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THE BRASHER
BULLETIN
October/November 2024
Beaumont Office (Main Office) 1122 Orleans St. Beaumont, TX 77701 (409) 832-3737 New Orleans Office 1555 Poydras Street Suite 1600 New Orleans, LA 70112 (504) 527-8291 Lake Charles Office 2201 Oak Park Blvd. Lake Charles, LA 70601 (337) 284-9998 Houston Office 1415 North Loop West Suite 1000 Houston, TX 77008 (713) 714-5014 Dallas Office 6160 Warren Parkway Suite 100 Frisco, TX 75034 (972) 928-0517
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A LEGAL MEDICAL COORDINATOR How I Manage Work, Education, and a Growing Family
When I first joined the Brasher Law Firm in May 2022, I had no idea I’d be stepping into a role that would allow me to blend my passion for helping others with my natural penchant for learning. As the Legal Medical Coordinator, my primary responsibility is managing all things medical for our clients — whether setting up their treatment, handling letters of protection (LOPs), or summarizing medical records. It’s a challenging role, but I can’t imagine anything more rewarding or perfectly right for me, especially with the incredible team we have here. The process typically begins when a client comes in after sustaining an injury of some sort due to either a car wreck, a slip-and-fall incident, or some other way they got injured. I work closely with Christina Correia, who handles our intake process, while I focus on coordinating their medical treatment. One of the most critical tasks I handle is sending out LOPs. For those unfamiliar, a letter of protection is an agreement between the patient and
documentation that our attorneys will use to help move their case along. It’s a comprehensive role that allows me to be involved in every stage of a clients’ case, which forges connections I truly hold dear. Balancing this work with my personal life, which includes four children and seven grandchildren spread across different states, isn’t always easy, but it certainly keeps me on my toes! My youngest son, now a Marine Corps corporal, is stationed in North Carolina, while my daughters are spread out across Utah, California, and Missouri. With a family all over, holidays like Thanksgiving become particularly special as we all come together, and everyone pitches in to help with the feast. When I’m not busy with work or family, I do my best to continue learning and keep my brain as sharp as ever. I’ve been slowly but steadily working toward my bachelor’s degree in professional studies through online courses at Brigham Young University-Idaho, with only four classes left to go. It’s a goal I’m proud of, and I take just one class per semester, which allows me to continue growing without feeling overwhelmed. When I’m not studying for my classes or at the firm, I’m probably sewing, making pajamas for my grandchildren, or even skeet shooting, a hobby I took up to support my son during his time in 4-H, which I still do today! As for the Brasher Law Firm, it genuinely feels like being part of a big family. We all care about each other, and that positive, supportive culture makes it a wonderful place to work. I’m thankful for the opportunity to be here, to help our clients through their most challenging times, and to continue growing both in my career and personal life. I look forward to completing my degree next year, but more than anything, I look forward to continuing to help our clients recover and move forward with their lives. –Jody Lane
their medical provider that defers payment of the medical bills until the end of the case, which is a lifeline for clients who might not have insurance or the financial means to pay upfront for their necessary medical treatments like MRIs, physical therapy, or even pain management procedures. While there is no guarantee on the outcome of the case, this at least gives our clients peace of mind that bill collectors will not be coming after them while the case is pending. Throughout their treatment, I keep in close contact with our clients, receiving updates on their progress and making recommendations of doctors they may consider seeing as needed. If a client feels that a specific treatment isn’t helping, I step in to find alternative solutions. When their treatment is complete, I collect all the necessary medical records, summarize them, and prepare the
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Score Big With Family-Friendly Touch Football Ready to tackle some family fun? Nothing beats a good old-fashioned game of touch football when the weather outside cools. It’s the perfect way to get everyone running, laughing, and scoring a few points — without needing to be a pro quarterback. So, grab some comfortable shoes, and let’s dive into the playbook for the MVP of family games! MAKE BALANCED TEAMS To get started, create two teams among your family, with at least two players on each team. While letting kids choose their teams is fine in most cases, remember that the more balanced the teams are, the more fun everyone will have. If you have an uneven number of players, you can follow an old playground rule and have one of the older players be the quarterback for both teams, ensuring everyone gets to play while the game remains balanced. Once you form teams, create the playing field by setting up small cones or beanbags to mark boundaries and end zones. FOLLOW THE RULES Before you start playing, ensure both teams agree on the rules. There are obvious ones, like where the end zones are, how many points a touchdown is worth, and how many downs each team has — either to get a touchdown or, space permitting, a first down. You also must determine what constitutes a player as “down” — when one or two hands touch the player with the ball, whether they need to be touched on the torso or anywhere, etc. You also have to decide if a team doesn’t score, whether the opposing team takes over from where the ball ended up, or whether each team has a set starting point for each drive. Once you prepare everything, it’s time to hit the field. You can determine which team gets the ball first with a game of rock-paper- scissors and play until one team reaches a predetermined score … or it’s time to go inside and enjoy a family meal. Remember, the best part of family touch football isn’t just the touchdowns — the laughter, teamwork, and fun make every play memorable. GET IN THE GAME
Understand Insurance Policies and Laws for Better Protection KNOW YOUR RIGHTS Most insurers bank on the fact that policyholders don’t understand every detail of their policy. The failure to grasp the full scope of your coverage and rights can lead to bad faith insurance practices. Educating yourself on your policy details and staying informed are Every insurance policy is a contract between the policyholder and the insurer, detailing the obligations and rights of both parties. It specifies what risks are covered, the limits of coverage, and the conditions under which claims are paid. These details can help policyholders ensure their claims are filed correctly and within the policy’s requirements. When you don’t know your policy completely, you’re more likely to face unwanted surprises down the line. For example, if a policyholder wrongly assumes their home insurance covers flood damage when it doesn’t, they may face unexpected financial difficulties after a downpour. HOW INSURERS TAKE ADVANTAGE Bad faith insurance practices can range from unreasonable delays in handling claims to outright denial of valid claims. Policyholders who are well-versed in their policy’s terms and the law are better equipped to recognize when an insurer may act in bad faith. This knowledge empowers you to take action, whether that means addressing the issue directly with the insurer or seeking legal guidance. Policyholders should take advantage of resources provided by insurers, such as policy guides and FAQs. Also, consulting with legal professionals who specialize in insurance law can provide insights into the complexities of policy agreements and help clarify any aspects that are difficult to understand. ALWAYS STAY INFORMED ON YOUR RIGHTS Staying informed about changes in insurance laws and regulations is equally vital. Regulatory changes can affect policy terms and policyholder rights, so keeping up to date is crucial for protecting yourself against potential breaches in your insurance agreement. Education is a powerful tool for policyholders. Understanding your insurance policy and staying informed about your legal rights are essential to protect you from potential bad faith practices by insurance companies and ensure you are fully aware of your coverage. Stay informed so you have the best chance of securing your rights and obtaining the full benefits your policies offer. crucial to safeguarding your rights. KNOW YOUR POLICY INSIDE OUT
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DENIED UM/UIM COVERAGE? Your Guide to Understanding and Contesting UM/UIM Claim Denials
The aftermath of a car accident is stressful, especially when dealing with uninsured or underinsured motorists. Understanding your rights under Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage is essential for ensuring you’re fairly compensated, even when the other party lacks adequate insurance. WHAT IS UM AND UIM COVERAGE? UM coverage is designed to protect drivers if they are involved in an accident with an at-fault driver who doesn’t have insurance. UIM coverage is for when the at-fault driver’s insurance can’t cover the damages that driver caused. Both types of coverage ensure you can receive compensation for injuries and losses without needing to depend solely on your standard coverage. Typically, UM and UIM coverage can be invoked for expenses such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and, in some cases, property damage. This coverage is part of your auto insurance policy if you choose to include it and is regulated by state laws.
STEPS TO TAKE IF YOUR CLAIM IS DENIED 1. Review Your Policy: Before taking any action, review your insurance policy to understand the specifics of your coverage. Knowing the details of your policy helps clarify if the denial is valid. 2. Gather Documentation: Compile all relevant documentation of the accident and your injuries. This includes medical records, police reports, communication with the insurance company, and other evidence supporting the claim that the other motorist was at fault. 3. Appeal the Decision: Most insurance policies offer a process for appealing a denied claim. This procedure should be outlined in your policy documentation. Following the steps provided can often lead to a reversal of the decision. 4. Consult an Attorney: If your appeal is unsuccessful or the insurer’s behavior suggests a pattern of unfair practices, it can be beneficial to consult with an attorney who specializes in bad faith insurance claims. An experienced lawyer can offer guidance on the legal options available to you, which may include filing a lawsuit against the insurance company for acting in bad faith. If you’re struggling with a denied claim, don’t navigate these complex issues alone. Contact our team today. We’re ready to review your case and provide the guidance you need to secure the compensation you deserve.
BREAK TAKE A
Exquisite Lemon Bars
Ingredients • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1/2 cup powdered sugar • 1 cup butter, softened • 4 large eggs • 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice • 2 tbsp grated lemon zest • 1/4 tsp baking powder • 1/4 tsp salt
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 F and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan. 2. In a medium bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar. 3. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press mixture into prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly browned. 5. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt. Pour over crust. 6. Bake for 25 minutes or until set. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
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1122 Orleans St. Beaumont, TX, 77701 (409) 832-3737 brasherattorney.com
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See How Jody Juggles Work, Family, and Learning How to Turn Your Backyard Into a Touchdown Zone Why Knowing Your Policy Protects You What to Do When Your Uninsured Motorist Coverage Is Denied Exquisite Lemon Bars Curb Your Cough: Discover the Soothing Power of Hot Tea
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QUELL YOUR COUGH WITH HOT TEA
The rattle of coughing is the soundtrack of winter, and about 1 in 5 adults suffer from coughs during the peak cold and flu season. While coughing can signify serious illness, sufferers need short-term relief more often. You should always ask a health care professional for advice when you are ill. But simpler, natural treatments for an irritating cough may be as close as your kitchen cupboard: A steaming cup of hot tea can soothe irritation in your throat and chest. As winter draws near, consider stocking your shelves with teas offering these therapeutic effects. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY PROPERTIES Licorice root, chamomile, elderberry, and green tea are all linked to reducing inflammation in airways. Licorice root also has anti-spasmodic properties that can help calm irritated tissues, and it is an ingredient in many leading tea brands, including Traditional Medicinals, Yogi, and Pukka. However, it’s best to consume
licorice root tea in moderation. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration deems licorice root safe, consuming large amounts can cause side effects, including high blood pressure. SOOTHING, LUBRICATING TEAS While mucilage may sound like the name of an old-fashioned glue, it is actually a viscous, gelatinous plant substance that soothes and moistens irritated tissues. Mucilage is found in teas containing licorice root, marshmallow root, and mullein. EXPECTORANT EFFECTS An expectorant can lubricate your airways and thin the mucus in your respiratory system. This, in turn, makes your cough more productive, easing discomfort, expelling bacteria, and helping heal your airways more quickly. Teas containing ginger and mullein offer this benefit. OPENING AIRWAYS Some of the most popular herbal teas also help ease cold symptoms. Eucalyptus teas can help open up constricted airways, and teas
containing peppermint and thyme also relieve sinus and cold symptoms. In all cases, you can amplify tea’s therapeutic benefits by adding a spoonful of honey! Honey’s throat-coating consistency soothes irritated tissues.
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