You Should Hire a Local Personal Injury Law FirmRather Than A “Tv Law Firm” – Here’s Why

Jason B. Goldman • September 2, 2022
You Should Hire a Local Personal Injury Law FirmRather Than A “Tv Law Firm” – Here’s Why

Millions of people each and every day are bombarded with TV, radio, billboard, and bus-stop advertisements from TV Law Firms – you know the ones!  This advertisement bombardment by the TV Law Firms leads many citizens to believe that these are the only law firms they can choose from to assist them with their personal injury claim.  They have no idea that local, preeminently qualified local law firms provide representation for personal injury claims.  Most importantly, the type of legal representation they receive from a TV Law Firm is vastly different than what they most likely expected at the outset of their case.    

The primary theme of the TV Law Firm advertisement bombardment is “bigger is better” – just because.  Take a moment to think of examples when bigger isn’t better.  Would you prefer a big or small home mortgage?  Would you rather call a business and speak with an actual person and get immediate assistance, or do you prefer calling an (800) telephone number and getting transferred multiple times before speaking to someone who can’t actually help you after all?

Let’s actually dive into, with specific examples, whether a big advertising TV Law Firm or a local, preeminent personal injury attorney is better for you and your family.  This is a critical choice, because the outcome of your personal injury claim oftentimes determines you and your family’s financial future.

THE BEGINNING OF YOUR PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM: WHO ARE YOU ACTUALLY HIRING ANYWAY?

When hiring a TV Law Firm, investigators or people called “Case Managers” are the ones who talk to you, meet with you, and sign you up as a client of their TV Law Firm.  Please note that none of these people are actually attorneys!  After signing you up as a client, your TV Law Firm then assigns your case to one of its attorneys – you don’t talk to, meet with, or even choose your own attorney!  As a result, the attorney chosen for you by your TV Law Firm could be fresh out of law school with little to no actual experience.

At GOLDMAN, TISEO & STURGES, P.A., from the initial telephone call to all follow-up office conferences, you work directly with a pre-eminently rated attorney with decades of experience to evaluate your claim.  Each and every personal injury attorney at our firm has at least 25 years experience.  Moreover, every attorney in our firm is AV rated by Martindale-Hubbell, the primary rating service for attorneys in the United States since the 1880s.  Less than 4% of all U.S. attorneys achieve an AV rating by Martindale-Hubbell ( learn more ).  We are the only multi-member law firm in Charlotte County in which every attorney is AV rated by Martindale-Hubbell.  At our firm, you choose and work with your experienced, preeminently rated, and preferred attorney every step of the way.

WHO’S ACTUALLY WORKING ON YOUR PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM ANYWAY?       

If you’ve signed up with a TV Law Firm and your personal injury claim progresses forward, you’ll be working almost exclusively with non-lawyer office staff.  Your Case Manager basically handles your claim up and until a lawsuit needs to be filed on your behalf.  Your Case Manager attempts to perform services that should be handled directly by a personal injury attorney.  Do you believe a Case Manager can resolve your claim with an insurance adjuster on better terms than a preeminently rated and experienced personal injury attorney who works on your personal injury claim directly?  Also, please consider that a TV Law Firm will charge you, at minimum, a 1/3 contingency fee from your injury recovery in attorney’s fees, even though an attorney with its firm has hardly looked at or worked on your personal injury claim.  What are you really paying for?

At GOLDMAN, TISEO & STURGES, P.A., your preeminently rated, experienced attorney handles your claim with you, directly and personally.  Every decision made to maximize your personal injury recovery comes from your attorney – not Case Managers, office staff, or secretaries.  When you hire a personal injury attorney, you have the right to not only choose your attorney, but also expect that your attorney is actually doing the work on your claim to maximize your recovery.

LOCAL ATTORNEYS HAVE LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

TV Law Firms set up small “satellite”, skeleton office sites throughout the State of Florida for their various firm locations.  The attorneys chosen to work at these smaller sites aren’t local attorneys.  They are not longtime residents of the area in which they now work.  These offices attempt to take much from the community (attorney’s fees), but what do they actually give back to the local community? 

At GOLDMAN, TISEO & STURGES, P.A., all of our attorneys grew up, went to public schools, and returned to Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda to raise our families.  We are lifetime residents of this community.  Our attorneys know the area, its roadways, and dangerous intersections, and we use this local knowledge to maximize our clients’ personal injury claim recoveries.  Because our attorneys grew up in the area, we also know and care about our fellow local citizens, who we consider our neighbors.  We take pride in being part of our local community and contributing to it on a daily basis.  Our local community isn’t a satellite office for our firm – this is our home.

TRUST OBJECTIVE LAW FIRM RATINGS AND REVIEWS, NOT SLICK ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS

Hundreds of millions of dollars in advertising revenue is spent each year in Florida by TV Law Firms.  They hire the best advertising minds in the country to figure out ways to “influence” viewer perceptions.  Their singular goal is driving business and revenue to TV Law Firms.

What is your general view on the overall nonstop bombardment of personal injury attorney advertising?  Are you tired of it, because it never ends?  Do you believe these nonstop advertisements paint personal injury attorneys in a favorable or unfavorable light?

At GOLDMAN, TISEO & STURGES, P.A., we dislike attorney advertising.  While it’s permitted for attorneys in Florida, we simply don’t like the overall negative perception we feel it brings to the legal profession.  Instead of relying on slick advertising campaigns, we allow referrals from satisfied clients and other local attorneys, as well as our stellar online ratings and reviews to do our talking for us.  The vast majority of our clients were referred by prior satisfied clients, referred by local attorneys who do not handle personal injury claims, or are people who take a few minutes to actually investigate, research, and objectively compare our law firm to the TV Law Firms.  Spending 30 minutes reviewing and comparing attorney ratings and online reviews from actual clients can be eye-opening.  It also gives you the power to choose, rather than have others choose for you, which personal injury attorney will work best with you and your family and provide the type of legal representation you deserve.

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Understanding the 4 Elements of Negligence in Florida: What Every Charlotte County Injury Victim Should Know

By Jason B. Goldman • June 10, 2025
If you were injured in an accident in Charlotte County, whether in a car crash on US-41, a slip-and-fall in a local store, or due to medical malpractice, you may be wondering: Do I have a personal injury case? The foundation of nearly every personal injury claim in Florida is negligence. To hold someone legally responsible for your injuries, your attorney must prove four key elements. At GTS Law Firm, we help injury victims understand what these elements mean—and how they apply to your situation. 1. Duty of Care The first step in proving negligence is showing that the other party owed you a legal duty of care. In simple terms, this means they were obligated to act in a reasonably safe manner. For example: Drivers must follow traffic laws and operate their vehicles safely. Property owners must maintain safe conditions on their premises. Doctors must provide care consistent with medical standards. In Charlotte County, this could mean a store owner has a duty to clean up spills quickly to prevent falls, or a driver has a duty to stay focused and obey speed limits near busy intersections like Cochran Blvd and Tamiami Trail. 2. Breach of Duty Once a duty is established, the next step is showing that the duty was breached. In legal terms, this means the person acted unreasonably or failed to act when they should have. Some examples: A distracted driver ran a red light and caused a collision. A landlord ignored repeated complaints about broken stairs. A business failed to warn customers about a wet floor. Evidence like surveillance footage, accident reports, or witness statements can help establish that a breach occurred. 3. Causation Next, we must prove that the breach of duty directly caused your injuries. It’s not enough that someone acted carelessly, you must show a clear link between their actions and the harm you suffered. This step often involves: Medical records Expert testimony Incident reconstruction For instance, if you slipped on an unmarked puddle in a Punta Gorda supermarket and fractured your wrist, your attorney would need to show that the injury was directly caused by the store’s negligence, not another factor. 4. Damages Finally, you must show that the accident resulted in actual damages, this can include physical, emotional, and financial harm. Common types of damages include: Medical expenses Lost wages Pain and suffering Property damage Emotional distress At GTS Law Firm, we work to ensure your damages are fully documented and accurately valued, because your recovery matters. What This Means for You Negligence law in Florida is fact-specific and often complex. If you believe someone else’s carelessness caused your injury, don’t navigate the legal system alone. Our team at GTS Law Firm has the local experience, legal insight, and dedication to fight for what you deserve. 📞 Schedule your free consultation today—we’re proud to serve Charlotte County and the surrounding communities with compassion and results-driven representation. (941) 625-6666

Stay Safe on Wet Roads: Rainy Day Driving Tips for Charlotte County Drivers

By Jason B. Goldman • June 10, 2025
Living in Florida means getting used to sunshine, heat—and a lot of rain. In Charlotte County, sudden downpours and afternoon thunderstorms are part of life, especially during the summer months. While we may be used to wet weather, rain is still one of the leading contributors to car accidents in the state. At GTS Law Firm, we’ve represented countless clients injured in crashes caused by slippery roads, low visibility, and poor judgment during rainstorms. Here's how you can reduce your risk and stay safe behind the wheel when the skies open up. 1. Slow Down and Keep Your Distance It sounds simple, but slowing down is one of the most effective ways to avoid a collision in the rain. Wet roads reduce tire traction, making it easier to hydroplane or lose control. Give yourself extra space between vehicles—at least a car length for every 10 mph—and brake earlier than usual. GTS tip: Tamiami Trail and Kings Highway can get especially slick during heavy rainfall. Use extra caution and avoid tailgating in high-traffic areas. 2. Turn Your Lights On (But Not Your High Beams) In Florida, it's the law: if your windshield wipers are on, your headlights must be too. This helps you stay visible to other drivers. However, avoid using your high beams—bright light reflects off wet surfaces and can actually make visibility worse. 3. Avoid Cruise Control Cruise control may feel convenient on long drives, but it can be dangerous in wet weather. If you hydroplane while cruise control is on, you could lose control of your vehicle faster than you can react. Stay engaged and keep your foot on the pedal. 4. Watch for Standing Water and Flooded Areas Flooded intersections are common in Charlotte County, especially after strong summer storms. Driving through standing water can stall your car, damage your engine, or even cause you to lose traction and slide off the road. GTS tip: If the water looks deep, turn around. It’s not worth the risk. 5. Check Your Tires and Wipers Regularly Worn tires and old windshield wipers can turn a mild drizzle into a serious hazard. Make it a habit to check your tire tread and replace wiper blades every 6–12 months—especially before hurricane season ramps up. 6. Don’t Drive Distracted—Ever In any weather, distracted driving is dangerous. In the rain, it can be deadly. Keep your phone out of reach, focus on the road, and avoid multitasking while driving. Injured in a Rain-Related Accident in Charlotte County? If you've been involved in an accident during rainy conditions, you’re not alone—and you may be entitled to compensation. Determining fault in weather-related accidents can be complex, especially if another driver failed to take proper precautions. Let the experienced legal team at GTS Law Firm help. We understand Florida law, Charlotte County roads, and how to build a case that gets results. 📞 Contact us today for a free consultation. (941) 625-6666

The Hidden Dangers of Bald Tires: A Florida Driver’s Guide

By Jason B. Goldman • May 14, 2025
In Florida, where sudden rainstorms and high-speed highways are part of daily life, maintaining your vehicle's tires is not just about performance—it's about safety. Bald tires, characterized by worn-down tread, significantly increase the risk of accidents. Understanding the dangers and legal implications can help you stay safe on the road. What Are Bald Tires? Bald tires are those that have minimal or no tread left. Tread grooves are essential for channeling water away from the tire, providing traction, and ensuring stability. Without adequate tread, tires can't effectively grip the road, especially in wet conditions, leading to increased chances of hydroplaning and loss of control. Risks Associated with Bald Tires Hydroplaning : In Florida's frequent rain, bald tires can't disperse water efficiently, causing vehicles to skid uncontrollably. Blowouts : Worn tires are more susceptible to punctures and blowouts, especially at high speeds, which can lead to severe accidents. Reduced Braking Efficiency : Lack of tread compromises braking performance, increasing stopping distances and the likelihood of collisions. Legal and Insurance Consequences : Driving with bald tires may violate Florida's vehicle safety laws and could result in denied insurance claims if an accident occurs due to tire neglect. Florida's Legal Requirements Florida law mandates that tires must have a minimum tread depth of 2/32 of an inch. Driving on tires below this threshold is considered unsafe and can lead to citations. Law enforcement officers have the authority to inspect vehicles and enforce compliance with safety standards. Preventative Measures Regular Inspections : Check your tire tread monthly using a tread depth gauge or the penny test. Proper Inflation : Maintain recommended tire pressure to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Routine Maintenance : Rotate your tires regularly and align your wheels to promote even tread wear. Timely Replacement : Replace tires that show signs of significant wear or damage to maintain safety. Seeking Legal Assistance If you've been involved in an accident, it's crucial to understand your rights. At Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, our decades of experience handling personal injury cases can help you navigate the complexities of your claim. Our attorneys are committed to securing the compensation you deserve. Contact Us Today! Reach out to Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges for a consultation, and let us assist you in ensuring your rights are protected. (941) 625-6666

How FedEx Truck Accident Claims Differ from Other Delivery Truck Cases

By Jason B. Goldman • May 14, 2025
Accidents involving delivery trucks can be complex, but when it comes to FedEx, there are unique factors that set these cases apart. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone involved in such an incident. Independent Contractors vs. Employees A significant difference in FedEx accident cases lies in the employment status of their drivers. Unlike some delivery companies that employ their drivers directly, FedEx often utilizes independent contractors through its Independent Service Provider (ISP) model. This arrangement can complicate liability issues, as determining whether the driver or FedEx is responsible requires a thorough legal analysis. Complex Liability Structures FedEx's operational model can involve multiple parties: the driver, the ISP, and FedEx itself. Establishing liability may involve examining contracts, control over work conditions, and adherence to safety protocols. This layered structure necessitates a detailed investigation to identify all responsible parties. Enhanced Evidence Availability FedEx vehicles are equipped with advanced technology, including electronic logging devices and GPS tracking. These tools can provide critical data on vehicle speed, location, and driver behavior leading up to the accident. Such evidence can be pivotal in building a strong case. Higher Stakes and Insurance Coverage FedEx, as a large corporation, carries substantial insurance policies to cover potential liabilities. This means that claims involving FedEx may have higher settlement values compared to accidents with smaller delivery companies. However, navigating these claims requires experience in dealing with corporate insurers and understanding the nuances of such cases. Navigating the Claims Process FedEx has a dedicated claims department to handle incidents involving their vehicles. Victims must file claims through this department, which involves submitting documentation such as police reports and medical records. The process can be intricate, and having knowledgeable legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome. FedEx truck accident claims present unique challenges due to the company's operational structure, the involvement of independent contractors, and the complexity of determining liability. If you or a loved one has been involved in such an accident, it's essential to seek legal counsel experienced in handling these specific types of cases. Contact Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, P.A. Our firm has extensive experience in personal injury law, including complex delivery truck accident cases. We are committed to providing personalized legal representation to help you navigate the complexities of your claim and secure the compensation you deserve. (941) 625-6666