Car Accident? Let Us Help You

If there’s anything that can immediately ruin someone’s day, it’s getting into a car
accident.

Whether it’s due to distracted driving, speeding, or another driver’s negligence,
the emotional distress and potential physical injuries resulting from such an
accident can leave anyone in a state of disarray.

Next Step

After a police report has been filed and proper medical attention has been received
(if necessary), your next step is to consult with a personal injury attorney at
Goldman & Associates. Our attorneys are highly skilled and experienced in dealing
with car accident and personal injury matters. We understand that you might be
feeling uncertain and worried as to what comes next, and that you’re probably
finding it difficult to answer questions such as the following:
* Who will cover my medical expenses?
* My insurance company won’t respond to my claim – what do I do next?
* How will I take care of and provide for my family if I’m injured?

Being involved in an auto accident can take a toll on everyone involved. Dealing
with injuries, medical bills, and insurance is no easy task, and it oftentimes
requires the assistance of a Michigan auto accident attorney to ensure that your
rights and the rights of your loved ones are always protected.

At Goldman & Associates Law Firm, our auto accident attorneys understand the need to
assist you during this difficult time. We work tirelessly to ensure that you or your
loved one receives the benefits and compensation deserved. We understand the
traumatic nature of an automobile accident and are committed to navigating the often
confusing Michigan laws and procedures related to such accidents. We will seek out
all liable parties, whether insurance companies or negligent individuals, and
provide the best method in which to hold them responsible for your injuries.

Here at Goldman & Associates Law Firm, our Michigan auto accident attorneys will
provide:
* Results & Solutions
* Competitive Cost Effective Strategies
* Protection of Our Every Client’s Rights
* An In-Depth Free Legal Consultation Before Choosing Our Firm To Represent You
* Effective Courtroom Litigation Attorney

If you or someone you know has been involved in an auto accident, please contact
Goldman & Associates for a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys
at (877) 737-8800.

What You Need To Know About Slip And Fall Accidents

Maybe it’s Saturday and you’re at the grocery store stocking up on items for the
coming week. Or you’re making your way through the parking lot and up the steps into
your favorite concert hall for a show. But while you’re at the grocery store, you
turn the corner and slip on a puddle of water in the frozen food aisle. And as you
climb the steps to make your way into the venue, you slip on a patch of ice and find
yourself falling backwards onto the cold pavement.

Unfortunately, these types of incidents are far too common. And while slip and fall
accidents mostly occur in the winter months due to snow and ice accumulation, they
can happen anytime and anywhere.

If you experienced a slip and fall accident, the
following factors are very important to keep in mind:

1. Property owner’s responsibility – our experienced personal injury attorneys at
Goldman and Associates will be able to help you to determine to what extent the
property owner is at fault. Whose responsibility is it to manage and maintain the
property and keep it safe?
2. Knowledge of safety hazard(s) – Was the property owner aware of the safety hazard
that caused your slip and fall accident? If not, should they have known? These
questions along with expert testimony of preventative procedures and industry
practices and regulations will help to prove your case.
3. Existence of Safety Hazard – Was there actually a safety hazard or was the
dangerous condition a result of other factors such as weather, wear and tear, etc.
4. Result of injuries – Are your injuries a direct result of your slip and fall
accident? Was the safety hazard(s) the reason for your injuries? Whether you feel
your pain is minor or not, it is always best to seek immediate medical attention.
5. Documentation – Providing medical records, photos, and video can help to document
and prove your case.

At Goldman & Associates, our skilled attorneys will work with you to gather details
about your slip and fall accident to determine if you have a case. It is always our
goal to assist you as best as we can with your legal matter.

Man’s Best Friend – Until They Bite

There’s no denying that a dog can bring joy and laughter to you and your home and
become a part of many memories over the years. Not only are they man’s best friend,
but dogs have been a part of the family circle for what can seem like ages.
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), over 36% of
households in the United States own at least one dog. We include them in our family
photos, we save them a seat at the dinner table, and we even take them shopping with
us (if the business allows furry friends). They join us on our errands, in our
travels, and keep us company when we’re up late at night mulling over our thoughts.
Let’s not forget to mention how they motivate us to get in our daily exercise.

But with all the upside to owning a dog or admiring them from afar, one of their
downsides is, unfortunately, that they can (and do) bite.

So what do you do in the event that you are bitten by a dog? More importantly, what
can you do to prevent a dog bite?

First and foremost, please be aware of your surroundings. When you’re going for a
walk, and/or you have children with you, be careful to note which homes you’ve
passed by before that have dogs. Familiarize yourself with the area in which you
live and pay close attention to those homes with “Beware of Dog” signs or dogs
within an enclosed fence.

Additionally

* Don’t approach an unfamiliar dog
* If you see a dog, don’t run from it as this will cause it to want to chase you
* Don’t panic or make any loud noises
* Don’t disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies
* Don’t pet a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first
* If you own a dog, do not encourage it to play aggressively
* Never allow small children to play with a dog unsupervised.

It’s important to note that sometimes, no matter what we do, a dog attack can still
occur. If this is the case, please do the following:
* Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water
* Seek emergency medical attention even if you feel the bite is minor. Dog bites can
cause bacterial infections, nerve damage, pain, and more severe reactions. It is
always better to be safe.
* Call your local animal control agency and report the dog attack

Finally, call Goldman & Associates and our experienced attorneys will provide you
with legal advice and guidance to help you take the best next steps. It’s our goal
to provide you with the highest quality service just as we’ve successfully done for
over 1,000 cases throughout the state of Michigan.

Michigan Divorce with Special Needs Child – Child Support

Child Support

Child support in Michigan will be a component of most divorces when children are involved. This is also the case with a divorce that includes a special needs child. Along with a normal child support agreement there will nest to be special considerations in Michigan when you determine a child support arrangement for a child with special needs. Clear communication about the needs of the child will be especially important when the issue of child support is addressed.

Child Support for Special Needs Child

The state of Michigan has what is called the Michigan Standard Child Support Formula. This is the formula that is used to determine the amount of child support that is paid. In Michigan you can also put in an application for child care expense and medical expense. The issue with the Standard Child Support Formula is it will not address child support for a special needs child correctly. There are many considerations that need to be addressed some of those include are there special activity costs, therapy costs, educational costs, and does one parents role as caregiver take away from their opportunity for outside financial gain such as working a job or owning a business. Because of these considerations the family law attorney needs to seek deviation from the Standard Formula.

Post Majority Age Child Support

Using the Standard Formula and other laws surrounding child support there is not a statute that requires child support for a special needs child past majority age which in Michigan is 18 to 19.5 years old. A special needs child could possibly need financial support much longer into adulthood or possibly for a lifetime. To ensure that those financial needs are met the family law attorney needs to seek legal and non-legal devices.

Both child support and support past the majority age are important issues to be discussed and agreed upon during a divorce. This will insure the special needs child has their financial needs met.

For additional information on Divorce in Michigan with a special needs child, click here.

A motorcycle crash in Bangor Township involved a Bay City Michigan couple, both were taken to Saginaw, Michigan hospitals, July 23, 2014

Personal Injury Attorney of Goldman & Associates report that an accident occurred in Bangor Township, Michigan. Bangor Charter Township is a charter township of Bay County located in the state of Michigan. Both victims were taken to hospitals in Saginaw, Michigan. A motorcycle crashed into a guardrail outside of a local bar. A married Bay City couple is recuperating from their injuries that they suffered. It appears that the accident took place about 11:20 p.m. on Tuesday July 23, 2014.

Bay County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the crash on State Park Drive at Boy Scout Road near Castaways, 3940 Boy Scout Road in Bangor Township. A guardrail on the west side of a bridge was struck while the motorcycle driver attempted to turn from eastbound Boy Scout Road onto southbound State Park Drive. The driver of the motorcycle was Gregory Vanness, age 48. The passenger was Bridgette Vanness, age 47. Both Gregory Vanness and the passenger Bridgette Vanness were thrown from the bike onto the roadway, deputies reported. Both suffered injuries to their right legs.

Gregory and Bridgette Vanness did not have on helmets. The Deputies also believe that alcohol was a contributing factor to this crash. Gregory Vanness was transported to Convenant HealthCare in Saginaw and a helicopter airlifted Bridgette Vanness to St. Mary’s of Michigan, also in Saginaw.

This crash remains under investigation. The Deputies were assisted at the scene by Bangor Township firefighters, Michigan State Police troopers and McLaren Bay Region paramedics. For additional information, see http://akivagoldman.com/michigan-motorcycle-accident-lawyer.html.

Man from West Bloomfield Township, Michigan dead after fatal accident in Auburn Hills, Michigan on July 26, 2014

Car Accident Attorney of Goldman & Associates is reporting a horrific crash took the life of a 26-year-old West Bloomfield Township, Michigan man on Saturday July 26, 2014. The police are investigating the fatal weekend crash that took place in Auburn Hills. Police were dispatched just before noon on Saturday to M-59 and Squirrel Road. There were other motorist who witnessed the accident.

The victim was driving a blue 2008 Ford Escape. The preliminary investigation found the victim, whose identity has not released, had exited off M-59 and had lost control and ran off into a wooded area. According to a police report the victim was dead at the scene. No other information has been provided at this time. This was a terrible accident with deadly consequences.

The South Oakland Crash Investigation Team (SOCCIT) is involved. This is comprised of crash investigators from Auburn Hills, Troy, and Bloomfield Township police departments. The Southeast Oakland County Crash Investigation Team jointly investigate serious-injury and fatal traffic crashes in all three communities. The departments formed the task force in 2010 in order to improve the response to fatal and serious accidents. The group of well-trained crash investigators are tasked with managing the crash scenes, conducting thorough investigations, and limiting the length of closures and delays on the roads. For additional information, see http://akivagoldman.com/michigan-car-accident-lawyer.html.

Fireworks are to blame for a house fire in Grand Haven Michigan

The fourth of July is a wonderful time to celebrate all that is America. Most everyone loves to hear the big boom of the fireworks exploding on a warm summer evening. It is a time to reflect on this great country of ours and to celebrate our independence. Some people will do this by gathering with friends and family for traditional picnics. Hot dogs that have been cooked on an open fire and some nice cold refreshments are usually the norm. This time of year we have to be thinking about safety because so many people love to light their own fireworks.

This year you can’t drive down a street without seeing someone selling fireworks. Now that Michigan has new laws regarding the use of fireworks it seems that they are more plentiful than ever! It is always best to leave the firework displays to the experts and not try to light them ourselves. However, every year many people go to the corner tent and purchase numerous explosives. Some are even trying to “out do” their neighbors and have the biggest fireworks display on the block. Some may even be drinking alcohol while lighting these explosives and really find themselves in a dangerous situation.

According to authorities in western Michigan some fireworks landed on the roof of a house; this might have caused a fire that damaged a home in Grand Haven. According to the Grand Rapids Press the fire broke out Friday morning. Fire crews arrived at the home and found heavy smoke coming from the attic. The Grand Herald Tribune said a friend of the owners was shooting off fireworks when the fire started. They say they were unable to extinguish the fire with a garden hose. Let this be a reminder to us all that fireworks are explosives and they are very dangerous. Please use extra care this fourth of July so we can all enjoy a safe holiday weekend!

If you or someone you know is injured 4th of July 2014 and needs a Michigan personal injury attorney to fight for them, contact Goldman and Associates at (248) 588-3333 or at (586) 268-4200 for a free case evaluation.

Boating safety over the Fourth of July holiday in Michigan

The fourth of July is usually a time of fun and family gatherings. These gatherings sometimes take place near the water which leads to the thought of boats and many other activities. Boating can be a fun way to spend the day as long as you follow some pretty simple, yet important, rules. One must always use caution while operating a boat; but during the upcoming July 4^th holiday it is extremely important to use extra caution. Unfortunately, there will be boating related accidents and fatalities.

During the fourth of July weekend is sometimes the only time when people take their boat out in the dark. Possibly they could just forget how quickly the time is passing and they end up finding themselves in the middle of the lake at night. Please make sure your boat is properly equipped with all the equipment that is required at night. For instance, make sure your navigation lights work so you can be seen! It would be a good idea to request a free Vessel Safety Check so that your boat has all the legally required and recommended equipment onboard.

Make sure to always wear a life jacket. Did you know that statistics show that 80 percent of people involved in a fatal boating accident did not have on life jackets? Most people think as long as one is available they will get to it if they are in need of one. However, accidents can happen very quickly and there usually is not a lot of time to think about putting the life jacket on. By the time the accident has happened it is usually too late. Even though it might be very hot and humid it is vital to put that life jacket on. If it is sitting under a bench seat when your boat is involved in an accident the chances of you getting to it before the crash are very small. I would much rather have that nice bright orange vest on me keeping me a float rather than have it stuffed under a bench in the boat that is about to sink!

Just make sure to be prepared for emergencies. Remember, accidents can happen very quickly. Always take the time to make your crew aware of the basic emergency procedures. Another helpful tip is not to mix alcohol and boating! The operator’s ability to make sound judgments is greatly impaired while consuming alcohol. It also affects the ability of the passengers to respond to an emergency on the water. Intoxicated boaters can face both federal and state charges. Finally, always file a float plan with a friend. Make sure to list who is going, where you are going and what the boat looks like. Most importantly write down when you expect to be back. Just follow a few simple rules and you are sure to enjoy a wonderful and safe Independence Day.

If you or someone you know is injured 4th of July 2014 and needs a Michigan personal injury attorney to fight for them, contact Goldman and Associates at (248) 588-3333 or at (586) 268-4200 for a free case evaluation.

Fourth of July, 2014 Safety Tips

The fourth of July is a great time for family fun with barbeque, swimming and, of course, fireworks.  Be sure to be safe this holiday 2014 by following these fireworks safety tips from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission:

• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don’t realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals.
• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.

If you or someone you know is injured 4th of July 2014 and needs a Michigan personal injury attorney to fight for them, contact Goldman and Associates at 586-268-4200 for a free case evaluation.

Holiday Shopping Safety Tips

The holiday shopping season is in full force and it is important to stay safe when heading out in to the crowds. Our Michigan Personal Injury Attorneys at Goldman & Associates have some quick tips to keep your experience safe and as hassle free as possible.

Shopping Tips

–Day shop. It is common for stores to run sales at specific times to entice you to shop at certain hours.  If possible, make your shopping trip during the day.  Night time shopping may seem appealing to avoid crowds, however you are more at risk for theft or accidents in parking lots.

-Minimize.  When heading in to a shopping center, take as few things with you as possible.  A purse can be cumbersome and may draw the attention of thieves.  Carry only the necessities, cash, credit card, keys, and phone, and keep them in your pockets.  This will provide easy access for you and deter theft attempts.

-Comfort.  Dress in comfortable clothing and shoes.  In the event you need to leave a store quickly, this will enable you to stay safe during your exit.  Additionally, avoid wearing expensive jewelry that may catch the attention of thieves.

-Stay visible.  When parking, choose locations near other vehicles in well-lit areas.  Avoid parking in areas that are hidden or out of plan site to protect you upon departure or your car from break-ins while shopping.

-Use the trunk.  It may seem easiest to put your shopping bags in the passenger’s seat or back seat, but opt for the trunk if you will be making more stops.  A pile of shopping bags may catch the eye of a passerby and allow for a quick getaway with your new purchases.

–Bring a friend.  Shopping alone can be quicker sometimes, but bringing a friend can provide more safety.  Pairs or groups are less likely to be victims of theft than a single person shopping alone.  Not only will your shopping partner provide companionship, but it’s one more person looking out for your well-being!

With the holidays approaching quickly, many people become frantic and careless while trying to pick up last minute gifts; our personal injury attorneys suggest trying to finish your shopping before the rush hits.  Don’t forget that the “return season” follows the holidays and stores can be just as busy and chaotic.

We want everyone to have a happy and safe holiday, keep these tips in mind when heading out to shop!

For additional information, contact the Michigan Personal Injury Attorneys of Goldman & Associates at (877) 737-8800.