Category: Personal Injuries
Your Car is Sinking: Now What?
February 11, 2010 | John T. BuchmanThe tragedy of the 35W bridge and the floods in southeast Minnesota remind us all of unexpected dangers we face. Many of us have wondered, at one time or another, what would we do if our car ended up under water. While it is relatively rare, experts indicate that 300 people die each year in this country when their cars end up under water. I have checked a number of sources and, while experts differ, the most consistent advice was as follows: 1. Don’t panic. I know this is easy to say when someone is sitting behind a desk coming up with advice and much harder when you are the one in the car that is sinking. However, it is absolutely essential to have a plan in mind and keep your head clear. 2. Roll down your windows as soon as you can. While many people are afraid to allow more water in, and open window is the easiest way to get out of a car. Most power windows will work until the car has been in the water for several seconds. 3. Do not try to open the doors right away. The surrounding water pressure is greater than the pressure inside the vehicle and you will only waste energy and air and…
Read MoreWhat to Expect During Your Initial Attorney Interview After An Injury
December 20, 2009 | Adriel B. VillarrealPersonal Injury-Wrongful Death FAQ What to Expect During Your Initial Attorney Interview After An Injury During the initial interview, your lawyer will, of course, want to hear about what happened to you and collect a variety of information from you. The length of the initial interview can vary a lot, depending on your injuries. In a simple negligence case it probably won’t take too long, especially if you have prepared for the meeting, whereas a complex case or a legal case involving serious injuries could take much longer. As you tell the lawyer about your accident, he or she may ask questions about it. Frequently, lawyers wait until you have told them everything before asking questions. Some of the questions may be difficult to hear, let alone answer. Be brave. Your lawyer needs to know the answers to help you find the best solution for your case. The lawyer will collect a variety of information from you that relates to the accident, your medical treatment, who else was involved in the accident, potential witnesses and the like. Here’s the sort of thing you can expect: The lawyer may ask you to sign medical authorizations and releases so he or she can obtain your medical records. The lawyer will want to know about all…
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