With any large change for a child, it is important to establish routines that create a new normal, and reassure children that everything will work out.

A sad fact is that about 50% of children have experienced a parental divorce by the time they are 16 years old. (Source: The Psychological Effects of Divorce on Children) The interesting fact is that the potential impacts for both children of divorce, and children with parents who fight in front of them, include an increased risk for mental health problems, behavior problems, and a higher likelihood for risky behavior. (Source: How Parents Fighting Affects a Child’s Mental Health)

Questions to Ask Yourself

What impact could staying together have on your children’s physical and/or emotional safety? If you or your children are unsafe, it is important you get safe as soon as possible. Click here for resources in Arizona for Domestic Violence.

What impact could divorcing have on your children’s emotional wellbeing? What proactive and long-term strategies could you put into place to support your child before, during and after the divorce?

With over 20 years of experience in family law, Simon Law Group is more than just a good divorce and family law attorney in Arizona. They have the credentials and experience to make sure you have a successful divorce. Call 480-745-2450 today for your free consultation, and remember, Experience Matters!

They Take a Quick Insurance Settlement

When your medical bills begin to come in, you may be tempted to accept an insurance company settlement in order to get them paid, but don’t make this mistake. Instead, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to determine if you have a case, or if the settlement being offered really is fair and sufficient.

A fair settlement will cover current and future medical bills. Talk to an experienced lawyer who knows how to calculate future medical expenses.

They Waive Their Rights

When you accept the insurance company’s settlement, you waive your right for future compensation. For example, you may go to the chiropractor for several visits for whiplash, but months later you begin to feel the effects of a concussion. If you have already taken a settlement, the doctor care for the concussion will come out of your pocket.

It’s important to wait on accepting a settlement until the full effects of the accident are known. A personal injury attorney understands how injuries can grow and what the proper compensation should be.

All Damages Aren’t Considered

In addition to medical expenses, there is also likely property damage. Sometimes replacing the car isn’t a viable option, and yet when a client is hasty, they may accept an insurance settlement that doesn’t allow them to repair or replace their vehicle. It is important to take into consideration all damages, including long term effects of the loss such as in lost wages, pain and suffering.

Getting a free consultation from a personal injury accident lawyer as soon as you, or in some cases, on behalf of your loved one, as soon as possible. Their advice can save you from losing even more by giving up your rights to the compensation the law allows to restore you, as best as possible to the condition you were in prior to the accident.

Simon Law Group would like to earn your trust as a local personal injury accident lawyer. Serving the Greater Phoenix area for more than 20 years, we are here to support you in getting the money you need to take care of yourself (and/or loved ones) after an accident with injuries. Call today for your free consultation, and remember, Experience Matters!

Each case is different. Even ones that sound the same or similar have a variety of components and variables that the court must factor in to come to a decision. When it comes to what will be awarded in an accident case, your accident attorney can help set a realistic expectation.

Big Accident Awards

Big accidents can include ones where there is significant damage, such as those involving a semi-truck and a vehicle, or in a motorcycle accident where the rider has significant injuries. Other big accidents can involve fatalities. When injury or death occurs through no fault of their own, the victim, and/or the victim’s family, can be compensated for the loss.

Because recovering from a large accident can take a long time, contacting an injury lawyer early is important for the getting the money you need to cover the costs.

Small Accident Awards

Often in small accidents, victims may choose to quickly accept the settlement offer from the insurance company so they can pay their bills. While sometimes this is an appropriate choice, other times it is overly simplified and short sighted. Even in a minor accident, concussions, whiplash, traumatic brain injuries or other problems develop, and the victim isn’t able to get the additional compensation needed for the medical care they require.

It is important to speak to an accident attorney to determine if the settlement the insurance company has offered is enough for your current and future needs.

What Can be Awarded in an Accident Case

All cases are different and depend on if you are the driver or passenger, the extent of the property damage and injuries. Some compensation is cut and dry, while others are more subjective and can’t be determined up front.

Medical bills. Medical expenses for not just current care, but future care will be considered, including rehabilitation, loss of certain abilities (such as loss of a limb or function of a body part), and more.

Job loss. When you are out of work due to an accident, it doesn’t take long for bills to begin to pile up. Compensation can be awarded for the loss of income while regaining health. In addition, compensation can be awarded if you aren’t able to return to your normal work activities. For example, if you are no longer able to lift and carry weight which was a primary function of your job, and you now need to work in an office at a lower rate of pay, you may be able to be compensated for that difference.

Property damage. If your vehicle has been totaled or needs repairs following an accident, you may receive money to replace or fix it. If other property has been damaged, ask about the replacement/repair of that as well.

Pain and suffering. There are a few terms that fall under the umbrella of emotional injury including suffering, the loss of companionship or joy. Because this is subjective (unlike medical bills that have a specific number attached to the care), it can really change the amount you can be awarded in an accident case.

Don’t simply choose an accident lawyer because they promise a huge award, but rather choose one who is honest with you and has proven results with accident cases. Simon Law Group in Phoenix, Arizona has been serving injured clients for over 20 years. We will support you in getting the compensation you deserve after an accident. Contact us today for your free consultation, and remember, Experience Matters!

Recently in the news there have been some accidents that could be grounds for a case. By taking a look at them, you may understand more about what types of cases should be talked about with a personal injury attorney.

Examples of Potential Personal Injury Cases in Recent News

Recently, two stories made the news in Phoenix, both of which could warrant a case:

Pedestrian Struck by Vehicle.

Man struck, killed by vehicle in north Phoenix (Source: AZFamily.com)

In this first story, the man stuck was a pedestrian, and the driver didn’t seem to be impaired, or speeding. This was a tragic accident and the family of the deceased pedestrian may have a case. In order to truly understand their rights, they should contact a personal injury attorney.

Woman Killed in Vehicle Collision

Woman killed following collision in Phoenix (Source: 3TV/CBS 5)

This story involves a driver who failed to yield to oncoming traffic, resulting in an accident that killed the driver, and injured two others, one who was the passenger. Neither of the two injured parties were at fault, and therefore could receive compensation for their medical bills, property damage, and pain and suffering (in some cases).

Examples of Other Successful Personal Injury Cases

Take a look at these examples of other types of personal injury cases where we worked with victims to get them the compensation they deserved for their injuries.

Motorcycle accident with injuries

Client bitten by a dog

Injuries from a car accident

Personal injury from an assault

If you are wondering if an injury you or a loved one has experienced is eligible for restorative compensation, contact Simon Law Group for a free consultation today. With over 20 years in personal injury law in the Phoenix area, we have the experience you need to get the compensation you deserve. Remember, Experience Matters!

The next step will be working with an attorney who will be on your side to make sure your rights are maintained during this very difficult transition. Having the support of an attorney will help protect you and your children legally so you can make a successful transition into a safer and more stable environment.

What Is Considered Domestic Violence?

Some people don’t recognize what constitutes domestic violence, and when going through a divorce with children, it is especially important to know and understand.

Domestic violence includes:

Physically and/or sexually abusive behaviors (to the spouse or child(ren))

Threats of physical or sexual abuse

Forcing a person to do something they don’t want to do through intimidation or threats

For examples or more information, see the National Domestic Violence Hotline website.

Domestic Violence and Divorce with Children

When domestic violence is involved in the household of divorcing parents, Arizona courts will act in the best interest of the children.

Arizona courts favor dual-parenting, meaning neither mom nor dad is given a higher priority. In healthy relationships, it is important for children to have access and time with both parents. However, in a domestic violence situation, it may be dangerous for a parent to have access to a child(ren), so it is important to share any information about the safety of your children with your lawyer, as well as the courts.

Your lawyer can help you obtain a restraining order (protective court order) if needed, and will work to make sure your rights are upheld for the safety of you and your children.

If you are in a domestic violence situation and are ready to file for a divorce, Simon Law Group is here to help you. Serving families in a variety of family law matters including divorce, child custody, restraining orders and more for over 20 years, Simon Law Group in Phoenix, Arizona can help. We will you’re your back to make sure your rights are protected through your divorce so you can have a successful outcome. Contact us today for your free consultation, and remember, Experience Matters! 

What Are My Rights as a Passenger in an Accident?

Situations can be very different from case to case on accidents with injuries. But, because a passenger is not the reason for the accidents, they are entitled to compensation. In most accidents, the injured party can receive money for property damage, medical expenses, pain and suffering and loss of income. This all still applies as a passenger of a vehicle, even when you don’t own it.

Property damage includes damage to the vehicle, but also other personal property. If you lost personal property as a result of the accident, you may be able to receive compensation for that loss.

Medical expenses include transportation to a hospital, medical treatment and care, after care such as rehabilitation or physical therapy, and needed medical equipment. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may have injuries that last for years to come, and the care of that can also have compensation attached. It is important to talk to a lawyer about what exactly can be awarded.

Pain and suffering includes the emotional toll the accident has had on you and sometimes even your family members. If a loved one requires leaving work to care for you, or you aren’t able to provide or be intimate as you once were, pain and suffering compensation is designed to “make up for” that.

Loss of income includes wages for time out of work due to your injuries. This can include an initial hospital stay, and even follow up appointments to the doctor. For significant injuries that impact your ability to make income at your current career, additional financial compensation may be awarded.

Other considerations may be available depending on your unique situation. It is important to get a free consultation from an injury attorney to determine what your award may be and the steps you need to take to get compensated for your loss.

Simon Law Group in Phoenix, Arizona has been serving injured clients for over 20 years. We will support you in getting the compensation you deserve after an accident, whether you are a passenger or a driver. Contact us today for your free consultation, and remember, Experience Matters!

There will be no doubt a period of time where emotions will range from despair, fear, anger, relief, hope and happiness. And, these emotions will come and go, for an undetermined amount of time. The circumstances around the divorce, such as who initiated the divorce, whether or not there are children involved, and if a business or property is involved.

There’s a saying that we can choose to become bitter, or we can choose to become better. We hope you choose the second option and want to offer these 6 tips to help you do just that.

Establish New Routines. There will be a lot of changes with your divorce. You may be moving into a new residence and adjusting childcare schedules which may or may not impact your financial situation. Establishing new routines will help you to create a new normal, and reduce stress.

Set a Few Goals. Divorce causes a lot of people to reflect on what happened and even who they are and what they are doing with their lives, including how they want the future to look. Take some time to reflect gently on the situation and set some goals for things that will build you up and move you the direction of your desired future.
Get Support. To help you move through and past your divorce, you may need outside support such as from a therapist or doctor, who may or may not suggest medication. It is not uncommon to feel sad or even depressed, but if that is impacting your ability to work or enjoy life, especially if you become suicidal, get help.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident, it is possible that their life is changed by a traumatic brain injury (TBI). What are the signs, symptoms, causes and cures for TBI? With over 20 years in personal injury law, Simon Law Group understands the impact of Traumatic Brain Injuries and the accidents that can cause them. Here’s what you need to know.What Causes a Traumatic Brain Injury?

A brain injury is any damage, traumatic or non-traumatic, caused to the brain that affects someone emotionally, behaviorally, and/or physically. Brain injuries are classified as non-traumatic or traumatic depending on the cause. A non-traumatic brain injury may be caused by illness or a tumor perhaps, but a traumatic brain injury is caused by an accident.

The top three causes of TBI are motor vehicle accidents, slips and falls, and gunshot wounds. Other causes include violent attacks and bomb blasts. Many active duty military experience TBI caused from gunshot wounds received on the battlefields and shrapnel from bomb blasts.

There are three types of TBI:

• Closed Head Injury– Most common when a TBI is caused by falls or car accidents.
• Open Head Injury– Most common in gunshot victims and active duty military
• Deceleration Injuries– Most common when the head is slammed around in an unnatural way causing the brain to bounce around in the skull.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of TBI?

TBI is actually a common injury that is overlooked often when medical teams are working to save an individual’s life. They may be focused on more noticeable injuries and not be aware that there is a traumatic brain injury present. This is most common with closed head TBI’s. Sometimes symptoms may not appear for days or even longer.

If the TBI is mild, an MRI or CAT scan could appear normal, but the victim will have cognitive issues, and/or changes in mood or emotional state. These “mild” TBI’s are often overlooked for long periods of time, very often never being properly diagnosed.

A severe TBI is when an individual loses consciousness for at least 30 minutes. Both short and long term effects will be witnessed and varied, but can include: impaired cognitive functions to completely comatose states; physical disabilities such as limited function in their extremities or abnormal speech; loss of memory; mood swings; emotional problems.

An open head TBI is when there is actual penetration of the skull. This type of traumatic brain injury is most often associated with gunshot wounds. Injuries caused by firearms are very often fatal, with 9 out of 10 victims of these types of wounds dying from their injuries.

How Do You Cure Traumatic Brain Injury?

Although the effects of TBI vary greatly, traumatic brain injury is always devastating to the person injured as well as their family. In a single moment a person’s life is forever changed. Our brain is what defines us, so unlike a broken arm or pierced lung, it does not limit a specific part of the body, but instead one’s entire being.

A broken bone can be healed, generally one will regain normal use of the damaged body part… the mental abilities remain. A brain that has experienced a traumatic injury usually does not regain normal function ever again.

Even in “mild” cases of TBI, a person is forever changed and the effects on them and their loved ones are far from mild. In more severe cases, the range and degree of function and recovery is as varied as the individual. There is no cure for TBI, so one must do their best to prevent the occurrence of a traumatic brain injury, and be sure to plan a recovery plan that will span a lifetime.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident and were injured, you may be awarded compensation for your loss to cover medical expenses, living expenses, pain and suffering and more. Contact Simon Law Group for a free consultation if you are an Arizona resident who has been injured as is suffering with a Traumatic Brain Injury due to an accident. Remember, Experience Matters!

If you’ve been in a car accident with injuries, it is always best to seek medical treatment even if you experience only slight discomfort, as it may be an early indication of injury. Keep a record of your injuries and contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Read more to learn about the potential injuries you may have; these are the most common ones reported injuries after a traffic accident.

Head Injuries

Head injuries occur when the sudden jarring movement of a vehicle causes the occupants heads to move in an unnatural way, or when the head of someone involved in the crash hits another object such as the steering wheel or the window. These types of injuries can include simple cuts and bruising, or, in more severe cases, there can be a closed head injury.

Closed head injuries are when fluid builds up and puts pressure on the brain. This can cause, at minimum a concussion, and, at worst, a coma or a brain trauma with lasting cognitive issues.

Chest Injuries

Chest injuries most often happen to the driver of the vehicle, as they are in a confined space that does not allow for much movement. In an accident, it is highly likely for the driver’s chest to come in contact with the steering wheel, especially when they are not wearing a seat belt.

If the passenger(s) in the vehicle aren’t wearing their restraints, they may come in contact with the dashboard, leading to chest injury. And, even if all occupants are restrained, the seat belts themselves can cause bruising to the chest and injuries can be caused by projectiles in, or that enter, the vehicle.

Cuts and Scrapes

Cuts and scrapes often occur when the normally non-threatening items in your car, such as a coffee mug or cell phone, turn into projectiles during a car crash. These flying objects can come in contact with the occupants of the car causing injury. This type of injury can also occur when a window breaks or a part of the body comes in contact with a window causing it to break. Cuts and scrapes can be minor, or more severe leading to loss of blood and/or the need for stitches.

Arm and Leg Injury

Often times, the passengers of vehicles experience injury to their extremities when they get slammed into the side of the vehicle or when knees are jammed against the dash or seat in front of them. The severity of these types of injuries can be minor bruising to broken bones and whether the accident is head on or a t-bone.

Soft Tissue Injury

This type of injury is when damage is done to the muscles, tendons, or ligaments of the body. These injuries include overextension of a joint, bruising, or a “whiplash” type injury.

Whiplash is one of the MOST common complaints following an accident. This type of injury occurs not only in the neck, but also in the mid or lower regions of the spine. Unexpected impact can cause injury to the ligaments and vertebrae, even when hit at a low speed.

Injuries to the back and neck can cause long term nerve damage and reduced control and/or sensation in the extremities, as well as cognitive issues.

With over 20 years in personal injury law in Phoenix, Arizona, Simon Law Group has the experience that matters. When the insurance company won’t offer you what you need to pay your medical bills for the care you need, give us a call. Start with a free consultation today at 480-745-2450.