Wrongful Death Lawsuit Alleges Driver was on the Phone When She Struck and Killed Triathlete

According to a recently filed wrongful death lawsuit, a motorist was on the phone with her employer when she struck and killed a bicyclist in July. The lawsuit seeks an unspecified amount in damages to cover lost financial support and funeral expenses as well as noneconomic damages. The driver and her employer, Dignity Health are named as defendants.

The deceased, a world-class triathlete, was riding in the bike lane on Highway 227 when the driver of a Chrysler 200 drifted off the right shoulder of the road and struck her from. The woman was thrown from the bike and landed in a ditch. She sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Initially, investigators said they did not believe the negligent driver was texting or on the phone at the time of the crash. However, phone records show the negligent driver was communicating with her employer, at the time of the crash, according to the lawsuit. It also alleges she did not call 911 following the collision. The Assistant District Attorney has also confirmed that cell records showed the driver was using the phone at the approximate time of the crash. She was, later charged with a single misdemeanor count of vehicular manslaughter, to which she has pleaded not guilty. The criminal case is ongoing.

Losing a loved one is an extremely difficult time for any family member. The husband of the deceased said he would rather have his wife back, but hopes that what happened to her will serve as a lesson that distracted driving is not okay.

The fact that a guilty driver has been charged does little to pay the bills for the family of the deceased. The litigation process will take time, possibly years. In the meantime, the plaintiff still has to pay the bills. If the family is struggling financially, they may look to lawsuit funding.

Lawsuit funding is a cash advance offered to litigants in exchange for a portion of the future proceeds of their case. A lawsuit cash advance is a smart move for most plaintiffs because it lets them wait out the long, legal process for settlement or verdict justice, without having to settle too soon for too little because the insurance company has all the time, leverage and money, and use these tools to its advantage. There is no cost to apply, no credit checks or employment verification, no monthly payments to make, no upfront fees of any kind, and no restrictions on how the money is used. Best of all, it is only repaid once the claim is settled. Because repayment is contingent upon a successful recovery, if the lawsuit is lost, there is no obligation on the part of the plaintiff to repay the cash advance.

The application process takes less than five minutes online or by phone. If the case is approved for funding, Lawsuit Financial can direct deposit or overnight mail the money within 24 – 48 hours.

If you have lost a loved one due to someone’s negligence, you may have the right to a wrongful death claim against the responsible party. An experienced attorney can help you fight to obtain the justice and compensation that you deserve. Once the lawsuit is filed, if you need financial help during the pending claim, turn to an experienced, caring legal finance company. Turn to Lawsuit Financial. We can help ease your financial burden while you wait for your lawsuit to settle.

Protecting Distracted Driving Accident Victims from Financial Ruin

Contrary to the negative public perception of personal injury attorneys, many of those attorneys have placed themselves squarely on the front lines in the fight against distracted driving. Personal injury attorneys advocate for safer roads and they stand up for the rights of seriously injured victims, or family member who have lost loved ones because someone was driving while distracted. But fighting for a victim's rights can take time in order to obtain the best compensation. Unfortunately, many victims are not in a financial position to wait out the litigation process. Finances can be seriously depleted as a victim tries to keep up with the bills. Due to backlogs in our court systems and deliberate delay tactics of insurance companies, some are forced to settle for pennies on the dollar.

Lawsuit funding is a service that provides needed financial assistance to seriously injured victims of negligent drivers. The strategy behind lawsuit funding is to help plaintiffs avoid feeling pressured to accept a settlement too early, for too little. In effect, it levels the playing field and buys the plaintiff time to achieve full case value. Although the cash advance can be used anyway the client chooses, typically the funds are to pay outstanding medical bills and daily costs of living, such as mortgage payments, food and other important expenses.

Unlike with a loan, plaintiffs receiving lawsuit funding do not pay upfront fees. In fact, they pay nothing until the case settles. Additionally, a legal funding company will not conduct a credit check or verify employment, because the only factor in obtaining lawsuit funding is a case with merit.

Are you in a pending lawsuit and struggling financially? To get back financial control of your life after a personal injury, check into the benefits of lawsuit funding by contacting Lawsuit Financial. The application process is quick and easy, and can be done online. Once we review your application and applicable case documentation, if approved for funding, we can have the cash in your hands within 48 hours or less.

Two Children Killed in Five-Vehicle Warrenton, Missouri Crash Due To Drunk Driver

Study-after-study has shown that distracted driving from cell phone use hampers reaction time as much as a drunk driver with a blood alcohol level of 0.08. Just as with drunk driving, distracted driving causes the driver to take his focus off the road for seconds at a time and, therefore, impairs driving ability. The distracted driver loses his ability to drive defensively--in similar fashion to how driving under the influence can diminish response times; a split-second lag time in hitting the brakes can have deadly consequences. Here is a tragic car crash resulting from a driver not only looking down at his phone, but also driving while intoxicated.

A drunk driving accident took the lives of two Warrenton, Missouri children as the Labor Day weekend was coming to an end. The children, 7 and 13-years-of-age, were pronounced dead at the scene. Both their parents were hospitalized in serious condition.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the family’s Hyundai Elantra was rear-ended by a Cadillac Escalade while they were traveling eastbound on I-70 near Blue Springs. The Escalade then hit an Acura, pushing it into two other vehicles. The driver of the Escalade and the occupants of the three other vehicles were not seriously injured. Everyone involved was wearing a seat belt.

The negligent driver told police he was on his way home with cruise control on. He said he looked down at his phone to change a song, and was still looking down at the time of the crash. The man also admitted that he had been drinking prior to the collision, but refuse to give a breathalyzer test. Two blood samples were later taken. He faces two counts of second-degree murder, two counts of second-degree assault, driving while intoxicated and driving with a revoked license.

A personal injury attorney can stand up for the rights of seriously injured victims, or family member who lost a loved one due to a distracted and/or drunk driver. Often times, achieving maximum compensation can take months, even years. Unfortunately, the wait can send victims into financial ruin. For example, in this tragic accident, the family will incur funeral and burial expenses for the two children, as well as medical expenses for the parents. Depending on the parent’s recovery, they could incur costs associated with physical therapy and rehabilitation, disability, or a host of other expenses. They will most likely need a new car. All this will be in addition to their ordinary living expenses. What if they are out of work for months or indefinitely? What if they have little savings? To help them cope financially until a lawsuit settlement, the family can apply for pre-settlement lawsuit funding.

Lawsuit Financial understands the financial situation facing plaintiffs and knows the lengths that insurance companies will go through to reach a less-than-fair settlement offer. With a lawsuit cash advance, plaintiffs can level the playing field and push for justice.

Funding is based solely by the strength of the pending lawsuit. Unlike a bank loan, we do not require upfront fees, credit checks or employment verification, nor do we require monthly payments. We are repaid from the proceeds of the case, but if the case is lost we completely waive repayment of the cash advance.

If you are in a pending lawsuit and struggling financially, let Lawsuit Financial help you get back financial control of your life, allowing time for the justice system to work in your case. The application process is quick and easy, and can be done online or call our office at 1-877-377-7848 for a free, no-obligation evaluation of your case.

About Lawsuit Financial

Lawsuit Financial Corporation is a pro-justice lawsuit funding company that seeks to educate plaintiffs and attorneys about lawsuit funding. Our company is an attorney owned and operated full service legal finance company recognized by attorneys nationwide as a preferred choice for legal funding services. Mark Bello, CEO and General Counsel, is recognized as an expert in this field, both as an underwriter of these transactions and as an advocate for appropriate treatment of plaintiffs/clients in this industry and in litigation.

Fatal Car Crash Is A Tragic Reminder Of Danger To Teens As The Holiday Weekend Approaches

Investigators believe a 17-year-old driver was speeding when he lost control of his 1999 Ford Taurus and crashed into a tree, splitting the car in two. The driver and three passengers were ejected, according to reports from the Milwaukee County medical examiner’s office. Two of the passengers, both 15-years-of-age, died from injuries. Several witnesses reported running to the crash scene to render aid and found at least one of the victims already deceased. The driver and one passenger were taken to an area hospital with serious injuries. All four teens were relatives and were returning from playing basketball that evening when the crash occurred.

The investigation is ongoing, but according to a criminal complaint, other motorists reported that the driver was speeding at nearly 80 mph, swerving from lane to lane, when he lost control, left the street and crashed into the tree. He faces two counts of homicide by negligent driving and one count of reckless driving causing great bodily harm, all felonies.

This is the “same kind of mistake that kids anywhere in any part of the state or country could have made,” said the principal from the school of one of the deceased teens.

Auto accidents are the number one cause of death for teens nationwide; they permanently alter the lives of all involved. Researchers found that teens have a higher risk of auto accidents and are 2 1/2 times as likely as adults to be in a crash. Common dangers for young drivers include:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Too many passengers
• Not wearing seat belts
• Driving under the influence
• Aggressive or careless driving

This is why many states have imposed tougher requirements on young drivers by requiring three stages of licensing — learner's permit, intermediate stage, and full license — and set 16 as the earliest age for entry into the learner's permit process. The graduated system helps young drivers by limiting high risk driving situations, increasing adult supervision and extending the educational requirements of the novice driver.

Studies continue to show that parental involvement is one of the most powerful weapons in the fight to keep teenagers safe. While a parent has no way of knowing if their teen will always follow the rules once they leave the house, it is important to keep re-enforcing safe driving habits. This includes understanding the importance of adhering to the speed limit, avoiding distractions while driving, and how to respond to situations on the road without panicking. Having proper insurance coverage is another way to protect your teen. Talk with your insurance agent about various options and be aware of your state’s requirements.

Even then, the most responsible driver may find themselves in a car crash. If you or a loved one is seriously injured or killed in an automobile accident at no fault of your own, you may be able to recover damages for medical bills, loss wages, and pain and suffering. It is important to contact an attorney who specializes in these types of cases.

Losing a loved one unexpectedly can be extremely difficult and painful. Even when liability appears straightforward, the case can drag on for months, even years. The wait will often put victims in a financial predicament. Worried about paying bills and meeting other financial obligations? While an attorney fights to obtain the best possible settlement, Lawsuit Financial may be able to provide a lawsuit cash advance, without consideration of your credit score or employment status. A financial transaction, known as lawsuit funding, is a valuable solution to obtaining immediate cash to cover pressing needs until a case reaches settlement. The repayment is made from the proceeds of the case. If your case is lost, the cash advance is waived in its entirety.

Eligibility is based on attorney representation and a strong case. Once these qualifications are met, the application process is quick and easy; it takes less than five minutes online or over the phone. Once approved, funds can arrive by wire or check within 24-48 hours. While the money can be used at your discretion, it typically helps pay medical expenses or important monthly obligations such as mortgage or rent payments and utility bills.

If you have been injured in an accident caused by a reckless driver and have an attorney representing your case, but don't have the financial ability to wait out a lengthy litigation process, auto accident lawsuit funding may be a solution. For more information or a free, no obligation consultation, contact Lawsuit Financial or complete our online application.

Pokémon Go: More Proof that Phones and Driving Don’t Mix

It is common knowledge that distracted driving – especially texting and driving, plays a significant role in thousands of auto accidents every year. Now there is a new distraction on the go - Pokémon Go!

Last week, a driver admitted to being distracted by Pokémon Go when he drove off the road and crashed into a tree. He was lucky to escape with only a broken ankle and cuts on both legs. Thankfully, no one was in the passenger seat because impact of the crash nearly sent the engine into the passenger compartment.

Last Saturday, a driver under the influence of Pokémon Go collided with a parked police car. The officers had just responded to a 911 call and were standing on the sidewalk when their squad car was hit at a high rate of speed. “That’s what I get for playing this dumb a** game,” the distracted driver told the officers. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured.

Two days later, Washington State Police cited a man for causing a rear-end collision. He, too, admitted to playing Pokémon Go while driving. No injuries were reported.

Although the game disables some features over 20 miles per hour, Pokémon Go is just the latest temptation for drivers. In fact, Pokémon Go, could be a bigger distraction than texting while driving as motorists may easily become much more immersed in the game than in a text. That leads to the question - Could this create liability issues for Niantic, the game’s developer, in the event of a serious or fatal crash?

A full-screen warning is displayed during loading that warns users against distracted playing, including warnings against playing while driving. A warning also pops up every time the app is opened, telling players to aware of their surroundings. The game’s Terms of Service (TOS) include a disclaimer that says the company is not liable for any property damage, injuries or deaths that result while playing. Although app users acknowledge the liability disclaimer, it may not apply in certain situations. For example, if a player causes a car crash, the disclaimer may not extend to an injured third party.

Irrelevant of whether or not Niantic's Terms of Service insulates the company completely from liability claims, each of us must take personal responsibility for making safe and smart decisions while driving. That means putting the phone down. One quick text or glance to see the next Pokéstop could change your life forever!

About Lawsuit Financial

Lawsuit Financial Corporation is a pro-justice lawsuit funding company that seeks to educate plaintiffs and attorneys about lawsuit funding. Our company is an attorney owned and operated full service legal finance company recognized by attorneys nationwide as a preferred choice for legal funding services. Mark Bello, CEO and General Counsel, is recognized as an expert in this field, both as an underwriter of these transactions and as an advocate for appropriate treatment of plaintiffs/clients in this industry and in litigation.

Protecting Distracted Driving Accident Victims from Financial Ruin

Even though the dangers of distracted driving are well-known and several states have been passed laws prohibiting cell phone use behind the wheel, many drivers still try to multi-task while driving. Driver distractions have become so much a part of our day, that we don‘t even give them a second thought. Unfortunately, distracted driving can cause a serious or fatal accident.

From the moment another vehicle hits you, your life can change forever. Injuries can have an immediate, if not long-term impact physically, emotionally, and financially. The negligent driver’s insurance company will likely try to settle your claim as quickly as possible. But, it is important to understand that they do not have your best interests in mind; they are only interested in protecting their bottom line. An experience auto accident attorney can help you recover compensation for your loss, but many creditors are unwilling to wait for a settlement that could be months, even years away. It is times like this that Lawsuit Financial can help.

We provide lawsuit cash advances to allow plaintiffs adequate funds in order to pay immediate bills while their case progresses, rather than feeling forced to settle for pennies on the dollar. Plaintiffs find lawsuit funding appealing for a number of reasons. There are no credit checks, they do not need to be employed, and there are no upfront fees or monthly payments to be made. Best of all, lawsuit funding is provided on a non-recourse basis meaning the plaintiff repays the lawsuit cash advance upon settlement, but if the case is lost, there is no requirement to repay the advanced funds.

Lawsuit Financial is not only a leader in the lawsuit funding industry, but we are also recognized by attorneys nationwide as a preferred choice for legal funding services. We offer a simple online application and work quickly to review your case; if approved, funds can be available in as little as 24 – 48 hours. Act today, for financial stability tomorrow!

Constant Connectivity Is A Dangerous Obsession

The growing number of auto accidents caused by distracted driving continues to raise concerns. While the list of distractions is endless, the most common is cell phone use, whether for talking or texting.

Study after study has shown that when using a cell phone, an individual's eyes are off the road for a minimum of five seconds. Traveling at 55 miles per hour that equates to traveling the length of a football field without looking at the road. Despite studies showing the devastating consequences of distracted driving, most drivers are convinced that they are unaffected by this behavior, especially teens who believe they are invincible. But, the fact of the matter is that one in five teen drivers will have an accident within their first year of driving. These numbers dramatically increase if the teen uses a cell phone while behind the wheel.

We all know that constantly connected drivers are distracted drivers. We all know the dangers of distracted driving are real. We all know the injuries and fatalities that occur because of irresponsible drivers. Given the fact that taking connectivity away from drivers is nearly impossible, what is the key to reducing accidents? 

First, we must acknowledge the danger and commit to making changes in our own behavior. Second, the more drivers are educated about the hazards of driving while distracted, the better chance we all have of improving our roadways. Third, America needs stricter laws preventing cell phone use (of any kind) and other common distractions, while driving. 

Lawsuit Financial has pledged support to those who are trying to do something about this dangerous, life-threatening, activity, especially the Casey Feldman Foundation (CFF). CFF was started by a personal injury trial lawyer and his wife, following the tragic death of their daughter (caused by a distracted, texting driver). There are many other organizations and charities, like CFF, that have also been chartered as a result of tragedies to precious family members. Don’t wait for tragedy to strike you or your loved one before you take action. Now is the time we must all drive home the point that the most important task to perform behind the wheel is driving and safely to your destination. Share the message; spread the word, and help create safer roads for everyone.

About Lawsuit Financial
Lawsuit Financial Corporation is an attorney owned and operated full service legal finance company recognized by attorneys nationwide as a preferred choice for legal funding services. Mark Bello, CEO and General Counsel, is recognized as an expert in this field, both as an underwriter of these transactions and as an advocate for appropriate treatment of plaintiffs/clients in this industry and in litigation. For more information, visit www.lawsuitfinancial.com.