Attorney Blog

Preparing for a Consultation with an Austin Personal Injury Lawyer

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you’ve been injured and are considering an accident claim, a lawyer may be your best option for recovering the maximum amount of damages as compensation for your injuries and expenses.

Many attorneys recommend and even encourage a consultation at the beginning of any business, and most lawyers offer consultations free of charge. You can use this consultation as a tool to help you locate an Austin personal injury lawyer who is right for your case.

Prior to your consultation, prepare some questions that will help you get as much out of the meeting as possible. Your questions should cover:

the attorney’s credentials;
the attorney’s experience;
their case load;
the firm’s billing procedures;
how the attorney would handle your case; and
any obstacles or challenges he or she anticipates.

While you’re in consultation, you should also ask about whether or not the attorney you are speaking to will pursue the case through trial, if a settlement is unlikely to be reached. If they’re not, ask if they have an attorney to whom they would refer your case.

It’s not always easy to find a Texas lawyer whose background and experience is compatible with the requirements of your case, so be prepared to dedicate some time for thorough evaluation to your inquiries.

Contacting an Austin Personal Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring a compensation claims lawyer, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Not every accident case requires the help of an accident claim lawyer and we can help you to determine whether yours is one of those cases! If you are ready to get started with your case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – 512-472-7799.

Man in Critical Condition after Being Struck by 2 Cars near New Braunfels

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

January 18, 2012 – New Braunfels, Texas – A man suffered critical injuries when he was struck by 2 cars on Sunday morning, January 15.

KVUE reports that the accident happened shortly before 5 a.m. on State Highway 46. According to witnesses on the scene, the man was wearing black clothing when he stumbled into the roadway. The man was first hit by a southbound Jeep Grand Cherokee, then immediately hit again by a second vehicle.

The man, Juan Montoya, was critically injures in the accident. He had to be flown to a hospital in San Antoniofor medical treatment. Montoya remained in critical condition as of Sunday night.

Both of the drivers involved in the accident remained on the scene and have cooperated with police. There has been no word on whether or not charges will be filed in connection with this accident.

The identities of the drivers have not been released to the public.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

If you have been named in this blog or you are the victim's family member or friend and would like the blog removed from our website, please feel free to contact us and we will promptly accommodate your request.

Sneaky Tactics Insurance Adjusters Use to Take Advantage of You After a Car Accident

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Do you know what to do after a car accident? Chances are you probably don’t, and an insurance adjuster is banking on it. After you file a personal injury insurance claim, an adjuster will call to discuss a settlement. To avoid paying out Texas insurance claims, these companies sometimes use deceptive methods to get you to accept an insufficient settlement. If an insurance adjuster calls, it’s best to consult with a Texas insurance lawyer before accepting any offers.

Deceitful Techniques Insurance Companies Use

Musical Chairs – It’s common to speak with a different representative each time you’re contacted by an insurance company. Adjusters are often reassigned to confuse you or to get you to change your story.

Helping you Visualize the Money – A very powerful tool adjusters use to get you to settle is theoretically spending your money for you, i.e. “We can offer you $2,500, enough for a nice vacation.” When you think of things you want and how this money can pay for them, you could be more likely to settle.

Calling at Inconvenient Times – While they want time to explain their position, adjusters want to give you as little time to refute as possible. You may find that you receive phone calls in the early morning right before you go to work or during the holiday season when they know you’ll be busy.

Don’t let an adjuster take advantage of you if you don’t know what to do after a car accident. Educate yourself about Texas insurance claims and arm yourself with a hardworking Texas insurance lawyer to maximize your personal injury insurance claim compensation.

Contacting a Texas Insurance Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim can fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Not every accident case requires the help of an attorney and we can help you to determine whether yours is one of those cases! If you are ready to get started with your case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – 1-512-472-7799.

Liberty Hill Accident Hospitalizes Sheriff's Deputy and Another Driver

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

January 17, 2012 – Liberty Hill, Texas – A Williamson County Sheriff’s Deputy and another driver were injured in a car accident on Monday, January 16.

KVUE reports that the accident occurred at the intersection of Highway 29 and 183. According to John Foster, with the Williamson County Sheriff’s Department, the deputy had his lights and sirens on and was en route to a high priority call when the accident occurred. The deputy’s vehicle crashed into a second vehicle.

Both the deputy and the female driver of the second vehicle were injured in the accident. The victims were transported to Round Rock Hospital to be treated for serious injuries although officials said that the injuries sustained are non-life threatening.

The identities of those involved in the accident have not yet been released. No charges have yet been filed in connection with this accident. The driver who is at fault remains unclear. The accident is under ongoing investigation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

When a Personal Injury Attorney in Austin Doesn't Meet Your Standards

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

So you’ve hired an attorney to handle your personal injury claim and they aren’t doing their job? Not all lawyers are experienced in insurance claims settlement. If you’re dissatisfied with your current legal representation you may want to consider hiring a personal injury attorney in Austin at the Todd Law Firm.

How to Fire a Lawyer Working on Your Personal Injury Claim

When you decide your lawyer isn’t any help to your case, it may be necessary to switch legal representation:

Review the written agreement or contract you signed with the current attorney. Does it address what will happen if you decide to terminate the relationship?
Hire a new personal injury attorney in Austin before letting your present one go. This will minimize the delay in switching attorneys and in processing your case.
Send a certified letter to your old lawyer clearly stating that you’re terminating the relationship and list the reason(s) why.
If any fees have been pre-paid for work that wasn’t yet completed, request a full refund and also ask about any pending fees.

Stay calm and level-headed throughout this process. Focus on the fact that you’re just trying to get the most compensation possible for your insurance claims settlement. Don’t get intimidated into firing a lawyer and look for more adequate legal representation for your personal injury insurance claims. After all, as soon as a case is closed it can’t be reopened so you want to do everything in your power to produce a positive outcome.

Contacting a Personal Injury Attorney in Austin

Before you take the important step of hiring a personal injury attorney Austin, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas personal injury claim. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Pedestrian Dies After Being Struck by Car in Austin

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

January 13, 2012 – Austin, Texas – A man died after being struck by a car on Tuesday, January 10.

My Fox Austin reports that the incident happened late Tuesday night onWest Wells Branch Parkway. According to officials, the man was walking across the eastbound lanes of the road when he was struck by an oncoming 1996 Buick.

The pedestrian, Christoval Martinez Jr., 57, was fatally wounded in the accident. He was confirmed dead at the scene by local officials.

The driver of the Buick did stop his vehicle and remained at the scene after the accident. The driver’s identity has not yet been released to the public.

Officials said that they do not expect charges to be filed in connection with this accident.

Investigations are ongoing by police.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Tips for Finding a Therapist after an Auto Injury in Texas

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When you are involved in a car accident, compensation may be awarded to assist you with medical bills and other damages. Anxiety is a common auto injury after an automobile crash, and you should seek the help of a mental health provider if you were in an accident in Texas.

When you look for someone to help treat your anxiety after an automobile crash, you want to make sure you choose the right person. There are factors that can help in finding a therapist with whom who you are comfortable and who will treat your type of anxiety appropriately.

Things to Do When Looking for a Therapist

When seeking a therapist, you should:

call a local university’s psychiatry or psychology department to ask for recommendations;
ask friends and family for a referral;
call a large clinic and ask the receptionist who they recommend for your type of anxiety – he or she will know which doctors are better suited for certain patients; and
research doctors online and read reviews.

You should not be ashamed to seek help if you experience anxiety. If you think you want to file a personal injury claim, you should do so with the assistance of a Texas personal injury lawyer who has experience with injuries and damages due to automobile accidents.

Contacting a Texas Personal Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim can fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

5 Tips for Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney in Austin

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you were hurt in an accident you may want to file a personal injury claim to receive compensation for your medical bills and other related expenses. It’s usually recommended that you have the support of a lawyer when trying to reach an insurance claims settlement but you might not know how to go about hiring one.

Personal injury insurance claims can vary from situation to situation so it’s important to hire a personal injury attorney in Austin who both understands, and is committed to, your needs.

5 Helpful Tips When Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney in Austin

These tips can help you pick through legal counsel to find the best representation for your case:

research a potential lawyer’s past cases to see how many like yours he/she has handled;
ask to see an attorney’s credentials and inquire about any ongoing education they may be participating in;
call a local university’s law school and ask for a recommendation for your type of case;
schedule a few consultations with different lawyers to compare and contrast; and
research the hours of operation and avenues of contact to make sure they fall in line with your routine and lifestyle.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions when meeting with a personal injury attorney in Austin. You’ll find many options for lawyers that have insurance claims settlement experience but not all of them are the same. Pick the person you believe will work hard on your personal injury insurance claims.
Contacting a Personal Injury Attorney in Austin

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Man Fatally Injured after Crashing into a Tree in Bastrop County

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

January 11, 2012 – Bastrop County, Texas – A single-vehicle car accident left a man suffering fatal injuries on Saturday night, January 7.

A news story from KVUE indicates that the incident occurred at around 11:15 p.m. on FM 535, about a mile west of State Highway 45. Officials stated that 41-year-old Guverejildo Jaimes was travelling along the roadway in his Chevrolet Suburban when his vehicle left the roadway. Jaimes overcorrected, causing the vehicle to crash into a nearby tree.

Jaimes suffered fatal injuries in the accident. He died at the scene.

The Chevrolet was the only vehicle related to this fatal accident. No other injuries or fatalities have been brought forth in connection with this accident.

The cause of the accident remains under the stage of investigation by the local police.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Truck Hits Tree in Downtown Austin, 2 Seriously Injured

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

January 10, 2012 – Austin, Texas – On Sunday, January 8, 2 people had to be taken to the hospital after a single-vehicle accident left them with serious injuries.

KVUE reports that the incident occurred at about 1:15 a.m. on South First Street, near City Hall. Officials said that a pickup truck was travelling northbound on the roadway when its driver lost control, causing the vehicle to go off of the road and crash into a tree.

The driver and a passenger in the vehicle were both injured in the accident. The driver was reported to be in serious condition and had to be transported to University Medical Centert o seek medical treatment.

The names of the victims of this incident have not yet been revealed to the public. The root of the accident is unclear at this time. The accident remains under investigation by local officials.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Alternative and Natural Treatments for Anxiety after a Texas Auto Injury

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Car accident compensation can help alleviate the cost of medical bills associated with an auto injury after an automobile crash. As a result of an accident in Texas, you may experience symptoms and signs of anxiety.

Anxiety and emotional distress are common types of an auto injury that needs to be treated by a mental health professional. An automobile crash can cause severe anxiety that interferes with your everyday life and can prevent you from working or living normally. Car accident compensation can help you pay for a doctor who may recommend therapy and medication as a treatment method for anxiety after an accident in Texas. However, there are some alternative and natural treatments that you can work into your routine that also can help ease your anxiety. They include:

Massage – Massage therapy can help diminish muscle tension and stress, which are common side effects of anxiety.

Mind/Body Techniques – The practices of yoga and tai chi have been known to improve mental health by leading participants through routines of deep breathing, stretching and relaxation.

Aromatherapy – Essential oils from plants like jasmine, lavender, rose and sandalwood have long been added to bath oils and home fragrances as relaxation agents.

If you were in an automobile crash that left you dealing with anxiety and emotional distress, a personal injury lawyer may be able to help you file a claim that could lead to car accident compensation. Do not wait to seek help if you believe your anxiety is a result of an accident in Texas.

Contacting a Texas Personal Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim can fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Choosing the Right Accident Claim Lawyer in Texas

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Choosing the right accident claim lawyer after an accident in Texas is an important part of the beginning of your accident claims process. It’s recommended that you speak with several candidates before you select the compensation claims lawyer who will represent you.

One way you can broaden your efforts to find a Texas lawyer well-suited to handle your case is by turning to the American Bar Association website for a referral list of accident attorneys in your area. If you’ve done business with a lawyer of some sort in the past, ask him or her for a recommendation, as lawyers always tend to know other lawyers.

You can also ask your friends and relatives for recommendations – but be sure that the lawyers whose names you collect specifically handle personal injury cases. A divorce lawyer or criminal defender won’t be able to help you after a car accident any more than a foot doctor would be able to help with a nagging headache.

It’s not always easy to find the Texas lawyer who’s right for your case, but it’s by no means impossible. When you’ve been injured in a car accident, trust a lawyer who will investigate the circumstances of the crash that injured you and will build a compelling case for your claim. .

An Austin personal injury lawyer can bear the burden of the frustrating claims process while you focus on recovering from your injuries and getting back to your life.

Contacting an Austin Personal Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an accident claim lawyer, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Woman Killed Crossing I-35S in Austin on New Year's Day

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

January 6, 2012 – Austin, Texas – A woman was struck and killed while trying to cross I-35S with her husband on Sunday, January 1.

KXAN News reports that the woman was crossing I-35S around 5 a.m. when a driver struck her as she crossed the northbound lanes, near Slaughter Lane.

Austin police believe the woman and her husband were attempting to cross the freeway and made it over the southbound lanes before she was struck in the northbound lane. Paramedics arrived and pronounced the victim dead on the scene. Her name hasn’t been released but they believe she’s in her late 20s to early 30s.

No charges are expected to be filed against the driver, according to police, and the accident is still under investigation.

Pedestrian accidents on busy highways like I-35 are often fatal due to vehicles traveling at a high rate of speed. If you’ve suffered the loss of a loved one in a pedestrian accident, seek help from a Texas accident attorney for help with filing a claim.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur inTexas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

High School Couple Killed by Truck in Austin

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

January 5, 2012 – Austin, Texas – A high school couple both suffered fatal injuries after a Tuesday, December 27 accident.

KXAN News reports that the couple, Melodie Hewitt, 16, and Josh Milton, 17, were crossing at the S. First Street crosswalk when they were hit by a Chevy truck. The impact caused fatal injuries to Milton who was confirmed dead on site. Hewitt was taken to a nearby hospital where she passed away from her injuries 4 days later.

According to police, the driver of the Chevy truck stopped at the scene and cooperated with investigators. Witnesses to the accident were also interviewed to determine all of the factors in this tragic crash. Austin police haven’t released any details regarding the cause or factors of the accident.

Friends and family are coping with the death of the couple with a memorial at the accident site. They also plan on holding a daily demonstration at the crosswalk from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. to encourage the city to install a flashing crosswalk sign.

Austin’s transportation department is waiting on the final accident report from police and checking on submission of a formal request for the crosswalk sign before action can be taken.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Hit and Run Driver Kills Pedestrian on New Year's Day in Austin

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

January 5, 2012 – Austin, Texas – Reports from KXAN News state that Larry Kimble, 54, has been charged with failing to stop and render aid after leaving the scene of a fatal traffic accident on Sunday, January 1. Kimble was the driver of the Honda Civic that struck and killed Kelsey Anna Rodriguez, 20, as she was attempting to cross I-35.

Witnesses to the accident say that Kimble struck Rodriguez and continued driving northbound. The license plate of the vehicle was left at the scene and the Honda was located parked on a side street 6 blocks from the accident.

About an hour after the 5 p.m. accident, Kimble called Austin police to report he had potentially struck a pedestrian on I-35. The police arrest warrant states that Kimble was taken to St. Davis’ South Austin Medical Center for minor injuries before being booked on charges of failure to stop and render aid. His bail is set at $7,500.

Kimble’s license was suspended at the time of the accident and he had a prior conviction of driving without a license along with other traffic violations.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Your Texas Personal Injury Claim: Dangers of Social Media

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you’ve filed a personal injury insurance claim, one thing you should be cautious of is your involvement with social media. Did you know that a Texas insurance claim can be hurt by your use of sites like Facebook? A Texas insurance lawyer can advise you on Internet usage before your case has been settled.

Social media sites like Twitter and Facebook have become commonplace in our homes, workplaces and even phones, but there are some things you should do to protect yourself when using these sites during a personal injury insurance claim case. Insurance adjusters have been known to monitor personal profiles fishing for information that could be used against you.

How to Handle Social Media While Pursuing Texas Injury Claims

delete all social networking profiles or set them to the highest possible privacy settings;
don’t comment on or discuss your accident, injuries, treatment or case;
remove all photos that could be incriminating;
don’t accept friend or follower requests from people you don’t know;
remove friends or followers who you don’t know or that you can’t trust; and
don’t discuss your current activities or whereabouts.

These guidelines will help you know what to do after a car accident if you use social media and have filed a personal injury insurance claim. The rules about Texas insurance claims can be confusing, so it’s best to hire an experienced Texas insurance lawyer to help you make the right decisions regarding your case.

Contacting a Texas Insurance Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim can fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Preparing to Negotiate an Insurance Settlement in Austin

Sat, 31 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you’ve been injured in an accident and have decided to handle your own personal injury claim and settlement without the help of an Austin personal injury lawyer, you have a lot of work before you, but the task is not an impossible one.

To negotiate an insurance settlement, you should do the following:

Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy;
Document and keep copies of all of your bills – medical records, repair estimates and a record of all days you have to miss from work;
Identify the range of settlements similar to yours;
Consider alternative dispute resolution if fault or the amount of the settlement is heavily contested; and
Know when to speak with a personal injury lawyer about your settlement.

Do not focus on handling your personal injury claim and settlement to the exclusion of concentrating on your recovery from injury. Consultations are no-cost, and an Austin personal injury lawyer can point you in the right direction if you’ve been struggling with the next step.

Should you decide to retain the services of an attorney, make sure that you give each candidate a rigorous evaluation so that you will be represented by the lawyer or firm who is right for you. (insert link to

Contacting an Austin Personal Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring a lawyer, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim can fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

5 Things to Look for When Choosing a Daycare in Austin, Texas

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Speak to a child injury attorney in Austin immediately if your child sustained serious injuries while in the hands of a daycare provider or center. An attorney can determine if the daycare may be held liable and if you should proceed with pursuing a claim against it.

Here are 5 things to look for when choosing a daycare in Austin, Texas:

ratio of caregivers to children (to ensure proper supervision and care);
adherence to regulatory guidelines set forth by the state;
ability to interview the childcare giver (asking about educational background, length of employment, how they feel about the facility);
childcare workers who are given drug screening tests and background checks; and
ability to visit the center at any time, while the children are active so you can get a better feel for things.

Even when you’ve done all you can to try and find the best daycare for your child, an act of carelessness or recklessness can still happen. When it does, you should seek legal counsel.

When you believe your child was injured as a result of negligence or a violation of health and safety daycare regulations in Austin, Texas, you should seek legal counsel. Whether you have child injury law questions or would like to learn if you have a legitimate claim worth pursuing, contact a child injury attorney in Austin.

Contacting a Child Injury Attorney in Austin

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim can fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Common Injuries Sustained in a Daycare in Texas

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you entrust your child to a daycare, and he or she is injured due to an act of negligence or a violation of health and safety standards, you may wonder what legal options are available. If your child was seriously injured, you should seek legal counsel from a child injury attorney in Austin.

Unfortunately, there are some common injuries that a child may sustain in daycare. Some of these are preventable and may be the result of carelessness or recklessness.

Some of the common injuries that can happen in a daycare include:

cuts;
bruises;
scrapes;
bites;
burns;
broken bones; and
head trauma.

Falls are the most common accidents, which can lead to minor injuries, but they also can cause more severe damage. Falls from furniture, outdoor equipment, tables and other areas can usually be prevented with proper supervision.

A violation of health and safety daycare regulations in Austin, Texas could be the cause of your child's injuries. To learn if you should proceed with filing a claim or to receive answers to your child injury law questions, contact a child injury attorney in Austin.

Contacting a Child Injury Attorney in Austin

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim can fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

6 Valuable Questions for an Austin Personal Injury Lawyer about Claim Settlement

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

An accident can do more than ruin your day – if you have been seriously injured by the recklessness or negligence of another person, your future can be affected dramatically, but an Austin personal injury lawyer can help by handling your personal injury claim and settlement. Which attorney you choose, however, is an important decision, and you should consult with several candidates before you choose your legal representation.

Consider asking lawyers the following questions:

What percentage of your business is personal injury claims?
What types of personal injury cases do you normally handle?
How will my case be handled?
How often will I be contacted with progress reports on my case, and with whom will I primarily speak?
How does your billing work?
What obstacles or advantages are associated with my case?

If you have been injured by the recklessness or negligence of another person or party, you may not be prepared for the complexities and rigors required to negotiate an insurance settlement. Your personal injury claim and settlement is important, and it should not be left up to chance or to the first person you come across in the phone book.

Contacting an Austin Personal Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring a lawyer, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim can fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Austin TX Lawyers Share 5 Negotiation Tips for Texas Personal Injury Claims

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When negotiating your Texas personal injury claim with insurance companies, it’s helpful to be prepared beforehand and know what to expect from the adjusters. If you’ve been in an Austin car accident, you’ll want to consult Austin TX lawyers first to avoid common mistakes people make when trying to negotiate an Austin car accident injury claim on their own.

Naturally, you want the best outcome possible for your claim, and the negotiation phase is vital. Here are 5 tips Austin TX lawyers find useful when working with insurance adjusters:

be prepared for questions the adjuster may ask you, so you can stay organized, something your attorney can help you with;
don’t assume the adjuster is your friend but at the same time, don’t be rude or insulting either;
use clear, detailed, descriptive language to describe your injuries to the adjuster (your head snapped violently sideways, slamming into the window);
as best as you can, relay how the Austin car accident affected you on a personal level, such as how your accident caused terror and anxiety, how it has affected your relationships; and
try not to sound desperate, and avoid the urge to rush the settlement.

There are some Austin car accident injury cases that may not require the assistance of an attorney, such as those with minimal injuries. However, in most circumstances, you’ll want to run your case by an accident attorney to see about your legal options and to help you determine the value of your Texas personal injury claim.

Contacting Austin TX Lawyers

Before you take the important step of hiring Austin TX lawyers, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas personal injury claim. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

5 Injured when Bus and 18-Wheeler Collide in Austin

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 21, 2011 – Austin, Texas – An afternoon accident that involved a bus and an 18-wheeler truck, on Tuesday, December 20, resulted in 5 injured victims.

KVUE reports that the crash occurred on Interstate 35 in the middle of Woodward and Riverside. The bus and the 18-wheeler crashed into one another in the northbound lanes of the interstate. Additional details of how the accident happened are not yet accessible.

Reports indicate that 5 people were wounded. Out of the 5 victims, 4 declined treatment at the scene, but one person was taken to a nearby medical facility to be treated for non life-threatening injuries.

The names of those involved in the incident have not been released. No information has been released that site any charges will be filed. The cause of the accident remains unresolved as it is under the stages of investigation by local authorities.

The northbound lanes on Interstate 35 were blocked to traffic for some time following the crash. All lanes have since been reopened.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur inTexas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Four Steps to Take before Filing a Texas Personal Injury Claim

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you’ve suffered an injury in an Austin car accident, it’s natural to want to rush your Texas personal injury claim but it’s important to prepare yourself beforehand, something Austin TX lawyers may be able to help you with.

Before you file your Austin car accident injury claim, it’s good practice to get an estimate on how much your claim will be worth. This way, you’ll be able to tell if/when the insurance adjusters try offering you a much lower settlement than you’re entitled to.

Before filing your Texas personal injury claim, follow these 4 steps:

Step 1 – seek legal counsel from Austin TX lawyers who have experience with accident claims similar to yours. They may be able to help you calculate your damages and walk you through the claims process.
Step 2 – educate yourself on your legal rights, state laws, and how much compensation you’re rightfully entitled.
Step 3 – make a list of all the damages you’ve sustained because of your Austin car accident, and work closely with your attorney to calculate the value.
Step 4 – start an accident file and collect any documents pertaining to your accident, such as medical bills and doctor’s notes. This will help you prove the extent of your injuries later.

The more prepared you are, the more successful your Austin car accident injury claim will be. And fortunately, you don’t have to go it alone. Talk with an attorney to help you determine the value of your claim to discuss the specifics of your case.

Contacting Austin TX Lawyers

Before you take the important step of hiring Austin TX lawyers, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas personal injury claim. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Man Dies in Single-Vehicle Car Accident in East Austin

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 19, 2011 – Austin, Texas – A person was fatally injured in an early morning wreck on Saturday, December 17.

A KVUE news story states that the accident occurred at about 4:45 a.m. off of Highway 183. The vehicle crashed in the northbound lanes of the highway. Further details of how the accident occurred are not yet available.

According to an APD Watch Commander, a man was wounded in the accident and died from his injuries on the scene of the accident. The identity of the victim has not been released to the public.

Whether or not any other people were in the vehicle at the time of the accident is unclear. No additional injuries or fatalities have been brought forth.

The northbound lanes of Highway 183 and all lanes on Martin Luther King Drivewere blocked to traffic for some time while APD investigated and cleared the scene.

The crash is under ongoing investigation by authorities.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Angry SUV Driver Shoots Victim in Multi-Vehicle Crash in Arlington

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 16, 2011 – Arlington, Texas – A serious accident that occurred on Wednesday, December 14, is under investigation after it escalated into a murder.

NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth states the incident began around 1:40 p.m. on North Collins Street nearbyWashington Street. Arlington police confirm that Thomas Lester Harper, 27, was driving a blue Chevrolet Tahoe when he ran into 2 cars.

Harper proceeded to drive north on Collins, speeding despite the slick road conditions. During his escape he slammed into 7 other cars until he was halted after rear-ending a gray pickup truck. The driver of the pickup truck died on impact.

Harper then whipped out a gun and shot a man who approached his vehicle.

Just before he opened fire, a little girl riding in the SUV climbed out the window of the truck. The girl and her twin brother, confirmed to be Harper’s children, were safely rescued and transported to Cook Children’s Hospital in Fort Worthwith non-life threatening injuries.

Harper and another driver were also injured and taken to local hospitals with non-life threatening injuries. Upon Harper’s release, he was booked at the Arlington jail, facing charges of murder, manslaughter, intoxicated manslaughter, and child endangerment.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Birth Injury in Texas: 4 Risk Factors Leading to Umbilical Cord Compression

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When your child has been the victim of a birth injury in Texas, compensation for injuries may be available. You should speak to a lawyer in Austin who handles these types of cases.

Umbilical cord compression is one type of birth injury that can cause oxygen to the baby’s brain to be cut off. It can also lead to the baby’s heart rate decreasing. Both are extremely dangerous and could lead to serious, even fatal, injuries.

4 Risk Factors that May Cause Umbilical Cord Compression

Here are 4 risk factors that may lead your child’s birth injury due to umbilical cord compression:

cord slippage into the birth canal;
active movement of fetus;
rushing the delivery; and
using inappropriate delivery techniques.

While there may be risk factors, compression of the umbilical cord can usually be prevented or quickly treated. Failure to detect that this condition has occurred or failure to respond quickly could lead to the OB/GYN or other medical staff being held liable.

You may be entitled to compensation through a birth injury claim in Texas if umbilical cord compression led to serious or fatal injuries. Meet with a child injury lawyer in Austin, Texas for help with your claim as soon as possible.

Contacting a Child Injury Lawyer in Austin, Texas

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

1 Dead in Fatal Pedestrian Accident on Dessau Road in Austin

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 14, 2011 – Austin, Texas – A pedestrian was fatally struck and killed by an SUV while attempting to cross Dessau Road on Monday, December 12.

According to a report on KVUE.com, the fatal accident occurred on Dessau Road, close to E. Braker Lane, around 6:40 a.m. The driver of the vehicle involved called 911 to report the accident and bring emergency personnel to the scene.

When officers arrived they questioned the driver of the SUV, who said the victim had stepped out into the road in front of their vehicle leaving no time to stop.

Sergeant Keith Bazzle who handled the incident, said that the area isn’t very well lit and nearby residents say the large curve in the road limits visibility, as well as the nearby creek.

The identities of the driver and the victim haven’t been released, although the victim is described as a man in his 50’s. No charges have been filed against the driver and police are investigating witness claims to determine all the factors of the accident.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur inTexas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

2 Teens Injured, 1 Dead in Fatal Pickup Truck Accident in Waco

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 14, 2011 – Waco, Texas – Several teenagers escaping from a homeowner whose house they had just vandalized were involved in a pickup truck rollover, on Sunday, that killed 1 and injured 2 others.

The report from Your News Now released the name of the deceased victim, 16-year-old Kenton Ybarra, who was among the 5 teens involved in the December 11 incident. The group had just egged a house on James Street and drove away in a truck to escape the homeowner.

According to the police, the driver lost control of the vehicle while driving on Lee Street and it rolled over, crushing Ybarra and injuring 2 more occupants. All 3 injured teens were rushed to the hospital where Ybarra later died from his injuries. Reports indicate that the other 2 teens suffered arm injuries.

Passengers in a vehicle may be able to hold the driver liable for their injuries if the driver was negligent in driving safe. In cases such as these where the liability isn’t clearly defined, you may find it helpful to consult with a Texas accident attorney who knows Texas laws regarding truck accidents, personal injury, and negligence laws.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

3 Umbilical Cord Complications That May Lead to Birth Injury Claim in Texas

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Umbilical cord complications can be extremely dangerous, leading to serious injuries or even death. If your child suffered a birth injury in Texas caused by medical negligence, compensation could be available. You should meet with a lawyer in Austin who has experience with birth injury cases.

3 Common Umbilical Cord Complications Causing Birth Injury in Texas

These 3 complications may cause a birth injury in Texas:

Umbilical Cord Compression – the cord wraps around the baby’s neck or body, or is otherwise compressed, which causes a reduction in oxygen to the brain or decreases the baby’s heart rate;
Umbilical Cord Prolapse – the cord slips into the vagina once the water breaks and before the baby comes through the birth canal, which can put pressure on the umbilical cord; and
Vasa Previa - 1 or more blood vessels from the umbilical cord cross the cervix and go underneath the baby. The vessels can tear, leading to life-threatening bleeding or compression.

Umbilical cord complications may not always be prevented, but careful monitoring should cause them to be detected. Failure to do so could lead to doctors, nurses or other medical personnel being held liable. You should speak to a child injury lawyer in Austin, Texas immediately if your child suffered serious or fatal injuries as a result of umbilical cord compression.

Contacting a Child Injury Lawyer in Austin, Texas

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Woman Faces Pre-Trial Hearing after Charged with Travis County Fatal Hit and Run

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 9, 2011 – Travis County, Texas – A former legislative aid charged in a fatal hit and run accident was scheduled to go to her pre-trial hearing on Wednesday, December 7.

KVUE reports that Gabrielle Nestande faces charges of failure to stop and render aid. The original accident occurred in May, when Courtney Griffin, 30, was struck by a hit and run driver.Griffin died from injuries incurred in the accident.

Nestande’s last court appearance was in Travis County in October.Griffin’s friends and family were there to watch the proceeding then and they said that they intended to watch Wednesday’s proceedings as well to hopefully see justice served in this case.

Further details about the hearing and its results are not yet available.

If you or a loved one was seriously hurt or fatally injured in an accident, understand that you have rights to compensation for the injuries and damages that you have endured.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Deputy Injured in Multi-Vehicle Car Accident in Travis County

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 8, 2011 – Travis County, Texas – A Travis County deputy was injured when his motorcycle was involved in a 3-vehicle car accident during the afternoon on Wednesday, December 7.

KVUE reports that the incident occurred at 10100 Anderson Mill Road. The deputy’s motorcycle and 2 other vehicles collided on the roadway. Further information of how the accident happened is not readily available at this time.

The deputy was injured in the accident and had to be driven to Round Rock Medical Center immediately following the accident. The deputy’s medical condition is unknown at this time.

Whether or not any of the other drivers involved in the crash were injured is unclear.

The roadway was blocked to traffic for about 2 hours following the accident while crews worked to clear the scene and reconstruct the crash.

The accident is under stages of investigation with the local police force.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur inTexas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

5 Tips for Dealing with Austin Car Accident Insurance Settlements

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When it comes to Austin car accident insurance settlements, you should know what you are entitled to. If you were seriously injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, then you should seek help from an Austin injury attorney. An attorney not only can determine the type of compensation you could be eligible to receive, but he or she also can assist you throughout the entire claims process.

5 Tips to Gain Fair Austin Car Accident Insurance Settlements

One aspect of your injury claim in Texas may be talking to insurance adjusters. Their job is to get you to settle your claim quickly and for as little as possible. You should know how best to deal with them.

When you talk to an adjuster:

review and understand your personal injury protection plan in Texas;
share only the basic facts and be truthful;
do not offer more information than is necessary;
remain calm and professional; and
do not feel pressured to sign anything or agree to anything without knowing your legal options.

When you are filing an injury claim in Texas, you should know a few important things about providing a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster. An Austin injury attorney can help.

Contacting an Austin Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

2 Fatalities in Austin Accident with 18-Wheeler on I-35

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 7, 2011 – Austin, Texas – An accident between a sports car and an 18-wheeler on Monday, December 5, resulted in 2 people suffering fatal injuries.

KVUE reports that the accident happened at about 3:15 a.m. on Interstate 35. The sports car was travelling southbound on the interstate when the driver lost control of the vehicle, apparently due to rain-slicked road conditions.

The sports car then spun out in the path of an oncoming 18-wheeler. The 18-wheeler ended up crashing into the sports car.

The 2 occupants of the sports car were killed on impact. The driver of the 18-wheeler was reported to be doing OK.

The identities of those involved in the accident have not yet been released.

Southbound Interstate 35 was blocked to traffic, between Fifth Street and First Street, for over 3 hours before all lanes were reopened.

The accident remains under investigation by local authorities.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents ofAustinand surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur inTexas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Filing an injury claim in Texas? Know These 3 Things about Insurance Adjusters

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

There is so much to sift through and understand after a car accident. Your personal injury protection in Texas can impact what is covered and not covered. Determining who was at fault will factor into how much you recover, and with so many other complexities of an injury claim in Texas, it is best to seek help from an Austin injury attorney.

In addition, you will deal with the insurance company. You should know what to expect when it comes to talking to an insurance adjuster after your accident.

3 Must-Knows about Insurance Adjusters

You can protect your injury claim in Texas by knowing these 3 things about insurance adjusters:

most initial offers for Austin car accident insurance settlements are too low;
adjusters will try to get you to settle quickly, hoping you don’t realize the full value of your claim; and
what you say can be used to minimize or deny your claim.

Insurance adjusters are looking out for the best interest of the insurance company, not you as the victim. Don’t agree to anything, written or oral, before contacting an attorney.

Before you decide to give an insurance adjuster a recorded statement, you should speak to an Austin injury attorney. He or she will advise you of the best way to protect your rights and your injury claim in Texas.

Contacting an Austin Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Man Charged with DWI Following Fiery Accident near Austin

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 2, 2011 – Austin, Texas – A man was arrested on charges of DWI when his vehicle crashed and caught fire on Saturday, November 26.

The El Paso Times reports that the accident happened early Saturday morning on Interstate 10. According to witnesses on the scene, a vehicle was speeding on the interstate when it first crashed into a light pole and then hit a guard rail. The vehicle then spun until it finally came to a stop.

A witness and an off-duty police officer helped the driver, of the vehicle, out of his car before it caught on fire.

The vehicle’s driver, David Boyer, a resident of Austin, was arrested on suspicion of DWI. He was taken to the county jail with a bond of $1,000.

Boyer’s vehicle was the only one involved in the accident. No injuries have been reported in connection with this accident.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur inTexas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Pastor and Wife Killed, Woman in Critical Condition after Austin Accident

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 1, 2011 – Austin, Texas – According to a news report on My Fox Austin, 2 people sustained fatal injuries and another is in critical condition following a head-on car accident on Tuesday, November 29.

The incident happened Tuesday night in a construction zone on Hwy 290, near Fitzhugh road. Max Smith, of Dayspring Fellowship Church Elder, said that Pastor Ernest Jackson Boyett Jr. and his wife, Barbara Boyett, were returning from a trip to Junction when the accident took place. Another car struck their vehicle head on.

Barbara and Ernest Boyett were killed in the accident. Both of them were declared dead on site.

The second driver, Terri Elmore, was injured in the accident. She was taken toBrackenridgeHospitalfor medical attention after the accident occurred.

It appears that no charges have been filed yet in connection with this accident. The root of the accident remains to be determined. The accident is under continuous investigation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents ofAustinand surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur inTexas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

10 Common Causes of Boating Accidents in Texas

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Boating has a fun side, but it also be dangerous. When disasters hit, you may be left with serious injuries that can even be fatal. When you need help filing an injury claim, an Austin accident attorney can be by on your side to fight for your legal rights and the compensation you need and deserve.

10 Main Reasons for a Boating Accident in Texas

By knowing the top 10 common causes of boating accidents inTexas, you may be able to avoid the dangers. They are:

distractions;
lack of experience;
speeding;
failure to watch out for other boats or objects;
intoxication;
machinery errors;
bad weather conditions;
dangerous water conditions;
navigating through a strong wave/wake; and
disobeying boating rules.

Many of the factors that lead to a boating accident in Texas can be controlled. It is extremely important to take safety precautions before you head out on coastal waters to decrease the risks of suffering injuries that can negatively change your life financially, physically and emotionally.

When you are in need of legal assistance, meet with an Austin accident attorney to evaluate your case. Your attorney has the knowledge and fundamentals to support your case all the way through the claims process so you can collect a full and fair settlement.

Contacting an Austin Accident Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Top 10 Vicious Dogs Known to Attack

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Dogs can be man's best friends, but they can also be his worst enemies. Although there are many dogs that are great companions, there are dog breeds that more often than others lash out, causing life-altering injuries. If you've been a victim of a dog attack in Texas, an Austin dog bite lawyer can stand up for your legal rights.

10 Dangerous Dogs that Commonly Attack

Every dog from one type of breed shouldn't be subjected to the stereotype of a vicious dog, but statistics have shown most dog attacks stem from these 10 dog breeds:

Pit bull;
Rottweiler;
German Shepherd;
Husky;
Alaskan Malamute;
Doberman Pinscher;
Chow Chow;
Presa Canario;
Boxer; and
Dalmatian.

Many of these breeds are used as guard dogs or are known to be territorial. Therefore, it may not necessarily be an evil intention to attack but more of a protection mechanism against the owners.

Either way, whenever you encounter a dog of any kind that you do not know, be calm and let the dog familiarize itself with you. When you suffer serious injuries from a dog bite attack due to the owner's negligence, you may be able to collect compensation. An Austin dog bite lawyer can help you fight for a fair and full settlement.

Contacting an Austin Dog Bite Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Avoid Insurance Pitfalls with Help from Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

It’s not uncommon to read about people who’ve inadvertently hurt their Austin accident claim by making rash statements to insurance companies. Before agreeing to any recorded statements, make sure you speak with a Texas personal injury attorney so you can acquaint yourself with your rights and make informed decisions.

The best way to preserve the integrity of your claim is to build a solid team of professionals that are looking out for your best interests, including a doctor and an experienced injury attorney. It may be somewhat jarring to learn that insurance companies aren’t really out for your best interests.

Insurance companies often try to push for a recorded statement from you after your Austin accident and then use the statements against you later to reduce the value of your claim.

While honesty is always the best policy, insurance companies might try to transpose the meaning of your words or ask questions in a manner that shapes or manipulates your responses to their advantage.

How do you prevent this from happening? Most importantly, know that you’re under no legal obligation to give a recorded statement. It’s perfectly acceptable to tell the insurance adjuster that you’ll call back to at a later time, which will give you an opportunity to discuss your claim with a Texas personal injury attorney.

It’s also a good idea to read through our Texas law blog, learn about the claims process, and carefully organize your thoughts before speaking with the insurance companies.

Contacting an Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring a Texas personal injury attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas personal injury claim. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Fair Corpus Christi Car Accident Insurance Settlements: Lost Earnings

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Fair car accident insurance settlements should address medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost earnings, and other incidental expenses. To ensure that you receive all compensation that you are due, you should acquire the legal guidance of Texas accident lawyers.

Lost Earnings in Car Accident Insurance Settlements

If you try to handle a Corpus Christi car accident case on your own, you will likely be offered a low settlement that only covers your current medical expenses. But what about your time missed from work? You should make sure to document any time that you have missed from work because of your injuries.

Missed work and lost income can be corroborated with:

an affidavit from your employer;
notes from your doctor; and
a daily dairy.

The compensation you may be entitled to for lost income will depend on your salary, and pay stubs should be kept to prove these damages. By all means, don't rely on the insurance adjuster to gather this information on your behalf. The adjuster works for the insurance company, not for you.

Texas accident lawyers, however, can work for you after your Corpus Christi car accident. You should contact a lawyer as soon as possible for advice on taking steps to preserve your personal injury claim.

Contacting Texas Accident Lawyers

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Parents May be the Worst Examples for Teen Drivers

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to a news piece in the Sun-Sentinel, State Farm released a survey based on driving distractions that showed how parents may set the wrong example for their teen drivers. If you are involved in an accident in Texas due to another driver's inattention on the road, you should get in touch with an Austin accident attorney to protect your legal rights.

More than 500 pairs of teenage drivers and their parents contributed to the State Farm survey, which compiled the following data:

61% of teenage drivers said cell phones or any other electronic device distracted their parent while teaching them how to drive;
29% of teenage drivers claimed their parents were distracted sometimes, often or constantly while teaching them to drive;
53% of parents confessed that they were distracted at least once while they taught their child to drive; and
17% of parents confessed that they were distracted sometimes, frequently or constantly while they taught their child to drive.

Even if you've had years of driving experience, statistics show that drivers who text are 20 times more likely to cause an accident. More than half of the United States has banned drivers from texting while driving, so if you become the victim of an accident in Texas due to a distracted driver, you may be able to file a personal injury claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contacting an Austin Accident Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Tips for Fair Corpus Christi Car Accident Insurance Settlements

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Fair car accident insurance settlements can be hard to obtain without the assistance of Texas accident lawyers. If you or a loved one have been seriously injured in a Corpus Christi car accident, you should consult with an attorney before you accept a settlement that likely will be too low.

Tips Leading to Fair Car Accident Insurance Settlements

To help your lawyer prepare a solid case, you can protect your personal injury claim by:

Reporting the Corpus Christi car accident to your insurer in a timely manner.
Filing a report with the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Taking photographs of your car before it is destroyed or repaired.

You should also get immediate medical treatment and keep a daily diary of the difficulties you have faced since the accident. Update it daily and include information on:

your pain level;
whether medication is helping;
difficulties performing chores;
time spent away from work; and
assistance needed with regular activities of daily living.

Failing to follow the above tips could affect the value of your personal injury claim. In order to ensure that your legal rights are protected, you should have Texas accident lawyers review your case to determine issues of negligence and level the playing field with your insurance company.

Contacting Texas Accident Lawyers

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Laura Freeman & the Hey Lollies Entertainment for Children in Austin

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Laura Freeman & the Hey Lollies are in town on Saturday, December 3. This event is targeted toward children but parents can find enjoyment, too, by spending time with their kids.

Laura Freeman & the Hey Lollies is a children's music and puppet performance. It will be taking place at the Flipnotics Coffeespace Café located at 1601 Barton Springs Road in Austin. The group has been performing every month on the first Saturday and their next showing, Saturday, December 3, is coming closer. The event begins at 10:30 a.m. free of charge.

Here is a great opportunity to release your inner-child with your child with early morning singing and dancing. Engage in your child's imagination, silliness, and laughter right before the holidays. Snacks will also be provided.

The Hey Lollies Production promotes fun, healthy, and safe music entertainment for children so when you attend this event, make sure your child's safety is a priority. A child injury can happen anywhere and serious injuries can occur from what you may think is a minor fall. Know that if your child does fall victim to a serious injury, a Texas personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and see if you have a claim worth pursuing.

Contacting a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Lights of Love 5K in Austin for Ronald McDonald Charity

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Did you ever want to give back to a children's charity but could not find a way to do it? Come December, you can have your chance. On Friday, December 2, meet up with many supporters of the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Mueller at 4550 Mueller Blvd. in Austin for the Lights of Love 5K for adults and children.

This will be the fourth year the Lights of Love 5K has been offered to the community that benefits the Ronald McDonald House. This event will start at 5 p.m. and run until 9 p.m. with the first race, a children's K, starting at 6 p.m. and a 5K beginning at 6:30 p.m.

This charity event is more than just a road race. It also includes many other festivities and activities for you and your family to take part in to open up the holiday spirit. Enjoy the holiday decorations along the walking trails and Christmas caroling. Get a picture with Santa and say hello to Ronald McDonald. Food, arts & crafts, music, and dancing will be provided and encouraged so bring all the Christmas spirit you got.

When it's Time to Contact a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Accidents can happen anywhere, especially when high activity is involved. At this year's Lights of Love 5K, make you and your child's safety first priority. If you do become involved in an accident, know that you have legal counsel on your side.

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Two Factors that May Delay Your Austin Accident Claim

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you’ve been in an Austin accident and are filing an injury claim, it may be discouraging to discover just how long it can take to conclude your case. While it’s not possible to predict exactly how long it will take, you can take comfort knowing that you and your Texas personal injury attorney will be working diligently to resolve your claim as quickly as possible.

After your car accident, a doctor in Austin should assess your injuries and prescribe a treatment plan for you to follow. You may often read or hear about others in your situation who are drowning in medical bills after their accident and are frustrated with the often drawn-out claims process.

There are 2 main factors that can stall personal injury claims, which are the insurance companies and overburdened courts. Insurance companies will often try to delay the process because not only do they earn interest on your money, but they also hope to frustrate you to the point where you’ll accept less money than you originally expected.

Overburdened courts stall personal injury claims because of the large number of claims filed every year. The courts are overscheduled and it may take more than 2 years to get an initial court date.

The best thing you can do to speed your Austin accident case along is to work closely with your Texas personal injury attorney, as well as your doctor, and answer any requests made of you as quickly as possible.

Contacting an Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an Texas personal injury attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas personal injury claim. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

How Insurers Use Social Media to Damage Your Claim in Texas

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have a social media account and have been in an accident in Texas, it's important you adjust your usage or avoid using your accounts altogether during your claims process. You should also get in touch with an Austin accident attorney to protect your legal rights further.

Social media sites have become more than just a source to get back in touch with old friends or a marketing strategy for businesses. It's been proven that insurance companies also use tactics to get information from your social media sites to use against your claim.

Especially if you feel you were to blame, and evidence shows up on your social media site that you were at fault, your claim can be considered fraudulent. If this is the case, you could face serious consequences.

Even if you weren't at fault, insurers are trained to take information about you and twist it to make it look like you are guilty of the accident, which could severely diminish or void your claim all together.

When you talk to an insurance company about your involvement in an accident in Texas, you should be up front about the facts, but don't voluntarily add irrelevant details. It's best to speak with an Austin accident attorney first so you know what to say and how you can best protect your claim.

Contacting an Austin Accident Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

The First 4 Things to Do After a Texas Truck Accident

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Texas truck accidents are some of the most dangerous car accidents that can happen on the road in Texas, and it's vital that you know how to act after you have been involved in one of these collisions. The sheer force and mass of a big rig truck can mean heavy damage to you, your passengers, and your vehicle, so always speak with an attorney about how to protect your right to compensation by the responsible parties and their insurance providers.

4 Important Steps to Take after a Texas Truck Accident

After a Texas truck accident, take the following steps to protect your case:

the first person you contact should be, as with any car accident, a doctor in Austin;
keep documentation of all of your medical records, X-rays, bills, receipts, and repair estimates;
do not claim or disclaim the fault for the accident, no matter the circumstances, when answering police questions; and
contact an attorney as soon as you are able.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a Texas truck accident, our team of Texas personal injury lawyers is prepared to help you through this difficult time. After you've been in a car accident, a doctor in Austin can help you get physically well, and an attorney can help you regain your financial and legal wellness.

Contacting a Team of Texas Personal Injury Lawyers

A truck accident in Texas is one of the most dangerous car accidents to be involved in. Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas truck accident case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Not every accident case requires the help of an attorney and we can help you to determine whether yours is one of those cases! If you are ready to get started with your case, we urge you to contact our team of Texas personal injury lawyers today for a FREE case evaluation - 512-472-7799.

When You Discover a Suspicious Child Head Injury (or More) in Texas

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Sometimes, a child head injury is more than just another bump or scratch earned on the playground. When you suspect your child is the victim of abuse, speak to a Texas personal injury lawyer who has the compassion and experience to take on your case and pursue justice for your child.

After a Child Head Injury in Texas

When you're child has become the victim of child abuse, take action by following these helpful steps:

seek medical attention, as this will help create a medical record of the injury, which can be legally referenced if the circumstances around it were suspicious;
take pictures of the injury;
ask the caretaker what happened and record their explanation;
seek the help of a member of a team of child injury lawyers if you believe abuse has occurred; and
consider having your child speak to a child psychologist or counselor.

When you suspect that your child has been the victim of abuse by a caretaker, it's vital that you speak with a Texas personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can compassionately, thoughtfully assess the facts of the case, inform you of your legal rights and the demonstrability and weight of the available evidence.

Contacting a Texas Personal Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Not every accident case requires the help of a Texas personal injury lawyer and we can help you to determine whether yours is one of those cases! If you are ready to get started with your case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - 512-472-7799.

Child Injury Prevention in Texas: 7 Questions to Ask Day Care Centers

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a parent, when you're faced with a suspicious child head injury, you may be hesitant or even reluctant to consider the possibility that someone has abused your child, particularly someone to whom you trusted your child's protection. A Texas personal injury lawyer who has experience in handling these cases can help you get justice for your child against negligent or abusive caretakers.

First Step in Child Injury Prevention

When you consider sending your child to a day care center, it's vital to your peace of mind and to the security of your child that you ask questions about how your child will be monitored, interacted with, and disciplined.

Questions for day care centers:

Is the facility licensed? If not, why not?
Are parents permitted to visit the facility and make surprise visits?
What's the ratio of adults to children?
Are children ever left alone with adults?
Does the facility run background checks on all of its personnel?
Are the children ever transported in vehicles? If so, what are the driver requirements and what safety protocol is followed? and
How is discipline handled? Are the policies in writing and available to parents?

If the day care center is unable or unwilling to answer your questions to your satisfaction, review whether you think you should send your child to that facility.

Contacting a Texas Personal Injury Lawyer

If you discover a suspicious child head injury, before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

4 Things You Should Never Say after a Texas Truck Accident

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Texas is home to some of the most dangerous car accidents on the road, but few are as dangerous as a Texas truck accident. Immediately after a Texas truck accident, you are confused, stressed, and possibly injured - the last thing you need is to say something while you are in a panic that could negatively impact your chances of being properly compensated for the injuries you sustained.

4 Things You Should Never Say after a Texas Truck Accident

To protect your case, avoid saying the following:

I'm sorry - No matter how good it may feel to cleanse your conscience, these words might be interpreted as accepting fault for the accident. Don't apologize.
I don't need medical attention - After a Texas car accident, a doctor in the Austin area should be called immediately or you should go to the emergency room. Just because you feel fine doesn't mean you haven't been hurt, and some injuries are impossible to detect until days or even weeks later.
We don't need the police - Failure to notify the authorities after an accident may have legal ramifications and will definitely decrease the likelihood that your claim will get a fair shake from the insurance companies.
I don't need a lawyer -Car accidents are complicated legal matters, and attorneys protect your best interests against your insurance company, the truck driver, the truck driver's insurance company, and so on.

Contacting a Team of Texas Personal Injury Lawyers

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas truck accident case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Not every accident case requires the help of an attorney and we can help you to determine whether yours is one of those cases! If you are ready to get started with your case, we urge you to contact our team of Texas personal injury lawyers today for a FREE case evaluation - 512-472-7799.

3 Students and Bus Driver Injured in Austin Crash

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 22, 2011 - Austin, Texas - A few AISD students and a bus driver had to be taken to the hospital following a collision between a school bus and a pickup truck on Monday, November 21.

My Fox Austin reports that the accident happened at about 8:15 a.m. at the intersection of Bolm Road and Ed Bluestein Boulevard. Austin Police said that the school bus, carrying 18 Austin High School students, was travelling westbound on the roadway when it was struck by a Dodge truck in the intersection.

One of the vehicles involved ran a red light, which caused the collision.

Reports indicate that 3 of the students and the bus driver were injured in the accident. Those 4 people were transported to UMC Brackenridge for treatment. All of the victims are said to have suffered minor injuries.

There is no word on whether or not charges will or have been filed. The accident is under ongoing investigation by Austin Police.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Drivers Killed in 2-Vehicle Car Accident in Bastrop

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 21, 2011 - Bastrop, Texas - KVUE reports of 2 people suffered fatal injuries when 2 vehicles collided on Sunday morning, November 20.

The accident took place at about 9:30 a.m. on FM 2236, just north of Camp Swift close to Holiday Drive. According to a Department of Public Safety dispatch officer, the driver, John Lee, 19, of a Chevrolet S10 was making a turn on the road when he fell asleep behind the wheel. His car then ran over a median and hit another vehicle that was being driven by Laura Ashley, 50.

Ashley and Lee both sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced dead on the site of the car accident.

A passenger in Lee's car, David Thompson, also sustained injuries. Thompson was transported to University Medical Center Brackenridge where he is being treated for internal bleeding.

The accident is under the stages of investigation by local officials.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Chuy's Children Giving to Children Parade in Austin

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The gift of giving is near with the winter holidays coming up. You can show your support for needy kids by celebrating the holidays at Chuy's 23^rd Annual Children Giving to Children parade in Austin. It begins at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 26 and will run until around noon. The parade starts at the State Capitol located at 11^th Street and Congress and ends at Cesar Chavez near the north side of the bridge.

This festive parade shows off huge inflatable balloons of familiar characters, beautifully decorated floats, lively cartoon characters, a marching band playing favorite holiday tunes, classic cars and of course, Santa!

Get your whole family to come watch the parade and bring a toy to help the cause of the Operation Blue Santa Program. At some time during the parade, Santa's helpers will come by to wish you and your friends and family a Merry Christmas and collect toys to give to other children who are less fortunate this Christmas.

So start off celebrating Christmas right by spreading your Christmas spirit at Chuy's Children Giving to Children parade and show your love and support this holiday season by donating a toy or 2!

When it's Time to Contact a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Take the opportunity to invite everyone you know for this Christmas-spirited filled parade but remember to play it safe. Parades bring in large crowds, loud noises and energetic children. Accidents can happen, and when they do you should know what steps to take.

Educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case if you are the victim of an accident. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Cedar Park's Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Get into the Christmas spirit this year in the city of Cedar Park. Cedar Park is hosting a holiday tree lighting ceremony packed with other fun-filled festivities on Tuesday, November 29. It will be held at the Heritage Oak Park located at 875 Quest Parkway.

The city of Cedar Park will be sharing its holiday spirit by decorating and lighting up the city's biggest living Oak Tree. Come see how the tree lights up the city with more than 50,000 Christmas lights and do not miss your chance of capturing a great family photo.

Also included in this year's event is Santa's workshop, which features live musical performances, arts & crafts activities, and carriage rides. Furthermore, dive into the delicious festive food and show your competitiveness by playing games to win prizes.

Bring your children to see and get a picture with Santa. Options are available for your pictures with Santa to be placed in a snow globe. Near the end of your night, do not leave without seeing the Spurs RV because if you are one of the first 500 people, you have a chance of winning 2 tickets to the opening night of Austin Toros.

This event is for all ages. Festivities start at 6 p.m. and run until 9 p.m.

Contacting a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

At many places, packed with people, injury can happen; therefore, you should be prepared when disaster strikes. Educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Concordia University in Austin Hosts a Community Christmas Tree Lighting

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Come support Concordia University as they host a community Christmas tree lighting. Concordia University is located at 11400 Concordia University Dr., in Austin. The ceremony starts at 6 p.m. sharp on Tuesday, November 29.

Attending this year's Christmas tree lighting at Concordia University is a great way to support the school, along with your community and it is FREE! This event enables you to share and start your holiday season off joyfully with friends, family, and neighbors.

This can be a great way to spend time with your family and make new friends at no cost, especially when times are tough. All ages can find this entertaining, especially young children who become mesmerized by the glowing lights. These special occasions are great for your children to run around and keep them entertained but make sure their safety is in check first.

Since the tree lighting starts at 6 p.m., there may be heavy traffic coming in and out of the school so buckle up and keep your eyes on the road. You do not want to start your holiday season having to deal with an accident but know that if you or your child fall victim to an injury, your Texas accident attorney is here to help.

Contacting a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Dallas Cowboys vs. Miami Dolphins Game

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Dallas Cowboys were in second place on the National Football Conference East Division based on the NFL's standings at the time of this posting. Come help the team move into first place by cheering them on at their next home game as they battle the Miami Dolphins on Thursday November 24.

Game time starts at 3:15 p.m. at the Cowboys Stadium located at One Legends Way in Arlington. Tickets are still available, which start at $150. Make this game a full day outing by tailgating outside the stadium with your friends and family before kickoff.

Many find Dallas Cowboys football games to be a blast and a way to hang out and meet new friends who share the same interest; however, fans can become rowdy, especially when they are under the influence of alcohol.

Remember to play it safe and do not drive home if you are unable to. You do not want to finish your night of fun and walk into Thanksgiving with having to deal with the consequences of a serious, if not fatal accident. Injury can happen on the way to the game, coming back from the game or at the Cowboys Stadium and you should know what steps to take if an accident happens.

Contacting a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Officer Runs Red Light and Hits Civilian Vehicle in Austin, 3 Injured

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 17, 2011 - Austin, Texas - On Tuesday, November 15, after an Austin Police officer ran a red light and crashed into another vehicle, 3 people had to be sent to the hospital.

KXAN reports that the accident happened shortly before 10 p.m. at the intersection of South Lamar Boulevard and Ben White Boulevard. According to Austin Police, the officer had been responding to a call, but his lights and sirens somehow got shut off just before the accident occurred resulting in the police vehicle crashing into a second vehicle.

Reports indicate that the officer had a training officer riding with him at the time of the accident. One of the officers was injured in the accident and had to be transported to a local hospital to be treated for minor injuries.

The 2 people that were in the second vehicle were also taken to a nearby hospital. Both of those people are also said to have suffered minor injuries.

The accident is under investigation. The Austin Police Department is also conducting an internal investigation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Meeting Your Austin Accident Lawyer for a Texas Personal Injury Case

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a car accident in Austin, TX, the first stage of a Texas personal injury case involves your initial meeting with an Austin accident lawyer. If this will be your first time meeting with an attorney, you should expect to be asked a lot of questions about yourself and the accident.

Your Initial Meeting with a Texas Car Accident Attorney

Your lawyer should collect enough information from you to determine whether you have a legitimate case worth pursuing.

You can expect to do the following:

be asked to sign documents authorizing the release of your medical records;
show proof of your insurance coverage;
be asked if you have discussed your car accident with anyone, including insurance adjusters and the general public via postings on social media sites;
be requested to explain the status of your injuries, i.e., diagnosis and pain level;
be advised to see your doctor for any lingering complaints; and
be offered by your lawyer to take your case and ask you sign an agreement, decline your case, or refer you to another lawyer.

If the Texas car accident attorney offers to take your case, there's a good chance that you may be compensated in a Texas personal injury claim.

Contacting a Texas Car Accident Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

ThunderCloud Subs Presents Austin Turkey Trot

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Celebrate this year's Thanksgiving holiday by joining in on the fun at the 21^st annual Turkey Trot presented by ThunderCloud Subs. This event will be held on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, at the Long Center located at 701 W. Riverside Drive in Austin, Texas.

Meet other participants early Thursday morning at the S. 1^st St. bridge. Remember to set your alarms Wednesday night because the kids' 1-mile run starts at 8:45 a.m. Following that will be a 5-mile run at 9:30 a.m. and a 1-mile walk beginning at 9:45 a.m. Registration ends November 3. All of the proceeds will go to Caritas of Austin.

Even if you already missed registration or are not much of a runner, you can participate in the Mellow Johnny's Bike Shop raffle. Take a chance at winning a gift card worth more than $1,000. Buy a Turkey Trot t-shirt, too, just to show that you were there partaking of the festivities.

The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot is the largest 5-mile run held in Texas so don't miss gathering with your family, friends, neighbors and people from surrounding communities to start your Thanksgiving Day off on the right foot.

When an Accident Occurs, Contact an Austin Accident Attorney

Be safe if you're taking part in the race. Also, prepare yourself for an early morning by getting enough sleep before you drive over to the event. Accidents can happen anywhere, and you should know what to do when you become a victim of one.

You can order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Fatality and 2 Critical Injuries in Single-Vehicle Car Accident in Austin

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 15, 2011 - Austin, Texas - A person was killed and 2 more suffered life-threating injuries in a single-car accident on Friday, November 11.

KVUE reports that the accident happened at about 4 a.m. on Lakeline Boulevard in Northwest Austin. A 2001 Volkswagen Passat was driving eastbound on the roadway when its driver attempted to negotiate a turn and lost control. The Passat went off of the road and crashed into a tree.

The front-seat passenger, Ellis McClane, 19, was killed in the accident. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The other 2 occupants of the car, whose identities haven't been released, were injured in the accident. Both of them were transported to Round Rock Hospital for treatment. They're said to have suffered life-threatening injuries.

Whether or not the occupants of the car had on seatbelts when the accident occurred is unknown. The accident is under the stages of investigation. Investigators said that speed seems to have been a key factor. Whether or not alcohol contributed is unclear.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

The Lion in Winter Theater Performance in Austin

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you like classic plays, you'll love The Lion in Winter, a production created by James Goldman. This theater performance will play at the Austin Playhouse starting on the weekend before Thanksgiving. Showings will be held on Friday, November 18 through Sunday, December 18.

The Lion in Winter tells the tale of King Henry II and his family feuds, betrayals and political disputes. It begins with King Henry II and his wife, Eleanor, arguing over which of their 3 sons should take over the throne. With the King's disapproval of Eleanor's choice, he locks her away.

Meanwhile, the King of France makes an alliance with King Henry II by setting up his sister, Alias, as Henry's mistress. Later, Eleanor escapes from her husband's lockdown, and a series of unfortunate events begin.

Tickets are on sale now. You can be the first to see this theatrical performance for $35 on opening night. Thursday and Friday night tickets are priced at $26 per ticket. For $28 per ticket, you can see the show on Saturday and Sunday. Student admission is 50% off.

When It's Time to Contact a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Going to a theatrical play can be a nice break before the hectic holidays, but whether it's the car ride to the event or a prop from a scene, accidents can happen. When they do, you should have legal guidance on your side.

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Gingerbread House Making Fundraiser in Austin for Children's Charity

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Show your kids how it can be fun to give back to other children who are less fortunate at the Gingerbread House-Raising event. This sweet and special occasion will be hosted at the Neill-Cochran House Museum on Saturday November 19, starting at 11 a.m.

This will be the museum's 3^rd Annual Gingerbread House Fundraiser. Children ages 6-11 can participate in decorating gingerbread houses that have already been pre-assembled. They will also have the opportunity to expand their knowledge on Greek Revival architecture and learn the history of the Neill-Cochran House Museum.

In addition, your children can share the gift of giving this holiday season by picking out candy, frosting, and other materials for a miniature replica gingerbread house of the Neill-Cochran House Museum that will be given to a local children's charity for those children to enjoy building.

Supervision will be at hand at the event but parents are more than welcome to stay and join in on the fun and learning. Snacks (other than candy) will be provided. A fee of $10 per child is required. All money collected will be covering the costs of the gingerbread house-making project that will be given to the children's charity.

When it's Time to Contact a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Your child's safety should be one of your main priorities. When energetic, excited children get together, an accident can occur and you should know what steps to take when one does.

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Start Your Holiday Season with a Bang at the Domain in Austin

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The holidays are here and there is so much to do and see! One event you may not want to miss is the holiday festival at the Domain in Austin. This event, produced by Roadway Productions, is one of many that the Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau mixes up for the community.

This enormous event is an all weekend party scheduled from Saturday, November 19, to Sunday, November 20. You can go and enjoy live musical performances, dancing, and shopping with your friends, family, and children. In-store activities may also be something you want to check out and participate in.

This year's Domain's holiday festival will also feature a grand tree lighting ceremony that will light up a tree that stands 40 feet tall. The tree will be decorated with more than 6,000 Christmas lights, 400 ornaments, and a star that is 5 feet tall. If you cannot get front row seats for this tree lighting spectacular, go over to visit Domain II where there will be another 18-foot tree dressed in Christmas decorations, a popular photo scene for friends and families.

When it's Time to Contact a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Accidents can happen anywhere, especially when high activity is involved. Make sure you and your child's safety first priority. If you do become involved in an accident, know that legal counsel is available.

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

5 Children's Hospitals in Austin: A Parent's Resource

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Often in cases of child injury, what may seem like a minor incident could turn out to be far more serious. Many parents know that it's better to play it safe, particularly when it comes to issues like head injuries and the like. When a child injury occurs, time is of the essence and emergency care may be necessary. With that in mind, we've provided resources on where to seek child injury care in Austin.

5 Children's Hospitals in Austin

Here is a list of 5 local hospitals for children in Austin:

Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas (1201 W. 38^th St.);
Texas Children's Hospital (823 Congress Ave. Suite 1500);
Iris A Ramos Lcfw (3724 Jefferson St.);
P and H Services (1509 Old W. 38^th St.); and
Weingarten Jordan S MD PA (1305 W. 34^th St. Suite 400).

These 5 hospitals in Austin can assist you when you need a helping hand for your child's injuries. Remember, when a child injury occurs, you should be cautious of your child's activities and watch for signs that may indicate the injury is worse than what you expected. You can always have the freedom of seeing a doctor if you are unsure of the damage that might have occurred.

When it's Time to Contact a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Is your child suffering a child injury because of someone else's negligence in Austin? Legal counsel can help you but before you take the important step of hiring a Texas personal injury attorney after a serious accident, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Austin's Christmas Affair is Coming to Town

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Spend some quality time with your friends and family by taking part in A Christmas Affair. This will be the 36th year this event has been hosted by the Junior League of Austin and will be held on November 17-20. The 4-day celebration brings joy and laughter with an array of festivities that you can enjoy.

What to do at the 36th Annual Christmas Affair

If you don't have any plans, round your loved ones up for this fun-filled weekend with the following events:

The Magic of Christmas Preview Party;
Visions of Sugar Plum Brunch and Private Shopping;
Santa Baby! Girls Night Out;
Frosty's Winter Wonderland and Breakfast with Santa;
Fashion show for teens and pre-teens;
Family bingo night;
Rudolph's Reindeer Round-up and Pajama Breakfast;
Gingerbread house building;
Get a snapshot with Santa; and
Meet authors at the authors' corner.

Remember to bring your wallets and your walking shoes because this event is bringing in more than 200 merchants from across the United States. Stuff your face with Christmas cookies and candy while you listen to joyous music and dance the night away.

Many of these events require reservations, so get your tickets now. You do not want to miss this year's spectacular Christmas Affair!

Contacting a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

This year's Christmas Affair can be a blast, but understand serious accidents can occur at anytime. When they do and you sustain serious injuries due to someone else's negligence, you can find legal help to stand up for your rights.

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

2 Victims of an Austin Motorcycle Accident Involving Police Officer

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 10, 2011 - Austin, Texas - Two people suffered injuries when a police officer riding a motorcycle and a car collided in North Austin on Wednesday, November 9.

According to a news report on KVUE, the accident occurred at about 11 a.m. in the 1700 block of East Anderson Lane. The officer's motorcycle crashed into a second vehicle on the road. Details of exactly how the accident occurred are not yet available.

Reports indicate that 2 people were wounded in the accident. Both people were sent to a nearby hospital right away following the crash. The medical conditions of the 2 victims are unknown at this time.

Police have not yet released the identity of the officer who was involved in the accident. Whether or not the officer was injured is also unclear.

Whether or not the police officer was taking action to a call at the time of the accident is unclear. The accident is under investigation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Settlement Stage of a Texas Personal Injury Case

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Texas car accident attorney is a good resource if you've been the victim of a car accident in Austin, TX and need to file a Texas personal injury case after car accident. In order to get a fair settlement, you will need legal counsel to level the playing field with the insurance company.

Things to Consider When Offered a Settlement for a Car Accident in Austin, TX

Your Austin accident lawyer can review any settlement offers to determine whether you're being treated fairly and they can tell you:

the worth of your case based on past cases, the extent of your injuries, and whether your life has been altered;
the chances of winning if your Texas personal injury case goes to trial;
the potential for unfavorable publicity for you if your case goes to trial;
any personal information that could be revealed at trial;
a timeline for the trial;
possible weaknesses on your behalf;
possible weaknesses in your opponent's case;
your opponent's insurance coverage;
some possible negotiation tactics used by the defense;
the extent to which the defense will play fight; and
the minimum amount they suggest you accept.

It's important that you seek medical care after your car accident in Austin, TX, to prove your injuries and protect your rights. Then you should contact a Texas car accident attorney as soon as possible.

Contacting an Austin Accident Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Toys to Help Your Child Cope After Suffering an Injury in Austin

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Children are more vulnerable than adults to suffering serious injuries, such as broken bones and head injuries, in accidents. If your child has suffered an injury in recent months, you are likely focusing on ways to help him or her to cope with those injuries. As you prepare for holiday shopping, you may want to make a list of gifts that may have a therapeutic effect.

Below are a few gift ideas that may help a child who is coping with recovery from a child injury:

puzzles;
board games;
Budkins (flexible toys);
cubic block; and
coloring books.

Another idea is the "Sleepy Monkey," an especially good choice for children that are having trouble falling asleep. The Sleepy Monkey's stomach and ears are made of a special material that glows in the dark when drawn on with a UV marker provided with the toy.

These are just a few gift ideas for kids who are dealing with a serious injury. While they certainly can't make the pain or trauma go away, they may serve as a momentary distraction, allowing your child to focus on being a kid, instead of thinking about the accident.

When it's Time to Contact a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

If your child has been injured due to someone else's negligence, you should get in touch with legal counsel to learn if you have the grounds for legal action.

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Pflugerville's ChiliPfest Annual Cook-Off and Festivities

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Who needs Thanksgiving when there is a cook-off that comes earlier in Pflugerville? Coming up is Pflugerville's Annual Pfall ChiliPfest hosted at the Pflugerville High School on Sunday, November 13. You can enjoy all day festivities starting from 1 p.m. until 10 p.m.

Pflugerville's Pfall ChiliPfest is not all about a cook-off competition and chili. Much more is included at this festival of fun, such as a Washer Tournament, Swing Dance Contest, shopping tents, children's play area, movies for children, and dancing.

The band Rotel and the Hot Tomatoes will also be present, conducting a live musical performance. Rotel and the Hot Tomatoes was voted by Harpers Bazaar magazine as one of the the top 10 best party bands in the U.S. so you do not want to miss them.

Admission to Pflugerville's ChiliPfest is free for everyone; however, if you would like to enter the Washer Tournament, it is $25 per team and the Swing Dance Contest is $10 for every couple that wants to partake. If you would also like to taste all the varieties of chili cooked, you can buy 10 special tasting cups for only a dollar.

Injured? A Texas Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

Any big festival can have an occurrence of a major accident and you should know what to do if you get injured. Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Man Critically Injured When Hit by Car in Georgetown

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 9, 2011 - Georgetown, Texas - A man was critically injured when he was hit by a car on Tuesday night, November 8.

KXAN reports that the accident happened at about 10 p.m. on Williams Drive. Local officials said that the man apparently walked into the roadway and into the path of a Ford Focus that was travelling east. The Focus then struck the man in the roadway.

The man, later identified as 37-year-old David Meyers was critically injured in the accident. He was transported to Seton Northwest for treatment. Meyers is said to have suffered a head injury.

The driver of the car that hit Meyers remained on the scene. So far no charges have been filed in connection with this accident. Officials said that it does not appear that alcohol or drugs were factors in the crash. The accident is under ongoing investigation by local authorities.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Scandemonium Charity Event in Austin

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Bring your positive mindset, running shoes, and your fastest friend to Scandemonium in Austin. This event will be held on November 12 in an effort to raise awareness of men's health.

Scandemonium is a charity event to help Movember, a campaign focused on improving men's health. Skullshovel will be donating all profits made at Scandemonium to Livestrong and the Prostate Cancer Foundation to improve men's health awareness and support prostate cancer research and other cancers men endure.

Scandemonium is trying to beat the world record for the largest scavenger hunt conducted, so bring everyone you know to compete. The hunt consists of teams of 2 racing around, cracking clues, and taking on physical and mental challenges. Whoever finishes quickest will be rewarded with a cash prize.

Those who are interested in competing must have a smart phone with a camera and a Facebook or Twitter account in order to be successful in this competition. The event also requests that you to install a QR code scanning application. If you need help with the installation, you can find assistance at the event.

After the Scandemonium scavenger hunt, don't miss more prize-winning contests and concerts performed by 4 local bands:

John Arthur Martinez;
Shawn Nelson;
Jon Wolfe; and
Rich O'Toole.

Contacting an Austin Personal Injury Attorney

Scandemonium is a great opportunity to support men's health but be safe while doing it. You can fall victim to an accident at any event such as this and you should know what steps to take if you do.

Educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case in the event of sustaining injuries in an accident. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Pub Trivia Games for Geeks Who Drink in Austin

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Geeks Who Drink is hosting a pub trivia game night at North by Northwest Restaurant & Brewery on Monday, November 14 beginning at 7:30 p.m. For many, Monday can be draining and exhausting, so this can be a great way to end your Monday night right with friends.

Geeks Who Drink is an organization that started in Denver, Colorado. It now hosts pub trivia night in more than 150 bars and restaurants across the country and continues to grow. Show off your intelligence while kicking back with your pals and an ice-cold beer to wash away your Monday blues.

No need to sign up or register a seat beforehand -- just show up at the pub located at 10010 N. Capital of Texas Highway in Austin and try to beat others with your mastermind. Play by yourself or gather a team of 6 to win awesome trivia prizes.

This event can be an amazing evening to enjoy with your friends, meet new friends and kick off your week, but remember to play it safe. Drink responsibly, and if you are unable to drive home, call someone to come and get you. Bar scenes can get out of hand, and it is not fun ending your night with an accident in Austin.

When It's Time to Contact a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Late-night drinking can cause driver impairment. If you've become involved in an accident due to someone else's negligence, you should have legal guidance on your side.

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

November Concerts at Uncle Billy's on the Lake in Austin

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Find some fun after a hard week or day of work at Uncle Billy's Lake Travis in Austin. Throughout the whole month of November, several concerts will be held at Uncle Billy's for you to kick back and enjoy with an ice cold beer.

Several musical artists have already passed through Uncle Billy's doors, but there are many more on the way for you to check out. November's lineup continues with:

Austin Torpedos - Thursday, November 10;
Scooter Brown Band - Friday, November 11;
Johnny Falstaff - Saturday, November 12;
Ruby Dee & The Snakehandlers - Thursday, November 17;
Leroi Brothers - Friday, November 18;
Mudphonic - Saturday, November 19;
Modern Don Juans - Friday, November 25; and
Luke Hidgins & The First Cousins/Eric Hisaw - Saturday, November 26.

Uncle Billy's is located at 6550 Comanche Trail. Do not forget Thursday is ladies' night. Also, remember to drink responsibly and have a plan of action if you are unable to drive home. You do not want to spoil your fun night by driving home drunk and causing a serious accident. Even if you are responsible, other drivers may not be, so stay alert on the road.

When it's Time to Contact a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

If you or someone you know has been in a serious car accident, make sure you have legal counsel by your side. Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Pedestrian Dies of Injuries in Austin Hit and Run Accident

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 7, 2011 - Austin, Texas - A pedestrian died from his or her injuries in a hit and run accident on Sunday morning, November 6.

A news story on KVUE reports that the accident happened at about 3:15 a.m. on the I-35 feeder roadway between Riverside Drive and Woodland Avenue. According to Austin police, the pedestrian was walking along the roadway when they were struck by an oncoming vehicle.

The pedestrian sustained fatal injuries in the accident. Officials pronounced the pedestrian dead at the scene.

The driver that hit the pedestrian drove off after the incident occurred. So far, police have been unable to find the driver. Police said that the vehicle in question has been described as a white Chevy Malibu. Anyone with information has been asked to contact the Austin Police Department.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Car Pulling Out from Driveway in Austin Gets Hit, Driver Dies

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 4, 2011 - Austin, Texas - A woman died on Tuesday, November 1, when her vehicle was struck as she left a private driveway.

KXAN reports that the accident happened at about 2 p.m. in the 3600 block of West William Cannon Drive. Officials said that Debra McKee, 53, was driving her Ford Focus out of a driveway when she pulled into the path of an eastbound Lexus SUV. The SUV crashed into the Focus in the roadway.

McKee was rushed to University Medical Center Brackenridge immediately following the accident. She was pronounced dead in the hospital later that night.

A passenger in McKee's vehicle was also injured in the accident. He was transported to University Medical Center Brackenridge as well, where he remains with an unknown condition.

The driver and occupants of the SUV weren't hurt in the accident.

Police said that it appears the McKee failed to yield right of way to the SUV. The accident is under ongoing investigation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

School Bus Accident in Austin Injures 4 Children and Adult

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 3, 2011 - Austin, Texas - An adult and 4 children had to be transported to the hospital following an accident involving a school bus on Wednesday, November 2.

A KVUE story indicates that the accident occurred early Wednesday morning on U.S. 290. The accident happened in the eastbound lanes of the highway. Exactly how many vehicles were involved in the accident is unclear. Details of how the accident occurred are also unavailable.

At least 4 children were injured in the accident. All 4 victims had to be transported to Dell Children's Medical Center for medical attention. They are said to have suffered only minor injuries.

An adult was also injured in the crash. That person was also transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.

The names of all those involved in the accident have not been identified yet. The crash remains under the stage of investigation by local authorities.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Trampolines Blamed for Child Injuries in Texas

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Texas Children's Hospital has seen many child injuries come through its doors, and trampolines have been blamed for some injuries in children between the ages of 5 and 10. In the event your child is injured in a trampoline accident, there may be third parties that can be held liable. You should seek help from an Austin personal injury attorney.

Common Child Injuries Due to Trampoline Accidents

According to the chief of pediatric orthopedics and scoliosis at Texas Children's Hospital, Dr. William A. Phillips, approximately 100,000 children between 5 and 10 years old are injured annually on trampolines. Common injuries include:

sprains;
fractures;
scrapes;
bruises;
lacerations;
concussion/head trauma;
back injury;
paralysis; and
death.

A good way to reduce the risk of your child suffering injuries while playing on a trampoline is to make sure the trampoline is in a controlled environment with supervision.

Trampolines can be fun at any age, but unexpected accidents can occur that result in serious injuries. When your child has been injured due to another's negligence such as a faulty part in a product or irresponsible supervision, you may be eligible to file a claim. Your Austin personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and fight for your legal rights.

Contacting an Austin Personal Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas child injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Not every child injury case requires the help of an attorney and we can help you to determine whether yours is one of those cases! If you are ready to get started with your case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - 1-512-472-7799.

5 Sports that Commonly Cause Child Injuries in Texas

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

There are many benefits of getting your child involved in sport activities, such as meeting new friends, physical exercise and enjoying the outdoors. While your child may love being an athlete, keep in mind that some sport activities are dangerous. When child injuries happen, contact an Austin personal injury attorney for help.

5 Dangerous Sports for Children

Any type of sport can be dangerous for a child, but the following 5 have been determined to have high risks of serious injuries.

basketball;
football;
body-boarding;
skateboarding; and
rollerblading.

Many of these sports can cause lacerations, sprains, concussions, fractures, soft-tissue injuries and many more severe injuries. When your child goes out to play, make sure he or she is wearing the proper attire and gear to prevent accidents and injuries.

When your child has sustained a serious injury while playing a sport, it may be due to an array of reasons that could lead to third-party lawsuits. When you need legal counsel by your side, get in touch with an Austin personal injury attorney. An attorney has the ability to evaluate your case to see if you may be able to file a claim and collect compensation for your child's injuries and pain and suffering.

Contacting an Austin Personal Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas child injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Kick Off November at the Celtic Festival in Austin

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Become enriched in the Celtic culture by celebrating the 15^th year of the Austin Celtic Festival. The event takes place at the Fiesta Gardens in Austin, Texas on Saturday, November 5 and Sunday, November 6.

From 12 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. enjoy dances inspired by Irish and Scottish heritages and musical artists. Get a chance to participate in traditional cultural games. Live the history of the Celtic people by watching a live Viking battle or perfecting your talent at archery. Be hands on by signing up for a workshop, and show your love for the animals associated with the Celts.

You can not lose an opportunity at this festival to explore the roots of this Celtic culture. Hop vendor to vendor and marvel over handmade jewelry, clothing, and décor. Get a taste for the Celtic flavor with many choices of food and drinks.

You can purchase your tickets now online for a $3 discount or at the gate at a $15 rate. A weekend pass is also available. Children under the age of 13 get free admission. With people of all ages attending this event, remember to familiarize yourself with your surroundings and be cautious of the potential for accidents.

Facing Injuries? A Texas Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

The Celtic Festival is a great way to start off November, but your safety should be a priority when attending events like these. Accidents can happen anywhere, and you should know what steps to take when one does.

Educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Eliminate Injuries in Texas Motorcycle Accidents with Safety Gear

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Considering the size of a motorcycle and your exposure to other vehicles, if you are ever in a motorcycle accident in Texas and are not wearing the proper attire, you may face serious -- even fatal -- injuries. If you are ever injured in an accident due to someone else's negligence, get in touch with a Texas accident attorney.

Safety Gear to Avoid Serious Injuries in a Texas Motorcycle Accident

The next time you go for a ride on your motorcycle in Texas, make sure you wear the proper gear to protect yourself from any unfortunate events.

Helmets - in case of ejection;
Footwear - for a strong grip;
Face protection - to keep foreign objects out of your face;
Gloves - to free your hands from injury so you can steer comfortably;
Goggles - to eliminate dust or sand getting in your eyes; and
Fitted clothing - so nothing interferes with the mechanics of your bike.

You may also want to carry extra clothing when weather permits. Rain gear and jackets can come in handy when the weather unexpectedly changes.

Motorcycle accidents have a high fatality rate, and many are caused by negligent drivers. When you need legal assistance, you can count on your Texas accident attorney who has the ability to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contacting a Texas Accident Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Group Bicycling Can Prevent Bicycle Accidents in Austin

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

It's not rare to hear of someone falling victim to a serious bicycle accident in Austin. Riding in groups can reduce the risk of a serious bicycle accident, and you may find it more enjoyable. In any case, if you ever face the consequences of a bicycle accident due to someone else's negligence, an Austin personal injury attorney can help.

Practice Safe Biking with these 5 Austin Bicycling Groups

You may find yourself developing a little anxiety while you attempt to share the road with vehicles, but you can ease your jitters by riding with any of these 5 groups:

Lake Travis Cycling;
Austin Bicycling;
Highland Lakes Bicycle Club;
Austin Tri Cyclists group rides; and
Sun City Cyclists.

Many of these bicycling groups have websites that contain scheduled times and locations of where they meet up. You can meet friends, learn a new bike route and feel safer by riding next to other bicyclists.

Bicycle accidents can cause serious injuries that can even be fatal. Don't let yourself become another victim. When you need help after a bicycle accident that was caused by another's negligence, meet with an Austin personal injury attorney for legal guidance.

Contacting an Austin Personal Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Motorcyclist Fatally Injured in Austin Accident Involving a Van

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 1, 2011 - Austin, Texas - A motorcyclist sustained fatal injuries after he was hit by a van at an intersection on Saturday, October 29.

KVUE reports that the accident happened at about 5:30 p.m. at the intersection of Spicewood Springs Road and Yaupon Drive. The motorcyclist was crossing the intersection when he was hit by a Honda van. According to officials on the scene, the van failed to stop at a stop sign before entering the intersection.

The motorcyclist, Paul Richard Greenleaf, was killed in the accident and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

None of the occupants of the van were injured in the accident.

The identity of the van's driver has not been released. Whether or not the driver will be facing any charges in connection with this accident is unclear.

The accident remains under investigation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Top 10 Texas Cities for Safe Driving

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Do you feel safe driving on the roads where you live? Do you think you are less at risk for becoming a victim in a car accident in Texas? Depending on where you reside, you may have answered yes.

10 Texas Cities for Safe Driving

According to a 2011 annual survey conducted by Allstate Insurance, 10 Texas cities led the way with the fewest accidents.

Laredo: nationally ranked 28;
Brownsville: nationally ranked 32;
McAllen: nationally ranked 41;
Amarillo: nationally ranked 48;
Lubbock: nationally ranked 69;
Corpus Christi: nationally ranked 76;
El Paso: nationally ranked 78;
Waco: nationally ranked 100;
McKinney: nationally ranked 129; and
Fort Worth: nationally ranked 130.

Although the above Texas cities are ranked as being among the safest cities in the U.S. for driving, you could still be involved in an accident in those cities.

Remember when you drive to stay focused on the road and eliminate as many distractions as possible. Sometimes under certain circumstances, an accident may be unavoidable, which is where you may need legal assistance. A Texas accident attorney understands the consequences you're facing and can take the time to fight for your legal rights.

Contacting a Texas Accident Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Decrease your Risk of a Bicycle Accident; Ride an Austin Bike Trail

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, approximately 50 bicyclists sustained fatal injuries in Texas. Don't put yourself in harm's way when there are bike trails in Austin that you can enjoy without the risk of being seriously injured in a bicycle accident.

10 Popular Bike Trails in Austin

Reduce the risk of becoming a victim in a Texas bicycle accident by taking a ride on one of the many bike trails in Austin, including:

Balcones District Park - located on 12017 Amherst Dr.;
Dottie Jordan Neighborhood Park - located on 2803 Loyola Lane;
Blunn Creek Preserve - located on 1200 St. Edwards Dr.;
Dove Springs District Park - located on 5801 Ainez Dr.;
Boggy Creek Greenbelt - located on 1114 Nile St..;
Eastwoods Park - located on 3001 Harris Park Ave.;
Buttermilk Branch Greenbelt - located on 7500 Meador Dr.;
Civitan Park - located on 513 Vargas Rd.;
Eilers Park - located on 401 Deep Eddy Ave.; and
Dittmar Neighborhood Park - located on 1009 W. Dittmar Rd.

Drivers and bicyclists aren't 100% cooperative with sharing the roads with one another, so it's best to opt out of taking a ride on the streets and head to one of Austin's bike trails.

If you ever do face the consequences of a bicycle accident, know that an Austin personal injury lawyer can be there for you to stand up for your legal rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contacting an Austin Personal Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

10 Dog Breeds Safe Around Your Child in Texas

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Pit bulls and Rottweilers are among the most vicious dogs known to attack and can cause horrific lacerations, fractured bones and disfigurement. The good news is that many dog breeds are family-oriented and are great around children. If your child has been the victim of a dog attack, speak with a Texas dog bite lawyer to see if you have a claim worth pursuing.

10 Dogs Popular with Families

You can feel at ease knowing your child will be less likely to be attacked by any of these family dogs.

Bull Dog;
Beagle;
Bull Terrier;
Collie;
Newfoundland;
Vizsla;
Irish Setter;
Poodle;
Labrador Retriever; and
Golden Retriever.

Although these dog breeds are listed as the top 10 kid-friendly dogs on PetMD.com, you don't have to be limited to them. Choose a dog with a good temper, size and liveliness. Sometimes a big, energetic dog is not a good option, especially when small children are around.

Any dog may unexpectedly attack, leaving you or your child with serious or even fatal injuries. A Texas dog bite lawyer understands laws regarding dog attacks and can help evaluate your case so you can seek justice.

Contacting a Texas Dog Bite Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

San Marcos Hit and Run Accident Kills Pregnant Woman, Infant Survives

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 28, 2011 - San Marcos, Texas - A pregnant woman was struck and killed in a hit and run accident on Tuesday, October 25. Her infant child is expected to survive.

KVUE reports that the accident happened at about 11 p.m. at the intersection of Interstate 35 West and Highway 80. Officials said that Diann S. Ford, 22, was on her way home from work at the time of the accident. She was attempting to walk across I-35 at the intersection when she was struck by an oncoming vehicle.

Ford was critically injured in the accident. She was transported to University Medical Center Brackenridge, where doctors were able to deliver her baby via caesarian section. Ford was pronounced dead Thursday morning in the hospital.

The infant was reported to be in good condition as of Thursday.

The driver of the car that struck Ford fled the scene. The vehicle has been described as a dark-colored car with extra bright headlights.

Police are still searching for the driver.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

3 Things to Do after a Car Accident in Texas

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

It can be very frightening to be involved in a car accident in Texas, especially when you suffer serious injuries. In this case, you should speak to a Texas personal injury lawyer for guidance in pursuing a claim for damages.

3 Things to Follow after a Car Crash in Texas

To protect your legal rights throughout the process, you should:

Be honest with your insurance company and your lawyer. Even if you did something embarrassing, say so. It's best if the insurance company has all the facts. If you fail to reveal the truth, your claim could be denied.
Understand replacement coverage vs. actual cash value. If you are entitled to replacement coverage, don't settle for the actual cash value of property losses. You could end up short-changing yourself.
Keep receipts for all expenses directly related to your car accident in Texas. This includes medical bills, over-the-counter medication, prescription medication, medical devices and, in some situations, meals and lodging.

A Texas personal injury lawyer with a vast case history can provide you with other tips to follow after car crash in Texas. You will benefit by contacting a lawyer as soon after your accident as possible to ensure that all deadlines for filing a claim are met.

Contacting a Texas Personal Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

3 Things to Avoid after a Car Accident in Texas

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

There are certain things you should not do if you have been involved in a car accident in Texas. If you do the wrong thing, such as accept a quick settlement, you will likely end up with a low settlement that doesn't fairly address your damages. For help, you should speak to a Texas personal injury lawyer.

3 Things to Avoid after a Car Crash in Texas

There are 3 things in particular that you should not do after a car accident in Texas:

Accept a check that says final payment - Never accept "final payment" without the guidance of your attorney. Your attorney can help ensure that your future medical expenses are addressed as well as any lost wages, lost earning potential and compensation for pain and suffering.
Ignore time limits -This is a mistake that could lead to you losing a fair and full settlement. You may have a year in which to pursue legal action, if your claim has not been handled fairly. This is why it's a good idea to consult an attorney early on in the process.
Forget that you and your insurer have a contract - Your insurer is legally obligated to provide the coverage promised. Hold them accountable!

Your Texas personal injury lawyer can offer more tips on what to avoid after a car crash in Texas.

Contating a Texas Personal Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Teen Killed, 2 Injured When Car Crashes into Tree in Blanco County

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 25, 2011 - Blanco County, Texas - A teenager died and 2 more had to be taken to the hospital as the result of a single-vehicle car accident on Saturday, October 22.

We Are Austin reports that the accident happened shortly before 5 a.m. on County Road 205. Officials said that a Toyota 4Runner was driving northbound on the roadway when, due to causes unknown, the driver lost control of the vehicle. The 4Runner then went off of the road and crashed into a tree.

A passenger in the vehicle, Adam Lefford, 17, was killed in the accident. He died at the scene.

The other 2 people that were in the vehicle when it crashed, both 18, had to be rushed to University Medical Center at Brackenridge immediately following the accident. Both were critically injured.

Officials with the Department of Public Safety said all 3 of the teenagers were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the accident.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

2 Adults and Child Injured in Travis County Accident

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 21, 2011 - Travis County, Texas - A child and 2 adults were injured when a truck overturned just South of Lago Vista on Wednesday, October 19.

KXAN reports that the accident happened on Singleton Bend Road close to FM 1431. The truck was driving on the roadway when, for reasons unknown, it overturned on the roadway. Exact details of how the accident occurred are not yet available.

The report indicates that 4 people were in vehicle when it crashed. A 7-year-old boy was injured in the accident and had to be airlifted to Dell Children's Medical Center. Officials say that the boy was alert immediately following the accident. There is no word on his medical condition.

There were 2 adults that also sustained injuries in the accident. Both were transported to Cedar Park Hospital, where they received treatment for minor injuries.

A 14-year-old girl who was a passenger in the truck was not injured.

The accident remains under investigation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Texas Birth Defect Lawsuit: Troubling Statistics on Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

The prognosis for infants with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is sometimes bleak. In severe cases, for example, the mortality rate is 25%-50%. This is very disheartening, especially considering the fact that the condition could be the result of medical negligence. If you've lost a child to HIE or have a baby who's suffering from this condition, speak to an Austin birth injury lawyer at a Texas injury firm to discuss filing a birth defect lawsuit.

Statistics on Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy

Most deaths resulting from HIE occur during the baby's first week of life because as the condition causes brain injury related to a lack of oxygen, multiple organ failure can occur. Systemic infections or aspiration pneumonia are also causes of death.

Consider the following HIE statistics:

80% of babies who survive severe HIE have serious complications;
10%-20% who survive severe HIE develop moderately severe disabilities;
10% who survive severe HIE are healthy;
30%-50% who survive moderately severe HIE develop serious long-term complications;
10%-20% who survive moderately severe HIE have minor complications; and
infants with mild HIE fare relatively well.

Because HIE can be the result of your medical team failing to monitor you and your baby properly, speaking to a Texas injury firm should be a priority. An experienced Austin birth injury lawyer will discuss negligence and help you understand your legal options for a birth defect lawsuit.

Contacting an Austin Birth Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim can fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Man Suffers Fatal Injuries in Austin Motorcycle Accident

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 19, 2011 - Austin, Texas - A man was killed when his motorcycle crashed on Monday, October 17.

KVUE reports that the accident happened at about 3:30 p.m. in the 1900 block of South MoPac. William Wilton Bennink, 64, was travelling northbound on his motorcycle when he evidently lost control of the vehicle. The motorcycle went off of the roadway and crashed.

Bennink was thrown from the motorcycle when it crashed. He was rushed to University Medical Center Brackenridge immediately following the accident. Bennink was later pronounced dead in the hospital.

Police said than Bennink was wearing his helmet when the incident occurred. Officials do not believe that alcohol played a role in this accident.

The motorcycle was the only vehicle involved and no other injuries or fatalities have been reported in connection with this crash.

The accident is under the stages of investigation and is being handled by the Austin Police Department.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Concerned about a Baby Crib Recall? Here are 5 Tips for Texas Parents

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Baby crib recall figures have surpassed 11 million since 2007, and many play yards and bassinets have also been recalled for safety reasons, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). If your child has been injured by a dangerous crib or other bedding, you should speak to a product liability attorney in Texas.

Safety Tips for Baby Cribs and Bedding

To help your baby sleep safely, you should follow these tips provided by the CPSC:

Keep pillows and thick quilts out of the crib to prevent suffocation. Additionally, make sure any gaps between the sides of the crib and the mattress are no larger than the width of 2 fingers.
Make sure your crib is installed correctly. Read the instructions and call the manufacturer for help if necessary.
Don't use a crib that's more than 10 years old, broken or modified.
Don't add extra padding to a play yard.
Never place a crib near window blinds, curtain rods or baby monitor cords. These are all strangulation hazards.

Watch out for baby crib recall news and news of any other child product recalls. If your child has already been injured, a Texas product liability law attorney may be able to help you recover damages.

Contacting a Texas Product Liability Law Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim can fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Signs of Emotional Child Injuries after a Dog Attack in Texas

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Child injuries resulting from a dog attack in Texas can be physical as well as emotional. While physical injuries can be quite apparent, emotional injuries may include fear, depression, anger and withdrawal. A Texas animal attack lawyer can help you seek compensation for physical and emotional harm if your child has been attacked.

Child Injuries: Emotional Problems after Dog Attack in Texas

After an event as traumatic as a dog attack, children may experience the following reactions based on age.

5 and under - whimpering, screaming, crying, fear of being separated from a parent, excessive clinging and aimless motion;
6 to 11 - disruptive behavior, severe withdrawal, irrational fears, inability to pay attention, nightmares, unexplained aches, refusal to go to school and fighting; and
12 to 17 - nightmares, emotional numbing, flashbacks, substance abuse, depression, suicidal ideation, anti-social behavior and avoiding reminders of the dog attack.

A Texas animal attack lawyer will discuss examples of criminal negligence as well as civil negligence. If it is determined that you should file a civil claim, you may be entitled to compensation for your child's emotional counseling and medical treatment. If there are examples of criminal negligence in your case, the dog's owner could be charged criminally.

Contacting an Animal Attack Lawyer in Texas

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Accident with Construction Vehicle Leaves Man Dead in San Antonio

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 14, 2011 - San Antonio, Texas - A person was killed in an accident involving a construction vehicle, Tuesday morning, October 11.

KENS 5 reports that the accident occurred shortly before 5 a.m. on Loop 410, near Austin Highway. Officials with the San Antonio Police Department said that the construction vehicle was travelling along the highway with half of the vehicle in the lane and half on the road shoulder. The vehicle was travelling slowly so that a worker could pick up construction barrels.

A black SUV that was driving in the fast lane evidently failed to see the construction vehicle in time and crashed into the vehicle at a high rate of speed. The SUV then veered away and stopped.

The SUV's driver, Billy Joe Vaughn, 44, was killed in the accident. He was pronounced dead at the scene. There is no word on whether or not the construction workers were injured in the accident.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Man Dies in Hospital Days after Single-Vehicle Car Accident in Austin

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 13, 2011 - Austin, Texas - A man died 2 later in the hospital from his injuries that he sustained in a car accident that happened on Monday, October 10.

KVUE reports that the accident occurred at about 2:30 p.m. in the 6200 block of Brushy Road. Police said that a maroon 2005 Honda Element was travelling at an excessively high rate of speed when its driver failed to maintain control as the vehicle went around a curve. The Element then ran off of the roadway and crashed into a tree.

The man who was driving the Element was transported to a local hospital immediately following the accident. He was pronounced dead in the hospital a few days later.

The man's identity hasn't yet been released. Officials could only say that he was 55 years old.

According to Police, speed was most likely the a primary factor in the accident but it remains under investigation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Texas Head Injury in Child: 6 Things to Avoid During Recovery

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a parent or caregiver, it can be very frightening to witness your child suffer with the symptoms of a concussion after a Texas accident. A head injury in a child can have troubling effects that last for quite some time. If an accident caused by someone else's negligence led to your child's injury, you may be able to recover damages through a Texas personal injury claim.

Tips to Help Your Child Recover From a Head Injury in Texas

While your child is exhibiting the warning signs of a head injury, they shouldn't:

attend school;
take any exams such as SATs;
engage in physical activity;
engage in any activity with wheels (biking, skateboarding, rollerblading, or riding a scooter);
operate heavy machinery;
drive; or
return to work.

While your son or daughter recovers, you should continually be on the lookout for any persisting child head injury warning signs, such as sleepiness, headaches and sensitivity to light. Any changes in your child should promptly be reported to his or her pediatrician.

Since a head injury in a child can be very costly, you may benefit by having a Texas child injury lawyer review your case and help you take steps to hold all negligent parties accountable.

Contacting a Texas Child Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

News for Texas Parents: How Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy Affects Your Baby

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

A diagnosis of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) could be a sign of medical negligence, leading you to file a birth defect lawsuit. A case such as this calls for the guidance of an Austin birth injury lawyer, considering all parties that may be involved. To protect your legal rights, you should contact a Texas injury firm as soon as possible.

Although medical experts are continually studying HIE, it has been shown that brain cell injury from this condition occurs in 2 phases. Soon after the brain is deprived of sufficient oxygen, brain cells will stop working properly, creating chemicals that may cause additional damage.

When blood flow or oxygen resumes, the chemicals may damage the injured cells and healthy cells. When brain cooling therapy is implemented, the infant's brain metabolism will slow, allowing recovery. In the process, further chemical damage won't occur from the original injury. It has been determined that brain cooling treatment can have the best outcome within 6 hours of birth or as soon as possible after an injury.

The prognosis for infants with HIE depends on the severity of the condition. Although some babies may recover, others may experience long-term complications. If an Austin birth injury lawyer encourages you to pursue a birth defect lawsuit, you may be entitled to recover damages for your baby's current and future medical needs as well as your mental anguish. Don't hesitate to get in touch with a Texas injury firm.

Contacting an Austin Birth Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim can fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Head-On Accident in Hays County Leaves 1 Dead and 2 Critically Injured

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 10, 2011 - Hays County, Texas - A person died and 2 more were critically injured as the result of a head-on collision on Friday, October 7.

We Are Austin reports that the accident happened at approximately 8 a.m. on RM 12, just south of County Road 170. Officials said that Shirley Bailey Malott, 66, of Dripping Springs, was driving her 1992 Mercury Grand Marquis northbound on the roadway when her vehicle swerved across the center line.

Malott's vehicle went into the path of a southbound 2000 Toyota Corolla. The 2 vehicles collided head on in the roadway.

Malott was rushed to University Medical Center at Brackenridge immediately following the accident. She was later pronounced dead in the hospital.

The 2 people that were in the Toyota, both from Wimberley, were critically injured in the accident. They were also taken to the hospital for treatment.

Officials said that adverse weather conditions may have been a factor in the accident. It was raining and the roads were wet.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

News for Texas Parents: Baby Crib Recall Leads to New Safety Rules

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Since late June, safer cribs have been on the market, and drop-side cribs have been banned. The faulty design of drop-side cribs led to more than one baby crib recall because of entrapment risks that caused suffocations and strangulations. If your baby has been victimized by a dangerous or defective product in Texas, you should explore your legal options with an attorney who handles Texas product liability law cases.

In December 2010, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) implemented new crib standards. Some rules include:

banning the manufacture and sale of drop-side cribs;
strengthening crib slats and mattress supports;
making more durable hardware; and
conducting more rigorous safety testing.

Beginning December 28, 2012, daycare centers, Head Start centers, hotels and rental companies will be required to comply with the CPSC's new crib standards.

Child Product Recalls: Defective Cribs

Since 2007, baby crib recall figures topped 11 million; since 2000, at least 32 strangulation and suffocation deaths were linked to drop-side cribs. More deaths were linked to faulty hardware.

It would be a good idea to watch for future child product recalls. If you believe you have a legitimate case of negligence because of a defective product, a Texas product liability law attorney will review your case and, if appropriate, help you take steps toward seeking compensation for your child's injuries.

Contacting a Texas Product Liability Law Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring him or her to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim can fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

San Antonio Accident Leaves Woman in Critical Condition, Driver Flees

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 7, 2011 - San Antonio, Texas - A person is in critical condition following a single-vehicle car accident on Tuesday, October 4.

San Antonio Express-News reports that the accident happened at about 2:45 a.m. on Interstate 10 East, near Loop 1604. A pickup truck was travelling on the highway when its driver lost control, causing the vehicle to run off of the roadway. The pickup truck then overturned 3 times and crashed at the bottom of an embankment.

A passenger in the pickup truck, Brandi Richter, 36, was thrown from the vehicle as it rolled. She had to be airlifted to University Hospital to be treated for critical injuries. Officials said that Richter wasn't wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.

The driver of the vehicle, whose identity hasn't yet been released, left the scene before officials arrived. Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver may also have suffered head injuries.

Once the driver is located, it's likely that he'll be charged with failure to stop and render aid.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of San Antonio and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Man Causing Fatal Travis County Accident Won't Be Charged

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October 6, 2011 - Travis County, Texas - All charges against a man who was involved in an accident that killed 3 people were dropped on Thursday, September 29.

My Fox Austin reports that a Travis County grand jury didn't indict Kevin Sparkman in connection with the 2010 fatal incident. All charges against Sparkman have been dropped.

The original accident happened at the intersection of FM 969 and SH 130. Sparkman failed to stop at a stop sign and crashed into an SUV in the intersection.

Margarita Mofin, 28, her daughter, 11, and her son, 8, were all killed in the accident. Another child, 13, was thrown from the vehicle during the accident. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Mofin was the only one in the vehicle that was wearing a seatbelt.

The grand jury ruled that it would have to be proven that Sparkman had intentionally failed to stop at the stop sign with the intent to strike the other vehicle in order to convict him of any crimes.

Sparkman received a ticket for failure to stop at a stop sign.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

First Aid for Child Injuries After a Dog Attack in Texas

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Child injuries should be quickly tended to after a dog attack in an effort to preserve tissue and prevent infection. Naturally, you'll be jittery if you witness your child suffering after a dog attack in Texas, but your priority should be to provide first aid until help arrives. You'll also want to speak to a Texas animal attack lawyer to discuss your legal options and examples of criminal negligence.

First Aid After a Dog Attack in Texas Leads to Child Injuries

After the attack, you should take the following steps:

Minor wounds: If the skin is barely broken and you're 100% certain that the dog doesn't have rabies, use soapy water to cleanse the area. Apply some antibiotic ointment and cover the area with a bandage. Observe for redness, swelling, oozing and pain - all signs of infection. If infection is present, medical attention will be necessary.
Deep wounds: For puncture wounds and ragged cuts, use a clean cloth to apply pressure, and get medical treatment.
Rabid dog attacks: Get your child emergency care, especially if you're unsure whether the dog has rabies.

A Texas animal attack lawyer will go over your case and help determine whether negligence was a factor in the dog attack for your child injuries. If so, you may be entitled to recover damages including medical expenses and pain and suffering. If there are examples of criminal negligence in your case, the dog's owner could face jail time or fines.

Contacting an Animal Attack Lawyer in Texas

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Gauging Severity of Head Injury in Child after a Texas Accident

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

A head injury in child can lead to some very troubling concussion symptoms, such as memory loss, concentration problems, and seizures. Sadly, these symptoms may linger for several weeks or months. If your child is suffering because of someone else's negligence, a Texas child injury lawyer can help you fight back with a personal injury claim.

It has been estimated that about 15% of children 5 and older develop symptoms or changes that last a minimum of 3 months after they suffer a concussion. Therefore it's important to watch for subtle child head injury warning signs and report all symptoms to your child's medical team.

While several different systems are used to grade concussions, the severity of a concussion is based on the child head injury warning signs and how long they last. Because of this, the severity of the injury will be known only after the child recovers. The longer the symptoms persist, the more severe the concussion.

You should talk to a Texas child injury lawyer after your son or daughter has suffered a child head injury. The advice of experienced legal counsel can lead to much needed compensation for your child's medical expenses and pain and suffering.

Contacting a Texas Child Injury Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

3 Long-Term Effects of Head Injury in a Child after Accident in Texas

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

When a car accident or playground injury leads to a head injury in a child, you may notice differences in the child's behavior or cognitive abilities in addition to seizures, swelling or infection. After you seek medical attention for your child, you should meet with a Texas child accident lawyer to pursue a personal injury claim.

3 Long-Term Effects of Head Injury in Child Accident

The long-term effects of a head injury in a child haven't been studied extensively, but some research shows that a child who experiences a brain injury may develop postconcussive syndrome, which can have the following effects:

Cognitive problems - The child may experience memory problems, attention problems, and difficulty thinking and concentrating. In young children, these problems may not be noticeable until the child reaches school age.

Behavioral problems - The child may experience anxiety, irritability, personality changes and depression. When the frontal cortex of the brain is injured, the child may have trouble controlling emotions and behaving appropriately.
Coping problems - It's a myth that traumatic brain injury won't have long-term effects in a child. Children and families need to accept the fact that recovery will take time. Without acceptance, frustration will cause additional stress.

To recover damages after a playground injury or other accident caused by another party's negligence, you should get the assistance of a Texas child accident lawyer, who can help you prepare a personal injury claim.

Contacting a Texas Child Accident Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Prognosis for a Head Injury in a Child after Accident in Texas

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Among the most serious injuries that can happen to a child is a head injury. A child accident in Texas that affects your son's or daughter's brain requires immediate medical attention. After seeking medical care, you should speak to a Texas child accident lawyer to discuss negligence and legal recourse. Treatment for traumatic brain injury can be very costly, and if someone else's negligence caused the accident, you should hold them accountable.

It was previously believed that the effects of mild traumatic brain injury in a child subsided within 3 months. However, a study on the long-term effects of a head injury in a child indicates that the effects can last up to a year or longer.

The problem is that many prior studies excluded cases involving more acute mild TBI and children with severe injuries. The current study, published by prominent pediatric neuropsychologist Keith Yeates, shows the prognosis for a child with TBI isn't as positive as once thought. The study also shows that a child who experiences only amnesia and disorientation after a TBI may have a better prognosis.

To preserve your child's legal rights after a car accident or playground injury, contact a Texas child accident lawyer. You may be entitled to compensation for your child's medical fees and other incidental expenses related to the accident. It's important that you contact a lawyer quickly, especially if the accident is the result of a playground injury, or if it otherwise occurred on government property so all tight deadlines can be met.

Contacting a Texas Child Accident Lawyer

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Consequences of Time Running Out to File Texas Personal Injury Claim

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Texas personal injury claim is time sensitive and the strength of your claim as well as potential success may be affected by how quickly you act. Setting up a consultation with a Travis County, Texas injury attorney before you do anything yourself is a good idea to make sure you're starting out on the right track.

Time Factors Impacting a Texas Personal Injury Claim

If you've decided to pursue a personal injury claim it's imperative that you get on track and continue to work swiftly throughout the legal proceedings. A Travis County, Texas injury attorney can reinforce this point by further explaining why time is such a valuable factor.

If you wait to file a claim you may not be able to do so at all. States follow a Statute of Limitations that dictates time limits for when you're eligible to file a claim for compensation after the date of injury. If the time limit runs out, you'll be out of luck.

Waiting to file a claim can also severely weaken your lawsuit in a few ways:

you may lose vital evidence as time passes;
witnesses may not have a clear and concise memory of the accident anymore; and
the opposing legal team may attempt to weaken your claim by questioning the legitimacy of your injuries, citing your delay to file a claim.

Contacting a Travis County, Texas Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Protect Your Texas Injury Claim: False Sense of Privacy on Facebook

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

You can never be too careful with your Texas injury claim, which means you should take every precaution you can. Social media sites such as Facebook can pose a serious threat to your case and can easily destroy your chances of a fair settlement. Meet with a personal injury lawyer in Williamson County, Texas for tips on how protect your claim from potential downfall.

Your Texas Injury Claim and a False Sense of Social Media Privacy

While privacy settings are helpful they are certainly not foolproof. Do not be naïve, thinking that setting your profile to "friends only" or "private" is all the precaution you need to take.

A personal injury lawyer in Williamson County, Texas may advise that the easiest thing to do is to deactivate your social media accounts entirely for the duration of your claim, that way all common mistakes will be avoided.

This is because a simple statement or Facebook posting, like a status update that discloses your frustration, or a photo of you enjoying yourself at a family event or party, could be used against you.

The best way to make sure that nothing is taken out of context is to get rid of social media entirely, even if it is on a temporary basis, until your claim is resolved.

Contacting a Personal Injury Lawyer in Williamson County, Texas

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Your Texas Injury Claim: Disclosure and Facebooking

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

When pursuing a Texas injury claim there are precautions you should take in your public and "private" lives, like Facebook or other social media sites. A personal injury lawyer in Williamson County, Texas will advise clients to keep their legal matters out of the discussion with friends and family until it is over.

Exercising Careful Disclosure with Your Texas Injury Claim

When you file an injury claim, you should be discreet in casual conversation, including Facebook messages and comments posted on your friends' profiles.

A claim can be undermined by an omission or statement that may seem casual. When talking about a case, you should constantly think about who may be listening. A seemingly innocuous comment could be misconstrued later and come back to hurt you.

A good rule of thumb as far as Facebook and social media conversations go is, simply don't engage in them during your claim.

Be cautious of who asks you about specifics of the case, and take into consideration why the person may be asking and if they have any role in your case. For example, the new "friend" you made on Facebook could be another party's insurance adjuster, seeking information to build their own case.

Keep all legal matters to yourself and avoid doing anything that could be seen as suspicious or questionable when taken out of context. Talk to your personal injury lawyer in Williamson County, Texas for more tips on how to protect yourself when it comes to Facebook use.

Contacting a Personal Injury Lawyer in Williamson County, Texas

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Texas Personal Injury Claim Settlement before Reaching Court

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

After an accident you may be looking into a Texas personal injury claim. If this is your first time filing a lawsuit you may be a bit unsure of how the process works. A Travis County, Texas injury attorney can help answer and address all questions and concerns you may have.

Setting up a consultation with an attorney is a good idea so that you can have a clear picture of how the process plays out.

Texas Personal Injury Claim: Lawsuit Settlement

You may be surprised to find that a large amount of lawsuits never actually make it to the courtroom for a trial. This is because prior to ever reaching trial there is a lengthy process of pre-trial motions. Your Travis County, Texas injury attorney may make motions to the court by presenting arguments such as disputing evidence, or questioning the adequacy of a witness report.

Attorneys will often meet for a settlement conference. At this time the judge tries to help both sides reach an agreement or midpoint so that the suit can be settled. This may require negotiation and possibly compromise if the parties involved do not want to take the case to trial if it can be avoided. The process of settlement conferencing that is typically one of the last steps of a lawsuit is often called mediation.

Contacting a Travis County, Texas Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Does your Austin car accident attorney have the time and ambition to fight for your case?

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

There's a big difference in settlement amounts when you just accept what the insurance company first offers. When you work with a concerned Austin car accident attorney to fight for both current damages and future losses, you'll have a greater chance at winning a fair settlement after a serious traffic accident in Travis County, Texas.

A reputable attorney will take into consideration you and your family's needs beyond the current expenses you're facing. The insurance company settlement typically will compensate only current medical bills and sometimes lost wages - that is, if you get a settlement at all.

While some attorneys may stop the fight for full compensation there, when your immediate needs are met, an experienced injury attorney knows that your damages and suffering from a serious traffic accident in Travis County, Texas, can create expenses well beyond the initial treatment and recovery times.

Attorneys who take on a high volume of cases often don't have the resources necessary to help fight for fair compensation for all of their clients. If you choose a law firm that takes on too many cases at a time, you may find yourself playing second fiddle to bigger cases.

It's important to discuss who will handle your case and how much attention your claim will be given before choosing your attorney. Remember that the attorney-client relationship should be one you're comfortable with. It's no good to hire an attorney who doesn't mesh well with your needs, so make sure to ask your Austin car accident attorney the right questions.

Contacting an Austin Car Accident Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Not every traffic accident in Travis County, Texas requires the help of an attorney and we can help you to determine whether yours is one of those cases! If you are ready to get started with your case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - 1-512-472-7799.

The Experience of Your Austin Car Accident Attorney Is Crucial

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Just because an Austin car accident attorney says he is a "personal injury attorney" doesn't mean he's well versed in your type of traffic accident in Travis County, Texas. There are many types of personal injuries from vehicle crashes, and it takes a good deal of experience in your specific type of situation to make a good attorney-client match.

When you consult with a new attorney after a car accident in Travis County, Texas you need to make sure he or she knows how to deal with your case.

Ask some of these important questions regarding experience:

Have you handled cases like mine before?
If so, what were their outcomes and do you expect something similar for me?
Do you prepare my case as if it were going to trial, even if it settles out of court? and
What is your trial history?

Austin car accident attorneys who are reluctant to go to trial or have no trial experience may not achieve the best outcome for your claim. Experienced, determined attorneys will do everything in their power to obtain the maximum settlement for their clients. No attorney should ever be afraid of the courtroom; it's like a doctor not wanting to go into a clinic or hospital!

The integrity of your attorney should put you at ease when making a decision about who to represent your car accident claim. Make sure you're comfortable working with your attorney before making a decision. Ask enough questions to make sure an attorney is the right fit for you.

Contacting an Austin Car Accident Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

5 Things to Help Your Attorney Prepare a Texas Personal Injury Claim

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you've decided to file a Texas personal injury claim, there are several things you can do to help your Austin, Texas personal injury attorney build the best possible case.

You and your attorney will have a lot of evidence to prepare and analyze. Try to remain patient and offer as much information to your Austin, Texas personal injury attorney as possible. The more facts he or she has regarding your case, the stronger and more resilient your claim will be.

How to assist your attorney when preparing a Texas personal injury claim:

Open communication - when working with your attorney, be as clear, specific, and accurate as possible.
Offer information - gather and share as much information pertaining to your case as you can, including documents, police reports, photographs, and medical treatment receipts.
Locate witnesses - if possible, provide your attorney with the names and contact information of any witnesses.
Good relationship - sustain a positive working relationship with your attorney by being honest about the facts, maintaining regular communication, and following through with any tasks you've been given.
Remain discreet - don't provide written or verbal statements regarding your claim with anyone without first speaking with your lawyer.

If you've been injured and are filing a personal injury claim, work closely with your Austin, Texas personal injury attorney and always remain open and honest. You'll also want to find out how your attorney handles Texas personal injury claims and get an idea of how the claims process works.

Contacting an Austin, Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an Austin, Texas personal injury attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas personal injury claim. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

How an Austin, Texas Personal Injury Attorney Prepares Witnesses

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you've been injured and have decided to file a Texas personal injury claim to try to recover compensation, your Austin, Texas personal injury attorney will have the task of gathering and analyzing evidence, and preparing your case for trial, if necessary.

A personal injury lawyer has to collect any pertinent information surrounding your claim, including any witness information. The attorney will compile a witness list and then begin preparing the witnesses for depositions and possible trial testimonies.

You can help your attorney by providing the names and contact information for anyone who might serve as a witness in your case. This helps things move along in a more timely manner, and helps ensure greater accuracy in your Texas personal injury claim.

What an Austin, Texas Personal Injury Attorney Does to Prepare Witnesses:

educate the witness on basic court procedure;
go over possible questions they'll be asked in court;
explain proper courtroom conduct and what'll be expected;
advise witnesses on staying focused on their testimony;
help witnesses avoid being misguided by the opposing counsel; and
help witnesses remember to stay calm and honest throughout the trial.

An experienced personal injury attorney will be able to thoroughly examine the facts regarding your Texas personal injury claim, and prepare any witnesses for a trial if it's determined that a suit should be filed. Witnesses will get the background and preparatory information they need to help reduce courtroom anxiety and promote integrity in their testimonies.

Contacting an Austin, Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an Austin, Texas personal injury attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas personal injury claim. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

After an Austin Car Accident: When an Adjuster makes a Settlement Offer

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If this is your first time being injured in an Austin car accident, filing an injury claim can seem incredibly daunting. Particularly when insurance companies offer you a settlement instead of going to trial, you may be unsure of what to expect or when to accept. An injury lawyer in Travis County, Texas can help. He or she can discuss your options and help you discern what kind of offer you truly need to account for your injuries and financial losses.

Settlement Advice after Your Austin Car Accident

A large number of cases never actually make it to the courtroom for trial; instead, they are resolved with a settlement agreement between the parties involved.

If your case reaches this point, you should be cautious and do not accept a quick settlement. Don't necessarily accept the first offer made because insurance companies may attempt to trick you. They realize you need money quickly to pay off bills and may try to take advantage of that by minimizing the amount offered.

You should discuss and review any offer you get with your injury lawyer in Travis County, Texas, especially if you are confused about any aspects of the settlement.

Dealing with insurance adjusters can be frustrating; your injury lawyer can provide you with tips and advice.

Contacting an Injury Lawyer in Travis County, Texas

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

After Your Austin Car Accident: 3 Tips for Dealing with Adjusters

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you file a claim with the insurance company after your Austin car accident, you will be assigned an adjuster. He or she is responsible for negotiating settlement offers and justifying a low offer or why your claim may have been denied. An injury lawyer in Travis County, Texas can help you navigate the process of interacting with the adjuster to ensure you don't make a costly mistake.

Tips for Interacting With an Insurance Adjuster for Your Austin Car Accident

Do not be overly friendly with your assigned adjuster. Though he or she may be very friendly and personable, using tactics to catch you off guard to say or admit something you don't need to is the goal.

Keep conversations minimal. Only answer relevant questions and do not delve into personal life. Stick to the basics about the accident.

Do not give a written statement even if they say it is required. While it may be company policy, a written statement is not legally required.

If you are ever confused or concerned about what you should and shouldn't do after a crash, consult with your injury lawyer in Travis County, Texas. You always have the right to consult a lawyer before taking action.

Contacting an Injury Lawyer in Travis County, Texas

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

6 Ways to Secure Your Texas Personal Injury Claim

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Injuries from an accident in Williamson County, Texas could be serious and lead to expensive medical treatment. You may be able to recover those expenses through a Texas personal injury claim. This is why you should seek help from a Georgetown injury attorney concerning your case.

6 Ways to Keep Your Texas Personal Injury Claim Safe

Seek legal action promptly -- not waiting too long before you decide to;
Don't discuss your case with your doctor; stick to the basic facts surrounding what happened and how you were injured;
Comply with requests and orders given by doctor;
Don't provide a recorded or written statement to the insurance company before you talk with your attorney;
Don't agree to sign a medical release authorization form to the insurance company; and
Seek legal counsel.

It's important to understand the different ways that your case can be diminished or destroyed. The insurance company will not look out for your best interests, so you need to keep this in mind.

There are an additional 10 reasons why you may lose your Texas personal injury claim. If you want to protect your legal rights, then you should speak with a Georgetown injury attorney as soon as possible.

Contacting a Georgetown Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Texas Personal Injury Claim

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

After an accident in Williamson County, Texas you may decide to pursue a Texas personal injury claim. You'll need to speak with a Georgetown injury attorney first to understand what legal options are available.

You should also be aware of ways that you can destroy or diminish your claim. Taking the right steps is just one part of a successful claim. You should also be aware of the things you shouldn't do.

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Your Texas Personal Injury Claim

failing to seek immediate medical attention after your accident;
missing medical appointments, not taking prescribed medication or undergoing recommended surgery, therapy, etc.;
stopping medical treatment too soon;
hiding information from your doctor or lawyer (past injuries, accidents, etc.); and
exaggerating the extent of your injuries or claiming to be unable to do certain activities when you really can.

Remember that the other side will have legal representation that's working hard to dismantle your case. So you need to do everything you can to protect your legal rights.

There are a variety of reasons why you may lose your Texas personal injury claim. This is why you need help from a Georgetown injury attorney.

Contacting a Georgetown Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Having a Professional Negotiate Your Texas Personal Injury Claim

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

After an accident if you are in the process of filing a Texas personal injury claim you may be wondering whether or not professional help is necessary. In many cases, you will find that a Georgetown, TX injury attorney can help you collect compensation for your injuries and damages, particularly if your accident was caused by the negligence or recklessness of someone else.

Benefits of Hiring a Georgetown, TX Injury Attorney

The need for a professional in your case depends on the specifics of the case, considering each is different and unique in its own way. If your accident resulted in major injuries and permanent damage, then chances are, you will want an attorney by your side. If your case warrants the help of an attorney, there are many potential benefits, including:

having someone on your side who is familiar with the legal system;
some relieved pressure off of you and your loved ones;
a professional evaluation of your case's worth; and
having some of your medical expenses paid for and greater damages recovered.

If your case should reach the point of settlement, there are 8 things you should consider and discuss with your Georgetown, TX injury attorney.

Contacting a Georgetown, TX Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Tips for Settling a Texas Personal Injury Claim

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

During a Texas personal injury claim it's likely that you'll be offered a settlement prior to actually being in the courtroom. If you're the plaintiff, there are many factors that you should consider and potentially discuss with a Georgetown, TX injury attorney before taking action.

Before Settling a Texas Personal Injury Claim

If you're the plaintiff, it's important for you to consider the following before accepting an offer:

How much of the settlement will go to lawyer's fees?
How will your settlement affect your income taxes?
Is your pain and suffering taken into account?
How much insurance coverage does the opposite party have?
What are you willing to concede in your case for the sake of settling?
What is the minimum amount you would accept?
Could there be a partial settlement?
What is your ultimate goal?

Take the time to consider and discuss all of these questions with your Georgetown, TX injury attorney. Your attorney can help you weigh the options and assess the overall value of your case.

It's important for you to realize that settlements aren't less complicated than trial itself and there are even more things to take into account before making any decisions.

Contacting a Georgetown, TX Injury Attorney

Before you take the important step of hiring an attorney, educate yourself about what you can expect from a Texas injury case. Order this free guide for Texas accident victims and learn:

What to ask a lawyer before hiring them to take your case.
The most common reasons a Texas personal injury claim will fail.
What you can do to protect your injury claim.

Teenager Killed in New Braunfels Rollover Accident

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

July 6, 2011 - New Braunfels, Tex. - A teenager was killed in a rollover car accident on Sunday, shortly before 6 a.m., that injured 2 other people. According to a report at The Statesman, police are still trying to determine what caused this rollover accident.

The victim was riding in a vehicle with 2 other men on Texas 46 South when the driver lost control of the car and veered into oncoming traffic near the 2500 block. After crossing the northbound lanes, the vehicle crashed into a concrete ditch rolling it on its roof.

A passenger in the car, an 18-year-old man from New Braunfels, died at the scene. Two other men, both 21 years old, suffered serious personal injuries that required an emergency helicopter ride to University Hospital. Both victims, who have been unidentified, have been upgraded to stable or fair condition.

Police haven't said who was driving at the time of the car accident, and there's currently no word on what caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle in the moments before the accident.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Pedestrian Struck and Killed by Several Cars Near Austin Airport

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

July 6, 2011 - Austin, Tex. - A pedestrian was killed on Friday night after he was hit by several cars near the Austin Bergstrom International Airport. According to a report at The Statesman, the victim was struck shortly after 9:30 p.m. and police are asking for any witnesses to come forward.

Police say the victim, who has been identified as a 60-year-old man, was attempting to cross Texas 71 near the airport when he was hit by a 2002 Volvo sedan. The pedestrian was thrown into the road and hit by several other cars that couldn't avoid him. The victim was dead by the time first responders arrived on the scene.

Austin police closed down the eastbound lanes of Texas 71 for several hours after the accident. Although the driver who originally hit the pedestrian stopped after the crash, police are still asking any witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to call the vehicular homicide division at 974-4724.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Texas Crash Statistics, there were 3,071 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Texas.

As a service to the residents of Austin and surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Texas that may result in serious injury or traffic fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

single-car accidents;
accidents caused by hazardous road conditions; and
accidents caused by aggressive driving or distracted drivers.

Nearly 10,000 Babies Suffer Crib Injuries Yearly

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Nearly 10,000 Babies Suffer Crib Injuries Yearly

Almost 10,000 infants and toddlers are hurt in crib and playpen accidents each year, according to the first nationwide analysis of ER treatment for these injuries. Most injuries were from falls in toddlers between ages 1 and 2 - generally old enough to attempt climbing out of a crib or playpen. Researchers who studied 19 years of ER data say better prevention efforts are needed, but that recent safety measures including a ban on drop-side cribs likely will reduce those numbers. LINDSEY TANNER, AP, The Washington Post 02/17/2011

Read Article: The Washington Post

Washington Settles $6.55 Million Lawsuit

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Washington Settles $6.55 Million Lawsuit

The state of Washington has agreed to settle a $6.55 million lawsuit with six brothers who were sexually abused by their mother during childhood. The lawsuit claimed that between 1992 and 2000, 33 complaints were logged with the state's Child Protective Services department, but no action was ever taken by the state. The employee that oversaw the boys' case left the agency years ago, the Seattle Times reports. Christine Clarridge, Seattle Times 02/01/2011

$49 Million Awarded in Fatal Highway Truck Accident

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

$49 Million Awarded in Fatal Highway Truck Accident

A California jury has awarded $49 million in a lawsuit stemming from a highway accident in 2007 that left one man dead and a police officer paralyzed. The officer had pulled a man over on the highway when a truck slammed into them, killing the other driver and rendering the police officer a quadriplegic. The truck driver pleaded guilty to driving while intoxicated and was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Wire Report , San Francisco Chronicle 01/27/2011

Man Paralyzed in Pool Accident Awarded $6.2 Million by Austin Jury

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Man Paralyzed in Pool Accident Awarded $6.2 Million by Austin Jury

A Central Texas jury awarded $6.2 million to a man who was paralyzed after diving into an under-filled pool at an apartment complex after a 2005 party. The jury determined the owner of Longhorn Landing Apartments was 51 percent liable for the accident for failing to warn swimmers about the water level or closing the pool. While the jury also deemed the plaintiff responsible for his own actions, it was also determined that "swimmers should be able to expect that an open pool is safe to use." Chuck Lindell, Austin American Statesman 01/27/2011

Read Article: Austin American Statesman

iPhone 4 Glass Casing Breaks Too Easily, Suit Says

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

iPhone 4 Glass Casing Breaks Too Easily, Suit Says

iPhone 4 users have filed a class-action lawsuit against Apple that claims the glass casing on the phones crack much easier than advertised. The glass is supposed to be "super-durable and scratch-resistant," Apple claims, but in reality the casing is very fragile, the lawsuit states. Recent data shows the "latest model of the iPhone broke 82 percent more often than the iPhone 3GS," the Washington Post reports. The suit is seeking reimbursement for the cost of the phone and repairs. Hayley Tsukayama , The Washington Post 01/28/2011

Read Article: The Washington Post

Austin Woman charged in hit-and-run crash with bicylist

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Woman charged in hit-and-run crash with bicylist

By Claudia Grisales | Friday, January 14, 2011, 04:46 PM

An Austin woman who police say seriously injured a bicyclist in a hit-and-run crash off Interstate 35 on Thursday has been charged with intoxication assault and failure to stop and render aid, according to an arrest affidavit said.

Police say Lacey Marie Seljos, 23, struck the bicyclist about 12:30 a.m. while driving north on I-35 near the Williamson County line, the affidavit said. The bicyclist suffered injuries to his head and knees and was taken to a nearby hospital, the affidavit said.

An Austin police officer reported that she saw Seljos swerve out of her lane, strike the bicyclist and leave the scene, the affidavit said. The officer followed Seljos, who pulled into a nearby business and told officers that she wasn’t aware that she had struck someone, the affidavit said.

Seljos was not shown booked in Travis County jail as of Friday, jail records show.

3 injured in head-on wreck

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

3 injured in head-on wreck

Posted: Saturday, January 15, 2011 12:00 am | Updated: 9:34 pm, Fri Jan 14, 2011.

Terri Richardson Marshall News Messenger |12 comments

A 16-year-old girl was taken by helicopter to LSU Medical Center and three others were taken ambulance to Good Shepherd Medical Center-Longview after a head-on collision Friday night.

The collision was called in to the Harrison County Sheriff's Office at 5:46 p.m. and occurred on Farm-to-Market 449 near Airlite Road.

The girl taken to LSU Medical Center in Shreveport, La., was not named because she is a minor.

"She was alert and conscious the whole time," said Department of Public Safety Trooper Kirby Jarrell, who added she was air lifted as a precaution by emergency medical services at the scene.

The girl was a passenger in a white Toyota 4Runner driven by Sterling Gibson, 17. Ms. Gibson was taken to GSMC-Longview for unknown injuries.

David Nelson, 65, was driving the second vehicle, a black Chevy Silverado. He and his wife, Janet Nelson, 54, were also taken by ambulance to GSMC-Longview.

"The white vehicle crossed the center line," said Jarrell.

Ms. Gibson was traveling east, while the Nelsons were traveling west. And the wreck happened about 75 feet from a hilltop curve.

The road conditions were dry, and all of them were wearing their seatbelts, Jarrell said.

Why Ms. Gibson had crossed the center stripes was not immediately known, and the accident is under investigation, Jarrell said.

"This is not the first wreck I've worked here, though others were not head-on and were usually vehicles that had left the roadway," he said.

Hallsville Volunteer Fire Department and Hallsville Volunteer Ambulance were among the first rescuers to arrive, and they transported two of the passengers.

"When we got here, we secured the scene and used the Jaws of Life to pop the door and get the passenger out of the Toyota," said Capt. Garry Richardson.

In all, there were seven responding volunteers from the fire department with six more with the ambulances, he said.

Marshall Fire Department Ambulance took one of the patients, and Harrison County Sheriff's Department also responded as traffic was stopped in both directions through the area.The vehicles were removed by Ford's Wrecker Service of Marshall.

Woman dead, daughter injured in suspected DWI car accident

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Woman dead, daughter injured in suspected DWI car accident

Jan 2011

By: Smith & Hassler - Houston, TX Injury Lawyers

Categories:Auto Accident Drunk driving accidents Personal Injury

Early in the morning of Thursday January 20, 2011 Clayton Sieverton was heading southbound along FM484 near Ferris Green Road in Porter, Texas when his Ford F-350 pickup truck crashed into a Toyota Celica head-on, according to DPS Troopers. Sieverton is suspected of being intoxicated at the time of the crash. Alicia Sanchez, 43-years old, was riding in the passenger seat of the Celica and was killedon impact. Sanchez’ injured 20-year old daughter was transported to an area hospital in critical condition. Sanchez and her daughter were driving to work at a donut shop at the time of the collision.

Both vehicles sustained very heavy damage in the crash; according to DPS Troopersafter the collision Sieverton got out of his vehicle and ran away. Shortly after the accident a man drove up to offer help to Sanchez and her daughter and when he did so he recognized Sieverton’s vehicle: the two men had been outdrinking together the night before and Sieverton had dropped the man off at his own car shortly before the collision. Montgomery County Sheriff’s deputies were able to use tracker dogs and a DPS helicopter to track down Sieverton 3 miles north of where the crash happened.

Sieverton suffered minor injuries and is now facing multiple serious charges, includingintoxication manslaughter, intoxication assault, and failure to stop and render aid. He remains in the Montgomery County jail.

Drunk driving collisions, deaths and injuries are an epidemic in the Houston area and have been for years. The selfishness of those who choose to get behind the wheel of their vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol causes families to experience unimaginable tragedies on a weekly basis. If you or a loved one have been injured by a drunk driver, talk to an attorney at Smith & Hassler about your legal rights and remedies. Insurance companies know jurors take a hard line with drunks who injure others and try to settle DWI-related claims quickly and for much less than the claimsare worth.

Texas Jury Awards $10.1 Million in Overdose Lawsuit

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Texas Jury Awards $10.1 Million in Overdose Lawsuit

A Houston jury awarded $10.1 million the family of a man who died of an overdose in 2007 of drugs prescribed to him at a family medical clinic in The Woodlands, Texas. The owners of the clinic and its lead director were found negligent by the jury, who hopes the verdict will "strike fear into other 'pill mills' that have turned Houston into a national hub for prescription drug abuse." The clinic's director, Dr. Maurice Conte, was forced to surrender his medical license just three days after the man's death. Cindy Horswell, Houston Chronicle 01/18/2011

22,000 Jogging Strollers Recalled in U.S.

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

22,000 Jogging Strollers Recalled in U.S.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a recall of 22,000 jogging strollers due to risk of laceration and amputation. Imported by phil&teds USA Inc., the hinge mechanism on the strollers is strong enough to break skin or cut off fingers that may get caught. The company has received one report of finger tip amputation and two lacerations. Staff Report, PR Newswire 01/21/2011

Settlement reached in Toyota Prius Recall

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Settlement reached in Toyota Prius Recall. Toyota has agreed to a settlement regarding headlight problems on the Prius. Link to the article for more information.

Suit Settled Over Defective Night Lights with Fire Risk

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Suit Settled Over Defective Night Lights with Fire Risk. Follow the link to the full story.

Suit: Company Sold Unapproved Medical Devices

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Suit: Company Sold Unapproved Medical Devices. Follow the link for the full story.

Fatal utility pole crash in Southeast Austin leads to charges

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Fatal utility pole crash in Southeast Austin leads to charges

Follow the link for the full story.

Wrongful Death Filed after Fatal Explosion

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Wrongful Death Filed after Fatal Explosion

A wrongful death lawsuit has been filed against Consumers Energy in Michigan after an explosion in a furniture store last month killed two people. The suit claims Consumers Energy was negligent in failing to evacuate the area after receiving complaints of the smell of gas. That failure is a violation of the Michigan Public Service Commission's Michigan Gas Safety Standards, the suit says.

Teething Rings Recalled over Ingestion Risk

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Teething Rings Recalled over Ingestion Risk

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a recall of 7,000 teething rings due to ingestion risk in infants. If the product, the Cool-it Soother by Vulli, is punctured, "bacteria and mold can grow inside the teether's untreated liquid," posing an ingestion hazard, the company reported. There have been no injuries or illnesses related to the product. Staff Report, PR Newswire 01/12/2011

Two People Killed in Terrible Accident Near Y in Oak Hill Near Austin, Texas

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

A horrific accident claimed two lives on the road near Austin on 1.12.11. Two people were killed and one person was injured in a multiple-vehicle crash on U.S. 290 near the Y in Oak Hill, officials said today.

The crash occurred about 7:30 a.m. on U.S. 290 near Fitzhugh Road, officials said. U.S. 290 remains closed in both directions between Oliver Drive and West Circle Drive, said Texas Department of Transportation spokesman John Hurt.

Hurt confirmed earlier reports that the crash involved three vehicles.

“It’s awful,” Hurt said. “They are going to be out there for a while.”

One person with a leg injury was taken to University Medical Center Brackenridge, officials said.

Toyota settles suit over California crash for US$10m-Texas Product Liability Litigation and Car Crashes

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

LOS ANGELES (Dec 23, 2010): Toyota has agreed to pay US$ 10 million (RM31.5 million) to settle legal claims from the family of a California state trooper and three relatives whose fatal car wreck helped spark the automaker’s wide-ranging safety recall, lawyers said on Thursday. Read more at the Sun.

WHY DON'T OUR SCHOOL BUSES HAVE SEATBELTS?

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

Why is it that our most precious gifts, children, are not as protected as they should be? Tragically, most of the operating school buses in the U.S. do not have seat belts or similar restraints to protect our children in the event of an accident. The kicker is, for buses that are under 10,000 pounds, federal law requires a restraint system, but that's only a small proportion of the school buses in use, and generally used for transporting disabled and special-needs students. As such, they fall under the purview of cars, light trucks and passenger vehicles because of their similar low weight and center of gravity.

Read more here.

Colorado lawmaker has no memory of fatal wreck

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Colorado state senator involved in an auto accident Sunday that killed an Amarillo woman told state troopers she had no memory of what happened, a Department of Public Safety spokeswoman said today. ... Kevin Lundberg, a Republican from Berthoud, said he is a distant relative of the woman killed in the crash.

Texting is a leading cause of wrecks among younger drivers

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

Texting is a leading cause of wrecks among younger drivers

Even police officers aren't immune to the dangerous driving habits of people texting while driving.

"I actually performed a traffic stop on a young girl who was texting and drifted over into my lane," said Bruce Ure, Victoria's police chief. "The surprising thing is her mother was in the passenger seat." To add insult to injury, Ure said they both seemed oblivious to the dangers of texting and driving even though they almost hit a police car.

Read more here.

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Hydroxycut Class Action Suit

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Attorneys File Hydroxycut Class Action

Attorneys filed a class-action lawsuit last week on behalf of consumers who took the recalled weight-loss product Hydroxycut. According to the lawsuit, the maker of the supplement violated state deceptive practices laws by distributing a product it knew to be unsafe. Hydroxycut was recalled from the market earlier this year after it was linked to liver damage and other ailments. From wire service reports, Contra Costa Times 06/18/2009

Read Article: Contra Costa Times

In Motorcycle Injury, Trucker Liable for Waving On Other Driver, Jury Finds

Sat, 16 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

In Motorcycle Injury, Trucker Liable for Waving On Other Driver, Jury Finds

A New Jersey jury has ordered a truck driver to pay $750,000 after finding that he contributed to an accident that injured a motorcyclist. During the trial, jurors heard testimony that the truck driver had waved another driver into traffic. As the other driver crossed a highway, he collided with a motorcycle ridden by the plaintiff. New Jersey law allows drivers to be held liable if they wave others into traffic. AP, Philadelphia Inquirer 04/18/2009

Read Article: http://www.philly.com/philly/wires/ap/news/state/new_jersey/20090418_ap_jurytruckerwhowavedincarliableincrash.html

Lawsuit: Bus Company Negligent in Fatal Crash

Sat, 16 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Lawsuit: Bus Company Negligent in Fatal Crash

Attorneys have filed a lawsuit on behalf of the families of two Texas middle school teachers killed in a bus crash in southern Mexico earlier this year. According to the lawsuit, Monterrey-based Grupo Senda Autotransporte negligently subjected passengers to risk of injury and failed to comply with promises to pay medical and funeral expenses for those injured or killed in the crash. The lawsuit seeks damages for pain, suffering, mental anguish, medical expenses and lost wages. Jeremy Roebuck, The Monitor 05/14/2009

Read Article: http://www.themonitor.com/articles/saltillo-26554-bus-sue.html

American Association for Justice (AAJ) Release New Report Condemning Some Insurance Company Practices

Sun, 14 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

American Association for Justice Report on the 10 Worst Insurance Companies

Sun, 14 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

Driver charged with intoxication manslaughter in death of pedestrian

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

Fayette County accident kills man

By Andrea Lorenz | Sunday, November 30, 2008, 10:24 AM

A 23-year-old man died early this morning after being hit by a car east of Schulenburg in Fayette County, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Blake Edward Jaksa, of Weimar, was standing on the westbound shoulder of U.S. 90 when a Chevy pickup truck driven by Nicacio Paz Herrera, of Schulenburg, struck Jaksa at about a 1:30 a.m. Sunday, law enforcement officials said.

Jaksa died at the scene. Herrera, the driver, was arrested and charged with intoxication manslaughter and taken to the Fayette County jail, DPS officials said.

TEXAS SUPREME COURT MAINTAINS HARD LINE IN FAVOR OF DEFENDANTS

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

AUSTIN – Court Watch, a project of the Texas Watch Foundation, released its latest annual review of the decisions of the Texas Supreme Court covering the 2006-07 term. The report finds a record-breaking pro-defendant bias and includes a list of the most anti-consumer decisions handed down by the Texas Supreme Court. This year’s list, known as the “Dirty Dozen,” was expanded from ten to twelve because of the high volume of opinions detrimental to consumers, seniors, patients, and policyholders.

This is Court Watch's eleventh annual review of the Texas Supreme Court. Over that time, Court Watch has highlighted the Court’s pro-defendant bias by conducting a statistical examination of the Court, as well as discussing significant legal trends that effect Texas families. Over the eleven year history of the Court Watch project, the Court has consistently demonstrated a pro-defendant penchant; however, during the 2006-07 term, consumers prevailed just 14% of the time – a new low.

“The Court’s clear bias against consumers has reached a critical mass,” said Alex Winslow, Executive Director of the Texas Watch Foundation, which produces the Court Watch report. “No longer does the Court even pretend to be balanced in its decision-making. Insurance companies, polluters, and other wrongdoers know that they will likely be bailed out by the Texas Supreme Court.”

$55M Verdict for 10 Year Old Injured in Car Accident

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EST

New State Law Makes Vicious Dog Attacks A Felony

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EST

Pet owners better get a tighter grip on their dog leashes.

Just three weeks ago, the Texas Legislature passed a new law, making it a felony if an owner's pet kills or seriously injures another. The pet owner could even face jail time, even if it's the animal's first attack.

Law Evolved from Fatal Attack on Elderly Woman in 2005

The law stems from the fatal mauling of 76-year-old Lillian Stiles, who was attacked and killed by a pack of dogs in central Texas in November, 2005. The owner of the pit bull-Rottweiler mixes was charged with criminally negligent homicide.

The dog pack pulled Stiles' hair from her scalp and tore off her clothes. The maul was so severe, she was barely recognizable to her husband, the Associated Press reported.

"If my father didn't know what my mother had been wearing, he wouldn't have known it was her," said Stiles' daughter, Marilyn Stiles Shoemaker. "That's the last image my dad has of mom, seeing her like that. After 55 years of marriage, that's real hard."

Rep. Gattis Names Bill, "Lillian's Law"

Representative Dan Gattis of Georgetown filed Texas House Bill 1355, dubbed "Lillian's Law," which would leave dog owners facing a second-degree felony and two to 20 years in prison if their animal attacks and kills or causes serious bodily injury. In the past, it was the animal, not the owner who suffered the consequences, in some cases, euthanasia.

Attorney Jeff Shaver of the Texas Responsible Pet Owners Alliance supports making dog owners responsible for their pets, but he said many live in areas where dogs are legally allowed to roam free.

"Dogs, like kids, sometimes get out of a yard and do something they're not supposed to do, and you're going to create a whole new class of felons," Shaver said. "It potentially could affect a lot of people in a bad way, people who aren't criminals. Do we really want to make people in this category the same as burglars and rapists?" he asked.

Said Keane Menefee of the Fort Worth Animal Care and Control, "Any tool we can get to protect our citizens is vital." Animal control officers said the problem is the pet owner who trains dogs to fight or allows them to run off-leash.

The Centers for Disease Control's National Center for Injury Prevention and Control reported dogs bite 4.7 million people a year, with 800,000 requiring medical attention. Of that number, 386,000 need emergency treatment and 12 die.

http://www.itchmo.com/new-texas-dog-bite-law-goes-into-effect-2592

CDC: US Free of Canine Rabies

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EST

Reuters reports that the Center for Disease Control has announced a small victory over the fatal and untreatable rabies virus. No cases of canine rabies have been found in the United States since 2004.

The CDC emphasizes that this does not mean that the rabies virus has completely disappeared. The virus evolves to match the animal it infects. Dogs can still become infected with rabies when bitten by an infected raccoon, skunk, or bat, but can no longer catch the disease from another dog.

Worldwide, rabies kills 55,000 people a year, according to the World Health Organization.

Chihuahua Dies After Being Left Inside Car in Sweltering Heat

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EST

You can't ask, "What was she thinking?" because she either didn't or couldn't.

KXAN News in Austin reported Sept. 5 police arrested Joyce Stookesberry for shoplifting at a Wal-Mart in San Marcos. When police reached her car, they found six adult and nine Chihuahua puppies inside. The dogs were soaked in their own urine and had no water to drink in mid-90-degree heat. The temperature on the inside was well over 100. One of the dogs died in the pressure-cooker but the rest somehow survived.

Act Was Criminal Offense --- Texas Penal Code

According to the Texas Penal Code, Statute 42.09, animal cruelty is defined as "the person intentionally or knowingly fails unreasonably to provide necessary food, care or shelter...abandons unreasonably an animal...transports or confines an animal in a cruel manner...kills, seriously injures, or administers poison to an animal without legal authority.

The statute defines "cruel manner" as that which causes or permits unjustified or unwarranted pain or suffering to the animal.

http://www.kxan.com/global/story.asp?s=7036115

Parents Could Face Charges After Son Is Mauled to Death By Family Pit Bull

Sat, 01 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EST

For the Warren family of Dallas, the last day of August, 2007 will live first and foremost in their minds. On that day, their 6-year-old child was fatally attacked by the family pit bull. Now, the parents could face criminal charges, reports NBC affiliate KXAN-TV in Austin.

Attack Came One Day Before New Dog Attack Law Hits Books

The attack came one day before a new state law takes effect in which dog owners whose pets attack and seriously injure someone could face up to 10 years in prison. In the case of fatal attacks, the law, known as "Lillian's Law," carries a sentence of up to 20 years. The new legislation evolved from the 2005 fatal mauling of 76-year-old Lillian Stiles by six pit bull-Rottweiler mixes in Central Texas. A pit bull was also responsible for killing a 10-year-old girl in San Antonio earlier this year.

The dog attacked while six-year-old Scott Warren was at home with his 13-year-old sibling when the dog attacked. Police would not say whether the parents will be charged. Animal control officers removed the dog from the home. Typically, dogs are euthanized after fatal attacks.

CBS11TV.com quoted Dallas Police Sgt. Gil Cerda as saying "When the mother came inside the house, she saw the dog attacking the 6-year-old and tried to restrain the dog. By that time, a lot of damage had been done." The boy died en route to Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas.

Neighbors Previously Had Seen Mother Beating Dog With A Shovel

The Warrens said their 1-year-old dog had no history of violent behavior. But the Dallas Morning News reported neighbor Rudy Lopez saw the mother beating one of their dogs with a shovel after it had gotten into a fight with another dog. Another neighbor, Anthony Mack, said he didn't understand why a child would be left inside with one of the animals.

The pit bull's lineage is traced to bulldogs and terriers from England, where they were used as guard dogs and trained to fight. According to the online encyclopedia, Wikipedia, the improper socialization and lack of training of a pit bull can result in a aggressive tendencies.

A Centers for Disease Control (CDC) study from 1979-98 revealed one third of all fatal dog attacks were committed by pit bulls.

http://www.kxan.com/Global/story.asp?S=7014327

Woman Seriously Injured in Pit Bull Attack

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 08:00:00 EST

Alcohol a Factor in East Austin Fatal Accident

Sun, 12 Aug 2007 08:00:00 EST

Austin Police detectives say 23-year-old Alfonso Hernandez Vizcallla will face charges of intoxication manslaughter and failing to stop and render aid in a fatal accident at Manor Road and Pecan Springs Road in East Austin August 11.

Traffic Fatality is Austin's 40th in 2007

According to Austin CBS affiliate KEYE, police said Vizcalla's Dodge pickup ran a stop sign and hit the driver's side of a passing car. The woman driving the Chevrolet Cavalier was taken to Brackenridge Hospital, where she died. It was the 40th traffic fatality in Austin this year.

Vizcalla and three passengers in the truck fled on foot before police later located the driver.

"It's very nice to quickly apprehend the person who left the scene of the collision," Austin Police Corporal Derek Israel said. "We have a lot of 'leaving-the-scene' collisions in Austin, including ones that are fatal. When we're able to apprehend someone quickly, it's a very good day."

Witnesses to the accident should call the Austin Police Department at (512) 974-8212.

http://keyetv.com/topstories/local_story_224141248.html

Big Rig Carrying Blasting Caps Crashes, Shuts Down Highway 183

Tue, 07 Aug 2007 08:00:00 EST

Landscape Worker Killed When Drill Bit Contacts Electrical Line in Round Rock Residence

Wed, 01 Aug 2007 08:00:00 EST

An employee of Ace Landscapes, Inc. was killed July 31 when he drilled into a garage wall and hit an electrical line. The accident occurred in the Teravista subdivision of Round Rock.

Electrocution Possible Cause of Death

Alberto Vargas, 29, of Round Rock was installing a timer for a sprinkler system when he was possibly electrocuted. Ace Landscapes is in Hutto and has a 3.5 star rating out of a possible 5.0, which is "average" on the CitySearch web site.

"We're uneasy about saying he died from electrocution," said Detective John Foster, spokesman for Williamson County. "But maybe he died from circumstances surrounding the electrical current."

Becky Lewis lives across the street and saw the aftermath. "I came out and saw sheets over the garage with the garage door open," she said. "A man's feet were protruding out from under the sheet."

Another neighbor, Carina Rodriguez watched paramedics treat Vargas. "It's so sad," she said. "This gentleman is doing an honest day's work and it's sad to know this is how it ended for him."

OSHA to Investigate Accident

Cause of death will be determined by autopsy. Vargas left behind a fiancée and a brother who rushed to the scene. An investigator from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration took photographs and gathered information. OSHA plans to contact Ace Landscapes, Inc.

http://www.kxan.com/Global/story.asp?S=6868429

Yet Another Amusement Park Death

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 08:00:00 EST

Grandmother Sentenced to 25 Years for Killing Grandson While He Slept

Fri, 20 Jul 2007 08:00:00 EST

A year after killing her 18-year-old grandson, a 62-year-old woman was sentenced to 25 years under a plea agreement in Montague, Texas, according to the Associated Press. Jamie Larue Holmes pled guilty to murder and arson after setting her mobile home on fire moments after killing her grandson, Brock Holmes. Upset the previous night about his not seeking a job, she shot him in the back of the head the next morning while he slept in the trailer in Nocona, northwest of Dallas in June of 2006.

Convicted Murderer Could Be Free in 13 Years

Firefighters found the body of the teenager inside the burning trailer. Later, police found the grandmother hiding in the woods. She will be eligible for parole in 13 years. Montague County District Attorney Jack McGaughey said the grandmother had planned to shoot herself but ran out of bullets.

Investigators determined no motive but McGaughey said Holmes indicated a conflict with her grandson she did not want discussed during a trial. "It seemed to be very important to her that her grandson's conduct toward her not be an issue brought out in court," the prosecutor said.

http://www.kwtx.com/home/headlines/8608522.html

Most Trucks & SUVs Perform Poorly in Whiplash Tests

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 08:00:00 EST

Two-thirds of pickups, vans and sport-utility vehicles don't provide acceptable protection against whiplash in rear-end collisions, according to tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Some 54 models were rated "marginal" or "poor" by the Institute in tests that involved measurements of seats and head restraints and, in some cases, simulated rear-end collisions.

"Good Samaritan" Beaten to Death By Mob in Austin

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 08:00:00 EST

A "Good Samaritan" was beaten to death June 19 while trying to defend a friend from a mob attack in an East Austin housing project. The beating occurred as celebrants were leaving the Juneteenth Festival in nearby Rosewood Park. The slaying was Austin's 11th homicide this year.

David Rivas Morales died in a parking lot of Booker T. Washington Apartments on the 900 block of Thompson Street, adjacent to the park. Moments earlier, police said the vehicle driven by Morales's friend had struck an African American boy near the entrance to the apartment complex. The Associated Press identified the child as 2-year-old Michael Hosea, Jr., who was hospitalized with non-life threatening injuries.

Helping A Friend Led to Beating Death

"There could have been anywhere from two to 20 attackers," Austin Police Commander Harold Piatt said of the incident. At the time of the attack, nearly 3,000 people were dispersing the festival, commemorating African American independence in Texas.

When the driver left his car to check on the fallen child, he was confronted by as many as 20 people, Piatt said. When Morales left the vehicle to protect his friend, he was assaulted and beaten. Police said no guns or knives were used. A preliminary autopsy showed Morales died from blunt-force trauma. Police are not releasing the name of the friend, who was not injured. Thus far, police have made no arrests. Witnesses to the beating said one attacker drove away in a maroon or red, four-door Buick 'Roadmaster' or Cadillac sedan. Anyone with information is asked to call the police homicide tip line at 512.477.3588.

Mother Allows Removal of Life Support

The sister of the victim, Margaret Morales, rushed to the scene from her nearby residence and found her brother lying on the asphalt, choking on his own blood. Police arrived one minute after receiving a 911 call, although the Morales family complained medical help was slow to arrive. Morales was taken to Brackenridge Hospital 35 minutes after the 911 call was received, said Warren Hassinger, Austin-Travis County Emergency Services spokesman.

At the hospital, the victim's mother, Mary Helen Morales, said her son's face was swollen and his eyes were purple. John Morales, the victim's brother, said doctors told him and his family they couldn't control bleeding in the victim's brain and his heart kept stopping. The Houston Chronicle reported the mother authorized removal of life support after a medical team said her son would not survive.

Margaret Morales said her brother was on his way home from his job as a painter. The driver, whom she knew only as Victor, drove him to and from work every day, she said. Neighbor Earl White said Morales enjoyed sitting on the porch and watching the neighborhood children play in the parking lot.

Another sister, Elizabeth Morales said, "I just want the people caught and brought to justice. I want them to feel the same pain they caused my brother."

Girl Losses Legs on Six Flags Ride in Kentucky

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 08:00:00 EST

A girl riding the Superman Tower of Power lost both of her feet at the ankle Thursday when a cable severed her legs.

Man Has Wrong Testicle Removed in VA Hospital

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 08:00:00 EST

Benjamin Houghton, 47, was to have had his left testicle removed June 14 at the West Los Angeles VA Medical Center because there was a chance it could harbor cancer cells. But doctors mistakenly removed the right testicle, according to medical records and the claim, which seeks $200,000 for future care and unspecified damages.

Woman Suffers "Internal Decapitation" in Car Crash

Sun, 20 May 2007 08:00:00 EST

Shannon Malloy, 30, of Denver, was in a car accident last week that separated her head from her spine, but not her body. Doctors are calling the condition an "internal decapitation." The condition has not paralyzed Malloy, but she now has trouble swallowing. Surgeons were able to stablize her head with a halo, but are unsure how long she will survive.

Proposed Bill Increases Penalty For Dog Bites

Mon, 07 May 2007 08:00:00 EST

State Farm Agrees to Review Thousands of Denied Katrina Claims

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 08:00:00 EST

JACKSON, Miss. - State Farm Fire & Casualty Co. will re-examine more than 35,000 policyholder claims filed after Hurricane Katrina and "make millions of dollars available" for additional payments, Mississippi Insurance Commissioner George Dale said Monday.

Interesting Article about Texas Truck Accidents

Tue, 13 Mar 2007 08:00:00 EST

Here's an interesting article about Texas Trucking Accidents.

Bush uses tired rhetoric regarding medical "tort reform"

Thu, 15 Feb 2007 08:00:00 EST

AAJ Urges NHTSA to Withdraw Rules that Would Compromise Auto Buyer Safety

Thu, 15 Feb 2007 08:00:00 EST

Report Shows Record Insurance Industry Profits

Thu, 08 Feb 2007 08:00:00 EST

Check out this report showing record insurer profits, even in the midst of "tort reform" hysteria.

Oklahoma Man Settles Suit Over Wrongful Imprisonment

Thu, 25 Jan 2007 08:00:00 EST

OKLAHOMA CITY-A man who spent 15 years in prison for a rape he did not commit has settled with the city for $4 million over botched testimony by a police chemist.

Strokes often missed with traditional scans, study says

Thu, 25 Jan 2007 08:00:00 EST

The test most commonly used to diagnose strokes in emergency rooms catches only about one out of every four cases - far fewer than a rival imaging technique, new research suggests.

MySpace was sued for failing to protect young users from online predators

Fri, 19 Jan 2007 08:00:00 EST

NEW YORK — Four families have sued News Corp. and its MySpace social-networking site after their underage daughters were sexually abused by adults they met on the site, lawyers for the families said Thursday.

The Medical Malpractice Hoax

Fri, 19 Jan 2007 08:00:00 EST

A report by the watchdog group Public Citizen explains why the insurance industry's claims of a medical malpractice "explosion" (usually used to demand tort reform) is a hoax.