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- Blick Law Firm Works Closely with Tampa’s Chiropractic and Acupuncture Clinic
- Blick Law Firm Brings Legal Expertise and Christian Values to Tampa
- What can a personal injury attorney do for you?
- The Importance of a Real Estate Attorney in a New Transaction
- Over 150 New Florida Laws Take Effect this Month
- Law Change Protects Florida Patients From Balance Billing
- Fatal Alligator Attack at Disney World Orlando Could Mean Legal Trouble
- Florida Gun Laws Under Fire After Orlando Attacks
- Prospect of Medical Marijuana in Florida Creates Buzz
- Florida’s Death Penalty System Subject to Further Questioning
- Summer Driving Safety Tips
- Florida Supreme Court Votes to Maintain Reasonableness in Workers’ Compensation Law
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2014 WINTER OLYMPICS | PERSONAL INJURY | TAMPA LAW FIRM
The 2014 Olympic Winter Games are finally here. Athletes from all over have endured vigorous training in preparation for this year’s Winter Olympics in Sochi Russia. This multi-sport event encompasses very exciting and sometimes dangerous competitions in which professional athletes participate. American World Cup Alpine Ski Racer, Lindsey Vonn, took home two medals in the 2010 Vancouver Games. She also became the first American woman to win an Olympic gold in the downhill.
As the most recognized name in Alpine Skiing, many Americans are excited to see Vonn compete in this year’s Winter Olympics. Unfortunately, Vonn announced that she would be leaving the Sochi Olympics due to a knee injury during a high speed crash during training.
Injury is very common among athletes, as well as people who exercise regularly. Injury can also occur due to result of another’s negligence. Injuries may be sustained from various factors including defective equipment and/or negligence can be very painful, and require extensive medical treatment that can be quite expensive. Injury can also prevent you from attending work or school, and is sometimes life altering.
If you are injured, it is important to know your legal rights. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you get proper medical assistance, determine liability, and negotiate with insurance companies. Two major issues of concern in evaluating a personal injury case are liability and causation.
Causation is a very important factor in a personal injury case. If your injury is a result of a person, or organizations negligence, a personal injury attorney can assist you with your claim. For example, if you sustain injuries due to a health club’s defective equipment, or if you slip and fall on a wet floor in your gym; you should immediately seek medical attention, and contact a personal injury lawyer.
If you feel you are in this personal injury situation call Blick Law Firm today for a Free 15 minute consultation with Attorney Michael Blickensderfer. Think quick, Call Blick!
Posted in Blog, Personal Injury
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Real Estate Seminar | Title Insurance | CPA
Infinity Abstract & Title will be hosting an informational seminar from 3 to 5 p.m., on Wednesday, February 19 at the Blick Law Firm’s previous headquarters, 4351 Gunn Highway in Tampa. Licensed Title Agent Debbie Macias, will be discussing ‘Red Flags’ to look out for during Real Estate transactions. Certified Public Accountant Kevin B. Krueger, will be providing information regarding the 1099 deficiency law that expired on 12/31/2013. The seminar will include a Q&A session, and there will be light food and refreshments served.
As a division of Blick Law Firm, Infinity Abstract & Title provides title insurance and escrow services to clients throughout the entire State of Florida.
What is Title Insurance?
Title insurance is a form of protection that is necessary when purchasing a new home or property. Unlike other forms of insurance that only protect against future loss or damage, Title Insurance protects against loss or damage produced by past events that can cause a failure or defect to the title.
A Title Company will conduct a search of public land records to discover anything that can potentially affect the title of the property. After this title search is complete, the buyer will receive Title Insurance. Some common issues that can affect the title of a property consist of:
- Improperly prepared deeds
- Open mortgages
- Wills
- Probate proceedings
- Outstanding judgments or
- Tax liens against the property or individuals
- Covenants and restrictions
- Easements
After a records search is conducted, many existing problems can still arise, and hidden hazards can still exist. Title Insurance will protect you against these potential problems and pay for any legal fees involved in defending a claim.
Real Estate Agents
Realtors and title companies are prohibited from giving legal advice without a license to practice law. However, a real estate lawyer is obligated by law to disclose legal options to the homebuyer. For security and peace of mind, it is important to be aware of legal options when purchasing a home. An experienced real estate attorney can provide needed legal advice, and can interpret jargon presented in Closing documents. An attorney can also distinguish problems with your purchase documentation, as well as take care of discrepancies that can emerge during the real estate purchase process.
When purchasing a new home, it is important to seek a title company that has an experienced real estate attorney to ensure that your investment is legal and secure. Unlike other states, the state of Florida does not require homebuyers to hire an attorney for a title closing. However, buying a home is a complex process that requires legal direction. A real estate agent alone is not sufficient in handling the legal matters and ethical standards that exist when purchasing a home.
Educate Yourself
A Real Estate Closing finalizes the home buying process. It is important to understand the timeline of requirements that take place in order to complete the Closing.
The first thing the buyer must do is open an escrow account with a neutral third party. The buyer will provide money that will be held in consideration of the purchase, ensuring that the buyer intends to fully complete the sale.
After the buyer opens an escrow account, there are five steps that must be followed in order to protect the buyer’s interest in the home. These steps include:
- Completing a Title search
- Purchasing Title Insurance
- Completing a Home Inspection and Pest Inspection
- Negotiating the Closing Costs; and
- Locking the Interest Rate of the Mortgage
It is important for the buyer to follow these steps upon completion of any Real Estate transaction, and it is advisable to seek legal counsel prior to moving forward with the purchase process.
At Blick Law Firm we provide title insurance and escrow services to clients throughout the entire State of Florida. Call us today, for a free consultation.
5 Safety Tips | Auto Accident Claim | Social Media
Auto accidents can be very stressful and unexpected, even for safe drivers. Auto accidents can also cause injuries that require extensive treatment and therapy, taking months to complete.
Many people are unaware of the ways in which they can damage their auto accident claim. It is imperative to know what actions to take if you are involved in an auto accident, so that you can avoid damaging your potential personal injury case. In order to protect yourself and secure a successful claim, here are some important things to avoid:
1. Disclosing information on Social Media: In today’s society, technology has changed our
lives and the ways in which we communicate with one another. People can tell the world what is going on in their lives with just a click of a button. Although the use of the internet is very convenient; updating your status, writing blog posts, and tweeting certain information over the internet can make you more susceptible to public scrutiny. Insurance companies and defense attorneys are aware of this, and internet research can be conducted to damage your injury claim in an auto accident case.
In order to avoid discrediting your claim, it is important to practice caution when using social media. For example, do not tweet that you are going to a kickboxing class when are supposed to be suffering from knee pain due to a recent accident. Be careful not to post or tweet any information over the internet that the opposing insurance company could use to hurt your case.
2. Lack of Witness Information: An auto accident can be shocking and stressful. It is important to keep calm and gather the right information that will help your future case. Having eye witnesses are a great way to help your claim if you are not at fault. Authenticate your case with eye witnesses in order to decrease debate with insurance companies. Be proactive and ask witnesses for their contact information directly after an accident, do not expect the investigating office to obtain this information.
3. Giving a Recorded Statement to the Opposing Insurance Company: This mistake is most common. Insurance companies are usually notified promptly after an auto accident has taken place. Once notified, insurance companies move quickly and try to obtain a recorded statement regarding the accident, as well as information regarding your injuries. Many people are unaware that they are not required to disclose any information to the opposing insurance company, nor are they required to answer any of their questions.
Insurance companies are often trying to take advantage of your lack of knowledge and mental state after you have been involved in an accident. It is important to always consult your lawyer before providing a recorded statement.
4. Take Opposing Auto Insurance Companies Lightly: If you are not at fault, it is important to be honest when dealing with the opposing driver’s insurance company. When the opposing insurance company conducts their investigation during your case, they may use photos of damages, surveillance, or video footage of you. Be sure to be honest and admit to any attempted activities that may seem questionable on your part. We are aware that your physical health will improve over time if you are being treated for injuries during the claim process. However, do not deny any thing that can be proven true after an insurance investigation has taken place; it will hurt your claim.
5. Waiting too Long to Get Medical Treatment: When involved in an accident, many people assume that medical attention is unnecessary and their pain will eventually subside. Unfortunately, your pain can worsen overtime if it is left untreated.
Be sure to seek medical attention immediately after an accident. If your injuries are severe, you must report to the hospital. Insurance companies monitor any gaps between treatments, and will assume that you are not being honest about your injuries if you wait too long to be treated. Request medical care once you visit a personal injury attorney, and make sure your complaints and symptoms are recorded and well documented.
Personal Injury claims vary in severity, and may require lifelong medical expenses and treatment. If you or a loved one has been injured due to the actions or negligence of another, call Blick Law Firm today at (888) 973-2776.
DUI | JUSTIN BIEBER | DRINKING AND DRIVING CONSEQUENCES
In recent new, pop star Justin Bieber was arrested this Thursday morning in Miami Beach for drag racing, driving under the influence, and resisting arrest. The 19 year old pop singer was charged with a DUI, and reportedly admitted to having alcohol, marijuana, and other prescription drugs earlier that night.
According to police reports, Bieber’s blood alcohol level was .04. In Florida, a blood alcohol concentration of.08 or higher constitutes impairment beyond the legal limit. Although Bieber’s blood alcohol concentration was below the legal limit, the state of Florida has a zero tolerance law for drivers under the age of 21. If you are over the age of 21, a police officer may still arrest you for a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) below the legal limit if they suspect that you are impaired while operating a motor vehicle.
WHAT IS A DUI?
A DUI, or Driving under the Influence is the act or crime of driving while affected by alcohol or drugs.
Arrests for drunk driving are very common among celebrities, as well as drivers in the state of Florida. However, many Florida drivers are unaware of what a DUI is. If you are in physical control of a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, prescription medication, illegal drugs, or any other type of drug, you are driving under the influence.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I AM PULLED OVER?
If you are pulled over by law enforcement, follow these tips to avoid possible DUI conviction.
There are common signs and behaviors that police officers look for in determining an impaired driver. You may initially be pulled over for violating a minor traffic offense, and then the police officer will proceed to initiate immediate conversation to determine if you are driving while impaired. Signs that police officers look for include:
- The ability to maintain eye contact
- Slurred speech
- The smell of alcohol on a driver’s breath
- Bloodshot eyes
Although you have the right to remain silent, doing so will certainly raise an officer’s suspicions of your driving under the influence. It is wise to answer the officer’s questions without going into specifics. Details such as the amount of alcohol you have consumed, or that you just left a party or football game should be cautioned.
If the police officer is suspicious and tells you to exit your vehicle, you may consider these directions. You may refuse to submit to a sobriety test, and remember that you always have the right to contact a DUI Lawyer before submitting to any test that may be conducted.
WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES OF A DUI?
If you or a loved one is convicted of a DUI in the state of Florida, consequences may include the following:
- Probation
- License Suspension
- Legal Fees and Court Costs
- Driving Restrictions that require additional costs such as an Interlock Device installed in your vehicle for a period of 6 months, 1 year, or even 2 years, depending on your situation
- Complications with Employment; both present and future
- Drastic Insurance Increases; especially when required to obtain FR-44 insurance coverage
If you are charged with DUI, it is important to seek legal counsel immediately from a criminal defense attorney! Call Blick Law Firm today at 888-973-2776. Make an appointment for a free 15 minute consultation with attorney Michael Blickensderfer to determine what your options are moving forward.
Posted in Blog, Criminal Law, DUI
Tagged drunk driving, dui lawyer, is a dui a felony, JUSTIN-BEIBER, UNDER-THE-INFLUENCE
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Texting and Driving | Florida | Car Accident
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a reported 18 percent of all fatal auto accidents were caused by driver distraction in 2010. Distracted driving not only endangers the life of the driver, but the lives of others as well. The Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, as well as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that you are 23 times more likely to be involved in an auto accident if you are texting while driving. Distracted driving in any form is extremely unsafe. The triple threat of texting and driving is exceptionally dangerous, distracting the driver visually, manually, and cognitively.
Laws restricting the use of handheld devices behind the wheel are currently being enforced in 39 states including D.C. In the state of Florida, the bill against texting and driving is only a signature away. The senate has already passed a bill that classifies texting and driving as a secondary offense. Distracted driving violations can cost from $30 or more with additional penalties for subsequent offenses.
Efforts to discourage the use of handled devices while driving continue to rise thoughout the nation. The U.S. Department of Transportation is encouraging all states to legislate strict laws forbidding the use of cell phones while driving. Major cell phone and insurance companies have become part of the movement to raise awareness on this critical problem. The fight against texting and driving has also inspired the media as well as celebrities, to reach out to the community and reveal the dangers that exist in driving distracted.
Blick Law Firm stands behind the message to not text and drive and continues in support of the cause.
If you or a loved has been a victim of an accident involving distracted driving and you have questions concerning your rights, call Blick Law Firm today at (888) 973-2776 and schedule a free 15-minute consultation with attorney Michael Blickensderfer. Think quick, call Blick!
Car Accident What To Do | Negligence | Accident Claim
Although an auto accident can be a very frightening experience, it is crucial to remain composed and take the proper actions needed to ensure your safety. In the event of an auto accident it is important to immediately pull off to the side of the road. If you are injured, you should seek medical attention, and pursue legal aid from a car accident law firm.
Blick Law Firm provides legal aid in numerous personal injury cases such as:
- Automobile and Motorcycle Accidents
- Slip and Fall Injuries
- Premises Liability, Including Mold Exposure
- Products Liability
- Dog Bites
- Marine and Boating Accidents
- Wrongful Deaths
There are two dominant elements in determining an auto settlement in regards to a negligence case. Liability must first be established in determining who is at fault or responsible for injuries. Whether you have been rear ended or not, the state of Florida determines liability under the comparative negligence statute. Varying by case, a jury then determines liability for one or both parties.
Damages and injuries induced by negligence in the accident are the second most dominant elements to be considered in determining value in an auto accident claim. Injury is determined by severity in most cases. Soft tissue and broken bones are important factors in the outcome of your case, as well as property damage and lost wages.
Call Blick Law Firm today if you have recently been involved in an auto accident and receive a free case evaluation. A personal injury attorney can help to you protect your legal rights by providing exceptional legal representation, as well as help to ensure that you receive proper medical attention. Call 888-973-2776 today!