Looking Ahead to 2025: Protecting Your Rights and Building a Safer Future

As we step into 2025, the New Year represents a time for reflection, resolutions, and opportunities to prioritize safety and security for ourselves and our communities. While many focus on personal goals like health and financial stability, it’s equally important to safeguard your legal rights.

At The Low Law Firm in Abilene, Texas, led by Tara Gilmore-Low, we’ve seen firsthand how personal injury law empowers individuals and promotes accountability. Whether it’s addressing road safety, workplace hazards, or product liability, this year is an opportunity to commit to legal awareness and proactive protection.

The Role of Personal Injury Law in 2025

Accidents and injuries can disrupt lives, careers, and families. In Texas, these incidents are all too common. For example, in 2023, there were over 15,000 serious injury crashes, resulting in thousands of hospitalizations and lost income for victims (Source: https://www.txdot.gov).

Personal injury law serves as a critical safety net, helping individuals recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering. It also holds negligent parties accountable, creating a safer environment for everyone.

As we look to 2025, personal injury law will continue to address key areas of concern:

• Road Safety: With Texas consistently leading in roadway fatalities, reducing accidents is more important than ever.
• Consumer Protection: Recalls of defective products highlight the ongoing need for vigilance and accountability.
• Workplace Safety: Industries like construction and oil and gas remain hazardous, emphasizing the importance of employer responsibility.

Road Safety in Texas

Texas roads are among the busiest and most dangerous in the country. In addition to distracted driving and speeding, drunk driving remains a significant problem. In 2022, alcohol-related crashes accounted for nearly 25% of all traffic fatalities in the state (Source: https://www.nhtsa.gov).

As you plan your year, consider these tips for staying safe on the road:

• Practice Defensive Driving: Be prepared for the unexpected, like sudden lane changes or reckless drivers.
• Avoid Distractions: Put your phone away, avoid eating while driving, and stay focused on the road.
• Maintain Your Vehicle: Regularly check your tires, brakes, and lights to avoid mechanical failures.
• Know Your Insurance Policy: Ensure you have sufficient coverage, including uninsured/underinsured motorist protection.

If you’re involved in an accident, remember that Texas is an at-fault state. This means the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for covering damages. However, navigating insurance claims can be challenging, which is why consulting an attorney early is crucial.

Consumer Protection: Product Liability in 2025

Each year, thousands of products are recalled due to safety concerns. From household appliances to children’s toys, defects can cause serious injuries. In 2024 alone, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued over 200 recalls, many for products that caused injuries or fatalities (Source: https://www.cpsc.gov).

Under Texas law, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can be held liable for defective products. These defects fall into three main categories:

• Design Defects: The product’s design makes it inherently dangerous.
• Manufacturing Defects: Errors during production result in a hazardous product.
• Marketing Defects: Insufficient instructions or failure to warn users of risks.

Examples of recent recalls that demonstrate the importance of product liability include:

• Defective E-Bikes: Reports of battery explosions caused injuries, leading to multiple lawsuits.
• Unsafe Kitchen Appliances: Faulty pressure cookers that exploded during use.

Consumers can protect themselves by staying informed about recalls and thoroughly researching products before making purchases.

Premises Liability: Workplace and Recreational Safety

Premises liability law holds property owners accountable for maintaining safe environments. This applies to workplaces, retail spaces, recreational facilities, and even private properties. In Texas, owners must take reasonable steps to prevent injuries, such as repairing hazards, providing proper signage, and addressing known risks (Source: https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov).

Common scenarios where premises liability applies include:

• Slip-and-Falls: Wet floors or uneven surfaces in grocery stores or restaurants.
• Inadequate Security: Poor lighting or lack of security measures in parking lots or apartment complexes.
• Recreational Injuries: Unsafe conditions at parks, gyms, or swimming pools.

If you’re injured on someone else’s property, taking the following steps can strengthen your case:

• Document the hazard with photos or videos.
• File a report with the property owner or manager.
• Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries.
• Contact an attorney to evaluate your claim.

Legal Myths to Leave Behind in 2025

Many people hesitate to seek legal help due to common misconceptions. Let’s debunk a few myths:

• Myth: Personal Injury Cases Are Too Expensive
  Most personal injury lawyers, including The Low Law Firm, work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless your case is successful (Source: https://www.americanbar.org).
• Myth: Waivers Remove All Liability
  Signing a waiver at a gym or recreational facility doesn’t absolve owners from gross negligence or intentional misconduct (Source: https://www.texasbar.com).
• Myth: Minor Injuries Aren’t Worth Pursuing
  Even seemingly small injuries can have long-term impacts, such as chronic pain or lost income. Filing a claim ensures you’re not left covering costs caused by someone else’s negligence.

Tara Gilmore-Low’s Vision for 2025

As a dedicated advocate for justice, Tara Gilmore-Low leads The Low Law Firm with compassion and determination. In addition to representing clients in personal injury cases, she hosts the Reign of Tara podcast, which provides practical insights into Texas law and empowers listeners to take charge of their legal rights.

In 2025, Tara plans to address emerging issues such as:

• New trends in product liability and recalls.
• The impact of Texas laws on personal injury cases.
• How individuals can advocate for safer workplaces and communities.

Upcoming episodes will provide actionable advice for listeners navigating legal challenges, making it an invaluable resource for Texans.

Safety Resolutions for the New Year

To ensure 2025 is a year of growth and security, consider these resolutions:

1. Drive Safely: Commit to avoiding distractions and practicing defensive driving.
2. Research Products: Stay informed about recalls and choose reputable brands.
3. Prioritize Workplace Safety: Report hazards and advocate for proper training.
4. Educate Yourself: Learn about your legal rights and seek advice when needed.
5. Take Action When Needed: If you’re injured, consult an attorney promptly to explore your options.

Why Choose The Low Law Firm

At The Low Law Firm, we’re more than just legal advocates—we’re partners in your journey toward justice. With a proven track record of securing fair compensation for our clients, we handle cases involving:

• Car accidents and truck collisions.
• Premises liability claims.
• Product liability lawsuits.
• Workplace injuries.

Our client-centered approach ensures you receive personalized attention and expert guidance every step of the way.

Building a Safer Future Together

The New Year is an opportunity to reflect on what matters most: protecting yourself and your loved ones. By prioritizing safety, accountability, and preparedness, we can build a community where individuals feel secure and empowered.

If you or someone you know has been injured due to negligence, contact The Low Law Firm in Abilene, Texas, today. Let’s make 2025 a year of justice, recovery, and progress.