Neurological Injuries (Brain Injuries)
Houston Brain Injury Attorney
A Houston brain injury attorney helps clients pursue cases related to personal injury and head trauma. Brain injuries can cause lasting side effects, permanent disabilities, and even death. You need an advocate who will help you navigate the settlement or trial process in a thorough and thoughtful manner. If you or a loved one received a head injury, the Houston brain injury lawyers at Mithoff Law are ready to help.
Call 713-654-1122 to get started.
“Mithoff, a Houston personal injury lawyer, is no stranger to winning big payoffs for large groups of people. He negotiated a $2.3 billion settlement with the tobacco industry for Harris and other counties, and he won $80 million for residents of a nursing home who were killed in a 2005 bus explosion while fleeing Hurricane Rita.”
– Houston Chronicle, November 22, 2017
Unfortunately, serious brain injuries can occur from a wide variety of common causes, such as vehicle accidents, industrial accidents and explosions, and medical malpractice. The experienced attorneys at Mithoff Law have decades of experience representing clients and families of those who have suffered traumatic brain injuries, including claims such as:
Sports-Related Injuries
Recently, Mithoff Law was retained by the family of a toddler who was hit in the head by a foul ball during a Houston Astros game and sustained serious neurologic injuries.
Medical Malpractice
Mithoff Law successfully resolved for a confidential amount the claims of a patient who suffered severe and permanent brain injury at an outpatient treatment facility. The plaintiffs alleged that the patient was mistakenly administered an anti-diabetic medication, when the patient was not a diabetic, resulting in severe and permanent brain injury.
Mithoff Law successfully resolved for a confidential amount the claims of a family relating to severe brain damage of an infant suffered at birth. The plaintiffs alleged that, during the delivery process, hospital staff inappropriately monitored the mother, and that doctors improperly administered medication, resulting in severe and permanent brain damage to the baby.
Vehicle Accidents
Mithoff Law represented the family of a young man who sustained severe and permanent brain injuries when he was involved in an offset frontal collision. The young man’s injuries required a plan for lifelong care, as he was no longer able to care for himself following the accident. The case was settled for a confidential amount.
Severe brain injuries often involve complex questions regarding future care, and the magnitude of the injuries are often daunting for those living with the consequences. Mithoff Law’s experienced attorneys have developed long-lasting relationships with medical and subject-matter experts across several fields, such as neurology, neurosurgery, neuropsychology, and life care planning, who are invaluable to assessing and evaluating questions of future care or ongoing treatment in a litigation context.
What can I expect after a head injury?
An experienced brain injury lawyer is often quick to tell clients that a head injury should never be taken lightly, and for good reason. Even a single blow to the head can cause lasting damage, and it is prudent to get a medical evaluation to determine the severity of the injury and a prognosis for treatment as soon as possible after sustaining the injury.
Common side effects to look out for include:
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Trouble staying awake
- Difficulty balancing
- Loss of hearing
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Impaired decision making
- Memory loss
Remember: Your health should always be the first priority. Let a Houston brain injury attorney from Mithoff Law take care of the rest.
What are the costs associated with a head injury?
Every head injury brings the possibility of expensive medical bills due to the need for medical imaging and other procedures to determine the severity of the injury. The nature of these injuries is such that the burden of managing these appointments and payments falls on the victim’s loved ones.
Associated costs might include:
- Ambulance or life flight
- Medical tests
- Overnight monitoring
- Brain surgery
- Physical therapy
- Medical equipment
- Funeral costs
Types of brain injuries
Houston brain injury attorneys work with clients who have received different types of head and brain injuries. These injuries vary depending on the direction and amount of force that impacts the head, and may include:
Open head injury:
Injuries that result in a puncture wound or crack in the skull. These injuries are often bloody and usually require stitches to close the wound.
Closed head injury:
Injuries where the skull is not broken or punctured, but the brain has received trauma. A typical example of a closed head injury is a concussion.
Diffuse axonal injury:
Axons are long connecting fibers interwoven throughout your brain tissue. Diffuse axonal injuries happen when these fibers tear due to rapid acceleration and deceleration of the brain. For example, an automotive accident that results in whiplash may cause a diffuse axonal injury.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI):
Over 1.7 million people in the United States suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI) each year.
These injuries are more substantial than mild or moderate head injuries. Traumatic brain injuries are often the result of extreme trauma and can cause permanent side effects.
Contact a Houston brain injury attorney at Mithoff Law for help
The brain injury lawyers at Mithoff Law have obtained substantial verdicts and settlements for brain-injured clients.
If you or a loved one suffered a brain injury due to the fault of another party, only trust an experienced team to assist you. We are ready to provide you with nationally recognized representation and the highest level of care.
Don’t wait any longer. Contact a Houston brain injury attorney at Mithoff Law by calling 713-654-1122.
Burn Injury
Burn Injury Lawyer
Do you need an experienced burn injury lawyer to help you navigate the claims process, collect evidence, and represent your case?
Severe burn injuries can take a devastating toll on you and your family, leading to permanent physical and mental disabilities, large medical bills, and a decrease in your quality of life.
“Mithoff has been one of Houston’s most respected attorneys for decades, handling such high-profile cases as the aftermath of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, Enron-related litigation on behalf of J.P, Morgan Chase and highly publicized bus and plant explosions.”
– Houston Chronicle, June 26, 2019
The attorneys at Mithoff Law have decades of experience representing clients who have sustained serious burn injuries, including:
$32 Million Jury Verdict in Trucking Crash
A $32 million jury verdict for persons who were killed or seriously injured and burned when an 18-wheeler slammed into a line of traffic stopped by a minor accident.
$80 Million Settlement for Victims of Hurricane Rita Bus Fire
Served as Plaintiffs’ Lead Liaison Attorney, and negotiated an $80 million settlement in behalf of families and victims of the Hurricane Rita Bus Fire tragedy, which resulted in the deaths of 23 nursing home residents being evacuated from Houston by bus in advance of Hurricane Rita.
Confidential Settlement for Man Killed in Home Gas Explosion
Mithoff Law negotiated a confidential settlement in behalf of surviving family members of a homeowner who died as a result of an explosion caused by a gas leak.
If you or a loved one have suffered serious burns as a result of negligence, Mithoff Law is here to help. Call 713-654-1122 today to speak with a Houston burn injury lawyer.
Understanding types of burns and their severity
Burns originate from a variety of sources:
- Thermal burns are caused by contact with fire, boiling liquids, or other sources of extreme heat
- Light burns are caused by sunlight or ultraviolet light
- Chemical burns are caused by exposure to acid, alkali, or exposure to other chemicals
- Radiation burns are caused by exposure to nuclear radiation
Each of these types of burns can vary in the level of damage they cause depending on the temperature, substance, and length of exposure.
Burns are commonly categorized according to degree, such as:
First-degree burns: These burns are the least damaging and only affect the outer layer of skin. First-degree burns are characterized by redness and minor inflammation. They can often be treated with cold water, burn cream, and antiseptic.
Second-degree burns: A second-degree burn indicates that both the top layer of skin (the epidermis) and the second layer of skin (the dermis) have been burned. These burns often lead to blistering and will typically appear dry with a whitish coloring. Depending upon the depth of the burn, a skin graft may be necessary.
Third-degree burns: A third-degree burn damages all layers of the skin and can also damage organs and bones. These burns are often characterized by charred skin and a white or black dry wound. Skin grafting will most likely be required.
Common causes of burn injuries
Today, there are safety features in place to prevent the spread of fires, like smoke alarms and sprinkler systems. We’re also lucky to have firefighters who risk their lives to protect others in harm’s way. Unfortunately, burn injuries and deaths still occur. Our burn injury lawyers have extensive experience pursuing claims for serious burn injuries that arose from a variety of causes.
Apartment building fires
Regardless of whether you live in a large apartment complex owned by a major corporation or a single building with only a handful of units, you sign a lease expecting that you’ll be safe in your own home.
No one anticipates being a victim of an apartment fire. While tenant-caused accidents do happen, it’s generally the responsibility of the landlord to minimize potential fire risks and keep their tenants safe.
A landlord’s or property manager’s failure to implement reasonable fire safety precautions may give rise to a claim. Such claims often involve issues such as:
- Whether electrical wiring is up to code and in good condition
- Whether residents are provided safe access to a fire escape or evacuation route
- Whether regularly serviced and functional fire extinguishers were available and accessible
- Whether an adequate number of smoke detectors in each unit were installed.
Workplace injuries
Chemical plant explosions, commercial kitchen fires, medical lab fires, manufacturing plant explosions, and other instances where fires cause injury or death at work pose unique challenges.
Third parties, such as equipment manufacturers or job site contractors, may be responsible for fires and explosions that caused your burn injuries. The burn injury attorneys at Mithoff Law have years of experience investigating workplace burn injuries and working to determine whether a third party may be at fault.
Automotive accidents
If your gas tank is punctured in an automotive accident or if a flammable liquid comes in contact with a heat source, an accident can quickly go from dangerous to deadly. Automotive explosions can result in expensive medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering. Our team has successfully pursued vehicle accident cases arising out of a variety of causes, including many that have resulted in serious burn injuries.
Chemical burns and electrical burns
Plant workers, electricians, and other persons exposed to the hazards of dangerous chemicals and high voltage are at risk for chemical and electrical burns. These burn injuries can be devastating and life-altering. Skilled burn injury attorneys at Mithoff Law have experience investigating and pursuing these types of claims, and are ready to evaluate your case.
Potential expenses incurred by burn injury victims
If you or a loved one was seriously burned as a result of an accident, the pain and financial toll can be daunting. A skilled burn injury attorney will collect evidence and present your case in a way that identifies all parties responsible and seeks to recover the damages you suffered.
You may be wondering when to file a personal injury lawsuit and the answer is: as soon as possible. Typically a plaintiff in Texas has two years from the date of injury to bring a claim, but evidence can be harder to gather and witness memories can fade quickly after an accident.
Burn injuries often involve substantial pain and suffering, past medical expenses, and a substantial need for future medical care and treatment. The experienced burn injury attorneys at Mithoff Law have extensive experience working with teams of medical experts to ensure that a client’s future medical needs are properly documented for settlement or trial.
Taking your burn injury lawsuit to court
If a pre-trial settlement cannot be obtained, a burn injury lawyer from Mithoff Law will not hesitate to take the case to trial. A skilled lawyer from Mithoff Law, in partnership with Subject Matter Experts, can assist in:
- Filing your lawsuit
- Conducting discovery methods to recover relevant information and evidence
- Deposing witnesses to preserve testimony and evidence
- Filing and arguing motions in advance of trial
- Representing you at a trial before a judge or jury
Get support from a burn injury attorney at Mithoff Law
If you or a loved one needs a burn injury lawyer, we are here to help. Call Mithoff Law at 713-654-1122.
Amputation
Houston Amputation Lawyer
Amputations can result in life-threatening complications, and medical treatment can be extremely costly. The expense of emergency medical care, physical therapy, medical equipment, and lost wages can easily reach upwards of a million dollars over the course of your lifetime. Whether the accidental amputation was caused by a construction accident, a car accident, or another type of accident, an amputation attorney can help you and your family determine the best legal steps you need to take next.
The amputation lawyers from Mithoff law have decades of experience handling cases that involve severe injuries such as amputation. While we keep our firm small intentionally, our roots in Houston run deep, including our extensive network of professional witnesses, field experts, and partner firms should special circumstances arise around your case.
Mithoff Law has successfully represented clients who have suffered amputation injuries. Recently, Mithoff Law assisted a client who suffered an amputation of the leg below the knee in a workplace accident along the Houston Ship Channel. The client was seriously injured by a tow motor that ran over him as he was working. The case was settled for a confidential amount prior to trial.
If you or a loved one had a limb amputated and believe someone else is responsible for your injury, an amputation lawyer from Mithoff Law can help evaluate your claims. Call 713-654-1122 today.
“Mithoff, a Houston personal injury lawyer, is no stranger to winning big payoffs for large groups of people. He negotiated a $2.3 billion settlement with the tobacco industry for Harris and other counties, and he won $80 million for residents of a nursing home who were killed in a 2005 bus explosion while fleeing Hurricane Rita.”
– Houston Chronicle, November 22, 2017
Types of Amputations
Traumatic amputation can be classified as either partial (the limb is partially attached to the body) or complete. Complete amputation happens when the limb is fully detached from the body. Amputations are often classified by the method of injury.
Sharp amputation: Sharp amputations happen when the injury creates a “smooth cut,” meaning the injury has well-defined edges which may make it easier to reattach the limb.
Crush Amputation: Crush amputations occur when a heavy object lands on a limb or is slammed against the limb. These types of amputations are commonly seen with heavy machinery accidents. It can be difficult to reattach a limb after a crush amputation due to extensive damage to the muscles and bones.
Avulsion Amputation: Avulsion amputations occur when forceful overstretching removes a limb. This type of amputation is commonly seen in heavy machinery accidents when a limb gets caught in a piece of moving machinery. Like crush amputations, it can be very difficult to reattach a limb after avulsion amputation due to the amount of damage sustained.
Common amputation accidents
For nearly half a century, the amputation attorneys at Mithoff Law have represented the hard-working people whose lives and families’ lives have been negatively impacted by another party’s negligence. We have represented individuals and families affected by amputations arising from:
Car Accidents
According to the Amputee Coalition, there are currently 2 million people living with limb loss in the United States. The Coalition estimates that nearly 45 percent of those amputations are the direct result of trauma from incidents like car and motorcycle accidents.
Defective Products
Forklifts, machinery, power tools, and other products are expected to operate properly. A defective product, especially defective heavy equipment, can cause serious injuries, including amputation.
Medical Malpractice
At times, medical malpractice can result in amputations. For example, medical malpractice can result in amputations where:
- Misdiagnosis of a medical condition leads to the spread of infection
- Administration of the wrong medication requires amputation of affected limbs
- The wrong limb is amputated during a surgical procedure
Types of catastrophic injuries other than amputations
In the course of an accident severe enough to result in amputation, other catastrophic injuries may also occur, including:
Traumatic brain injury: A powerful blow to the head or extreme whiplash can cause a concussion or other types of traumatic brain injury. Head injuries can affect cognition, vision, speech, hearing, and balance. If a car accident was serious enough to cause the amputation of a limb it is possible that a traumatic brain injury was also sustained.
Spinal cord injury: Your spinal cord is a major component of your central nervous system. If you injure your spinal cord it can cause paralysis or loss of movement in your limbs or other sections of your body.
Severe burn injury: In the case of a chemical plant explosion or another accident when an extreme heat source is present, major burns can occur in addition to an amputation.
Whatever injuries you or a loved one sustained alongside an amputation, our team of skilled amputation injury lawyers are here to help you establish your claims and pursue litigation.
Why you should work with an amputation injury lawyer from Mithoff Law
You should not have to pursue legal recourse alone, especially when you are recovering and facing the major life changes that follow an amputation. Mithoff Law has extensive experience pursuing personal injury claims for severe injuries, including amputation, and is nationally recognized for our remarkable track record of advocacy and integrity.
If you or a loved one are suffering in the wake of an amputation, we are here to help. Call Mithoff Law at 713-654-1122 today.
Catastrophic Injury
Trial-tested Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
A catastrophic injury lawyer knows how much a catastrophic injury can change someone’s life. In just an instant a person’s and family’s needs and priorities suddenly change as they are faced with injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and more.
If you’re living with the costly aftermath of a catastrophic injury, consider working with a catastrophic injury lawyer. The experienced team of catastrophic injury lawyers at Mithoff Law has tried or settled hundreds of catastrophic injury cases over the last forty five years.
Call us today at 713-654-1122 to get your case off to the right start.
“Mithoff, a Houston personal injury lawyer, is no stranger to winning big payoffs for large groups of people. He negotiated a $2.3 billion settlement with the tobacco industry for Harris and other counties, and he won $80 million for residents of a nursing home who were killed in a 2005 bus explosion while fleeing Hurricane Rita.”
– Houston Chronicle, November 22, 2017
The experienced lawyers at Mithoff Law have helped multiple clients win or resolve high-profile cases involving catastrophic injuries, including:
$32 Million Jury Verdict in Trucking Crash
A $32 million jury verdict for persons who were killed or seriously injured and burned when an 18-wheeler slammed into a line of traffic stopped by a minor accident.
$80 Million Settlement for Victims of Hurricane Rita Bus Fire
Served as Plaintiffs’ Lead Liaison Attorney, and negotiated an $80 million settlement in behalf of families and victims of the Hurricane Rita Bus Fire tragedy, which resulted in the deaths of 23 nursing home residents being evacuated from Houston by bus in advance of Hurricane Rita.
$5.5 Million Settlement for Man Severely Burned by Explosion at Sugar Mill
Obtained a $5.5 million settlement for a man who received second and third-degree burns over approximately forty percent of his body as a result of an explosion at a sugar mill.
What is considered a catastrophic illness or injury?
Some injuries sustained during an accident are so severe and long-term that they can permanently alter the lives of victims. This type of injury, known as a catastrophic injury, can leave victims unable to work and/or care for themselves.
Common types of catastrophic injuries include:
Common causes of catastrophic injury
Accidents resulting in catastrophic injury can occur for a number of reasons. When it comes to claiming damages, it’s important for families to try and establish fault for a catastrophic injury. Finding evidence for negligence or deliberate actions helps to build a court-ready case.
The following are just some of the causes of catastrophic injuries the catastrophic injury lawyers at Mithoff Law are here to help you with:
- Vehicle accidents
- Amusement park accidents
- Aviation accidents
- Industrial accidents and explosions
- Workplace accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Defective products
- Criminal actions/assault
How a catastrophic injury lawyer from Mithoff Law can help you
Mithoff Law has decades of trial experience and has gone to court against some of the largest companies in the country. Part of our strategic advantage is our wide network of experts. We work with renowned medical professionals and relevant industry experts to help us build a case that’s as airtight as possible.
Seeking damages for a catastrophic injury? Get representation from Mithoff Law on your side.
Catastrophic injuries can inflict extreme hardship on those who have been severely injured. If you or a loved one suffered catastrophic injuries, an experienced catastrophic injury attorney with Mithoff Law can help evaluate your claims, and assist you with the process of navigating litigation.
Call the catastrophic injury lawyers at Mithoff Law at 713-654-1122 today and meet with a trial-tested personal injury lawyer to learn about your options.
Helicopter Crashes
Helicopter Accident Lawyer
Helicopter accidents often involved complex questions of causation, touching upon many areas of specialty, such as piloting, component design, avionics (and avionics software), and human factors. Mithoff Law has decades of experience conducting in-depth, independent investigations with subject-matter experts to determine the underlying causes that may have contributed to a crash. Whether you were injured as a passenger or a pilot, or are a family member who lost a loved one, the trial-ready lawyers at Mithoff Law have extensive experience pursuing aviation claims.
To get the help you need, contact a helicopter accident attorney at Mithoff Law by calling 713-654-1122.
“Mithoff, a Houston personal injury lawyer, is no stranger to winning big payoffs for large groups of people. He negotiated a $2.3 billion settlement with the tobacco industry for Harris and other counties, and he won $80 million for residents of a nursing home who were killed in a 2005 bus explosion while fleeing Hurricane Rita.”
– Houston Chronicle, November 22, 2017
Our aviation accident attorneys have real experience helping plaintiffs recover damages from helicopter accidents, including those involving:
Improper maintenance guidance:
Mithoff Law also represents the pilot and passengers aboard a helicopter that crashed while performing fire control work, killing the pilot and one passenger, and seriously injuring another passenger. The plaintiffs have alleged that the Type Certificate Holder for the helicopter’s engine provided improper maintenance procedures for the engine, and that maintenance was negligently performed on the helicopter’s engine.
Who may be liable in a helicopter accident?
Proving liability is one of the most challenging and critical components of any personal injury case. Was the crash a result of pilot error, a lapse in maintenance, or a defect in the helicopter, its engine, or its avionics?
Our helicopter accident attorneys work closely with a team of subject matter experts to investigate and pursue claims. With and through our experts, we review relevant National Transportation Safety Board investigation reports, and conduct our own independent investigation.
Our investigations are intended to determine contributing causes, through investigatory methods such as component part or avionics testing, radar and flight reconstruction, detailed materials analysis (including metallurgical testing or industrial CT scanning), investigation of meteorological conditions, and aviation human factors analysis.
Through this in-depth research we seek to identify potentially responsible parties, such as:
- Helicopter pilots
- Aircraft or component part designers and manufacturers
- Maintenance providers
- Helicopter charter companies
- Helicopter owners and operators
- Airport personnel
Why do helicopter accidents occur?
While aviation accidents can be caused by factors outside of human control, there are often negligent acts or design or manufacturing defects that play a role in such crashes.
Our Houston personal injury law firm has represented numerous victims of helicopter crashes, including:
- Human error
- Design and manufacturing defects
- Hazardous conditions
- Improper training
Other types of personal injury accidents
Finding a helicopter accident law firm with experience winning cases can be difficult due to the rarity of aviation accidents. Mithoff Law has won large settlements in multiple aviation cases and is comfortable taking your case to court if a settlement is not agreed upon.
Our Houston law firm has also tried and won multiple cases for other personal injury accidents including:
Consult an experienced helicopter accident attorney
Mithoff Law is home to the top helicopter accident attorneys in Houston and will work tirelessly to gain justice for you and your family. Helicopter accidents involve several complex issues, including jurisdiction and causation, which require expert analysis and a deep understanding of relevant laws and regulations.
Our skilled aviation attorneys have that experience, and are ready to help you explore your options. To get started, call 713-654-1122 to request a consultation with one of our helicopter accident attorneys.
Airplane Crashes
Airplane Accident Lawyer
Airplane accidents often involved complex questions of causation, touching upon many areas of specialty, such as piloting, component design, avionics (and avionics software), and human factors. Mithoff Law has decades of experience conducting in-depth, independent investigations with subject-matter experts to determine the underlying causes that may have contributed to a crash. Whether you were injured as a passenger or a pilot, or are a family member who lost a loved one, the trial-ready lawyers at Mithoff Law have extensive experience pursuing aviation claims.
Our aviation accident lawyers have won many high-profile cases for passengers and pilots who were involved in crashes. Contact an airplane accident attorney at Mithoff Law by calling 713-654-1122.
“Mithoff has been one of Houston’s most respected attorneys for decades, handling such high-profile cases as the aftermath of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, Enron-related litigation on behalf of J.P, Morgan Chase and highly publicized bus and plant explosions.”
– Houston Chronicle, June 26, 2019
Who are the responsible parties in an airplane accident?
Determining the responsible party is one of the most critical components of any personal injury case. Was the crash a result of human error, a lapse in maintenance, or a manufacturing defect? Many flights also travel to different states or countries, so unique questions of jurisdiction may arise.
Responsible parties can include:
- Pilots
- Aircraft or component part designers and manufacturers
- Maintenance providers
- Airline companies
- Airport personnel
An airplane accident attorney from Mithoff Law will leverage our resources and our extensive network of expert witnesses to collect evidence and build your case.
Mithoff Law is home to some of the best airplane accident attorneys in Houston
Since airplane accidents are rare, finding an airplane accident law firm that has tried and won cases for multiple accidents under different circumstances speaks volumes about Mithoff Law.
Our aviation accident attorneys work closely with a team of subject matter experts to investigate and pursue claims. With and through our experts, we have reviewed both National Transportation Safety Board investigations and investigations conducted by foreign regulatory agencies.
We also have extensive experience conducting independent, thorough analyses of contributing causes, such as component part or avionics testing, radar and flight reconstruction, detailed materials analysis (including metallurgical testing or industrial CT scanning), meteorological conditions, and aviation human factors analysis.
The airplane accident lawyers at Mithoff Law have helped multiple clients win or resolve high-profile matters, including those involving:
Commercial aviation accidents:
Mithoff Law represented the surviving family members of the only two American passengers aboard Air France Flight 447, which crashed into the Atlantic Ocean while en route between Rio de Janeiro and Paris. The plaintiffs asserted negligence claims against Air France and Airbus. The lawsuit was resolved prior to trial.
Manufacturing and design defects:
Mithoff Law represented the family of a pilot when his single-engine Turboprop aircraft crashed during the final approach. The lawsuit was settled for a confidential amount prior to trial after the plaintiffs alleged the aircraft and avionics manufacturer were both responsible.
When should you contact an airplane accident attorney?
Accident victims and their loved ones should seek representation from a skilled airplane accident lawyer as soon as possible. Aviation cases can involve unique questions of jurisdiction, and a complex framework of regulations and laws. Mithoff Law is a trial-tested law firm that has handled cases like yours with extreme diligence, respect for our clients’ time, and a record of success.
Call 713-654-1122 and meet with a trial-tested airplane accident lawyer to learn about your options.
Aviation Accidents
Mithoff Law is home to some of Houston's best airplane accident attorneys
Mithoff Law is one of the rare law firms with actual experience trying and winning aviation accident cases. We have extensive experience representing airplane accident victims and their families by investigating and pursuing claims relating to crashes of or incidents involving general and commercial airplane incidents, fixed-wing aircraft and helicopter crashes, as well as piston-engined, turboprop, jet, or turbofan aircraft.
Our aviation accident attorneys work closely with a team of subject matter experts to investigate and pursue claims. Working with our team of aviation experts, we have reviewed both National Transportation Safety Board investigations and investigations conducted by foreign regulatory agencies.
We also have extensive experience conducting independent, thorough analyses of contributing causes, such as component part or avionics testing, radar and flight reconstruction, detailed materials analysis (including metallurgical testing or industrial CT scanning), meteorological conditions, and aviation human factors analysis.
Call us today at 713-654-1122 to request a consultation with an aviation accident lawyer at Mithoff Law.
“Mithoff, a Houston personal injury lawyer, is no stranger to winning big payoffs for large groups of people. He negotiated a $2.3 billion settlement with the tobacco industry for Harris and other counties, and he won $80 million for residents of a nursing home who were killed in a 2005 bus explosion while fleeing Hurricane Rita.”
– Houston Chronicle, November 22, 2017
The experienced aviation accident lawyers at Mithoff Law have helped multiple clients win or resolve high-profile matters, including those involving:
Commercial aviation accidents:
Mithoff Law represented the surviving family members of the only two American passengers aboard Air France Flight 447, which crashed into the Atlantic Ocean while en route between Rio de Janeiro and Paris. The plaintiffs’ claims were made against Air France and Airbus. The lawsuit was resolved prior to trial.
Manufacturing and design defects:
Mithoff Law represented the family of a pilot when his single-engine Turboprop aircraft crashed during the final approach. The lawsuit was settled for a confidential amount prior to trial after the plaintiffs alleged the aircraft and avionics manufacturer were both responsible.
Mithoff Law also represented the wrongful death beneficiaries of helicopter passengers killed when their helicopter crashed en route to an offshore platform. The plaintiffs alleged that the helicopter was defectively designed, and the case was settled for a confidential amount prior to trial.
Common causes of aviation accidents
Aircraft are complex machines, and are subject to a stringent global and national regulatory system. Generally, every aviation accident is unique, involving complex investigatory and fact issues.
That said, common contributing causes to airplane or helicopter crashes include:
– Design or manufacturing defects in the airframe, engines, or component parts
– Maintenance issues
– Hazardous conditions
– Human factors
Any of these common contributing causes may give rise to a claim against the person or entity responsible for those actions. The aviation accident attorneys at Mithoff Law bring decades of experience to the table, and have actively investigated and successfully pursued claims for aviation accidents attributable to a wide range of causes.
“Since he started practicing in 1974, his cases have helped produce reforms in hospital credentialing of physicians and reporting of physician misconduct; prompted medical manufacturers to pull defective products off the market; led hospitals to improve their use of post-surgical intravenous solutions; and triggered a manufacturer’s recall of defective tires.”
– Super Lawyers, September 15, 2021
How an aviation accident lawyer in Houston can help
After any aviation accident in the United States—private or commercial—the National Transportation Safety Board will typically perform an official investigation of the accident. The team at Mithoff Law appreciates the work of the NTSB, but also recognizes that an independent investigation is often an important consideration in preparing an aviation accident case for trial.
In aviation cases, our aviation accident attorneys work closely with a team of subject matter experts to investigate and pursue claims. With and through our experts, we review governmental or regulatory (such as NTSB) investigations and conduct our own detailed investigation into the contributing causes underlying an aviation incident.
We have, with our experts, conducted thorough analyses of contributing causes, including testing or analysis involving radar reconstruction, detailed materials analysis (including metallurgical testing or industrial CT scanning), meteorological conditions, and aviation human factors analysis.
Contact an experienced aviation accident attorney at Mithoff Law today
Accident victims and their loved ones should seek representation from a skilled aviation accident lawyer as soon as possible. Aviation cases can involve unique questions of jurisdiction, causation issues that often require detailed expert analysis, and a complex framework of regulations and laws.
Call 713-654-1122 and meet with a trial-tested aviation accident lawyer to learn about your options.
Car Accidents
Houston Car Accident Lawyer
No one plans on needing a lawyer for a vehicle accident. But if you or a loved one have been hurt in a vehicle accident, you know how your needs and priorities can change quickly — it takes only an instant to be suddenly faced with injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and more.
Mithoff Law has decades of experience handling vehicle accident cases. The experienced team at Mithoff Law has tried or settled hundreds of vehicle accident cases over forty five years. When looking for an accident attorney in Houston, it can be difficult to sift through the large number of firms working in this field.
Call 713-654-1122 to have the best team on your side.
“Mithoff has been one of Houston’s most respected attorneys for decades, handling such high-profile cases as the aftermath of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, Enron-related litigation on behalf of J.P, Morgan Chase and highly publicized bus and plant explosions.”
– Houston Chronicle, June 26, 2019
By choosing Mithoff Law, clients can rest assured that they’re working with one of the premier personal injury law firms in the country. Recipient of several prestigious awards, founder Richard Mithoff has been twice designated a Forbes Top 10 Trial Lawyer in the United States. With his almost 50 years of experience to his name, Mithoff and his team—all highly acclaimed in their own right — have won several high profile legal cases, including:
$24.7 Million Jury Verdict Against Rental Car Company and Drunk Driver
A $24.7 million jury verdict for the family of a woman who was killed by a drunk driver, despite having multiple citations and a suspended license.
$4.3 Million Settlement for Family of Man Killed in Victoria Bus Accident
A $4.3 million settlement was obtained for the family of a man who was killed, and his wife injured, when a bus overturned near Victoria, Texas, due to a fatigued driver oversteering the bus. The $4.3 million settlement for Mithoff Law’s clients was part of a total settlement of $10 million for the incident split amongst 46 injured passengers, 44 of whom were represented by other firms.
What should I do if I was hurt in a car accident?
If you have recently been injured in a car accident, remain as calm as possible and follow the steps outlined below:
Get medical help if needed
If anyone obtained a catastrophic injury as a result of the car accident getting medical assistance should be the primary focus. Call 911, apply pressure to stop heavy bleeding, and administer CPR if needed. Do not try to move the victim if a spinal cord injury is suspected.
Report the accident
Even if the injuries don’t require an ambulance, it’s still advisable to request a police officer to complete an accident report and determine if a citation should be issued.
Collect evidence
If you can, take multiple photos of all vehicles involved, where the accident happened, and any nearby skid marks, road signs, and traffic lights. Get the information of everyone involved in the accident as well as nearby witnesses.
Contact a Houston car accident lawyer
Sharing information with an experienced personal injury attorney from Mithoff Law is one of the most beneficial things you can do after an accident. Our lawyers have decades of experience handling complex cases and can recommend how to move forward.
You need a Houston car accident lawyer who truly has you and your family’s best interests at heart and is willing to take cases to trial.
What evidence should I try to collect after an accident?
If you can collect even a small amount of evidence at or near the time of the accident, it can assist attorneys in investigation and preparing your case.
Depending on the circumstances of your accident, evidence can include:
- Photos of the scene of the accident (including the vehicles involved, the surrounding area, skid marks, etc.)
- Insurance, vehicle, and contact information of those involved in the accident
- Names and contact information of the police officers who arrived on the scene
- Names, contact information, and statements from eyewitnesses
What will a Houston car accident attorney do to help my case?
You may be wondering, “Can I afford to take off work to handle this?” or, “Should I sue the driver?” or even, “Who can I trust to represent me?” While a lawyer will generally not make the decisions for you, they can provide advice and peace-of-mind during this stressful period.
A Texas auto accident lawyer from Mithoff Law will help:
Determine if you have a case: An attorney from Mithoff Law will examine the facts of your accident, to determine who may be responsible.
Prepare your case for trial: Decades of experience has taught our personal injury lawyers that preparation of every case for trial is essential. Although a claim may be resolved by settlement prior to trial, the thorough investigation and planning involved in preparing for trial may assist in positioning a claim for resolution.
Find additional information: Many cases require accident reconstruction or insight into a particular area of expertise. A Houston accident lawyer can help gather the resources you need to build a more solid case.
Work efficiently: Our decades of experience have helped our team to work efficiently and effectively when pursuing a personal injury case.
Why is Mithoff Law a top car accident law firm in Texas?
When searching for a lawyer to represent you after an automotive accident, you want someone trustworthy who will respect your time and has experience winning similar cases.
At Mithoff Law, our reputation and record speak to our decades of experience successfully assisting those who have been injured in car accidents.
Types of vehicle accident cases
Mithoff law has successfully represented clients involved in many kinds of car accident cases, including:
- Head-on collisions
- Rear-end collisions
- Hit and runs
- Fatal collisions
- Bus accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Multi-vehicle accidents
- Single vehicle accidents
- Taxicab, Uber, and Lyft accidents
- Truck and 18-Wheeler accidents
Causes of car accidents we’ve taken to trial
A car accident attorney from Mithoff Law can help uncover small details of your case using knowledge from previous cases and our experience working with different insurance companies.
Our best accident attorneys have won multiple cases caused by:
- Defective equipment and manufacturing issues
- Distracted driving
- Drinking or drug use (DWI/DUI)
- Inclement weather
- Improper vehicle maintenance
- Tire blowouts or vehicle rollovers
Car accident injuries
Car accidents can result in a wide range of serious injuries and damages, including:
- Amputation
- Brain and head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Burns
- Broken and fractured bones
- Disfigurement
- Neck and back injuries
- Organ damage and internal bleeding
- Paralysis
- Spinal cord injuries
- Wrongful death
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Texas?
The statute of limitations for car accidents in Texas is typically two years. By hiring a Houston car accident lawyer as soon as possible, rather than waiting closer to the two-year deadline, your attorneys will have a better opportunity to collect evidence, find witnesses, and efficiently prepare your case for trial.
“Since he started practicing in 1974, his cases have helped produce reforms in hospital credentialing of physicians and reporting of physician misconduct; prompted medical manufacturers to pull defective products off the market; led hospitals to improve their use of post-surgical intravenous solutions; and triggered a manufacturer’s recall of defective tires.”
– Super Lawyers, September 15, 2021
Why should I hire a Houston car accident lawyer from Mithoff Law?
The Houston car accident lawyers at Mithoff Law have the resources, experience, and wherewithal to help Houstonians during a personal injury case Our trial-tested lawyers have won multi-million dollar cases involving a variety of catastrophic accidents and will work with diligence to protect your best interests.
Give us a call at 713-654-1122 today.
Boat Accidents
Boat Accident Attorney
An experienced boat accident attorney can help you navigate the often complex process of pursuing a claim for injuries suffered on the water.
In 2017, the Coast Guard reported 4,291 boating accidents with 658 deaths, 2,629 injuries and approximately $46 million in property damage. While boating accidents are rare compared to automotive accidents, they still have a tremendous impact.
Mithoff and his team have over four decades of experience handling boat accident cases in Texas. The firm and its team of experts can assist in determining the root cause of a boat accident, whether related to mechanical failure, operator negligence, or other issues. They are prepared to pursue all relevant areas of inquiry to fully investigate a claim.
If you or a loved one was injured in a boating accident, contact a boat accident attorney at Mithoff Law by calling 713-654-1122 to get the best help possible.
What to do after a boating accident
- Call for help: Without proper assistance, a boating accident can quickly turn deadly. Depending on where you are, contact the U.S Coast Guard or local authorities. Getting medical attention should be your priority.
- Collect evidence: Take photos of the boats and individuals involved. Document the location of the incident and collect contact information for any witnesses. While your lawyer will collect evidence on your behalf, anything you can do will help expedite the process and ensure accuracy.
- File an accident report: It is the operator’s responsibility to file an accident report with the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife, the Coast Guard, or the local authorities. This report may be evidence in your claim so be as accurate as possible.
- Seek out an attorney: A boating accident attorney from Mithoff Law can help identify all parties responsible and, if you have a case, represent you as you pursue your claims.
Common boating accident injuries
Boating accidents can potentially cause more injuries than car accidents because occupants are less likely to wear a seatbelt and can fall overboard, drown, or be injured by the propeller. Boat accident injuries often include:
- Broken bones
- Head injury
- Drowning
- Amputation
- Loss of life
What are the Texas life jacket laws?
One of the best ways to minimize injuries on a boat or personal watercraft is to wear a life jacket. Texas law contains several provisions pertaining to life jackets, including:
- Children under 13 years of age in or on vessels under 26 feet high must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable Personal Flotation Device (PFD) while the vessel is in motion.
- All vessels under 16 feet (including vessels under 16 feet in length, such as canoes and kayaks) must be equipped with one life jacket (Type I, II, III or V) for each person on board.
- Vessels 16 feet long or longer must have one Type IV throwable device on board (in addition to the Type I, II, III or V PFD per person) which must be readily accessible. Canoes and kayaks over 16 feet are exempt from the Type IV requirement.
If the vessel you were on did not comply with the Texas life jacket laws, then the boat operator may be liable for damages.
Types of boating accidents
There are multiple ways someone could be injured on the water due to boat operator negligence. An experienced boat accident attorney from Mithoff Law understands recreational boating accident laws. Our trial-ready team has experience handling cases for various types of boating accidents, including:
- Collision with a recreational vessel
- Collision with a fixed object
- Flooding/swamping
- Grounding
- Falls overboard
Who may be liable in a boating accident?
If you are injured in a motorboat, sailboat, or personal watercraft accident, the facts and circumstances surrounding that injury can determine whether another person may be liable. For example, liability may arise where:
- The owner of the boat, if he/she knowingly loaned the boat to someone who was not qualified to operate it
- A passenger of the boat who acted in a reckless manner
- Boating operators who fail to provide reasonable safety for the passengers or otherwise disregarded boating laws
- The boat had a design or manufacturing defect
- The boat was improperly maintained
How can a boating attorney at Mithoff Law help me?
- Investigate your claim
- Identify responsible parties
- File claims
- Advise as to potential damages
- Negotiate settlements
- Take your case to trial if necessary
Our proven team has pursued boating accident cases for injured clients and their families for over four decades. We have earned a reputation for putting our client’s interest first and for handling every case with the highest level of integrity. Our record of success paired with our client testimonials clearly shows how Mithoff Law became one of the top law firms in the country.
If you or a loved one was injured in a boating accident, call 713-654-1122.
Bus Accidents
Mithoff Law: Award-Winning Houston Bus Accident Lawyers
When bus accidents occur, a Houston bus accident lawyer from Mithoff Law can help victims and the families involved find justice. Due to the passenger count and size of buses, even a minor bus accident has the potential to cause catastrophic injuries for a large number of people.
Mithoff and his team have over four decades of experience handling bus accident cases in Texas. The firm and its team of experts can assist in determining the root cause of a bus accident, whether related to mechanical failure, driver training, or other issues. They are prepared to pursue all relevant areas of inquiry to fully investigate a claim.
If you or a loved one was injured in a bus accident caused by the negligence of another party, call 713-654-1122 to get the best possible help.
“Mithoff, a Houston personal injury lawyer, is no stranger to winning big payoffs for large groups of people. He negotiated a $2.3 billion settlement with the tobacco industry for Harris and other counties, and he won $80 million for residents of a nursing home who were killed in a 2005 bus explosion while fleeing Hurricane Rita.”
– Houston Chronicle, November 22, 2017
How your case proceeds is often determined by the kind of bus involved
Our team understands the unique legal nuances that arise in accidents involving public buses, charter buses, and school buses. Leveraging our network of subject matter experts, we thoroughly investigate bus accidents from all angles, regardless of who owns and operates the bus in question.
Charter bus accidents
Charter bus companies like Greyhound and Megabus are typically known as common carriers. They generally have a responsibility to safely transport their customers without incident.
Many jurisdictions require common carriers to exercise a high degree of care for the safety of their passengers. The bus accident lawyers at Mithoff Law have extensive experience pursuing accident claims against charter bus companies, and are available to evaluate your claims.
School bus accidents
If a public school district operates a bus involved in an accident in Texas, then the Texas Tort Claims Act may govern that claim. The act can require that certain types of notice be given to a governmental entity within a short period of time after an accident. It is important to contact an attorney as soon as practicable after an accident. The experienced bus accident attorneys at Mithoff Law can assist you in navigating the legal framework of the Texas Tort Claims Act, and otherwise evaluating your claims.
Common causes of Houston bus accidents
There are multiple laws and regulations in place that seek to reduce the risk of bus accidents. Bus drivers in the state of Texas are prohibited from using cell phones and texting behind the wheel to limit distractions.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) also establishes regulations regarding the number of hours bus drivers are permitted to work, as a way to reduce fatigue. Other federal regulations for bus drivers include strict drug and alcohol restrictions, and requirements for vehicle maintenance, safety and training, and licensing.
Even with all of these rules and regulations in place, bus accidents may still occur as a result of:
- Distracted driving
- Improperly maintained vehicles
- Defective auto products
- Unsafe roadways or road conditions
- Overcrowded buses
Common bus accident injuries
Since many buses do not feature seatbelts, even a minor accident can cause major and costly injuries. A collision can slam riders against hard surfaces inside the bus, into each other, or even completely eject them from shattered windows.
Injuries commonly received in bus accidents include:
- Whiplash
- Severe burns
- Head injuries
- Broken bones
- Amputations
Why should I hire a bus accident lawyer from Mithoff Law?
A Houston bus accident lawyer from Mithoff Law can represent you and your bus accident claim. We encourage you to contact our office as soon as possible to discuss the merits of your case and the options available to you.
We’ve won multiple high-profile cases
When 23 nursing home residents died in a bus crash while evacuating from Hurricane Rita our experienced law firm took on several cases, and served as Lead Liaison Counsel for all of the Plaintiffs. Our attorneys and experts performed an in-depth investigation, reconstructing the accident and determining that the accident was caused by insufficient lubrication on a rear axle which overheated and caused the fire. As Lead Liaison Counsel, Mithoff Law successfully negotiated an $80 million settlement in behalf of the injured and surviving relatives.
We respect you
When you retain Mithoff Law as your partner, we provide you with clear communication every step of the way. We understand you will have questions and will always answer them in a timely manner. You are not alone when you work with us. You are respected.
We always prepare for trial
It is almost always in a client’s best interest to be prepared for a trial, whether your case goes to court or winds up ending in a settlement. Doing so shows that you are serious about pursuing your claims.
If you or a loved one was involved in a bus accident, contact Mithoff Law for a partner you can trust. Call 713-654-1122 to schedule a free consultation.