What Is a “Gap in Treatment” After a Car Wreck—and Why It Can Harm Your Case
When you’re injured in a car accident, every decision you make afterward can impact the strength of your personal injury claim. One of the most common—and damaging—mistakes people make is allowing a gap in treatment. But what exactly does that mean, and why is it such a big deal?
What Is a Gap in Treatment?
A gap in treatment refers to any significant delay or pause between the time of the accident and when you first seek medical attention—or any breaks in your ongoing medical care. This could look like:
Not going to the ER or urgent care the same day as the wreck
Waiting days or even weeks before seeing a doctor
Skipping follow-up appointments or recommended therapy sessions
Discontinuing treatment before being medically cleared
Why Is a Gap in Treatment Bad for Your Case?
When it comes to personal injury claims, documentation is everything. Insurance companies—and if necessary, juries—need clear, consistent medical records to connect your injuries directly to the wreck. A gap in treatment gives them an opportunity to argue that:
Your injuries weren’t serious
You may have recovered quickly and therefore don’t need compensation
Your injuries may have happened after the wreck, not because of it
In other words, even if you’re truly injured, a delay in seeking care could be used to devalue or deny your claim.
Why People Delay Treatment
It’s not uncommon for people to feel “fine” immediately after a car crash, only to experience pain, stiffness, or other symptoms hours or days later. Adrenaline can mask injuries. Others delay treatment because they’re busy, don’t think they’re seriously hurt, or are worried about medical bills.
But here’s the hard truth: if you’re injured and don’t get checked out right away, you’re not only risking your health—you’re risking your right to fair compensation.
Why You Should Call Queener Law Immediately
At Queener Law, we understand how overwhelming things can feel after a wreck. That’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from making sure you get proper medical care to dealing with insurance companies on your behalf.
When you contact Queener Law immediately after a car wreck:
We help you avoid critical mistakes like gaps in treatment
We ensure your injuries are properly documented from Day One
We fight to protect your rights and maximize your compensation
Your health and your case are too important to gamble with. The sooner you act, the better your outcome—both physically and financially.
Don’t wait. Contact Queener Law today. Let us fight for the care and compensation you deserve.
🎶 Master Musicians Music Festival GIVEAWAY TIME! 🎶
Queener Law is thrilled to support local music events and community spirit by giving YOU the chance to experience one of Kentucky’s BEST music festivals! We’re giving away 3 WEEKEND PASSES FOR TWO to the Master Musicians Festival in Somerset, KY!
Here’s how to enter:
Complete the form below between now and June 30th, 2024. Three people will be chosen and announced on July 1st.
Each winner will receive 2 weekend passes to enjoy a whole weekend of incredible live music, food, and fun!
Festival Dates: July 11th – 12th, 2025
Winners will be announced on July 1st– stay tuned! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook
Tickets must be picked up at our office: 99 Ohio Street, Somerset, KY 42501
Don’t miss your chance to dance the weekend away at Master Musicians Festival 2025 – courtesy of Queener Law!
About Queener Law
With a legacy spanning over 30 years, Queener Law has been a steadfast advocate for accident victims and consumer rights. Operating from offices in Tennessee and Kentucky, Queener Law has established itself as one of the most successful personal injury and consumer advocacy law firms in the southeast. With a national presence in Denver, Colorado, Queener Law specializes in various practices, from product liability and personal injury to aviation accidents. Our track record of success has led to millions recovered for clients and a team of attorneys and paralegals known for their innovation and experience. Visit Queener Law to discover more about our services.
Is It Legal to Sleep in Your Car in Tennessee? A Legal Overview
If you’re considering sleeping in your car in Tennessee due to travel fatigue, financial constraints, or other reasons, it’s essential to understand the state’s laws and local ordinances to avoid potential legal issues.
Statewide Restrictions
Rest Areas: Tennessee enforces a strict 3-hour maximum stay at rest areas along highways. Overnight parking or camping is prohibited, including activities like setting up tents or using sleeping bags outside your vehicle.
Unlawful Camping: State law prohibits camping on highway shoulders, under bridges, or in underpasses. “Camping” includes sleeping outside your vehicle or preparing to do so.
Local Ordinances
City Regulations: Cities like Nashville and Memphis have ordinances that restrict or prohibit sleeping in vehicles on public or private property. Violations can lead to citations for loitering or trespassing.
Private Property: Some 24-hour businesses, such as certain Walmart stores and truck stops, may allow overnight parking. However, it’s essential to seek permission from management and ensure compliance with local laws.
DUI Consideration
Even if you’re not driving, sleeping in your car while intoxicated can lead to a DUI charge in Tennessee.The law considers you to be in “physical control” of the vehicle if you have the keys in your possession, regardless of whether the engine is running.
Tips for Safe Car Sleeping
Seek Permission: Contact local churches, shelters, or nonprofit organizations to inquire about safe parking programs.
Use Designated Areas: Opt for established campgrounds or RV parks that permit overnight stays.
Stay Informed: Always check local ordinances and seek permission from property owners before parking overnight.
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contacting Queener Law is a crucial first step in protecting your rights. Our experienced personal injury attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an injury can take, and we’re here to help you navigate the legal process with clarity and confidence. At Queener Law, we fight to secure the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life. Don’t wait—your recovery starts with the right legal team by your side.
Should You Buy Rental Car Insurance? Pros and Cons Explained
Renting a car can be a convenient way to travel, whether you’re on vacation, on a business trip, or your vehicle is temporarily out of commission. But right before you drive off the lot, you’re faced with a familiar question at the rental counter: Do you want to purchase insurance with that?
If you’ve ever hesitated or felt unsure, you’re not alone. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of buying rental car insurance to help you make a confident decision the next time you rent.
The Pros of Buying Rental Car Insurance
1. Peace of Mind
One of the biggest advantages is the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re covered. If anything goes wrong — from a fender bender to theft — you won’t have to deal with your personal auto insurance or pay out-of-pocket.
2. Protects Your Personal Insurance
If you use your personal auto insurance for a rental, any claims can impact your rates. Rental insurance helps you avoid filing through your own policy, preserving your premium and avoiding deductible payments.
3. Additional Coverage
Rental insurance often includes extras not covered by personal insurance, like loss-of-use fees (charges for the time the rental is out of commission), administrative fees, and roadside assistance.
4. Simpler Claims Process
With rental insurance, the rental company typically handles claims directly. This can be much faster and less stressful than going through your personal insurance provider.
The Cons of Buying Rental Car Insurance
1. It Can Be Expensive
Rental car insurance can add $10–$30 or more per day to your rental costs. If you’re renting for several days or weeks, that adds up fast.
2. You May Already Be Covered
Many drivers already have sufficient coverage through their personal auto insurance, credit cards, or travel insurance. Paying for duplicate coverage is essentially throwing money away.
3. Confusing Terms
Rental companies often offer multiple types of coverage (collision damage waiver, liability, personal accident insurance, etc.), and it can be unclear what’s necessary or redundant — especially under pressure at the counter.
4. Coverage May Still Have Gaps
Even with rental insurance, you might not be fully protected. For instance, some policies don’t cover damage to tires, the undercarriage, or windshield — all of which are common damage points.
So, Should You Buy It?
It depends. Ask yourself the following:
Does my personal car insurance cover rentals?
Does my credit card offer rental car insurance?
Am I traveling internationally, where my coverage might not apply?
Do I want to avoid the hassle of filing claims?
Consumer Reports suggests “before you get to the rental counter, find out exactly what your credit card and personal auto insurance protect you against, paying special attention to the common coverage gaps and special circumstances.”
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contacting Queener Law is a crucial first step in protecting your rights. Our experienced personal injury attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an injury can take, and we’re here to help you navigate the legal process with clarity and confidence. At Queener Law, we fight to secure the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life. Don’t wait—your recovery starts with the right legal team by your side.
Car Wrecks with Defective Airbags: A Silent Threat on the Road
Car accidents are devastating enough, but when a vehicle’s safety features fail, the consequences can be even more catastrophic. One of the most alarming defects in modern vehicles involves faulty airbags. These devices are designed to save lives but can cause serious injuries or even fatalities when defective.
The Role of Airbags in Vehicle Safety
Airbags are a crucial part of a car’s safety system. They are designed to deploy within milliseconds of a collision to protect passengers from direct impact. Since their widespread adoption, airbags have significantly reduced the severity of injuries in car crashes. However, when they fail to deploy or deploy improperly, they can become deadly hazards instead of lifesaving devices.
Common Defects in Airbags
Defective airbags can malfunction in several ways:
Failure to Deploy: In some cases, airbags do not deploy, leaving occupants unprotected.
Unexpected Deployment: Airbags that deploy without a collision can startle drivers and lead to accidents.
Overly Forceful Deployment: Some airbags deploy excessively, causing serious injuries instead of cushioning impact.
Shrapnel Ejection: Perhaps the most infamous defect, some airbags explode upon deployment, sending metal fragments into the vehicle’s occupants. This was a significant issue with Takata airbags, leading to one of history’s largest auto recalls.
Notable Cases and Recalls
One of the most infamous airbag defects involved Takata Corporation. The company’s airbags were found to have a design flaw that could cause them to explode upon deployment. The defect was linked to multiple fatalities and severe injuries, prompting a massive global recall affecting millions of vehicles. Automakers such as Honda, Toyota, and Ford were forced to recall vehicles equipped with Takata airbags, and many consumers were left driving cars with potentially deadly safety equipment.
Legal and Financial Consequences
The aftermath of accidents involving defective airbags can be legally complex. Car manufacturers and airbag suppliers have been sued for negligence in designing and producing these faulty components. Many victims have sought compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress resulting from accidents caused by or worsened by defective airbags.
What to Do If You Have a Defective Airbag
If you suspect your vehicle has a defective airbag, take these steps:
Check for Recalls: Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and enter your vehicle’s VIN to see if it is subject to any recalls.
Contact Your Dealer: If a recall applies, schedule a repair immediately. Automakers typically offer free replacements for recalled airbags.
Exercise Caution: If your vehicle is under recall but awaiting repair, consider alternative transportation or discuss temporary solutions with the manufacturer.
Seek Legal Advice: If you or a loved one has been injured due to a defective airbag, consult an attorney specializing in product liability cases to understand your rights and options.
Contact Queener Law
Airbags are meant to be the last line of defense in an accident, but when they are defective, they can turn a survivable crash into a fatal one. Staying informed about recalls and taking proactive steps to address airbag defects can help prevent unnecessary tragedies on the road. If you or someone you know has been affected by a defective airbag, seeking legal and financial recourse is crucial to ensure accountability and justice. Attorney Henry Queener has litigated several cases involving faulty airbags. Contact Queener Law about your potential airbag claim by calling us directly at 606-451-0053, or you can write to us with the details of your accident by using our free contact form.
Understanding your Traffic Crash Report or police report after a car accident can be confusing. However, it’s essential to comprehend your accident report and ensure its accuracy, as insurance companies will use it to determine compensation for your accident.
If you were in a truck accident, the trucking company will likewise look at the accident report as part of their response to the accident. Moreover, if the investigating officer is called to testify in a deposition or at trial, their testimony will likely be based on the report.
Here are some key components to pay attention to:
Accident Details: Look for specifics on how the accident occurred, including diagrams or sketches if available.
Contact Information: Ensure that all involved parties and witnesses’ names, addresses, and contact information are accurate.
Injuries and Damages: The report should outline any injuries sustained and the damages to vehicles involved.
Citations and Violations: Check for any traffic citations issued and details about the circumstances leading to such violations.
Witness Accounts: Witness statements can provide additional context to the events.
Officer’s Narrative: The officer’s interpretation of the incident can influence the outcome, so it’s vital to reflect the situation accurately.
Insurance Information: Note the insurance details entered in the report that are necessary for claims processing.
Contact Queener Law and schedule a no-cost consultation with our law firm to get assistance if you have questions about your police report. Call (606)451-0053.
