On Thursday, October 22nd, an auto-pedestrian accident was reported in San Juan.

According to local authorities, the incident occurred at Raul Longoria Road, and as of yet, local authorities have not identified any of the parties involved. In addition, no injuries or fatalities have been reported thus far.

The incident is still under investigation.

The Lethal Dangers of Auto-Pedestrian Accidents

Auto-pedestrian collisions are one of the most lethal types of accidents by nature. They occur when a driver fails to see a pedestrian on the road or fails to give them the right-of-way, striking them as a result.

If a pedestrian were to survive such an accident, the end results can be absolutely devastating to the human body and mind, leading to long-term complications.

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, a total of 5,952 pedestrian-related accidents in 2019. Out of those accidents:

• • 1,831 accidents occurred in which 1,954 individuals suffered possible injuries.
  • 1,991 accidents occurred in which 2,095 individuals suffered non-incapacitating injuries.
  • 1,215 accidents occurred in which 1,260 individuals suffered serious injuries.
  • 656 accidents occurred in which 660 individuals were reported dead after the incident.

Life-Saving Advice Pedestrians Should Take Into Consideration

While these accidents occur far too often, these incidents can ultimately be prevented, if and so fellow pedestrians take some of the following advice to mind:

• • Use Sidewalks: Sidewalks are specifically designed for pedestrians, bystanders, and cyclists in order to get around safely. If for whatever reason the area you are in does not have a sidewalk implemented, walk as far away from the road as possible.
  • Use the Crosswalk: Crosswalks were implemented for getting pedestrians from one side of the road to the other side in a safe manner as well. In the event where there are no adequate crosswalks, the best thing you can do would be to make eye contact with oncoming drivers and wait for them to yield and allow you to safely cross over.
  • Avoid Distractions: As a fellow pedestrian, you are still responsible for keeping both eyes on the road as you would if you were driving. It is important to avoid any potential distractions that will keep you from getting around safely such as cell phone use or listening to loud music on your earphones.
  • Make Yourself Visible: It is important to make yourself as visible as possible to other drivers by wearing bright, reflective gear that will make you easily identifiable, especially in later, darker hours.

Dependable Legal Representation When You Need It the Most

In the event of a catastrophic car accident where a negligent driver turns your entire life upside down, seek the recovery you deserve by consulting with the J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys. Doing so is the ideal first step into returning to normality.

Our caring and compassionate attorneys will fight tooth and nail in order to help you get back on your feet and receive the financial compensation you deserve for the pain and suffering you had to endure.

If you or someone you love were injured in an auto-pedestrian accident, contact J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today for a FREE virtual consultation!

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Source: Valley Central

Texas is set to reopen certain alcohol-serving establishments such as bars and nightclubs. Although regulations will be put in place to improve social distancing, this still means that many individuals will once again be drinking and driving.

While the reopening is positive economic news for our Rio Grande Valley businesses, there is also the potential for increased drunk driving accidents as a result of this reopening. Sadly, drunk driving accidents cause approximately 10,000 fatalities every year.

Even more shocking, according to the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2019, approximately 25% of all motor vehicle crash fatalities in the state involved a drunk driver!

With the bars and other such establishments reopening, these businesses will once again be responsible for the amount of alcohol they serve their patrons. Dram shop laws in Texas can make an establishment liable for selling alcohol to an obviously intoxicated person.

The McAllen car accident attorneys of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys want to further elaborate on what can be done if a bar over serves a patron, leading them to cause a catastrophic accident that leaves you or a loved one with serious injuries.

Texas Dram Shop Law Explained

Under Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code Ann. §2.01, a bar, retailer, or restaurant that serves alcohol can be held liable for an accident caused by an intoxicated patron if the establishment continued to serve alcohol to the individual despite them being clearly drunk.

Depending on the specifics of the car accident, both the defendant (the intoxicated individual) and the establishment can split liability for the damages inflicted on the victim.* Talk to an experienced McAllen car accident attorney, like those at J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys to learn more about your rights and to figure out who can be held responsible for the damages you suffered.

Proving Negligence Under Texas Dram Shop Law

In order to establish negligence against an establishment for playing a part in your drunk driving accident, the following factors must be proven:

• The establishment oversold or served a highly intoxicated individual that “presented a clear danger to themselves or others.”
• You suffered injuries and/or damages directly caused by the accident.
• The accident was directly caused by the act of overselling to the intoxicated party.

The following factors can also be used to support your argument against the establishment and negligent party:

• The defendant was clearly intoxicated prior to leaving the establishment.
• The defendant consumed more alcohol than the average patron at the establishment.
• The defendant had slurred speech.
• The defendant had bloodshot eyes.
• The defendant reeked of alcohol.
• The defendant had an improper balance.

While the establishment and its bartenders may deny the allegations that they oversold to the patron, circumstantial evidence such as eye witness testimony and security footage can greatly improve your claim.

What Parties Can Sue?

Dram shop laws allow only two parties to seek legal action:

• First-party claimants: Individuals who were directly affected by an intoxicated driver as a result of the establishment overserving the individual.
• Third-party claimants: Individuals who have had their loved one seriously injured or who lost their loved one as the result of an intoxicated driver being over served at an establishment.

Who Can Sue in a Wrongful Death Claim?

Losing a loved one is never easy, but knowing that they lost their life to a drunk driver can make the experience even worse. While no amount of money will ever make up for the pain of losing a family member, you can ensure that justice is delivered by filing a wrongful death claim.

Because dram shop laws allow eligible third-party claimants to directly sue the establishment that over-served the defendant, you can make sure that their loss is not in vain. Family members who are eligible to file a wrongful death claim include:

• Legal spouses
• Surviving children (blood or adopted)
• Parents (blood or adopted)

Damages Awarded in Dram Shop Law Claims

There are two forms of damages that you may be able to recover when filing a lawsuit under the dram shop law.

1.Special Damages

Also commonly referred to as economic damages, special damages can be mathematically calculated to an exact number. Some notable damages you may be eligible to recover include but are not limited to:

• • Medical expenses (past, present, and future).
  • Lost wages due to the inability to return to work (past, present, and future).
  • Property damages suffered as a result of the accident.
  • Loss of earning capacity (past, present, and future).
  • Out-of-pocket expenses.

2.General Damages

General damages are frequently referred to as non-economic damages. These types of damages can be more difficult to ascertain because every individual is affected differently by their car accident. General damages can include but are not limited to:

• • Pain and suffering.
  • Mental anguish.
  • Emotional trauma and distress.
  • Loss of consortium and companionship.
  • Loss of quality of overall life.

McAllen Car Accident Attorneys Ready to Fight for Justice on Your Behalf!

The team at J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys would like to remind our community to plan ahead and have a designated driver, or use a rideshare service if you plan to go out and consume alcohol. Being responsible can save a life.

A drunk driving accident can happen to anyone at any time. If you or a loved one have suffered damages as a result of a drunk driver, do not hesitate to pursue legal action. The McAllen car accident attorneys of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys will fight tooth-and-nail to hold all those responsible for your suffering and to help you obtain compensation for your losses.

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

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Ridesharing services, such as Uber or Lyft, have become very convenient and accessible methods of transportation. Individuals no longer have to own a car or utilize public transportation to get around town.

While these services do have their benefits, such as providing a safer mode of transportation for those who have been drinking, they also have their downsides and risks. One of the major causes of concern is your driver’s ability to adequately operate their vehicle. While you can generally assume that the driver will have your safety as a top priority, there are instances where unsafe driving behaviors can lead to them becoming involved in an accident.

In the event that you are involved in an accident while using a rideshare service, it is crucial to know what rights you have as a passenger and what actions you can take in order to get properly compensated for any injuries and damages you have suffered.

The McAllen car accident lawyers of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys have created a guide for victims of rideshare accidents in Texas.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

Determining liability in a rideshare accident depends on the specifics of the accident.

For instance, if your rideshare driver was the one who caused the accident, the rideshare company will most likely be liable for the accident. However, the rideshare will only cover the cost of your damages, if and only, the rideshare driver was actually on-the-clock (online).

If they are officially driving as a contractor at the time of the accident, then you will make a claim against the company rather than against the driver.

One of the only instances you can seek legal action against a rideshare driver is if you are hit by them when they are not online at the time of the accident and not performing any job-related duties.

Working closely with a local car accident attorney will help you to determine exactly who is liable for any damages you have suffered.

What Texas Law Says Regarding Ridesharing Services

Under Texas state law, Uber, Lyft, or any other rideshare company must provide their contract drivers with 50/100/25 insurance coverage when the app is on but they are not providing a ride. This means that coverage will provide up to $50,000 per person injured for a total up to $100,000 per crash, as well as $25,000 in property damage per accident.

Coverage must increase to $1 million when the driver is providing a ride.

What Insurance Policies Do These Ridesharing Companies Have?

While every ridesharing company has its own specific policies regarding accidents and insurance policies, those of Uber and Lyft are especially worth taking note of.

Uber’s Insurance Policy

Uber will be held liable for an accident only IF the accident occurred while their contract driver was providing services. If an accident occurred while a ride was active, the company will provide up to $1 million worth of coverage.

However, if a driver is online (has the app on) but is waiting to be paired with a user, and gets involved in an accident, Uber’s insurance policy will provide:

$50,000 per person involved
$100,000 max in bodily injury coverage
$25,000 property damage

Lyft’s Insurance Policy

Lyft will be held liable for an accident only IF a rider was inside one of their vehicles and their driver directly caused the crash. If a driver is online and waiting to pick up a user, unlike Uber’s policy, a driver will need to use their own insurance to cover damages suffered by any party.

Lyft will only cover a driver’s damages if their own insurance policy does not cover the damages inflicted.

What to Do in the Event of a Rideshare Accident

If you are involved in an accident while using a rideshare service, there are several steps you will want to take:

• • Seek medical attention immediately: It is crucial to get a medical evaluation as soon as you possibly can following the accident. While you may not immediately feel the effects of an injury, severe injuries such as a spinal cord or head injury can take hours or even days after an accident to be fully felt.
  • Call 911 and inform the authorities: Inform the appropriate authorities about the incident. Let the police know exactly what happened before and during the accident.
  • Gather as much evidence as possible: When filing a claim against either a driver or a ridesharing company, it is vital to gather as much relevant documentation and evidence as possible in order to build the strongest case on your end.

Some examples of key documentation and pieces of evidence you should gather include but are not limited:

• • • • All photographs and video footage that tie into the accident; highlight physical injuries, vehicle damages, and the scene of the accident.
      • The rideshare driver’s or the at-fault party’s full name, phone number, insurance information, and vehicle’s license plate number.
      • The official police and the incident report once it becomes available.
      • All medical receipts, doctor’s notes, prescriptions, and treatment documentation.
  • Consult with an experienced car accident attorney, such as the McAllen car accident attorneys at J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys as soon as you possibly can. Do NOT give any verbal or written statements to any insurance company before you consult an attorney.

Reliable McAllen Car Accident Attorneys You Can Depend On

If your rideshare driver acted in a negligent manner that led to a severe car accident, do not hesitate to get in touch with J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys as soon as you possibly can.

Our attorneys will fight tooth-and-nail to seek the proper settlement you deserve for all of the injuries and trauma you have suffered as a result of your accident. We will seek justice on your behalf against the negligent parties responsible for your pain and suffering.

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

Book My FREE Consultation Now

In November 2019, a man was involved in a rollover accident in Brighton, England, causing injuries so devastating that he had to have his entire arm amputated.

The man, who was texting-and-driving at the time, ran into a fixed median that caused his grey van to tip over to its side and nearly hit another vehicle coming from the other direction.

While the identity of the man is unknown, he has allowed the footage of his accident to be seen publicly in order to help spread awareness of what horrendous results can happen as a direct result of distracted driving.

What Is Considered Distracted Driving?

When a driver takes their eyes away from the road to read a text or make adjustments to their GPS for 5 seconds while traveling at 55 MPH, they are covering the length of an entire football field unsupervised. As you can imagine, this creates a higher risk of causing a disastrous car accident.

Many of the causes of these types of accidents stem from:

• • Cell phone use
  • Texting and driving
  • Eating and/or drinking while driving
  • Playlist/radio changing
  • Screen adjustments
  • Distractions coming from passengers
  • Listening to music at extremely high volume

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes three main types of distracted driving:

• • Visual – when a driver takes their eyes off the road.
  • Manual – when a driver physically takes their hands off the wheel or foot off the pedal.
  • Cognitive – when a driver is not fully focused or mentally stable to operate behind the wheel.

Distracted Driving Statistics Around the United States

Each year, distracted driving tends to be one of the biggest problems we face within our roadways.

According to the CDC, it is estimated that there are at least 9 lives taken away on a daily basis in the United States as a result of a distracted driver, equalling out to at least 3,500 preventable deaths annually.

Between 2012 and 2018, there were over 23,000 reported traffic fatalities that involved a distracted driver. In fact, in 2018 alone, there were approximately 2,841 preventable deaths as a result of distracted drivers. To put it into a more local perspective, Texas reported approximately 377 distracted-driving deaths for 2019.

Seeking the Justice You Deserve Is A Consultation Away!

While nobody should ever drive in a distracted and reckless manner, far too many lives are taken as a result. Unnecessary distractions such as cell phone use or eating while driving are causing widespread, avoidable damage to Americans of any age group, and it is up to us to remain vigilant and refrain from engaging with such distractions while behind the wheel.

However, when an unexpected car accident caused by a distraction affects your health, you deserve proper financial relief in order to treat all of the damages that were inflicted upon you or a loved one through no fault of your own. J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys will stop at nothing to fight for the civil justice and financial compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, the time for justice is now. Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today.

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: Fox News

On the afternoon of Friday, September 18th, a tragic two-vehicle collision took the lives of a 13-year-old boy and 6-year-old girl in Edinburg.

Details About The Incident

According to local authorities, the accident occurred at approximately 5 p.m when a 15-year-old driver of a Hyundai was headed eastbound on FM 2812 and attempted to pass another vehicle. The driver was trying to turn into Buena Vista Drive.

The attempt went awry, causing the driver of the Hyundai to lose control of the vehicle and skid into the westbound lane until a Dodge pickup truck ultimately struck into its passenger side.

A 39-year-old passenger riding in the passenger side at the time of the accident suffered significant injuries. The 13-year-old and the 6-year-old sitting in the rear of the vehicle were unrestrained and pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver, the 39-year-old passenger, and the occupants of the Dodge pickup truck were all rushed to the nearest hospital for further medical evaluation. The Texas Department of Public Safety (TxDPS) continued their investigation into the accident.

The Risks That Unrestrained Passengers Face

These kinds of accidents are always tragic, especially when it happens to children. Unfortunately, these kinds of car accidents are more common than you would think. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), injuries sustained in severe car accidents are the leading cause of deaths for children all across the United States.

In fact, a total of 675 children ages 12 and younger died as a result of a serious car accident. Out of those fatalities, 236 individuals were not restrained properly. Keep in mind that the CDC states that properly strapping up your young child with an adequate booster seat can reduce a serious injury by 45 percent. For older children, teenagers, and adults, wearing a seat belt can reduce your chances of suffering a serious injury or death by 50 percent.

Edinburg Car Accidents By the Numbers

According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the City of Edinburg experienced a total number of 2,581 car accidents in 2019. Out of those reported car accidents, it was reported that:

• 644 incidents occurred where 1,217 suffered possible injuries.
• 126 incidents occurred where 187 individuals suffered non-incapacitating
  injuries.
• 29 incidents occurred where 33 individuals suspected to suffer serious injuries.
• 6 incidents occurred in which 6 individuals were killed.

McAllen Car Accident Attorneys By Your Side When You Need Them the Most

An unexpected tragedy such as a car accident that takes the life of a loved one is a painful circumstance to endure, but if it occurred because of a negligent party, you may be entitled to fight for compensation that helps cover associated costs.

The McAllen car accident lawyers of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys can help you get on the right path toward healing, fighting tooth and nail in civil court for the compensation you and your family deserve for all of your physical and emotional pain and suffering.

Car accidents can happen in a moment’s notice, so please make sure to wear a seat belt. Should one happen, J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys can help you find financial relief.

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: The Monitor

On the afternoon of Wednesday, September 16th, a single vehicle speeding accident took the life of a 24-year-old man and left another 27-year-old man hospitalized.

Details About The Incident

According to local authorities, the accident occurred at approximately 6:20 p.m. near Midway road, south of Mile 5 Road. The 27-year-old was operating an SUV and speeding down a caliche road when he eventually lost control.

The vehicle skid on the passenger side until it struck a tree on the side where the 24-year-old was seated. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, and the driver was rushed to the hospital where he currently remains stabilized.

The driver is expected to be charged with manslaughter when released from the hospital.

The Lethal Dangers of Excessive Speeding

Speed is both dangerous to drivers and pedestrians alike. In 2019, Texas recorded a total number of 284 fatalities as a direct result of excessive speeding, which accounted for 7.87% of all traffic fatalities within the state that year.

Additionally, Hidalgo County recorded a total number of 505 speeding-related crashes in 2019. Out of those incidents:

• There were 101 crashes where 198 individuals suffered possible injuries.
• There were 57 crashes in which 98 individuals suffered non-incapacitating injuries.
• There were 22 crashes in which 34 individuals suffered serious injuries.
• There were 9 fatal crashes in which 10 individuals passed away.

Common Factors That May Trigger Excessive Speeding

While these accidents can vary through a case-by-case basis, some of the most common occurrences with speeding-related accidents include:

• Irrational Driving Behaviors: Unfortunately there may be times where we may encounter drivers who have no regard to complying with the rules of the road. Should you encounter someone like this on the road, it is best to move out of the way and let them pass you in order to avoid a collision.
• Drinking and driving: While nobody should ever get behind the wheel when they have been consuming alcohol, there are far too many tragic deaths as a result of drunk driving. If you plan on consuming alcohol, please refrain from getting behind the wheel, and make use of a rideshare service or a good, sober friend to get you home safely.
• Potential Tardiness: While we may all at some point be guilty of slightly going above the legal speed limit, it is best not to take the risk of driving over the speed limit if you are running late for work, school, or any other appointment. Leave with plenty of time to get to your destination safely.

Seeking The Compensation You Deserve Starts With A Consultation

Being involved in an accident as a result of a negligent driver that was speeding can be one of the most dreadful experiences to be involved in. The car damages and potential injuries you had to endure coupled with the complexities of dealing with insurance companies afterward can be a confusing and overwhelming hassle during a time when you should be focused on healing.

While the insurance company might try to give you a low end settlement, it is best to avoid talking to them until you get in touch with the McAllen car accident attorneys of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys. We can properly represent you and fight for the proper financial relief you need to recover.

If you or a loved one were involved in a car accident caused by speeding, contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today for a FREE consultation!

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: Valley Central

On the morning of September 12th, a deadly vehicle accident left a 53-year-old woman and a 4-year-old child dead after being involved in a single-vehicle car crash near Expressway 83 in San Benito.

Details About The Incident

According to local authorities, the accident occurred near the southbound lanes of Expressway 83, near the Sam Houston exit ramp at approximately 11:26 a.m. San Benito PD responded to a crash involving a silver Ford Expedition that was carrying 6 individuals, including the 53-year-old woman and the 4-year-old child.

All parties involved were taken to the nearest hospital, where the woman and child were later declared dead as a result of their injuries. The remaining 4 individuals were reported to be in stable condition.

No other information was given to how exactly the accident occurred, and the crash remains under investigation.

The Dangers of Inadequately Restraining Your Child

Driving your child around without the proper seat belt can spell out a recipe for disaster, potentially taking the young life of a child in the event of an unexpected accident.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the injuries sustained in motor vehicle crashes are the leading causes of deaths in children across the United States.

In 2017, there were approximately 116,000 children aged 12 and younger that suffered significant injuries as a result of a car accident. In that same year, there was a total death toll of 675 fatalities within that same age group across. Out of those reported fatalities, approximately 35 percent of those children were not sustained properly.

How Buckling Up Can Save A Child’s Life

While accidents can occur at any given time, wearing a seatbelt or being restrained properly in a booster seat can ultimately reduce the risk of a serious life-altering injury or death.

It has been reported by the CDC that a booster seat ultimately decreases the risk of a serious injury for younger children ages 4-8 by approximately 45 percent. As for older children to adults, the proper use of a seat belt can significantly reduce the risk of a serious injury or death by 50 percent.

To get a better understanding of how to buckle up your child based on their age, consider the following:

• Rear-facing car seat: Young Infants and toddlers up to 2 years of age should always be buckled in the back seat of the vehicle in a modified car seat facing the rear of the vehicle.
• Forward-facing car seat: Once they have outgrown a rear-facing car seat, between the ages of 2 to 4 years, the next type of modified seat should be a forward-facing car seat secured in the back seat of the vehicle.
• Booster seats: Once your children are between 4 to 8 years of age, a booster seat should be installed in the back seat to keep them safely buckled up. Seat belts fit best when the lap end of the belt sits across the upper thighs and the shoulder belt sits firmly across the chest.
• Seat belt: Lastly, a child passenger should be wearing a seat belt without the need for additional modifications or support at around 8 to 12 years of age, or when they reach a height of 4 feet 9 inches. Children should always sit in back seats and away from airbags as they may cause serious or lethal injury to a child (under the age of 13) if triggered unexpectedly.

Has Your Child Been Severely Injured In A Car Accident?

As parents, the last thing we would ever want to see is our children suffering. In the event of an unexpected car accident caused by a negligent driver, you will need the most reliable and trustworthy legal team by your side in order to help your child properly recover.

The McAllen car accident lawyers of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys will help you seek the financial relief you deserve for all the damages inflicted on your child.

If your child has been injured in a car accident, contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today for a FREE case evaluation!

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: KGBT

When a person is in need of adequate legal representation due to an injury they have suffered, the next ideal move would be to do the research in finding the right attorney that can best represent you.

For the most part, the majority of car accident attorneys offer free in-person–or virtual–consultations to prospective clients in order to determine if you have a case and what is needed to proceed. This makes knowing what you may be getting yourself into before a consultation with a car accident lawyer essential to get the best out of your visit.

With this being said, the McAllen personal injury attorneys of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys have provided brief insight on what you can expect out of a free consultation with an attorney and what key documents are needed on your behalf to make the consultation worth your while.

Doing the Research Before Scheduling An Appointment

Before scheduling your consultation with a prospective attorney, it is important to make sure the attorney you are looking at specializes in the specific area you may be seeking legal assistance in as not all attorneys are created equal.

For instance, if you were involved in a serious car accident, you would want an attorney with years of experience settling those types of personal injury cases. The more years of experience an attorney may have, the more adequately they may be able to handle your case in civil court.

Some notable websites like avvo.com can help you find the right lawyer you need, even in some instances awarding accolades to these lawyers for their excellence in helping victims. Additionally, Google or Facebook reviews can provide some more personal insights from former clients they have had in the past.

Asking the Right Questions

Once you officially have your first consultation with the prospective attorney, it is your chance to ask as many questions as you can. You can ask your attorney anything from “How many years of experience have you practiced law?” to “What can I expect out of your legal services?”

The more questions you ask–be they general questions about the lawyer’s experience, services, and/or specifics relating to your case–the more you can tell if they are the right attorney to handle your case.

After all, if for whatever reason you may feel like the attorney you are talking to is not trustworthy or simply isn’t right for your case, you have zero obligation to commit to their services.

What Legal Fees Will Be Needed?

Perhaps the biggest elephant in the room to address will be asking how much the cost of their legal services may be. Many personal injury attorneys and car accident lawyers work based on contingency fees, meaning they will take a certain percentage from your settlement if they successfully win your case in court. If they don’t win, however, they do not earn anything.

Finding out what percentage they may take, what fees are included, and how much money will be needed upfront should be discussed within this initial consultation.

Bringing the Proper Documentation and Evidence

In order to properly evaluate your case, an attorney will need all the proper documentation and any potential evidence you may have in your possession–or can safely acquire.

Reviewing these documents and pieces of evidence can help them determine how to proceed with your case and what damages you may be eligible to collect. The more evidence you can provide, the stronger the case you may have on your hands.

Some of the key documents you will need to bring to a consultation with an attorney include:

• Any photographs and/or video footage that can indicate:
  • Your personal vehicle damage.
  • Any potential injuries, scrapes, and cuts that were inflicted upon you and/or any other passengers involved.
  • The exact whereabouts of your accident, including any recognizable buildings, street signs, and traffic signs.
  • The scene of the accident itself.
• A copy of the police report and the accident report once they become available.
• Any medical receipts, prescriptions, proof of rehabilitation, and doctor’s notes given.

Trustworthy and Reliable McAllen Car Accident Attorneys Ready to Serve You!

With years of dealing with personal injury and car accident cases, along with successfully resolving over 500 cases during the COVID-19 pandemic, consulting with J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys should be your first step into seeking the financial recovery you need to get your life back on track.

Remember, it’s important to consult with our experienced attorneys as soon as you possibly can, as the Texas statute of limitations will only allow you to file a personal injury claim within a two (2) year time period starting from the day in which your accident occurred.

Involved in a car accident? Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today to schedule your FREE no-obligation consultation!

Book My FREE Consultation Now

On Wednesday, September 2nd, a head-on vehicle collision tragically took the lives of a 49-year-old woman, a 6-year-old boy, and a 2-year-old girl in Los Fresnos.

Details About The Incident

According to local authorities, the accident occurred at FM 803, north of Saint Francis street near Highway 100 in Los Fresnos. The victims were headed southbound in a Dodge Magnum on FM 803 when a GMC Yukon crashed into their vehicle head on.

The 49-year-old woman was declared dead at the scene, and the children were taken to the nearest hospital where they would later be pronounced dead.

Two other individuals that were inside the vehicle were sent to the hospital and were in stable condition. No charges have been filed thus far, and the accident remains under investigation.

An Overview on Head-On Collision Facts and Statistics

Head-on vehicle collisions are one of the most lethal types of car accidents that can occur. In 2019 alone, the state of Texas reported a total of 600 fatalities as a result of head-on collisions.

They occur when two vehicles collide with each other from the front end, usually when traveling from opposite directions. They can significantly cause catastrophic physical and emotional damage to individuals involved, even death.

In 2018, head-on collisions accounted for 56 percent of all passenger vehicle occupant fatalities, which accounts for 15 deaths per million registered vehicles in multi-vehicle accidents across the entire United States.

Some of the most notable types of injuries suffered in head-on collisions can range from a neck injury as a result of whiplash, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, sprains, head trauma, and even traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).

Notable Factors That May Lead Up to a Head-On Collision

• Faulty or Defective Vehicle Equipment: Driving with a low-threading tire, faulty brakes, or poor vehicle design can all lead to a car accident
• Inaccurate attempt to cross a vehicle: Untimely decisions could lead to a catastrophic car accident, especially if it’s in a two-way lane. If you are trying to pass a vehicle, make sure you have enough space and time to do so.
• Distracted Driving: Texting and driving, eating while driving, or changing a playlist can cause you to miss any important street signs, collide into pedestrians, or veer into oncoming traffic. Failing to be aware of your surroundings is one of the most common causes of head-on collisions.
• Driving under the influence: Nobody should get behind the wheel if they have been consuming alcohol or any other illegal substances. If you plan to consume alcohol when out and about, make sure to recruit a friend to be your designated driver or use a rideshare service.
• Fatigued Driving: At times one may be too tired or sick to adequately operate a vehicle. Their mental state of mind may not be at 100%, placing them into a dangerous circumstance while behind the wheel.

The Path To Recovery is a Consultation Away!

Seeking civil justice after a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence can be the first step into the emotional and financial recovery you and your loved one deserve.

The Brownsville car accident attorneys of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys can help surviving family members with open arms, guiding them through the entire legal process to get the compensation they need to pay for damages they incurred through no fault of their own.

Our caring and compassionate car accident lawyers will sit down and evaluate your case to determine what legal options are available in your claim.

If a negligent driver slammed head on into your car, don’t let your pain go unanswered.

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: Port Isabel Press, KRGV

On the night of Tuesday, August 25th, a 21-year-old man was hospitalized and arrested after crashing his vehicle while attempting to flee from the police.

Details About the Incident

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the incident started at approximately 10:00 p.m. after a state trooper attempted to stop the driver within the intersection of McColl and the I-2 Frontage Road.

The 21-year-old man refused to stop and forced the trooper into pursuit, which ended after the driver crashed into a parked vehicle and a brick wall between I-2 Frontage and Sugar Road in Pharr.

The driver already has separate charges against him in Harris County and is currently pending charges for this incident. He was rushed to the hospital following the car accident.

Two other parties that were inside the vehicle when the incident occurred but managed to flee the scene immediately following the accident.

Know the Causes and Dangers Involved in a Police Pursuit

In a study conducted by USA Today, some of the most commonly reported factors that led to police pursuits included:

• • Traffic violations such as speeding, disobeying traffic signs, and intoxicated driving.
  • Nonviolent felony offenses like car theft and burglary.
  • Violent felony crimes such as assault and robbery.
  • Misdemeanor offenses.
  • Accidents occurring as a result of other law enforcement officers assisting during the pursuit.

Police chases occur when a negligent party is running away from law enforcement at a dangerously high speed, putting other driver’s lives in danger. In fact, it is not uncommon for these types of incidents to result in catastrophic injury and/or death.

A Brief Look Into Pharr Car Accident Statistics

According to the latest annual report conducted by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), it was revealed that in 2019 the City of Pharr experienced a total of 2,264 motor vehicle accidents. Out of these reported incidents, there were: 

• • 536 motor vehicle accidents in which 903 individuals suffered possible injuries.
  • 131 motor vehicle accidents in which 188 individuals suffered non-incapacitating injuries.
  • 16 motor vehicle accidents in which 18 individuals suffered possible serious injuries.
  • 1 motor vehicle accident in which a person lost their life.

Fighting for Your Financial Relief

Police pursuits can happen unexpectedly while you and your family are out on the road, but if a car accident due to one were to occur, you have trustworthy McAllen car accident attorneys like the ones at J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys to help you with your recovery.

Our attorneys will walk you through the entire legal process, step by step, and into civil court to recover the financial compensation you need to cover the cost of treating your injuries, repairing your vehicle, and resolving the pain and suffering you had to endure.

Injured by Another Negligent Party During a Police Pursuit? Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys Today.

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: KRGV