| Volume 39 Number 13 |
Subscribe to the Newsletter
Forward this news alert to your family and friends
Helpful Links
Texas Consumer Complaint Center
Credit Reports and Identity Theft
Your Guide to Small Claims Court
Contact Us
1-713-743-2168
The People’s Lawyer’s Tip of the Day
As a general rule, a business is not liable for a slip and fall injury simply because it owns the property where the injury occurred. For the business to be responsible the injured person must show the business was "negligent" and that is why the injury happened. For example, if the business knew there was a slippery spot on the floor and did not take reasonable steps to clean it up, it would be liable to a customer who was injured as a result of its negligence. Click here for more.
Beware: Cash for Clunkers Scams
State AGs are starting to get queasy about the new Cash for Clunkers program. When a new government program is introduced, it is common for scam artists to capitalize. In this situation, scam artists are convincing consumers they must register online for the program, providing social security and bank account information. However, the program only works by signing up at a dealership in person. Although you can check to see if you vehicle qualifies online, you should not provide your social security number or bank account information online. Note: The only government sponsored site is http://www.fueleconomy.gov/ Click here for more.
How to Avoid Driving Distractions
Cell phones, food, and the radio are all examples of driving distractions. Such distractions cause thousands of accidents every year. Find out how to manage dangerous distractions. Click here for more.
Changes in Foreclosure Rates
From 2008 to 2009, foreclosure rates across the United States skyrocketed. Does your city rank among those with the biggest changes? Click here for more.
Debt Forgiveness for Homeowners
One of the surest ways to prevent foreclosures is through debt forgiveness. Lenders are often reluctant to reduce the principal on outstanding loans. Consumer advocates, however, are fighting for just that. Will congress consider debt forgiveness as a tool to battle the foreclosure crisis? Click here for more.
Your Money
How much life insurance do you need? Click here for more.
For the Lawyers
State damages cap applies to consumer protection claims. Maryland’s highest court held that the statutory cap on non-economic damages applies to personal injury claims authorized by a state consumer protection act. Click here for more.