Author: rhinoadmin

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

Happy Valentine’s Day and thank you for choosing us! Even though we are not part of your family, we want you to know that you are part of our family at RHINO Lawyers, and we are grateful for your business. Hopefully, this note finds you well on this special day. Enjoy your time with your loved ones.

Here is a delicious cupcake recipe to enjoy with the ones you love. As always, let us know if there is anything, we can do for you, and we’ll be happy to help.

valentine’s day red velvet cupcakes

by pinkspoonula | Courtesy: Allrecipes

READY IN: 50mins SERVES: 20

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 fluid ounce red food coloring
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS

1. First, preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Then, grease two 12 cup muffin pans or line with 20 paper baking cups.
2. Secondly, in a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Mix in the eggs, buttermilk, red food coloring, and vanilla. After, stir in the baking soda and vinegar. Combine the flour, cocoa powder, and salt; stir into the batter just until blended.
3. Thirdly, spoon the batter into the prepared cups, dividing evenly.
4. Next, bake in the preheated oven until the tops spring back when lightly pressed, 20 to 25 minutes. Then, cool in the pan set over a wire rack. Finally, when cool, arrange the cupcakes on a serving platter and frost with white or cream cheese frosting.

CONTACTO

After a car accident, you may not know your rights. Don’t struggle through the process alone. Our equipo de lesiones personales is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

MY TEEN GOT A TICKET

Your teen driver just received their first traffic ticket. What should they expect? Consequently, teenagers have the same three options every driver has when they receive a traffic ticket.

The best option for teenage drivers as well as everyone on the else is to avoid traffic violations. However, even the most careful driver makes a mistake occasionally. Therefore, knowing their options is important.

Ticket Options

Typically, you or your teen have the following three options available for handling a traffic ticket. Yet, it will depend on your situation when selecting the best option.

• Pay the ticket – This is the worst option for moving violations. Remember paying the ticket may also result in points on their driver’s license and an increase in insurance costs for the next three years. Incidentally, it is the opposite for non-moving violations.
• Pay the ticket and elect traffic school – This means you or your teen will pay the ticket and pay the cost of traffic school. This could help your teen keep points off their license. While traffic school is available online, they still need to spend the four-hour equivalent of being in a classroom.
• Fight the ticket – This means that your teen will not have to pay the ticket until the end of their trial. Yet, if the ticket gets dismissed, they will not have to the fine and can keep their driving record clean.

Please keep in mind. The law does not allow a minor to hire an attorney, so as the parent or guardian you will need to hire the attorney for them.

Other LAWS for Teen Drivers

In addition, to the normal traffic laws, minors have other laws to follow to protect their right to drive. These laws also have penalties for teenage drivers that violate them.

• No Moving Violation Convictions – Minor’s that receive a moving violation while they have their learner’s permit will extend the time of the learner’s permit for a year from the conviction or till the age of 18.
• School Attendance – Not attending school could suspend their driving privilege or keep them from getting their license until they can provide proof, they have attended school for a minimum of 30 days in a row.
• Using Alcohol – Florida has a zero-tolerance policy. Drivers under 21 caught with a .02% or more will receive an automatic 6-month suspension of their license. If they get caught twice, they lose it for one year.
• 6+ points in 12 months – Your teen will have their license restricted to “business only” driving for a 12-month period or until the age of 18.
• Tobacco Possession Conviction – Minor’s convicted of tobacco possession will have their license revoked for a minimum of 30 days.

CONTACT TAMPA TRAFFIC TICKET ATTORNEY

RHINO Lawyers can help and guide you through a system that has been molded by law enforcement, judges, and lawyers for decades. Having won cases for our clients in similar circumstances, our criminal defense team knows what it takes to fight on your behalf.

Let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

HANDLING AN ACCIDENT WITH UNINSURED DRIVER

Car accidents occur on our roadways every day in Tampa. But, do you know what to do when an uninsured driver causes the accident? Yes, that’s correct we share the road with uninsured drivers. Even though, almost every state requires minimum liability insurance for your car.

As a matter of fact, the Insurance Research Council says 1 in 8 drivers in this country do not have auto insurance. That is the one person you do not want to have an accident with. Just in case, we put together some basic tips in case it happens.

Tips for after being hit by an Uninsured Driver

Imagine, you’re driving to work and you stop at a red light. You hear screeching tires and then you feel yourself thrown forward. Unfortunately, another driver just rear-ended you.

Once you have moved your cars to a safe area, you exit the car to assess the damages and talk to the other driver. Incidentally, your car is badly damaged and the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance. However, you know to follow these tips:

• Call the Police – Always call the police when in an auto accident. They will file an accident report. More importantly, you will need this report when you file your claim.
• Never Except Money – An uninsured driver knows they are facing substantial fines. Therefore, they may offer you money to avoid having the law involved. Don’t accept. It is too early to know how much your injuries will cost.
• Exchange Information – Even though they do not have insurance, you will need their contact and vehicle details. Furthermore, you should get the contact information from any witnesses.
• Document the Details – You will need to write down the other driver’s vehicle information, time and location of the accident, and the officer’s name with a badge number. Also, try to document any details that may help when you file your claim.
• Take Pictures – You should take pictures of the accident scene. Include photos of the damage to each car, the license plate of the other driver, and traffic signs.

UNINSURED MOTORIST CLAIM IN NO-FAULT STATE

In a “no-fault” state your insurance company will cover things like medical bills and lost wages regardless of fault. However, they will only cover up to the limits of your coverage. As for your auto repairs, you would need separate collision coverage.

In this situation, you could use your health insurance for your medical bills. Then you could use your collision coverage for repairs needed for your vehicle. However, you will be responsible for the deductibles and you can forget about any lost wages.

As a result, it would be beneficial for all drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) motorist insurance. It’s a good way to counter an otherwise terrible situation. So, if a driver that doesn’t have insurance hits you, your UM insurance will cover you. It’s relatively inexpensive, so buy as much as you reasonably can.

CONTACTO

After a car accident, you may not know your rights. Don’t struggle through the process alone. Our equipo de lesiones personales is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

Let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

WHAT COMPENSATORY DAMAGES COVER

After being injured in an accident, there are basically two forms of compensatory damages: economic and non-economic. Furthermore, these damages provide auto accident victims with compensation to help them recoup losses from the accident. So, for additional info on what compensation you’ll eligible for, contact a Tampa auto accident attorney.

Understanding Compensatory Damages

First, when seeking compensation for an auto accident, compensatory damages are commonly awarded to the injured person. Thus, this compensation helps the individual make up for losses suffered from the accident. The most common compensation for damages are:

• Current and projected medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma
• Lost wages, both current and projected
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Damaged relationships
• Property damage

Punitive Damages vs Compensatory Damages

Secondly, though compensatory damages are more common, you could receive punitive damages in a personal injury case. However, not all auto injury settlements will include punitive damages. Additionally, judges award punitive damages to punish the gross negligence of the defendant. Some punitive damages awarded are:

• Court reporter fees
• Costs of exhibits
• Reproduction fee
• Fees charged by legal professionals
• Miscellaneous expenses

Compensation Limitations

Currently, the state of Florida does not limit compensatory damages. However, there are limits to punitive damages to keep damages from becoming excessive. Punitive damages may not exceed:

• Three times the amount of compensatory damages awarded.
• Or $500,000

CONTACTO

After an automobile accident, you may not know what to do or who to call. Don’t struggle through the process alone. Lastly, our equipo de lesiones personales is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your car, motorcycle, or trucking accident.

Let the Tampa auto accident attorneys at RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

BEWARE OF INSURANCE ADJUSTERS

A car accident settlement should be a simple process. An insurance adjuster measures your injuries, damages, and they pay you what is owed. However, this is not the case. Insurance companies are for-profit and make their money from high premiums and low payouts on claims. So, you need to beware of the tactics adjusters use to keep payouts low.

Don’t let them take advantage of you. The insurance company is going to try to pay you as little as possible, deny liability, and even delay payments. These are tactics they employ, hoping the claimants will go away. Insurance adjusters use many tactics in settlement cases. Here are some tactics you need to be aware of if you are in a car accident and have an insurance claim.

Limit Your Communication with The Adjuster

When you file an auto accident claim, the insurance adjuster will try to gather as much information as possible to use against you. Typically, they will try to befriend you to get you to say something they could use against your case, possibly. Remember, they are trying to save money, so don’t let them trick you with their charm.

Don’t Give a Recorded Statement

First, the law does not require you to give a recorded statement. Although, after accidents, insurance adjusters will still ask for a recorded statement. In fact, don’t give a statement without an attorney because anything you say can be held against you.

Your Medical Records

Similarly, it is not a good idea to release all your medical records. Therefore, if the adjuster asks for your medical records, don’t release all your records to them. Instead, have your records released to you and only pass along relevant information to the assessor.

Be Careful About Signing Anything

If they ask you to sign a release, don’t sign! Some injuries take a few days to show up, and their offer will likely not cover the medical treatment you need. Not to mention, you will forfeit your right to file suit.

They Do Not Want You to Have an Attorney

Lastly, the insurance company and adjuster do not want you to hire an attorney. Do not accept any legal advice from the assessor or insurance company. A personal injury attorney is an unbiased party only there to protect your rights and help you.

CONTACTO

After a car accident, you may not know what to do or who to call. Don’t struggle through the process alone. Our equipo de lesiones personales is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

Let the Tampa auto accident attorneys at RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

PRE-EXISTING INJURIES & CAR ACCIDENTS

A health issue that exists before an automobile accident is a pre-existing condition. However, pre-existing injuries do not prohibit you from seeking damages from the accident. Consequently, a car accident could aggravate or worsen your pre-existing injuries. This is the “eggshell plaintiff” rule.

The Eggshell Plaintiff Rule

The “eggshell plaintiff” or eggshell skull rule states that a defendant is liable for a plaintiff’s unforeseeable and uncommon reactions to the defendant’s negligent or intentional act. In other words, the negligent party cannot use your pre-existing conditions as a defense.

Insurance Defense

First, to be fair an insurance company should not have to pay for injuries that already exist. Because of this, insurance companies will deny your claim or decrease the amount of compensation when you have pre-existing injuries. This is a way for the insurance company to rebut financial responsibility for the accident. Even though, in most cases, this is not true.

Alternatively, the insurance adjuster could try to get you to settle quickly. They use this strategy to avoid paying the maximum amount. Because they know an auto accident attorney will seek full compensation for your injuries.

Auto Accident Attorney

Due to the chance of insurance denial, accident victims should get legal assistance from an auto accident attorney when a pre-existing injury is aggravated thanks to the carelessness of another party. Complicated cases like these may also require the help of a medical professional to clarify the difference from a previous injury compared to the injury received from the most recent accident.

Personal injury attorneys will facilitate assessments of the damages that someone has sustained, as well as pain and suffering, future medical expenses, the previous amounts of medical expenses accumulated, and loss of earning capabilities.

CONTACTO

After a car accident, you may not know your rights. Don’t struggle through the process alone. Our equipo de lesiones personales is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

Let the Tampa auto accident attorneys at RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

ROAD SAFETY IS A TWO-WAY STREET

Road safety is a priority throughout the year. However, with the new year comes new year resolutions. Since most resolutions revolve around fitness, this means people will be exercising. More importantly, they will be out on the street walking, jogging, running, and even cycling.

With so many people heading out onto the road this January it is imperative we remember basic road safety. It starts with following the rules of the road. To keep everyone safe, avoid accidents, and injuries we have put together some safety tips.

Motorist Road Safety

First, we would like to remind motorists to share the road. Be vigilant as cyclists and pedestrians will typically be out in the morning and evenings. Additionally, drivers should follow these tips:

• Turn on their headlights during twilight hours
• Stop for pedestrians in crosswalks.
• Adhere to the posted speed limit.
• When turning yield to pedestrians and cyclists.
• Look before opening your car door.
• Be careful when passing stopped vehicles.
• Allow three feet when passing cyclists.

Cyclist Road Safety

Similarly, cyclists will be traveling on the roadways the same as motorists. Therefore, they must follow all the same rules of the road. In addition, to obeying traffic signs and lights cyclists must use signals to indicate if they are stopping or turning. However, here are some other road safety tips cyclists should also follow:

• Do not wear headphones while riding.
• Be predictable, ride with traffic, do not swerve in the lane, and do not pass on the right.
• Be visible – wear reflective clothing, use a front headlight, and rear red light or reflector.
• Wear a helmet.
• Carry identification like driver’s license or ID

Pedestrian Road Safety

Unfortunately, not all areas have sidewalks. As a result, pedestrians could be using the roadways alone side of the motorists and cyclists. Therefore, pedestrians are bond to the same rules of the road. Whether you’re walking or running here are some tips to help keep you safe out on the road.

• Look both ways before crossing the street.
• Use signaled crosswalks when possible
• Be visible, do not wear dark clothing
• Use a reflective device and wear reflective clothing during twilight hours.
• Carry identification like a driver’s license or ID bracelet.

If You Are Injured

Lastly, it is easy for drivers to forget they are sharing the road with cyclists and pedestrians. This can be dangerous for cyclists and pedestrians. Unlike the driver of a car, there is no protection for either the cyclist or the pedestrian in a collision. For this reason, an accident with an automobile could lead to serious injury or death.

In most cases of accidents that involve pedestrians or cyclists and an automobile, it is difficult to determine who is at fault. However, if you have an auto accident attorney, they will complete an accident scene investigation. This will help uncover the facts to protect your rights and allow you to recoup the maximum for your injuries.

CONTACTO

After a car accident, you may not know what to do or who to call. Don’t struggle through the process alone. Our equipo de lesiones personales is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

Let the Tampa auto accident attorneys at RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

MOST COMMON TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS

For many people, driving is a part of everyday life. So, avoiding a traffic violation is essential for staying behind the wheel. However, most people are guilty of certain traffic violations at some point.

Even the most skilled driver can receive the painful reminder of a traffic ticket. Unfortunately, the reminder doesn’t end with a ticket. You could receive a fine and higher insurance rates as well.

Of course, knowledge of the rules of the road will help you avoid these traffic violations. Here are six of the most common traffic violations to avoid.

Speeding Tickets

It should come as no surprise speeding is the most common moving violation. With this in mind, pay attention to speed limits when driving. Especially in school zones, residential neighborhoods, and construction zones. Being conscious of your speed will help prevent accidents and reckless driving caused by driving too quickly.

Running Red Light

Trying to beat a yellow light could cause you to run a red light. Red light tickets are expensive and could cause your insurance rates to increase. Be mindful when approaching a light at an intersection and stop if the light is changing.

Following Too Closely

To begin with, you should always keep a safe distance between you and other vehicles. Especially, when you are driving in the rain or on wet roads as you will need more time to stop. You can receive a ticket for following another car too closely or tailgating.

Drunk Driving (DUI)

First of all, drinking and driving is very dangerous. When you drive drunk you not only put your life at risk, but you risk the lives of others. Typically, driving under the influence leads to many other traffic violations so it’s best to not drive if you have been drinking.

Wrong-WAY Ticket

Incidentally, most wrong-way drivers are under the influence of alcohol. Wrong-way driving is the number one cause of wrong-way crashes. To avoid wrong-way driving stay alert and watch for one-way street signs. However, if you find yourself traveling the wrong direction stay calm and quickly find a place to turn around.

Unsafe Lane Changing

You can receive a ticket for unsafe lane changes. Not using your turn signals, appropriate hand signals, or not allowing enough space when making a lane change could cause an accident. For this reason, it is important to indicate to other drivers when you want to change lanes. This will help to keep you and everyone else safe.

CONTACTO

RHINO Lawyers can help and guide you through a system that has been molded by law enforcement, judges, and lawyers for decades. Having won cases for our clients in similar circumstances, our criminal defense team knows what it takes to fight on your behalf.

Let the Tampa traffic ticket attorneys at RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

HOLIDAY GREETING

At this joyous time of year, all of those from our firm wishes to extend our very best wishes to you and yours for a safe, happy and healthy holiday season, and it is our sincere hope that the New Year brings you peace and contentment.

We find there is no better time than the holiday season, to look back with appreciation for your loyalty and trust in us to protect you and your family. Our equipo de lesiones personales is joyously looking forward to moving into the New Year together.

Thank you to all our clients, friends, and associates who have made the past year so special.

HOLIDAY SUGAR COOKIE TRUFFLES
by Haley D Williams

READY IN: 30mins SERVINGS: 18 sugar cookie truffles

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups (200 g) or 12 sugar cookies¹ about 2 1/2 in diameter
• 4 tablespoons (2 oz or 57 g) cream cheese, room temperature
• 2 cups white chocolate melting wafers, or candy melts
• Sprinkles for decoration

SUGGESTED TOOLS

• Food processor
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheet
• Dipping tools

DIRECTIONS

1. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Place sugar cookies in a food processor and process until cookies turn into fine crumbs. Add cream cheese and process again until well-combined and mixture can be pressed into a ball, 1 to 2 minutes.2
3. Shape cookies into balls about 1-inch to 1 1/2-inches in diameter. Place on prepared cookie sheet and place in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes.
4. While the truffles freeze, melt white chocolate in a medium bowl according to instructions. See notes below for tips on melting chocolate.3
5. Remove the cookie truffles from the refrigerator. Using two forks, dip and roll chilled truffles, one at a time, in chocolate coating. Return to lined cookie sheet and immediately top with sprinkles. Repeat process for remaining truffles. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for up to one month.4

NOTES

1. Preferred sugar cookies: Use hard sugar cookies, not soft. I suggest using my cut-out sugar cookie recipe or buying Pepperidge Farm sugar cookies at the store.
2. Crumbly dough: If the sugar cookie truffle dough is not firm enough to roll into balls, add a teaspoon or two of milk.
3. Melting chocolate: Use melting wafers or candy melts. Microwave at 50% power level in 30-second intervals until chocolate is melted and smooth. Never add water to melted chocolate. If you need to thin out the chocolate, add a tablespoon of shortening or coconut oil.
4. Freezing cookie truffles: Truffles can be frozen up to a month in advance. I suggest dipping them in chocolate before freezing for storage. Layer them between a sheet of parchment paper in an airtight container. Defrost them in the refrigerator before serving.

CONTACTO

¿Herido o arrestado? Our mission is to form a lasting partnership with every client. Our passion is the people we help and the lives that we help change. So, don’t become just another case.

Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

PROLONGED RECOVERY FROM A CAR ACCIDENT?

Getting the Insurance Company to Pay Gets Tricky…

Many car accident victims experienced back and neck pain. Even insurance companies will agree. When your body gets thrashed around in a violent crash it causes pain and stiffness. Which often requires some medical treatment.

However, if you’re experiencing a prolonged recovery, insurance companies are quick to deny your treatment. Generally, they will first argue that your prolonged treatment wasn’t necessary. Then they will claim that you are malingering (a fancy way to say that you’re faking it).

Next, they may claim that you had some type of pre-existing issue that is really the cause of the pain. Remember that back twinge you had three years ago while helping your brother move? Well, if you got some physical therapy for it, the insurance will claim that’s why you got all of that treatment after your accident.

If for some reason you had delayed receiving care after your accident, the insurance company will also argue that the treatment simply was unrelated to the accident. For example, if you didn’t go to the ER after your accident because you didn’t have health insurance, that may be held against you.

That said, if you’ve been in a car accident, and your recovery is more complicated than you had hoped, give us a call.

CONTACTO

RHINO Lawyers know that car accidents can happen at any time. After a car accident, you may not know what to do or who to call. Don’t struggle through the process alone. Our equipo de lesiones personales is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding injuries from a car accident.

Let the Tampa auto accident attorneys at RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.