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APRIL 2025
Legally Brief W ith K evin P atrick Automobile accidents | Daycare injuries | wrongful death
2 Callings, 1 Heart Take Our Daughters & Sons to Work Day
When I think about my life, two callings define me — being a father and being an attorney. Both are deeply personal, requiring not just skill but heart. One is about raising two incredible kids, my 9-year-old son and 6-year-old daughter, and guiding them to grow into the people they’re meant to be. The other is about standing beside people during the hardest moments of their lives, fighting for justice when they need it most. And the truth is, I don’t separate these roles. Whether I’m at home or the firm, my approach remains the same: I show up with authenticity, compassion, and a willingness to listen. That’s why Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day in April feels like more than just a date on the calendar to me. It’s an opportunity to show my kids what I do and why it matters. But in a way, they’ve already seen it. There have been many late nights at the firm when my son and daughter have come by, sometimes because they want to see me, sometimes because my wife knows a break is in order. They run through the office and grab candy at the front desk reception area, giggling as they spin in my chair. They also see me in my element, not just behind a desk or in front of a courtroom, but sitting across from real people who need help. Unlike other areas of law, where cases can feel distant and corporate, personal injury law is deeply human. My clients aren’t faceless entities or big businesses. They’re people, often referred by friends or family, who have never needed a lawyer before and certainly never expected to need one. When they walk through my office doors, they’re often in pain and looking for someone to guide them through what comes next. That’s not something I take lightly. And while my kids may be too young to fully grasp the complexities of the legal system, I hope they see what really matters — helping others and standing up for people when they need it most. I never want to pressure them into law just because it’s what I do, but I do hope they understand the importance of what I fight for. What matters to me is that they grow up knowing that whatever they choose, it’s not just about the title or the paycheck but about being a good person to another person.
Even when I bring my work home, it’s not in the way people might think. My phone is silenced when I step through the door, and I’m not drafting briefs at the dinner table. But I do carry home something else — the stories of resilience. I tell my kids about the people I meet, not the legal battles, but the strength my clients show in the face of adversity. I hope those stories inspire them as much as they inspire me. And in the meantime, I don’t wish these years away. I don’t rush toward the future, wondering what careers my kids will choose or what paths they’ll take. Right now, I’m soaking up the moments — watching them raid the
office candy jar, hearing their laughter fill the office, and knowing that one day when they look back, they’ll remember the lessons that mattered most — not just about law, but about life.
This publication is for informational purposes only, and no legal advice is intended.
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Multi-Car Accidents Are Messy — Here’s How a Lawyer Can Help Car Pileups and Complex Claims With multiple drivers, conflicting stories, and various impact points, figuring out who is responsible for a multi-car accident requires careful investigation. Unlike two-car accidents, where liability is usually straightforward, multi- vehicle crashes often result in a chain reaction, making it difficult to determine who is truly at fault. THE ROLE OF EVIDENCE IN ESTABLISHING FAULT. One of the first steps we take in assessing liability is reviewing the police report. Law enforcement officers at the scene document their observations, statements from drivers and witnesses, and any citations issued. This report can provide crucial insight into how the crash unfolded. However, we must go beyond the report. Examining photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and tire marks can help reconstruct how the crash started and who contributed to it. CHAIN REACTIONS IN MULTI-CAR CRASHES. Most multi-vehicle accidents begin as a chain reaction, but determining who is at fault isn’t always as simple as blaming the first driver. Factors like distracted driving, speeding, or failure to maintain a safe following distance all play a role. Insurance companies ultimately require liability to add up to 100%. This means that fault may be divided among multiple drivers — sometimes as a 50/50 split or a 60/40 distribution. Each insurance company will assess the accident based on available evidence, but negotiations can be difficult when multiple parties are involved, and everyone is pointing fingers. PROTECT YOURSELF AFTER A MULTI-CAR ACCIDENT. If you’re involved in a multi-vehicle accident, taking the proper steps can protect your claim: • Speak to the police: Give an accurate statement, but avoid admitting fault, even casually. • Seek medical attention: Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately. A medical evaluation ensures your injuries are documented. • Notify your insurance company: Report the accident, but stick to the facts and avoid speculation about fault. Insurers often try to minimize payouts. • Consult an attorney: Our team can help gather evidence, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure you receive fair compensation. WHY LEGAL REPRESENTATION MATTERS. When liability is unclear or disputed, an experienced attorney can be the difference between a successful claim and a denied one. If you’ve been involved in a multi-car accident, don’t leave your case to chance — consult our team today to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Tips for Traveling With Your Crew Family Road Trips Done Right A family road trip is a great way to make memories with the people you love. But along with all the adventure, you can expect challenges. What’s the key to making the journey as pleasurable as the destination? Preparation. A little planning will go a long way toward making your road trip easy, fun, and memorable — in a good way. CHECKING FOR VEHICLE SAFETY Your trip’s safety depends on your car’s safety, so a thorough vehicle inspection is essential. This includes checking tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels. A professional assessment can provide added peace of mind if your car hasn’t been to the mechanic recently. And don’t forget the emergency kit. At a minimum, you need a spare tire, jumper cables, first-aid supplies, and basic tools. PACKING ESSENTIALS Road trips can quickly head south (figuratively!) without the necessities. Packing healthy snacks and plenty of water will keep everyone hydrated and satisfied between meal breaks. Bringing pillows, blankets, and loose- fitting clothing will ensure comfort on long drives. And don’t forget the entertainment. Create playlists to cut down on disputes over the radio, and bring audiobooks and travel games for when you need a break from the music. PLANNING THE ROUTE GPS devices and smartphone apps make modern travel a breeze with real- time directions and traffic updates. However, some areas of the country have poor cell service. Downloading your route before your trip can avoid the headache of spotty internet service. It’s also wise to bookmark any stops you plan to make. This includes roadside attractions and rest areas for restrooms and meal breaks. SETTING THE GROUND RULES Families often forget to review their rules for car travel. Setting expectations early on can make all the difference. Start by establishing rules for in-car behavior — no screaming, arguing, or distracting the driver. Then, to make it easier to maintain the peace, involve the kids in creating a list of car-friendly activities. Consider implementing a rotation system for seating, snack selection, and playlist control to help keep things under control. While you likely have a destination goal, road trips are just as much about the time you spend getting there. By following a few tips, you can have a great family adventure.
You can always reach Kevin directly at 404.566.8964 or Kevin@PatrickTrialLaw.com. (If you ever need it, his cellphone is 404.409.3160.)
2 • KEVINPATRICK.LAW I 404.566.5880
HOLDING TRUCKING COMPANIES ACCOUNTABLE FOR CARGO-RELATED ACCIDENTS The Dangers of Unsecured Cargo on Highways
HOW TO STAY SAFE AROUND LARGE TRUCKS. While truck drivers and companies are responsible for securing cargo, you can take precautions to protect yourself on the road:
Large trucks are essential for transporting goods across the country, but when cargo isn’t properly secured, it can lead to devastating accidents. According to the National Safety Council, 5,936 people lost their lives in large-truck crashes in 2022 — a staggering 49% increase over the last decade. Many of these accidents involve cargo falling off trucks, creating dangerous road hazards that put innocent drivers at risk. WHY DO CARGO-RELATED TRUCK ACCIDENTS HAPPEN? Cargo shifts can occur when a truck drives over bumps, makes sudden stops, or takes turns too fast. If the cargo is not properly secured, it can spill onto the roadway, causing drivers to swerve or crash to avoid debris. Gravel trucks are notorious for cracking windshields and kicking up hazardous debris. Large, unsecured items — such as lumber, furniture, or construction materials — can cause catastrophic accidents if they land in traffic.
Regulations require all cargo be properly secured before a truck hits the road. If a trucking company or driver fails to follow these safety measures, they can be held responsible for any damage caused by their negligence.
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Keep a safe distance behind trucks to avoid flying debris if cargo shifts unexpectedly. Avoid driving next to gravel or dump trucks that may drop loose materials. Be extra cautious when passing large trucks. If you see straps or tarps that look loose, give the truck plenty of space.
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HAVE YOU BEEN INJURED BY LOST CARGO? YOU HAVE OPTIONS. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by falling cargo, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, vehicle damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The Kevin Patrick Law team can help determine liability and fight for your rights to compensation.
Don’t face the aftermath of a truck accident alone. Contact us today for a free consultation.
When a truck loses its load and causes a wreck, the trucking company is typically liable.
Inspired by FoodNetwork.com
TAKE A BREAK
Classic Fish Fry
We’re in the middle of Lent, so there’s no better time to host your own fish fry for your loved ones!
Ingredients •
Vegetable oil 2 lbs fresh cod
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2 tbsp water
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2 cups plain bread crumbs 1/2 tsp mustard powder 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup all-purpose unbleached flour
2 large eggs
Lemon wedges
Directions 1. Pour 2 inches of vegetable oil into a large skillet over medium-high heat. 2. Cut cod into 4 servings and season with salt and pepper. 3. Place flour into a pie tin. Whisk egg and water in a second pie tin. Combine bread crumbs, mustard powder, and cayenne in a third pie tin. 4. Coat your fish in the flour tin, then the egg tin, then the bread crumb tin. 5. Set coated fish in hot oil and fry for 5 minutes on each side. 6. Serve with lemon wedges and enjoy!
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KEVINPATRICK.LAW I 404.566.5880 • 3
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
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Inside This Issue
1
Lessons From the Office Kevin Hopes His Kids Carry for Life
2
Family Road Trip Hacks You’ll Love
Untangling Liability in Multi-Car Accidents
3 What Every Driver Needs to Know About Trucks and Falling Cargo
Classic Fish Fry
Follow Us @KPatricklaw
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Mastering the Art of Nature Photography
Capture Nature’s Beauty Like a Pro
Quick Tips for Better Outdoor Photos
Nature photography offers a great way to get outside and capture the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re new to this hobby or have been snapping photos for years, you can always enhance your skills with these four tips for producing compelling outdoor photos. PLAN AHEAD Before heading outside with your camera and other gear, research your chosen location and the subject you aim to photograph. Understanding the local wildlife, plant life, and weather conditions can inform your equipment selection. Timing is also key. Early morning and late afternoon, known as the “golden hours,” offer soft, diffused light that enhances natural scenes. MASTER YOUR EQUIPMENT Be sure to familiarize yourself with your camera’s settings. Some of the most important include aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, which control exposure and depth of field. For instance, a wide
aperture (low f-stop) can help create a shallow depth of field and isolate your subject from the background, which is particularly effective for wildlife photography. Conversely, a narrow aperture (high f-stop) is ideal for landscape shots because it increases the depth of field and helps keep more of the scene in focus. CONSIDER COMPOSITION In photography, composition is key. When taking nature photographs, apply compositional rules such as the rule of thirds (placing subjects off-center), leading lines (guiding the eye with pathways or rivers), and framing (using natural elements to highlight the subject). Experimenting with different perspectives and angles can also add depth to your photos. BE RESPECTFUL Whenever you’re out in the field, respect the environment by following local guidelines, maintaining a safe distance from wildlife, and
minimizing your impact on natural habitats. Always stay on designated paths and never remove any natural objects. Following a few simple rules protects wildlife and the landscape and maintains the integrity of your photography. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to enjoy the outdoors while capturing images that reflect the beauty of the natural world.
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