Texas Injury Law Blog

Three Trucks Crash Into Arlington Bridge

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I know that although semi-trucks are driven by professionally licensed truckers, they are not immune from making mistakes while on the road. The problem is that when they do, the wrecks they cause more often than not result in very serious injuries for other motorists and their passengers who just happen to be in the wrong place at the time. Proof of such accidents occurred in Arlington this lunch time when eyewitnesses reported three 18 wheelers crash into the Division Street bridge over Highway 360.

Fortunately, it does not appear that anyone was injured in this embarrassing crash, although it could have been far worse. If you or someone you love is ever involved in a collision involving a commercial motor carrier vehicle, you should always speak to a board certified personal injury and wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. For a free, no obligation consultation on your case, call toll free at 800-354-6275 or locally at 817-294-1900.

Fort Worth Toddler Attacked by Four Dogs

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

An 18 month old child was severely injured yesterday after being mauled by four vicious dogs in his family’s back yard on Eastland Avenue near Lake Worth. The boy was rushed to Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth by Eagle Mountain Fire Department where he was treated for what are believed to be extremely serious injuries. It is understood that the toddler crawled out of the house while his parents were sleeping and he was attacked by the boxers in the back yard. He suffered multiple bites around his face and neck. Witnesses report him being covered in blood when emergency services arrived at the scene.

This terrible attack deeply upsets me not just as a Fort Worth child injury lawyer, but also as a father and an animal lover myself. While, as a personal injury attorney, I know that children are the group most at risk of suffering critical injuries in a dog attack, it is still horrible to hear of such an incident. Sadly, according to the Centers for Disease Control, almost half of dog bite cases involving children younger than four occur at the child’s home. In 90 percent of those cases, the attacking dog is a family pet.

According to neighbors of the family involved in yesterday’s attack, the family kept a total of seven dogs on their property which have attacked neighborhood children on repeated occasions in the past. Neighbors described that the dogs regularly escaped from their yard and that they were regarded as dangerous by those living in the community. Tarrant County Police have responded to animal control calls in the past, but nothing has ever happened. When one of the family’s neighbors spoke out against the animals outside the house yesterday, the child’s own grandmother attacked her and was subsequently arrested. Fort Worth Animal Control removed the four dogs believed to be involved in the attack from the property. It is not thought that the other three animals were involved.

These unbelievable events certainly drive home the fact that while we often think of dogs as man’s best friend, the truth is that primal animals first and foremost, guided by their inhuman instincts and not above seriously harming an innocent child. My thoughts are with this poor boy’s family and a wish him a full and complete recovery.

Even Heavier Trucks Could Be Driving on Texas Highways Soon

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If Congress decides to pass the Safe and Efficient Transportation Act, even heavier commercial trucks could be driving all over our Texas highways soon. Congress must decide whether the efficiencies of larger truck loads outweigh safety and road damage concerns on our nation’s highways. If passed, the Safe and Efficient Transportation Act would raise the weight maximum of commercial semi-trucks from 80,000 pounds to 97,000 pounds in Texas and most other states. Currently, commercial tractor-trailers must purchase a permit to be overweight, but if the Safe and Efficient Transportation Act passes, this will no longer be the case.

Supports of the bill say that trucks with heavier loads will reduce traffic, decrease fuel use and could even keep the price of goods down for consumers. On the other side of the argument, those against the proposal say heavier trucks will damage roads and bridges that are already crumbling around Texas and the rest of the USA. Driving safety is also a concern, as heavier trucks need 25 percent more room to stop and could cause even more Texas truck wrecks.

As a personal injury lawyer in Fort Worth, I can see both sides of the argument. I’m all about less 18-wheelers bulking up our highways and causing wrecks, but I’m also concerned about the additional weight being added to these big-rigs. I see clients who have been severely injured in truck accidents all the time at my law practice. I can only imagine their fate if they had come into contact with a semi-truck weighing 97,000 pounds.

What do you think? Will an increased weight limit decrease the amount of trucks we see on the road or will it just decrease our safety driving in Texas?

Italian Cruise Ship Offers Financial Settlements to Survivors

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The Italian cruise ship, Costa Concordia that wrecked off Italy’s Tuscan Cost is offering financial settlements of 11,000 euros ($14,400) in compensation to each passenger aboard the sunken ship, the cruise line said today. The huge ship hit a bank of rocks and rolled onto its side on January 13, resulting in at least 16 deaths of its passengers and workers. Sixteen people are still missing.
The compensation offered by the company will be paid to each passenger regardless of age and will cover damage to and loss of property and any psychological distress suffered, as well as reimbursement of the trip itself. Cost is offering to return whatever items are found onboard the ship to their rightful owners and is also offering psychological counseling to those who request it. Passengers are not forced to accept the settlement, but if they do it will completely strip them of their rights to file a lawsuit against the cruise company, according to a spokesman for the Italian Association of Tour Operators.
Although I know nothing about the Italian court system, I do know that I would not encourage any recent accident victim to accept an early settlement offer after an accident – especially this soon after the incident. The passengers on this vessel experienced a tragic ordeal that could potentially affect them their entire lives. Imagine being trapped on a sinking ship, with seemingly no way out – I don’t even want to think about it. Just like the victims of car wrecks here in Fort Worth, I think these passengers should wait it out and seek legal advice. Once they accept that money your case is closed. Considering what a huge fiasco the entire ordeal was, my legal advice would be to wait a little bit before accepting any offer.

Twenty-One Bridges in Tarrant County are Considered "Structurally Deficient"

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The Ft. Worth Star Telegram today published an investigative report into the state of bridge structures in and around the DFW metroplex. 29 of Tarrant County’s 2,047 bridges scored less than 50 out of 100 in their most recent inspections, including some major sections of roadways. As a Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, the safety of our local bridges is certainly a big concern to me. After all, who can forget the devastation resulting from the collapse of the Mississippi River bridge in Minneapolis in August 2007?

Less than a mile away from the Anderson Law Firm, the West Seventh Street bridge in Fort Worth apparently scored 38.8 out of 100 in its most inspection in March 2010, yet more than 12,000 vehicles cross it every day. The structure is currently 99 years old and is scheduled to be demolished in 2013. However, state officials reportedly say that if there was a genuine cause for concern regarding its current safety, they would not hesitate in shutting the bridge immediately. Just last year, a section of I-30 between Fort Worth and Arlington was shut down for two months to repair damaged caused by a drunk driver. In 2009, West Lancaster Avenue Bridge over the Trinity River was closed for several months for emergency repairs to take place.

Dangerous road conditions should not simply be shrugged off, as a board certified auto accident lawyer, I have handled many cases where defective roadway construction or other structural hazards were the cause of the bodily injuries or wrongful deaths experienced by my clients. It is of paramount important that the bridges, ramps and flyovers we all drive on every day are structurally safe. Unfortunately, according to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) there are currently 21 bridges in Tarrant County which are considered structurally unsound. A further eight are considered functionally obsolete due to either geometrical or load-carrying capacity. However, compared to the rest of the nation, Texas overall actually fares very well. According to Transportation for America, Texas has just 1,551 structurally unsound bridges out of a total of 51,277 structures, which is good enough for third best in safety.

Of course, in the event of bridge collapse the cause of your crash is going to be obvious. However, there are plenty of other reasons why the design or condition of a roadway might not be so apparent. Common unsafe road conditions include inadequate lighting, improper or obscured traffic signage, missing median barriers and improper warnings in construction zones. If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto wreck which you believe to be the result of unsafe road conditions, call the Anderson Law Firm for a no fee, no obligation consultation. Call toll free at 800-354-6275 or locally at 817-294-1900.

Evening Safety Tips for Cyclists, Joggers and Pedestrians

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

It’s that time of year when everyone is reinvigorated with the promise of their new year’s resolutions, which for most people usually involves something along the lines of losing weight, fitting into those old jeans or simply just feeling healthier. Since the ball dropped in Times Square, I’ve seen a lot of my folks out about, walking, jogging and cycling around my neighborhood. The only problem is that since it still gets dark so early, there is a very real danger – even on quiet residential streets.

About a month ago, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released some startling statistics concerning pedestrian fatalities. In 2010, 68,895 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents throughout the United States. That’s an increase of 19 percent from 2009. (2011’s figures will not be released until December this year).

While exercising around your neighborhood is great, it’s also important that you’re aware of the hazards so that you can avoid them. Dusk is a particularly dangerous time to be on the roads since the contrast between a dark road and bright oncoming headlights significantly impairs a driver’s ability to see clearly. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, roughly 39 percent of bicycle fatalities occur at nighttime.

Regardless of whether you’re out cycling or running, it’s important that you take precautions to make sure that you can be seen by motorists. Wear high visibility clothing which is reflective if possible, but always choose lighter colors over darker ones. If you’re cycling, make sure that you have light fixed on to your bike and that they are working. You should also wear a high visibility helmet. If you’re jogging or walking, it is wise to take a lightweight flashlight with you to alert oncoming traffic to your presence.

I hope these safety tips help you to stay safe out there. Good luck with your new year’s resolutions!

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian or bicycle accident, call the personal injury and wrongful death lawyers at the Anderson Law Firm for a free, no obligation consultation on your situation. Call 817-294-1900 in Fort Worth, Arlington and Keller, or 214-327-8000 in Dallas.

Dublin Dr Pepper No Longer

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A sugary drink and Texas tradition, so sweet it makes your teeth hurt is no more. Dublin Dr. Pepper is gone forever. Yesterday, Dr Pepper Snapple Group announced a split with their oldest (and smallest) Dr Pepper bottling plant, formerly known as Dublin Dr Pepper. The split is a result of a lawsuit that started back in June when Dr Pepper Snapple Group sued the tiny Dublin Dr Pepper Bottling Co. for a violation of a licensing agreement. Big Dr Pepper claimed they were taking a financial hit because of the Dublin label and that Dublin was overstepping its territorial boundaries by marketing outside of a six-county region.
Yesterday, Dublin decided to settle with the big soft drink corporation and agreed to sell its distribution rights to Dr Pepper Snapple for an undisclosed sum under terms of the agreement. Dublin Dr Pepper will now be Dublin Bottling Works, Inc. and will stop producing their signature drink, but will still produce other sodas like Triple XXX Root Beer and will maintain its Old Doc’s Soda Shop and museum in Dublin.
As a lawyer in Texas, I understand that Dr Pepper must protect its brand, but to me it seems like the big guy picking on the little guy. Dublin had no chance against Dr Pepper in court; after all, the tiny manufacturer only has 40 employees. How big of a financial hit could Dr Pepper really be taking from the Dublin brand? I know one thing, they’re taking a huge public relations hit right now. People across the US are mad that another huge corporation is picking on the little guy. Some even say they don’t want to drink Dr Pepper anymore (although, when they really need that fix, I doubt they won’t give in a little).
Whoever’s side you’re on, I’m sad I won’t get to enjoy those tiny little Dublin DP’s anymore. It’s kind of like David vs Goliath – only Goliath won.

Gene Hackman Hit by Car in Cycling Accident

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Hollywood legend Gene Hackman was injured in an auto accident in the Florida Keys today. The 81-year-old actor famous for his roles in such films as The French Connection, The Royal Tenenbaums and the original Superman movies was apparently out cycling when a motorist crashed into his bike. Mr. Hackman was airlifted to a nearby hospital and was released several hours later. According to reports he suffered only minor injuries in the accident.

While I’m certainly glad that the famous star is apparently doing okay, as a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I know that most bicycle-car collisions do not end so happily. In fact, many such incidents often end in tragedy. Since cyclists have absolutely no protection to prevent serious injuries in the event of a wreck, the result is frequently extremely severe injuries such as broken bones, blunt force trauma and traumatic brain injury. Fatal bicycle accidents happen far too often for this particular case to simply be a matter of it being Friday the 13^th.
If you or a loved one is ever injured in a traffic accident which is not your fault, it is important that you speak with a board certified personal injury and wrongful death attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and responsibilities. For a free, no obligation consultation on your case, call 817-294-1900.

Check Your Pills – FDA Warns of Possible Drug Mix-Up

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned consumers of a possible drug mix-up produced by Endo Pharmaceuticals. Machine problems at the drug manufacturing plant in Lincoln, Nebraska could have mixed up prescription pain killers and over-the-counter drugs.

Dr. Edward Cox, director of the Office of Antimicrobial Products, Office of New Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation of Research for the FDA said, "Due to problems that occurred when these products were packaged and labeled at the site, it's possible that tablets from one product may have been retained in the packaging machinery and then may have carried over into the packaging of another product."

The FDA advices patients who use certain prescriptions made by Endo Pharmaceuticals to inspect their pills immediately. Consumers with bottles of Excedrin, Bufferin, NoDoz and Gas-X, produced by Novartis with expiration dates of December 20, 2014, or earlier, as well as Bufferin and Gas-X products with December 20, 2013, or earlier expiration dates should discard or return their products in this voluntary recall.

For more information, go to novarticotc.com. Check your medicine cabinets at home tonight to avoid a possible dangerous drug reaction.

Ikea Kids High Chair Recalled

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Ikea’s North American division agreed to a voluntary recall of almost 200,000 of its “Antilop” high chairs. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada said Ikea agreed to the voluntary recall due to a falling hazard associated with the chair.
The “Antilop” high chair was sold in blue, white or read and retailed for about $20 each from August 2006 to January 2010. The safety concern comes from a restraint buckle that can open unexpectedly and pose a falling hazard for the child. So far, Ikea has received eight reports around the world about buckle and falling issues with the high chair. There were even three incidents of minor child injuries due to the falling hazard.
If you own this high chair, take a good look at it and contact your local Ikea for a free replacement seat restraint. A fall no matter from how high can be extremely dangerous to children.

Truckers Losing Weight To Prevent Fatal Wrecks

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Vowing to lose weight is a common New Year’s resolution for many of us, but for some it is quite literally a matter of life or death. I’m talking about commercial truck drivers – and the lives at risk are not just their own, but other motorists who travel the same roads as them.

As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I have helped thousands of people who have suffered terrible injuries as a result of being in a wreck involving an 18 wheeler. As you might imagine, whenever a semi-truck crashes into a car or motorcycle, the injuries caused are usually going to be incredibly significant – and often result in hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical expenses alone.

So why is weight loss a public safety issue? According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), approximately 12 percent of tractor trailer collisions are the result of the trucker’s health. Heart attacks and diabetic shocks which occur behind the wheel are worryingly common considering that the average CDL driver travels up to 4,000 miles a week. The Journal of the American Dietetic Association estimates that 86 percent of professional motor carrier drivers in the US are overweight or obese, which presents a significant risk of accident-causing health problems while in the driving seat. One of the conditions most closely associated with obesity is sleep apnea which is a major concern considering truck drivers permitted to spend up to 11 consecutive hours driving under current US law.

Fortunately, the trucking industry recognizes this is a growing problem and some companies are now taking steps to improve the health of their drivers in an effort to both retain experienced drivers while lowering insurance costs. This January, 60 drivers and 60 trucking company office workers divided between ten individual fleets will take part in a New Year weight loss challenge by following a low-carb, low-fat diet and increasing their exercise. The contest is the result of a dual effort by the Truckload Carriers Association and the Lindora Clinic, a company which operates weight-loss centers throughout the US.

I would like to wish all those truck drivers taking part in this challenge the best of luck. Like millions of other people, I too am hoping to eat better, exercise more and ultimately lose weight in 2012.

As a board certified truck accident attorney, I know how high the stakes are if you or a loved one has been injured in a big rig crash. It is important that you seek legal advice as soon as possible to make sure your rights are protected. Since you are likely entitled to significant compensation, it is important you don’t make any mistakes which might wreck your case as the financial implication could cost you dearly. For a free, no obligation consultation with a lawyer today, please call me toll free at 800-354-6275 or locally in Ft. Worth at 817-294-1900.

Executive Producer of "Homeland" and "24" Sued Over Fatal Car Accident

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The executive producer of the popular shows “Homeland” on Showtime and “24” on Fox, Howard Gordon and his wife Cambria, are being sued for the fatal car wreck that left an 84-year-old pedestrian dead. On July 20, Gordon’s wife was driving in Santa Monica when her cell phone fell to the floor of her car. Cambria Gordon was reaching down in the floorboard to retrieve the cell phone when she hit 83-year-old William Howard Smerling, who had the right-of-way and was crossing the street.
After the accident, Smerling was taken to the hospital and clung on to life for a month before succumbing to his injuries.
In their lawsuit, Smerling family states he had the right of way and that Cambria Gordon was negligent by taking her eyes off of the road. Because Howard is the registered owner of the car Cambria was driving, he is also being sued. In California, registered car owners are responsible for the misdeeds of those who drive their cars.
When I read this story on TMZ it reminded me – once again – just how dangerous even having access to your cell phone is while driving. Even if you aren’t talking or texting, just having your phone out and being more worried about it than your driving can be deadly. Keep your cell phones in your purse or use a blue tooth device. Distracted driving is an epidemic in this country, no matter what state.

Don't Drink and Drive this New Year's Eve

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

I know the champagne will be popping this Saturday and North Texas rings in the New Year and hopefully the Mayan calendar will be wrong so we’ll all see a happy and healthy 2012. But what’s not going to help you in 2012 is drinking and driving – especially on New Year’s Eve. The cops are looking for drunk drivers; in fact all around DFW there will be sobriety check points set up. Texas has one of the highest drunk driving accident rates in the country and if you think it won’t happen to you, you should see how many of my clients have been injured by drunk drivers around Fort Worth and Dallas.
That’s why I was happy to see AAA Auto offering the free service, Tipsy Tow this New Years. Just call 1-800-222-4357 and they will pick your drunk-self up at absolutely no charge and you don’t even have to be a AAA member.
Put this number in your phone today so you won’t be drinking and driving tomorrow!

Justin Bieber's Grandparents Fine After Car Accident in Ontario

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

The twittersphere was buzzing with worry yesterday after Justin Bieber’s grandparents got into a roll-over accident near Stratford, Ontario Tuesday afternoon. The incident happened when the couple hit a patch of slushy ice and rolled their car before hitting a small tree. But thankfully, both Bruce and Diane Dale are doing just fine after their wreck.
Bieber’s mom, Pattie Mallette, wrote on her twitter about the car accident:
"My parents got into a car accident today. They flipped into a ditch & totaled the car but thank God they are alive! My dad has broken ribs. Plz pray 4 him 4 quick healing! Count your blessings & forgive ur parents always. U never know what tomorrow holds!!!"
Justin hasn’t commented on the wreck at this time. This just goes to show all of us Texans that even Canadians can be fooled by icy roads – and they drive on them all the time! As temperatures drop this winter, I’m sure we’ll have at least a couple icy days. Remember to use caution, go slow and look out for ice in unexpected places. Driving on ice is no joke.

Injured in A Tarrant County Car Wreck? We'll Get Your Accident Report For Free

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a new service to Tarrant County accident victims, the Anderson Law Firm will provide your crash scene report at no charge or inconvenience to you. Our law firm routinely gets accident reports from local police stations and is now offering this as a free service to the public.
Your crash scene report has valuable information related to your car accident. It will have the other party’s contact and insurance information, as well as the officer’s opinion as to who was at fault for causing the wreck. The accident report written by the responding police is one of the first places to look whether you intend to pursue an injury claim or if you just want to handle the issue on your own. You can read more about accident reports and their effect on your claim on our website.
If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident in Tarrant County and are interested in a free crash report, contact the Fort Worth personal injury lawyers at the Anderson Law Firm today.

Happy Holidays From the Anderson Law Firm

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

On behalf of myself and everyone else at the Anderson Law Firm, we want to wish you and yours a very happy and safe holiday season. Our firm has grown so much this year and we want to thank all of our past and present clients and all those who have referred cases to us throughout the year. At the Anderson law Firm, our accident lawyers and legal staff work hard to maintain our reputation as one of the top-rated personal injury law teams in Fort Worth.

We look forward to serving you in 2012 and have a Merry Christmas.

If You've Been in a Wreck, We'll Get Your Police Report for Free

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a complimentary service to Ft. Worth accident victims, the Anderson Law Firm will send you the police report concerning your wreck free of charge with absolutely no strings attached. If you have been injured in a car, motorcycle or truck accident that you believe wasn’t your fault, contact us today to receive your free police report. All you need to do is call 817-294-1900, give us some basic information about your accident and we’ll take care of the rest. You won’t have to pay six dollars or go to the police station and wait in line to get your crash report – we’ll do it for you at absolutely no charge to you. If you’re interested in receiving your free police report, contact the Anderson Law Firm today.

Infant Milk Formula Recalled After Baby Death

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Nationwide grocery chain Walmart has removed Enfamil Newborn Formula from its shelves after the formula was linked to the death of a newborn in Missouri. The affected batch has the lot number ZP1K7G. The 10 day old child, Avery Cornett, of Lebanon, MO, died from what is believed to have been a rare bacterial infection. Although the manufacturer of Enfamil, Mead Johnson Nutrition, claim that the batch tested negative for the bacterium Cronobacter before it was shipped to stores, Wal-Mart has pulled the product “out of an abundance of caution.”

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently performing tests on the affected batch of formula, although it has not yet been confirmed as the actual cause of infection and death.

As a Fort Worth child injury lawyer with experience in dangerous products and pharmaceutical cases, I think it’s important that parents who use the Enfamil Newborn Formula are aware of this potential problem and use caution until the CDC and FDA return with their analysis.

Motorist Killed in 18-Wheeler Crash in Allen, TX

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Early Monday morning, the driver of a white Hyundai was killed in a truck accident on the Sam Rayburn Tollway (Highway 121) at Custer Road. Around 2 a.m. the driver of the car for some reason drifted into the right-hand guardrail on the northbound lane. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the car bounced off the guardrail into the center lane and was then hit by an 18-wheeler that was unable to stop.

No one else was injured in the accident, but the northbound lanes of Highway 121 near the accident site will remain closed until around noon. At this time it is unknown what caused the driver of the Hyundai to hit the guardrail.

At my injury law firm in Fort Worth, we see plenty of accidents that are caused by large commercial trucks, but it’s not always the truck driver’s fault. All of us in regular cars must remember that these truck drivers are driving massive, heavy loads and cannot stop as quickly or maneuver as easily as regular vehicles. For this reason, it is especially important that we do not increase our risk of being involved in an 18-wheeler accident by driving under the influence, text and driving or by being a drowsy driver. Although it is unknown exactly what caused this accident, I want to take the opportunity to remind drivers to check themselves during this holiday season: don’t drink and drive, don’t text and drive and please – don’t get behind the wheel of a car if you are extremely tired. Pull over in a parking lot and take a nap; it could save your life.

Favorite Festivities

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

One week today is Christmas Day!!!!

I thought it would be interesting to find out what my staff's favorite holiday traditions are, what their best Christmas memories are (including the oddest gift they've ever been given), and what their favorite festive movies are. I know the answer to that last one for myself: It's a Wonderful Life; I watch it every year.

- Mark

"The strangest gift I ever received as an adult was a bunch of random magazines from the 50s and 60s from my Mom. I'm still scratching my  head on those."

- Robert, Attorney

"One of my favorite holiday memories from my childhood is watching National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation over and over again with my sister. It is the best, most hilarious movie ever!"

Elisabeth, Legal Assistant

"My favorite holiday tradition is decorating the Christmas tree while listening to Christmas music or watching a movie and being with  my family."

- Lucy, Paralegal

"My favorite Christmas tradition is excessive eating and playing double twelve dominoes (Chicken Foot or Mexican Train)...."

- Jessica, Legal Assistant

"My family has a lot of holiday traditions. We attend the City Lights celebration in Dallas as well as the Candlelight in the Park event at Heritage Village. We also make homemade hot chocolate and bake cookies."

- Erin, Legal Support

On behalf of everyone here at the Anderson Law Firm - I wish you and your family a very Merry Chritmas and a Happy New Year!

Cops Reward Safe Drivers in Prosper, TX

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Usually when you see flashing lights and a police car headed your way, the feeling is one of dread – what did you do wrong and how much will the ticket be? But this week in Prosper, TX, just north of Fort Worth and Dallas, police officers are actually rewarding law abiding drivers with gift cards!

That’s right, cops in Prosper are pulling over safe drivers and handing out $10 gift cards just for following the rules. Police Chief, Gary McHone said officers have been handing out the free cash all week as a way to say thanks to law-abiding citizens. As a personal injury lawyer in Fort Worth, I know how easy it is to give into peer pressure and put the pedal to the metal, but I also know just how quickly speeding can cause deadly car wrecks. I’m glad that the Prosper police department is rewarding safe drivers this holiday season, but even happier that motorists are following the rules.

On behalf of me and the rest of my employees at the Anderson Law Firm, we want to thank the Prosper Police Department for what they do to keep our roads safe. And, if you’re miss out on the gift cards in Prosper, we’ve got a chance for you to win some free stuff through our firm’s free college bowl contest. Just fill out your football bowl bracket here and you could win an iPad2 or hundreds of dollars in Best Buy gift cards. Hey, we can’t let the cops in Prosper be the only ones giving out free stuff this year! Join today!

NTSB Recommends Ban Across the Board on Driver Cell Phone Use

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Today, federal accident investigators finally agreed with what our personal injury law firm has been saying for years when they called for a nationwide ban on the use of cell phones and text messaging devices while driving.

According to the National Transportation Board, states should ban all driver use of cell phones and other portable electronic devices, except in emergencies. Their reasoning is simple: mixing hand-held cell phones and driving causes car accidents and you don’t have to be a Fort Worthcar wreck lawyer to know that. Through the years at our practice, we’ve seen then number of accidents caused by drivers on their cell phones either talking or texting increase greatly. Just recently, the city of Arlington put into effect a ban on texting and driving and we hope more cities in DFW do the same – especially with the new NTSB recommendations.

“No call, no text, no update is worth a human life,” said Deborah A. P. Hersman, chairman of the N.T.S.B

It will be up to the states to decide whether they want to follow the agency’s recommendation and everyone at the Anderson Law Firm, including myself, hopes they will. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car wreck caused by a driver on a cell phone, call us at 817-294-1900 to learn more about our legal services. You have the legal right to compensation for your injuries.

NHTSA Releases Wrongful Death Statistics for 2010

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has released its annual report on auto accident data for traffic collisions for 2010. As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I’m happy to see that at first glance the news is good: 2010 had the lowest car, truck or motorcycle wreck fatalities since 1949. In fact, nationwide, the number of crash deaths totaled 32,885 in 2010, compared to 33,883 in 2009 – a 4.5 percent decrease overall. In Texas specifically there was also a decline of 3.4 percent (slightly below the national average) which saw 106 fewer people killed on the roads than in 2009.

However, while the number of fatalities fell, the number of injuries actually rose slightly. In addition, there are a number of statistics which concern me as a trial attorney:

Drunk Drivers

Overall, the NHTA’s report suggests that overall there was a 4.9 percent decrease in alcohol-related fatalities throughout the United States. Shockingly, however, there was a 13 percent increase in the number of deaths caused by commercial truck drivers who were intoxicated at the time of the collision.

Motorcycle Crashes

After a one year decrease in motorcycle fatalities in 2009, 2010 returned to a 13 year trend which shows motorcyclist fatalities are on the rise. The fact that the number of motorcycle wreck injuries fell further demonstrates that when a motorcyclist is involved in a multi-vehicle collision they are more likely to be killed as a result of their injuries compared to all other classes of road users – especially if the motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet.

Pedestrian Deaths

Pedestrians who are hit by a moving vehicle generally suffer a range of extremely serious injuries ranging to amputation to blunt force trauma. Such accidents are regularly life-threatening and frequently fatal. In 2010, the NHTSA reports a national increase in pedestrian deaths of 19 percent, meaning 11,000 more pedestrians were killed throughout the US in 2010 compared to 2009. That’s huge.

As a DFW personal injury lawyer I represent accident victims and their family members regardless of how they have been hurt. If you or someone you love has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, call me today for a free consultation on your personal situation. Call me toll free at 800-354-6275 or locally in Ft. Worth at 817-294-1900. Alternatively, you may contact me online and an attorney will call you back as soon as possible.

What We Are Working on at ALF (December 2011)

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

We stay pretty busy here at the Anderson Law Firm―and we are grateful for that! We thought we would share a few stories of cases we are currently working on:

Actos

This drug, sold to treat diabetes, has been found to cause bladder cancer. We are currently representing victims of this dangerous drug and their families.

18 Wheeler Truck Wreck Caused by an Inattentive Trucker

A trucker rammed the back of our client’s car, leaving her a quadriplegic. The trucker had previously been involved in another wreck that killed someone. And since the wreck which permanently injured our client, the trucker has died from injuries he received in yet another wreck. This case is set for trial in Houston in April, 2012.

Drunk Driver Causes Injury

A drunk driver smashed into the rear end of our client’s car as he was stopped for a red light on University Drive in Fort Worth. The drunk’s insurance company refused to even pay for all of medical bills incurred by our client, so a lawsuit was brought against the drunk. It is set to be tried in the summer of 2012.

Nursing Home Violates Own Policy Resulting in Death

A Fort Worth nursing home did not send an employee with one of their patients on a trip to the doctor. The patient fell out of his wheelchair and died from head injuries. The fall would not have happened if the nursing home had followed its own written policy. The case is set for trial in January, 2012.

Fall Caused by Mopped Floor Results in Injury

A client of ours was carrying equipment inside an Amarillo hotel when he slipped on a recently mopped floor. This fall could have been prevented if the hotel employees had bothered to put up a yellow sign to warn their customers. This case is set for trial in June of 2012.

How To Get Into The Spirit of the Season!

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

There are plenty of events happening around DFW this holiday season to help get you in a festive mood:

Arlington: The Interlochen neighborhood has become famous for their displays. More than 200 homes take part in this free drive through tour which runs from December 12-31 this year. Be warned though; it’s so popular you could be in traffic for a long time.

Grand Prairie: Lynn Creek Park hosts the Prairie Lights – a two mile long drive through experience that also has a carousel, carnival rides and a music choreographed lights show all included for the admission price of $30 per car for up to eight people.

Fort Worth: Sundance Square has the Christmas tree, but Casa Mañana on West Lancaster has Santa Claus: The Musical, running until December 23. Tickets start at $12.

Grapevine: Christmas on Main Street has horse-drawn trolley rides, kids’ activities and free kettle corn every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until the 18th. Also in Grapevine, the Gaylord Texan has a Shrek-themed ice sculpture display until January 1st.

Dallas: The annual Candlelight event at Dallas Heritage Village has carriage rides along candlelit paths, with storytellers and choirs providing the entertainment. This year’s dates are December 10 & 11. Tickets cost $12 for adults, $8 for children and $10 for seniors.

Fort Worth Court Says Pets are Worth More Than "Market Value"

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you’re an animal lover like me, I’m sure you view your pets the same way  I do: as beloved, irreplaceable family members.

The holidays at our house wouldn’t be the same without Andie, Ellie and Charlie running around. Our animals bring us joy every day of the year and although losing a pet is one of the hardest things to go through in life, it’s especially difficult when your pet is taken away from you because of somebody else’s mistake. That’s exactly what happened to the Medlen family of Fort Worth when their cherished dog, Avery, was accidentally put on the euthanasia list at Fort Worth Animal Care and Control.

The horrible ordeal started after Avery ran away during a thunderstorm in June of 2009. The Medlens located their pet at a shelter the next day and decided to keep Avery in the facility for a couple days so a microchip could be installed in his ear. But instead, a terrible mistake by a shelter employee left Avery on the euthanasia list and the Medlens without their best friend.

So in order to prevent something like this from happening to another family, the Medlens decided to take their case to court and landed a groundbreaking court ruling in the process.

You see, judges in the past only allowed a plaintiff to collect a dog’s market value – until now.

According to a state appeals court in Fort Worth, a pet's value is greater than its price tag; it carries sentimental value as well.

"Dogs are unconditionally devoted to their owners. We interpret timeworn Supreme Court law ... to acknowledge that the special value of 'man's best friend' should be protected,” the court ruled in its 11-page opinion.

It is the first time in Texas history that an appeals court has allowed a dog owner to recover sentimental-value damages for the death of a dog and some people worry that the ruling, unless appealed, will negatively affect veterinarians and kennels by opening the flood gates for pet owners to sue them for sentimental value rather than market value if something happens to their pet. But as an attorney and owner of three dogs, I see this as a huge victory for pet owners and animal lovers alike.

Unless an appeal is filed, the Medlens' case will continue toward trial where a jury will be able to decide for the first time in Texas the sentimental value of a pet.

Failed Cannonball Experiment Results in Property Damage to Two Houses and a Van

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I’m used to hearing about strange accidents – but this one is in a league of its own!

The popular Discovery Channel TV show Mythbusters was attempting an experiment involving cannonballs near the town of Dublin in California yesterday when it all went horribly wrong. A cannonball they fired missed its target and traveled more than two miles above the town before crash landing into a residential neighborhood.

Amazingly, no-one was hurt but police say the cannonball crashed through one house leaving a 10 inch hole on both the front and back wall, bounced off the roof of another house and ultimately came to a stop as it smashed into a van parked on a driveway.

Check out this video from the local new station. It’s pretty incredible!

The Most Expensive Car Wreck in History?

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Everyone knows car accidents are expensive. After your wreck, you will have medical bills, car repair bills and countless other people who want your money – unless you have great insurance or a skilled personal injury attorney. But what if you caused the world’s most expensive car accident?

That’s exactly what happened to a man in Japan after he caused what could be the world’s most expensive pile-up ever. This weekend, a group of automobile enthusiasts were out on a Sunday drive when the driver of one of the Ferraris tried to change lanes and hit the crash barrier causing a chain reaction car wreck. In total, eight Ferraris, three Mercedes-Benzes, a Lamborghini and two other vehicles were involved in the pile-up. Ouch!

Thankfully, nobody was seriously hurt in the wreck, but you better believe their pocket book was. The estimated value of all the cars in the wreck is more than $3 million.
Watch the video below to see the unbelievable footage of the Ferrari Graveyard.

College Football Players Bring Concussion Lawsuit against NCAA

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Even while we here at the Anderson Law Firm are looking forward to our College Football Bowls Contest to win an iPad 2 and hundreds of dollars in Best Buy gift cards, as a Texas personal injury lawyer, I feel it is important to highlight the current spate of lawsuits that have been filed against the NCAA regarding concussions suffered by college athletes. While there have been similar legal proceedings before, the latest class-action lawsuit against the National Collegiate Athletic Association charges that the organization was negligent in its duty “to prevent and treat concussions suffered in the realm of college sports.”

As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury and wrongful death attorney, I am acutely aware at the potential for concussion, head injury and brain damage caused by physical sports such as football, soccer and boxing. It is something which is a concern for all athletes, regardless of whether they are professionals or at high school.

Texas Heath Fort Worth doctor Alok Chaudhari recently spoke out about the very real danger of suffering a concussion while playing sport and warned that “even a small hit can cause a concussion.” The problem is that with blows to the head, concussions can lead to much more serious injuries in the future, most seriously dementia pugilistica. While the disease is most commonly associated with boxers and such greats as Joe Frazier, Mike Quarry and Willie Pep, the disease is by no means exclusive to boxers. Footballers, soccer players, athletes in other contact sports and even gymnasts are at risk of suffering traumatic brain injuries.

It is important that all players, coaches and parents of athletes are aware of the symptoms of concussions and that professional medical treatment is sought whenever an athlete suffers a blow to the head. Common symptoms of concussion include dizziness, difficulty concentrating, nausea, vomiting, confusion, headaches and unconsciousness. It is important that someone who has received a head injury immediately be required to rest and someone observe them for any possible symptoms which could point to a concussion.

Enter Our College Football Bowl Contest and Win an iPad 2 or Best Buy Gift Cards!

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

This spring, the Anderson Law Firm hosted a March Madness bracket contest for a chance to win an iPad 2. Our lucky winner, Ranisha Smith, took home the grand prize and all she had to do was fill out a bracket. Because everyone at the firm had so much fun with the contest, we decided to do it again this winter for the college football bowl games.

But this time around, there are even more chances to win! The grand prize winner of the Anderson Law Firm’s College Bowl contest will take home an iPad 2, but the prizes don’t stop there. Two Best Buy gift cards worth $200 and $100 are also up for grabs to our second and third place winners, as well as a mystery prize that everyone who enters a bracket is eligible to win.

So how do you get the chance to win big? It’s so easy! Just click here and start the registration process!

Drunk Driving Reality Show to Premiere on TLC

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you’ve read any of my DFW personal injury law blogs, you know that I absolutely loathe drunk drivers. These irresponsible people ruin so many lives and cause many of my clients to have life-changing injuries when they get behind the wheel of a car drunk. Texas has more drunk driving accidents than any other state and it seems like nothing ever gets through to these reckless people. That’s why I was surprised this weekend when I saw a preview for a new reality show on TLC called D.U.I.

The Learning Channel has ordered 12 episodes of the new reality series called D.U.I. that will premiere this week on December 1. The show will go behind the scenes of drunk-driving law enforcement in Oklahoma and unlike COPS, it will focus on the suspects from the time they are pulled over until their sentencing.

Drunk driving is no joke and I hope this show will be used not just for entertainment purposes, but as a tool to prevent others from making the mistake of causing a DUI car accident. Watch the sneak peek of D.U.I. below. Will you be tuning in? My DVR is set.

Captain Jack Sparrow Could Cause Eye Injuries

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The malls and stores throughout Dallas-Fort Worth have been packed with Christmas shoppers since Black Friday, but as a Texas child injury lawyer, I’m more concerned about potentially dangerous products rather than the best bargains. W.A.T.C.H. (World Against Toys Causing Harm) have published their list of the Ten Most Dangerous Toys of 2011 which it is definitely worth knowing about.

The list includes an action figure based on the popular movie series Pirates of the Caribbean which has a 4½ inch-long sword which it arms moves in a rapid stabbing motion – a huge concern for potential eye injuries. Another major worry is the Incredible Shrink Dinks Maker which poses numerous hazards including electrocution. Also on the list is a trampoline intended for three-year-olds and “Low Rise” Stilts for ages five and up.

As a DFW personal injury lawyer I know that accidents can happen anywhere at any time, but manufacturers are responsible for making sure their products are safe to be used by their intended audience: children. Having handled many dangerous and defective devices claims over the past 21 years as a child injury attorney, I know the very real threat that such toys present to young kids throughout North Texas.

Amazingly, of the ten hazardous gifts highlighted by W.A.T.C.H., only one has been subject to a government-mandated recall. The Twist ‘n Sort made by Guidecraft, Inc. is a wooden play set intended for toddlers aged three and older, but it was recalled due to the ease with which wooden pegs detached from the base, posing a serious choking hazard for young children.

The best advice I can give you when buying gifts for your good boys and girls is to always register your purchase with the manufacture so that you will be notified if any problems are later identified or if the product is recalled. If your son or daughter has been hurt because of a dangerous or defective plaything, then you should seek the advice of a board certified personal injury lawyer to learn about your legal rights. I offer completely free, no obligation consultations. Just call me toll free at 800-354-6275 or locally at 817-294-1900.

Two Drivers Killed in Fatal Car Crash the Night Before Thanksgiving

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Tarrant County personal injury and wrongful death attorney, I know that the potential for deadly auto accidents is huge. We hear of car wrecks throughout DFW on a daily basis. Usually, the reason for the collision is fairly obvious – someone had been texting on their phone behind the wheel, for example – but other times it takes a thorough investigation in order to understand what exactly caused the crash. Such is the case in the collision which took place on Jacksboro Highway in Fort Worth last Wednesday night.

James Harris, 17, of Azle, was driving home from his job in Lake Worth when he collided with a car driver by Jake James, 72, of Fort Worth who was on his way to console a friend who had fallen upon hard times, according to his widow. It is believed that James’ Toyota Camry drifted into the wrong way lane on Jacksboro Highway which it collided head-on with Harris’ Ford Mustang. Both vehicles quickly became engulfed in flames. Both drivers were killed.

Since there were no eyewitnesses to the wreck, police are struggling to piece together the events leading up to and contributing to the fatal accident. Initially, they were unsure whether alcohol was a factor in the deadly crash, but according to friends and relatives of both Harris and James, neither of the motorists touched alcohol. The two cars are currently impounded at a forensic garage and the investigation is ongoing.

My thoughts are with the loved ones of both the drivers whose lives were lost in this tragic accident. While I realize that nothing can truly heal the wounds of losing someone you love, I hope that you find the closure and the sense of justice that you deserve. I am very sorry for your loss.

Drunk Driver Blames 'Twilight' Movie, Not Alcohol for DUI Crash

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Police in Illinois arrested an extremely intoxicated and irate 18-year-old girl after she wrecked her car in a ditch on Saturday. When asked why she crashed her car, Olivia Christina Ornelas didn't say it was because she was drinking, but because she was upset that her boyfriend wouldn't take her to see "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1." Yes, that's right. Anger from missing the vampire movie, not alcohol made Ornelas wreck the car.

"Ornelas advised that she was extremely upset with her boyfriend because she did not see the movie Twilight like they were supped to," according to a Kendall County police report. Now, Ornelas is charged with driving under the influence and unlawful consumption of alcohol by a minor, but she was released on $300 bond.

Now, I know as a Fort Worth personal injury attorney my ‘Twilight' knowledge may be a bit lacking, but I'm sure Jacob or Edward would disapprove of Ornelas driving drunk. I know the Twilight love is real, but let's contain our emotions people and put the bottle down! You'll get to see the movie a lot quicker if you aren't in a jail cell for your DUI conviction.

Texas Named Worst State for Drunk Driving Deaths

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The anti-drunk driving organization MADD has released a new report which details the extent of alcohol-related auto accidents across America. Most shocking of all is the financial cost of such booze-fueled crashes. In 2009 alone, drunk driving wrecks cost $132 billion. Given the dire state of the US economy right now, this money would have been far better spent elsewhere. Instead, it's $132 billion in tax dollars which has been wasted thanks to idiots who decided to get behind the wheel after drinking.

As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I am particularly disappointed to learn that Texas retains its lead in the number of drunk driving fatalities year after year. MADD suggest that this could in part be due to the state's lack of sobriety checkpoints and the installation of ignition interlock systems on first time offenders' cars, but I know that with the number of dry cities throughout the DFW region, this actually poses its own problems as motorists are forced to travel outside of their local area to drink and then make the inexcusable decision to try to drive home.

I've been helping car crash victims throughout North Texas since 1991. In that time, I've seen firsthand the complete and utter devastation that one intoxicated driver can cause. Whenever someone gets behind the wheel of a car or truck after drinking, they not only put their lives at risk, but also the lives of their passengers and any other motorists unfortunate enough to be sharing the road with them. There is never any excuse for drink-driving. Unfortunately, it remains a huge problem in DFW and evidently throughout Texas.

As we enter the holiday season, from Thanksgiving through to Christmas and the New Year, we find ourselves in the time of year where drunk driving accidents rise sharply. It is nearly impossible to protect yourself from a drunk driver, but there is something you can do to protect yourself and your family and friends. Don't drink and drive. Don't allow someone who has been drinking to get behind the wheel. Organize a designated driver before you go out, or get a taxi home.

Click here to see MADD's full report.

North Carolina Girl Lives on Pop Tarts and Gatorade After Horrible Car Wreck Leaves her Trapped

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

There is an incredible story of survival out of North Carolina today about a young girl who lived off Pop Tarts and Gatorade for two days while she was pinned underneath her wrecked car. The nine-year-old girl Jordan Landon and her father Doug Landon crashed in a ditch after going to a local gas station Friday night.

Doug Landon was killed in the car accident and young Jordan was left pinned under the flipped car, unable to dig herself out. For two days she survived off what she had gotten at the gas station - Pop Tarts and Gatorade.

Help finally arrived after a passerby saw the wrecked car and called for paramedics. Rescue teams were able to get the young girl out of the car and she is expected to make a full recovery. Investigators said they believe speed may have been a factor in what caused the car accident, but nothing has been confirmed.

NJ Students Turn In their School Bus Driver, Text Parents "Mommy I Think Our Bus Driver is Drunk"

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

New Jersey school bus driver Carole Crockett, was arrested during her bus route and faces 25 counts of DUI with a minor, driving under the influence on school property, disorderly conduct and endangering the welfare of a child after she drove her school bus drunk Monday afternoon. At the time, 25 students were on the bus. The students quickly noticed that the bus driver was not alright and some students began to call and text their parents, "Mommy I think our bus driver is drunk."

Their bus driver was indeed very drunk, in fact she had a blood-alcohol level of 0.25 percent - that's five times the legal limit for operating a commercial vehicle! Students said the bus was swerving all over the road and that kids began to yell that they didn't want to die today. Thankfully, the bus driver was pulled over before she caused a bus accident after parents notified the school of what was going on.

Can you imagine how scary this must have been for those children on board? The quick-thinking on their part to use their cell phones and inform their parents of about their drunken bus driver could have saved their lives. I hope this idiot bus driver is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and that she is stripped of her driver's license for good. Bus wrecks can happen so easily, even when the driver is completely sober. Being drunk during the middle of the day for your bus route is the sign of someone with a serious problem. Hopefully this woman gets the help she needs and thank goodness the kids on that bus are alright.

National Emergency Alert System Test Planned Today

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Do not panic, it's only a test. Today at 1:00 p.m. CST is the federal government will conduct the first-ever national test of the Emergency Alert System through television and radio stations. The test is going to last only moments and will be similar to all the emergency alert tests you've seen and heard before. It's the first time a test of this magnitude has been tried and some fear it may spark mass panic because although the audio message states that it is only a test, the visual message may not.

Not even during 9/11 was an alert like this used. In a real emergency, the alert would be sent by the president to a number of radio stations, the Primary Entry Point stations. Those stations would then relay the information to other radio and TV stations. Then, the stations must discontinue programming and make the transmission lines open for the presidential message.

So, if you're driving in Fort Worth or Dallas around 1 o'clock, listen up for the alert-but don't get panicked and cause a car accident or anything, it's only a test.

Dr. Conrad Murray Found Guilty in the Death of Michael Jackson

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Were you surprised to hear the guilty verdict in the Michael Jackson death case this afternoon? At the Anderson Law Firm, our staff wasn't too shocked. We did a poll a little bit before the verdict and if our employees had been on the jury, we would have found Dr. Murray guilty as well.

After about nine hours of deliberations that spanned two days, the jury deciding the fate of Michael Jackson's doctor reached their guilty verdict Monday. In order to find Murray guilty, the state had to prove that:

1) The defendant committed a crime that posed a high risk of death or great bodily injury because of the way the act was committed or the defendant committed a lawful act, but with criminal negligence; and

2) The defendant's acts unlawfully cause another person's death.

The defense said that it was Jackson himself, who injected the fatal dose of propofol, but we didn't buy that story and neither did the jury. What the jury is saying by this verdict is that at least one grossly negligent act, or failure to act, by Murray was a "substantial factor" in causing Jackson's death. Now, Murray's fate rests in the hands of the judge, not the jury. Murray could get a sentence that ranges anywhere from probation to a maximum of four years in jail and he faces the loss of his medical license in California, Nevada, Texas and Hawaii.

Postal Workers' Rights After Being Bitten By a Dog

Sun, 06 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you think of common workplace injuries in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, probably the first few which come to mind involve construction workers, warehouse staff and oil and gas field employees. In each of those professions there is of course a high potential for an injury-causing accident to occur. But according to the Texas Department of Health, mailmen and women, utility workers and police officers are also at risk of being injured while on the job too - by a dog attack.

As a Tarrant County personal injury lawyer I know that being mauled or bitten by a dog can result in extremely serious injuries. Victims are often left with significant scars and disfigurements which will never completely heal and as with any animal attack there is always a potential for infection or contracting a disease such as rabies.

According to the United States postal service, more than 2,800 letter carriers are bitten by dogs each year while delivering mail to houses and apartment complexes. The severity of the injuries varies with each case, but in every situation, the dog attack victim has a right to make a claim for compensation above and beyond any worker's comp claim. If you've been bitten or otherwise attacked by another person's dog while you were working, call me today for a free no obligation on your unique situation. Call toll free at 800-354-6275 or call locally at 817-294-1900.

Video of Texas Judge Beating Daughter Goes Viral

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Internet is buzzing with a disturbing video shot in 2004 of an Aransas county family law judge beating his teenage daughter. The shocking video lasts for seven minutes and shows the Texas judge hitting his daughter with a belt and cursing at her because she downloaded games and music from websites her parents disapproved of. According to the judges daughter, Hillary Adams, she decided to secretly set up cameras in her family's home because "she knew something was about to happen." On the Today Show this morning, Hillary Adams said that violence was a regular occurrence in her home and that she waited to post the video out of fear of what would happen to herself, her mom and sister. After getting harassed by her father recently, Hillary said she decided to post the video.

Now, the video is being investigated and Judge Adams will be temporarily relieved of his duties for two weeks. Although we don't want to post this video on our blog due to its graphic content, you can watch it here: http://youtu.be/Wl9y3SIPt7o

Under the video description, Judge Adams daughter writes, "Judge William Adams is not fit to be anywhere near the law system if he can't even exercise fit judgment as a parent himself. Do not allow this man to ever be re-elected again. His 'judgment' is a giant farce. Signed, Hillary Adams, his daughter."

As a lawyer and a father, I have to agree. The abuse that is shown in this video is inexcusable. Fit to judge? This guy isn't even fit to parent.

Anderson Law Firm: Favorite Scary Movies For Halloween

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Since it's Halloween, I asked my personal injury law firm staff to share their favorite horror movies. Most admitted that even with a couch to hide behind they were too afraid to watch spooky films, but here are the brave few...

Robert, Attorney: "Tales From The Crypt (1972). I never looked at Santa Claus the same way after that one. This was the first horror film I went to and it stuck with me."

Elisabeth, Legal Assistant: "The original Night of the Living Dead and Halloween movies. They are both terrifying even without the big budget special effects of today."

Robin, Legal Assistant : "The Ring is my #1 scary movie. When she crawls out of the ground... nightmares for days."

Whatever your plans for tonight, whether it's staying in with a DVD or going trick-or-treating around your neighborhood, please be careful. Click here to see some Halloween safety tips which you might not have thought of.

And yes, we did all get dressed up here at the Anderson Law Firm. Check out our photos on Facebook and let us know what you think!

Happy haunting!!!

Safety Tips for Trick-Or-Treating This Halloween

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Ghosts, vampires and witches will be roaming the streets of Dallas-Fort Worth on October 31st, scaring people door to door in exchange for treats.

There are plenty of urban legends about Halloween, but it is possible to both have fun and be safe. Most Halloween safety tips are common sense, but here are a few that might not be so obvious:

Make sure that your costume won't make you trip, because most Halloween injuries are the result of accidental falls.
Store-bought costumes are preferred over homemade because they should already be designed with safety in mind and be fire-retardant.
Motorists should pay extra care when driving through residential neighborhoods and be on the look out for children wearing dark clothing at dusk and later.
Parents can make children more visible by adding reflective tape to costumes or shoes. Glow in the dark sacks or buckets for treats are also a good idea.
Kids need to see where they're going too, so facial make-up is generally preferred over masks. If a mask is worn, make sure it has very large eye holes.
If you're going to be welcoming trick or treaters, also make sure there are no tripping hazards in your front yard and that there are absolutely no candles or other open flames.

Whatever your plans for Halloween this year, I wish you all a safe and enjoyable time.

Texting & Driving – Even More Reasons to Stop

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

As if we needed any more reasons not to text and drive, a new study commissioned by the Texas Transportation Institute says that texting and driving is even more dangerous than previously thought. As a personal injury attorney in Fort Worth, so many of my clients have been seriously hurt by drivers who were texting, so it's no shock to me just how dangerous texting and driving can be. According to the study, texting drivers react at least twice as slowly as alert drivers no matter if they are texting or just reading a text. Not only did study participants overall have trouble staying in lanes and maintaining speed, but they also were more than 11 times likely to miss visual cues.

With all the new studies pointing out the sheer danger in texting and driving, it's still hard for me to understand why Governor Rick Perry didn't seem to think it was a big deal. Just a few months ago, Governor Perry vetoed a bipartisan law that would have made it illegal to text and drive in Texas because he thought it was an over-reach of government.

With or without laws, by now everyone is aware that texting and driving is not a good idea. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Fort Worth and the rest of the Metroplex. Don't increase your chances of getting hurt in a wreck, or hurting someone else by texting and driving. It's just not a good idea.

Three Injured In Fort Worth Plane Crash

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Just two days after a light aircraft crash landed in Carrollton, another small plane has crashed in Tarrant County. A twin-engine airplane crashed in a field near Hicks Airport, close to Haslet, shortly after 10 am this morning. Early reports suggest that three people were injured in the accident. Two were flown to Fort Worth hospitals by MedStar air ambulances, and another was taken by regular ambulance. The three individuals are each believed to be in critical condition, and their injuries are being described as life-threatening by authorities.

Currently, there are no details as to what caused the crash to occur, but as personal injury lawyer I know there will be a thorough investigation both into the state of the aircraft and the abilities of the pilot, per Texas aviation law. The plane itself was almost entirely destroyed in the crash, with only the tail section of the plane being easily identifiable. Most likely, this will be a long investigation as the various pieces of evidence are collected and the Federal Aviation Association and National Transportation Safety Board will likely also become involved.

As an aviation accident lawyer, having two small plane crashes in Dallas-Fort Worth within a couple of days of each other is extremely rare. My thoughts are with the family and loved ones of all those involved in this week's crashes. I certainly hope that those injured recover.

The Anderson Law Firm Announces a New Contest for the College Football Bowl Games

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

After the success of the March Madness contest we hosted earlier in the year, the Anderson Law Firm will be hosting a similar contest for the 35 college football bowl games taking place in December and January. Once the games are announced on December 10th, you'll be able to sign up on our website. Naturally, it will be completely free to enter. I'd like to wish all the teams the best success,  particularly those supported by the Anderson Law Firm staff!

If you don't already follow us on Twitter or like us on Facebook, then please do so - then you can be among the first people to register for our contest. Alternatively, you can subscribe to our newsletter and get the news delivered direct to your mailbox!

In the meantime, check out our October issue of our firm newsletter, Law Talk. This month's articles include Halloween Trick-or-Treating, Why Does Turkey Make You Sleepy?, Drowsy Drivers Are Dangerous Drivers and a run-down of the Anderson Law Firm staff's favorite scary movies!

High School Football Faces New Rules After a Hot Summer

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Texas high schools' football training sessions will be limited following new rules approved by the University Interscholastic League this week. The new guidelines specifically prohibit two-a-day practice sessions on consecutive days and significantly reduce the number of days where teams practice twice overall.

As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I think this is absolutely a smart move. We all know that 2011 was a very hot summer and scientists predict a similar heat wave next year. It is this heat which is particularly dangerous to high school athletes whose rigorous exercise increases their chances of exhaustion, overheating and dehydration. According to a study conducted by the University of Georgia, the number of high school players dying as a result of heat exhaustion has almost tripled in the past 30 years. It's not just players who are affected either, in August heat was a contributing factor in the death of Wade McLain, 55, the head coach for Prestonwood Academy in Plano.

The new practice rules are expected to come into effect in 2012. The NFL has already banned two-a-day practices for professional football teams.

Children Suffer Worst Injuries After a Dog Attack

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

I have handled a variety of child injury cases in my 20 years as a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury and wrongful death lawyer: car wreck injuries, daycare accidents, school bus crashes... Some of the worst cases I've seen are those where a child has been bitten, mauled or otherwise attacked by a dog.

It should come as no surprise to learn that children typically suffer worse injuries than adults in most accident cases, and this is particularly true in dog attack cases. According to the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), children are more than three times as likely to be attacked by a dog than an adult, and that facial injuries are experienced in 77 percent of such child injury cases. There are on average 4.7 million dog bite victims reported annually through the USA, which means children account for well over 3.5 million of these victims.

We all know that medical treatment is getting increasingly expensive, so it's important to make a claim against the negligent dog owner. Even if they are a close relative, friend or neighbor, you can still make a claim against their home insurance policy without hurting them personally.

Since the majority of children attacked by dogs are bitten on the face, neck and head, the child will often be left with significant facial disfigurement that will never completely heal. Add to that the mental and emotional distress the child has experienced, particularly if the attacking dog was the family pet, and the poor victim will be left with some deep-seated psychological scarring too.

If your son or daughter has been injured in a vicious dog attack, you owe it to them to consult with a board certified personal injury attorney as soon as possible to learn about your legal rights and responsibilities so you can help your kid recover as quickly and as fully as possible. For a no fee, no obligation consultation, please call me toll free at 800-354-MARK (6275) or call locally at 817-294-1900.

IndyCar Driver Dan Wheldon Dies During Race in Las Vegas

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tragedy struck the race track yesterday at the Las Vegas Indy 300 when a huge 15 car accident took the life of two-time Indianapolis 500 champion, Dan Wheldon. Wheldon's car got caught in the 15-car pileup and flew over another car before hitting the catch fence just outside of turn 2 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

The horrific accident started when two cars touch tires causing a series of chain reactions to which none of the drivers had time to react. In seconds, a few cars burst into flames and debris was all over the track. Wheldon was airlifted to University Medical Center, but could not be revived.

Upon news of Wheldon's death, IndyCar CEO Randy Bernard said, "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family today. IndyCar, its drivers and owners, have decided to end the race." In respect, drivers made a five-lap salute around the track as thousands of fans stood and cheered.

Even professional drivers are prone to car accidents and sometimes no matter what you do, they are unavoidable. Such a tragic accident on what was supposed to be a happy day. Our thoughts and prayers are with Wheldon's family.

Commercial Trucking Companies Oppose New Rules To Improve Driver Safety

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Texas truck wreck attorney, I know that collisions involving 18 wheeler trucks are perhaps the most deadly auto accidents in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. One of the most common causes of semi crashes is driver fatigue. Professional truck drivers have a hard job. They travel vast distances and are responsible for large, heavy vehicles. But they are constantly under increasing pressure from the trucking companies to drive further, in less time. This is a major hazard to public safety because any time a commercial truck drivers dozes off behind the wheel, it's practically guaranteed that there will be a massive crash resulting in significant property damage and severe personal injuries or fatalities.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has regulations in place to attempt to combat this growing problem of tired truckers which include restricting truckers to spending no more than 11 hours driving in a single 14-hour period. Unfortunately, many of the larger trucking companies consider profits far more important than public safety - or even the safety of their own employees. Drivers are routinely encouraged to ignore the regulations or risk losing their jobs.

At the same time, the US Department of Transport (DOT) is trying to introduce even stricter rules to protect long-distance truckers and other motorists by further limiting the amount of time a driver can be behind the wheel to just 10 hours a day, by ensuring that all drivers take at least one 30-minute breaks every seven hours and one hour break every 14-16 shift, and by limiting drivers to one 34-hour restart in a seven-day period (to include two periods between midnight and 6:00am).

Unfortunately, a number of politicians have come under pressure by big trucking industry lobbyists to oppose these improved restrictions, even though they would almost certainly prevent numerous wrecks and save hundreds of lives each year. Ironically, these politicians complain that the new rules would mean trucking companies would be forced to hire more drivers, despite the fact most politicians are focused on trying to create more jobs. In my opinion, if the new rules can improve highway safety and help create new jobs, then I think it's a perfect solution.

As a North Texas personal injury lawyer, I have helped many individuals and families who have been injured in big rig accidents throughout the DFW area for more than 20 years. If you've been injured in such a wreck, you should not expect to be treated fairly by the trucking company or their insurance adjustors. Call 817-294-1900 today to get a free copy of my book 15 Mistakes That Will Wreck Your Texas Accident Case to help you avoid some of the most common mistakes that injury victims make.

Dogs Chasing Cars Can Cause Wrecks

Sun, 16 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I know that traffic collisions can be caused by a huge variety of bizarre hazards and circumstances. It's true that many of the auto accidents we see in the DFW metroplex are the result of tired truckers or drivers either drunk or using their cellphone behind the wheel, but the truth is that you never know what might cause a car crash. After all; if that were possible there would likely be no wrecks!

One seemingly improbable danger to North Texas motorists is the loose dog. We've all seen dogs running loose around residential neighborhoods with their owners nowhere in sight. It's these dogs which are most likely to be involved in attacks on humans, but they are also a potential hazard for drivers.

Just yesterday, I was driving down a street and had just turned a corner when a border collie ran out into the roadway right in front of me. My natural instinct was to instantly slam on my brakes to avoid hitting it. Fortunately, there was no other vehicle following behind me, otherwise I'm certain they would have crashed right into the back of me. If that had happened, who would have paid for any property damage or bodily injury that had occurred? Well, of course, that would vary with the individual situation, but the owner of the unattended dog would certainly have to shoulder a large portion of the blame as it was their negligence which led to the dog being out in the street and causing the wreck in the first place. An auto accident attorney would be able to make a claim against the owner's home insurance, just as they would in an animal attack case.

Dog owners, I hope you take this story as a warning to remember to keep your pet secure inside your house or yard. Drivers, I hope this reminds you that you never know what potential hazard there is around the next bend in the road. Always be alert and leave plenty of room between you and the car in front!

The Scariest Part of Halloween

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

What makes Halloween scary to us at the Anderson Law Firm? It's not ghosts and goblins - it's the fact that kids are four times more likely to be hit by a car on Halloween night than on any other night of the year. That's right, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - children are four times more likely to be hit by a car on Halloween.
Over the years our law firm has represented many people who have been hit by cars and this Halloween we want to make sure you and your little monster are safe from pedestrian accidents. Follow this list of safety tricks and you and yours will be eating candy at the end of the night in your living room and not in the ER!

• Remind your children to stick to the sidewalks and obey traffic signs
• Children need to stay together with at least one adult chaperon at all times
• No matter how delicious the candy is, keep your eyes on the sidewalk and don't walk out into the street without looking both ways
• Does your child's mask impair their vision? If it does have them take it off before crossing the street.
• Get started early on Halloween or bring a flashlight with you while trick-or-treating so that drivers can see you better

The Anderson Law Firm is skilled in handling a variety of Texas child injury cases. If you child was hurt by the negligence of another, contact us today and see what we can tell you about your legal options.

Truck Spill in Collin County Forces Evacuations

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Several homes in Melissa, Texas had to be evacuated Wednesday afternoon when a truck overturned spilling dangerous chemicals into a ditch. Around 12:30 p.m. on Highway 5 near FM 543, a truck from Douglass Distribution strayed off the highway. The truck slipped off the highway due to road construction and landed in a mud pit. Yellow fluid quickly pooled around the vehicle after the truck accident.

Officials haven't determined exactly what the yellow fluid is, but the Hazardous Materials code on the truck was 1268, which falls under the U.S. Department of Transportation's list for aviation fuel. Strong fumes could be smelled after the Hazmat spill, but no injuries have been reported. The condition of the truck's driver is still unknown.

In DFW, we drive around Hazmat trucks all the time and don't even know it. Truck accidents in Texas are scary enough, but get involved in a wreck with a Hazmat truck and your troubles will triple. What's even worse is that you don't even have to be hit by one of these semi-trucks to be affected by them. Just like in this story, when the contents of Hazmat trucks spill, it can contaminate the air, soil and water of those living or traveling around the area. The people affected by this spill in Melissa are doing the right thing by evacuating and taking this Hazmat truck wreck seriously. Until they know exactly what those chemicals were, it's better safe than sorry.

My law firm in Fort Worth takes all kinds of semi-truck accident and personal injury claims. If you've been hurt because of someone else's negligence, call us today at 817-294-1900.

Get The Truth: Hire one of the Anderson Law Firm's Actos Attorneys for Your Claim

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Has this ever happened to you? You're watching TV, about to go to sleep and a lawyer commercial comes on scaring you half-to-death about some prescription drug. This happened to me the other night when I saw a dramatized commercial by another personal injury lawyer. This time it was about the diabetes drug Actos and its link to bladder cancer.

What to believe?

Well, it is true that the FDA believes there is a link between Actos and bladder cancer, but I didn't really appreciate this lawyer's advertising approach. The simple truth is this: there is a believed link between the risk of bladder cancer and long-term use of Actos. Lawsuits around the country are being filed by injured users of Actos. I'll agree, it's scary stuff, but not nearly as scary after you talk to an Actos attorney.

If you have taken the drug Actos and are worried you may be at risk to develop bladder cancer, or if you have been diagnosed with bladder cancer, don't let these TV lawyers scare you. Contact the Actos attorneys at the Anderson Law Firm for straight forward answers about Actos claims. The benefits of hiring an Actos are attorney are huge. Your attorney can help maximize the compensation you can receive and take the stress off your shoulders. If you want the truth and not over-dramatized hype, call the Anderson Law Firm at 817-294-1900. We can answer your Actos questions.

Actos Side Effects: Are You At Risk to Develop Bladder Cancer?

Sat, 08 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Side effects go hand in hand with any prescription drug, but some side effects are actually warning signs of more serious conditions. In the summer of 2011, the FDA issued a warning to people that use the diabetes drug, Actos about such side effects. In the statement, the FDA said, "the use of pioglitazone (Actos) for more than one year may be associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer."

Actos is one of the best-selling type 2 diabetes medications on the market and is used by thousands of consumers. Although not everyone is at risk for developing Actos bladder cancer, it's imperative that you know that the warning signs look like.

See your doctor if you are experiencing these Actos bladder cancer warning signs:

Pain or burning while urinating
Blood in urine
Pain and burning during urination
Frequent urge to urinate without results
Bladder infections that do not stop even after medication
Finding red blood cells in urine in laboratory tests

Learn more about the symptoms of Actos bladder cancer and contact a Texas pharmaceutical attorney to discuss your legal options. Contact the Actos attorneys in DFW by calling the Anderson Law Firm at 817-294-1900.

SMU Graduate Found Dead After Apparent Hit-and-Run Car Wreck

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Yesterday, news outlets around Dallas and Fort Worth broke the story that a recent graduate of SMU, Allison Owens, had been found dead in San Giovanni Valdarno, Italy. The Southern Methodist University Graduate had been working in Italy as a tour guide and had been missing three days after she disappeared while taking a jog. Italian authorities are continuing their investigation, but said they believe Owens died in a hit-and-run car accident.

SMU released this statement regarding Owens' death:

"The SMU community mourns the loss of Allison Owens, a 2010 graduate, who has been reported dead in Italy of an apparent hit-and-run car accident. In 2010 Allison was named the Outstanding Student in Non-profit Management in the Division of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs in SMU's Meadows School of the Arts. We extend our thoughts and prayers to her family and other loved ones during this difficult time."

It's hard to believe that someone could hit such a beautiful young woman with their car and speed off without helping them, but it happens all the time in Texas and apparently the rest of the world. At my personal injury law firm in Fort Worth, we often represent people whose lives have changed forever since their hit-and-run accidents. I can only imagine what the Owens' family is feeling right now and want them to know our prayers are with them. Hopefully the Italian police can find the criminal that did this and bring them to justice.

Massive Dust Storm in Arizona Causes Pileup Car Accidents

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Suspected Drunk Driver Crashes into Leanne Rimes' Home in California

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

A 20-year-old alleged drunk driver slammed in to Leanne Rimes' home early Monday morning. The young motorist who was driving with a suspended license crashed into a fence on the singer's property after mowing over a stop sign. Thankfully no one was injured in the accident and Leanne was not home at the time of the crash. Police said they believe the driver was under the influence at the time of the wreck, although until toxicology results are returned nothing can be confirmed.

Rimes took to her twitter to say the following, "To address the accident that happened in front of our home this morning, everyone is ok and safe. However, if drunk driving was involved it is terribly sad. My family could have been seriously injured and any situation where someone is drinking and driving should not be taken lightly."

Drunk driving accidents always happen when you least expect them. If a drunk driver hurt you, there are legal options you must explore in order to win compensation for your injuries. For more information about your drunk driving accident case, contact the DFW personal injury lawyers at the Anderson Law Firm.

Irving Police Looking For Hit-and-Run Driver

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Police in Irving need help looking out for a hit-and-run driver who slammed into a little girl and her grandmother outside of a hair salon on Grauwyler Road and English Street on Sunday morning. The accident victims, Tinniyah Miles, 7, and her grandmother, Alberta Sago, 57 are in critical but stable condition.

Witnesses said the grandmother and granddaughter were coming out of a salon and getting into a car when suddenly a car drove up onto the sidewalk and ran them over. According to onlookers, the little girl was thrown about 20 feet into the air while her grandmother was dragged about 50 feet by the car. The hit-and-run driver was followed by a witness for about three miles before the suspect got out of the car and motioned to a weapon in his pants. The pursuit ended as the man took off on foot.

According to police, the car was trying to avoid a collision when he hit the women. The suspect remained at large on Sunday night, but Irving police think clues from the suspect's car will help them in their search. If you have any information about this hit-and-run accident contact the Irving police department at 972-273-1010.

Hit-and-run accident victims may feel like all hope is lost after their accident, especially if the driver who injured them is never located. If your car is hit by a hit-and-run driver you still have legal options, especially if you own uninsured motorist insurance coverage. Find out your legal options by calling the DFW hit-and-run driver lawyers at the Anderson Law Firm.

State Fair of Texas is Officially Open! Tips to Beat the Traffic So You Can Get to the Fried Food

Sun, 02 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Can you smell it? It's the smell of delicious corn dogs, funnel cakes and fried butter...? Yes folks, it's that beautiful time of year when we can all enjoy fried delicacies at the annual state fair of Texas. Not much will stop native Texans from making the yearly trip to the fair - except maybe a little traffic. But fear not! The Anderson Law Firm has some advice on how you can get to the fair (and the fried Snickers) and minimize your traffic headache.

Take the Trinity Railway Express: With five stations in Tarrant County and cheap fairs, it's one of the best transportation options fair-goers have. Adults pay $10 for a day passes, kids 5-14 pay $2 and children under 4 are free.
Avoid going to the fair during the Red River Rivalry: Texas vs. OU weekend is next Saturday so save yourself some trouble and avoid the fair - that is unless you're a die-hard Texas or OU fan.
Park at official lots: To ensure your car's safety, park at the official state fair of Texas parking lots for $15, or if you're a high roller, you can valet for $30.

So get out there, grab something fried and say hello to Big Tex for us!

Commentary provided by the Fort Worth personal injury attorneys at the Anderson Law Firm. Our lawyers work tirelessly to get justice for clients who have been hurt in car wrecks and truck accidents in DFW.

Legal Update: The Trial of Michael Jackson's Personal Doctor

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

The biggest legal news in America this week is the Los Angeles trial of Michael Jackson's personal doctor, Dr. Conrad Murray, who stands accused of involuntary manslaughter in the case of the Price of Pop's death in 2009. Involuntary manslaughter means that Dr. Murray is alleged to be guilty of causing the singer's death, but without "malice afterthought," meaning he did not intend to kill him. If convicted, Dr. Conrad Robert Murray will face a prison sentence of up to 48 months under California law.

Already, the jury have heard testimony from one of Michael Jackson's security guards, Alberto Alvarez who told the court that Murray ordered him to hide vials and a saline bag before paramedics arrived at the Neverland Ranch. The doctor apparently explained the deceased singer's condition to the bodyguard by saying that he had "a bad reaction." Alvarez testified that it was only after the drugs had been gathered and concealed did Murray instruct him to call 911. The prosecution is arguing that Murray negligently administered Propofol, a surgical anesthetic also known as milk of magnesia, to Jackson as a sleep aid and that the fatal overdose caused Michael Jackson's death.

Today will be day four of the trial. The court will hear testimony from the paramedics who responded to the emergency call. They are expected to provide key evidence in the trial as veteran paramedic Richard Senneff already detailed the chaos he witnessed at an earlier hearing for the case. Senneff has accused Murray of failing to provide essential CPR and that Michael Jackson had clearly already been dead for at least 20 minutes before they arrived at the scene. The trial is ongoing.

Mark Anderson is a personal injury and wrongful death lawyer based in Dallas Fort Worth. He has helped victims of car crashes, truck wrecks and a variety of other accidents throughout the North Texas region for over 20 years.

News From the Legal World: Reebok Forced to Pay $25 Million Because of Toning Shoe Claims

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

You know the saying "If it's too good to be true it probably is"? Well, unfortunately for all of us that want more toned and shapely legs, Reebok's toning shoes will not get us there. Despite Reebok's claims that the shoes would measurably strengthen the legs and butts of people who wear them, the Federal Trade Commission is calling their bluff. In fact, Reebok is going to have to pay $25 million to customers to settle charges by the FTC for deceptive advertising.

Although Reebok claimed that EasyTone walking shoes, RunTone running shoes and EasyTone flip flops had been proven to add 28 percent more strength and tone in buttock muscles and 11 percent more strength in hamstring muscles than regular shoes, the FTC said the shoe company could not support these claims with evidence. Under the settlement, Reebok is banned from making claims the shoes add any strength unless they are backed by scientific evidence.

If you want a refund for your "toning" shoes, you need to contact the FTC directly or go through a court-approved class-action lawsuit. Maybe now we'll see less of these weird shoes walking around - one can only hope!

- Keeping you updated on interesting legal news,

The Anderson Law Firm's Fort Worth Personal Injury Lawyers

Jacksboro Man Killed In Rollover Wreck

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Colby Horn, 33, of Jacksboro, was killed in a fatal single vehicle accident which occurred on Farm Road 920 in Parker County on Monday evening. Authorities report that it appears that Mr. Horn's Kia sedan had drifted off the roadway causing him to overcorrect, which flipped the car upside-down and ejecting Mr. Horn. The Tarrant County medical examiner's office says that Mr. Horn was pronounced deceased at 10 pm. A Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) investigation into the crash is ongoing.

Auto accidents resulting in a rollover are perhaps the deadliest kind of collision cases I've worked on. As a safety-minded attorney, I frequently advise people to be cautious of the many traffic hazards which exist on North Texas roads. These are usually personified in the form of negligent drivers such as those who use cell phones while driving, or who choose to get behind the wheel after a night of drinking. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) points out that over 90 percent of all rollover accidents are single vehicle crashes. Furthermore, rollover accidents resulting in ejections make up 63 of all fatalities in such wrecks.

As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I would like to offer my most sincere condolences to Mr. Horn's family and friends. I am very sorry for your loss.

Even More Red-Light Cameras Coming to Fort Worth

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to the Fort Worth Star Telegram, even more red-light cameras are coming to Fort Worth in the coming weeks. Although the people paying the $75 in traffic fines for running red lights probably aren't happy about an even higher chance of being caught, in the city of Fort Worth's eyes it's a win-win situation and as a persona injury attorney, I have to agree.

Red-light cameras not only bring in the city revenue to the tune of $12 million a year, but they also increase our safety and reduce car accidents. A recent study by the Texas Transportation Institute found that red-light cameras in Fort Worth reduced traffic light accidents at intersections with cameras by 24 percent the first year they were in use and continued to cut the percentage of wrecks for three years after.

Obviously, these cameras have been effective at cutting down car accidents in Fort Worth. For all the red-light camera haters out there here's my advice: yellow means slow down, red means stop and if you receive a ticket for an offense you didn't do, challenge it. Too many of my personal injury clients have been seriously hurt by people speeding through red-lights. Hopefully, more cameras will prevent more car wrecks from happening.

If you were hurt in a car accident when someone sped through a red light, contact the injury lawyers at the Anderson Law Firm in Fort Worth. We help accident victims receive compensation for their injuries and medical bills.

Attacked By a Friend's Dog In Fort Worth

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Given the large number of very serious traffic wrecks we see throughout the Fort Worth-Arlington area we see every day, it's easy to overlook some of the other personal injury cases which we regularly see here at the Anderson Law Firm. As a dog owner myself, it never ceases to surprise me just how frequent injury-causing dog attacks occur in DFW and throughout the North Texas region.

According to the Center for Disease Control, the majority of dog attacks occur either near the home or in a familiar place which makes it incredibly likely that the owner of the dog responsible for the attack will be someone you know. In fact, it is estimated that over three quarters of all biting dog are owner by friends or family members of the victim. In these situations, people typically try to avoid making a claim for fear of hurting the negligent owner.

There is absolutely no reason you should feel this way. If you make a claim for compensation, you do so against the dog owner's home insurance - not against the dog owner directly. You are not hurting them in any way by making a claim. This is why we all buy insurance in the first place, after all!

Given the severity of dog attack injuries (facial scars, disfigurements, tissue loss, fractured bones, etc.) it is ridiculous to expect that you can pay for your sudden and unexpected medical costs out of your own pocket. Texas law gives you the right to make a claim, and if it's the insurance company which is responsible for footing the bill, there should be no reason for you to not make a claim.

For more information and to consult with a lawyer on your personal situation, please call us toll free at 800-354-MARK (6275) or locally at 817-294-1900. There is absolutely no obligation to hire us, and your initial consultation is always free.

Hit-and-Run Driver Kills Arlington Man

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

A fatal hit-and-run accident took the life of an Arlington man on Wednesday and police are asking for the public's help with any information regarding to the car accident.

The victim was pronounced dead at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth. Investigators have determined that the vehicle was traveling south on North Collins Street when it hit the man who was walking on the outside lane of the road. The car's make and model are still unknown and police are asking for any information at this time. If you were a witness to this fatal hit-and-run, call the Arlington Police Department at 817-459-5784. So far, this is the 27^th traffic fatality in Arlington this year.

Hit-and-run accidents are caused by cowards and negligent drivers. They can leave you seriously injured and feeling hopeless. Depending on your insurance, you still have legal options though. Contact the Arlington car accident attorneys at the Anderson Law Firm to found out what you can do.

Azle Teenager Killed In Fatal Auto Accident

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

I am always deeply saddened to hear of a fatal traffic accident. Unfortunately, as a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury and wrongful death lawyer, I know that such tragedies occur throughout the North Texas region on an all too regular basis. This morning, I learned of a terrible wreck in Azle which claimed the life of Steven Wright, 18. Steven was a passenger in a car driven by his older brother, which was hit by an oncoming truck on Farm Road 730 North on Thursday afternoon.

I would like to offer my deepest condolences to Steven's family and friends. My thoughts are with you.

Both Steven's brother and the truck driver were transported to be hospital to be treated for unknown injuries. I wish both individuals a full and speedy recovery.

Auto collisions are a leading cause of deaths in Texas. The National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) estimates there are more than 3,000 crash-related fatalities in the state each year. Children (categorized as aged 19 or younger) are particularly at risk from suffering serious injuries or being killed if they are involved in a vehicle wreck. Nationwide, it is estimated that 150 children an hour are treated by hospital's emergency departments for such injuries.

It should also not be noted that this particular accident also involved a truck. As an experienced 18 wheeler injury attorney, I know that semis and other commercial trucks are involved in no less than 12% of all traffic fatalities in the US.

Commercial Truck Accident Causes Traffic Delays In Mesquite

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I know that here in the DFW region we regularly see semi-truck wrecks since so many commercial truck routes pass through the area to serve not only local businesses, but also those spread throughout Texas and beyond. Since these vehicles are so huge, motorists and passengers in car and motorcycles often suffer extremely serious injuries if they are involved in such a collision.

An early morning truck accident caused significant delays for drivers in Mesquite this morning, after an 18 wheeler driver lost control of his truck and crashed it on the ramp from westbound Highway 80 to northbound I-635, forcing closures on both roads for several hours. Firefighters had to call in a special crane in order to rescue the driver, whose truck had overturned and caught fire. He has since been flown by helicopter ambulance to Parkland Hospital in Dallas to be treated for unknown injuries.

Thankfully, police report that no other vehicles were involved in the collision. While it is known that the truck's load shifted, causing the 18 wheeler to overturn, the exact cause of the accident has not been determined. As an experienced Texas truck wreck attorney, I know that a leading cause of fatal tractor trailer crashes is driver fatigue, often as a result of commercial trucking companies relentlessly pressuring their drivers to cover increasingly greater distances in as little time as possible, which means that personal injury victims are often entitled to significant compensation.

I would like to extend my sympathies to the unidentified truck driver involved in this morning's accident, and to his family. I hope that he makes a full and speedy recovery.

Proper Helmet Fit Can Save Your Child's Life

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

It seems like every day in DFW, I hear about another kid getting injured or even killed after sustaining a concussion playing school sports. Every parent and coach knows kids need to wear helmets in contact sports like football, but wearing the helmet is only the first step: it has to fit correctly, too.

I recently posted an article on my website about how to fit your child properly for a bike helmet after I learned that a properly fitted bike helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by 85 percent! Guess what? The same is true for a properly fitted football helmet. Here are some tips to make sure your wide receiver is safe on the field:

Look that the helmet is lined up with the player's ears
Feel that the helmet has contact with the back of the head
The jaw pads should touch the skin
Padding should touch the top of the head and around all sides
When you shake the facemask, the skin should move on the cheeks and the forehead

Just like with bike helmets, a properly fitted football helmet is the most important protection for the player. Hopefully, these tips will help the quarterback in your house.

This commentary is provided by Mark Anderson, a child injury lawyer in Fort Worth. Our law firm handles a wide variety of car accident, truck wreck and pedestrian accident claims. Contact 817-294-1900 if you or a loved one has been injured because of negligence.

Pickup Truck Hits City of Irving Work Crew

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

As if working the night shift wasn't bad enough, a City of Irving worker is in the hospital after he was hit by a man in a pickup truck. The accident happened around midnight on the 4900 block of O'Connor as the crew was picking up cones.

As the crew was picking up the cones, a man in a pickup truck going south on O'Connor hit the crew's trailer, which knocked the pickup on its side. One of the workers became trapped on the side of the trailer that was carrying the load of traffic signs when if toppled over due to the truck's impact. Both the worker and the pickup truck's driver were taken to the hospital. A blood sample from the driver of the pickup truck was taken to determine if he had been drinking before the accident.

It's hard to believe that you wouldn't notice a group of workers picking up large, bright orange cones. Especially when these guys are working at night they have tons of warning lights and cautionary signs to let drivers know where they are. Was the driver in the pickup truck possibly of probably drunk? Guess we'll have to wait on the blood test.

If you've been hit by a drunk driver in Irving, contact the Anderson Law Firm. Our attorneys have more than 40 years of combined experience drunk driving accidents and we sue drunk drivers.

Dallas Man Crashes SUV Into IHOP

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Most people like to enjoy a hot breakfast and a mug of coffee in the mornings to gently wake them up, but visitors to a popular restaurant chain in Dallas got a rather ruder awakening this morning. Employees and customers at the IHOP at 7830 North Central Expressway were surprised by an SUV which crashed into the dining room shortly after 4.30 this morning.

Apparently the driver was arriving to meet some friends for their regular weekly breakfast at the restaurant and was just parking up when he accidentally put his car into reverse and accelerated through the exterior wall, ending up in the dining area inside.

As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I've seen other car wrecks similar to this in the past and have helped some of the injury victims from previous incidents. Fortunately, no one was injured in today's crash.

However, the incident proves once again that accidents can happen to anyone and at any time - even in parking lots! Driving when tired can be just as dangerous as driving after drinking as you are not aware of other motorists or other potential hazards and your reaction times can be prepared. If you're feeling sleepy, don't get behind the wheel. Take a break. If you've just got up, well, maybe you should have a coffee first before you head out?

Child Injuries Can Happen At Any Time

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

This week's viral video shows two German kids attempting the traditional magic trick of whipping the table cloth off a fully-stocked table and failing badly. Before you wince at the pain experienced by one of the boys, however, please rest assured that this video has been confirmed as a hoax. It's actually a promotional spot for Germany's version of America's Funniest Home Videos.

Nevertheless, as a Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I know that accidents such as this can and do happen throughout the DFW metroplex on a regular basis. They might not all involve failed attempts at elaborate illusions, some might involve trampolines, swimming pools or a whole variety of other situations. A lot of times, parents are unsure what their response should be - or even what their legal rights are - if their son or daughter has been badly hurt while playing at a friend's house.

If your child has been injured in an accident, the first thing you should do is make sure they get the medical treatment they need. That's your first priority. The second thing you should do is consult with an experienced Dallas-Fort Worth child injury attorney who will be able to explain your legal rights. If the parent or other responsible adult watching the child was negligent in some way, then chances are you will be entitled to make a valid claim for compensation against their home insurance policy.

For more information, please give me a call in Fort Worth at 817-294-1900 or in Dallas at 214-327-8000.

Mineral Wells Infant Critically Injured, Police Seek Hit And Run Driver

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Mineral Wells police are seeking the driver a car which hit and severely injured a two year old girl this morning. The accident occurred at approximately 11:30 this morning on Northeast 10th Street.

Witnesses were unsure whether the vehicle was a sedan or some other small car, but have described it as being either dull grey or silver in color. The driver hit the young child and ran over her without stopping, clearly feeling the scene.

The toddler was hit outside her house and is currently receiving medical care for her critical injuries at a Fort Worth hospital.

If you believe you have any information which could identify this hit and run driver, please contact Mineral Wells police at 940-328-7770.

Arlington Officially Bans Texting While Driving

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

You have until Thanksgiving to text while driving in Arlington, but after that the city's ban on texting while driving will be in full force. That means if you get caught sending an "Lol" to a friend, you could pay about $200. In 5-3 vote Tuesday night, the Arlington City Council approved the controversial ban on texting and driving.

The official day the ban goes into effect will be announced in a few weeks, but for now drivers caught texting will receive warnings in what Arlington police public information officer Tiara Ellis Richard calls an "education" period.

I've written about this texting in Arlington ban several times now on my blogs and I'm happy to see it finally go into effect. We all know that drivers in a moving vehicle that aren't looking at the road, but instead at their cell phones are distracted. And what do distracted drivers do? Cause car accidents! In recent years at my personal injury law firm in Fort Worth, more and more of my client's car accidents have been caused by drivers either talking or texting while driving. Texting and driving will make you more likely to have a car wreck - isn't that obvious?

However, looking at all the controversy around this ban in Arlington you'd be surprised how many people don't want safer roads. Some people are mad about the ban because they think it's an over-reach of government. I'll admit, I don't want the government telling me what to do in every aspect of life and they shouldn't have to tell us not to text and drive. But then again the government should have to tell us not to drink and drive or carry car insurance, but it still does. I think what proponents of this bill are missing is that this law doesn't affect you if you aren't texting and driving. This ban also won't prevent you from texting and driving - you'll just pay a fine if you get caught.

I believe that if laws like this one in Arlington will make at least a few drivers stop texting and driving it's worth it. I'm willing to bet this law will even save somebody's life. Got an opinion on texting and driving laws? Feel free to comment below. And if you have been hurt by a driver that was texting while driving, give me a call. I'm a car accident attorney in Fort Worth with more than 20 years of experience dealing with insurance companies and auto accident claims in DFW.

Heroes Rescue Trapped Rider after Motorcycle Accident in Utah

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Thanks to the heroics of several construction workers in Logan, Utah a young motorcycle rider is alive after a fiery crash on Monday. Brandon Wright was riding his bike on a highway near Utah State University when a black BMW pulled suddenly in front of him. To avoid a crashing with the car, Wright had to lay his bike down. The motorcycle collided with the vehicle and caught fire as Wright slid underneath the car where he soon became trapped.

The quick thinking and courageous actions of a group of bystanders and construction workers saved Wright's life. In the video below, you'll see how this group of brave individuals lifted the car and were able to grab Wright from underneath - all while flames continued to consume the car.

Wright was taken by air to a local hospital where he is in stable condition after his terrifying motorcycle accident. It's simply amazing that this many people were willing to put their own safety at risk to save someone they didn't even know. The video of this rescue looks like something out of a movie. Check it out here.

In my 20 years of experience representing victims of motorcycle accidents in Fort Worth, I know that these wrecks are generally not the fault of the rider - yet bikers usually pay the highest price and come away with the most serious injuries. If you or a family member has been hurt in a bike wreck in Tarrant County and need help paying for your medical bills, contact my personal injury law firm today. We have offices in Dallas, Fort Worth and Keller and are ready to help.

Frivolous Lawsuit of the Day: Man Sues White Castle Due to Chair Size

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Are you ready for this? A 290-pound man in New York is suing the burger chain White Castle because he says their seats aren't built for a person of his size. Last week in Manhattan federal court, Martin Kessman filed a lawsuit against White Castle because he claimed their uncomfortable booths violate the civil rights of fat people. Apparently, Kessmnan has been complaining to the White Castle headquarters for two years, but nothing has been done to accommodate his booth size requests.

There are so many reasons why this is a dumb lawsuit, I don't even know where to begin. You'd think that in the two years Kessman's been complaining he would have attempted to do something on his part (like lose a few pounds) in order fit more comfortably in the booth.

As a personal injury attorney in Fort Worth, I'm well aware of the stereotype many people hold against those in my profession. They think we flood the legal system with thousands of frivolous lawsuits, when really - they couldn't be further from the truth! But when I hear stories in the news like this one, it once again puts the idea in everyone's minds that there are too many frivolous lawsuits out there. This lawsuit is a perfect example of kind of case my law firm or any reputable law firm would never take. At the Anderson Law Firm in Fort Worth, we don't represent sue-happy people.

Three Fort Worth Teens Die in Terrible Car Accident In Arlington

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

A horrific car accident took the lives of three Fort Worth teens early Saturday morning in Arlington. Jonathan Charles Lavering, Colton Gage Goodman and Jacob Ramos died in the wreck after the driver of their BMW lost control of the car on West Green Oaks Boulevard just south of Arkansas Lane in Arlington. The vehicle hit a curb and then sped across several lanes of traffic before jumping another curb and crashing into an electrical pole and cellular box. After that, the car flipped and caught fire. Three young men died in the accident, but thankfully one of their friends was able to make it out alive. Arlington Police are still investigating what caused such a terrible car wreck.

Please feel free to use the comment space below to leave any fond memories or condolences to Jonathan, Colton and Jacob's families. Our hearts and prayers are with them at this time.

Remembering 9/11

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

In two days, we will remember the 10th anniversary of the coordinated terrorist attacks on America on September 11, 2001. Like most of you, I can still remember exactly where I was, who I was with and what I was doing when I first heard the news. I will always remember.

What followed in the days afterward was a chaotic, confusing and emotional time. Relatives and friends of those killed mourned their loved ones. The rest of us grieved for them too, never mind that they were strangers. The emergency responders, the firemen, the police became our heroes. We promised we would never forget.

One thing in particular that I will always remember is how we as a people put aside our differences for the sake of our nation. For once, our country was truly united. For all the devastation the attacks caused, the event brought out the best in America. We should not forget that either.

This September 11th, we will once again unite as a nation and remember that awful day. Once again we will remember those we lost and those that gave their lives in an attempt to save those in peril.

We should also pause for thought about how this national tragedy brought us all together. Particularly as the media focuses more intensely each day on the 2012 Presidential Election, mutual mudslinging commences between top candidates and friends and neighbors divide themselves over party lines. Remember that we are all American.

Regardless of which policies you support, regardless of which politician you eventually vote for, I think it's important that we all realize that whether or not we agree with what somebody is saying, it is always said in the honest belief that it is in the best interest of our country.

The United States of America is a model democracy looked up to around the world. What is so great about our country is that we have a wealth of different people across every spectrum imaginable. There is no need to fight among ourselves. We might not always agree, but we should still stand united regardless.

Don't Drive Into Smoke – Texas Wildfires

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

At the Anderson Law Firm in Fort Worth, our prayers go out to all the firefighters and families dealing with the destructive wildfires in our midst. These fires are beasts and can spark out of nowhere. Even though our firm deals with mostly car accidents, we want to remind all Texans not to drive into smoke. It sounds like common sense, but there is no telling where that smoke is coming from. It could be miles and miles away or just around the corner.

Listen to your radio or TV before driving in areas that are prone for wildfires, which is basically all of Texas due to our extreme drought. High winds may cause wildfires to spread rapidly and jump across natural barriers such as roads and even waterways. Strong winds can force smoke to stay low to the ground, obscuring roadways and traffic signs. Texas wildfires have been propelled by wind gusts as high as 60 mph.

Fires move fast and we don't want you to become a fire fatality - if you see smoke, turn around and go the other way. To all those affected by these awful fires, our thoughts are with you.

Reese Witherspoon Hit By Car While Jogging

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Reese Witherspoon is going to be fine after getting hit by a car in Santa Monica Wednesday morning. The Academy Award winner was jogging through an unmarked cross walk when an 84-year-old woman failed to stop. Thankfully the car was only going about 20 mph and Reese only suffered minor injuries.

According the Santa Monica authorities, Witherspoon was taken by ambulance to a local hospital for medical treatment and was released a short time later. The unidentified driver of the vehicle may not have been totally at fault for this pedestrian accident, though. According to polices, a large tree may have obstructed the driver's view of the intersection - although she was still given a citation for failure to failing to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk.

Reese is very lucky that her battle wounds only include a couple bumps and scrapes. At my injury law firm in Fort Worth, most of our clients involved in pedestrian accidents have much more severe injuries. Pedestrian accidents are a lot more common than you think. As a pedestrian, you can't ever assume a driver will stop with you, unfortunately, not even in a crosswalk. If you walk or jog on public streets, be a defensive pedestrian. Look out for cars that might hit you before they do.

If you have been in a pedestrian accident in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, give my law firm a call at 817-294-1900. We have the answers to your questions and can help get your case started.

Arlington Seeking Stricter Collection of Red Light Fines

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Sometimes a motorist runs a red light because they were too busy texting to notice the traffic signal change color. Other times, they see the light change to amber and decide to floor it to try and beat the light, thinking that saving a few seconds is more important than the lives of others. Whatever the reason for running a red light, you are creating a huge danger for both your safety and your passengers' safety, in addition to the safety of other cars, trucks and motorcycles. As a Tarrant County personal injury lawyer I fully support the use of red light camera as a deterrent which has been proved to reduce the number of fatal intersection wrecks.

Arlington has seen a significant reduction in auto accidents at intersections following the implementation of red light cameras in the city. A study by the Texas Transportation Institute actually showed such crashes have fallen by 67 percent due to the cameras. Encouraged by this success, Arlington is keen to further bolster their stance against violators by participating in Texas' scofflaw program, which means any driver caught running a red light will be unable to renew their vehicle registration until they've paid any and all red light tickets issued by the city.

I think this is a great idea. Currently, since a right light ticket is technically a civil violation, the city has no way to compel these negligent motorists to pay up. By joining the scofflaw program, this would change. This is yet a further encouraging step that Arlington takes traffic safety extremely seriously, coming as it does soon after the City Council recently voted in favor of a proposed ban on distracted driving last month.

Dallas County already participates in the state's scofflaw program, and Haltom City and Richland Hills have also expressed interest in signing up.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash which wasn't your fault, call an experienced personal injury attorney for a free consultation on your situation. Call toll free at 800-354-6275 or locally at 817-294-1900.

18 Wheelers Are Even More Dangerous When The Driver Uses Drugs

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer I know that two of the biggest hazards facing North Texas drivers are commercial trucks and drunk drivers. Get in a collision with either of these and not only will you be facing enormous property damage, but most likely severe bodily injuries as well. The results can be even more catastrophic if you're hit by a drunk trucker or one using controlled substances.

Even prescription medications can seriously impair a trucker's ability to safely operate their tractor trailer. A recent study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) found that prescription drugs were a contributing factor in 28.7 percent of large truck wrecks, with over-the-counter medicines contributing an additional 19.4 percent.

Texas law quite rightly prohibits commercial truck drivers from using alcohol, drugs or any other kind of controlled substance while operating a semi, however since trucking companies sometimes try to cover up the fact that their driver was impaired, your trial lawyer might have to obtain a court order to obtain the evidence. For a free consultation with an experienced Texas truck accident attorney, call 800-654-MARK (6275).

Extra Compensation For Injured Barnett Shale Workers

Sun, 04 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Barnett Shale is a major source of employment in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and indeed into Denton, Wise, Johnson, Parker, Hood and Cooke Counties. Given the fact that there are now over one billion cars on Earth's roads (according to Ward's Auto), oil and natural gas is still a much needed resource.

As a Tarrant County personal injury lawyer, however, I know that accidents happen in the drilling industry just like any other workplace. It's hard physical work and people do get injured. Normally worker's comp will cover an individual's medical expenses and make a contribution towards any lost salary, but for many families depending on a full paycheck, worker's compensation often isn't enough.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an oil or gas field accident, you may be entitled to additional damages depending on the situation which caused your accident. For more information, call today to speak to an experienced personal injury and wrongful death attorney in Fort Worth, Texas at 817-294-1900.

Meet Our Newest Personal Injury Attorney

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

The newest addition to the Anderson Law Firm is personal injury attorney Robert Kisselburgh. He has worked on cases ranging from 18 wheeler wrecks to medical malpractice cases throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area for more than 20 years.

I first met Robert 14 years ago, working alongside him on the mass tort lawsuits against the maker of Fen-Phen. This was a dangerous drug that was supposed to help patients lose weight, but which actually caused serious damage to people's heart and lungs. Robert's work on the first Fen-Phen case to go to jury verdict led to a $23.4 million verdict against America Home Products Corporation (the makers of Fen-Phen).

Robert has given lectures and spoken on litigation throughout the USA and has been profiled in two books: Dispensing With The Truth: The Victims, the Drug Companies, and the Dramatic Story Behind the Battle over Fen-Phen by Alicia Mundy and The Money Lawyers: The No-Holds Barred World of Today's Richest and Most Powerful Lawyers by Joseph C. Goulen.

He has also appeared on a variety of local and national television programs and publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Time Magazine and Texas Monthly.

Robert is a graduate of Northwestern Oklahoma State University, Texas A&M-Commerce and Southern Methodist University School of Law.

Here at the Anderson Law Firm, we are all excited to have Robert working with us. He is a fantastic addition to the team and all current and future clients will benefit greatly from his expertise.

Welcome aboard, Robert!

DFW Has The Worst Roads In Texas

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have to drive to work and home every day, then you have every right to complain. Dallas has officially been crowned the dubious honor of the most congested city in Texas according to the Texas Department of Transportation's list of the 100 Most Congested Roadway Segments in Texas. The top three places are all Dallas County highways: SS 366 from I-35E to US 75, I-635 in the same area, and US 75 from I-635 to Woodall Rogers Freeway. TxDOT estimates that on the worst stretch of SS 266 alone commuters waste 597,043 hours a year in traffic delays, costing an approximate $23.55 million.

Actually, Dallas-Fort Worth is clearly the most congested region in the state as a whole, as 35 of the top 100 roads are located either in Dallas or Tarrant County (I-35W from I-30 to SH 183 is ranked at number five). Collin and Denton counties also have multiple entries on the list.

It's really no wonder that there are so many fatal auto accidents on our roads. As a local personal injury attorney, I know the very real dangers that congestion may present to all motorists and their passengers. Road rage might be the most obvious example of congestion-caused hazards, but when people are stuck in bumper-to-bumper delays they are also more likely to indulge in other dangerous activities such as texting or tweeting on their cellphone. With all the major construction that is going on around the metroplex, these awful conditions look likely to continue, and may actually get considerably worse.

Always be cautious whenever you find yourself stuck in traffic. Be patient and remember that everyone else wants exactly the same as you: to get where they're going as quickly and safely as possible. If you or a loved one have been hurt in a car wreck which wasn't your fault, call me today for a free legal consultation on your crash injury case. Call Dallas 214-327-8000 or Fort Worth 817-294-1900.

Dallas-Fort Worth Police Won't Tolerate Drunk Drivers This Labor Day Weekend

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Are you ready for the three-day weekend? Just remember two things: don't wear white after Labor Day, and drive sober or you'll get pulled over. I don't know about you, but as a Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I've had my fill of drunk driver wrecks recently. It seems there's barely been a recent weekend without some intoxicated idiot driving the wrong way down the freeway causing a serious (often fatal) accident.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are 11,000 deaths in the US each year as a result of alcohol-related traffic crashes. This means that on an average day there are 29 people killed because someone decided to get behind the wheel after drinking. That's in addition to 1,440 injuries caused by drunk drivers each day. On holidays, the figure is typically considerably higher.

To discourage drunk drivers this holiday weekend, the US Department of Transport is cracking down on drunk drivers with their Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over campaign. Remember too, that on September 1^st a new law came into effect in Texas that authorizes police to get a warrant to obtain a urine test if they suspect you've been drinking. It's not worth the risk on any level, no what angle you look at it.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver, you want an attorney with a proven track record of success in winning compensation for similar auto accident victims. Mark Anderson has been taking a hard line against drunk drivers throughout DFW and North Texas since 1991. For a free consultation on your case, please call toll free at 800-354-MARK (6275) today.

North Richland Hills Police Officer Injured In Car Wreck

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Most people don't realize that if they've been injured on-the-job due to an accident caused by someone else's negligence, they might be entitled to further damages above and beyond that paid by worker's compensation. This is particularly common if you have to drive Dallas-Fort Worth roads frequently as a part of your job. Another example might be if you were hit by a truck in your workplace's parking lot. Provided that the truck driver was employed by a different company than the one you work for, you might well have a personal injury claim.

A North Richland Hills police officer found himself in a similar situation yesterday, as his patrol car was rear-ended by another vehicle. The unnamed officer was sitting in his stopped vehicle as he completed a accident scene report for an earlier wreck at Holiday Lane and Mid-Cities Boulevard. An Acura crashed into the back of him. The officer was rushed to a local hospital, although it is not believed that his injuries are life-threatening.

In this case, the officer's employer's workers compensation carrier would cover his medical bills and contribute towards any lost wages due to time off work. However, because the driver who collided with his cruiser is unrelated to his employer, he is entitled to hire an attorney to pursue additional compensation to cover any other related costs, as well as compensation for his pain and suffering.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident which was not your fault, call the board certified personal injury trial lawyers at the Anderson Law Firm in Fort Worth. Call toll free at 800-354-6275 or locally at 817-294-1900.

Safe Driving Around DFW School Buses

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Most Dallas-Fort Worth schools have returned from the summer break now, so it's the perfect opportunity for all of us to refresh ourselves on some of the basics we learned in drivers ed. There are bound to be bus stops in your neighborhood, but do you remember all the rules when driving around school buses?

In Texas, state law requires approaching drivers to stop when a school bus is stopped and operating a visual signal (red flashing lights or a stop sign). Only when the school bus resumes motion are other drivers allowed to proceed. The most dangerous time for school bus wrecks is when children are entering and exiting the bus because children may not be looking for oncoming traffic when they step into the roadway. That's why all drivers must proceed with caution and alertness even after the school bus is done unloading.

When you pick up your kids or are driving through a school cross walk, remember, the use of a hand-held cell phone is prohibited in school zones everywhere in Texas. So put your conversation on hold until you're out of your car and at home. Also, keep a safe distance from school buses and large trucks to prevent car accidents. We all learned about No-Zones in driving school, but remember where these blind spots are on buses and trucks. Crashes are more likely to happen if you're driving in the front, side and rear No-Zone area where your car literally "disappears" from the driver's view.

Remember these basic driving rules so everyone can have a safe and happy school year - accident free!

New Laws For Texas - September 2011

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

On the first of every other September, all new state laws from the most recent Texas legislative session go into effect. Some of these laws are fairly trivial, such as the designation of SH 121 in Tarrant and Johnson County as the Chisholm Trail Parkway, but many will impact our daily lives. Unfortunately, one law that would have made our roads considerably safer by banning texting while driving was vetoed at the last minute by Governor Perry. However, there are still many other new laws that will come into effect and hopefully improve everyone's safety.

Most likely you've already heard about HB 1353, which will up the speed limit on some roads in Texas to 75 mph. It's unlikely to affect commuters in DFW though, because speed limits will only be increased on sections of road deemed reasonable and safe. The bill will also eliminate the distinction between various day and night speed limits, as well as speed limits for different vehicles.

As someone who detests drunk drivers with a passion, I certainly welcome these two new laws: SB 1787 gives police officers the power to obtain a warrant for a urine test if a suspected drunk driver refuses to submit to a voluntary alcohol test; while HB 1199 means that if an alcohol-impaired motorist causes a crash that results in a traumatic brain injury, their offense is raised from a misdemeanor to a felony.

In case you're not already aware of the law requiring you to either slow down to 20 mph below the speed limit or move over one lane when passing an emergency vehicle or police car which is stopped on the side of the road, let HB 378 serve as a reminder. This new law adds tow trucks to the list of stationary vehicles you must now brake for when passing.

Here's a rundown of some other new laws you might find relevant:

Auto Accidents
HB 42 will make negligent drivers pay a fee toward the repair of damage they cause to roadways and structures in a wreck and HB 109 gives local authorities the power to temporarily lower the speed limit on sections of roadway where post-accident road repair is needed.

Child Safety
Safety in school sports is under scrutiny this year after so many high shool athletic death. HB 675 imposes stricter rules concerning the reconditioning and replacement of football helmets and HB 2038 (that went into effect in June) ensures there are proper guidelines to treat any student that suffer a possible concussion.

Boating Issues
I can't believe that these two weren't law already: HB 2981 makes it an offense to tow a boat on the road while a child rides in the vessel (duh) and HB 555 puts a burden on any boater who causes an accident to report it to the authorities within 30 days.

Driving Licenses
Some stricter rules aim to improve public safety by amending requirements for youths seeking a hardship license (HB 90) and for motorists wanting to register their classic/custom cars or hot rods (HB 890). Meanwhile, HB 588 allows drivers owing DRP surcharges to make one bulk advance payment, hopefully allowing for more DPS income.

Student From Plano Dies In Austin Balcony Accident

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Dallas-Fort Worth teenager died in Austin on Monday after falling from a fifth floor balcony. Richard John Holland, 19 of Plano, was a sophomore studying Business at the University of Texas. Witnesses say they saw Holland leaning against the railing of an apartment balcony before falling 50 feet to his death. Police believe the fatality to be completely accidental and there is no indication that alcohol was a factor. The tragedy is made especially sad as Holland had been looking forward to celebrating his 20th birthday on Labor Day.

I'd like to express my most sincere condolences to Holland's family and friends. I'm sure that he will be incredibly missed. As a North Texas personal injury lawyer, I can't help but be troubled by this deadly accident. I suspect that given that this apartment complex was university housing, the design and construction of the balconies likely comply with all building codes. But just like the man who recently fell at the Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, such a tragedy causes you to consider whether regulations are safe enough. In my opinion, one unnecessary death is too many.

Currently the official investigation into cause of Mr. Holland's accident remains unresolved. I hope that once it is concluded, it provides his loved ones with the answers and the closure that they need.

Transvaginal Mesh Complications

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Transvaginal mesh, a device used to treat a condition known as pelvic organ prolapse in women, has come under serious scrutiny this summer. It's become apparent that these devices cause much more harm than good and are seriously hurting woman all over the country.
In July, the FDA issued a health notification discussing the serious complications associated with the transvaginal placement of surgical mesh in patients and recently, a non-profit advocacy group, Public Citizen, made a public statement urging the FDA to recall all transvaginal mesh devices.
Transvaginal mesh is typically used to correct pelvic organ prolapse. Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the connective tissues around the rectum, uterus and bladder weaken and seep into the vagina. Transvaginal mesh has been used in thousands of patients, but due to lack of testing, was not known to cause such serious damage until now. Common complications from vaginal mesh include painful intercourse, mesh erosion, infections, chronic pain, and additional required surgeries.

All over the country, women are filing suit against the companies that make this harmful product. If you have suffered due to the vaginal mesh used in your organ prolapse surgery, please call the personal injury attorneys at the Anderson Law Firm. We can help you protect your legal rights.

Cop Car Accidents Shuts Down School in Dallas

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Some youngsters at Hernandez Elementary School in Dallas got a break from classes today after a car accident knocked out their electricity. Around 6:30 a.m., a man in a Honda unexpectedly made a u-turn on Maple Avenue near Butler Street, cutting in front of a Dallas Police Department squad car. The officer swerved to miss the car but then smashed into a power pole. Due to the impact, the power pole tipped over and blew a power transformer.

Fortunately, everyone was alright after the wreck, but power was out in several businesses and at Hernandez Elementary School for several hours.

Everyone is can have a wreck - even cops. Last week I blogged about an Arlington car wreck involving a police officer, too. These incidents remind all of us that even the most careful drivers can still get in accidents. We must always be on the lookout and remain defensive drivers 100% of the time.

In an accident and need help with the insurance company? Give my personal injury law firm a call. We're in Fort Worth and our car accident attorneys are ready to help you.

Injuries at Concerts – Who is Responsible?

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

By now everyone has heard about the terrible tragedy at the Indiana state fair that killed seven people when a stage collapsed before the band Sugarland was to perform. A freak storm blew in; tearing the huge metal stage down like it was made out of paper. Sadly, just a few days later, there was another fatal concert accident in Belgium where five people were killed due to a stage collapse.

Even in Texas where my accident and injury law firm is located, we have had our share of concert injuries. In fact, at this year's SXSW music festival in Austin in March, a large mechanical are and a video camera fell on several people in the crowd watching a show. Today it was reported that a man hurt by that camera has filed suit against the music festival for his serious head injuries and already several lawsuits have been filed on behalf of those injured at the Indiana state fair.

We shouldn't have to worry about a stage collapse or equipment hitting us at concerts that are professionally produced. It's not surprising at all to me to see these injured victims take legal action. Stages, like the one in Indiana and in Belgium, are meant for outdoor events. They MUST be able to withstand strong wind and rain. We shouldn't have to fear them toppling down from anything less than a tsunami or tornado.

Some people scoff at the idea of suing someone for your injuries - and even as a personal injury lawyer I'll admit, there are some very frivolous lawsuits out there. But if you're just trying to watch your favorite band play music and the unexpected happens - just like it did in Austin and Indiana, shouldn't you be able to hold someone accountable? Shouldn't someone have to pay for your medical bills associated with the accident? It's always easy to judge when it's somebody else's problem.

I hope these victims and their families are successful and their legal aims to get justice. They didn't deserve this to happen to them at what should have been a fun event.

Police Squad Car Wrecks in Arlington

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

It seems to be even police officers are prone to getting in car accidents. Last night, a Grand Prairie police car responding to a call got into a wreck with another vehicle in Arlington. According to the accident investigators, the cop was on his way to a call but wasn't using his flashing lights or siren when a sedan with two people in front of it, causing the impact. All three motorists were taken to the hospital, but luckily everyone is okay.

No word yet on how fast the officer was going at the time of the wreck. This raises the question: when should police in DFW use their flashing lights and sirens? Earlier this week there was major controversy when a Dallas Constable did not chase a kidnapping suspect due to the lack of sirens and lights on their car. Now I wonder what people will think of a police officer chasing to the scene of a crime not using their lights and getting into a wreck.

When are police officers supposed to use their lights? Personally, I'd rather the sirens be on so I know to stay out of the officers way - but then, can these sirens be overused and linked to even more car wrecks in Arlington and the rest of DFW? The answer is unclear to me.

NASCAR driver Kyle Busch Loses His Driver's License

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

NASCAR super star, Kyle Busch, has lost his privileges to drive for 45 days as a result of his May 24 charge of going 128 mph in a 45 mph residential zone near Mooresville, N.C. But racing fans fear not, his license suspension will only affect him in the real world of driving, not on the track. Apparently, you don't need a driver's license to be a driver in NASCAR. Busch's attorney made an eloquent appeal for why Busch should be able to keep his license - but in the end it didn't work.

There was a lot of talk about Busch's lawyer about him being sentenced unfairly due to his celebrity status, but to me his punishment fits the crime. Speeding is one of the main causes of car accidents all over the United States. In Fort Worth where I work as a personal injury lawyer, I read articles in the newspaper all the time about people dying due to street racing and pushing the speed limit.

Part of me thinks that his license should have been suspended for more than 45 days because he is a famous driver. Whether Busch wants to admit it or not, as an athlete in a sport that is driving, he is a role model (good or bad) to his young fans. Driving 83 miles over the speed limit is not setting a good example for all the young kids that want to be just like him.

Overturned Truck in Dallas Spills Metal Pipes onto Highway

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Another truck accident in Dallas slowed things down for commuters this morning. Yesterday, an 18-wheeler carrying a load of plastic pellets overturned and forced the northbound lanes of Interstate-35E to practically shut down. Today's semi-truck wreck didn't cause quite as much havoc for drivers and thankfully nobody was injured.

Around 1:15 a.m., a tractor-trailer carrying huge metal pipes overturned on the northbound connector of Interstate-45 leading to westbound Interstate-30. Authorities from the Dallas County Sheriff's Department said the heavy load shifted while going up the ramp causing the truck to overturn and spill the pipes all over the road. Luckily no other drivers were involved in the truck wreck and the spill was cleaned up before rush hour traffic really got going.

Trucks in Texas can carry thousands of pounds of materials and just a little shift in weight can throw the whole vehicle off balance. So many 18-wheeler accidents in DFW are caused by load shifts. Sometimes these weight shifts are completely out of the truck driver's control, but sometimes the driver could have prevented them by properly securing his shipment. Truck drivers have specific rules they must follow that apply to how their loads are secured. If you've been hurt in a truck accident in Texas, you should investigate whether or not that accident could have been prevented. Contact a Texas truck accident attorney if you want to know what really caused your truck wreck.

Traffic Nightmare in Dallas Because of an Overturned 18-Wheeler

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Just before 12:30 a.m. Wednesday morning, a large truck overturned in the northbound lanes of Interstate-35E, north of Colorado Boulevard, on the Trinity River Bridge near downtown Dallas. The truck accident forced northbound traffic to be shut down to just one lane all morning, causing a huge delay for morning commuters in Dallas.

The highway looked like a massive parking lot, as only one lane was letting cars through. According to the truck driver, he heard a pop sound as he approached a curve in the road. The next thing he knew, the 18-wheeler's load had shifted and forced the truck over.

In order to clean up the accident, crews had to first pick up the huge bags of small plastic pellets used in manufacturing that the truck was hauling. A fuel spill also delayed the accident clean up and hazmat crews were called on-site. As of 8:30 a.m., the truck had been lifted right side up by two heavy-duty cranes, but traffic is still down to one lane in the area.

Thankfully there were no injuries reported in this wreck, just a lot of frustration from drivers who were late to work because of it. But even when the impact of a semi-truck doesn't cause injuries, whatever that truck spills can. Commercial trucks in Texas carry massive amounts of fuel and other flammable and dangerous chemicals that can be deadly if they spill due to an accident. Accidents involving hazmat trucks are some of the most dangerous I see in my line of work as a personal injury attorney.

Luckily in this accident, it sounds like the crews were able to get there on time before the fuels spill could become a bigger problem.

Tanker Truck Fire In Roanoke

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

A tanker truck carrying highly flammable jet fuel is on fire near Alliance Airport in Roanoke this afternoon. As of yet there is no official word as to the cause of the accident, but given that aviation fuel burns at temperatures in excess of 500°F this is being treated as a serious incident. Emergency responders initially closed eastbound 114 near 377 while firefighters work to extinguish the blaze, but now reports are coming in that the road has been closed in both directions while the situation is resolved.

As a Fort Worth personal injury lawyer with 20 years' experience dealing with 18 wheeler wrecks, I know that semis transporting hazardous material pose a big risk to other road users. While it is currently unclear whether any other vehicles were involved in a collision with the tanker, I am certainly very concerned for the well-being of the truck driver who is at risk of suffering not only burns from the fire, but also damage to his lungs given his proximity to the burning chemicals.

I hope that everyone involved in this tragic accident is okay and that there are no serious injuries. Most likely, there will be more concrete details available in the coming hours.

Distracted Driving: A Global Epidemic

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

I complain about distracted driving so much on my personal injury blogs, but after seeing a photo essay gizmag.com about the distracted driving habits in the rest of the world, I'm feeling like we may not have it so bad.

Distracted driving isn't just an American problem, it's a global epidemic. Unlike in America, in many European countries and most of Asia, motorcycles and scooters rule the road. But just like in the USA, cell phones are taking all the attention. After more than 20 years of working as a personal injury attorney in Texas, I can tell you that motorcycle accidents usually lead to the most serious of injuries I see. That's why when looking at these pictures; it was crazy to me that anyone would want to text while driving a scooter!

The author of this article said that while he was in Vietnam, he was told 34 people die every day on Vietnam roads. Looking at the pictures below, I have an idea why.

18 Wheeler Carrying Livestock Crashes In Weatherford

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

A freak 18 wheeler accident shut down traffic on I-20 near Weatherford early Friday morning. A truck carrying 45 head of cattle struck a guardrail and overturned, just east of Brock. Witnesses report the truck was driving westbound through a construction zone when the semi drifted to the right of the roadway, took out the railing and tipped over and off the interstate. Ten of the cattle were killed in the wreck or sustained injuries serious enough that a veterinarian was required to put them down at the crash scene. The driver suffered minor injuries in the accident. The truck is owned by Chris Fuller Trucking, a company based in Calhoun, Louisiana.

So far, there has been no official determination as to the cause of this crash, but given my 20 years of experience as a Texas truck wreck attorney I would speculated that the cause was one of two things: Either it was a case of driver fatigue (a common cause of fatal tractor trailer accidents, as truckers regularly push the limit to drive as long as they can hoping to cover as many miles as possible without getting the necessary rest) or else it was a case of an unstable load which caused the trailer to make the truck off-balance. Clearly a herd of livestock shifting their collective weight would result in a shift of balance for the truck as a whole.

As a Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I know that big rig collisions are usually extremely serious. Fortunately, no people were seriously injured in this crash. If the driver had lost control of his vehicle later in the day when there was more traffic about, the results could have been much worse. I hope that he makes a quick recovery.

If you or a loved one have been hurt in an auto accident involving a commercial truck, call the Anderson Law Firm toll free at 800-354-6275 or locally at 817-294-1900.

Dodge Challenger Sought in Fatal Hit-and-Run

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Irving police are on the hunt for the car that killed 17-year-old Francisco Reyes in a hit-and-run accident on Sunday. According to investigators, Reyes was walking on Highway 183 South Service Road when the car hit him and sped off. From debris left at the scene, police said they have determined the car is a 2010 or 2011 Dodge Challenger that would have damage to the driver's side front-end, although they didn't release what color the car would be.

This is the second hit-and-run car accident I've written about on my blog this week. The car accidents are senseless crimes and police need everyone's help in catching these criminals. If you have any information on this accident, Irving police welcome your tips. Just call them at 972-273-1010.

Wreck Shuts Down Part of the Dallas North Tollway

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

There's a major traffic back up in Dallas on the North Tollway. The story is still developing, but around 1 p.m. a car reportedly jumped the median at Trinity Mills Road and has hit other vehicles causing a major car accident. Parts of the toll road are shut down and traffic was backed up for a couple miles in both directions, so make sure to check the traffic reports in the area if you have to head to that part of Dallas. No injuries reported yet.

NBA Player Saves Lives and Prevents A Drunk Driving Accident

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Future New York Knicks player, Josh Harrellson, prevented a drunk driving accident in Lexington, Kentucky on Saturday. Harrellson and his friends were leaving the Tin Roof bar when they saw what appeared to be a drunk man getting into his truck and starting the vehicle.

The drunk man then drove right at Harrellson and his friends who were talking in the parking lot. The NBA player pushed his friends out of the way and the drunk driver smashed into Harrellson's car and several other parked vehicles.

That's when Harrellson and his buddies sprang into action. They jumped on the truck and reached through the open window to turn off the car. Oh, and this drunk driver also had kids in the backseat. Thankfully because of the bravery and quick-thinking of Harrellson and his buddies, the only thing that got hurt was the cars in the parking lot.

Josh Harrellsson saved lives that night. Not only could he have killed other drivers on the road that night, but also himself and the precious children in the backseat. We need more people like Harrellson in this world that step up and do the right thing. Hopefully, this will be a wakeup call the that drunk driver that he needs to be more responsible and get help for his alcohol issues.

Well done Josh. At the Anderson Law Firm, we wish you a bright future in the NBA (once this dumb lockout is over, of course).

One Step Closer to Texting Ban in Arlington

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

At last night's Arlington City Council meeting, a proposed ban on texting, playing games or reading emails on your phone while driving took one step closer to becoming law. The ban passed by a 4-3 vote in its first reading, but still has to go through one more vote before it becomes law.

If passed, Arlington would have the strictest distracted driving laws in the DFW area. At the Anderson Law Firm in Fort Worth, our Arlington car accident attorneys have a long history of supporting legislation that targets eliminating distracted drivers. People like our governor will argue that laws limiting our rights to talk or text while driving is a government overreach its bounds. But government already limits what we can do in our cars, so what's the big deal? These laws only affect you if you're texting and driving, what burden do they put on your life?

Arlington is a hot spot for so many activities, like Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys games and it's one of the largest suburbs in the country! With so many drivers coming and going in the city, its roads need to be as safe as possible. Hopefully the proposed ban will pass its second vote and other cities will soon follow in Arlington's footsteps.

Bielebers Rejoice! DFW City Renames Main Street "Justin Bieber Way"

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

It seems that nowhere is safe from the fans of teenage heartthrob Justin Bieber. I'll admit that even as a Texas personal injury lawyer, I'm a bit of a fan myself since he recently showed his support for a ban on texting while driving. However, the town of Forney, on the east edge of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, is having a special ceremony today to rename part of their Main Street as Justin Bieber Way.

The temporary name change was requested by 11-year-old "mayor for a day" Caroline Gonzalez, a local student who actively participates in the municipality's recycling and community service projects. Unfortunately for North Texas Bielebers, however, Justin himself will not be attending as city officials at Forney report that they were unable to get in touch with the "Ladies Love Me" singer.

Let Your Voice Be Heard In Arlington at Tonight's Meeting on Proposed Texting & Driving Ban

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Do you think people should be allowed to text and drive? If you're like us at the Anderson Law Firm in Fort Worth, then you definitely don't support the practice. But whether you are for or against laws that regulate cell phone use, if you're an Arlington resident you can let your voice be heard about a new ordinance that would ban texting and driving in the city.

If the Arlington City Council adopts an ordinance banning motorists from using their cellphones for doing anything other than talking, they could get fined $200 if they get caught. To our personal injury lawyers, that's a fair price to prevent deadly distracted driving accidents from happening.

To weigh in on the proposal, show up at the meeting tonight and tell the Arlington City Council what you think.

Getting Your Car Through a Texas Summer: Tips to Keep Your Ride On the Road

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

This weekend all of us in North Texas got a mini break from the 100 degree weather, but as many of us already knew, the extreme heat would return! Temperatures this week are in the 100s again and although it's important to make sure you stay healthy during all this heat, don't forget about your car. Remember - while you work inside in cool air conditioning, your car is sitting outside under the blazing sun and eventually, it can cause damage to your vehicle that could increase your chance of breaking down. Working as a personal injury attorney in Fort Worth, so many of my clients car accidents have been caused when they were stopped on the side of the road and got hit. To protect your car from breaking down, do the following:

Check your tires: High temps will build up pressure in your tires and increase your chance of having a blowout, especially in tires that are worn. Tire blowouts cause lots of car accidents in DFW, so to prevent your tires from bursting, grab a penny. (No seriously, grab a penny.) Put the penny upside down in the groove of your tires. Can you see the top of Lincoln's head? If so it's time for new tires because you don't have the minimum 2/32-inches of tire thread. Don't just measure your tires at one point either, tires wear unevenly so check everywhere.

Replace your windshield wipers: But it hasn't rained in weeks you say? Well, it will rain again someday and when it does, you'll need your windshield wipers so you can see. Rubber wipers shrivel up and become worthless when it's so hot. Once that happens they do a terrible job removing water and dirt from your windshield. Replace them now, (it only cost $10) and you won't have to worry about it when that monsoon hits us. (Wishful thinking?)

There you have it. Spend $10.01 and your car could be safer for you and your family to ride in. If you have been in an accident caused by something other than the heat, give my personal injury law firm in Fort Worth a call at 817-294-1900.

Nickelodeon's 'iCarly' star, Miranda Crosgrove, Breaks Ankle in Illinois Bus Accident

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tweens can take a sigh of relief. The star of Nickelodeon's show ‘iCarly', Miranda Cosgrove, is going to be fine after breaking her ankle in a bus accident in Illinois Thursday. The truck accident happened when Cosgrove's bus collided with an overturned tractor-trailer early Thursday morning near Vandalia, Ill.Cosgrove was taken to St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital for her broken ankle and two other people had to be taken by helicopter to a St. Louis hospital for treatment.

The bus wreck happened after the tractor-trailer flipped in to the median on Interstate 70. The driver of the truck was trapped inside when the ‘iCarly' star's tour bus hit part of the trailer that was sticking out in one of the westbound lanes.

Cosgrove's spokesperson, Gina Schulman, said "Miranda thanks everyone for their understanding and support." She also said that Cosgrove's "Dancing Crazy Summer Tour" is postponed until further notice.

From myself, and especially my young daughter, we wish Miranda a speedy recovery.

Pit Bulls Responsible for Attack on a Fort Worth Family to be Euthanized

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

A few weeks ago, we posted about the vicious dog attack that happened to Alisa and Gary Latimer and their 6-month-old son in Fort Worth. Well today, those dangerous dogs, Mimi and King, will be euthanized by a municipal judge's order.

If you remember, in late July, the Latimer family was waiting outside a bus stop on the 5500 block of Wellesley Avenue in Fort Worth when two pit bulls began to snap, lunge and growl at their infant son. As the dogs began to get more aggressive, Gary Latimer distracted the K9s and was able to protect his family by offering his own body. Luckily, Gary carried a knife with him and used it to fend off the dogs when one of them, King, latched on to his arm. Gary Latimer suffered a severe bite to the arm and had to get several stitches.

What makes this story different than a lot of dog bite accidents is that one of these dogs, Mimi, has bitten people before and that the owner of the pit bulls has been cited by the city for his animals three times! Last year when Mimi attacked an 84-year-old man, a judge ruled that Mimi was dangerous and should be put down. But Mimi's owner, Steven Woods, made a plea to save the dog's life and got national attention after he claimed Mimi was his service dog helping him to overcome injuries he suffered while serving in Iraq. Woods collected thousands of dollars in donations from people around the country to pay for the attorney that saved Mimi's life. Turns out Woods was lying the entire time. Mimi wasn't a service dog and Woods never got hurt in Iraq because he had never been to Iraq! He's a fraud!

So today, two dogs will be put down because of their owner's neglectful care. Pit bulls can be loving and kind dogs, but they must be trained and raised by owners that know what they're doing. Not by owners like Woods, who's negligent care of his animals only perpetuates the stereotype that pit bulls are a bad breed.

Mimi and King are obviously dangerous to people, no question there. But as an owner of three dogs and personal injury attorney, I wish there was more we could do to punish Steven Woods. My experience as a dog bite accident lawyer tells me that Woods not only could face a civil claim, since he had to take out liability insurance in order to keep Mimi, but also felony charges for allowing his animals to hurt more people. I hope justice will be done and he never gets to own another pit bull again.

Could Changing Your Voicemail Prevent Car Accidents?

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Is changing your voice mail the key to less distracted driving car accidents in DFW? According to an article in the Fort Worth Star Telegram today, it could be a possible solution to the problem. At the Texas Transportation Summit in Irving on Wednesday, Jennifer Smith, a nationally known speaker against distracted driving suggested that changing your voice mail to let people know you're driving could prevent the temptation to answer the phone.

Smith said that because people think you're ignoring them when you don't answer their call, letting them know you are either unavailable or driving will ease their emotions. She suggests using a greeting like this:

"Hi, this is (your name). I'm either unavailable or driving. If you leave a message, I'll call you back as soon as I can."

It makes since to us at the Anderson Law Firm. Our personal injury attorneys vehemently oppose texting or talking on a cell phone while driving and we support almost anything that prevents people from doing it. From Justin Bieber anti-texting apps, to bumper stickers to even starting our own Teens Against Distracted Driving campaign, we are all in when it comes to preventing distracted driving accidents. If something as simple as changing your voicemail will prevent a car wreck, let's do it.

In-n-Out Burger Opens on West 7th in Fort Worth Tomorrow!

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

California transplants rejoice! In-n-Out Burger is opening in Fort Worth tomorrow. The burger chain will open its first Tarrant County store at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at 2900 W. Seventh St. in Fort Worth. We're excited for the tasty burgers to be so close to our personal injury law firm, but we're not so excited about the impending traffic on 7^th tomorrow.

If this opening is anything like the other In-n-Out debuts in Dallas, Allen and Frisco, we're expecting major traffic on the already over-crowded 7^th street tomorrow. This May when In-n-Out opened its restaurants in Dallas, the cars were a mile long in line to get that first French fry.

Drivers in Fort Worth should check traffic reports and avoid West 7^th if they need to get somewhere in a hurry tomorrow. Watch out for distracted drivers gobbling up milk shakes and patty melts and try to keep tempers cool; a burger isn't worth a car accident.

As for us at the Anderson Law Firm, we're excited to try the In-n-Out burgers, but doubt they will compare to our favorite burger chain, Texas' own Whataburger.

Dirty Tricks Used By The Trucking Company To Save Themselves Money

Sun, 07 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you or a loved one have been injured in a traffic accident in Texas, then you are legally entitled to full and fair compensation from the negligent driver's insurance company to cover the cost of any damages (such as doctor/hospital bills and any other medical expenses, any lost wages or other income, etc.) If you were hurt in a wreck involving an 18-wheeler truck, big rig or other commercial vehicle, then you might be dealing with the trucking company directly. Unfortunately, neither the trucking company or their insurance adjustor wants to pay you the compensation you are entitled to, which is why it may be necessary to hire a board certified personal injury lawyer to fight for your rights and to protect your best interests.

Life after a collision can be stressful enough, just trying to pick up the pieces and get your life back in order. The trucking company's insurance adjuster knows this and will use it to their advantage by making the process unnecessarily complicated so that you will accept their initial lowball offer without question just to get it all over with. Please don't fall for their dirty tricks. I have seen far too many lives ruined because accident victims did not understand their legal rights and took the early offer.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a wreck involving a commercial truck, it is vital that you consult with an experienced truck accident attorney. Even if you don't hire me, you owe it to yourself to understand what compensation you are entitled to. I offer free no obligation consultations. Call me toll free at 800-354-MARK (6275) or contact me online now.

Don't Block Fort Worth's New Bike Lanes

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

With Fort Worth and Arlington both preparing to introduce new bicycle lanes, I thought it was appropriate to remind all road users of proper road sharing etiquette. I'm sure that most Texas cyclists are well aware that just because they have a dedicate lane on major roads, it doesn't mean that they are necessarily protected from negligent motorists. Just like motorcyclists and pedestrians, bicycle riders need to make sure that they always keep their wits about them and are cautious around other vehicles because whenever a cyclist is involved in any kind of traffic collision it usually means terrible injuries.

Drivers also need to respect the rights of cyclists on the road. Motorists in North Texas are not typically accustomed to sharing the road with bicycles, so it's important to remember a few basic points:

Leave plenty of room between your car and the bicycle; do not drive too close to a bike and do not tailgate
Pay attention; the leading cause of motorcycle wrecks is car drivers failing to watch out for riders - apply the same rules to cyclists
Do not enter or block dedicated bicycle lanes

That last point is more serious that it seems. Bike lanes are meant for bikes. Period. I posted this video several weeks ago to demonstrate just how serious it can be when a bicycle lane is blocked by a parked car, freight or another obstacle. Personal injury lawyers and other safety advocates know the risks involved when a cyclist is forced to do out of their dedicated lane and into regular traffic. In fact, in Vilnius, Lithuania, of all places the mayor, Arturas Zuokas, was so fed up with cars blocking bike lanes and pedestrian crossings that he took to the streets in an armored truck to crush the offending vehicles. (It was actually a staged video, but still - think about that if you ever get the temptation to block a bicycle lane in the future!)

If you've been injured in a Dallas-Fort Worth bicycle accident, call me now for a free consultation on your case: 817-294-1900.

It's The Big Commercial Trucking Companies Who Are At Fault For Texas Accidents

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Texas personal injury lawyer I've handled a lot of personal injury claims for victims of commercial truck wrecks. I have nothing against truckers themselves, in fact I've also represented many injured truck drivers over the past 20 years too. It's important to remember that if you're making a claim for compensation against a negligent truck driver, it is not the trucker himself who will pay your damages, it will either be his employer - the trucking company - or his employer's insurance company. This distinction is essential because the majority of truck drivers are good people and good drivers. They drive big rigs for a living after all, so they should know what they are doing and be able to do so safely.

Nonetheless, accidents do happen. A big reason for this is that truck drivers are under a lot of pressure from their employers to cover more miles in shorter times. Safety is compromised as a result. A wonderfully insightful article into the daily stresses faced by a typical American trucker, written by a 18-wheeler fleet manager, was published online today and I encourage you to read it. Interestingly, the author does not shy away from placing the blame largely on the "greedy companies involved in trucking" and cites worsening conditions for truckers as making commercial truck crashes more commonplace as more experienced drivers are replaced by younger, inexperienced truck drivers.

If you have been injured in a traffic collision involving a large truck there is absolutely no reason why you should hesitate to hire an experienced personal injury attorney to make sure you get paid the full and fair compensation you deserve. For 20 years, I have helped truck wreck victims injured in accidents throughout Texas. If you or a loved one has been injured, I would like to offer you a completely free, no obligation consultation on your personal situation. You can call me toll free at 800-354-MARK (6275) or call locally in Fort Worth at 817-294-1900 or in Dallas at 214-327-1900.

Overturned Truck Stops Traffic on I-35E

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

A tractor trailer carrying bags of dog food has overturned on I-35E near DeSoto, shutting down traffic in both directions, causing substantial delays. All Northbound vehicles heading into Dallas are being forced to exit at Wintergreen, with severe backups from Belt Line Road.

The accident occurred shortly before 3.30 this afternoon, just south of I-20. Early reports have not identified what caused the wreck to occur, or whether there are any injuries. Traffic reports suggest that there is debris across the road and that all lanes of the freeway will be shut down for some time while an investigation and cleanup is conducted.

Texas Pedestrian Killed In Alvord Train Accident

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Wise County personal injury and wrongful death lawyer, I know that the bigger a vehicle involved in a collision, the greater the injuries sustained by the accident victim. Many commercial truck crashes common in North Texas often result in severe injuries and significant property damage. Imagine then the devastation which can occur when a train is involved in a wreck.

I was sad to learn that a pedestrian was killed in Alvord on Saturday morning while walking near the railroad tracks where Elm intersects O'Neill. The woman was struck by the westbound BNSF train shortly before 8pm and was pronounced dead two hours later. An investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing. The victim has not yet been named by either Wise or Tarrant authorities involved.

My heart goes out to any family and friends that this unnamed woman has left behind. Losing someone you love is a terrible thing under any circumstance. To lose someone in such an awful fashion is surely unfathomable.

Freaky Friday: Weird News from Around the World

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Can you imagine having the same stomach ache for 37 years? Sounds awful, but for one unfortunate man in China it was his daily struggle until after almost 40 years he got to the root of the problem. In 1974, medics forgot to remove a four inch surgical clamp from the man's body during a procedure to remove a stomach ulcer. Because of this retained foreign object, the man has had to be on pain medication for almost four decades! Thankfully, a recent x-ray revealed the root of the problem. Let's just say I won't be going to China anytime soon for my medical procedures! If he lived in America this would definitely be grounds for a medical malpractice lawsuit.

As a personal injury lawyer in Fort Worth, the types of vehicles involved in most car accidents usually aren't all that lavish, but it seems that in Monte Carlo there aren't many Toyotas and Hondas rolling around. A woman in Monte Carlo was involved in probably the most expensive car accident I've ever heard of when she caused $1.1 million five-car pileup involving a Bentley, a Ferrari, an Aston Martin, a Mercedes-Benz and a Porsche. First she crashed her blue Bentley Azure into the Mercedes and then luxury car chaos erupted. How many Bentleys are even in Texas do you think? I'm just throwing this out there, but I'll take a dinged up Bentley - no problem here!

Fort Worth Man Stabs Pit Bull During An Attack to Save His Pregnant Wife

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Fort Worth couple and their six-month-old son were walking near Lake Como Park on Thursday afternoon when they were surrounded by two aggressive pit bulls. Alisa and Gary Latimer were walking to a bus stop when the dogs rushed at them. The dogs were in attack-mode, snapping at the couple when Gary Latimer told his wife to run and grabbed for his knife. As the couple split in two directions, the dogs went after the husband. Gary Latimer began swinging his knife wildly and although the female pit bull ran away, the male latched on to his arm. After the Latimer stabbed the dog, the pair of pit bills ran away together. Latimer had to get five stitches to close his wound, but luckily his wife and son were not hurt.

This story scared me to death when I saw it in the Fort Worth Star Telegram this morning - and I was just reading it! I can't imagine how frightening this entire ordeal must have been. But there's more to the story than just a dog attack. You see, one of the dogs in this attack is believed to have attacked someone just last year! Fort Worth police know that the two dogs that attacked the Latimer family are owned by Steven Woods, who from April to June 2010 has been cited three times by the city because of his dogs. Just last year, one of Woods' dogs, Mimi (who police said they believe was involved in the attack against the Latimers'), attacked an 84-year-old-man and was declared dangerous by a municipal court judge. Woods complied with a court order and saved Mimi's life by saying she was a therapy dog who was helping him get over trauma he had suffered while serving in Iraq. It was later discovered that Woods misrepresented his military record. Police said that they think Mimi was one of the pit bulls in Thursday's attack, but that no matter what they will pursue the incident to the fullest extent of the law. If Mimi was one of the dogs who snapped and bit at the Latimer family, their owner, Steven Woods could face felony charges.

As an animal lover and owner of three dogs, I would never want to see anyone's pet put down that didn't have to be. But these dogs owned by Mr. Woods are just plain dangerous. Cited three times for having dangerous dogs in only a couple of months? Is this guy training these dogs to fight? Even though pit bulls can be an aggressive breed, it's just too coincidental for the same person's dogs to keep attacking people. He should not be allowed to have any more pets! What if he had hurt a child? What if Mr. Latimer didn't have a knife to protect his family with?

Texas is a one bite state. The one bite rule is the legal doctrine in Texas that determines whether the owner of a domestic animal (such as a dog) can be held legally liable for injuries caused by that animal. In Texas, that means if your dog hasn't bitten anyone before, then the owner is not liable for the dog's actions - essentially your dog gets one free bite.(one can also pursue a claim under a negligent handling theory which does not require proof of a prior bite). Obviously, if Mimi is one of the dogs involved in the attack against the Latimers' then Steven Woods should and will be found responsible for this incident. I hope he's prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and never gets to own another animal again.

Getting attacked or bitten by a dangerous dog is one of the scariest things that can happen to you. Not only can it leave you physically impaired, but it can cause long-lasting mental anxiety and fear of animals, especially dogs. If you or a loved one has been hurt by a dangerous dog, call the Fort Worth dog bite attorneys at the Anderson Law Firm at 817-294-1900.

Euless, TX. Bike Accident

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Euless bike accident killed a man after he sustained injuries from being hit by a car early Wednesday morning while on his bike on South Pipeline Road in Fort Worth. Paul Niccolai, 56, was hit while riding at 10950 South Pipeline Road. He was about five miles from his home.

A Fort Worth police report lists the driver who hit Niccolai as a 45-year-old Euless man in a 1993 white Acura. Niccolai was taken to John Peter Smith Hospital, where he died at 11:45 p.m. Thursday night. It is still not clear from the report whether Niccolai was on a bicycle or a motorcycle.

As a Fort Worth Personal Injury Attorney, I know the dangers in riding a bike or a motorcycle are the same. Riders have no outward protection if a car or other motor vehicle hits them. This is why it is important to wear a helmet and jacket when operating a bicycle or a motorbike. Cars need to also be aware of these types of vehicles on the road and should remain cautious when driving near them to prevent car wrecks and injuries. Our deepest sympathies go out to the victim’s family and friends at this time of need.

Lack of Sidewalks for Keller ISD Students That Can't Afford To Ride the Bus

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

We've all heard about our state's budget crisis and it seems every city in Texas is doing everything it can to make up the deficit. But are those budget cuts really worth the safety of our children? WFAA Channel 8 did a story last night on how budget cuts have affected Keller ISD. Apparently, things are so bad over there that families must pay $300 per semester for their children to ride the bus. The kids that can't afford to pay - well, they have to walk, which has concerned many parents in the area. You see, north Fort Worth is one of the fastest growing parts of the country. As the population exploded developers built more homes and more roads but they didn't build more sidewalks. For the kids that can't afford to ride the bus, there simply aren't enough sidewalks or crosswalks to keep them safe from pedestrian accidents. At Ridgeview Elementary, the students that live across Highway 377 will have to cross the four lane road and a set of railroad tracks without any crossing signals, crosswalks or sidewalks.

As a parent, I can only imagine the worry and stress that's going through the minds of moms and dads who can't afford for their kids to ride the bus. When I read some of the comments on the message board that went along with this story, some people didn't seem to think that not having sidewalks or crosswalks was a big deal - all the kids need to do is be safe. But let me tell you, I have more than 20 years of experience as a personal injury lawyer in Fort Worth and sometimes no matter how safe you are as pedestrian, you can still get hit. With as many people speeding and texting and driving in Texas these days it's only a matter of time before an innocent child walking to school gets seriously hurt.

It's a shame when our governments can't protect our children, but unfortunately it's happened in Keller. Sidewalks are just the beginning; there should be more crosswalks and crossing guards to really make the situation tolerable. It's easy to say that $300 a semester isn't that much money, but for some people it really is. The way I see it, this is just bad planning by the city of Keller and Keller ISD.

Texas Rangers Pitcher, Derek Holland Says "Keep Your Thumbs On the Wheel"

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Not only is Rangers pitcher, Derek Holland coming off a historic 20-6 win against the Twins, but today he held a press conference at the Ballpark in Arlington to launch a public awareness campaign against texting and driving.

The young pitcher teamed up with the City of Arlington Police and Fire Departments to launch this initiative.

"I have become very passionate about getting the word out about the dangers of texting and driving. Hopefully we can send a message to everyone to Keep Your Thumbs on the Wheel," Holland said.

The campaign is geared toward student drivers and Keep Your Thumbs on the Wheel posters will soon plaster the walls of Arlington ISD schools. Holland and Arlington Police Chief, Theron Bowman recorded PSA about the program that will begin airing soon.

At the Anderson Law Firm in Fort Worth, we know distracted driving is a huge problem and we commend Derek for putting his fame to good use.

Flatbed Truck Carrying Hay Jacknifes On I-20

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Just in time the evening rush hour, a flatbed truck was involved in an auto accident on I-20 this afternoon traveling westbound from Dallas towards Fort Worth. The truck was carrying bales of hay which were scattered across the roadway when the vehicle jacknifed according to early reports. At this time, there are no reports of any injuries, but given the situation it would be extremely fortunate if no-one was hurt. As a DFW personal injury, I know that commercial truck crashes are generally very serious and this sounds like a particularly dangerous situation. More details on what caused the wreck should be made public soon. In the meantime, commuters should expect slow-moving traffic near Cedar Ridge Road as you head from Duncanville into Grand Prairie and into Arlington.

Three Injured In Mesquite School Bus Rollover Accident

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Three people were injured in a Mesquite ISD school bus accident this morning. Police report that the bus, which was travelling on I-635, was carrying one special education student (a boy) and an aide in addition to the driver at the time of the wreck. It is believed that another vehicle clipped the school bus causing it to roll over several times.

The boy, aide and driver were all sent to hospital to be treated for what are understood to be minor injuries. According a Mesquite Independent School District spokesperson, none of the injuries were serious and all three were alert and coherent following the crash.

It is unclear whether the school bus was equipped with seat belts or not. In Texas, all school buses purchased after September 1^st 2009 have been required to be fitted with safety belts for all passengers, but there are still many older buses being used in ISDs throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth region which are not equipped with safety restraints fitted as standard.

Four Teenagers Killed And One In Critical Condition After Head-On Wreck In Wise County

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Texas personal injury lawyer I am always saddened to learn of fatal auto accidents in which people have lost their lives. Such tragedies always seem so much worse when the deceased were youngsters with their whole lives ahead of them, as was the case in a deadly Decatur collision which occurred early Saturday morning.

Danny R. Nalley (17, of Fort Worth) was driving a car full of friends westbound when he collided with an eastbound pickup truck. Mr. Nalley is currently hospitalized in Fort Worth, where he is being treated for his critical injuries. Four passengers in the car were killed. The victims have been named as Kevin C. Brickley (19, of Blue Mound), Vincent J. LaGrassa (19, of Saginaw), John D. Rangel (16, of Highlands) and Vincent G. Williams (19, of Wakefield, MA).

The official police investigation is ongoing at this time. Early reports indicate that Nalley was driving a Ford Mustang. The other vehicle involved in the wreck was a Ford F-350 pickup truck being driven by Richard Rand (30, of Burleson). Mr. Rand was taken to Wise Regional Health System in Decatur to be treated for non-life threatening injuries. Early reports speculate that the Mustang was on the wrong side of the road, attempting to pass a slower vehicle. Both the Mustang and the pickup swerved off road in a failed attempt to avoid a wreck.

Already, there has been a great deal of comments posted online by people who don't yet have all the facts and who don't know the details. Now is not the time to point fingers. Regardless of the cause of this tragic crash, the fact is that four young people have lost their lives and another's hangs in the balance. There are many parents, siblings, relatives and friends who are still reeling from the shock and devastation of this incident. Please, respect their losses and show some sympathy. Let them mourn in peace and in dignity.

My heart goes out of all of those who are grieving. I know it's not much, but my thoughts are with you all.

Speeding Motorcyclist Breaks World Record

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I don't normally advocate speeding whether on a motorcycle or driving a car, truck or other vehicle. But Bill Warner's 311 mph rider was done safely off road at Loring Air Force Base in Maine and he successfully broke his own world record (set last October at the Texas Mile). He became the first motorcyclist to ride faster than 300 mph. Check out this awesome video shot from Warner's perspective throughout the ride. It's pretty incredible!

Congratulations to Bill!!

Normally, of course, speeding is incredibly dangerous, and is one of the leading causes of fatal motorcycle wrecks. In Texas alone, there are on average 2,100 fatal auto collisions each year where the primary cause was a speeding driver. Ours is a culture where we expect instant gratification, but that is not possible when you're driving. Everyone wants to get where they're going as fast as possible. Really, we should be focusing on arriving at our destination safely and in one piece. Preferably without endangering any other road users in the process!

If you or a loved one has been injured due to a negligent driver, call the Anderson Law Firm for a free consultation at Fort Worth 817-294-1900.

More Legal Trouble For The NFL – This Time it's About Concealing Brain Injury Risks

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Just when it looked like all the NFL's legal issues were wrapping up, several former players hit the league with a lawsuit claiming that it concealed the risk of concussions to players. The 75 former players claim that "the NFL knew as early as the 1920s of the harmful effects on a player's brain of concussions; however, until June of 2010 they concealed these facts from coaches, trainers, players and the public." Former Dolphins receiver Mark Duper, former Giants and Cardinals running back Ottis Anderson, and former Giants running back Rodney Hampton are all among the 75 plaintiffs that say the NFL knowingly hid information about the long-lasting effects of concussions and brain injuries.

According to the players in the lawsuit, the NFW commissioned a report in 1994 called NFL Committee on Mild Traumatic Brain Injury. In 2004 the NFL said there was "no evidence of worsening injury or chronic cumulative effects" from multiple concussions, but in June of 2010 went back on those statements and acknowledged that too many tackles and concussions can cause serious brain injuries and conditions like chronic traumatic encephalopathy. As a Fort Worth brain injury attorney, I know that in order for these players to be successful, they must prove that the NFL knew, or should have known, the lingering, chronic effects of concussions.

There has been so much in the news about brain injuries lately and just in the last few years have we really found out just how dangerous concussions can be. If the NFL did in fact conduct a study and new that these injuries had such long-lasting damages, then these players are definitely doing the right thing in holding the league responsible. But unfortunately, they must prove that the NFL knowingly hid that information from players - which will be difficult to show.

At my personal injury law firm in Fort Worth, we represent all kinds of accident victims, including those who have suffered traumatic brain injuries from car wrecks, motorcycle accidents or any other type of mishap. Please give us a call if you think you need legal representation for you or a loved one's brain injury.

Look Both Ways: DFW Ranks as One of the Most Dangerous Places in the Country to be a Pedestrian

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Question: how safe do you feel walking around in Dallas, Fort Worth or Arlington? Because of my profession as a personal injury attorney in Fort Worth, I'm always extra cautious when traveling as a pedestrian and now, according to a new study by Transportation for America, I have even more reason to feel uneasy. In their 2011 report on the Most Dangerous Large Metro Areas for Pedestrians, the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington region ranks as the 10^th most dangerous area for pedestrians in the country!

It was shocking to me that Tarrant County could be more dangerous for pedestrians than say New York City or Los Angeles, but it's true. From 2000-2009, there have been 942 pedestrian deaths in our area and when I started thinking about it, I do hear a lot about pedestrians getting hit by cars in our local news. Just in May I wrote about a pedestrian fatality in Arlington that was the cities 14^th pedestrian death of the year! What's going on?

Why is it that DFW is so unfriendly to pedestrians? Are there not enough sidewalks, or are drivers just not paying attention to people walking? To me, this is scary because many of the pedestrians in our cities are children and teenagers, who walk because they can't drive. They deserve to be safe and get to where they're going, without fear of getting hit by a car.

Do our cities need to do more to protect pedestrians? Obviously. We all know that Arlington and Fort Worth are planning bike lane projects, but what are they doing for people not on wheels? I can tell you in my industry, some of the most catastrophic injuries I see come from people who have been hit by a car while they are crossing the street. Because they have no protection, these victims end up with life-long injuries, if they even survive. Ranking as the 10^th most dangerous city for pedestrians is one title the cities of Fort Worth, Dallas and Arlington can live without.

With numbers like these, it's very likely that you've had a close call as a pedestrian in DFW. If you were hit by a car while crossing the street, call the Anderson Law Firm at 817-294-1900. The attorneys at my firm are experienced in pedestrian and bicycle accidents. We can help you recover damages for your lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering if you were hurt as a pedestrian. Call us today for your free case consultation and as always - be safe out there.

Carmaggeddon Equals Traffic Mayhem in Los Angeles This Weekend

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Even with all the construction, traffic and car accidents in Fort Worth and Dallas, all of us North Texans should be thanking our lucky stars that we don't live in Los Angeles this weekend. The 405 highway in Los Angeles, which carries 500,000 cars every day and is basically the traffic aorta in LA, is completely shutting down for the weekend. Shutting down the 10-mile stretch of highway is necessary as a part of a major highway reconstruction project. Nicknamed "Carmageddon," the freeway shut down is certainly striking fear in car-dependent Californians.

I can only imagine the mass hysteria that will hit LA this weekend. The 405 links population centers in north and south LA and without it being open, most people are stuck at home this weekend - unless they want to get into hours of traffic on other roads. I'm not sure that there is a freeway equivalent of the 405 in Texas, but could you imagine is an entire section of Interstate 35 was shut down for the ENTIRE weekend? People would go nuts!

Although shutting down the 405 will definitely be causing traffic jams this weekend, the aim of the project is to make traffic flow more smoothly on the freeway in the future. If Californian drivers are anything like us Texans, I'm sure that there will be some incidents of road rage this weekend, but AAA is warning folks to avoid directing anger at other drivers and concentrate on their own driving.

If you live in LA, this weekend is not the time to be a distracted driver. Best of luck to all of those in the city of angels-I hope you can survive Carmaggeddon!

This commentary is provided by Mark Anderson, a Board Certified personal injury attorney in Fort Worth, Texas. If you've been hurt in an accident that wasn't your fault, call the Anderson Law Firm at 817-294-1900 and set up a free legal consultation with one of our top-rated injury lawyers.

Working And Driving

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury attorney, I know that distracted driving is a very serious epidemic that causes hundreds of car wrecks throughout North Texas every year. It's why I sponsor the Teens Against Distracted Driving (TADD) program which aims to educate young drivers on the dangers of texting behind the wheel and asks them to make a pledge not to indulge in the dangerous habit.

However, it is not just teenagers who are guilty of texting, emailing and tweeting while they're supposed to be focused on operating their vehicle. A Unisys and IDC survey whose results were published this week shows that 20% of employees admit to sending work-related emails and other tasks while driving. The survey does not delve any deeper in to that figure, but it doesn't matter as even if you are using a hands free device, you are still not focusing the proper amount of attention on the task in hand: driving safely.

I have helped many personal injury victims who have suffered extremely serious injuries as a result of being hit by a distracted driver. There is never a reason, never a good enough excuse for you to put someone else's life in danger. Even work. I've seen lives ruined because of people using a cellphone while driving. Please; don't do it.

Mark Anderson is an experienced auto accident injury lawyer who has helped traffic collision victims and their family members throughout Tarrant County and the surrounding region since 1991. He is also the author of the book 15 Mistakes That Will Wreck Your Texas Accident Case. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident which was not your fault, please call for a free no obligation consultation on your personal situation at 817-294-1900.

Cleburne Child Dies In Hot Car Accident

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Johnson County girl playing outside died after apparently getting into a hot sports utility vehicle, with temperatures reaching over 100 degrees, Monday evening. Investigators have not determined how long the 4-year-old girl was in the vehicle before she was discovered. As of right now, all signs point to yet another North Texas child injury accident.

The victim, Lilly Parsons, was found by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department shortly after they arrived in the 1200 block of Westlake Road near Cleburne. A ruling on her death is pending an autopsy for investigation.

"Everything right now points to an accident," said Lt. Tim Jones of the Johnson County Sheriff's Department. "But we are still investigating her death."

Her parents called 911 Monday evening, after they made a quick search around their property and couldn’t find their daughter after she had gone outside.

Authorities alerted officials with Child Protective Services because the family has two other children. A relative is staying with the family to monitor the children and parents. The family has no prior history with CPS.

As a father and a Fort Worth child injury lawyer, I always hate hearing stories about these kinds of accidents. I send my deepest condolences to the Parson’s family at this extremely difficult time. It is important for parents to always supervise children when they got outside to play, so future accidents like this don’t occur. In the summertime, when temperatures rise, cars can get unbearably scorching, so parents must warn children about the potential dangers of sitting in hot cars. As a North Texas juvenile accident lawyer, I am too often reminded that children need protection from accidents like this.

Rabid Dog Bites Two In Johnson County

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Even as a dog lover, as a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer I know that at the end of the day dogs are animals. Sadly, accidents can happen. For whatever reason, a dog might attack a person either with or without warning. Just last week, two people were bitten by a pit bull mix near Rio Vista in Johnson County. It has since transpired that the animal in question was infected by rabies according to Sheriff Bob Alford. Rabies is a potentially fatal disease for humans, requiring emergency medical attention.

While there is no report whether the owner of this particular dog has yet been identified, in most cases of a dog biting either a child or an adult, there may be an opportunity for the dog bite victim to make a claim for compensation against the negligent owner's insurance company. Every situation is different, of course, so it is always important to consult with a board certified personal injury attorney to discuss your personal situation and understand your legal rights.

If you or your child has been bitten by a neighbor's dog, please call for a free consultation at our toll free number 800-354-MARK (6275) or call locally at either 817-294-1900 in Fort Worth or 214-327-8000 in Dallas.

Justin Bieber Says Don't Text & Drive – We Say Bravo Justin!

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

I never thought that as a personal injury attorney in Fort Worth I'd be writing about Justin Bieber, but then again stranger things have happened. Much to my delight (and I'm sure to my young daughter's) Justin Bieber announced the launch of a new campaign which will promote responsible text messaging through a cell phone app. The Drive Safe^TM app made by PhoneGuard will disable texting, emailing, and keyboard functions on your phone if you're driving faster than 10 miles per hour.

Justin is also teaming up with the Remember Alex Brown Foundation to promote his campaign. In case you don't read our blogs often, Alex was a beautiful Texas high school student who was killed in a car accident caused by texting and driving. Since then, her family has made it their mission to prevent distracted drivers.

In his official comment about the app, Bieber said, "As a 17-year-old driver, I am aware of the countless distractions that we teenagers face on the road, and texting is one that is preventable. There are too many young people, like Alex Brown, whom we've lost because of texting while driving, and it is my hope that, through this partnership with PhoneGuard, we will raise awareness of this issue and create safer conditions for everyone on the road."

At the Anderson Law Firm in Fort Worth, we are very pleased that young people like Justin Bieber are trying to spread the word on just how dangerous texting and driving is. Now if only we could get him to promote our Teens Against Distracted Driving Campaign!

Driver Asleep At the Wheel in Central Texas Bus Crash

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

I was right. A few days ago I wrote about a charter bus accident near San Marcos that injured everyone on board including a 4-year-old girl who had to have her leg amputated. At the time, all we knew about the accident was that the bus, owned by Dallas-based Mares Bus Lines, swerved off Interstate 35 and flipped over around 4 a.m. on Friday, July 3.

Working as a Fort Worth personal injury and bus accident attorney for the last 20 years, I know that bus wrecks like this don't just happen. My initial response to the story was that the driver must have fallen asleep at the wheel and sure enough, the San Marcos police department confirmed my belief in their police report released on Wednesday. According to authorities, the bus driver, Jesus Basio-Ramirez of Dallas, had fallen asleep when the vehicle hit a highway sign, swerved and overturned on Interstate 35 in Central Texas. No charges have been filed against the driver or the bus company, but an investigation is still ongoing.

Accidents like this really get under my skin. Bus drivers are professional drivers - it's what they do for a living and because of that, their driving is held to a higher standard than that of a regular motorists. When you get into a bus or a taxi, you are literally putting your life in that driver's hands. It is their JOB to get you where you are going safely. But what's even more disconcerting is that this isn't the first time this bus company has gotten in trouble for bad drivers. In the last two years Mares Bus Lines has received 12 violations for driver fatigue from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

I'm sure all of the people injured in this bus accident are outraged that their pain and suffering was all because of someone's negligence. The passengers that were on this bus and any bus that gets in an accident because of a driver falling asleep at the wheel have the right to pursue a personal injury claim for their medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. Contacting a local personal injury lawyer is one of the first steps to getting justice for your bus wreck injuries.

If you have been injured in a charter bus accident in Dallas or Fort Worth, please don't hesitate to call my accident and injury law firm at 817-294-1900. Besides our main office in Fort Worth, the Anderson Law Firm has offices in Dallas and Keller. Contact us today if you are injured and are interested in learning more about your legal options.

Irving Man Charged With Death Of Child

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

An Irving father could be charged with capital murder, instead of injury to a child charge, in the death of his 4-month-old son who died at a Dallas hospital during the July 4th weekend. Four-month-old Javier Rodriguez Jr. passed away Saturday at Children's Medical Center of Dallas five days after he arrived at the hospital, suffering from severe injuries.

Javier Ernesto Rodriguez, 19, was in the Dallas County Jail on Thursday on suspicion of injury to a child. The charge may be upgraded to capital murder, depending on the results of the investigation. According to a witness, the teen was babysitting his son on June 27 while the infant's mother was at work in Irving. He is accused of shaking the baby because he would not stop crying. The child suffered injuries consistent with child abuse.

Our deepest sympathies go out to the family at this difficult time. Hopefully whoever is responsible will be punished. Shaken baby syndrome is a serious crime, even if it was an accident. Child injury accidents happen every day, and many times, they are preventable.

If your child has been injured in a similar accident, call the Anderson Law Firm today for a free consultation at 817-294-1900. Mark Anderson, a Dallas child injury attorney, will fight for the justice that is deserved.

Reaction To The Casey Anthony Verdict

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Armchair speculators were quick to react yesterday following the jury's verdict in the trial of Casey Anthony, who stood accused of murdering her two-year-old daughter, Caylee. Soon after the jury announced their unanimous decision that Casey was not guilty of the charges of first degree murder or manslaughter, the TV talking heads started ranting and social media sites lit up as viewers debated the jury's findings. Everyone, it seems, has an opinion.

As a Dallas-Fort Worth lawyer, my thoughts are that the only people with access to all the relevant evidence - the jury - have decided. People are expressing anger and confusion at the trial's outcome, but it is an emotional reaction. This is natural. It was a very emotional trial, and a very sad story. But the 12 men and women whose job it was to weigh the evidence and reach a conclusion have made their decision. They felt they could not convict Casey Anthony beyond a reasonable doubt. That is how our justice system operates. Like it or not, it's the best justice system in the world.

My disappointment is with the media hacks like Nancy Grace who are exploiting the situation for their own gain by stirring up feelings of anger in a desperate bid for ratings. I agree with Casey Anthony's attorneys, Jose Baez and Cheney Mason, who spoke out against these "incompetent talking heads" as conducting a "media assassination" filled with "bias and prejudice." Unfortunately, that seems to always be the case with today's news media. Truly fair and balanced TV news is a rarity today.

Whatever your own thoughts and emotions are on the trial of Casey Anthony, the jury has made their decision. She was tried according to the law of the land and she was found not guilty by a jury of her peers.

Four Texas Motorcyclists Killed in Fatal Auto Accident

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Four people were killed in a tragic auto accident east of Dallas-Fort Worth yesterday near Canton, TX. As a Tarrant County personal injury lawyer, I am always saddened to learn of catastrophic traffic collisions. This particular crash was caused by a negligent motorist swerving into oncoming traffic, killing four motorcycle riders in the wreck. The deceased were identified as Bruce Melvin Bricker (51) and his wife, Shannon Rhenee Bricker (40), of Highland Village; Steve Austin Claterbaugh (53) of Rowlett; and his girlfriend Kathleen Dolores Smith (52) of Wylie.

The driver responsible for the wreckage was identified as Jose Luis Peña (31) of Rosharon, near Houston. Peña's girlfriend, Rosalind Ann Vela (31), who was riding in the rear seat of the vehicle suffered serious facial fracture injuries in the collision and was transported to a Tyler hospital for emergency medical treatment. Vera's three-year-old son was riding in a car seat in Peña's car but is reportedly unharmed. Peña has been arrested and charged with four counts of criminally negligent homicide. He is currently being held at the Van Zandt County Jail. Bail has been set at $2 million. Police do not believe that drugs or alcohol were a factor in the crash.

The police must have some evidence that this was more than an accident. Why in the world did he swerve? Was it intentional? Whatever the real reason, it is just tragic that this occurred. My thoughts and prayers go out to the families of these victims.

Beat The Heat (Like Dirk)

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer I often give adivce on what to do to stay safeon the roads and avaoid a car wreck or a motorcycle collision. Accidents can happen to anyone. Since the summer weather is now defnitely upon us, I thought I would share some tips on how to stay cool and avoid heat-realted injuries.

Everybody knows that Texas gets crazy hot during the summer months (if this is your first summer in the Lone Star State, then boy are you in for a treat). Here is some advice to keep you cool and well while also being mindful of your energy costs:

At home
Keep your thermostat at 78 degrees, any cooler than that and you could see up to a ten percent increase in your electricity bill. Instead, put your ceiling fans on the highest settings so that the cool air will be forced back down. Even a freestanding electric fan can make the room feel cooler by four degrees without dramatically upping your power usage. Replacing your air conditioning filters on a monthly basis (medium grade vents are recommended) can also help your unit run more efficiently.

On the go
The breeze of the open road helps to cool motorcyclists during the summer, but it's still vital that you stay hydrated. A common misconception among car drivers is that opening the windows rather than using the A/C will save you gas. Actually, the opposite is true - open windows increase drag, so go ahead and enjoy that cool internal air.

In person
Children and the elderly are most at risk from heat-related injuries, but no-one is immune to 100 degree weather. Stay in the shade as much as possible and make sure you're drinking plenty of cool water. If you start feeling nauseous or dizzy, hold an ice pack or cold wet cloth to your forehead.

Remember that summer is also the perfect time to indulge in plenty of ice cream and snow cones too!

If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident caused by someone else's negligence, call the Anderson Law Firm toll free at 800-354-6275 or locally at 817-294-1900.

Is It Illegal To Shoot Off Fireworks in DFW?

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Unless you live outside city limits in an unincorporated area, it is illegal to shoot off fireworks in Texas.Get caught shooting firecrackers on a property within city limits and you could face a huge fine, not to mention an angry neighbor.

Can't shoot off fireworks at your house? Let the professionals do the work! Here are the Anderson Law Firm's top picks on where to see the best firework shows this 4th of July:

Independence Day Fireworks Show at the Ballpark in Arlington - Enjoy two of America's favorite pastimes: fireworks and baseball. Watch the Rangers beat the Orioles and enjoy a beautiful firework display after the game.

Kaboom Town! in Addison - On July 3 you can enjoy one of the best firework shows in the country at Addison's Kaboom Town. The dazzling fireworks are synchronized to music on 100.3 JACK FM and you can watch the show from anywhere in Addison, including the Addison Circle Park.

Fort Worth's Fourth - Take out the family for an evening of music and fun on the Trinity River behind La Grave Field at Fort Worth's Fourth. The amazing display of fireworks over the downtown skyline starts at 9:30 p.m. The best part? It's all free!

Mark Anderson is a board certified Fort Worth personal injury lawyer who has been helping people suffering with serious injuries as a result of accidents caused by somone else's negligence for 20 years. If you or someone you love was inured in an accident that wasn't your fault, call an experienced accident and injury attorney now at 817-294-1900.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Hazing Death at Cornell University

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity at Cornell University is being sued for $25 million for wrongful death by the mother of a student for who was allegedly forced to drink so much alcohol that he died.

George Desdunes, a 19-year-old sophomore and SAE member, was kidnapped by students pledging his house, tied up, and made to answer trivia questions about his fraternity. If he answered incorrectly, other members forced him to do exercises or consume various food and drinks that contained sugar, flavored syrups and vodka.

Desdunes reportedly passed out, but rather than being taken to the hospital he was left, still tied up, on a couch in the house's library. He was later pronounced dead from alcohol poisoning with a blood alcohol level was .409 - or five times the legal limit.

His mother, Marie Lourdes Andre, says at least five other deaths have occurred at SAE chapters since 1997. (The fraternity has more than 240 chapters nationwide with some 300,000 initiated members.)

Tragedies like this sadden me because this is something that could have been prevented. Our deepest sympathies go out to the Desdunes family and friends. I hope whoever is responsible for this gets the punishment they deserve, as it is the responsibility of fraternity members to look out for and protect their friends. It is because of their negligence that this horrific incident occurred. Hazing incidences of this kind should not be tolerated, and I hope this is a warning for other fraternities who think behavior like this is acceptable.

Information and commentary is provided by Dallas/FortWorth wrongful death attorney Mark Anderson. The Anderson Law Firm can be reached in Fort Worth at 817-294-1900 or in Dallas at 214-327-8000. If you have questions about wrongful death, fill out our contact form online for a free consultation.

Plans for Arlington Bike Lanes Moves Forward

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tuesday night, the Arlington City Council voted to move forward with a plan to create new bike lanes in the city. In the past few weeks I've written about new bike lanes coming to downtown Fort Worth, but this is the first I've heard of the issue in Arlington. The City Council passed the proposal that calls for creates 16 miles of new bike lines, as well as 43 new miles of designated bicycle routes.

In my opinion, bike lanes like the ones proposed in Arlington benefit everybody. As a personal injury lawyer in Fort Worth, over the years I've had several clients hurt in bicycle accidents that could've been prevented if the road they were riding in had bike lanes. Not only do bike lanes give cyclists somewhere to ride, but force car drivers to anticipate the fact that a bike rider is sharing the road with them. So many pedestrian and bicycle accidents happen because automobile drivers aren't looking out for walkers or cyclists. With bike lanes, drivers will know exactly where to look for cyclists while driving.

Of course not everyone shares my opinion on bike lanes, at Arlington's City Council meeting on Tuesday, critics of the approved bike lanes said they will lower property values and cause more traffic. I don't really see how that's possible-more traffic because of bikes? Please. If anything, it could cause less traffic and less car accidents in Arlington.

While I may not be riding to work anytime soon, I'd like to know that bike lanes are there for me to use if I choose. What's your opinion on bike lanes? Think they are worth the money? I'll keep you posted on what happens in Arlington. If you ever are hurt in a bicycle accident in Arlington or Fort Worth, give my injury law firm a call at 817-294-1900.

70-Year-Old Killed In Fort Worth Hit & Run Crash

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Fort Worth police department needs our help. At my personal injury law firm in Fort Worth, we want to do everything we can to catch the hit and run driver who killed 70-year-old Jerry Winton in front of a donut shop in east Fort Worth on Saturday.

Jerry Winton was out picking up breakfast for his family when he got into a minor fender bender in a parking lot at the corner of Weiler Road and Meadowbrook Drive. Winton and the other driver got out of the car and it looked as though they were going to exchange information. But then the other driver jumped in back in his vehicle and tried to speed off as Winton held on to the back of the car. Investigators said that Winton was dragged several feet until the driver hit and ran-over him. Winton was taken to John Peter Smith Hospital where he later died.

This senseless hit and run accident could have been avoided if the other driver had just exchanged insurance information and not panicked. Winton had underinsured motorist coverage according to his family, so even if the other driver didn't have insurance Winton would have been protected.

If you have any information regarding this senseless hit-and-run accident, please call the Fort Worth police department at 817-335-4222. Jerry was a loving husband and served two tours in the Vietnam War. At the Anderson Law Firm, we really hope the person responsible for this horrible crime is brought to justice.

New Crib Safety Standards Go Into Effect Tuesday

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

New safety standards approved by the US Consumer Safety Commission will be enforced for anyone that manufacturers or sells baby cribs in the US starting tomorrow, June 28, 2011. According to the new standards, the manufacture and sale of traditional drop-sided cribs are prohibited. The commission said that traditional drop-side cribs are dangerous and have led to thousands of child injuries and from January 2000 to 2010 at least 32 deaths were related to drop-side detachments in cribs.

The Fort Worth personal injury lawyers at the Anderson Law Firm fully support the new crib safety standards. Mandatory crib standards haven't been updated in almost 30 years and during that time, 86 dangerous cribs have been recalled by the CPSC. So many innocent children have been injured by dangerous cribs, but hopefully with the new safety standards, these injuries will cease to exist.

For daycares and hotels, the deadline to buy the new, safer cribs is December 28, 2012. If you have a child in a daycare facility in Fort Worth or Dallas that uses a crib, make sure your daycare provider is aware of the new safety standards and see that they provide cribs up to the new safety standards by the December deadline. Being proactive on your part will help ensure that your child is safe from daycare injuries.

Lanes on I-30 in Fort Worth Re-open After Fiery Car Crash

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Was your drive to work a little easier this morning? If you live in Fort Worth or Dallas and take I-30 to work it might have been. The lanes damaged by an explosive car crash caused by a drunk driver opened Sunday night along I-30 in east Fort Worth.

We wrote about the Fort Worth car accident back in March, when Louis Nieves drove his pickup the wrong way on I-30 and slammed into a fully loaded fuel tanker driven by Alejandro Raya. Raya died in the accident and Nieves was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated and intoxication manslaughter.

The site of the Fort Worth truck accident caused months stress for motorists, who had to deal with bumper-to-bumper traffic on I-30 every day. The immense heat from the explosion melted some of the bridge's support structure and forced the highway to be reduced to two lanes while workers repaired the bridge.

Luckily, repair crews finished the project a month ahead of schedule and the bridge on I-30 is fully operational today.

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This commentary was provided by Mark A. Anderson, a Board Certified personal injury attorney in Fort Worth, TX. If you or a loved one has been hurt because of the reckless actions of a drunk driver, or any other negligent driver behind the wheel, call the Anderson Law Firm in Fort Worth. Our accident and injury attorneys can help you with the insurance company and get you back on your feet. If you've been in an accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your medical treatment, lost wages and pain and suffering. Call one of our personal injury lawyer at 817-294-1900 to set up a free, no obligation, case consultation today.

Blog Update: Jackass Star, Ryan Dunn, Legally Drunk At the Time of Accident

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

In a blog from earlier this week, I wrote about the tragic car accident that took the life of Ryan Dunn, a longtime cast member of MTV's "Jackass" franchise.

At that time, the only details of the accident were that Dunn and his friends had been to a bar before the crash and authorities said they believed speed was a factor in the accident.

Today, police released the results of Dunn's toxicology testing. At the time of the accident, not only was Dunn twice over the legal blood alcohol limit, at 0.196 percent, but he was also speeding at 140 miles per hour.

Dunn's Porsche crashed into a tree on a Pennsylvania highway early Monday. When authorities arrived, the car was engulfed in flames and both passengers were dead.

This is such a terrible accident because it didn't need to happen. Drunk drivers get into car accidents. They just do.

Protect yourself, your passengers and the other drivers sharing the road with you. Don't drink and drive. Ever.

Fort Worth Woman Attacked By Five Dogs

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

A North Texas woman was taken to John Peter Smith Hospital early Thursday morning after getting attacked by five dogs, according to police.

The attack happened at about 3:15 a.m. on the 1700 block of Vaughn Blvd., just a couple of blocks away from Texas Wesleyan in Fort Worth.

According to witnesses, the woman was walking down the street when five dogs, including two pit bulls, started to bite and attack her.

Witnesses told police that the dogs had come from a house around the corner, but when authorities went to the house to investigate, the man who lived there showed them his dogs were caged securely

Dog bite accidents, like this one, happen in Texas more than you think. Although there is no state-by-state study of dog bites, according to the Centers for Disease Control, 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year and I can tell you that in my line of work as a personal injury lawyer in Fort Worth, we regularly get calls from people who have been injured by dog bites.

What makes dog attacks so frightening and devastating is that you don't see them coming. Sometimes these dogs are pets you've been around for years and they just snap. Or, like in the case of the woman bitten in Fort Worth, the dog attack just happens like a freak accident.

The law in Texas is a little bit complicated when it comes to dog bites, but there are damages recoverable in Texas dog bite or dog attack cases. One thing that is for sure is that if you've been hurt by a dog in DFW, you should probably consider consulting with a Fort Worth dog bite attorney. With the law as confusing as it is, you will need someone in your corner to help you receive compensation that will help pay for your medical treatment and other injuries.

Over 2,000 Texas Trucks and Buses Deemed Unsafe

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Some of the worst accidents I've seen as a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer were caused by 18-wheeler trucks. Due to their size and weight, it takes them longer to stop than other vehicles and they have a hard time avoiding hazards which could result in a collision. In order to try and reduce the safety risks common to commercial trucks, each year Texas police offers participate in Roadcheck: a marathon 72 hour event held each June. According to the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), approximately 14 trucks are inspected every minute of Roadcheck to ensure the big rigs are up to code.

The Department of Public Safety announced today that in Texas Roadcheck 2011 more than a quarter of the tractor trailer inspected were ordered off the road for violations. Police officers across the state stopped a total of 7,993 vehicles including both commercial trucks and passenger buses. Of those, 26.5 percent were taken out of service for safety issues such as brake and tire problems. On behalf of all Texas, I would like to thank the organization which made Roadcheck 2011 a success and making us all a little bit safer while driving.

If you have been injured in an auto accident involving a commercial truck it is important that you consult with a board certified personal injury attorney as soon as possible. For a free no obligation consultation on your personal case, call toll free at 800-354-MARK (6275) or call locally in Fort Worth at 817-294-1900.

You Need To Tell Your Doctor Everything That Hurts

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I know the importance of being as detailed with your doctor as possible. If you've been injured in a car crash, a motorcycle wreck or some other kind of accident - you need to make a list of each and every one of your aches and pains so that your doctor is aware of them. It doesn't matter how minor or trivial you might think they are, because what could be just a slight back ache today could mean months of chiropractic treatment before you're better again.

In order for your compensation claim to be as successful as possible, it is vital that you link every single one of your injuries (or possible injuries) to your accident as soon as possible. It might well be that there are more significant and obvious injuries initially, such as broken bones, but chances are there are other injuries which pale by comparison but which will become more and more significant over time. Don't forget to tell your doctor about them so that he can write them into your medical record so that it is obvious they were a result of your traffic collision. Any injury you sustain - and any medical treatment required - should be covered by the compensation paid by the negligent driver's insurance company. In order to achieve that maximum figure, you need to make sure that you are as thorough as possible when discussing your injuries with your doctor.

For more information on how to maximize your claim's success, please request a free copy of my book 15 Mistakes That Will Wreck Your Texas Accident Case. For a free, no obligation consultation, please give me a call toll free at 800-354-MARK (6275). You can call locally at 817-294-1900 in Fort Worth, or 214-327-8000 in Dallas.

Heat Continues To Cause Headache For Dallas

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Dallas Mavericks might have soundly beaten the Miami Heat on Sunday night, but good old fashioned Texas heat continues to plague DFW residents. We've already had a number of 100 degree days this summer and it's not even July yet! As a Dallas-Fort Worth car wreck attorney, I know that hot temperatures mean additional concerns for North Texas commuters who already have to deal with severe congestion and delays caused by extensive construction projects and auto accidents. According to the Dallas County Sheriff's Office, the warm weather is also increasing the number of stalled cars on the road.

Main problems to affect the number of stalled vehicles include overheating so motorists are being advised to keep extra water in their trunk in case their engine needs it. Old batteries also have a tendency to give up when the mercury rises, so be sure that your car is regularly maintained and inspected. Drivers are also being cautioned to ensure their tires are properly inflated as a number of recent wrecks have been caused by blown tires. In those cases, what most likely happened is that tires which were already overinflated built up additional pressure as they drove along. The heat also plays a factor.

Even if you take all the necessary precautions, you still need to be careful out there and keep a watchful eye out for other cars and trucks - particularly any stalled vehicles which pose a hazard to other traffic.

Mark Anderson is a board certified personal injury lawyer who has worked with traffic wreck victims across North Texas since 1991. For a no fee, no obligation consultation on your Dallas car accident case call toll free at 800-354-MARK (6275) or locally at 214-327-8000.

Save Money and Your Driving Record: Don't Speed!

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Living and working as a personal injury lawyer in Fort Worth for the past 20 years, like most Texans; a lot of my life is spent in the car. Life in Texas seems to revolve around where you're going and how fast you can get there.

There's no better example of this right now than along the DFW Connector project near Grapevine where new construction is causing congested roads and tempting drivers who want to push the limit. Since May, Grapevine police have already written more than 700 tickets to drivers who fly through the 50 mile an hour speed limit.

We all know that speeding is a major contributor to car accidents in Dallas and Fort Worth, but what you may not realize is that if you get caught speeding you could pay the price not only for the ticket, but on your insurance as well.

A new report by Insurance.com found that one ticket can increase your rates by as much as 18%. A second ticket can increase rates by 34% and a third offense by much as 50%. When your insurance rates go up, they can remain in place for several years, too.

So what can you do? Number one: don't speed!

At the Anderson Law Firm in Fort Worth many of our clients were hurt in accidents caused by drivers going way over the speed limit. Maybe if more drivers knew how long their choice to speed would affect them they wouldn't do it. Or maybe they still would, I don't know.

In any case, speeding causes car wrecks, it can cause you to get a ticket and it can cause your insurance rates to go up. After reading all that, is it really worth it to put the pedal to the metal - just so you can get somewhere 5 minutes faster? Didn't think so.

If you've been in an accident caused by a negligent driver who was speeding, driving while intoxicated or just being a distracted driver, call the Anderson Law Firm at 817-294-1900. We may be able to help you receive compensation for your injuries, lost wages and pain and suffering.

Bike Lanes Arriving in Downtown Fort Worth for the First Time

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

At the Anderson Law Firm in Fort Worth, we were thrilled to see road crews striping the long-awaited bike lanes at 10th & Texas in downtown yesterday.

Our Fort Worth personal injury lawyers know from experience the devastation that occurs when cyclists and car drivers wreck into each other. Everyone at our accident and injury law firm is proud that the city of Fort Worth is finally doing something to prevent bicycle accidents and keep cyclists safe.

Bike lanes at 10^th & Texas are just the beginning of the Downtown Fort Worth bike plan. In an effort to make Fort Worth friendlier to bicyclists and pedestrians, residents can expect to see a large increase in bike parking, bike lanes and shared lane routes, and even a bike lane connection with the Near Southside of Fort Worth.

In cities like Fort Worth, Arlington and Dallas where the car is king and people drive everywhere all the time, it's important to look out for the little guy on two wheel. Bike lanes not only give cyclists a designated area to ride, but also makes it easier on drivers in four wheels to spot bicyclists. With more bike lanes in DFW, we think injuries and deaths from car wrecks and bicycle accidents can go down dramatically.

The Fort Worth pedestrian and bicycle accident attorneys at the Anderson Law Firm tip their hat to the city for getting started on this plan. We expect to see a lot more bicyclists cruising the beautiful city of Fort Worth soon.

Dangerous Motorcycle Gang Brings Dallas Freeway To Standstill

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Did you hear about this? A crazy gang of idiot sports bike riders brought Central Expressway in Dallas to a standstill on Memorial Day weekend for several minutes. At first I thought it must have been an organized shut down, but no - it seems these fools took it upon themselves to obstruct the flow of traffic in order to make US 75 their own private playground. As a Dallas personal injury attorney I feel I must condemn this incredibly dangerous and reckless antisocial behavior. These thugs were basically doing stupid stunts on a public highway causing a potentially fatal hazard to other motorists.

The other danger these jackasses have created, of course, is that the public at large are going to think that all motorcyclists are similarly obnoxious and couldn't care less about law and order. Please believe me when I say that could not be further from the truth. Bike riders by and large are a good-natured law abiding bunch. Many of them belong to organizations formed with the intention of giving back to their local communities. 99% of people who ride motorcycles are not thugs. They are normal law abiding citizens. These loud and dangerous bikers are in the minority and they don't care one bit if they give all motorcyclists a bad name. It's not fair.

I've been defending the rights of injured motorcyclists and their families as an auto accident lawyer in the Dallas-Fort Worth area for 20 years. Motorcycles have as much right as other vehicles to be on the road. Motorcyclists just want to get where they're going safely, the same as the rest of us. I'm glad that the Dallas Police Department is busy analyzing photographs and video of these sport bikers to identify the individuals involved so that justice can be carried out.

Fort Worth Journalist Thinks Distracted Driving Is No Problem

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Bud Kennedy of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram doesn't seem to think that distracted driving is big deal. Thanks, Bud. That's what we want Tarrant County's biggest newspaper preaching to the young generation of new drivers: don't worry about texting while driving: it's no big deal; you'll only kill yourself, maybe a couple of other innocent motorists or pedestrians... Really? As someone who has defended the rights of average Texans whose lives have been turned upside-down in car wrecks for the past 20 years I think his column is utterly irresponsible to the point of ludicrous.

It's true that his comments are intended to target the hypocritical state legislators who vote in favor of one public safety bill but oppose another, but the way he causally disregards the very real danger of reading a text message while simultaneously operating a speeding vehicle is simply not acceptable. Let me ask you, Bud: Did you know that if you were driving at 55 mph you could travel the entire length of a football field - including the end zones - without looking at the road? No big deal, right? Have you ever met the parents of a child who died in a single vehicle wreck because she was checking her Twitter feed? It's just one dead kid, right? No biggie.

Bud, let me make this easy for you... Since you obviously fail to understand the true size of this monster problem, here are some actual facts published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration from 2009 (the most recent data available):

100,000 distracted driving accidents were reported in Texas
408 of those were fatal
3,308 of the total distracted driving wrecks were attributed to a driver using a cellphone while behind the wheel (there is no clarification as to whether they were texting, reading, talking, surfing the web or emailing)

By all means, Bud, make humorous comments at the expense of politicians who say one thing but do another, but please don't make your point at the expense of Texas families who've lost a loved one. Using a cellphone while driving is extremely dangerous both to yourself and to all other road users. Indulging in anything which takes your attention of the road puts your life and others at risk. It is not a laughing matter. You should know better and you should be setting a far better example.

North Tarrant Construction Creates High Risk For Auto Accidents

Tue, 31 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Fort Worth car wreck injury attorney, I know that the congested traffic around the metroplex can mean a dangerous commute for many drivers and motorcyclists each day. However, if you drive Loop 820 and Texas 121/138 near North Richland Hills, Hurst and Bedford, your daily drive could be getting a lot worse. The reason for the increased hazard is due to ongoing construction of the North Tarrant Express which has a projected completion date of 2015. So motorists in that area can expect the claustrophobic tension to continue for a long time yet.

A similar problem area in Grapevine has also caused many road users problems in recent months as construction continues for the DFW Connector project. Over the past few months, several major auto accidents have shut down Texas 114/121, but at least there vehicles are able to continue to travel past along the service roads. That's not an option on Loop 820 where a 13 mile stretch of roadway now has concrete barriers in place which both means narrower-than-usual lanes as well as absolutely no way of getting past in the event of a collision. The barriers are expected to remain in place for at least 18 months. Should a crash occur anywhere along this stretch within that time, it would mean devastating delays - not to mention the impossible task of getting ambulances and other emergency responders to the scene of the wreckage. Even a minor fender bender could block the freeway creating the potential for a massive pileup at worst, and hours of backed up traffic at best. If you are able to find an alternative route, it might well be worth making those alternate plans now and for the long term. If you must continue to drive it, then please take all due care and get where you're going safely.

Mark Anderson is a board certified personal injury lawyer who has served the families of Dallas-Fort Worth for 20 years and is the author of the book 15 Mistakes That Will Wreck Your Texas Accident Case. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash which was not your fault, contact Mark now for a free no obligation consultation on your own personal situation. Call toll free at 800-354-MARK (6275) or locally in Fort Worth at 817-294-1900 or in Dallas at 214-327-8000.

Dallas-Fort Worth Storms Bring Hail Damage to North Texas

Wed, 25 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tarrant, Parker and Denton Counties were battered by the severe storms last night, apparently the worst to hit Dallas-Fort Worth since 1997. One tornado touched down in Azle while another was expected in Saginaw. Tens of thousands of people lost electricity. The Rangers Ballpark in Arlington was forced to evacuate. Hundreds of flights in and out of DFW Airport were cancelled. Fortunately the weather had nowhere near the catastrophic damage suffered in Joplin, Missouri.

The morning after the night before, the worst that most people have suffered is hail damage to their cars, trucks and homes. In Hurst, there were reports of golf ball size hail. Fortunately, in most cases the insurance companies are quick to assist homeowners. However, sometimes the natural impulse of the insurance adjustor to put profits before people takes over, and they try to delay or deny claims altogether. As a lawyer, the biggest problem I see with property damage claims following hail storms, however, is that the insurance company just doesn't want to pay the full amount to cover the repair costs. If that happens to you, I can help.

If you need help dealing with the insurance company to get the full repair cost of hail damage give me a call toll free on 800-354-MARK (6275) or contact me online. If you'd prefer to call on a local number, you can call me at 817-294-1900in Fort Worth and 214-327-8000 in Dallas.

Rear-end Truck Collisions Increase Risk of Decapitation

Tue, 24 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to a new report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, passengers in cars which crash into the back of 18-wheeler trucks have a high risk of suffering death by decapitation. As a Ft. Worth personal injury lawyer, this is gravely concerning. Traffic collisions involving commercial trucks are nearly always extremely serious, and motorists involved in such accidents usually suffer severe injuries. This report, however, cites that the underride guard found at the back of big rigs which is supposed to prevent life-threatening injuries does not do the job it is supposed to.

The underride guard is a metal bar which runs the width of the back wheels across the back of the tractor trailer. In the event of a rear-end collision, the underride guards is meant to prevent a car from traveling beneath the truck, but test crashes have revealed that the guard rails fail even at slower speeds which simulate slow-moving roads. Accidents often occur in such circumstances as drivers fail to notice the truck in front braking sharply in stop and go traffic.

Although many cars perform very well in most test impact wrecks by absorbing crash energy and redirecting it around the vehicle, nearly all cars perform far worse in rear-end truck collisions, which is particularly concerning given the height of passengers' heads in the car, versus the height of the underside of a big rig truck. Drivers should always keep their wits about them and pay close attention to the vehicle in front of them. Always leave enough space in case the truck in front breaks suddenly or quickly. Remember to follow with enough distance between you so that you can see the truck's mirrors - if you can't see their mirrors, then the driver can't see you!

Mark Anderson is an auto accident injury attorney who has been helping motor-wreck victims and their families across Weatherford, Burleson, Arlington and Richland Hills for 20 years. If you've been hurt in a traffic collision involving a commercial truck it is essential that you consult with a PI attorney as soon as possible following the accident. The Anderson Law Firm offers free no obligation consultations. Call no toll free at 800-354-MARK (6275) or locally at 817-294-1900.

Get On Your Bike

Thu, 19 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're stuck in traffic 5 days a week, you're probably not aware that tomorrow is National Bike to Work Day. It's easy to miss in the DFW metroplex, since the area was designed with motorcars in mind - not cyclists. However, several initiatives by individual cities are poised to improve the local bike life; such as the new hike and bike trails proposed in both Fort Worth and Arlington. As a Tarrant County personal injury attorney, I know that cyclists involved in collisions often suffer severe injuries - but if better and safer cycle routes are introduced and more people switch to pedal power then that means less cars and trucks on the roads, which it turn should make the area much safer for cyclists.

The benefits of cycling rather than driving are obvious - both to one's individual health and to the environment. Fort Worth is actually considering investing between $500,000 to $800,000 in a new bike share program which will make cycling a more attractive and convenient option for people who live and work in Fort Worth. The concept is similar to programs across Europe and in other US cities such as Denver, CO, Boston, MA and San Antonio, TX. For a small fee, residents could rent a public bike whenever they want, and return it to any other bike rack in the city once they're done with it. I think it sounds like a great idea. Even if you have to make a commute into the city each day, it's a welcome alternative to get about - and get some exercise - at lunch.

If you're planning on attending the Colonial Invitational Golf Tournament in Fort Worth this weekend, remember that the Colonial Country Club is offering free parking for bicycles thanks to a partnership with Streams and Valleys. Given the convenient access to and from the golf course thanks to the Trinity Trail, it's a cheap and easy way to enjoy the event.

Mark Anderson is a board certified PI and wrongful death lawyer, who has been helping pedestrians and bicyclists hurt in auto accidents across North Texas for 20 years. If you or a loved one have been injured due to someone else's negligence, call 817-24-1900 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Child Medicines Taken Off the Shelves

Thu, 12 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Johnson & Johnson has announced that they will be discontinuing their line of kids' cold and fever medicine amid concerns about dosage confusions. They are just one of several over-the-counter medication companies with have agreed to completely phase out the products by the end of the year.

As an Arlington personal injury attorney I typically take a rather cynical view whenever a company recalls a product they've already unleashed on the marketplace - particularly when it's aimed at children - but this case is special because the drug makers aren't admitting that their medicines are dangerous in and of themselves; rather that there is a high risk of overdose if parents do not follow the instructions.

The ingredient which is causing this sudden concern is a pain reliever called acetaminophen (also found in Tylenol, Nyquil and countless other products). While generally regarded to be safe when used as directed, acetaminophen is the leading cause of liver failure in the US and is believed to send more than 50,000 people to the ER each year. The drug companies, which also include Novartis and Procter & Gamble, plan on replacing their various products with just one single formula for all children under 12 in the hope that the uniformity will help ease these dosage problems. I'm sure this mass action wasn't at all prompted by the meeting called for by the FDA which will take place later this month to discuss whether additional safety labeling and instructions are necessary for acetaminophen products.

Situations like these always leave me frustrated both at the companies manufacturing and supplying the products, but also with the government themselves for not implementing tighter regulations upfront.

Mark Anderson is a board certified personal injury trial lawyer who has been helping people across the Dallas-Fort Worth region for 20 years. If you or a loved one have suffered injury because of someone else's negligence, call Mark for a free, no obligation consultation on your personal situation to understand your legal rights. Call oat 817-294-1900 or 214-327-8000.

Even More School Bus Accidents in Texas

Tue, 10 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

It's been a bad week for school buses across Texas - and it's only Tuesday!

Yesterday we blogged about a Venus ISD school bus crash that injured 11 kids and just today there have been two more school bus accidents in Texas.

This morning six children were hurt in a school bus accident after a Fort Worth school district bus was involved in a crash with a car. The bus was headed to William James Middle School when the crash occurred. The bus was carrying 30 students at the time, but only six were taken to Cook Children's Medical Center with minor injuries.

Unfortunately, a school bus accident near San Antonio was much more serious. Tuesday afternoon the bus carrying 40 kids in Pleasanton was hit in the left rear by a sedan. The car then burst into flames, charring the back of the bus. One person had to be air lifted to the nearest hospital and there is no word yet on other injuries. I certainly hope everyone will be alright.

It's truly a terrible coincidence that there have been so many school bus accidents in Texas lately. But when these things happen, it's the perfect time to take a look at the safety of our children's school bus and our own driving habits around school buses.

The areas where school buses load and unload are often times the places where distracted driving is at its peak - in our neighborhoods and around places we cruise all the time. Don't be the cause of a school bus crash - put the phone, makeup and food down and just drive.

Hopefully this will be the end of a weird string of school bus crashes. Stay safe everybody - look out for the big yellow! And if your child has been injured in a school bus wreck, read this article on what your legal options are after a school bus crash.

Too Many Distracted Drivers in Grapevine

Mon, 09 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Last week, I blogged about the increased police presence along the DFW Connector in Grapevine due to the overwhelming number of cars going above the speed limit. This week, there may be more clues to why so many drivers are speeding on the DFW Connector- they're talking on their cell phones!

According a study by the Texas Transportation Institute, one in 8 drivers is talking on a cellphone while driving the lanes of the DFW Connector project through Grapevine, Texas. That's more than twice the level observed in a 2009 regional study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration!

If you've driven the DFW Connector lately, you'll probably understand why I'm so surprised this many people are messing with their cell phones - they highway is completely under construction, with lane closures and changes almost daily.

The combination of road construction and speeding cars will undoubtedly cause some car accidents. But add to that the number of distracted drivers chatting or texting on cell phones and it's only a matter of time before something really terrible happens.

We can prevent car accidents by abiding by the rules of the road. Although using your cell phone while driving isn't against the law in Texas (yet), we all know it's incredibly dangerous, not to mention completely avoidable.

If you or somebody you know has been in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, you may need the legal counsel of a Fort Worth personal injury attorney. To go over your options, call the Anderson Law Firm at 817-294-1900 today to set up your free case consultation.

HB 274 Threatens The Rights Of Average Texans

Thu, 05 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

I know a lot of people don't like personal injury lawyers... until they need them, that is! No one ever plans on getting hurt in a car wreck, but it happens all the time. Within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex there are auto accidents every day. If the worst happened to you, or to your husband or wife, or even to one of your children - could you cope financially? I'm sure most of us would damn well try to give our loved ones whatever medical treatment they need. The best doctors, the best hospital. Who wouldn't? But it's important to remember that medical bills are the number one cause of bankruptcy in the nation.

That's where I come in.

Whoever is the negligible party responsible for the accident which caused your injury is injured. You have the right to make a claim for compensation against their insurance policy. Of course, the insurance company is a business like any other business. Their priority is their bottom line. They exist to make a profit, so they will try to give you the least amount of compensation possible. That's why you need an attorney to protect your rights. Often, we can settle, but sometimes it means going to trial. Either way, thanks to the laws in Texas, my clients eventually get the compensation they deserve.

But a new state bill threatens that.

HB 274 is going to be voted on today. Known as the "Loser Pays" Bill it means individuals would be forced to pay the legal bills of the giant corporations they have a claim against. The bill is designed to intimidate families and small business. It skews any sense of fairness within the legal system squarely in favor of the powerful corporations. It's unfair and it's wrong.

Imagine you were a parent with children at college. Could you afford to seek compensation for your spouse's injuries if HB 274 passes? What about if you were a senior citizen on a limited income - how could you cope with sudden and unexpected medical bills and no options? How about if you were a small business owner who could lose everything? "Loser Pays" will lodge regular citizens squarely between a rock and a hard place. We must stand up for our rights now, before they are taken away from us.

Texas Watch, an organization promoting consumer protection, corporate accountability and citizen advocacy, is spearheading grassroots action against the bill. Please visit their website where you can easily send an email to your state representative asking them to vote against the bill.

I hope that you will never need to make a claim for personal injury compensation. But it's vital you protect your rights now, just in case you ever do.

Teenage Drunk Driver Kills 1, Injures Others in Fort Worth

Tue, 03 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Tarrant County car wreck attorney I have seen firsthand the devastation that a drunk driving collision can cause a family. Most people are well aware of the dangers of attempting to operate a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol, yet Texans continue to drink and drive at an alarming rate. I have no idea why, so I tied to imagine a drunk driver's thought process... What if I was the one standing there on the sidewalk outside the bar, car keys in hand, wondering whether to pay for a cab or take the risk? Would I be thinking about the consequences? Worrying about killing myself, a close friend, or a total stranger? I'm guessing many people who do choose to get behind the wheel after drinking don't think about that, or at least assume it could never happen to them. It could. It could happen to anyone.

On Sunday night, a 17-year-old female was arrested in Fort Worth following a single vehicle accident on I-30 which killed one person. Police report that the girl, who was not named, was driving a Dodge pickup carrying nine people when it hit standing water and the driver lost control. One of the passengers died at the scene. Five others were injured, including the driver. After receiving treatment for her injuries at Harris Methodist Hospital, police arrested the teenage driver. She is expected to face charges of intoxication manslaughter.

I can't imagine what she must be feeling right now. But I'm sure she wishes she had the opportunity to go back in time and make a different choice. Because of her, her friend is dead. Because of her, her life is ruined. It could happen to anyone.

Mark Anderson is a board certified personal injury and wrongful death lawyer, and author of the book 15 Mistakes That Could Wreck Your Texas Accident Case.

More Privatized Roads in Fort Worth, Texas

Mon, 02 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Texas House voted to approve at private developers to take over construction on at least 14 road projects.

The list of projects is considered crucial to the growth and development in Fort Worth, Texas and will also help with traffic relief and car accidents in the area.

Included in the list of projects is the expansion of Interstate 35W from Interstate 30 near downtown Fort Worth to Texas 114 near Texas Motor Speedway.

What lawmakers are calling "comprehensive development agreements" were added as amendments to a sunset review bill for the Texas Department of Transportation. Now, the Senate must agree to the changes in the bill.

Other road projects in Fort Worth and Dallas that may become privatized include Texas 183 from Texas 121 in Bedford to Texas 161 in Irving, and East Loop 820 from Texas 183 to Randol Mill Road.

Two Deadly Tarrant County Motorcycle Accidents

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Tarrant County personal injury lawyer I have worked with many bikers and their families over the past 20 years. I know that the vast majority of motorcycle accidents are the fault of negligent car drivers. But motorcyclists have a responsibility themselves. They should be aware that chances are other drivers haven't noticed them - and take advantage of any safety equipment that's available to them.

While the fortunate survivor of that dramatic motorcycle collision video continues making the different TV shows and other media outlets, two more recent wrecks serve as grim reminders that most auto accidents involving motorcyclists end in tragedy.

Len and Connie Nichols of Weatherford were riding together when they attempted to pass a pick-up truck on Friday. The driver did not see them and attempted to make a turn. The husband and wife were rushed to the hospital immediately following crash. Connie died at the hospital. Len's injuries required an emergency leg amputation and he is still reported to be in critical condition.

Also on Friday, Martin Thiessen was killed while riding his motorcycle in Burleson. According to police reports, Thiessen was not wearing a helmet when he collided with an SUV at the intersection of East Renfro and Clark Streets. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver and passenger in the vehicle which struck him were unharmed.

My thoughts are with the families and friends of Len and Connie Nichols and Martin Thiessen at this most difficult time.

Too Much Trash on Tarrant County Highways

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Every morning I take Interstate 20 and Highway 287 to get to my job at the Anderson Law Firm in Fort Worth. And every morning, I pass the same old stuff. No, I'm not talking about buildings and cars - I'm talking about trash! Lots and lots of trash!

Seriously, I've seen the same mattress and a sad decaying dog on the side of the highway for what feels like more than a month. What's the deal?

Well, according to the Fort Worth Star Telegram the deal is that the private company, Wilson Contracting, hired by the Texas Department of Transportation has defaulted on their contract to collect litter along Tarrant County highways.

With the high winds and storms we've been having in Fort Worth, it wouldn't be hard to imagine a random 2 x 4 flying up and causing a serious car accident. Not only is this trash situation gross, it's really dangerous, too.

Until TxDOT can get another company to pick up the contract people like me have to drive by all this nasty trash and debris.

If you've been in an accident caused by flying debris, call my injury law firm at 817-294-1900. You might have a claim and could be entitled to get your medical bills and lost wages compensated.

Voter Approval Not Necessary for Texas Red Light Cameras

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

A bill that would require Texas cities to get permission from voters to put of red light cameras on city intersection has officially lost its steam. State Rep. Rob Orr, R-Burleson backed the bill but said he will no longer pursue it due to lack of interest and time in the legislative session.

Red light cameras cause controversy wherever they are - many people feel they prevent car accidents, others think they are simply a way for the city to make money.

Last year, red-light cameras were shut off at 50 Houston intersections after residents voted to cancel the city's program.

It seems that for now, your city can put a red light camera up anywhere without your approval.

Get the facts on red light cameras and what you can do if you've received a ticket for a red light camera violation .

Our March Madness Contest Winner Gets Her Prize

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Wednesday was an especially fun day at the Anderson Law Firm in Fort Worth.

A few weeks ago we told you about our March Madness Bracket Pool and yesterday we were able to present our lucky winner with her prize - a brand new iPad 2!

Ranisha Smith stomped the competition - her picks were so good, she even had Butler at the Championship game!

Everybody was really excited to give Ranisha the iPad, but the most enthusiastic person in the room was definitely Ranisha's daughter who has wanted an iPad for months.

We love having contests at our law firm and it's really special when somebody like Ranisha wins.

You can sign up for our newsletter here, or like us on facebook where we'll let you know the next time we have an opportunity for you to win free stuff.

To all of the March Madness Contest participants, we thank you again and we can't wait to do it again next year!

Did You Receive the Zimmer NexGen Knee Replacement?

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Did You Receive the Zimmer NexGen Knee Replacement? If So, You May Be Entitled To Compensation.

Our defective medical devices lawyers are currently accepting patients affected by the Zimmer NexGen CR and Zimmer NexGen CR-Flex Porous Femoral artificial knee replacements. Since the implants went on the market in 2003, surgeons believe 36% of the prostheses have become loose, causing the victim chronic pain, swelling and stiffness - among other symptoms. Doctors point out that the product was made available to the public without clinical testing.

A study conducted into the suffering of patients who had received the implants determined that the cause of the loosening was Zimmer's new porous metal technology which was used rather than traditional cementing. Despite appeals from surgeons to recall the products, Zimmer continues to make them available for sale. This is hardly surprising considering that the NexGen implants made them over $20 million in 2009 alone.

If you or a loved one have been affected by the Zimmer NexGen CR and Zimmer NexGen CR-Flex Porous Femoral implants, we are here to help you. Please give us a call toll free at 800-354-6275 or locally in Fort Worth at 817-294-1900. We offer a free, no obligation consultation, and charge no fee upfront. You may be entitled to substantial compensation.

Wildfires Rage in West Texas

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

At my personal injury law firm in Fort Worth, I've been looking out the windows for signs of smoke from the raging wildfires just west of us around Possum Kingdom Lake.

Fires have scorched more than 700,000 acres of land in West Texas and destroyed about 50 homes.

Texas wildfires are a force to be reckoned with and can pop up anywhere in a matter of seconds, destroying everything in their path. If you're a home owner, now would be a good time to take out your homeowners insurance and check to see if you're properly insured for a fire loss.

Until we get some relief from Mother Nature, I don't doubt wildfires will continue to be a serious problem for Texans. I'll be praying for rain and for the safety of all those in the paths of these fires until they're put out.

Students At Southwest Christian School Vow To Not Text And Drive

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Distracted driving is one of the main causes of auto accidents. As a Tarrant County personal injury lawyer, this is something which is close to my heart so it is good to see it getting attention both on the state level as Texas legislators prepare House Bill 243 and on a local level as the City of Arlington readies to completely ban all motorists from using handheld cellphones while driving their cars. Even with all this attention, however, people still continue to text, eat and apply their makeup while behind the wheel and as a result cause some terrible traffic wrecks. I believe that stricter regulations can help reduce the number of crashes and make our roadways safer for everyone, but just as important is getting individuals to make the common sense decision to turn their cellphone off when they get in the driver's seat.

For the past few years I have visited high schools around the DFW area to educate students on the dangers of distracted driving, and to ask them to sign a pledge to promise not to text and drive. Everyone who signs the pledge gets an orange bracelet to help spread the word and to remind the wearer of the promise they've made. I would like to thank Joey Richards, Susan Carr and all the students at Southwest Christian School in Fort Worth who took part in their recent pledge drive. Over 400 teenagers vowed to abstain from texting while driving which is a tremendous success.

To sign the pledge yourself, please visit our Teens Against Distracted Driving website. If your school or organization would like to participate and arrange your own pledge drive, please call us at 800-354-6275.

Update on Moster Truck Accident | Arlington Accident Lawyer

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

In March, I blogged about the monster truck accident that left a young woman dead in the parking lot of the Spearmint Rhino in Dallas. Eric Crutchfield was charged with intoxication manslaughter for killing Kasey McKenzie of Granbury, TX when he hit her with his monster truck.

When I blogged on this accident, I had a feeling Kasey's family would file a lawsuit - and rightfully so! They lost their daughter to the negligent actions of a drunk driver and they deserve to hold that person accountable. They are also going to hold the Spearmint Rhino accountable for over-serving the drunk driver and have filed what is called a dram shop claim.

A few weeks ago I appeared on the CW the 33 News to talk about this terrible monster truck accident in Dallas. I gave my opinion as a personal injury attorney for the news story; you can watch the interview to see what I said:

Texting Out. Reading Texts – In?

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Texas House Bill 243 passed last Thursday that would put a ban on texting and driving should the bill be approved by the state senate and the governor.

At first I was elated to here this news; the prevention of distracted driving has been a long-time initiative of my personal injury law firm in Fort Worth.

But when I read the news story a little closer, I was shocked! The bill only bans the act of sending a text message - not reading one.

Sure, this is definitely a step in the right direction. Everyone knows that texting and driving causes car accidents. But isn't reading a text just as dangerous as sending one?

This law is basically unenforceable. How is a police officer supposed to know if you're just reading or if you are actually sending a text?

I'm glad that distracted driving is finally on the table for our Texas legislators to discuss, but I don't think this bill will help much of anything.

Bluebonnets Abloom | Personal Injury Fort Worth | Lawyer

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

It's the most beautiful time of year to live in Texas. The weather is great and our state flower is popping up everywhere, making driving along Texas highways a little more pleasant.

We are in the peak of bluebonnet season, from the end of March to the end of April. Although Texas botanists say this year's crop may not be a showstopper, there will still be plenty of bluebonnet photo opportunities.

There are lots of legends out there about our state flower, but one myth has certainly stood the test of time:

Is it really illegal to pick bluebonnets?

The answer to that question is NO. It is definitely not illegal to pick bluebonnets, although we encourage leaving the beautiful flower intact. Picking or stomping on the flower will prevent it from spreading seeds for next year's crop. But the only thing that could get you in real trouble for taking bluebonnet pictures is if you're on private property, or if you've stopped illegally along the highway.

One of the best places in Texas to take bluebonnet photos is in Ennis, just a short distance away from DFW. If a drive to Ennis isn't in your future, the Texas Department of Transportation's Web site will tell you where the most picturesque locations are in your area.

So grab the family and a camera and go enjoy some Texas bluebonnets!

Texas House to Allow 85mph Speed Limit?

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Texas House has approved a bill that would allow an 85 mph speed limit on some Texas highways. That would the highest speed limit in the nation!

Wednesday the House passed the measure as part of a larger transportation bill. The bill would allow the Texas Department of Transportation to raise the speed limit on designated stretches of highway after conducting engineering and traffic studies of that roadway.

Reading this today - I have to admit I was a little surprised. I've lived in Fort Worth, Texas most of my life and anybody from around this area knows that Texans speed. The speed limit may say 65 mph but if you look around while you're driving, everybody's going 70-80 mph.

I have mixed feelings on raising the speed limit. My first thought is that raising the speed limit really won't change much. People already speed! But then I start to think this bill could really increase the risk of getting into an auto accident in Texas.

I've worked as a personal injury attorney in Fort Worth for more than 19 years. I know what causes a lot of car accidents - speeding!

Could this bill be steering North Texan drivers in the wrong direction? Should we really increase the speed limit if Texas drivers naturally have an inclination to speed?

I guess only time will tell. What do y'all think?

National Public Health Week Focuses On Safety At Work And Play

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Various organizations around Dallas and Fort Worth are working to highlight personal safety this week in celebration of National Public Health Week. As a personal injury and wrongful death lawyer, I think the event is a great excuse to focus on some easy ways to avoid child injuries, car wrecks, motorcycle collisions and workplace injuries. I've helped many clients deal with the aftermath of such accidents over the past 20 years and I truly believe that many injuries are preventable if we take care to focus on safety beforehand.

At home, for example, there are many potential hazards for young children such as poisonous chemicals, electrical outlets and dangers of burns and scolds. By being aware of such hazards, and taking care to child-proof your home you can drastically reduce the risk that your kid could hurt themselves. Similarly, it is important that you are aware of all safety regulations and best practices in your workplace to avoid any potential on-the-job injuries.

Older children are more likely to hurt themselves while playing sports, so make sure that you remind them to always drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, warm up and warm down before and after physical activities, and be sure to wear protective gear such as helmets and padding if playing high-contact sports such as football.

If you have suffered injuries due to someone else's negligence, it is important that you consult with a personal injury attorney to discuss your personal situation. They will be able to explain your legal rights and help determine whether you are eligible for any compensation. To schedule a free, no obligation consultation with the Anderson Law Firm, call us at Fort Worth 817-294-1900 or Dallas 214-327-8000.

Traffic Fatalities at the Lowest Level Since 1949

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

The U.S. Department of Transportation said the number of traffic fatalities fell to the lowest level since 1949, falling 3 percent in 2010. The initial figures show that there were 32,788 killed in traffic accidents last year compared to the 33,808 killed the previous year.

The DOT attributes the falling traffic fatalities to better accident prevention technology in automobiles and public safety programs that target distracted driving and drunk driving. Although the DOT said it's hard to pinpoint the exact reason traffic fatalities were lower, officials said increased legislation against cell phone use while driving and more stipulations against beginner drivers may have played a role.

Whatever the reason, these are numbers North Texas drivers should be happy about.

Talk. Text. Crash.

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

It may be April Fools, but this isn't a joke. According to TxDOT there were 408 casualties in 2009 due to distracted driving alone.

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. We're aware of how dangerous texting and driving is at my personal injury law firm in Fort Worth - that's how so many of our clients get injured.

In 2009, more than 3,300 car crashes were attributed to using a cell phone, according to TxDOT. These huge numbers have prompted TxDOT to start their "Talk. Text. Crash." campaign, aimed to gain awareness for how dangerous it is to drive and use a cell phone.

Stopping distracted driving is at the forefront of my law firm's initiative; I've even started a DFW Teens Against Distracted Driving Program.

April may be National Distracted Driving Awareness month, but we need to be aware of distracted drivers 365 days a year. Let's all make the effort to put our phones down in the car this month and every month.

Dangerous Distribution: Laws Concerning Cargo Vans In the Spotlight

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

I blogged a few weeks ago about a deadly Haltom City van crash that killed three flier distributers when the van they were riding in blew a tire and slammed into a tree. There were no seats or seat belts in the back of the van for the “walkers”, which possibly lead to the seriousness of the injuries sustained in the accident.

What I didn’t realize until this Sunday, thanks to an article in the Fort Worth Star Telegram, is that dangerous rides are a fact of life for flier distributors. That’s because according to Texas law, seat belts are not required for adults in a cargo van that has no seats. With no seat belts, restrictions on capacity in the van don’t apply and because no one is charged for the transportation, the worker driving the van isn’t regulated, either.

So, what we have is a situation where people are so desperate to make a dime, they’ll deal with unsafe conditions. Of course for the company hiring the workers, it behooves them not to have seats in the back of the van. Without the seats, they’re able to carry more walkers and more flyers.

To me, this is a classic example of profits over people – something I think is extremely wrong. It surprises even me, a Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, that there is a loophole this big in the law!

I think the law obviously needs to be changed. The state law should be the same for all vehicles. That means seats and seatbelts for all.

Car wrecks happen every day in North Texas. It’s crazy to me that it took a terrible accident, like the one in Haltom City, to bring attention to this dangerous practice.

No More Warnings, Red Light Cameras in Frisco are the Real Deal

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

The grace period ended today for red light runners in Frisco. At 12:01 a.m. motorists who run red lights on north- and southbound Preston Road at Lebanon Road and on southbound Preston Road at Gaylord Parkway will receive a $75 ticket.

Red light cameras have been in Frisco before. In 2006 the cameras were installed at the most dangerous intersections, but the program stopped in May of 2009 because citations and collisions had declined. When the program started in 2005, the cameras recorded about 800 red light violations a month, compared to when the cameras were turned off in 2009; they recorded about 43 violations a month.

Since then, the city tweaked the system and reinstalled the program in February. But until today, Frisco police haven't been issuing any real tickets.

If you're worried about getting a ticket for going through a yellow, don't be. Frisco police will still review every ticket issued to make sure drivers were actually in violation and that the picture was not taken in error.

Mark Anderson on KDAF the 33 News

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Anderson Law Firm's found, Mark Anderson, was asked to give his opinion on a tragic monster truck accident that happened last week in Dallas. Watch the video to see what he said:

DART Buses: Dangerous And Risky Transport

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Like many residents of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, I like the idea of improved public transport - particularly as gas prices continue to rise, it is a cheaper alternative to driving, with the added bonus that you can indulge in all those distractions which can be deadly while driving - such as texting on your cellphone or reading the newspaper. As a board-certified personal injury lawyer, I can also appreciate how more people riding mass transport means less vehicles on the road, and thus less fatal auto accidents. So I was naturally disappointed to learn that the Dallas Area Rapid Transport fleet of buses averages 3 collisions a day.

That's right: over a 7 month period from 01/01/2009 to 06/08/2010, DART buses were involved in a total of 1,832 traffic wrecks. What's worse, is that DART themselves have declared 15% of those crashes "preventable" - meaning that the collision was to some extent the due to the negligence of the bus driver. DART officials argue that's because of their stringent standards when it comes to accountability. I'll admit I'm somewhat skeptical, since the report also states that DART currently has 25 drivers on their payroll with 2 or more preventable accidents on their record.

DART have defended their training following the report, but these figures clearly reveal that it is woefully inadequate. Given their sheer size, buses can inflict tremendous property damage and personal injuries in the event of a collision. Whenever you travel on a public bus service, you are putting your life in the hands of the driver so you expect that they've had the best training possible and that they safety as the foremost thought in their mind the entire time. That does not appear to be the case, unfortunately.

Mark Anderson is a board certified PI and wrongful death attorney who has been serving traffic crash injury victims and their families from across the DFW area since 1991. For a complimentary copy of Mark's book, 15 Mistakes That Will Wreck Your Texas Accident Case, or to schedule a free no obligation consultation on your case, call toll free on 800-354-MARK (6275).

Important Changes to Car Seat Safety Recommendations

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

The American Academy of Pediatrics announced big changes to their car seat safety recommendations yesterday. In the new published guidelines, the AAP suggests that parents should keep children in rear-facing car seats until age 2 - or until they reach the maximum height and weight allowed for their car seat.

Until now, the rule of thumb has been that when a child was a year of age, their car seat could face forward. The AAP said extreme injuries could often be prevented by keeping children in rear-facing car seats longer.

That's because the odds of severe injury to forward-facing children is five times greater than children in rear-facing car seats because rear-facing seats distribute forces from a crash over the child's entire body.

The AAP also recommends that toddlers 2 years of age or older stay in forward-facing car seats as long as possible and that until the ages of 8 to 12, children should ride in a booster seat. According to the new guidelines, children under 13 no matter their size should always ride in the back seat.

For more information on the new guidelines, go to seatcheck.org and talk to your pediatrician about the safest way to secure your child while riding in the car.

Walk Like MADD Update

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Anderson Law Firm has been collecting shoes all month to donate to the Walk Like MADD event on April 9, 2011 at Trinity Park in Fort Worth, Texas. MADD uses the shoes to represent the 1,250 people that were killed in Texas last year by drunk driving. After the walk, the shoes will be donated to families in need.

We are happy to announce that our law firm collected 51 pairs of shoes to donate to the walk! As a personal injury law firm in Fort Worth, TX we take drunk driving very seriously. A lot of our clients have been hurt by drunk drivers and we want to do everything we can to prevent this from happening to anyone else.

Until March 21 you can donate shoes to MADD Fort Worth and if you want to be a walker there is still time! Go to the Walk Like MADD Web site and register yourself or a team today.

Roadside Accidents

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Auto accidents occur on the roads around Tarrant County every day. As a car crash lawyer, I often write about the many hazards which could cause you to crash while driving around Fort Worth, but did you know that you are also at risk of being seriously injured when you're not even moving? If you have broken down or pulled over to the side of the road, you are still at risk of being hit by another vehicle. To demonstrate just how dangerous roadside accidents can be, the AAA estimates that one police officer is killed nationwide every month conducting routine traffic stops.

If you are stranded and awaiting roadside assistance, you should make sure that you pull off on to the hard shoulder as far away from the road as possible. Blocking any part of the roadway, even if it is just the back corner of your vehicle, can be extremely dangerous. Make yourself as visible to other traffic as possible. Switch on your headlights and hazard lights. AAA recommends carrying flares or emergency reflecting triangles which you can set out along the approach to your car to warn other motorists that you are stopped up ahead.

Due to the risk of your stalled car being hit by another vehicle, experts recommend you stay as far away from moving traffic as possible while you wait for help to arrive. It is critical that you do not sit or stand directly in front or behind your vehicle as you will not be able to get out of the way in time in the event another driver does lose control of their truck and collide with your stationary car. Instead, you should move to a safe distance to take shelter and wait.

Mark Anderson has been recognized by Fort Worth Magazine as a top personal injury attorney and is the author of the book 15 Mistakes That Could Wreck Your Texas Accident Case. To request a complimentary copy of the book, or to arrange a fee no obligation consultation on your PI or wrongful death case call toll free on 800-354-MARK (6275) or locally on 817-294-1900.

Street in Dallas the Worst in America for Car Theft

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Want to get rid of your ride? Just park it on West Commerce Street in Dallas, Texas. According to a new study by several insurance companies, West Commerce Street in Dallas is the worst place in the U.S. for auto theft.

The new study found that 1 in every 4 cars is stolen along West Commerce! That's 74 times the national average of stolen vehicles with 23 cars stolen per 1,000 on West Commerce Street.

What makes this even more surprising is that the Dallas County Jail and Criminal Courts complex is just down the street! Even with the close distance to the county jail, the car thefts continue.

So, if you've got an old clunker you want taken off your hands, literally, just park it on West Commerce.

Fort Worth March Madness Competition

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

What a week! Not only is it spring break, which means a lot more traffic on Fort Worth roads, but the selections for March Madness were announced yesterday! I look forward to March Madness all year - I love making my bracket, trash-talking with friends and watching the underdog win. For lots of people, a March Madness office pool is a springtime tradition. But before you put any money down it's important to know: is betting on college sports even legal? The short answer to that question is no - it's really not.

Betting on college sports is only legal in Nevada. Although it's highly unlikely the FBI would shut down your interoffice gambling ring, employers need to know that betting on March Madness can pose some serious legal liabilities. For example, if you own the property where your workplace is located and the FBI comes knocking at your door, then you are subject to the same criminal liability as the organizers and participants of the office pool. That means even if you weren't involved in a single bet, you can still face charges for the gambling going on in your office.

I tend to believe the FBI has better things to do than to bust up inter-office gambling, but you never know. So in order to keep everyone legal this spring, we've started a March Madness contest at the Anderson Law Firm. It's free for anyone to enter, all you have to do is submit your bracket for the chance to win an iPad. Click here to register and enter. Good luck everyone!!!

Driving and Texting Ban Considered in Texas

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Today, the Texas House Committee on Transportation discussed a bill that would put a stop to texting and driving. The bill introduced by Rep. Tom Craddick, R-Midland, would place a statewide ban on texting and driving.

The hearing was especially emotional due to the presentation by Jeanne and Johnny Brown. The Brown's lost their young daughter, Alex, last year due to a car accident that was caused by texting and driving. Since then, they have started the Remember Alex Brown Foundation to educate people on the dangers of texting and driving.

To me, this bill and this cause is incredibly important. Last year, my personal injury law firm in Fort Worth took on a Teens Against Distracted Driving campaign and its mission is very similar to the Brown's.

We all know texting and driving is dangerous, but people are still doing it. If it takes a law to make even one person stop, then it's worth it.

I sincerely hope this law passes and that no family has to experience what the Browns have gone through. The dangers of distracted driving are serious. Even one text could ruin your life, or someone else's.

Houston Day Care Fire Update: Jessica Tata is a Most Wanted Person

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Last week, I blogged about a tragic Houston day care fire and now the person responsible for that fire, Jessica Tata, is on the U.S. Marshal's 15 Most Wanted list. Tata is wanted on four counts of manslaughter, six counts of reckless injury to a child, three counts of abandoning a child under 15 and unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

Tata left the United States before charges could be brought against her. Authorities believe she is in her homeland of Nigeria and there is a $25,000 reward for any information that could lead directly to Tata's arrest.

Castle Hills Residents Say Slow Down

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Considering that the majority of personal injury claims I encounter as a Fort Worth PI Attorney are the result of an auto accident, I am a keen supporter of any effort to make the roadways around the DFW Metroplex safer for all of us. Residents of the Castle Hills community near Denton and Lewisville have taken matters into their own hands in order to reduce dangerous driving on their local streets. Realizing that speeding in particular was a problem issue for their neighborhood, they have introduced warning signs which will detect and display a passing car’s speed in an effort to get them to slow down.

The community effort is being led by Castle Hills resident John Ehinger, Jr. who believes that getting drivers to slow down while driving through the neighborhood will make for a much more pleasant community for everyone to enjoy as pedestrians will feel safer to walk the neighborhood roads and parents will be more willing to let their children go outside to play. In addition to what they have already accomplished, Ehinger also wants Castle Hills to join Keep Kids Alive’s Drive 25 campaign to further educate the public on the dangers of speeding in a residential area since learning that a pedestrian hit by a car driving 25 mph is three times more likely to survive than one hit in a 30 mph zone.

Nationwide, more than 4000 people die each year while out walking their neighborhood streets. Very often the cause of these fatalities is because the vehicle which hit them was speeding. We can all play a part in making our roads safer, whether we are driving through our own neighborhood or visiting someone else’s. Obey the speed limit - it is there for a reason and can actually improve your fuel efficiency. We all want to get wherever we’re going as quickly as possible, but I doubt anyone would want to be guilty of running down a neighbor’s child. Slow down.

Mark Anderson is a board certified traffic wreck and wrongful death lawyer. If you or a loved one have been hurt in a Texas motor accident call for a free, no obligation consultation on your case: toll free 800-354-6275.

Walk Like MADD

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Got old shoes? Bring them to the Anderson Law Firm! Until March 21, we'll be collecting shoes for Mothers Against Drunk Driving North Texas. The shoes will be on display at the at the annual Walk Like MADD 5k on April 9th at Trinity Park in Fort Worth. MADD uses the shoes to represent the 1,250 people that were killed in Texas last year by drunk driving. After the walk, the shoes will be donated to families in need.

The Anderson Law Firm wants you to Walk Like MADD this spring and help put a stop drunk driving. It's just $20 to participate as a walker and you get a free T-shirt. Go to www.walklikemadd.org to register yourself or a team.

The Anderson Law Firm's Newest Lawyer

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Anderson Law Firm would like to welcome PI Attorney Robert D. Jones as the newest addition to our staff. Rob has been licensed to practice law in Texas since 1984. Born and raised in Fort Worth, Rob began his career as a medical malpractice defense lawyer in the city, before relocating his practice to Colorado Springs, Colorado where he handled cases from the plaintiff's perspective.

Not only has Rob worked medical malpractice for both plaintiffs and the defense, but he has also handled all kinds of injury claims in both state and federal court, giving him an extremely diverse background.

Rob recently returned to his home town of Fort Worth and we are extremely lucky to have him as an addition to our team. Rob can be reached at rob@maafirm.com.

Acceleration Danger Déjà Vu

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

It's another day, another Toyota recall! Getting a bit repetitive? Once again it seems the problem is that accelerator pedals are getting stuck under the floor mat which has the potential for causing some serious car accidents. The affected vehicles are several years of Highlander, GS, RX, 4Runner, Lexus LX 570 and RAV4 models which work out to about 2.17 million cars and trucks in total. Most likely this news will inspire a collective rolling of eyes across North Texas, particularly following the conclusion of the safety investigation which was announced last week. I'll do you a favor and save you a repeat of my ranting on the subject.

Safety in cars is crucial, and a recent survey shows that 64% of people think safety is the most important thing to consider when purchasing a new vehicle. Most of us think about safety in terms of how well the car or truck would absorb an impact in the event of a traffic collision, or how effective the breaks are, but equally important is whether there are any defects which can themselves put the driver and their passengers' lives in danger. Toyota used to have a reputation as building safe family cars, but lately they have been shooting themselves in the foot repeatedly. They need to slow down and make sure their cars really are entirely safe before they roll them out to the dealerships. The Transportation Department (along with any other government bodies responsible for approving vehicles which are released to our roadways) need to seriously step up their act too.

Mark Anderson has been practicing auto wreck injury law in the Dallas-Fort Worth region since 1991 and is board certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. For a free consultation on your traffic wreck case, call on 214-327-8000 or 817-294-1900.

New Legal Documentary, "Hot Coffee", Stirs Up Opinions

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Public opinion isn't always favorable of attorneys, especially personal injury lawyers. A lot of people think we're greedy ambulance chasers that take advantage of our court system. People don't usually like us-but aren't hesitant to call us in their time of need.

A new documentary called "Hot Coffee" is attempting to address the negative stereotype. Premiering at Sundance Film Festival to rave reviews, "Hot Coffee" focuses on the infamous McDonald's coffee case that ignited the movement to reform our nation's court system and put a cap on lawsuits. But is it big business that really needs reforming? If limits are put on people's access to the court system, are we being cheated? Watch the movie and you tell me.

To learn more about "Hot Coffee," visit their Web site.

3 Recalled Kid's Products In 1 Week!

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a personal injury lawyer, I often find myself shaking my head whenever I hear of a supposedly safe product which has been sold to the public in hundreds or thousands which is suddenly recalled because the sad reality is that it actually poses a potential injury to a consumer. As a father, I get downright angry when the defective product in question is something designed for a child.

There have been 3 major recalls this week. The first - kids' car seats manufactured by the Dorel Juvenile Group - I have already blogged about. But the past 24 hours has seen 2 major household names recall products designed not just for children, but in one case infants.

The Disney Corporation has recalled 1,200 kids' watches sold at its Walt Disney resorts after six children suffered reactions. Disney announced that the watches "can cause skin irritation and/or burning sensations to children who are allergic to nickel."

The popular furniture retailer Ikea has also announced a recall of its Sniglar line of cribs due to bolts being supplied with the flat-pack furniture not being long enough. The store reports that this presents a danger of the mattress support collapsing; "creating a risk of entrapment and suffocation to the baby."

Over the last 20 years, I have represented many families whose children have been injured by dangerous products which should never have been released to the marketplace. While I have won them the compensation they deserve for their misfortune, I would much rather never have to handle these cases at all. Big companies and their regulating bodies have become far too concerned about the bottom line that they now disregard all other concerns and rush their new products into stores before they have been sufficiently tested to ensure they are safe. I believe each of these companies deserves the negative PR they are now getting and can only hope that they will learn from their mistakes in the future.

For a free no obligation consultation on your defective product claim, please contact child injury lawyer Mark Anderson on 1-800-354-MARK.

Are you REALLY protected? Don't let insurance companies play you.

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Insurance is supposed to give us peace of mind. It's supposed to protect us when things go wrong. But what happens when your insurance company says you're not covered?

That's exactly what happened to a Coppell family with a sinkhole problem. The Wales' backyard began disappearing piece by piece to a large sinkhole caused by this month's winter storms. When the family called the insurance company they were told they were out of luck. Their insurance covered the house, pool and retainer wall but not the "Earth movement" that caused the sinkhole. Now, the Wales are left with a crater for a backyard, $100,000 in repair bills and no insurance to help pay.

Don't be left in the dark, read the fine print. Working as a personal injury lawyer for almost 20 years, I'm not surprised to hear that an insurance company is taking advantage of the fine print. The insurance company won't treat you right. The insurance company is a business here for one reason and one reason only: to make money.

I cannot stress to you the importance of really understanding your insurance policy. Read everything an insurance agent gives you and make sure you know exactly what you're paying for and how much coverage you have. Don't let an insurance adjuster brush you off or give vague answers to your questions. If you aren't sure what you're covered for, call your insurance company. Call them today. Learn a lesson from the Wales - don't wait to find out you aren't covered.

If you're wondering whether or not you have a good car insurance provider, go to my site to see what the worst insurance companies in Texas are for your car insurance claim.

Massive Car Seat Recall

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

A massive car seat recall has been announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for car seats made by Dorel Juvenile Group. Nearly 800,000 models made between May 2008 and April 2009 is part of the recall.

The following models have been recalled:

Alpha omega,
Alpha omega elite,
Enspira,
Priori,
Prospect,
Vantage,
Mico
OnBoard

The car seats were recalled because of problems with the harness locking and release button. The locking harness may not return to the locked position and could lead to possible injuries for your child.

If you own one of these car seats, the last thing you want to do is leave it unrepaired. You can call Dorel to receive a repair kit at 1-866-623-3139 or go to their Web site to get more information.

North Texas Cities to Review Red-Light Tickets Issued During Ice Storm

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

If last week's ice storm forced you to run a red light, you may be in luck. City officials plan to review tickets issued by red-light cameras during the ice storm so that drivers will not receive citations if the bad weather left them with no other choice.

The cities of Fort Worth and Arlington said the tickets will not be immediately dismissed, but that each instance will be carefully examined. Apparently, as long as video evidence shows the driver made every attempt to stop safely but the elements kept them from doing so, then the ticket could be dismissed.

Inevitable Lawsuit Over Super Bowl Seating Debacle - My Take

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

We all knew it was coming - the lawsuit over the seating fiasco at Super Bowl XLV in Arlington, Texas. It seems there are two groups of people who have been messed over by Jerry Jones' and the NFL's greed. Here are my thoughts on the whole deal:

The first group is the 400 poor souls who couldn't sit in the temporary seats for which they purchased a ticket and ended up watching the game on TV . It boggles my mind why those seats were not ready. If the New York contractor was behind schedule, fire them and get someone in that can finish the job. It's not like NFL organizers didn't know when the Super Bowl was going to take place. Should these folks be limited to accepting the NFL's offer for future SB tickets? Nope. They had a ticket to a seat - which is just like a contract. The NFL didn't honor its end of the deal. So, yes, they have a right to sue. But how much compensation are they due? That is the tough part. Undoubtedly, they were out more money than just the ticket cost. Most were from out of town, probably. So there are flights, hotels, rental cars, parking....Plus the intangible costs of missing out on watching their favorite team. I hope these folks succeed in their suit - my bet is that they will.

The second group is the "Founders" of JerryWorld who put up $100,000 a seat to buy the best seats and were promised the" best sight lines" as well as tickets to any Super Bowl. These folks are used to sitting on the 50 yard line, but were instead thrown to the less than perfect temporary seating. Way to go, Jerry. These are your best customers and you treat them like that? You might be a crappy General Manager, but I thought you were a better P.R. man than that.

The suit for these people is probably solid on legal-contractual grounds. But the sympathy factor is missing here. The Founders at least got to see the game. But, yes, they are another group that has fallen victim to JJ's and the NFL's enormous greed.

In listening to talk radio this morning, there a lot of people were calling those bringing the lawsuits greedy. Who knows, maybe they are. All I know is that the entire fiasco is rooted in greed. And by that I mean the greed of the NFL and Jerry Jones. Jerry suckered people into paying enormous sums to be members of the "Founders Club" so he could make more money. Then he overstuffed Cowboys Stadium so he could try to have the largest Super Bowl crowd ever. Maybe that last part isn't greed, but ego. It seems those two traits often go hand in hand.

After the Ice Melts, Fort Worth is On the Road Again

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Although many school districts across Dallas and Fort Worth have already announced that they will remain closed for an unprecedented fourth day tomorrow, many people are already back on the roads either because they need to return to work or because they have all-important Super Bowl parties to attend. As a DFW Car Wreck Lawyer, I know the very real dangers that icy roads and cold weather present to motorists. Over the past few days there have been many truck accidents, car collisions and auto crashes across the metroplex.

Just as we are not used to these wintery conditions, neither are our vehicles so here is some advice for those of you venturing out from your Mother Nature-imposed hibernation:

Give yourself plenty of time
Adverse weather conditions inevitably mean your commute is going to take a lot longer than normal, so make sure that you give yourself lots of time to get where you're going. There are plenty of unusual obstacles due to the icy roads so you certainly don't want to feel like you're in a rush when you get behind the wheel.

Warm up your car
Most likely your car or motorcycle has been sitting untouched on your driveway for the past few days so it is important that you anticipate it taking longer than usual to warm up and get started in the morning. Often the gas and oil have cooled so they have trouble circulating effectively and due to chemical reactions in batteries making it difficult to start the engine.

Be mindful of the icy roads
While workers have been busy sanding roadways remember that there are still plenty of treacherous patches of road out there. Drive slowly and make sure you leave plenty of space between the car in front of you. Break gently to avoid skidding.

This information and commentary provided by Anderson Law Firm. Mark Anderson is a Personal Injury Attorney with 20 years experience. For a free consultation call locally at 817-294-1900 or Toll Free at 800-354-MARK.

Ice Storm 2011 | North Texas Accident Attorney Blog

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Ice storm 2011 slammed North Texas early this morning and boy did we get hit hard! I hope most of you are enjoying a day home with your families and stocked up on enough food to get you through tonight.

Temperatures aren't supposed to get much warmer until the end of the week, which means streets will be very slick for at least a few more days. Although most of the roads are deserted today, I'm sure by tomorrow more people will try and brave the roads. For more than 20 years I've worked as a car accident attorney in Fort Worth and know from experience just how dangerous our roads can be. Add ice to equation and it's basically a recipe for disaster! If you are itching to get out of the house tomorrow, please be careful and remember a few of these winter weather safe driving tips:

Look for trouble ahead. Bridges and over passes are notorious for black ice. If you see shiny patches you know water or ice is on the road, but black ice can look duller and darker than the rest of the pavement.
Go SLOW! This seems kind of obvious doesn't it? Still, even if you have an all wheel drive, snow-dominating vehicle-slow down! Even 4-wheel drive cars are not immune to ice related accidents.
Put more space between your car and the car in front of you. This way, if your car does slip on ice, you'll have that much further to go before hitting the car in front of you.
Don't jerk your wheel or slam on the breaks. Even if you begin skidding on ice, stay calm and try not to immediately slam on the breaks. Slamming on your breaks and jerking your wheel will only exasperate your situation. If you begin to slip, tap your breaks lightly and turn your wheel in the direction of the skid.

I hope you all remind yourselves of these tips and remember what to do after an auto accident. Stay safe and warm y'all!

Super Bowl Frenzy Affects Jury Duty in Tarrant County

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tarrant County judges are scaling back jury duty this week because of so many Super Bowl activities happening in downtown Fort Worth. Although today and Friday have a full docket call, there is a reduced call Tuesday -Thursday. If you were summoned for jury duty this week, give yourself plenty of time to get there and have a backup plan for parking. They're using the free parking lot at LaGrave Field for some of the Super Bowl event staging areas.

General Motors Announces Recalls Due to Faulty Child Seat Restraint System

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

General Motors has announced a recall that impacts hundreds of drivers in and around Fort Worth, Texas and nearly 200,000 drivers in the United States. The company has recalled mid-size pickup trucks due to a defect in the child restraint system. This defect could greatly impact the safety of children if a car accident were to happen.

If a child safety seat is placed in the center of the front seat, parents will be unable to access the top anchor and the owner's manual gives no instructions on how to access the anchor. The car seat must be tethered to the top anchor to properly install it. An improperly installed child restraint system can cause severe and permanent injuries to children in the event of a car accident. To fix the situation dealers will cut the trim of the defective vehicles to gain access to the top anchor. This service will be provided free of charge and owners of the defective vehicles will be notified by dealers to schedule their repair session.

General Motors, in conjunction with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, does not recommend parents placing child safety seats in the front seats of vehicles. However, they know there are times when it may be necessary in vehicles with no back seats. Almost 200,000 vehicles were named in the recall covering 2004 to 2011 model year Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon pickups with bench front seats and no rear seats. The 2006 model year Isuzu I-280 and I-350 and 2007-2008 model year Isuzu I-370 are also being recalled due to the defect.

Child safety seats are very important for the safety of children in the event of a car accident. An important thing to remember that all children under the age of 8 and shorter than 4 feet 9 inches must be secured in a child safety seat while in a vehicle.

Information provided by Fort Worth Child Accident Attorney Mark A. Anderson. The Anderson Firm can be reached in Fort Worth at 817-294-1900. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, please give us a call for a free consultation.onsultation.

Texas Drivres Will Pay More For Liability Insurance

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

As part of the Texas Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act which came into effect on Saturday, the cost for basic liability auto insurance will increase.

This new change is part of a two-step increase that was approved by Texas lawmakers in 2007.

Texas motorists at that time were required to carry $20,000 in bodily injury liability for one person hurt in an accident, $40,000 for two people or more hurt and $15,000 for property damage liability.

The first part of the gradual increase went into effect in April 2008, when the minimums were pushed up to 25/50/25 respectively.

The new law increases the minimum injury coverage to $30,000 and the accident total minimum to $60,000, but the property damage minimum remains the same at $25,000.

State Farm Insurance Public Affairs Officer Ryan Gauna said that their agents will guide impacted customers through the changes, but they don’t expect a drastic increase in premiums.

“As for how much more drivers can expect to pay, the cost will vary depending on the customer and their individual policy,” he said. “Not everyone will be impacted by the increased minimum limits, since many drivers already carry greater coverage than the law currently requires. We are advising all who carry auto insurance to contact their insurers to find out exactly how these changes may impact their own automobile policy premiums. State Farm will communicate the changes to its customers as their policies renew on or after Jan. 1. Customers can upgrade as their policy comes up for renewal.”

But there is a positive side. Randy Shaw, office manager for Allstate Insurance at 400 N. Ridgeway Drive in Cleburne, said that the state-mandated increased coverage also comes with increased protection for customers.

“It protects you as far as your liability limits are concerned. If you hit somebody and they ended up in the hospital and your limit is $25,000, you’re still liable for the rest,” Shaw said. “It you hit some of these higher-end vehicles that are on the road and you do $30,000 worth of damage, your insurance pays $25,000 and you’re liable for the other $5,000. You start losing your money.”

Texas law requires people who drive in Texas to be financially responsible for the accidents they cause.

Liability insurance pays to repair or replace the other driver’s vehicle and pays the medical expenses of the other party, according to the Texas Department of Insurance, but it does not pay to repair or replace the policyholder’s vehicle.

“In most cases, even the 30/60/25 [as the new law requires] is way too low to be quite honest,” he said. “People need to be at least at 50/100/50. We feel that would protect you sufficiently. Most of our customers have the additional coverage because that’s what we believe they need to have. We don’t feel like we’re doing our customers a favor if we’re giving them the minimum.”

The law affects basic liability policies only.

The Legislative Reference Library of Texas cited other state laws changes as of Jan. 1, as part of the 81st Legislature:

• House Bill 2347, relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain peace officers enrolled in criminal justice or law enforcement course work and for certain educational aides.

• House Bill 2774, relating to self-directed and semi-independent status of state financial regulatory agencies and the licensing and regulation of certain persons involved in residential mortgage lending; making an appropriation; providing a penalty.

• House Bill 4833, relating to the creation of district courts and statutory county courts and to the composition of juvenile boards in certain counties.

• Senate Bill 873, relating to a requirement that certain appraisal districts provide for electronic filing of and electronic communications regarding a protest of appraised value by the owner of a residence homestead.

Texas Accident Lawyer | License Plate Requirements | Fort Worth Attorney

Wed, 29 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

Avoid a Ticket: Display front license plates

I recently discovered that there is a state law that you must display a license plate on the front bumper of your car.

Despite this law, some cars are sold in the state of Texas without a front license plate holder. Unfortunately, I bought one of those cars this year. When I received my plates in the mail, I then realized that there was no place to put a front license plate. Being a lawyer, I should have looked into the law, but I just assumed that the car dealership would not have sold me a car that was not in compliance with state law. Anyway, I set the front license plate aside and continued driving my car.

A police officer in Chico, Texas apparently was well aware of the law and was very happy to stop me as I was driving through his town. Fortunately, I only received a warning after answering several questions of what I was doing in his town (I was driving through after I had gone to meet a victim of drunk driving in Brownwood earlier in the day). Upon request, the dealership where I bought my car immediately installed a bracket on the front bumper and I then put a license plate on to comply with the law.

Recently, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals upheld the law as it related to a 2006 drug arrest in Lubbock. In that case, a drug dealer was pulled over for his lack of front license plate on his Chevy Impala. The stop resulted in the police finding a half‐pound of cocaine in his van. He is now serving a 60‑year prison sentence. I bet he regrets not putting a license plate on the front bumper!

Study Shows Texting Laws Don't Reduce Car Accidents | Fort Worth, TX Distracted Driving Attorney Mark A. Anderson

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

In Texas, the only law that applies to texting and driving is no hand-held’s in school zones. However, texting while driving is illegal in many other states and researchers at the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) found no reductions in car accidents after laws took effect that ban texting by all drivers. Additionally, research found that such bans are actually associated with slight increases in the frequency of insurance claims filed under collision coverage for damage to vehicles in auto collisions.

HLDI's findings are based on comparisons of claims in four states before and after texting bans, compared with patterns of claims in nearby states. HLDI is an affiliate of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. This new texting data is consistent with the organization's previous claims that banning hand-held phone use while driving does not reduce car accidents.

HLDI researchers calculated rates of collision claims for vehicles up to nine years old during the months immediately before and after driver texting was banned in California (January 2009), Louisiana (July 2008), Minnesota (August 2008), and Washington (January 2008). Comparable data were collected in nearby states where texting laws weren't substantially changed during the time span of the study. This controlled for possible changes in collision claim rates unrelated to the bans, changes in the number of miles driven due to the economy, seasonal changes in driving patterns, etc. Not surprising, younger motorists were more likely than older people to text while driving. In states that enacted texting bans, the number of car accident involving drivers younger than 25 increased.

Cell phones and texting in general are on the rise. The number of cell phone subscriptions in December of 2009 was 286 million, up 47 percent from 194 million in June 2005. The number of texting went up by about 60 percent in 1 year alone, from 1 trillion messages in 2008 to 1.6 trillion in 2009.

I personally don’t think that this research tells the whole story. Something is missing. Texting and driving is dangerous and it causes wrecks. I think the underlying data must be favored. How do the researchers determine who was texting? Distracted driving is just not as easy to prove as drunk driving.

Information and commentary provided by Distracted Driving Lawyer Mark A. Anderson. The Anderson Law Firm can be reached in Fort Worth at 817-294-1900. If you or a loved one has been injured from a distracted driver, please fill out our contact form for a free consultation.

Four Loko Is Back In Fort Worth Stores, But In a Different Form

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

The flavored malt beverage drink is available again in Texas for sale and distribution, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission announced Wednesday in a release. Now, however, the beverage doesn't contain the stimulant caffeine.

This all comes because the TABC recently approved reformulated versions of the drink that has been popular among binge-drinking college students. The action by TABC officials came more than a month after the agency had asked members of the alcoholic beverage industry to voluntarily halt sales of the caffeinated malt beverages in Texas.

At that time, Four Loko, manufactured by Phusion Projects, had been connected with a wreck in Denton in which a 14-year-old Arlington girl, Valeria Rodriguez, was killed.
A boy who survived the wreck told police that he, Rodriguez and her 14-year-old boyfriend had consumed five cans of Four Loko and a 12-pack of beer before the crash.

"In the days after deciding to reformulate our products, we took immediate action to cease the production, shipment and sale of the caffeinated versions of our products," said spokesman Jeff Wright of Phusion Projects. "We're proud of the way we've mobilized our network of distributors and retailers to remove the old versions of our product from store shelves, where necessary. Our company has a history of working with regulators and making concessions, such as adding multiple warning labels to our cans and selling versions of our products with reduced alcohol content where required."

In November, government regulators had warned four makers of the energy drinks that caffeine added to their malt alcoholic beverages is an "unsafe food additive." Some of the controversial beverages, which often come in large cans, contain the same amount of alcohol as four or five beers.

"We applaud members of the alcoholic beverage industry for their commitment to uphold public safety despite any financial loss stemming from the removal of all caffeinated malt beverages from the retail market," said TABC Assistant Chief Dexter Jones. "We appreciate their concern for the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Texas."

Four Loko may be back, but not all such drinks are on shelves. A primary concern with the caffeine drinks is that their caffeine and other stimulants mask the sensory cues that alert people that they are intoxicated. As a result, they continue to drink after they're impaired, leading to such dangers as drunken driving, alcohol poisoning, risky sexual behavior and sexual assault.