Page 9 – Tritico Rainey

Is securities fraud a felony?

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 10:53:00 GMT

Any type of fraud can lead to significant losses for unsuspecting victims who might be unaware of the crime until it is too late. The same goes for securities fraud. This offense involves people entrusting their finances as investments to individuals or institutions posing to operate legitimately. These crimes often involve significant amounts of money, affecting the severity of charges and penalties.

Most incidents of fraud are felonies, becoming more serious based on the amount of money involved. The degree of the crime can vary according to the following:

Additionally, timelines could play a vital role in indicting perpetrators. An indictment might only happen if a party brings about charges within five years after the crime occurred, meeting specific conditions before qualifying as fraud.

The details of the crime can also rope in people indirectly involved in it, including individuals who made inaccurate or untrue statements to mislead and deceive. But sometimes, these named accomplices could be victims fooled into believing that the transactions or business operations are legitimate.

Understanding where you stand when facing securities fraud charges

Becoming subject to securities fraud charges can be scary and overwhelming. In these situations, the first step to developing a defense could be understanding all the case details and receiving legal guidance. Experienced advice about these scenarios can be helpful when learning about the possibilities and determining appropriate options, which may change according to the case’s progression. There might be no way to guarantee a favorable outcome, but preparing can help keep the legal process fair from start to finish.

What evidence should you secure after a truck accident?

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 03:48:00 GMT

In 2022, approximately 161,000 large-truck crashes occurred on U.S. highways, causing thousands of injuries and fatalities. These staggering numbers underscore the importance of understanding your rights if you ever find yourself in such an unfortunate situation.

When navigating the aftermath of a trucking accident, there are two pieces of evidence that can help you strengthen any legal action you may pursue.

Truck black box data

Modern commercial trucks come equipped with an Electronic Control Module (ECM), or the “black box.” This device records a wealth of information, including the truck’s speed and acceleration. It also captures brake application, engine performance and even the impact and direction of the crash.

The black box data can provide invaluable insights into the circumstances surrounding an accident, potentially revealing unsafe behavior by the driver or trucking company. This evidence is crucial in strengthening your case, as it can help establish liability and fault.

However, it is vital to act quickly to preserve this critical evidence. ECMs have limited storage space and will automatically overwrite previous recordings once they reach capacity. Moreover, trucking companies may deliberately delete the data following an accident.

The driver’s paper trail

Alertness is a critical factor in a truck driver’s line of work. This is primarily why truck drivers in the U.S. are subject to strict guidelines limiting the number of hours they spend on the road without taking mandatory rest breaks.

A truck driver’s logbook provides a detailed record of their activities leading up to the accident, such as hours of service, rest breaks and sleeper berth provisions. This information can be a critical factor in building your case.

Protecting your rights and moving forward

Truck accidents can be life-altering, not just due to the sheer size and weight of these massive vehicles. The impact on victims and their families often extends far beyond physical injuries, affecting their emotional well-being and financial stability. By understanding what evidence to gather after an accident, you can take a crucial step in protecting your rights and rebuilding your life.

Understanding embezzlement charges

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 20:20:00 GMT

If you are facing embezzlement charges, you may be experiencing mixed emotions and concerns. Understanding the nature of these charges and the potential consequences can help you prepare for the challenges ahead.

The weight of embezzlement accusations

Embezzlement is a form of financial fraud. It involves the misappropriation of funds entrusted to you for personal gain. The charges suggest a breach of trust. It can hurt your career, personal relationships and financial stability.

Penalties for embezzlement

Under Texas law , the penalties for embezzlement may depend on the value of the misappropriated funds, as outlined below:

Embezzlement charges on a federal level also depend on the total value of the property stolen. For thefts of less than $1,000, people convicted will face up to one year in federal prison. For theft of more than $1,000, you may face imprisonment for up to a decade.

Understanding the potential consequences

The consequences of an embezzlement charge can be severe.

An embezzlement charge can damage your reputation. This can make securing future business deals challenging. It may also be difficult to maintain professional relationships. It also jeopardizes the trust you have built over the years in your industry.

Moreover, the stress of facing these charges can take a toll on your mental health and personal relationships. You may find yourself isolated. You may also struggle to maintain relationships with friends and family.

Lastly, legal proceedings can be costly. You may face financial challenges due to the accusations, regardless of their validity.

If you face embezzlement charges, an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and legal options.

When could someone face charges over allegations of tax fraud?

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 15:08:00 GMT

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is tasked with a challenging mission. The IRS must review income records and tax returns to ensure that individuals and businesses pay an appropriate amount in taxes every year. Comparing information provided by employers and financial institutions to the actual returns filed by taxpayers is a key part of that process. The IRS may audit people and businesses if there appear to be discrepancies and income tax records.

Occasionally, the IRS might reach the conclusion that an underpayment of taxes is the result of intentional tax fraud. Federal prosecutors might potentially file criminal charges against those accused of fraudulent underpayment of their taxes. What scenarios might eventually lead to tax fraud charges?

Tax fraud involves intentional misrepresentation

Some people end up accused of tax evasion, which is an inappropriate attempt to avoid taxes. Tax evasion can take many forms, including fraud. Those accused of tax fraud provided information to the IRS that is inaccurate based on other financial records. If the IRS believes that the misrepresentation was intentional, that could lead to accusations of tax fraud.

Tax fraud can involve vastly different conduct for different taxpayers. For example, a business facing tax fraud accusations may have altered financial records to reduce the revenue that it reported for the year. There could be accusations of intentionally abusing right off and deductions for business expenses. Companies may have intentionally altered or failed to file payroll tax information.

For individuals, tax fraud might entail intentionally misrepresenting the value of personal holdings or claiming to have dependents that don’t exist. They may have refused to pay tax debts or may have intentionally avoided filing tax returns. Any scenario that involves a lie told with the purpose of reducing tax obligations could potentially constitute tax fraud.

The bigger the overall amount of unpaid taxes, the more likely someone is to face prosecution. Allegations of tax fraud can lead to a variety of criminal penalties and financial consequences. Sometimes, what initially looks like tax fraud may have simply been a mistake. Even when people use professional tax services, the possibility exists for the preparer to make a mistake that looks like fraud.

Reviewing the information provided by the IRS regarding the underpayment of taxes and personal financial records with a skilled legal team is a good starting place for those accused of a tax crime . Those who understand what has led to tax fraud accusations can develop a defense strategy that addresses those concerns.

What makes underride crashes deadly?

Mon, 27 May 2024 12:54:00 GMT

Collisions are generally dangerous, but accidents involving big trucks and cars can be devastating, especially for the smaller vehicle’s occupants. Depending on the difference in size and weight, the car can be at a disadvantage, making severe injuries and fatalities likely, such as in underride crashes.

This type of crash occurs when the force of impact causes the car to slide underneath the truck’s body , possibly wedging it into the space between the truck’s wheels.

What makes them lethal?

Underride crashes are often lethal because of their point of impact. The way the smaller vehicle goes under the truck could instantly take out the car’s hood or windshield area, causing airbags and other safety features to fail.

Additionally, the impact often targets the car’s upper half, making its occupants prone to head or neck trauma, which can be fatal. Meanwhile, the compartments where truck drivers sit are usually high, keeping them from direct force during an underride crash. In these incidents, people in smaller vehicles tend to suffer more regardless of who is at fault.

Taking legal action after a truck accident

If you survived an underride crash or any other type of truck accident , you may have severe injuries, leaving life-altering impairments or permanent disabilities. Making a full recovery from the accident could be a significant challenge, mainly if you have limited financial resources. Treatments and rehabilitation necessary to heal from these severe injuries are typically expensive, leading to overwhelming costs.

You may have no choice but to pursue compensation to cover your medical and basic needs. Fortunately, you can seek experienced counsel to learn if you can file a claim against the at-fault party and take legal action appropriately.

When insurance fraud becomes a federal crime

Wed, 08 May 2024 11:18:00 GMT

The insurance business involves much money changing hands, whether it’s a customer paying their premiums or the insurers providing compensation for covered incidents. It’s no wonder, then, that the industry also attracts much fraudulent crime.

Typically, insurance fraud offenses are prosecuted at the state level. However, if a certain fraud scheme affects interstate commerce, it becomes a federal crime. With the rules of engagement dictated by the federal government, the consequences of this offense are more severe than state-level insurance fraud.

When does an offense become a federal crime?

According to federal law , insurance fraud becomes a federal offense when it affect interstate commerce. Specific instances where an insurance fraud case violates federal law include:

Simply put, the law covers a wide range of fraudulent activities.

The punishments for interstate insurance fraud

The penalties for interstate insurance fraud can be severe, depending on the specific circumstances of the case.

Individuals convicted of the offense can potentially face fines and imprisonment of up to 10 years. The crime becomes even more serious if it jeopardizes an insurer’s safety or financial condition. If the scheme harms an insurer, the offender may potentially face up to 15 years of imprisonment.

Interstate insurance fraud is a serious federal offense that can result in severe penalties, including substantial fines and lengthy prison sentences. If you face charges for the offense, understand that severe penalties await you on top of a lasting criminal record that could ruin your career and opportunities. A legal professional experienced in federal criminal defense may be able to guide you through your case and advise you on your defense options.

How long can a criminal conviction impact a teacher’s career?

Tue, 07 May 2024 22:38:00 GMT

Teachers work very demanding jobs for relatively low wages, when considering the impact their careers can have on others. However, with years of dedicated service, teachers can eventually earn more competitive salaries and can retire comfortably. Teachers in Texas typically need to meet very strict standards regarding their education. They also need to obtain an educator certification from the Texas Education Agency, which oversees the certification process.

Certain personal issues could potentially affect an educator’s career. For example, a teacher who pleads guilty or gets convicted of a criminal offense could face major career consequences. How long can a criminal record potentially affect someone who works as a teacher?

Their certification could be at risk for years

The Texas Education Agency conducts background checks when issuing a new certification or when renewing an existing one. Someone who has already obtained a job at a school may believe that a criminal conviction is unlikely to affect their career.

Especially if someone specifically sought out a lifetime certification, they might believe that they can hide the record of their conviction from the school that employs them and the Texas Education Agency so that they can maintain their career and their certification. A criminal record often comes to light during the certification renewal process or when a teacher applies for a new position in a different school district.

Members of the public can also potentially notify the Texas Education Agency about someone’s recent conviction, which could lead to disciplinary efforts . If a teacher fails to disclose their conviction and the offense involves moral turpitude, they could be at risk of losing their certification for the rest of their career. The type of charges that a teacher faces and any prior blemishes on their criminal record can influence the likelihood of this offense costing a teacher their certification.

Oftentimes, the surest way for an educational professional to protect their career when accused of criminal activity is to avoid a conviction. Working with the defense attorney to fight pending charges can help an educator preserve their certification and their employment. An educator also has the option of securing legal representation for any hearings they must attend in front of the Texas Education Agency because of criminal charges.

Having representation during a disciplinary hearing could help a teacher protect their teaching certification despite criminal accusations or other issues. Texas educators who understand how even infractions that occur outside of school could affect their careers can respond appropriately to pending charges.

Understanding the prohibition of illegal gambling businesses

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 10:24:00 GMT

The law in the U.S. is strict on illegal gambling. Federal statutes clearly define what constitutes an illegal gambling business and the penalties for those involved in such activities. If someone conducts, finances, manages, supervises, directs or owns all or part of an illegal gambling business, they may face serious legal consequences.

It’s important to understand how serious this matter is to avoid participating in such a business or know how to respond if faced with charges.

Defining illegal gambling businesses

Federal law describes an “illegal gambling business” as a gambling operation involving five or more people, running for over 30 days, or bringing in more than $2,000 in a single day. This law covers a range of gambling activities, such as:

If a person runs a business—either covertly or openly—like these, it may be an illegal gambling business. No matter the size, these businesses are breaking the law .

Exceptions to the law

This law has a limitation. Some tax-exempt organizations, like certain non-profits, can conduct games like bingo or lotteries without breaking the law. But there’s a condition. The earnings from these games can’t financially benefit any private shareholder, member or employee of the organization.

The only exception is to reimburse the costs they spent to run these games. The organization could be breaking the law if any funds benefit an individual beyond covering costs.

Consequences of running an illegal gambling business

The punishments for running an illegal gambling business are severe. People who break this law can face imprisonment for up to five years, fines that vary based on their case’s specifics, or both. In addition, any property, including money, used in violation of this law may be seized and forfeited to the U.S.

Those facing charges of running an illegal gambling business, such as maintaining slot machines or conducting lotteries, should consider seeking a legal professional. They can help them understand the federal laws and work to lessen the potential penalties .

Transporting wagering paraphernalia across states is a federal offense

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 15:55:00 GMT

While gambling is widespread across the United States, it’s heavily regulated at both the state and federal levels. There are restrictions on the types of gambling allowed, how it’s done and where it can be done.

However, some would attempt to break these rules by delivering gambling paraphernalia from one point to another. Perhaps it’s to facilitate prohibited gambling operations or to fund other illegal organized crime ventures such as money laundering. Whatever the reason, transporting wagering paraphernalia is potentially a crime at the federal level.

Illegal transportation

According to federal law , it’s against the law to transport any record, paraphernalia, ticket, certificate, bills, slip, token, paper, writing, or other device used in bookmaking, wagering pools or in a numbers game. The transportation must occur across state lines or from a foreign country into the United States for the action to be a federal offense.

Under the law, it’s also an offense to receive wagering paraphernalia delivered across state lines or from a foreign country. Aiding the transportation of such gambling materials is also a federal offense.

Items considered wagering paraphernalia

The law has a broad definition of what’s considered wagering paraphernalia. They can include:

These items don’t have to be exclusive for illegal gambling to trigger a violation. Even a partial use in connection with illegal activities can lead to charges.

The penalties for transporting wagering paraphernalia

If a court convicts a person of interstate transportation of wagering paraphernalia, the person faces up to five years of imprisonment and a steep court-determined fine.

Transporting a bunch of gambling materials from one state to another may seem innocuous, but it can lead to federal criminal charges. It’s also a serious white-collar crime that falls under the broader category of racketeering offenses. If you face charges, don’t go into your hearing unprepared. A legal professional may be able to advise you on your case and fight for your rights.

Who can I sue for injuries from a truck accident?

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 12:28:00 GMT

Motor vehicle drivers who figure in truck crashes suffer devastating effects. They may endure physical injuries along with emotional turmoil and mental torment.

Unfortunately, truck accidents continue to affect victims nationwide. In 2021, police-reported accidents that involved large trucks led to 110,000 injury crashes . The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration added that 5,149 truck accidents were fatal crashes.

Claiming damages from several parties

Victims of truck crashes may claim economic damages for medical costs, vehicle repairs and lost income. They could also seek noneconomic damages for their emotional and mental pains.

When a road accident involves trucks, victims may sue the following parties if they are negligent:

Another possible liable party is the truck manufacturer if there is proof that a manufacturing error caused the accident. Once a victim finalizes the parties to sue, they need to file the lawsuit no later than two years after the crash.

The road to healing and recovery

Going through a terrible ordeal like a truck accident entails resilience. As you try to seek reparation, legal guidance could strengthen you to fight for what you deserve as you heal and recover.

What are the primary rights of a shareholder?

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 15:19:00 GMT

Investors or shareholders often have vital roles in determining what happens to the business’s future. They usually have no involvement in a company’s daily operations but are contributors when making significant business decisions. Whether changing the business’s direction or making vital board decisions, shareholders can influence the outcome.

Aside from decision-making, they have other rights concerning their ownership and other parts of the business. Violating these rights can lead to disputes between shareholders or against the company. They can vary from state to state, but these rights usually include the following :

Each company could also have unique policies and plans regarding their shareholders, which can affect what kind of treatment they would receive from the business.

Taking legal action as a shareholder

Both company leaders and shareholders should know these rights to manage the business appropriately. Additionally, shareholder disputes can stem from violating these rights, which may require legal action or going to court altogether.

Regardless of who is at fault, shareholders can protect themselves by understanding their rights and addressing incidents that violate them. Still, resolving issues may require thoroughness and strategy, which can make legal guidance beneficial.

Embezzlement: When certain actions can get bank employees in trouble

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 09:13:00 GMT

Banks are some of the most critical institutions in any country. They take deposits and lend money to clients, helping keep the cash flowing. But while many people trust banks with their money, some employees would abuse this trust to commit embezzlement.

Federal embezzlement charges can be both confusing and frightening, as they involve complex financial regulations and the potential for severe consequences. Which actions can get bank employees in trouble, and what can they expect if their charges lead to conviction?

Federal law on embezzlement by a bank employee

According to federal law , a banking employee or officer commits embezzlement if they misappropriate their bank’s funds, assets or securities. The definition is broad enough to cover a wide range of suspicious transactions.

Identifying embezzlement

The line between a legitimate transaction and an attempt to embezzle a bank can blur. The following actions can be misinterpreted as embezzlement:

If a bank employee performs any transaction without proper clearance or authority, it could lead to charges.

The penalties for embezzlement

Bank officers or employees found guilty of embezzlement can face as much as $1,000,000 in fines or up to 30 years in prison. The fines and prison time are significantly lower for those convicted of embezzling less than $1,000.

People hold bank employees and officers to a high standard of trust. Any suspicious action they do may lead to federal charges, and a conviction for embezzlement leads to severe penalties. If you’re facing charges, don’t underestimate the accusations. A legal professional may be able to review your case and discuss possible defense options .

Common kinds of shareholder disputes

Sat, 09 Mar 2024 01:24:00 GMT

Shareholder disputes are a common occurrence in the business world, often arising from disagreements related to closely held corporations where the ownership is concentrated among a few individuals. These disputes can stem from a variety of issues related to the management, direction and policies of the company in question.

Recognizing and understanding the common kinds of shareholder disputes can help businesses navigate these challenges more effectively and seek appropriate legal remedies more efficiently.

Concerns about business direction and management decisions

Shareholders may have differing visions for the future of the business or disagree on significant operational decisions, such as mergers and acquisitions, expansion plans or investment strategies.

Breaches of fiduciary duty

Certain “players” in a company, particularly those in directorial or managerial positions, owe a fiduciary duty to the corporation and its shareholders. This duty includes acting in the best interest of the company and making decisions that benefit all shareholders fairly. Allegations of breach of fiduciary duty can arise when shareholders believe that directors or officers have acted in their own interests rather than those of the company, such as engaging in self-dealing, misappropriating company assets or neglecting their responsibilities.

Minority shareholder oppression

Minority shareholder oppression occurs when the actions of majority shareholders or the company’s directors disadvantage the minority shareholders. This can include denying minority shareholders access to important company information, excluding them from decision-making processes or engaging in financial practices that dilute their shares’ value.

Concerns about dividends and financial rights

Another common area of contention among shareholders involves disputes over dividends, profit distribution and other financial rights. Shareholders may disagree on how much of the company’s profits should be reinvested in the business versus distributed as dividends. Conflicts can also arise from allegations of financial mismanagement, including concerns over excessive executive compensation, misuse of company funds or inaccurate financial reporting.

Navigating shareholder disputes requires a strategic approach. Legal professionals can help companies and shareholders understand their rights and obligations, explore dispute resolution options and pursue actions that protect their interests and the long-term viability of a business.

What is racketeering?

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 15:01:00 GMT

Racketeering is a catchall term to describe a host of organized criminal activities that, in concert, form a profitable enterprise. Racketeering charges can often relate to such crimes as:

However, it is not the criminal act alone that makes it an enterprise, but the organized nature of it. If there is a hierarchy and organization reaping profits from illegal activities, all the members of the organization are at risk of racketeering charges.

A federal act addresses racketeering

The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) seeks to go after racketeering syndicates on a federal level. To constitute a RICO charge, the racketeering must happen at least twice within 10 years. RICO cases also cover predicate offenses without physical violence such as extortion, coercion, wire fraud and blackmail.

Liable parties and penalties

Aside from the ones who carried out the illegal activities, those involved in the organization or enterprise in question and people connected to the funds from alleged racketeering are also liable in these instances:

A civil remedy for racketeering allows a victim to seek financial damages worth three times their gross loss. A criminal penalty imposes a fine of $250,000 and a prison sentence of up to 20 years. Under the RICO law, the court can seize the assets of those who committed racketeering and their criminal enterprises.

How to face a racketeering accusation

If you are experiencing allegations of racketeering, you need to reinforce your defense by challenging the prosecution’s evidence. You can also clarify your connections to the supposed criminal enterprise.

A strong legal support can do just that. Moreover, it can help you face other possible criminal charges connected to racketeering that could intensify your punishments.

Can you sue your insurance company for bad faith?

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 14:45:00 GMT

Whether it is for work or for personal use, having an insurance policy is a smart move. In the event something happens to you, it can be your safety net ensuring compensation and coverage for you and your beneficiaries.

Unfortunately, insurance companies aren’t always willing to help policyholders with their insurance claims, and they typically try to avoid paying out as much as policyholders deserve. Under these circumstances, you may be wondering what, if any, legal options you have.

What challenges can you possibly face when claiming your compensation?

Most people don’t like dealing with insurance companies. Some of the issues people might have when filing a claim with insurance include:

In Texas, insurance firms cannot reject legitimate claims or engage in acts that are in “bad faith.” These include actions that are coercive, deceptive or otherwise inappropriate to avoid paying out what policyholders should receive. If they do, they can and should be accountable for their misconduct.

Legal options can be available

If you think your insurance company is not doing its best to manage your claims despite following protocol and giving the necessary documents, you can file a bad-faith lawsuit.

Before filing for a lawsuit, make sure you document all your conversations with your insurance company. Choose to communicate either via email, text messages or a written letter to certify dates and details. In case you head for a lawsuit, you have proof to back up your claims of your insurance firm not being diligent when it comes to your compensation.

Can you sue a bar for serving alcohol to a drunk driver?

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 09:05:00 GMT

When you or a loved one becomes a victim of a drunk driving incident, seeking accountability is a natural response to the reckless actions that led to your suffering. In Texas, an at-fault state, you have the right to pursue legal action against the intoxicated driver to recover damages.

However, suppose the driver’s insurance coverage or personal assets are insufficient to cover the full extent of the harm caused. In that case, you might wonder where to turn for the compensation necessary for your recovery. Under Texas’s dram shop laws, you may also have the option to seek damages from the establishment that provided alcohol to the driver before the incident.

Understanding dram shop laws

Dram shop laws pertain to businesses that sell alcoholic beverages, such as bars, restaurants and liquor stores. The purpose of dram shop laws is to provide a measure of accountability and to encourage responsible service of alcohol. They recognize that businesses that profit from selling alcoholic drinks have a role to play in promoting public safety. Under Texas dram shop laws, you can take legal action against an establishment under the following circumstances:

When an establishment neglects its responsibility to its patrons, it can lead to catastrophic accidents and damages. After all, it does not make sense to continue serving alcohol to someone who is already drunk and has to get home safely.

If you find yourself in a situation where you believe dram shop laws may apply, gathering evidence is critical. Dram shop laws are there to uphold safety and ensure that there is a path to justice for those who have suffered because of irresponsible alcohol service. By understanding these laws, you can better protect your interests and obtain the support necessary for recovery after an injury due to another’s negligence.

What you need to know about tax evasion and its penalties in Texas

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 08:26:00 GMT

Although Texas doesn’t collect personal income taxes, the state instead relies on other forms of tax, such as sales tax. The sale of personal property and taxable services is subject to sales tax, which the state collects from businesses.

Because businesses serve as some of the state’s biggest income sources, Texas’ tax evasion and fraud laws typically apply to them. It’s a serious offense for a business to avoid paying sales tax or tamper with its tax records, and violations can lead to criminal penalties.

Failure to pay taxes, false entry

According to Texas law , a person violates the law if they intentionally don’t pay taxes collected by the state comptroller. It’s also a crime for a person to knowingly conceal, alter, destroy or fail to make tax records, which is considered tax fraud.

Penalties for tax evasion, false entries

The following are the penalties for tax evasion and fraud:

Tax evasion:

Tax fraud : The offense is a felony of the third degree , punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Tax evasion and fraud in Texas carry stringent penalties, including hefty fines and possible imprisonment. If you are under scrutiny for either offense, consider consulting a legal professional who can protect your rights in court.

The legal consequences of money laundering

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 08:50:00 GMT

Money laundering is a serious criminal offense involving making illegally gained proceeds appear legal. But while it’s a crime, it’s not an end but a means to an end.

Each U.S. state has laws prohibiting money laundering, but the offense is also punishable under federal law. The federal government regulates and protects the integrity of the nation’s financial system. It won’t hesitate to go after offenders who compromise the stability of this system.

Money laundering defined

Under federal law, anyone who conducts or attempts to conduct financial transactions knowing that the money involved came from illegal means commits money laundering. Specifically, a person commits money laundering if the transaction either:

There are various reasons why an individual chooses to commit money laundering. They could be trying to conceal illegal activities. Or they’re attempting to avoid paying taxes. Perhaps they’re trying to protect their assets from government forfeiture. It’s also not unusual for some to invest their illicit gains into legitimate business ventures to grow their wealth.

Regardless of the reasons, intent is important for a money laundering charge to stick. The offender must have knowledge that the transaction they’re performing is designed to conceal the nature, location, source, ownership or control of the proceeds of the specified unlawful activity.

The penalties

If a federal court convicts a person of money laundering, they’ll face a prison sentence of up to 20 years and $500,000 in fines. Alternatively, a court can order them to pay twice the value of the property involved in the transaction, whichever is greater.

Money laundering is not a victimless crime. It fuels corruption, undermines financial systems, and supports criminal enterprises. Understanding the laws and potential penalties is crucial so that individuals and institutions can prepare for compliance and prevention. For those facing charges, it is critical to seek legal advice to navigate the complexities of federal laws and build an effective defense strategy.

What are the dangers of cargo that’s not secured properly?

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 14:29:00 GMT

Improperly secured cargo on semitrucks presents a variety of dangers that extend far beyond the vehicle’s immediate vicinity. From shifting loads to road hazards, the implications of unsecured cargo are vast and multifaceted.

When cargo isn’t adequately secured , it can lead to severe consequences for a truck driver and other road users. This is a critical issue in road safety and transportation regulations that can impact innocent people for a variety of reasons.

Shifting loads and loss of control

One of the primary dangers of improperly secured cargo is the shifting of loads. This can have a drastic impact on the truck’s balance and handling. If the cargo shifts unexpectedly during transportation, it can cause the truck to tip over, particularly during turns or sudden maneuvers.

The consequences can be severe, leading to multi-vehicle collisions. This is especially problematic on interstates because of higher speeds. The trucker may not have the time to correct the trajectory of the vehicle and other motorists may not have the time to take evasive maneuvers to avoid slamming into the truck.

Falling debris and road hazards

Another critical risk involves cargo falling off the truck. This can happen when the cargo is not secured correctly, posing a significant hazard to other road users. Falling debris can lead to accidents, causing damage to vehicles, injuries and fatalities. It also creates road obstructions, leading to traffic delays and additional accidents as drivers attempt to avoid the debris.

Victims of crashes resulting from improperly secured cargo may suffer from catastrophic injuries. In some cases, such as if the rig rolls, fatalities are possible. Anyone who survives one of these horrific wrecks should get immediate medical care because it’s possible that injuries are hidden due to adrenaline from the crash and other factors.

When one of these crashes occurs due to negligence, the victims – or their surviving loved ones – may opt to pursue a compensation claim. They can seek damages for expenses related to medical care, missed work and other similar costs that are related to the injury.

Why close ties do not prevent shareholder disputes

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 07:24:00 GMT

The idea of forming your own company can be quite exciting, especially if you are to create one with your friends. You begin with a shared dream and work together to make it a reality. Ideally, you can maintain close relationships by separating personal matters from business-related issues. However, in the dynamic business landscape of Texas, shareholder disputes are an inevitable aspect of corporate life.

Disagreements can arise from a multitude of issues, ranging from divergent views on management decisions to differences in the company’s direction. You and your friends will not always agree on everything. The impact of these disputes can be profound, often affecting the company’s operations and the relationships between shareholders.

How to deal with shareholder disputes

The first step in effectively managing shareholder disputes is to understand the rights that shareholders have under Texas law . Shareholders in Texas have the right to inspect company records, vote on significant corporate changes and receive dividends, among other rights. When exercising their rights, they must always act in the company’s best interests. A shareholder who does not act in good faith and puts their needs before the needs of the company could cause you and your business to suffer damages. Common triggers for shareholder disputes include the following:

If you want to preserve what remains of your friendship, you can consider mediation and arbitration. These methods can allow you to negotiate with the shareholder and find a way to resolve a dispute without going to court. When other methods fail, litigation may be the only option left. You could bring a civil lawsuit against the shareholder.

How to prevent shareholder disputes

Even though you own the company with people you know and have close ties with, you still want to ensure each of you understands your obligation to the company. Shareholder agreements and the company’s bylaws play a crucial role in defining the relationship between shareholders and the company. Well-drafted shareholder agreements should include explicit provisions for dispute resolution and exit strategies for shareholders. They can provide a roadmap for navigating potential disputes whenever they arise, which is why they are essential to any corporation.

Ticket resale scammer found guilty of identity theft

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 09:30:00 GMT

Identity theft can take many forms. It might involve abusing a person’s Social Security Number to apply for loans fraudulently. Maybe a devious individual could utilize the personal information of another to file a false tax return to steal the refund. Identity theft can also refer to attempts to obtain free medical care by posing as another person.

A person can also face identity theft charges if the theft forms the backbone of an even greater criminal operation. Such was the case of one Californian man, who has been convicted of identity theft for his involvement in a nationwide ticket resale scam .

The 48-year-old man admitted using email to steal credit card information from victims nationwide. He then created fake buyer accounts with the stolen payment card numbers to buy tickets to an upcoming Texas A&M football game, which he would put up again for sale on ticket resale sites.

Over 75 victims had their credit card and personal information stolen by the man.

Texas A&M discovered the scheme and moved to invalidate the tickets. But unwitting buyers had already purchased several of the fraudulently obtained tickets, losing money for the university.

A release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas noted that the man faces a mandatory sentence of two years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000.

Aggravated identity theft is a federal crime

Per federal rules , a person who commits a fraud offense by utilizing the identification of another person can be additionally charged with aggravated identity theft. In addition to any punishment the person may face for their specific fraud offense, the convicted must also face a two-year prison sentence.

Texas also punishes credit card fraud

Texas also has a law prohibiting persons from using the credit card information of other people without their consent. The penalties for fraudulent credit card use depend on the number of card information stolen. If less than five payment card details were stolen, a convicted person faces a state jail felony. But if more than 50 details were stolen – such as in the case above – the convicted faces a felony of the first degree. A first-degree felony can lead to life imprisonment or a term not exceeding 99 years.

Regardless of its form, identity theft is a severe offense at both the state and federal levels. Anybody convicted of the offense faces some of the harshest punishments.

Can an employer claim ownership over your work?

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 17:46:00 GMT

As creatives and innovators, you help empower organizations to think outside the box. Creating and exploring new ideas comes naturally to you. However, it is important to consider the implications of working on personal projects during your employment.

When do employees not own their ideas?

Whether you are a content creator, artist, software developer or industrial designer, anything you create while working for a company may not be yours to claim if they hired you for that purpose.

Employees may not assert ownership over ideas developed during the course of employment or those that are related to the employer’s business unless they have an agreement that states otherwise. Ideas created within the workplace or using company equipment may also cost employees their ownership rights .

In case of an intellectual property dispute, there are several factors the court will consider. The employer-employee relationship, company policies and how the creative work was made can impact the court’s decision.

If you create or improve upon a business idea because it is a part of your duty, then your employer can lay claim to any intellectual property you produce.

Company policies typically outline the employer’s rights over its employee’s ideas, creations or inventions. However, some employment contracts may indicate that any creations unrelated to the business or done during the employee’s own time without using company resources belong to the employee.

Can employees work on personal projects at home?

Again, your relationship with the company and your agreement will define whether they have any ownership over what you create, even projects you do at home.

Intellectual property laws can be tricky. In some ways, they can limit your ability to pursue your own ideas and personal projects.

Before starting a personal project, it is a good idea to review your employment agreement. Be aware of specific terms like invention assignment agreement or proprietary information agreement, which may affect your ownership of your creations. You must also ensure that you never use company time and resources while working on them.

If you are worried about your personal projects, whether you started them before, during, or after your employment, seeking advice from a lawyer can be a wise move. They may help you understand the risks of pursuing those projects and recommend the best course of action.

Can a teacher be terminated for their social media postings?

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 14:19:00 GMT

There was once a time that, unless a teacher was a close family friend, we knew nothing of their private lives. We didn’t know what they did in their personal time, what they said when they were with their friends, or their political beliefs.

That has changed with the introduction of social media. Many educators have various accounts where they can share photos and information with friends and families. However, some teachers have lost their jobs due to their online activity.

The First Amendment

Many people do not completely understand the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. They believe that free speech applies to whatever they state on social media. Actually, it protects them from government censorship. It generally does not apply to private employers . If they feel you posted something they find inappropriate or damaging, you can be fired, and it probably wouldn’t be an infringement on your constitutional rights.

But what about teachers employed by a public school system? The Texas Education Agency oversees public schools in Texas, and they could be considered a government entity. Therefore, shouldn’t a teacher’s conduct on social media be protected by the First Amendment? Not necessarily. Freedom of speech is not absolute in public employment, including teachers.

Most teachers recognize that using social media to communicate inappropriately with students or to share confidential information would be grounds for termination. The situation is not so clear when it comes to a teacher sharing their political beliefs or commenting on current social issues.

Texas’ Educator’s Law of Ethics states that a teacher should exhibit personal integrity, honesty and good moral character. They also have a duty to protect the safety and welfare of Texas schoolchildren.

The courts need to balance the rights of the teacher, as a citizen, to comment upon matters of public concern and the interest of Texas, as their employer,

This is a complex and evolving area of education law. Furthermore, the interpretation of Texas’ laws regarding teacher conduct may vary depending on the school district. Therefore, if a teacher is terminated due to their online activity, they need to discuss their situation with someone to determine if their firing was unlawful.

What causes the most truck accidents?

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 11:53:00 GMT

Everyday activities such as going to work or school require you to share the road with other motorists. Unfortunately, not all drivers put as much emphasis as they should on safety measures, and crashes can occur.

Some of the most catastrophic involve trucks, as their size and weight can do a lot of damage to any smaller vehicles they crash into.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration investigates and compiles data on the causes of truck crashes. They found the critical factors to be:

How can I avoid a truck accident?

Unfortunately, an accident involving a truck can happen at any time and often for unforeseeable reasons. This means that none of us are ever 100% safe from something like this happening to us. However, there are things you can do to minimize your chances of being struck by a heavy truck while behind the wheel of your vehicle.

For one thing, if you see a truck while driving, try to keep your distance from it. Try to avoid sitting directly in front, back or to the side of the truck as they have extensive blind spots. You could also try to pick routes that are less popular with semi-trucks, but this is not always practical.

If you are involved in a crash with a truck, it’s important to learn more about your options to claim compensation.

The elements of a conspiracy in Texas

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 19:48:00 GMT

In Texas, conspiracy is a serious crime, punishable by criminal penalties. In order to fully understand the crime, it is necessary to understand what the prosecution must do in order to succeed.

Texas defines a conspiracy as an agreement between two or more people to commit a crime . It is the agreement itself that constitutes conspiracy, regardless of whether the individuals committed the intended criminal act.

Individuals can be charged with conspiracy even if the intended crime is never executed.

Texas conspiracy laws require that the following elements be present:

Agreement

To prove a specific criminal act, the prosecution must demonstrate a mutual understanding or agreement between two or more individuals. An agreement can be express (verbal or written) or implied through the actions and behavior of the conspirators.

Intent

Those involved in the conspiracy must intend to commit the underlying crime. There is no requirement for them to commit the crime in order to share an intent.

Overt act

Conspiracy in Texas requires a clear step towards the commission of the intended crime as well as an overt act perpetrated to further the agreement. An overt act can be as simple as making a phone call, purchasing supplies, or conducting surveillance.

Types of crimes

Texans can face conspiracy charges for a range of criminal offenses, including drug trafficking, theft, and murder. Depending on the intended crime the conspirators planned to commit, the severity of conspiracy charges will vary.

Evidence

Charges of conspiracy can be complicated, involving multiple individuals and a great deal of evidence. It is the responsibility of the prosecutor to present sufficient evidence to prove each component of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.

Evidence of an agreement can include witness statements, recorded conversations, emails, or other forms of communication.

Mere association or knowledge of a crime is not sufficient to establish conspiracy. An agreement to commit the criminal act and active participation in it distinguish conspiracies from simply knowing about the activity or being associated with it.

An individual charged with conspiracy could face serious consequences, such as substantial fines and imprisonment. You should understand your rights and mount a strong defense if you are facing conspiracy charges.

Tips to avoid an accident when driving around large trucks

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 16:38:00 GMT

Driving around large trucks can be intimidating due to their size and limited visibility. While this is true, when you know how to stay safe, it can help avoid accidents.

Here are some key guidelines to keep in mind when sharing the road with large trucks:

Maintain a safe distance

When driving near a large truck, maintain a safe distance to allow the driver enough space to maneuver safely. Stay at least four to six seconds behind the truck. This provides time for both vehicles to react to any potential hazards.

Avoid blind spots

You likely know what a blind spot is (also called “no-zones” on big trucks). It’s crucial to avoid lingering in these areas. The most problematic areas around big trucks are the rear and sides. However, a good tip to remember is that the driver can’t see you if you can’t see the truck’s side mirrors.

Use your turn signals

Always use your turn signals well in advance when changing lanes or merging near a large truck. Make sure you turn the signal on early. This will allow the truck driver to adjust to avoid causing an accident.

Pass carefully

If you must pass a truck, do it quickly and safely. Signal your intention, accelerate to an appropriate speed, and pass on the left side of the truck. Maintain a consistent speed and avoid lingering in the truck’s blind spot.

Be patient

Large trucks require more time and distance to stop or maneuver, especially in bad weather conditions. Be patient and avoid cutting in front of a truck too closely, allowing plenty of space for them to stop or slow down if needed.

By implementing these tips, you can enhance your safety when driving around large trucks. If you are involved in an accident, it is important to take steps to protect your legal rights.

Have you experienced these driving distractions?

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 13:45:00 GMT

Distracted driving is a safety concern in every U.S.state. Driving while distracted makes a crash much more likely.

Yet, if you are like many people, you might view distracted driving as something that others are guilty of — not you. Consider the following to see if you are correct or if you practice distracted driving without realizing it.

Eating or drinking in the car

Certainly, many people do eat and drink while they drive, but if you think about it, doing it is distracting. You can’t hold the steering wheel as well, and the act of eating or drinking takes up a lot of your attention – attention that cannot, therefore, be on the road.

Talking to passengers

“What?” you ask. Am I meant to be rude and ignore those traveling with me? Sometimes you probably should. If you are engrossed in a conversation, or thinking about how to respond to what someone just said, you cannot give as much mental focus to the road.

Adjusting things in your vehicle

Surely that’s what those buttons, levers and dials are there for? To use? They are, but you need to use them wisely. Adjusting your seat or steering wheel while driving is dangerous and distracting. Adjusting the radio and airflow is also distracting. It’s best to set things up before you start moving.

As you can see, there’s a good chance you have driven while distracted at some point. If a crash occurs, don’t be surprised if the other party claims you were distracted, even if you were not and the crash was entirely their fault. Getting assistance to dispute their claims and pinpoint what they did wrong can help you get the compensation you need.

Who is responsible for lane-splitting accidents in Texas?

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 14:55:00 GMT

Lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist rides between slow-moving or stopped traffic lanes. While legal in some states, such as California, it remains illegal in Texas.

In the event of a lane-splitting accident in Texas , determining liability and responsibility can be a complex process.

Negligence and responsibility

Generally, an accident’s responsibility is usually assigned based on negligence or fault. Negligence refers to the failure to exercise reasonable care, which leads to harm or injury to another person. Both parties involved in the accident may share some negligence, or one party may be solely responsible.

Motorcyclist’s responsibility

Since lane splitting is illegal in Texas, the motorcyclist who engages in this practice assumes some responsibility for their actions. The motorcyclist must demonstrate that they exercised reasonable care and followed all other traffic laws to minimize the risk of an accident.

Driver’s responsibility

Liability may also be attributed to other parties involved, such as the driver of a motor vehicle. If a driver was negligent and failed to exercise reasonable care, they may be held partially or fully responsible for the accident. Actions like suddenly changing lanes without signaling or checking blind spots could contribute to the accident.

Factors for determining liability

Various factors will be considered to determine liability in a lane-splitting accident. These factors may include the actions of the motorcyclist, the behavior of the other drivers involved, the condition of the road and any applicable traffic laws. It is crucial for all parties involved to gather evidence, such as witness statements, photographs and police reports, to support their claims.

Determining responsibility after a lane-splitting accident in Texas can be challenging. The motorcyclist assumes some responsibility due to the illegal nature of lane splitting, but liability may also be attributed to negligent drivers. Knowing your legal rights and options is the best way to protect yourself.

Retirement eligibility requirements for teachers

Sun, 21 May 2023 21:02:00 GMT

Retirement is an inevitable aspect of life that every employee must consider at some point.

Teachers are vital members of society, contributing to the development of children and shaping the future generation. As such, after years of hard work, they deserve to retire comfortably and enjoy the fruits of their labor. As a teacher in Houston, Texas, there are specific requirements you must meet to be eligible for retirement benefits.

What are the age requirements?

The Teachers Retirement System of Texas (TRS) is the body that administers retirement and related benefits for Texas public education employees. To retire and receive full benefits from TRS, you must be at least 65 years old or have at least five years of service credit. You can also retire with reduced benefits if you are between 60 and 64 years and have at least five years of service credit. Service credit is the amount of time you have worked as a teacher. You can earn service credit by working as a full-time teacher in a TRS-covered position.

Some special requirements may apply to certain types of teachers. For example, if you are a law enforcement officer, a firefighter or a community college employee, you may be eligible for retirement benefits earlier.

Can you maximize your retirement benefits?

You can maximize your retirement benefits by planning ahead and saving early. The earlier you start saving for retirement, the more time you have to accumulate savings and interest. Consider opening a retirement account or investing in a 401(k) plan to help build your retirement nest egg. You can also work to increase your service credit; the more service credit you have, the higher your retirement benefits will be. Consider taking on additional responsibilities or working in different positions to earn more service credit.

Retirement benefits are an essential factor to consider when choosing a teaching career. It is important to understand the retirement eligibility requirements to make informed decisions about your rights and options.

How you can become an effective defensive driver

Tue, 16 May 2023 15:35:00 GMT

It can be very difficult to avoid car accidents. The problem is that you’re at the mercy of other drivers. Even if you don’t make mistakes, someone else might. You can drive safely, but someone else may be negligent or reckless and you can still be injured in an accident.

One potential way to avoid harm, or at least reduce the odds of a crash, is to become a defensive driver. Below are some tips that can help significantly.

Anticipate mistakes

First and foremost, remember that the goal of defensive driving is to anticipate mistakes. By doing so, you can react quickly and avoid getting into an accident in some cases. Don’t trust other drivers to do the right thing, and they can never let you down. You’ll always be ready to respond.

Stay alert and focused

A big part of defensive driving is simply keeping your focus on the road. Don’t get distracted by your phone. Don’t drive under the influence. Don’t drive when you’re tired. You need to keep your attention on driving your car and watching traffic around you. You’ll even want to avoid interacting too much with passengers while you drive.

Make safety your priority

Defensive driving prioritizes safety over everything else. People often drive with a wide variety of goals. Some people just want to get to their destination quickly, for example. They prioritize speed over safety. But your focus should always be on arriving without getting involved in an accident.

Increase your following distance

One thing that can sometimes help is to give yourself a greater following distance. This gives you more time to see the mistakes that another driver might make in enough time to respond to them effectively. Many people accidentally tailgate all the time, which means that they’ll never be able to react as effectively as you will.

Have you been injured?

These tips can help you become a defensive driver, and that can keep you safer. But nothing guarantees you won’t be injured in an accident caused by someone else. If this happens, be sure you know how to seek financial compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and other costs. Seeking legal guidance is generally the best “first step” forward in this regard.

3 reasons to be extremely careful when driving near tanker trucks

Mon, 08 May 2023 15:50:00 GMT

Those driving small passenger vehicles already tend to slow down and separate themselves from 18-wheelers and other commercial trucks. Their sheer size is intimidating to many motorists.

A little caution when sharing the road with trucks is wise, especially when driving near tanker trucks. Learn more about the unique dangers these vehicles pose should you become involved in a crash with one.

Fluid dynamics

When liquid cargo inside the tank sloshes around, as happens when the truck is in motion, it makes the vehicle hard to control . Even seasoned truckers have trouble maintaining control when carrying liquid. Many modern tanker trucks have baffles, which are dividers, to keep sloshing at a minimum. However, accidents still happen.

Rollovers

Tanker trucks usually have a low center of gravity to minimize the danger of rolling over. The slosh dynamics mentioned above can cause the center of gravity to shift and push against the side of the tank, further increasing the risk of a rollover.

Hazardous cargo

Tanker trucks often haul safe, everyday liquids like milk. However, many of these trucks on Texas roads and highways contain dangerous fluid freight like:

If the tank ruptures in a collision, its contents may leak or spill, possibly leading to a fire or explosion. Victims involved in these accidents could also suffer ill effects from exposure to hazardous cargo.

Truck drivers and trucking companies know about the danger tankers can pose. When they fail to act responsibly, and someone suffers an injury in a negligent crash, they must make things right for the victim. Learn how to maximize your compensation if a trucking accident leaves you with catastrophic injuries.

What does embezzlement mean in Texas?

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 23:50:00 GMT

Embezzlement in Texas refers to the misappropriation or theft of funds or resources by an individual trusted with the responsibility to manage or oversee those assets. Exploiting your position of trust for personal gain constitutes a criminal offense.

Texas law classifies embezzlement as a theft offense , and the severity of the charges and potential penalties you face depend on the value of the assets allegedly misappropriated. If the value of the embezzled assets is relatively low, you may be charged with a misdemeanor, which carries less severe consequences. However, if the value of the misappropriated funds or property is significant, you may face felony charges, which entail more serious penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines.

Points to consider about embezzlement charges

To secure a conviction, the prosecution must establish that you held a fiduciary relationship with the entity or individual from whom the assets were taken. This relationship could arise from your employment, partnership or other position of trust that allowed you access to the funds or property in question.

Additionally, the prosecution must demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that you intentionally and knowingly misappropriated the assets for your personal benefit, while being fully cognizant that such actions were not authorized. This is sometimes done by using the paper trail that typically comes along with an embezzlement charge.

There are many defense strategies possible for an embezzlement charge. Considering the specifics of the case and the evidence being presented may help you to determine how to proceed. Experienced legal guidance can help you explore all the possible defense strategies available to you.

The importance of the fruit of the poisonous tree

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 15:21:00 GMT

If you’re facing criminal charges, one important doctrine to understand is known as the fruit of the poisonous tree. This can help to define how evidence can be used – or how it cannot be used – in your case.

Essentially, this doctrine views all of the evidence as part of the same tree. That tree starts with the way that the evidence was gathered. When the police have made mistakes or broken regulations about how they collected the evidence, then all of that evidence becomes “poisoned.” This may mean that the evidence itself cannot be used in court, even though it would otherwise have been applicable to the case.

Conducting an illegal home search

One way that this could happen is if the police conduct an illegal search of your home. Say that you did not give them consent to enter the house and they do not have a search warrant. However, they force their way inside of your home anyway and begin looking around.

During this search, they find illegal drugs or other evidence of criminal activity. If they had obtained that evidence properly, it would be enough to convict you when the trial went to court. But since they violated your rights at the beginning and should never have been in your home to start with, then all of that evidence becomes poisoned. This could mean that a conviction is impossible because the police lose the only evidence that they actually have.

As you can see, this could be incredibly important to your case, and that’s why it’s so important to understand the legal options at your disposal.

4 common errors on income tax returns

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 11:36:00 GMT

Filing income taxes isn’t usually at the top of the list of things that people want to do, but it’s something that’s necessary. It’s imperative that you ensure your tax return is fully accurate.

Errors on your income tax return can lead to problems with the process. Some errors are so serious that you may be audited. From there, the IRS must determine if the errors were intentional or mistakes. Watch out for these four errors when you’re filing your income taxes:

Incorrect or missing personal information

You may make mistakes when entering personal information, such as an incorrect Social Security number. Not only can a wrong SSN delay a refund if you’re due one, it may also lead to the IRS claiming you didn’t file taxes because the return isn’t under your SSN.

Mathematical errors

Calculation mistakes are common on tax returns, especially when you complete their forms manually. Errors can occur when adding up income, calculating deductions or figuring out the correct tax liability.

Incorrect filing status

Choosing the wrong filing status can affect your tax liability and eligibility for certain deductions and credits. Misrepresenting filing status can lead to tax fraud accusations.

Omitting or misreporting income

You must report all income earned during the tax year, including wages, interest, dividends and income from side gigs. Reporting incorrect amounts can lead to underpayment of taxes and penalties. This could result in claims of tax evasion.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to ensure your return’s accuracy. It’s unlikely that you’ll face charges unless the errors were deemed intentional. Learn your options for a defense strategy if you find yourself facing tax-related charges.

3 things to know about traumatic brain injuries

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 17:05:00 GMT

Traumatic brain injuries can stem from a variety of incidents. These injuries can be life-threatening. Even if a person survives, they may have long-lasting impacts that greatly change how they live life.

There are many things that you may need to know about a traumatic brain injury . This information can help you to deal with the impact if you’re injured and it may help you to understand more about your loved one’s injury if you have a family member or friend who has a TBI.

1. No direct hit is necessary

You don’t have to hit your head directly to suffer a TBI. One can occur when your head flings at the time of impact in a car crash. The flinging motion can cause the brain to slam against the interior of the skull, which can cause bruising and other damage.

2. Symptoms can be delayed

The symptoms of a brain injury may not show up right away. It can take days or weeks for one to show up. Be on the lookout for symptoms like a headache that won’t abate or changes in your ability to communicate.

3. Treatment plans vary

Treatment plans can vary greatly because they’re set according to the specifics of each injury. Surgery, medication and therapy are some of the more common treatment options for people who have a TBI. Some people may need only brain rest, which doesn’t involve medication or similar measures.

Anyone who suffers from a brain injury in a car crash should ensure they get proper medical care. Seeking compensation may help to reduce the financial damages a person has to face because of the brain injury. Working with someone familiar with these cases is beneficial so you can determine how to proceed with your claims.

Is it against the law for someone to drive while seriously ill?

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 16:01:00 GMT

Many Texans pride themselves on their work ethic, which means that they show up no matter what else is going on in their lives. The loss of a family member, an issue with their motor vehicle or even health concerns won’t stop these adults from showing up for work or other personal obligations. In some cases, that dogged sense of personal responsibility stems from necessity, as they may not have anyone else to assist them in overcoming their current challenges.

Unfortunately, the decisions that people make out of necessity or stubbornness could potentially cause harm to others. Choosing to drive while sick is a perfect example. Feeling under the weather often means grappling with diminished driving skills.

Is it illegal for someone to drive while sick?

Texas does not have a statute about illness

Technically, there isn’t a state law that prohibits the use of a motor vehicle with a fever or other medical symptoms. There are a few medical conditions , like epilepsy, that can cost someone their driver’s license. However, passing illnesses won’t trigger such rules.

It could be possible for someone to violate Texas state law by driving while feeling ill if they take certain kinds of medication before driving. Drugged driving involving over-the-counter or prescription medication is as serious of a concern as drugged driving involving prohibited substances. If someone causes a crash while under the influence of cough syrup, the state might charge them with a crime.

Those hurt by an infirm driver may have rights

Although there may not be a statute prohibiting driving while ill, most people would agree that it was a negligent decision. Illnesses can leave someone struggling to focus or with difficulty making good decisions. They could start sneezing or coughing while driving, which could lead to a major mistake at the wheel. Most people recognize the risk inherent in driving while they are seriously ill.

Therefore, those who have been hurt by someone who drives while sick could potentially be in a position to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against that other driver if an insurance claim isn’t sufficient to cover all of their expenses. Learning more about Texas traffic laws and personal injury claims can help those who have been hurt in a wreck caused by someone else to make more informed choices about their legal options.

When can you refuse a sobriety test?

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 20:57:00 GMT

The police may conduct a traffic stop after having reasonable suspicion that a driver is drunk or violating other traffic laws. Some examples of reasonable suspicion include a driver who’s on the center line, a driver who just ran a stop sight on a red light or a driver who was stopped after stumbling out of a bar.

During the traffic stop, the police may ask the driver to perform a sobriety test. A sobriety test could give the police enough evidence as to whether the driver should be charged with a DUI or not. It’s often believed, however, that people have the right to refuse sobriety tests without facing penalties.

While that’s not entirely true, it’s not completely wrong. But, to understand when you can refuse a sobriety test, you may want to understand what kind of sobriety test you may be asked to take following a traffic stop. Here’s what you should know:

Field sobriety tests follow one rule

A field sobriety test may be best described as the judgment of a driver’s motor control and any indication of involuntary movement (not their ability to drive a vehicle, per se). To better understand this, there are three popularly used field sobriety tests:

Breath alcohol content tests follow another rule

Alternatively, the police may ask the driver to take a chemical test. A breath test evaluates a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC). If a driver’s BAC is too high, then they shouldn’t be operating a vehicle. Simply put, drivers have the right to refuse field sobriety tests without suffering penalties. However, a driver who refuses a breath test may suffer criminal charges because of implied consent laws. Under the law, you consent to chemical testing as a condition of having a driver’s license in the first place.

If you’re charged with a DUI, then you may need to be aware of your legal rights .

What should you do when your teaching contract is not renewed?

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 23:28:00 GMT

Teaching is a special job as it shapes society by educating people and guiding them. Further, being a teacher has significant benefits , from reliable salaries to satisfactory benefits. However, this profession has its challenges, whether you are a teacher in a public, private or charter school, and one of them is teaching contract non-renewals.

If your teaching contract was not renewed without a valid policy reason or following the lawful process, here is what you should consider doing:

Reach out to your union

If you believe your contract non-renewal is unlawful, reach out to your union to discover your options. You may have heard that resignation allows you to control the situation, as your record may show you resigned from the job instead of not having your contract renewed.

However, it may not be wise to rush into resigning without guidance from your union representative, particularly when you wish to fight. Your resignation may be accepted before you get the chance to revoke it.

Factors to consider to determine if fighting or resigning is the best option are the strength of the administration’s case against you, your desire to continue working in the district and the chances of the school board reversing the decision. Your union representative may analyze these factors to help you choose the most suitable option.

Pay attention to deadlines

You have to act on time once you receive the contract non-renewal notice. For instance, you may have a deadline to request a hearing on the proposed decisions. Thus, it may be best to act quickly, but with adequate information.

At times, a teaching contract non-renewal may be unlawful. It will help to evaluate your case to protect your rights.

Can you be arrested for mistakes on your tax return?

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 17:00:00 GMT

The dreaded tax season is here. Each season comes with many changes to the laws. It’s often hard to keep up with them, so filers may worry that they aren’t doing something right. This brings up a question about whether it’s possible to be arrested for making a mistake on a tax return.

One of the distinguishing factors about tax fraud is that there generally must be willful intent , but the Internal Revenue Service doesn’t make it easy to know what that is. If you willfully try to avoid paying federal income taxes, you’re facing a felony charge.

Mistakes typically aren’t willful

In most cases, a simple tax mistake isn’t going to lead to criminal charges because it won’t be considered willful. An exception to this might be if the same filer continues to make the same mistake year after year. Then, it could be a case of willful ignorance, which means they simply weren’t willing to learn from their mistakes.

One specific point the IRS may look for is the presence of efforts to conceal the mistakes. These could be construed as acknowledging that you knew you were willfully filing an incorrect tax return. Because of this, it’s always best to ensure the tax return you file is accurate and that there’s nothing that could be viewed as an act to cover up a fraudulent return.

If you’re facing problems from the IRS , it’s best to work with someone who knows how to handle these. Some options you have might be time-sensitive, so don’t wait too long to learn about your options. This is especially important if there’s a chance you’ll face criminal charges.

Why are spinal cord injuries catastrophic?

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 13:50:00 GMT

People who are involved in incidents, such as motor vehicle crashes or slip-and-falls, can suffer from a spinal cord injury. These are traumatic and are considered a catastrophic injury.

The spinal cord is delicate. It consists of nerves and other tissues protected by the spinal column’s vertebrae. These nerves transmit messages back and forth between the brain and the body. Damage to the spinal cord can prevent those messages.

What types of symptoms does a spinal cord injury cause?

Spinal cord injuries affect the area below the area of the damage. The exact symptoms depend on where the injury is located and what type of injury it is. A complete injury means the spinal cord is fully severed. An incomplete injury means some nerves are still connected.

Paralysis is one of the symptoms of a spinal cord injury that most people think about quickly, but there are many others that might occur. Numbness or tingling in the extremities, loss of bladder or bowel control, difficulty walking, and loss of range of motion in the neck are also possible.

Some of the initial symptoms of the spinal cord injury can abate or lessen. Spinal shock, which occurs at the time of injury, can make symptoms worse. As the inflammation of the spinal cord is reduced, some symptoms may get better.

Anyone suffering from a spinal cord injury caused by someone else’s negligence may opt to pursue a compensation claim. This can help them to recover some of the costs of medical care and other related expenses. Texas law sets time limits to get your claim filed, so don’t wait too long.

What if you end up hurt by an uninsured driver in a Texas wreck?

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 19:17:00 GMT

There are many traffic laws in Texas that could save people’s lives if everyone followed them. Unfortunately, from speeding to illegal passing and tailgating, there are many questionable driving behaviors that people in Texas regularly perform.

Given that many drivers have no qualms about committing a moving violation, it may come as little surprise to learn that some people don’t follow the state law that mandates motor vehicle liability insurance.

Despite the possible risk involved, many people drive in Texas without active insurance coverage. What will happen to you if one of those uninsured drivers causes a crash?

You might need to go to court

While you may loathe the idea of bringing a lawsuit against someone else, that may be the only way for you to recover the expenses generated by the crash. Especially if you suffered injuries in the crash, you may lose thousands of dollars due to both medical bills and also lost wages if your injuries necessitate time off from work.

A personal injury lawsuit brought against an uninsured driver can help compensate you. The courts may award you compensation for your property damage losses and injury-related expenses.

You might make a claim against your own policy

If you already pay for basic Texas car insurance, you may have also decided to invest a bit more for better coverage. If you have uninsured motorist protection on your policy, your insurance can pay for the kinds of costs that the other driver’s policy would typically cover.

Such coverage can help you immediately after a crash, but it can also technically pass some of the financial responsibility for the wreck to you, as insurance companies tend to increase premiums after people make large claims even when they are not at fault. For many drivers, a combination of reviewing their own insurance and defensive driving tactics can minimize the risk of them getting hurt by an uninsured motorist.

Ideally, with the right approach, you shouldn’t have to absorb the costs of a wreck caused by someone else. Knowing your rights after a car crash caused by someone without insurance will put you in the best position to stand up for them assertively.

Identifying bad faith insurance practices

Fri, 30 Dec 2022 03:15:00 GMT

Not all insurance companies have their policyholders’ interests at heart. You may have been dutifully paying your premiums only to run into unexplainable hurdles when the time comes for the company to pay up.

Your claim and subsequent compensation may be delayed or even denied. You may have to incur unplanned expenses, defeating the very purpose of having insurance.

Fortunately, the law protects you. Your insurer owes you a duty of good faith and fair dealing when handling a claim, and you need to take appropriate steps to protect your interests when an insurer doesn’t live up to their responsibilities. Identifying the various bad faith tactics will help you respond accordingly.

Common tactics

Your insurer may deny your claim without looking into it and providing sufficient reasons hoping that you will just let it slide. You may also get a lowball offer because the insurer misrepresented the facts of your case to pay less than you deserve.

Alternatively, they may delay investigating or acting on your claim. Your insurer could start making unrealistic and unnecessary requests for documentation to support your claim. As a result, you may have to wait for an unreasonably long time to get a decision on whether your claim has been approved.

All these are potential indicators of bad faith by your insurer. You should take appropriate action if you believe you’re a victim.

Protect your rights and interests

Should you suspect that your insurer is playing games with your claim, you need to seek counsel on the ideal way of handling your case. There are various legal options available for you in such a situation.

However, it takes an informed evaluation of the prevailing facts and the existing policy to determine the best legal response. That’s why having experienced legal guidance is key.

Are tax fraud and tax evasion the same thing?

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 16:46:00 GMT

Navigating the world of taxes can be complex and confusing. Although most people understand that tax fraud and tax evasion are both penalties for not paying taxes, it’s essential to understand the differences between them.

What does it mean to commit tax fraud or tax evasion? Let’s take a closer look at these two concepts to see what sets them apart.

The difference between tax fraud and tax evasion

Tax fraud and tax evasion are both illegal activities considered forms of tax abuse. Tax fraud involves using deceptive practices to deliberately underpay taxes owed, such as claiming false deductions or income or falsifying records.

Tax evasion, on the other hand, is a far more serious offense where a taxpayer purposely fails to report income or take deductions they are not entitled to avoid paying taxes owed. It involves using illegal methods to avoid paying taxes, such as concealing or moving money offshore or hiding assets from The IRS. Tax evasion can also involve willfully misclassifying taxable income as nontaxable, not paying taxes owed on time, and committing fraud by falsifying documents for deductions or credits that should not be claimed.

Tax fraud and evasion are crimes with significant criminal and financial penalties. Anyone accused of such a crime could face jail time, fines, accounting and legal expenses, government restitution for unpaid taxes, and damage to their professional reputation.

Facing charges from the IRS is a serious matter that can have long-lasting repercussions if not handled properly. If you have been accused of defrauding the government, you first should seek legal help . You need someone who can review your case and advise you on the best course of action to take.

Can overloading cause a truck accident?

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 18:36:00 GMT

Trucks are a significant part of the traffic on Texas highways. These big vehicles often deliver goods to different parts of the country. However, although these trucks are powerful enough to haul heavy cargo, there are limits to how much weight they can carry. Unfortunately, some truck drivers and commercial trucking companies overload their trucks in an attempt to ship more goods in fewer trips to increase their profit margins.

Overloading is one of the leading causes of truck accidents . Even for experienced truckers who adhere to traffic signs and road safety rules, an overloaded truck may pose imminent danger. Below are some reasons why an overloaded truck may be dangerous:

1. Reduced braking power

Trucks require more braking distance than smaller cars, especially in wet weather. Therefore, when a truck is overloaded, it will take longer than usual to come to a halt. Therefore, if the driver isn’t used to maintaining a significant distance behind other vehicles, they may easily cause a serious accident. Moreover, the additional weight may put more pressure on the braking system, increasing the risk of the brakes failing.

2. More difficulty with control

A truck carrying excessive weight may be difficult to steer and control. Therefore, jackknifing may occur when the trailer swings to one side. Also, an overloaded truck may accelerate dangerously on downward slopes, and the driver may not stop the vehicle in time to prevent an accident.

3. May cause mechanical failure

The extra weight on an overloaded truck may put more pressure on different systems of the truck and cause them to fail. When this happens, an accident may occur. For instance, an overloaded truck puts more pressure on the tires, causing them to blow out. A tire blowout may cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident.

What should you do if you’re involved in an overloaded truck accident?

If you suspect that the truck involved in your accident was overweight, ensure you seek legal guidance before you make a claim. This is important because determining liability in an overloaded truck accident can involve more than one party.

What makes underride accidents so dangerous?

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 18:52:00 GMT

Underride accidents are a type of accident that only happens when the size difference between the two vehicles is very great. Generally speaking, this occurs when a small vehicle strikes a semi-truck. The passenger vehicle is able to ride up under the semi, giving this accident its name.

This most often happens under the semi’s trailer. A small car could become wedged under the back of the trailer, or it could strike the side of the trailer, between the sets of wheels. Either way, this is a very dangerous type of accident that often leads to severe injuries. Here are three reasons why.

Trucks weigh so much more

First of all, a semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Even if the truck is unloaded, it’s going to weigh much more than your passenger car. This means that the damage to the passenger vehicle will generally be greater, as well the severity of the injuries for those within the smaller vehicle.

The impact point is higher

Additionally, when a underride accident happens, the impact point for the small vehicle is near the front windshield. This means that a car is essentially taking the full force of the crash on the passenger compartment, which is an extreme danger for people within the vehicle. Some of the normal safety systems on a vehicle, such as the frame or the crumple zones, are too low to be helpful.

It’s often the truck’s fault

In a lot of cases, underride accidents are hard to avoid. You may be driving straight down the road with the right of way, when a truck pulls out of a parking lot and cuts you off. The trailer is sideways in front of you, blocking the entire road. You can hit the brakes, but you may not be able to avoid that crash.

If you do suffer serious injuries, you can make sure you know how to seek financial compensation .

How might health care providers commit Medicare/Medicaid fraud?

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 19:24:00 GMT

Stories of healthcare fraud might focus on dramatized tales of undocumented immigrants or unscrupulous people lying to get coverage that they should not have received. However, such fraud is only a portion of the annual health care fraud that occurs in the United States.

The biggest losses reported related to Medicare and Medicaid fraud frequently stem from provider offenses rather than patients getting benefits for which they don’t actually qualify. Healthcare providers who accept Medicare or Medicaid might engage in certain billing practices that actually violate the law and become fraud.

What are some of the billing practices that could lead to healthcare fraud allegations against medical service providers or employees at medical practices?

Altering or fabricating charges

Maybe a patient underwent a low-cost procedure, but there is a more expensive but similar medical treatment that would work for the same condition. Altering the billing code to get more payment for services rendered could lead to fraud allegations.

So could making up fake appointments or entering codes for treatments that a patient didn’t receive during their appointment. Billing for services not rendered or upcoding to charge for more expensive services are both fraud. So is changing someone’s diagnosis to treat them for a more expensive condition.

Unbundling discounted services

Medicaid and Medicare require that health care providers agree to certain reimbursement rates to accept government insurance. It is common practice to combine certain charges and have them cost less as a unit than they would as individual services.

If a health care provider subject to a contract with bundled service discounts separates each task and charges for them individually to get more money for the same treatment, that could potentially lead to healthcare fraud charges as well. Although the changes may seem minor, they add up to a significant amount of money when performed over and over again.

The manager of the practice or the healthcare provider receiving reimbursement for their work won’t be the only ones at risk of criminal charges in such a scenario. Anyone aware of or involved in the fraud could also face charges. Recognizing when company practices put you at risk of white-collar criminal charges could help you protect your freedom and your profession.

Under what circumstances can a tenured Texas teacher get fired?

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 14:45:00 GMT

Most who choose a career in education are committed to their work for a lifetime. They look forward to completing their probationary period and attaining the job protections that come with tenure.

Although tenure can prevent your superiors from arbitrarily firing you, it might not protect you in all circumstances. Whether you are approaching tenure status or have already attained it, it’s wise to refresh your knowledge of what conduct can lead to termination.

Termination requires good cause

The strict moral aspects that once were requirements for American teachers have fortunately faded over the years. A teacher’s good moral character remains significant, but you can essentially use your personal time however you like. Still, accusations of certain acts or conduct could threaten your job.

Examples of these include the following:

According to the Texas Education Agency , those who have been accused of seeking or having improper relationships with students risk the permanent loss of their teaching certification.

If the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) investigates you for any of the issues above, you probably fear for the future of your job. Take comfort in knowing that you have legal rights that protect you.

The education board must give you a fair and meaningful hearing before entering disciplinary proceedings. That means you have time to defend your job and career. It can help to have experienced legal guidance.

Was your car accident claim denied in good or bad faith?

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 15:49:00 GMT

Most people never expect their car accident insurance claim to end in denial, yet it happens more than you may think. Sometimes, insurers have cause to deny such claims. Other times, however, denials can arise in bad faith.

If you receive a claim denial after a car accident, can you tell if the rejection arose for legitimate reasons? It is critical to know this so that you can ensure you get the injury compensation you need after a crash.

Examples of legitimate claim denials

Before you can recognize improper insurance company rejections, you need to understand when they have a right to deny claims. Examples of reasons for valid denials include the following:

These are just a few examples, but they help you understand the business and technical side of the insurance industry.

Bad faith denials look different

The immediate rejection of an insurance claim often indicates bad faith . Legally, insurers must investigate car accidents before deciding how to address claims. Other acts to be wary of include:

Unfortunately, many victims give up after receiving a claim denial. Losing property damage compensation is bad enough, but you cannot afford to lose restitution for your injuries. It usually takes every financial resource available to address injury treatment costs, especially when severe.

Since not all insurer rejections are in bad faith, learn about Texas accident and injury compensation laws. The insight you gain improves your odds of identifying mistreatment from insurance companies.

Improper load securement can claim lives

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 22:16:00 GMT

Semitrucks carry large and heavy loads, which can be dangerous to people around the rig if they aren’t secured properly. There are standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration that must be complied with at all times.

Loads that aren’t secured in the correct manner can cause several problems. The cargo can come loose from the trailer and fall into a traffic lane. This can cause other motorists to try to swerve to get away from the fallen cargo. In some cases, the cargo may shift and make it impossible for the trucker to maintain control of the rig. A swerving semitruck can slam into other vehicles that are near it.

Unfortunately, all of these situations can lead to crashes with other vehicles. The occupants of those vehicles can suffer catastrophic or fatal injuries. They shouldn’t be liable for the financial damages of these crashes, so they may try to recover some of what they had to spend.

Who’s liable for an improperly secured load?

Several entities might share in the liability for an improperly secured load. The company that loaded the rig might be liable because they didn’t handle the job properly. The trucking company and trucker might also share liability. If defective tie-downs or other equipment are part of the issue, their manufacturer may also be liable.

Anyone who’s injured by a load that wasn’t secured properly needs urgent medical attention. They may opt to pursue a claim for compensation to help cover the costs related to the crash. There are time limits for these matters, so be sure to get it taken care of quickly.

Tax evasion: A felony or misdemeanor?

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 17:03:00 GMT

As a taxpayer, the law requires you to report your income and pay your taxes in full. You may land in trouble if you illegally avoid paying the taxman their dues. The IRS could place a lien on your property or subject you to fines and other penalties.

However, that is not all there is to tax evasion . You could face criminal charges and possibly end up with a prison sentence or a hefty fine.

Tax evasion is a felony charge

No matter the amounts involved, evading taxes is a felony offense . You could be imprisoned for five years or pay up to $100,000 in fines for tax evasion.

However, like all other criminal cases, your guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt for a conviction. The prosecution must show an attempt to evade the tax payment and that the tax is due and you owe the IRS. Lastly, they must show that you intentionally and willfully violated your legal duty of paying taxes.

Remember, ignorance is not a defense in tax evasion charges. You will not be allowed to go scot-free simply because you were unaware that you did not commit the offense.

Are you facing tax evasion charges?

So much is at stake if you have been charged with or are under investigation for evading taxes. A conviction could result in significant financial ramifications if you don’t end up behind bars.

As such, it is crucial to mount a serious defense that will help you go against your charges and avoid a guilty verdict. Knowing how to respond to investigations is also equally vital as it could shape the direction of your case. It may be in your best interests to seek the necessary assistance that will increase the chances of a positive outcome.

Why do dangerous products sometimes take so long to be recalled?

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 18:08:00 GMT

It feels like almost every day we see a headline that talks about a product recall. Whether it affects us or not, there’s something scary about knowing that a company made millions of dangerous cars, foods or other products that were available to the public.

It might be even scarier to know that some product recalls don’t start immediately after they cause an injury or death. What causes this lack of action – and, more importantly – what should you do about it?

One federal law makes recalls less common

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is supposed to notify the public about defective products when they realize that there is an issue with them – but one part of the law makes that difficult . The agency must obtain permission from a manufacturer before they may publish their name in a report on a product injury.

Companies do not want their names associated with controversy – so most manufacturers do not give permission to publish their names. Because of this law it is difficult to determine whether there is a trend showing that one specific manufacturer is causing injuries.

Life-threatening hazardous items are sold for years

One such product was a baby sleeper that caused 32 infant deaths over several years. The CPSC knew that this one sleeper was causing babies to suffocate – but word only got out when they accidentally published the name of the manufacturer, Fisher-Price. After the leak, public pressure led to Fisher Price recalling the sleeper.

Other large companies such as Ikea have caused similar situations. There were reports of deaths and injuries as early as 1989 because of some Ikea defectively designed dressers, but Ikea didn’t recall them until 2016. Since the CPSC can’t publish information identifying who is making the products, there is little pressure for the manufacturer to act.

The law preventing the CPSC from releasing names without permission leaves the safety of all products in doubt. If you were injured by a defective product – whether it has been recalled or not – an experienced products liability attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve.

How to introduce your dog to your new baby

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 19:26:00 GMT

Your dog is like a child to you. But when you bring a new baby into the family, it can be a confusing time for your pet. The home environment will suddenly feel unfamiliar to them, and they likely won’t receive the same amount of attention they used to.

To help ease this transition and create a healthy relationship between your dog and your baby, it’s important to approach the situation smartly:

Smell association

Dogs are very smell-oriented animals. And babies have an unusual smell that they won’t be accustomed to. Before you bring your new baby home for the first time, it can be a good idea to take something containing your baby’s smell – such as a burp cloth – to the house, to familiarize your dog with your baby’s scent . It’s important to only let your dog sniff the item while you are holding it.

Adjusting to new sounds

Loud, shrill sounds can be alarming to dogs. The unfamiliar sound of a baby crying may cause your dog to be scared or worried. It can be helpful to get your dog prepared for this new type of noise. You can try playing recordings of crying baby sounds while petting and soothing your dog, to help them learn that this noise is normal.

Bringing the right energy

When you first introduce your dog to your baby, it’s important to mirror the energy you want your dog to have around your baby. Dogs are very sensitive to our emotions, and they will often try to mimic how we are behaving. You want to avoid being stiff and nervous, and you also want to avoid being overly excited or animated. Move slowly and maintain a calm, gentle tone of voice.

Dogs often lash out when they feel threatened or scared. Helping them to understand that your baby is a friend – not a threat – is an important first step to establishing a healthy relationship .

The hidden costs of a DUI in Texas

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 20:13:00 GMT

Most of us recognize that getting arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) can lead to certain consequences – such as jail time and being prohibited from driving for a time. But you may be unaware of the financial toll such a conviction can take on you. In today’s post, we break down some of the less commonly understood costs of a DUI:

Court fees

If you are convicted, you will incur all costs associated with your appearance in court – which will usually run between $200 and $1,500. In addition, Texas law specifies additional fees for those convicted of a DUI: from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on whether or not it’s your first offense. Finally, you or a loved one may have to post bail in order to release you from jail before your trial date. This usually costs between $2,000 and $10,000.

Vehicle fees

Getting convicted of a DUI also means you’ll temporarily lose your driver’s license and car. You’ll need to pay for license reinstatement ($1,000 – $2,000, depending on previous convictions), as well as the cost of towing ($250 – $450), impounding ($20) and storing your vehicle ($5 – $20 per day).

Beyond that, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your car, which can cost you $70 – $100 per month. Drivers with a DUI on their record will also have to pay higher auto insurance premiums . In Texas, the average increase in premiums is 54%.

Treatment fees

Under Texas law, if you’re convicted of a DUI, you will have to attend a court-selected drug or alcohol treatment program. This costs between $70 and $185, depending on the type of program mandated, and whether it’s your first offense.

Punitive fees

If a child was in the vehicle with you when you were arrested for a DUI, you could face additional child endangerment charges. This could lead to an extra fine of up to $10,000.

What you can do

It’s important to remember that all of these fees go into effect only if you’re convicted of a DUI . Being arrested and charged does not automatically lead to a conviction. That’s why it’s so important to have an experienced criminal defense attorney working on your case from the moment you get arrested. They have an abundance of tools at their disposal to help you avoid a conviction.

Did your airbag deploy in a low-speed crash? Watch for injuries

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:33:00 GMT

Airbags in modern vehicles do save lives, without question. However, that doesn’t mean that airbags are 100% effective at eliminating injuries in car collisions.

In fact, airbags are sometimes the cause of injuries – and not just when the airbags themselves are faulty. The sheer force of an airbag exploding can cause significant physical trauma to drivers and passengers alike. The type of injury you can suffer from an airbag deployment may depend on where you’re sitting, what you’re doing and a number of other factors, but here are some of the most common injuries :

Burns and lung damage

Airbags operate through a chemical reaction that triggers an explosion, releasing gases (usually nitrogen or argon), along with dust and other chemicals into the air. The explosion takes about 1/20th of a second, and the resulting friction can cause contact burns to anybody in range. Inhaling the dust and chemicals can also lead to lung damage and other problems.

Facial injuries

While the airbag may prevent your face from hitting the steering wheel, you may still feel like you went face-first into a rock when you hit that airbag. Injuries to the fragile eye sockets, cheekbones and jaws are not uncommon.

Spinal injuries

Whiplash and other spinal injuries are still quite possible, despite the presence of airbags. You can take quite a jolt as your body bounces between the airbag and the seat, and that can lead to chronic pain and permanent damage.

Internal injuries

A broken sternum and broken ribs are both possible after colliding with an airbag – as are invisible injuries to your liver, heart, spleen and kidneys. It can take days for the full results of an airbag collision to be known.

Ultimately, you don’t want to let yourself be convinced that “everything is okay” after a crash just because the airbags deployed. Make sure that you get seen by a medical professional right away to check for both obvious and hidden injuries. With experienced guidance, you can find out more about your legal options.

Can an officer force you to take a BAC test?

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 17:20:00 GMT

If an officer pulls a driver over on suspicion of driving intoxicated, they may ask for the driver to take a blood alcohol content (BAC) test. Though the officer “asks,” the asking serves as a simple formality.

In reality, a driver has much less control over the situation than they might think, as the request serves as more of a demand in practice.

Implied consent on the road

Tech Target discusses implied consent, something that a BAC test directly ties to. Implied consent exists in situations where a sensible person could assume that someone gave their consent to something, even without having that consent in spoken or written form.

For drivers, implied consent exists in the context of intoxicated driving and BAC tests. In order to use public roads – which make up the majority of road systems – a driver implies that they give consent for officers to test them for intoxication. This keeps the rest of the road and other drivers on it safe.

Warnings from an officer

An officer cannot physically force a person to take a BAC test, however. Thus, if a driver intends to refuse, the officer has a legal obligation to alert them to the potential penalties they face for refusal. This can include additional time in jail and fines if they end up convicted of a DUI crime.

It also includes the temporary suspension of their driver’s license for 180 days or longer. This will hold true even if the driver does not face any DUI charges, making refusal of a BAC test more trouble than it is worth.

Other available options

If you are arrested for drunk driving , you may be worried that taking a BAC test will result in a conviction. However, criminal defense attorneys have other tools at their disposal to challenge the results of such tests. Moreover, other circumstances surrounding your arrest or charge – such as whether it was a first-time charge – can also be used to your advantage. An experienced lawyer may be able to use such factors as evidence to get your charges reduced – or dropped all together.

What happens to outstanding debt after a wrongful death?

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 20:39:00 GMT

In the middle of your grief, you may also be concerned about overwhelming debt from your loved one’s medical bills or their mortgage payments. Collectors may have harassed you, or you may have heard confusing rumors that family duty obligates you to pay these debts.

Healing

If your loved one died as a result of negligence or another catastrophic situation, you should focus on healing from this emotional shock. You will need to make many decisions to lay your relative to rest, and you may decide to take legal action to bring the person at fault to justice.

A settlement from a wrongful death lawsuit may help you and your family heal financially, but until the case is settled creditors may still try to contact you.

Know the law

Texas law and the Federal Trade Commission state that unless you are co-signed on a loan or mortgage, you are usually not responsible for paying a deceased person’s debt. Unless you are the executor of someone’s estate, you should not have to pay their debt on their behalf.

There are some situations in which you could be liable for a deceased loved one’s debt:

Houses and vehicles fall under the category of “secured debt.” If creditors or financial institutions are informed of the debtor’s death, they may try to force repayment. This could be in the form of threatening to foreclose on the house or repossess the vehicle. These calls can be frightening and frustrating.

If a vehicle or home is gifted to a beneficiary, they may choose to take on the outstanding debt with the permission of the creditor. Transferring this debt, however, often takes more time than a creditor allows. Hiring a legal professional can help you renegotiate deadlines and keep these gifts intact.

Creditors do not have the right to harass you into paying a deceased loved one’s debts. If you are liable for some debts, a wrongful death lawsuit could help. Now is the time to explore your legal options to defend the legacy your loved one built.

Afraid of dogs? Learn to speak their language.

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 16:44:00 GMT

Dogs can be a joy to be around. However, just like humans, not all dogs behave the same way all the time. Maybe you went to a barbeque at your friend’s house, and his dog jumped on your lap and showered you with affection. However, when you spotted the same dog sitting alone in the front yard the following week, you went over to pet him, and he tried to attack you.

Now you’re confused. You’d met this dog before, so you figured you were safe around him. What changed?

Evaluating the conditions

Dogs perceive conditions differently than humans. There are a variety of factors that a dog uses to gauge a situation, which we may not give much value to. For instance, a dog owner’s tolerance of your presence at a party may signal to that dog that you are safe. However, when in watchdog mode on his own, he may interpret you as an intruder – and therefore a threat.

While you can’t reasonably expect to get inside a dog’s head, you can become attune to the various signals a dog sends – which can alert you to possible aggression.

Interpreting the cues

Firstly, it’s worth clarifying that some behaviors can indicate aggression or more positive moods, such as excitement – depending on the quality of the behavior. Barking and jumping are common examples. Unless you’re not very familiar with a particular dog’s nuances, don’t rely on these cues to assess the situation.

Be wary of any dog you see displaying the following behaviors :

Dogs are communicating with us all the time. If you learn how to understand their signals, it can help you to avoid a traumatic experience .

Viable defense strategies for assault charges in Texas

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 20:31:00 GMT

When someone accuses you of causing bodily injury to another person or putting them in a state of intense fear, they could report you to the police. The state could also bring charges against you – even without a request by the other party involved in the altercation. Phone calls by concerned bystanders or reports by medical professionals can lead to police involvement.

Those accused of assault in Texas could wind up in state custody and subject to significant fines if they plead guilty or get convicted. The criminal record associated with assault can also be a major hardship, as violent offenses tend to carry more stigma than other kinds of criminal charges.

The good news is that people can and do successfully defend against assault charges in Texas. One of the strategies below may work in your case.

Show the court that you were not involved

Maybe you have phone use data that shows that you were across town at the time of the alleged assault. Perhaps you can prove that someone else was actually the person who committed the assault.

Whether by presenting an alternative explanation for who committed the assault or providing a convincing alibi to the court, you can potentially create enough of a reasonable doubt that they cannot convict you of assault.

Make a claim of self-defense

Texas law allows you to defend yourself against violent criminal charges if you acted in self-defense . The state defines self-defense as actions to protect yourself from bodily harm, to protect another person or to defend your private property.

If you intervened to stop one person from harming another or to prevent someone from burglarizing your home, a claim of self-defense could be the right strategy to employ if you find yourself facing assault charges.

Other approaches

There are numerous other defense strategies that could work as well, depending on the circumstances that led to your arrest. Too many people give up and plead guilty because they fear the consequences of going to court, when the ramifications of pleading guilty can be as bad – if not worse.

Working with your criminal defense attorney to develop a solid defense strategy is extremely valuable whenever you stand accused of any crime. This can help to keep your criminal record clean as well as protect your future and your freedom.

What does Texas consider an environmental crime?

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 17:38:00 GMT

Texas environmental laws help to protect the state’s natural resources. Failing to abide by these laws can land one in legal trouble. However, many people are unaware of what constitutes an environmental crime under state law. In today’s post, we examine some of the most commonly prosecuted environmental crimes :

Inappropriate waste handling

The following actions are illegal under Texas law, unless appropriate licenses or permits are in place:

Environmental harm

Actions that harm – or risk harm – to nature or human life are also illegal. These include:

Lack of transparency

Making dishonest statements about environmental safety or failing to disclose known environmental hazards is also illegal in Texas. This may include:

The penalties for each of these crimes vary, but usually involve both fines and jail time. Any infraction involving intentional endangerment faces more severe penalties. Penalties also increase if it is not an individual’s first such offense.

Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney can be a helpful first step for anyone facing such charges.

How pregnancy can increase your risk of a car accident

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 20:07:00 GMT

We all know that we should exhibit safe driving behavior whenever we’re on the road. If we’ve had a few drinks at the bar, we know to find a sober ride home. We know to avoid texting while driving. However, there are other life circumstances that can amplify our likelihood of getting into an accident – and we may not even realize it.

Researchers recently conducted a study on the influence of pregnancy on driving . They found that a pregnant woman’s chances of being involved in a crash spike markedly during the second trimester – particularly during the first month. During this period, pregnant women are as likely to get into a car accident as a driver with sleep apnea. Meanwhile, the third trimester shows a sharp decline in car accidents. Researchers found no similar pattern in pregnant women who were vehicle passengers or pedestrians.

What’s so risky about the second trimester?

Researchers suggest the reason for these findings has to do with the increased potential for human error that women in the second trimester of pregnancy face. They may be experiencing physiological changes – such as fatigue, sleep disturbance, nausea or unintended distraction. However, any anatomical changes may not be very pronounced yet. Thus, women in the second trimester may still be quite active and not recognize that their abilities are compromised.

Avoiding prenatal tragedy

During a woman’s pregnancy, car crashes are the number one cause of fetal death. If an unborn baby survives a crash, they face a high risk of complications in life – including brain damage and neurological problems .

A car crash during pregnancy can be catastrophic. Therefore, it’s critical to take special care when driving while pregnant:

Following these safety precautions can play a vital role in preventing a tragic accident.

Older adults often suffer brain damage in slip and falls

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 21:24:00 GMT

Slip-and-fall accidents may not seem very dangerous on the surface. If you slip in the bathtub, you may expect to bruise your knee or sprain your wrist. As you get older – and your bones become more brittle – slip and falls are more likely to lead to serious physical ailments, such as fractures or breaks.

However, you may not realize that as an older adult, your chance of incurring a traumatic brain injury from a slip and fall is considerably higher than for younger people. Here’s why:

Your brain anatomy

Your brain “floats” in the middle of your head, connected to your skull by hair-like threads known as bridging veins. As you get older, your body begins to shrink. The same goes for your brain – leaving more space between your brain and your skull. Your bridging veins also become thinner and weaker. A smaller brain doesn’t impact cognitive function or intelligence. However, it is more vulnerable to injury.

When exposed to trauma, thinner bridging veins are more likely to become damaged – which can lead to bleeding in the brain. Such injuries should be treated as soon as possible, so it’s important to be aware of the warning signs. Symptoms of traumatic brain injury include:

Recourse

Falls are the number one cause of traumatic brain injury in the U.S. – and nearly 80% of such injuries occur in adults 65 and over. If you – or an older adult you love – suffered a fall due to someone else’s negligence, it’s important to be aware of the risk factors of brain damage. Be alert to the signs of such injury, and get a complete neurological exam if something seems off. You deserve compensation for any such injuries.

Understanding defamation law

Thu, 26 May 2022 22:08:00 GMT

Defamation occurs when someone states something about another person that is not true and results in damages of some kind. Although people may have heard of the term before, they may not completely understand what it means.

Defamation law varies based on who the plaintiff is, but there are certain things every plaintiff must be able to prove in order to recover damages.

What is defamation?

Defamation refers to false statements that cause damage to an individual’s reputation, integrity or honor. The false statements must be facts – not just judgments or opinions – although the statement itself does not need to be factual. A written false statement is called “libel,” and spoken defamation is called “slander.” The key to defamation law is to balance a person’s right to free speech while also protecting another’s reputation.

Defamation and public vs. private figures

Over the years, the courts have set standards regarding defamation law and how it applies to public and private figures. Because public officials and figures, such as celebrities, seek out public attention, they need to be able to put up with a higher level of public scrutiny. As a result, to prove defamation, a public figure must be able to prove with hard evidence that the defendant behaved with actual malice. A private figure, however, only needs to show that the defendant was at fault or negligent.

Requirements of a defamation case

There are two types of damages that a plaintiff may seek in a defamation case: compensatory and punitive. Compensatory refers to actual losses, while punitive damages refer to a dollar amount meant to punish the defendant.

To recover damages, a plaintiff must be able to show that:

Defamation law varies from one state to another with regards to standards for public and private plaintiffs. If you believe you’re the victim of defamation, it’s worth reaching out to a personal injury attorney in your state with experience in handling defamation cases.

Driving while drowsy: an under-reported danger

Thu, 19 May 2022 17:50:00 GMT

We’ve reported extensively in previous posts on the dangers associated with distracted driving . For most of us, when we think about distracted driving behaviors, our minds immediately turn to activities involving our smartphones. Indeed, texting, calling and surfing the web while driving are all extremely risky – and these activities result in a growing number of car accidents each year.

However, distracted driving does not merely refer to activities that take your eyes away from the road or your hands off the wheel. It also refers to any activity that takes your concentration off of the act of driving. In today’s post, we discuss one of the most dangerous driving behaviors of this type: drowsy driving.

Pressures to work long hours at the expense of sleep

In many professional arenas, there’s a certain expectation to put in long hours. You may be expected to be constantly on-call, 24 hours a day. Perhaps you view your 80-hour work week as a veritable badge of honor. However, if you’re sleeping too little and then getting behind the wheel, you’re putting yourself – and others – at serious risk.

Similarities between fatigue and drunkenness

Speeding down the freeway at 70 miles an hour requires an alert mind and quick reflexes. But when you haven’t slept enough, it compromises your reaction time. In fact, studies show that if you’ve been awake for just 17 consecutive hours, your response time behind the wheel is equivalent to that of a driver with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05%. This effect worsens with increased sleep deprivation.

In today’s society, fatigue is a feeling that many of us view as normal. As such, we have a tendency to underestimate its effects. If you’re feeling groggy as you get ready for your morning commute, consider finding alternative modes of transportation – a taxi or public transportation – to get yourself to work.

Could you face charges for being drunk on a horse?

Tue, 10 May 2022 22:48:00 GMT

Like most people, you probably don’t think of a horse as a vehicle. It’s certainly a helpful animal and does assist you in getting from one place to another, but it’s not really the same as a motor vehicle. Interestingly, you could potentially get a DWI, but most states do limit DWIs to motor vehicle operations.

That being said, if you are riding a horse while intoxicated, you could face other penalties. For example, you might be accused of public intoxication or causing a nuisance, both which could result in penalties.

Texas’s definition of a vehicle

Texas DWI law says that the operation of a motor vehicle while intoxicated is required to face a DWI charge. Specifically, the law includes vehicles such as:

Horseback riding isn’t specifically discussed, but it would be unusual to be arrested for a DWI for riding while intoxicated .

There could be penalties, even if a DWI isn’t one of them

Realize that while a DWI may not be possible because of riding a horse, you could face other charges and penalties. For instance, you may have to pay fines for riding a horse on a highway or road where they are not allowed. You could face charges for public intoxication or other traffic violations, too.

If you cause a crash or harm someone or their property, you could also be held accountable for those actions, even though they took place while you were riding a horse.

Stopped for riding dangerously? Look into your options.

Since riding a horse while impaired is a relatively unique issue, it benefits you to learn more about the law and the different charges that you could face. While you may not necessarily be at risk of a DWI, you could face other penalties that could cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars and leave a black mark on your record.

Regardless of the penalties you could face, keep in mind that you do have a right to defend yourself . You can fight to protect your freedoms and avoid a conviction for any charges you do face.

Drunk driving or road rage? How to spot the difference.

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 17:40:00 GMT

If you’re driving down the road and see someone driving carelessly, it’s important to be able to make an educated assessment of the cause of their behavior. Is it a case of road rage or drunk driving? Knowing the difference can help you determine how best to respond to keep yourself safe.

Indicators of road rage

A driver experiencing road rage exhibits aggressive behavior . The driver may:

If you encounter such a driver on the road, you should do everything you can to disengage. Do not make eye contact or act argumentative. Give them space to pass you, and distance yourself from them as much as possible. You can report cases of aggressive driving by dialing #77 or calling 9-1-1.

Indicators of drunk driving

While aggressive driving tends to be quick and calculated, drunk – or otherwise impaired – driving is generally slower and less precise. Drunk drivers often:

If you spot a drunk driver on the road, stay behind the vehicle. If you try to pass, you could make yourself a target for an accident . Call 9-1-1 to report the drunk driver, making sure to provide a complete description of the vehicle (including license plate number), the street they’re on and their direction of travel.

Can an honest mistake on your tax return count as tax fraud?

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 18:20:00 GMT

No matter how diligent you are when filing your taxes, it’s normal to worry about making a mistake. What if you accidentally enter wrong information? Will you get a hefty fine – or worse, jail time?

The key difference between making an honest mistake and committing tax fraud is intent. Tax fraud occurs when you willfully falsify information on your tax return to lower your tax liability. You could be committing tax fraud if you intentionally:

It’s important to bear in mind that tax fraud requires an element of deliberate deceit. Therefore, tax evasion alone does not qualify as tax fraud. However, attempting to evade taxes by hiding assets or placing money in foreign accounts could constitute tax fraud.

What are the penalties for tax fraud?

Being convicted of tax fraud can result in significant civil or criminal penalties . The severity of consequences would depend on the kind of tax fraud committed but would usually involve a combination of fines and jail time.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) typically assumes that tax errors without signs of fraud are accidental. However, the IRS may still fine you if you make an honest mistake. Nonetheless, these fines are far less severe than the penalties you’d face from a tax fraud conviction.

It’s important that you file your taxes in a timely and accurate manner. But if you make a mistake, remember that the IRS expects certain errors. The more serious issues arise if you’re suspected of intentionally trying to avoid paying your full tax obligation. In such cases, it’s important to seek the help of a criminal defense attorney who is experienced in handling white-collar crimes.

Should you take a breath analysis test?

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 17:30:00 GMT

When an officer pulls you over on suspicion of DUI and requests you to take a breath analysis test, you may feel it is in your right to turn it down. After all, the test itself is somewhat invasive.

But due to something called an implied consent law, this assumption isn’t entirely accurate. Why is that the case, and how should you handle breath analysis tests accordingly?

Defining implied consent

The National Constitution Center discusses reasons not to refuse a breath analysis test . As mentioned, implied consent laws have something to do with this. An implied consent law applies to situations in which the average person could assume that someone gave their consent for something, despite not having verbal or written proof. As an example, people generally do not have to sign waivers to receive vaccinations because making the appointment and following through on it serve as proof of consent.

In the case of driving, simply using public roads can serve as consent to DUI-related tests in order to help protect the safety of everyone else using the same roads. In other words, the moment you start driving on publicly accessible roads, the case can be made that you have consented to a DUI test such as a breath analysis test.

Of course, officers cannot physically force you to take these tests. However, if you insist on refusing, they must by law explain to you the potential consequences you face in doing so. This could include a period of license suspension, as well as potential jail time or fines.

Refusal even after this point could result in more penalties than is worth it, which is why it is generally the wiser idea to simply take the breath analysis test.

Risk of fatal truck crashes increases under these 4 circumstances

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 22:41:00 GMT

Any motor vehicle accident has the potential to cause catastrophic, fatal injuries. However, truck accidents in particular are known to cause some of the most devastating damages for victims due to the size and weight of commercial-sized vehicles.

The number of commercial trucks registered in the U.S. is at an all-time high, meaning it is more likely that you will be sharing the road with a commercial truck. With this in mind, understand that there are conditions under which you could be at a higher risk of being involved in a fatal crash with a commercial truck. We examine some of these conditions below.

According to statistics from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration , fatal accidents involving large trucks occur most often under these conditions.

If you are driving on a rural road during the afternoon on a weekday, you could be at an increased risk of being involved in a serious accident with a large truck.

However, fatal truck accidents can happen under any condition, so it’s always important to stay extra alert when driving with large trucks on the road. The aftermath of such accidents can be catastrophic.

It is equally crucial for truckers and trucking companies to act responsibly and safely when it comes to operating these massive vehicles. Should they fail to do so, then victims of these devastating crashes and their families can file a negligence or wrongful death lawsuit against them to hold them accountable.

Teach your children how to behave around dogs

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 17:42:00 GMT

Most dogs are friendly and well meaning. However, even the sweetest pup can bite with the right provocation. If a dog feels threatened, they can bite in self-defense. They may bite if they feel scared or startled, or if they feel that you are trying to take something valuable away from them – such as their puppy or a bone.

Many adults understand how to interact safely with dogs. Young children, however, are more prone to loud outbursts and inadvertently rough behavior – which can quickly send a dog into self-preservation mode. Of the 4.7 million dog bites that occur in the U.S. each year, half of the victims are children between 5 and 9 years old .

In today’s post, we provide some key strategies to help your child avoid a dog bite:

Suffering a dog bite can be a traumatic experience, especially as a child. Equipping your child with the above techniques can help prevent unnecessary injury.

3 options for resolving your business dispute

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 20:52:00 GMT

If you own a business, you know that disputes can and do arise. These disputes might involve partners, employees, clients or even a landlord, and they can stem from arguments over contract terms and fulfilment, personal rights, theft or other types of misconduct.

Despite the fact that business disputes are varied and may involve a wide range of parties, there are, in general, just a few options when it comes to resolving these disputes. Below, we examine these three types of dispute resolution methods.

Mediation

In many cases, you can resolve your issue through mediation. This process involves both parties working together and with the help of a mediator to negotiate a resolution on their own. Mediation can be the fastest and most cost-effective method for resolving a dispute, as there are fewer legal formalities to observe.

Arbitration

Many business disputes are resolved through arbitration , as business owners are increasingly including arbitration clauses in contracts with consumers, employees and other parties.

Arbitration is a method of dispute resolution that both parties agree to. It involves an arbitrator (or panel of arbitrators) who will listen to both sides of a dispute, including witnesses, and make a decision. Broadly speaking, arbitration is more formal than mediation but less complicated than litigation.

Litigation

This is often the last option when others like mediation have failed, or when other methods are not feasible. Litigation means the parties will go to court and argue their case in front of a judge and/or jury, who will then make a ruling. Litigation is often the most expensive option and can take much longer than other dispute resolution methods. But it can also result in higher awards, and there is the option to appeal, if necessary, which can be very valuable.

Whatever the method, legal guidance can be crucial when resolving disputes

Whether you go through mediation, arbitration or litigation to resolve a business dispute, having an attorney by your side can be essential. They can help you navigate the steps of each process, understand your rights and fight for a fair outcome.

4 things to avoid after a car crash

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 17:35:00 GMT

Motor vehicle accidents are often devastating. It’s easy to get confused and overwhelmed after such an incident, but there are some things you should avoid doing in order to protect your rights and increase your chances of a successful outcome for your claim.

Don’t admit fault

Even if you think you are responsible, don’t say anything to the other driver or insurance company until you have spoken with an attorney. Admitting fault can hurt your case down the road if you decide to file a lawsuit. The other driver or insurance company may use your admission of guilt against you in order to reduce their own liability.

Don’t leave the scene of the accident without speaking to the police

This can lead to criminal charges, and it can make it more difficult to file a claim later on. On top of that, if you leave the scene of an accident without exchanging information with the other driver, it may be more difficult to track them down later.

Make sure you get the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance information and license plate number before you leave.

Don’t sign any documents from the other driver or insurance company

Again, don’t sign anything until you have consulted with an attorney. The other driver or insurance company may try to get you to sign a document releasing them from liability, but this is not something you should do.

Don’t forget to seek medical attention

Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s important to get checked out after an accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not present themselves until days or even weeks after the accident. On the other hand, if you wait too long to see a doctor, the insurance company may try to argue that your injuries are not related to the accident.

These are just a few of the things you should avoid after a car crash . Failing to take the right steps can result in serious consequences for your recovery and your case.

What a drunken fight at a college party can mean for your future

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 18:47:00 GMT

Last night, you and your frat brothers threw an epic party. You hired the best DJ on campus. You had more Jell-O shots than you can count and played beer pong like a pro. In short, you had a blast.

But at a certain point, things get heated. You spotted a guy flirting with your girlfriend, and you rushed over to tell him off. Pretty soon, fists were swinging, and your friends had to break you up.

You were awakened this morning by a loud knock on the front door. The police entered the house and placed you under arrest for assault. You’re stunned. It was a stupid, drunken fight – and you both entered into it willingly. Could you suddenly be facing criminal charges?

Simple assault in Texas

In Texas, when two people start a fight with each other voluntarily – and no one person initiated an attack on the other – this is known as “mutual combat,” which could lead to criminal charges. You could face simple assault charges for injuring someone – or even just threatening bodily harm to someone. This usually results in a misdemeanor charge. Further, if you cause serious bodily harm to someone or use a weapon during the fight, this charge will likely increase to aggravated assault , which is a felony. Any of these charges could mean the possibility of jail time as well as steep fines.

Future repercussions

In addition to the immediate penalties you could face, there are other, long-term effects of a simple assault charge. Even if you’re not convicted, the offense still goes on your permanent criminal record – which will show up anytime anyone does a standard background check on you. This can make it hard for you to get a job, rent an apartment or go to grad school.

Moving forward

When you’re in college, it can sometimes feel like your actions on campus don’t have any consequences. It may seem like you have permission to drink when you’re under 21 or smoke a joint at a party. However, it’s important to remember that the law is the law – no matter where you are. If you’re a college student ready to embark on your professional career, having a criminal record can throw a major wrench in your future plans. It’s important to take strong, defensive action against any criminal charges you face.

HOS violations can lead to trucking accidents

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 23:43:00 GMT

Trucking accidents can be among the most damaging and gruesome types of motor vehicle accidents, as commercial vehicles weigh over 10,000 pounds and can be difficult to operate. Because of this, a trucker is required to have a commercial driver’s license and comply with strict trucking regulations in order to avoid devastating accidents.

However, truckers are just like any other motorist: they can make mistakes and break the law. The difference is that their mistakes are more likely to have catastrophic consequences. For example, if a trucker violates Hours of Service (HOS) regulations , they could be at risk of getting fatigued and causing a serious accident.

What are HOS regulations?

HOS regulations were put into place to prevent truckers from driving for too many hours. In the trucking industry, there is often significant pressure to meet deadlines and get cargo delivered quickly. Some drivers go to extremes to achieve this, which often means deciding not to take breaks or pull over when they get tired.

In order to prevent fatigued driving, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration published rules that limit the number of hours truckers are allowed to drive and work. These regulations require drivers to take 30-minute breaks, observe mandatory rest hours and limit driving hours to 11 per day – or 14 hours per day under qualifying circumstances.

Rule breaking still occurs

Unfortunately, just because the rules exist does not mean that truckers always obey them. In fact, there are some drivers who will falsify their driving log records in an attempt to cover up violations and continue working past the allowable hours. If a fatigued trucker fails to respond to changing road conditions or falls asleep at the wheel, they could ultimately cause a serious accident – injuring or even killing other motorists.

In the event of a trucking accident, it can be crucial to determine whether trucking violations were to blame. If you or your loved one has been a victim of such an accident, consulting with an experienced attorney may be valuable. They can work to secure logbooks and other records to support allegations of negligence, which can be essential when pursuing a personal injury claim.

How physical health can affect brain injury recovery

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 22:03:00 GMT

When you get into your car in the morning, getting to work is probably the main thing on your mind. Driving is such a common conveyance, we don’t give much thought to what’s actually involved – and the risks we take every day by getting behind the wheel. We often see catastrophic accidents on the freeway, but we rarely register these images as a real possibility in our own lives.

Nonetheless, accidents can happen to any of us – and the results can be devastating. You could sustain physical trauma – like broken bones or whiplash. Or if you’re very unlucky, you could experience damage to your brain .

Impaired cognition is a terrifying thought for most of us. It’s a possibility we’d rather not consider. After all, worrying about hypothetical misfortune is a waste of time. However, you may be interested to learn that there are steps you can take to bolster your brain’s resilience in the event of a tragic accident.

The role of diet and exercise in brain healing

Research shows that your level of physical health prior to a brain injury can have a positive effect on your brain’s ability to recover. If you eat a low-fat, low-sugar diet and you exercise regularly, your brain will regenerate more quickly and more completely in the event of trauma.

Conversely, if you consume a high-sugar, high-fat diet and don’t exercise, your brain’s recovery from injury will be lethargic and fragmented. This is because this type of diet and lifestyle actually make your brain more likely to degenerate after trauma and never recover. This increases your chances of suffering severe disabilities following a brain injury.

You can’t control everything in your environment – and you can’t guarantee that you’ll never be in an accident. However, taking care of yourself now can benefit you later, if unexpected tragedy strikes.

Who is at fault for bystander injuries in a police chase?

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 18:52:00 GMT

When people intentionally break the law, they take a risk that they will get caught and arrested by law enforcement. Sometimes, individuals will violently resist arrest when the police confront them. Other times, people will desperately try to flee from the police.

Innocent civilians sometimes get caught up in a police chase with devastating consequences. A pedestrian could get struck by someone trying to drive their vehicle away from the scene. A driver could get into a crash with a fleeing criminal or the police officers chasing them. Bystanders can also get hurt from stray bullets in gunfire or other inadvertent physical altercations.

Who is responsible for the injuries that an innocent member of the public suffers during a police pursuit?

The person fleeing may have some liability

Under Texas law, people can file personal injury claims against someone who hurts them due to omissions, negligence or misconduct. State law makes it a crime to flee from the police , which means that someone who hurts you while trying to avoid arrest is potentially liable for your injuries or any property damage that they caused.

The police could also be liable

A lawsuit against someone who will spend the next few decades in prison may not help you very much. Police officers or their departments can sometimes also be accountable for the injuries caused during a pursuit, especially if their pursuit violated best practices.

The U.S. Supreme Court has recently determined that police officers should reconsider continuing a hot pursuit in scenarios involving misdemeanor, non-violent offenses and uninvolved members of the public or their property. Police officers choosing to continue a hot pursuit that doesn’t meet appropriate legal standards could find themselves facing allegations of negligence and possibly liability for any injuries they cause.

Determining liability is inherently context specific. A personal injury attorney with an understanding of both civil and criminal law can help you understand who has responsibility for your injuries – and can help you seek compensation in court.

What if I have injuries from my car accident that show up later?

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 00:12:00 GMT

Not every accident appears to be serious at first glance. If you were rear-ended on a city street, you may be able to walk away from the accident feeling fine. But even accidents involving slow speeds and minor vehicle damage can leave lasting impacts.

After an accident, not all injuries may become apparent right away. Some injuries may take days – or even weeks – to present symptoms. If you’ve already reached a settlement with the insurance company by the time you detect these injuries, you’ll be out of luck.

Injuries that can show up later on

There are many serious injuries that may not become noticeable until well after the accident. These include:

Protecting your rights

You may feel fine – or only slightly injured – following a car accident. Nonetheless, it can still pay to discuss your case with a personal injury attorney, rather than settling directly with the insurance adjuster. Settling too quickly with the insurance company will prevent you from seeking compensation for injuries and other damages that manifest later on.

In addition, it’s important to understand that the insurance adjuster works for the insurance company – not independently. They therefore work to settle claims in the company’s best interest, not in yours. Their goal is to save the insurance company money, by giving you the lowest settlement possible.

If you’re involved in an accident, first report the accident to the police and seek medical attention. Then, before you sign anything from the insurance company, consider contacting a personal injury lawyer. They can help you fully assess your damages – even those you may not think of or notice yet. They’ll fight to get you the full compensation you deserve and allow you the peace of mind to heal.

Take these steps when the car accident isn’t your fault

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 17:13:00 GMT

Imagine you’re on your regular morning commute to work. As usual, you follow the same route, stop at the same coffee shop for your morning cup-a-joe and even get caught at the same traffic light. Unfortunately, while you stopped at that pesky light, the car behind you did not. Now, you have to deal with paying some unexpected medical bills, fixing your car and being out of work for at least a week.

You may be wondering what you should do after a car accident that is not your fault . Should you just wait to hear from the other driver’s insurance company? Should you call your insurance company?

Get information

While it is the other driver’s responsibility to report the accident to their car insurance company, it is still a good idea to call that insurer yourself. Many drivers do not want to report an accident to their insurer, especially when it is their fault. This is why you should take the initiative to report the accident and get the claim process started as soon as possible.

However, in order to do this, you will need certain information. If possible, while you are still at the scene of the accident, you should get the other driver’s full name, phone number, insurance information and the make, model and license plate of their car. Also, get witness statements and contact information, and try to take pictures of the accident scene.

Report the accident

Not only should you contact the at-fault driver’s insurer, you should also contact your own insurance company to report the accident. You need to do this in case the other driver’s car insurance company disputes your claim. It is important to remember that while the police report might indicate which driver was at fault, the insurance companies may see it differently.

Look over your policy

You should also take the time to go over your own insurance policy and read the fine print. Even if a car accident is not your fault, you should understand what kind of obligations your own insurer owes you. This will come in handy if the other driver’s insurance decides to deny your claim.

If you have suffered an injury due to the actions of a negligent driver, you may be able to take legal action. Even if the at-fault driver’s insurance denies your claim – or offers you a lowball settlement – you may still have options available to get the compensation you deserve. Consulting with an attorney before accepting an insurance company’s offer can be an important first step.

Which Texas city has the highest percentage of careless drivers?

Tue, 28 Dec 2021 17:55:00 GMT

According to a newly-released study, Frisco, Texas, has the dubious distinction of having the most accident-prone drivers in the Lone Star State.

Online insurance provider Insurify reviewed over 4 million insurance applications across the country to identify cities with the most dangerous drivers.

Top five U.S. cities with the highest driver crash rates

Frisco ranked third on Insurify’s list of cities with the most accident-prone drivers . The top five are:

According to the insurer, 12.02% of all U.S. drivers have at-fault crashes on their record over the past seven years. In Frisco, 17.25% of drivers had a prior at-fault accident. The city also rises above the national norm for drivers with a DUI.

A horrifying streak continues

Despite Frisco’s notoriety for careless drivers, the entire state of Texas shares a disturbing streak. On Nov. 7, the state reached its 21 ^st straight year of having at least one traffic fatality per day . The Texas Department of Transportation calls that anniversary a “very real crisis” in our state.

What’s even more disturbing is that traffic deaths have increased since the pandemic began. Transportation officials say an average of 11 people per day have died in traffic-related deaths in 2021. As of early November, the state recorded 3,556 fatalities, rapidly approaching last year’s total of 3,896.

Most crashes are preventable

The two most common causes of motor vehicle crashes are distracted drivers and speeding. We’re also at that time of the year when more people decide to take a considerable risk for themselves and others by driving under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances.

Law enforcement promises to increase efforts to keep dangerous drivers off the road. Still, they remind everyone that the best way to reduce deaths and serious injuries is for you to observe traffic rules, focus on the road or let others do the driving if you’ve been drinking.

Don’t let your new year’s resolutions land you in the hospital

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 18:07:00 GMT

The new year is upon us. If you’re eager to get rid of the extra weight you put on over the holidays, you may have made a new year’s resolution to bump up your exercise routine. Many Americans approach work-out resolutions with gusto – vowing to shed excess pounds and convert their bodies into lean, mean, exercising machines.

However, if your body is unaccustomed to regular, vigorous exercise, this approach can quickly lead to injury. If you trip on the sidewalk during your jog around the neighborhood, you could end up with a break or sprain. If you start workout out on machines at the gym, you could suffer injuries by using improper form or by tackling high weights too quickly.

Every year at this time, hospitals and emergency rooms see a surge in injuries from workouts gone wrong. Here are a few tips to avoid resolution-related injury:

Don’t let your well-intentioned resolution for a healthy new year end in disaster. Following the above guidelines can help keep you safe from unnecessary injury.

How to react when you encounter a drunk driver on the road

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 22:45:00 GMT

Drunk driving has been a growing problem across the nation. It is one of the leading causes of injury and death on the road. In Texas alone, drunk driving killed 963 people last year.

You’ve probably seen the campaigns to help curb the drunk driving trend – the ads encouraging people to designate a sober driver or call a taxi rather than get behind the wheel after a few drinks. But what can other – innocent – drivers on the road do to help avoid a crash with a drunk driver?

Recognize

First, it’s important to be able to identify the driving behaviors associated with drunk driving – as opposed to distracted or aggressive driving. Drunk drivers often:

Respond

If you encounter a drunk driver on the road, it can be exasperating. They can take up a lot of space on the road, drive carelessly and slow down traffic. It can be tempting to speed past the driver to avoid a crash.

However, driving alongside or ahead of a drunk driver actually puts you more at risk of a crash. It’s important to stay behind the drunk driver and notify emergency services as quickly as possible. Be sure to report the driver’s vehicle color and type, license plate number, road on which they’re traveling as well as direction of travel.

Drunk driving unnecessarily claims hundreds of lives each year in Texas. If you’re driving sober, it’s important to stay alert and defensive to drunk drivers to help avoid tragedy.

Deck the halls, but be careful if you have a small child.

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 17:23:00 GMT

The holidays are a busy time of year. And as a new parent, the responsibilities of holiday preparations combined with baby care may be overwhelming.

But before you go on automatic pilot and carry out “Christmas as usual,” it’s important to be aware of the added safety hazards that your baby faces at this time of year.

In today’s post, we outline three baby-safe guidelines for getting your house ready for Christmas:

Tree trimming

Having a new baby on the scene doesn’t mean you have to do away with your Christmas tree. But you should protect your baby from ornamental hazards. Hang any glass or fragile ornaments on high branches. If your baby snares such an ornament and puts it in their mouth, they could end up with serious gashes in their mouth. In addition, be aware that string lights can pose serious risks to a baby. In addition to the strangulation hazard of the cord, small bulbs of holiday lights can be easily plucked from the string and choked on. Therefore, good practice is to block your Christmas tree off, so that your little one can’t access it.

Stockings fixtures

Hanging stockings over the fireplace poses an unexpected safety risk, depending on how you hang them. Do not use metal stocking holders to affix your stockings to the mantel. If your baby grabs ahold of a stocking and pulls it down, the heavy stocking holder could come crashing on their head – causing a concussion or other serious injuries. If you choose to hang stockings this year, use nails.

Present patrol

After the presents have been opened and the floor is littered with wrapping paper and toys, it’s important to clean up the area as soon as possible. Battery-powered baby toys often include separate disc batteries adhered to the box. If your baby swallows these, they can cause serious damage to the esophagus. In addition, if older children have unpacked toys in the area, make sure there are none with small, ingestible parts left within reach of your baby. Clearing away leftover ribbons also eliminates a strangulation hazard.

Don’t let your holiday festivities end in unnecessary disaster . Following the above safety guidelines can help keep your family protected during this joyful time of year.

What is the new law pertaining to obtaining a CDL?

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 23:34:00 GMT

Laws for truck drivers occur at all levels of the government because big rigs often travel over state lines. It is the job of a driver to know and understand the law.

While states usually handle dispersing commercial driver’s licenses, the federal government also has the ability to regulate them. According to the American Traffic Safety Services Association, a new federal law will make some changes to what you must do to get a commercial driver’s license for the first time.

Application

The new rules will only apply to those who are getting an entry-level CDL. They will apply to everyone getting a new Class A or B license or those who are upgrading a license or seeking an endorsement for hazardous materials, passengers and school buses.

You should note that if you already hold a CDL, the changes will not apply to you. It will only apply if you seek changes covered under the new law. It also will not apply if you are exempt from the skills test part of the licensing process.

The law comes under the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21 Century Act at the federal level, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration manages the regulations.

Regulations

The act creates a Training Provider Registry which lists the only approved training programs a new driver can take. You must use one of these providers to have the valid training required to get a CDL. Your name will go into a database after you complete your training that is accessible to the state.

The new rules go into place on February 7, 2022. If you do not complete training and secure your license prior to that time, it is essential to check that your training provider will be on the registry.

Distracted driving takes a deadly toll on Texas roadways

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 15:22:00 GMT

The number of traffic deaths across Texas and the rest of the U.S. continues to soar as America emerges from the pandemic and traffic levels return to normal. In the first six months of 2021, traffic fatalities increased by 18.4% across the nation.

Safety experts blame risky behavior by drivers, which increased during 2020 but have not subsided. Many deadly wrecks are the result of speeding, drunk or distracted drivers. Texas has the highest number of fatalities of all states so far in 2021, with 3,642 as of Nov. 4.

A deadly record continues in the Lone Star State

The last day that Texas didn’t report at least one traffic death was Nov. 7, 2000 – 21 years ago. Distracted driving continues to be a primary cause of highway deaths, and safety experts say the rise of smartphones is the main reason for the steady increase of this dangerous activity.

So far this year, The Texas Department of Transportation reports 92,570 traffic accidents related to distracted driving, more than half resulting in serious injuries or death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says eight fatal crashes each day in the U.S. involve a distracted driver.

How are drivers distracted?

Anything that takes your attention away from driving can be a distraction, such as checking your phone, texting, emailing, using a navigation system, eating or changing the radio station. The three main types of distractions are:

The CDC’s most recent stats show distracted drivers injured 400,000 people and killed over 2,800 in 2018. About one of every five people who died were not in vehicles but were riding their bikes, walking or were otherwise outside a vehicle.

Studies: Implicit racial bias exists in forensic testimony

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 17:15:00 GMT

Police reform has been a hot-button topic since the 2020 murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. Much of the debate focuses on the potential for racial bias in the initial stop, search and arrest of suspects.

However, two recent studies found that the opportunity for prejudice touches all parts of the criminal justice system, including the forensic testimony offered by government experts evaluating evidence in criminal cases.

Wrongful convictions often result from faulty evidence

One study conducted by the University of Maryland concludes forensic science standards badly need an upgrade. Researchers looked at convictions overturned in major crimes and found:

Many criminal law experts agree that much of the forensic evidence presented in court as scientific is more accurately defined as “junk science” passed off as in-depth factual analysis.

Pattern matching methods are most problematic

A separate study co-sponsored by the Forensic Justice Project states specific types of forensic analysis are inherently subjective, meaning they heavily rely on an examiner’s judgment. These include:

The authors concluded judges, jurors and prosecutors routinely accept forensic experts’ testimony without a critical eye. Many presume these examiners are neutral parties with no stake in the outcome of cases. However, the research finds they are just as susceptible to bias as anyone else.

Suspect information often leads experts to conclusions

Forensic examiners often receive information irrelevant to their purposes, such as the lead suspect’s name, race and background. Researchers say knowing that information often encourages examiners to connect the dots between the evidence and the suspect.

The authors say the government must adopt new standards to prevent wrongful convictions resulting from bias. This includes minimizing extraneous information given to forensic examiners, removing forensic labs from law enforcement control and allowing cross-examination of analysts over potential racial prejudice.

Why are teen crash rates so high?

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 20:34:00 GMT

Have you ever wondered why teen drivers tend to have high insurance premiums? A major part of the reason is that they have such high crash rates. After all, insurance is all about risk assessment and management. Because teens crash more, they’re more likely to cause damage that needs to be covered, so their premiums go up.

But this raises a related question: Why are teens crash rates so high ? What are teens doing wrong that other age groups are not?

The role of experience in driving safety

You can actually find a lot of things that teens are doing wrong behind the wheel. They may make more mistakes, they may drive more recklessly, they may get distracted more often or they may simply fail to be defensive drivers.

But all of these mistakes tend to come back to one thing: a lack of experience. Older drivers have more experience, so they make fewer mistakes. Teen drivers lack that experience and only get it by making mistakes and learning from them.

That’s why it’s so hard to improve teen crash rates. You can’t really get teenaged drivers extra experience without putting them on the road, and they’re going to cause accidents and make errors as they learn. It’s no surprise that someone who has been driving for 10 years tends to be better at it than someone who has been driving for just a few months.

What if a teen driver injures you?

You may be an older driver yourself, but the risk of being hit by a teen driver still exists. You can’t avoid it, so be sure you know how to seek compensation for your injuries and losses if it happens.

Car accident injuries might take time to show up

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 22:18:00 GMT

If you get into a car accident, one of the first things you’ll probably do is try to figure out whether you’re injured. The mental checklist might go something like, “Am I in pain? Is anything bleeding? Have I lost feeling anywhere in my body?” If the answer to these is no, you might assume that you are fine.

But what if you are hurt and don’t even know it? There could be damage inside your body that you don’t notice yet. It’s important to know what to look for and how long it might take to notice. Here are a few things to watch out for.

Internal damage

In a car accident, your body absorbs a lot of the sudden impact. But you might not feel the resulting pain immediately . Whiplash is a common injury where your neck feels extremely sore and stiff – even resulting in dizziness and blurred vision in serious cases. But it might not show up until the next day or even later.

Internal bleeding, spinal damage or concussions can also result from an auto accident. The effects of these injuries might not be apparent for a few days or even longer. Just because you feel fine now doesn’t mean that you aren’t hurt.

Psychological damage

There is also a chance of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a car accident. You could walk away from the accident feeling all right, but the mental effects can show up months or even years later . Here are some symptoms to look out for:

For physical injuries, symptoms may weaken over time. But PTSD can flare up again even years later, especially around situations that are similar to the original cause. Seeing a mental health professional early on could help you get the treatment you need to avoid repeated trauma down the road.

You may want to go to the hospital even if you don’t feel any symptoms immediately following an accident. A medical examination could reveal injuries you didn’t know had happened at all. Identifying these injuries head-on can help you reduce the damage before it gets any worse – and ensure you get the full compensation you deserve.

Traffic fatalities continue to rise during 2021

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 19:44:00 GMT

While fewer vehicles were on the road during most of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, motor vehicle accidents and fatalities saw a disturbing increase – the highest in over a decade.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says crash deaths rose by 7.2% in 2020 compared to 2019 despite a 13% drop in the number of miles driven in the U.S.

A deadly trend continues

The NHTSA released new preliminary data this month showing traffic deaths also increased in the first three months of 2021 compared to 2020. The key takeaways are:

The number of motor vehicle deaths from April 2020 to March 2021 is the highest since 2007.

Careless behavior blamed as deaths soar

Safety advocates attribute the escalating fatalities to unsafe driving behavior, such as impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving and a failure to wear seat belts. This carelessness has surged since the beginning of the pandemic.

Experts say as roads became less crowded in 2020 , driving behavior became riskier – particularly speeding drivers operating in sparser traffic. Some careless motorists became more brazen as they believed police would not issue tickets due to the pandemic.

Data shows serious crashes involving drugs or alcohol rose significantly. The NHTSA says deaths resulting from occupants not wearing seat belts rose by 15%, speeding-related fatalities increased by 10%, and drunk driving deaths were up by 9%.

These statistics and the continued carelessness by motorists are even more disturbing after data released back in June showed traffic density across Texas and the rest of the U.S. had returned to pre-pandemic levels.

5 common disputes faced by businesses

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 20:30:00 GMT

Business litigation costs Texas companies and others across the country over $100 billion each year. Unfortunately, it’s typically not a matter of “if” it will happen, but “when.”

In general, business lawsuits fall under three categories: Litigation brought by employees, other companies or customers.

Most common grievances faced by employers

Depending upon the size of your business, your operation may interact with dozens or thousands of stakeholders of varying degrees. Some of the most common conflicts that arise include :

Shielding your business from lawsuits

The best way to avoid legal conflicts is conducting business and treating employees at the highest possible level. Working with an experienced business law attorney is crucial to draft policies and procedures that hold up against legal scrutiny.

You may also have some personal protection, such as if your business is a limited liability company (LLC). Your lawyer can advise you on other protections, including choosing the right types of insurance products and coverage levels to minimize potential damages.

Could juror vaccine mandates affect trial verdicts?

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 21:06:00 GMT

The pandemic has impacted virtually every aspect of our lives – and in many unforeseeable ways. Since vaccines have become readily available across the country, schools, hospitals and employers have had to grapple with the question of whether to impose a vaccine mandate. This issue has reached courtrooms, too – with implications that you may not expect.

Representation

The 6 ^th Amendment entitles any of us to trial by an impartial jury. A jury is meant to be an accurate representation of the population of any given community. However, by restricting a jury to only a pool of the vaccinated, are we skewing the sampling of the population we’re calling to serve their civic duty? Some worry that the answer may be “yes.”

Dividing lines

As a whole, the vaccinated vs. unvaccinated populations across the country tend to have certain traits in common. Vaccinated people are often older, female, white, politically left leaning, higher educated and in a higher income bracket.

Some experts speculate that eliminating people from other demographics from the juror pool could have an impact on the outcomes in a trial. They contend that unvaccinated people tend to hold stronger anti-government and anti-corporation sentiments. In cases involving corporate crimes , an all-vaccinated jury may be more sympathetic to a white-collar defendant than an unvaccinated jury would.

Case in point

The high-profile Theranos trial that’s currently underway – in which a former CEO is on trial for charges related to wire fraud – is one such example. In this case, the U.S. district judge has opted to excuse all unvaccinated jurors for the sake of health and safety in the courtroom. It will be interesting to see whether this and other white-collar cases tend to skew more often in favor of the defendant, when jury vaccine requirements are in place.

How to navigate social media following an accident

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 19:14:00 GMT

In this day and age, we’re used to relying on our devices to stay connected. We make friends online, we play games with others online and we date online. And when tragedy strikes, we increasingly turn to social network online for support.

However, if you’re in the midst of a personal injury lawsuit, broadcasting personal information about yourself online – even information that may not, on the surface, seem incriminating – could be damaging to your case. Insurance companies will look for evidence to discredit your claim, and anything you post online is fair game.

In today’s post, we provide tips to effectively navigate social media following an accident:

Think before you post

Never post anything online pertaining to your case, your injury or the accident. Also avoid posting any photos or videos of yourself. You don’t want to do anything to give the public the impression that you’re healthier – or even just happier – than you claim. Finally, do not use the “check in” location function on social media. If you claim to be laid up in bed with serious injuries but are seen checking in to a rock concert on Facebook, it can be a red flag.

Manage your friends

Talk to your friends and family about these restrictions, and ask them to avoid posting anything relating to your situation online as well. Anything they post could damage the outcome of your case. In addition, treat any new, unfamiliar friend requests suspiciously. Insurance companies may set up fake social media profiles in order to gain access to your information.

Lock it up

You need to restrict what other people can see, and what others can post on your behalf. Check your security settings, and make sure that only your friends can see what you post. It’s also important to deactivate the “tag” function, so that your friends’ posts can’t link back to you.

It’s best to only discuss your case with your attorney. However, if you’re in need of support or guidance from your loved ones during this process, it’s best to do it in person.