Steps to Take During a Workers' Compensation Case

Employers have a legal responsibility to help protect the safety of their employees. While there are many ways to do so, accidents can and do happen in the workplace. If you have received an injury at work, there are specific steps you should take to ensure you receive the proper treatment and compensation for your injury. Our Lake of the Ozarks lawyer is here to help! Below you can find the steps you should take if you are hurt at work.

Seek Medical Help For Your Injury

The first thing to do if you are injured at work is to seek medical attention right away. Tending to your injuries is the most important thing you can do. When the medical staff is helping you, ensure it is documented that this injury occurred in the workplace. Your medical records will likely be needed during your case and it's important that they show you were hurt on the clock. Listen carefully to all medical advice when it comes to taking care of your injury after you leave the hospital or doctors office.

Report the Accident to Your Employer

All accidents need to be reported to your employer. If you are injured at work, it's important to make sure your employer and/or HR department know of the injury. Even if it seems like a minor accident, you should still report the injury. If you have a small injury now, it could lead to further damage in the future and you will want the initial injury to be properly documented with your employer. In addition to all injuries that take place at work, all accidents should be reported, as well. Even an accident in which no one was hurt should be reported to your supervisor. New protocol or precautions may be put in place to ensure no one is hurt if a similar accident does occur in the future. You may be a part of making your workplace a safer environment for all by reporting any accidents that occur.

Hire a Lawyer to Represent Your Case

If you have any issues pursuing your workers' compensation claim, you may need to seek representation. It's important to know your rights as an employee who has been injured. Contact our workers' compensation attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks for representation. We can help talk through your case and walk you through the legal process to try to get the compensation you deserve. If you have any challenges seeking your coverage, give us a call right away.

We Can Help Defend YOUR Rights!

While employers are responsible for providing a safe work environment, employees have the legal right to seek compensation if an injury does occur. Missouri's workers' compensation laws typically allow work injuries to be covered by the employer, as long as alcohol or drugs were not involved.

Our personal injury attorney in Lake Ozark, MO has a number of successfully tried cases. With a wide range of experience and resources available, Gibbons Law Firm can help you through this trying time. Whether you are out of work due to your injuries or simply want to cost of treatment covered, we can help you seek the compensation you deserve. Contact our Lake of the Ozarks law firm today and your first meeting with us is always free!


Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

Follow us on...

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Google+

Road Trip Safety Tips for Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day Weekend is right around the corner. With the long holiday weekend, many families are planning a weekend getaway. During holiday weekends, there is typically more traffic on the roadways. With the increase in vehicles on the road, the chance for an accident increases significantly. As your Lake of the Ozarks lawyer, we know it's important to use extra caution when navigating the roadways this holiday. Take a look below to find some safety tips you can keep in mind as you head out on your road trip this weekend.

Increase Following Distance

When driving behind a vehicle, it's recommended to leave one car distance for every 10 miles per hour you are traveling. This would mean 6 car lengths if you are traveling 60MPH. This allows for adequate reaction time if the vehicle in front of your comes to an abrupt stop. It's especially important to allow the proper distance between cars when traveling on the interstate with a lot of other vehicles.

Think About Blind Spots

When passing vehicles, remember they have blind spots and may not be able to see your vehicle. Especially when going by semi-trucks, keep in mind the large blind spot in which your car may be driving. It's also important to think about your own vehicle blind spots when making a move on the roadway.

Drive When Well-Rested

An alert driver can have a much better reaction time to changes on the roadway. Always drive when you are well-rested. A drowsy driver is almost as dangerous as a drunk driver. Your reactions may be delayed and you could even fall asleep at the wheel if driving when tired.

Designate a Driver

Never drink and drive! Driving under the influence can delay your reactions and make it hard to navigate the roadway. It creates a potentially deadly situation for you and all others on the roadway. If you are in no condition to drive, designate a driver or call a taxi.

Minimize Distractions

It's important to keep your entire focus on the road when driving. Cell phones, eating, changing the radio, and adjusting the GPS are all common causes of vehicle accidents. Keep your full attention on driving when operating a vehicle.

Abide by Traffic Laws

Speeding is a common traffic law that is broken. It's important to travel at the designated speed for the safety of you and your passengers, as well as others on the road. Ensure everyone in your vehicle is bucked before taking off on your trip. Using your blinker is an easy way to let others around you know what your intentions are when navigating the road. Think about the things you learned when you first started driving and stick with those rules!

Check Driving Conditions

Before you hit the road, check the roadway conditions along your route. If there is a lot of traffic due to construction, consider adjusting your route or traveling through that region at a less-busy time. Weather is another important factor that can have an impact on your road trip. Keep an eye on weather conditions in your area.

Practice Defensive Driving

When driving, try to predict potential moves from the other drivers on the road. Expect the unexpected! This can help you have a plan in place if another vehicle makes a sporadic move. Always be on the defense when driving - especially in heavy traffic conditions.

Driving is a major responsibility. You are not only taking your life and others in your vehicle, you have an impact on the lives of others on the roadway, as well. It's important to think about this great responsibility as you head out on your road trip. Take time to make the right decisions and put your complete focus on the road ahead.

Are you taking a road trip this Memorial Day Weekend? If so, we hope these safety tips are helpful during your travels. If you do find yourself in the unfortunate event of an accident, it's important to know your rights. Whether you are at fault or a victim, Gibbons Law Firm can help represent your personal injury case at the Lake of the Ozarks. Give our Lake of the Ozarks law firm a call today and remember, your first consultation with us is always free! Have a safe holiday weekend!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

Follow us on...

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Google+

5 Actions to AVOID During Divorce

Divorce can be a tough time for everyone involved. It can be easy to let your emotions get the best of you. While most couples do not plan on ending their marriage, around half of all marriages end in divorce. As you navigate this emotional and stressful time, it's important to try to conduct yourself with dignity. As your experienced divorce lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks, we want to point out a few actions to avoid during the divorce process. Take a look below to learn more!

1) Getting the Kids Overly Involved

It's important to remember your divorce is between the two adults, not the kids. Try to limit talking about your split in front of the children, if you have any. This could end up driving a wedge between one parent and the kids. Try to stay as involved as possible in your kids' lives, as well. It can be a tough time for children as their parents split apart and they need as much love and support during this time as possible.

2) Thinking it Has to be a Fight

While most divorces you hear about end up in a large dispute, it does not have to be that way. Matters can often be handled in a civil manner. This can actually help the process go much smoother and quicker. If both parties can decide on how to split property and time with kids (if there are children from the marriage), it does not have to be a drawn-out process.

3) Racking up Debt

Divorce can be an expensive time for the parties involved. You are typically going from two incomes down to supporting yourself (and your family) on your own. Any debt that is accrued while you are still married may be brought into the divorce process. Try to avoid racking up unnecessary debt while you are getting divorced.

4) Attempting to Hide Away Assets

Hiding assets is a bad idea. Once the lawyers/court/judge finds out about the asset, it is going to be involved in the division anyway. This can also make you look bad if you try to sneak away with unaccounted for assets. It's best to be upfront and honest during the entire divorce process.

5) Listen to Outside Advice Too Often

Every divorce is different. Keep that in mind when taking advice from friends and family who have been through the process. Emotional support and advice is welcome - but keep in mind your divorce may look different than that of your friends. Just because a divorce was ruled a certain way for an acquaintance, the factors in your divorce are likely much different. Don't stress over outside advice too much!

Now that you know all about the list of things to avoid during your divorce process, you know how to move forward with your head held high. If you find yourself wanting to end your marriage, it may be time to file for divorce. Give Gibbons Law Firm a call if you feel yourself nearing a divorce. We can help walk you through the entire process to end your marriage. Your first consultation with our Lake of the Ozarks law firm is free!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

Follow us on...

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Google+

Safety Tips for Motorcycle Awareness Months

May is Motorcycle Awareness Month. With the beautiful spring weather we are experiencing, you may notice an increase of bikers on the roadways. With more and more motorcyclists out and about, there is a higher risk of an accident involving a bike. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm knows how important it is to remain safe on the roadway when motorcyclists are around. Below you can find some helpful motorcycle safety tips for both the rider and driver!

For the Rider:

Follow Traffic Laws - Pay attention to traffic laws that apply to all vehicles - motorcycles included. Stay within the speed limit and come to a complete stop at all intersections. Also, research local traffic laws before traveling out of the state.

Wear the Right Gear - Protective clothing is important for all rides. It's a state law to wear a helmet in the state of Missouri. Sunglasses or other eyewear can help you see better, as well. Leather clothing can protect your skin from the harsh wind and other factors. Consider buying clothing with extra reflective features to help increase visibility to other drivers.

Complete a Training Program - An educational course is readily available for motorcycle riders. It's important to be comfortable on your bike and know how to properly operate the vehicle. Sharpen your techniques and practice driving your motorcycle.

Stay Alert - Like any motor vehicle, it's important to stay awake and drive sober. You want to ensure your reaction time is as sort as possible when riding your bike. Alcohol or being tired can damper your ability to react to a situation on the road. Ensure you are in a safe condition to properly operate your bike.

Practice Defensive Driving - When on a motorcycle you may be harder to see than a full-sized vehicle. Don't ever assume another driver can see you. Stay on the defense when riding your bike. Think about the blind spot on vehicles as you are passing or pulling out.

For Other Drivers:

Pay Attention when Driving - Especially during the warmer months, keep your eyes on the lookout for motorcycles on the roadway. It's important to keep tabs on all vehicles around you on the road. Keep your full attention on driving and avoid distractions that may take your eyes and mind away from the road.

Look Twice - Before pulling out or switching lanes, take a double check of the vehicles on the road. Ensure no other vehicle is in your blind spot before making a move.

Think About Stopping Distance - While stopping distance for motorcycles is typically the same as full-sized vehicles, the road conditions may make it harder for a bike to come to a quick stop. Debris on the road and rain can put a damper on the stopping time of a motorcycle.

Now that you know some of these safety tips for motorcycle safety awareness, you're ready to help create a safer environment on the roadways. If you are involved in an accident with a motorcycle, be sure to contact our lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks. Remember, your first consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free. We look forward to representing your personal injury case at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

Follow us on...

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Google+

Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals

One of the Lake's biggest events is right around the corner. The Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals Car Show is May 4th-6th. With an increase of visitors to the Lake of the Ozarks, there are many more cars on the roadway than normal. Whether people drive their show cars to the car show or they are trailered in, there are more motorists in the area. Spectators and participants alike are going to be driving around the Lake this weekend. There is usually an increase in the number of vehicle accidents when a big event is taking place. Use caution as you travel around the area this weekend.

If you are planning to attend the Magic Dragon Car Show, take a look below for a schedule of events.

All About the Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals:

The Magic Dragon Car Show is a thrilling experience for all. From muscle cars to great restaurants to activities for kids, your entire family can stay entertained at this event. It's a unique car show for all makes, models, and years of cars, trucks, and motorcycles. The show brings out 1,000 cars and over 10,000 spectators. This creates an electric atmosphere for all in attendance! It's the only car show in Central Missouri that gives away a new muscle car!

Thursday, May 3

Noon - Close of Business Aces High Poker Run (Several locations throughout the lake area)
Noon - 5 PM Street Meet Participant Registration at Willmore Lodge Visitor Center

Friday, May 4

8 AM - 8 PM Street Meet Participant Registration at Willmore Lodge Visitor Center
12 PM - 5 PM 2018 Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals Show Hours & Poker Run cards turned in

Saturday, May 5

6 AM - 6 PM Street is closed to regular traffic – Registered Show Vehicles ONLY
8 AM - 1 PM Street Meet Participant Registration at Willmore Lodge Visitor Center
8 AM - 6 PM 2018 Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals Show Hours
10 AM - 2 PM Make-N-Take Model Event at The Firestone Alley (Two-Bit Town)
2 PM Big Foot Car Smash at The Firestone Alley
5 PM Poker Run Winner Announcement at the Main Stage
5 PM 50/50 Raffle Winner Announcement at the Main Stage
5 PM Lake Ozark Daybreak Rotary Car Giveaway at the Main Stage
5 PM - Late Night Enjoy Tunes from Cool 102.7

Sunday, May 6

7:30 AM - 8:00 AM Racers for Christ - Church Service at Luby's Plaza
8 AM - 1 PM 2018 Magic Dragon Street Meet National Show Hours
8 AM - 9 AM Judged Vehicle Parking ONLY
9 AM - 11 AM Judging - Vehicles to be judges must be in the designated area no later than 9 AM
9:30 AM Non-Judged Parking Opens
1 PM Awards at Main Stage

For more information, visit www.MagicDragonCarShow.com

Now that you know when and where all the events are taking place for the Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals, you can make plans to attend. While you are out and about this weekend, use caution with the increase of traffic. The risk of being involved in a vehicle accident increases as the number of motorists on the roadway increases. If you find yourself in an accident, it's important to have legal representation on your side. Contact Gibbons Law Firm for experienced legal assistance. Whether you are at fault or you have been injured due to someone else's negligence, our Lake of the Ozarks lawyer is here for you. Your initial consultation with us is always free. We look forward to representing your personal injury case at the Lake of the Ozarks.


Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

Follow us on...

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Google+