before going to trial. These are complicated matters, and sometimes negotiations are not successful. In this situation, having an attorney, like a personal injury lawyer victims trust, on your side can be beneficial. Your lawyer will already be familiar with your case and should have prepared for any and all outcomes, including the possibility of a trial. Your lawsuit is in good hands, and with your lawyer, the court system may begin to work for you.
  • You May Get Maximum Compensation – A major advantage of retaining an excellent personal injury lawyer is the ability to enhance the prospects of getting maximum compensation. This means that your settlement from an insurance company or court judgment could be much larger than you would receive without a lawyer. This holds true even after the lawyer’s fees.
  • No Fee, No Win – Most personal injury law firms work on a contingency fee basis. This means you will not have to pay anything upfront. If your lawyer wins your claim, his or her fees will be deducted from the final settlement amount.
  • A Personal Injury Lawyer Has Resources – Any respected attorney should have access to various resources that could help your case. These resources may include doctors, medical professionals, expert witnesses, forensic examiners, scene investigators, and more. In addition to these critical connections, a lawyer may know people who work in the court system. In some instances, this could be of benefit to you.

Have You Suffered a Personal Injury? Contact Frederick J. Brynn, P.C.

Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., understands the physical, emotional, and financial obstacles you may be facing. Guided by 75 years of combined experience and a zealous determination to fight for our clients, we will be there for you when you may need it most. For a free consultation with a lawyer at Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., please call our office today.

Personal Injury Lawsuits After an Assault

An assault can happen at the hands of a stranger as the result of a random altercation, or it can stem from disagreements and arguments that turn violent with someone you know. When you are a victim of this type of attack, it can cause you to suffer severe and potentially disabling personal injuries. While law enforcement and the courts can help you hold your attacker responsible under DC criminal laws, you could be left with the financial costs. 

In these situations, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. A personal injury lawyer can evaluate your case to see what your legal options are. 

 

 

personal injury infographic

 

Assault and Battery in DC

Under DC criminal law statutes, assault involves a threat or taking actions meant to harm another individual, while battery involves causing physical harm through an attack. Those who commit these acts can face severe penalties, including hefty fines, mandatory community service, and a lengthy jail sentence. Defendants can end up facing aggravated assault charges, depending on the victim, the severity of the harm done, or if there was a weapon involved in the crime.

Our personal injury lawyer shares that thousands of victims suffer aggravated assaults each year in DC, while thousands more suffer attacks of lesser, varying degrees. These types of incidents can occur in the following situations:

  • As a result of a random attack
  • In bar and nightclub fights
  • At sporting events
  • As the result of motor vehicle accidents and ‘fender benders’
  • In school-related incidents
  • In arguments involving neighbors, friends, or family members that turn violent

Compensation for Assault Victims

In addition to being held criminally liable for an attack, our personal injury lawyer shares that perpetrators can be held legally responsible for the injuries you suffer. Some states have programs where a victim is entitled to compensation for some of their financial losses. Typically, the victim is required to cooperate with law enforcement in prosecuting the crime, and the application process can be lengthy. A victim may be at a disadvantage if the defendant was not charged or convicted, and the amounts awarded may not cover the total amount of their current or future costs.

While you are encouraged to pursue this type of compensation, you may want to speak with a personal injury lawyer about filing a personal injury lawsuit. Even if the perpetrator is not charged or convicted, they can still be held liable through the civil courts. At the same time, any judgment you receive can be enforced through wage garnishment and liens or levies on their home or other property. Damages you may be entitled to include:

  • Current and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages and future losses in earnings
  • Compensation for pain and suffering
  • Punitive damages, which is an additional amount the court awards in cases involving particularly willful and wanton conduct

Call a Personal Injury Lawyer Today

To discuss your rights in filing a claim, call Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. today. A skilled personal injury lawyer clients recommend will act as a strong legal advocate on your behalf, helping you to get justice in your case.

Taking Action with Our Personal Injury Lawyer

Personal injuries are the most common type of civil claims today. This is largely because accidents can happen at any time. Before you know it, you could find yourself experiencing an accident that has left a significant impact on you. There are several ways that you might sustain an accident. If you have experienced damages, you will want to take the time to work with a personal injury lawyer who will help you to pursue your case. Unsure of whether you need a lawyer? Several situations may call for the help of the Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., a team who can help you. 

Common Types of Accidents

When a person has been injured at the hands of another negligent party and has sustained damages, you may consider taking legal action. It may be in your best interest to take legal action. Personal injuries are common, mainly because they can happen at any point in time. At a moment’s notice, you could find yourself, victim, to an accident that leaves you facing disastrous results. Common types of accidents that may call for legal action include: 

  • Slip and Falls
  • Premises Liability
  • Product Liability
  • Car Accidents
  • +More

Injuries can vary; in some cases, you may be left to manage injuries leaving you in significant pain. Some of the time, injuries may even result in a lifelong impact on your overall functioning. Our personal injury lawyer at the Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. can review your case and sort out the best way to move forward. 

Proving Your Case

Your lawyer can assist you in building a case that ensures that all damages are accounted for. This is key to ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve in the wake of your accident. To move forward with your legal case, you will need to prove that there was a breach in the duty of care by a negligent party and that you sustained damages as a result. However, it’s essential to know that the evidence your personal injury lawyer helps you gather will be critical. Key evidence can include: 

  • Eyewitness Statements
  • Accident Reports
  • Police Reports
  • Your Personal Statement
  • Photographs of Your Injuries
  • Photographs of the Accident
  • Medical Documentation

Evidence is critical because it can help to justify your need for compensation. Your DC personal injury lawyer will work closely with you to gather evidence and help tie it to your case. 

Tips for Collecting Documentation After an Accident

After an accident, you may have sustained injuries that affect your ability to go to work or school. A personal injury lawyer can help you protect your interests, but you will need to gather evidence and information to support your case. Here are some tips for ensuring you can support your case with enough documentation.

Gather Information From Those Involved 

Right after the accident occurs, try and gather information from anyone else who witnessed the situation. For example, if you sustained injuries in a car accident, ask any witnesses for their name and contact information. Their insight into what happened may be able to support your case during ensuing legal processes.

Take Pictures

After you contact a personal injury lawyer, like those at The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., start documenting your recovery process by taking pictures. Every day, take a few pictures of your injuries to show the healing process. You may also want to gather pictures of the scene of the accident, as well as any property that was damaged, like your car.

Write in a Journal 

Writing in a journal about your experience can be a therapeutic way to heal from the trauma of the accident. But writing in a journal can also be an effective form of evidence to support your personal injury case. Talk to your personal injury lawyer about the types of information you should document every day. For example, you may want to write down how you are feeling, any appointments you have, and what kinds of activities you are unable to do because of your injuries.

Save All Receipts

Recovering from an accident means you may have to see multiple doctors and specialists. Every time you go to an appointment, you may be responsible for a portion of your medical expenses. When you pay for a procedure or treatment at a medical office, save your receipt. Write down what kind of care you received at every appointment and correlate this information with every receipt you keep in your files. If possible, you should also gather all medical records from your appointments to keep with any receipts you collect.

Document Conversations 

Your DC personal injury lawyer may support you as you talk to opposing parties about the accident. But if you ever talk to the opposing insurance company, law enforcement or another party about the accident without the representation of The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., write down what occurred during this conversation. Document the date and time the conversation occurred as well as what you discussed. Documenting your conversations can help you reliably develop a timeline to look back on in regards to the progression of your case.

When you reach out to a personal injury lawyer, you may have other types of information you need to collect to support your case. Although it may take some time to gather enough evidence, having this information accessible can make a difference as you work on preserving your rights to fair and proper compensation.

Choosing a Personal Injury Lawyer

Choosing a personal injury lawyer can feel overwhelming. However, locating an experienced lawyer in your area can make all the difference. The last thing you want is to end up with a lawyer who is not equipped with the necessary skills to help you obtain the best possible outcome. Do this by taking the time to:

  • Research personal injury lawyers in your area
  • Take advantage of the consultation offered by many personal injury lawyers
  • Come prepared to your consultation with questions for prospective lawyers
  • Choose a lawyer who feels like the right fit for you

The road ahead can be full of challenges. The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., is here to help you during what is sure to be a difficult time. There’s no telling what an accident can bring, injuries you stand to face could range from minor to more severe. For help in putting your best foot forward, contact our personal injury lawyer today.

What Medical Expenses Can I Collect in a Personal Injury Lawsuit or Claim?

If you are injured in any kind of accident or incident that was caused by the negligence of another party or parties, a personal injury lawyer can help you collect financial compensation for the losses those injuries have caused you. Depending on the extent of those injuries, one of the greatest expenses you may be facing is medical bills for the treatment of those injuries. Even if a person has health insurance, it does not take long for the medical bills to begin adding up due to deductibles and co-pays.

However, under the law, the party who is liable for the accident that caused you to get hurt is also liable for all of the medical expenses that are incurred to treat those injuries. There is a wide myriad of medical expenses that fall under this law. Some of the most common include the following:

  • Emergency care: Any expenses associated with any emergency medical care you required after the accident would be included, such as ambulance, helicopter, or other emergency vehicle transport to the hospital and treatment while in the emergency room.
  • Hospitalizations: All costs associated with a hospital stay, whether for one night or an extended stay.
  • Diagnostic tests: All diagnostic tests, lab work, etc., that doctors ordered in order to determine what injuries you had suffered and to what extent.
  • Surgeries: All expenses for surgeries that you needed to repair damage caused by your injuries and to prevent any additional harm.
  • Rehabilitation: All costs for rehabilitation you may have needed. This includes both inpatient and outpatient physical therapy, occupational therapy, and any other rehab services.
  • Medication: Serious injuries often mean multiple medications. A personal injury lawyer can include both prescription and over-the-counter medication costs in your claim.
  • Medical equipment and devices: If you require the need of any medical equipment, such as braces, wheelchairs, prosthetic limbs, or any other devices, the costs are included in your lawsuit.
  • Mental health therapy: Victims who suffer serious injuries often find their situation has an impact on their overall emotional health. They may suffer from anxiety, depression, insomnia, or post-traumatic stress disorder. The costs of a therapist to help work through these issues are also recoverable.

Not only are past medical expenses recoverable in a personal injury claim, but your personal injury lawyer can also include any future medical expenses that the injuries you suffered in the accident may result in. Victims who suffer serious to severe injuries often have long-term or permanent medical needs and your lawyer can make sure that those future costs are all part of the final settlement or jury award.

The Eggshell Doctrine

One of the most common questions that a personal lawyer DC families recommend hears from clients is what happens to their case if they have a preexisting condition when the accident happened. They are worried that their claim will be denied by the other party’s insurance company and they will be unable to collect any damages for the losses the injury has caused them to suffer.

Just because a victim had a prior condition does not mean they are not entitled to financial compensation from the at-fault party if the accident reinjured or exacerbated the preexisting condition. Under personal injury law, this situation is covered by the eggshell plaintiff doctrine.

Let’s take for example a man who has a history of back issues. This man has obtained medical treatment in the past for these issues. One afternoon, the man is driving home from work and is stopped at a red light. Suddenly, a vehicle slams into the rear of his vehicle because the driver was texting and did not notice there was a red light until it was too late. The impact of the crash triggers the man’s back injury, and he is now dealing with this painful issue again.

Will he be able to file a claim for his medical expenses, loss of income, pain and suffering, and other losses he may now have because of his back pain? The answer is yes. Under the eggshell plaintiff doctrine, he can pursue damages for all of his losses.

The eggshell plaintiff doctrine means that even if the victim had a prior condition or injury before the accident, and even if the accident would not have caused the same injury to someone who was healthy and did not have the prior condition, the at-fault party is still liable for the losses the victim has suffered because of the accident. The bottom line is that a victim’s prior medical condition cannot be used against them as a reason to deny their claim.

Filing a Claim

Although the eggshell doctrine is in place to protect victims, that does not mean that insurance companies will not try to deny a victim’s claim based on their prior medical history. This is why it can be critical for a victim’s case to have a skilled personal injury lawyer representing them when they have a preexisting condition or prior injury. An attorney will gather the evidence needed to show the accident caused the new issues the victim is dealing with or caused the condition to become worse. An experienced attorney will know exactly what evidence should be used and how to prove the case.

How To Deal With Insurance Adjusters

When you have been injured, you are likely dealing with different insurance adjusters, including yours and the other party’s. However, when you are hoping to file a personal injury claim, it is important to remember that you are not under any obligation to speak with the other party’s insurance adjuster. The most important thing to them is their company’s bottom line and making sure they are giving you as little compensation as they can get away with. When filing a personal injury claim, it is important to understand the role of the insurance adjuster. 

What Do They Do? 

Typically, when a person is injured because someone else was being negligent, they will choose to file a personal injury claim. This is not anything personal and it is not a claim against the person. It is a claim against their insurance so that the victim in the accident can get the necessary compensation when they need to make up for lost wages or medical bills. Often, the other party’s insurance will provide an insurance adjuster who will likely reach out to you for a statement. This starts the negotiation process. 

It is important to note that while insurance adjusters are not bad people, their job performance will be determined by how low of an offer they can get away with or if they can win by outright denying your claim. Your claim is likely one of close to 100 that the insurance adjuster gets every month and they need to clear these claims out as quickly as possible. 

Can the Adjuster Make a Settlement or Do They Need Authorization? 

It is always in your best interest to let your attorney handle speaking with the adjuster because they will want to record your statement and use anything they can to bring the settlement amount down. The adjuster does have the authority to settle over the phone for a certain dollar amount. This usually maxes out around $30,000 and you will not have any way of knowing what their limit is. It can be easy for them to push you into settling for an amount that will not cover all of the costs associated with your injuries. 

This is why it is best to have your lawyer speak with them on your behalf. Your attorney can argue for a higher amount and the adjuster has the opportunity to speak with their manager about coming back with a higher amount.  

If you have been in any kind of accident caused by the negligence of another party, don’t try to deal with the insurance company on your own. Contact The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. to schedule a free consultation with a dedicated lawyer and get the financial compensation you deserve.

How Should You Respond After an Accident?

While all accidents are different, the general process of response should go as follows:

  1. Immediately attend to any health needs. Call paramedics if necessary, and do not attempt to move anyone who is seriously injured. If you are injured and are able to move, go to a hospital immediately.
  2. If injuries are not too severe, assess vehicular damage. Take photos and notes, and speak with any witnesses on the scene.
  3. If any damage will require an insurance claim, file a police report. This may be necessary for effective processing of the ultimate claim.
  4. Exchange insurance and contact information. If a claim needs to be filed, collecting this information will be vital in allowing your respective insurance agencies to deal with the rest of the process.

An Attorney Can Dramatically Impact Your Injury Case. Here’s How.

The law firm of Frederick J Brynn, P.C. is a respected name for those seeking a personal injury lawyer in DC. When you or a loved one needs a legal expert who is also caring and sensitive, there are few firms with such an impressive reputation. When it comes to injury cases like car wrecks and workplace accidents, there is bound to be a lot on your mind. Making phone calls and completing paperwork can feel overwhelming when combined with the emotional burdens and financial stress following an injury. You don’t have to take this on alone though. If you or a loved one has been injured recently, an experienced attorney can lighten your load in several ways. 

Your Attorney Can Handle the Administrative Tasks

The law firm of Frederick J. Brynn P.C. has decades of experience in handling injury cases. One of the most stressful things about being injured is dealing with all of the parties involved. If you’ve been the victim of a car crash, you may be dealing with the police department, insurance adjusters, and the at-fault party. If you experience an injury at work, you’re likely to be dealing with your employer and the Worker’s Compensation board. Your primary focus should be on recovery and a personal injury lawyer in DC can make that a reality by handling these tasks for you. 

Your Attorney Knows the System 

Understanding the legal system and the laws governing personal injury is a huge advantage. You may feel that your case is open and shut. However, if you don’t understand the proper procedures and the tactics of the at-fault party, you may leave yourself vulnerable. The folks at Frederick J. Brynn P.C. have seen all of the angles and they know what to expect. The knowledge that they have at their disposal makes a favorable outcome in your case more likely. 

You Need an Advocate 

There’s more to being a good lawyer than knowledge and experience. An attorney is there to fight for you, and represent your interests. Entering into any form of legal proceeding without representation is both daunting and unwise. Managing the sheer volume of tasks and considerations is not a job for one person. Your health and well-being should take precedent over navigating the courts. So, while great attorneys bring knowledge, experience, and resources to the table, their biggest benefit is a helping hand that is mandated to stay in your corner. 

Is a Lawyer Necessary?

In general, seeking legal advice in the aftermath of a car accident is not a bad idea — particularly if there are significant injuries, or auto damage, that may call for financial compensation. In some cases, you may be able to proceed smoothly through an accident’s aftermath without a lawyer. In other situations, legal consultation may almost certainly be necessary. Such situations include the following:

  • There is a significant dispute in who is at fault. In such cases, retaining an attorney may be necessary to make your case and avoid significant financial repercussions.
  • One driver is uninsured. This situation will likely become a legal matter, but simply navigating the insurance and compensation process will become more complicated if one party does not carry insurance.
  • Only one vehicle is involved. An accident with a pedestrian or cyclist may be more complicated than a vehicular accident; in such cases, an attorney may be useful in determining liabilities.

It is not always easy to assess the legal ramifications of an accident. Speaking to a car accident attorney can help you more smoothly navigate an incident’s aftermath. Consider reaching out to a DC lawyer for personal injury cases from The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. today for further assistance. 

Personal Injury Law Statistics

According to the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, there were 2,027 total car accident injuries in 2020, with  37 of those being fatalities. Dealing with a car accident can be a traumatizing experience. Even if the accident is not life-threatening, the terror of the immediate moment and the headache of its aftermath can be extremely disconcerting. Understanding how to respond to an accident is essential to make sure the incident is properly managed in accordance with all legal requirements. Determining whether you need the assistance of an attorney may also be necessary after an accident.

How are personal injuries caused?

People can be injured by negligence, defective products, automobile accidents (cars/trucks), or slip and fall cases. The statute of limitations in each of these cases must be followed in order to maintain the victim’s personal injury claim, which means that it becomes more difficult with every passing year, which is why you need to act fast if you haven’t already! 

What is a personal injury lawyer?

A personal injury lawyer DC is an attorney who helps people who have been injured file lawsuits against the person or company that caused their injuries. 

When it comes to personal injury cases, you need the best legal representation possible. Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. is a trusted and experienced law firm that can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. With over 25 years of experience, we know what it takes to win your case. Contact us today for a free consultation to find out how we can help you!

How do I know if I need a personal injury lawyer?

When you are injured in an accident, it can be difficult to know what to do. If you are not sure if you require a personal injury lawyer, here are some things to consider. 

Depending on whether the injury was caused by negligence or intentionally, you may have a case. When an insurance company offers you a settlement that is substantially lower than what you believe your case is worth, it may be time to contact a personal injury lawyer DC. Taking legal action may be the best solution if you are struggling emotionally or financially as a result of your injury.

What can a personal injury lawyer do for me?

When you are injured through no fault of your own, it can be a very difficult time. You may not know where to turn for help. A personal injury lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. They will work with you to build a case and make sure you get the best possible outcome. Contact the Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. today to find out how they can help you.

Should I contact a personal injury lawyer after an accident?

It depends on the severity of your injuries and whether there is insurance coverage. If the accident was not your fault, and you have significant injuries, contact a personal injury lawyer right away to determine if it is worth filing a lawsuit.

If you have been injured in an accident, you need to consult with a personal injury lawyer DC as soon as possible. Many people assume that they can handle the legal process themselves, but this is often not the case. The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. has over 25 years of experience helping individuals just like you get the compensation they deserve for their injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation to see if we can help you move forward with your case.

DC Personal Injury Laws

Navigating Legal Pathways With Expertise

Embarking on a legal journey in the aftermath of a personal injury can be an intricate and taxing endeavor. In the District of Columbia, a thorough understanding of the relevant laws is imperative to traverse through the multifaceted personal injury terrain. The advocacy and proficiency of a DC personal injury lawyer can be instrumental in ensuring that your rights are preserved and your claims are articulated effectively.

Fathom The Depth Of Contributory Negligence

One of the pivotal aspects to comprehend in District of Columbia’s personal injury law is the stringent adherence to the doctrine of contributory negligence. Unlike comparative negligence that allows partial compensation if the claimant is partially at fault, the DC law stipulates that even a minimal (1%) fault on the part of the injured party can negate the possibility of securing any compensation. Thus, the advocacy, guidance, and strategic planning provided by a seasoned DC personal injury lawyer become paramount in establishing a robust case, devoid of any attributions of negligence to the claimant.

Statutory Limitations And Timely Filing

In Washington D.C., the statute of limitations establishes a stringent temporal frame within which a personal injury claim must be initiated. Typically, the window for filing a personal injury lawsuit is restricted to three years from the date of the injury. The implications of this timeline are pivotal, as any attempt to pursue a claim beyond this period is usually barred, irrespective of the merits of the case. Knowledgeable lawyers ensure that all procedural timelines and protocols are meticulously adhered to, safeguarding your right to legal recourse.

Discovering The Intricacies Of Damages

Understanding and strategically pursuing damages is another facet where the expertise of a legal professional becomes pivotal. In D.C., damages are broadly categorized into economic and non-economic damages. While economic damages, such as medical expenses and lost wages, are quantifiable and tangible, non-economic damages, like pain and suffering, require adept legal prowess to be effectively articulated and substantiated in the court of law. Moreover, in certain instances, punitive damages may also be pursued, designed not to compensate the victim, but to penalize the defendant for egregiously negligent conduct and deter similar future actions.

The Law Firm Of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. – Your Ally In Pursuit Of Justice

In the pursuit of justice and rightful compensation, aligning yourself with experienced legal counsel, such as The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., provides you with a valuable ally. The nuanced understanding and strategic application of D.C. personal injury laws by an adept DC personal injury lawyer provide you not only with robust representation but also ensure that your legal journey is navigated with precision, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to securing your rightful restitution.

Start Your Journey Towards Justice Now

Allow us to be the beacon that guides you through the complex terrain of personal injury law in the District of Columbia. Commence your pursuit of justice and rightful compensation by reaching out to us today. With our expert legal team by your side, illuminate the path towards securing your rights, recovering your dues, and rebuilding a future defined by justice and assurance. Let’s embark on this journey together – your first step begins with a conversation with our adept legal team.

Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., DC Personal Injury Lawyer

922 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Suite 100, Washington, DC 20003

 


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“Mr Brynn did a good job but i was told my case would stay open because a bill was paid out of my settlement that shouldnt have been paid. But he did such a good job that once again I’m using his services”
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