Miller Sachs & Hess, PCSt. John Family Law Attorney | Northwest Indiana Personal Injury Law2024-03-15T03:07:37Zhttps://www.sachsandhess.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1102837/2023/03/cropped-Site-Icon-of-Miller-SachsHessPC-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Miller Sachs & Hess, PChttps://www.sachsandhess.com/?p=498642024-02-22T15:24:11Z2024-02-26T17:23:50ZPlan ahead
Try to avoid last-minute changes to exchange times or locations. Give plenty of advance notice if a change is necessary. Having a consistent schedule and routine is reassuring for children. Pack any items they will need ahead of time, including clothes, toys and medications so you do not forget anything in the stress of the moment. Arrive a few minutes early so you are not rushing them.
Keep things neutral
Focus on your child during the exchange rather than engaging with the other parent. Model calm, polite behavior even if tensions run high. Avoid criticizing the other parent in front of your child. If needed, communicate regarding pick-ups and drop-offs over text or email to minimize direct interaction. These exchanges are not the time or place to get into conflicts.
Make it quick
Long, drawn-out exchanges can heighten anxiety. Once the physical exchange occurs, try to get your child focused on something fun you have planned rather than rehashing the details of the hand-off. Whether going out for ice cream or watching a new movie at home, have an engaging activity ready to distract them from any custody stress they may feel.
By being consistent, neutral and moving things along quickly, you can reduce tension around custody exchanges. Staying child-focused in these moments will help limit negative impacts on their well-being. Managing exchanges calmly despite difficulties shows children they are more important than any inter-parental conflicts in these difficult situations.]]>On Behalf of Miller Sachs & Hess, PChttps://www.sachsandhess.com/?p=498622024-01-29T21:16:48Z2024-02-02T17:34:43Z1. The initial assessment
About 38,913 people suffered nonfatal injuries in Indiana collisions in 2020. After an accident, the initial medical assessment is important.
Emergency medical professionals carefully examine and document the injuries. This immediate documentation aids in providing prompt and appropriate treatment. It also establishes a necessary baseline for understanding the extent of the injuries.
2. Diagnostic procedures
Medical professionals in Indiana use a variety of diagnostic procedures to further assess injuries. X-rays, CT scans and other imaging techniques help uncover internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent. These diagnostic tools can provide a clear picture of the injuries and their direct link to the accident.
3. Timely medical attention
Prompt medical attention is helpful for two reasons: addressing immediate health concerns and creating a detailed record of the injuries. In Indiana, seeking medical assistance without delay strengthens the connection between the accident and subsequent health issues. Timely medical attention helps with a faster recovery and enhances the accuracy and reliability of the documentation.
Medical documentation serves as a bridge between the accident and the resulting injuries, establishing a causal link for legal and insurance proceedings. Without comprehensive records, it becomes challenging to attribute specific injuries directly to the accident, potentially hindering the individual's ability to receive fair compensation and support.
4. Ongoing treatment records
In cases where injuries require ongoing treatment, maintaining meticulous records becomes even more necessary. These records document the initial impact of the accident and track the progression of the injuries and the necessity for continued medical care. This comprehensive documentation reinforces the link between the accident and the sustained injuries over time.
This documentation is important for medical professionals and plays a major role in legal and insurance contexts. It can ensure people receive the support and compensation they rightfully deserve.]]>On Behalf of Miller Sachs & Hess, PChttps://www.sachsandhess.com/?p=498602024-01-25T15:46:59Z2024-01-28T17:23:07ZSemi-trucks and control
Semi-trucks, often weighing several tons, are sometimes hard to control, especially on icy or snowy roads. The sheer mass of these trucks reduces their ability to respond quickly to steering and braking.
Winter road conditions, marked by snow and ice, significantly reduce the grip between the truck's tires and the road. This reduced traction makes trucks more prone to skidding or sliding, particularly when turning or attempting to come to a stop.
Stopping distances
The increased momentum due to the truck's weight makes it challenging to bring it to a halt promptly. When roads are slippery, the distance required for a truck to stop safely is longer.
Reduced tire traction prolongs the time it takes for the brakes to effectively slow down the truck. Combined with the inertia resulting from the truck's weight, drivers must anticipate and initiate braking well in advance.
Tips for winter driving
Passenger car drivers can often avoid accidents with semi-trucks in icy conditions by following these precautions:
Keep a considerable distance behind semi-trucks, allowing for increased stopping distance and reducing the risk of rear-end collisions.
Stay out of a truck's blind spots, especially alongside and directly behind it, ensuring the driver can see your vehicle at all times.
Use turn signals early, maintain a consistent speed and avoid sudden lane changes, allowing truck drivers to anticipate your movements.
Keep headlights on, even during daylight, to enhance visibility. Trucks have larger blind spots, and increased visibility helps truck drivers notice your presence.
When overtaking a truck, do so with caution and only when it is safe. Avoid cutting in front too closely, considering the truck's longer stopping distance.
In icy conditions, brake early and gently to avoid skidding. Sudden braking may lead to loss of control, especially when driving close to a semi-truck.
Recognize that semi-trucks may need extra space for turns and maneuvering. Avoid crowding them, giving them room to navigate safely.
Understand that semi-trucks have limitations in icy conditions. Exercise patience, allowing trucks to navigate safely, and avoid aggressive driving behaviors that could lead to accidents.
Regular vehicle inspections, with a particular focus on brakes and tires, can also address potential issues.
Help reduce truck crashes
Everyone driving in The Hoosier State needs to do their part to reduce the risk of truck accidents.]]>On Behalf of Miller Sachs & Hess, PChttps://www.sachsandhess.com/?p=498582024-01-23T16:19:39Z2024-01-26T17:23:08ZUnpredictable nature
Personality, once believed to be relatively stable, can undergo a shift after a traumatic brain injury. The extent and nature of these changes are often unpredictable, making it hard to adapt.
A once outgoing and cheerful individual may become withdrawn and irritable, or the exact opposite could happen. The unpredictability of these changes adds an extra layer of complexity to the already challenging rehabilitation process.
Cognitive impairments and emotional dysregulation
TBIs often result in cognitive impairments that contribute to altered personalities. Memory deficits, impaired judgment and difficulties in processing information can all contribute to changes in behavior.
Emotional dysregulation, another common consequence of TBI, amplifies these alterations. Individuals may struggle to control their emotional responses, leading to mood swings and heightened emotional sensitivity.
Strained relationships and isolation
Loved ones may find themselves grappling with a stranger in the guise of their dear one. Misunderstandings and frustration start to leak into communication. Social isolation often follows. The individual with TBI may withdraw due to the challenges of navigating social interactions with their transformed self.
223,050 traumatic brain injuries that did not result in death led to hospitalizations in America in 2018 alone. The impact of this issue on personality is a profound testament to the connection between the brain and sense of self.]]>On Behalf of Miller Sachs & Hess, PChttps://www.sachsandhess.com/?p=496552023-12-04T15:03:28Z2023-12-07T17:23:58ZConstruction debris
Construction zones are a common sight on the roadways, and they leave behind a trail of debris. Nails, screws and wood remnants are just a few examples of the potentially damaging materials that can be strewn across the pavement. These objects, often hard to see at high speeds, have the potential to puncture tires and cause significant damage to vehicles.
Tire shreds
Ever come across a long strip of shredded rubber on the road and wondered where it came from? Tire shreds, a common type of debris, are usually remnants of blowouts or accidents experienced by other vehicles. These pieces of rubber can be hazardous, causing drivers to swerve unexpectedly to avoid them, leading to potential accidents.
Fallen cargo
Commercial trucks transporting goods are an important part of the economy, but they also contribute to road debris. Improperly secured cargo can fall off trucks, creating obstacles for unsuspecting drivers. Items like boxes, pallets or even larger equipment can become dangerous projectiles, posing a threat to nearby vehicles.
Natural debris
Seasonal changes bring their own set of challenges in the form of natural debris. During autumn, fallen leaves can create slippery conditions, reducing traction and increasing the risk of accidents. In winter, ice and snow accumulation can create treacherous driving conditions. Being aware of these seasonal hazards is important for adapting driving behavior to the changing environment.
286 million vehicles are currently on the road and operational in America as of 2023. In the quest for a smooth and safe journey, debris may not be the first source of danger on your mind. By staying informed and adopting defensive driving strategies, motorists can contribute to a safer road environment for everyone.]]>On Behalf of Miller Sachs & Hess, PChttps://www.sachsandhess.com/?p=496532023-09-28T10:08:21Z2023-10-03T10:08:04ZThermal burns
Thermal burns often result from exposure to high temperatures. This could be scalding hot liquids, flames or contact with hot objects.
With 86% of burns in the United States coming from thermal injuries, it is clear that anyone involved in a car accident needs to know more about them. The severity of a thermal burn depends on factors like the temperature and duration of contact. Treating a thermal burn typically involves cooling the affected area with cold water, followed by covering it with a sterile dressing.
Chemical burns
Chemical burns occur when the skin comes into contact with corrosive substances like acids, alkalis or strong cleaning agents. Such substances can cause damage by breaking down the skin's tissues.
Electrical burns
Electrical burns result from contact with electrical currents. The severity of these burns often belies their appearance on the skin's surface. Internal tissue damage can be significant.
If someone encounters a person with an electrical burn, it is important to disconnect the power source before providing assistance. After that, administer first aid and seek medical attention promptly.
Friction burns
Friction burns, commonly known as abrasions or road rash, occur when skin rubs against a rough surface. These burns are frequently seen in motor vehicle accidents and sports injuries.
Radiation burns
Radiation burns are less common but can occur in situations involving prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation. These burns are often associated with medical treatments such as radiation therapy. Protecting oneself from excessive radiation exposure is important in preventing this type of burn.
Inhalation burns
Inhalation burns occur when hot gases or smoke damage the respiratory tract during a fire or explosion. These burns can be life-threatening due to their impact on lung function. Immediate medical attention is important in such cases.
Remember, in any burn situation, consulting with a medical professional is always advisable to ensure proper treatment and care. Every moment counts when someone is dealing with a burn.]]>On Behalf of Miller Sachs & Hess, PChttps://www.sachsandhess.com/?p=496512023-09-27T18:49:25Z2023-09-29T18:42:58Z1. Concealing assets
Concealing marital assets is a common tactic employed by some spouses during divorce proceedings. They may hide bank accounts, investments, or valuable possessions. To uncover this deception, scrutinize financial records, including tax returns, bank statements, and property ownership documents.
2. Excessively spending
Another way to waste marital assets is through excessive spending or extravagant lifestyle choices. A spouse might indulge in costly purchases, extravagant vacations, or gambling, depleting resources that should be equitably divided.
3. Transferring Assets
Transferring assets to friends or family members is a tactic used to shield them from being part of the marital estate. To establish such transfers, investigate any unusual financial transactions or asset transfers.
4. Reducing income
Some spouses may deliberately reduce their income to lower the amount of alimony or child support they must pay. Proving this requires providing evidence of their previous income levels and demonstrating a deliberate effort to reduce their earning capacity.
5. Accumulating debt
Accumulating excessive debt during the divorce process can negatively impact the marital estate. One spouse may take on significant debts to saddle the other with a disproportionate share. To address this, keep records of all debts incurred during the divorce proceedings to demonstrate intentional accruement.
Approximately 690,000 divorces happen annually but some of them come with added challenges regarding assets. Understanding tactics used to reduce the worth of marital assets helps ensure an equitable distribution.]]>On Behalf of Miller Sachs & Hess, PChttps://www.sachsandhess.com/?p=496472023-08-11T07:47:36Z2023-08-16T07:46:39Zyour retirement accounts.
Learn Indiana divorce laws
Indiana is not a community property state, so all your assets are not necessarily divided equally. Instead, Indiana is an equitable distribution state. This means that the judge will divide your assets based on equity. Often, this division involves equal distribution, but not always.
Separate your marital and personal assets
Marital assets include everything you and your spouse accumulated during your marriage. Unfortunately, this also includes every payment you made to your retirement accounts and any interest these accounts accrued while you were married. Fortunately, the money you had in your accounts before you got married is a personal asset. Any inheritance you received is also a personal asset. If you owned your home, vehicle, etc. these remain yours.
Calculate your account balances
Because equitable often, though not always, means equal, as you calculate your retirement investments and interest, you should do the same for your spouse’s accounts. These balances can offset each other, protecting your financial future. For example, if you contributed $1 million to your accounts and your spouse contributed $800,000, the difference is only $200,000, which you may find ways to divide through other assets.
For the best results, use the information you gathered to negotiate the division of your marital assets. Although you may have to give up something you really want, a little creativity can protect your retirement.]]>On Behalf of Miller Sachs & Hess, PChttps://www.sachsandhess.com/?p=496432023-06-30T19:20:37Z2023-07-05T19:20:03Zwinter storm, but negligence could lead to an accident.
Hazards of winter driving conditions
Car tires often struggle to retain a grip on the road during wet and icy conditions. The most basic driving functions of changing a lane, making a turn or braking become more dangerous when the tires do not have enough traction. For commercial trucks, losing traction with an oversized load can lead to catastrophic results.
In addition to icy surfaces, drivers can experience poor visibility when it is snowing or sleeting. The winter sky is often dark or cloudy, limiting how far you can see. The glare from white snow can blind drivers, creating a potential for accidents.
Maintenance failures from winter conditions
Poor tire traction inevitably causes concern with braking during winter conditions. In order to remain safe on the roads, drivers should increase the following distance and put more space between them and the car in front. If a car’s headlights or brake lights are out, it further reduces the visibility of the car when driving in dark conditions.
While you are not in control of the weather, you have a responsibility to drive more carefully during winter weather conditions and address any maintenance concerns with your vehicle. Acts of negligence can lead to accidents and personal injury.]]>On Behalf of Miller Sachs & Hess, PChttps://www.sachsandhess.com/?p=496412023-06-01T15:37:29Z2023-06-05T15:36:50Zstay safe on the road this summer.
1. Check your blind spots
Because motorcycles are so small, blind spots are a notorious culprit in motorcycle accidents. Before switching lanes, turning or passing through intersections, use your side and rearview mirrors to check behind you, and look carefully ahead to ensure no motorcyclists are present.
2. Keep a safe distance
Adhering to the one-car-length rule when following a motorcyclist can give you enough reaction time to avoid rear-ending them. In addition to being safer, keeping a reasonable distance is just good manners.
3. Look in every direction twice
A motorcycle's small profile can make them difficult to see. Double- or triple-check every direction before accelerating away from a stop sign or turning.
4. Avoid abrupt passing
Cutting a motorcyclist off on the road is dangerous. If the rider does not have adequate time to react, this action may result in catastrophic injury. Allow multiple car lengths of distance between you and the motorcyclist before entering their lane. Additionally, avoid passing in front of a motorcycle when you plan to turn immediately after.
Remember these tips for safely sharing the road with motorcycles next time you go for a drive. Your responsible driving habits might save a life.]]>