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Black Friday Shopping Safety Tips

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When the busiest shopping weekend of the year arrives, take some extra precautions to protect yourself, your purchases, and your personal information.

In The Store

From fistfights to identity theft, shopping at Black Friday sales brings a few safety risks. Consider these holiday shopping safety tips:

  1. Keep your purse close to your body or your wallet in an inside coat pocket or front pants pocket.
  2. Don’t argue or fight over an item.
  3. Don’t take your money out until asked to do so.
  4. Use only one credit card. Should something happen, you can reduce the risk of having multiple cards compromised.
  5. Save your receipts and monitor your credit card activity.
  6. Ask for help moving and loading large items if needed.
  7. If shopping with children, select a central location to meet just in case of separation.

In the Car

With so many people out and about, you may encounter aggressive drivers on the road. Don’t add to the problem. Remember to drive defensively and don’t allow road rage to rise. Parking lots can be dangerous too, so be on guard:

  1. Be patient when looking for a parking space. Don’t speed up to catch that empty (or soon-to-be empty) spot and be cautious of other drivers who do.
  2. Park your vehicle in a well-lit area.
  3. Look around and under your vehicle before approaching it.
  4. Store shopping bags, out of plain sight, in your trunk if possible.
  5. Look for other cars or people and back out slowly.

On the Internet

Opting to join Black Friday or Cyber Monday from your couch? You still need to be on the lookout. Stick to retailers you know and never commit to a deal that seems too good to be true.

Types Of Injuries

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Under the law, a personal injury is any harm that you, as an individual, sustains including physical injuries, financial costs and emotional trauma. Injuries can also be personal losses such as losing the care and companionship of a loved one.

As you work to resolve your claim, you may hear insurance adjusters, lawyers and doctors talk about different degrees of injuries. You may hear injuries described as minor, moderate, severe or catastrophic.

Minor and Moderate Injuries

Minor or moderate injuries can be injuries such as sprains, strains, fractures, bruising or superficial cuts. These may be painful, but they usually heal well and quickly with minimal medical treatment.

Soft Tissue Injuries

You may also hear insurance adjusters refer to “soft tissue injuries.” Soft tissue injuries are injuries to the non-bony parts of the body such as internal organs, nerves, muscles and connective tissues. Sprains, whiplash and pulled muscles are all types of soft tissue injuries. Some soft tissue injuries can result in chronic pain and disability, which can be permanent if not treated properly. Typically, it is harder to recover substantial compensation in these types of cases compared to the cases involving serious or catastrophic injuries.

Catastrophic Injuries

A catastrophic injury is a serious injury that is expected to permanently change the victim’s life. Examples of this type of injury include burns, amputations, spinal cord injuries, paralysis and certain head injuries. These types of injuries result in the most significant settlements and verdicts because the injuries can be proven objectively and are more obvious to the insurance company and/or the jurors.

Although catastrophic injuries are immediately obvious in most cases, sometimes the full extent of the injury is not immediately revealed. This is especially true when the victim suffered a traumatic brain injury, which may also be called a closed head injury. In some cases, the brain may be affected in ways so subtle that only people close to the victim notice changes in his or her abilities, behavior or personality. A concussion is the mildest form of brain injury, but more serious brain injuries leave their victims permanently disabled.

If you’ve been injured in any accident caused by another driver’s negligence, call Joe and Martin at (843) 357-8888 to discuss your rights and legal options during a FREE, comprehensive case evaluation.

Selfie Photo

Selfies, Statuses, and How Social Media Can Undercut Your Personal Injury Claim

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Some pieces off advice bear repeating again and again… and again. One of them is about being careful about what you post on social media. This guidance typically gets brought up as it relates to job hunting or family matters, but it’s just as paramount in personal injury cases.
It’s important to understand that if there is evidence that undermines your personal injury claim — it can be and very likely will be used against you. That’s why a status update, message to friends, and even selfies need to be submitted with absolute scrutiny so that insurance companies or defense attorneys don’t use them to their advantage.
In the case of personal injury, it’s typical to file claims asking for compensation for medical bills or for the suffering caused by the physical injury. Social media can threaten these claims. For instance, imagine you’ve filed a claim for a serious injury caused to you because of being rear-ended in your car. A posted photo of you at the beach can be taken out of context to show you are faking your injury. This is exactly the sort of evidence that may sway a jury’s opinion — leaving you without compensation for medical bills, inconveniences caused by pain, and psychological distress.
Many people believe they have a greater entitlement to privacy than they do. The hard truth is, just about anything you send, submit, post, or share is up for grabs to create a defense against you. Insurance companies and defense attorneys will use whatever they can to poke holes in your claim. Just because your messages to your friends are private to you, doesn’t mean it can’t be used against you.
Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken after a personal injury accident. We suggest converting all social media accounts to private to at least narrow down the audience of who sees what you share. Second, examine very, very carefully what you decide to post before you post it. Does it insinuate you’re healthy and happy, despite making a personal injury claim arguing you’re not? Then don’t post it. The same goes with your family and friends. Kindly ask them to refrain from positing about you for the time being. It’s not easy removing ourselves from the social media sphere temporarily, but respecting the process of winning a personal injury claim is well worth it in the end.

Fourth of July Firework Injuries

Tips for a Safe Fourth of July

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There’s nothing like the sticky heat of summer on a July evening lit with colorful fireworks. The Fourth of July marks our nation’s independence and has become a time of celebration with our families, friends, and neighborhoods. Everything turns red, white, and blue to mark the Declaration of Independence across the country. Plus, there are plenty of fun activities planned across Myrtle Beach and South Carolina that range from boat parades to concerts to fireworks over the beach. Whatever you decide to do this holiday, these Fourth of July safety tips can help keep you and your family out of harm’s way.
Fourth of July Firework Injuries
Firework Safety Tips
Fireworks have become an iconic symbol of the Fourth of July, right after the American flag. If you and your family are planning on setting off some of your own fireworks, keep these Fourth of July safety tips in mind:

  • Keep the fireworks outside! Never light them inside.
  • Keep water on hand just in case. A hose nearby is ideal.
  • Make sure to read the instructions—and the caution label—before lighting any fireworks.
  • Don’t drink and light! Drinking can impair your judgment.
  • Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes when using fireworks.
  • If a firework doesn’t go off, wait 20 minutes and then place it in a bucket of water. Don’t try to relight it.
  • Make sure to soak all used fireworks with water before tossing them in your outdoor garbage. Just because they don’t look lit, doesn’t mean they aren’t.

The first week of July is notorious for firework accidents. Last year, a professional football player even injured his hand lighting fireworks. Every year around the Fourth, 200 people check into the emergency room with firework injuries. Don’t be a statistic—if you choose to set off fireworks, follow the instructions, use proper safety equipment, and stay sober.
Beach Safety Tips
With the gorgeous South Carolina beaches, there are bound to be plenty of people in the sand and surf this holiday. The Red Cross advises beachgoers to:

  • Have young children and those who can’t swim wear a life jacket,
  • Follow the lifeguard’s instructions, and
  • Beware of rip currents (remember, swim parallel to the shore when caught in a rip current until you are free).

Check the weather before heading out and consider bringing along an umbrella or tent to provide some shade. And of course, pack plenty of sunscreen and apply liberally.
Grilling Safety Tips
Who doesn’t love setting out the grill for the Fourth? If you’re planning on grilling corn on the cob, burgers, or even pizza, make sure to follow these grill safety tips:

  • Tell the kids to run elsewhere and steer clear of the grilling area.
  • When you set up the grill, make sure it isn’t too close to anything that can burn like deck railings, eaves, and low branches.
  • Remove any grease that has built up.
  • Don’t go crazy with the lighter fluid if you’re using charcoal. You can always add more.
  • Make sure someone is always on grill duty. Don’t leave the grill unattended.

If you have any foods set out for a picnic, bring along plenty of ice packs. Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot to lessen the chance of food contamination.
General Fourth of July Safety Tips
However you choose to spend the holiday, there are a couple of no-brainer safety tips that you should always follow. If you plan to be outside, make sure to use sunscreen. And if you plan on drinking, assign a designated driver beforehand. There’s never an excuse for drinking and driving.
We hope these Fourth of July safety tips help you and your family enjoy a fun Independence Day!

Fourth of July Firework Injuries

Stay Safe on the Road this Fourth of July

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Over the Fourth of July holiday, many drivers will be traveling to spend time with family and friends and watch the fireworks. Holidays are the most dangerous times to be on the road according to the National Safety Council, and while most people will be celebrating, careless drivers are more reckless making it hard to avoid getting in a serious accident.
Fourth of July Firework Injuries
Here are four tips to stay safe on the road this Fourth of July:
1. Driving while intoxicated.
Alcohol-impaired driving crashes accounts for nearly one-third of all traffic related deaths in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). More than 10,000 people were killed in 2015 as a result. Avoid putting yourself and others at risk by not driving after you are intoxicated. If you plan on celebrating with alcohol, always make sure to have a designated sober driver who will take you home, or find another method of transportation such as an Uber, Lyft, Murrells Inlet Taxi Cab or public transit.
2. Drive defensively.
Be cautious that other drivers may not have avoided driving under the influence.  If you’re driving to or from Fourth of July festivities, always practice defensive driving techniques to give yourself ample time to react to hazardous drivers.
3. Buckle up.
This is the most basic rule when you get into a car, but it is also the most important. Wearing a seat belt can save not only your life, but also your passengers. Without exception, you should ALWAYS buckle up when you are in a moving vehicle. Encourage all passengers to wear one as well.
4. Allow additional travel time.
With many people out on the road for the Fourth of July holiday, there will likely be more traffic on the road, increasing travel times. If you’re planning on getting out of town for the weekend, make sure to account for the extra time it may take you to get somewhere. You don’t want to find yourself behind schedule and feeling like you need to speed. Make sure to plan ahead and obey the speed limits.
For a FREE consultation, contact Joe and Martin Injury Attorneys today.

stages of a personal injury case

Stages of a Personal Injury Case

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All cases have different aspects to them, but the basic stages of a personal injury case usually remain consistent.  At Joe and Martin Injury Attorneys, we work to get you the best possible result. Do not hesitate to ask any questions regarding the development of your case. If questions arise, contact your attorney or client manager, who can schedule a telephone conference with your attorney.
stages of a personal injury case
To help give a basic understanding of how a case may progress, read about the five stages below:
1. Pre-Litigation/Pretrial Stage.
This stage forms the foundation of the litigation process. It is here where attorneys engage with you, the client, in order to get a general idea of the case. This stage also includes gathering all of your medical records and bills and talking with your healthcare providers to ensure we have a full understanding of your injury.  This is also they stage we may work with your health insurance provider.  We also investigate how the injury happened, and collect liability insurance policies and limits of coverage.
2. Demand-Settlement Negotiations Stage.
During this stage, attorneys on both sides of the matter will negotiate to attempt to come to a common agreement between their clients. If this negotiation is successful, both sides can avoid going to trail.
3. Litigation/Trial Stage.
This stage is where the attorneys present evidence and argue in front of a judge or jury. Almost all personal injury cases are tried before a jury of residents of the county the action is tried in.
4. Settlement-Closing Stage.
During this stage, parties can settle on an agreement any time before judgment is delivered. If the parties allow the decision to go to the judge or jury, then they will make their final arguments during this stage.
5. Appeal and Post-Judgment Motions Stage.
At this stage, attorneys may appeal a negative judgment or make a motion for a new trail.
For a FREE consultation, contact Joe and Martin Attorneys today.

7 Summer Boating Safety Tips

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With summer just around the corner, many people will be gearing up to hit the open waters for adventure. No matter what type of boater you are, from avid to beginner, it is important to keep safety top of mind. first always to help reduce your risk of injury or being in an accident. Follow these 7 helpful tips to reduce your risk of injury or getting in an accident.
Summer Boating Tips
Check the weather.
It’s dangerous to be out on any body of water during a storm or extremely windy conditions. Check your local weather before you head out and don’t take any risks. According to DiscoveryBoating.com, if you notice darkening clouds, volatile and rough changing winds or sudden drops in temperature, play it safe by getting off the water. Make sure to also take a portable radio just in case the weather changes while you are out.
Make a Pre-Departure List.
Making sure that you are prepared for any possible scenario on the water is vital when taking sail. Following a pre-departure checklist is the best way to make sure no boating safety rules or precautions have been overlooked or forgotten. A pre-departure list should include: life jackets, sound producing devices, lights, distress signals, tools and spares, fuel and oil, fire extinguishers, ventilation, bilges, battery care, docking and anchoring tools, rules and documentation and emergency locator beacons. For more details about this list click here.
Use Common Sense.
There aren’t as many rules for the water as there are for the road, so using your common sense is a must. This means operating at a safe speed (especially in crowded areas), staying alert and steering clear of large vessels and watercraft that can be restricted in their ability to stop or turn. Also, be respectful of buoys and other navigational aids, all of which have been placed there to ensure your own safety.
Take a Boating Course.
No matter if you are a beginner or expert, everyone should familiarize themselves with all boating safety rules of operation. It is always important to learn and be prepared for every circumstance that could arise. Boater education requirements vary by state; however, some require validated completion of at least one boating safety course. Look locally for a course or online to help educate yourself.
Use life jackets appropriately.
According to DiscoverBoating.com, the majority of drowning victims are a result of boaters not wearing their lifejackets. Make sure every person on board has a lifejacket that fits.
Be mindful of cold water, especially during the spring, as low temperatures reduce your margin for error.
Loading/unloading your boat.
To decrease the risk of capsizing, don’t overload your boat with passengers or gear . A helpful tip to help with this is to always abide by the boats capacity plate that is typically located near the boats operator’s area.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a boating accident, don’t wait. Contact Joe and Martin Injury Attorneys for help.