Laredo Personal Injury Lawyers

Table of Contents

Laredo Catastrophic Injury Attorneys

Helping People Who Have Experienced Life-Changing Injuries

According to Merriam-Webster, a catastrophe is “a momentous tragic event ranging from extreme misfortune to utter overthrow or ruin.” Catastrophic injuries are not defined by the pain or the damage they cause, but by how much they ruin lives. Catastrophic injuries impair mobility or cognition. They fundamentally affect a person’s ability to be independent, and loss of independence leads to increased costs, which can lead (ultimately) to lifelong hardship.

The following are considered catastrophic injuries:

However, having a catastrophic injury does not necessarily mean you'll be consigned to a life of hardship. The Laredo personal injury attorneys at Arnold & Itkin have won billions of dollars for our clients to rebuild their lives. If you or a loved one have suffered catastrophic injuries because of someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation. Catastrophic injuries cost millions in medical expenses, future care, and lost opportunities. Seeking monetary compensation can help you cover future medical costs and other losses, letting you recover in peace.

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Laredo Trucking Accident Lawyers

Helping Truck Accident Victims in Laredo, Webb County & Across the U.S.

Of the 253 million vehicles on the road in the United States, roughly 5% are classified as "commercial vehicles." An even smaller percentage are large trucks—vehicles that are between 10,000 and 80,000 pounds. And yet, these large trucks cause 11% of vehicle fatalities every year. Our Laredo truck accident firm has represented hundreds of victims of trucking accidents. Many of them suffered from catastrophic injuries like severe burns, paralysis, or traumatic brain injuries. In order to help our clients get back to a normal life, we held trucking companies responsible—securing a record number of seven-figure results or higher over the last two decades.

We want to do the same for you. If you've been hurt in a truck accident, Arnold & Itkin wants to hear your story and help you rebuild your life. Let us help you get medical care, provide for your family, and more.

The Trucking Industry's Big Problem

Trucking is one of the deadliest industries in the United States. Of the thousands of vehicle fatalities involving a large truck, 700+ of those fatalities are the truck drivers themselves. Why do large trucks cause so many deadly vehicle accidents? The largest issue is the way the industry incentivizes truckers to push themselves past the point of exhaustion just to make ends meet. Carriers often hire and train drivers who have no prior trucking experience and pay them by the mile—meaning they're not paid for all of the vital non-driving work every trucker has to do.

Pay-by-mile forces drivers to drive as long and as fast as they can, creating a culture of "hard-driving" that rewards skirting federal trucking regulations. Many new drivers quickly learn to keep two logbooks so that their hours of service always appear to be compliant with federal law—meanwhile, they push far longer than the 14-hour daily limit.

Tired drivers mean deadly drivers: the FMCSA found that 13% of truck crashes are caused directly by fatigue, while 25% happened when a driver was hauling for longer than 17 hours.

Get a Free Consultation with Laredo Trucking Lawyers

Arnold & Itkin has a simple mission: help the victims of life-changing accidents rebuild their lives and get back to normal. Our Laredo trucking attorneys do that by investigating commercial truck accidents to determine who was at fault. Unlike insurance companies, we don't pin the blame on drivers' behavior. Instead, we investigate company practices and maintenance schedules (among other things) to ensure that the accident's true cause is made clear.

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Laredo Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

If You've Been Injured in a Motorcycle Crash, We Can Help

Per vehicle miles traveled, motorcyclists were 24 times more likely to be killed in a traffic accident in 2021, according to the NHTSA. Motorcycles are small, travel between lanes, and move quickly—which is why many people believe that motorcyclists cause most motorcycle crashes. However, there are many potential causes to consider.

The following are common causes of motorcycle collisions:

• Driver Blind Spots: It is essential for drivers to check their blind spots during lane changes. If drivers don’t take this extra precaution, it is likely that they will fail to see a motorcycle passing by. This is an example of how exercising reasonable care can prevent serious and potentially tragic accidents.
• Dangerous Roadways: Hazardous roads are also a common cause of motorcycle accidents. Poorly maintained roads may be an inconvenience for vehicles, but they can be deadly for motorcyclists. Road hazards like potholes, uneven pavement, and roads with little visibility can cause a motorcyclist to swerve and lose control. When this is the cause of an accident, the responsible government entity for maintaining roads safe would be at fault.
• Defective Equipment: Faulty equipment is another common cause of motorcycle accidents. Motorcycle parts that were built with poor-quality materials or were improperly manufactured can also cause accidents. Defective parts, for example, can make the motorcycle “wobble” at high speeds or fail entirely at high speeds.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

A motorcycle collision, even at a relatively low speed, can cause considerable harm to a rider. This may include brain injuries, road rash, spinal cord injuries, loss of limb, fractures, and paralysis. As Laredo motorcycle injury lawyers, our team works to help injured motorcyclists and families who have lost loved ones seek fair compensation for their injuries and losses. We work relentlessly to find answers and hold at-fault parties accountable.

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Laredo Bus Accident Attorneys

Seeking Answers & Accountability After Laredo, TX Bus Accidents

Buses are commonly used to transport the public and students. Nearly 25 million children ride a school bus nationwide, and an average of 20 students are killed every year in school bus accidents. Private bus companies made 604 million passenger trips in North America in 2014 alone, the majority of them for tourism.

Unfortunately, many buses lack the necessary protection (such as seat belts and passenger airbags) that most vehicles have, which makes passengers more vulnerable in an accident. About 11,000 to 15,000 bus accident injuries occur every year, according to the Department of Transportation. The NHTSA reports an average of 300 bus accident fatalities in the United States each year. Unfortunately, investigations have demonstrated that most accidents could have been prevented if bus companies had implemented proper safety protocols or equipment.

Bus accident factors typically include:

• Inadequately-trained drivers
• Bus drivers under the influence
• Improperly maintained buses
• Negligent bus drivers
• Lack of safety restraints

If you or a loved one sustained injuries in a bus accident, you have the right to seek financial compensation. Contact the Laredo bus accident attorneys at Arnold & Itkin as soon as possible to get started on your recovery. Our firm has won billions in verdicts and settlements, including hundreds of results of $1 million or more. The sooner you have an experienced attorney on your side, the sooner you can seek the answers and compensation you deserve.

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Laredo Work Accident Lawyers

Injured on the Job? Contact Our Laredo Industrial Injury Attorneys: (888) 493-1629

Workplace accidents are a significant concern across the nation, with more than 5,400 workers tragically losing their lives on the job in 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Many employees suffer severe injuries that require them to take extended time off work and incur substantial medical expenses. While workers often expect their employers or workers' comp to cover these costs, fair compensation is not always provided, leaving many to struggle. 

The following are common work accidents in Laredo, TX:

Employers and their insurance companies are always finding ways to limit their liability and protect their interests, even if it means workers won’t receive the full compensation they deserve. If you were injured on the job, no matter the circumstances, you may be able to seek compensation for the damages. A Laredo work accident lawyer can help. 

At Arnold & Itkin, we've won billions of dollars in verdicts and settlements while going up against some of the largest companies in the nation. When you need an advocate, we're the firm that gets results.

Facts About Workplace Accidents

Government agencies like OSHA report that workplace injuries, illnesses, and even wrongful deaths happen more often than they should. With many of these accidents stemming from employer negligence and carelessness, this suggests that with more careful practices, most workplace injuries could be prevented.

Recent research shows the danger of injuries in the workplace:

• An average of 50,000 workers have died from occupational diseases annually.
• Workers suffer over 24,000 serious injuries every year.
• Annually, 803 workers are killed because of workplace violence.
• The most violated OSHA safety standard is fall protection.

What Causes Laredo Work Accidents?

Various things can cause a workplace accident, but the most common reasons are the carelessness, inexperience, and negligence of employers and co-workers. Most often, employers are to blame for these problems. It's their duty to promote safe workplaces, but they often focus on production and profits instead, placing their workers at risk.

The negligence that leads to work injuries can take many forms, including:

• Negligence in maintaining, manufacturing, or operating equipment
• Neglect in securing items properly at construction sites, factories, and similar environments
• Poor maintenance of floors, inadequate lighting, and lack of safety measures like guardrails
• Overall failures to meet essential safety standards and regulations
• Lack of regular and detailed inspections, particularly with equipment like scaffolds and cranes.
• Inadequate training of employees on safe work practices and hazard awareness
• Poor management and oversight at hazardous worksites

When Should I Contact a Laredo Work Injury Lawyer?

You should contact a lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. Always focus on making sure you receive the medical attention that you need first. Then, make it a priority to call our firm. The sooner you call, the more time your attorneys will have to investigate your accident and strengthen your claim. A lawyer can also help you understand your rights as an injured worker, your legal options, and what you should and should not do to support your case.

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Laredo Construction Accident Attorneys

Helping After Serious Construction Site Injuries

Construction work is notorious for its high rates of serious injuries and fatalities. According to OSHA, 21% of all workplace fatalities in the U.S. occur in the construction industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also notes that one in every ten non-fatal workplace injuries happens on construction sites. These injuries and fatalities not only lead to significant healthcare costs but also result in lost productivity and increased public spending. 

Ultimately, when safety measures in construction fail, the economic and human costs are substantial and affect us all.

Causes of Construction Accidents

The primary driver behind serious construction accidents is often negligence. Proper training and effective leadership are crucial for ensuring safety, and construction companies can be held accountable for accidents that occur due to inadequate training or poor supervision. All employers are responsible for maintaining safe work environments.

The following are examples of circumstances that can cause construction accidents:

• Improper site design or inspection
• Unmarked hazards (ex: unprotected holes or roofing)
• Safety code violations
• Improperly stored, old, or defective materials
• Inadequate safety equipment
• Insufficient supervision
• Mechanical failures
• Overloaded or improperly secured equipment

Types of Construction Accidents

Falls from Heights      
Falls from heights are the leading cause of injuries among construction workers, with over 660 fatalities annually. Falls often occur from roofs or involve scaffolding and ladders. Without proper protection, falls have tragic outcomes.

Scaffolding Accidents      
Scaffolding, often used to work at heights on building exteriors, is dangerous if not properly erected. Each year, over 4,500 accidents are linked to unstable scaffolding, resulting from slips, lack of support, or being struck by falling objects.

Ladder & Stairway Accidents      
Over 24,000 injuries and 35 deaths are caused by falls from ladders or stairways each year, with more than half of injured workers needing time off. These accidents often result from poorly maintained ladders or incorrect usage.

Defective & Dangerous Equipment      
Defective or improperly maintained machinery poses significant risks on construction sites. It is essential for workers to be properly trained on using equipment, such as cranes and forklifts, to prevent severe injury or death.

Harmful Chemicals & Toxic Exposure      
Many construction workers are exposed to chemicals that can cause severe health issues like burns and respiratory problems. Violations of OSHA's hazardous substance regulations can lead also lead to catastrophic fires and explosions.

Crane Accidents      
Unsafe crane operation can lead to catastrophic accidents. Factors such as insufficient safety focus, inadequate training, overloading, or excessive work demands increase the likelihood of crane accidents in construction.

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Laredo Oilfield Injury Lawyers

Injured in an Oilfield Accident? Contact Our Injury Attorneys.

Texas has been a hub for oil and gas exploration since the early 1900s, and it remains the top oil producer in the United States today. Despite the industry's economic contributions, it comes with high risks; the oil and gas sector is among the most dangerous in the country. The Department of Labor reports that in Texas alone, the industry averages 1,400 injuries and 199 fatalities each year, many attributable to employer negligence regarding safety regulations.

Workers in roles like derrick operators, roughnecks, and truck drivers face significant dangers, often performing hazardous tasks without the necessary safety equipment or training. 

The Dangers of Defective Oilfield Equipment

Working in oilfields involves using heavy and complex machinery, which carries high risks, particularly if not properly maintained or operated. Defective oilfield equipment can lead to severe accidents, impacting workers' health and safety. 

Here are some potential dangers faced by oilfield workers due to faulty equipment and negligence:

• Explosions and Fires: Malfunctions in the intricate equipment used for oil extraction can lead to explosions and fires, often resulting in life-threatening or fatal injuries.
• Toxic Exposure: Faulty equipment can expose workers to hazardous substances like benzene, a colorless gas that can severely damage the nervous system, kidneys, liver, and immune system, and is linked to cancer.
• Slips and Falls: Lack of safety measures such as guardrails and anti-fall harnesses can lead to slips and falls, especially from great heights.
• Falling Objects: Tools or equipment dropped by workers operating at elevated heights pose a significant risk to others below. It is crucial for employers to ensure all tools are securely fastened.
• Malfunctioning Equipment: It is the responsibility of companies to keep their machinery and equipment up to date to prevent them from becoming hazards.

Oilfield accidents like the ones discussed above often stem from an employer's negligence or decision to cut corners on maintenance to reduce costs. Employers that fail to create a safe working environment for profit should be held accountable for their actions. If you have been injured in an oilfield accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Our Laredo oilfield injury lawyers are here to help you secure the compensation you deserve..

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Laredo Maritime Lawyers

We Fight for Maritime Workers Injured in U.S. & International Waters

Maritime work is rewarding, but it can be dangerous when employers put more importance on profits than safety. By failing to replace aging equipment, overlooking safety regulations, and pushing for higher production with less downtime, they put their workers and the environment at risk. At Arnold & Itkin, we stand up for injured maritime workers and their families. We fight against the immoral and illegal conduct of oil and gas companies and other corporations that endanger workers’ lives. Our Laredo maritime attorneys understand the nuances of maritime law and how it applies to every seaman, and we're relentless in our pursuit of justice on their behalf.

We fight for workers injured at sea, using our in-depth understanding of the following acts to seek justice:

Our maritime lawyers have handled some of the most notorious and challenging cases in history—and won. When the entire crew of the El Faro cargo ship sank after running headlong into Hurricane Joaquin in 2015, we successfully represented the widows of 3 of the lost crew members, helping to ensure their families would be taken care of for life. After the explosion and sinking of the Deepwater Horizon on April 20, 2010, we represented over one-third of the crew members, helping them seek justice after this preventable tragedy.

Some of our other notable maritime victories include:

• $29 million for a family who lost a loved one in a fatal offshore accident.
• $14 million for a seaman who suffered a head injury while on the Hercules 15 inland barge.
• $11.5 million for a client who suffered serious physical and mental harm in an offshore accident.
• $8.9 million for a seaman who suffered head trauma on an offshore drilling vessel.

Jones Act Lawyers in Laredo, TX

One of the most important maritime laws for offshore workers is the Jones Act. Passed in 1920, this law provides important options for recovery for people who work on a vessel. Our Laredo Jones Act lawyers have stood up to some of the largest corporations in the world and have won billions of dollars for clients in the process.

Our Laredo Jones Act law firm can help you recover losses such as:

From oil rig explosions to deck accidents, the Jones Act offers injured seamen the opportunity to seek compensation from negligent employers and vessel owners.

Laredo LHWCA Attorneys

If you work in support of the offshore industry, you might be protected by the Longshore & Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). This law was created to help longshoremen, harbor workers, and others who support the maritime industry recover after a preventable accident.

Below are employee benefits under the LHWCA:

• Medical expenses
• Payment for disease contraction caused by shipping harmful chemicals
• Compensation for rehabilitation and/or physical therapy
• Vocational rehabilitation
• Benefits for the families of workers killed on the job
• 2/3 of your normal weekly pay for the duration of recovery

If you've suffered while working in support of the offshore industry, call our Laredo LHWCA lawyers now. We're ready to walk you through your options and help you decide if you're eligible to make a claim using the LHWCA.

Helping Laredo Residents After Cruise Ship Accidents

Going on vacation should mean getting away from home, relaxing, and—most of all—being safe. Yet, when cruise ship operators aren't safe, passengers and crew members suffer. If you've sustained injuries on a cruise ship, whether you suffered from a gangway accident or another type of incident, our Laredo cruise ship accident lawyers can help. Since we're experienced with maritime law, we're ready to handle the specifics of your case and make sure every step is being taken to ensure you receive the compensation that you need rather than the low settlement offer of the cruise company.

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Laredo Railroad Accident Attorneys

Trial-Tested Lawyers for Train Accident Survivors & Victims' Families

Regardless of whether you are a passenger, a pedestrian, or an employee, millions of Americans like you have contact with the railway system every day. Unfortunately, it only takes one equipment malfunction or a negligent railroad employee to cause a catastrophic train accident. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) reported that in 2011, there were almost 2,000 train accidents nationwide. Of these incidents, 1,442 involved train derailment. The FRA also reports that 80% of railroad crossings do not provide adequate warnings.

Passenger Train Accidents

Train accident injuries occur annually on rail services nationwide. Many of these accidents include train derailments, collisions, or faulty equipment. It is essential for operators and employers to follow safety protocols to prevent accidents from occurring. When passengers are boarding or de-boarding the train or railcar is when most accidents occur. For that reason, train employee must maintain vigilance to protect their riders.

Common causes of railroad accidents include:

• Defective or missing crossties
• Failure to apply hand brakes
• Failure to comply with restricted speeds
• Failure to control shoving movement
• Switch points worn or broken
• Switches improperly lined

Accidents Caused by Conductor Negligence

Train engineers are required to follow specific safety guidelines to keep other railroad employees and passengers safe. When they fail to follow the required safety protocols, they put the lives of others in danger. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTBS) investigates every major accident, and they thoroughly review railroad safety and conductor negligence because it is a common cause of railroad accidents.

Examples of contractor negligence can include:

• Managing the train intoxicated
• Working while on drugs
• Talking on a cell phone or texting
• Any behavior that distracts the driver from doing their job

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Laredo Boat Accident Attorneys

Leading Trial Lawyers for Boating Accident Cases in Laredo, TX

While boats are fun, they are also incredibly dangerous if operated in an unsafe way. Texas Parks & Wildlife has determined that 50% of all boating incidents involve alcohol. This suggests that most, if not all, accidents are preventable on the water. Making things more dangerous for boaters is the fact that nearly anyone can operate a boat in Texas. In fact, the state allows boat renters to operate vessels with no license or certification!

If you've been hurt in a vessel collision or any other type of accident, our Laredo boat accident lawyers are ready to help you. Whether your injuries were caused by a careless operator or a reckless company, we're ready to fight for the answers to problems that you should never have had.

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Laredo Wrongful Death Lawyers

Fighting for Grieving Families in Laredo, TX & Nationwide

Losing a loved one is the most difficult experience in a person’s life—especially if their death could have been prevented. Unfortunately, this is the case for hundreds of families in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an average of 146,000 unintentional accidental deaths occur every year. According to studies on grief, each of these deaths caused concrete emotional, social, and financial harm to spouses, parents, or children.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

Wrongful death occurs when a person’s actions, negligent or deliberate, cause the death of another. A wrongful death claim holds at-fault parties liable for certain economic and emotional losses associated with the death of a loved one, from funeral costs to punitive damages for criminal negligence. Filing a wrongful death claim allows a victim’s family to grieve in peace without wondering how they'll pay the bills or provide for themselves. If a party was responsible and they're already facing criminal proceedings, certain family members can still file a civil lawsuit against them.

The following are examples of incidents that may provide grounds for a wrongful death action:

• Fatal car accidents caused by drunk driving, texting, or other forms of negligence
• Workplace accidents caused by poor training, negligent management, or poorly maintained equipment
• Accidents caused by assaults, attacks, or other criminal actions
• Drowning accidents due to property damage or premises liability
• Defective products or pharmaceuticals

Can I File a Wrongful Death Claim?

In most states, family members are the only ones eligible to file a wrongful death claim. Courts largely give children and spouses the primary right to file a wrongful death claim. A parent, sibling, or another relative will typically be unable to file a claim if a child or spouse is already pursuing one. If you have any additional questions on your eligibility to file a wrongful death claim, you'll need to speak with an attorney.

The parties eligible to file a wrongful death claim in Laredo, TX may include:

There is a 2-year statute of limitations on wrongful death claims. This means that you have a limited amount of time to file a wrongful death claim after you suffered the loss of a loved one. Contact our Laredo wrongful death attorneys as soon as possible to get started on your claim. We offer a free initial consultation to help you get answers now.

To learn more about wrongful death, read Sec. 71 of the Civil Practice & Remedies Code.

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About Laredo, TX

Sitting on the north bank of the Rio Grande River in Texas, Laredo is a border city that sits across from Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. It is the seat of Webb County and, as of July 2021, had an estimated population of 256,153. Because it sits on the border of the United States and Mexico, Laredo’s economy is primarily based on international trade between the two countries. It is the largest inland port of entry in the United States. There are four international bridges and one railway bridge in Laredo, and numerous transportation companies have their headquarters in the city.

Laredo is nicknamed “The Gateway City” because of its location on the border; it has also been called “The City Under Seven Flags” because it flies the Six Flags of Texas and the flag of the former Republic of the Rio Grande. It was the temporary capital of the Republic of the Rio Grande in 1840 before military forces brought it back under Mexico's authority. During the Mexican-American War, Texas Rangers occupied Laredo, and the land was ceded to the United States after the war ended. Some residents of Laredo moved across the Rio Grande River and established Nuevo Laredo in Mexico, while others stayed and became Texans as a result. The city was rechartered in 1852.

Laredo is known for its history, arts, and culture. Every year, Laredo attracts about 400,000 people to the month-long Washington’s Birthday Celebration, which was founded in 1898 to celebrate George Washington’s birthday. Laredo’s Jalapeño Festival is also very popular. The city is home to numerous museums that celebrate its history and culture, such as the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum, the Laredo Center for the Arts, and the Nuevo Santander Museum Complex. Visitors can also see Fort McIntosh, which was in operation from 1849 to 1946.

Laredo Links & Resources

Contact a Legal Team That Won’t Give Up – (888) 493-1629

Regardless of the circumstances of your case, we encourage you to get in touch with our personal injury lawyers in Laredo as soon as possible. We know that results matter—and we deliver. To see for yourself, all you need to do is browse through our case results online. We’ve won billions, set records, and achieved premium results that have helped our clients get their lives back on track. We look forward to helping you however we can.

To see for yourself how we can help, call (888) 493-1629 now for a free consultation with a Laredo personal injury lawyer.