What Are the Most Dangerous Intersections in Houston?

As Texans, we are getting back on the road after a severe pandemic. As commuting to and from work after the lifted stay-at-home order picks up, the streets and highways of Houston will become more trafficked. Even if you are a conscientious driver and always practice safe “driving hygiene,” certain areas of Houston will always be dangerous. While these are intersections to be aware of as a cautious driver, it’s not necessary to always avoid them, especially if they are necessary for you to get to school, work, and other essential activities. Here are some of the intersections in the Houston area that see the most accidents, both fatal and non-fatal:

• Westheimer and Dairy Ashford
• Bellaire and Ranchester
• Fannin and Pierce
• Long Point & Gessner
• Fondren & West Bellfort
• Bissonnet & Wilcrest
• Shepherd & Allen Pkwy & Kirby
• Taylor & Spring & MKT Trail
• Hawthorne & Spur 527 & Holman
• West & Airline
• Bellaire & S Gessner
• 11th & Nicholson
• Patterson & Washington

These intersections may be in your community. They may be ones you use every day, or they may be intersections you hardly use. Regardless, it would be best if you kept these more dangerous areas in mind as you go about your day as a driver in Houston.

Why are intersections more dangerous?

There are several reasons why these Intersections tend to have higher rates of accidents than straightaway roads, streets, or highways. Intersections involve several vehicles moving in different directions, with different rules about who gets the right of way if there is no light applied. For this reason, it may be easier to collide with another driver or strike a pedestrian.

What should I do if I’m in an accident?

If you’ve been in a vehicle collision, you should contact a Houston auto accident attorney, whether you were at one of these intersections or elsewhere in the city. If you were injured or your car was damaged, you may be entitled to compensation. A Houston personal injury attorney is the first step in ensuring justice is served in your car or pedestrian accident.

No one plans on being injured, but we’re here for you if you. Contact Herrman & Herrman today or give our firm a call at (361) 882-4357 to speak to one of our knowledgeable Car Accident injury attorneys.  We have four convenient office locations across the state of Texas in Corpus Christi, McAllen, San Antonio, Brownsville, and Houston along with a bilingual Spanish– and English-speaking staff to serve you.

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National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month or NBCAM. During the month of October, charities raise awareness in order to increase funding for research to combat the horrible disease. The campaign is also used to help remind people that it’s very important to get checked for breast cancer, especially if the disease runs in your family.

NBCAM was founded in 1985 in October as a partnership between the American Cancer Society and the pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries (now part of AstraZeneca, producer of several anti-breast cancer drugs). The aim of the NBCAM from the start has been to promote mammography as the most effective weapon in the fight against breast cancer (“About Us”. National Breast Cancer Awareness Month).

A variety of events around the world are organized in October, including walks and runs, and the pink illumination of landmark buildings. In the United States, the National Football League promotes breast cancer awareness by incorporating pink on and off the field, and comic strip artists use pink on one day in October.

Sometimes referred to as National Breast Cancer Industry Month, critics of NBCAM point to a conflict of interest between corporations sponsoring breast cancer awareness while profiting from diagnosis and treatment. The breast cancer advocacy organization, Breast Cancer Action, has said repeatedly in newsletters and other information sources that October has become a public relations campaign that avoids discussion of the causes and prevention of breast cancer and instead focuses on “awareness” as a way to encourage women to get their mammograms. The term pinkwashing has been used by Breast Cancer Action to describe the actions of companies which manufacture and use chemicals which show a link with breast cancer and at the same time publicly support charities focused on curing the disease (Focus on Pinkwashers, Breast Cancer Action’s think before you pink campaign site).

Almost everyone has a loved one that has been impacted by cancer. It’s important to educate yourself as well as others in your life about the disease. Early detection and support for others go a long way in fighting and ultimately defeating breast cancer.

About Herrman & Herrman P.L.L.C

For nearly two decades, Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C., has served personal injury victims in Corpus Christi, the Coastal Bend, and throughout Texas. In that time, we have also sought to give back to the community we live and work in. For more information, view our community events page https://www.herrmanandherrman.com/texas-personal-injury-law-firm/community-involvement and join us at our next event!

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Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Wrongful death lawsuits are legal actions that one hopes they never have to take. They are lawsuits fought on behalf of a deceased individual. Also their estate and against a party that may be culpable for their death. This culpability is typically shown by another party exhibiting negligence or shirking their duty of care to the deceased somehow. However, to succeed at a wrongful death case, you must first understand what they entail and who can file a claim.

Who May Sue for a Wrongful Death

Typically, the people who sue for wrongful death are very connected to the deceased: spouses, parents, significant others, siblings, children, or financial dependents. Your state may have different laws and guidelines dictating who may file a wrongful death suit. These cases are civil suits that seek remedy for the death, usually in a financial payout.

What Can be Won in a Wrongful Death Suit

The compensation for wrongful death claims that are won varies from case to case. Generally, the damages you may be compensated for include emotional trauma, loss of consortium between spouses or partners, pain and suffering, inconvenience, and lost wages from the deceased family member. Depending on who you are to the deceased party. You may be eligible to recover funeral, hospice, or medical costs, as well as loss of inheritance from the deceased.

Situations for a Wrongful Death

Wrongful death can occur in any instance. One person’s negligence, or a party’s negligence, caused the death of an innocent person. So, if your loved one died in an unexpected accident. It would be unreasonable to file a wrongful death lawsuit because no one could be proved negligent. Some situations that may cause unlawful death suits are car accidents, medical malpractice cases, workplace incidents, liability on behalf of product manufacturers, exposure to dangerous chemicals or asbestos, plane accidents, and liability on behalf of premises owners or managers.

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How Truck Driver Negligence Can Lead to Jackknife Crashes in the Rio Grande Valley

In Texas, trucks and semi-trucks is a dime a dozen. There are many of these large and sometimes unwieldy vehicles on the road. If the drivers are not careful and well-trained, they can cause dangerous and sometimes fatal accidents. One such type of accident that results from truck driver negligence in the Rio Grande Valley is the jackknife accident. Jackknife accidents are extremely catastrophic due to their nature involving numerous vehicles or blocking much of a road or highway. To avoid jackknife wrecks, it’s important to understand them first. Here’s what you need to know about these violent truck crashes.

What is a Jackknife Collison?

A jackknife wreck occurs when the trailer of a truck swings to one side and collides with other lanes of traffic. The truck’s bent shape resembles that of a jackknife or of the letter L. This is where the collision gets its name. When a jackknife wreck occurs, the trailer and cab of the truck can crush people and cars. It can also block numerous lanes of the road, which can cause additional collisions.

What are the Causes of Jackknife Accidents?

Jackknife collisions are often either the cause of driver negligence or inclement weather or a combination of both. One common cause is speeding. If a trucker is speeding on the road and abruptly stops, it’s more likely to cause a rollover. Additionally, truckers who do not exercise caution as they enter and clear curves end up toppling over. Bad weather or road conditions can also cause a jackknife if drivers do not take it slow enough as they travel. One last cause of jackknife accidents in the Rio Grande Valley is the propensity for truck drivers or truck driving companies to not pay attention to routine maintenance, alignment checks, and brake pad switchouts.

If you or a loved one was injured in a jackknife accident involving a large truck in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, contact a personal injury attorney. If you can prove trucker negligence, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact Herrman & Herrman today or give our firm a call at (361) 882-4357 to speak to one of our knowledgeable Trucking Accident injury attorneys.  We have four convenient office locations across the state of Texas in Corpus Christi, McAllen, San Antonio, and Brownsville, along with a bilingual Spanish– and English-speaking staff to serve you.

 

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Fun Things to Do This Summer

This summer, it’s likely that you will want to live it up and soak up the sun even more than in previous summers. After the COVID-19 pandemic shut down much of the festivities you may have been looking forward to in the summer season last year; many feel the pressure to maximize their season. If you’re looking for fun things to do this year that will make up for last year but still safe, here are some great ideas.

Have a Pool or Beach Day

Being on the shore or chilling poolside is an essential part of making the most of your summer. However, it’s also essential that you keep both you and your family and friends safe. Ensure that young children are not swimming without a chaperone and that all who choose to swim are sufficient swimmers. Additionally, try not to load up on too many poolside margaritas before you take a dip—being under the influence can affect your swimming abilities.

Grill With Friends

Barbecues and backyard cookouts scream summertime fun. Getting all your friends that you’ve missed over the last year together in your yard for burgers and hotdogs will bring joy to your whole crew. As you grill, remember proper form: that means never grilling indoors, putting out your hot coals safely, and protecting yourself with mitts and long-handled grill tools.

Attend the Large Gatherings You Missed

Summer’s return means the comeback of large group gatherings like concerts, carnivals, music festivals, summer camps, and more. Ensure that you have a plan with your friends or family of how you will all stay safe at these activities. Designate a sober driver if you will be drinking, make sure everyone is hydrated, sun screened up, and mark a meeting place nearby if something goes wrong and you all need to meet back up or if someone is lost.

Head Out on Scenic Road Trips

Road trips are a great way to bond with people and to see the country. Make a few stops along the way to an ultimate destination and make memories the whole time. When you’re taking a long trip, it’s important to know how to stay safe. That means you should buckle up, use proper car seats for infants and toddlers, reduce distraction by staying off your phone while behind the wheel, and always practice defensive driving.

No one plans on being injured, but we’re here for you if you. Contact Herrman & Herrman today or give our firm a call at (361) 882-4357 to speak to one of our knowledgeable Car Accident injury attorneys.  We have four convenient office locations across the state of Texas in Corpus Christi, McAllen, San Antonio, and Brownsville, along with a bilingual Spanish– and English-speaking staff to serve you.

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¿Quién paga mis gastos médicos después de un accidente de auto en McAllen?

Si estuvo involucrado en un accidente de auto en McAllen, es posible que esté lidiando con lesiones dolorosas y se pregunte cómo se pagarán los gastos de su tratamiento. Si usted no causó la colisión, no debería tener que preocuparse por pagar las facturas médicas de sus lesiones.

La ley de Texas le permite buscar que el automovilista que causó el accidente le otorgue una compensación por sus lesiones. Al presentar un reclamo o una demanda por lesiones, puede buscar una compensación por sus gastos médicos, rehabilitación, medicamentos y más. Sin embargo, demostrar que el otro conductor fue culpable y responsabilizarlo puede ser un desafío.

Los abogados de lesiones de Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C. en Texas tienen décadas de experiencia ayudando a las víctimas de accidentes a recuperar la compensación necesaria para pagar sus gastos médicos y seguir adelante con sus vidas. Contáctenos para una consulta gratuita para saber cómo podemos ayudarlo.

¿Es Texas un estado sin culpa?

La mayoría de los estados, incluido Texas, siguen el sistema de fallas al determinar la responsabilidad por reclamos de seguros de autos. Esto significa que si otro conductor tiene la culpa de un accidente en Texas, usted dependerá principalmente de su seguro de responsabilidad civil para pagar sus lesiones y daños al vehículo. La mayoría de los conductores tienen la cobertura de seguro de responsabilidad mínima requerida en Texas, que incluye:

• $30,000 por persona en cobertura de responsabilidad por lesiones corporales
• $60,000 por accidente en cobertura de responsabilidad por lesiones corporals
• $25,000 por accidente en cobertura de responsabilidad por daños a la propiedad

Por ley, todas las pólizas de autos de Texas también deben contener cobertura de protección contra lesiones personales (PIP, por sus siglas en inglés). Este tipo de seguro paga sus facturas médicas, salarios perdidos y otros costos relacionados con lesiones después de un accidente, sin importar quién tuvo la culpa. Puede rechazar la cobertura PIP, pero debe hacerlo notificando a su compañía de seguros por escrito.

En general, es mejor comprar tanta cobertura PIP y otro seguro opcional como pueda pagar. La cobertura PIP, el seguro de pagos médicos (MedPay) y la cobertura de automovilista no asegurado (UM, por sus siglas en inglés) pueden ayudar a cubrir sus gastos médicos si usted tiene la culpa o si el otro conductor no tiene suficiente seguro.

Para reclamar una compensación por accidente de auto a otro conductor, debe poder demostrar que el conductor fue mayor o totalmente culpable del accidente. Según las leyes de negligencia comparativa de Texas, solo puede recuperar dinero por sus lesiones si fue menos del 51 por ciento responsable del accidente.

Uno de los componentes más importantes de cualquier reclamo por lesiones exitoso es la prueba de quién fue el responsable del accidente. Un abogado de Herrman & Herrman puede ayudarlo a reunir pruebas que demuestren la responsabilidad del otro conductor, como:

• Informes de accidentes: los informes de accidentes de la policía suelen contener información que puede respaldar su reclamo. Estos informes a menudo incluyen diagramas de accidentes, información de identificación sobre cualquier persona involucrada y determinaciones oficiales sobre quién tuvo la culpa.
• Fotos y secuencias de video: las fotos de la escena del accidente, las marcas de derrape en la carretera y los daños del vehículo pueden documentar las condiciones en el momento del accidente. Las imágenes de video de las cámaras de tráfico y de seguridad pueden mostrar con precisión cómo, cuándo y dónde ocurrió el accidente.
• Registros de teléfono celular y GPS: si sospecha que el conductor culpable pudo haber estado enviando mensajes de texto, hablando por teléfono o distraído de alguna otra manera en el momento del accidente, puede trabajar con un abogado para solicitar su teléfono celular o registros de GPS.
• Declaraciones de testigos presenciales: las declaraciones proporcionadas por los pasajeros y otros testigos presenciales que vieron el accidente pueden ser muy útiles. Si habla con algún testigo después de un accidente, asegúrese de pedir su información de contacto en caso de que necesite obtener una declaración de ellos más adelante.
• Testimonios de testigos expertos: los abogados suelen trabajar con testigos expertos, como los especialistas en reconstrucción de accidentes, que pueden modelar las condiciones de un accidente para identificar los posibles factores contribuyentes.

¿Tengo que pagar mis gastos médicos luego de un accidente de auto en McAllen?

Si resultó lesionado en un accidente de auto en McAllen que no fue su culpa, tiene derecho a recuperar dinero por sus gastos médicos. Es posible que pueda solicitar el reembolso de sus gastos médicos de uno de los siguientes:

• El conductor culpable: en Texas, usted tiene derecho a reclamar una compensación por accidente de auto al proveedor del seguro de responsabilidad civil del conductor culpable. Si el otro conductor está debidamente asegurado, debe tener acceso a al menos $30,000 en beneficios de responsabilidad por lesiones corporales.
• El propietario del auto: si el otro conductor no era el propietario del auto involucrado en el accidente, es posible que deba presentar un reclamo contra el propietario del vehículo o su proveedor de seguro de auto.
• El empleador del conductor: si el accidente fue causado por alguien que conducía un vehículo comercial o viajaba por motivos laborales, su empleador puede ser responsable de sus lesiones.
• Un fabricante negligente: algunos accidentes son causados por componentes defectuosos del vehículo. Si sufre lesiones en un accidente debido a un producto inseguro, puede tener derecho a una compensación de un fabricante negligente.
• Una agencia gubernamental: los gobiernos locales suelen ser responsables de mantener las carreteras y mantenerlas seguras. Cuando la negligencia del gobierno conduce a accidentes, las víctimas pueden tener motivos para un tipo especial de reclamo gubernamental en virtud de la Ley de reclamos por agravios de Texas.
• Su proveedor de MedPay: si tiene un seguro de MedPay, puede reclamar a su proveedor una compensación por gastos médicos razonables y el reembolso de los deducibles y copagos de su seguro médico.
• Su proveedor de PIP: si no se excluye del seguro PIP mínimo recomendado, debe tener al menos $2,500 en cobertura disponible por persona para gastos médicos relacionados con accidentes, salarios perdidos y servicios esenciales.
• Su proveedor de UM: la cobertura de automovilistas sin seguro (UM) y con seguro insuficiente (UIM, por sus siglas en inglés) también se incluye en la mayoría de las pólizas de seguro de Texas. Si tiene cobertura de lesiones corporales UM o UIM, puede presentar un reclamo por sus gastos médicos si el otro conductor no tiene seguro de auto o la cobertura es insuficiente para cubrir sus gastos.

Gastos médicos que puede tener que pagar después de un accidente de auto

En cualquier caso de lesiones personales, se necesita tiempo para recuperar la compensación de la parte culpable por el accidente de auto y sus lesiones.

Algunos de los gastos médicos más comunes en los que incurren las víctimas de accidentes incluyen:

• Tarifas de transporte de ambulancia
• Tratamiento en la sala de emergencias
• Estancias en el hospital
• Pruebas de diagnóstico
• Radiografías y resonancias magnéticas
• Visitas al médico y al especialista
• Rehabilitación física
• Terapia psicológica
• Medicamentos recetados
• Equipo médico duradero
• Asistencia a domicilio
• Modificaciones de accesibilidad

Es posible que tenga varias opciones de cobertura disponibles para pagar su atención médica, como pólizas de seguro PIP o UM/UIM. También puede recurrir a su propio seguro médico, aunque es posible que tenga copagos y puede haber opciones de tratamiento que su seguro médico no cubra.

Si recupera una compensación por accidente de auto de la parte culpable, su proveedor de seguro médico puede exigir que se le reembolse los costos que cubrió por la atención médica relacionada con el accidente. Su abogado puede negociar para minimizar el monto pagado a la compañía de seguros.

Los abogados de lesiones personales de McAllen en Herrman & Herrman explorarán todas las vías posibles para que usted busque una compensación por sus gastos médicos.

¿Puedo buscar compensación después de un accidente de auto si soy un inmigrante indocumentado?

Según datos de Pew Research, Texas fue el hogar de más de uno de cada diez inmigrantes en los Estados Unidos en 2018. Muchos de estos inmigrantes son trabajadores indocumentados que pueden tener miedo de buscar una compensación debido a su estado legal.

Si es un inmigrante indocumentado, debe saber que tiene derecho a presentar una demanda por lesiones en Texas. Si resultó lesionado en un accidente de auto en McAllen, tiene derecho a presentar un reclamo contra el conductor culpable.

Su estatus legal no puede usarse en su contra en un reclamo. Presentar un reclamo por lesiones no debería afectar su estado migratorio. Las compañías de seguros no pueden negarse a negociar un acuerdo solo porque usted es indocumentado.

¿Cómo pueden nuestros abogados de accidentes de auto en McAllen ayudarlo a recuperar la compensación que se merece?

En Herrman & Herrman, nuestros abogados de accidentes de auto en McAllen pueden respaldar su reclamo por lesiones por accidente al:

• Explicar sus derechos: nuestros abogados pueden escuchar su historia, evaluar los detalles de su reclamo y explicar sus opciones legales en una revisión gratuita de su caso.
• Hacer una estimación del valor de su reclamo: podemos revisar sus lesiones relacionadas con accidentes y calcular una estimación razonable de sus pérdidas.
• Realizar una investigación: cuando contrata a nuestro equipo, podemos iniciar una investigación inmediata sobre el accidente para identificar y preservar valiosas pruebas de respaldo.
• Administrar sus documentos y fechas límite: podemos administrar la documentación y las fechas límite en su nombre mientras usted se concentra en su salud.
• Comunicarse con otros en su nombre: los abogados de Herrman & Herrman pueden comunicarse con los proveedores de seguros en su nombre para evitar declaraciones comunes y errores que podrían dañar su caso.
• Negociar para maximizar su acuerdo: nuestros abogados son negociadores profesionales que negociarán agresivamente en su nombre.
• Representarlo en la corte: si un proveedor de seguros se niega a brindarle una oferta de acuerdo justo, podemos discutir con usted si debe llevar su caso a la corte.

Contáctenos en cualquier momento para una revisión gratuita de su caso con uno de nuestros abogados de lesiones personales en McAllen. Estamos listos para escucharlo y ayudarlo a comprender sus mejores opciones para la recuperación financiera.

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Who Pays for My Medical Bills After a Car Accident in McAllen?

If you were involved in a car accident in McAllen, you might be dealing with painful injuries and wondering how your treatment expenses will be paid. If you did not cause the collision, you shouldn’t have to worry about paying the medical bills for your injuries.

Texas law allows you to seek compensation for your injuries from the motorist who caused the crash. By filing an injury claim or lawsuit, you may seek compensation for your medical bills, rehabilitation, medication, and more. However, proving that another driver was responsible and holding them accountable can be challenging.

The Texas injury lawyers of Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C. have decades of experience helping accident victims recover the compensation needed to pay their medical bills and move on with their lives. Contact us for a free consultation to learn about how we may help you.

Is Texas a No-Fault State?

The majority of states, including Texas, follow the fault system when determining liability for auto insurance claims. This means if another driver is at fault for an accident in Texas, you’ll primarily rely on their liability insurance to pay for your injuries and vehicle damages. Most drivers carry the minimum liability insurance coverage required in Texas, which includes:

• $30,000 per person in bodily injury liability coverage
• $60,000 per accident in bodily injury liability coverage
• $25,000 per accident in property damage liability coverage

By law, all Texas auto policies must also contain personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. This type of insurance pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and other injury-related costs after a crash, no matter who was at fault. You can decline PIP coverage, but you must do so by notifying your insurance company in writing.

In general, it’s usually best to purchase as much PIP coverage and other optional insurance as you can afford. PIP coverage, medical payments (MedPay) insurance, and uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can all help cover your medical expenses if you are at fault or the other driver lacks sufficient insurance.

To claim compensation from another driver after a car accident, you must be able to demonstrate that the driver was mostly or fully at fault for the wreck. Under Texas’ comparative negligence laws, you can only recover money for your injuries if you were less than 51 percent responsible for the accident.

One of the most important components of any successful injury claim is proof of who was responsible for the accident. An attorney at Herrman & Herrman can help you gather evidence demonstrating the other driver’s liability, such as:

• Accident reports – Police accident reports typically contain information that can support your claim. These reports often include accident diagrams, identifying information about anyone involved, and official determinations regarding who was at fault.
• Photos and video footage – Photos of the accident scene, skid marks on the road, and vehicle damage can document conditions at the time of the crash. Video footage from traffic and security cameras can show precisely how, when, and where the crash occurred.
• Cell phone and GPS records – If you suspect the at-fault driver may have been texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted at the time of the crash, you can work with an attorney to request their cell phone or GPS records.
• Eyewitness statements – Statements provided by passengers and other eyewitnesses who saw the crash can be very useful. If you speak with any witnesses after a crash, be sure to ask for their contact information in case you need to get a statement from them later.
• Expert witness testimony – Lawyers frequently work with expert witnesses such as accident reconstruction specialists, who can model the conditions of a crash to identify potential contributing factors.

Who Pays for My Medical Bills After a McAllen Car Accident?

If you were injured in a McAllen car accident that wasn’t your fault, you have the right to recover money for your medical costs. You may be able to seek reimbursement for your medical bills from one of the following:

• The at-fault driver – In Texas, you are entitled to claim compensation from the liability insurance provider of the at-fault driver. If the other driver is properly insured, you should have access to at least $30,000 in liability benefits for bodily injury.
• The owner of the car – If the other driver was not the owner of the car involved in the crash, you may need to file a claim against the vehicle owner or his or her auto insurance provider.
• The driver’s employer – If the accident was caused by someone driving a commercial vehicle or traveling for work-related purposes, their employer may be liable for your injuries.
• A negligent manufacturer – Some accidents are caused by defective vehicle components. If you sustain injuries in a crash due to an unsafe product, you may be entitled to compensation from a negligent manufacturer.
• A government agency – Local governments are typically responsible for maintaining roads and keeping them safe. When government negligence leads to accidents, victims may have grounds for a special type of government claim under the Texas Tort Claims Act.
• Your MedPay provider – If you carry MedPay insurance, you may claim compensation from your provider for reasonable medical expenses and reimbursement for your health insurance deductibles and copays.
• Your PIP provider – If you don’t opt out of the minimum recommended PIP insurance, you should have at least $2,500 in coverage available per person for accident-related medical expenses, lost wages, and essential services.
• Your UM provider – Uninsured (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is also included in most Texas insurance policies. If you have UM or UIM bodily injury coverage, you can file a claim for your medical expenses if the other driver has no auto insurance or insufficient coverage to cover your expenses.

Medical Expenses You May Have to Pay After a Car Accident

In any personal injury case, it takes time to recover compensation from the party at fault for the car accident and your injuries.

Some of the most common medical expenses accident victims incur include:

• Ambulance transportation fees
• Emergency room treatment
• Hospital stays
• Diagnostic tests
• X-rays and MRIs
• Doctor and specialist visits
• Physical rehabilitation
• Psychological therapy
• Prescription medications
• Durable medical equipment
• In-home assistance
• Accessibility modifications

You might have multiple coverage options available to pay for your medical care, such as PIP or UM/UIM insurance policies. You can also turn to your own health insurance, though you may have copays and there could be treatment options your health insurance doesn’t cover.

If you do recover compensation from the at-fault party, your health insurance provider may demand to be repaid for any costs it covered for medical care related to the car accident. Your attorney may be able to negotiate to minimize the amount paid to the insurance company.

The McAllen personal injury attorneys at Herrman & Herrman will explore all possible avenues for your to seek compensation for your medical bills.

Can I Seek Compensation After a Car Accident If I’m an Undocumented Immigrant?

According to data from Pew Research, Texas was home to more than one in ten immigrants in the United States in 2018. Many of these immigrants are undocumented workers who may be afraid to seek compensation due to their legal status.

If you are an undocumented immigrant, you should know that you have a right to file an injury claim in Texas. If you were injured in a McAllen car accident, you have the right to file a claim against the at-fault driver.

Your legal status cannot be used against you in a claim. Filing an injury claim should not affect your immigration status. Insurance companies cannot refuse to negotiate a settlement just because you are undocumented.

How Can Our McAllen Car Accident Attorneys Help You Recover the Compensation You Deserve?

At Herrman & Herrman, our McAllen car accident lawyers can support your crash injury claim by:

• Explaining your rights – Our attorneys can listen to your story, evaluate the details of your claim, and explain your legal options in a free case review.
• Estimating the value of your claim – We can review your accident-related injuries and calculate a reasonable estimate of your losses.
• Conducting an investigation – When you hire our team, we can launch an immediate investigation into the accident to identify and preserve valuable supporting evidence.
• Managing documents and deadlines – We can manage the paperwork and deadlines on your behalf while you focus on your health.
• Communicating with others on your behalf – The lawyers of Herrman & Herrman can communicate with insurance providers on your behalf so you avoid common statements and mistakes that could damage your case.
• Negotiating to maximize your settlement – Our attorneys are professional negotiators who will negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
• Representing you in court – If an insurance provider refuses to provide a fair settlement offer, we can discuss with you whether to take your case to court.

Contact us anytime for a free case review with one of our compassionate McAllen personal injury attorneys. We’re ready to listen and help you understand your best options for financial recovery.

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Prevensión las lesiones de espalda en el trabajo

El dolor de espalda puede ser debilitante e interferir con su capacidad para trabajar, desplazarse y disfrutar de sus actividades habituales. Muchas lesiones de espalda ocurren en el lugar de trabajo, incluso en trabajos livianos. Algunos de ellos son el resultado del desgaste a lo largo del tiempo. Sin embargo, hay varias formas de reducir el riesgo de sufrir lesiones en la espalda en el trabajo.

Para aprender sobre la prevención de lesiones de espalda y lo que puede hacer si se lesiona en el trabajo, continúe leyendo. Si ha sufrido una lesión de espalda en el lugar de trabajo en Brownsville y necesita asistencia legal, comuníquese con Herrman & Herrman para programar una consulta gratuita con un abogado de lesiones de espalda en Brownsville. Nuestro equipo de expertos está disponible las 24 horas del día, los siete días de la semana, para responder sus preguntas.

Causas comunes del dolor de espalda en el trabajo

Cuando la mayoría de la gente piensa en lesiones de espalda relacionadas con el trabajo, se imagina un trauma por levantar objetos pesados. Sin embargo, muchos trabajos requieren actividades que ejercen una presión significativa sobre su espalda.

Las causas comunes del dolor de espalda relacionado con el trabajo incluyen:

• Accidentes de vehículos de motor: muchos trabajadores deben conducir vehículos de motor o maquinaria pesada, lo que aumenta el riesgo de lesiones en la espalda por colisiones de tráfico. Un accidente automovilístico puede causar lesiones en la espalda a través de un traumatismo por fuerza contundente, lesiones por aplastamiento o lesiones por penetración.
• Tensión por movimientos repetitivos: incluso los movimientos repetitivos de bajo estrés pueden hacer que los músculos se tensen y se desgarren con el tiempo. El dolor por tensión de movimientos repetitivos o una lesión por desgaste suele aparecer gradualmente. Si bien ocurren gradualmente, estas lesiones pueden ser debilitantes y requerir cirugía.
• Lesiones por levantar objetos pesados: el esfuerzo excesivo por levantar objetos pesados puede causar dolor de espalda. Las lesiones de espalda a menudo ocurren cuando los trabajadores se esfuerzan por levantar objetos pesados o tuercen sus cuerpos mientras cargan objetos pesados.
• Capacitación inadecuada: los empleadores deben brindar una capacitación de seguridad adecuada basada en los roles de los trabajadores para reducir el riesgo de lesiones. Esto incluye capacitar a los trabajadores en las técnicas de elevación adecuadas, el uso seguro de escaleras y equipos y una buena postura.
• Políticas o estándares de seguridad inadecuados: cuando las empresas no dan prioridad a la seguridad, los trabajadores pueden sufrir lesiones. Si los empleados trabajan en exceso o tienen prisa debido a la escasez de personal o demandas de producción irrazonables, es más probable que se lesionen como resultado.
• Equipo o maquinaria inseguros: si el equipo o la maquinaria no reciben el mantenimiento adecuado para los trabajadores, los accidentes pueden provocar tensión en la espalda o lesiones. Los trabajadores que sufren lesiones en la espalda debido a equipos con defectos de fabricación pueden tener motivos para reclamar al fabricante negligente.
• Accidentes por resbalones y caídas: un accidente por resbalones y caídas puede provocar fracturas de vértebras, hernias de disco y otras lesiones graves en la espalda. Los resbalones y caídas a menudo ocurren en el lugar de trabajo debido a superficies resbaladizas, cornisas o andamios abiertos y escombros u objetos sueltos a lo largo de los pasillos.
• Postura o ergonomía deficiente: los trabajadores que trabajan en posiciones incómodas o usan sillas sin el soporte ergonómico adecuado tienen mayor probabilidad de dañar las estructuras de la columna y experimentar dolor de espalda.

Maneras de prevenir el dolor de espalda en el trabajo

La guía de la Administración de Salud y Seguridad Ocupacional (OSHA, por sus siglas en inglés) para la prevención de lesiones de espalda señala que muchas lesiones de espalda se desarrollan gradualmente debido a microtraumatismos repetitivos. Los empleadores pueden reducir el riesgo de lesiones traumáticas de espalda promoviendo:

• Ejercicio regular: hacer ejercicio varias veces a la semana fortalecerá el tronco y las extremidades, lo que puede reducir el riesgo de lesiones en la espalda. Para prevenir lesiones en la espalda baja, intente nadar, realizar estiramientos pélvicos o estiramientos rotativos.
• Postura y ergonomía adecuadas: mantener una postura adecuada cuando se encuentra de pie, sentado, caminando o levantando objetos puede reducir drásticamente el riesgo de lesiones en la espalda. Los empleadores pueden ayudar a los trabajadores de oficina a evitar lesiones en la espalda al proporcionar sillas de apoyo y muebles ergonómicos.
• Políticas seguras y razonables: los empleadores pueden reducir el riesgo de lesiones y dolores de espalda manteniendo las cuotas de productividad razonables y dando a los trabajadores tiempo suficiente para descansar adecuadamente.
• Modificaciones de tareas repetitivas: si se espera que los trabajadores realicen tareas repetitivas, los empleadores deben permitir modificaciones que limiten el riesgo de lesiones. Para evitar la tensión de las tareas de elevación repetitivas, los empleados pueden utilizar dispositivos de elevación o alternar entre trabajos pesados y ligeros.
• Uso y mantenimiento adecuados del equipo: cuando los trabajadores no entienden cómo usar el equipo correctamente o el equipo tiene un mantenimiento deficiente, pueden ocurrir lesiones. Los empleadores pueden ayudar a prevenir lesiones en la espalda fomentando el uso adecuado del equipo y manteniendo el equipo en buen estado.

Qué hacer si me lesiono en el trabajo

Si sufrió una lesión en la espalda en el trabajo, es posible que tenga derecho a los beneficios de la póliza de seguro de compensación laboral de su empleador. Si su empleador tiene un seguro de compensación laboral, podría recibir una compensación incluso si tuvo la culpa de su lesión ocupacional en la espalda.

Los beneficios de compensación laboral están destinados a pagar los gastos médicos necesarios relacionados con su lesión. Si no puede regresar al trabajo durante un periodo significativo debido a la lesión, la compensación laboral también puede cubrir una parte de su salario perdido.

Si ha resultado lesionado en un accidente laboral, debe:

• Busque atención médica inmediata: algunos beneficios de compensación laboral solo cubrirán el tratamiento de proveedores en una red de atención médica certificada. Si su empleador es parte de una red, puede pedirle una lista de proveedores aprobados.
• Informe la lesión a su empleador: debe informar de su lesión en la espalda lo antes posible. Si no notifica a su empleador sobre la lesión dentro de los 30 días, puede perder su derecho a reclamar los beneficios de compensación laboral.
• Siga las recomendaciones de tratamiento de su médico: una de las cosas más importantes que puede hacer por su salud es seguir las órdenes de su médico. Si sigue los regímenes de tratamiento prescritos y asiste a las citas de seguimiento, maximizará su potencial de recuperación y demostrará a las partes interesadas que se está tomando en serio su salud.
• Determine si su empleador tiene seguro de compensación laboral: Texas es el único estado de los EE. UU. que no exige que los empleadores tengan seguro de compensación laboral. Si se lesionó en el trabajo y su empleador no proporciona beneficios de compensación laboral, debe hablar con un abogado de lesiones personales sobre sus opciones legales.
• Presente un reclamo ante la División de Compensación Laboral de Texas (DWC, por sus siglas en inglés): si su empleador no presenta un reclamo por usted, puede presentar un reclamo enviando un formulario DWC-041 completo a la DWC de Texas en línea, por correo o por fax. Debe enviar este formulario dentro de un año a partir de la fecha de su lesión de espalda inicial para reclamar los beneficios de compensación laboral.

Si necesita ayuda para comprender sus opciones legales, un abogado de Herrman & Herman puede ayudarlo. Un abogado puede ayudar a evaluar otras opciones para obtener la compensación que necesita. Esto podría incluir presentar un reclamo ante un proveedor de seguros privado o presentar una demanda contra su empleador.

¿Lesionado en el trabajo? Contáctenos

Si sufre de dolor de espalda después de un accidente en el trabajo, necesita un abogado de lesiones laborales que lo ayude a buscar una compensación financiera justa. Con más de 100 años de experiencia combinada, los abogados de Herrman & Herrman en lesiones de espalda en Brownsville han obtenido resultados favorables para más de 20,000 texanos lesionados.

Cuando esté listo para recibir respuestas a sus preguntas, estamos aquí. Llámenos hoy al (361) 882-4357 o contáctenos en línea para una revisión gratuita del caso de su reclamo por lesiones de espalda. Para su conveniencia, contamos con varias oficinas en Texas, incluyendo Brownsville, Corpus Christi, McAllen y San Antonio.

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Injured at Work, What To Do If You Get Fired

If you’ve suffered an injury at work, you might be forced to deal with medical treatment for your injury while also experiencing a loss of income if you must miss work to recover. Fortunately, employees who are injured on the job in Texas have certain rights under state law to pursue compensation to cover their injuries and losses.

However, sometimes, injured workers who file a workers’ claim for benefits find themselves terminated by their employer. An employer is not allowed to fire an injured worker to avoid paying a workers’ compensation claim.  If your employer fired you after you were injured at work, you need to understand your legal rights and options.

Turn to the attorneys of Herrman & Herrman to discuss your legal options during a free consultation. Our attorneys are skilled in workplace injury law and will fight on your behalf if you have suffered a work-related injury. With more than 100 years of combined experience, our lawyers have successfully obtained compensation and justice for thousands of clients. We aggressively pursue the best possible outcomes for you and work to obtain justice for you.

Contact our firm today for a free initial case evaluation to learn about your legal options. Our friendly and compassionate legal team is ready to help.

Injured at Work Then Fired, What to Do Next?

If you are injured in a workplace accident, your employer may immediately terminate you. Or, your employer may fire you in retaliation after you file a work injury claim against your employer. In either case, your termination after being injured at work may constitute wrongful termination under Texas law.

Texas is an at-will work state and employers can dismiss workers without cause. But there are a few exceptions.

An employer may not fire a worker:

• To avoid liability for a work injury claim.
• As retaliation for an employee filing a work injury claim.
• If an employee seeks legal advice from an attorney regarding their rights after suffering a work injury.

However, employers may be entitled to terminate an injured worker if:

• The worker violated company safety policies prior to being injured.
• The worker fails to comply with company policies following their injury.
• The worker fails to notify the employer of a change in their health or ability to work.

An employer is not required to hold a position open for a worker whose injury prevents him or her from performing the duties of the role. If the worker is expected to remain unable to perform their full duties for an extended period, an employer is permitted to let that employee go to replace them with an able-bodied worker able to perform the job.

What Are My Rights?

When you are injured at work, you need to know your legal rights with respect to your employment and your ability to seek treatment and obtain compensation for your injury. These rights include:

• The right to seek medical treatment for your work injury
• The right to not be forced to return to work until you are released to restricted duty or full duty by your treating physician
• The right to return to your job if you are released to work by your treating physician
• The right to file a workers’ compensation claim if your employer carries workers’ compensation insurance, or to file a workplace injury lawsuit against your employer if they don’t have workers’ comp insurance
• The right to seek and have legal counsel
• The right to refuse offers or incentives from your employer to avoid filing a work injury claim
• The right to be free from harassment by your employer due to your injury

If your work injury was caused by someone other than your employer—for example, if you were hit by a negligent driver when driving for work-related reasons—you also have the right to file a personal injury claim against those responsible for your work injury. Through a personal injury claim, you may seek to recover compensation for losses such as pain and suffering that is not covered by workers’ compensation insurance.

Can I Sue My Employer?

Your right to file a workplace injury lawsuit against your employer in Texas depends on whether your employer has purchased workers’ compensation insurance. Texas does not require private employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage.

Employers must inform their employees whether or not the employer has workers’ compensation coverage.

If you work for an employer that provides workers’ compensation benefits to injured employees, you generally cannot sue your employer for a work injury. Instead, you are limited to filing a claim against your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. Workers’ compensation is considered “no-fault” insurance. You only need to prove that your injury occurred while performing your job. You do not need to prove that your employer somehow caused your injury.

An injured worker may only step outside the workers’ compensation system under limited circumstances, such as if the employer’s intentional conduct caused the worker’s injury.

If the employer does not have workers’ compensation insurance, then an injured employee may choose to file an injury lawsuit against the employer whose disregard for safety caused a workplace injury. If you file a workplace injury lawsuit, you will need to prove your employer’s legal liability for your injury by establishing negligence or willful conduct.

In a work injury lawsuit, you may seek to recover the full amount of your medical bills, lost wages, and lost future earnings, in addition to intangible losses arising from your injury, such as pain and suffering and loss of quality of life.

Am I Protected If I’m an Undocumented Immigrant?

Even if you are an undocumented immigrant, you still have rights if you are injured at work. Regardless of your immigration status, you have a right to file a workers’ compensation claim if your employer has insurance coverage or to file a personal injury lawsuit against your employer if workers’ comp coverage is unavailable.

If you pursue a work injury claim against your employer, your immigration status should not become an issue in the case. If your employer attempts to retaliate against you for filing a workplace injury claim by reporting you to federal immigration officials, you may be protected from immigration proceedings during your workplace injury claim.

An undocumented worker who is fired after suffering a work injury may still have a right to pursue a workers’ compensation claim or workplace personal injury claim and seek the compensation due to them under the law. But you will need the guidance of an experienced attorney to have the best chance of winning your case.

Contact a Work Injury Lawyer Today

Contact Herrman & Herrman today or give our firm a call at (361) 882-4357 to speak to one of our knowledgeable workplace injury attorneys. We’ll explain your options for seeking the compensation you need to move forward with your life. We have four convenient office locations across the state of Texas in Corpus Christi, McAllen, San Antonio, and Brownsville, along with a bilingual Spanish– and English-speaking staff to serve you.

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Texas Ranks 3rd on Worst Drivers of America List

Texas ranks No. 3 on a list of the 10 U.S. states with the worst drivers based on the number of fatal car accidents and traffic law violations in five categories. Drunk driving is the most frequent traffic violation for Texas, with 46 percent of all traffic deaths in Texas in 2018 involving a driver who had been drinking.

“These 10 states with the worst drivers have serious issues, including drunk driving and pedestrian deaths,” says the survey report by Car Insurance Comparison, which calls itself an objective, third-party resource for everything auto-insurance related.

Texas had been No. 5 on the 2019 worst drivers list. It’s No. 3 ranking for 2020 is a tie with Montana. Alaska is No. 1 and New Mexico is No. 2 for 2020.

In addition to drunk driving fatalities, 990 of the 3,642 traffic deaths in Texas in 2018 involved speeding, the report says. This amounted to 27.2 percent of all traffic deaths.

The worst state, Alaska, had 80 traffic deaths in 2018, of which 97.5 percent involved drunk driving and speeding, the study says.

How States with the ‘Worst Drivers’ were Ranked

Car Insurance Comparison says its statistics come from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Information Institute (III). Researchers gathered data on each state in five categories:

• Death (fatal accident) rate
• Failure to obey
• Careless driving
• Drunk driving
• Speeding

In the five main categories, Texas ranked as follows:

• Death rate – 17th
• Failure to obey – 8th
• Careless driving – 12th
• Drunk driving – 3rd
• Speeding – 12th

Each category was made up of smaller categories, such as pedestrian deaths and bicyclist deaths in the careless driving category. Statistics about numerous subcategories were compiled, which led to a sub-ranking. The overall ranking for each state was compiled in a similar manner from category rankings and weighted. (Read more about the study methodology.)

Drunk Driving in Texas

The NHTSA’s 2018 report about drunk driving says Texas had the most alcohol-impaired driving fatalities of any state, meaning that at least one driver in each crash had a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher.

At least one driver was drinking in 1,677 fatal accidents in Texas in 2018 – 46% of all 3,642 traffic fatalities recorded. In 974 fatal accidents in Texas in 2018, at least one driver registered a .15% BAC or higher.

A 2019 study by USDrugTestCenters.com found that from 2009 to 2018, the number of drunk driving arrests in Texas dropped by nearly 33 percent and that the number of drunk driving arrests had declined overall in the U.S. over the previous five years.

Just over 1 million people in the U.S. were arrested for driving under the influence in 2018, accounting for nearly 1 in 10 of the total arrests made across the country that year, the report says. Arrests for drunk driving and for driving under the influence of any substance are more common than arrests for aggravated assault, burglary, auto theft or fraud.

Under Texas law, a driver is legally intoxicated when his or her blood-alcohol concentration reaches .08 percent. But it is illegal to drive if drugs or alcohol affect driving ability at any level. A study by Texas A&M University’s Center for Alcohol and Drug Education Studies says that even one or two beers can seriously affect judgment and driving decisions.

For a first DWI arrest in Texas you could face:

• A fine of up to $2,000.
• Up to 180 days in jail upon conviction with three mandatory days.
• Loss of driver license up to a year.

A second DWI offense in Texas is punishable by:

• A fine of up to $4,000.
• One month to a year in jail upon conviction.
• Loss of driver license up to two years.

A third DWI offense in Texas is punishable by:

• A fine of up to $10,000.
• Two to 10 years in prison.
• Loss of driver license up to two years.

These fines do not include an additional fine of $3,000, $4,500, or $6,000 the State of Texas assesses upon sentencing.

What are My Options if I Was Injured by a Drunk Driver?

In Texas, if you are involved in a car accident caused by another driver, the law allows you to seek compensation for your injuries and losses, including property damage. This a civil matter separate from any criminal prosecution of drunk driving charges. Payment generally comes from the at-fault driver’s auto liability insurance.

After a car accident that causes personal injury, you should promptly phone 911 to report the accident to police and to summon emergency medical responders, if needed. You should report the accident to your car insurance provider, which will contact the other driver’s insurer if the other party is believed to be at fault.

How insurers will respond to your claim may depend on the circumstances of your accident and the extent of your injuries and other losses. As your expenses and losses increase, the likelihood of a full insurance payment decreases. In many cases, an insurer will offer a settlement that is for much less than your actual losses or will deny the claim altogether.

The best way to ensure that an insurance company does not take advantage of you after you have been seriously injured in a drunk diving accident is to speak to a local car accident lawyer as soon as possible. A drunk driving accident lawyer at Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C. can investigate to determine who was at fault for the accident and calculate all of your legally payable costs and losses. An experienced drunk driving accident lawyer can submit a claim for you and negotiate for an appropriate payment and file a lawsuit and press your case in court.

Contact Our Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers

The lawyers of Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C. can help you obtain justice after you have been injured in a drunk driving accident in South Texas. We have represented thousands of clients with serious injuries and have a track record of success.

Contact us today at (361) 882-4357 or fill out our online contact form. We have offices in Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and San Antonio, TX.

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Driving Without a Seat Belt: Can I be Compensated?

Texas law requires drivers and passengers to wear seat belts, but not everyone follows the law. Data from the Texas Department of Transportation show that 924 people who were not wearing seat belts died in car accidents in 2019. Not wearing a seat belt often results in more severe injuries or fatal injuries in an accident.

You should obey the law and wear a seat belt when riding in a motor vehicle. But if you were injured in a crash while not wearing a seat belt, you may still be eligible for claim compensation for your injuries if the accident was caused by another driver. The McAllen, TX car accident lawyers at Herrman & Herrman can review the details of your accident and help you pursue compensation from the at-fault motorist accountable.

Our personal injury attorneys have more than 100 years of combined legal experience, and we’ve helped our clients recover millions of dollars. Get a free consultation today by filling out our contact form or calling our office in McAllen to speak with a member of our team.

Receiving Compensation After a Car Crash Without a Seat Belt in McAllen

Personal injury claims are based on the legal theory of negligence. The at-fault driver is financially liable because he or she acted carelessly or negligently and caused the crash. Your decision not to wear a seat belt most likely did not contribute to causing the crash.

For example, suppose that you’re hit by a drunk driver who ran a red light while you were crossing legally through the intersection. You were following all the rules of the road except for wearing your seat belt. The impaired driver caused your injuries by driving while impaired and failing to obey a stop light. You would not have suffered injuries except for the drunk driver’s negligent actions. Therefore, you should be allowed to seek compensation from the drunk driver, even though you were not wearing your seatbelt.

In cases where someone is injured in a car accident while not wearing a seatbelt, the lawyers for the insurance company will often try to justify the insurer’s denial of the injury claim by citing the so-called “seat belt defense.”

This argument implies that you were injured because you weren’t wearing your seatbelt or that your injuries were more severe because you weren’t properly restrained. This underscores the importance of having an experienced McAllen personal injury attorney advocating for your interests after a crash caused by another motorist.

With the help of an experienced car accident lawyer, you may seek compensation even if you weren’t wearing a seatbelt. Your attorney will work to build a strong case on your behalf. Our attorneys at Herrman & Herrman will work to demonstrate how the other party’s negligence caused the collision and that your injuries resulted from the negligent driver’s actions. While the fact that you weren’t wearing a seatbelt could reduce your final award depending on what percentage of fault is assigned to you, you may still be entitled to significant compensation to help rebuild your life.

Texas Seat Belt Laws

Texas law requires all drivers and passengers to use a seat belt or other restraining device whenever they’re seated in a vehicle. For adult drivers, the belt’s shoulder strap should go over the shoulder and across the center of the chest. The lap portion of the belt should fit snugly across the hips, not rest over the stomach. Failing to wear a seat belt when required to do so is a misdemeanor offense.

Texas’ seat belt laws include specific provisions for younger passengers. If a young child cannot use a standard seat belt, the child must ride in an appropriate booster seat or another restraint. The rules for younger passengers are:

• Birth to age 2: Infants and toddlers must use a rear-facing child seat until they are two years old or reach the highest height or weight allowed by the car seat manufacturer.
• Age 2 to 4: Children from age 2 to 4, or those who have outgrown a rear-facing seat, should use a forward-facing safety seat with a harness. They should continue to use the seat with a harness until they reach the weight or height limit set by the safety seat manufacturer.
• Age 4 to 8: Any children ages 4 to 8 who have reached the weight or height limit for a forward-facing car seat should use a belt-positioning booster seat to keep safe while in a vehicle. They should use a belt-positioning system until they can comfortably use a standard vehicle safety belt. This typically occurs when a child reaches 4 feet, 9 inches in height, and is between 8 to 12 years old.

Texas Comparative Negligence

The most significant way that not wearing a seat belt can affect your personal injury claim has to do with Texas’ comparative negligence laws. The laws are used to help determine what compensation someone receives in a personal injury claim if there are potentially multiple liable parties.

Under the comparative negligence system used in Texas, compensation in a personal injury claim is awarded based on the percentage of fault assigned to each party involved in the claim. In Texas, plaintiffs in personal injury cases are not entitled to compensation if they are found to be more than 50 percent responsible for their injuries.

By citing the seat belt defense, an insurance company may try to avoid financial liability by arguing that you were partially or fully responsible for your own injuries. That’s why it is crucial to hire an experienced injury lawyer to push back against insurance company tactics and build a strong case on your behalf for full compensation.

Contact a McAllen, TX Car Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in an accident but weren’t wearing your seatbelt at the time of the crash, don’t despair. Contact the McAllen, TX car accident lawyers at Herrman & Herrman to discuss your situation with a knowledgeable member of our legal team. We’ll provide a 100% free consultation to evaluate your case and determine the best course of action. Contact us today by calling our office or visiting our contact page.

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Burn Injury at Work: Am I Entitled to a Compensation?

You work hard every day at your job. But accidents happen even when you’re careful, and you could end up with a burn injury at work. You could be facing time away from your job and long-term health challenges. The costs of an accident can add up fast, leaving you with bills and questions about the future.

If you sustain a burn injury at work in Texas, you may be able to receive paid medical care for your burn injuries through your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. If your employer has workers’ compensation insurance, then the workers’ compensation may cover your medical care and replace a portion of your lost wages while you cannot work. If the employer does not have workers’ compensation insurance, then you may have a right to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the employer or whoever caused your injuries.

The experienced Brownsville burn injury attorneys at Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C., advocate for the rights of injured workers. We have an in-depth knowledge of the laws related to work injuries. We can help you pursue the financial recovery you deserve. Contact us today to learn about your legal options.

What Damages Can I Recover?

Suffering a serious burn injury can take away your ability to work and earn the income you need. A serious burn injury may involve treatment in a specialized burn hospital, multiple surgeries to address scarring, and a lengthy recovery.

If your employer has workers’ compensation insurance, it should cover your burn injury treatment. Workers’ compensation insurance is a type of no-fault insurance. That means that you do not have to prove that anyone was at fault in order to receive the insurance benefits. Even if you caused a workplace accident, you may still be eligible for workers’ comp benefits.

Unfortunately, some businesses misclassify employees as independent contractors in order to avoid paying proper benefits to them. If your employer disputes your right to receive workers’ compensation benefits, let an experienced Brownsville work injury attorney review the situation and help you understand your legal rights during a free consultation.

If you have significant burn injuries and workers’ compensation is unavailable or you do not qualify for benefits, then you may need to consider filing a burn injury lawsuit if someone else caused the accident. The types of damages you may be able to recover from a burn injury lawsuit include:

• Medical costs. A burn injury could mean extended stays in hospitals, surgeries, medications, therapy, and other costly medical services. By filing an injury claim, you may seek to recover the costs of the medical care after an accident and the future costs of taking care of your burn injury if ongoing treatment is needed.
• Lost wages and lost income. Serious burn injuries can leave you unable to work and deprive you of the income needed to support your family. Through a burn injury claim, you can seek compensation for the wages you have lost due to an injury.
• Diminished earning capacity. Some burn injuries can limit your ability to work in the future or restrict the types of work you can do. You may have reduced income. You may seek compensation for reduced earning capacity through a burn injury lawsuit.
• Pain and suffering. Burn injuries can be very painful both physically and mentally. Through a burn injury claim, you can seek compensation for your pain and anguish after a burn injury at work.
• Punitive damages. In special circumstances, accident victims may seek punitive damages to punish a wrongdoer such as when someone’s fraud, malice, or gross negligence led to a burn injury.

After a burn injury at work, many types of compensation may be available. Contact Herrman & Herrman, a Brownsville burn injury law firm. Our attorneys will help you understand your options for seeking compensation to rebuild your life after a serious injury.

Common Causes of Burn Injuries at Work

Burn injuries can happen at almost any type of job. Some of the most common causes of burn injuries at work include:

• Equipment that generates high temperatures
• Wiring and electrical problems
• Steam and high-temperature liquids
• Hot grease
• Exposure to dangerous chemicals
• Situations and equipment that can cause friction burns
• Lights and medical equipment that can cause radiation burns

Average Compensation for a Burn Injury

When you’re injured, you may be wondering how much compensation you may be able to seek. The answer is that it depends upon the facts and circumstances of the accident and the severity of your injuries.

A burn accident lawyer can review your case, answer your questions, and help you understand what compensation you may be able to seek.

Workers’ Comp Claim

If workers’ compensation insurance is available, filing a workers’ comp claim may be your best option. You may not have a right to sue your employer if the employer offers workers compensation benefits.

Compensation for non-economic losses, such as pain and suffering, is not covered through workers’ compensation benefits. However, if workers’ comp applies in your case, you may be eligible for benefits no matter who was at fault for the accident that injured you, as mentioned earlier. There are clear steps in filing a workers’ comp claim. A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you file a claim.

Wrongful Death Claim

The sad truth is that people can die because of burn injuries at work. If your loved one died as a result of workplace burn injuries, you may be entitled to death benefits through workers’ compensation or in some cases, you may have a right to pursue a wrongful death claim against those responsible for the fatal accident.

A compassionate attorney at Herrman & Herrman can help you understand the proper steps to take after the accidental death of a loved one.

Contact a Brownsville Burn Injury Lawyer Today

 If you or someone you love has suffered a burn injury at work, get in touch with Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C., today. With more than 100 years of combined experience, our burn injury attorneys have the knowledge, resources, and experience to help you pursue full compensation.

Our burn injury lawyers serve Texas from office locations in Corpus Christi, McAllen, San Antonio, and Brownsville. Our talented Accident Investigative Team can even come to the scene immediately after an accident. With a staff that speaks Spanish and English, we’re ready to talk with you.

For a free consultation about your case and how we could help, call us at (361) 882-4357 or reach out to us online now.

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Driverless Car Accident in Texas: Who is Liable?

With driver error accounting for a significant portion of motor vehicle accidents in Texas and across the country, auto manufacturers have been working to develop driverless cars, which will transport passengers without any need for human control to guide the vehicle. The thinking goes that removing the element of human error will reduce the number of injuries and deaths from vehicle accidents.

Many newer vehicles on the roads of Texas today have some level of driver assistance. As vehicle manufacturers test new autonomous driving systems, the state of Texas has become notable for having some of the least restrictions on driverless vehicles. Since driverless car technology is still developing, the vehicles do get into accidents on the roads of Texas, potentially causing injury and deaths. The recent crash of a driverless Tesla left two passengers dead. The question is who should be held financially liable when a driverless car causes a crash.

If you’ve been injured by an accident caused by a driverless car or truck, you need an experienced, attorney to help you resolve the complex legal questions in an accident claim involving a driverless vehicle. Turn to the Texas car accident attorneys of Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C., for help.

With more than 100 years of combined legal experience, our legal team has the capability to handle complicated personal injury claims. Our attorneys have successfully handled more than 20,000 cases on behalf of our clients. We’re honored by the numerous reviews our clients have left for us on Google, Facebook, and other social media platforms.

Our firm is dedicated to helping you get justice from those at fault for the driverless car accident that injured you. Call Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C., today at (361) 882-4357 or contact us online for a free case evaluation. Learn more about how our firm can help you hold other parties liable after you’ve been injured in a driverless car accident in Texas.

News About Accidents Involving Driverless Cars

Driverless and self-driving cars have been responsible for causing injury and death to residents of Texas. In April 2021, a 2019 Tesla Model S was involved in a single-vehicle accident in The Woodlands, a suburb of Houston. The Tesla veered off the road after taking a turn at too high a speed, colliding into a tree and bursting into flames. After putting out the fire, police found that neither of the two deceased occupants was driving the vehicle. One occupant was seated in the front passenger seat and the other was sitting in the rear seat.

Auto manufacturer Tesla has been one of the pioneers in the development of self-driving vehicles. The manufacturer includes a suite of technology in its vehicles that it has marketed as “Autopilot.” Tesla has come under criticism by safety advocates who claim that the self-driving technology in Tesla vehicles has not been sufficiently tested for use on public roads and that the company misleads consumers as to the capability of Tesla vehicles’ self-driving technology.

Although Autopilot allows Tesla vehicles to accelerate, brake, and steer on their own in certain circumstances, the feature requires drivers to maintain supervision of the vehicle and the road so that they can intervene and take manual control of the vehicle when necessary. But as drivers have become more comfortable with the technology, they have become less attentive to the task of driving while behind the wheel.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced that data from the recent accident outside of Houston indicated that the vehicle involved did not have the most advanced driver assistance features offered by the company and that the vehicle’s Autopilot function did not appear to have been engaged at the time of the crash.

How Do Driverless Cars Work?

A driverless car uses various sensors attached to the vehicle, such as cameras, ultrasound, and radar or lidar to guide the vehicle. The steering systems allow vehicles to create a map of their surroundings, monitoring nearby vehicles and pedestrians, traffic signals, lane markings, and road signs. The vehicle’s computer processes the input from the sensors to plot the car’s movement. Driverless cars are usually programmed with object recognition, predictive modeling, and hard rules to help the vehicle follow traffic laws and navigate obstacles on the road.

Driverless vehicle technology is categorized according to the level of automation the system provides. The Society of Automotive Engineers defines six levels of driving automation, ranging from Level 0, or full manual driver control, to Level 5, or fully autonomous control. Levels 0 through 2 require a human to monitor the driving environment, while systems in Levels 3 through 5 take over monitoring the environment.

Some vehicles manufactured today have Level 3 automation, or conditional automation where the system can only be used under certain circumstances, or Level 4 automation where the system can be used in a much wider set of circumstances. However, both Level 3 and 4 automation systems are subject to the requirement that a driver supervises the operation of the vehicle to intervene when necessary.

In Level 5 automation, a vehicle would be considered fully autonomous, able to tackle any driving situation, without the need for a driver to maintain attention and supervision of the vehicle.

Who Is Liable in a Driverless Car Accident in Texas?

When a driverless car is involved in a motor vehicle accident, it can raise the question of who can be held liable for the crash. Can the occupant in the driver’s seat be held responsible for an accident when he or she was not actively operating the vehicle at the time of the crash?

Liability for a driverless car accident in Texas may depend on several factors

Human Error

Most driverless cars still require driver supervision when the autonomous function of the vehicle is engaged. Drivers are expected to intervene and take manual control of the vehicle if the vehicle begins performing unusual or inappropriate maneuvers – for example, failing to slow when approaching slowed or stopped traffic, or attempting to move into another lane occupied by another vehicle.

Many driverless and self-driving vehicle accidents have been attributed to the autonomous technology of the vehicle failing to perform properly and the driver of the vehicle not recognizing the need to take manual control of the vehicle. When a driver’s erroneous management of a vehicle’s autonomous driving functions contributes to an accident, the driver may be held liable for the crash.

Vehicle Malfunction

Self-driving technology remains under development. Inevitably autonomous driving technology in a vehicle may fail for one reason or another, including the vehicle’s sensors malfunctioning, or the computer that controls the autonomous function experiencing an error. When an accident is caused by a driverless car suffering from a software malfunction or mechanical malfunction, the vehicle’s manufacturer may have liability for the crash.

Inadequate Regulatory Oversight

State and federal governments have the responsibility for regulating the testing of driverless vehicles on public roads.

Governments should only allow experimental vehicles onto public roads where manufacturers have demonstrated that conducting testing on public roads will not put the motoring public at unreasonable risk of harm.

Defective Design or Manufacturing

Driverless cars may get into an accident due to a design or manufacturing defect with the equipment that makes up the self-driving system. If a driverless vehicle is found to have a defect, the vehicle’s manufacturer may be held liable under product liability laws for injuries and losses from an accident caused by that driverless vehicle.

Currently, no commercially available vehicle can operate on the road without some level of driver supervision and control over the vehicle. But the introduction of autonomous vehicles to Texas roads and highways will raise complex questions of liability. Vehicle automation is an evolving area of product liability law.

When a self-driving car is found to have caused a motor vehicle accident, the driver of the vehicle will still most likely be held liable for injuries and losses that the victims of the accident suffer, with the driver’s insurance coverage paying for those losses.

Contact a Car Accident Attorney Today

 If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a self-driving car, you may be entitled to seek financial compensation from the at-fault driver or the manufacturer. Contact Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C., or call us at (361) 882-4357 today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a Texas car accident attorney. Learn about your legal options for holding parties accountable for the harm and losses that you’ve suffered.

We have a bilingual, English- and Spanish-speaking staff and office locations in Corpus Christi, McAllen, San Antonio, and Brownsville to serve you.

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Preventing Back Injuries In Your Workplace

Back pain can be debilitating, interfering with your ability to work, get around, and enjoy your usual activities. Many back injuries occur in the workplace, even with light-duty jobs. Some of them result from wear and tear over time. However, there are several ways you can reduce your risk of back injuries at work.

To learn about back injury prevention and what you can do if you were injured at work, continue reading. If you have suffered a workplace back injury in Brownsville and need legal assistance, please contact Herrman & Herrman for a free consultation with a Brownsville back injury lawyer. Our knowledgeable team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to answer your questions.

Common Causes of Back Pain at Work

When most people think of work-related back injuries, they picture trauma from heavy lifting. However, many jobs require activities that put significant strain on your back.

The common causes of work-related back pain include:

• Motor vehicle accidents – Many workers are required to drive motor vehicles or heavy machinery, which increases their risk of back injury from traffic collisions. A motor vehicle accident can cause back injuries through blunt-force trauma, crushing injuries, or penetrative injuries.
• Repetitive motion strain – Even low-stress repetitive motions can cause muscles to tighten and tear over time. Pain from repetitive motion strain or a wear-and-tear injury often appears gradually. While they occur gradually, these injuries can be debilitating and require surgery.
• Heavy lifting injuries – Overexertion from lifting heavy objects may cause back pain. Back injuries often occur when workers strain to lift heavy objects or twist their bodies while carrying heavy objects.
• Inadequate training – Employers need to provide proper safety training based on workers’ roles to reduce the risk of injury. This includes training workers in proper lifting techniques, safe ladder and equipment use, and good posture.
• Bad policies or safety standards – When companies do not prioritize safety, workers can get hurt. If employees are overworked or rushed because of staffing shortages or unreasonable production demands, they are more likely to injure themselves as a result.
• Unsafe equipment or machinery – If equipment or machinery is not properly maintained for workers, accidents can lead to back strain or injuries. Workers who sustain back injuries from equipment with manufacturing defects may have grounds for claims against the negligent manufacturer.
• Slip and fall accidents – A slip and fall accident can lead to fractured vertebrae, herniated discs, and other serious back injuries. Slip and falls often occur in the workplace due to slick surfaces, open ledges or scaffolds, and loose debris or objects along walkways.
• Poor posture or ergonomics – Workers who work in awkward positions or use chairs without proper ergonomic support are especially likely to damage spinal structures and experience back pain.

Ways to Prevent Back Pain at Work

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guide to back injury prevention notes that many back injuries develop gradually due to repetitive microtrauma. Employers can reduce the risk of traumatic back injuries by promoting:

• Regular exercise – Exercising several times each week will strengthen your core and limbs, which can reduce your risk of back injury. To prevent lower back injury, try swimming, pelvic lifts, or rotational stretches.
• Proper posture and ergonomics – Maintaining proper posture when you are standing, sitting, walking, or lifting objects can dramatically reduce your risk of back injuries. Employers can help office workers avoid back injuries by providing supportive chairs and ergonomic furniture.
• Safe and reasonable policies – Employers can reduce the risk of back injuries and pain by keeping productivity quotas reasonable and allowing workers enough time to take proper rest breaks.
• Repetitive task modifications – If workers are expected to perform repetitive tasks, employers should allow modifications that limit the risk of injury. To avoid strain from repetitive lifting tasks, employees could use lifting devices or alternate between heavy-duty and light-duty work.
• Proper equipment use and maintenance – When workers don’t understand how to use equipment properly or the equipment is poorly maintained, injuries can occur. Employers can help prevent back injuries by encouraging proper equipment use and keeping equipment in good repair.

What to Do If I Was Injured at Work

If you sustained a back injury at work, you may be entitled to benefits from your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance policy. If your employer carries workers’ comp insurance, you could receive compensation even if you were at fault for your occupational back injury.

Workers’ compensation benefits are intended to pay for necessary medical expenses related to your injury. If you are unable to return to work for a significant period due to the injury, workers’ comp can also cover a portion of your lost wages.

If you have been injured in a workplace accident, you should:

•  Seek immediate medical care – Some workers’ compensation benefits will only cover treatment from providers in a certified healthcare network. If your employer is part of a network, you can ask them for a list of approved providers.
•  Report the injury to your employer – You should report your back injury to them as soon as possible. If you don’t notify your employer of the injury within 30 days, you may lose your right to claim workers’ compensation benefits.
• Follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations – One of the most important things you can do for your health is to follow your doctor’s orders. By following prescribed treatment regimens and attending follow-up appointments, you will maximize your potential for recovery and demonstrate to interested parties that you are taking your health seriously.
• Determine whether your employer has workers’ comp insurance – Texas is the only state in the U.S. that doesn’t require employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If you were injured at work and your employer does not provide workers’ compensation benefits, you should talk to a personal injury attorney about your legal options.
• File a claim with the Texas Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) – If your employer does not file for you, you can file a claim by sending a completed DWC Form-041 to the Texas DWC online, by mail, or by fax. You must submit this form within one year of the date of your initial back injury to claim workers’ comp benefits.

If you need assistance with understanding your legal options, an attorney at Herrman & Herman can help. An attorney can help you evaluate other options for pursuing the compensation you need. This could include filing a claim with a private insurance provider or filing a lawsuit against your employer.

Had a Back Injured at Work? Contact Us

If you’re suffering from back pain following an accident at work, you need a caring work injury lawyer to help you pursue fair financial compensation. With more than 100 years of combined experience, the Brownsville back injury lawyers of Herrman & Herrman have secured favorable results for more than 20,000 injured Texans.

When you’re ready for answers to your questions, we’re here. Call us today at (361) 882-4357 or contact us online for a free case review of your back injury claim. For your convenience, we have several offices in Texas, including Brownsville, Corpus Christi, McAllen, and San Antonio.

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