Category: Personal Injuries
5 Things to Look For in a Personal Injury Lawyer
April 18, 2016 | Adriel B. VillarrealIf you have been injured in an accident, or if someone is suing you for personal injury, choosing the right attorney to represent you is one of the most important decisions you can make. Here are some important things to consider when choosing your personal injury lawyer: Experience– Not only should you look for an attorney who has been practicing law for many years, but you should also make sure her area of expertise includes personal injury lawsuits. Even a good lawyer won’t be of much help if their practice focuses mainly on business law or drafting wills. Ethics– If a potential attorney wishes to charge you for an initial consultation to discuss whether he would take your case, he may not be an ethical lawyer. Most personal injury lawyers offer free initial consultations so you don’t have to come out of pocket before signing the retainer agreement. Trust– Your personal injury attorney should be someone you feel is trustworthy, who will be dedicated to your best interests during the course of the case. A personal injury lawyer in a large firm may try to pass your case off to a junior attorney or fellow associate after you have established a rapport. Make sure your attorney will have sole responsibility for your case,…
Read MoreWhat to Do If You’re Hit on a Bicycle
December 23, 2015 | Adriel B. VillarrealWhen bikes collide with vehicles, the result can be disastrous – and oftentimes, fatal. If you’re hit while riding your bicycle, it’s important to remain calm. The actions you take immediately following the accident may impact your financial recovery for damage to your bike and injuries. Follow these steps if you’re hit on a bicycle. Get Medical Attention First and foremost, get medical attention if you’re seriously injured. Your health should be your top priority, and getting medical care as soon as possible is the only way to be sure you have documentation of your injuries. Contact the Police The second most important step is to contact the police, and make sure that you wait for them to arrive at the scene. File a police report even if you don’t think you’re injured. In many cases, cyclists don’t even realize they’re injured until several hours after the accident occurs. Injuries that appear to be minor at first can progress into serious – sometimes permanent – injuries. Also, remember that if you leave the scene before the police arrive, you may not be able to identify the at-fault driver. Don’t try to negotiate with the driver or accept any blame. Just wait for police to arrive, so the accident can be documented properly…
Read MoreDriving in the Snow-We all Know it's Coming
November 12, 2015 | Adriel B. VillarrealWhen the weather turns colder, Twin Citians know that eventually we will get hit with snow. While many of us prefer the warmer weather, it’s always a good idea to review winter driving tips to avoid accidents and injuries. I found a comprehensive list of winter driving tips that give a great review for all us Minnesota winter drivers young and old. 1. Carry emergency clothing in the car. A stocking cap, snow boots, mittens, a pair of coveralls, and a blaze orange vest so you will be seen if you have to walk. 2. If you get stuck, kitty litter is a good way to get traction under your wheels. Carry the litter in a couple of gallon plastic milk jugs. Sand and dirt are ok too, but they freeze solid if any moisture collects on them. Some people carry metal treads, but you have to stop and go back for them. Some carry a few evergreen branches. 3. When driving on ice, always try to drive with 2 tires on the right shoulder of the road. It is usually graveled, and provides better traction than the smooth streets or highways. This won’t work if there is snow. 4. Plan your route to avoid stop signs and lights on the top of…
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