Law Firm of Roberto L. Sanchez Law Firm of Roberto L. Sanchez 2026-05-19T09:58:19Z https://www.rlsanchezlaw.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1104130/2024/11/cropped-law_firm_site_icon_D-32x32.png On Behalf of Law Firm of Roberto L. Sanchez <![CDATA[Why are commutes to oil rigs dangerous?]]> https://www.rlsanchezlaw.com/?p=47739 2026-03-23T16:24:03Z 2026-03-07T14:48:27Z Hidden dangers of oilfield commutes To give you an idea, here are the common reasons why oilfield transportation fatalities occur:
  • Severe driver fatigue: Long shifts and drowsiness lead to single-vehicle rollovers or collisions into oncoming traffic.
  • Speeding: High production demands push drivers to speed up and collide with other vehicles.
  • Bad weather: Changing weather conditions create slick roads that have led to serious accidents.
If you were involved in Permian Basin work vehicle crashes, understand that Texas law protects your rights as an employee.

Determining whether your commute is work-related

In Texas, for example, the Coming and Going Rule states that injuries that happen while traveling to and from work are not covered by workers’ compensation. This is because a standard commute is typically not part of the course and scope of employment. While the general rule excludes commutes, you may recover benefits under these exceptions:
  • The company provided the vehicle or paid for your transportation.
  • You were on a special mission or an errand for your boss.
  • The travel involved a dual purpose that would have required the trip anyway.
Proving any of this is critical to recover compensation for your losses.

Navigating the landscape of compensation

If your employer does not carry workers’ comp, you may have the right to sue them for negligence. Even if workers' comp covers you, you might still have a third-party claim against a reckless driver. Because these details are so technical, consider having an attorney review your case. They can offer advice on how to move forward in recovering damages.]]> On Behalf of Law Firm of Roberto L. Sanchez <![CDATA[Los peligros ocultos de los desplazamientos a campos petroleros]]> https://www.rlsanchezlaw.com/?p=47720 2026-02-12T19:59:40Z 2026-02-12T19:55:21Z fallecen en un accidente de transporte (enlace en inglés), de acuerdo con datos de la Administración de Seguridad y Salud Ocupacional (OSHA). Sí, las muertes del personal petrolero en el transporte en campos petroleros es la principal causa de fallecimiento del sector y superan muchos riesgos “industriales” que suelen aparecer en las noticias.

Por qué los trayectos al pozo petroleros se vuelven tan peligrosos

Los desplazamientos hacia y desde los pozos petroleros en la Cuenca Pérmica se vuelven peligrosos (enlace en inglés) debido a varios factores. Entre los riesgos se encuentran:
  • Manejar largas distancias hacia yacimientos de petróleo remotos
  • Conducir de noche
  • Compartir carretera con camiones pesados (que transportan arena, cemento, agua producida y crudo)
  • Trabajar turnos extremos (incluso de 24 horas), lo que reduce los reflejos
  • Caminos sin iluminación o mal construidos
Estas condiciones combinadas aumentan considerablemente la probabilidad de que los trabajadores petroleros sufran accidentes durante sus trayectos.

El problema legal: ¿accidente de trabajo o “accidente normal” de tránsito?

Aquí aparece una dificultad que pocas familias conocen. La ley en Texas a menudo aplica la regla de “ida y vuelta” (going and coming rule): si te lesionas yendo o regresando del trabajo, el caso puede tratarse como accidente común y no como lesión laboral. Pero existen excepciones importantes, por ejemplo si:
  • Conduces un vehículo de la empresa
  • Transportas herramientas o personal
  • Te pagan el tiempo de viaje
  • Sales desde un campamento del empleador
  • Haces un encargo de trabajo
Estas excepciones pueden cambiar todo, definen si la lesión o muerte se considera laboral y qué compensación puede existir. Esta incertidumbre afecta directamente a las posibles fuentes de indemnización en accidentes de trabajadores petroleros en sus desplazamientos.

¿ Qué opciones tiene tras un accidente de transporte en un campo petrolero en Texas?

Si bien muchos trabajadores pueden acceder a compensación laboral, esos beneficios suelen ser limitados. Si otra parte causó el choque—por ejemplo, un contratista imprudente o un fabricante de equipo defectuoso—podrías reclamar por lesiones personales para buscar una compensación más amplia. Además, si tu empleador no tiene seguro de compensación laboral o hubo negligencia grave, podrías demandarlo directamente. No dejes que nadie te diga que la compensación laboral es tu única opción. Tienes derechos, y un abogado puede ayudarte a explorar tus opciones.]]> On Behalf of Law Firm of Roberto L. Sanchez <![CDATA[Why do highway construction areas see so many fatal crashes?]]> https://www.rlsanchezlaw.com/?p=47716 2026-01-07T15:48:47Z 2026-01-07T15:48:47Z Highway construction zones across West Texas and southern New Mexico change how the road works and how drivers react. Lanes shift. Speed limits drop. Traffic patterns stop making sense.  When these areas sit near oil fields or heavy industrial routes, the risk rises fast. Large trucks move through narrow spaces, often at all hours. For families who lose someone in these crashes, the legal questions can look very different from a typical wreck.

What makes construction zone crashes more deadly

Construction zones introduce risks that drivers do not face on open highways. Safety studies have found that crash rates are 20.5% higher during active work zone periods compared to the same roads before construction began. That increase is not tied to one issue. It happens because several hazards often appear at the same time.  Near oil and gas corridors, those risks tend to intensify due to heavy truck traffic and long work schedules. The factors below commonly appear in fatal work zone crashes in these areas:
  • Reduced lanes leave little room for error when a driver drifts or brakes late.
  • Temporary signs may conflict with permanent road markings, causing hesitation or sudden stops.
  • Heavy trucks need longer distances to slow down, especially on uneven pavement.
  • Night work lowers visibility even when lights are present.
These conditions can turn a minor mistake into a fatal event, especially when traffic speeds do not match the work zone design.

How work zones change legal responsibility

Construction zones also change how liability works after a fatal crash. Enhanced penalties may apply when a death happens in a marked work zone. That can change how courts assign fault and how evidence matters.  Modified duties of care may also come into play. Drivers, contractors and even government agencies can face different standards than they would on a normal highway. Because these rules can be complex, having an experienced attorney can help you examine all potential sources of liability and address them carefully. In some work zone crash cases, government contractor immunity becomes a key issue. Road design, signage placement or traffic control plans may link back to a state agency or contractor. Sorting out who can be held accountable may shape whether a wrongful death claim moves forward and who it can be brought against.

When the road itself becomes part of the case

A fatal crash in a construction zone is not just about two vehicles. It is often about the work site itself. Examining how the zone was planned, marked and managed can reveal facts that do not appear in a standard accident report. For you, that context can make a real difference in how a claim is evaluated and pursued.]]> On Behalf of Law Firm of Roberto L. Sanchez <![CDATA[Responsabilidad compartida en accidentes de auto: la regla del 51% en Texas]]> https://www.rlsanchezlaw.com/?p=47712 2025-12-20T04:19:46Z 2025-12-20T04:19:46Z La regla del 51% Texas opera bajo un sistema de responsabilidad proporcional. Esto quiere decir que la familia de la persona fallecida puede obtener una compensación siempre y cuando la responsabilidad de dicha persona no exceda el 50%. Si la responsabilidad es del 51% o más, la ley impide cualquier indemnización. Por ejemplo, si un jurado determina que el otro conductor tuvo un 70% de responsabilidad y la persona fallecida tuvo un 30%, se mantiene el derecho a recibir una compensación, pero el monto total de la indemnización se ajustará según el porcentaje de culpa de la víctima. En este caso, la familia recibiría un 70% del valor total de los daños.

¿Qué daños se pueden reclamar?

Las familias pueden reclamar diversos daños económicos y no económicos:
  • Gastos finales: Gastos médicos anteriores al fallecimiento y costos funerarios.
  • Pérdida de sustento: Esto engloba los ingresos y beneficios que la persona fallecida aportaba a la familia en vida.
  • Daños inmateriales: Pérdida de compañía y la subsecuente angustia mental sufrida por los sobrevivientes.
Es importante mencionar que estos daños suelen otorgarse en categorías separadas.

Cuándo pedir ayuda

Algunas aseguradoras intentarán aumentar la responsabilidad de la persona fallecida para superar el límite del 50% bajo argumentos como un exceso de velocidad o una reacción tardía, lo cual puede afectar o impedir que usted y su familia reclamen daños. Si éste es su caso, contacte a un abogado lo antes posible, para que revise su caso y proponga estrategias como la reconstrucción de accidentes o el uso de peritos.  ]]> On Behalf of Law Firm of Roberto L. Sanchez <![CDATA[5 key steps after losing a loved one in a car or truck crash]]> https://www.rlsanchezlaw.com/?p=47695 2025-11-20T11:37:58Z 2025-11-20T11:27:40Z Losing someone you love in a car or truck crash can turn your world upside down. In the midst of grief, thinking about practical concerns may feel impossible. Understanding what to focus on at the start can also ease some of the uncertainty that often comes with a wrongful death situation.

1. Gather and preserve important evidence soon

Shortly after the crash, try to collect and preserve evidence. Take photos of the vehicles, skid marks or road conditions. Ask for the police accident report and keep copies of communications from law enforcement, tow companies or insurance representatives. Preserving this information can help answer questions about what happened or support any claims of negligence resulting in death.

2. Request multiple certified death certificates

Make sure you request multiple certified death certificates for use with insurance claims, estate tasks and financial accounts. You can request these through the Texas Department of State Health Services or a local funeral home. Keeping multiple copies on hand may prevent delays when addressing claims or completing legal tasks.

3. Notify insurance providers promptly

Reach out to auto and life insurance providers soon after the death. Provide the death certificate and relevant crash details so representatives can explain benefits and the claims process. Acting promptly may reduce some of the financial uncertainty you face while grieving. Keep a record of all communications, including names, dates and reference numbers, to make future steps easier.

4. Address initial estate and financial concerns

Starting early with estate and financial matters can make later steps less stressful. You might consider:
  • Finding and reviewing any will or trust documents
  • Securing bank accounts, property and important papers
  • Notifying employers, social security and financial institutions
If no will exists, Texas intestate succession rules generally guide how the court distributes assets. Probate may take several months or longer depending on the situation, so addressing these concerns early may help prevent complications.

5. Understand legal timelines and when to seek guidance

Being aware of legal deadlines can help you avoid missed opportunities. The Texas civil practice and remedies code generally requires you to file a wrongful death claim within two years of the death. During the first few months, only certain family members may initiate claims. Executors can act only if no eligible family member files within 90 days and only if there’s no objection from those family members. The overall timeline can vary. Cases may take several months to years depending on complexity and negotiations. Probate usually lasts at least six months to a year and may take longer if no will exists. Consulting a motor vehicle accident or wrongful death attorney early can help you understand your rights, protect evidence and stay on track with deadlines.

Finding clarity amid grief

Losing a loved one is deeply painful and there is no single way to cope. Leaning on support from legal professionals, trusted friends or family can also help you navigate the early stages after a fatal crash.]]> On Behalf of Law Firm of Roberto L. Sanchez <![CDATA[5 Pasos tras perder a un ser querido en un accidente de auto o camión]]> https://www.rlsanchezlaw.com/?p=47684 2025-10-23T17:03:07Z 2025-10-23T17:01:29Z 1.Conserven todas las pruebas posibles Actuar de inmediato es crucial para conservar las pruebas. Si tienen acceso a él, guarden el carro o vehículo accidentado sin reparaciones. Reúnan copias de todos los informes policiales, los nombres y números de contacto de los testigos, y cualquier fotografía del lugar del accidente que puedan haber tomado la policía o los servicios de emergencia. Las compañías de seguros y las empresas de camiones pueden actuar rápido, así que aseguren que ninguna evidencia sea alterada o destruida. Esta información será vital para cualquier reclamo por muerte por negligencia .

2. Obtengan el certificado de defunción

Solicite el certificado de defunción lo antes posible; lo necesita para trámites legales y financieros, como seguros, el banco y la herencia. Pida copias certificadas y confirme que la causa de muerte figura con exactitud.

3. Notifique a las aseguradoras sobre los hechos básicos

Notifiquen a su propia compañía de seguros sobre el accidente de auto y la pérdida, así como a la compañía de seguros del conductor responsable, si la conocen. Sin embargo, en esta etapa temprana, limiten sus comunicaciones con la otra aseguradora a los hechos básicos del accidente y eviten dar declaraciones grabadas o discutir detalles sobre la culpa o las lesiones. Anote horas, nombres y números de referencia. No firme acuerdos rápidos sin leerlos ni consultar a un abogado.

4. Gestionen asuntos preliminares de la herencia

La pérdida de un ser querido a menudo trae consigo asuntos financieros inmediatos que deben atender. Localicen documentos importantes como testamentos, pólizas de seguro de vida y cuentas bancarias. Resolver lo básico evita problemas más adelante y le permite honrar los deseos del fallecido.

5. Contacten a un abogado de muerte por negligencia de inmediato

Busque ayuda legal si existe sospecha de negligencia, si las aseguradoras ofrecen poco por las cuentas médicas, gastos funerarios y otros. Un abogado con experiencia en muerte por negligencia puede explicar los derechos de la familia y valorar si procede una demanda por wrongful death. Los abogados saben qué hacer después de un accidente automovilístico mortal (enlace en inglés) y actuarán rápidamente para preservar las pruebas críticas, negociar o llevar a los tribunales a los responsables y cumplir con los plazos legales estrictos que rigen estos casos. Sabemos que este es un momento de gran dolor. Al tomar estos pasos prácticos está protegiendo el legado y la seguridad financiera de su familia.]]> On Behalf of Law Firm of Roberto L. Sanchez <![CDATA[How to Choose the Right Attorney After a Car/Truck Accident]]> https://www.rlsanchezlaw.com/?p=47664 2025-09-15T15:49:05Z 2025-09-15T15:49:05Z A car or truck accident can turn your life upside down in an instant — apart from your injuries, you have to worry about medical bills, arrangements at home or work and more. In El Paso, Texas, navigating these challenges is more complicated with laws like modified comparative negligence influencing how compensation works. This is why you need to make sure you are properly represented. Find an attorney not just because of convenience, but to protect your future. Your lawyer is key to whether you receive fair compensation or end up walking away with nothing.

Why experience in Texas motor vehicle cases matters

Texas’ modified comparative negligence rule states that if you are mostly to blame for the crash (the 51% bar rule), you may not receive compensation for the damages. This is why you need a lawyer who is well-versed in local traffic laws. You want your case to be handled by a professional who has proven experience in this area.

What to look for in an attorney

It is not difficult to find a lawyer if you already know what you are looking for in one. Prioritize traits like:
  • Deep knowledge of Texas traffic laws: This makes the establishment of liability in your car or truck accident more streamlined. A lawyer cannot help you if they lack knowledge of local traffic laws, since your case is built on those laws.
  • Experience in compensation recovery: Every car accident results in two distinct types of damages, namely, economic (lost wages, piling medical bills or post-hospitalization treatment) and non-economic (PTSD, chronic pain and suffering). Choose a lawyer who has handled both.
  • Clear communication: Find a professional you can have on speed dial. They should respond to your queries fast. A bilingual attorney can make the entire process smoother for non-English speakers.
  • Free initial consultations: Know your options without anyone pressuring you into an agreement.
Once you find a lawyer with all these characteristics, act quickly and start working with them right away.

The importance of acting quickly

Texas law gives you only two years from the date of the accident to file a claim unlike in other states where the statute of limitations goes up to six years. This should be enough time to get the necessary medical treatment and document all evidence needed for your case. Why two years? Because this timeline guarantees fairness. If you are the victim, two years is enough time to recover while gathering evidence. If you are the defendant, you can protect yourself by facing the lawsuit before records or the witnesses’ memories fade or disappear altogether.

Do not leave your case to chance

Getting a lawyer after a devastating accident is a challenge that you wish you did not have to deal with. But remember that the law will not wait. Even if you are still recuperating, you still need to act quickly. This gives you the best chance to find a lawyer, gather evidence and avoid missing your state’s strict deadlines. Work with an attorney who sees the human side of recovery — the piling medical bills, the trauma, the chronic pain and any fear you may have about the future. Get guidance on how to take control of your recovery and protect the life you will be rebuilding in the coming years.]]> On Behalf of Law Firm of Roberto L. Sanchez <![CDATA[Common misconceptions about wrongful death claims]]> https://www.rlsanchezlaw.com/?p=47660 2025-09-12T13:00:43Z 2025-09-12T12:57:31Z Only immediate family can file Many people think only a spouse or child can file a wrongful death claim. Texas law allows the deceased's spouse children and parents to bring a claim. The executor of the deceased's estate can also file for the claim only if these family members do not file a lawsuit within three months and if all eligible family members request otherwise.

Damages are only for financial loss

Wrongful death damages extend beyond just economic losses like lost wages and medical bills. Families can also recover for less tangible harm. These include mental anguish, loss of companionship and society loss of inheritance. Families may even claim for exemplary damages in cases of gross negligence.

You do not need evidence right away

Delaying evidence collection can severely weaken a wrongful death claim. Immediately after a death, it is crucial to preserve all relevant evidence. This includes accident reports, medical records, witness statements and any physical evidence from the incident. Evidence quickly disappears or deteriorates.

All wrongful deaths lead to criminal charges

A common mix-up is equating a wrongful death claim with criminal proceedings. A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit where a family seeks financial compensation. Criminal charges on the other hand involve the state prosecuting an individual for a crime. These two legal processes are distinct and have different burdens of proof.

Seeking legal support

Losing a loved one is never easy, but knowing the truth about wrongful death claims can be crucial. With proper legal guidance, families can pursue justice and get the compensation they deserve.  ]]> On Behalf of Law Firm of Roberto L. Sanchez <![CDATA[Errores comunes sobre las demandas por muerte por negligencia]]> https://www.rlsanchezlaw.com/?p=47650 2025-08-26T22:49:53Z 2025-08-26T22:48:57Z Las demandas por muerte por negligencia pueden ser un tema complicado y confuso para muchas personas. A menudo, hay malentendidos sobre quién puede presentar una demanda, qué tipos de daños se pueden reclamar y la importancia de preservar la evidencia. Veamos a continuación, algunos de estos errores. 

Cualquier familiar puede demandar

Uno de los errores más frecuentes es pensar que cualquier familiar puede presentar una demanda por muerte por negligencia. En realidad, la ley suele limitar quién puede iniciar este tipo de acción legal (enlace en inglés). Generalmente, solo el representante personal del patrimonio del fallecido tiene derecho a presentar la demanda.  Este representante puede ser el cónyuge sobreviviente, un hijo adulto o incluso alguien designado por el tribunal. Es importante entender que no todos los familiares tienen automáticamente el derecho de iniciar una acción legal en estos casos.

Sólo se puede demandar por gastos médicos y funerarios

Otro creencia falsa es que las demandas por muerte por negligencia solo buscan compensación por gastos médicos y funerarios. Si bien estos costos son parte importante de la demanda, existen otros tipos de daños que se pueden reclamar.  Las indemnizaciones pueden incluir la pérdida de ingresos futuros que el fallecido habría ganado, la pérdida de apoyo emocional y compañía para los familiares sobrevivientes, e incluso el dolor y sufrimiento que la víctima experimentó antes de morir. Comprender la gama completa de daños posibles es crucial para buscar una compensación justa.

No es tan importante preservar la evidencia

Muchas personas no se dan cuenta de lo crucial que es preservar la evidencia en casos de muerte por negligencia. Desde fotografías de la escena del accidente hasta registros médicos y testimonios de testigos, cada pieza de evidencia puede ser vital para construir un caso sólido.  Desafortunadamente, la evidencia puede desaparecer o deteriorarse rápidamente si no se toman medidas para preservarla. Este es uno de los motivos por los que es aconsejable buscar ayuda legal lo antes posible después del incidente.

No se necesita ayuda legal

Los casos de muerte por negligencia son complejos, especialmente cuando se está lidiando con el dolor de la pérdida. Requieren una investigación exhaustiva para establecer responsabilidad, causalidad y daños, enfrentando cuestiones legales y probatorias como la negligencia comparativa y la necesidad de expertos. La carga de la prueba recae en el demandante, y las leyes varían según la jurisdicción, lo que añade complejidad. Un abogado de muerte por negligencia puede proporcionar orientación invaluable, ayudando a evitar errores costosos y asegurando que se protejan los derechos de la familia. Además, un profesional legal puede manejar las complejidades del caso, permitiendo que la familia se enfoque en su proceso de duelo y recuperación.]]> On Behalf of Law Firm of Roberto L. Sanchez <![CDATA[Why you shouldn’t delay medical treatment after a truck accident]]> https://www.rlsanchezlaw.com/?p=47634 2025-07-22T09:10:43Z 2025-07-22T09:08:41Z A headache could be something more serious You may feel fine after an accident, but injuries like whiplash, concussions or internal bleeding often do not show symptoms right away. Even if the pain is not severe, it may still be best to have a check-up. Early diagnosis allows you to start treatment before problems get worse. Ignoring minor symptoms of major injuries might lead to long-term health issues that are harder and more expensive to treat.

Creates a paper trail for medical records

You must seek medical attention right after your accident to create a detailed record of your injuries. Medical records are critical evidence in any personal injury claim. If you wait to see a doctor, the insurance company might argue that your injuries did not happen in the crash or that they are less serious. Timely treatment helps you prove your injuries and protects your rights.

Supports your legal claim

When you delay medical care, you weaken your legal position. Texas law allows you to seek compensation after a car or truck accident, but you need to show a clear connection between the crash and your injuries. A gap in treatment gives the other side a chance to challenge your claim. Quick medical attention strengthens your case and supports your recovery.

Delaying treatment could hurt your recovery and claim

When you put off seeing a doctor, you risk your health and make your legal claim more difficult. The sooner you get help, the better your chances for a full recovery. A legal professional can guide you through the next steps, help gather your medical records and fight for the compensation you deserve.]]>