The Ask Rusty Podcast - Answers to Questions About Personal Injury Cases

Rusty Messer
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Welcome to the Ask Rusty Podcast, hosted by Attorney Rusty Messer with Big River Trial Attorneys in Baton Rouge, Louisiana ⚖️. Every week, Rusty answers your questions about different aspects of personal injury cases 🏥. Whether you’re wondering what to do after an accident 🚗💥, how to get a rental car 🚗, how to handle your medical bills 💸, or how to file a worker’s comp claim 🏢, we’ve got you covered.

  1. 20H AGO

    Railroad Injury Law Explained FELA, Crossings & Passenger Claims

    🚂 Tracks, Trains & Your Rights: What You NEED to Know About Railroad Injury Claims | Ask Rusty LawBeen hurt by a railroad? Whether you're a railroad worker, a driver hit at a crossing, or a passenger on a train — the rules are different, the stakes are high, and the railroad's legal team is already working against you.⚖️In this episode, Attorney Rusty Messer of Big River Trial Attorneys breaks down everything you need to know about railroad injury law — one of the most complex and powerful areas in personal injury litigation.🔍 What We Cover:🛤️ FELA (Federal Employers' Liability Act) — Why railroad workers are NOT covered by workers' comp and what that means for your claim🚂 The Locomotive Inspection Act & Safety Appliance Act — How federal safety violations can trigger *strict liability* against the railroad🚗 Grade Crossing Accidents — What the railroad won't tell you about sight lines, signal failures, and the federal preemption defense📯 The Train Horn Rule — Why that "black box" on the locomotive could be the key evidence in your case🎟️ Passenger Injuries & Amtrak — The $200M liability cap and why notice deadlines can make or break your case☣️ Occupational Diseases — Asbestos, diesel exhaust, and noise-induced hearing loss claims under FELA📞 LISTENER QUESTIONS ANSWERED:✅ "My supervisor told me to file workers' comp — should I?"✅ "My husband was killed at a crossing with terrible sight lines. Do we have a case?"✅ "I retired after 30 years with hearing loss. Is it too late to sue?"⏰ DON'T WAIT. Railroad companies move fast to protect themselves. So should you.📞 Call Big River Trial Attorneys: (225) 725-6000🌐 Visit: www.BigRiverLaw.com💬 Submit your question for a future episode at our website!⚠️ This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listening does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, please consult a licensed attorney.🔔 Subscribe to Ask Rusty Law for more real talk on real legal issues — because knowing your rights is the first step to protecting them.#RailroadInjury #FELA #PersonalInjuryLaw #AskRustyLaw #BigRiverTrialAttorneys #TrainAccident #RailroadWorkers #LouisianaLaw #KnowYourRights #InjuryLawyer #rustymesser

    24 min

  2. APR 29

    MICROPLASTICS & PFAS: What They Are, Why They're Dangerous, and YOUR Legal Rights

    ⚠️ MICROPLASTICS & PFAS: What They Are, Why They're Dangerous, and YOUR Legal Rights ⚠️🧪 Did you know there are up to 240,000 plastic particles in a single liter of bottled water? Or that microplastics have been found in human blood, lungs, hearts — and even the brain? 😱In this episode, Attorney Rusty Messer of Big River Trial Attorneys breaks down two of the most alarming public health crises of our time — microplastics and PFAS "forever chemicals" — and what you can do about it legally. 💼⚖️🔍 In This Episode:🔬 What are microplastics & PFAS — and where do they come from?💔 Shocking health links: heart attacks, strokes, cancer, reproductive issues & more💧 45% of U.S. tap water is contaminated with PFAS — are YOU affected?🏭 Landmark lawsuits against ExxonMobil, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, 3M, and DuPont💰 Over $12 BILLION in PFAS settlements already reached🪖 Special focus on military personnel & families exposed at 600+ contaminated bases🧯 What firefighters NEED to know about AFFF exposure📋 Who qualifies for a legal claim — and how to find out🚨 If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, ulcerative colitis, or other serious illnesses — and you've had exposure to contaminated water, firefighting foam, or toxic products — you may have a legal claim. Don't wait. ⏳👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the 🔔 bell so you never miss an episode of AskRustyLaw — where we break down the legal issues that matter most to everyday people.💬 Drop your questions in the comments below! Attorney Rusty Messer may answer YOUR question in a future episode.Big River Trial Attorneys4626 Sherwood Common Blvd., Suite 302Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70816www.BigRiverLaw.com#AskRustyLaw #PFAS #Microplastics #ForeverChemicals #ToxicTort #PersonalInjury #WaterContamination #FirefighterHealth #MilitaryVeterans #BigRiverTrialAttorneys #MassTorti #EnvironmentalLaw #KnowYourRights

    22 min

  3. APR 9

    Scaffolding Injuries: What Every Worker Needs to Know

    🚧 Construction work is dangerous — and when scaffolding fails, the consequences can be catastrophic. In this episode of AskRustyLaw Attorney Rusty Messer of Big River Trial Attorneys breaks down everything you need to know about scaffolding accident cases.🔍 In this episode, Rusty covers: The 3 most common types of scaffolding accidents — falls, collapses, and falling objects 📋 What OSHA requires employers and contractors to do to keep workers safe ⚠️ Two real-world cases from 2025 — including a $411 million verdict — that show just how devastating these accidents can be💡 Why workers' comp may NOT be your only option after a scaffolding injury 🏗️ How third-party claims against scaffold contractors, equipment manufacturers, and project owners can unlock full compensation for pain, suffering, and lost earning capacity💬 Whether you're a worker, a family member, or just want to understand your rights, this episode is a must-listen. Don't leave money — or justice — on the table.📞Injured in a scaffolding accident? Contact Big River Trial Attorneys today.🌐 Have a legal question? #AskRustyLaw⚖️ Big River Trial Attorneys — Fighting for the people who build our world. Big River Trial Attorneys 4626 Sherwood Common Blvd Ste 302 Baton Rouge, LA 70816 (225) 725-6000 www.BigRiverLaw.com #askrustylaw #injurylawyer #industrialaccident #rustymesser #bigriverlaw #bigrivertrialattorneys #workinjurylawyer #scaffolding

    14 min
  4. The REAL Cost of Going to Trial - Hidden Expenses Revealed!

    FEB 1

    The REAL Cost of Going to Trial - Hidden Expenses Revealed!

    ⚖️ The Real Cost of Going to Trial | AskRustyLaw PodcastEver wondered what it actually costs to take a case to trial? 💰 It's way more than just attorney fees!In this eye-opening episode, attorney Rusty Messer of Big River Trial Attorneys breaks down all the hidden expenses that pile up when a personal injury case heads to the courtroom—from filing fees and deposition costs to expert witnesses and trial exhibits.In this episode, you'll discover:💼 Court costs and filing fees that start before you even walk into the courtroom 📹 The surprising expense of depositions (hint: it's more than just the court reporter) 🏥 What it really costs to obtain and review medical records 👨‍⚕️ Expert witness fees that can easily reach $15,000-$20,000+ per expert 🎬 Trial exhibit costs—from simple prints to sophisticated 3D animations 🔍 When and why you might need a private investigator 🎲 The biggest cost of all: the uncertainty of what a jury will decideWhether you're considering filing a lawsuit or already in litigation, this episode gives you the insider knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your case. Rusty gets real about when it makes sense to go to trial and when a settlement might be the smarter choice.Hosted by: Attorney Rusty Messer Law Firm: Big River Trial Attorneys📢 Subscribe to AskRustyLaw for straight talk about the legal issues that matter to you!Big River Trial Attorneys4626 Sherwood Common Blvd Ste 302Baton Rouge, LA 70817(225) 725-6000www.BigRiverLaw.com

    16 min
  5. Product Liability Lawsuits 101: A Real World Example of Defective Furniture and a Wrongful Death

    JAN 3

    Product Liability Lawsuits 101: A Real World Example of Defective Furniture and a Wrongful Death

    What happens when the products we trust to keep our families safe turn deadly? 😔In this powerful episode, attorney Rusty Messer breaks down product liability law through one of the most heartbreaking cases in recent history—the IKEA Malm dresser tip-overs that killed multiple children, including 2-year-old Jozef Dudek. 💔You'll learn:✅ The 3 types of product defects that can form a lawsuit✅ What you need to prove to win a product liability case✅ Why IKEA's $46 million settlement (one of the largest wrongful death settlements for a child in U.S. history) was absolutely necessary✅ How 17.3 million recalled dressers remained in homes—and why only 3% were returned✅ What this means for YOUR rights as a consumerThis isn't just legal theory—it's about holding billion-dollar companies accountable when they choose profits over children's safety. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦⚠️🎯Key Takeaway: Private lawsuits aren't just about compensation—they're essential for protecting future families when government oversight falls short.Got a defective product in your home? Learn how to protect your family and know your rights. 🏡✨📍 Big River Trial Attorneys | Baton Rouge, Louisiana⏰ Time limits apply—Louisiana gives you just 1 year to fileBig River Trial Attorneys4626 Sherwood Common Blvd.Suite 302Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70816(225) 725-6000www.BigRiverLaw.com#ProductLiability #ConsumerSafety #WrongfulDeath #PersonalInjury #bigrivertrialattorneys #Louisiana #AskRustyLaw #rustymesser #defectiveproduct #injurylawyer

    15 min
  6. Understanding Contingency Fees in Personal Injury Cases

    12/17/2025

    Understanding Contingency Fees in Personal Injury Cases

    ⚖️ **Understanding Contingency Fees in Personal Injury Cases** ⚖️Ever wondered how personal injury lawyers get paid? 🤔 In this episode of the AskRustyLaw podcast, attorney Rusty Messer breaks down everything you need to know about contingency fees and what they mean for YOU as a client.💰 **What You'll Learn:**• How contingency fees differ from hourly rates and flat fees• The standard fee percentages: 33% (pre-lawsuit), 40% (lawsuit filed), 50% (appeal)• Why you only pay if you WIN 🎯• The difference between attorney fees and litigation costs• Real examples: what you actually take home from a $100,000 settlement• Why personal injury consultations are FREE (no risk to you!) ✅📊 **Real Numbers Breakdown:**We walk through actual settlement scenarios so you can see exactly how the money gets divided between attorney fees, costs, medical bills, and YOUR net recovery.🎙️ Hosted by Attorney Rusty Messer with Big River Trial Attorneys👉 Been injured in an accident? Have questions about your case? Call us for a FREE consultation—no upfront costs, no hourly fees, and you only pay if we win!⭐ If you found this helpful, please SUBSCRIBE, drop us a review, and share with anyone who needs to understand their legal rights!Big River Trial Attorneys4626 Sherwood Common Blvd., Ste 302Baton Rouge, LA 70816www.BigRiverLaw.com#PersonalInjury #ContingencyFee #LegalAdvice #InjuryLawyer #AskRustyLaw #KnowYourRights #CarAccident #LegalHelp, #RustyMesser, #bigriverlaw

    11 min
  7. Why is Your Lawsuit Taking so Long? The Discovery Process Explained.

    11/16/2025

    Why is Your Lawsuit Taking so Long? The Discovery Process Explained.

    Ever called your lawyer for an update and heard "we're still in discovery" and wondered what that even means? 🤔In this episode of AskRustyLaw, Attorney Rusty Messer from Big River Trial Attorneys breaks down the discovery process in plain English. If you've been injured in an accident and hired a lawyer, this is the behind-the-scenes work that's happening to build your case.What You'll Learn: 📚✅ What discovery really is (and why it's not just lawyers making extra work)✅ The 3 main types of discovery: Written Discovery, Depositions, and Subpoenas✅ Why cases can take months or even over a year to resolve✅ How interrogatories, requests for production, and requests for admissions work✅ What happens during a deposition and why you shouldn't be scared✅ How subpoenas can unlock crucial evidence✅ Why thorough discovery protects YOU and your caseTimestamps:Whether you're currently involved in a personal injury case or just want to understand how the legal system works, this episode gives you the insider knowledge you need. 💪Got legal questions? Drop them in the comments below! 👇🔔 Subscribe to AskRustyLaw for more legal insights that actually make sense.📞 Big River Trial Attorneys - Fighting for you when you need it most.#personalinjury #LegalAdvice #Discovery #LawsuitProcess #AskRustyLaw #Attorney #CarAccident #LegalEducation #KnowYourRights #bigrivertrialattorneys

    11 min
  8. When Property Owners Fail to Keep You Safe ⚖️🔒

    10/16/2025

    When Property Owners Fail to Keep You Safe ⚖️🔒

    Have you ever thought about who's responsible when you're attacked or robbed on someone else's property? 🏢 In this eye-opening episode of AskRustyLaw, attorney Rusty Messer breaks down negligent security claims and why property owners have a legal duty to protect you.What You'll Learn:🔍 What negligent security really means and when property owners are liable⚠️ Common danger zones: apartment complexes, parking lots, hotels, and shopping centers📋 The four essential elements you need to prove your case💰 Types of compensation available for victims (medical bills, pain & suffering, lost wages, and more)⏰ Critical steps to take immediately after an incident🎯 How Louisiana's comparative fault system worksRusty shares real-world scenarios, explains what evidence you need to preserve, and answers the most common questions victims have after experiencing crime on someone else's property. Whether it's broken locks, poor lighting, absent security cameras, or failed safety measures, you'll learn when a property owner's negligence crosses the line into legal liability.⚖️ Remember: You have rights beyond just criminal prosecution, but Louisiana's 2-year statute of limitations means time is critical!📞 If you've been injured due to inadequate security, call Big River Trial Attorneys for a FREE consultation. Don't let property owners avoid responsibility for failing to keep you safe.🎧 Subscribe to AskRustyLaw for more essential legal information that protects YOUR rights!Big River Trial Attorneys4626 Sherwood Common Blvd Ste 302Baton Rouge, LA 70816(225) 725-6000info@BigRiverLaw.com#askrustylaw #bigriverlaw #negligentsecurity #injurylawyer #batonrougelawyer #propertyownerliability #rustymesser

    11 min
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About

Welcome to the Ask Rusty Podcast, hosted by Attorney Rusty Messer with Big River Trial Attorneys in Baton Rouge, Louisiana ⚖️. Every week, Rusty answers your questions about different aspects of personal injury cases 🏥. Whether you’re wondering what to do after an accident 🚗💥, how to get a rental car 🚗, how to handle your medical bills 💸, or how to file a worker’s comp claim 🏢, we’ve got you covered.

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