Summer Safety: Preventing Drunk Driving and What to Do After an Accident

Personal injury law protects individuals who have been harmed due to someone else's negligence or intentional actions. If you've been injured, understanding what qualifies as a personal injury and how the claim process works is essential to protecting your rights. What Qualifies as a Personal Injury? Personal injury claims can arise from a variety of situations where another party’s actions—or in some cases, inaction—cause harm. Some common examples include: Car Accidents: If another driver is at fault for an accident that causes injuries, you may have a valid personal injury claim. Slip and Fall Accidents: Property owners are responsible for keeping their premises safe. Failing to do so may result in liability for any injuries sustained on their property. Medical Malpractice: If a healthcare provider’s negligence leads to injury or worsens your condition, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. Product Liability: Companies that produce defective products can be held responsible if their products cause injury. Essentially, a personal injury claim arises when someone else's negligence causes physical, emotional, or financial harm. If you’ve experienced an injury and believe someone else is at fault, consulting with a legal professional can help you determine if you have a claim. The Personal Injury Claim Process Filing a personal injury claim may seem overwhelming, but understanding the steps can make the process smoother: Seek Medical Attention: Before anything else, make sure you get the necessary medical treatment. Not only is this crucial for your health, but the medical records from your treatment will be a key part of your claim. Document the Incident: Collect as much information as possible about the accident. This can include photos of the scene, witness contact details, and police reports. Documentation will support your claim by providing evidence of how the injury occurred. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: Once you’ve received medical attention, the next step is to seek legal advice. A personal injury attorney will evaluate your case, help gather evidence, and navigate complex insurance or legal processes to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. File a Claim: Your attorney will help you file a formal claim against the responsible party. This usually involves notifying their insurance company of your intent to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Negotiation and Settlement: In many cases, the insurance company will offer a settlement. Your attorney will negotiate on your behalf to ensure that any offer covers your expenses and losses. If the settlement is fair, the case can be resolved without going to court. Litigation (if necessary): If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may recommend taking the case to court. Litigation can be a longer process, but sometimes it's necessary to secure the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured, understanding these steps and acting quickly is vital. Delaying medical treatment or waiting too long to file your claim could harm your case. Schedule a Consultation with Philip A. Mullins Law, P.C. If you or a loved one has been injured and believe someone else is responsible, Philip A. Mullins Law, P.C. is here to help. Our team will guide you through the entire process, ensuring that you understand your rights and options. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your personal injury case and secure the compensation you deserve.

Halloween is a time of excitement and fun for many families in North Carolina, but it also brings unique risks. Each year, approximately 3,200 people visit emergency rooms due to Halloween-related injuries. At Philip A. Mullins Law, P.C., we want to help you enjoy this holiday while staying safe. Here are some essential safety tips to keep you and your loved ones protected this Halloween: 1. Pumpkin Carving Safety More than 55% of Halloween injuries result from pumpkin carving. While it may be tempting to use regular kitchen knives, using specialized carving tools is a safer option. Make sure to have an adult supervise any carving activities, especially when children are involved. Supervision can prevent accidents and ensure that everyone has a fun and injury-free experience. 2. Trick-or-Treating Safety Ill-fitting costumes and falls while decorating cause about 25% of Halloween injuries. Make sure costumes fit properly to avoid tripping, and add reflective tape or glow sticks to increase visibility for trick-or-treaters. Additionally, encourage children to wear face makeup instead of masks, as masks can obstruct their vision and lead to accidents. 3. Drink Responsibly If you're attending a Halloween party where alcohol is served, plan ahead to avoid the risks of drinking and driving. Whether it’s catching a ride with a friend, calling an Uber, or staying overnight, these options are far safer than the potential emotional and financial consequences of a DUI or an accident. It's also crucial to always supervise young children, whether they are trick-or-treating or carving pumpkins. For older children, make sure they stay in a group and check in with you throughout the night. If You Get Injured, We’re Here to Help Despite all precautions, accidents can still happen. If you or a loved one gets injured this Halloween, Philip A. Mullins Law, P.C. is here to help. We understand how stressful injuries can be, especially during the holiday season. Our experienced legal team is ready to assist you with any personal injury claims. Schedule a Consultation Today Don’t wait to get the help you need. If you’re injured, contact us to schedule a consultation. We’ll guide you through your options and help you get the compensation you deserve. Stay safe, and enjoy a happy Halloween!

With fall in full swing here in North Carolina, it's a beautiful time to enjoy seasonal festivities, sports, and the changing scenery. However, fall can also bring unique hazards that may lead to preventable injuries. At Philip A. Mullins Law, P.C., we want to share some practical reminders to help you and your loved ones stay safe and avoid common fall injuries. Whether you're attending local events, playing sports, or simply enjoying time outdoors, these tips can help you reduce the risk of accidents. 1. Be Cautious of Slippery Leaves While a pile of leaves may look inviting, wet leaves on sidewalks and driveways can be extremely slippery. Regularly clear pathways around your home to prevent slips and falls. If you're out and about, watch your step on leaf-covered surfaces, especially after it rains. 2. Drive Safely in Back-to-School Traffic As children return to school, increased traffic near school zones is inevitable. Be extra mindful of school speed limits and changing traffic patterns. If you're driving with young passengers, make sure they're properly buckled up to avoid injury in case of sudden stops or accidents. 3. Keep Fall Sports Safe Fall sports like football and soccer are in full swing, but it's essential to prioritize safety. For children, ensure they are wearing properly fitting gear from last season, and refresh their understanding of hydration and injury prevention. For those participating in contact sports, being aware of concussion symptoms can help prevent long-term injuries. 4. Halloween Safety Tips With Halloween right around the corner, make sure trick-or-treaters wear visible costumes and follow safe routes, such as sidewalks and designated crosswalks. A few simple precautions can prevent falls or accidents while out enjoying the festivities. 5. Fire Safety Indoors As temperatures drop, many families will begin using fireplaces or heaters. Ensure that smoke detectors are working properly and that everyone in your household knows your fire escape plan. A few safety checks can go a long way in preventing household injuries. When to Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. If you or a loved one experiences a slip, fall, or injury this season, it’s important to consult a personal injury attorney who can help protect your rights. At Philip A. Mullins Law, P.C., we specialize in helping local residents understand their legal options following an accident. Schedule a Consultation If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to guide you through the process and help you seek the compensation you deserve. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your case and start on the path to recovery.  Stay safe this fall, and remember, we’re here when you need us!

During our years as attorneys at Philip A. Mullins Law, P.C., we have found that many clients are surprised by the magnitude of common traffic violations like speeding. With that in mind, we are reaching out this National Traffic Safety Month to provide an overview of typical legal penalties for such infractions and offer essential tips on what to do if you're in an accident. Penalties for Speeding Speeding tickets can carry fines that vary widely, from under $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the severity of the offense and the jurisdiction. For severe cases, such as excessive speeding (often defined as speeds vastly exceeding the posted limit) or repeated offenses, the consequences can escalate significantly. These instances may not only result in higher fines but can also lead to criminal charges, potentially including misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on state laws and the specifics of the violation. Other Common Violations Distracted Driving: This includes behaviors such as texting while driving. Nationally, fines for such violations typically range from $20 to $250, but some states have much higher fines, even for first-time offenses. The penalties reflect the increasing recognition of the dangers associated with distracted driving, which can significantly compromise road safety. Running Red Lights: Fines for this violation also vary widely, generally between $50 and $500. The exact amount can depend on local laws and the circumstances of the offense. DUI Offenses: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs carries severe penalties, including heavy fines, license suspension, mandatory education programs, and even imprisonment. Additional Consequences of Traffic Violations Increased Insurance Premiums: Traffic violations almost invariably lead to increased car insurance premiums, which can affect your financial situation long-term. Points on Your Driver's License: Accumulating points can lead to license suspension, mandatory driver retraining, or other administrative actions. What to Do If You're in an Accident Accidents can be overwhelming and disorienting. Knowing the best practices to follow can help you control the situation and ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved. Stay Calm and Secure Safety: Your ability to remain composed is crucial. Move your vehicle to the side of the road if it's safe, turn on hazard lights, and use road flares if you have them to prevent further accidents. Accept Medical Attention: Always accept medical help offered at the scene, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline can mask injuries, making them apparent only hours later. A thorough medical check-up is essential to ensure that no underlying injuries go unnoticed. Call the Police: Regardless of the accident's severity, calling 911 is essential. The police will document the scene and create an official report, which is invaluable for insurance claims and legal issues. Gather Comprehensive Information: Exchange names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information with the other driver(s). Take photographs of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, visible damage, and road conditions. These photos can serve as vital evidence. Avoid Admitting Fault: Be cautious in your interactions. Avoid discussing the specifics of the accident or admitting fault. These conversations should be limited to the police and your attorney. Schedule a Consultation Navigating the aftermath of traffic violations and accidents can be complex. At Philip A. Mullins Law, P.C., we can help you reduce fees or charges, an important element in preventing financial or legal issues. If you have any questions or need further assistance with a recent ticket or any related legal matters, please feel free to reach out to us. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

While we hope you never need it, having a foundational knowledge of the personal injury claim process can be incredibly beneficial, empowering you in the unfortunate event of an accident. With this in mind, we’re sharing a clear overview of the process and important terms to help you understand the fundamentals of personal injury cases. A Basic Overview Personal injury cases cover civil claims against individuals or entities whose acts or omissions cause injury. Common types of personal injury cases include automobile accidents, slip-and-fall incidents, and product liability. Each of these scenarios requires a nuanced understanding of legal responsibilities and liabilities. To establish a strong personal injury case, four fundamental elements must be present: duty, breach, causation, and damages. In cases like product liability, the duty is often presumed, meaning the law assumes certain responsibilities on the part of the defendant, such as safety in manufacturing. Other cases, such as assault and battery, require the plaintiff to prove intent. Element 1: Duty Duty refers to the legal obligation to act with a level of care that a reasonable person would exercise under similar circumstances. This can vary widely, depending on the specific situation. For example, all drivers have a duty to follow traffic laws and drive safely to avoid harming others on the road. A business, such as a supermarket, has a specific duty to ensure that its premises are safe for customers. Element 2: Breach of Duty Breach of duty occurs when the responsible party fails to meet the expected standard of care. General duty refers to broad, societal expectations, requiring everyone in similar circumstances to act reasonably and prevent foreseeable harm. An example of breaching this duty is a driver texting while driving, neglecting the general obligation to drive safely, which leads to an accident. Specific duty, in contrast, stems from particular relationships or situations that demand specific actions to avert harm. For instance, a store owner who ignores a known hazard, such as a loose floor tile, is breaching this specific duty by failing to ensure a safe environment and resulting in a customer's injury. Element 3: Causation Causation links the breach of duty directly to the injuries sustained. This connection is essential for the claim to be valid. For example: If a car accident occurs because a driver ran a red light (breach of duty) and this directly results in another driver suffering a neck injury (causation), then the first driver would be responsible. However, if the injured driver had a pre-existing neck condition that was demonstrably worsened by the accident, the causation between the breach and the specific injury might be harder to prove. Element 4: Damages Damages in personal injury cases are categorized as economic and non-economic. Economic damages are quantifiable costs incurred by the plaintiff, while non-economic damages cover subjective impacts such as pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life. If you believe you have a case, it is essential to consult with a board-certified civil trial lawyer, recognized for their expertise in personal injury law. Our team meets and exceeds this threshold, and we are here to assist you with any questions or concerns. Schedule a Consultation with Philip A. Mullins Law, P.C. to discuss your personal injury case and explore your legal options.

At Phillip A. Mullins Law, we've recently seen an uptick in the number of clients facing challenging situations after accidents involving uninsured drivers. This alarming trend highlights a significant risk for drivers in North Carolina, emphasizing the critical need for Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM).

Suffering a personal injury can be a disorienting and stressful experience. Whether it's a slip and fall at a store, a dog bite, or a car accident, knowing what to do immediately after can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here are some key steps to follow if you find yourself injured.

Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic and confusing experience, especially if you're injured. In North Carolina, there are specific steps you should follow to ensure your safety and protect your rights. Understanding these steps can make the aftermath of an accident less overwhelming.