Weber Law Firm, L.C.Weber Law Firm, L.C.2026-05-26T16:30:57Zhttps://www.mattweberlaw.net/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1604084/2022/12/cropped-Weber-site-icon-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Weber Law Firm, L.C.<![CDATA[Can you file a claim for delayed injuries after a car accident?]]>https://www.mattweberlaw.net/?p=471962026-05-26T16:30:57Z2026-05-26T16:30:57ZWhy do some injuries appear days or weeks later?
When the body experiences sudden trauma like a vehicle collision, it instantly generates adrenaline and endorphins. These chemical messengers can hide pain for prolonged periods, potentially lasting several hours or days. However, it can also mask serious injuries that require immediate medical care. Soft tissue damage, internal bleeding and brain injuries frequently manifest late.
You might feel normal after the crash because your body enters survival mode. Whiplash often takes one to two days to produce stiffness and pain. Concussion signs like dizziness may not appear for several days. Back injuries can progressively worsen as swelling builds.
How long do you have to file a personal injury claim in Missouri?
State law provides a strict deadline for filing injury claims after accidents. Claimants typically have five years from the exact date of the car accident to take legal action. This is particularly important for delayed injuries because the clock starts on the actual date of the crash rather than when you first notice delayed symptoms. Note that Missouri lawmakers are considering reducing this period to two years for future cases.
While this gives enough time to file a claim, delaying action can affect your case. Insurance companies may question why you waited to see a doctor. In such cases, they may argue your injuries are unrelated to the crash. Do note that Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule. If you bear partial responsibility for the crash, your compensation decreases proportionally.
What steps should you take if you experience delayed symptoms?
Delayed symptoms require immediate medical attention and proper documentation. Seeking treatment quickly establishes a clear link with the accident. Visit a doctor as soon as you notice any pain or unusual symptoms. Be clear about your recent accident when describing your condition. Additionally, maintain copies of all medical bills, prescriptions and test results.
You may also benefit from talking to a legal professional. They can communicate with insurance companies and protect you from common tactics that reduce payouts.
Securing your right to compensation after a delayed injury
Discovering injuries days or weeks after an accident can be frightening. Fortunately, Missouri law allows you to file a claim for delayed injuries. Your health matters, and you deserve proper compensation for your injuries.]]>On Behalf of Weber Law Firm, L.C.<![CDATA[Missouri DWI: legal risks for legalized marijuana]]>https://www.mattweberlaw.net/?p=471952026-02-20T10:24:27Z2026-02-20T10:24:27ZIt is easy to assume that once marijuana is legal, using it comes with no consequences. Many Missourians believe that having a medical card or using it recreationally protects them from trouble; but the law does not see it that way when it comes to driving. Even legal use can lead to a DWI charge, with serious consequences for your record, license and future.
Legal use does not mean safe driving
Marijuana affects skills that are essential behind the wheel. Reaction time slows, coordination falters, attention drifts and judgment can suffer. Missouri law allows officers to arrest any driver who shows signs of impairment, no matter how the marijuana was obtained. Medical marijuana patients are not exempt. Courts in Missouri focus on public safety rather than personal use. A prescription or medical card does not grant immunity from DWI laws, and impaired driving can still result in fines, license suspension and criminal charges.
What influences a marijuana DWI case
Several factors can shape the outcome of a marijuana-related DWI case:
Amount and potency - Higher THC levels increase impairment risk and legal exposure.
Timing - THC can remain in your system long after effects wear off
Behavioral signs - Erratic driving, slurred speech and failed field sobriety tests signal impairment
Testing methods – Blood, urine or oral fluid tests can produce different results and affect evidence
Understanding these factors shows that even a single use of legal marijuana can carry serious legal consequences. Awareness helps drivers make safer choices and seek legal support when necessary.
Protecting your rights in Missouri
A DWI for marijuana use can disrupt your life far beyond the moment of arrest. Staying informed about the law, knowing how marijuana affects driving and consulting an experienced attorney can help protect your rights and guide your next steps. If you face a marijuana-related DWI charge, acting quickly to get legal guidance is crucial. Even legal use does not remove responsibility behind the wheel.]]>On Behalf of Weber Law Firm, L.C.<![CDATA[What should I do after a truck accident in Missouri?]]>https://www.mattweberlaw.net/?p=471942025-11-26T10:01:17Z2025-11-26T10:01:17ZRemain at the scene and call for help
After the truck accident, you must try to stay alert and call the paramedics to ask for emergency assistance. Check yourself for any signs of injuries or head trauma. If you have passengers with you, assess their conditions as well.
It is important to note that under Missouri laws, any motor vehicle collision that causes an injury, death or over $500 in property damage must be reported.
Inform the police
While you are waiting for the paramedics to arrive, call the police and inform them about the details of the crash. Once they investigate the scene and gather the necessary information, they will file an official collision report for the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP).
Since you were a part of this crash report, you can request for a copy of it online for $6.00 and use this document as a part of your evidence when you file your personal injury claim.
Exchange information
You must ask for the truck driver’s contact details before leaving the scene. Aside from their personal information, you also need to request their insurance company’s name, policy number and their vehicle’s license plate number.
If there were any witnesses in the vicinity, request their contact details as well. Their statements can help strengthen your evidence and provide you with additional perspectives of the accident.
Seek medical attention
Now that you have dealt with the important aspects of your truck accident, you must go to the hospital with your passengers (if any) and seek prompt medical care. As a good rule of thumb, you should make copies of your medical reports, treatment expenses and the hospital bill.
Notify your insurance company
While hiring a lawyer is not mandatory for your situation, it can be beneficial for your personal injury case. For example, they can contact your insurance company on your behalf and help ensure that you will not be taken advantage of by your insurance provider.
Additionally, they can guide you through the entire process with efficiency and help you make informed decisions.
Your recovery should not feel complicated
As you try to recover from your emotional trauma and crash injuries, it is important to acknowledge that you are just one person. If at any time, it starts to feel overwhelming, reach out to your family, friends and mental health professionals.
With them by your side, you won’t have to carry the post-traumatic experiences that you have suffered from all on your own.]]>On Behalf of Weber Law Firm, L.C.<![CDATA[Can you be arrested for a false accusation in Missouri?]]>https://www.mattweberlaw.net/?p=471932025-09-01T08:04:59Z2025-09-01T08:04:59ZHow false accusations usually happen
False accusations often come from emotionally charged or chaotic situations. These are some of the most common examples:
Domestic disputes where one person calls the police out of anger
Workplace retaliation after a disciplinary issue or personal conflict
Misidentification during a theft or assault investigation
Social media posts taken out of context or used as “evidence”
Each of these can escalate quickly. One statement, one assumption, and you may find yourself facing criminal charges.
What happens after an arrest
Once police make an arrest, the criminal process begins. Officers book you, take fingerprints and assign a court date. Prosecutors then review the case and decide whether to file formal charges. Even if the accusation falls apart later, the damage may already be done.
Waiting won’t fix it. Hoping it goes away only gives the system more time to work against you. At this point, every move matters.
Push back before the accusation defines your future
A false accusation can feel overwhelming – but you’re not powerless. The choices you make now can protect your reputation, preserve your record and shape what happens next. Start by documenting everything: what was said, who was involved and any evidence that supports your side of the story. Stay calm and avoid making statements that could be misinterpreted. The more clearly you can show inconsistencies or gaps in the accusation, the stronger your position becomes.
Once you’ve taken steps to protect yourself, it’s time to get support. Consider speaking with a criminal defense attorney who understands Missouri law. They can help you challenge weak evidence, expose unreliable claims and push back when the system gets it wrong.]]>On Behalf of Weber Law Firm, L.C.<![CDATA[Do you have to disclose expunged charges when applying for a job?]]>https://www.mattweberlaw.net/?p=471852025-06-02T11:58:34Z2025-06-02T11:58:34ZWhen you are not required to disclose
Generally, you have a choice not to disclose your expunged offenses when applying for a job. The law resets the status you had before you committed the offense. In other words, it is as if the offense never occurred. Thus, you can answer no when asked about past convictions. The court will not charge you with lying under oath, even if you do not mention the offense.
Why some employers still ask about criminal records
Certain employers may still ask if you have been convicted even after the court has cleared your record. That is because some jobs need more rigorous background checks. This includes jobs in law enforcement, finance or education, which have greater safety, financial and legal responsibilities. If employers hire someone with a criminal record, which they are unaware of, the court may hold them liable. So, to protect themselves and comply with the law, they ask you to have full disclosure.
Applying for a state-issued license, certificate or permit to practice a profession
Applying for gambling licenses or firearm permits
Applying for a job in casinos, state-operated lotteries, emergency service providers and more
In these cases, employers must explain the need to disclose expunged offenses to the applicants.
Starting with a clean slate
You can start anew with an expungement. But you need to understand the exceptions where the law requires a disclosure. Failing to disclose your offense may lead to legal consequences. If you are unsure what to do, consider asking an experienced attorney. They can provide clarity and ensure you follow the law.]]>On Behalf of Weber Law Firm, L.C.<![CDATA[What are the rights of individuals during police interrogations?]]>https://www.mattweberlaw.net/?p=471842025-03-07T17:15:32Z2025-03-07T17:15:32ZPolice questioning comes with legal rights that protect people from unfair treatment. Understanding these rights, like staying silent and resisting pressure, prevents mistakes that could harm a case. Knowing these protections helps people feel more confident when dealing with law enforcement and ensures they do not unintentionally give up their rights.
Understanding the right to remain silent
Police ask questions to gather information, but no one has to answer if it might cause trouble. The Fifth Amendment allows people to stay silent to avoid saying something that could lead to charges. A person can say, "I choose to stay silent," to make this right clear. Officers may continue asking questions, but once someone states they wish to remain silent, they should stop the interrogation. Repeating the statement if necessary reinforces the right and helps prevent confusion or coercion.
Avoiding pressure and forced confessions
Officers cannot use threats, tricks, or force to make someone confess. The law bans confessions made under pressure, so courts reject them. If police push too hard, people should speak up and challenge the way they were treated. Signs of coercion include intimidation, exhaustion, and misleading information meant to force a confession. Understanding these tactics allows individuals to protect themselves from unfair questioning.
Recognizing Miranda warnings
Before questioning, police explain people's rights through a Miranda warning. This warning includes the right to stay silent and a reminder that anything said may be used in court. If officers skip this warning, courts may reject the statements. A person should clearly state if they do not understand their rights to ensure law enforcement provides a proper explanation. This knowledge prevents people from unknowingly waiving their rights.People must stand up for themselves when police ignore these rights. Recording details like times and statements helps prove unfair treatment. Courts dismiss statements gathered unfairly to keep the process fair. Staying calm and assertive during an interrogation ensures that a person does not unknowingly give up their protections. Knowing these rights and using them properly can make a major difference in the outcome of a criminal case.]]>On Behalf of Weber Law Firm, L.C.<![CDATA[Why are construction zone accidents hard to resolve?]]>https://www.mattweberlaw.net/?p=471722024-12-06T22:35:42Z2024-12-06T22:35:42ZConstruction zones are busy areas where accidents happen easily, especially when multiple cars are involved. Figuring out who is at fault becomes really hard because of how work zones are set up. Understanding these challenges helps build a strong personal injury case.
Limited space and visibility
Construction zones often have fewer lanes, lower speed limits, and tight turns. Drivers struggle to see clearly because of big equipment, cones, and barriers. In a multi-car accident, determining which driver made a mistake becomes difficult since everyone faces these issues. Limited space and poor visibility create a confusing situation, making it tough to figure out who caused the crash.
Conflicting witness statements
Witnesses play an important role in figuring out who is at fault, but in a construction zone, their statements often differ. Drivers, passengers, workers, and bystanders all remember things differently. These mixed-up stories make it hard to know exactly what happened. Also, witnesses might only see part of the crash because of barriers or distance, leading to incomplete or incorrect statements.
Issues from the construction site
The construction work itself often causes accidents. Bad signs, wrongly placed barriers, or construction vehicles blocking the road lead to confusion and crashes. Determining whether a driver made a mistake or if the construction company set up the site in a way that made an accident likely becomes challenging.
Multiple insurance companies involved
Multi-car accidents involve dealing with multiple insurance companies, each trying to protect their client. These companies often argue about who is at fault, which slows down the process. Proving fault requires strong evidence, like video footage or professional analysis, to handle the disagreements between all the people involved.Navigating the aftermath of a construction zone accident feels overwhelming. Seeking help from a lawyer ensures proper investigation of all the causes and holds those responsible accountable.]]>On Behalf of Weber Law Firm, L.C.<![CDATA[What crimes are eligible for expungement in Missouri?]]>https://www.mattweberlaw.net/?p=471642024-09-05T01:03:27Z2024-09-06T01:02:55ZExpungement allows eligible individuals to remove certain criminal records from public view. This process can provide a chance at a fresh start by erasing the legal stigma that can follow a conviction.
However, not all crimes qualify for expungement in Missouri.
What crimes can you expunge in Missouri?
Missouri law allows for the expungement of specific misdemeanor and felony convictions. Eligible misdemeanors include minor offenses such as first-time drug possession, stealing and property damage. Certain driving offenses, such as driving without a license, are often eligible as well. However, serious misdemeanors like assault or domestic violence are typically not eligible.
Can you expunge a felony conviction?
Felony convictions can be more challenging to expunge, but some non-violent felonies qualify. Examples include Class D or E felonies like second-degree burglary, forgery and fraudulent use of a credit card. The law also allows for the expungement of drug-related felonies, particularly for first-time offenders. Missouri’s focus on rehabilitation reflects the opportunity for those convicted of these crimes to move forward with their lives.
What are the criteria for expungement?
To qualify for expungement, convicted individuals must have completed their sentence. This includes any probation or parole. There must be no pending charges, and the individual must demonstrate a clean record during a specified waiting period. The waiting period for misdemeanors is three years, while felonies require a seven-year waiting period.
Which crimes can you not expunge in Missouri?
Certain crimes remain ineligible for expungement in Missouri. Violent felonies, sex offenses and crimes against minors are not eligible whatsoever. Additionally, crimes related to intoxication, such as driving while intoxicated, are generally excluded.Expungement in Missouri offers a valuable opportunity for those with eligible convictions to rebuild their lives. Understanding which crimes qualify and meeting the legal requirements can make a significant difference in one's future. ]]>On Behalf of Weber Law Firm, L.C.<![CDATA[Common causes of car accidents in construction]]>https://www.mattweberlaw.net/?p=471632024-06-04T19:44:07Z2024-06-12T17:43:23Z1. Distracted driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents in construction zones. Drivers often focus on their phones, GPS devices or other distractions instead of the road. In construction zones, where lanes may shift and workers are present, distractions can lead to dangerous situations. Staying alert and minimizing distractions is key to avoiding accidents.
2. Speeding
Speeding significantly increases the risk of accidents in construction zones. Reduced speed limits are posted to protect both drivers and construction workers. However, many drivers ignore these limits, leading to collisions. Driving too fast makes it harder to stop or react to sudden changes, such as merging lanes or stopped vehicles. Adhering to posted speed limits is essential for safety.
3. Changing traffic patterns
Construction zones often have changing traffic patterns that can confuse drivers. Lane closures, detours and temporary signs create an environment where accidents can easily occur. Drivers might not notice changes in time to react, leading to rear-end collisions or sideswipes. Paying close attention to signs and road markings can help navigate these areas more safely.
4. Inadequate signage
Inadequate or unclear signage in construction zones can also cause accidents. When signs are not visible or do not provide clear instructions, drivers may become confused. This confusion can lead to sudden stops or swerves, increasing the risk of accidents. Work crews must ensure proper signage is in place to prevent accidents and maintain a smooth traffic flow.
5. Driver impatience
Driver impatience is another significant factor contributing to accidents in construction zones. Delays and slow traffic can frustrate drivers, causing them to take unnecessary risks such as tailgating or attempting to overtake other vehicles. This aggressive behavior often results in accidents. Staying patient and understanding that construction is temporary can help reduce the risk of collisions.
6. Poor road conditions
Road conditions in construction zones can also lead to accidents. Uneven surfaces, loose gravel and potholes can make driving hazardous. Drivers may lose control of their vehicles or be unable to stop in time to avoid obstacles. Being aware of the road conditions and driving cautiously can help prevent accidents in these areas.
While driving through work areas poses significant hazards, with vigilance and awareness you can do your part to avoid being involved in a construction zone accident.]]>On Behalf of Weber Law Firm, L.C.<![CDATA[Discussing the dangers of DUI with teens and young adults]]>https://www.mattweberlaw.net/?p=471622024-03-19T01:13:39Z2024-03-19T01:13:39ZThe risks of impaired driving
Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a person's ability to drive safely. Alcohol slows down reaction times, impairs judgment and affects coordination, making it difficult to control a vehicle properly. This increases the risk of accidents, injuries and even fatalities on the road.
Legal consequences
Driving under the influence carries severe legal consequences, including fines, license suspension or revocation and even imprisonment. These consequences can have long-lasting effects on a person's life, including difficulty finding employment and obtaining car insurance in the future.
Impact on lives
Due to increases in DUI-related deaths, such as the 14% increase from 2020 to 2021, resulting in 13,384 deaths, the consequences of DUI extend beyond legal ramifications. Families may become torn apart and lives irreparably change due to the reckless actions of driving under the influence.
Preventing DUI incidents
Teens and young adults need to take proactive measures to prevent DUI incidents. This includes planning ahead and designating a sober driver if they plan to imbibe. Additionally, they should never get into a vehicle with someone who is under the influence and encourage their peers to make responsible decisions when it comes to alcohol and drug consumption.
There are always alternative options to driving under the influence. Rideshare services, public transportation or arranging for a designated driver are safer alternatives that can prevent accidents and save lives. Young people should prioritize their safety and the safety of others over the convenience of driving while impaired.]]>