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Personal injury suit and comparative negligence after Reno crash? On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Mar 02, 2016 After the dizzying effects of a car accident injury, an injured party often has many questions. What happened and who are to blame are high on the list of questions that people involved in the crash usually have after a Reno car accident. You may even be wondering about your actions leading up to the crash and if they hold any weight of responsibility. But even if you are partially responsible for a car accident, you can still receive compensation if another party was also responsible. This is what is called comparative negligence, which is essentially that two or more parties are responsible for a car accident. To what percentage each party is responsible is called apportionment of fault. For example let's say that a car is in the left lane, yielding to oncoming traffic before making a left turn, and does not see the oncoming vehicle speeding 20 miles over the speed limit. The two cars collide when the car makes the left turn. The person turning should have noticed the oncoming vehicle, but the driver going straight should not have been speeding. This is an example of comparative negligence because both parties share a percentage of fault for the crash. Depending on how the state's comparative negligence law is construed will determine how at fault each party is for the crash. Percentage of fault and the injury costs will determine how financially responsible one might be for their own, or another driver's injuries. No one is perfect, and people make mistakes behind the wheel every day. However, when an accident involves two drivers, there is usually a way to determine who is more at fault. An investigation into a car accident that caused injuries will turn up clues as to who is more responsible. To prove that another driver was equally or more negligent and thus financially responsible will require effort from the injured party. Source: FindLaw, " Comparative Negligence ," Accessed Feb. 27, 2016

Looking for trends and common dangers in Nevada crashes On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Feb 26, 2016 Nevada authorities and governing bodies are trying to drive Nevada to zero deaths. While this is a great goal to have, the reality is that hundreds are injured and even killed on Nevada roads each year. A compilation of crash statistics point to some common causes and repercussions for those injured in such a crash. It is clear that the consequences for being involved in a car accident can be quite severe both for an injured person's health and for their finances. According to the most recent accessible data from the Nevada Department of Transportation, Washoe County was one of the leading counties as far as number of car accidents occurring within. This is true of crashes involving property damage, as well as those leading to fatalities. The annual financial costs to the entire state total around $1.8 billion in medical expenses, property damage and other expenses associated with personal injury from car accidents. The data shows that many car accidents result from secondary reasons like drunk driving, distracted driving or driving too fast for conditions or for the posted speed limit. All of these reasons can support a personal injury claim after a car accident. Negligence is something that occurs when a person's actions cause injury to another person. Because cars often operate at speeds well exceeding 60 mph, a car accident can happen in the blink of an eye. Despite many good driver's best intentions, a car accident can happen even if a responsible driver is doing everything properly. For those who have unjustly suffered losses to health or finances, there are ways to seek compensation. Negligence is often the cause of motor vehicle accidents due to irresponsible or distracted driving decisions. Health is one of the most cherished and sought-after goals in life. Those who put others' health and well-being in jeopardy, they should be held accountable. Source: nevadadot.com, "Nevada Traffic Crashes 2010," Accessed Feb. 22, 2016

Reno man found guilty on charges of DUI and hit-and-run On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Feb 17, 2016 You can never be too careful these days. This is becoming even more evident after details of an alleged DUI hit-and-run that occurred in Reno came to light in a criminal trial that was decided last week. The details of the crash were presented in criminal court and a guilty verdict was reached. This is helpful to the man who was severely injured in the drunk driving accident because it proves that the actions of the driver were criminal and therefore likely negligent as well. This is true because criminal trials have a higher standard of proof than personal injury suits. The facts of the case are that a man was traveling on his scooter when he was struck by a Dodge Ram on Forest Street. Witnesses provided a description of the crash and the driver of the truck, describing that the victim had the right of way at the intersection. The driver of the truck drove off before police arrived, but was quickly found at a nearby house. An investigation into the man's actions before colliding with the man on the scooter determined that he had consumed alcohol and marijuana before getting behind the wheel. This was confirmed with evidence in his blood analysis taken shortly after the crash where he had alcohol and marijuana levels above Nevada's legal limit. The man who was struck on the scooter suffered what were described as serious injuries that most certainly required significant medical attention and thus significant medical expense. For this conviction, the man faces up to 40 years in Nevada state prison. Unfortunately, no sentence can turn back the hands of time and undue the serious injuries that the victim on the scooter suffered. Medical expenses, lost wages and loss of quality of life are all possible legal damages from such an accident. A civil suit can help victims and their families recoup financially from some of these hardships. Source: kolotv.com, " Man found guilty after week long DUI hit-and-run trial ," Pat Thomas, Feb. 3, 2016

Motorcycle accident victims need to think long-term about injury On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Feb 10, 2016 Most motorcyclists in Reno are well aware of the certain risks associated with operating a motorcycle. While many motorcyclists are safe and responsible drivers, some drivers in other motor vehicles are not. When an irresponsible driver accidentally comes into contact with a motorcyclist, the results can be catastrophic. Injuries after being struck on a motorcycle have many possibilities. One potential outcome is permanent disability. These kinds of injuries can make walking, lifting or even standing for long periods of time impossible due to the pain or inability of a body part to function like it once did. In addition, injuries like this can result not only in immense medical expenses, but can also leave the victim unable to work and earn a living. If the person that struck the motorcyclist is at fault, they and their insurance company can be held responsible for the financial issues surrounding this type of life-long injury and medical condition. However, legal claims like this do not work themselves out on their own; they need to be initiated by the injured party. At , we do our best to ensure justice for our clients. Every injury and situation is different and requires careful attention to detail to ensure the best possible result is achieved for the injured party involved in a motorcycle accident. The immediate issues may have been addressed after an accident that caused an injury. But what about the long-term questions or concerns for those injured in a motorcycle accident? Don't leave it to chance. Our firm's website has helpful information for people who need more information about pursuing a legal claim stemming from a motorcycle accident.

Whiplash common after Reno crash; injury known by what symptoms? On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Feb 03, 2016 After a Reno car accident, whiplash is a common complaint. But, what exactly is whiplash? This term is given to pain that a person experiences from a jolting type of injury. For example, whiplash is most commonly associated with motor vehicle accidents. Contrary to popular belief, high-speed car accident s are not a pre-requisite for whiplash injuries. Whiplash is a common soft-tissue injury that affects the neck, head and spine. Also, the symptoms and injuries associated with whiplash do not always make themselves known right away. Hours or days after a car accident, an accident victim can suffer from tightness and stiffness in the neck, serious neck pain, dizziness, headaches, problems with balance and equilibrium, back pain, memory problems or even difficulty concentrating. Because of the injuries associated with whiplash after a car accident, there are often significant medical expenses associated with such an injury. Emergency medical treatment after a car accident, rehabilitation costs and loss of wages are all common expenses that occur after a car accident. When someone was negligent in a crash that caused such injuries, they should be held responsible for their actions. Whether a person is suffering from whiplash symptoms or other injuries related to a car accident, there are legal options available. Car accident injuries are serious and need to be treated as such. Whiplash can occur immediately following or even days after a car accident has occurred. This is why it is important for accident victims to monitor their health in the immediate days surrounding a crash in order to determine if they are in fact injured. Source: FindLaw, " Whiplash-Related Injuries ," Accessed Feb. 1, 2016

Spinal cord injury can send life into a tailspin On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Jan 29, 2016 With all the advances in modern medicine, one would think that there are no or few illnesses or injuries that would be insurmountable. Sadly, this is not the case for those who suffer serious injuries such as a spinal cord injury. Spinal cord injuries can range from mild to severe. This means that some Reno spinal cord injury sufferers can have their life changed in an instant. If this drastic change in health is due to the negligence of another, the injured party and their family should consider holding them accountable for their mistake. Negligence is a term to describe an action that is described as "careless' that ends with the injury or damage to another. For example, a negligent driver involved in a car accident is one who operated their vehicle in a careless way that resulted in the injury of another. With an injury as serious as a spinal cord injury, there can be many lifelong medical conditions associated with such an injury, such as paralysis. When negligence strikes, the legal experts at have the know-how and abilities to help spinal cord injury sufferers obtain the financial help they need and deserve to get through a difficult time. At , we understand what you and your family have been going through. With more than 50 years of legal experience in personal injury cases. We only focus on accident claims. This ensure that our focus is understanding the detailed nuances of injury law, insurers' defense tactics and how to secure the evidence necessary for a successful settlement with a spinal cord injury claim.

NV man seriously injured in car accident caused by drunk driver On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Jan 20, 2016 When it comes to operating a motor vehicle, it requires utmost attention and care in order to best prevent car accidents and the injuries related to them. This is why it is so crucial that Reno drivers today do not engage in intoxicated driving behaviors. This is because impaired drivers are at an awareness disadvantage due to the physical and mental effects of alcohol on the brain. Unfortunately, a Nevada driver did not heed the warnings both social and legal that should deter intoxicated drivers from getting behind the wheel. This poor choice by an intoxicated Nevada driver of a Lexus in the early morning hours this week resulted in a crash with two other vehicles. It all started when the intoxicated driver of the Lexus when traveling the wrong way on the 215 Beltway near Warm Springs Road, heading west in the eastbound lane. There was then a collision with two vehicles, one carrying three passengers who sustained only minor injuries and one vehicle driven by a man who was seriously injured in the drunk driving accident. He was then airlifted to the trauma unit shortly following the accident. According to the Nevada Highway Patrol, the driver of the Lexus is facing felony charge of DUI with accident resulting in substantial bodily harm, and misdemeanor charges of driving the wrong way and seatbelt requirement. What this means for the injured drivers is that it could be much easier to prove a civil case with a criminal conviction for felony DUI. There is a lower threshold of proof in personal injury cases and it can help to compensate injured parties for injuries, property damage and lost wages just to name a few. A wrong way, intoxicated driver is certainly grounds to seek reparations, if injured. It can be hard to determine what drivers may be operating their vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. That is why all responsible Reno drivers should be on alert at all times, day, night or otherwise. For those that have already suffered the damages it is rarely, if ever, their fault if involved in a wreck with a drunk driver. Consider your options if you have suffered injury after a crash with a drunk driver. Source: reviewjournal.com, " Two hospitalized after wrong-way crash on 215 Beltway ," Christian Bertolaccini, Jan. 17, 2015

Reno workers can become victim of drunk driving accident injuries On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Jan 15, 2016 As a manual laborer, Reno workers may operate trucks, work construction or some other labor-intensive occupation. With this type of job, most take orders as to what to do and when to do it. That's why it makes car accident injuries due to a drunk driver so tough to swallow. For those hurt in a car accident with a drunk driver during a work job or work hours, there may be compensation available. The compensation could potentially be two-fold. Compensation related to workers' compensation and compensation related to a personal injury tort for injuries sustained in a drunk driving accident. Lost wages and medical costs are serious financial concerns for families who have been affected by a family members car accident injuries. There are so many reasons that those adversely affected by a drunk driving accidents during work hours may have questions during this difficult time. Questions about how to proceed with claims or litigation is our specialty. At Bradley, Drendel and Jeanney part of our job is to educate you on your legal position. The other part consists of advocating as strongly as possible on our client's behalf. This double-pronged approach allows those seeking help to feel comfortable and allow for the best possible results. As much as the process may seem daunting and confounding at this point; we want those overwhelmed to stress no more. All can be well if the proper actions are taken to seek retribution for injuries wrongly sustained. Those responsible for personal injury should always be held accountable. The experts at Bradley, Drendel and Jeanney know just what to do in the toughest legal situations.

Texting and driving is illegal On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Jan 08, 2016 On their daily commute, many Reno drivers have been witness to illegal behavior. No, we aren't talking about speeding, tailgating or erratic driving. We are talking about illegal cell phone use, specifically texting and driving. The state of Nevada has strict laws about texting and driving. There is a state-wide ban on hand-held cell phone use in Reno and all Nevada cities. This includes activities such as texting and driving. Texting and driving is dangerous because hands leave the steering wheel and eyes leave the road during texting. For those who have been injured in a car accident where distracted driving is suspected, there may be a chance for compensation. Bodily injuries and property damages are reason enough reason to seek compensation due to negligent driving. However, many injured Reno residents also suffer additional financial burden such as lost wages due to serious injuries sustained in the crash. Whatever the reason, holding a negligent driver responsible after engaging in distracted driving behavior such as texting and driving can make all the difference for the injured and their families. No one can turn back the hands of time, however, the injured can decide how to proceed after a car accident resulted in injuries. Texting and driving is absolutely not allowed while driving in Reno and is considered distracted driving behavior. If determined that texting and driving was a factor that caused a car accident, the negligent driver can be held responsible. At least Nevada has a strict no texting and driving law in place to help protect Reno drivers. Source: ghsa.org, " Distracted Driving Laws ," Accessed Jan. 4, 2016

Medical expenses caused by a drunk driver can be compensated On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Dec 31, 2015 There are so many reasons that health is the top priority for Reno residents. Sometimes a person's health can be compensated when they are involved in a car accident. Car accidents can have many repercussions including but not limited to medical expenses and lost wages due to serious injuries sustained in the crash. Car accidents can happen for many reasons with one of them being accidents caused by a drunk driver. If a driver was intoxicated at the time of a car accident and caused you or a loved one injury, it is important to understand that the injured party has options. In order to have the best case possible, it is important to do the proper research in order to compile facts and proof related to an injured person's claim. Medical records and bills, police reports and witness accounts can all help build an injured person's case alleging negligence. After all of the information that is introduced to the injured and their family, it is understandable how confusing it can be. The professionals at Bradley, Drendel and Jeanney understand that this may be all new to you and that you have a lot on your plate right now. Health is a top priority and if a drunk driver put your or a loved one's health at risk after serious injuries sustained in a drunk driving accident, consider your legal options. No one should be expected to bear the burden of serious injuries due to a drunk driving accident alone. While you or anyone else cannot turn back the hands of time, you can change what happens in the future. This comes only with the correct mindset and preparation. Understanding that you have the choice and the ability to be compensated for serious injuries sustained in a drunk driving accident is a big step. The next step comes with taking action by examining all of the legal options available to injured people and their families.

What are some of the dangers facing Reno motorcyclists? On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Dec 24, 2015 The freedom and fun that motorcycles bring their operators and passengers is unsurpassed by any other mode of transportation. This is one of the main reasons that motorcyclists choose to travel this way. With all that freedom and fun does come some risk. Motorcyclists are about 26 times more likely to die in a crash than someone riding in a passenger car, and are five times as likely to be injured. With these crazy statistics in mind, there must be certain factors contributing to such motorcycle injuries and fatalities. Sometimes other motorists are partially or completely responsible for the injuries or fatality a Reno resident suffered in a motorcycle accident. Unique to motorcyclists are issues afflicting them more than any other type of vehicle on the road. There are issues of road hazards and visual recognition on Reno roads since motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles and thus harder to spot. When motorcycles are harder to spot, passenger vehicles may fail to yield to oncoming motorcyclists and can potentially strike them broadside. Obviously injuries resulting from this would be catastrophic to the motorcyclist. Oncoming traffic poses a huge threat to motorcyclists because if one loses control it could be devastating for the motorcyclist as far as bodily injury. Serious injuries due to a negligent driver should be appropriated for. A full investigation of a motorcycle accident can help to determine if another driver was at fault for injuries a motorcyclist suffered. Understanding how data and evidence can contribute to a personal injury suit is important to reaping financial benefit. There are many ways to go about this. Experts can help point the injured and their families in the right direction. Source: FindLaw, " Motorcycle Accidents: Overview ," Accessed Dec. 21, 2015

Information to collect after a truck accident On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Dec 18, 2015 Trucks transport the goods and services necessary to keep our households and businesses running. While trucks are a necessary and important part of our economy, they can also be dangerous to those that travel alongside them on Nevada roads. Trucks can weigh several tons and any collision with another vehicle can result in serious injuries to other drivers. Those injured in truck accidents are likely to have enormous medical expenses, property damage, lost of wages loss of quality of life and other damages. Truck accidents can easily lead to fatal injuries, and in these cases, surviving family members may, in addition to the emotional turmoil of losing a loved one, suffer financial damages such as loss of income. Personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits involving a truck accident can be very complicated. In addition to the serious damages the victims and their families face, the question of liability in a truck accident can be more complicated in a truck accident case than in other types of motor vehicle accident cases. The truck driver may be held liable, but often so too may be the driver's employer or other businesses involved with putting the truck on the road. Whenever possible, it is a good idea for affected families to collect some basic information about the truck accident that may help establish fault and negligence. These can include the name of the trucking company, the truck driver's name and commercial driver's license number, the truck's license plate and other identifying details. An attorney with experience in truck accident matters can help the injured or their family members to understand their legal options.