Glenda Mitchell Law Firm Cartersville & Greenville Personal Injury Lawyer | Car Accidents2024-02-27T15:55:58Zhttps://www.glendamitchelllawfirm.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1102947/2019/09/cropped-site-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Glenda Mitchell Law Firmhttps://www.glendamitchelllawfirm.com/?p=530892024-01-23T17:04:44Z2024-01-23T17:04:44ZThe most susceptible age group
Research indicates that younger drivers, particularly those in their teens and early twenties, are more susceptible to distractions. The allure of smartphones and the perceived need to stay connected often lead to increased instances of distracted driving in this age bracket.
However, distracted driving is not exclusive to the younger generation. Older drivers may also succumb to distractions, although for different reasons.
Visual distractions
Visual distractions prompt drivers to take their eyes away from the road. Activities such as using a GPS, gazing at billboards, rubbernecking an accident or even observing surrounding cars rather than focusing on the path ahead contribute to this dangerous behavior.
Manual distractions
Manual distractions involve removing hands from the wheel. Common examples include eating while driving, operating a phone, adjusting the radio station or reaching for objects within the vehicle. Such actions compromise a driver's ability to respond promptly to changing road conditions.
Cognitive distractions
Cognitive distractions divert the driver's mind from the essential task of driving. Engaging in activities like singing, talking, daydreaming or worrying can impair cognitive functions and decision-making while on the road.
Combined distractions
Some behaviors, such as hands-on cell phone use, fall under all three distraction categories. With a driver's eyes away from the road, hands off the steering wheel and mind on other things, the dangers increase exponentially.
Why distractions are dangerous
When motorists do not focus on the act of driving, the chances of causing a collision increase dramatically. Driver reaction time plays a big part. This refers to a driver's time to perceive a potential hazard and initiate a response, such as braking or steering changes.
Distracted drivers have a delayed reaction time due to their focus on other things. By the time they notice slowing traffic ahead or a car cutting in front of them, it is often too late to avoid a collision.
Texting significantly delays reaction times; sending or reading a text can take a driver's attention away for around five seconds. In those moments, a vehicle traveling at 55 mph covers the length of a football field, creating a heightened risk of accidents.
Prevent distracted driving accidents
Teach your children about the dangers of distracted driving. Teens and young adults often have an "I'm invincible" mindset, so prepare to overcome this mentality.
Children learn acceptable behaviors by watching their parents. Actions usually speak louder than words, so do not engage in distracted driving yourself.]]>On Behalf of Glenda Mitchell Law Firmhttps://www.glendamitchelllawfirm.com/?p=530732023-12-28T21:09:28Z2023-12-28T21:09:28ZMost important rule
The main rule to remember is to treat an intersection where the lights are not working as a four-way stop. This means that all drivers must come to a complete stop and yield the right of way to other vehicles per the law. The requirements are to give way to the vehicle that arrived first. If multiple vehicles arrive at the same time, the right of way proceeds in a clockwise direction.
Maintain communication
Communication becomes paramount in such situations. All drivers should use turn signals to indicate their intentions. This helps other drivers understand what others are going to do and how they may maneuver through the intersection.
Be patient
Drivers also must practice patience and prepare for delays. Intersections without working traffic lights usually experience a slower traffic flow as drivers navigate the stop-and-go process. Drivers must avoid impulsive or aggressive maneuvers to speed up the process as this can lead to accidents.
When it comes to non-functioning traffic lights consistency is important. Drivers must follow the rules for every intersection without a working light. This consistency helps prevent confusion and promotes a more organized and predictable traffic flow.]]>On Behalf of Glenda Mitchell Law Firmhttps://www.glendamitchelllawfirm.com/?p=530622023-12-06T03:14:56Z2023-12-06T03:14:56ZSpinal cord injury recovery
Injuries to the spine can cause life-altering effects. Symptoms depend on the injury's location and severity but may include:
Loss of movement
Loss of sensation
Uncontrolled reflex activities or spasms
Pain and discomfort
Currently, treatments for spinal injuries focus on preventing further injury. The goal is to help people with spine injuries return to active and productive lives. Rehabilitation can be helpful for people with spinal cord injuries. Recovery often requires a multifaceted approach.
Physical therapy helps strengthen muscles and enhance mobility. Likewise, occupational therapy focuses on refining fine motor skills. Patients often must relearn self-care techniques and strategies for managing pain. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are essential during rehabilitation. Additionally, functional electrical stimulation can help restore or improve various functions.
Research and future treatments
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology, in collaboration with the University of Sherbrooke and Drexel University, are helping uncover potential new treatments for spinal injuries. By studying cat locomotion, they can understand human spinal cord function better.
The focus of this research is somatosensory feedback. This type of feedback is important for coordinated movement. The study showed that cats, like humans, rely on somatosensory feedback for balance. Based on these findings, researchers are developing computational models to understand spinal network coordination better. These studies can help develop improved treatments for spine injuries in the future.
Recovering from a spine injury is currently a difficult process. Georgia researchers are working to improve medical care for people with spinal cord conditions.]]>On Behalf of Glenda Mitchell Law Firmhttps://www.glendamitchelllawfirm.com/?p=530542023-11-22T02:32:42Z2023-11-22T02:32:42ZAirbags
The introduction of airbags for motorcycle riders marks a leap in safety measures. Wearable vests and jackets include sensors, such as accelerometers and gyroscopes, to detect crashes. The sensors activate the airbags almost instantly to cushion your torso before impact. This can minimize your risk of impact injuries, which can be costly and significant.
MIPS helmet systems
Traditional motorcycle helmet designs focused on straight-on impact protection. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are often more complex than that. MIPS helmet technology accounts for those complexities. These helmets address rotational motion that occurs in a crash. The plastic layer on these helmets allows the helmet itself to twist independently on impact, which draws the energy of the impact away from the head.
Collision avoidance
Manufacturers incorporated collision avoidance in cars and trucks for years. Technology has advanced enough that even motorcycles have collision avoidance infrastructure available. Integrated advanced sensors and artificial intelligence monitor the motorcycle’s surroundings to recognize potential collision hazards.
In 2020, 82,528 motorcyclists suffered injuries in crashes. That prevalence highlights the importance of rider safety. In fact, safety should be the paramount concern for motorcycle riders at all times. The advancements in technology and safety make it easier than ever for you to minimize your risks, so consider investing in these devices and other safety equipment to protect yourself on the road.]]>On Behalf of Glenda Mitchell Law Firmhttps://www.glendamitchelllawfirm.com/?p=530312023-10-23T19:53:51Z2023-10-24T19:53:44ZPersonal injury settlements
Your settlement should provide you with compensation for your losses and expenses resulting from the accident. What many people do not realize is that these settlements consider more than just your immediate medical costs. In addition to your emergent treatment expenses, your settlement can cover long-term rehabilitation, accommodations for any lasting injuries and any ongoing care.
Physical therapy costs
Physical therapy is important for comprehensive rehabilitation after an injury. The cost of physical therapy varies depending on the severity of the injury, the duration of your therapy and the market rates in your area. When your care provider recommends physical therapy after your accident, those costs are part of the injury claim, and you should factor them into your settlement.
Additional considerations
In some cases, you can seek additional compensation for pain and suffering, lost income, legal expenses and property damage. Consider the scope of the accident and any associated costs to ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
According to Forbes, the average settlement after a car accident is $20,235. Understanding the types of compensation you can seek after an injury helps you get a settlement that addresses your financial losses as a whole, not just your current medical costs.]]>On Behalf of Glenda Mitchell Law Firmhttps://www.glendamitchelllawfirm.com/?p=530292023-10-17T23:50:35Z2023-10-17T23:50:35ZBenefits of paint-only lanes
Advocates of paint-only bike lanes argue that they are cost-effective and relatively easy to implement. These lanes involve painting lines on the road, and they offer a designated space for cyclists to ride safely. When cost is a concern, this is a great solution that works for everyone.
Concerns about paint-only lanes
One of the main concerns regarding paint-only bike lanes is that they lack physical protection for cyclists. Without physical barriers like curbs, bollards or planters, these lanes rely solely on painted lines to separate cyclists from vehicular traffic. This lack of separation can lead to issues such as dooring incidents, where a driver or passenger opens a car door in the path of an oncoming cyclist or illegal parking or stopping in the bike lane.
Additionally, vehicles can sometimes encroach into the bike lane. When a bike lane has only paint markings, motorists may be less inclined to respect it.
Furthermore, there's an argument that paint-only bike lanes may create a false sense of security for both cyclists and drivers. Cyclists might assume they are safer in a bike lane, while drivers might be less vigilant about looking for cyclists outside of these designated areas. This can lead to a higher risk of accidents at intersections and other conflict points.
Research into the matter
Research on the relationship between paint-only bike lanes and accident rates is not definitive. Studies have produced mixed results, and it is challenging to draw broad conclusions due to the influence of various factors, including local road conditions, traffic patterns and the design of specific bike lanes.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of paint-only bike lanes in increasing or decreasing accident rates can vary significantly. Properly designed and well-maintained paint-only bike lanes might enhance cyclist safety by providing a designated space on the road. However, the absence of physical barriers may undermine their effectiveness in certain situations.]]>On Behalf of Glenda Mitchell Law Firmhttps://www.glendamitchelllawfirm.com/?p=527912023-09-22T16:32:39Z2023-09-22T16:32:39ZPenalties for offenders
The consequences for an illegal pass vary based on the driver's prior record. A first-time offense could result in fines as high as $300. Multiple violations can lead to increased penalties, with third-time offenders paying as much as $1,000 in fines. Judges can mandate community service and defensive driving instruction after a conviction. In some cases, offenders must serve up to a year in jail or on probation.
Although these laws may seem strict, they exist to prevent fatalities and protect children. Research suggests that victims of deadly crashes involving school transportation were 1.6 more likely to be pedestrians. Furthermore, 52% of these pedestrians killed in school transport accidents were children under the age of ten.
Rules for passing
All drivers who are on the same side of the road and moving in the same direction behind the school bus must stop when the bus stops. It is illegal to pass a bus from behind while it is picking up or dropping off children.
On a multi-lane road with a median or permanent barrier, drivers who are coming from the opposite direction as the bus do not need to stop. However, if the road is a two-lane street or a multi-lane street with no barrier or median, all drivers on both sides of the roadway must come to a stop.
In either case, it is essential to proceed with caution and reduce driving speed near buses. Additionally, drivers should be aware that many school buses have cameras and can photograph those who violate the rules.
Children who are exiting or entering school buses are particularly vulnerable. By following the laws and avoiding illegal passing, drivers can help keep young students safe.]]>On Behalf of Glenda Mitchell Law Firmhttps://www.glendamitchelllawfirm.com/?p=527882023-09-19T20:04:44Z2023-09-19T20:04:44ZUnderstanding FCW
Forward-collision warning is a safety system that uses sensors, cameras or radar to monitor the road ahead. When it detects a potential collision with the vehicle in front, it issues a warning to the driver. The warning can be visual, auditory or both, alerting the driver to take corrective action, such as braking or steering to avoid a collision.
The effectiveness of FCW
Research and studies have shown that FCW systems can be highly effective in preventing rear-end collisions due to several factors.
FCW provides an early warning to the driver, allowing them more time to react to a potential collision. This can be especially crucial in situations where sudden stops or traffic changes occur.
The system also can serve as an extra set of eyes on the road. It can detect vehicles or obstacles in the driver's blind spot or in situations where the driver is not paying attention.
There are also benefits in low visibility situations. The program is reliable even in rain, fog or snow.
Car accidents often result from driver error, such as inattentiveness or delayed reactions. FCW helps mitigate these errors by providing timely warnings.
FCW limitations
While these systems have a lot of benefits and can be helpful in preventing accidents, they are not without faults.
False alarms may occasionally occur where the system issues warnings for non-threatening situations, such as when another vehicle changes lanes ahead. This can lead to driver annoyance and desensitization to the warnings.
It is also dangerous for drivers to become complacent and rely on the system instead of their own judgment. FCW should complement safe driving habits, not replace them. Drivers should remain attentive and follow traffic rules.
FCW also has limits in various accident scenarios. It works great in reducing rear-end accidents, but it is not as effective in stopping side collisions or pedestrian accidents.
Forward-collision warning is a valuable safety feature that has the potential to enhance overall road safety. However, it is not a guarantee against all accidents and in all situations.]]>On Behalf of Glenda Mitchell Law Firmhttps://www.glendamitchelllawfirm.com/?p=524592023-08-09T18:25:42Z2023-08-09T18:25:42ZWhat should you do at the time?
If you have a non-fatal crash, stop. Failing to stop is a serious offense, known as a hit and run. You could have injured someone who needs help. The best thing to do is immediately call 911.
Then, give the officer your license, registration, proof of insurance and address. Proof of insurance means that they need your policy number. Without this information, you could face heavy fines. You should also move your car to the shoulder, try to find the owner if you damage someone's property and report the incident to the police.
What information do you need from the other driver?
Make sure you grab the following information from the other driver:
Date of birth
License number
Name
License plate number
Insurance company
Insurance policy number
If the insurance policy belongs to someone else, grab the policyholder's name. Likewise, if the vehicle belongs to someone else, grab their name. This information can help you get compensation for your damage, just like knowing crash statistics can.
If nothing else, make sure you note the date, time and location of the accident so you can report the incident. If the crash is serious enough that the police come out, make sure to have your license, registration and insurance information ready to show them so they can file the report.]]>On Behalf of Glenda Mitchell Law Firmhttps://www.glendamitchelllawfirm.com/?p=524452023-07-26T05:22:32Z2023-07-26T05:22:32Z3,500 deaths in 2021 alone. This statistic includes both drivers and passengers. These deaths were easily preventable with a little thought. If you are a passenger, you can help to prevent it by speaking up. Here are some tips on how to avoid a distracted driving accident when you are a passenger.
Subtle
Sometimes subtle is one of the best ways to go. If the diver is a distracted driver, you can always offer to help. Suggest things like texting or searching for them or offering to drive.
Alternative
There are alternatives to catching a ride with a distracted driver. If you notice that a distraction, you could always try an alternative means of transport. Remember, distracted driving is dangerous.
Direct
This approach to a distracted driver is probably the best. Tell the driver that you are uncomfortable when they are not paying attention. They might not realize this is a problem. Whenever possible, you should use a very direct approach to avoid misunderstanding.
Don't be a distraction
In some cases, you might be the distraction. Ensure you are not bothering the driver, rummaging around or making it difficult to focus on the road.
Distracted driving accounts for more than 300,000 serious injuries per year. As a passenger, you might receive severe injuries yourself. Speak up. It is better than suffering from an injury due to distracted driving.]]>