Miller, Hampton & Hilgendorf FindLaw IM Template 2025-03-31T13:42:16Z https://www.mlhlawblog.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1603023/2022/08/cropped-Siteicon-32x32.jpg On Behalf of Miller, Hampton & Hilgendorf <![CDATA[PTSD following a severe car or truck accident]]> https://www.mlhlawblog.com/?p=47058 2023-12-04T20:59:08Z 2023-12-04T20:59:08Z Symptoms of PTSD Post-traumatic stress disorder can cause flashbacks, intrusive memories and nightmares that haunt survivors and make it challenging to move beyond the traumatic experience. The mind may replay the events of the accident, creating a persistent cycle of distress that can disrupt the ability to function normally. Another hallmark of PTSD is hypervigilance, where individuals remain on high alert, anticipating danger even in non-threatening situations. This heightened state can lead to increased anxiety, difficulty concentrating and a constant sense of unease. Additionally, survivors may develop avoidance behaviors and steer clear of places, people or activities that trigger memories of the accident.

The impact of PTSD

The emotional toll of PTSD can manifest in various ways, impacting relationships, work and overall quality of life. Survivors may struggle with feelings of guilt, shame or anger. Sleep disturbances and changes in mood are also common. It is essential to recognize the signs of PTSD and seek appropriate support. Professional help, such as counseling or therapy, can provide a safe space for survivors to process their emotions and develop coping mechanisms. Also, acknowledging that recovery is a gradual journey is important.]]> On Behalf of Miller, Hampton & Hilgendorf <![CDATA[What are some common kinds of serious truck accident injuries?]]> https://www.mlhlawblog.com/?p=47057 2023-10-12T12:21:25Z 2023-10-02T15:49:10Z Traumatic brain injuries Truck accidents can cause traumatic brain injuries when the force of impact results in the head striking an object or the interior of the vehicle. With 1.7 million Americans struggling with this kind of injury, people should stay aware of how severe injuries lead to long-term cognitive impairments. Symptoms may include headaches, memory problems and changes in mood or behavior. Immediate medical attention is important to assess and manage these injuries effectively.

Spinal cord injuries

Spinal cord injuries are another grave consequence of truck accidents. The sudden impact can lead to fractures or dislocations of the spine, potentially causing paralysis or loss of motor function below the injury site.

Bone fractures

Truck accidents frequently result in bone fractures, which can range from simple fractures to complex compound breaks. Broken bones may require surgery, immobilization or the insertion of hardware for stabilization. Recovery can be painful and may involve physical therapy to regain full mobility.

Internal organ damage

The force of a truck collision can cause internal organ damage, which may not be immediately apparent. Injuries to the liver, spleen, kidneys and other vital organs can lead to internal bleeding and necessitate surgical intervention.

Burns and lacerations

Truck accidents may result in burns from chemical spills and cuts from shattered glass or metal. Severe burns often require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries and skin grafts, while deep lacerations may damage nerves and require suturing and wound care. These injuries often have long-lasting effects on a victim's life and could lead to an increase in anxiety. If you are in a truck accident, seeking immediate medical attention is important to ensure the best possible outcome in the aftermath of such a devastating event.]]> On Behalf of Miller, Hampton & Hilgendorf <![CDATA[Overview of custody and child support laws in Louisianna]]> https://www.mlhlawblog.com/?p=47056 2023-08-10T20:47:54Z 2023-08-10T20:47:54Z Child custody The first issue is who has custody of the child. One of the major factors is what is in the child's best interests. If both parents agree and it is safe, the courts usually decide in favor of the agreement as long as no abuse exists and it is in the child's best interest. If the parents do not agree, then the courts consider various factors:
  • Ability to support the child financially, emotionally, academically and materially
  • Length of time the child has a stable environment and their desire
  • Emotional ties between each parent and their child
Each of these factors is very important.

Child support

Child support is clearer than custody. There are three factors that the courts consider when calculating child support. These are:
  • Income share - the amount of support dedicated to the child
  • Extraordinary medical deduction - a contribution to high medical costs.
  • Childcare deduction - an amount to pay for childcare
Louisianna uses an income share method for child support. They take gross combined income and determine the percentage of the non-custodial parent's income over the custodial parent's income. Different circumstances might come into play, but this is a standard formulation. Ultimately the questions of child custody and support always come down to what benefits the child or children most.]]> On Behalf of Miller, Hampton & Hilgendorf <![CDATA[Communication strategies for talking with a spouse during divorce]]> https://www.mlhlawblog.com/?p=47055 2023-06-05T18:22:06Z 2023-06-05T18:22:06Z Maintain a respectful tone Emotions can run high during divorce discussions, but it is essential to maintain a respectful tone when communicating with a spouse. Avoid yelling, blaming or using derogatory language.

Be clear and concise

In discussions about the divorce, communicate clearly and concisely. Avoid ambiguity, which can lead to confusion and disagreements. State your intentions, needs and concerns in a straightforward manner.

Listen actively

Active listening involves not only hearing the words the other party says but also understanding the emotions and meanings behind them. This strategy can show empathy and respect, foster understanding and open the door to productive discussions.

Focus on the issue at hand

When discussing matters relating to the divorce, try to stay focused on the issue at hand. Bringing up past arguments or grievances can derail the conversation and intensify the emotional strain.

Use neutral language

Using neutral language can help to avoid escalating a heated conversation. Instead of accusatory statements, use neutral phrases to express your feelings and concerns. This approach can prevent defensiveness and promote a more cooperative dialogue.

Plan ahead for difficult conversations

Difficult conversations are part of the divorce process. Planning these discussions ahead of time can help to manage emotions and stay focused on the issues. Consider the best time and place for the conversation, and what points you want to address.

Use written communication when necessary

If face-to-face conversations become too challenging, consider using written communication. Emails or texts can provide a record of communication, allow for thoughtful responses and prevent heated arguments. Effective communication can greatly reduce stress and conflict during a divorce process. By adopting respectful, clear and empathetic communication strategies, divorcing spouses can navigate this difficult transition more smoothly.]]> On Behalf of Miller, Hampton & Hilgendorf <![CDATA[What happens if you are in a car accident with an uninsured driver?]]> https://www.mlhlawblog.com/?p=47054 2023-04-04T19:52:30Z 2023-04-04T19:52:30Z After the traffic accident Often, it is advisable to call law enforcement after a car accident. This is especially true when an uninsured driver hits you because the police report can serve as evidence when you try to recover damages. You should also take time to exchange information, take photos and document what happened. In addition, do not delay seeking medical care, even if you feel well. Finally, avoid accepting money at the scene of the accident from an uninsured driver, as you do not know what the full expense of the crash will be.

Insurance claims and lawsuits

Unfortunately, around 11.7% of drivers in Louisiana lack insurance. Thus, it is a good idea for your auto insurance plan to include uninsured motorist coverage. If you have coverage, you can file a claim with your own insurer after your accident, even if the other driver has no insurance. On the other hand, if you do not have uninsured motorist coverage, it can be difficult to recover damages without taking legal action. It is possible to pursue a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident with an uninsured driver. If you do not have uninsured motorist coverage, the damages awarded in an injury suit could help pay medical bills, recover lost wages and compensate for pain and suffering. In Louisiana, there are steps you can take to obtain coverage or seek compensation if an uninsured or underinsured driver hits you.]]> On Behalf of Miller, Hampton & Hilgendorf <![CDATA[What tips should parents give their new driver teens?]]> https://www.mlhlawblog.com/?p=47053 2023-01-25T18:19:58Z 2023-01-30T18:18:33Z Watch for erratic drivers Erratic driving may indicate someone who is impaired or not paying attention to what they are doing. Some examples of erratic driving include:
  • Failing to stop at stop signs and red lights
  • Weaving in and out of lanes, which is often caused by driving while tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Speeding up and slowing down sporadically
Most drivers cannot control what other people do in their motor vehicles; however, parents can teach teens to be aware of potentially dangerous people on the road so they can avoid them when possible.

Know what to do after an accident

A motor vehicle accident is scary, and new drivers especially might forget what they should do in such a situation. Teach your new driver to do things such as take photos of any damage to their vehicle, contact the police and medical personnel and move cars out of the way, if possible. Knowing what to do ahead of time will save new drivers from having to remember what to do during a stressful situation such as an accident. There are many tips that parents and guardians can give teens to drive more safely on Louisiana highways.]]> On Behalf of Miller, Hampton & Hilgendorf <![CDATA[Walking for exercise: 5 tips that keep pedestrians safe on the road]]> https://www.mlhlawblog.com/?p=46801 2022-07-10T19:39:30Z 2022-07-10T19:39:30Z CDC recommends moderate aerobic exercise to maintain good health, and there is no better way to reach this goal than to walk.

Why is walking a good exercise choice?

Walking for exercise does not require special equipment or skills, and you can complete a workout simply by walking around your block. You do not need to drive anywhere or purchase a membership to a club to begin improving your health.

What are some tips to walk safely?

Before you hit the road, however, consider these five tips for staying safe while walking.
  1. Stick to the sidewalks whenever you can.
  2. If you must cross the road, use a crosswalk or cross at an intersection.
  3. Stay alert for cars, especially at intersections, and avoid dangerous moves, like walking into the street from between two parked cars.
  4. Do not walk if you have been drinking or are otherwise impaired.
  5. Baton Rouge municipal code prohibits pedestrians from walking on expressways or interstate highways, so stick to surface roads only.

How often should you walk to improve your health?

Walking for just thirty minutes most days in the week can help increase aerobic fitness, strengthen bones, reduce weight, and boost muscle power and endurance. Following these five tips can help you exercise safely and avoid injury and accidents, and help you incorporate walking into your regular health routine.]]> On Behalf of Miller, Hampton & Hilgendorf <![CDATA[What is a gray divorce and how does it differ from a regular divorce?]]> https://www.mlhlawblog.com/?p=46798 2022-05-16T19:57:44Z 2022-05-16T19:57:44Z What is a gray divorce? A gray divorce occurs when the two people who are getting divorced are over 50 years of age. In the past, many may have been more likely to stay in a marriage in their older age. However, attitudes towards have begun to change, and some are opting to spend their later years alone.

How is a gray divorce different from a regular divorce?

The primary difference between a regular divorce and a gray divorce is the age of the couple who are choosing to get a divorce. That said, there are some notable differences between a standard divorce and a gray one. With a gray divorce, you may have less time to recover financially. Not only that but one or more of you may be heading into retirement. This can mean that it is important to consider your finances with extra care. Divorce is often tough to deal with, no matter who you are. By knowing more about how a divorce will differ for you at a certain age point, you can help to make more informed decisions that will benefit you.]]> On Behalf of Miller, Hampton & Hilgendorf <![CDATA[What to do when your spouse asks for a divorce]]> https://www.mlhlawblog.com/?p=46795 2022-03-08T03:58:46Z 2022-03-08T03:58:46Z Take a moment to think If your spouse has just told you that they want a divorce, you may be reeling. Not only that, but you might also feel a lot of pressure to sort out what your future will look like. Even though it can be difficult to avoid stress at this stage, it can be counterproductive to worry too much. If you want to make sure that you are taking the right steps, then you need to give yourself some time to think. This can better allow you to make the right plans for yourself and your family.

Do your research

Once you have given yourself the time you need to mentally adjust to your new reality, you need to begin doing research and making plans. Some things to consider are what your budget will be like without your spouse's income, and what your living arrangements will be. Divorce is complicated to navigate, and you might find yourself struggling to make sure that you are choosing what is right for you. Even though it may feel difficult, it is possible to find the right help and make appropriate plans for your future.]]> On Behalf of Miller, Hampton & Hilgendorf <![CDATA[Causes of large truck rollovers]]> https://www.mlhlawblog.com/?p=46792 2022-01-20T01:08:29Z 2022-01-20T01:08:29Z large truck rollovers?

Common causes of large truck rollovers

Research has found that most large truck rollovers result from either unsafe actions or latent factors. Unsafe actions are actions taken by either the driver of the truck or another driver involved in the accident that results in a rollover. Latent factors are inherent risks associated with the type of vehicle or the vehicle's load that make a truck more likely to roll over.

Common unsafe actions

The most common unsafe action that contributes to rollover accidents is driving too fast for conditions. Driving too fast around curves is particularly likely to result in a rollover. The second most common cause is inattention by drivers. Sleep deprivation is often a contributing factor to inattention accidents. There are several less common causes of rollover accidents:
  • Road rage brought on by the actions of other drivers
  • Failure to notice posted speed limits
  • Improperly secured or overly heavy loads
  • Poorly maintained brakes
  • Driving on worn tires
  • Failure to account for poor sight distance
  • Errors in controlling truck motion
  • Mistakes by other drivers
Research suggests that while the nature of large trucks makes them more susceptible to rollover accidents, it is primarily negligent driving on the part of truck drivers that is to blame. If you have suffered an injury because of a negligent truck driver, you may be able to recover damages.]]>