APA - Other Injuries & Accidents Archives

Getting Compensation For Victims Negligently Injured By A Dog Or Other Animal

Dog attacks are unpredictable and terrifying, often leaving the victims with severe injuries, scarring, and emotional trauma. Dog owners are responsible for preventing such attacks from happening by keeping their pets behind a fence or on a leash. Additionally, if the animal tends to be aggressive or bite, the owner must warn any person who is trying to approach it of potential danger.

However, if an accident occurs, even if all rules are followed, the owner is still liable for the damages of the victim.

Damages In A Minnesota Dog Bite Attack

If you or someone you love has been attacked by a dog and suffered:

• A physical injury

• Emotional trauma

• Significant financial strain

• Physical scarring

You might be eligible to get compensated for your damages.

You need to make sure that you seek medical attention immediately after the attack and keep track of all your hospital records. Additionally, you should document your injuries and collect the name and phone number of the owner of the dog as well as any witnesses.

You have to report the attack to the nearest police department or animal control agency.

Finally, before you take any further action, contact the experienced attorneys at Sand Law LLC, who can help you navigate through the process of receiving compensation.

Dog Bite And Animal Attack Overview

Dog bites require immediate medical attention not only due to the severity of the injuries that they could potentially cause but also because such bites often transmit diseases, such as rabies.

Nearly 4.5 million people become victims of dog bites each year, according to the Center for Disease Control. Most of these victims are children between the ages of 5 and 9 who often end up suffering not only from disfigurement and scarring but also from psychological disorders, such as PTSD.

The dog owner or handler is required to take measures to prevent their dog from biting a person, especially if it has previously shown signs of aggressiveness. Failure to do so is considered negligence; therefore, the owner will be held accountable for any damages that their pet could have caused.

In order to get compensated for their suffering, the victim must locate the owner of the dog and prove that they were negligent in handling their pet.

However, if the dog has been found to be “potentially dangerous“, the victim is entitled to recovery regardless of whether the owner committed negligence.

Preventing Dog Bite Accidents

Sometimes dog bite accidents occur as a result of intentional or unintentional provocation of the animal. Small children are extremely vulnerable to such accidents since they often approach pets with curiosity and without realizing that they might be disturbing them.

Some ways to prevent dog bite attacks include:

Never approach a dog that is eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies
Never approach a dog that is barking or growling
Never pet a dog without asking the owner for permission first
Dogs tend to guard their homes; therefore, don’t pet a dog that is behind a fence
If a barking dog approaches you or your child, try not to run or scream, but stand still until the animal loses interest

Common Diseases from Dog Bites that Can Cause Human Illnesses

Besides physical wounds, dog bites can cause various illnesses depending on whether or not the animal has been vaccinated. Additionally, 50% of dog bites introduce bacteria to the wound, therefore, increasing the chances of an infection.

Some of these illnesses include:

Bacterial Infections
Various Worms
Rabies
Lyme Disease
MRSA
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
Salmonellosis
Mange

For more detailed information about each disease, visit www.cdc.gov.

Understanding Minnesota’s Dog Bite Law

According to the Minnesota Dog Bite Statute, if a dog bites a person without that person provoking the attack in any way, the owner or handler of the animal is responsible for any damages that the victim suffers “to the full amount of the injury sustained.”

Do Not Trust the Insurance Companies

In case you become a victim of a dog bite attack, the first thing to do is to contact a skilled attorney. Don’t accept any claims or compensation from insurance companies or owners without consulting an experienced attorney first. This way, you avoid settling for less than what you might have otherwise acquired.

Insurance adjusters will contact you after the accident, sometimes pretending to be someone they are not (a friend, relative of the injured) in order to gain your trust. This tactic is designed to make you accept the lowest possible offer, which favors the insurance company but not the victim.

Can I Sue the Dog Owner If I Was Bitten In Minnesota?

If you or someone close to you has been bitten by a dog while acting peacefully and being lawfully on the property when the attack happened, you are entitled to receive compensation for your physical and psychological damages.

The recovery will most likely be paid from the dog owner’s home insurance policy and will cover hospital bills, future medical treatments, psychological therapy, and loss of wages.

Why Choose Sand Law?

If you live in Minnesota and need help filing a claim against a dog owner whose animal attacked you, contact the experienced attorneys at Sand Law. You can feel confident that we will fight for you to receive maximum compensation for the damages you have suffered.

Speak With A Minnesota Dog Bite Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to a dog bite or animal attack in Minnesota, contact us online or by calling 651-291-7263 to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys. Our team has helped numerous people receive compensation for their physical pain, emotional distress, and monetary loss due to personal injury.

Victims Of Medical Malpractice In Minnesota Should Contact A Personal Injury Attorney

Medical malpractice lawsuits, especially in Minnesota, can be especially complex. There are many different rules and regulations that need to be followed. Because these lawsuits have to do with medicine and the speculation that a doctor has done something wrong or harmful, mountains of medical records will need to be analyzed to determine exactly where things went wrong.

Let’s start by defining medical malpractice. Medical malpractice occurs when a doctor, hospital, or any other healthcare professional, causes any sort of injury to a patient. This can be through negligence or omission. Negligence may be the result of an error, or a doctor deciding to skip a necessary test. If a doctor were to skip a test or make an error, and an injury were to occur because of it, that could be considered medical malpractice.

Types Of Medical Malpractice Claims

Medical malpractice claims can include a lot of different injuries and issues. A few include birth injuries that result from a mistake or error on the doctor’s side. These injuries could include cerebral palsy, Erb’s palsy, brain injuries, brachial plexus, and any other injuries that could have been caused by negligence.

Surgical errors are also considered to be medical malpractice. This includes any infections, organ damage, blood transfusion errors, or gastric surgery errors that may occur after or during surgery. This could also include a surgical tool that was accidentally left inside a patient.

Medication errors are also a source of medical malpractice cases. This can include anesthesia mistakes, the misdosage of any medication, or issuing the wrong prescription on accident. There are many other injuries and accidents that can result in these lawsuits. These injuries include brain and nerve injuries, paralysis, or any potential injury caused by a health professional.

Minnesota Medical Malpractice Statute Of Limitations

A Statute of Limitations sets a time limit for when you’re allowed to file a claim. In this case, the Statute of Limitations states that any lawsuit against a healthcare professional for medical malpractice must be filed within four years of the incident.

However, there are a few reasons the time may be suspended. If the healthcare provider is out of state, leaves the state, or can’t be found, the time will be suspended until they return to the state and can be served with a lawsuit. The four-year time limit will also be suspended if the injured patient was under the age of 18 at the time of the malpractice. The time limit will be suspended until the patient turns 19.

Certification Of Expert Review

The Certification of Expert Review, laid out in Minnesota Statutes section 145.682 requires that in a lawsuit “alleging malpractice, error, mistake, or failure to cure…against a health care provider,” a medical expert’s testimony is required. The plaintiff must also file an affidavit that states that the facts of the case have been reviewed by the plaintiff’s attorney and a qualified expert. The expert must state that the healthcare provider did in fact deviate from the medical standard of care and caused harm to the patient.

Because of this, these cases can be incredibly complex and hard to move forward with. The Certification of Expert Review must also include an affidavit that lays out each of the medical professionals that the plaintiff will use. If this is not filed, the case will likely be dismissed.

Are medical malpractice damages capped in Minnesota?

While other states may have a cap on medical malpractice damages, Minnesota currently does not have one. This means that the injured patient may recover all of the losses that occurred because of the medical malpractice. This includes wages lost, medical bills, and pain and suffering compensation.

Why are medical malpractice cases so difficult to pursue?

Medical malpractice cases are very hard to pursue simply because doctors come off as very trustworthy people. Many don’t know that they can question their doctor or push for a second opinion. And malpractice is often something people don’t think about until it’s too late. When the claim is actually made, there are layers and layers of filing to do and statements to collect.

There are many mountains to climb over to file the medical malpractice lawsuit in the first place. And a Certification of Expert Review is at the top of the list. One mistake can have the case dismissed by the court before it’s even seen the light of day.

How do I know when to contact a Medical Malpractice Attorney?

As soon as you know that you want to file a medical malpractice lawsuit, you should contact an attorney who is experienced in the field. Contacting an experienced attorney is of the utmost importance in this situation. You need an attorney who knows how to file a Certification of Expert Review and has fought medical malpractice cases before. At Sand Law, our experienced medical malpractice lawyers are ready to take on your case and help you get the compensation you deserve. For a free case evaluation, please contact us online or by calling 651-291-7263.

Slip and Falls Can Often Lead to Serious Injuries and Piling Medical Bills

Slip and fall accidents can happen in a blink of an eye and always when someone least expects it. Falling down, whether from tripping or slipping, causes not only confusion and embarrassment but serious injuries as well.

According to the Minnesota Department of Administration, slips, trips, and falls are the second leading cause of workplace injuries to state employees. But fall down accidents can also occur in all kinds of other places too, like stores, restaurants, a friend’s house, or parking lot. And, despite their reputation, falls are not always funny. In fact, falls account for 95% of hip fractures, along with causing broken bones and traumatic head injuries among others.

What Conditions Cause a Slip and Fall?

Various conditions can increase the likelihood of suffering a slip and fall accident, both indoors and outdoors.

One of the leading indoor causes of a slip and fall is a wet floor. However, cords in the walkway, debris on the floor, open cabinets, items in the walkway, and poor lighting can also contribute to a potential indoor accident.

On the other hand, outdoor slip and fall accidents occur mainly because of environmental and weather conditions, such as frozen surfaces. Still, they can also be due to poor maintenance of sidewalks, like cracks in the walkway or loose handrails.

What To Do After A Slip And Fall?

If you get injured in a slip and fall accident, it is important to react adequately to the situation since it can greatly impact the outcome of your lawsuit and the amount of recovery you can receive. Here are some of the things you can do to increase your chances of a fair settlement.

Inspect the Scene

Immediately after the accident, make sure to look around and identify the cause of the slip. Pay attention if there are any “wet floor” signs or indications for other potential hazards. The outcome of your case depends on whether the property owner indicated such dangers or not.

Seek Medical Attention

One of the most important steps is to consult with an expert who will document the injuries, which will prove not only their severity but also the exact moment when they happened. Sometimes injuries, such as head traumas, don’t occur until after the accident; therefore, an accurate medical evaluation is essential for building a complete case.

Collect Evidence

The best way to collect evidence for the accident is to take photographs of the scene. Take pictures of the floor and the surroundings, even if there are no visible hazards. Such evidence is important for showing your version of the story and will help your attorney in the process of settling your case.

Find Witnesses

Witnesses are also critical in determining how the accident happened and proving fault. Possible witnesses can be store/restaurant customers or passersby, depending on where the accident occurred. Try to collect their names, contact information, and a brief explanation of what they saw. Your attorney will be able to contact them and obtain all the necessary details.

Make an Accident Report

If you get injured in a business, the establishment will provide you with an accident report form and will require you to fill it out. However, it is advisable that you create your own accident report, which describes your version of the events along with witness information, times, dates, and the nature of your injuries.

Contact an Attorney

Following a slip and fall accident, make sure to contact an experienced attorney who will assist you in obtaining maximum recovery for your damages. Do not try to negotiate with the business owner on your own or accept any financial reward from their insurance company. Insurance companies want to settle for less and pay you as little as possible.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Slip and Fall?

Determining slip and fall liability can be challenging. Based on the circumstances, the fault might lie in the hands of the property owner if they acted negligently by not repairing or indicating the hazard. However, if the injured person contributed in some way to their accident by not paying attention or disregarding the signs, their award might get reduced.

The property owner might be liable if:

The owner or his/her employees caused the danger
The owner or his/her employees were aware of the danger but failed to fix or indicate it
The owner or his/her employees should have known about the danger because a reasonable person would have known about it and repaired it

On the other hand, the injured person might also be responsible for their accident if:

They didn’t have a legitimate reason to be on the property
They didn’t act reasonably by not acknowledging the danger or by not trying to avoid it
They failed to notice any signs that the owner might have put to indicate the hazard
They contributed to causing the dangerous conditions and therefore the accident

Common Defenses in a Minnesota Slip and Fall Claim

There are several common defenses the negligent party (more likely their insurance companies and lawyers) will use to prevent being held responsible for fall. Some of the most common defenses are:

the danger or hazard was open and obvious
the property owner or manager did not know about the issue or was not made aware of the danger
the person who suffered the slip and fall was either completely or partially at fault for their injury.

Click here to learn more about common defenses in a Minnesota Slip and Fall Claim.

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Minnesota Slip and Fall?

The Statute of Limitations that regulates slip and fall accidents in Minnesota is Minnesota Statutes Section 541.07, which also applies to all personal injury cases.

According to the statute, a slip and fall accident victim can file a lawsuit no later than six years from the date of the accident.

However, slip and fall accidents are also considered negligence accidents; therefore, they are governed by the Comparative Fault Statute. According to it, the victim of the accident will receive compensation in proportion to the amount of fault that is attributed to them. In other words, the financial award might be reduced based on the extent to which the victim is responsible for the accident.

What Compensation Can I Get for a Slip and Fall?

As in all personal injury cases, slip and fall accident sufferers can receive compensation for their physical damages, emotional trauma, and financial losses due to lost wages.

Victims can receive a financial award to recover their monetary and non-monetary damages.

Non-monetary damages include:

Pain and suffering
Emotional trauma
Loss of companionship

Monetary damages include:

Medical bills
Future medical services
Household bills and expenses
Loss of income

Contact Experienced Minnesota Slip and Fall Attorneys

Proving fault in a slip and fall accident is not always easy. It requires a dedicated attorney who is qualified and prepared to fight for your right to receive compensation for your pain and suffering.

The legal team at Sand Law LLC, Minnesota, is experienced in proving negligence in slip and fall accidents and obtaining maximum recovery for their clients.

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries as a result of a slip and fall, the experienced attorneys at Sand Law are here to help. Don’t hesitate to contact us online or by calling 651-291-7263 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your rights and options, possible compensation, and what to expect when pursing a slip and fall injury claim.

Have You Suffered The Loss Of A Loved One Due To Wrongful Death?

Losing a loved one is a painful and devastating experience, regardless of the cause. However, when the death is due to human error, emotional suffering is accompanied by a feeling of injustice.

Wrongful death is any death that occurs due to negligence or an intentional act. A wrongful death may result from any type of personal injury situation, like a: motor vehicle accident, work-related accident or illness, slip and fall, medical malpractice, or a defective or harmful medication.

Usually, close relatives of the deceased person are allowed to file a wrongful death claim against the defendant to seek compensation for any emotional or financial damages that could have resulted from the loss.

At Sand Law LLC, we have supported grieving families in pursuing wrongful death claims for many years, making us highly experienced in this area of law.

In the aftermath of a tragic loss, you need a Minnesota wrongful death attorney you can trust to be effective, efficient, and considerate. Our team at Sand Law LLC exemplifies these qualities, and we have an undeniable track record of success settling personal injury claims. Take advantage of a free consultation with us to see how we consistently put our clients first. Reach out to us at (651) 362-4173 or fill out a contact form. We are here to help you through this difficult time.

The attorneys at Sand Law LLC have extensive experience recovering compensation for Minnesota clients who have lost a loved one due to wrongful death. Our lawyers will evaluate your case from a variety of angles to ensure that you receive maximum compensation for your loved one’s medical expenses, mental and physical pain and suffering, lost wages, and funeral expenses. We serve clients throughout Minnesota from our St. Paul, Minneapolis, White Bear Lake, and Woodbury offices.

What is needed to bring a wrongful death lawsuit?

In order to prove the defendant guilty of a wrongful death, the court must determine that the death has happened because of negligence or because of the defendant’s intent to cause harm.

Additionally, it must be proven that members of the deceased’s family have suffered emotional and financial damages due to the death. Such damages might include medical treatment costs, funeral costs, and even the loss of love and companionship that the deceased would have otherwise provided.

Minnesota wrongful death statute allows a representative of the decedent or the decedent’s estate to be appointed to sue for civil damages, which could include monetary losses and mental suffering.

Who Can Sue For A Wrongful Death?

Who can file a lawsuit for a wrongful death varies from state to state. In Minnesota, for example, living members of the deceased’s family, such as spouses and children, parents, siblings, and grandparents can file a wrongful death claim on behalf of the decedent.

Family members can ask the court to appoint another person as a “trustee” to pursue the claim on their behalf if they don’t want or are not able to do so themselves.

Each state allows spouses and children of the deceased person to initiate lawsuits since they are considered immediate family members and are directly affected by the wrongful death.

In case the decedent was a single adult, most states allow distant relatives, such as siblings, parents, and grandparents, to file a claim.

Causes Of Wrongful Deaths

A death is considered wrongful if it occurs as a result of negligence, error, failure to act, or an intentional action.

There are many possible causes of a wrongful death some of which include:

Car Accidents
Semi-truck Accidents
Motorcycle Accidents
Pedestrian Accidents
Slip and Fall
Other Premise Liability Issues
Work-related Accidents
Medical Malpractice
Defective Products

Minnesota Wrongful Death Statute

Section 573.02 of Minnesota State Statute defines wrongful death as any death “caused by the wrongful act or omission of any person or corporation.”

Often such deaths are due to professional negligence from physicians, for example, or companies failed to take safety measures in their facilities.

Generally, there is a time limit of three years since the date of the death to initiate a lawsuit. However, in some cases, this period can be extended.

Immediate relatives, such as spouses and children, have priority in seeking compensation for their financial losses and emotional distress. Financial losses can include funeral and burial costs, as well as decreased income and standard of living due to the death of the spouse or parent.

[Read: 10 COMMON QUESTIONS IN MINNESOTA WRONGFUL DEATH CASES]

What is Pecuniary Loss?

Pecuniary loss refers to any material loss that the deceased and the family of the deceased might have experienced as a result of a wrongful death. Such losses are the most common reason for compensation because they are relatively easy to estimate.

Many factors are taken into consideration when measuring monetary losses, including the deceased’s income potential, standard of living, life expectancy, and value of their services for the society.

If the deceased was a parent, the loss of care and guidance towards their child would be counted towards the recovery.

Usually, wages earned at the time of death are the basis for the award; however, if the victim was unemployed, the court may determine the compensation based on their past earnings or income potential had they lived.

Wrongful Death of a Child

The death of a child is perhaps the most painful experience that a parent can go through, bringing severe emotional traumas and psychological distress. Therefore, compensation for the wrongful death of a child will be determined based on the emotional aspect of the loss rather than the financial.

If the child was a minor, the court would determine the award based on their age, health, life expectancy, and earning potential had they lived. However, the latter is difficult to estimate since any future earnings are difficult to predict.

Additionally, funeral costs and medical expenses will be counted towards the recovery.

Getting Compensation for a Wrongful Death

When estimating the monetary compensation for a wrongful death, the court must consider various factors and determine the overall “value of life” of the decedent.

However, this is never an easy task since all human lives are valuable, and death brings suffering and devastation to the families of the deceased people regardless of their income and societal status at the time of death.

Nevertheless, some of the factors to consider are when evaluating potential personal injury damages:

The life expectancy of the deceased, had they lived
Their age and overall health at the time of death
Their profession and value of services
Their skills, talents, and habits
Their income at the time of death
Their income potential had they lived
The number of children they had to take care of and the cost of raising them
The cost of supporting their family
Medical bills and funeral expenses as a result of the death
The loss of future earnings, pension, and retirement benefits
The loss of love, companionship, and guidance the deceased person could have provided for their family
Any punitive damages for the defendant who caused the death

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still file a civil claim for a wrongful death even if I didn’t file a criminal case against the negligent party?

You are not required to file a criminal case before filing a civil claim for a wrongful death. There are several reasons why the loved ones of a deceased person may not have pursued criminal charges following a wrongful death:

The statute of limitations for the crime expired
The defendant’s actions were reckless, but they did not break the law
The plaintiff could not meet the higher burden of proof required for criminal cases
The family wanted to prioritize restitution over punitive action

The choice not to seek criminal charges does not negate the family’s right to seek financial compensation in civil court through a wrongful death claim.

What is the burden of proof in a Minnesota wrongful death claim?

The burden of proof in a wrongful death claim is the same as it is in most other kinds of personal injury claims. To prove that a defendant is liable for your damages in a wrongful death claim, you will need to demonstrate that a preponderance of the evidence, or more than 50%, supports the contentions of your claim.

As the plaintiff, it is your responsibility, or burden, to meet this evidentiary standard. A Minnesota wrongful death attorney can outline what evidence you need and how to present it effectively to the factfinders.

When do courts award punitive damages in wrongful death lawsuits?

Like in other types of personal injury lawsuits, plaintiffs in wrongful death claims are theoretically eligible for punitive damages. However, in reality, judges and juries find few cases warrant punitive damages. In order for them to direct the defendant to pay punitive damages to the plaintiff, the plaintiff’s legal team must generally convince them of one or more of the following:

The defendant acted with an extreme degree of recklessness or disregard for others’ safety, causing the wrongful death
The actions of the defendant resulted in catastrophic or fatal harm to the plaintiff and/or harmed a significant number of people
A deterrent is necessary to prevent the defendant from repeating their egregiously negligent behavior in the future and harming others

In a wrongful death settlement, this type of compensation does not directly correspond with specific damages. Instead, it is based on the defendant’s actions rather than the plaintiff’s losses.

Contact An Experienced Wrongful Death Attorney In Minnesota

Losing someone close to you because of wrongful death feels devastating and unjust. While nothing can bring your loved one back, we can certainly help you seek compensation for your material losses and emotional suffering, so you can put all your effort into recovering.

Contact the experienced attorneys at Sand Law online or by calling 651-291-7263 for a free consultation to discuss your individual case.

Minnesota Sex Abuse Victims’ Lawyers

Understanding the Impact of Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse is a deeply traumatic experience that can profoundly affect a victim’s emotional, physical, and psychological well-being. If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse by a healthcare provider in Minnesota, there are steps you can take to ensure your safety, seek justice, and begin the healing process.

Immediate Steps to Ensure Your Safety

Here are some tips to help you with getting the justice and compensation you deserve after such a horrible incident as sexual assault or sexual abuse.

Get to a Safe Place

Your safety is the top priority. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room. If you are not in immediate danger, find a safe location where you can avoid further contact with the perpetrator.

Report the Abuse

Reporting the abuse is crucial to holding the perpetrator accountable and preventing further harm. Contact:

Minnesota Department of Health: 1-800-369-7994
Minnesota Board of Medical Practice: 1-800-657-3709
These organizations investigate complaints against healthcare providers and take appropriate action.

Seeking Medical Attention

If you have been physically injured, seek medical care immediately. A healthcare provider can:

Examine and document your injuries, which may be critical evidence for legal proceedings.
Address any physical or emotional trauma you may be experiencing.

Access Emotional Support

Emotional support is vital for recovery. Consider:

Talking to friends or family members you trust.
Seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor.
Contacting support groups or organizations like the Minnesota Coalition Against Sexual Assault for resources and assistance.

Legal Actions for Justice and Compensation

Consulting an experienced lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options after being abused or assaulted due to an employer’s negligence, inadequate security or unsafe conditions, or institutional negligence (schools, churches, hospitals, or other organizations).

A lawyer can help you understand the full scope of your situation and help you determine if you have a claim that can be compensated. All sexual harm deserves justice in criminal court, but not all cases can be pursued in civil court.

Our compassionate attorneys can help you with the complexities of the legal process with guidance and advocacy.

Filing a Civil Lawsuit

You may be eligible to file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator. This can include seeking compensation for:

Medical expenses
Lost wages
Pain and suffering

Reporting Abuse and Criminal Charges

If you have experienced abuse that constitutes a crime, such as sexual assault, it is crucial to report it to law enforcement. You can file a report with your local police department or contact the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for assistance.

Reporting the abuse is an important step toward holding the perpetrator accountable and preventing further harm.

A skilled lawyer can guide you through this process, ensuring that your rights are protected and advocating on your behalf.

Depending on the circumstances, criminal charges may also be filed against the perpetrator. If convicted, they could face serious penalties, including jail time, which can provide a sense of justice and closure for survivors.

Long-Term Support and Patience

While the process may involve delays and obstacles, each step forward brings you closer to achieving justice and closure.

Seek Emotional Support Throughout

Navigating the legal process after experiencing sexual abuse can be a lengthy and emotionally challenging journey.

It is essential to have a robust support system to lean on during this time. Surround yourself with trusted friends and family members who can provide encouragement and understanding.

Additionally, consider seeking professional help from counselors or therapists who specialize in trauma recovery. Many survivors find solace in joining support groups, where they can connect with others who have faced similar experiences and share their stories in a safe and supportive environment.

The healing process is not linear, and having emotional support throughout can make a significant difference in managing the challenges you may encounter.

Stay Persistent

Seeking justice takes time, and the path forward may feel overwhelming at times. However, it is important to remain steadfast in your pursuit of accountability for the harm done to you.

Remember that your voice matters, and by taking legal action, you are not only advocating for yourself but potentially preventing others from being harmed.

While the process may involve delays and obstacles, each step forward brings you closer to achieving justice and closure. Trust in your resilience and the importance of your efforts, knowing that holding perpetrators accountable is a vital step in creating a safer community.

Patience and persistence are key, but you are not alone—support is available to help you every step of the way.

Types of Defendants in Sexual Abuse Lawsuits

Victims of sexual abuse can pursue lawsuits against various defendants depending on the circumstances of the case. These can include:

The Perpetrator: The individual directly responsible for the abuse can be held accountable for their actions in a civil lawsuit. However, most individuals do not have very much to pursue in terms of compensation; pursuing the individual can be a touchy subject, but if you have questions, you can contact us for more information.
Employers: Companies or organizations may be liable if the abuse occurred within the scope of employment, especially if they failed to conduct proper background checks or ignored warning signs.
Property Owners: Landlords, business owners, or event organizers may be responsible if inadequate security or unsafe conditions allowed the abuse to occur on their premises.
Institutions: Schools, religious organizations, hospitals, and other entities can face lawsuits for failing to prevent or address abuse by their staff or members.
Caregivers or Supervisors: Foster parents, guardians, or supervisors who neglected their duty to protect the victim may also be held liable.

A skilled attorney can help identify all potentially liable parties to ensure accountability and secure fair compensation for the victim.

Contact Sand Law for More Help

If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual abuse, it’s crucial to take action to protect your rights and seek justice.

At Sand Law, our compassionate and experienced attorneys are here to guide you through this challenging time. We are committed to holding perpetrators and negligent parties accountable while providing the support and advocacy you need.

Call us today at 651-291-7263 to speak with a member of our legal team, or visit our contact page to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

Consultation With Sand Law

For a free consultation, give Sand Law a call at 651 291-7263 or visit us online at sandlawllc.com.

My Kid Got Hurt On A Playground. Who Can I Hold Liable?

You can recover compensation when the school created the risk. At Sand Law, our attorneys and staff know that recess is the best part of the school day for many children. We also know that playgrounds and other recreational areas can be very dangerous places for children when reasonable safety standards are not upheld. Head trauma, broken bones and other serious playground injuries can be caused or contributed to by many different things, including:

Slipping on icy surfaces
Tripping on uneven sidewalks
Falling from slides, swings or other heights
Poor supervision or insufficient staff-child ratios
Defective playground equipment
Poorly maintained premises

Schools Have Insurance Coverage | You Have A Right To File A Claim

School is a place your child may love. Parents often feel like they are filing a lawsuit against the school and the teachers that contribute to their child’s happiness. It is important to remember that schools have insurance coverage. You are filing a claim against a policy, not the school.

You have a right to file a claim just as you would after a car accident. You can also obtain similar damages, including compensation to cover pain and suffering, medical expenses or wages you lost while helping your child recover.

Just like any other accident claim, the insurance company will try to underpay or deny your claim. Do not accept a settlement offer or make any statements before talking to an experienced child injury lawyer.

Childhood Injuries Have Long-Term Consequences

When a child suffers a severe injury while playing on the playground then they can suffer from the effects long into the future. A child’s body is still developing and any severe damage that they suffer from a playground injury can affect their development in a negative way. This can cause significant damages that can be at the center of a child injury claim such as disability, permanent damage, disfigurement, and much more.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

When a child falls on their head or suffers a blow to it while they are on a playground then they can suffer permanent brain damage. Traumatic brain injuries are known for how they can cause damage that interferes with a person’s cognitive functions. They are also known to cause permanent damage. For a developing child, brain damage can be especially bad and forever alter their ability to function. Even concussions suffered by children have been shown to have long-reaching effects as they grow up. Children can have problems succeeding in school and even functioning as a result of cognitive damage that affects concentration, speech, and their emotional state.

Spinal Cord Injuries

When a child falls from a playset on the playground, there is a chance that they can land on their back in a way that causes a severe injury to the spine. A child’s developing spine that suffers a severe injury can end up developing in a way that causes a number of problems down the line. For example, the alignment of the spine can become warped as a child grows shich can affect their posture and even endanger their spinal cord. Spinal cord damage is always dangerous since it affects our sensory functions and control of limbs and certain organs. Spinal cord damage can be permanent and lead to paralysis, incontinence, and loss of sensation.

Was Your Child Injured In A Playground. Accident? Contact Sand Law Now

If your child is injured in a playground accident at any private or public school in Minnesota, you should contact us immediately. We offer free initial consultations with no strings attached. Take advantage of this free service and contact us today.

Call us at 651-291-SAND (651-291-7263) or send us an email to schedule your consultation. We have offices in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Woodbury, and White Bear Lake but we can accommodate your needs when you cannot travel to us.

Were You Injured At Work And Are Having Trouble Paying Your Bills? You May Need To Speak To A Workplace Accident Attorney.

Depending on what industry you work in, injuries can be pretty common. If you’ve ever filed for workers’ compensation, you know just how difficult it can be to get your workplace to pay your medical bills and to allow you to take the needed time off from work. But what are you supposed to do if they refuse to pay your medical bills?

Common Types of Workplace Accidents and Injuries

Working in a dangerous field, like construction, police work, transportation/shipping, or manufacturing, can put you at risk for workplace injuries. According to the National Safety Council, every 7 seconds a worker is injured on the job. That means that over 510 workers are injured an hour. That equates to about 4.5 million workplace injuries a year. The most common injuries include sprains, strains, or tears, soreness or pain, and cuts, lacerations, or punctures.

The top three workplace events that result in people becoming injured are:

overexertion
contact with dangerous objects and equipment
slips, trips, and falls

Overexertion accounts for 33.54% of all workplace injuries and can happen when a worker does the same motion over and over again, like lifting and lowering boxes all day.

Contact with dangerous objects and equipment accounts for 26% of injuries. This includes being struck by or against a piece of equipment, being caught in a piece of equipment, or being struck, caught, or crushed in a collapsing structure.

Slips, trips, and falls account for 25.8% of all injuries and include falls to a lower level or falls on the same level.

Common Construction Site Accidents

Construction sites fall into the top five most dangerous workplaces and for good reason. Because construction workers work with large equipment and hazardous materials, they’re much more susceptible to accidents than an office worker. Common accidents include:

Crane or hoist accidents
Falls from heights
Slips and falls
Repetitive stress injuries
Gas leaks, fires, and explosions
Forklift accidents
Trench accidents
Struck-by and caught-between accidents
Exposure to hazardous chemicals or toxins
Work vehicle accidents

As you can see, there are many different ways that construction workers can be injured on the job. From heavy machinery accidents, like forklifts and cranes, to electrocutions or fires, there are many risks to be aware of while on a construction site. Because of this, there are also many safety precautions to take.

However, if you’re injured, you may be eligible for workers compensation and time off from work. Because these injuries can be more severe, you may need a workplace accident attorney on your side to make sure you get the best compensation package.

What To Do After You Have Been Hurt At Work

The first and most important thing to do after you’ve been injured is to get medical attention right away. Whether you need to be patched up by a few bandages or need to go to the hospital in an ambulance, this is the first thing that needs to be done.

After obtaining the first aid necessary for your particular injury, make sure to notify your supervisor about the incident as soon as you can after it has occurred. If you don’t inform your supervisor right away, you may lose the right to workers compensation benefits. In most states, you have about 30 days to inform your supervisor. However, in Minnesota you have 180 days to report your injury. The next step is to then complete a claim for workers compensation.

Can I be fired for reporting a workplace injury?

Most states, including Minnesota, have made it illegal to fire someone solely because of their workplace injury. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires an employer to make reasonable accommodations before firing an employee. If the employee doesn’t make these required accommodations, you may be able to take legal action. The employer also may try to harass you into quitting, or make you feel uncomfortable continuing on at the job. So no, you cannot be legally fired with filing a workplace related injury to receive workers compensation.

How long do I have to report a workplace injury or file a claim?

In the state of Minnesota, you have 180 days from the day you are injured to report a workplace injury to your supervisor. This long period of time is unusual in most states, but Minnesota recognizes that you may have a repetitive strain injury or other delayed injury from your accident that you may not realize right away.

What types of benefits can I get for a workplace injury?

After your injury, and after your claim is accepted, you will receive certain benefits depending on the severity of your injury and whether or not you’re able to continue working. Of course, you’ll obtain medical care for whatever injuries you have and your medical bills will be covered.

You may also be awarded with temporary disability or permanent disability benefits. Disability payments will provide you with partial compensation for your loss of wages. This payment normally equals about two-thirds of your normal weekly paycheck.

You may also be eligible for vocational rehabilitation, which is similar to disability. If your injury prevents you from returning to work, you may receive vocational rehab to help you get a completely different job. You will also receive a partial income, like disability benefits. You may also receive wage loss benefits if you’re temporarily unable to work.

Contact Experienced Minnesota Workplace Injury Attorneys

If you’ve been injured at work and you don’t feel like you’re getting the benefits you deserve, contact an experienced Minnesota workplace accident attorney today. We’ll be able to help you file your claim and get the money and benefits you deserve. Contact us online or by calling 651-291-7263 for more information and for a free case evaluation.

Statue Of Limitations For Minnesota Injury Victims

Minnesota has time limits for when a lawsuit can be brought. These are called “Statutes of Limitations.” If a person fails to bring a lawsuit within the applicable time period – they may lose the right to pursue their case. If you have been injured, it is very important to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible in order to protect your rights.

Minnesota Animal And Dog Bite Limitations

Case Type: Animal Attacks & Dog Bites

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5)

Limitations Period:6 years from the date of injury

Minnesota Motor Vehicle Accident Limitations

Case Type: Auto, Car & Truck Accidents

Minnesota Statute: Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5)

Limitations Period:6 years from the date of injury

Minnesota Bicycle Accident Limitations

Case Type: Bicycle Accidents

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5)

Limitations Period:6 years from the date of injury

Minnesota Boat and Jet Ski Accident Limitations

Case Type: Boat & Jet Ski Accidents

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5)

Limitations Period:6 years from the date of injury

Minnesota Burn Injury Limitations

Case Type: Burn Injuries

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5)

Limitations Period:6 years from the date of injury

Minnesota Municipality Claim Limitations

Case Type: Claims Against A Municipality (City Or Township)

Notice deadline from when an injury occurs

Minnesota Statute: Minn. Stat. § 466.05, Subd. 1

Limitations Period: 180 days from the date of injury

Notice deadline from when the death occurs

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 466.05, Subd. 2

Limitations Period:1 year from the date of death

Case Against State Of Minnesota Limitations

Case Type: Claims Against The State Of Minnesota

Notice deadline from when an injury occurs

Minnesota Statute: Minn. Stat. § 3.736(5)

Limitations Period: 180 days from the date of injury

Notice deadline from when a death occurs

Minnesota Statute: Minn. Stat. 3.736, Subd. 6

Limitations Period: 1 year from the date of the death

Minnesota Construction Accident Limitations

Case Type: Construction Site Accidents

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5)

Limitations Period:6 years from the date of injury

Minnesota Product Injury Limitations

Case Type: Defective Product

Notice deadline once an attorney-client relationship is formed

Minnesota Statute:Minn Stat. § 604.04

Limitations Period:6 Months from the formation of the relationship

Minnesota Illegal Liquor Sale Limitations

Case Type: Dram Shop/Illegal Liquor Sales

Notice deadline once an attorney-client relationship is formed

Minnesota Statute: Minn Stat. § 340A.802, Subd. 2 –

Limitations Period: 240 days from the formation of the relationship

Minnesota Assault and Battery Limitations

Case Type: Intentional Torts (i.e. assault, battery, false imprisonment)

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.07

Limitations Period:2 years from the date of injury

Limitations Involving Minors In Minnesota

Case Type: Limitations On Cases Involving Minor Children

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.15(a)(1)

Limitations Period: 1 year once the child reaches the age of majority (this applies even if the statute of limitations has run out prior to the child turning 18. Note, there is a tolling provision for medical malpractice cases.)

Minnesota Med Mal Death Limitations

Case Type: Medical Malpractice Resulting In Death

Minnesota Statute:Minn Stat. § 541.07 & Minn. Stat. § 573.02

Limitations Period:3 years from the death. However, no more than 4 years from when the claim initiated

Minnesota Med Mal Injury Limitations

Case Type: Medical Malpractice Resulting in Injury

Minnesota Statute:Minn Stat. § 541.076

Limitations Period:4 years from the date of injury

Minnesota Motorcycle Accident Limitations

Case Type: Motorcycle Accidents

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5)

Limitations Period:6 years from the date of injury

Minnesota Pedestrian Accident Limitations

Case Type: Pedestrian Accidents

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5)

Limitations Period:6 years from the date of injury

Minnesota Airplaine Accident Limitations

Case Type: Plane Crashes

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5)

Limitations Period:6 Years from the date of injury

Minnesota Rollover Accident Limitations

Case Type: Rollover Accidents (Including Suvs, Vans & Atvs)

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5)

Limitations Period:6 years from the date of injury

Minnesota Bus Accident Limitations

Case Type: School, Commercial, & Public Bus Accidents

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5)

Limitations Period:6 years from the date of injury

Minnesota Truck Accident Limitations

Case Type: Commercial Truck Accidents

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5)

Limitations Period:6 years from the date of injury

Minnesota Slip and Fall Accident Limitations

Case Type: Slip & Fall or Trip & Fall

Slip & Fall Negligent based on poor maintenance, operation or inspection

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5):

Limitations Period:6 years from the date of injury

Slip & Fall Negligence based on a defective design or improper construction.

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.051, Subd. 1(c):

Limitations Period:2 years after discovery of the injury but not more than 10 years after completion of the project

Minnesota Train Accident Limitations

Case Type: Train Accidents

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5)

Limitations Period:6 years from the date of injury

Minnesota UI/UM Limitations

Case Type: Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Cases

Minnesota Case Law:Nelson v. State Farm Ins. Co.

Limitations Period:6 years running from the date of the accident

Minnesota Wrongful Death Limitations

Case Type: Wrongful Death Matters

Minnesota Statute:Minn. Stat. § 573.02, Subd. 1

Limitations Period:The lesser of 3 years from date of death or 6 years

Representing Victims Injured By Recreational Vehicles In Minnesota

The variety of seasons in Minnesota provides a vibrant backdrop for recreational activities. Unfortunately, people of all ages can suffer debilitating recreational injuries. The extensive lakes and rivers are frequent sites for boating accidents. Cooling off on a hot summer day at a public pool, water park or hotel swimming pool can turn tragic if the pool is defective or a lifeguard provides inadequate CPR. Winter is a wonderful time to enjoy snowmobiling, skiing, and even a hayrack ride. But dangerous conditions at a resort, bicycle accidents, defective products and the negligence of other outdoor enthusiasts can lead to life-altering personal injury.

Full-Service Sports And Recreational Personal Injury Lawyers

At Sand Law, LLC, our personal injury attorneys understand the anxiety, stress, and strain that mounting medical bills and lost wages can place on your life. We are committed to getting you back on your feet again financially. Proving negligence in sports-related and recreational injury claims requires the skill and knowledge that can only be gained by experience. Our lawyers have the resources and courtroom skills to prepare and present strong cases for our clients who have suffered serious injury in a wide range of sports and recreational settings such as:

Snowmobile accidents
Snowboarding and skiing accidents
Water-related injuries, including boating and swimming accidents
Jet Ski accidents
ATV accidents
Summer camp injuries
Injuries to children, including sports-related harm and playground accidents
Amusement park accidents

Get A Free Consultation To Learn Your Legal Options

If you or a loved one has been injured, we are here to help you get the full and fair compensation you deserve to cover your damages. To speak with a straightforward personal injury lawyer, call our offices in White Bear Lake and St. Paul at 651-291-SAND (651-291-7263). You may also contact us online. There is no fee unless we win compensation for you. We represent clients statewide.