On the afternoon of Saturday, November 21st, a 71-year-old man died after being involved in a serious collision with a Houston Police Department patrol vehicle near Trinity Gardens in Northeast Houston.

Details About the Car Accident

According to local authorities, the incident occurred at approximately 3:35 p.m. at Ley road. The man driving a black Cadillac vehicle was crossing the intersection between Darien Street and Ley Road. As he was crossing down, a Houston PD vehicle was headed westbound towards Ley road and crashed into the Cadillac.

The impact sent the Cadillac flying into a gas station parking lot where the driver was pronounced dead shortly after being rushed to the nearest hospital.

The two officers involved in the collision were taken to the nearest hospital and did not suffer any significant injuries. Eyewitnesses say that the police vehicle was excessively speeding without any sirens or any other form of indication.

Lethal Texas-Based Speeding Accident Statistics

Excessive speeding is known to be the leading cause of death across U.S. roadways, and over 20 years, speeding-related accidents have accounted for approximately one-third of all U.S. traffic-related fatalities. In fact, there was a total reported death toll of 9,378 individuals across the nation as a direct result of excessive speeding in 2018 alone.

More recently in 2019, the state of Texas experienced a total of 284 excessive speeding fatalities, which accounted for 7.8% of the state’s traffic fatalities that same year.

Harris County, the county surrounding Houston, experienced approximately 1,540 speeding-related accidents in 2019, and out of those accidents there were:

• 258 accidents where 480 individuals suffered possible injuries.
• 177 accidents where 283 individuals suffered non-incapacitating injuries.
• 94 accidents where 126 individuals suffered suspected serious injuries.
• 68 fatal accidents, in which 75 individuals lost their life.

What to Do in the Event of a Car Accident

In the event of an unexpected car accident, taking the following steps will play a pivotal role in seeking legal justice and financial recovery to cover the cost of any injuries and physical damages sustained:

• Check for any visible injuries from your end or from your fellow passengers. Some serious injuries won’t become noticeable immediately after a car accident and may take up to several hours to even days to fully affect you.
• Call 911 and let them know of the whereabouts of the car accident that just occurred, including the exact street names and intersections.
• Collect any important information or evidence that you can, including:
  • Any photographs and video footage relating to the accident, including any photos or video showcasing the injury, vehicle and property damages, and the car accident scene itself.
  • The at-fault party’s contact information, including their full legal name, phone number, vehicle model, insurance information, and license plate number.
  • The police and incident report once it becomes available.
  • All medical documentation regarding the accident, including any medical records pointing the injuries sustained to the car accident, receipts, prescribed medicine, rehabilitation notes, and hospital bills that were given.
• Consult with an experienced attorney such as the McAllen car accident lawyer of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys in order to get started on a car accident claim as the Texas statute of limitations will only allow you to do so within a two (2) year period.

In the event of an unexpected tragedy like a car accident that can turn your life upside down, getting in touch with the McAllen car accident attorney of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys will be the first step into seeking the recovery you deserve.

Relief for Your Car Accident is a Consultation Away! Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today for a FREE no-obligation consultation!

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Sources: ABC 13, KPRC

On the afternoon of November 17th, a member of the Mercedes police force was struck by a suspicious vehicle after attempting to investigate illicit drug activity within the area.

Details About the Incident

According to the Mercedes Public Safety Department, the accident occurred at approximately 3:25 p.m. at the Mercedes Premium Outlets. The officer was attempting to investigate what was reported as illegal drug activity occurring inside of a grey four-door vehicle.

As the officer tried to make contact with those inside the suspicious vehicle, the driver of the vehicle ran the man over. The officer sustained undisclosed injuries to his body and was rushed to the nearest hospital where he is currently being treated.

The injuries were not deemed as life-threatening, and the officer is expected to recover soon. No other details about pending charges were disclosed.

A Brief Overview on Law Enforcement Related Accidents

Law enforcement officials are on the front lines of potentially dangerous situations every day, and when tragedy strikes in the line of duty, it affects the fallen officer’s family and their community.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), from 2010-2019, there was an average of one officer dying on U.S. roadways as a result of vehicle-related accidents.

Additionally between 2006-2019, there were a total of 809 police officer fatalities as a result of motor-vehicle related accidents. Approximately 43% of these incidents were reported in the line of duty. In addition, there were 19 police officers that died as a result of a vehicle accident in 2019 alone.

Out of those reported vehicle-related deaths:

• 8 officers died as a result of responding to emergencies.
• 5 officers died when patrolling.
• 4 officers died as they were involved in some sort of motor vehicle crashes.
• 1 officer died as they were responding to a non-emergency situation.
• 1 officer died as they were escorting a funeral or a dignitary.

Auto-Pedestrian Accidents By The Numbers

As per data compiled by the Texas Department of Transportation in 2019, there were a total of 5,952 pedestrian-related incidents across the state. Out of those reported incidents:

• 1,831 incidents occurred in which 1,954 individuals suffered possible injuries.
• 1,991 incidents occurred in which 2,095 individuals suffered non-incapacitating injuries.
• 1,215 incidents occurred in which 1,260 individuals suffered serious injuries.
• 656 incidents occurred in which 660 individuals were declared dead following the event.

These statistics illustrate how deadly such encounters can be for pedestrians, signaling how important it is for pedestrians to stay vigilant while out and about. Wear reflective gear, walk on the sidewalk, and use crosswalks. Should there be no sidewalk or crosswalk, walk on the left side of the road against traffic and cross the road at the nearest crosswalk respectively.

Should you or a loved one be struck by a vehicle, the McAllen car accident attorneys of J.Gonzalez Injury attorneys will fight tooth and nail for your right to compensation.

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: Valley Central

As we gear up for the holiday season, it is vital that we end the year on a high note!

While this holiday season is going to be different than what we’re used to, it’s still important that we remain vigilant against making bad decisions — especially drunk driving. While this time of year is meant to be joyous and cheerful, there is, unfortunately, a dark side to season as the number of impaired driving-related car accidents tend to increase over the next few months.

As a result of this increased risk of serious crashes, December has been proclaimed National Impaired Driving Prevention Month.

The McAllen car accident lawyer of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys is here to further elaborate on what National Impaired Driving Prevention Month means and to educate the community about the devastating dangers of impaired driving.

Festive Times Can Turn Tragic

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, an average of 300 individuals lose their lives annually as a direct result of impaired driving accidents during Christmas week and New Year’s week. Additionally, an average of 27 individuals lose their lives each day throughout the month of December as a result of drunk driving accidents.

While Christmas and New Year’s Eve are some of the most anticipated holidays of the year, there are far too many tragedies that occur during these months.

Shocking Impaired Driving Stats to Be Aware Of

Impaired driving is one of the biggest issues our country faces, while also being one of the most preventable. Far too many lives are taken each year as a result of foolish and costly mistakes made by intoxicated drivers.

In 2018, it was reported that there were approximately 10,511 lives lost as a direct result of preventable drunk-driving related incidents. More recently, in 2019, there were 886 impaired driving fatalities in Texas, which accounted for approximately 25% of traffic deaths across the state.

The most commonly reported hour for an accident is between 2:00 a.m. and 2:59 a.m., with numbers peaking on Saturday nights. This is likely to be caused by an increased number of drunk drivers on the road. Many individuals visit bars and other alcohol-selling establishments on the weekends, which undoubtedly leads to an increase in accidents.

Hidalgo County, Starr County, Cameron County, and Willacy County had a total number of 1,228 impaired driving incidents in which 18 lives were lost.

Making the Right Decisions This Holiday Season

While it is probably best to avoid large groups and celebrations as a result of the COVID-10 pandemic, if you do decide to celebrate with others, you’ll want to be careful with how much alcohol you consume. Even if you plan on only having one drink, it’s best to plan ahead to ensure you and your loved ones can get home safely.

If you are planning on celebrating with loved ones, take the following tips into serious consideration as it may save a life on the road — or perhaps your own:

• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.
• Make sure to drink slowly and to also drink water between alcoholic drinks.
• Plan ahead and have either a sober designated driver, or consider paying for a ride-share service such as Uber or Lyft.
• Consider drinking other beverages such as soda or juice instead of hard alcoholic beverages.
• Never mix other drugs, prescribed or illegal, with alcohol as it can cause an unwanted and potentially deadly reaction.
• If you’re hosting a gathering, be sure to collect your guest’s keys upon arrival and never let them drive impaired!

Impaired driving is perhaps one of the most selfish acts a person can commit and can lead to serious legal charges and jail time. Please make a wise decision when celebrating this year.

Your actions can save a life.

McAllen Car Accident Attorneys Ready to Help You Seek Justice!

The McAllen car accident lawyers of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys would like to wish the entire Rio Grande Valley a very safe and happy holiday season this year!

If you are involved in an accident this holiday season, do not hesitate to seek out our compassionate and dedicated attorneys. We are available 24/7, including the weekends!

Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today to schedule a FREE no-obligation case evaluation!

Book My FREE Consultation Now

In the event that you fall victim to a serious car accident that leaves you with devastating bodily injuries, securing quality evidence is going to be essential to prove that the negligence of the other driver caused your damages.

From medical documentation such as x-ray images, doctor’s notes, or medication prescriptions, to digital evidence such as photographs or video of the accident scene, the more evidence preserved, the stronger your claim will be.

One key piece of evidence that may play a pivotal role in proving negligence are tire marks left on the road following your accident.

The McAllen car accident attorney of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys is here to further elaborate on how tire marks can be used as evidence in a car accident claim and how they help flesh out the story of how your accident came to be.

Tire Marks Explained

Tire marks occur when a driver is speeding and makes a sharp turn or attempts to immediately stop in order to avoid a collision. In the event that a negligent driver fails to prevent an accident, the type of marks left behind can help to illustrate the specifics that led up to the crash.

The length and width of the tire marks can help investigators determine how the accident came to be and what possible factors may have played a part. Notable types of marks local authorities and insurance adjusters look out for include:

• Short tire marks: These types of marks can show that the negligent driver attempted to brake but without enough space or time to do so effectively. These types of tire marks are often seen in rear-end collisions, accidents involving speeding drivers, or incidents caused by distracted driving.
• Curvy tire marks: These types of marks can establish that a driver lost control of their vehicle at some point and started swerving across the road. Swerving events generally occur when a driver fails to control their vehicle in a responsible manner or is speeding during dangerous weather conditions.
• Tire marks that spread over opposing lanes: As the name implies, these marks can essentially determine that a driver went out of the boundaries of their lane and shifted into an opposing lane prior to an accident. These types of marks can also establish that the driver potentially suffered a blow-out, which then caused the collision.
• No tire marks: If no marks were left at the scene, it could indicate that the negligent driver failed to make any attempt to stop before colliding with another vehicle. A lack of tire marks is often related to impaired driving incidents, faulty vehicle accidents, or fatigue-related accidents.

Additional Pieces of Evidence to Collect Following an Accident

When you are involved in a life-altering car accident as the result of a negligent driver’s actions, collecting all evidence will help to strengthen your claim substantially. While tire mark evidence can serve its purpose, it is always in your best interest to collect as many forms of evidence as possible, including documentation, physical evidence, and other types, such as:

• Photographs and video footage of the accident that show the results of the accident, including bodily damages suffered, vehicle and property damages, the whereabouts of the accident, and key street signs or traffic lights.
• Contact information of the at-fault party, including their full legal name, phone number, vehicle make, license plate number, and insurance information.
• The police report once it becomes available.
• All medical reports, prescribed medication/treatment, hospital bills, rehabilitation proof, and doctor’s notes.

McAllen Car Accident Attorneys Ready to Fight on Your Behalf!

In the event you suffer an atrocious car accident at the hands of a negligent driver, it is important to reach out to the McAllen car accident lawyer of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys as soon as you possibly can!

Our attorneys are dedicated to fighting with everything we have in order to help you secure the compensation you deserve for the mental, physical, and emotional damages you have suffered.

Do not hesitate to seek justice! Contact J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today!

Book My FREE Consultation Now

With newer vehicle models equipped with voice-activated and hands-free technology, drivers are becoming more dependent on these features, relying on them frequently as they drive. However, while these features are meant to make life a bit easier, it is important to recognize that they still come with their own risks when using them.

One of the leading factors of preventable accidents is distracted driving. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the United States had a total of 2,841 fatalities and over 400,000 injuries in 2018 as a direct result of distracted driving.

The McAllen car accident lawyer of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys is here to further educate the community on the downsides of heavily relying on these hands-free features and the catastrophic dangers of distracted driving.

The Cons of Hands-Free Technology

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents in the nation. It has been reported that 1 in 4 car accidents are caused as a result of texting and driving, and that distracted driving is six times more likely to lead to a serious accident in comparison to drunk driving.

While hands-free cell phone use is supposed to be the “safer alternative” to cell phone use, the reality is that whether you are driving with a phone in your hand or utilizing a hands-free device, your mind is capable of handling only so much stimuli. Because you want 100% of your attention on the road ahead (and behind), driving while using a phone in either manner can still lead to an unwanted and costly driving error.

According to the organization End Distracted Driving, there are three distinct types of distracted driving:

• Manual: A driver is distracted and fails to physically place both of their hands on the wheel.
• Visual: The driver is not placing their full, undivided attention on the road in front of them.
• Cognitive: A driver’s current state of mind is not completely focused on driving and is instead fixated on other things, such as a conversation they are having via cell phone.

Yes, hands-free cell phone use may generally appear to be a safer way to make a quick call while driving, but it still defeats the purpose of focusing completely on driving. Additionally, some features are not completely hands-free and require your physical attention, which means taking your eyes off the road.

Five seconds is the average amount of time an individual will stare at their cell phone or dashboard screen, which is more than enough time for you to cause a deadly accident because you missed a traffic sign.

Driver Awareness

While cell-phone use has become a day-to-day essential in many of our lives, there is a time and place for everything, including the right time to talk or text. Here are some key tips every driver should consider in order to make the roads safer for all:

• No text, phone call, social media post, playlist, or e-mail is too important when you are behind the wheel; always focus on driving.
• Unless it is an absolute emergency, a driver should never use their cell phone while operating a moving vehicle. If cell phone use is needed, it is wise to pull over to the side of the road and take care of the situation once safely parked away from others.
• Do not heavily rely on hands-free technology as it can still keep you from fully concentrating on driving.

Following these simple, yet effective tips, can help prevent a tragic accident and can potentially save a life – including your own!

A Dependable McAllen Car Accident Attorney When You Need Him Most!

When an unexpected car accident leaves you with devastating injuries and financial damages, you are entitled to seek justice and financial recovery in order to get your life back together!

The compassionate McAllen car accident attorneys of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys are dedicated to fighting tooth-and-nail for car accident victims. It is important to get in touch with J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys as soon as you possibly can as the Texas statute of limitations will only allow you to file a claim within two (2) years of the accident.

Contact J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today to schedule your FREE no-obligation case evaluation!

Book My FREE Consultation Now

On the night of October 6th, a man was arrested after a police chase that initially started in Guadalupe County ended in a multi-vehicle accident within Bexar County.

Details About the Incident

The deputies at the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office received a call about a stolen Ford F-250. At the time, the vehicle was on the move, and local deputies were able to locate it and attempted to make a traffic stop.

The man refused to yield to the police. He led them through a pursuit that started in Guadalupe County and ended in northeastern Bexar County as the Ford F-250 crashed into three vehicles near I-10 East and Loop 1604.

As a result of the car accident, three individuals were injured and taken to the nearest hospital. The at-fault driver has since then been arrested and is pending several charges.

The Perils of Pursuits

While we never expect to be in the middle of one, pursuits can serve a great danger to all drivers sharing the road with both the suspect and the police. These incidents can involve dangerously high speeds and sudden, unpredictable maneuvers that can put bystanders and pedestrians in harm’s way.

As per data compiled by FairWarning, it was reported that from 1979-2017, there were approximately 13,100 individuals that have passed away as a direct result of a police pursuit, which averages out to 36 deaths annually.

Notable Factors That Initiate Pursuits

Pursuits by law enforcement can occur for a variety of reasons. While these types of instances vary in their specific case, a 2015 article in USA Today stated the most commonly reported factors that initiated police pursuits between 1979-2013 included:

• 62% of pursuits occurred as a result of traffic violations like reckless driving and intoxicated driving.
• 19% of pursuits occurred as a result of nonviolent felony offenses like car theft and burglary.
• 8% of pursuits occurred as a result of violent felonies like assault and robbery.
• 8% of pursuits occurred as a result of misdemeanor offenses.
• 3% of pursuits were a result of other police departments or law enforcement assisting during the pursuit.

Dependable Representation When You Need It the Most!

When involved in a sudden, catastrophic car accident, consulting with an experienced car accident attorney should be your first step to the financial relief you need to get your life back on track.

The McAllen car accident attorneys of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys represent car accident victims who have suffered serious injuries and trauma as a result of a negligent driver endangering the lives of others.

Our attorney will fight tooth and nail in order to get you the proper financial compensation you deserve to cover your physical damages as well as your mental and emotional pain and suffering.

Injured in a Police Pursuit? Don’t Hesitate To Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today!

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: KSAT

On Friday night, November 6th, a 41-year-old man was killed by a driver who struck him and failed to render aid.

Details About the Incident

According to local authorities, the incident occurred just after 11:15 p.m. at the intersection of 21st Avenue and Cano Street in Edinburg.

The victim was declared dead after he was rushed to the nearest hospital as a result of the injuries sustained.

The last sight of the vehicle involved was seen traveling south of 21st avenue. Authorities believed the negligent driver was operating a four-door Sedan with blue headlights.

No further information was released as of now, and Edinburg PD is continuing their search for the driver.

The Tragic End Results of Hit-and-Run Accidents

Auto-pedestrian accidents can be one of the most lethal types of accidents imaginable due to the damage they can inflict to the human body. If a person were to survive such an accident, the end results can leave devastating, long-term effects on a person’s body, mind, and mental wellbeing.

These types of accidents occur where there is either miscommunication between a pedestrian and a driver, or a driver ultimately fails to see an oncoming pedestrian ahead of them. Sometimes, alcohol and drugs may also play a factor, inhibiting judgment and reaction timing.

It was reported that 2019 was the deadliest year for pedestrians within the United States. Around 6,590 fatalities occurred as a direct result of auto-pedestrian accidents.

As far as Texas goes, In 2019 there were a total of 5,952 auto-pedestrian incidents across the entire state. Out of those incidents:

• 1,954 individuals suffered possible injuries.
• 2,095 individuals suffered non-incapacitating injuries.
• 1,260 individuals suffered serious injuries.
• 660 individuals were killed.

Tips Worth Considering For Fellow Pedestrians

While it is safe to assume that when we go out for a walk, hike, or bike ride that we’ll be safe and sound, tragedy can strike at any given moment if we aren’t careful.

The following life-saving tips should be taken into consideration when deciding to go out for a walk, day or night:

• Use sidewalks when available: Sidewalks give pedestrians a place to safely walk around away from oncoming traffic. It is crucial to utilize these resources when available. If no designated sidewalk is available, consider walking as far away from the road as possible in order to avoid an accident.
• Utilize the crosswalks available: When a crosswalk is available, make sure you use it when it is your turn to get you across the street in the safest manner possible. Avoid the urge to jaywalk, as it can lead to miscommunication between you and other drivers, causing an accident.
• Make yourself visible to others: Whether it’s in the morning or at nighttime, wearing bright, reflective gear can help make yourself visible to others.
• Cut off any distractions: A potential distraction such as cell phone use can keep your mind occupied while roaming around outside. These distractions can lead you to make a costly mistake and send you to the nearest hospital. When attempting to cross the street, refrain from any possible distractions at all times.

McAllen Car Accident Attorneys Fighting For Justice!

When tragedy unfolds, it can lead to a world of significant doubt and despair. In the event of an unexpected car accident where a loved one was taken too soon, it is important to seek legal justice.

The McAllen car accident attorneys of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys help families in need, fighting in civil court to get the proper financial relief they need to cover the cost of hospital bills, funeral expenses, and pain and suffering.

Have you been involved in a hit-and-run accident? Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today!

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: Brownsville Herald

On the night of November 4th, a 23-year-old motorcyclist was killed as he tried to avoid colliding into a line of vehicles.

Details of the Incident

According to local authorities, the motorcyclist was riding his Kawasaki motorcycle at approximately 9:15 p.m. on Loop 410 near Evers Road. As he came over a hill, he attempted to swerve away from a line of cars that had gathered ahead of him.

Two other vehicles, who were in front of the motorcyclist, also swerved in order to avoid the line of vehicles. This led to the motorcyclist laying down his motorcycle and colliding with the back end of a stopped vehicle.

The motorcyclist was declared dead at the scene. No charges have been filed thus far.

San Antonio PD is currently investigating the accident.

The Dangers of Motorcycle Accidents

Due to their nature, motorcycle accidents tend to be some of the most catastrophic types of accidents there are. Because motorcycles offer essentially no protection, a severe accident can easily result in devastating damages including broken bones, “road rash,” traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and much more – including death.

As per the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, motorcycle drivers are 28 times more likely to face death in an accident in comparison to passenger car occupants. The United States had a total of 4,985 motorcycle-accident related fatalities in 2018, which accounted for approximately 14% of all traffic-related fatalities across the nation.

In 2019, the state of Texas had a total death toll of 410 motorcyclists, including both passengers and operators.

Common Factors Related to Motorcycle Accidents

• Speeding: Excessive speeding is known to be a leading factor in motorcyclist fatalities. The faster a rider goes, the less time they have to react to a potentially catastrophic collision.
• Lack of awareness of surroundings: While a rider might feel like they may have an open road to themselves, not paying attention to their surroundings can lead to costly mistakes. As a rider, you should be alert of any other vehicles on the road and make yourself as visible as possible in order to avoid a collision.
• Lane splitting: When a rider tries to ram themselves in between two lanes, it can lead to a deadly accident.
• Intoxicated driving: No one should ever drink and drive, especially motorcyclists who have minimal protection.
• Motorcycle defects: At times, the motorcycle itself may have certain defective features, which can lead a rider to fall victim to an accident.
• Road defects: Cracked pavement, small or large potholes, physical objects, rocks of any size, debris, lack of lighting, or lack of safety signs can all contribute to a motorcycle accident.

Contact J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today to schedule your FREE virtual consultation!

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: News 4 SA

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has announced that traffic on I-2 westbound will be slowed intermittently to allow for road work in the area. Road work and reduced speeds mean that drivers in the area need to stay alert and practice safe driving.

Operation Details

Traffic on the westbound frontage road of I-2 between TxDOT Road and Cage Boulevard will be intermittently slowed in the coming days. TxDOT said that the slow rolling operation on I-2 will occur daily between Tuesday, Nov. 3 and Thursday, Nov. 5. Work will take place between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. and includes barrier adjustments and examinations of high-mast illumination lights. The shoulder will also be closed as needed.

Construction Accidents By the Numbers

Unfortunately, car accidents are a relatively common occurrence in Texas work zones. In fact in 2018, Texas saw nearly twice as many work zone fatalities than the next highest state.

According to data gathered by the Texas Department of Transportation, there were more than 26,000 car crashes in work zones in the state in 2019. Those accidents led to 168 fatalities and nearly 8,000 injuries of varying severity.

Work zone deaths in the country peaked in 2002 before slowly decreasing to a low in 2010. Since that time, work zone car crash fatalities are again on the rise, according to the National Safety Council (NSC).

The NSC reports that the majority of work zone fatalities–approximately 63%–affect drivers with passengers and pedestrians, accounting for 19% and 16% respectively. The remainder of these fatalities include bicyclists and other and unknown victims.

Stay Safe in Construction Zones

Work zones can have a big impact on the safety and behavior of drivers on the road. This is largely due to the lane closures and speed reductions necessary for this sort of work. Because of these efforts, it’s important to stay alert and be careful when driving near or through work zones. You can follow these few simple tips to stay safe and protect other drivers and the construction crews themselves:

1. Plan ahead: Before taking a trip, you can research your route to check for any work zones you may come across and use detours if necessary.
2. Be Alert: It’s always important to focus on the road when driving, but this is especially true in work zones where important information may be easy to miss.
3. Protect road workers: You can help keep road workers safe by slowing down and giving them extra room. In some instances, you may be flagged to come to a stop.
4. Switch lanes early: When you see a lane closure ahead, move over as soon as possible to give workers room.
5. Don’t tailgate: Work zones often come with reduced speeds, so reduce your following distance to give you and other drivers enough time to react.
6. Don’t cut off drivers: Slow speeds and cramped spaces can leave drivers impatient to get out of a work zone. In an effort to get out as soon as possible, an impatient driver may perform maneuvers that can be incredibly dangerous to other drivers, especially large vehicles that can be hard to control.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident in a work zone, the McAllen car accident attorneys of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys can help you find relief.

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: Valley Central

When you’ve fallen victim to a personal injury, whether as a result of a catastrophic car crash, slip-and-fall incident, or a workplace accident, it can take an enormous toll on your body, mind, and mental well-being.

Suffering a personal injury can keep you from fulfilling daily activities and can take the enjoyment out of the simple things in life. While these injuries can take a mental toll on you and your family, the path to recovery starts by consulting with an experienced attorney who can help you to seek legal action against the party that has caused your distress.

The McAllen car accident lawyers of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys are here to further elaborate on how you can seek the justice and financial compensation you deserve for the emotional damages you have suffered!

Emotional Distress Damages Explained

Emotional distress refers to the mental trauma and anxieties a plaintiff endures as a result of suffering an injury caused by another party. Because every case is unique in its own right, the exact emotional effects an individual may suffer will vary as well.

For instance, some victims who have suffered emotional distress as the result of a car accident can experience severe mental anxieties and emotional uncertainties that can completely alter their life, while others may “bounce back” right away.

Some notable examples of the various forms of emotional distress include but are not limited to:

• • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Ongoing depression
  • Sense of hopelessness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Panic attacks
  • Anxiety attacks
  • Bitterness and frustration
  • Sleep disturbance and recurring nightmares
  • Alcohol and drug abuse

Types of Emotional Distress Damages

Depending on the nature of the incident, emotional distress can be classified as either intentional infliction or negligent infliction.

• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: As the name implies, victims are able to seek these damages as a result of an intentional or reckless act committed by the defendant. Some notable examples of intentional infliction include physical abuse, sexual abuse, discrimination, or public humility.
• Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress: These types of damages are caused by the unintentional and/or accidental actions of a defendant. Notable examples include certain car crashes or slip-and-fall accidents.

In the state of Texas, plaintiffs can seek out two different forms of financial recovery:

• Special damages, also known as economic damages, are those in which exact payout estimations can be determined. Examples include:
  • Medical expenses (past, present, and future).
  • Lost work wages and any other future wages.
  • Property damages as a result of the accident.
  • Out-of-pocket expenses related to your accident.
• General damages, also referred to as non-economic damages, these can be more difficult to calculate because they are subjective to each case. Common examples include:
  • Pain and suffering.
  • Emotional trauma and distress.
  • Loss of companionship.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life.

Proving Emotional Distress

In order for an emotional distress claim to be successful, a plaintiff must be able to prove that their mental anguish was caused as a direct result of the accident you suffered. Securing and maintaining proper documentation can greatly improve the validity of your claim.

Some notable examples of documentation that can help make your emotional distress claim stronger may include:

• A daily journal where you write your thoughts and feelings following the accident.
• Medical receipts, prescriptions, and/or proof of rehabilitation regarding the treatment you received for your emotional distress. (ex. antidepressant medication prescriptions, proof of therapy sessions, hospital bills, etc.)
• Photographs and videos of the accident scene.
• Doctor’s notes declaring your emotional distress and notable symptoms.
• Witness testimonials regarding the accident.

It is important to note that a plaintiff must file an emotional distress claim within two (2) years of when the accident happened.

McAllen Car Accident Attorneys Ready to Help You Get Back on Your Feet

While your mental anguish may feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, it does not mean you should feel hopeless. Consulting with the compassionate and caring McAllen car accident lawyers of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys can be your first step on the path to recovery.

Our attorneys will walk with you every step of the way and will fight tooth-and-nail in order to get you the proper financial compensation you need as a result of the mental anguish you have suffered.

Contact J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today for a FREE virtual consultation!

Book My FREE Consultation Now