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Eight Tips to Prevent Distracted Driving

Posted on by Zreyna Law

Distracted driving is not an uncommon sight in Texas, as almost one-fifth of all car accidents in Texas involved a distracted driver in 2019. Even though Texas has prohibited reading, writing, and sending electronic messages on a mobile device while driving since September 2017, thousands of Texans are still injured and even killed every year in distracted driving accidents. When a driver engages in any activity that takes their attention away from the road while they are driving, they become a distracted driver. There are many different types of distractions, all of which reduce the amount of time a driver has to react to sudden changes ahead and to the sides of their vehicle. To help prevent distracted driving, and decrease the chances of getting into an accident, follow these eight driving safety tips.

  1. Avoid temptation: Do not talk or text on your cell phone while driving. Before starting your trip, turn off your phone and keep it off until you reach your destination. The National Safety Council reported that hands-free phones are as much of a distraction as handheld phones. Even talking on the phone can take your attention away from the road. Keeping your cell phone out of sight – in a glove box or center console – will keep your mind off of it and on the road.
  2. Pull over to text and call: If you have to make a call or respond to a text, take the time to pull over to a safe and legal place. In Texas, it is illegal to text while driving; and, some Texas cities have stricter laws in place that prevent handheld use of a mobile device while driving. While on the road, the only time you should use a cell phone is in case of emergency.
  3. Plan your route: Waiting until you are already driving to program your GPS takes your eyes off the road. Before heading to your next destination, program your navigation device with voice directions so you are able to follow along without excessive distractions. Checking the route in advance for future traffic concerns, unfamiliar roads, and potential construction will help keep your eyes on the road since you will know what to expect.
  4. Avoid eating, drinking, and smoking: Texans are busier than ever and people can be seen eating, drinking, and smoking in their cars while driving. While these actions may seem like they can save time, they actually take a driver’s attention away from driving. Dropping a french fry or spilling a drink can quickly take your hands off the wheel and cause you to swerve. Wait to eat or drink until your car is parked in a safe area.
  5. Never drive drowsy: Drivers who are fatigued and find themselves starting to fall asleep at the wheel increase their risk of getting into a crash by four times. This is not an uncommon situation to find yourself in, as the AAA Traffic Safety Foundation reported that 37 percent of drivers admitted to falling asleep at the wheel. If you start to feel tired while driving, pull over and find a safe spot to take a quick nap. Never continue driving on the road while drowsy.
  6. Do not tailgate: In good weather, driving school professionals recommend keeping three to four car lengths between you and the vehicle ahead of you. This gives you plenty of time to react to sudden stops, swerving cars, and cars that do not stop at red lights. In inclement weather, roads can become slick and keeping between five to six car lengths between you and the car in front of you is recommended.
  7. Always stay vigilant: Part of being a safe driver is being aware of your surroundings at all times while in your vehicle. Make a full-mirror sweep with your eyes about every five minutes to ensure you know what vehicles, pedestrians, and hazards are around you at all times. Even with new blind-spot technology and back-up cameras, using your mirrors and eyes will give you the best perspective of your surroundings.
  8. Limit passenger distractions: Having passengers in the car can cause significant distractions while you are driving. Talking with other passengers is considered a cognitive distraction, because even though your eyes are on the road, your mind is distracted by the conversation. Try to avoid stressful or emotional conversations with passengers in the car. Ask passengers to help alert you to dangers you may not see and ask them not to be too loud or distracting while you are driving.

South Texas Distracted Driving Accident Attorneys

Being in a distracted driving accident can be complicated and stressful. By selecting experienced legal representation, you won’t have to worry about your next steps because you will have the guidance and support of a trustworthy personal injury attorney. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a car accident, contact the Weslaco car accident lawyers at Ezequiel Reyna, Jr. Law Office today to discuss your case. There is limited time to act following a car accident in Texas, so don’t delay.

The Elements of a Slip and Fall Case

Posted on by Zreyna Law

Each year, millions of people are injured in premises liability or slip-and-fall accidents. While anyone can slip and fall, older adults are at higher risk of serious injury if they are the victim. Slip and fall incidents can happen anywhere and if someone else’s negligence contributed to the fall, the victim should seek the help of an experienced personal injury attorney to receive compensation for their injuries and losses. There are specific steps the injured party must take in a slip and fall case; and if all elements of the claim cannot be proven, the claim could quickly be dismissed.

Establishing Duty

The first step in a slip and fall case is to establish duty. The duties associated with a premises liability cause of action in Texas are established using a specific classification system delineating between invitees, licensees, and trespassers. Invitees are invited by the owner – either directly or indirectly – onto the property where the incident took place for purposes that confer an economic or noneconomic benefit to the owner. The owner of the property must ensure their premises is reasonably safe for invitees. A licensee is able to be on the property legally but their presence does not afford a benefit to the property owner. The guest of a person renting a property may be considered a licensee. A property owner has a duty to appropriately warn licensees about hidden defects of the property. A trespasser does not have permission to be present on the property and their presence provides no benefits to the owner. Owners rarely have duty of care to a trespasser.  Once a legal duty can be established, the next step is establishing the duty holder’s liability.

Establishing Liability in a Slip and Fall Claim

In order to establish liability, the victim – whether invitee or licensee – must prove the existence of unreasonably dangerous conditions and/or concealed dangers on the premises at the time of their accident. In 2015, the Texas Supreme Court in Austin v. Kroger made proving liability more difficult in slip and fall cases, holding that if a defect is out in the open and obvious to a common person, like slipping on a colored liquid instead of a clear one, it is harder to obtain compensation for resulting injuries.

With the help of an experienced Texas premises liability attorney, victims of slip and fall incidents can prove every element of a negligence claim, including the following:

  • The owner of the property where the victim was injured owed a duty of care to that individual and failed to live up to that duty.
  • The property owner’s failure to exercise proper care was the direct cause of the victim’s injuries.
  • The victim suffered verifiable damages as a result, including medical treatment costs, lost wages, and other damages.

Filing the Lawsuit

Your attorney may begin working on your case by sending the responsbile party or parties a notice or demand letter. Negotiations outside of litigation often fail because the responsible parties refuse to live up to their obligations to compensate victims without the pressure of a lawsuit. Therefore, an experienced personal injury lawyer will begin filing a lawsuit by drafting initial pleadings and filing them in the proper court. In a Texas slip and fall case, there is a two-year statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit. Once initial pleadings are filed, the party or parties you are suing, now known as defendants, will have a chance to answer your allegations in a formal response to the court.

Once a personal injury lawsuit is underway, the discovery stage begins. This phase involves producing various parties for sworn depositions and the sending of and responding to various discovery requests. A variety of documents may be requested, including the injured party’s medical records and any safety protocols of the defendant. Having a knowledgeable attorney by your side is the best way to prepare for a deposition.

Once the discovery stage is complete, each side will likely file motions that the court will rule on. In most cases in Texas, the parties will be required to work with a mediator to negotiate a settlement before heading to trial. If alternative dispute resolution is unsuccessful, the case will be set for trial.

When parties are unable to resolve all of their legal issues outside of court, a case is set for trial. A judge and/or jury will hear evidence and arguments from each side and make a decision based on the facts as to whether the defendant is liable for the victim’s injuries. If the trier of fact decides the property owner is liable, the amount of damages will then be determined.

South Texas Slip and Fall Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident, contact the Rio Grande Valley premises liability attorneys of Ezequiel Reyna Law Office today to discuss your case at no cost. There is limited time to act following a slip and fall accident in Texas, so don’t delay.

Reasons To Hire a Lawyer After a Dog Bite

Posted on by Zreyna Law

Dogs, while normally the fun and friendly family pet, can also viciously and violently attack adults and children, leaving them scared and scarred for life. Studies have shown that over four million people in the United States are bitten by dogs each year, and up to 13,000 of those people are hospitalized for severe injuries. Unfortunately, children are at a higher risk of being severely injured by a dog bite because they may not know how to act around dogs; and, even a short, negative interaction with a dog – such as pulling a tail or tugging on their ears – can cause the dog to bite.

There are a variety of reasons a dog will bite you, including:

  • Fear: Dogs can quickly bite a person because of fear. If they do not know the person they are interacting with, are in unfamiliar territory, or are startled, they can quickly bite.
  • Pain: If a dog is in pain from an injury or illness, no matter how sweet or friendly that dog is they can react and bite when that pain is amplified. Petting a dog where they are injured or trying to pick up an injured dog may cause them to snap.
  • Possessiveness: Dogs can be very protective of their “property” and the space where they live. A dog’s property may include a specific person, toys, food, or location. Entering their space or trying to take away or harm their property can incite a dog to react violently.
  • Prey Drive: Many dogs have retained their prey drive and will chase and nip something that runs past them. While most dogs limit that behavior to chasing squirrels and birds, some may chase children or even adults and can bite them.
  • Maternal Instincts: Female dogs who have just given birth to puppies can become very defensive of their young, and no matter how sweet or well-trained, they can bite a person they perceive as trying to take their puppies away or harm them in any manner.

What to Do After a Dog Bites You

The moment a dog bites and injures you or a loved one, immediately seek medical attention. No matter how minor or severe the dog bite is, dogs have bacteria in their mouths that can cause serious infections. There are many types of dog bites, all of which need to be evaluated by a doctor, including: puncture wounds, deep lacerations requiring surgery, disfigurement, severe scarring, infections, and broken bones. After seeking medical treatment, finding an experienced dog bite lawyer will be critical to receiving any compensation from the dog owner or other responsible third parties involved.

The dog owner’s insurance company will attempt to offer you less compensation than you are rightfully owed because they know how to work the legal system in their favor. Insurers often try to paint a negative picture of your interaction with the dog and accuse you of antagonizing the animal or provoking the attack. A knowledgeable dog bite lawyer can ensure you get the justice you deserve. It takes significant time and know-how to effectively negotiate a settlement with a dog owner and/or their insurance company. A dog bite lawyer works with you to determine the true cost of your injuries, including medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more, and will fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.

Dog Bite Liability

In Texas, there is no law that clearly defines a dog owner’s liability for damages if their dog bites and injures another person. In 1974, the Texas Supreme Court held that the state would follow a “one bite rule” when it comes to personal injury liability from dog bites. The “one bite rule” essentially gives a dog one “free” bite in regards to its owner’s liability to the injured party. After the first bite, though, the owner is now aware of their dog’s tendency to bite; therefore, the law holds they are being negligent if their dog bites again. An experienced dog bite attorney will establish liability in your case by showing that the dog’s owner had previous knowledge of its aggressive behavior, that the dog had previously bitten a person before your bite, and/or the dog’s owner failed to use reasonable care to control their dog and prevent it from hurting you.

There is a specific time limit within which a person can file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas, which is the type of lawsuit you would need to file to receive compensation for a dog bite injury. The statute of limitations for filing such a claim is two years from the day of the bite or other incident in which a dog has harmed you. If you do not file your dog bite lawsuit within those two years, you likely lose your right to hold the dog owner financially accountable for your injuries.

South Texas Dog Bite Attorneys

Being bit by a dog can be an incredibly scary and stressful experience that leaves you scarred for life. By choosing our experienced team, you won’t have to worry about your next steps because you will have our guidance and support. If you or a loved one has been bitten and injured by a dog, contact the Weslaco dog bite lawyers at Ezequiel Reyna, Jr. Law Office today to discuss your case. There is limited time to act, so don’t delay.

Preventing Deadly Scaffolding Accidents

Posted on by Zreyna Law

While construction sites may be an inherently dangerous place to work, every worker has the right to work in a safe environment. Nearly one fifth of all work-related deaths in the United States in 2019 occurred in the construction industry. Many of these deaths involved a commonly used construction site structure – scaffolding. Scaffolding, an incredibly important and useful tool in construction projects, can be very safe when erected properly, closely inspected, and used with care. This, however, is not always the case, as deaths caused by falling from scaffolding or scaffolding accidents are very common.

Serious scaffolding accidents that cause devastating injuries could be avoided if all construction companies followed the regulations set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The following tips can also help prevent deadly scaffolding accidents:

Adhere to All OSHA Guidelines

OSHA has detailed regulations that govern scaffolding construction and use. All workers and management must adhere to these guidelines, including how to set up the scaffolding properly, what loads are able to be on the scaffolding, and what worker safety rules must be followed. This is one of the best ways to prevent a serious scaffolding accident from occurring. If workers are unfamiliar with OSHA guidelines, training must be prioritized before building and using the scaffolding.

Inspect the Scaffolding Daily Before Use

Visual inspections of scaffolding structures must be performed on a daily basis, specifically before and after each work shift, to ensure the structure is sound. This regular monitoring can quickly find any imperfections or structural issues that could cause the scaffolding to collapse or cause a serious accident. When inspecting scaffolding, workers should look for defective parts and broken planks that should be discarded and replaced before work starts for the day. Fall protection should also be inspected before use each day. Worn out fall protection should be immediately replaced. If an accident has occurred during the project, before work continues the scaffolding should have a more in-depth inspection to ensure structural integrity.

Build on Stable Ground

Scaffolds should only be built on solid, level ground to ensure its stability. Scaffolding should also be plumbed, with poles, legs, and uprights secured safely to keep the scaffolding from moving. Items that are unstable – including bricks, concrete blocks, and barrels – should not be used for stabilization. When building scaffolding, bent or damaged parts should not be used. All parts used should be in good condition. Extra bracing should be added if necessary.

Know the Capacity

Scaffolding has a limited capacity for loads that all workers should be aware of. Never exceed the amount of weight scaffolds are built to hold. This includes the number of workers who can be on the scaffolding at the same time. It is critical to observe weight limits to avoid a scaffolding collapse.

Use the Required Safety Equipment

Scaffolding requirements include guardrails to ensure worker safety and help prevent workers from falling. Toeboards should also be used when performing work while on a scaffold. Safety harnesses are also essential when using scaffolding. Workers should also wear non-slip footwear, head protection, and any other required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Be Aware of Hazards

Hazards may be on the scaffolding itself or part of the work environment. Do not use the scaffolding structure in heavy wind, rain, or lightning storms. Any unsafe areas should be roped off. If there are tools or other equipment along the scaffold pathways, clear those areas to prevent trips and falls. Space is limited, and keeping items organized and out of the way can prevent serious accidents from occurring. Do not allow anything to fall from the scaffolding. Items falling or being thrown from the structure can hit workers (or pedestrians) below and cause serious injuries. Always use a spotter and a debris chute or hoist when sending items below. If work is being performed at the floor or on a level above you, use overhead canopies to help prevent any falling debris from hitting a worker.

One very dangerous hazard that all workers should be aware of is power lines. Power lines should be at least 10 feet away from a scaffolding structure at all times. If work is required closer to the power line, power should be turned off before that work begins. Electrocution is an extremely painful and devastating experience that no worker should go through.

Proper Training is Essential

Workers constructing or using scaffolds should be properly trained before beginning their work. Each worker must be aware of the specific scaffold design, how to use the scaffold properly, what an inspection of the structure involves, and how to dismantle the structure properly. This is key to preventing accidents. Each worker should also know how to climb and descend the scaffolding in a safe manner, as well as how to use fall protection equipment and PPE.

South Texas Construction Accident Attorneys

Being prepared and following all safety guidelines will help prevent deadly scaffolding accidents and save workers’ lives. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries while on a worksite due to a scaffolding accident, you may be able to file a claim for compensation due to negligence. This is a complicated process and our experienced team of personal injury attorneys can help you navigate your legal options.

If you or a loved one has been injured while working in the construction industry due to a scaffolding accident, contact the Rio Grande Valley workplace accident attorneys of Ezequiel Reyna Law Office today to discuss your case at no cost. There is limited time to act following a scaffolding accident in Texas, so don’t delay.

5 Main Causes of Motorcycle Crashes

Posted on by Zreyna Law

Motorcycle enthusiasts across the state enjoy the flat, open highways Texas provides. While riding a motorcycle can be a thrilling experience, it can also be very dangerous even for experienced riders. The Texas Department of Transportation reports that an average of one motorcycle rider dies each day on Texas roads.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also reported that motorcycle riders are 27 times more likely to be killed in motorcycle crashes compared to passenger vehicle drivers and passengers. Because motorcyclists do not have the same protection as passenger vehicle drivers, wrecks involving them are much more likely to result in serious injury or death.

What causes motorcycle accidents to occur? Below are the five of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents.

Speeding

Texas roads are full of speeding drivers and motorcyclists. Speeding can lead to deadly crashes.  When a driver fails to control their speed, they are less likely to be able to stop quickly or react to changes happening in front of their vehicle. Motorcyclists also have a much higher risk of being severely injured or killed in a high-speed accident since they do not have the protection a passenger car provides.

Distracted or Drunk Driving

Anything that can impair a driver or motorcyclist, or take their eyes off the road, can quickly lead to a devastating car accident. Distracted driving can include texting on a cell phone, eating or drinking, adjusting a radio or GPS system, or talking on the phone. Distractions are incredibly dangerous and reduce the amount of time a driver has to react to changes in their surroundings. Just reading a message or sending a text can take a person’s eyes off the road for five or more seconds at a time. If that person is driving 60 miles per hour on the highway, they will have their eyes off the road for almost 100 yards – the length of a football field.

Drunk driving is illegal in Texas and can lead to severe penalties on top of potentially causing fatal accidents. Alcohol quickly impairs a person’s judgment, making them more likely to take risky moves while driving.

Roadway Hazards

Many Texas roads are known for their potholes, construction equipment, and uneven pavement. Debris and construction equipment are also consistently on the road. While these hazards may not affect a car or truck too severely, they can quickly cause a motorcyclist to swerve, lose their balance, or strike an object unexpectedly. They can quickly suffer serious injuries or even death when hitting an object in the road. Motorcycle riders hitting fixed objects like light poles, guardrails, or traffic signs, accounts for 25 percent of motorcycle crashes and fatalities. The smaller size and less-stable characteristics of a motorcycle make roadway hazards much more dangerous for bikers.

Cars Not Seeing the Motorcycle

Being significantly smaller than passenger vehicles makes motorcycles more easily hidden in blind spots, by surrounding objects, or by other vehicles. A motorcycle weaving in and out of traffic makes it very difficult to predict where they are and if they plan on entering your lane.

Cars also have a tendency to not see motorcycles when making a left-hand turn. Typically the car will hit the motorcycle during the turn if the motorcycle is going straight through the intersection, passing the car, or trying to overtake the car. Accidents of this type are common and account for 45 percent of all roadway accidents involving a motorcycle and a passenger car. In the majority of cases, the car that hit the motorcycle while making a left-hand turn will be found at fault for the accident.

Mechanical Failure

Motorcycles are complicated vehicles with many moving parts that must be kept in good repair in order for the bike to run safely. Any defect in a motorcycle’s design or manufacturing can cause a serious malfunction that can lead to a deadly accident. If your motorcycle malfunctions in any way that causes an accident, you may qualify for a product liability case. Making sure your motorcycle is well maintained before you ride is essential to preventing an accident, but there can be defects you cannot see or fix. The motorcycle manufacturer and other companies that are part of the supply chain must be held accountable for their failures that cause you harm.

South Texas Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Riding a motorcycle in Texas should be a fun, safe experience. Motorcyclists should not have to fear reckless drivers on the roads. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, our personal injury attorneys can help. At the Ezequiel Reyna Law Office, we understand the dangers that motorcyclists face on the road. While most drivers and insurance companies might want to pin the accident on you, we work hard to get you the financial compensation you deserve. Contact us today, as there is limited time to act after an accident.

Common Causes of Crane Accidents

Posted on by Zreyna Law

The thriving construction industry in Texas relies on large equipment to speed up the building process and get projects completed on time. Cranes are one of the most commonly used construction tools, with about 125,000 cranes operating in the United States at any given time. While essential to building large structures, cranes are incredibly large, complex machines that pose serious risks to workers. Crane accidents can cause devastating injuries and have proven to be fatal. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, from 2011 to 2017 there were 297 reported crane-related deaths. During that same time period, Texas had more fatal occupational injuries due to cranes than the next three states combined. Why do crane accidents occur?

The most common causes of crane accidents include:

Load too Heavy

Cranes have set weight limits that have to be followed to prevent collapse. The counterweight and out-rigging systems used to balance a crane are critical to keeping it stable. If a crane lifts too much weight, it will throw these systems off balance and the entire structure could buckle and collapse. A crane collapse can be extremely dangerous for the crane operator as well as any workers nearby. That much weight could easily crush an individual and cause severe injuries or death.

Improper Crane Assembly

When putting a crane together, there are very specific safety protocols that must be implemented. If a crane is assembled too quickly or does not have the proper wood or metal blocking supports to keep the load stable, the crane itself could move under the weight of the load and collapse.

Lack of Training

Crane operators are required to be properly trained, including completing specific OSHA training courses to operate a crane on a construction site. If a worker operates a crane but is not properly trained, the likelihood of a crane accident increases significantly. Cranes are complicated machines and must be used by someone familiar with how they function. Employers must also train all workers in the dangers a crane poses to a worksite.

Dropped Loads

Over half of all fatal crane accidents involved a worker being hit by a falling object put into motion by a crane. Cranes are able to carry heavy, oddly shaped, oversized items when operated properly. If a load is not rigged appropriately, it can quickly fall and cause a catastrophic accident. Falling objects can crush or impale workers below and even make a crane tip over, causing even more devastation.

Mechanical Failure

Proper maintenance of all machinery on a construction site is critical to preventing mechanical failures that can quickly lead to devastating accidents. Cranes should be well maintained at all times – including being oiled properly – and any small problems that arise should be fixed promptly.

Contact with Power Lines

Not all cities have underground power lines; and, crane operators must be aware of power lines around their worksite at all times. Electrocution from overhead power lines causes one in every 10 construction site deaths.  If a crane operator hits a live power line, they are in danger of being killed by electric shock.

As with all construction machinery, unsafe practices and recklessness can result in worker injury and death. Employers must ensure machinery is well maintained, inspected daily, and that all who use cranes are properly trained.

South Texas Crane Accident Attorneys

Working with cranes is one of the most dangerous parts of a construction worker’s job. The risk of being injured or killed in a crane accident is high. Long-term injuries can leave you unable to work and leave your family financially burdened. If you or a loved one has been injured while working in the construction industry, contact the Rio Grande Valley workplace accident attorneys of Ezequiel Reyna Law Office today to discuss your case at no cost. There is limited time to act following a crane accident in Texas, so don’t delay.

Types of Distracted Driving

Posted on by Zreyna Law

We have all seen it – a person driving while looking at their cell phone, eating a cheeseburger, or turned fully around trying to calm down their child. Distracted driving is everywhere and is causing more car accidents every year. Texas Department of Transportation statistics show that 17.4% of motor vehicle crashes on Texas roads in 2019 involved distracted drivers. Out of the total number of distracted driving accidents (97,853), there were 2,500 serious injuries and 378 fatalities. In an effort to reduce distracted driving accidents, Texas recently passed a law that prohibits driving while reading, writing, or sending electronic messages on a mobile device.

What Is Distracted Driving?

Engaging in any activity that takes your attention away from the road while you are driving is considered distracted driving. There are always many different types of distractions in the car with you – all of which reduce your reaction time when things change on the road in front and to the sides of you. The most common types of distractions that lead to distracted driving are:

Visual Distractions

Visual distractions are the most common type of distraction. When you are visually distracted, you are no longer physically looking at the road ahead. Drivers should always be looking about five to six car lengths ahead while driving to be able to react to other cars, pedestrians, bicycles, etc. Visual distractions take a driver’s attention away from the road for an average of five seconds. Five seconds may not seem like a long time, but a car going 55 mph can travel the distance of an entire football field in just five seconds.

Visual distractions while driving include:

  • Looking at a phone while reading or responding to a message
  • Looking at a car’s GPS screen or entertainment system
  • Reading a billboard advertisement
  • Looking at a car accident as it drives by
  • Turning around to check on children
  • Checking makeup in the mirror

Noise Distractions

There are many sounds inside and outside of a car that can easily distract a driver. While noise distractions may not seem like a big deal, anything that makes a driver react or turn their head can take their mind off the road. Louder sounds can even prevent a driver from hearing an emergency siren and they could miss seeing an oncoming ambulance or police vehicle. Maybe their car is making a strange mechanical noise or there is a baby crying in the backseat.

Noise distractions can include:

  • The car making a strange mechanical noise
  • Children screaming or crying
  • Excessively loud music
  • Speaking on the phone via hands-free methods

Physical Distractions

When a driver’s hands are taken off the wheel to do something, it is considered a physical distraction. There are many types of physical distractions that can cause a driver to take one or both hands off the steering wheel. These distractions are especially dangerous because most physical distractions are accompanied by visual distractions. With the driver’s hands off the wheel and eyes potentially off the road, they will find it almost impossible to react in time when a sudden change happens in front of them. They can easily lose control of the car and cause a serious car accident.

Physical distracted driving can include:

  • Eating or drinking in the car
  • Interacting with the car’s entertainment or GPS system
  • Reaching behind or across a seat to grab an item
  • Adjusting the air conditioning system

Driving while distracted has severe consequences. Many of the above distractions usually happen in a combination of one or more types at the same time, which significantly reduces a driver’s ability to focus completely on driving. Car crashes caused by distracted drivers can cause serious injuries and even death.

South Texas Car Accident Attorneys

Texans have the right to feel safe driving in their state. Being in a distracted driving accident can be complicated and stressful. By selecting quality legal representation, you won’t have to worry about your next steps because you will have the guidance and support of an experienced personal injury attorney. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a car accident, contact the Weslaco car accident lawyers at Ezequiel Reyna, Jr. Law Office today to discuss your case. There is limited time to act following a car accident in Texas, so don’t delay.

Dangers of the Holiday Season

Posted on by Zreyna Law

While it may seem like the most wonderful time of the year, there are dangers lurking around every brightly decorated corner this holiday season. Keeping your family safe this holiday season can be made easier by following these holiday safety tips:

  1. Decorate with care: Make sure when decorating to keep an eye out for fire and electric hazards. Make sure to use extension cords properly and never run them through a window or garage door. Christmas trees should also be decorated with tree-safe lights; and, if your family opts for a live tree, keep it well watered to avoid a potential holiday fire.
  2. Avoid holiday theft: Theft across the country tends to increase during the months of November and December. Making sure that your property is secure is essential to preventing theft. Lock your cars and the doors and windows to your home and never leave anything valuable in plain sight. Even leaving a garage door unlocked could lead to significant theft.
  3. Leave the lights on: If you are heading out of town for the holidays, be sure to leave a few lights on throughout your home that make it look like you could still be there. Thieves do not usually approach a home that appears to be occupied. Leaving an outside light on, or having a motion-detecting light, can help keep your home safe.
  4. Package delivery: 2020 has been the year of online shopping and receiving much needed joy through packages coming to the front door. Many thieves have taken this online shopping trend and used it to their advantage by simply walking up and stealing packages right off of front porches. If you are having your holiday gifts delivered this year, request a signature confirmation when the package arrives or have a trusted neighbor hold on to the package for you. Never leave a package in plain sight on your front doorstep.
  5. Box disposal: Placing that 70-inch television box outside for trash pickup may not be the wisest decision this holiday season. Leaving intact boxes of new holiday gifts out for trash collection or recycling may give potential thieves a clue as to what you now have in your home that they may want. Break down all of your gift boxes as much as you can and put them in a large trash bag.
  6. Cooking dangers: The holidays are known to be the best time for all of our favorite comfort foods. When cooking your holiday dinner, make sure to be careful. If deep-frying a turkey, take the frying outdoors and away from the house to prevent possible fires. When baking, make sure to keep an eye on your tasty treats so as not to start an indoor fire. Also, make sure the kitchen is properly ventilated.
  7. Social media: It is important to think about what and when you post to social media this holiday season. Waiting to post your holiday trip, or when you will be out of town, is a good idea to help prevent any potential thieves from noticing you may not be home. Thieves may be stalking social media pages to find those who are not home for the holidays, which gives them the perfect opportunity to break into an empty home. If you do post about gifts or holiday trips, make sure to remove any location information.
  8. Unexpected visitors: While you may have a few close family member or friends over this holiday season to celebrate, be aware that there may be criminals who knock on your door to scope out your home’s valuable goods. These people may pose as a delivery driver or someone asking for charitable donations. If a person you are unfamiliar with knocks at your door, do not give them any personal information and do not let them into your home.
  9. Staying safe at home: This year has been especially tough with the COVID-19 virus spreading across our country. If having family members or friends over for a small gathering, be sure to have handwashing stations ready, hand-sanitizer available, and try to stay socially distanced. If you are unable to stay socially distanced, wear a mask to help prevent any possible spread of the virus. The best gathering would be outdoors if possible, or in a well-ventilated space with fresh air circulating.
  10. Traveling safely: If you are traveling to visit family this year, by plane, train, or car, be sure to stay safe by following all CDC guidelines for travel during the COVID-19 pandemic. Wear a mask, stay socially distanced, and wash or sanitize your hands frequently.

The Ezequiel Reyna, Jr. Law Group Wishes You Happy Holidays!

The team at Ezequiel Reyna, Jr. Law Group hopes your and your family have a wonderful holiday season. We hope the holidays are filled with joy; however, if you or someone you love is involved in an accident over the holidays and needs an experienced South Texas personal injury attorney, contact us for a free consultation.

Posted on by Zreyna Law

It is an important milestone that teens look forward to and parents dread – learning how to drive. When teaching teens to drive, parents have the responsibility of emphasizing and teaching the importance of vehicle safety. This includes talking to their teen about not texting and driving. Car accidents, sadly, are the leading cause of death for teens. Distracted driving is a major cause of those car accidents. While some parents may think their teen won’t listen to them or will just ignore the information they are giving their children, there are many ways to teach their young driver about not driving while distracted.

Here are 7 ways you can approach your teen about driving safely:

  1. Emphasize the responsibility of having a driver’s license: Talking to your teen about just how many people they will be responsible for while driving may give them a new perspective to think about. Explaining that they are now responsible for their own safety, as well as the safety of their passengers, other drivers on the road, cyclists, and pedestrians may make your teen step back and think about keeping others, as well as themselves, safe. There is also the responsibility of keeping their, or the family’s, vehicle in good physical condition. Expanding their worldview may help emphasize how important being safe is while driving.
  2. Explain the dangers of driving to your teen: Being honest and direct is important when teaching your teen about the dangers of driving. Each time they drive a vehicle, they are taking lives into their hands. While driving can be fun, and you can admit that to them, it is still serious business. Let your teen know that distracted driving kills. Explain what driving while distracted is, including talking and texting, wearing headphones, eating food, or talking on the phone, and then let them know the hard facts about how many car accidents distracted driving causes. In 2018 alone, there were over 400,000 injuries in car crashes caused by distracted drivers as well as 2,800 deaths. Explain that reading a text message is not worth dying for.
  3. Be their role model and set a good example: The best way to show your teen that distracted driving is not acceptable is avoid doing it yourself. Wear your seatbelt, keep your hands on the wheel, and keep your eyes on the road every time you drive. Your teen will follow your lead, especially when learning such an important new skill. Your actions will show them what is safe. Do not use your cell phone while driving. If you do, your teen may see it and, even after having a talk about not texting and driving, might do it anyway because they saw you using your phone in the car.
  4. Driving is a privilege – teach your teen it can be taken away: Explain to your teen that driving is not a right – it is a privilege. A driver’s license can be revoked at any time. Sit down and learn the laws and expectations of driving in Texas – then hold your teenage driver to these expectations.
  5. Gently offer safe driving tips: By teaching your teen how to use the basic functions of the car, including the lights, windshield wipers, turn signals, seatbelts, etc., you can help them feel comfortable in using these important functions while on the road. Talk to them about driving defensively and looking for potential threats, including erratic drivers or unexpected debris on the road. These tips can help a new driver learn how to be comfortable but alert while driving.
  6. Practice, practice, practice: When your teen first gets their license, set limits on solo-driving. While your teen may want to take the car out for a spin right away to see their friends, having them drive with you for a while is a very good way to safely practice driving. This will allow you to coach them a bit more and learn how to be comfortable in all driving situations. Help them park in a parking lot, get onto the highway, drive at night, and in any other situations that may come up that can be scary the first time.
  7. Talk to your teen about what to do in a car accident: If your teen does get into a car accident, they need to know what to do and who to call. They may be very scared or hurt and need to be able to get help and all the necessary information they can. Let them know to call emergency services right away, even if they are scared, to get medical attention. Let them know you will not be mad at them and that it is very important to call you after calling 911.

With these tips, you can approach your teen in a way that can help teach them how to be a safe driver.

South Texas Car Accident Lawyers

Being in an accident as a teenager can be incredibly scary and stressful, but your family doesn’t have to handle it all on your own. By selecting quality legal representation, the injured won’t have to worry as much about their next steps because they will have the guidance and support of an experienced personal injury attorney. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a car accident, contact the Weslaco car accident lawyers at Ezequiel Reyna, Jr. Law Office today to discuss your case. There is limited time to act following a car accident in Texas, so don’t delay.

Ezequiel Reyna, Jr. Celebrates His 40th Anniversary as an Attorney

Posted on by Zreyna Law

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Ezequiel Reyna, Jr.’s legal career. An accomplished South Texas personal injury attorney and the founder of the Ezequiel Reyna Law Office located in Weslaco, Texas, Mr. Reyna has a long and distinguished career which includes multiple Top 100 Verdicts in the State of Texas. His dedication to his profession and his community has also earned him numerous accolades, including named to the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by National Trial Lawyers, most recently in 2019, as well as “Man of the Year” in 2005 by the Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce.

Core Values

Ezequiel Reyna, Jr. was born the son of migrant workers who traveled all over the country to work in fields picking cotton and tomatoes. He was one of eight children, who saw their parents work 14 to 18 hours a day, 365 days a year. This principle of hard work represented by his parents instilled a sense of ethics in Mr. Reyna, which he still lives by to this day. “My parents never took a day off,” said Reyna. “They brought us up with the principles of integrity and honesty. They were very dedicated people.”

Mr. Reyna brings that sense of integrity and honesty to his legal practice. “We represent the human factor, and that’s what keeps you going,” said Reyna. “[The defendants] will use any and every defense available to them, whether it’s professional, ethical or otherwise. But at the end, it’s all worth it because you see your clients pleased with the outcome and what we’ve done, and how we have changed their lives and their family’s lives.”

Fighting for His Clients

Even from his earliest days as a lawyer, Mr. Reyna pursued justice for his clients. Just three years after graduating from the University of Houston Law School, he successfully filed suit against Maverick Market, securing the first multi-million dollar settlement in South Texas. Only a handful of years later, Mr. Reyna represented over 300 victims of the devastating 1989 Phillips 66 petrochemical explosion, securing a recovery over $50 million after five years of intense legal battles.

For the past 40 years, Mr. Reyna has held true to those values demonstrated by his parents, day in and day out, and to the values of his Rio Grande Valley upbringing. His four decades of experience and his passion for the law and his clients are both rooted in the most fundamental cornerstone of his legal practice: honesty. These are the motivations driving him every day of the last 40 years, and will continue to do so in the decades to come.

“Knowing that our client is hurting and in a painful situation gives us the strength and fortitude to keep fighting for what is right,” said Reyna. “So we keep working and forging ahead to achieve the best outcome for our clients.”