Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury

Each year, there are an estimated 4.6 million people impacted by Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in Canada and the United States.

One of the leading causes of TBI is concussions. Most of us who have experienced trauma from an injury, fall, or car accident do not look for the signs and symptoms of TBI because they can be very mild initially.

It is crucial to understand the need to take any injury seriously so you can act quickly, especially a concussion, which can stem from TBI.

TBIs stem from a concussion or your head being violently jolted. TBI can also result from a bullet or anything sharp used as a weapon to shatter pieces of a personal skull.

Brain injuries and their symptoms or signs are still being researched, which means there is still no permanent or concise list created to give us 100% of the ways TBI will affect an individual.

Nevertheless, there is still an established list of what happens when trauma impacts the brain and what signs you need to take seriously.

What Should You Be Aware of With Trauma and The Brain?

Below are some of the most common TBI symptoms you may experience and should take seriously:

* A severe headache or migraine

* Numbing of toes and fingers

* Feeling nauseous or having continual vomiting spells

* Feeling confused and speech is slurred

* Seizures or convulsions

* Loss of coordination

* Clear fluid that begins to drain from the nose or ears

 

Head Injury Lawyers and their Help with Compensatory Damages

The majority of head injuries occur as a result of car or motorcycle accidents, falls, blunt or traumatic head wounds, accidents, or violence. Seeking the advice of a traumatic head injury attorney is your next best step if you want to know if you are eligible for any head injury compensatory damage. Most brain injuries are classified as statutory accident benefits, including medical and rehabilitation costs.

All the TBI loss categories are intended to help you replace any financial loss you’ve suffered as a result of your serious head injury. These losses also include property damage, funeral expenses, and the costs of what is considered monetary loss replacement. The more difficult damages to calculate usually involve abstract or less tangible losses with infinite value.

There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all monetary loss figure for non-economic damages. These include mental anguish caused by the loss of companionship, pain, suffering, or emotional distress. There is also no clear-cut formula for assessing and calculating the damages you may be entitled to as a result of your brain injury.

The good thing about hiring a reputable and knowledgeable TBI attorney is that you optimize and maximize your legal chances of receiving the compensation you require and deserve. Darfoor Law Firm specializes in Personal Injury Claims. Darfoor Law will not only get you the brain injury medical professionals you need to help you recover from your TBI, but we will also get you the economic and non-economic damages you require. Contact us today at +1-833-327-3667 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

 

 

How to Avoid Raging Drivers in Florida

 

Road rage happens because of frustrations while driving such as being cut off by another driver, being forced to sit behind a slow vehicle, and many more. It is normal to be frustrated and angry with such situations but you need to make sure that you handle it properly. Road rage can escalate quickly and may cause accidents on the road. Below are things to remember if you are dealing with raging drivers:

Avoid making any gestures or signals back. Make no rude or obscene gestures toward the other driver, such as shaking your fist or flipping them off. These crude gestures can exacerbate road rage and increase the likelihood that the other driver will make a careless decision that leads to an accident.

Get out of the way. When you notice a driver behaving aggressively around you, try to move out of the way. Allow them to pass you by changing lanes. Allow them to pass, if necessary, by pulling over to the side of the road.

Keep calm. You may find it difficult to avoid responding once the cycle of rage has begun. To retaliate for the aggression directed at you, you may accelerate your own vehicle or cut the other driver off in traffic. However, by not responding, you can prevent an angry outburst from becoming a more serious incident.

Pay attention to a driver following you. Is there a raging driver on your tail? To keep yourself safe from a raging driver, you may want to avoid going to an isolated destination or leading the driver straight to your home. If you feel worried about how a driver might treat you after an incident of road rage, change your plans and head to a place where you can count on assistance if needed.

Do not get out of your car. If possible, avoid getting out of your vehicle. You do not want to start a physical confrontation, and your vehicle can offer some protection from the raging driver.

Summon the police if needed. If you believe an aggressive driver is endangering you or others, call the police, or if an aggressive driver follows you and gets out of the car to threaten you. Before using your cell phone or voice recognition technology to call 911, make sure you stop in a safe location.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury because of someone else’s road rage, evidence of road rage can aid in the prosecution of the other driver in an accident. A lawyer can assist you in better understanding the compensation you are entitled to as a result of your accident and in pursuing that compensation, including gathering evidence of road rage in the other driver.

Contact Darfoor Law Firm at +1-833-327-3667 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

 

 

PREVENTING ACCIDENTS ON MOTORCYCLE ROAD TRIPS

It is a goal or a dream for a lot of Americans to get on their motorcycle and hit the road. Road trips are exciting and empowering. It is a great way to have adventures. However, no matter how fun, it does have risks.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motorcycle drivers are far more likely to be involved in a fatal accident than drivers of cars. In 2019, the NHTSA found that when comparing miles traveled, motorcyclists were about 29 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a crash. They were also 4 times more likely to be injured.

Motorcycle drivers need to know the risks they face on the road and prioritize their safety. Below are the top risks to motorcyclists:

Other Drivers on the Road

Other drivers are one of the biggest concerns that motorcyclists must deal with. Drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol cause more fatalities on the road every year. On the other hand, even sober drivers can be a problem. Motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles on the road, which means that some drivers may not notice them quickly.

Some of the other hazards that other drivers pose include:

  • Suddenly opening a door while parallel parked on a roadside, creating a sudden obstacle in the road
  • Cars changing lanes without signaling
  • Drivers not noticing you and therefore not braking in time to avoid a rear-end collision

Hazardous Road Conditions

The condition of the road can be a major problem for motorcyclists. When driving on a gravel road, you must take into consideration your speed, taking turns, slowing, and stopping. Potholes and poor road conditions are the cause of countless accidents every year. It is critical to advocate for proper road maintenance in your city to protect drivers from injury caused by hitting a rough patch of road and potentially losing control.

Inclement Weather

Inclement weather is one factor that can contribute to dangerous road conditions. Snow, ice, standing water, and rain are all hazards that motorcycle riders will face on the road. Ice can be hard to see, particularly black ice. Slipping on ice can cause you to lose control, lay your bike down, or even flip your bike. Standing water can cause hydroplaning, which occurs when a vehicle loses contact with the road and glides on top of the water. Hydroplaning means losing total control of your bike, with far more serious consequences than in a car or truck. Rain reduces visibility for you and other drivers on the road, so many bikers choose to pull over during storms and wait for the storm to pass.

Reckless Driving

Last but not the least, reckless driving is a common cause of motorcycle accidents.

Below are ways to decrease your risk of being injured in a collision while you are out driving a motorcycle:

  • Always wear a helmet, no matter how long or short your ride is going to be.
  • Get a bike that fits you. Make sure you can handle the bike you are riding.
  • Anti Lock brakes may not be standard, but they effectively reduce fatalities. If your bike does not have antilock brakes, ask your mechanic if they can be added, or make sure to get anti lock brakes on your next bike.
  • Do not assume you already know everything there is to know. Motorcycle safety courses can strengthen your knowledge and skills.
  • Make sure you purchase and wear the right gear, including a leather jacket, long pants, gloves, and good footwear. You need to wear this gear, even in the summer.
  • Practice defensive driving and be vigilant as you respond to other drivers on the road.
  • Avoid driving in inclement weather.
  • Watch for hazardous road conditions, including rocks, gravel, sand, bumps, potholes, and more.

If you have been injured in an accident while driving your motorcycle, you may be overwhelmed by the best way to move forward. It is best to have an experienced personal injury attorney on your side who is ready to listen and has genuine care and compassion.

At Darfoor Law Firm, we will guide you in every step of the way and we will do everything to protect your claim so you can receive the compensation you are entitled to.

Contact us today at +1-833-327-3667 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Should I Stay at the Scene If I Witnessed a Car Accident?

Witnessing a car accident firsthand requires remaining calm, cool, and collected in the face of traumatic circumstances. Your next actions will be determined largely by the severity of the accident and the extent of the injuries, but there are some general guidelines to follow. Below are some things to remember if you have witnessed a car accident:

Do not panic. If you simply witnessed a car accident, you are not legally required to remain at the scene. It is, however, the right thing to do. In the future, the people involved may require assistance from a witness like you.

The victims may be unable to dial 911 due to their injuries. If you were the only witness in a car accident and you decide to leave, the victims could be in trouble and may not be able to ask for help. If it happens in the future and you have a minute to spare, your support could be beneficial.

If you decide to continue driving, avoid becoming an obstacle to any approaching emergency vehicles or causing a traffic jam. While it is often tempting to observe the activity of first responders on the scene, this can lead to risky distracted driving behavior. Instead, concentrate on the road ahead of you to avoid being involved in a car accident.

However, if you decide to remain at the car accident scene and offer your help to the victims, there are also guidelines for handling the situation and is needed to be kept in mind:

Drive safely until you can find a place to park and exit your vehicle. Do not cause another car accident while attempting to assist the victims of the first.

As soon as you are in a safe area, call 9-1-1 and report the accident. Provide as much detail as you can to the 911 operator.

While emergency services are on their way, you can choose to approach the car accident scene. Approach with caution, keeping an eye out for distracted drivers, and if possible, stay on the sidewalk. Because the car accident may have resulted in dangerous road debris such as broken glass, you should proceed cautiously.

Try to find out if everyone is okay right away at the scene. If it’s something you know you can handle, there’s no harm in offering a helping hand, but proceed with caution. You don’t want to be involved in a civil liability suit.

If the victims are in shock, attempt to calm them down with words. As the primary witness, you can try to figure out what happened. Request a rundown from everyone, and you should have a nice summary for authorities.

Car accidents can be just as nerve-wracking to witness as they are to be a part of. If you or a loved one have been injured due to someone’s negligence, you may contact Darfoor Law Firm to assist you in getting the compensation you are entitled to.

Call us at +1-833-327-3667 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

 

 

 

 

 

How Road Rage Increases Car Accident Risk in Florida

At some point or another, almost everyone has experienced anger on the road. Some circumstances on the road might trigger unexpected frustration. Some people express their anger by just yelling inside their cars, honking their horns angrily, or making rude gestures. Unfortunately, road rage frequently escalates quickly. An angry response from one raging driver can set off another. Then, instead of simply expressing anger, road rage behaviors seek retaliation. On the highway, this could mean:

 

  • Cutting off the other driver in traffic

 

  • Speeding

 

  • Tailgating

 

  • Refusing to share the lane or pushing another driver out of the lane

 

  • Running red lights or stop signs

 

  • Ignoring pedestrians or other vehicles in crosswalks or on the road

 

  • Deliberately bumping or slamming into another vehicle

Anger decreases judgment. Not only does anger increase the odds that a driver will act in ways they would never do under normal circumstances, but it can also impair overall judgment and cause the driver to make poor decisions, such as running red lights instead of stopping for them.

Road rage can impair response time. The immediate response is critical to avoid accidents in a vehicle traveling at high speeds. Not only do many raging drivers choose to speed, which requires faster responses to avoid an accident, but those drivers may also have slowed response times due to their rage. Unfortunately, this significantly raises overall accident risk.

Road rage leads to dangerous behaviors. Tailgating, for example, may prevent a driver from stopping in time if the driver in front slams on the brakes or must make an abrupt stop. Running red lights or stop signs can put a driver in the middle of traffic at a dangerous intersection, putting not only the driver who caused the road rage in danger but also other drivers in the area.

Anger may cause unpredictable driving behavior. Other drivers have no way of knowing what a driver during a road rage attack will do next. As a result, those drivers may struggle to choose their own actions on the road, increasing the chances of colliding with a raging driver by accident.

Evidence of road rage can aid in the prosecution of the other driver in an accident. A lawyer can assist you in better understanding the compensation you are entitled to as a result of your accident and in pursuing that compensation, including gathering evidence of road rage in the other driver.

Contact Darfoor Law Firm at +1-833-327-3667 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

 

 

 

 

New Year Celebration Safety Tips and Reminders

As we all look forward to a brighter 2023, it is only right to celebrate the upcoming new year and all our achievements in the current year with our loved ones and friends. Celebrating the new year can be fun but we must all do our best to prioritize our safety and avoid actions that may cause danger to our family or anyone celebrating.

Below are hazards that can be a potential danger during year-end celebrations:

  • Uncontrolled Alcohol Consumption
  • Distracted Driving
  • Party Safety
  • Fireworks Safety
  • Pet Safety

Uncontrolled Alcohol Consumption

There is no problem in enjoying a couple of drinks while celebrating the new year, however, it is important to remember the following:

  • Consume alcohol in moderation. This will help minimize health risks and harm to yourself and others.
  • Know your limits. It is best to stop consuming alcohol if you sense yourself losing control of your behavior. This way, you are safe and do no harm to others.
  • Drink water. It is best to stay hydrated during parties.

Distracted Driving

After midnight, New Year’s Eve celebrations come to an end, and millions take to the roads and public transportation to return home. The sheer number of travelers, combined with the inevitability of irresponsibly impaired drivers, makes for a dangerous evening on the roads and one of the deadliest days for drunk driving.

  • Have a designated driver. This is the simplest way to prevent unnecessary accidents on the road.
  • Have a backup plan if you do not have a designated driver. Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft provide convenience and increased safety so take advantage of them.
  • Always stay attentive and aware when behind the wheel. People at the other end of distracted driving and drunk driving accidents can’t control the actions of others. So even if you haven’t had a sip of alcohol, the best thing you can do is to pay attention to your surroundings when driving on New Year’s Eve.
  • Put the phone down – that text or call can wait. It is critical to keep your eyes on the road, especially with more people out and about on New Year’s Eve.

Party Safety (Party Hosts Reminders)

  • Do not provide alcohol to minors. Keep an eye on all drinks and supplies.
  • Offer non-alcoholic drink options and have plenty of water available.
  • Stop serving alcohol several hours before the party ends.
  • Provide food and snacks so guests are not drinking on an empty stomach. Avoid salty snacks, which can encourage people to drink more.
  • Research numbers for local hospitals and authorities and have them ready in the case of an accident.
  • Make sure smoke alarms are working
  • Contact a local cab company to provide rides for your guests, or have a trusted designated driver ready to take guests home if necessary.
  • Provide guests with a place to stay overnight should they need to.

Fireworks Safety

  • Keep children safely out of harm’s way. If something does go wrong, the farther they are from immediate danger the better.
  • Never light fireworks indoors.
  • Never point fireworks at anyone or anywhere other than straight up toward the sky.
  • Keep fireworks away from flammable material, even before opening, and always handle them carefully.

Pet Safety

  • Animals – especially dogs – are more sensitive to loud, harsh noises than humans. If you have pets at home or in your neighborhood, it might be best to avoid fireworks altogether.
  • Keep them indoors and wrap them in a blanket while the fireworks are going off outside.
  • There may be hazards and debris on the ground during, or after, a New Year’s Eve celebration. When walking your dog, keep your eyes peeled to avoid remnants of glass or fireworks on the ground.

Have a safe and fun New Year’s Eve! If you or a loved one has been injured during the holidays because of someone else’s negligence, contact us at Darfoor Law Firm and we will give you the best service you deserve. Call us at +1-833-327-3667 for a free consultation and case evaluation. Happy New Year!

 

Safety Tips for Bicyclists in Florida

A lot of residents in the State of Florida prefer and enjoy bicycling because it is a form of excellent exercise, it is environmentally friendly, and the year-round weather here provides an ideal setting for the said activity. But unfortunately, bicycling accidents still happen around the US and Florida is consistently one of the states that contribute to the number of bicycle accidents in national rankings. Because of this, it is important that every bicyclist understand safety measures he or she can undertake to help stay safe on the road. Below are safety measures that bicyclists should do to help themselves stay safe on the road:

Before leaving, it is best to:

1. Map out a route in advance

2. Wear a helmet that fits properly

3. Make sure your bicycle is in good working order

4. Never drink or do drugs before riding your bicycle

5. Try to avoid nighttime rides or riding in bad weather

6. If you must ride at night, wear reflective gear, or attach panels to your clothes

7. Fully charge your cell phone so that you have it if an emergency arises

While on the road, you should:

1. Obey signs and traffic signals

2. Stay in the designated bicycle lane

3. Always travel in the same direction as cars

4. Lookout for and avoid road hazards like potholes and cracked concrete

5. If wearing headphones, ensure you can still hear what is happening around you

6. Use hand signals and call out before changing lanes or turning

7. Avoid distracting behavior such as using your cell phone while riding

 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident due to the fault of someone else, Darfoor Law Firm is here to help you and give you the best service you deserve. Accidents can be tough to deal with and you need someone who will understand, sympathize, and fight for you. You may contact us at +1-833-327-3667 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

 

 

 

 

Teaching Kids about Fireworks Safety

Setting off fireworks is traditional and a classic thing to do in the US and around the world. It is fun and amazing to watch. Unfortunately, it only takes one mistake for you or your child to suffer a serious injury. Below are some safety tips to consider during the New Year’s celebration:

Enjoy Fireworks Safely and From a Distance

Whether you are setting off rockets or firecrackers this New Year’s Eve, your kids will want to join in on the fun. But to ensure safety, kids should never set off fireworks on their own and should never be allowed to play with firecrackers. Before your family gets carried away setting off rockets, make sure to keep your kids at least 10 feet away. You can always tell them they will get a better view from a distance. Give a large perimeter if any of your neighbors are also lighting off fireworks. A single error might cause a rocket to launch in the wrong direction.

Light a Sparkler at Arm’s Length

Almost every adult may recall a time when they played with sparklers as a kid, but we bet you also recall the burn you had when one hit your skin or face. Remind your older children to keep sparklers and poppers at least an arm’s length away from their faces, clothes, and other kids. Take away the sparklers if your children start to tease or bother one another with them. They might cry, but not quite as much as they would if they were struck by a spark.

Enjoy a Professional Show

The easiest way to avoid a firework-related injury is to let a professional handle the show. You may sit back and relax with your kids while watching a fireworks display instead of launching your own. This way, you have ensured safety and still have fun and celebrate the festivity.

Avoid Illegal and Homemade Fireworks

Illegal fireworks are being sold on the internet and even on the side of the road nowadays. To avoid running afoul of these illegal – and extremely dangerous – fireworks, always check the label. Legal fireworks will always have a manufacturer’s name and directions on how to use them, while illegal fireworks will lack any obvious safety instructions.

If your child is injured due to someone’s negligence, you may contact Darfoor Law Firm at +1-833-327-3667 for a free consultation and case evaluation. Have a happy holiday!

 

 

 

 

 

What to Do if You are involved in a Rental Car Accident during the Holidays

Rental cars are vehicles that are rented from a national or local company that provides cars for daily or weekly use. A person borrows a car for a set period of time and then returns it with no ownership of the vehicle. When there is an auto accident involving a rental car, the at-fault driver’s insurance company usually pays for the rental car’s damages. If the person driving the rental car was at fault in the accident, their insurance will usually cover it. What the insurance company will cover depends on whether the injured person obtained additional coverage when renting the car from the company. Many times, the additional coverage looks first to the person’s primary insurance and only steps in when that policy is insufficient to cover the loss.

Anyone dealing with any type of accident involving a rental car should keep in mind that each case is fact specific and understand all the insurance policies that are available. A car accident attorney can also be a great key in determining what insurance is available in each case.

Fact Patterns Surrounding Florida Accidents

Florida has a large tourism industry. This means that the number of people who rent cars are high especially during the holiday season. Because of that, one major fact pattern in these accidents is that the at-fault driver is driving a rental car. Many rental car accidents occur as a result of drivers who are unfamiliar with the local streets and traffic patterns and failing to pay close attention.

Rental car accident cases are no different than any other case. When a car collides with another car, pedestrian, motorcycle, bicyclist, or tractor-trailer, it can involve rear-ending collisions, side-impact collisions, rollovers, and head-on collisions. Injuries can include broken bones, internal organ damage, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries, depending on the type of accident that occurred.

As with any other type of car accident claim, when a person is injured due to another’s negligence, they can bring a claim against the at-fault driver. A car accident attorney from Darfoor Law Firm can be a great help in determining fault and bringing the right claim against the appropriate party.

Whether you were in an accident while driving a rental car or were in an accident caused by someone driving a rental car, it is critical to understand your rights. However, navigating rental car insurance can be difficult. You may contact Darfoor Law Firm and we will give you the best service you deserve. Call us at +1-833-327-3667 for a free consultation and case evaluation

 

 

 

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT A FREE CONSULTATION WITH A PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER

If you or a loved one have been injured due to someone’s negligence, having an attorney can be a great help in getting the justice and compensation to which you are entitled to. The first step to getting compensation after your accident, and after you have sought medical attention, is scheduling a consultation with your chosen lawyer. Below are things you should know about a free consultation with a personal injury attorney:

You Will Have the Time to Know the Attorney

An initial consultation is not only about the attorney getting information about your case, but also, about you learning about the attorney. This will be the perfect time to get to know them and decide whether you want to work with them or not. You can freely ask questions about the attorney’s experience in his/her field. You should also take the time and think if you are comfortable with the attorney handling your case. Once you feel like you can trust the attorney and have the right answers to your questions, you can now determine if the attorney you are having a consultation with is the right one for you.

Do not feel pressured and obligated to hire an attorney after a free consultation. Most personal injury attorneys offer no-obligation consultations, so, at the end of the day, you still have the choice to choose which one you want to work with.

Use Your Time Wisely

Although the consultation is free, there is a big chance that the consultation time will be limited. It is best that you make good use of every minute and arrive at your consultation early and prepared. You can prepare your questions in advance. During the consultation, feel free to ask as many questions as possible but prioritize the important ones.

Provide A Detailed Statement of Your Accident

Making good use of your consultation time means you give relevant facts and good details of your accident to the attorney. This will help the attorney evaluate your case and in turn, help you to get compensation and justice. The attorney will be able to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the case if you give accurate details.

Ask About Fees

It is also very important to discuss fees with the attorney to avoid a surprise or disagreement as the case pursues. Darfoor Law Firm works with a contingency fee. A contingency fee means an attorney works in return for a percentage of a settlement, verdict, or jury award. If a personal injury attorney works on a contingency fee basis, the attorney only gets paid if a client receives a settlement, verdict, or jury award.

Discuss Statute of Limitations

It is imperative to inquire about the statute of limitations if your injuries occurred some time ago. If it has been some time since your injuries, you may want to know if you are still eligible to file a claim and receive compensation.

Darfoor Law Firm specializes in Personal injury Claims ranging from car accidents, slip-and-fall, and other injuries. Do not hesitate to call for help if you need it. Contact Darfoor Law Firm and have a representative that will understand, sympathize, and help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us at +1-833-327-3667 for a free consultation and case evaluation.