Overview of the Stewart J. Guss Firm

overview

Distracted Driving, Speeding, and Drunk Driving: 3 Leading Causes of Car Crashes and How Our Laredo Car Accident Lawyers Will Prove Liability

Laredo's roads are plagued by dangerous driving behaviors, with distracted driving, speeding, and drunk driving ranking among the top causes of devastating car accidents. Whether a driver is texting, exceeding the speed limit, or operating a vehicle under the influence, these reckless actions put countless lives at risk. At Trust Guss Injury Lawyers, our Laredo car accident attorneys are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable based on irrefutable evidence to prove liability and recover maximum compensation for our clients.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is one of the most prevalent dangers on Laredo’s roads, contributing to a significant number of collisions each year. Modern technology has made it easier than ever for drivers to become preoccupied while behind the wheel—whether by texting, using social media, adjusting GPS settings, or engaging in other distractions. Studies have shown that taking your eyes off the road for even five seconds at highway speeds is equivalent to driving the length of a football field blindfolded.

To prove liability in a distracted driving accident, our legal team will collect critical evidence, including:

  • Cell Phone Records: We obtain call logs, text messages, and app usage data to determine if the driver was engaged in phone activity at the time of the crash. A detailed analysis of these records can establish whether the driver was texting, scrolling social media, or taking a call when the accident occurred.
  • Surveillance Footage: Traffic and security cameras may capture footage showing the driver looking away from the road before impact. This visual evidence can be instrumental in proving negligence.
  • Eyewitness Testimony: Passengers, nearby drivers, pedestrians, and bystanders can provide statements confirming that the at-fault driver was visibly distracted before the crash.
  • Police Reports: Law enforcement officers often note signs of distraction in their official reports, such as the absence of skid marks (indicating a failure to brake), erratic driving behavior, or admissions from the at-fault driver.

Speeding

Speeding remains one of the leading causes of severe and fatal crashes in Laredo, particularly on major highways like I-35 and Loop 20, where excessive speed contributes to reduced reaction time and greater impact force in collisions. Studies show that the risk of fatal injury doubles for every 10 mph increase in speed over 50 mph. Drivers who speed often underestimate their inability to stop or maneuver safely, increasing the risk of multi-vehicle crashes and rollovers.

To establish speeding as a factor in an accident, we will obtain:

  • Black Box Data: Many modern vehicles have event data recorders (EDRs) that capture key metrics such as speed, braking, and acceleration just before impact. This data provides an objective record of the at-fault driver’s actions leading up to the crash.
  • Accident Reconstruction Reports: Our forensic experts analyze skid marks, impact points, and vehicle damage to estimate the speed at the time of the collision. This scientific approach strengthens liability claims.
  • Traffic Camera Footage: If available, footage from red-light cameras, highway surveillance, or nearby business security cameras can show the driver exceeding the speed limit, weaving through traffic, or engaging in reckless driving behavior.
  • Witness Statements: Other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians may have observed the at-fault driver speeding or engaging in aggressive driving prior to the crash. Their statements add valuable corroboration to the case.

Drunk Driving

Despite strict laws and public awareness campaigns, drunk driving continues to be a major cause of catastrophic accidents in Laredo. Impaired drivers exhibit slower reaction times, poor judgment, and impaired motor skills, making them a danger to everyone on the road. Alcohol-related crashes are usually the most devastating, leading to serious injuries or fatalities. Studies show that even a small amount of alcohol can impair a driver's ability to react effectively to road hazards.

To hold intoxicated drivers accountable, our Laredo car accident lawyers will obtain:

  • Breathalyzer and Blood Test Results: We obtain the at-fault driver’s BAC (blood alcohol content) results from police reports to confirm legal intoxication levels. This is crucial evidence in proving impairment.
  • Field Sobriety Test Records: If the driver failed a field sobriety test, we use this evidence to demonstrate physical and cognitive impairment at the time of the crash.
  • Bar and Restaurant Records: If the intoxicated driver was overserved at a bar, restaurant, or other establishment before getting behind the wheel, we investigate potential dram shop liability to hold the business accountable.
  • Dashcam and Surveillance Footage: Video footage from law enforcement, nearby businesses, or even other vehicles can capture erratic driving behavior before the crash, such as swerving, delayed braking, or running red lights.

At Trust Guss Injury Lawyers, we aggressively investigate every car accident case to uncover critical evidence that proves negligence. Our Laredo car accident attorneys have the experience, resources, and determination to take on insurance companies and ensure our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving, speeding, or drunk driving accident, don’t wait—contact our legal team today for a free consultation.

Treating Your Car Accident Claim Like a Trial Case Makes It Valuable: How Our Laredo Car Crash Attorneys Will Maximize Your Settlement

The outcome of your car accident case depends on how it is handled from the outset. Insurance companies are not in the business of paying claims fairly; their goal is to limit liability and protect their profits. If your case is treated as a routine insurance claim, the insurer will attempt to settle for the lowest possible amount—typically before you fully understand the extent of your injuries and damages. On the other hand, when your case is built as if it is heading to trial, the insurance company recognizes the risk of litigation and is forced to take your claim seriously. At Trust Guss Injury Lawyers, we handle every car accident case in Laredo as if it will be presented before a jury, ensuring that you are positioned for maximum compensation.

Building a Trial-Ready Case from Day One

The strength of your case begins with a thorough investigation. From the moment we take on your claim, we initiate the process of collecting and preserving critical evidence that proves fault, liability, and the full extent of your damages. This includes:

  • Accident scene photos, surveillance footage, and forensic evidence, which can be essential in reconstructing the crash and proving negligence
  • Witness statements, including expert testimony from accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and financial analysts to support your claim
  • Comprehensive medical records that document the severity of your injuries, the treatments required, and the long-term impact on your health and livelihood
  • Financial documentation, such as lost wages, diminished earning capacity, and future medical expenses, to establish the full scope of your economic losses

Without proper legal representation, valuable evidence may be lost, and crucial witnesses may forget key details or become unavailable. By treating every case as a potential trial case, we ensure that no stone is left unturned in securing the strongest possible position for negotiations.

Refusal to Accept Lowball Offers

Insurance companies are trained to make early settlement offers that fail to account for the full impact of an injury. Victims who accept these offers often find themselves unable to cover medical bills, lost wages, and future rehabilitative care. At Trust Guss Injury Lawyers, we counter these tactics by:

  • Conducting a thorough damages assessment that accounts for both economic and non-economic losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life
  • Working with medical and financial experts to quantify future medical expenses and ongoing care needs, ensuring that settlement offers reflect the true cost of your injuries
  • Analyzing past jury verdicts and settlements in similar cases to establish a benchmark for what your claim is worth, which prevents insurers from undervaluing your case

Insurance companies recognize when they are dealing with experienced trial attorneys who will not be intimidated into accepting an inadequate settlement. By demonstrating a readiness to go to trial, we force insurers to negotiate in good faith.

Leveraging Our Trial Experience to Force Insurance Companies to Pay Up

Trust Guss Injury Lawyers has a track record of success in handling high-stakes car accident cases, with over 30 years of experience and more than 58,000 clients represented nationwide. We understand the tactics insurance companies use to limit payouts, and we have the resources to counter them effectively.

If an insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, we will take the case to trial, where we present compelling evidence, expert testimony, and strategic legal arguments to hold the at-fault party accountable. Our firm’s litigation strategy includes:

  • Filing motions to compel evidence if an insurance company withholds crucial information that could impact your case
  • Using depositions and sworn testimony to expose contradictions or inconsistencies in the defense’s narrative
  • Presenting clear, persuasive arguments to a jury that demonstrate the extent of your suffering and the financial burden caused by the accident

Because insurance companies know our reputation and ability to take cases to trial, they are generally more willing to offer a substantial settlement rather than risk an unfavorable verdict in court.

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Get Strong Legal Representation from Our Laredo Car Accident Lawyers

The way your car accident case is handled determines its value. If you allow the insurance company to control the process, you risk receiving far less compensation than you are entitled to. At Trust Guss Injury Lawyers, we prepare every claim as if it will go to trial, ensuring that insurers take your case seriously and are compelled to offer a fair settlement in most cases.

If you have been injured in a car crash, it is time to get our skilled and battle-ready Laredo car accident attorneys on your side. We do not get paid unless you achieve financial compensation. To schedule your free consultation, call us 24/7 at 888-298-4070 or contact us online.

Testimonials

They are not too pushy but provide you with the information to make an informed decision.

Heka

Guss, has a phenomenal Team and has hired great staff that is very caring! They are not too pushy but provide you with the information to make an informed decision. They are also really resourceful! Some of the staff have had real experiences that happened to them and were also taken great care of which prompted them to begin working for such a great law firm. Thank you Guss and Associates.

Stewart J. Guss and his team did an outstanding job handling my case.

James

From start to finish, they were professional, attentive, and incredibly effective. I was thrilled with the results – they secured a settlement that was twice what I expected! Their expertise and dedication truly set them apart. I highly recommend Stewart J. Guss for anyone in need of top-notch legal representation.

Mr. Stewart Guss is such a kind and caring attorney.

Ben

Mr. Stewart Guss is such a kind and caring attorney. In a world of attorneys that is very difficult to maneuver these days he stands out from the crowd not only for his expertise but for his integrity. Should you need a personal injury attorney to help you with a case do not hesitate; Run and get his help. You won’t regret it!!

I had the best experience with this firm. I have never gotten in an accident, so I didn’t know the process or what to expect at all.

Sabrina

I worked with Whitney and Kristen and they explained everything thoroughly from start to finish. They were always prompt in responding to any questions or concerns I had, and always kept me updated. My sister had also used them and I didn’t even know, but they said they liked working with them so that put me at ease. They honestly made a really great impression on me. And I would definite...

I recommend Mr. Guss to anyone who seeks hard-working staff.

Amanda

The law office of Stewart J Guss has very friendly staff, and is always accurate and reliable.  They got me what I deserved and was fast and on point with the whole case. They keep you up-to-date with your case and return any calls you place to them in a timely manner.  They answer your questions and concerns appropriately for all parties involved.  I recommend Mr. Guss to anyone...

I made the right decision to choose Stewart J Guss law firm.

Khanh

I made the right decision to choose Stewart J Guss law firm. Especially thanks to Ms Andrea Yoss and Whitzney. They were professional and communicative. Though it took time longer than expected but it was finally settled well. I highly recommended the law firm to anyone whom need help with auto accident cases!

I was able to get the help I needed for an accident that wasn’t my fault.

Patricia

I had an accident where I was at a stop light and it was drizzling and a car was turning the corner where I was at and turned the corner to quickly and hit me right on. My boyfriend found Stewart Guss law firm and Isis started things quickly started on my medical had me go get checked and get assistance in my pain. Isis was very helpful and kind. She got me through all of the headaches and I re...

I knew immediately that I was going to need a lawyer as I was feeling pain right after the wreck.

Miguel

When I got in a car accident back in early 2018, I knew immediately that I was going to need a lawyer as I was feeling pain right after the wreck. After doing some google searching for a good personal injury lawyer I came across Stewart J. Guss’s site. I talked with someone about my case. They then proceeded to take on my case, and got me all the medical treatment(s) that I needed to try ...

The Law Office of Stewart Guss walked me through the whole process from the beginning until the end.

Kenia

Things are a lot different when you’re on the other end of a car accident, there’s a lot of overwhelming emotions as well as confusion on where to start. Thankfully the Law Office of Stewart Guss walked me through the whole process from the beginning until the end. I had a lot of questions on what to expect and I felt like all my worries and questions were taken care of. They really...

I would recommend Stewart J. Guss to anyone that has been injured in a car accident.

Jennifer

I found the law office of Stewart J. Guss from a Google search after being involved in an accident after someone hit me running a red light. Ashley was very helpful throughout the entire process. She quickly got me into treatment for my injuries and kept me updated throughout the process. I would recommend Stewart J. Guss to anyone that has been injured in a car accident.

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