Safe Driving Tips for The Fall Season

As seasons change, the tactics for safe driving can change a bit as well. Personal injury law at the Lake of the Ozarks applies to claims that arise when a person has sustained injury or damage caused by another party. There is a range of cases that this applies to, but one such is when it involved a motor vehicle. If it is proven that another party’s wrongful conduct caused injury or damage, the injured person may be entitled to monetary compensation from the other party. In situations that involve auto accidents, it’s important to get a refresher on safe driving tips for this season before you head out on the road - it could help you avoid being involved in a personal injury case.

Gibbons Law Firm has a few tips to help keep you safe on the road during the beautiful Autumn season.

Watch For Season Related Road Hazards

There is one prominent thing that sets fall apart from every other season - leaves. Those beautiful falling leaves that the season is so known for can also be one of the hazards of the season as well. When leaves are caught between a wet road and vehicle tires, they can momentarily cause a car to lose its grip on the road. It only takes an instant, but an accident can occur if the driver brakes suddenly without proper traction. Another hazard is that if too many leaves are on the road, it can interfere with a vehicles maneuvering capacity. This can be important because it deals with the car's ability to stand up to the unexpected.

Daylight Savings Season

Daylight Savings Time will end on November 3, 2019, and for many, this is a great time of year. However, your body can take several days to get used to an earlier sunset. Because of this, it can cause many drivers to become drowsy. It’s important to make sure that you are getting plenty of sleep so that your body can safely operate your vehicle, even when you are adjusting to the time change.

Another factor that plays into Daylight Savings Time is that it will get darker earlier. For many that means your commute home could be darker than it was and you may spend more time driving during dark evening hours. Be careful while you are driving, and make sure that your lights are working properly before you will start needing them.

The Holiday Season

As the holidays approach, there will also be more traffic on the roads over the next several months. From Halloween to Christmas, it’s going to be a busy season, but also a time when some drivers may choose to drive intoxicated after a party. Always remain alert while you are on the road, especially during the later evening hours.

There is also another holiday that affects the Ozarks during this time of year. It’s not an official “holiday” but deer season can also impact the hazards on the road this time of year. As the hunting season gears up, the deer will be on the move a lot more. It can be incredibly dangerous to dodge a deer, especially when it throws you into oncoming traffic. Be sure to scan the sides of the road and watch for deer, especially when you are driving early in the morning and later in the evening.

Personal Injury Lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks

If you think you have a personal injury case, it is important that you consult with an experienced attorney to know your legal rights. As a plaintiff in a personal injury case, you will have the burden of proving your case. Consequently, before you hire a personal injury attorney, you may want to consider his or her willingness and ability to take your case to trial, if necessary, and whether he or she has a proven record of obtaining settlements and winning jury trials.

Having successfully tried hundreds of cases, Roger Gibbons has the experience and resources to give you an opportunity for a successful outcome on your personal injury case. Find out more about how we can assist you by contacting our Firm and making an appointment today.

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

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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

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Quick Legal Tips For Your Small Business

Starting a new business can be an overwhelming feat. While there are a number of legal requirements that need to be taken care of, the work doesn't end once you are open for business. It may be difficult to focus on the legal side of your business, even though it's important to protect your venture at all times. As your business lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks, we are here for your small business. Take a look below to learn some of these quick legal tips for a small business venture.

Document, Document, Document

We can't say it enough - documentation is vital to the legal protection of your business. Whether it's a new employee being hired, contracts with customers, or outsourcing your marketing - keep good documentation of all agreements. This can help to protect you and your business, should a conflict arise. If you have everything documented well, you can easily prove your side via the paperwork you have on hand.

Use Employment Agreements

Many small business owners utilize friends and family, especially when getting started. While this can be of great benefit the business owner, it's important to ensure you treat these employees just like everyone else. It's also vital to keep good documentation when letting an employee go. Document the reasoning and conversation that takes place, when firing an employee.

Keep Up To Date on Legal Changes

The legal world is always changing. While it can be hard to keep up with, it's important because it can have a direct impact on your business. Try to stay on top of changes that take place in the legal world and anything that may affect your industry.

Review All Contracts on a Regular Basis

Once you have your legal contracts reviewed and ready to go, that's not the end of the road. On a regular basis try to have your business lawyer review these documents. With each year, you may need to make updates to your contracts in order to stay up with any loopholes that may come about. It's also important to update any dates or other information to ensure they are still relevant.

Safeguard Your Intellectual Property

Intellectual property is a BIG deal for any business but can have a devastating impact on a small business. Be sure you protect this property well. Consult legal assistance when it comes to safeguarding your intelligence. Trade secrets, trademarks, copyrights, and confidentiality are all examples of intellectual property. When hiring a new employee, be sure they are clear as to what information they are privileged to and what they are not allowed to disclose to others outside the business. This can help to keep your vital information safe and help you legally protect this property.

Finding the right business lawyer near the Lake of the Ozarks can help your venture in a number of ways. If these tasks seem too time-consuming, consult a legal professional. A lawyer will be able to assist with all of these legal tips to help protect your small business.

We know you are busy with the many hats required to run your small business. While your attention may be pulled in a hundred different directions, it's important to focus on protecting your business. If you want further advice protecting your small business venture, give Gibbons Law Firm a call today. The first consultation with us is always free! We look forward to helping you protect your small business and livelihood of you and your family!

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

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You're Involved in a Personal Injury Lawsuit... NOW WHAT?

A personal injury lawsuit can come in many forms. Whether you are injured due to a vehicle wreck or you are hurt on someone else's property, you may have a personal injury lawsuit on your hands. Our Lake of the Ozarks personal injury attorney is well versed in this segment of the law. If you have been a situation that you think qualifies for a personal injury, seek representation from our Lake of the Ozarks lawyer.

Have you been involved in a personal injury? Take a look below to learn more about the legal process that may lie ahead for you.

Seek Medical Treatment

The first thing to do is get treated for the injury you sustained. It's important to get the proper medical treatment required to help heal your injury. Document all of your injuries and keep records of all treatment required. This can help to prove the personal injury sustained due to someone else's negligence.

Hire a Lawyer

A legal professional can help you navigate the personal injury lawsuit. With legal experience on your side, it can help you rest easy during your lawsuit. A lawyer can help to walk you through the entire process. From sharing your records to filing a lawsuit to the court trial, legal experience can help you have confidence as you navigate the process.

Share Situation & Records

Once you have found a lawyer, it's time to share your story. Give a detailed count of the proceedings of your injury. It can be very helpful to present medical records from your injury treatment, as well. During this phase, your lawyer can help you decide if you do have a case on your hands. If you wish to proceed with your lawsuit, it's time to make a legal motion.

File Lawsuit

The next phase is to file a lawsuit for the personal injury you sustained due to someone else's negligence. Your lawyer can help walk you through the process and assist with the legal documentation required to file. If you do want to file a lawsuit, try to do so as soon as possible to avoid a statute of limitation situation.

Trial

If the case proceeds, your personal injury lawsuit will likely be represented in court. This is your chance to share your side of the story and showcase your documentation proving the injury in which you needed medical treatment. At this point, the judge or jury will decide if you get the damages for your injury or not. Damages are typically a dollar amount to cover your medical treatment and/or income that was lost due to the injury.

Now that you know a little more about the legal proceedings of a personal injury lawsuit at the Lake of the Ozarks, you can better prepare for your case. Give Gibbons Law Firm a call today if you think you have a personal injury lawsuit on your hands. Your initial consultation with us is FREE! We look forward to helping to represent your case!

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

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How a Criminal Conviction Can Impact Your Future

Have you or someone you know been convicted of a crime? Legal ramifications can have a major impact on your life. The time served for a crime may not be the only factors you will face in the future. Here at our Lake of the Ozarks law firm, we can help prepare you for the ways a criminal conviction may impact your life. Take a look below for some of the things you may need to know about, should you find yourself being convicted of a crime.

Employment 

After serving time for a conviction it can be difficult to find employment. Many applications will require you to disclose your criminal record. This may lead to difficulties landing a job. Often times, someone with a criminal history does not get a job or even a call for an interview. Employers will typically run a background check on potential employees. It's best to be honest about your history, even though it can be a tough subject to discuss with a future employer. Trust is an important part of hiring someone and you can start to establish trust if you are upfront about your past.

Further Education

When your sentence is complete, you may be looking for a fresh start. If you are considering continuing your education, it may be difficult to get accepted to a college. Many educational facilities will run a background check on their potential students. This may have a negative impact on your search for further education. Just like with an employer, it's best to let the admissions office know about your criminal history upfront. This can help you get ahead of the hurdles versus letting it come up as a surprise.

Housing 

Finding a home may seem like a simple task in the past.... but now that you have a criminal record it can pose an issue. Many landlords run background checks on their tenants and are less likely to accept a renter who has a criminal history. It can be hard to find a place to rent when you have a record. Buying a home can also be a struggle. A mortgage lender will need to see a reliable income in order to secure a home loan. This can be hard to prove, especially if you are having issues landing a job due to your criminal record.

Now that you know some of the ways a conviction can impact your future, you are more educated about some of the events that may occur in your life. As your criminal attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks, we can help you through the entire legal process. If you are in need of legal representation, contact Gibbons Law Firm today. Remember, your first consultation with our law firm is free. We look forward to representing your case!

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

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5 Interesting Facts for Tenants & Landlords

Owning a rental property has the opportunity to create a steady income. This is a popular way to increase the amount of money that comes in every month. If you currently own a rental property or are thinking about getting into the business, there are important legal facts that go hand-in-hand. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm is here for all of your landlord needs. From contracts to evictions, Gibbons Law Firm can assist you. Take a look below to learn a little more about tenant evictions and how they can legally be accomplished.

Fact #1:
A landlord may not evict a tenant without a court order. Once the eviction process is started, a tenant will receive notice that an eviction lawsuit has been filed.

Fact #2:
Landlords are allowed to remove abandoned personal items once they have given notice and complied with these requirements.

Fact #3:
A landlord can double the amount of rent if the tenant allows another person to take over the premises without permission from the landlord.

Fact #4:
The number of occupants can be limited to two per bedroom (with the exception of a baby born during the lease period) by the landlord.

Fact #5:
The landlord is responsible for regular wear and tear, as well as damage caused by natural forces like the weather. A tenant is responsible for making repairs that are caused by their own negligence.

While many landlord-tenant relationships are successful, it does not always end up in a positive situation. Disputes do occur in the renting process.  Sometimes a dispute can be avoided if both parties are aware of their rights and duties. A brief recap can be found below:

Tenant:

Pay rent on time.

Use reasonable care and not damage property.

Properly dispose of garbage.

Refrain from taking on additional occupants or subleasing without the landlord’s written permission.

Landlord:

Make property habitable before tenants move in.

Make and pay for repairs due to ordinary wear and tear.

Refrain from turning off a tenant’s water, electricity or gas.

Provide written a notice to tenants when ownership of the property is transferred to a new landlord.

Not unlawfully discriminate.

The best way to avoid an issue in the future is for both parties to document all communication and agreements well. 

Now that you know a little more about tenant and landlord rights, you can be prepared as a landlord. If you plan to rent your property or already do, our tenant-landlord lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks can help represent you. Whether you need to put together a solid lease agreement for future tenants or need to take legal action, Gibbons Law Firm is here for you!

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

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Tips for Avoiding a Workers' Compensation Lawsuit

Workers' Compensation insurance can help protect your business' financial assets when a worker is injured on the job or due to a work-related task. While you may think this coverage can help protect you from all work injury claims, that is not always the case. There are extra precautions that can be taken to improve your protection from being involved in a lawsuit from a workers' compensation claim. As your Lake of the Ozarks attorney, I know how important it is to protect your business. Take a look below to find some extra ways you can help to prevent a work injury at your business.

Perform a Complete Training with New Employees

A complete and thorough new employee orientation should be performed with all new workers who join your team. Walk through your business and get all employees familiar with your property. Point out any dangerous areas in which the employee should avoid or any equipment that they are not authorized to use. After you've been on a tour of your property, clearly show each employee the ins and outs of their daily tasks. Will they be working in any dangerous areas or with equipment? Make sure to point those items out. Also, ensure your employees know how to use safety equipment and that these items are actually being used.

Remind Employees of Work Safety Annually

On a yearly basis, host a refresher course for workplace safety for your business. It's a good way to remind everyone of the potential dangers that are out there on a daily basis and helps to keep good safety tips top of mind. These training courses can help to remind your employees of safety precautions that should be followed on a daily basis.

Mark Dangerous Areas Clearly

If there are areas that are off-limits to certain employees, be sure these areas are clearly marked. In addition to marking off areas, verbally explain to all employees why this area is dangerous and off-limits. It's important for people to be aware of why they shouldn't be in a certain area, instead of just blocking it off.

Provide Safe Equipment for Employees

Ensure all equipment your employees use is safe. Whether it's a ladder, forklift, or other items, workers should be able to have equipment that works properly for them to help complete their job duties. Also, encourage an open relationship with all employees in which they feel comfortable letting you know about any hazards or dangers with the equipment that they use.

Don't Forget OSHA

The law requires employers to provide their employees with working conditions that are free of known dangers. The OSH Act created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which sets and enforces protective workplace safety and health standards. It's important that you meet these standards in your workplace, not just for safety for your employees, but also to help you avoid a lawsuit. You will also need to have appropriate OSHA publications displayed in your workplace.

Are you ready to make these changes around your business? It's important to ensure your work environment is safe for all of your employees. These safety steps may not prevent a workers' compensation lawsuit, but it can help to reduce the chance that one will occur. If you do find your business in the middle of a workers' compensation lawsuit at the Lake of the Ozarks, contact Gibbons Law Firm right away. We can help evaluate your case and make legal recommendations for your business.

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

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How the Bail System Works

"The bail has been posted", "My brother bailed me out of jail", and "The bail has been set at $10,000" are all phrases we have likely heard. Most of us are exposed to statements regarding bail, whether it be in real-life or on your favorite television show. Many people know that bail is the temporary release of someone awaiting trial for a crime in which they were arrested, but there is much more to the bail system than that.

As your criminal defense lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks, our law firm knows how important it is to know the ins and outs of the bail system. Even if you don’t plan on needing this knowledge, you never know when a friend or family member will call you for bail. Take a look below to learn more about the Missouri bail system and how it may affect you.

The Basics:

After the police take someone into custody, they will be fingerprinted and photographed and then held in a cell. A bond amount is then set for the individual. This amount can vary from $500 to $500,000, depending on the severity of the crime. In order for the individual to get released, a friend or family member must bring in cash or a cashier's check in the amount the bond is set. This amount is to ensure to individual being accused will show up to court, where the money will be refunded. The individual may have to stay in holding until the court date, if no one can provide the funds needed for bail. See the point about bail bonds for other options when it comes to paying bail.

All About Bail Bonds:

When the individual nor friends or family members are able to pay the bail amount and it is not reasonable to stay in jail until the trial (which can be schedule months out), another alternative is available. A bail bond agent can provide the funds needed to cover bail, for a small fee - usually 10% of the bail amount. The individual is free to go until his or her court date, once the bail is posted by the agent. The bond agent is held responsible to the court to ensure the individual attends his or her court date. If they do not show up, the agent is now held liable to the court for the full bail amount. A "bounty hunter" may be hired by the bond agent to locate the individual and ensure he or she does not miss their court date.

Earlier we discussed the bond bail amount is usually 10% of the total bond amount. There is another alternative for an individual who cannot afford that amount - a bond loan. The bond agent may negotiate another form of payment of collateral to be taken out against the person in need of being bailed out of jail. This payment may come in the form of a car or home deed or a "signer" who promises to repay the amount, if the individual is unable to do so. Many bond agents will accept an individual with good credit and/or financial backing to be a "signer" for the person who is needing bailed out.

If you are arrested, it's important to know your options. A professional lawyer near the Lake of the Ozarks is available for you to seek representation. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the entire process - starting with bail. Contact Gibbons Law Firm as soon as possible when our services are needed. Don't forget, your first consultation 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

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Gibbons Law Firm Is Blogging!

Welcome! This is the first post in what we plan to become a weekly blog series. We aim to make ourselves as accessible as possible in order to better serve our clients, and we are excited to introduce our brand new social media campaign as a part of that effort. Follow along with us to find important information about criminal law, family law, personal injury law, and other legal disciplines, as well as to keep up with everything happening at Gibbons Law Firm.

Gibbons Law Firm
Your Trusted Legal Resource at the Lake

A general practice law firm located in Osage Beach, Missouri, Gibbons Law Firm is proud to be a resource for clients across the Lake of the Ozarks region and the rest of Missouri. Our attorney has been in private practice since 1992, and in that time we have successfully guided clients through a wide range of legal challenges. Gibbons Law Firm was established in 1999. While we offer a wide variety of legal services, we tend to specialize in three primary areas: criminal law, family law, and personal injury law.

Criminal Law at the Lake of the Ozarks
Criminal charges don't only affect the present - depending on the outcome of your case, your future could be affected for years to come. Carrying a criminal record can drastically hinder your future endeavors, as it can negatively impact everything from getting a job to getting into good educational institutions. We understand the gravity of the situation and promise to do everything we can to ensure a favorable outcome for our clients.

Family Law at the Lake of the Ozarks
Family law is typically the most emotionally charged legal discipline. Some aspects of family law mark happy instances in our clients lives, such as adopting a child or preparing for marriage with a prenuptial agreement. Other examples of family law, such as divorce and custody battles, are much more draining. We strive to always remain considerate of our clients' emotional states and provide them with the grounded, objective perspective they need to navigate their situations effectively.

Personal Injury Law at the Lake of the Ozarks
No amount of legal assistance can make up for the hardship a serious physical injury can bring, but it can increase your chances of receiving financial compensation for your injuries. If you have been injured at work or due to the negligence of another individual, you may be eligible to receive compensation. We can help you evaluate your case to determine the best way to proceed, as well as facilitate communication with your insurance company. You don't have to face these challenges alone.

In addition to these primary categories, we also offer services in several other legal disciplines, including traffic law, real estate law, estate planning, probate, and more. Contact us for a free initial consultation!

Connect With Gibbons Law Firm On Social Media

We are very excited to increase our accessibility by establishing a presence on social media. Keep in touch with us by liking and following our new social media channels:

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You can also subscribe to our blog to ensure that you stay up-to-date with our latest posts. We truly look forward to connecting with you!

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

4075 Osage Beach Parkway, Suite 300

Osage Beach, MO 65065

(573) 348-2211

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No attorney-client relationship is created by the publication of this blog.