What to Look for in a Workplace Accident Attorney

Posted on 5/28/13 by Pat Maloney

When you’ve been hurt on the job, you’re likely due compensation for your medical bills, the income you’ve lost, and more. This could be through workers’ compensation coverage or you may need to file an injury claim against your employer, coworker, or other third party who caused your accident. To determine the best form of action for your particular injury, it’s best to consult a workplace accident attorney. They can guide you through the workers’ comp process, or, if necessary, help you file a legal claim for compensation.

However, how do you go about finding a workplace accident attorney? And what exactly do you look for when considering candidates? Follow our handy guide below:

Are you looking for a workplace accident attorney? Look no further than Pat Maloney. Board certified and highly experienced, Maloney can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call 210-226-8888 today!

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Workplace Accidents: Proving Employer Responsibility

Posted on 5/15/13 by Pat Maloney

When you’re hurt on the job, you may be eligible to seek compensation and payment for your medical bills through a workers’ compensation claim. In filing this type of claim, there is no need to prove employer responsibility or liability in your accident. You simply must meet a few basic requirements.

Workers’ Comp Claims

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault type of insurance coverage. It is not necessary to prove employer responsibility when an accident occurs.

In order to be eligible for workers’ comp, you must meet these requirements:

Your accident and injury must have occurred during the course of employment/You must not have willfully caused your own injury out of misconduct, intoxication, or recklessness.Your employer must carrier workers’ compensation insurance.

You also must notify your employer of your intent to file a claim within 30 days of the accident. Otherwise, you will lose your right to workers’ comp benefits.

Civil Claims

If your employer does not have workers’ compensation insurance, you can still seek compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering if you’re hurt on the job. You may even be due punitive damages if the accident occurred out of significant negligence or recklessness.

To seek these damages, you would need to file a civil claim against the employer, coworker, or third party who caused the accident. In this case, you may need to prove employer responsibility or negligence in order to win the claim and be compensated.

Determining Next Steps

When you’re hurt on the job, it’s always best to consult a legal professional. They can advise you as to the type of claim to file – either workers’ comp or a civil one – and assist you in filing and proving your case, if necessary.

Were you injured at work? Call the Law Offices of Pat Maloney at 210-226-8888 today to get started.

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18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer: Causes and Prevention of Big Rig Wrecks

Posted on 4/6/13 by Pat Maloney

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, truck accidents killed more than 3,600 people and injured another 80,000 in 2010 alone. Unfortunately, many of these accidents were likely preventable. Help prevent these accidents from happening to you and your loved ones by learning more about truck wrecks from 18 wheeler accident lawyer Pat Maloney.

Common Causes of Truck Wrecks

According to 18 wheeler accident lawyer Pat Maloney, semi-truck and big rig wrecks can happen for a number of reasons. Some may be attributed to the truck driver themselves, while others are the fault of the other driver or party involved.

Truck drivers often get in wrecks by:

Not receiving adequate training or licensing.Driving drowsy, especially after working long hours or at night.Speeding, in an attempt to meet strict work schedules.Failing to maintain their truck or trailer.Driving distracted, using their cell phone, texting, or eating.Making a traffic error.Using drugs or consuming alcohol before driving.Inadequately securing or balancing their cargo or load.

Other drivers can cause these wrecks by:

Driving in the blind spots of large trucks and big rigs.Making a left turn in front of an oncoming truck at a crossroad or intersection.Changing lanes too quickly in front of a truck.Merging onto a highway in front of a truck.Unsafely passing a truck or failing to signal before passing.Failing to change speed accordingly when a truck merges or gets in front of a vehicle.

Truck wrecks are often caused by defective equipment, brake failure, or other problems within the vehicle as well. If you’ve been the victim of a recent truck wreck, contact 18 wheeler accident lawyer Pat Maloney today to discuss your legal options.

Prevention of Big Rig Wrecks

Many times, truck accidents can be prevented. In order to avoid getting in a truck wreck of your own, follow these tips from 18 wheeler accident lawyer Pat Maloney.

For truck drivers:

Never drive drowsy. Always adhere to the rules of service regulations and never push yourself just to meet deadlines. If you’re feeling tired, pull over to the side of the road and take a nap before continuing on.Be aware of your blind spots. Be aware of where cars are around you at all times, especially when preparing to change lanes or pass another vehicle.Keep your distance. Never follow another vehicle too closely. Trucks take a much longer time to stop than traditional passenger vehicles. If the truck in front of you is forced to stop quickly, you could rear-end them.Maintain your truck. Ensure your vehicle is properly inspected and in working order before each and every trip. Additionally, make sure any and all cargo is securely fastened and balanced in your trailer.

For drivers of nearby vehicles:

Avoid driving along the sides of trucks or directly behind them; these are the driver’s blind spots. If you are forced to drive in these areas, make sure you signal first, and that you make efforts to change lanes as soon as possible.Never cut off a truck, and be careful when merging in front of one on a highway.If you see an unsafe truck driver, call the number listed on their truck to report the behavior.Steer clear of trucks that are turning. Big rigs have a large turn radius and have to swing wide before making a turn; if you’re too close, your vehicle may be right in the truck’s path.

Were you recently injured in a truck wreck? You could be due compensation. Call 210-226-8888 to discuss your legal options with an 18 wheeler accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Pat Maloney.

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OSHA Construction Safety 101

Posted on 5/25/13 by Pat Maloney

OSHA has standards and regulations for all employers, no matter what industry they’re a part of. There are, however, a few sectors considered more dangerous than most. For these, OSHA has created industry-specific safety standards all employers must follow. One such industry is construction. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 4 percent of all construction workers are injured on the job every year. Due to this high rate of injury, there are numerous OSHA construction safety standards all employers in the industry must follow.

Some highlights of these OSHA construction safety standards include:

First aid and medical care must be made available and easily accessible for all employees. If there is no hospital or physician reasonably accessible to the construction site, a person with valid first aid training must be on site at all times.All fire protection equipment must be maintained, and fire extinguishers must be made available. The employer also should have a fire protection program in place.All work areas, passageways, and stairwells must be kept clear of scraps, nails, and debris.Any combustible debris must be removed regularly, and a safe means for its removal must be provided.There should be on-site containers for hazardous or flammable waste. These must be kept separately from other waste and trash, and be fitted with a cover.All construction areas, stairs, ramps, shops, storage areas, and offices must be lit with natural or artificial lights while work is in progress.Protective equipment and gear must be provided for all employees. This includes equipment for the eyes, face, head, and extremities, as well as protective clothing, respiratory devices, protective shields, and more.There must be an adequate supply of water in all places where workers are present. Water containers should be marked as such and used only for water and no other liquids.Toilets and urinals must be provided on site. When there are 20 employees, there must be at least one toilet. For 20 to 200 workers, there must be one toilet and one urinal for every 40 workers. If there are 200 or more workers, there must be a toilet and a urinal for every 50.All power tools and equipment must be maintained and kept in good condition. All belts, gears, shafts, pulleys, and other moving parts of these tools must be guarded, to prevent employee contact.All scaffolding should be able to support its own weight, as well as at least four times its maximum intended load.All ramps and walkways more than six feet above ground must have guard rails in place.Any equipment or vehicles left unattended must be fitted with reflectors or lights.All vehicles on the site must be equipped to emit a signal when reversing.

There are hundreds more OSHA construction safety standards, covering everything from the demolition of chutes and the use of explosives to on-site cranes and training requirements.

Violations of OSHA Construction Safety Standards

Since construction sites are such dangerous places, it’s crucial that employers follow the OSHA construction safety standards to the letter.  If they don’t, they may be issued a violation from OSHA, which will require them to amend the issue. If the employer fails to fix the issue, they may be issued additional violations, or they could face fines or jail time.

OSHA has the authority to conduct random inspections and ensure employers are following all safety regulations. They also may conduct inspections in response to employee complaints.  Any employee who sees safety hazards or risks on their job site should get in contact with their local OSHA office immediately.

After an Injury

Were you hurt because your employer failed to follow OSHA construction safety standards? Call the Law Offices of Pat Maloney at 210-226-8888 today.

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Employer Responsibility: Ensuring Safety on Construction Sites

Posted on 4/12/13 by Pat Maloney

Construction is a dangerous line of work. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2011, it was the second most dangerous industry in the country, second only to transportation. There were more than 700 construction-related fatalities that year and, on average, four out of every 100 workers suffered an injury. Because of the high rates of injuries and fatalities associated with this line of work, there is an employer responsibility to provide employees with a safe, hazard-free work environment.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration even outlines several standards and practices for employers in the construction industry to follow; these address everything from equipment and tool maintenance to fire safety precautions and first aid. Failure to follow OSHA’s standards for employer responsibility can result in a citation, fine, or jail time.

Workers can also do their part to keep the workplace safe by:

Putting up all tools and equipment safely and securely after using them.Never operating machinery or equipment they are not trained to handle.Always wearing protective gear, including gloves, a hard hat, closed toe shoes, and more.Reporting any unsafe conditions immediately to a supervisor or the local OSHA office.Fully inspecting scaffolding and ladders before climbing up.Being careful when getting on or off equipment, especially near roadways or on slopes.Never working while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.Always lifting with the knees, not the back.Knowing where all first aid kits and fire extinguishers are on site.

If you were injured on a construction site because employer responsibility was not met or because of the negligence of a coworker or other third party, you could be due worker’s compensation or have grounds for a legal claim. Call 210-226-8888 to discuss your options with an attorney at the Law Offices of Pat Maloney today.

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Truck Accident Law Firms: Sorting the Good from the Bad

Posted on 4/27/13 by Pat Maloney

When you’ve been hurt in a truck accident, you need to connect with a lawyer – and fast. A lawyer can help ensure you’re compensated for the injuries and damage caused and that you’re not stuck footing the bill for something that wasn’t your fault. Unfortunately, there are thousands of truck accident law firms out there. How can you be sure you’re getting the right one? What should you look out for when sorting the good firms from the bad? Simply follow our handy guide to choosing truck accident law firms below.

Look for truck accident law firms with experience. First and foremost, you want a law firm that has extensive experience in handling truck accident cases. They should have managed hundreds of cases, have years of practice under their belts, and know the ins and outs of truck accident laws and regulations like the back of their hand. This will best ensure your claim goes quickly, smoothly, and efficiently and also that you receive the maximum compensation possible. In addition to having experience in truck accident cases, you also want to be sure they have experience both in settling cases out of court and in a trial setting. You never know what your claim may require, so you need to be sure you have the utmost experience and knowledge on your side.Keep an eye out for board certification. If you really want to sort the good truck accident law firms from the bad, be on the lookout for lawyers who are board certified. Board certification shows that the attorney has a high level of knowledge, expertise, and dedication to their specific field. They’re committed to serving their community, they’re highly regarded by their peers, and they’re dedicated to continuing their education. Only a select few lawyers in the state have this level of recognition. In the case of a truck accident, you’ll want an attorney who is board certified in personal injury law. With them on your side, you’ll have the greatest chances of success in your claim.Steer clear of firms without testimonials or reviews. A lack of client testimonials or reviews is one of the biggest red flags you can come across when searching for truck accident law firms. Client reviews and testimonials show that a firm is vouched for: that their past clients and customers have been satisfied with their work and seen real, viable results. If a firm you’re considering doesn’t have any testimonials or reviews from past clients on their website or marketing material, it may be time to start looking at other options.Seek out firms with local connections and knowledge. You want to be able to get your case wrapped up quickly, so you can pay your medical bills, repair costs, and more. There’s no better way to do that to make sure your attorney has the right resources and connections to pull from. They should have relationships with local experts, in case you need a medical expert witness or other type of testimony, and they should be well-acquainted with the process of requesting police reports, trucking logs, and other pieces of evidence in your area. Additionally, they should know the local legal scene and be familiar with area judges, attorneys, and courts. All of this can help your case be more successful and profitable overall.

Are you having trouble find good truck accident law firms in your area? Then you need the Law Offices of Pat Maloney. With more than three decades of legal experience under his belt, Pat Maloney can help you see success in your truck accident claim. Call us today at 210-226-8888 to get started.

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Employer Responsibility: Ensuring Safety on the Job

Posted on 5/20/13 by Pat Maloney

No matter what type of industry you work in, there is an inherent employer responsibility to provide you with a safe and hazard-free working environment. Your employer should establish and enforce workplace safety protocols and abide by all standards set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA. Failure to do so can result in dangerous and even life-threatening injuries and accidents to you or your fellow workers.

OSHA and Employer Responsibility

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, all employers have a responsibility to provide a “safe and healthful” workplace. In order to ensure this, OSHA has established hundreds of safety standards for employers to abide by. There are specific standards set forth for employers in the construction, maritime, agriculture, and recordkeeping industries. If an employer does not comply with OSHA standards, they can be issued a citation and, if the error is not corrected, even face fines or jail time.

When Injury Occurs

Even though there is employer responsibility to provide a safe workplace, this unfortunately does not always happen. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2011 alone, there were nearly 3 million workplace injuries and 4,600 job-related fatalities in the United States.

When a worker is injured on the job, they may be eligible to apply for workers’ compensation benefits or, if their employer does not have workers’ comp coverage, file a civil claim against the at-fault party. If a worker is killed in the line of duty, their survivors may be due the benefits of these claims instead.

Getting Help

Were you hurt on the job because your employer failed to provide a safe workplace? Then you could be due compensation through workers’ comp or a civil claim. Call the Law Offices of Pat Maloney today at 210-226-8888 to begin discussing your legal options.

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Tips for Filing a Successful Third Party Insurance Claim

Posted on 5/9/13 by Pat Maloney

When you’re in a wreck caused by another driver, you’ll need to file a third party insurance claim. A third party insurance claim is filed with the other driver’s insurance carrier and can compensate you for your car repairs, medical bills, and any other costs you’ve incurred because of the accident. Unfortunately, all too often, insurance companies offer victims a low-ball settlement amount – something much less than they are actually due.

Were you in a wreck? Follow these tips to ensure your third party insurance claim compensates you as much as possible:

Make sure to file an accident report with the police. These reports are an integral piece of evidence in insurance claims and can help prove the other driver’s fault in the wreck.Be thorough when getting information from the other driver. Get details on their insurance carrier and policy number, full name, address, phone number, license plate, driver’s license number, and more.Get the name and phone number of anyone who may have witnessed the accident. They can help testify on your behalf if necessary.Contact an attorney who specializes in accident law. They can ensure you don’t settle for less than you’re due.Take photographs of the accident and any damage done to your vehicle. These can be used as evidence in the claim.Write down detailed notes about the accident while they are still fresh in your mind. This can help ensure you don’t forget anything important as time passes.Save any bills or receipts related to your injuries or the damage to your car. These can be used to assess how much you are due in your claim.Get your car evaluated by an independent auto garage – not one recommended by the insurance company.

Following these tips can give your claim a better chance of success. Need more help or guidance in filing your third party insurance claim? Call the Law Offices of Pat Maloney at 210-226-8888 today.

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Serious Personal Injury Lawyer: Building a Successful Injury Claim

Posted on 4/22/13 by Pat Maloney

If you’ve been seriously injured, you have the right to compensation. Unfortunately, personal injury claims can be highly complicated and, often, difficult to win. For the highest likelihood of success, it’s always best to consult a serious personal injury lawyer before proceeding with your case. A serious personal injury lawyer will start from the beginning, pulling all the necessary pieces together to ensure you have the most successful case possible.

They will:

Evaluate your case’s worth.

First, a serious personal injury lawyer will look at your case and evaluate its overall worth. They’ll look at the medical bills you’ve incurred, the pain you’ve had to endure, and the quality of your life since the injury. In the end, they’ll put together an estimate of what they expect your case to garner.

File necessary paperwork.

Personal injury claims require a large amount of paperwork. From filing court documents to issuing preservation letters, a serious personal injury lawyer can help with it all. They’ll make sure everything is completed, filed, and submitted on time in order to make your case successful.

Gather evidence.

One of the best ways a serious personal injury lawyer can help your case is through gathering evidence. They can obtain security camera footage, medical records, police reports, and anything else necessary to show the at-fault party is liable and responsible for your injuries.

Line up witness testimony.

A lawyer can also help you set up witness testimony. They may contact witnesses from the scene of the accident, using their testimony to support your case. They also may consider expert witnesses, who can attest to details surrounding your accident, your injuries, and other factors in your case.

Prepare you for statements.

After you’ve been seriously injured, you’ll likely be contacted by the at-fault party’s insurance provider, asking for a recorded statement regarding the incident. Many times, insurance companies will use these statements to prove victims contributed in some way to their own accident or injuries, thus entitling them to a lower settlement. A serious personal injury lawyer will help you prepare a statement that gives a truthful account of your accident, while not jeopardizing your case or the compensation you are due.

Negotiate on your behalf.

Many times, insurance companies will offer victims much less than they are due, in hopes they will settle quickly. A lawyer can help ensure you don’t settle unless the number’s right. They’re review any settlement offers you receive and make sure they’re an adequate amount to cover your medical bills, pain, suffering, and other expenses you’ve incurred. If they’re not up to par, they’ll negotiate on your behalf, in an effort to get you the compensation you deserve.

Represent you in court.

In the end, if you’re not getting the settlement offer you need to handle your injuries and related bills, your lawyer can help you file a legal claim against the at-fault party. Through this, you may even be able to seek funds for punitive damages, if the defendant’s behavior was particularly reckless or negligent.

Distribute your settlement.

Finally, once all is said and done, your lawyer can assist in distributing and managing your settlement funds. They’ll ensure anyone owed a debt associated with your injury gets paid (such as your doctors, repair shop, etc.), and they’ll also take out any attorney’s fees you initially agreed upon. Then, you’ll get your chunk of the settlement and your case will be closed.

Want to learn more about how a serious personal injury lawyer can help ensure your claim is the most successful it can be? Then call the Law Offices of Pat Maloney today at 210-226-8888.

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What is a Third Party Insurance Claim?

Posted on 5/2/13 by Pat Maloney

There are two distinct types of claims when you get in a car or truck accident: a first party insurance claim and a third party insurance claim. A first party insurance claim is filed with your own insurance carrier, either because the accident was your fault or the other driver had no insurance. It’s also used in cases of theft, vandalism, and other incidents when the at-fault party is not present. A third party insurance claim, on the other hand, is filed with the other driver’s insurance carrier. This type of claim is necessary when the wreck is the other driver’s fault, either in whole or in part.

Through a third party insurance claim, you can seek recompense for damages to your car, as well as medical bills for any injuries you’ve suffered. In the event your car is totaled, the claim will usually award you an Actual Cash Value, so you can replace your vehicle. They may also pay fees for any rental cars you must use in the meantime.

There is no guarantee you will be paid in full for all of your injuries and damages, however. The amount you will receive depends on the exact specifics of your case and how much of a role you are determined to have played in the wreck. If the other driver’s insurance can show that you shared some of the blame in causing the accident to happen, you will only receive a portion of the funds you are seeking.

Ultimately, the insurance company will make you a settlement offer after evaluating your case and the accident. In order to determine if you are being offered a fair amount for your injuries and damages, it’s always best to consult an attorney before accepting a settlement or signing any paperwork. An attorney can ensure you’re being treated and compensated fairly.

Need help with your third party insurance claim? Call the Law Offices of Pat Maloney today at at 210-226-8888 to get started.

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Car Accidents: Third Party Insurance vs. First Party Claims

Posted on 4/16/13 by Pat Maloney

When you’ve been in a car accident, you’ll likely need to file a claim with either your insurance company or the other party’s in order to recoup costs for your car repairs, medical bills, and other expenses incurred. These are called first party and third party insurance claims.

However, how do you know which type of claim you should file for your wreck? What can you expect with each type? Learn more about filing a car accident claim below.

Third Party Insurance Claims

A third party insurance claim is one filed with the insurance company of another driver involved. If the accident was the fault of another driver, even only partially, you will need to file this type of claim. Through a third party claim, the other driver’s insurance will cover the costs of your car repairs and damages or, in the event your car is totaled, provide you with the actual cash value of the vehicle.

If you were injured, the insurance company will likely offer you a settlement amount to cover your medical costs. It’s best you discuss any settlement offers with a qualified attorney before accepting.

First Party Insurance Claims

A first party insurance claim is one filed with your personal insurance company. If you’re involved in any accident, even if it’s not your fault, you may file this type of claim. If the accident is your fault, your insurance will help cover your costs, as well as costs the other driver may have suffered during the course of the wreck. If the other driver was at fault and their insurance doesn’t pay all of your repair or medical bills, your first party claim may help you cover them.

Additionally, if your car was stolen, vandalized, or otherwise harmed, you would also file a first party claim, and your personal insurance company would compensate you for the damages and repairs per your policy agreement.

Were you recently in an accident? Discover whether you should file a first party or third party insurance claim by calling the Law Offices of Pat Maloney at 210-226-8888 today.

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Traffic Fatalities Increasing On Eagle Ford Shale Roads

A long suspected trend has more statistics to back it up: As the Eagle Ford Shale oil boom continues to grow, the oil field roads between Corpus Christi and San Antonio are becoming more and more deadly.

According to a new report by the Texas Department of Transportation just released last Friday, in the 23-county Eagle Ford Shale area, fatal traffic accidents have increased 40%, with 248 fatalities, and 2,723 crashes with fatal or serious injuries. 9% of these car accidents involved commercial vehicles, with some counties reporting increases of over ten times the previous year’s numbers.

In response, the Texas Department of Transportation, in conjunction with the Department of Public Safety and several oil and gas companies, is launching a new public education campaign to encourage safe driving in energy work zones: “Be Safe. Drive Smart.”  The campaign focuses on basic safety precautions that sometimes fall by the wayside when in rural areas: drive a safe speed; pass carefully; always stop at red lights and stop signs; avoid using cell phones while driving; and of course, buckle up.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in the Eagle Ford Shale or Corpus Christi area, get a free consultation now with an experienced serious injury attorney from the Brunkenhoefer Law Firm.  Robert Brunkenhoefer is committed to getting justice for those injured through no fault of their own, and has over 40 years experience representing car accident victims throughout the Eagle Ford Shale and Corpus Christi area, including Alice, Kingsville, San Antonio, Robistown, Portland, Kenedy, Three Rivers, Karns City, Quero, George West, Oakville, Whitsett, Peggy, Port Aransas, Rockport, Victoria, McAllen, Refugio, as well as throughout Bexar County, Cameron County, Nueces County, and Webb County.  Call now, toll free: 1 (800) 888-8808.

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What If I’m In A Car Accident With An Uninsured Motorist?

One of the biggest problems you can run into if you’re in a car accident is if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance. What can you do?  When there is no insurance, it looks like your only option to recover is to sue the at-fault driver personally.  But if that driver doesn’t have money or assets to pay for your damages, then in most cases, you would recover little or nothing even if you won in court.

In Texas, the risk posed by uninsured motorists is greater than in other parts of the country.  According to the Texas Department of Insurance figures (last updated in February, 2013), There are over 2,700,000 uninsured Texan drivers.  In some counties, roughly one in every four drivers is uninsured.  Of importance to Corpus Christi drivers, in Nueces County, about 17% are uninsured.

Usually, Texas minimum insurance collision coverage only covers damage to others.  Fortunately, there is something you can do to protect yourself and your family.  In Texas, there are two kinds of insurance coverage you must be offered by law that can protect you from uninsured drivers:  (1) you are given the option to buy uninsured motorist coverage, or UM, and (2) you are given the option to buy personal injury protection, or PIP.  These types of coverage are meant to pay out if you are in an accident and the at-fault driver does not have insurance.  If you choose these coverages, it will increase your premiums by several dollars a month (the exact cost varies from carrier to carrier–talk to your insurance agent about your personal situation).  But given the odds, the real question is: can you afford to not get one or both of these coverages?

Whether you have UM and PIP coverage or not, your best option is to discuss the details of your accident with an experienced car accident attorney.  A good auto accident lawyer can evaluate your unique situation and see what options you could have to recover for your injuries.  For instance, if the at fault driver was working at the time, his employer could be liable even if the driver is uninsured.

If you have been in a car accident, take advantage of the free consultation offered by the Brunkenhoefer Law Firm and discuss how you can recover your damages.  Get the advice of an experienced car accident attorney.  The attorneys of the Brunkenhoefer Law Firm have fought for the victims of personal injury in South Texas for over 37 years, in Corpus Christi, Alice, Kingsville, Victoria, San Antonio, Robstown, Portland, and Kennedy.  Contact an experienced Corpus Christi car accident lawyer at (361) 888-8808 today for a free consultation.

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Grand Prairie Crash Claims Life of Third Child

The tragedy of a devastating car accident can strike anytime, anywhere – and anyone. The worst part of being the victim of an accident is that the person who was not at fault often suffers as much if not more than the driver of the vehicle that caused the wreck. If you have been involved in an accident, a car accident attorney in Corpus Christi can help you get the settlement you deserve and help you get your life back on track.

Recent accident ends in tragedy

Sadly, a Grand Prairie family recently learned how heavy a toll a car accident can take. The family of six was headed west on I-30 when their car stalled in the left lane of the freeway. The father called police for help then got out of the car to attempt to direct traffic away from his vehicle. Before officers arrived on the scene, a pickup truck collided with the family’s car from behind.

A young girl was killed on impact, and her three siblings were rushed to the hospital. The oldest girl died later that night, and the youngest brother died two days later in the hospital. Both parents, as well as one boy survived.

Work with a lawyer to get help

There is undoubtedly not much that a car accident attorney in Corpus Christi could possibly do to assuage the grief these survivors or others like them feel. However, an auto accident attorney in Corpus Christi would most likely be able to help them get settlement money to at least cover funeral expenses and immediate medical bills resulting from the crash.

If you have been involved in a serious car accident, don’t hesitate to call a car accident lawyer in Corpus Christi. He or she will be able to take on much of the burden of legal matters related to the case so that you have more time and energy to deal with the emotional toll the accident has had on you and your family. Why try to do everything on your own when you have a support network available to you? Instead, call the Brunkenhoefer Law Firm at (361) 888-8808 today for a free consultation regarding your case.

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The Importance of Honesty in the Legal System

If you are involved in a car accident that was the fault of another person, your first step should be to seek quality medical attention for your injuries. However, it’s also important to think ahead to what will happen when the bills for that medical attention start rolling in. It’s important for your future that you retain a car accident lawyer in Corpus Christi to help you navigate the legal system in an honest and dignified manner.

The Qualities of a Good Lawyer

A good Car accident lawyer in Corpus Christi will be experienced, established, and aggressive in pursuing your best interests. Perhaps the most important quality to look for when you are searching for car accident attorneys in Corpus Christi is the level of integrity the attorney possesses. There are several reasons that integrity and honesty are important in an attorney.

Trust and Loyalty

An attorney who is honest and straightforward in his or her dealings can also be depended upon to be honest and straightforward with you. When your attorney puts honesty at the top of the priority list during your case, you can rest assured that he will value his relationship with you. He will be trustworthy and loyal when working directly with you.

Avoid Mistakes

If your attorney is dishonest, you always run the risk of it being discovered. With a car accident lawyer in Corpus Christi who is committed to being honest, you gain the peace of mind of knowing that your settlement is fair and legal. Any misrepresentation from your attorney will backfire on you during your case.

An Honest Profession

Lawyers have a reputation for being unscrupulous and dishonest. But there are attorneys who are committed to representing their clients in an honest way and in making sure that the system works fairly for everyone. If you see signs of your attorney being dishonest, it may be time to move on to another individual. The results of your case may depend on the honesty of your attorney. Contact an experienced car accident lawyer in Corpus Christi at (800) 888-8808 today for a free consultation.

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Spring Break Brings Increased Accident Risks To Corpus Christi

Spring break traditionally brings an increase in traffic through Corpus Christi from students enjoying the warmer climate south Texas has to offer, with our own Padre Island being a popular destination.  However, with this influx of tourists, comes an increased risk of drunk drivers and traffic accidents in general.  Last year, there were over 1000 arrests for drunk driving made.  Between the increased risk of DUI, and distracted drivers texting and using their cell phones, we should all watch out for each other, and pay a little more attention in the coming week.

Drunk driving in Texas can be particularly deadly.  According to the annual NHTSD report, in 2011, 40% of all motor vehicle fatalities in Texas were alcohol related.  Additionally, study after study continues to show that distracted driving, particularly talking or texting on a cell phone can impair safe driving as much as, if not more than, alcohol.  Over 300,000 people in the U.S. were injured in 2011 due to car accidents attributed to distracted driving.

If the unthinkable happens, and you or your loved ones are injured in a drunk or distracted driving accident, the lawyers of the Brunkenhoefer Law Firm have substantial experience handling these kinds of accident cases. Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer now at (800) 888-8808 to discuss the legal options available to you. The Brunkenhoefer Law Firm has over 37 years experience representing drunk and distracted driving injury victims throughout southern Texas, including: Corpus Christi, Alice, Kingsville, San Antonio, Robistown, Portland, Kenedy, Three Rivers, Karns City, Quero, George West, Oakville, Whitsett, Peggy, Port Aransas, Rockport, Victoria, McAllen, Refugio, as well as throughout Bexar County, Cameron County, Nueces County, and Webb County. Contact an experienced Corpus Christi drunk/distracted driving accident lawyer from the Brunkenhoefer Law Firm at (800) 888-8808 today for a free consultation.

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Texas Plant Explosion Devastates the Town of West and Shocks the Nation

Everyone at Brunkenhoefer Law Firm would like to express our deepest sympathies for the victims of the catastrophic fertilizer plant explosion in West, Texas, this week. The blast, which happened at about 8 p.m. Wednesday night, has devastated the small town of West – and shocked the entire nation. The news of this tragedy, occurring as it did just one day after the Boston Marathon bombings, came as an overwhelming blow to an already grieving nation.

According to news reports, volunteer firefighters were battling a blaze at the West Fertilizer plant Wednesday night, when the plant exploded with a force equivalent to a 2.1-magnitude earthquake. The blast sent a massive fireball into the night sky and destroyed a large section of West, a small town of only 2,700 residents located about 20 miles north of Waco, Texas. The explosion rocked the community, leveling a nearby apartment complex and destroying at least 50 homes. Authorities and volunteers have been scouring the rubble in an attempt to find anyone who may still be trapped in the debris. At least 12 people have been confirmed dead so far and over 160 others have been injured. The cause of the initial blaze has not yet been determined.

The Sympathy and Support of the Nation

President Obama, as well as other lawmakers, celebrities and community leaders across the nation, have issued statements in support of the town of West and expressing sympathy to the victims of this tragedy. At Brunkenhoefer Law Firm, we join our fellow Texans and fellow Americans in extending our deepest condolences to the injured and the families of those killed in this unspeakable tragedy. To the residents of West and anyone else affected by this devastating plant explosion, our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Lasting Effects on the Community

Disasters such as this Texas plant explosion can have a long-lasting effect on a community and the emotional and psychological well-being of its residents. It can often take months, if not years, for a community to fully recover from a tragedy such as this one. After the dust settles and the injuries have healed, the dead have been mourned, and the debris has been cleared away, the community will undoubtedly demand answers as to what caused the explosion and who is to blame for the devastation. Holding responsible parties legally liable for the injuries and deaths that resulted from the explosion can go a long way in helping the community to heal.

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What to Expect in Oilfield Injury Cases

Oil workers who are injured on the job may file a lawsuit that falls under the category of oilfield injury cases. Due to the nature of the work involved in offshore injury cases, oil workers face a unique set of challenges to proving that they deserve compensation for their injuries. Even with the right safety measures in place, oilfield accidents and explosions often occur due to the negligence of the employer. In these situations, hiring an oilfield injury lawyer in Corpus Christi may be the best course of action.

A Dangerous Profession

Drilling for gas and oil offshore is a very dangerous profession. Over one hundred people are killed every year in oilfield accidents in the oil and gas drilling industry. Without the right Corpus Christi offshore injury lawyer, the families of these individuals are left in mourning with no justice for their loss, and no way to pay many of their bills.

Since the mid-90s, oil professionals working in the Gulf of Mexico have maintained a steady rate of one death every 45 days. The factors that cause these tragedies are often a regular occurrence. Following safety procedures is of the utmost importance in this profession, and when employers fail to do so, an oilfield injury lawsuit may be necessary for injury victims to get the compensation they are entitled to by law.

Why an Attorney Is Necessary

Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your oil field accident, consulting a Corpus Christi oilfield injury attorney can set into motion a chain of events that can prove negligence on the part of your employer and provide for you and your family in the future. An experienced oilfield injury lawyer in Corpus Christi will discuss the specifics of your case with you and determine whether negligence or carelessness can be established on the part of your employer or others responsible for maintaining a safe job site.

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Why It’s Essential to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney After an Accident

A personal injury is defined as an injury that causes significant harm that is caused due to the negligence of another person. These injuries can be traumatic, and can drastically affect the future of the victim. Personal injuries can happen anywhere. It may happen at the workplace, outside a restaurant, or even at the home of your best friend. When you are hurt in any type of accident, your first step should be to hire a personal injury attorney in Corpus Christi in order to protect your rights.

Deciding Whether You Have a Case

In order to prevail in a personal injury claim, a Corpus Christi personal injury attorney must first be able to prove that the injury was a result of the negligence of another person. Rather than assuming that the injury was an accident and that you have no legal grounds to sue, you should consult personal injury lawyers in Corpus Christi that can help you to better understand the situation. In the case of a personal injury, an attorney can explain to you how negligence was involved and what your chances of winning are.

Taking on a Bully

If you are injured at work or at a place of business, it can seem intimidating to take on a large corporation to prove that you should be compensated. However, it is your right as a citizen to be taken care of financially after someone else has injured you. When you hire a personal injury attorney in Corpus Christi, you can rest assured that your rights will be protected and that your lawyer won’t be bullied out of getting you the compensation you deserve.

Important Payments After a Personal Injury

After a personal injury, there are many expenses you may need covered. Your medical bills will need to be paid, you may find yourself unable to work, and you may even need to modify your home if the injury resulted in a permanent disability. Hiring the right attorney can ensure that these and other expenses are taken care of, and that your future is secure despite your injury. Contact an experienced Corpus Christi injury attorney today at (361) 888-8808 for a free consultation.

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Package Bomb Blast Injures Family

A recent explosion changed the lives of a Brownsville family forever. That morning a package bomb delivered to the family’s home exploded, causing critical injuries to the homeowner, his wife, and their five-year-old daughter. The explosion also damaged a large portion of their home and left a fire burning in its wake. As devastating as the explosion was, it could have been a lot worse. Police officers and bomb technicians who responded to the scene located an additional three detonation devices inside the package. These three devices were disabled with the help of a remote device later on Friday afternoon. When this type of tragedy happens to a family, it is a good idea to contact a Corpus Christi personal injury lawyer for assistance.

The True Impact of the Blast

While this single package bomb caused extensive suffering to the family who received the package and to their home, the blast impacted many other people besides. Neighbors on all sides of the home had to be evacuated to a safe distance until authorities were able to screen the entire premises and disarm the other three bombs. These neighbors also had their Friday morning interrupted in a different, though still tragic, manner.

The Rights of Bystanders

The person or persons who sent that package bomb are guilty of several crimes and should be prosecuted for them. A personal injury lawyer could also bring numerous lawsuits against these people on behalf of the neighbors who were impacted by the crime. A personal injury attorney in Corpus Christi representing a neighbor would point out that their client experienced marked pain and suffering as a result of the guilty party’s criminal actions. That neighbor may be entitled to compensation.

A Lawyer Who’s on Your Side

There are numerous Corpus Christi personal injury attorneys and you need one who will stand up for your rights and represent you aggressively in court. Regardless of who caused your injury, you may be entitled to compensation. Only a Corpus Christi personal injury lawyer can tell you for certain, so arrange to speak to one as soon as possible. Call the Brunkenhoefer Law Firm at (361) 888-8808 today for a free consultation regarding your case.

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New Survey: Adult Drivers Drive And Text More Than Teens?

Last week, AT&T released the results of a new survey that suggests adult commuters may text while driving more than teens. According to the survey, 49% of commuting adults (compared to 43% of the teens in a separate survey) admitted to texting while driving, despite 98% of respondents acknowledging that sending a text or email while driving isn’t safe.

What’s even more serious is that the survey suggests the problem may be growing.  60% of the commuters indicated they had never texted while driving three years ago, and over 40% admitted they text habitually.  As adults have gradually adopted texting as a form of communication, the dangers of texting while driving are also on the rise for these newer users.

Despite public awareness efforts trying to educate the public on the hazards of texting, there are hundreds of thousands of injuries due to distracted driving on the road each year according to the NHTSA.  If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident due to a distracted driver, you should consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer from the Brunkenhoefer Law Firm to discuss your legal options.  The attorneys of the Brunkenhoefer Law Firm have over 37 years experience representing the victims of personal injury throughout South Texas, in Corpus Christi, Alice, Kingsville, Victoria, San Antonio, Robstown, Portland, and Kennedy.  Contact an experienced Corpus Christi car accident lawyer at (361) 888-8808 today for a free consultation.

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