Tarry Law Firm, L.L.C.Tarry Law Firm, L.L.C.2026-07-08T14:55:49Zhttps://www.tarrylawfirm.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1504342/2020/04/apple-touch-icon-75x75.pngOn Behalf of Tarry Law Firm, L.L.C.<![CDATA[4 steps to take after a car accident in Missouri]]>https://www.tarrylawfirm.com/?p=505242026-07-08T14:55:49Z2026-07-08T14:55:49ZStay at the scene and call 911
The first priority after any accident is safety. Missouri law requires drivers to stop at the scene of any accident involving injury, death or property damage. Leaving the scene can result in serious criminal charges, even if the crash seems minor.
Always call 911, regardless of how small the damage appears. Even a minor collision may result in hidden injuries or vehicle damage. Officers will document the scene, interview witnesses and note important details. This creates an official report that may serve as evidence in a claim later on.
Document critical evidence
While waiting for police to arrive, use the time to gather evidence. Take photos of all vehicles involved, showing damage from multiple angles. Get contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident happen. Their accounts may help resolve disputes about how the accident happened.
When speaking with the other driver, avoid making statements about who may have been responsible. Under Missouri's fault-based insurance system, determining who was at fault directly affects who pays for damages. Even well-intentioned comments or apologies can lead to misinterpretation.
See a doctor immediately
Some of the most serious injuries remain invisible in the moments after a crash. Whiplash, concussions and internal injuries often take hours or even days to become noticeable. The body's natural stress response can also mask pain after a crash.
Getting medical care right away also creates a record connecting your injuries to the accident. Insurers often use delayed treatment as grounds to claim injuries were minor or unrelated to the accident.
Consider legal counsel before speaking to insurance companies
In some cases, insurers might offer quick settlements that seem reasonable at first. However, these early offers often fail to cover the full extent of damages.
Speaking with legal counsel first can help you understand the value of your claim before accepting an offer. Taking time to understand your options may help you make more informed decisions after an accident.
Protecting your rights after a car accident
It's normal to feel overwhelmed after a car accident. Give yourself time to understand the full extent of your injuries before making important decisions. Keep copies of medical records, repair estimates and insurance documents in one place. Being prepared can help you protect your interests as you recover.]]>On Behalf of Tarry Law Firm, L.L.C.<![CDATA[Can you lose your job for filing a workers’ comp claim?]]>https://www.tarrylawfirm.com/?p=505152026-06-04T12:40:57Z2026-06-04T12:40:57ZWhat protections do injured workers have?
If you suffer an injury on the job, you may qualify for workers' compensation benefits. Depending on the circumstances, those benefits may help pay for medical care and replace part of your lost income while you recover.
Many workers hesitate to file a claim because they fear negative consequences at work. Missouri law prohibits employers from retaliating against workers who report workplace injuries or seek benefits through the workers' compensation system.
What counts as workers' compensation retaliation?
Retaliation can take several forms. While many people focus on the possibility of losing their jobs, other actions by an employer may also raise concerns. Examples can include:
Terminating your employment after you report an injury
Reducing your scheduled work hours following an injury report
Reassigning you to less favorable shifts because of a claim
Threatening you for seeking workers' compensation benefits
Imposing disciplinary measures that appear connected to a claim
Missouri law prohibits employers from taking adverse action against workers because they reported an injury or sought benefits. Whether a particular action qualifies as retaliation depends on the reason for the employer's decision.
Protecting your rights after a workplace injury
A workplace injury can create uncertainty about your health, income and future employment. Many workers worry that reporting an injury could put their jobs at risk. Missouri law, however, prohibits employers from retaliating against workers who report injuries or pursue workers' compensation benefits.
If you're facing retaliation, call Andrew directly at 573-651-8644 to discuss your situation.
]]>On Behalf of Tarry Law Firm, L.L.C.<![CDATA[What to consider after suffering an injury at work in Missouri]]>https://www.tarrylawfirm.com/?p=505042026-04-20T13:47:22Z2026-04-08T15:37:35ZTaking the appropriate steps
Acting quickly is important for both your health and any future claim. Consider the following:
Report the injury to your supervisor in writing as soon as possible
Request medical attention through your employer
Document what happened by taking photos, noting witness names and writing down details of the incident
Missouri law requires that you provide written notice to your employer within 30 days of the injury, though doing so sooner is generally in your best interest.
Knowing your rights under Missouri law
The state operates under a no-fault workers' compensation system, which means you do not need to prove that the company was negligent to receive benefits. If you suffered an injury while performing duties related to your job, you may be eligible for medical treatment, temporary disability payments and other forms of recovery.
Your employer cannot retaliate against you for filing a workers' comp claim. This includes termination, demotion or any other negative action taken because you exercised your legal right. If retaliation does occur, state law provides a separate avenue for addressing it.
It is worth noting these benefits are typically the exclusive remedy for workplace injuries. This means that in most situations, you cannot file a personal injury lawsuit for the same incident.
Finally, your boss is generally responsible for choosing the treating physician who will see to your injury. If you wish to seek a second opinion, you have the right to see a doctor of your own choosing, though that visit would typically be at your own expense.
Meeting the deadlines for your claim
Filing a claim involves specific deadlines that, if missed, can result in the loss of your right to benefits. For most workplace injury cases, you generally have two years from the date of the injury, or the date of the last compensation or medical payment made by your employer, to file.
Beyond this, you should be aware that the 30-day notice requirement to your employer is a separate obligation. Failing to report within that window does not automatically bar your claim, but it can create complications that are difficult to overcome later.
Once the case is filed with the Missouri Division of Workers' Compensation, the process moves into stages that may include hearings, medical evaluations and settlement discussions. For this stage, it could help to have an attorney provide guidance on the various steps that you could take next.]]>On Behalf of Tarry Law Firm, L.L.C.<![CDATA[When to see a doctor after an accident in a store]]>https://www.tarrylawfirm.com/?p=504922026-04-20T13:52:29Z2026-01-26T13:53:28ZCritical indicators for immediate medical intervention
Contact emergency services or proceed to an emergency room immediately if you or your loved one is exhibiting any of these red flag symptoms:
Loss of consciousness
Severe head, neck or back pain
Hemorrhaging
Respiratory distress
Localized numbness or muscular weakness in the extremities
Inability to walk
Severe chest pain
For stable injuries like a nasty cut needing stitches or a painful sprain, urgent care is great for quick treatment. If the pain is manageable, your primary doctor knows your history best. If you are not sure, it is always better to err on the side of caution and see a physician promptly.
The biological mechanism of masked symptoms
When a slip-and-fall accident occurs, your body automatically releases adrenaline and endorphins to help you adapt to the situation. However, these hormones obscure underlying discomfort and delay symptoms from emerging. Keep a close eye out for these symptoms:
Dizziness or persistent headaches
Increasing swelling or stiffness
Disrupted sleep patterns
New numbness or tingling
Vision changes
Without proper store injury medical care, it is possible to have internal bleeding and traumatic brain injury.
The significance of comprehensive documentation
In Missouri, you can seek compensation even if you were partly responsible for the fall. While this is possible, your total settlement amount can be less, depending on the percentage of your fault.
Filing an injury claim requires proof. Document the accident scene and your injuries. Keep copies of every medical record, diagnostic note and receipt. Your slip-and-fall doctor in Cape Girardeau can help form a causal relationship between the accident and your injuries.
Moving forward with legal representation
Even though a fall accident may appear minimal, its effects can leave lasting consequences in your life. Your injuries can prevent you from working, which can be problematic when your bills are piling up.
Seeking counsel can help you navigate the legal process. They can review your case and determine liability. Additionally, their assistance can also ensure you file a claim within the five-year statute of limitations.]]>On Behalf of Tarry Law Firm, L.L.C.<![CDATA[Fell in a store? Here are 4 things to do]]>https://www.tarrylawfirm.com/?p=504912026-04-20T13:58:33Z2025-12-15T14:37:50Zserious injury. Even a minor slip can lead to lasting problems for seniors or anyone with mobility concerns. Knowing what to do in those first few minutes after a store injury can protect your health and strengthen any future claim you may consider pursuing.
What to do after a fall in a store
The moments after a fall can feel confusing and stressful, so having a clear plan can help you stay focused and avoid decisions that may create problems later. These actions are quick, practical and easy to follow, even when you feel shaken:
Get medical attention: Even a minor fall can cause hidden injuries, including concussions or other forms of mild traumatic brain injury. At times, the symptoms of these injuries may not appear immediately. See a doctor right away and make sure the visit is documented so your symptoms are clearly linked to the fall.
Take photos and videos: Capture the hazard, the surrounding area and your shoes and clothing. Take both wide and close shots to preserve what the scene looked like before anything is cleaned or moved.
Ask for an incident report: Tell a staff member that you fell and ask for a written report. Note the name and title of the person who completed it so you have a record of who received your report.
Write down details and witness names: Record what happened, gather witness contact information and keep all bills and receipts. These details support your account and show the impact of the fall on your daily life.
Taken together, these steps create clearer information and better documentation, which can help you avoid disputes over how the fall occurred and what injuries resulted from it. Quick, steady action gives you firmer footing if you decide to file an injury claim.
Navigating the aftermath of a fall
A fall can create pain, stress and unexpected costs, and it often disrupts daily life more than people expect. Understanding your next steps can help you move forward with more confidence and protect your long-term well-being.
If questions or complications arise after a slip-and-fall in Cape Girardeau or Southeast Missouri region, an attorney can help you make sense of the situation and go through what choices are available to you. Taking steady, informed actions can support both your recovery and your future.]]>On Behalf of Tarry Law Firm, L.L.C.<![CDATA[What Every Missouri Parent Should Know Before Handing Over the Keys]]>https://www.tarrylawfirm.com/?p=504832025-09-25T14:47:55Z2025-09-25T14:25:55Zhorror stories that might make you feel like maybe you should delay handing over the keys. But know that there are many ways for you to know if you can trust your child to take the wheel.
Is your teen ready?
A driver’s license only says whether your teen can legally drive, but it does not automatically make them mature or responsible. Sure, there are some who take this privilege seriously, but some may also run into completely unavoidable problems because of a lack of better judgment.
The legal checklist
Missouri has strict requirements when it comes to teen driving. A few crucial points include:
Instruction permits: Teens can get a learner’s permit at the incredibly young age of 15 with your consent.
Intermediate license: Your child may qualify for limited driving privileges at 16 if they have held their instruction permit without issues for six months.
Insurance: Driving uninsured in Missouri is illegal, so make sure you add your teen to your family’s car insurance policy.
Liability: If your child causes an accident, you can be held financially responsible for any damages, so letting them run wild will directly impact you.
This checklist only includes the technicalities of allowing a teen to drive in Missouri. Remember that giving them this level of freedom requires so much more.
Common mistakes parents make when teaching teens
Mechanical operation is not the only thing you need to teach your child. Teach them not to use their phones while driving, to always wear their seatbelt and to plan their appointments so they never have to speed. Be a good example by showing them patience and staying calm under pressure.
Protect your family legally and financially
If your teen is ever in a crash, teach them to call you so you can contact your car accident lawyer right away. Having an attorney on speed dial can help you during these stressful times. Protect your teen and your peace of mind. Learn your legal options with Tarry Law Firm.]]>On Behalf of Tarry Law Firm, L.L.C.<![CDATA[7 practical tips for teaching your teen to drive in Missouri]]>https://www.tarrylawfirm.com/?p=504672025-08-12T10:52:36Z2025-08-12T10:52:36ZWhen you guide your teen through lessons in Missouri, you give them more than steering and braking skills. You also help them follow state laws, avoid dangers and handle urgent situations with confidence. By learning what matters most from the start, you set the stage for safer driving.
Start slow in safe spaces
Begin with lessons in empty parking lots or quiet neighborhood streets. These areas allow your child to focus on turning, braking and parking without the stress of traffic. Once they show steady control, move on to busier roads.
Demonstrate safe driving
Your teen watches everything you do behind the wheel. Follow speed limits, obey traffic signs and signal every turn. By staying calm in stressful moments, you can show your child how to handle challenges safely.
Address distracted driving
Distractions can lead to serious road accidents. Make it clear that your child should:
Keep phones out of reach
Limit passengers to reduce noise and pressure
Adjust mirrors and controls before starting the car
Reinforce that staying focused on the road at all times keeps every trip safer and smoother.
Explain Missouri’s teen driver laws
Start by explaining the state’s graduated driver licensing (GDL) program so your teen understands why these rules exist and how following them can protect their safety and legal standing. A learner’s permit requires adult supervision, and once they qualify for an intermediate license, that license limits late-night driving and the number of passengers.
Outline accident response steps
Teach your teenager to stay at the scene, check for injuries and call the police. Also, practice exchanging names, contact details and insurance information with other drivers.
Describe why insurance matters
Show your child how liability, collision and medical coverage work. Explain that violations or crashes can raise costs, and that safe driving can help keep insurance rates lower.
Clarify when to call a lawyer
Explain to your child that some situations may require legal guidance, especially when another driver causes a crash or a dispute arises. Share that a lawyer can review the details, outline possible next steps and clarify any liability concerns so they know what to expect if a car accident attorney’s help becomes necessary.By combining these tips, you can give your child the skills, knowledge and confidence to face real-world driving situations more responsibly. A thoughtful approach today can create safer driving habits that last a lifetime. Have questions about teen driving accidents? We’re here to help — contact Tarry Law Firm today.]]>On Behalf of Tarry Law Firm, L.L.C.<![CDATA[3 tips for reducing your risk of a drowsy driving crash]]>https://www.tarrylawfirm.com/?p=504552025-07-01T11:20:43Z2025-07-01T11:20:43Zfatigued driving actually is can be more assertive about avoiding drowsy driving. The three tips below are among the most important for those aspiring to limit their chances of causing a crash due to fatigue.
1. Prioritizing adequate rest
Factors including an individual’s age and sex, as well as any other medical conditions they might have, can influence how much sleep they truly require. Many adults can function normally with as few as six hours of sleep. Others may need closer to the standard eight hours or even more than that. People typically need to understand that they cannot rely on coffee or other sources of caffeine to eliminate their fatigue. In some cases, excessive caffeine consumption can actually worsen the symptoms of fatigue.
2. Scheduling breaks on long trips
Commercial motorists who operate buses or semi-trucks generally have mandatory breaks worked into their schedules. Those operating passenger vehicles can copy that trick and schedule breaks when driving long distances. Those attempting to drive for multiple hours may need to schedule a break every two to three hours at the bare minimum. Appropriate rest while driving can help people minimize their risk of highway hypnosis and stave off fatigue. Moving their bodies and refueling with food and/or beverages can help those driving long distances limit their sense of fatigue in traffic.
3. Recognizing the signs of fatigue
Frequently, the early warning signs of fatigue include a lack of energy. People may even start to feel drowsy. Their heads may drop as they drive, indicating that they might be at risk of experiencing microsleeps or falling asleep completely. Muscle fatigue and feelings of weakness can also be warning signs of physical exhaustion. People may notice that they develop a new headache while driving for hours or that a minor headache slowly becomes worse. People may also feel anxious or irritable. They may notice that they have difficulty making decisions or recalling critical information. Those yawning and demonstrating other signs of fatigue may need to pull over to rest or ask someone else to drive until they recover.
Unfortunately, even when people are proactive about safety in traffic, they could cross paths with others who are less safe. Fatigued drivers cause thousands of preventable collisions every year. Some of those crashes lead to substantial property damage losses and injuries. The team at Tarry Law Firm, LLC, is passionate about providing support to those coping with the aftermath of a car crash. Securing assistance when evaluating a wreck and its aftermath can help people reduce their long-term losses.]]>On Behalf of Tarry Law Firm, L.L.C.<![CDATA[How big of a safety issue is drowsy driving?]]>https://www.tarrylawfirm.com/?p=504492025-04-19T16:13:57Z2025-04-19T16:13:57ZDrowsy driving affects capabilities
When people feel tired, they may notice several issues that affect their functional capabilities. They may have a difficult time focusing. It becomes more challenging to make decisions quickly. They may also be at risk of falling asleep with little warning.
All of those challenges can prove devastating in traffic. Fatigued drivers may cause crashes or may fail to take appropriate measures to prevent a collision from occurring. Federal researchers estimate that roughly 91,000 crashes annually are the result of drowsy driving. These collisions cause injury to roughly 50,000 people and result in 800 deaths each year.
How do people hold drowsy drivers accountable?
Unlike drunk driving, there is no test that medical professionals can administer to validate claims of drowsy driving. Unlike distracted driving, there isn't a digital evidence trail showing that a motorist used their phone immediately before a crash.
Those hoping to hold drowsy drivers accountable for causing collisions often do not need to focus on proving drowsiness. Instead, they need to demonstrate how the driver caused the crash. Maybe they fell asleep at the wheel and crossed the centerline into oncoming traffic.
Perhaps they failed to monitor their surroundings or could not respond quickly enough to changes in traffic circumstances. It is often easier to prove that a driver was negligent rather than to conclusively show that they were too drowsy to drive safely. Those hoping to hold fatigued motorists accountable may require support as they take action after a motor vehicle collision.
Understanding how dangerous drowsy driving can be can help people make safer choices for themselves and recognize when others may have put them at unnecessary risk through questionable decisions. The team at the Tarry Law Firm, LLC, has experience helping those injured by drowsy drivers. Reaching out for guidance after a motor vehicle collision can help people reduce their long-term losses.]]>On Behalf of Tarry Law Firm, L.L.C.<![CDATA[How to maximize your car accident settlement]]>https://www.tarrylawfirm.com/?p=504262025-02-17T13:48:07Z2025-02-17T13:48:07ZIn the aftermath of a car accident, you are not just dealing with physical pain and emotional distress; you could also be facing increasing medical bills, lost wages and potential long-term health issues. Securing a proper settlement can be the lifeline you need to overcome these challenges and focus on healing.
However, the path to securing compensation after a traffic collision is filled with obstacles. Insurance companies may try to downplay your injuries or shift blame, potentially leaving you with less than you deserve. But what steps can you take to guarantee your settlement reflects the extent of your losses and ongoing needs?
Seek immediate medical attention
Even if you emerged from the accident seemingly unharmed, it is important to receive prompt medical care. Silent conditions such as whiplash and concussion can take their time to show up. Moreover, aside from ensuring your well-being, it also creates a crucial link between the accident and the harm you suffered.
Document everything
Make sure to take detailed photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage and your injuries. Keep a record of your medical treatments, expenses and how the injuries affect your daily life. This comprehensive documentation provides solid evidence to support your claim and can significantly impact your settlement amount.
Be cautious when dealing with insurance companies
Remember that insurance companies are not on your side; their primary goal is minimizing payouts. If they ask you to provide a statement, be honest but avoid speculating or giving unnecessary details. To protect your interests, consider having all communication go through your legal representative.
The path to a fair settlement
The road to recovery after a car accident can be extremely challenging, especially if you are still reeling from physical harm and emotional trauma caused by the event. But it is important not to let pressure or uncertainty push you into accepting the first offer that comes your way. Having a skilled attorney by your side can be a game-changer. They will guide you through the legal landscape and advocate for a settlement that truly addresses your needs. Remember, you owe it to yourself to carefully consider your options and fight for the compensation you deserve. ]]>