Renick Law Firm, PLLCRenick Law Firm, PLLC2024-03-11T19:51:02Zhttps://www.renicklawfirm.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1502471/2021/10/cropped-favicon-new-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Renick Law Firm, PLLChttps://www.renicklawfirm.com/?p=470882024-03-11T19:51:02Z2024-03-11T19:51:02ZInvestigation process
Firstly, expect an extensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. This investigation aims to gather evidence to support your claim. There will likely be interviews with witnesses, examination of workplace policies and inspections of the site where the incident occurred.
Filing the lawsuit
Once the investigation is complete, you and your legal team will file the formal wrongful death lawsuit. This legal document outlines the details of the incident, the parties involved and the damages you are seeking.
Discovery phase
Following the filing of the lawsuit, expect a discovery phase where both parties exchange information and evidence related to the case. This process allows each side to understand the arguments and gather additional evidence.
Negotiation and settlement
In many cases, it may be possible to negotiate a settlement before going to trial. Expect discussions with the opposing party to reach a resolution that provides compensation for your loss.
Trial
If you cannot secure a satisfactory settlement, you can pursue the rightful outcome at trial. During the trial, both parties will present their arguments and evidence to a judge or jury. If the verdict is in your favor, you may receive compensation for your loss. However, the opposing party may choose to appeal the decision, prolonging the legal process.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there were 5,486 fatal work-related injuries in 2022. While you can never truly prepare for the loss of a loved one in such a way, there are processes in place to help you seek some form of justice for the pain your family feels.]]>On Behalf of Renick Law Firm, PLLChttps://www.renicklawfirm.com/?p=470872024-02-08T20:16:30Z2024-02-08T20:16:03Zespecially dangerous and can become deadly in the blink of an eye. Unfortunately, these accidents are much more common than people think.
Why do people speed?
Believe it or not, people can sometimes speed because of distractions. They may be listening to a great song and pushing the pedal a little too hard. If there is no traffic, that can easily lead to a situation where distraction causes speeding.
The thrill of speeding
Other people speed because of the thrill it makes them feel when they are driving super-fast. The feeling can become addictive, and some people like to feel that they are taking an enormous risk, even if it means risking their lives.
Rush-hour traffic
Another reason people speed is when they are running late to or from work. Most people who commute to work have a window of time when they are supposed to arrive at work.
Unfortunately, life is very hectic these days and many people cannot be on time, especially if their schedules involve other people, such as a spouse or children.
Holidays and events
If a famous pop star is in town for a concert, you can almost guarantee that the traffic will be awful and that people will drive fast and, sometimes, under the influence.
In addition, on holidays like Christmas, New Year’s and other special times during the year, the number of cars on the road increases significantly, with people driving to visit their family members.
If you combine bad weather with other factors, like during Christmas in certain cities, it could lead to a dangerous accident.
Accidents can happen all the time and speeding is one of the most common reasons people get into accidents. Keep this in mind every time you get on the road, because you do not know who will drive past you. Ensure you have your seatbelt on, drive defensively and always keep your eyes on the road.]]>On Behalf of Renick Law Firm, PLLChttps://www.renicklawfirm.com/?p=470862023-12-13T20:22:17Z2023-12-13T20:22:17ZWhere Texas ranks
Per KXAN, Texas ranks third in the nation for drunk drivers, with more than 42% of fatal crashes statewide involving impaired driving. The implications of this ranking extend beyond mere numbers. They also highlight a pressing need for more measures to deter and prevent individuals from getting behind the wheel while impaired.
What contributes to the trend
Several factors contribute to Texas' high rates of drunk driving incidents. The state's vast size and diverse population, coupled with its extensive network of roads and highways, create a unique set of challenges for law enforcement. Cultural and social factors also play a role, emphasizing the importance of targeted awareness campaigns and enforcement strategies tailored to the specific dynamics at play in Texas communities.
How road safety suffers
Impaired driving poses substantial risks not only to the individuals behind the wheel but also to passengers, pedestrians and other motorists. Addressing the issue is not just about enforcing laws but also about fostering a collective awareness of the consequences and promoting responsible behavior on the roads.
By prioritizing road safety, Texas can work towards improving its standing with regard to drunk drivers and make travel safer for everyone on its roadways.]]>On Behalf of Renick Law Firm, PLLChttps://www.renicklawfirm.com/?p=470852023-12-01T16:25:49Z2023-12-01T16:25:49ZNegligence in assessment
One prevalent reason for delays in insurance claims is negligence on the part of insurance agents. Sometimes, they may overlook important details during the initial assessment, leading to protracted investigations and assessments. This oversight can be particularly exasperating for property owners seeking prompt resolution.
Disputes over policy interpretation
Insurance policies often contain intricate language that may be subject to different interpretations. Disputes between property owners and insurance companies regarding the interpretation of policy clauses can stall the claims process. This intricate dance of legalese can be confusing, leaving property owners without the coverage they anticipated.
Inadequate documentation
Denial of insurance claims is not uncommon. Understanding the reasons behind it is the first step to resolution. Often, incomplete documentation plays a role. Make sure to thoroughly document the damages, providing clear pictures and detailed descriptions. Failure to report damages promptly may also result in denial.
Benefits of a professional advocate
In the face of these challenges, seeking the guidance of a seasoned professional becomes important. An experienced property damage attorney specializes in advocating for property owners. They help ensure their claims are not bogged down in the quagmire of bureaucratic delays.
Some insurers are raising rates by 25.1% in Texas. Property owners deserve the compensation they pay for when an unexpected event happens.]]>On Behalf of Renick Law Firm, PLLChttps://www.renicklawfirm.com/?p=470842023-09-26T18:22:42Z2023-09-26T18:22:42ZRecognizing police questioning
Remember that police questioning is not always formal and in an interrogation room. Sometimes, questioning happens in a way that appears like a conversation with subtle tactics intended to get you to reveal something they can use against you. Exercising your right to remain silent in any questioning reduces this risk.
Understanding the consequences of speaking
If you waive your right to remain silent or you underestimate your situation with the police, they can use anything you say against you in court, even if they take the words out of context or misconstrue your statements. A seemingly innocuous statement might provide the prosecution with evidence depending on how they present it.
Exercising your right to silence
Avoid answering any questions or making any statements, even in what seems like a casual conversation with an officer. Instead, politely inform the officer that you choose not to answer any questions without representation and are exercising your right to remain silent. Once you say that, do not answer any questions. Doing so could appear as a waiver of your right and anything you say becomes evidence.
According to a 2019 article by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, more than a quarter of the people exonerated in recent years by The Innocence Project originally confessed due to pressure from their police interrogation. Protect yourself from this risk with a thorough understanding and appreciation of your right to remain silent.]]>On Behalf of Renick Law Firm, PLLChttps://www.renicklawfirm.com/?p=470832023-09-19T03:34:27Z2023-09-19T03:34:27ZReview your policy
You should start by understanding what your insurance policy does and does not cover. Knowing the exact terms and details can help you identify whether the denial is valid or if there is room for dispute.
Contact your insurance company
You can reach out to your insurance company by calling their customer service line or sending a written letter. Ask for a detailed explanation of the denial. Ensure that you gather all necessary information regarding your claim and make a record of your insurer's response.
Correct any errors or omissions
If the denial is due to missing or incorrect information, take immediate action to correct the situation. Gather any necessary documents or proof to support your claim. Be diligent in providing the insurance company with the requested information to bolster your case.
Appeal the denial
If you believe the denial is unjust, you have the right to appeal the decision. Follow the insurance company's appeal process as outlined in your policy. Prepare a clear and concise argument for why your claim is valid. Cite any relevant policy provisions and provide evidence to support your case.
Explore mediation or arbitration
Mediation or arbitration may be viable options for resolving disputes with your insurance company in certain situations. These processes can help you reach a mutually agreeable solution without going through a lengthy legal battle.
Data suggests that insurers deny as much as 20% of the claims they receive. Many people struggle to receive the compensation they deserve after a catastrophic event, but you can assert your rights to strive for a better outcome.]]>On Behalf of Renick Law Firm, PLLChttps://www.renicklawfirm.com/?p=470812023-07-29T20:35:02Z2023-07-29T20:35:02ZDistracted driving and auto collisions
Cell phone use, texting while driving and other distractions frequently cause motor vehicle accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving contributed to 3,522 fatal automobile crashes in 2021. Furthermore, the World Health Organization estimates that drivers who use mobile devices while behind the wheel are around four times more likely to get into accidents.
Teenage drivers are often more likely to engage in risky behaviors, including mobile phone use and distracted driving. Parents, educators and communities should encourage and model responsible behavior for young drivers. Not only is distracted driving dangerous, but here in Texas, it is illegal to use a handheld device while driving without a hands-free headset.
Common types of distracted driving
Using a cell phone or mobile device to send text messages, check e-mails or browse the web is a dangerous form of distracted driving that removes a driver's hands, eyes and attention from the road. Talking on a cell phone is also risky, but using hands-free accessories can be safer for drivers who need to take calls on the road. Drivers should avoid fixing their hair or applying make-up when behind the wheel. It is unsafe to eat food while operating a vehicle, and changing the music in the car while driving can be distracting as well.
Distracted driving behaviors, including using a mobile phone while driving, can endanger the lives and safety of motorists and other people on the road.]]>On Behalf of Renick Law Firm, PLLChttps://www.renicklawfirm.com/?p=470802023-06-22T19:03:52Z2023-06-22T19:03:52ZAssumption of risk in skate park injuries
When individuals participate in potentially hazardous activities like skateboarding, they generally accept a certain level of risk. This concept, known as "assumption of risk," is a type of affirmative defense in Texas. Assumption of Risk implies that skaters acknowledge potential dangers and agree to undertake them. If a skater suffers an injury as a result of a typical skateboarding risk, they might not be able to hold others liable.
Fault of the skate park management
If a skate park injury occurs due to the park's poor maintenance or safety measures, the management could be at fault. An example could be a severe injury resulting from broken equipment or irregular surfaces which the management failed to fix. To establish fault, an injured skater must prove that the park management was negligent in maintaining a safe environment.
Responsibility of other skaters
Other skaters can also bear responsibility if their reckless behavior or disregard for safety rules led to an injury. For instance, if a skater performs a risky trick in a crowded area, hitting and injuring another skater, the injured party may hold them accountable for the incident. However, proving this can be a challenge, as skateboarding inherently involves risky moves and skaters often share the same space.
Defective equipment
If a skateboarding injury is a result of defective equipment, the fault may lie with the manufacturer or retailer. This comes under product liability law, which holds companies accountable for injuries caused by defective products they produce or sell.
Understanding these factors can assist injured parties in identifying the responsible party and seeking justice for their injuries.]]>On Behalf of Renick Law Firm, PLLChttps://www.renicklawfirm.com/?p=470792023-05-30T00:05:59Z2023-05-30T00:05:59ZSigns of bad faith from the insurance company
Some insurance companies engage in bad faith by denying or delaying payouts or coverage of homeowner claims. In other cases, the insurance company might offer a lowball settlement that is clearly below the value of your claim. A particularly malicious tactic is for the insurer to make unreasonable documentation requests or excessive investigations in an attempt to prolong the process and frustrate you to the point of dropping the claim or accepting a low settlement.
What to do when mistreated by the insurance company
Defending yourself against bad faith behavior starts by understanding your insurance policy. When you are fully familiar with the terms that your insurance provider must adhere to, you can take the most appropriate course of action.
It is important to keep in mind, though, that you are not alone in fighting back against insurance bad faith. An experienced attorney can stand up for you as the homeowner and help you get the coverage you are due.]]>On Behalf of Renick Law Firm, PLLChttps://www.renicklawfirm.com/?p=470782023-03-31T14:02:27Z2023-03-31T14:02:27ZWhat is overcharging?
The practice of overcharging involves manufacturing additional accusations against a defendant in the hopes that one or two will stick. Why would someone use such tactics?
Prosecutors naturally take pride in their win-loss records. Since Texas citizens vote for district attorneys, some may feel pressure to get a high number of confessions or convictions to please voters.
Prosecutors can use trumped-up allegations to put pressure on a defendant before a trial. The possibility of a lengthy prison sentence for numerous charges might frighten someone into confessing to an offense. Prosecutors often employ this tactic when multiple people are suspects and use the strategy to encourage defendants to testify against each other.
How can defendants combat overcharging?
No one can prevent a prosecutor from threatening to bring additional charges. However, a solid criminal defense strategy can counteract this technique and give a defendant better odds of a favorable outcome.
Often, the ideal way to get into the mind of a prosecutor is to get guidance from someone who has done similar work and understands the process from that side. With a total view of the situation, a defendant might not succumb to overly aggressive prosecutors.]]>