Death is a natural result of life, but sometimes you might lose a loved one due to the carelessness of another person or organization. In this nightmare scenario, the experienced lawyers at Hevia Law Firm can help you and your family obtain the justice you deserve.

Miami, FL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/19/2023 -- It is never easy to lose a loved one. It is even more difficult to mourn the loss of a loved one who was injured in an accident that was caused by another person or organization. A wrongful death lawsuit is a way for those who have lost a loved one due to someone else's negligence to seek justice and compensation from the responsible person or entity. While nothing can bring a loved one back to life, monetary compensation can assist with the loss and expenses associated with a tragic, unexpected, death.

Throughout Florida, Hevia Law Firm has assisted a number of clients in obtaining favorable legal outcomes. Their team of South Florida wrongful death lawyers have the experience and resources to provide individualized representation and aggressive pursuit of justice throughout a jury trial. Anyone who believes they may be entitled to compensation for a wrongful death should contact an experienced wrongful death lawyer, such as those at Hevia Law, as soon as possible.

Hevia Law Firm has built an experienced team of South Florida personal injury trial lawyers that can examine your case and assist you in pursuing justice on solid legal ground. For additional information, visit hevialawfirm.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

New Orleans, LA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/21/2022 -- JJC Law is proud to announce the addition of Justin Alsterberg to its team of litigation attorneys. Justin's significant trial experience in commercial litigation, insurance coverage, personal injury, arbitration and construction cases will be a great asset to the already formidable JJC team.

About Justin Alsterberg
A Michigan native (and Wolverine alum), Alsterberg moved to New Orleans to attend Tulane Law School. He was admitted to the Louisiana Bar in 2007 and began his legal career at a large New Orleans area defense firm before starting his own firm with great success.

Alsterberg's extensive trial experience stands out among his peers. Just one year out of law school, he achieved his first significant trial success as co-lead counsel in a complex federal court trial on behalf of one of the world's largest centrifugal pump manufacturers. He delivered the closing argument and obtained a multimillion-dollar judgment against the company's former employees for theft of intellectual property and trade secrets.

His success in the courtroom continued throughout the last decade, with Alsterberg serving as lead counsel in trials in Louisiana state and federal courts, as well as in complex, multi-party arbitration proceedings. He currently holds the record for the largest arbitration award to be overturned on appeal in Louisiana after helping a family-owned plumbing company that was faced with the prospect of going out of business after a $1.4 million breach of contract judgment.

"Justin is an incredibly talented legal mind and a relentless litigator," said JJC Law founding attorney Cayce Peterson, who attended Tulane Law School with Justin. "Justin checks all the boxes for us. He's intelligent, determined and respected. We're excited that he saw us as a nice fit for his already impressive list of clients."

About JJC Law
JJC Law is a New Orleans-based litigation firm that represents individuals and businesses from across the United States in a wide range of legal issues. Our practice is primarily plaintiff-focused, helping those who have been harmed physically or financially to be made whole. Contact us today at (504) 513-8820 to schedule a consultation.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

In the event of a work zone accident that results in a wrongful death, Hevia Law Firm can help you and your loved ones in establishing all liable parties and obtaining just compensation.

Miami, FL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 09/07/2022 -- Work zones, especially those situated on busy roads and interstates, can be exceedingly hazardous. When construction workers are not adequately protected, the only protections they have are traffic cones, barricades, and signage which are hardly a match against a vehicle at speed. When accidents do occur, the results are frequently tragic. In the event of a work zone accident that results in a wrongful death, multiple parties may be held accountable for their negligence.

Not all traffic construction site employees are employed by the same employer. If a third-party worker contributes to a wrongful death in a work zone accident by, for example, failing to direct traffic safely or erect proper safety barricades, they may be held accountable for damages through a wrongful death lawsuit. Importantly, if a worker is killed due to the fault of their employer or a coworker, the worker's compensation exclusivity clause may prevent a civil wrongful death claim. Because workers' compensation laws may limit the amount of recovery, the relationship of the parties must be thoroughly investigated.

Drivers also must adhere to work zone speed limitations to ensure the safety of construction employees. Sadly, though, many drivers navigate through construction zones while inattentive or at an unsafe speed. In this scenario, the careless driver may be held responsible.

It might be difficult to know what to do after the untimely death of a loved one. As a result, the Florida trial lawyers at Hevia Law Firm can assist you throughout the process. Their experienced legal team can identify all responsible parties and assist you and your family in receiving the appropriate compensation.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

James Piccolino Law, P.A. can help you seek justice by combining his unique medical knowledge from years of practicing chiropractic medicine with his legal experience of truck accident cases.

Miami, FL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/12/2022 -- Trucking accidents can result in serious injuries. Due to the complexities of determining who may be held liable (the driver, trucking company, and those who performed maintenance and repairs), fighting a legal battle can take a long time and cause additional stress if you don't have the right legal representation.

You might be shocked at the lengths to which some trucking companies try to hide driver misconduct and keep operations running smoothly. While not every trucking company is negligent, some companies' activities put motorists in danger on a regular basis, and those negligent companies should be held completely accountable. Knowing when and how to hold a trucking company accountable is critical because companies typically have more insurance coverage and assets, boosting your chances of receiving full reimbursement for your losses.

Contact a Florida car accident attorney if you or someone you know has been injured or killed in a Florida truck accident. For these types of difficult cases, it is critical that victims take the time to hire the correct attorney. James Piccolino Law, P.A. has a long history of successfully representing clients and achieving positive outcomes.

About James Piccolino Law, P.A.
James Piccolino, an attorney and seasoned chiropractor, will work closely with you to ensure that your claim is handled properly. Their firm is dedicated to locating all available sources of compensation and aggressively pursuing the full amount that you deserve. To schedule a consultation, please contact Piccolino Law online or call 844.452.6377.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Canada ranks last in whistleblower protection.

Ottawa, ON -- (ReleaseWire) -- 09/27/2022 -- The Washington Government Accountability Project analyzed 61 nations' whistleblowing protection laws. Canada and Lebanon are last, as well as Norway and Australia. The ability to report issues safely within a corporation, the guarantee of not becoming worse off after blowing the whistle, and protecting identities when it comes to confidential disclosures were all considered. 20 criteria were assessed, including how protected people's identities are when they make sensitive reports inside their workplace and whether they are protected if they report issues outside their company.

This is a problem because whistleblowers play a vital role in keeping our governments and institutions honest. They help to expose waste, fraud, and corruption, and they help to ensure that our laws and regulations are being followed.

Without strong protections for whistleblowers, it is very difficult for them to come forward and report what they have seen. This means that many wrongdoings go unreported, and the Canadian public is left in the dark about what is happening in their government and institutions.

There are a number of reasons why Canada's whistleblower protection program is so weak. First, there is no single law that protects whistleblowers. Instead, there is a patchwork of laws and regulations that provide some protections, but these are often inadequate.

Second, even when whistleblowers are protected by law, they often face retaliation from their employers. This can include being fired, demoted, or blacklisted from future employment.

Third, Canada's courts have been reluctant to protect whistleblowers from retaliation. In one recent case, a court ruled that an employee who was fired after blowing the whistle on her employer could not sue for wrongful dismissal because she had not first gone through the proper channels within her company.

This is a major problem because it means that many whistleblowers are afraid to come forward for fear of retribution.

We at WVG Law Group have seen this translate to personal injuries from employees taking on abuse, both physical and psychological from unchecked government bodies. We have tried to make use of the resources available to our clients. The inadequacy is shocking and disappointing. Our clients are essentially told to produce internal evidence of a corrupt act in order to beet a presumption that nothing wrong has occurred. It could not be more flawed. Even where an employee is successful, retribution or economic relief is non-existent, magnetizing the level of sacrifice required for someone to stand against a corrupt employer.

This is why we are calling on the Canadian government to enact a comprehensive and effective whistleblower protection program. We need to give whistleblowers the confidence to come forward without fear of reprisal. Only then can we hope to stamp out corruption and malfeasance in our government and institutions.

If you or someone you know has been the victim of reprisal for blowing the whistle, we can help. Contact us today for a free consultation. together, we can make a difference.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

WVG Law Group

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

New Orleans, LA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/09/2022 -- The Lambert Firm is proud to announce its new firm name — Lambert Zainey Smith & Soso — acknowledging the ongoing contributions of firm partners Chris Zainey, Jacki Smith, & Jeremy Soso and memorializing the bright future of this highly regarded firm for many years to come.

The New Orleans-based law firm represents accident victims in a wide range of personal injury claims, including maritime injuries and aviation accidents, as well as handling mass torts and environmental claims, among other areas of the Firm's unique and distinguished practice.

Meet the Attorneys of Lambert Zainey Smith & Soso

Hugh "Skip" Lambert founded The Lambert Firm in 1977 and specializes in maritime, products liability, toxic tort, environmental, class action, whistleblower and multi-district litigation. Over the past 40 years, he has forged a reputation of skill, candor and resiliency as a representative of individuals in the maritime and oil & gas world.

Jay Christopher "Chris" Zainey, Jr. is well known throughout Louisiana for being a tireless protector of his clients and the community at large. Chris focuses his legal practice on maritime law / Jones act cases, wrongful death cases, catastrophic personal injury cases, complex tort litigation, governmental representation and business disputes.

Jacki Smith joined The Lambert Firm in 2013 after receiving her Juris Doctorate from Loyola University New Orleans School of Law. She practices in the areas of maritime litigation / Jones Act cases, maintenance and cure issues, vessel collisions, wrongful death, general personal injury, and LHWCA matters. A Louisiana native with family ties to the marine/offshore industry, she is a proud advocate for commercial divers and other seamen and longshoremen in maritime personal injury litigation and related issues.

Jeremy Soso joined the firm in 2012 and maintains a diverse litigation practice. He has extensive experience representing individuals and corporations in cases involving personal injury and insurance coverage. He also assists clients in criminal proceedings and family law matters, as well as representing and advising small businesses.

"I am immensely proud of our firm and the outstanding legal services our team provides to our clients," said Hugh Lambert, founding partner of Lambert Zainey Smith & Soso. I am excited to announce our firm's new name, which emphasizes our approach to handling cases. We are a strong team of attorneys who are dedicated to achieving collaboratively the best possible outcome for all our clients. Our clients and colleagues can count on the uninterrupted dedication and top-quality representation by all our partners, associates and staff in ongoing and future representation for legal matters in all of the areas of our diverse practice whether, maritime, aviation, mass torts, whistleblower cases, chemical contamination, product liability or personal injuries from any type of vehicle or other cause."

Accompanying the name change will be a new logo and web domain. The new branding represents the strength and collaboration of Lambert Zainey Smith & Soso. "I look forward to continuing the excellent work that we have done together for so many years and delivering the results our clients deserve. The future of the firm is very bright."

Notable Case Results

The attorneys of Lambert Zainey Smith & Soso have more than 75 years of combined experience and have recovered more than $1 billion for clients. Among our notable case results are:

Total damages of over $1.1 billion in value to homeowners in the Chinese drywall case

In the aftermath of several devastating hurricanes in the mid-2000s, suppliers and builders purchased drywall manufactured in China that contained excess sulfur compounds which were then emitted into homes after being installed, corroding electrical wiring, appliances, plumbing and other fixtures.

$125 million settlement against BNI and URS

The False Claims Act lawsuit on behalf of 3 former employees alleged that defendants Bechtel National Inc., Bechtel Corp., URS Corp. and URS Energy and Construction Inc. "made false statements and claims to the Department of Energy (DOE) by charging DOE for deficient nuclear quality materials, services, and testing that was provided at the Waste Treatment Plant (WTP) at DOE's Hanford Site near Richland, Washington."

$330 million settlement for Murphy Oil USA refinery oil spill

An oil storage tank rupture at the Murphy Oil USA refinery in Chalmette, LA following the levee breaches during Hurricane Katrina. Hugh Lambert was appointed to the Plaintiffs Steering Committee to represent the interests of all those affected by the oil contamination.

Multi-million-dollar settlement in Arco cryogenic platform explosion

The ARCO and Southern Natural Gas pipeline cryogenic platform exploded on March 19, 1989, in the Gulf of Mexico as a result of an improper cold cut of the Southern Natural Gas pipeline. The firm resolved this complex litigation in approximately 12 months.

Get Help from Lambert Zainey Smith & Soso Today

Every personal injury or wrongful death case is different, whether it's an offshore injury case, an aviation accident, a motor vehicle accident or even a defective product. It's crucial to have the right law firm to represent your legal interests.

The trial attorneys at Lambert Zainey Smith & Soso are proud to have earned a reputation for aggressively fighting for the rights of our clients. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Gloucester, UK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 12/23/2021 -- Many individuals have already received the best help and assistance from a solicitor firm like Shires Law, and it has been one of the most respected personal injury firms for years. Shires Law is the best partner of those who aren't sure of what they can do to make their claim for compensation stand, and with its expertise and dedication, filing a claim – and strengthening it – has become much easier. Today, the law firm releases more information on hairdressing injuries and claims on its website, and it provides detailed guides on how to sue a hairdresser.

A visit to the hairdresser can turn into a nightmare when one receives an injury, and it can be exacerbated even further if their injury has drastically affected their way of life, their career, their confidence and self-esteem, and their outlook for the future. Hairdressing injuries are all too common, and the lack of care exhibited by hairdressers and stylists is shameful indeed.

But for those who have suffered from a hairdressing injury, there is help to be had. Shires Law is one of the most respected personal injury law firms, and it provides the best information to those thinking of claiming compensation for their injury. Unfortunately, according to the law firm, the hairdressing industry doesn't have much regulation, and this is where the victims can have a more difficult time filing their claim – and following through.

But Shires Law is here to help, and in fact, it has just provided more information on hairdressing injuries and claims right on its site, which includes info on the different kinds of claims for hairdressing – such as hair dye, overlapping hair dye, hair extension, and hair straightening or perming claims.

One of the essential pieces of advice offered by Shires Law is not to "try to rectify the damage by applying hot oil treatments or having your hair cut." According to the law firm, this isn't advisable because hairdressers can allege that the remedy for the original treatment contributed to the hair damage or may have even caused it. Instead, the best things to do would be to take photographs and hair samples and keep other related info, such as appointment cards.

About Shires Law
Shires Law has stood its ground as one of the leading personal injury solicitor firms in the country, and it offers a wealth of knowledge, guidance, and professional help to those who are hesitant about filing a claim for compensation for an injury. The law firm provides its service on a No Win, No Fee basis, and for those whose foremost question on their minds is, "Can I sue my hairdresser?" Shires Law is always ready and able to provide its expertise. To learn more, visit the site.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The New Mexico Civil Rights Act is historic and will have profound consequences for the rights New Mexico prison and jail inmates. The Act does not seem terribly complicated but the more you dig down, the more complicated it can become.

Albuquerque, NM -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/19/2021 -- House Bill 4, the New Mexico Civil Rights Act, was signed into law last week on April 7, 2021. The importance of its passage to the rights of New Mexico prison and jail inmates cannot be overstated. The Act does not go into effect until July 1, 2021. After July 1, it is a whole new ball game for prison and jail inmate medical malpractice lawsuits.

There will be a series of articles following this initial summary to address each individual section and how it will benefit the rights of New Mexico inmates and their families. The article below will provide a quick overview of the most important provisions of the Act so that inmates and their loved ones will know that help is on the way.

Act Applies to Medical Negligence Occurring After July 1, 2021

The Civil Rights Act applies only to actions or inactions in violation of inmate civil rights occurring after July 1, 2021. This is perhaps the most disappointing provision. Collins & Collins, P.C. is evaluating many cases of extreme medical neglect by New Mexico Corrections Department and its contractors. Unfortunately, none of those cases will benefit from the Civil Rights Act.

On the other hand, it is highly doubtful that either NMCD or its medical contractors are capable of improving medical care in NMCD facilities. Nor is NMCD inclined to improve medical care in its facilities even were it capable. The incompetence, cruelty and callousness of NMCD medical care has no bounds. Sadly, it is fully expected that the same extreme medical neglect will continue until NMCD is overhauled at the top which brings us to the last important and disappointing provisions of the Civil Rights Act.

Definition of Public Body

The New Mexico Civil Rights Act allows claims against "public bodies". "Public Body" is defined very much like the definition of public body in the New Mexico Tort Claims Act. Under the Civil Rights Act, public body is defined as:

"state or local government, an advisory board, a commission, an agency or an entity created by the constitution of New Mexico or any branch of government that receives public funding, including political Subdivisions,…"

What this means to New Mexico inmates is that the Civil Rights Act applies to all New Mexico prisons and jails.

New Civil Rights Claims Under New Mexico Constitution

Many would be surprised to learn that until passage of the Civil Rights Act, there was no possibility for a New Mexico inmate to bring civil rights claims under the New Mexico Constitution. This was the case despite the fact that the New Mexico constitution, like the United States Constitution, provides for a basic bill of rights.

For purposes of inmate medical malpractice claims against prisons, jails and their medical contractors, the New Mexico Bill of Rights provides rights against cruel and unusual punishment (Article 13) and due process rights (Article 18). Prior to passage of the New Mexico Civil Rights Act, Articles 13 and 18 were mere words. There was no possibility of enforcing those rights in New Mexico Courts.

Instead, New Mexico inmates suffering extreme medical neglect, were forced to federal court to pursue constitutional claims. Inmate medical neglect claims no matter how extreme face virtually certain dismissal in federal courts due to the impossible burden of overcoming qualified immunity. After July 1, 2021, the New Mexico Constitution will finally have meaning for New Mexico inmates.

Ban on Qualified Immunity

Qualified immunity is the greatest abomination in the courts and is largely responsible for the horrendous violations of civil rights that we all routinely see on the nightly news. An end to qualified immunity is perhaps the most important aspect of the New Mexico Civil Rights Act. As mentioned, inmates suffering what may aptly be referred to as medical torture, have never had constitutional rights in state courts. Inmates were forced to federal court where qualified immunity would completely shut down their lawsuits no matter how horrible the medical neglect.

Qualified immunity has literally been a license to kill for prisons, jails, their employees, staff and contractors. This has allowed the daily atrocities committed against New Mexico inmates to go on unabated. There simply was no accountability. The Civil Rights Act will take one big step toward accountability. It is not perfect, but It should make prisons, jails and their medical contractors rethink their approach to inmate medical care. If it doesn't, they will pay a price they have largely escaped in the past.

Recovery of Attorney Fees and Costs

Recovery of attorney fees and costs is very important. in civil rights claims. The recovery of attorney fees and costs is not so important for big cases against the New Mexico prisons and jails. It is far more important to those cases where gross medical neglect has occurred but somehow the inmate managed to avoid severe and permanent harm, or death.

Unfortunately, without severe harm or death, the potential financial recovery under state law for simple medical malpractice was often too small to justify attorney involvement. This is because most attorneys, including Collins & Collins, P.C., take inmate medical negligence cases on contingency meaning they take a percentage of a settlement or judgment.

Inmate medical negligence claims are very expensive to pursue. In addition to the costs of the litigation, these cases take enormous attorney and staff time. Simply put, attorneys could not take on state court medical malpractice cases nor would the cases survive in federal court where attorney fees and costs could theoretically be recovered.

Increase in Caps on Liability

The increase in potential financial liability to public bodies is extremely important for inmate rights. Prior to passage of the Civil Rights Act, the New Mexico Tort Claims Act's limits on recovery in state court for medical malpractice was $400,000 for wrongful death and $700.000 for severe, permanent harm requiring future medical care.

The new limits (caps) are $2 million. In addition, recovery under the Civil Rights Act is not exclusive of other remedies. This means that recovery under the Tort Claims Act is still available allowing up to $2.7 million recovery per "occurrence". Occurrence is not defined, and this will be very hotly contested in future court cases. The other caps issue that will be disputed is whether the caps apply to each defendant meaning that a separate cap would apply to NMCD and to its medical provider, and other NMCD contractors.

3 Year Statute of Limitations

The new 3-year statute of limitations is also very important. The New Mexico Tort Claims Act had a 2-year statute of limitations. However, there was also a Tort Claims Notice Requirement. The Tort Claims Act required a notice to an offending public body within 90 days of the medical negligence for personal injuries and 180 days for wrongful death.

The new 3-year statute of limitations merits additional discussion:

1. There is no Tort Claims Notice requirement for civil rights violations. under the New Mexico Civil Rights Act. There is simply a 3-year statute of limitations.

2. A Tort Claims Notice should still be sent if possible, however, because without it, an inmate cannot gain the potential additional $700,000 recovery under the Tort Claims Act.

3. Inmates must still file medical grievances under New Mexico law. Failure to do so could result in dismissal of medical negligence claims even in state court for civil rights violations.

4. The Civil Rights Act has its own notice provisions.

Required Notice of Claims

Although the 60- or 90-day Tort Claims Notice requirement will no longer be required under the Civil Rights Act, there is a notice requirement. The new requirement is one year from the date of the civil rights violation for personal injury claims and 18 months for wrongful death claims.

There are a couple of exceptions to the notice requirement. First, no notice is required if the public body had "actual knowledge" of the occurrence. Second, the one-year requirement is tolled for up to one year while the injured inmate is incapacitated.

Actual knowledge will be another point of contention that will be hotly litigated in the future. For instance, does a Tort Claims Notice suffice? How about a medial grievance?

Waiver of Sovereign Immunity

The New Mexico Tort Claims Act provided for immunity for lawsuits against public bodies. There were very limited exceptions to sovereign immunity under which inmates could file lawsuits. There is no sovereign immunity under the Civil Rights Act.

Collins & Collins, P.C. has filed many lawsuits against NMCD and its medical contractors that included claims that ended up getting dismissed due to sovereign immunity under the New Mexico Tort Claims Act. The gloves are off as of July 1, 2021. For any acts of reckless disregard and deliberate indifference to inmate medical needs occurring after July 1, all of those claims will be added back in.

Indemnification of Bad Actors Limits Full Accountability

This brings us to the next big disappointment under the Civil Rights Act is that public bodies will indemnify the individual bad actors committing the atrocities against New Mexico inmates. This is not so much a problem for most public bodies. It is a huge problem when referring to the New Mexico Corrections Department (NMCD).

Real change will not occur until these individuals are held individually accountable without taxpayers bailing them out in the end.

Civil Rights Act is Game Changer for Inmate Medical Malpractice Claims

The medical malpractice lawsuits filed by Collins & Collins, P.C. against New Mexico Corrections Department (NMCD) and its medical contractors involve extreme medical neglect, intentional cruelty, absolute callousness toward the illnesses of inmates, and deliberate indifference to inmate medical needs. They all involve violations of the New Mexico Constitution's ban on cruel and unusual punishment. In most cases, they also involved violations of due process.

In short, the medical negligence in NMCD facilities is so extreme that cases occurring after July 1, 2021 will almost certainly be actionable under the Civil Rights Act in New Mexico state courts. This will change everything for inmates and their families. Collins & Collins, P.C. intends to do everything it can to insure that it does.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Phoenix, AZ -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/04/2020 -- Phoenix, AZ: The Goldwater Law Firm is hosting a giveaway to reward one inspirational healthcare worker with a $500 Visa gift card. The person who nominated them will receive a $250 gift card.

Supporting Healthcare Workers

In order to participate, visit the Goldwater Law Firm website and fill out the form to nominate a Phoenix, AZ, healthcare worker who you feel has been an inspiration during this time of panic and loss and deserves a chance to win a $500 gift card.

The Goldwater Law Firm understands that the Phoenix, AZ, community has been hit hard with the fear, loss, and pain that has come with COVID-19. However, while some of us close the doors to our offices, or work remotely from home, healthcare workers continue to battle this pandemic on the front lines, risking their own lives and health in the process. These workers have been a true inspiration of hope and humanity in these dark and unprecedented times.

That is why Attorney Bob Goldwater and his team at the Phoenix personal injury law firm, The Goldwater Law Firm, want to give one deserving healthcare worker a Visa gift card of $500 to spend on whatever they want. The person who nominates the winning worker will also receive a gift card of $250 for themselves. The Goldwater Law Firm believes in giving back to the community, and that now, more than ever, is the time to do that.

About The Goldwater Law Firm
The Goldwater Law Firm is a Phoenix, AZ, based firm serving injured individuals and their families in the community and across the country with widely-recognized legal representation. The Goldwater team helps people facing a wide range of cases, like mass tort litigation against major corporations and personal injury cases caused by the irresponsible actions of another, fight to recover money for their losses. They are available 24/7 to take your case no matter where you are in the country. They have recovered millions in settlements for their clients, and they can help you, too. Learn more about the Goldwater Law Firm by visiting: https://goldwaterlawfirm.com/.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Many view personal injury claims as simple and straightforward.

Amery, WI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 07/20/2020 -- They may not fully recognize the wide variety of personal injury cases that can occur, who the responsible parties may include, and the importance of hiring the right personal injury lawyer. Before you consider the next step in choosing a Minneota, Wisconsin personal injury lawyer, consider the following factors.

Personal Injury Claims Can be Far-Reaching
Personal injury claims can involve far more than just auto accidents or a slip and fall. They can include an accident at work, in a store, a product-related injury, an assault, or even an injury on a neighbors property. While some may be reluctant against filing a claim against an individual, it is important to note that the majority of claims are filed against insurance companies, not store or property owners.

Finding Responsible Parties
A personal injury claim may involve more than one responsible party and an experienced personal injury lawyer like Amery Law will understand this. Let's take an example of a pedestrian who gets injured while crossing a road in a crosswalk. Initially, it may appear the driver is at fault, but in what condition were the car's brakes or tires? Was the crosswalk clearly marked or lit? Was the speed limit too high for the area or the traffic signals not timed properly. In this one seemingly simple example, potentially responsible parties could include the driver, automobile repair shop, parts or tire manufacturer, or city or state responsible for maintaining the intersection. At Amery Law, we look at all potentially responsible parties to maximize your potential for justice.

Experience Counts
If you've experienced an injury because of the potential negligence of someone else, it can change your life forever. Even what may initially seem like simple soreness or stiffness in the back or neck following an injury can lead to months or years of treatment and degradation of the quality of your life. Amery Law understands the importance of getting health and legal assistance as soon as possible. Assessing your injuries and the potential of a viable personal injury claim is critical.

Contact Amery Law
Amery Law has established a tradition of integrity, professionalism, and strong client relationships. We are a client-driven law firm that focuses our strategies on the needs of our clients. When you contact Amery Law, you'll get a personal injury lawyer to provide honest, no-nonsense advice about your legal matter so that you may make informed decisions. Contact us today.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

While COVID-19 has impacted all of our lives, it has not stopped us from living them.

Witchita, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 07/16/2020 -- While COVID-19 has impacted all of our lives, it has not stopped us from living them.

Life goes on. This includes the legal system. While the courts have been affected, personal injury cases are still occurring. There are still traffic accidents, slip and falls, and other injuries for which others should be held accountable.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, over 30 million people are injured each year to the point of needing medical attention. While certainly not all of these will require the assistance of a personal injury lawyer, many will. In fact, some will lead to large claims and significant judgments or settlements.

If you have recently been injured, potentially due to the negligence of others, Wall Huntington remains available to discuss and pursue your case.

Prompt legal assistance and medical attention are critical in a personal injury case. This helps document the direct connection to any injuries as resulting from a specific incident. Even if an accident or injury only appears to have resulted in aches or soreness, medical attention should be sought quickly. Many such aches, pains, and soreness are a sign that something more severe has occurred. These may impact the quality of your life for years to come.

Larry Wall and Tina Huntington have seen it all in over 50 years of combined experience pursuing personal injury cases.

They understand that each case is unique and each deserves personal care and attention. They know that even through periods like the COVID-19 pandemic, life moves forward. It shouldn't stop us from seeking justice and pursuing what is right.

If you think you may have a personal injury case, we invite you to contact personal injury attorneys Wall and Huntington. We offer a variety of socially distant options to discuss your case. From medical malpractice and hospital injuries to car accidents and slip and falls, choose the right lawyers at the right time. 

Today, those are lawyers Wall Huntington. Contact us to get started on your claim.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

In late May 2019, a motor vehicle struck two children in Rose Hill.

Witchita, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 07/16/2020 -- Around the time of the crash, the kids had been playing in a drainage ditch off the road. According to an ABC News report, the collision occurred just after 5 p.m. on a Friday. Witnesses reported that multiple children were in the area at the time of the collision. Police and emergency responders rushed to the scene of the accident. A northbound motorist struck two of the children who attempted to cross the street on foot. Emergency responders rushed both kids to a nearby hospital.

One of those children, an eight-year-old boy, suffered a broken pelvis.

An eleven-year-old child sustained a traumatic brain injury in the collision. Healthcare providers placed the eleven-year-old in a medically induced coma. When the eleven-year-old reached the hospital, physicians listed him in critical condition. The driver of the vehicle did not suffer injuries in the crash.

Pediatric traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a significant problem, and they occur frequently as a result of car accidents.

The Brain Injury Association of Kansas & Greater KC reports that 5.3 million Americans currently have disabilities caused by TBIs. Car accidents, including pedestrian collisions like the recent accident in Rose Hill, frequently result in head trauma. The severity of a TBI can vary significantly depending upon many factors. Young people can be particularly susceptible to debilitating traumatic brain injuries in automobile collisions. As the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association explains, brain injuries impact kids differently than they impact adults. Given that children's brains are still developing, pediatric TBIs can have long-lasting effects.

According to Wichita personal injury attorney Larry Wall, it is extremely important to hold negligent drivers accountable in these situations.

As Wall explained, "motorists have a duty of care to other drivers, as well as to pedestrians." Accordingly, "families of car accident victims should consider filing a claim against the responsible driver." While pedestrians can be negligent themselves, Wall clarified that many pedestrian collisions occur because of driver error.

While police indicated that they did not arrest the driver in the Rose Hill crash, the case remains under investigation. Distracted driving, aggressive driving, and intoxicated driving often result in serious car crashes. When a driver is not paying attention or following the rules of the road, that driver can injure a pedestrian. It is important to understand pedestrians' rights in Wichita and to hold negligent drivers responsible when collisions occur.

Since 1985 we have recovered over $40 million dollars for our clients. We take tough cases and win. We work as a team. You get two dedicated lawyers for the cost of one.

Contact Wall Huntington, personal injury attorneys, today.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

A Tulsa woman was attempting to cross the interstate on May 7, 2020.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/28/2020 -- She was hit by a vehicle and is in critical condition. The accident occurred just before 10 pm on Interstate 44 westbound at Riverside Drive in Tulsa.

Pedestrian Accidents in Tulsa

Pedestrian accidents are one of the deadliest types of car accidents. Pedestrians do not have any protection from vehicles, and the sheer size difference between a person and the average car makes these accidents very severe and often fatal. In fact, per trip, a pedestrian is 1.5 times more likely to be killed in a car crash compared to the passengers in a vehicle. When these accidents occur at higher speeds, the likelihood of death is even higher.

In 2017, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that there was one pedestrian killed in a traffic accident every 88 minutes. Another 137,000 people we treated with crash-related injuries.

Common Reasons Pedestrian Accidents Occur
In many cases, pedestrian accidents are the driver's fault. The most common reason these types of crashes occur is due to driver inattention. These accidents may also happen due to:

Speeding or traveling too fast for the road conditions
Intoxicated driving
Failing to follow traffic control devices like lights or signs
Not adequately checking that the intersection is clear in a left-hand turn

Backing up also triggers a huge number of these types of accidents as well. Drivers need to ensure that they check around their entire vehicle for walkers or runners before they back up out of driveways and parking spots.

Fault and Pedestrian Accidents
Most pedestrian accidents are the driver's fault because pedestrians in Tulsa almost always have the right of way when crossing through traffic.

Pedestrians can still bring a legal case if they were partially at fault for the accident. That means that if they walked outside the crosswalk or failed to follow traffic signs, they can still often get monetary damages for their injuries.

Oklahoma is a contributory negligence state. That means that you can still collect damages for your injuries if you contributed to the cause of the accident. However, your contribution must not be as significant as the driver involved in the crash.

You need a Tulsa personal injury lawyer to help you after a pedestrian accident. Let us worry about your legal case while you focus on healing from your injuries. If you'd like more information or want to set up an appointment, contact Charles Bryan Alred P.C. at 918-745-9960. Virtual consultations are available.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Tulsa County Courts have been closed for most of April, but they are opening back up on May 5, 2020, at 8:30 a.m. to the public.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/05/2020 -- However, the staff is still encouraging the public to do their business by calling or using electronic means.

At this time, the courthouse staff wants to minimize the number of people inside the building. They would like the public to only come to the courthouse as a last resort.

Although the courthouse itself is reopening, some offices inside will remain closed. As a result, it is a good idea to call before you head over to be sure the office you need will be open when you arrive. The Tulsa County District Courts are still closed at least through May 15, 2020, at the direction of the Oklahoma Supreme Court.

What If I Have to Visit the Courthouse?

If you must go to the courthouse, you should wear a mask. You will also be required to answer a series of questions about your potential exposure before you will be permitted inside. These questions include things like:

- Whether you have been in contact with someone who is sick
- If you have any symptoms
- If you have traveled outside of the State of Oklahoma

Enhanced cleaning procedures are being used. Officials are continuing to monitor the situation to evaluate the need for changes as the opening process takes place. Charles Bryan Alred PC is Here for You During the COVID-19 Crisis

Despite the Tulsa County Courthouse being closed for roughly a month, Charles Bryan Alred PC remains open to help Oklahoma residents with their personal injury needs. Many cases can be handled nearly entirely electronically, which helps keeps matters flowing during this difficult time. Now, more than ever, some individuals who have suffered through a personal injury may need compensation to address lost wages and increased expenses.

Due to social distancing requirements, appointments are being conducted by phone, and virtual consultations are available. Charles Bryan Alred PC recently enhanced their office software to accommodate virtual consultations that can be conducted for free without ever leaving your home.

We also have the technology available to electronically file most, if not all, of your court documents so that you do not have to visit the courthouse at this time. We are doing our best to keep everyone safe during these uncertain times, but we also want to make sure that your legal rights and options are not compromised in that process.

Contact us today to schedule a telephone or virtual consultation. There is no obligation, and we never charge a fee unless we take on your case and win. Our office is located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and we serve clients in Broken Arrow, Jenks, Owasso, Collinsville, and Sand Springs. Although Tulsa County Courts remain closed, Charles Bryan Alred PC remains open to assist you with all your personal injury legal needs during the Covid-19 Crisis.

Due to social distancing appointments by both phone consultations and virtual consultations are available.

Mr. Alred brought in a software team at the beginning of this crisis and upgraded his office to accommodate free virtual consultations. Charles Bryan Alred PC remains open to assist you with all your personal injury legal needs during the Covid-19 Crisis.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

After completing its preliminary investigation, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol recently issued a statement regarding an accident that occurred in Tulsa, OK on March 28, 2020.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/03/2020 -- According to the report, a female driver who was headed northbound on County Road 610 decided to make a U-turn to head in the opposite direction. The maneuver was legal based upon signage at the intersection, and OHP stated that the woman did use her turn indicator.

However, just before she executed the U-turn, another vehicle approached from behind the woman's car. OHP indicated that the man driving the vehicle was following too closely at a dangerous speed. The tailgater was unable to swerve and avoid an accident when the woman turned, and he crashed into her vehicle. The woman and her passenger, both hailing from Kansas, were flown via Tulsa Life Flight and admitted to a local hospital in stable condition. The man was not injured.

Because the two injured victims are residents of Kansas, the recent accident raises important questions about their rights with respect to the tailgating driver. Charles Bryan Alred, founder of the Law Firm of Charles Bryan Alred, PC in Tulsa, OK, shed some light on the issue of car crashes that involve out-of-state residents.

"Well, it goes without saying that these injured victims need to retain legal counsel right away. The first step in getting monetary damages after an auto accident is filing a claim with an insurer, and these companies are notoriously difficult to work with. But it's the next step where it's absolutely critical to retain an attorney in the jurisdiction where the accident occurred."

Mr. Alred referred to filing a lawsuit when settlement negotiations with an insurance company fail to result in fair compensation for victims. "When it comes time for litigation, you need a local lawyer. The law requires you to file a civil suit in the court where the crash happened. For these victims, that means hiring a car accident attorney in Tulsa County, OK."

He provided three reasons that out-of-state residents should work with local counsel when they are hurt in a motor vehicle crash in Oklahoma.

1. An in-state lawyer knows the state laws that impact car collision cases, such as those regarding fault and contributory negligence;
2. Attorneys who practice in the jurisdiction where the crash occurred will know the procedural rules that apply in a specific court; and,
3. Clients may be charged for travel time when their lawyer goes to court and related tasks adding significantly to legal fees.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

According to information released by the Arkansas State Police, Douglas Green, a 51-year-old truck driver from Jacksonville, Florida, was killed in a rollover crash in Madison County.

Fayetteville, AR -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/25/2020 -- A preliminary investigation indicates that the truck went off the road while navigating a sharp left turn, hit a sign, and then rolled over. Based on photographs published by the Huntsville Fire Department, the damage to the truck was extreme. Tragically, Mr. Green was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.

The Precise Cause of Accident is Still Under Investigation

At the current time, relatively limited public information has been released regarding the precise cause of the accident. At this time, the crash is still under an investigation from law enforcement. As explained by Arkansas truck accident attorney J. Timothy Smith, "Large commercial truck accidents are complicated. These crashes always require a comprehensive investigation. While a police investigation is important, victims and family members of the victim should also retain their own legal counsel who can help them document the collision and gather the evidence needed to pursue financial support." In many commercial truck accident cases, documents and records held by the company—including driver history and inspection/maintenance records—may be relevant.

Large Trucks are Involved in a High Rate of Catastrophic Accidents in Arkansas

Unfortunately, large truck accidents—even if they are only single vehicle crashes—have the potential to cause extraordinary devastation. While truck accidents affect every community, our state sees more than its fair share of catastrophic and fatal truck accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that large commercial trucks were involved in 12.3 percent of all fatal motor vehicle accidents reported in Arkansas in 2017. That is significantly above the national average, which is 8.8 percent.

Semi-Truck Rollovers are Especially Dangerous

Semi-trucks may be at a higher risk of rolling over if the trailer is improperly loaded or the vehicle is not frequently inspected or well-maintained. While catastrophic truck accidents can occur for a wide range of different reasons, truck rollovers are very high on the list. Indeed, when a truck rolls over, it is almost invariably a serious crash. Data from the federal government indicates that approximately 3,000 truckers are injured and 300 are killed in rollover accidents every year. Many more people outside of the truck are also injured and killed in these types of accidents.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

wo years after a fatal crash involving an automated Tesla SUV, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released the results of its investigation into the causes and contributing factors behind the incident.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/13/2020 -- According to a February 25, 2020 article published by AP News, both technology and human factors were to blame when the vehicle slammed into a concrete barrier, killing the driver.

First, Tesla's automated driving system was operating under conditions it was unable to handle.

In its review, NTSB found that the Model X SUV Autopilot feature steered the vehicle toward the left and into a paved area near an exit ramp. It then accelerated to more than 70 miles per hour before slamming into a concrete wall. The SUV's forward collision avoidance system did not issue an alert and the emergency brakes did not deploy. Officials stated that a combination of factors was behind these technology failures, including faded lane markings and sunshine that interferes with the Autopilot cameras.

However, any of the technology defects could easily have been overcome through interaction from the driver, which is where the human element entered the picture.

According to NTSB, the deceased victim was playing a game on his cell phone when the fatal accident occurred. Distracted driving is the likely reason behind the man's failure to apply the brakes or steer away to avoid the concrete barrier.

Charles Bryan Alred, founding partner at Charles Bryan Alred, PC in Tulsa, OK, weighed in on the topic of distracted driving and automated driving systems.

"Engaging your car's autopilot doesn't give drivers carte blanche to do whatever they want behind the wheel. Technology will never fully replace human interaction and the manual tasks that are required to safely operate a vehicle. These systems can't operate themselves, yet people continue to engage in distracted driving when they put autopilot in control."

NTSB issued several recommendations to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.

Officials suggested that manufacturers of smartphones and other portable devices include safeguards, so they will not function when within reach of a driver. They also repeated two recommendations previously directed at Tesla:

The company should implement technology that will prevent the Autopilot feature from functioning in inappropriate conditions; and,

The auto maker should develop more effective technology to ensure the is not engaging in dangerous distracted driving.
Mr. Alred agreed with the proposals, but expressed doubts.

"The problem of distracted driving in automated vehicles will continue to be a problem until these suggestions actually become law. NTSB only has the power to investigate, issue findings, and make recommendations. Government action is crucial.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Firefighters put their lives on the line for us every day.

Fayetteville, AR -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/12/2020 -- Hazards firefighters face are not limited to burning buildings. Even responding to something as simple as an auto accident can place our bravest public servants in harm's way.

Four Marion, Arkansas, firefighters learned this lesson the hard way on March 9, 2020.

Around 7 p.m., the Marion Fire Department responded to the scene of a car crash on I-55. While clearing the scene, a tractor-trailer collided with one of the fire trucks. The four firefighters were inside the truck at the time.

Fortunately, the firefighters were quickly taken to Region One Hospital.

They only sustained minor injuries. In a Facebook post, Marion Fire Chief Woody Wheeless said three firefighters were released from the hospital during the early morning hours of March 10. The fourth firefighter remained at the hospital for further testing. "God was with us for sure," Chief Wheeless said. He added the driver of the semi-truck also suffered minor injuries in the crash.

Fayetteville, Arkansas, truck accident attorney J. Timothy Smith noted that "stopping time" is a common cause of semi-truck and bus accidents on the highways.
"It takes a 40-ton truck significantly more time to come to a complete stop than a 2-ton passenger car. A semi-truck typically requires a stopping distance equal to that of two football fields. But that is only a minimum, not a maximum. The stopping distance increases if the truck is loaded with cargo or there are poor weather conditions."

Smith said while the Marion firefighters were lucky to escape with minor injuries, other truck accident victims are not so lucky.

"Thousands of people die each year in semi-truck and bus accidents. These deaths are often the result of the truck driver's negligence. Some drivers are simply in a hurry to get to their destination. Others are driving too many hours and suffering from fatigue. Whatever the cause, innocent victims often end up paying the price."

Indeed, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, about 4,990 large trucks and buses were involved in fatal crashes in 2017.

This is the last year for which complete data is available. These crashes resulted in 5,005 deaths and approximately 170,000 injuries. Just in Arkansas, there were 53 "multiple-vehicle fatal crashes involving large trucks."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

When a car or truck accident is the result of employee negligence, the employer can be held responsible for damages under Oklahoma law.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/05/2020 -- This is commonly known as the legal doctrine of respondeat superior. But there are other ways in which an employer may also be liable depending on the particular facts and circumstances of a given accident.

For example, on March 18, 2019, U.S. District Judge Robin J. Cauthron of the Western District of Oklahoma declined to dismiss a personal injury lawsuit against U.S. Xpress, Inc., based on allegations of "negligent entrustment." This refers to a situation where the owner of a car or truck allows someone else to operate the vehicle even if they know–or reasonably should have known–that other driver was "careless, reckless, and incompetent."

In this particular case, Andrea Annese was injured when her Chevrolet Camaro collided with a semi-trailer owned by U.S. Xpress and operated by one of its drivers.

According to Annese's subsequent personal injury lawsuit, the two vehicles were in adjacent lanes at a stoplight. Annese was in the inside turn lane and the semi-truck was in the outside lane. As both vehicles turned, the collision occurred. Annesse alleged the semi-truck driver "left the scene of the wreck without conferring with [her] or waiting for the police to arrive."

Annese said U.S. Xpress was responsible under both respondent superior and negligent entrustment. With respect to the latter, she alleged that U.S. Xpress was negligent in its hiring, training, and supervision of the semi-truck driver. More specifically, she pointed to the driver's accident history, which Judge Cauthron explained included "five preventable accidents over the preceding three years." Based on this history, the judge denied a U.S. Xpress motion for summary judgment on Annese's negligent entrustment claim, explaining there was "enough evidence in the record to support a jury finding" that the driver was careless and that U.S. Xpress "was aware of this" when it entrusted its truck to him.

According to Tulsa, OK truck accident lawyer Charles Bryan Alred, "Semi-trucks can weigh upwards of 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, which makes them dangerous weapons in a collision with the typical passenger car. This means that trucking companies have a special responsibility to ensure they only hire and retain qualified drivers with good safety records. As the judge's ruling the U.S. Xpress case illustrates, a trucking company that fails in this duty can be held responsible by a jury for significant damages."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

A dead person cannot sue. But it is possible for the estate or heirs of a deceased individual to bring certain legal claims.

Fayetteville, AR -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/02/2020 -- In Arkansas, there are two such claims: a survival action and a wrongful death lawsuit. A survival action refers to the personal injury claims the deceased could have brought if they were still alive. In contrast, wrongful death allows the deceased person's survivors to seek compensation from a negligent party in connection with the death.

On January 31, 2020, a federal judge in El Dorado, Ark., dismissed one attempt to bring both a survival action and a wrongful death lawsuit against John Deere.

The case involved the death of Darryl Jackson, a farmer from Ashley County. On August 28, 2018, Jackson died while harvesting corn. At the time he was using a combine harvester manufactured by John Deere.

In May 2019, Jackson's son, Darryl Gibbs, was named administrator of his father's estate. The probate court determined Gibbs and Leakeasha Spikes were Jackson's only children and heirs. Gibbs proceeded to file a wrongful death and survival claims against John Deere. Specifically, Gibbs alleged the Deere harvester malfunctioned and caused Jackson's death.

One month later, another wrongful death and survival action was filed by Keith Walker.

Walker claimed he was also a child of Jackson. John Deere moved to dismiss Walker's lawsuit, asserting he lacked legal "standing" to bring such claims. U.S. District Judge Susan O. Hickey agreed and granted the motion to dismiss. The original Gibbs lawsuit remains pending.

Fayetteville AR wrongful death lawyer J. Timothy Smith explained why Walker's lawsuit never made it out of the starting gate.

"In Arkansas, only the personal representative or administrator of an estate can bring a survival claim. Here, that was Gibbs, not Walker. Similarly, only the personal representative can file a wrongful death lawsuit. If there is no estate, only then could the heirs–in this case the children of Darryl Jackson–directly file a wrongful death lawsuit."

Smith added it was important for family members to get on the same page before taking legal action.

"Children understandably want to hold negligent companies accountable for the death of a parent. But there are specific procedures that must be followed. An individual child does not have an automatic right to file a lawsuit. Instead, it is important to first establish an estate for the parent and work through a personal representative."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Officials continue to investigate the reasons behind a recent Arkansas-bound airplane accident that claimed the lives of the two individuals on board

Fayetteville, AR -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/24/2020 -- The Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette covered the story in a January 1, 2020 article, stating that a federal investigator from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) arrived to assist local authorities. What officials do know is that the aircraft crashed right after taking off, clipping treetops beyond the airport runway before it nosedived to the ground.

Efforts to determine the causes of the airplane crash may be hampered by the fact that the single-engine craft did not have a black box on it to track in-flight details. As such, officials will not have access to electronic flight data recorder information, including altitude, position, speed, and pilot conversations. An NTSB spokesperson said that the scenario is common for smaller planes, and that some details may be recoverable through cellphones, tablets, GPS units, and other portable devices. It did not appear that wind, fog, rain, or other weather conditions were a factor.

J. Timothy Smith, a founding partner at Elliott & Smith Law Firm in Fayetteville, AR, noted that some of the more common causes of aviation accidents could be behind the recent crash. "Most of the time, human error is to blame. It's easy to point the finger at the pilot, and it's true that the operator's conduct is often a factor. But there may be other negligent parties involved, and their actions could be a cause – even when they're not on board the aircraft." Mr. Smith pointed out a few examples, such as:

Mechanics who do not properly make repairs to a plane's equipment, components, and systems; Ground crew that inspected the craft before departure; Air traffic controllers, which are responsible for directing taxiing, movement on the ground, and issuing landing and takeoff instructions to pilots; Airport designers and developers who created an inherently dangerous layout of runways; and, Many others

Mr. Smith also mentioned another potential party. "Though it's not the case here, when a plane owned by or operated through another entity, aviation accident victims may be able to pursue the individual or company. There's a legal concept called respondeat superior, which holds the principal accountable for an agent's negligence."

The doctrine states that when the agent is performing tasks at the direction of the principal, it's possible to see monetary damages from the principal. It is frequently applied when accidents stem from an employer-employee relationship.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

What Should Have Been A Routine Morning On The Way To School Turned Tragic For Three Students Who Were Injured In A School Bus Accident On January 14, 2020.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/22/2020 -- Oklahoma's KFOR News 4 reported on the incident, stating that the crash occurred when the bus driver collided with the front of a construction truck. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) is assisting local officials in the investigation into the causes and contributing factors, but fortunately no one else was hurt. The three children suffered minor injuries and were transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Any motor vehicle crash can lead to significant losses for victims, which is why Oklahoma law provides them with rights to recover compensation from a negligent driver.

However, liability issues are unique as they apply to children who are hurt in school bus accidents. One of the first considerations is who has standing to bring a claim, since a person under 18 years old does not enjoy the same legal capacity as an adult. For this reason, the law allows the parent or guardian to act on behalf of the minor when seeking monetary damages.

Charles Bryan Alred, bus accident lawyer and founder at Charles Bryan Alred, PC in Tulsa, OK, offered an explanation of the process.

"The parent or guardian basically steps into the shoes of the child to file a claim with the responsible motorist's insurance company. That individual – through his or her attorney – can deal with the insurance adjuster and work to negotiate a settlement. But it's not possible to fully resolve the matter without court approval, which occurs through a legal proceeding known as a 'friendly' suit. The term comes from the fact that the lawsuit doesn't involve a dispute; everyone agrees. You're just asking the judge to agree to execution of the settlement agreement."

In Oklahoma, the stages of the friendly suit in a school bus accident work as follows:

The parties file necessary documents to initiate the proceeding;

The court will issue a hearing;

All interested parties, along with their respective lawyers, will appear and testify; and,

The judge will review the testimony regarding the details of the settlement agreement.

At the conclusion of the hearing, the judge will enter an order approving the settlement agreement on behalf of the child. There will also be instructions to parents that the funds must be deposited in a bank account, and not touched until the child turns 18 years old.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

An April 16, 2018, Car Accident Led To The Death Of A Man Who Was, Ironically, Participating In A Funeral Procession.

Fayetteville, AR -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/16/2020 -- The man's death prompted a wrongful death lawsuit against the driver and his employer. Nearly four years later, a federal judge dismissed the lawsuit.

The facts of the case, Watson v. Southwest Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation, were fairly straightforward. The victim, Royce Watson, had attended a funeral with his wife in Nash, Texas. After the service, a funeral procession traveled from Nash to Texarkana, Arkansas. The procession had a police escort in Texas up to the Arkansas state line. Thereafter, the funeral director led the procession into Arkansas.

The procession approached the intersection of Old Post Road and Highway 237 in Texarkana and proceeded through a stop sign. At the same time, an employee of the Southwest Arkansas Electric Cooperative drove his company vehicle through the intersection. The Cooperative vehicle collided with Watson's car, killing him.

Watson's widow filed a wrongful death lawsuit. She argued that her husband's vehicle had the right-of-way at the time of the accident because he was traveling in a funeral procession. Arkansas law permits funeral processions to travel without stopping at signals. The defense argued this was not a valid funeral procession, however, as there was no "funeral escort vehicle."

J. Timothy Smith, a truck accident lawyer and partner with Elliott & Smith Law Firm in Fayetteville, Arkansas, explained this lawsuit turned on the color of a light. "A funeral escort vehicle must have flashing or rotating purple lights. In this case, the funeral director who led the procession into Arkansas had what the judge described as 'whitish blue' lights. So by the 'plain language' of the law, the judge said this was not a funeral procession."

As a result, Smith said, Watson did not have the right-of-way when he entered the intersection.

The judge also rejected the widow's argument that the Electric Cooperative's driver was still negligent because he violated company safety regulations at the time of the accident. According to Smith, "The general rule in Arkansas is that a company's internal policy does not create a legal duty to act 'where none exists.' In other words, a company policy cannot hold an employee to a higher standard than what is normally required by Arkansas law."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Jon Ostroff, a leader in bus crash litigation and founding partner of Ostroff Injury Law, is representing a passenger who was injured in the Pennsylvania Turnpike crash on January 5, 2020.

Blue Bell, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/15/2020 -- Jon Ostroff, a leader in bus crash litigation and founding partner of Ostroff Injury Law, is representing a passenger who was injured in the Pennsylvania Turnpike crash on January 5, 2020. As legal counsel, Ostroff's Pennsylvania statewide injury firm has launched an in-depth investigation into the cause of the multi-vehicle collision which killed five people and injured more than 60. For those involved in the crash, Ostroff urges that taking legal action immediately can help get answers and hold negligent parties accountable.

"Our investigation on behalf of the victims that have contacted and retained us is now underway," Ostroff said. "Our past success on behalf of clients injured or killed in these tragic bus and truck crash cases is often a result of evidence we secure through our investigation. This includes information we gather from our clients, other passengers and eyewitnesses."

The case involves a devastating bus and truck crash that occurred at night on January 5, 2020 on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The operator of a Z & D Tour Inc. bus failed to negotiate a highway curve while traveling from New York City to Cincinnati. He then drove up a steep embankment and rolled over, after which a FedEx tractor-trailer, two UPS tractor-trailers, and a car struck the bus. The bus driver and two passengers were ejected from the bus and died. Two people were killed in the first UPS tractor-trailer to collide with the bus. Others involved were transported to area hospitals with injuries ranging from stable to critical condition.

"This was a traumatic event for the bus passengers, who are now dealing with both physical and psychological injuries," Ostroff said. "Sadly, this horrific crash needlessly took the lives of five people, including a nine-year-old girl."

Hire Legal Counsel Right Away, Ostroff Says/
Acting immediately is especially critical when a collision involves a bus. Commercial vehicle companies hire professionals to protect their interests; these people get to the crash scene as soon as possible to begin building a strong case in the companies' favor. Retaining legal counsel can help secure key evidence and witnesses while they are still available, in order to reveal the true cause of the collision.

After an automobile crash, insurance adjusters also move quickly to minimize victims' claim payouts. An experienced attorney can handle all correspondence with the insurance companies to avoid a misunderstanding being used against their client.

Ostroff Injury Law has opened a free 24/7 hotline at 866-920-8050 for those who suffered injuries or lost loved ones in the Pennsylvania Turnpike crash. Members of the legal team are on standby to inform victims of their legal rights. The call is free and with no obligation.

About Ostroff Injury Law
For nearly three decades, Ostroff Injury Law has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for injured victims. The firm represented more victims of Greyhound bus crashes than any other firm in America. Ostroff Injury Law has served as legal counsel for victims across Pennsylvania, in more than 20 states, and in multiple countries. In addition to passenger and commercial vehicle accidents, the firm has fought for clients against negligent parties in complex personal injury matters including slip and fall incidents and medical malpractice. From 2016 to 2019 alone, Ostroff Injury law has recovered more than $100 million for clients.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

America’s Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys® of 2019 recognizes Viñas & Deluca among their honorees for this year

Miami, FL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/02/2020 -- Announcing the selection of Vinas & DeLuca among America's Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys® for 2019. Selection to America's Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys® is by invitation only and is reserved to identify the nation's most exceptional litigators for high-value personal injury, catastrophic injury, wrongful death, product liability, and medical malpractice matters.

"Membership among America's Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys® is meant to identify and highlight the accomplishments of the nation's most esteemed and skilled litigators in high-value personal injury, catastrophic injury, wrongful death, product liability, and medical malpractice matters," explains America's Top 100.

To be considered for selection, an attorney must focus more than 50% of their active legal practice on personal injury, catastrophic injury, wrongful death, product liability, and/or medical malpractice matters. These minimum qualifications are required for initial consideration. Thereafter, candidates are carefully screened through Advanced Data Analytics evaluating a broad array of criteria, including the candidate's professional experience, litigation experience, significant personal injury settlements and/or verdicts, peer reputation, and community impact in order to rank the candidates throughout the state.

Only the top 100 qualifying attorneys in each state will receive this honor and be selected for membership among America's Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys®. With these extremely high standards for selection to America's Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys®, less than one-half percent (0.5%) of active attorneys in the United States will receive this honor — truly the most exclusive and elite level of attorneys in the community.

About Vinas & DeLuca
Vinas & DeLuca is a Florida-based law firm dedicated solely to representing victims of personal injury, sexual abuse, vehicle accidents, wrongful death, and medical malpractice. The firm's partners have over 30 years of combined experience representing plaintiffs in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm