Dallas Car Accident Lawyer Blog

Winter Weather Plays a Role in Serious Dallas Car Accident

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

In the early morning hours, a Dallas police woman was pulling onto Loop 12 by way of Country Creek Drive when she was hit by a pickup truck. At the time of the accident, a winter storm was affecting the area. The slick roads, combined with the dark morning, are said to have played a role in the Dallas car accident.

Officer Tinisha Blanton was taken to an area hospital where she was evaluated and released. The driver of the pickup truck was uninjured during the crash and was neither cited nor arrested for his role in the accident.

Winter Accidents All Too Common

As a Dallas car accident lawyer, I know all too well that winter weather plays a role in hundreds of North Texas car accidents each year. In Dallas we grow accustomed to dry weather and when Mother Nature hands us rain, snow, and sleet we get a little confused!

Knowing that the number of car crashes in Dallas skyrockets during winter storms, our Dallas personal injury lawyers ask that you adjust your driving during wet or snowy weather. The following common sense driving tips can help you arrive to your destination safe and sound, no matter how wet the roads:

Leave earlier than you usually would
Drive at or below the speed limit
Watch the cars around you carefully for signs of sliding or skidding
If it is snowing, use roads that have been cleared if at all possible
When roads are icy, avoid driving if possible
Always break gently on wet or snowy roads

The staff and attorneys at the Dallas car accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks hope that the information we have provided will help keep you safe this winter and spring. If, despite your best efforts, you are involved in an accident, contact an experienced Dallas car accident lawyer at 877.290.1382 for your free consultation.

What Can the City do to Prevent a Dallas Car Accident?

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

As a Dallas auto accident attorney, I have spoken with thousands of people who have been hurt during a car crash in Dallas. Every accident has its own unique set of circumstances. All accidents have one thing in common, however: someone or something caused the crash.

There are very few true "accidents" and as a Dallas personal injury attorney dedicated to fighting for the rights of those injured in car crashes, it is my job to find out who was at fault for your accident.

Recent Dallas Car Crash Blamed on Missing Signage

When two women recently made a wrong turn and ended up in Lake Ray Hubbard via an unmarked boat ramp, many jumped to conclusions, assuming that the driver was impaired. However, the Rockwall County Sherriff's Department had been concerned about this particular road and boat ramp for some time. They had asked the city of Dallas to remedy the situation, to add appropriate signage and road markers, but the city never listened. In fact, after the accident, crews discovered that the lone sign announcing the boat ramp was buried along the side of the road.

Fortunately, the recent accident at Lake Ray Hubbard did not cause any serious injuries or deaths. It was severe enough however to prompt the city of Dallas to take the matter seriously. They are currently considering adding reflective signs, pavement markers, road bumps, and barricades.

Too Little, Too Late?

For the motorists who ended up in the lake, any new roadside warnings came too late to prevent their accident. Our Dallas auto accident attorneys have found that many times a lack of proper roadside warnings is the primary cause of an accident. When city officials refuse to take roadway safety seriously, drivers and pedestrians pay.

If you have been hurt during an accident in Dallas or anywhere in North Texas, contact an attorney with the experience and expertise to defend your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. Please call 877.290.1382 to speak with an attorney at the Dallas personal injury law firm of Guajardo & Marks.

What Can We Learn From Large Truck/School Bus Crash in Temple, TX?

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Recently, a terrible accident involving a large commercial vehicle and a school bus occurred. Police believe that the driver of the commercial vehicle ran a stop sign before colliding with the bus at the intersection on Farm-to-Market Road 93 in Temple, TX.

The Long Lasting Impact of the Truck/Bus Accident

While the majority of the children were treated and released from the hospital, three of them, along with their bus driver, were listed in serious or critical condition. All of the children and the driver are expected to live; however, their injuries may very well have a serious impact on their lives. As a Dallas personal injury attorney I have seen too many kids hurt during either a bus accident or a crash with a large truck.

If, in fact, the truck driver did run the red light, then fault clearly lies with him. But no matter who caused the accident, the number of injuries sustained during the crash have many thinking about how we can better protect our children when they ride the bus to school.

The Long Battle Over Seatbelts in School Buses

For many years now, safety advocates, school districts and the NHTSA have been embroiled in a battle over the potential benefits and costs associated with requiring that school busses be equipped with seatbelts.

The NHTSA has long believed that "compartmentalization" is enough to keep kids safe in most accidents. This safety feature involves high padded seatbacks found on buses and relies on the seats to soften the impact on the child during a front impact accident.

Others argue that in other types of accidents, such as the recent crash in Temple, TX, seatbelts would better protect the children onboard the bus. They are argue that the seats "compartment" is of little use when the bus is hit from the side or rolls over—the exact manner in which the recent crash occurred.

Above all, the staff and attorneys at the Dallas 18 wheeler accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks hope that the children recover from their injuries and that school districts nationwide will further investigate the best way to keep the children in their care safe.

Should You Allow a Dallas Personal Injury Attorney to Roll the Dice?

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

You have been involved in a car accident in Dallas. The insurance company, either yours or the company of the other driver, seems genuinely concerned about your health and about getting you the compensation you need. But are they, or are they just playing a game they know they can win?

Playing the Game

Too many times, we have seen insurance companies playing a game that's not fun for anyone. They want to get you to accept the lowest possible offer for compensation. They want to see just how low they can go and just how little money you will accept. They use industry tricks to get you to sign before you speak with a Dallas personal injury attorney.

The agent you speak with may seem concerned about your well being, the cost of your injuries, and your losses. They may also go the other route and try and pressure you into signing, perhaps even trying to trick you into admitting fault. This game is unfair and the injured party almost never wins.

The Consequences of Losing

When accident victims choose to play this game—a game where the odds are stacked against them—they often come out the loser. Losing at this game does not mean losing a few bucks; it means not getting the money you need to pay for:

Medical bills
Ongoing medical care and therapy
Repair or replacement of your car
Loss of wages
Loss of earning capacity
Loss of life and companionship

Changing the Game for the Better

The game is not fair, but there is good news. By refusing to play the game, by consulting with a Dallas auto accident lawyer before you speak with the insurance company, you have a much better chance of retaining your rights and getting the money you know you deserve.

Allow our Dallas personal injury attorneys to stack the odds in your favor. Contact an experienced, uncompromising defender of the injured at 877.290.1382 today. You have rights, let us defend them.

What You Can Do After a Drunk Driving Accident

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you have been hurt during an accident with a drunk driver in Dallas you know that this is not a typical car crash. On top of dealing with your injuries and the possible loss of a loved one, you are confronted daily with the knowledge that the other driver made the decision to drink and drive and that their decisions forever changed the course of your life.

"If Only"

Many of our clients who have been hit by a drunk driver speak to us about the “if onlys” of their crash.

"If only the driver would have stayed home."
"If only the server at the bar would have refused to serve them."
"If only the driver would have taken a different road that day."

As a Dallas personal injury lawyer there is nothing I can do about the if onlys of your accident. I cannot change the past or prevent the driver from making the terrible choice he did. However, with a level of compassion uncommon in the personal injury field, I can listen. Listen to your side of the story, to the very real and terrible impact the accident has had on your life.

Treating Accident Victims With the Respect They Deserve

After hearing your story and all you have been through I can help determine the best way for you to get the compensation you need to get your life back on track. Nothing will make up for the losses you have experienced. But a successful lawsuit, against either the driver's insurance company or the bar that served him, can send a powerful message.

If you have been hit by a drunk driver in Dallas or anywhere in Texas, you have options. Do not hesitate to call an experienced, compassionate Dallas car accident lawyer at 877.290.1382 for your free consultation. You are hurting; let us help.

Who Will Protect You After a Dallas Semi-Truck Accident?

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The initial thoughts you have after a Dallas semi-truck accident likely center on your health, the well-being of your family, and the damage done to your vehicle. The thoughts of the insurance company responsible for the semi-truck, however, are much different.

Insurance Companies Are Not Concerned With Your Well-Being

The trucking company and the insurance company it has hired are concerned about one thing: money. Shortly after the accident, the wheels will start turning as they prepare to get you to settle for the least amount of money possible. They are not concerned with your long-term well-being. They do not care if you have enough money to pay your medical bills.

What the insurance company wants to do is get you to settle for the least amount possible. They want to undervalue your claim. The best way to do that? Get to you before you speak with a Dallas semi-truck accident lawyer.

Save Your Dallas Truck Accident Case Before it Begins

Too many times, our Dallas truck accident attorneys speak with people who have been injured during an accident with a semi-truck and have already signed an agreement for compensation. They have found—perhaps just days after signing—that the amount they have been given will not cover the cost of their ongoing medical care, lost wages, and damage done to their vehicle.

At this point it is often too late for our lawyers to help them get the compensation they deserve. Please, we urge you to never sign anything from the insurance company without first speaking to one of our experienced Dallas personal injury attorneys.

Do not hesitate, do not allow the insurance company to leave you holding the bill. Call 877.2901382 today for your free consultation.

Dallas Mixmaster: A Recipe for Disaster

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Small lanes, tight turns, and multiple on and off ramps on the Dallas Mixmaster have been blamed on causing hundreds of accidents each year. In addition to these dangerous elements, semi-trucks frequent the Mixmaster, making the interstates even harder to navigate and contributing to the most serious accidents.

Latest Mixmaster Accident Victims are Fortunate

The latest 18 wheeler accident on the Mixmaster caused serious delays but no serious injuries. During the accident, a semi-truck jackknifed and a car overturned on eastbound I-30 at the 1-35 intersection. While both vehicles were severely damaged, the occupants of both only received minor injuries.

Those involved in this accident were very lucky. As Dallas 18 wheeler wreck lawyers we too often hear from motorists who have been hurt during an accident on the Mixmaster. When not stuck in gridlock, traffic on the jumble of crisscrossing interstates travels at a high rate of speed. Hundreds of semi-trucks make their way through Dallas each day, and the vast majority of them use the Mixmaster.

Another concern that many have is the Mixmaster's confusing layout. Those unfamiliar with the area may have a very hard time navigating the many on and off ramps. This confusion can cause drivers, particularly truck drivers new to the area, to made sudden lane changes or slow abruptly.

What to do When Involved in an Accident on the Mixmaster

Whether your accident involved an 18 wheeler or not, we strongly recommend that you speak with an experienced Dallas personal injury lawyer. Before signing anything, call 877.290.1382 for your free consultation. Do not settle for less than you need; call today.

Driving While on Cell Phone Kills 3 Texans

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you drive while using your cell phone, listen up! On December 27, 2011, three Texas were killed and another seriously injured, when a driver was distracted by apparently using his cell phone to check his voice mail. Yes, something as innocent in appearance as checking your voice mail while driving can result in a life time of misery and waste of human life. Studies have shown that the use of a cell phone while driving is the equivalent, or worse, than driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Enough is enough! How many deaths need to occur before we wake up and be more responsible to ourselves and our fellow citizens. One of the deaths involved in this story was that of the distracted driver. If you're not willing to put your cell phones down for others, do it for yourself!

Fiery Semi-Truck Accident in Dallas not a Lone Incident

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Every semi-truck accident in Dallas is scary. Even the thought of being involved in an accident with such a large vehicle is terrifying. Even scarier is the recent trend of fiery accidents that our Dallas semi-truck accident lawyers have noticed.

Fires Seen in Many Texas Semi-Truck Crashes

Whether it be the large truck itself or the other vehicle involved in the crash, too many recent accidents in Dallas and across Texas have involved fire. In one recent accident, a pickup truck carrying a woman and two children caught on fire after hitting the back of a semi-truck that had slowed suddenly. Another occurred when a UPS 18-wheeler truck driver became distracted, hit a guardrail head on, the truck bursting into flames.

In each example, the accidents caused injuries and did significant damage to the vehicles and the roadway. While nobody died, the woman in the truck was severely burned and is facing a long road to recovery.

Why 18 Wheelers Accidents Often Cause Fires

When a vehicle crashes, the impact can cause combustible materials, such as gas and oil, to catch fire. 18 wheelers hold a lot of diesel fuel and often carry highly flammable loads. This combination can lead to a dangerous and damaging fire.

Every accident with a semi-truck is different, but they do tend to have a few things in common: Injuries sustained during a crash with a large truck are more serious, lives are too often lost, and property damage is high.

If you or a loved one has been hurt during an accident with an 18 wheeler in Dallas or anywhere in Texas, contact the experienced Dallas personal injury attorneys at Guajardo & Marks. Calling 877.290.1382 today can mean the difference between getting the money you need and being left holding the bill.

Construction Trucks Pose Serious Threat to Dallas Motorists

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Even an untrained eye can spot a dangerous construction truck. Perhaps you notice that the trailer is bouncing around more than it should, that the brake lights of a dump truck are not working, or that the load on a flatbed trailer doesn’t seem to be well secured. Again and again our Dallas large truck accident lawyers have seen the impact that a Texas construction truck accident has on those it harms.

Police Step up, Take Dangerous Dallas Construction Trucks out of Commission

Police in Dallas and across Texas often notice the same glaring safety violations; however, officers were not certified to inspect the large trucks and therefore had a hard time getting dangerous trucks off the road. No longer.

Now, officers in Flower Mound, Euless, Denton, and all over the state have received specialized training that allows them to inspect large construction trucks. So far, officers have taken thousands of dangerous trucks off the road, preventing accidents and injuries caused by traffic accidents.

The Dallas commercial truck accident attorneys at Guajardo & Marks hope that police continue to stop and ticket unsafe trucks.

If you have been hurt during an accident with a construction truck in Dallas or anywhere in Texas, do not hesitate, contact an aggressive, experienced truck accident attorney at 877.290.1382 for your free consultation.

Hazardous Spills Often Caused by a Dallas Semi-Truck Accident

Sat, 14 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

We most often think of the terrible, immediate impact of a Dallas semi-truck crash: Loss of life, serious injury and totaled vehicles. However, when an 18-wheeler spills its load of toxic chemicals or gasses, or spills a large amount of diesel fuel, the impact to the surrounding areas can be felt long after the wreckage has been cleared away.

Accident Highlights Semi-Truck Related Spill Dangers

A recent commercial truck crash on I-30 in Dallas caused the fuel tank of the semi-truck to break open, spilling fuel not only onto the roadway but into the nearby White Rock Creek. Crews worked to clean the spill but the effects of spills like this one may not be fully understood for some time.

There have been other times when a tanker truck carrying dangerous or toxic chemicals has crashed, its tank bursting open, allowing deadly substances to escape and negatively impact the surrounding area. This summer, a tanker full of diesel fuel crashed and exploded in Denton. The fire from this crash and spill lasted nearly 12 hours.

As Forth Worth semi-truck accident attorneys, our primary concern is the well-being of accident victims. We realize that the impact of your accident, be it environmental or physical, is likely to last long after the initial crash.

If you have questions about your accident or wonder if you are getting enough compensation for your injuries and losses, do not hesitate to call 877.290.1382 for your free consultation.

More People Are Killed by a Drunk Driver in Dallas Than Any Other City

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

It has long been known that Texas has a much higher than average DUI accident rate than most states. Now, a new study has shown that our fair city of Dallas has the dubious honor of having the highest rates of DUI-related deaths in the nation. No other city sees more deaths caused by drunk drivers than Dallas.

Why So Many Drunk Driving Accidents Happen in Dallas

Researchers have pinpointed the primary causes of higher than normal mortality rates due to drunk driving. They list these factors as:

Access to alcohol
Enforcement of DUI laws
Deterrence measures
Severity of punishments for being caught driving under the influence

Understanding how and why drunk driving accident rates are so high in Dallas can help safety advocates better tailor anti-drunk driving campaigns. Perhaps if we all work together to fight the terrible impact that drunk driving accidents have on Dallas and all of Texas, our city can lower its rate of deadly accidents caused by intoxicated drivers.

The staff and attorneys at the Dallas car accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks have seen the terrible impact that drunk driving accidents have on the families of the victims. Please, make the right choice and choose a sober driver.

If you have been hurt during an auto accident with a drunk driver in Dallas, Fort Worth or anywhere in North Texas, contact an experienced Dallas DUI accident lawyer at 877.290.1382 for a free consultation.

Which Dallas Drivers Are Suffering From a Mental Disorder?

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

All of them you say? To be sure, there are some seriously bad drivers in Dallas, but not all bad driving behaviors can be attributed to a diagnosable mental disorder. While not all drivers are mentally unstable, new studies are showing that drivers who are prone to get angry in traffic, displaying typical road rage behaviors, may be at a higher risk of suffering from an emotional disorder.

Could a Chemical Imbalance Have Caused Your Dallas Car Wreck?

Those who suffer from an emotional disorder called Intermittent Explosive Disorder have several chemical imbalances that make them more prone to angry outbursts. During stressful times, such as when dealing with bad drivers on the roads of Dallas, those with the disorder could very well snap and display typical road rage behaviors such as:

Tailgating
Yelling
Making obscene hand gestures
Braking suddenly
Speeding
Swerving and changing lanes
Purposely striking the "offending" car

No Excuse for Road Rage

Even if some angry drivers are being affected by a chemical imbalance, their actions can and do cause Dallas car accidents. If you are driving and find yourself being chased or harassed by another driver, please do not engage them. Try your best to safely get as far away as possible and, if you feel at all threatened or endangered, call 911.

If you have been hurt during an accident with an aggressive driver in Dallas or anywhere in Texas, contact a Fort Worth accident attorney with the experience and skills to get you the compensation you deserve. Defend your rights; call 877.290.1382 today for your free consultation.

No Refusal DUI Stops in Effect in Dallas

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

In Dallas, Fort Worth, and across North Texas, holiday partiers better think twice before they drink and drive. Area police will be focused on not only pulling over drunk drivers but ensuring that their blood alcohol level is properly documented.

During the no-refusal weekends, judges and magistrates are on-call, ready to authorize search warrants for blood samples from suspected drunk drivers who refuse a breath test. Usually, it can take some time to get the court ordered blood test, but the expedited process means that police have the power to quickly and accurately test the BAC of suspects, before time and has passed and their BAC has decreased.

No Refusal Weekends Should Decrease Dallas DUI Accidents

In order for no refusal weekends in Dallas to be effective in deterring drunk drivers, public service announcements and holiday safety campaigns let people know that if you drive drunk, you will get caught. It has been shown that when drivers know that their chances of being caught, arrested, and prosecuted increase, incidents of drunk driving decrease.

The holidays are a time to celebrate with family and friends. Please do not let your celebration turn into tragedy. The best way to avoid a DUI accident in Dallas is to find a sober ride home. As police often warn, buzzed driving is drunk driving and police will be out in force, looking to pull over and arrest drunk drivers.

If you are hit by a drunk driver in Dallas this holiday season, remember that there is something you can do to get the compensation you need. To learn more and to protect your rights as an accident victim, contact an experienced Dallas accident lawyer at 877.290.1382 for your free consultation.

Santa to Texas: The Holidays Are No No No Time to Drink and Drive

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Thanks to a media blitz involving commercials, billboards, online videos, and Facebook messages, drivers in Texas are getting the message that the holidays are no time to drink and drive. The messages are both Santa and reindeer approved, and encourage drivers who have had a little too much holiday cheer to find a sober ride home.

Cute Theme Delivers a Sobering Message

One billboard message features a serious Santa and displays the message, "Santa is Coming to Town. Please Don't Hit Him. Don't Drink & Drive." The anti-drunk driving campaign is sponsored by the Texas Department of Transportation and, if effective, it may have an impact on the exceedingly high number of alcohol-related accidents that occur holiday season.

While the ad campaign is clever and hopefully effective, the high number of alcohol-related car accidents and deaths is no joking matter. Each year an estimated 2,400 accidents are blamed, at least in part, on drunk driving. On average, almost 90 people lose their lives during these accidents; their families are forever changed as a happy celebration turns tragic. If the campaign is effective in preventing even one serious Dallas car accident, it will be well worth it.

As Dallas car accident lawyers we have seen the damage drunk driving does. We urge you, today and every day, to arrange for a sober ride home; someone's life may depend on it.

For those that have been injured in a Dallas car accident, during the holiday season or not, make sure that you are taken care of. You need someone who will fight to get you the compensation you deserve to get your life back. Contact an experienced Dallas personal injury lawyer at Guajardo Law Firm today. Call 877.290.1382 today.

Dallas Work Accident Blinds Air Marshall: Who Was to Blame?

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

An on the job accident in Dallas, Texas is an all too common event. Because of this, workplace accident attorneys are always working to determine who, if anyone, caused the accident. One of our current cases centers on this question: Who should pay when an employee is injured at work?

Bad Safety Practices or Dangerous Equipment?

The case in question involves a federal air marshal who was blinded during a routine training exercise at the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport. A rubber bullet used during a simulated terrorist attack struck the employee’s protective face mask and, instead of bouncing off harmlessly, entered the mask and hit the man in his eye. The injury left him blind in one eye, unable to continue his work as a police officer and air marshal.

So who was at fault? Our law firm thoroughly investigated the accident and found that the reason for the severe injury was a flaw in the facemask portion of the helmet. The manufacturer, General Dynamics Corp., had produced protective gear that left the wearer at serious risk of being injured.

Was the Company Aware of the Flaw?

While the investigation is ongoing, it seems that General Dynamics Corp. may have known that there was a safety issue with the helmet. The flaw found in the model worn by the air marshal was corrected in newer models, yet there was no recall; there was no warning that the older helmet was dangerous. This failure to act indicates a lack of concern for the safety of the consumer.

When companies such as General Dynamics Corp. choose to ignore the safety of their consumers, it is imperative that someone steps up and takes action. If you have been harmed by a dangerous or defective product, you have the right to file a lawsuit for compensation. Doing so not only ensures that you can pay your medical bills, but that the company is held responsible for their actions.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by a dangerous product in Dallas, please, do not hesitate to contact an aggressive, experienced Dallas personal injury attorney at Guajardo & Marks. Get your life back. Call 877.290.1382 today.

How One Texas Woman is Fighting Sleep Apnea in Truck Drivers

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

After losing her husband during an accident with a Texas semi-truck, Wanda Lindsay allowed herself to be sad, to grieve her loss. Afterwards, she did something most people don't. Instead of chalking up the loss to bad luck, or dwelling on anger toward the truck driver who hit them, Wanda took action. Upon finding out that the driver suffered from obstructive sleep apnea, a sleep disorder that leaves the sufferer overly tired, Wanda worked to find a way to prevent accidents caused by sleepy truck drivers.

To do so, Wanda created a non-profit named for her late husband, John Lindsey. The John Lindsay Foundation started small, but it is now making a real impact on the way some trucking companies do business. One success story is the Schneider Trucking Company, where drivers are now required to be screened for sleep apnea. Already the company's medical costs and accident rates have dropped.

Hope for the Future

Wanda Lindsey should be proud of what she has done, and about her role in preventing tragedies like the one she was involved in. Affecting positive change in your community begins with you. The staff and attorneys at the Dallas semi-truck accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks encourage you to indentify a safety concern and address it in your city, your state. Together, inspired by the actions of Mrs. Lindsey, we can make a difference.

If you, like Wanda Lindsey and her late husband, find yourself the victim of an accident with a semi-truck in Dallas and surrounding areas, make sure you know your rights. Contact an experienced Dallas large truck accident attorney at Guajardo & Marks for someone who will fight for what you deserve. Call 877.290.1382 today for a free consultation.

The Worst Deal on Black Friday – A Dallas Car Accident

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Consider this: On Black Friday, thousands of overtired, hungover, frantic, caffeine-filled shoppers will hit the streets. Around shopping centers, cars will overflow parking lots, creating a scene of chaos and confusion. Can you get some killer deals on Black Friday? Yes, but is saving a few dollars worth putting your life on the line?

The True Cost of a Dallas Car Accident

The cost of a car accident extends well beyond the damage to your vehicle. The most common costs associated with a car crash include:

Medical bills
Car repairs
Car replacement
Replacement of items in the car (i.e., child car seats and the now-broken gifts in the backseat)
Ongoing medical care, therapies and treatments
Higher insurance rates

So while you may have saved $40 on the newest Nook, an accident on Black Friday can take away these savings and then some – leaving you holding the bill instead of a brightly wrapped gift.

Calculated Risks

We are not saying that you are doomed to get into an accident on Black Friday and that braving the streets of Dallas is foolish. However, we are saying that you should consider the risks associated with the increased traffic before you head out. Keep your eyes open and focus on the road. Your vigilance might help you stop a crash before it happens – saving you time, money and maybe even your life.

While we know that you do your best to avoid accidents, this Friday and every day, accidents happen. If you have been involved in a Dallas auto accident with a truck, car or motorcycle, you have rights. The best way to protect these rights is to contact a Dallas accident attorney at Guajardo & Marks for your free consultation. Please call today.

One Way to Virtually Guarantee a Dallas Car Crash

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Nearly everybody texts these days. Young and old, we are a nation of texters. While there is no doubt that this is a convenient form of communication, you may want to pay more attention to when and where you text.

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at Texas A & M tested peoples reaction times while texting and driving. Not while virtual driving, or virtual texting-real texting on real roads. The results? Just as alarming as you might imagine.

Hey! Let's All Close Our Eyes and Drive Down the Freeway!

It's obvious that, even for a moment, closing your eyes while driving is foolish and reckless. However, researchers found that participants in the study took their eyes off of the road for intervals of up to five seconds in order to read and send text messages. At highway speeds of 60 mph, this is the same as closing your eyes while driving the length of a football field. Do you think that you can handle it? Do you believe that your superior driving skills and lighting fast fingers allow you to text and drive? Think again.

The study shows that both sending and reading texts doubles your normal reaction time, leaving you at an extremely high risk of causing a serious accident.

Think Before You Act, Your Life Depends on It

The staff and attorneys at the Dallas car accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks hope that this study will

give you pause. The next time you reach for your phone while driving, ask yourself: Is this text worth my life, the lives of my children, or the lives of those around me? Most certainly the answer will be no.

If you do find yourself involved in an accident due to texting in Dallas, find out your rights. Contact an experienced Dallas car accident lawyer at Guajardo & Marks to fight for what you deserve. Call 877.290.1382 today for a free consultation.

Mexican Trucks Make Their Way Into Dallas

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Will the trucks now making their way across the border and into the United States from Mexico do more harm than good? This is the concern of many large truck safety advocacy groups. The worry is that Mexican trucks, with more relaxed safety requirements, will cause serious accidents in Texas and across the country.

The U.S. Department of Transportation, however, insists that all safety concerns have been addressed. For example, electronic monitoring devices will be installed on all trucks that cross the border. In addition, truck drivers will have to pass the same safety reviews and drug tests as American truckers. Lastly, any Mexican truckers that apply to travel into the U.S. will have to pass an assessment that measures their English language skills.

Will the Safety Measures Prevent Accidents?

While we don't have a lot to go off of, there was a pilot program that allowed commercial trucks from Mexico to travel into border states. The two year pilot program was a success, yet it was cancelled in 2009. Now, the program has been offered to all trucking companies in Mexico. At the time of this report, however, only ten companies had begun the certification process.

Our Dallas 18-wheeler accident lawyers are hopeful that the program will be a success and that it will allow for more effective trade between the two countries. We only hope that the increased productivity doesn't come at the cost of human lives. One accident caused by truck driver or equipment error is too many.

If you have been injured during an accident with a semi-truck in Dallas do not hesitate. Contact a Dallas trucking accident attorney with the experience and results you need to win your personal injury case. Call 1.877.290.1382 today.

Recent Texas Construction Site Accidents Highlight Risk of Amputation

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The thought of amputation is enough to make any construction worker nervous. Most workers in the field have been the victim of an amputation injury or know someone who has. As a result, the threat of an amputation is very real.

Two recent Texas workplace accidents have highlighted just how common these injuries are. During both construction accidents, workers suffered from an amputated arm. In the first, doctors in Dallas were able to successfully reattach the limb.

The second accident happened when a worker attempted to get down from the platform of an auger. The crew was working in a ditch near Tyler, TX, with the auger being used to dig through dirt to repair a pipe. The man's arm was completely severed by the machine and both he and his limb were sent to the nearest hospital.

Amputees Face a Long Road to Recovery

While some body parts are successfully reattached, others are too badly damaged. Amputees are often unable to work in the construction industry and face a long and painful recovery. Even when a limb can be reattached, it may have limited mobility or sensation.

Our concern, as Dallas construction injury lawyers, is that hurt workers will not be properly compensated for their injuries. If you have been hurt in a construction site accident in Dallas, do NOT accept an offer of compensation without speaking with an experienced, aggressive Dallas work injury lawyer. Time is of the essence. Call 1.877.290.1382 today for a free consultation with a Dallas personal injury lawyer at Guajardo & Marks LLP.

The Five Things Our Dallas Car Wreck Attorneys Wish You Wouldn't Do

Sun, 30 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

The moments after a Dallas car wreck can be filled with chaos. Take a step back, breathe, and remember to NOT do these 5 things:

Sign anything. While, at first glance, the offer given to you by the insurance company may seem fair, it rarely is. The company is looking out for their best interests, and therefore, wants you to accept an offer before you speak with an attorney. Don't leave yourself without the money you need to pay your bills or repair your car. Do NOT sign on the dotted line without the advice of an experienced Dallas car accident lawyer.
Lie about the details of your accident. The worst thing you can do after a car crash is lie. Lying to the police or to the insurance agent will seriously diminish your ability to get the compensation you need. Be careful and brief in your statements, but do NOT lie.
Exaggerate your pain or injuries. The worst way to ensure that you get enough compensation for injuries you sustained during an accident is to exaggerate. Making up injuries or pretending they cause you more pain than they do will only get you in trouble, and it may ruin your chances at getting any compensation at all.
Throw away receipts. Both medical bills and car repair receipts should be saved. Having this information on hand will make it much easier to give you the legal help you need and the compensation you deserve. Do NOT rely on getting copies of your receipts; keep the originals.
Wait to contact an attorney. There are statutes of limitations that apply to auto accident cases in Texas. Therefore, the longer you wait, the more pressure insurance agents will be putting on you to sign an offer. By contacting an attorney as soon as possible, you have a better chance of getting the compensation you need.

At Guajardo & Marks we are concerned about the number of mistakes we see accident victims making. Do NOT wreck your Dallas car accident case. Contact an experienced, aggressive personal injury attorney today at 1.877.290.1382.

Over 205,000 Vehicles Recalled By Car Makers: Is Yours One of Them?

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

While you may not think that a Subaru Outback and Chevy Corvette have much in common, a current recall begs to differ. Both vehicles are involved in recalls that affect over 200,000 cars.

Two Recalls, Two Serious Hazards

In the first of the two recalls, Subaru announced that their newer model Outbacks and Legacys contain a defective windshield wiper motor. The motor can easily overheat, causing either the wipers to stop working mid-swipe or the unit to get so hot that it melts. The melting motor and motor housing has the potential to catch fire, harming not only the vehicle, but any occupants as well. This recall affects nearly 200,000 Subaru vehicles.

The second recall was performed by Chevrolet. Their 2011-2012 Chevy Corvettes have been found to contain faulty rear hatches. In the event of an accident, the hinges, failing to meet safety standards, cannot bear the weight of the rear hatch. This causes the hatch to separate and cause serious injuries. The recall will affect over 5,000 Corvettes.

When a Defect Causes Harm

While some recalls are announced before anyone is harmed, too many are started only after motorists have been injured or killed. If you believe your Dallas car accident was caused by a defective car part, you have the right to seek an investigation into it. You may even have the right to sue the car manufacturer for damages related to the accident. Your first step should be to contact an experienced, aggressive Dallas motor vehicle defect lawyer at Guajardo & Marks for your free consultation. This call could mean the difference between getting compensated for your losses and being left holding the bill. Call 1.877.290.1382 today.

Dallas Drivers: You Should NOT Have to Pay for a Recall Repair

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

When your car is part of a recall, you may feel as though you have been duped. Here you thought that you got a new, reliable, safe car - only to find out that the car's manufacturer took a short cut, saved themselves a buck, and put your family at risk. While we all make mistakes, the mistakes that car manufacturers make cause serious injuries and deaths.

Fixing a Mistake: Costly for the Car Maker, Free for You
One way that you can help protect yourself from being injured in an accident caused by a defective auto part in Dallas is to get your car repaired as soon as possible. The repair, when made at any dealership that sells your car's brand, should cost you nothing. In some cases, dealerships may try to get you to pay extra fees or charge you for other repairs that they say are related. This is not right and not honest. If a dealership asks you to pay for recall repairs, you have the right to report them to the car's manufacturer.

While these fixes can be crucial to keeping a car running safely, up to 25% of people who receive recall notices do not take their cars in to be repaired. This oversight can cost the owner money and, more importantly, can cause a serious Dallas auto accident.

The Dallas auto defect attorneys at Guajardo & Marks urge you to get any and all repairs done in a timely manner. If you have any questions about auto recalls or have been involved in an accident that you believe was caused by a defective auto part, do not hesitate to contact a Dallas car recall lawyer today for your free consultation. We're here, ready to help. Call 1.877.290.1382 today.

Texas Parents: Ignoring Your Parents' Advice May Keep Your Child Safe

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

While your parents, grandparents, and other elders may have the best intentions when giving you parenting advice, there is one area in which many older adults do not have the best advice: car seat safety. Too often, new parents are reminded time and time again that "When you were little, we just tossed you in the car or held you on our laps! Look! You turned out fine!" More often than not, your attempts to keep up with current car seat safety recommendations are met with a roll of the eye and complaints that the seats are too hard to use and install, or that the child looks uncomfortable.

New Rear Facing Car Seat Advice is No Different

While nearly every proposed child safety measure is met with some resistance, the recent suggestion that children ride facing the rear until at least age two has been particularly contentious. Though the American Association of Pediatricians (AAP) and other safety experts have recommended that children remain rear facing longer, many are resisting. Evidence clearly points to the fact that during an accident a small child, who has a disproportionately large head and weak spine, is safer in a rear facing seat. If the child is facing the front before age two, the impact can easily cause serious spinal cord injuries and head trauma.

Mom vs. AAP

The Dallas Texas accident attorneys at Guajardo & Marks have seen too many children injured in an accident in which they were not properly restrained. While we all survived a childhood without the car seats seen today, why take the extra risk? If you have new, reliable advice, why not follow it? We hope that Texas parents take the advice of the AAP and keep their children rear-facing and safer, longer. If you or your child has been injured in a Dallas car accident, call our office at 972.774.9800 to set up a free consultation.

When Car Manufacturers Cheat, Should They Be Forgiven?

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

"Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me." While this saying usually refers to a cheating partner, we think it's a pretty good way to describe the way many potential Toyota buyers are feeling. Perhaps they owned a Toyota at the time of the recalls; perhaps they are thinking about buying one now. Most likely, they are nervous that another defective part will be discovered - costing them their cars, their health, or even their lives.

Toyota had a reputation for producing some of the safest, most reliable cars on the road. However, owners in Texas soon found that the car they had loved so much was doing something worse than cheating; it was accelerating out of control and putting their lives on the line. This serious defect caused a massive Toyota recall and broke the hearts - and bones - of Toyota drivers across the nation.

Too Little, Too Late?
The car company is now trying to convince the public that they have changed their ways. They are working to not only produce their own safer cars, but to also improve the safety of all vehicles. Their latest attempt centers on their Collaborative Safety Research Center. There, Toyota conducts research that it says will help determine the causes of accidents and reduce accident rates. Although this sounds good, is it enough to win back customers? More importantly, will it actually help prevent accidents? Will it help save lives?

While we want to be optimistic, our Dallas defective car part attorneys have seen auto makers promise the world, only to cheat again, cut corners, and risk the lives of motorists. What about you? Are you ready to trust Toyota, again?

If you or a loved one was injured by a Toyota car defect, it's not too late to get the compensation you deserve. Call 972.774.9800 today for your free consultation.

Ten Questions to Ask Your Dallas Car Accident Lawyer NOW

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Before you agree to hire a lawyer for your Dallas personal injury case, there are 10 questions that we think you must ask of your prospective attorney. These questions can give you a better idea as to whether the law firm is going to be able meet all your needs and get you the compensation you deserve for your Dallas car accident. Do not hire an attorney until you ask the following:

Will I be working with you exclusively or will my case be handled primarily by another attorney or paralegal?
What information and advice will you give me at our initial consultation?
Is the initial consultation free?
What types of cases do you handle the most?
How long have you been practicing law?
Do you have client testimonials available?
How often do you take cases to court?
What is your success rate with jury verdicts?
How often will I be contacted regarding the status of my case?
Who will update me on my case and/or return my phone calls?

These 10 Questions Are Just a Start

Even if you are satisfied with the way an attorney answers the previous questions, you have to ask yourself some questions as well.

Are you comfortable with the attorney?
Are you truly confident in their ability to handle your case?
Do you get a good "gut" feeling?

While it is important that the lawyer you choose to represent you has the experience and results to show that they offer excellent legal representation, it is also important that you and your attorney have a good, professional relationship since you will need to work closely with your lawyer. If the two of you don't mesh well, it could have a negative effect on your case.

If you have been injured in a Dallas car accident or construction accident and are ready to seek legal help, contact a Dallas car accident lawyer at Guajardo & Marks LLP. Ask us your questions, get to know our personal injury attorneys, and make an informed decision.

How a Minor Injury Can Have a Major Impact on Your Life

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Minor injuries are those which are not life-threatening or deemed serious by a medical professional. However, as Fort Worth accident lawyers, we have seen the terrible impact such injuries can have on the victim of a car crash.

Common minor injuries include, but are not limited to:

Broken bone (arm, leg, hand or foot)
Deep bruise
Cut or laceration
Whiplash
Strain or sprain
Ruptured or torn disk
Mild concussion

How These Minor Injuries Cause Major Damage

While a deep cut can be painful - possibly requiring reconstructive surgery and physical therapy - it is considered a minor injury. Similarly, a case of whiplash (often undiagnosed) can cause pain and affect your day-to-day life for years after an accident.

Getting the Insurance Company to Take Your Injuries Seriously

The insurance company will want to use the "minor injury" label to undervalue your claim. They want to save themselves money by not giving you the compensation you need to pay bills and move on with your life. Before you sign anything, seek the legal advice of an experienced Fort Worth personal injury lawyer. The insurance company, knowing you have contacted an attorney, will stop pressuring you to sign and may even increase the amount of your compensation package.

Ensure that you and your injuries are taken seriously. Contact a Fort Worth accident attorney at Guajardo & Marks for your free consultation. Do not settle for less than you deserve. Call our office at 1.877.290.1382 today.

A Car Wreck – The Least Amount of Fun You Can Have in Dallas, TX

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Being injured in a car accident in Dallas or the metroplex is like being injured in an accident anywhere - there is nothing fun about a car wreck and you, like too many, have been hurt during a Dallas car accident. While recovering from your injuries should be at the top of your list of priorities, the chances are likely that you are also worrying about how you will pay your medical bills and make up for the money you have lost while away from work. Instead of letting your body heal, these common stressors slow your recovery time, making it hard to function - nonetheless get better.

Know When to Ask for Legal Help

We advise anyone who has been involved in an accident to first be seen by a medical professional. When you are sure that you have been taken care of and that your health is stable, it is important that you call an experienced Dallas or Fort Worth car accident lawyer. Why is this so important? If you don't get the advice of an attorney, the insurance company will be more likely to undervalue your claim, leaving you without the money you need to recover. Your stress level will skyrocket as you realize that you have no way to pay your ever-growing stack of bills.

Do NOT sign anything from the insurance company until you call and speak with a Dallas injury lawyer from Guajardo & Marks. We are ready to protect your interests and get you maximum compensation for your injuries. Call our office today at 1.877.290.1382.

Crash, Smash and Flash - How Construction Accidents Hurt Texas Workers

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

While thousands are hurt during a Texas construction accident each year, you are likely feeling alone in your struggle to recover from your injuries. While you sit at home or in a hospital bed, you are missing work, not earning the money your family needs. Your hospital bill is extremely high, and with no idea when or if you can return to work, the stress is overwhelming.

As a Texas Construction Accident Victim You Are Not Alone
You do not need to go this alone. The insurance company, your employer and the Texas workers compensation program are looking to give you as little as possible for your injuries and losses. On your own, getting the compensation you need can be nearly impossible. However, with an experienced Dallas accident attorney on your side, you have a much better chance of getting the money you need to pay your medical bills, get back on your feet and move on with your life.

Free Legal Advice is Not a Myth
An experienced, knowledgeable attorney will be able to offer you not only a free initial consultation, they will also maintain a website that gives you the information you need. Keeping our website free of charge and packed with the answers you need, when you need them, our staff and attorneys work to inform you of your rights as an injured construction worker. After you have browsed our site, please do not hesitate to contact an experienced lawyer at Guajardo & Marks for your free consultation. We are here, ready to help, ready to shoulder your burden. Call today. 1.877.290.1382.

Vehicle Accidents a Serious Threat to Dallas Construction Workers

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

While you may assume that accidents on construction sites in Dallas are caused by nail guns and heavy lifting, the fact of the matter is that vehicle accidents account for a large portion of on-the-job injuries and deaths. Common vehicle accidents include accidents in or with a:

Dump truck
Semi truck
Crane
Bulldozer
Bobcat
Grader
Plow
Roller/Packer
Forklift
Cement truck
Mixer
Backhoe
Excavator
Motorist (during work on or near a street)

The Long-Lasting Impact of a Construction Site Accident
As many of the vehicles and machines listed above are very large and powerful, it comes as no surprise that an accident with one of them can be catastrophic. As experienced Dallas construction accident attorneys, we have seen firsthand how an accident at work can forever alter your life. If you have been injured or you have lost a loved one during a construction accident, do not hesitate to get the legal help you deserve. The construction company will come with their own attorneys and insurance agents, ready to defend their interests. Who will defend you? Call today. 1.877.290.1382.

New Traffic Laws Take Effect in Texas

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Several new traffic laws went into effect on September 1, 2011. Below is a list of some of the more important ones:

1. Speed limits will now be the same during night and day driving, and separate speed limits for trucks have been eliminated;

2. The maximum speed limit on state highways may be raised to 75 mph if the Texas Department of Transportation finds that the increased speed would be reasonable and safe after conducting an engineering and traffic investigation;

3. A driver may not allow a child under the age of 18 to ride in a watercraft while it is being towed on a street or highway;

4. Hardship driver licenses will be suspended if the driver is convicted of two or more moving violations during a 12 month period. The Department of Public Safety may no longer waive the driver education requirement to issue a 60 day hardship license;

5. A four hour driving safety course was approved for drivers under the age of 25. Drivers under the age of 25 who are cited for a moving violation may be required to take a driving safety course;

6. The Texas Department of Public Safety will establish a deferral program for surcharges assessed under the Driver Responsibility Program to military personnel actively deployed outside of the US for the duration of the deployment.

For more information, please refer to the Texas Department of Public Safety website.

Tech Gadgets in Car Blur Line Between Parental Concern and Spying

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Texas parent you have legitimate concerns over the safety and wellbeing of your teen driver. You remember all too well the crazy things you did as a teenager: driving too fast, racing, talking and joking with your friends, driving to places you knew you weren't supposed to. Your parents had few options to test your honesty and aside from following you everywhere you went, or responding to your call for help after an accident. They had to trust that you were driving safely.

Parents these days, on the other hand, now have a host of tech gadgets that can help them keep tabs on their children. While many parents use Facebook as a way to monitor their teen's activity, some are taking checking in on their kids to a whole new level.

Many companies are now marketing electronic devices that record a vehicles speed and location. This information is often sent in real time to a parents' cell phone or e-mail in box. No longer do concerned parents have to hope their child is telling the truth about not speeding; they can know the truth in an instant.

For many though, using technology in this manner violates a teens right to privacy, violates the trust that a family works so hard to maintain.

What do you think? Is monitoring your young drivers speed and location a good way to keep them honest, or does it take the concern a step too far?

Cooling the Body of an Injured Construction Worker May Save Them

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

While the study done by researchers at the Texas Presbyterian Hospital was intended to help save the lives of soldiers on the battlefield, it may have much further reaching applications.

The researchers found that rapidly cooling the body of an overheated, bleeding injury victim can increase their chance of survival. The skin and body temperatures of soldiers stationed in the Middle East are often above normal. This can cause them to bleed more profusely when injured. Researchers found that bringing down the internal and external temperature of their test subjects aided in reducing the factors for excessive blood loss.

Researchers are hoping that their work can save the lives of not only our service men and women stationed overseas, but construction workers right here in North Texas as well.

The long, hot summers in Denton and across North Texas can heat the bodies of construction workers. Given the findings of the study, these overheated workers are at a higher risk for severe bleeding, should they be injured on the job.

The North Texas construction site accident attorneys at Guajardo & Marks are hopeful that this study, and others like it, will have a positive effect on injured Texans, be they working here in Fort Worth or stationed overseas.

Could Listening to The Doors Save Your Teens Life?

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Perhaps so, if you insisted on your teen driver listening to a constant loop of the lyrics, "Keep your eyes on the road, your hands upon the wheel." An alternate suggestion, and one that would likely be more effective, would be to use the teen driving resources provided by the NHTSA and other safety experts.

All the Research Has Been Done For You

Many safety oriented websites have the resources you need to present your teen with the facts and start talking about safer driving choices. Resources include:

·        www.nhtsa.gov/Teen-Drivers.com

·        www.t-driver.com/

·        www.txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/teendriver.html.com

Use any of these sites to ensure that you are armed with the information you need to inform your teen and, hopefully, make an impact on their driving choices.

How Will You Talk to Your Texas Teen About Driving Safely?

Whether you choose to play your teen driver classic rock or watch distracted driving videos on YouTube; start the conversation. As parents and accident attorneys, we know that teenagers often think they have everything figured out. They certainly don't think they need your help! But they do. They need to know the specific dangers associated with dangerous driving behaviors such as texting and driving. Help your new driver make the best choices each time they get behind the wheel. Give them the tools they need to make safe driving decisions.

If you have any questions about keeping your teen safe or have been involved in a Dallas, TX car accident, do not hesitate to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Guajardo & Marks today. During a free consultation an experienced attorney can help you determine the best way to recover your losses; to get your life back. Call today. 1.877.290.1382

Prevent a Dallas Car Accident- Get Auto Recall E-mail Alerts

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Can one e-mail save your life? We hope so. By signing up for automated e-mail alerts for your specific vehicle you will know about car part recalls as soon as they are issued. No searching the internet, hoping to find current information, just the safety news you need; sent directly to your inbox.

Safecar.gov- Your Resource For Auto Recalls

Safecar.gov offers this e-mail alert system, free of charge. By signing up for this service and being one of the first to know about a potentially dangerous car part defects, you may be able to prevent a serious accident. At the Dallas, TX car defect law firm of Guajardo & Marks, we know that many accidents can be prevented and that this resource is invaluable to those concerned about the rising number of auto defects and recalls.

When Something Goes Wrong

While following car recall news is helpful, what happens when a defect causes harm before it is recalled? When this occurs it is best to contact an experienced motor vehicle defect attorney. At Guajardo & Marks we have the resources to investigate the possible defect. We have experts on hand; experts who can help prove that your accident was caused by a problem with your vehicle. If you believe that a car defect caused your Texas car accident, do not hesitate to contact J. Gregory Marks, an expert in is field. Fight for your rights as an accident victim, protect others by reporting your dangerous vehicle. Call today.

In addition to your free consultation, please request your free copy of our book, Risky Rides: What the Auto Company Doesn't Want You to Know. Arm yourself with knowledge; request your free copy today.

Why You Might Need an Experienced Texas Workers Comp Attorney

Sat, 20 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Even the most well intentioned boss or construction supervisor can fall short when it comes to taking care of an injured Texas construction worker. Under pressure from company owners, they may try and undervalue your claim, getting you to accept a workers' compensation package that will not cover your medical bills, lost wages and diminished earning capacity.

What Typically Happens After a Dallas Construction Accident?
Soon after you are injured on the job the contractor or construction company you work for will notify their attorneys and their insurance company. Before you even have time to begin recovering from your injuries or illness, the phone starts ringing. For the "other guys" this is the time to put on the pressure, to get you to accept an offer of compensation that is too low. They know that if you seek the advice of an experienced, successful Texas construction accident attorney that you will not sign their offer; costing them a lot of money.

They Have Their Lawyers- Who Do You Have?
If you are going it alone after your accident, trying to navigate your way through the workers compensation process, you are more than likely not going to get the money you deserve. The company will have their lawyers, ready to place the fault on you and offer you too little. Who do you have on your side?

If you have been injured or you have lost a loved one during a construction accident in Dallas, TX you have rights. Do not sign anything until you have spoken to one of our experienced workers compensation lawyers. Protect your rights. Get the compensation you need to move on with your life. Call today. 1.877.290.1382

Stage Collapse at Indiana State Fair reminiscent of Cowboy training facility collapse

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Stage Collapse at Indiana State Fair reminiscent of Cowboy training facility collapse

Five people were killed Saturday night, August 13, 2011, when a gust of wind blew over the roof and metal scaffolding of a stage onto a crowd of Indiana State Fairgoers who had gathered to listen to the country group Sugarland. The Indiana Fair commission has hired a team of structural engineers to investigate the cause of the collapse, but early comments by the Indiana Governor and engineers on the investigation team suggest that the presumed cause is extreme weather. To begin with, Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels called the collapse "freakish," saying at the news conference that a storm was anticipated but the blast of wind that whipped through the grandstand area was unexpected. The Governor’s preliminary comments were further bolstered when the lead investigative engineer stated that “"There's no building that can resist everything," he says. "When you're talking about tornadoes or microbursts (of wind), they can easily exceed the design capability of many structures."

After a burst of wind caused the catastrophic collapse of the training facility of the Dallas Cowboy Football team on May 2, 2009, injuring several players and coaches, similar comments were made. The National Weather Service suggested that the failure was due to a “microburst.” Several commentators referenced the “freakish” weather that occurred on that tragic day. But after a thorough investigation by the National Institute for Standards and Technology, the only Federal Agency with the authority to investigate the cause of building collapses, it was determined that the training facility was significantly under-designed. In fact, the structure was under-designed by almost 600 percent!

If an unbiased investigation is done on the Indiana Fair Ground Stage collapse, it most likely will find that the structure was under-designed or not erected properly. Video reviews of the collapse do not suggest a tornado or extreme microburst. Buildings should not fail in that type of wind condition in such a catastrophic manner. Structures may fail, and they may fail under those wind conditions, but they should not collapse. The tragedy points to the need for better, more uniform standards nationwide for temporary stages, says Gary Bongiovanni, editor of Pollstar, which monitors the concert tour business.

DUI Accident in Dallas Almost Turns Fatal

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

One man is being hailed a hero for saving the life of a woman who was trapped in her burning car. According to eyewitness and police reports, the driver of the car was four times over the legal limit when she caused the drunk driving accident on Highway 67 in Dallas. The man in the pickup truck was able to escape his vehicle as the flames started to spread, but the woman in the car was unable to free herself.

Quick Thinking Security Guard Saves Driver

Brad Bowman was working as a security guard at Christ for the Nations Institute when he looked out the window and saw the accident occur. Acting quickly, Bowman ran out of the building to see if anyone needed help.

"My first reaction was, 'I'm the first one here, and there's nobody else around," he said. "I was very afraid. It was a scary situation."

Despite his fears, Bowman saw that the woman was still in the burning car. At this point flames were shooting high in the air and had already engulfed the front of the vehicle and the truck. Initially Bowman tried to get the woman out through the driver side but it was too hot. The security guard found the passenger door locked but was able to kick out the window. Not a moment too soon, Bowman pulled the woman out of the burning car and to safety.

"Within just a few seconds after that, the blaze entered into her car, so had we not been there, she wouldn't have made it," stated Bowman.

Rescued Woman Arrested on DUI Charges

The rescued woman was not free for long. It was quickly determined that she was drunk at the time of the accident; her BAC was over four times the legal limit. Dallas police arrested her on suspicion of drunk driving. At the time of this report charges were pending.

As a Dallas car accident lawyer, I have seen many instances of close calls, this being one of the more dramatic. The staff and attorneys at Guajardo & Marks would like thank Mr. Bowman for his act of bravery. Your selfless act surely saved the life of the woman.

Watery Car Crash in Dallas Blamed on Lack of Proper Signage

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Lake Ray Hubbard is a prominent landmark in Dallas. While many enjoy the lake, routinely using it for boating and fishing, a recent car accident has some wondering if the roads leading to lake are as safe as they should be.

Driver Accidently Crashes Into Lake Ray Hubbard

It was late at night when two women, attempting to find the entrance ramp for I-30, suddenly found themselves in Lake Ray Hubbard. The driver and her passenger reported that it was very dark when they mistakenly took a paved road that leads to a boat ramp.

The road had no streetlights and there were no visible signs warning of the streets watery end. Days after the accident, work crews found a sign alerting driver to the upcoming lake entrance. The sign had been bent over and was buried in the ground beside the road.

While some believe that the driver was not paying enough attention, Lt. Dave Davis of the Rockwall County Sheriff's Department stated that he has been concerned about this particular boat ramp for some time. He has expressed this concern to the city of Dallas, asking that they add lights surrounding the boat ramp to alert drivers at night.

"You're certainly not going to see there's water in front of you if it's really dark, there's no moon and there's no white caps and it's still. And you'll just drive right off because it looks like a flat surface to you and it's not," stated Lt. Davis.

Will Dallas Make the Needed Changes?

Fortunately, a police officer was able to rescue the women before they were seriously injured. However, many in the community would like something done about the virtually unmarked ramp. According to reports, the city of Dallas is investigating the ramp and will be looking into adding reflective signs, pavement markers, road bumps and even barricades.

As a Dallas auto accident attorney I have seen too many car accidents caused by a lack of proper safety measures on city streets. Our Dallas personal injury attorneys hope that the city takes action and improves the safety of this road and others like it. We hope that the accident victims are well on their way to recovering from their harrowing incident.

Accident on Nacogdoches Construction Site Burns Two Workers

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Two construction workers were seriously injured in a Nacogdoches, TX construction accident when an electrical panel they were working on "arched". Electricity can arch when conditions are right and electricity leaps from a source to a nearby conductor. During the accident at the Sacul biomass plant the workers were attending to a 444-volt electrical panel when electricity arched from it, creating a high amount of electricity and severely burning the workers.

Nacogdoches Construction Accident Causes Serious Injuries

The burned men were initially taken to Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital where they were listed in critical condition. A few hours after their arrival they were transferred to the burn unit at Parkland in Dallas, TX. At the high level burn unit the men can get the help they need for their serious electrical burns.

Immediately after the accident all other employees were removed to a safe location. The plant was closed for the remainder of the day and investigators were on scene to determine what caused the serious accident. At the time of this report it was unclear whether or not OSHA would be performing an investigation of its own.

There were rumors that the plant was in danger of a large scale explosion and fire. In actuality, the sound was from the initial explosion and, according to Sherriff Thomas Kerss, the rumors were sparked by the sounds and sights of such a large electrical arch.

The Dallas construction accident lawyers at Guajardo & Marks would like to send our best wishes to the injured workers. We hope that they are soon on their way to recovering from their injuries.

Family of Dallas Woman Hit by Police Car Want Answers

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Recently, a Dallas police officer was involved in a late night accident on Burton Road in Dallas, TX. The officer was reportedly following some distance behind an ambulance when a woman stepped into the road.

Dallas resident Beverly Kirk was leaving her daughter’s house that night and as she attempted to cross the street she was hit by the police vehicle. While the Dallas police have not released the officer’s speed at the time of the crash, they have admitted that neither the car’s flashing lights nor sirens were on when the accident occurred.

Similarities to Another Fatal Dallas Accident

In 2008, a police officer, again without lights or sirens activated, struck and killed a 10-year-old Dallas boy as he rode his bike.

In response to this terrible tragedy, a new policy was enacted in Dallas. This policy requires that officers turn on their lights and sirens when speeding. The police chief at the time, David Kunkle, gave the following statement after the accident in 2008.

"We do not want our officers speeding, violating any traffic laws, unless they're doing it with their red lights and sirens on," stated Kunkle.

While this policy seems clear, after the most recent tragedy, a Dallas police spokesperson stated that, "the officer did not have his lights and sirens activated because it is not required for this particular call assignment."

Family Waits for Answers

The family of Ms. Kirk now wonders why the officer that hit woman was not following the previously enacted policy. The police investigation into the incident is ongoing and hopefully sooner, rather than later, friends and family of Ms. Kirk will have answers to their questions.

The Dallas auto accident lawyers at Guajardo & Marks would like to send our condolences to the family of Ms. Kirk.

18 Wheeler Crash in Temple, TX Injures 29 Children

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

A serious large truck accident in Temple, Texas injured more than 30 people, 29 of them children. The accident occurred on Farm-to-Market Road 93, located at the edge of Temple, TX.

According to Trooper Harpin Myers of the Texas Department of Public Safety, a large commercial vehicle failed to stop at a stop sign and collided with a bus from the Academy school district. While driving conditions at 7:30 that morning were foggy, police had not yet determined if weather was a factor in the crash.

Students Seriously Hurt During Temple, TX Bus Accident

While the driver of the large truck that hit the bus was treated and released from the hospital, others were not as fortunate. The driver of the bus was knocked unconscious and was listed in critical condition. 29 children sustained injuries. 26 were treated and discharged while three remained in the hospital. One child was ejected through the escape hatch of the roof.

The children with serious injuries are expected to recover; however, spokeswoman for the Scott & White Memorial Hospital in Temple, Katherine Voss, stated that "they all face a long road" to recovering from their injuries.

One woman who came upon the scene of the accident soon after it occurred was shocked at what she saw.

"There was a bunch of little ones all scraped up, and they were all alone," she stated.

The Dallas personal injury law firm of Guajardo & Marks hope that all of the children are well on their way to fully recovering from their injuries.

Fiery Scene Caused by Semi-Truck Accident in Conroe, TX

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A distracted truck driver is being blamed for a fiery semi-truck accident in Conroe, TX. Police report that the driver was traveling northbound on Interstate 45 near FM 830 when he lost control of his vehicle. The 18 wheeler was transporting packages for UPS and was headed from Houston to Dallas at the time of the crash.

According to reports, the driver was reaching all the way across the cab of his truck, grabbing for an item on the floor, when he swerved off the interstate. The truck crashed into one end of a guardrail in a construction zone, causing serious damage to the truck. The impact of the accident caused the truck to jackknife and catch on fire.

Local Police, Fire Departments and DOT Officials Respond to Accident

Fire departments from Conroe and North Montgomery County were called to the scene to clean up debris and remove the disabled vehicle. This process took all night as the large UPS truck was almost completely engulfed in flames. Nearly all of the packages in the truck were destroyed during the fire.

Also on scene was the Texas Department of Transportation. Crews from TxDOT were called in to repair the road that had been damaged by the fire.

Driver Sustains Injuries

The truck driver was transported to a local hospital. At the time of this report, he was in stable condition.

The staff and attorneys at the Dallas semi-truck accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks hope that the driver is on his way to making a full recovery from his injuries and are glad to hear that no other vehicles were involved.

Semi-Truck Accident on Dallas Mixmaster Causes Injuries, Delays

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Fortunately, an 18 wheeler accident on the Dallas Mixmaster caused more delays than it did injuries. In the early morning hours, a semi-truck jackknifed in the eastbound lanes of I-30 at the I-35 intersection. A second vehicle was also involved; the car overturning during the crash. This area, known as the Dallas Mixmaster, is the site of hundreds of accidents each year.

Accidents Frequent on the Mixmaster

Many believe that the layout of this stretch of interstate is confusing. In addition, the small lanes and frequent lane changes by cars and trucks make it an all too common site for car accidents in Dallas.

This particular crash on the Mixmaster was caused by a semi-truck. The commercial vehicle slid, possibly because of the rain slick roads, and jackknifed, sliding off the interstate. The 18 wheeler struck an overhead sign post but did little damage.

It took crews three hours to pull the big rig from the deep mud and clear the accident scene. In the meantime, traffic, including morning commuters, was rerouted using the Woodall Rogers Freeway, and then the southbound lanes of Interstate 30 and 35.

A second vehicle was also involved. The car overturned during the accident and had to be towed away as well. While there were injuries involved, only minor injuries were reported.

The staff and attorneys at the Dallas personal injury law firm of Guajardo & Marks hope that the injured parties are well on their way to recovering from their injuries, and that more accidents such as this can be avoided in the future.

Serious Injuries Reported After 18-Wheeler Wreck in Temple, TX

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A recent semi-truck accident in Temple, TX caused a vehicle fire and injured three people. The accident occurred when a semi-truck driving northbound on I-35 in Temple started having mechanical difficulties. The truck driver was slowing his vehicle and beginning to make his way onto the shoulder when a pickup truck hit him from behind.

Temple, TX Truck Fire Causes Serious Injuries

When police arrived on the scene of the accident in Temple, they found good Samaritans helping two children out of the truck. The two children received only minor injuries during the accident and were taken by ambulance to Scott and White Hospital for treatment.

Shortly after the children were rescued, the pickup truck caught fire. The driver, a woman said to be from the Fort Hood, TX area, was trapped in the car; her legs were severely burned as police attempted to extract her from the vehicle.

Police were eventually able to rescue the woman who was quickly taken by helicopter to a local hospital before being transferred to Parkland Hospital Burn Unit in Dallas. At the time of this report the driver was listed as being in serious condition. It is expected that she will remain the hospital for quite some time.

The driver of the semi-truck and his passenger were uninjured during the accident.

The staff and attorneys at the Dallas semi-truck accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks hope that the injured parties are on their way to making a full recovery from their injuries.

Major Semi-Truck Crash on I-35E in Dallas

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

In the predawn hours a semi-truck accident on I-35E in Dallas made a big mess and injured at least one. The accident occurred when the fully loaded truck and trailer jackknifed and flipped on the Stemmons Freeway near the I-30 interchange in downtown Dallas crashed, spilling scrap metal across the roadway.

Major Traffic Delays and Minor Injuries

It took crews several hours to clean up the spilled load and wrecked truck. Cars were diverted around the accident and onto Interstate 30. Two tow trucks were used to right the truck and remove it from the interstate. The truck damaged a guardrail when it slid off the road.

Fortunately, no other cars were involved and the only injured party was the driver of the large truck. Police reports indicate that he was hurt but not severely injured during the crash.

While this accident only caused minor injuries and delays in the morning commute, too often this is not the case. Hundreds of motorists are hurt during an accident with a semi-truck in Dallas each year.

The Fort Worth large truck accident attorneys at Guajardo & Marks hope that the driver of the large truck has a speedy recovery to his injuries. More importantly, our staff hopes to see a decrease in similar accidents, keeping the roadways safer.

Dallas Semi-Truck Accident Spills Hazardous Load Into White Rock Creek

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Often, the people involved in a Dallas semi-truck accident are not the only ones affected by the crash. In fact, the accident can sometimes have a long lasting impact on the community surrounding the crash.
The most common way this occurs is when an 18 wheeler carrying a toxic or hazardous load crashes, spilling its load or the fuel from its fuel tank onto the roadway and nearby bodies of water.

Dallas Commercial Truck Accident Contaminates River

A recent example of a dangerous Dallas truck accident occurred on I-30 near the Lawnview exit. The large commercial truck overturned in the early morning hours. Coming to rest on its side, the 18 wheeler blocked all four lanes of traffic.

Fortunately, no additional vehicles were involved. The driver of the big rig was taken to an area hospital with undisclosed injuries.

The Texas Department of Transportation reported that the impact of the crash damaged the trucks fuel tank. The damage allowed diesel fuel to spill into nearby White Rock Creek. The hazardous material crew was on hand to clean up the spill and minimize its effects.

Our Grapevine, TX semi-truck accident lawyers have seen thousands of lives affected by large truck accidents and know that the effects of a crash can last long after the accident scene is cleared. We hope that the hazmat team was successful in cleaning the spill and that those living near the White Rock Creek were not negatively affected.

Santa Helps Texas DOT Discourage Drinking and Driving

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

In any given year, December is the most dangerous month for motorists. In December alone, approximately 2,400 alcohol-related accidents occur on Texas roadways. These accidents cause an average of 89 deaths meaning that every December over 80 families lose a loved one.

How Santa and His Reindeer Can Help

In order to bring attention to the very real threat that drunk drivers present during the holiday season, the Texas Department of Transportation has launched its annual drunk driving campaign. This campaign uses the familiar faces of Santa and his team to try and remind drivers to avoid getting too "cheerful" at holiday gatherings. One such ad features three of the sleigh team members and tells drivers, "Don't drive if you're tipsy, Buzzed or Blitzen. Call a cab or get a sober ride home."

In addition, the TxDOT Facebook page features Santa, who releases new games, recipes, and holiday driving tips each day of December. In order to access the interactive "31 Days of Holiday Cheer" campaign just visit the TxDOT Facebook page. "Like" it to get the information sent straight to your news feed.

Doing Your Part to Save Lives

As always, the staff and attorneys at the Dallas auto accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks ask that you make a plan for a safe ride home. Don't drink and drive. Arrive alive.

Study: Drivers With Road Rage Often Emotionally Unstable

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Researchers and scientists have been looking at a possible connection between road rage and emotional disorders. Psychiatrist Emil Coccaro believes that the overly aggressive outbursts seen in drivers with road rage may be a sign that the person is suffering from more than driver frustration.

Coccaro and others note that one cause may be Intermittent Explosive Disorder. Coccaro says that the disorder may be present in up to 6 percent of the population of the United States.

"These outbursts can be temper tantrums, throwing things around, breaking things, pushing, shoving, hitting people," said Coccaro.

Linking Road Rage and Emotional Disorders

Scientists are looking into whether those who frequently drive aggressively have a chemical imbalance that makes them prone to angry outbursts. Those suffering from Intermittent Explosive Disorder have been found to have lower than average serotonin levels. The lack of the "happy hormone" increases the risk that a person will not stop themselves before getting angry or upset.

In addition, people with the disorder produce too much of other brain chemicals. These chemicals can promote aggression. The reduction in behavior inhibition and addition of aggressiveness is a dangerous combination.

Treating Emotional Disorders May Lower Road Rage Incidents

Many a Dallas car crash has been caused by an angry driver. Now, scientists are hoping that those who often get angry while driving will take a closer look at the possibility that they may be suffering from an emotional disorder. Psychiatrists believe that antidepressants and mood stabilizers can help restore the brain's chemical balance and that cognitive behavioral therapy may help patients better control their anger.

The Dallas car accident lawyers at Guajardo & Marks hope that the information being gathered by the medical community will help reduce incidents of road rage in Texas and across the nation. If you have been hurt during an accident with an aggressive driver please do not hesitate to contact an experienced car accident attorney at 877.290.1382 for your free consultation.

Semi-Truck Caused Accident on 1-30 in Dallas, Damaged Overpass

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

A recent accident caused by a semi-truck on 1-30 in Dallas not only delayed traffic, but damaged a bridge and the pavement. The 18 wheeler crash took place on I-30 in East Dallas at the point where the interstate passes under the St. Francis Bridge.

Crews Carefully Inspect Bridge for Damage

The accident was reportedly caused by the driver of the semi-truck. According to police, the truck was carrying a high, oversized load when it struck the bridge. Although other vehicles were involved in the accident, no injuries were reported.

Engineers from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) were called to the scene to inspect the bridge. Police were concerned that the impact of the accident damaged the structural integrity of the overpass. Due to safety concerns, the St. Francis Bridge was closed to all traffic as were the westbound lanes of I-30.

While I-30 was open before rush hour traffic hit, the bridge remained closed for some time. The area of the bridge that was hit will need to be demolished and rebuilt.

Semi-Trucks do Serious Damage

There is no doubt that when semi-trucks crash, they do a lot of damage. The 18 wheeler accident attorneys at Guajardo & Marks are glad to see that while there was significant property damage done during the recent accident on 1-30 in Dallas, no motorists were injured.

Slick Streets Cause Unusual Dallas Semi-Truck Accident

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

An early winter rainstorm had an unfortunate effect on much of the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Multiple wrecks caused traffic delays and some serious injuries. Many of the crashes are being blamed on the suddenly slick city streets.

Dallas 18 Wheeler Wreck on I-30 Leaves Truck Hanging

One of the more serious, and bizarre looking, accidents took place on a highway overpass in Downtown Dallas. The semi-truck crashed through a guardrail on the Dallas Mixmaster, coming to a rest on both the upper and lower portions of highway.

While the trailer portion was stuck near the overpass, the cab of the truck was seen dangling from the trailer, resting on Interstate 30 and the I-35E interchange. It took crews hours to remove the wreckage and engineers were called to the scene to determine if the accident had damaged the overpass. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and by noon all traffic on I-30 was flowing smoothly.

Winter Weather Causes Accidents in Texas

Although Dallas has fairly mild winters, there are times when ice and snow cause real problems for drivers. As Dallas accident lawyers we have seen too many semi-trucks lose control during a winter storm, taking out all of the cars that surround it. As winter approaches, we urge you drive smart, slow down, and keep your distance from other vehicles, particularly large trucks. We are grateful that no injuries were reported in the crash on I-30, and hope that the highways remain safe.

Worker Stapled in the Head During Freaky Dallas Construction Accident

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

A construction accident victim in Dallas was recently injured in a way that most people don't get to live to talk about. 27-year-old Shaun Hunter was working on a construction site in Dallas, TX when the staple gun being used by a co-worker accidently fired. The three inch long metal staple penetrated his skull and sunk into his brain, yet Hunter not only lived through the injury, he is basically unharmed.

Luck Was on His Side

Dr. Fernando Silva is a neurosurgeon who worked to remove the staple. He is amazed at how well Hunter is doing.

"I've seen it, but not to the extent of the patient doing so well. This young man had no neurological defects, other than the headaches," said Dr. Silva.

Although the two-pronged staple went through his skull and pierced the frontal lobe of Hunter's brain, the only pain the construction worker felt was after the staple was surgically removed. According to doctors, the outcome could have been much, much worse. The dangers associated with an injury such as this include:

Permanent brain damage
Paralysis
Death
Loss of motor function
Bleeding in the brain

Not only did the injury miss all of the blood vessels in his head, but there has also been no detectable impact to his brain function. Hunter knows he's a lucky man, and credits both his faith and his doctors for seeing him through.

"I would say I'm just lucky. God was looking out for me. That and a good doctor," said Hunter.

The staff and attorneys at the Dallas construction accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks are happy to hear that Mr. Hunter was able to walk away from his accident virtually unscathed. We hope that his injury causes him no further pain and that he is able to get back to work very soon.

Lawsuit Filed After Deadly Fairview, TX Construction Accident

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The accident happened in a matter of seconds, yet it has forever altered two North Texas families. Workers were just finishing work on a sewer line in Fairview, Texas, when one man was overcome by fumes. While another worker went to get help, a third went down to try and rescue the initial victim, only to lose his life.

Lawsuit Claims Negligence

Now, the wife of one of the deceased workers has filed a construction accident lawsuit against the Mansfield construction company that employed him. Geronimo Cruz was killed in the accident, and his wife says that their five children are having a very hard time dealing with the loss.

"My three-year-old daughter screams that she wants to see her father," said Imelda Cruz, Geronimo's wife.

While it is standard for workers entering sewer lines to wear protective breathing gear and carry an air quality monitor, reports indicate that the workers were not wearing proper breathing equipment, nor was there any equipment found at the scene of the terrible accident. The lawsuit, filed in Tarrant County, alleges that S.J. Louis Construction of Texas showed gross negligence in the handling of work at the Fairview construction site.

The staff and attorneys at the construction site accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks would like to extend our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased workers. We hope that with time you are able to find some measure of peace.

Dallas, TX Attorney Fights for Air Marshal Blinded at Work

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Air marshals have a dangerous job. They may expect to be hurt while on duty, but certainly not during a training exercise. However, a Denton, TX air marshal was blinded during a training exercise in 2009 when his face mask failed to protect him.

Equipment Failure Causes Permanent Damage

During training near the Dallas/Fort Worth airport, air marshals participate in lifelike training exercises. Over the course of the training exercise, simulated bullets are exchanged between the "good guys" and the "bad guys." In November 2009, air marshal Shawn Parks was in the middle of this type of training when he was hit in the face with one of the bullets.

"I said, 'Ow, stop, hold,'" stated Parks in a recent interview. "When I took my helmet off, a round fell out. The projectile fell out. Right then, we knew, 'There's a problem here.'"

Parks was right. The simulated bullet had made its way between the plastic eye shield and the helmet, hitting his right eye and causing permanent loss of vision. According to a lawsuit recently filed by Dallas work injury attorney Mike Guajardo, the issue was not the safety of the training exercise but the failure of the safety equipment.

A Fix Comes Too Late

The faulty helmet was made by General Dynamics Corp. According to the lawsuit, the company was aware of the issue, yet did nothing to prevent injuries such as Parks'.

"You'd expect a company like General Dynamics to do a recall or at least warn customers or the end users of this potential problem and get the product off the market, particularly when they've seemingly developed a model that fixes the problem," stated Guajardo.

While General Dynamics has made changes to the helmet by improving the seal between helmet and eye shield, it is too little, too late for Parks. The air marshal will be unable to return to work and will be forever changed.

"You get your whole life kind of ripped out from underneath you," said Parks.

The lawsuit, brought against General Dynamics Corp., is asking that damages be paid to cover Parks':

Medical Care
Disfigurement
Physical Pain
Mental Anguish
Loss of Earning

If you have suffered a serious injury while on the job, contact a Dallas work injury lawyer at Guajardo & Marks today.

First Truck Crosses Mexico/U.S. Border in Laredo, TX

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Nearly seven years after the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was passed, the provision allowing Mexican trucks to cross into the United States is being put into motion. Recently, the first truck to cross the border under the agreement left Mexico, crossed the border in Laredo and headed to a Dallas suburb.

More Trucks to Follow - Will Truck Safety be Compromised?

Although many Mexican trucking companies are hesitant to sign up for the international trucking program, 10 have gotten on board so far.

In order to be allowed to travel into the interior of the U.S., Mexican trucks and truckers must comply with the same safety and drug testing standards that American trucking companies are held to. In addition, the trucks will be monitored to assess how many hours they have been driven. Still, many fear that allowing the trucks to travel north of the border is dangerous. They fear that it will cause more accidents in Texas and across the country.

The hope is that the safety measures will be effective in keeping dangerous trucks off the road. However, as Dallas semi-truck accident lawyers, we know that all trucks and truck drivers have the potential to cause a serious accident. While we are hopeful that the new trucking program will not increase the number of accidents in Texas, we will be watching this story carefully, looking to see if the cross-border trucks do more harm than good.

Worker Injured in Longview, TX Gets Severed Arm Reattached

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

While many construction accidents are serious, the work accident that took the arm, and almost the life, of a Longview, Texas worker was particularly terrible. Royce Reid was at work when he suffered from an accident that severed his arm. Reid was in serious danger of bleeding to death during the long trip from the hospital in Longview to Parkland Memorial in Dallas, TX. However, Reid not only survived the accident, doctors were able to reattach the arm that had been completely cut off from his body.

Experimental Procedure Saves Detached Limb

In a procedure that has not been preformed very often, doctors in Dallas were able to keep Reid's amputated arm functional by attaching the limb to his leg using an artery. According to plastic surgeon Dr. Bardia Amirlak, the seven hour journey the severed arm took to get to Dallas made chances of reattachment slim. However, he and his team took a chance that paid off.

"We hooked a tube up to the artery in the leg, and took it outside his body and transfused it directly into his arm to keep it alive," said Amirlak. "We did that while we were working on his bones and blood vessels to keep the muscle alive."

Thanks to the quick thinking of the team at Parkland Memorial, Reid, two months after losing his arm, is now able to hold his grandchildren. Though the road to recovery will be long, in the short time since his accident he is already regaining the use of his hand.

The staff and attorneys at the Dallas construction accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks hope that Mr. Reid continues to successfully recover from his serious accident.

NBC news story on products liability lawsuit

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Dallas personal injury lawyer Michael Guajardo has filed a federal products liability lawsuit against General Dynamics and its subsidiary, Simunition, claiming that a protective helmet they designed is defective. For the complete story, click on the link below.

Auger Accident in Temple, TX Severs Construction Worker's Arm

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

A very serious work site accident has been reported near Temple, Texas. During the Texas construction accident 56-year-old Richard Shows lost his arm just below the elbow.

The accident occurred inside a large trench at the intersection of FM 439 and Jamie Drive near Belton, TX. Workers were using a large auger to drill through the dirt while installing new water lines. Shows was on the platform of the auger, attempting to get down to the ground when he slipped. During the fall, he accidentally put his arm into an opening in the auger. The machine removed his arm just below the elbow.

As emergency crews rushed to the scene, fellow workers found the arm and were able to put it on ice, hoping that the limb could be reattached. Shows was taken by helicopter to Scott and White Hospital. At the time of this report there was no word as to the condition of Shows or if doctors were able to reattach the limb.

As is the case in most serious construction site accidents, OSHA may very well be called to investigate the scene. The government agency is tasked with determining the cause of the construction site accidents and to determine if any safety codes were violated.

The staff and attorneys at the Texas construction accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks hope that Mr. Shows is on his way to recovering from his serious injury.

Tyler, TX Man Sues After Being Injured During Accident in Dodge Truck

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

A couple from Tyler, TX has filed an extensive Texas car defect lawsuit against Chrysler. Chrysler is the car manufacturer responsible for the production of Dodge Ram pickup trucks. The lawsuit alleges that the car company failed to properly evaluate the strength of the truck's roof structure and that it did not work hard enough to prevent roof crush.

Though Kenneth Alan Young, the primary claimant in the lawsuit, was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the accident, he and his Dallas attorney believe that he could have been better protected against serious injuries. When the driver lost control of his vehicle on Interstate 20, the truck rolled over, causing the roof to collapse. Young believes that the roof structure was not properly enforced, allowing it to cave into the car more than it should have and leaving very little "survival space".

The lawsuit, filed against Chrysler Group in Texas, is seeking damages on behalf of Mr. Young for:

Impairment
Disfigurement
Interference with daily activities
Medical expenses
Lost wages
Court costs

As Texas motor vehicle defect attorneys, we know all too well that car companies often make serious design mistakes. These mistakes put the lives of car owners at risk. We wish Mr. Tyler the best and hope that he is able to win any damages he deserves.

Your Subaru May Catch Fire! Large Recall Ordered

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Owners of Subaru vehicles in Texas and across the country need to be aware of a disturbing recall notice. The notice was issued when the manufacturer discovered a serious defect involving the windshield wiper motor of affected Subarus.

Chance of Blocked Visibility and Fire

The defect involved in this recall causes the windshield-wiper motor to overheat. This, in turn has the potential to cause the motor to fail. If the motor fails during use, it can result in blocked visibility if the wipers become stuck in the middle of the windshield. In this case, they would be difficult to move and the driver could be forced to drive some distance with an obstructed view of the road.

The other potential hazard arising from the overheating is a fire. If the wiper motor was to get too hot, the motor itself could melt, causing a serious, potentially injurious car fire.

Subaru has asked that owners of nearly 200,000 Subaru Legacys and Outbacks to locate their nearest dealership and have the defect remedied as soon as possible. If owners cannot go directly to the dealership, they have been advised to refrain from parking their car in the garage or near any buildings. This precaution should be taken as a fire in the car has the potential to spread to surrounding buildings.

If you have any questions about the recall, contact Subaru directly or call your local dealership. If you have already be affected by the motor defect, and would like help getting reimbursed for your losses please contact an experienced Dallas motor vehicle defect attorney at Guajardo & Marks for your free consultation.

Buy a Volvo, Save Bambi?

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Did you know that over 1.09 million deer are killed by cars each year? The number is staggering, and it includes only deer, not moose, dogs or cats. Safety experts at State Farm estimate that these 1.09 million accidents cause upwards of $35 billion in damages each year. While hitting animals with your car seems like an inevitable occurrence, insurance companies, drivers and Bambi fans alike are hoping that emerging smart car technology might prevent many car/deer crashes.

Volvo Leads the Way

For many, the name Volvo is synonymous with safety. In order to keep this image intact and save the lives of both man and beast, the car company has begun installing City Safe units onto their vehicles. The active safety technology is attached to the windshield and detects either a potential collision or a pedestrian entering the roadway. The system applies the car's brakes, avoiding a potentially dangers accident.

Volvo hopes that this technology can be a crossover success, helping drivers stop the seemingly unavoidable accidents between cars and large animals.

Initial reports indicate that the technology does what is says it will. According to the Highway Loss Data Institute, Volvo's City Safe system reduced the number of vehicle damage claims by 27%. Similarly, insurance claims that involved injuries dropped by just over 50%.

The staff and attorneys at the Dallas car accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks hope that this technology, and others like it, continue to reduce accident rates and save lives; both deer and human.

Leaking Fuel Line in Volkswagen Prompts Recall in Dallas, Nationwide

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

While the official recall will not begin for a month, Volkswagen AG has announced that the German car maker will be recalling upwards of 160,000 cars due to a possible leaky fuel line. Clearly, this type of defect can be very dangerous and consumers should get their vehicles repaired as soon as possible.

Cars Affected by the 2011 Volkswagen Recall
The cars manufactured with the recalled part include:

Diesel powered 2009-2012 Jettas
2010 and 2011 Golf models
2010-2012 Audi A3 cars

All of the vehicles listed above, representing a total of 168,275 vehicles, are reported to have the same defective fuel injector line. During normal operations, the car's fuel injection pulses can coincide with the frequency of the number 2 injector line. This causes unnecessary vibration that puts stress on the fuel line. This stress can cause small cracks in the fuel line, allowing diesel fuel to leak out and possibly cause a serious fire.

Anyone who owns a car that they believe is part of the recall should take it into a dealership. Mechanics should install an improved fuel injector line for the number 2 cylinder and install vibration dampers on all of the injection lines. If you have any further questions, Volkswagen is encouraging you to contact them directly.

The attorneys at the Dallas auto defect law firm of Guajardo & Marks hope that the recall is handled quickly and that the defect does not cause accidents or injuries. Hopefully Volkswagen will continue to monitor the safety of their vehicles to prevent further defect recalls.

After Recalls Toyota Attempts to Woo Back Customers, Improve Image

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

One year ago, major recalls of Toyota cars sent the company's image as a safe, reliable car manufacturer into a tailspin. The dangerous defect caused multiple accidents in Texas and across the nation, and was blamed for several deaths. Now, Toyota is still struggling to repair its image. The latest step towards doing so involves setting up large research institutions and safety projects aimed at reducing auto deaths and injuries. Toyota has pledged $50 million to start and run its Collaborative Safety Research Center. The Center will focus on reducing motor vehicle related harm done to children, teenagers, and seniors. In addition to this effort, Toyota will be researching the effectiveness of driver's education classes, crash avoidance, accident reconstruction, and crash-data analysis.

Uphill Battle for Toyota

While these efforts may convince some to try Toyota and forgive them for their oversights, many are still upset over the massive recall. Last year's recall involved unintended acceleration, and the defect was to blame for both injuries and deaths. To date, Toyota has paid $48.8 million in recall-related fines. This figure is sure to grow, as the foreign car maker is still facing multiple lawsuits that would pay damages related to lost vehicle value, injury or death.

Only time will tell if Toyota's efforts will increase their sales and boost consumer confidence in the once trusted company. On the day it announced the new safety initiatives, shares in Toyota rose almost one percentage point, possibly signaling that the move will win over car buyers.

Who Crashes Most in Texas: Drivers Who are 16 or 18?

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Many assume that the youngest drivers - those with the least experience - get into the most accidents. However, in one year, fatal accidents involving 16-year-old drivers actually dropped by over 1,300. While this is fantastic news, there is a new, disturbing trend among another set of young drivers.

Fatal accidents that involved 18-year-old drivers shot up by 1,086. Why is this? Don't these older, more experienced drivers have the skills to avoid such serious accidents? Sadly, the answer is "No."

Safety experts in Texas and throughout the nation cite new, more stringent laws for 16 and 17-year-old drivers for both the rise and the fall in deadly accidents in teens.

Justin McNaull, director of state relations for the American Automobile Association stated that he believes "[Older teens] are saying, 'The heck with your more complicated process."

While 16 and 17-year-old drivers have to deal with a longer permitting time, driver's ed requirements, and rules prohibiting nighttime driving and carrying other teen passengers, most 18-year-olds are exempt from these rules. If young drivers wait to get their license until they are 18, they can obtain a full license in a matter of weeks - instead of months or even years.

The staff and Dallas accident attorneys at Guajardo & Marks hope that additional safety campaigns and a heightened awareness of the problem will help reduce the number of serious, deadly accidents in both Dallas and across the nation.

Correctly Buckling Your Children Could Save Their Lives

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

The non-profit group Safe Kids USA recently released a report that shows serious gaps in child seat safety. The study involved over 75,000 car seat checklists that were collected at inspection events nationwide. It found that, while there are many safe seats for children available, parents are too often unsure as to the best seat for their child and the correct way to install the seat.

LATCH System Underused

The LATCH installation system was implemented as an easier way to make sure that a car seat is properly installed. However, car seat technicians in Texas and nationwide find that parents often bypass the system and use the car's seatbelts. While this can be safe, getting a good fit is very difficult. According to Stephanie Tombrello, the founder of the child safety group SafetyBeltSafe, there is a simple answer as to why caregivers are not using LATCH.

"As always is the case when you make a significant breakthrough, people forget if you do not have a good maintenance level of publicity," said Tombrello.

Child Seat Safety is Up to Us, Texas

Our Texas accident attorneys want nothing more than to help you keep your children safe. While we all must work harder to safely secure our own children, we must also spread the word that having the right car seat can save a life. Free car seat checks are available in Dallas, Fort Worth and across Texas. Get your free check today and bring a friend. Doing so may save a child's life.

Waco Woman Injured During Accident With Large Truck

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Jaws of Life were used to rescue a Waco, TX woman involved in an accident with a large box truck. The woman, whose name had not been released at the time of this report, was traveling west on Valley Mills between Lake Air and Longfellow Drive when she collided with a box truck also headed west.

During the Texas large truck crash the woman's car, a silver sedan, was seriously damaged. The damage to the vehicle caused the woman to become trapped in the car. EMT's and police had to extricate the accident victim using the Jaws of Life. The woman was taken by ambulance to an area hospital. Her daughter, a passenger in the car, was not injured in the accident. The driver of the truck was uninjured as well.

Though the bumper of the truck came to rest not far from the woman's head, the large truck was not badly damaged.

As was the case in this accident, a crash with a large truck generally injures the occupants of the other vehicle. These injuries are often serious, even critical.

The staff and attorneys at Guajardo & Marks hope that the injured woman is on her way to fully recovering from her injuries.

Milam, Texas Construction Worker Hurt During Crane Accident

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

The construction trade is fraught with danger. Nearly all construction workers are injured on the job at some point, and some fatally. A recent accident reminds all of us that Texas construction site dangers abound.

A 49-year-old man was working at a construction site off County Road 135 in Milam County near Burlington, TX when he was struck by a falling object. The worker was positioned under a crane when a pulley block broke loose from the crane, striking the man. Three officers with the Texas Highway Patrol were first on the scene, followed shortly by EMS personnel and the Cameron and Burlington Fire Departments.

Initial reports indicate that a cable on the crane pulley system broke loose, causing the block to fall and hit the worker. The man was taken by helicopter to Scott and White Hospital in Temple, where he was treated for undisclosed injuries. Witnesses report that the injured worker was conscious at the scene of the accident.

Falling objects are an all too common cause of on-the-job injuries in Texas. On a construction site, falling objects, from building materials to heavy equipment, are a serious hazard. Injuries related to falling objects include cuts and lacerations, head injuries and broken bones.

The staff and attorneys at Guajardo & Marks hope that the injured worker is well on his way to making a full recovery.

Dallas Personal Injury Attorney Michael Guajardo Selected to Best Lawyers in America

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Dallas personal injury lawyer Michael Guajardo, with the law firm of Guajardo & Marks, LLP, has been selected by his peers for inclusion in the 2012 "Best Lawyers In America" for the practice area of personal injury litigation. Selection for the prestigious honor is based on a exhaustive and rigorous peer review survey comprising nearly 4 million evaluations by the top attorneys in the country. Michael Guajardo focusus his Dallas based personal injury practice on car accident cases and large truck or 18 wheeler wreck cases. For a free consultation, please contact Michael at 972.774.9800, or visit the firm's website at www.guajardomarks.com.

Injured Fort Worth Construction Worker Recovers From Face Transplant

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Six months have passed since Dallas Wiens underwent an amazing transformation. The Texas construction worker was seriously injured during a Fort Worth construction accident in which he was severely burned. While he survived the burns, caused by a power line, his injuries were massive.

After 22 surgeries Wiens was left with only a mouth and a bit of facial hair. His eyes, nose and the rest of his facial muscles were gone. The only solution that surgeons could offer was a whole face transplant. Wiens, whose primary concern was to be able to give his young daughter a kiss, agreed to the surgery.

The face transplant surgery took 15 hours and to date is the most complete surgery of its kind performed in the U.S. Wiens not only survived the surgery, he is doing very well. Wiens was able to give his daughter the kiss he had so missed, and doctors are optimistic that the transplant will continue to give Wiens a new lease on life.

Clearly, Wiens suffered from one of the most serious injuries associated with construction work. The staff and attorneys at Guajardo & Marks hope that Mr. Wiens continues to recover and live the life that, for quite some time, nobody thought possible.

Guajardo & Marks selected for Super Lawyers for 2011

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Dallas personal injury attorneys Michael Guajardo and Greg Marks, partners with Guajardo & Marks, LLP, have been selected by Thomson Reuters for Super Lawyers for 2011. This is a distinguished honor that recognizes attorneys for their achievements in their field of practice. Michael Guajardo has received this honor for years 2009 - 2011, and Greg Marks has received this honor for years 2007 - 2011. Guajardo and Marks are Dallas personal injury attorneys who handle cases involving car accidents, truck or 18 wheeler accidents, defective products and construction accidents.

Dallas Personal Injury Attorney Michael Guajardo Spoke At Recent Car Wreck Seminar

Sun, 18 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Dallas personal injury attorney, Michael Guajardo, with the Dallas injury firm of Guajardo & Marks, LLP, spoke last Thursday at the El Paso Trial Lawyer's seminar on car wrecks. Mr. Guajardo's speech was on the topic of deposing and cross examining the defendant driver. Mr. Guajardo emphasized the importance of conducting a full investigation in preparation for taking the defendant's deposition. "Our clients deserve us pulling out all the stops when we prepare for the defendant's deposition. A successful deposition can oftentimes lead to getting the case settled," Guajardo explained. For more information on car wreck lawsuits, please visit www.guajardomarks.com.

Dallas Personal Injury Attorney Michael Guajardo Speaks to El Paso Lawyers on Car Accidents

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Dallas personal injury lawyer, Michael Guajardo, with the injury law firm of Guajardo & Marks, LLP, is an invited speaker tomorrow at the El Paso Trial Lawyers Association seminar on car accidents. Mr. Guajardo is speaking on the topic of deposing and cross examining the defendant in car accident cases.

Honda Recalls Almost 1,000,000 cars World Wide

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Honda is recalling 936,000 cars worldwide from its Fit and CR-V lines to replace the master switch for the cars' power windows. A design flaw can allow residue from window cleaners to accumulate, which over time can degrade the switch's electrical contacts and potentially cause a fire. No injuries have been reported from the problem, which affects 80,111 cars in the United States from the CR-V's 2006 model year.

Honda is also recalling cars from its CR-Z compact hybrid line that are equipped with a manual transmission. A software bug could allow the motor, under some conditions, to rotate in the opposite direction from the transmission's gear -- allowing the car to, for example, roll backwards when the transmission is in forward gear. No injuries have been reported. Honda plans to fix the problem with a software upgrade. The recall affects 26,000 vehicles worldwide, including 5,626 cars in the United States.

Driver Sentenced in Deadly Wichita Falls DUI Accident

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

George C. Powers was driving across the Wilson Overpass on U.S. 82 near Wichita Falls when he made a fatal error. Powers, later found to be at least three times over the legal limit, was driving the wrong way on the road when he slammed into 22-year-old Diann Siple.

Siple was critically injured and later died from her injuries. Two other people in the car were injured as well, one seriously. Powers received only minor injuries during the tragic accident.

Right before his trial was to start in a Clay County courtroom, Powers pled guilty to one count of intoxication manslaughter and two counts of intoxication assault. The plea deal comes with a 20 year sentence. By pleading guilty before the trial started, Powers gave up his right to probation during his 20 sentence. The Clay County District Attorney, Jack McGaughey, was happy with the sentence.

The staff and attorneys at the Dallas accident law firm of Guajardo & Marks are glad to see that the case has been resolved. Our hearts go out to the friends and family members of Diann. We hope that the sentence gives you some measure of peace and closure.

Dallas Researches Work to Save Overheated Soldiers

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

A group of researchers from the Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas have been working on a research project that could have implications across the globe.

The team has been looking at a possible correlation between injuries that cause bleeding in soldiers and high body temperature. Their findings have shown that it may be possible to save the lives of overheated, injured soldiers by cooling their bodies.

The small scale research project involved 11 men in their 20's. In order to heat their bodies and skin, replicating the heat stress soldiers and others are exposed to, the men wore special heating suits. Researchers monitored the test subjects blood pressure, cardiac output and resistance to blood being pumped throughout the circulatory system.

Initial findings from the study indicate that quick cooling of the injured person's body is an effective way to slow blood loss and save lives. Researchers hope that their findings save not only soldiers but firefighters, police officers and construction workers as well. Craig Crandall is a professor at UT Southwest Medical Center and is optimistic that the findings can be applied to overheated people in many career fields.

"Fire fighters are often in high-heat environments when fighting structure fires," Crandall said. "But fire fighters and police officers are also outside wearing their full uniforms and are at higher than average risk for an injury that could involve bleeding. Construction workers who are outside in the summer heat of North Texas also face the same perils if they're injured on the job."

The Dallas, TX construction accident attorneys at Guajardo & Marks hope that this promising research leads to fewer deaths in the battlefield and on the job site.

Big Brother Focuses in on Teen Drivers

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Parents of teenagers want to trust their children. They want to believe that they will drive safely and go where they say they will. However, many don't believe that their Texas teen drivers will make the right decisions, scared by the number of accidents involving teens that occur in Texas each day.

To help parents keep tabs on their children, OnStar has announced that they will soon be offering trials of Family Link. According to the company, the technology will allow concerned parents to "stay connected to their loved ones when driving an OnStar-equipped vehicle."

By signing onto a website, the owner of the vehicle will be able to see exactly where there car is, and where it has been. They can also get automated email or text message alerts to let them know when the car has moved.

OnStar is not the only company taking advantage of new technology and parents desires to keep tabs on their children. MobileTEEN will record not only the location of the vehicle, but also how fast the car has traveled.

We All Want Safer Teen Drivers

However, it will be up to parents to decide if they are willing to take this step into monitoring their young driver. Many parents already use social networking to see what their kids are up to. Is this just the newest way to protect your kids or is it taking this concern too far? Only time will tell.

FDA finds massager to pose unreasonable risk to health

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Federal Drug Administration has warned consumers and health professionals that the Shoulderflex Massager poses an unreasonable risk to health. There have been reports of at least one death and one near strangulation as a result of clothing and/or jewelry getting entangled in a rotating part of the device. The Shoulderflex is distributed by King International. Over 11,000 units have been sold since 2003.
It is recommended that the components of the Shoulderflex Massager be disposed of separately so that the device cannot be reassembled. King International's plan for recall is currently under review by the FDA.

Not a Jedi Mind Trick- Drivers Can Stop Cars with Their Thoughts

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Think you have lightning quick reflexes? How about mental agility? Are you ready to take on Darth Vader, using nothing more than your thoughts?

Watch out Darth Vader

While it seems more like science fiction than reality, a new study involving "neuroergonomic" braking system monitors a drivers' brain patterns, detecting the intent to stop due to an emergency driving event. This technology, which works through electrodes attached to the scalp, allows drivers to stop 130 milliseconds faster than normal braking alone. This means that with the brain activated braking system in place, the driver, while traveling at 62 mph, was able to stop one car length sooner.

Quicker Response Time Means Fewer Accidents in Texas

While this doesn't seem like a vast improvement in braking time, the quicker response time can make a big difference in the severity of an accident. Crashes that occur at even slightly slower speeds cause proportionately fewer injuries and casualties; if you are going slower at the time of an accident you will be hurt less.

So far this new technology has only been tested in a simulated driving situation. However, researchers will soon be trying it out on real cars. While you won't see this, or other assistive technology components this year in Texas the pace at which they are being tested and produced means that they will make their appearance sooner rather than later; the force is strong in this one.

Lack of Proper Grout Injured Two San Antonio Construction Workers

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Investigators have released their findings regarding a construction accident that occurred in San Antonio, TX in February. The accident occurred when an unfinished parking garage near University Hospital collapsed. Amazingly, the collapse, which affected 16,000-square-feet of the structure, injured only two construction workers.

At least 120 workers were at the site and were able to escape shortly before the collapse occurred. Of the two injured workers one was seriously hurt and received medical care and rehabilitation treatment at the Reeves Rehabilitation Center at University Hospital. He was released from the facility in March.

After a six month safety and causation study, a Houston based structural and engineering firm determined that the collapse was caused by a lack of grout. The grout should have been installed on large columns but it wasn't. Under the weight of the structure, a temporary bracing was not strong enough to hold the building up.

Ongoing safety checks will be performed at the site, in an attempt to avoid further accidents. There was no word as to what the injured workers were offered for workers compensation.

The staff and attorneys at Guajardo & Marks hope that the injured workers are well on their way to making a full recovery from their injuries.

DALLAS ATTORNEY MICHAEL GUAJARDO HONORED BY TEXAS BAR FOUNDATION AUGUST, 2009

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DALLAS ATTORNEY MICHAEL G. GUAJARDO HONORED BY TEXAS BAR FOUNDATION

Michael G. Guajardo with Law Offices of Michael G. Guajardo. PC has been elected to membership in the Fellows of the Texas Bar Foundation. Fellows of the Foundation are selected for their outstanding professional achievements and their demonstrated commitment to the improvement of the justice system throughout the state of Texas. Election is a mark of distinction and recognition of Mr. Guajardo's contributions to the legal profession.

Selection as a Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation is restricted to members of the State Bar of Texas. Each year one-third of one percent of State Bar members are invited to become Fellows. Once nominees are selected, they must be elected by the Texas Bar Foundation Board of Trustees. Membership has grown from an initial 254 Charter Fellows in 1965 to more than 7.500 Fellows throughout Texas today.

The Texas Bar Foundation is the largest charitably-funded bar foundation in the country. Founded in 1965 by lawyers determined to assist the public and improve the profession of law. the Texas Bar Foundation has maintained its mission of using the financial contributions of its membership to build a strong justice system for all Texans. To date. the Texas Bar Foundation has distributed more than $10 million throughout Texas to assist nonprofit organizations with a wide range of justice-related programs and services. For more information, contact the Texas Bar Foundation at www.txbf.org.

MILLION DOLLAR ADVOCATES FORUM HONORS MR. GUAJARDO PRESS RELEASE, FEBRUARY 2009

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Million Dollar Advocates Forum is pleased to announce that attorney Michael G Guajardo of Dallas, TX has been certified as a life member of both the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.

The Million Dollar Advocates Forum is recognized as one of the most prestigious groups of trial lawyers in the United States. Membership is limited to attorneys who have won million and multi-million dollar verdicts, awards and settlements. The organization was founded in 1993 and there are approximately 3000 members located throughout the country. Fewer than 1% of U.S. lawyers are members. Forum membership acknowledges excellence in advocacy, and provides members with a national network of experienced colleagues for professional referral and information exchange in major cases. Members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum must have acted as principal counsel in at least one case in which their client has received a verdict, award or settlement in the amount of one million dollars or more.

Members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum must be Life Members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and must have acted as principal counsel in at least one case which has resulted in a multi-million dollar verdict, award or settlement. Mr. Guajardo has been approved for membership in both the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.

Michael G Guajardo is a graduate of Texas Tech University School of Law.

Contact the Law Offices of Michael Guajardo today, 972-774-9800.

Ex-Cowboys player seeks damages for injuries from facility collapse

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

A player injured in last year's collapse of the Dallas Cowboys practice facility is suing companies associated with the team and the companies involved in the structure's construction.

Tight end and long snapper Jamar Hunt, a free agent who sustained a neck injury when the tent-like building fell during a rookie camp, is the first player to sue over the incident.

"It pretty much knocked him out of football altogether," Dallas attorney Michael Guajardo said of his client.

The suit accuses Summit Structures LLC of Allentown, Pa., and its Canadian parent, Cover-All Building Systems Inc., of poor design and construction of the facility. It also says entities controlled by Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones would have discovered problems with the building had their outside engineers checked Summit and its related company's work. The Jones companies named in the lawsuit are Blue Star Development Co., Blue Star Land L.P. and Cowboys Center Ltd.

Hunt's filing also accuses Summit companies of misleading the Cowboys about the quality of repairs made to the building in 2008.

"This misrepresentation was a producing cause of the injuries sustained by Jamar Hunt," the suit says.

The 86-foot-tall practice facility fell apart during a thunderstorm in May 2009. Of about 70 people inside, 12 were injured as they tried to flee. Scouting assistant Rich Behm was paralyzed below the waist. Special teams coach Joe DeCamillis suffered a broken neck but was not paralyzed.

Behm and DeCamillis also sued Summit, Cover-All and the Jones companies over the incident. They settled out of court with Summit and Cover-All earlier this year. The terms of those agreements, which did not include the Jones companies, were not made public.

Hunt is suing the companies by intervening as a plaintiff in DeCamillis's suit.

The Jones businesses, meanwhile, also are suing Summit and Cover-All.

Guajardo said that he had to overcome legal procedures arising from Cover-All's bankruptcy filing before he could file the suit, which was filed in Dallas County District Court in April.

He said Hunt, who attended the University of Texas-El Paso, now lives in Utah and works in sales. He said while Hunt sustained the kind of injury that many veteran NFL players' careers overcome, his client didn't have a history in the league that made teams want to overlook his injury.

"With a rookie who doesn't have a proven track record in the NFL, the teams are reluctant to take them," he said.