Geary & Geary, LLPGeary & Geary, LLP2024-02-29T05:52:09Zhttps://www.gearyandgeary.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1201590/2019/12/cropped-favreal-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Geary & Geary, LLPhttps://www.gearyandgeary.com/?p=498272024-02-27T18:24:25Z2024-02-29T05:52:09Zcan have a major impact on traffic safety. Often, Massachusetts drivers focus on snowy winter weather when thinking about dangerous weather on the roads. They check their cars carefully in the fall, replace their tires and adjust their schedules for optimal safety because they know that icy streets and drifting snow can cause numerous challenges in traffic.
However, snow and ice are only an issue for a small portion of the year in Massachusetts. Weather-related crashes are a year-round safety concern. Especially in the spring, when precipitation may occur nearly daily in some areas, rain storms can be a major traffic safety issue. Drivers need to understand how wet weather can affect their chances of being involved in a collision.
What does collision data show?
A federal analysis of weather-related crashes makes it clear that rain storms are a real threat on roads and highways. Approximately 47% or almost half of all reported collisions related to weather conditions occur during times of active rainfall. Falling rain can cause visibility issues, especially if someone does not have good windshield wipers. Aging or cheap wiper blades may smear dirt and debris on the windshield instead of keeping it clean.
The rain around the vehicle can also affect visibility and make it harder for someone to spot concerns in traffic. Rain storms may also come with heavy winds that affect people's control of their vehicles. The darkness of cloud cover can also contribute to overall crash risk.
Even after the storm passes, the roads are still unsafe. Approximately 75% of crashes related to weather occur when pavement is wet. Despite the rain ending, the residual precipitation on street surfaces can affect safety. Drivers may need to slow down because they have reduced traction on wet pavement. They may also need to increase the distance they leave between their vehicle and others in traffic for the same reason.
Unfortunately, partially due to just how common rainstorms are, people are often dismissive of how dangerous they can be. Many drivers do not adjust their habits to reflect weather conditions and could then cause crashes due to that oversight. Overall, learning about the factors that contribute to traffic risk can improve people's likelihood of reaching their destinations without incident, and help them take appropriate action if someone else causes a collision due to their negligent approach to safety concerns.
As we have discussed in previous posts, distracted driving always creates risk. This risk increases tremendously when aggravated by weather-related factors. Pay attention to weather conditions and know that drivers around you may be distracted. Your awareness may prevent a collision and the serious injuries that often occur with serious crashes.]]>On Behalf of Geary & Geary, LLPhttps://www.gearyandgeary.com/?p=498252024-01-30T11:16:55Z2024-02-02T11:15:20Ztype of distracted driving interferes with driving performance in different ways, but all are equally hazardous.
Cognitive distractions
Cognitive distractions occur when a driver's mind isn't focused on driving. This can happen during conversations with passengers, daydreaming or being preoccupied with personal, family or work-related issues. Even hands-free devices, while keeping the driver's eyes on the road and hands on the wheel, can lead to a cognitive distraction as the driver's attention is divided.
Visual distractions
Visual distractions involve taking one's eyes off the road. This can happen for various reasons, such as looking at a GPS device, reading a billboard or checking on children in the backseat. A quick glance away from the road can lead to missing critical information, like a sudden stop in traffic or a pedestrian crossing the road.
Manual distractions
Manual distractions are when the driver takes one or both hands off the wheel. This includes eating, drinking, adjusting the radio or climate controls or using a smartphone. These distractions take the driver's focus away from driving and reduce vehicle control.
Many motorist actions encompass more than one type of distraction. For example, checking on a child in the backseat requires the parent to look away from the road and think about what’s happening. If they need to fix something or hand the child something, they must take their eyes off the road.
Distracted driving crashes can lead to serious injuries that may result in considerable expenses. Victims of another driver’s negligence may opt to pursue a compensation claim. Obtaining legal guidance is beneficial in these cases, as each is unique.]]>On Behalf of Geary & Geary, LLPhttps://www.gearyandgeary.com/?p=498232023-12-29T08:48:23Z2024-01-03T08:47:21ZInjuries could be worse
Older adults experience physical changes that make car crashes more dangerous. A slow drop in bone density is one such concern. Older adults are far more likely to suffer fractures in car crashes then younger people who have stronger, denser bones. Not only are fractures more likely, but they could potentially be more severe when they occur. Comminuted fractures where the bone breaks into many small pieces can potentially occur when someone with lower bone density experiences a major motor vehicle collision.
Recovery could take longer
Bone density isn't the only thing that decreases as people age. Healing ability tends to decline as well. Therefore, the time it takes the body to recover from fractures, internal injuries and other damage caused by a car wreck could be much longer than it would be for younger people. In scenarios involving open injuries, infection risk could also be higher because of diminished immune system function as people age. In other words, older drivers are at elevated risk of serious injury and may have a much harder time recovering should they end up hurt in a crash.
Bias during the investigation
When a police officer pulls up to the scene of a crash, they should remain objective as they analyze the situation. However, personal bias often influences fault determinations after collisions. Age discrimination against those over the age of 50 is a serious social issue in the United States. Police officers may leap to the conclusion that the older adult must have made some kind of mistake at the wheel. The average person's reticence to admit culpability for a crash may compound this bias, as the driver actually at fault for the crash could play into a police officer's prejudices.
Older adults have much to risk during a crash, and they may have more reason to worry about the state declaring them at fault for a wreck regardless of who actually caused a particular collision. As such, acknowledging and attempting to offset the unique risks that come with driving later in life can benefit older adults and the people who care for them.]]>On Behalf of Geary & Geary, LLPhttps://www.gearyandgeary.com/?p=498212023-11-28T09:41:38Z2023-11-28T06:19:54ZBe proactive about maintenance
Maintaining safe premises requires regular review and investment. Any areas accessible to the public, including sidewalks and parking lots, need to be safe for visitors. In Massachusetts, property owners may need to hire professionals to remove snow and ice or diligently take care of frozen precipitation throughout the winter months. Failing to do so could lead to liability if someone slips on icy sidewalk and breaks a bone.
Property owners also have to consider if animals at the property could pose a risk to the public and whether any other property conditions put visitors at risk. From repairing uneven sidewalks to maintaining fences, there are many property investments that can significantly reduce the likelihood of a visitor getting hurt.
Invest in proper insurance
Homeowners often have to carry homeowners insurance because most mortgage companies require such coverage. Many renters also carry insurance because landlords require coverage. Businesses also invest in special types of insurance, including general business liability policies and specialized premises liability coverage. The premises liability coverage available through such policies can help cover the costs associated with someone's injury if a visitor can bring a viable premises liability claim against a property owner or tenant. Always check with a reputable insurance agent to make sure that your properties are properly insured.
Proper Signage, when appropriate
As a final note, it is often incumbent upon those who own real property to have clear signage displayed when there are safety issues that could lead to someone getting hurt, like wet floor signs or warnings about dangerous facility conditions.
Victims’ rights
When a property owner does not take reasonable steps to mitigate their liability risks and someone is hurt as a result, an injury victim may be in a position to hold that individual or business responsible for their harm. Seeking legal guidance as soon as possible after an injury is a good way to start making informed decisions under such circumstances.]]>On Behalf of Geary & Geary, LLPhttps://www.gearyandgeary.com/?p=498182023-10-20T20:11:22Z2023-10-20T17:00:14ZCall the Police
Emotions run high after a crash. Those involved may be angry, irrational, or even impaired. Insist on calling the police so that they can take over control of the scene and gather the pertinent information regarding the collision.
Don't hesitate to seek medical treatment
Seek medical treatment for your injuries as soon as possible. Let your medical providers determine the most appropriate treatment plan in order to facilitate healing. Failing to seek medical treatment in a timely manner can cause an insurance company denial.
Consult with an Attorney
You will receive calls from insurance representatives following a crash. You have important obligations when it comes to your own insurance carrier. It is always best to consult with an attorney before you speak with an insurance representative so that you understand your rights and obligations.
PRESERVE EVIDENCE
The strength of the evidence in your case will determine if you obtain a favorable outcome. Evidence may include a photographs of injuries and damaged vehicles, police report, witness statements or medical records obtained after seeing your doctor. Make sure that you preserve all evidence.]]>On Behalf of Geary & Geary, LLPhttps://www.gearyandgeary.com/?p=496702023-10-25T12:31:32Z2023-10-02T08:27:48ZReckless behaviors behind the wheel
Reckless driving can be an umbrella term for a wide range of different dangerous and illegal behaviors behind the wheel. Someone who drives while under the influence could be labeled a reckless driver. Reckless driving may include a person’s conscious or unconscious decision to commit more than one reckless act. For example, a drunk driver may hit speeds 30 miles per hour above the speed limit, further increasing the chances of a crash.
Ultimately, reckless driving could be any behavior that displays a wanton disregard for the safety of others. Tailgating, riding on the shoulder of the road, cutting others off and going through red lights may all be reckless driving. Deliberately using a vehicle to harm others may be the most blatant example of reckless driving.
Reckless driving and consequences
Drivers who cause car accidents because of reckless actions could face serious compensation claims. Extremely reckless behavior may significantly damage more than one vehicle and result in more than one person getting hurt. So, the monetary claims sought could be extensive. Additionally, the reckless actions by the driver might open doors to punitive damages, which could be significant.
An auto insurance settlement might cover a victim’s losses, but payouts face cover limits caps. Also, auto insurance policies might not pay for punitive damages. Victims could file a civil lawsuit to recover compensation above policy limits and punitive damages.]]>On Behalf of Geary & Geary, LLPhttps://www.gearyandgeary.com/?p=496672023-10-19T05:13:22Z2023-08-24T05:13:52ZWhat causes truck accidents?
Truck accidents involving semi-trailers and smaller vehicles occur about once every 15 minutes. Human error frequently causes truck accidents, as long-distance truck drivers live a hectic lifestyle and are frequently sleep-deprived. Delivery deadlines and lack of sleep can lead to devastating consequences. But beyond that factor, big rigs are more dangerous because of their massive size and weight. They can be difficult to maneuver and need more room to stop and turn. Distracted driving, on the part of a truck driver or car driver, is often a factor in collisions.
Possible injuries from semi-truck accidents
Injuries can range from minor to severe. While a whiplash-type injury is often considered a minor injury initially, this type of injury can have lasting consequences due to the sudden jarring movement of the head and neck upon impact. Other injuries to the spine and neck are also common, as are fractures and air bag deployment injuries Unfortunately, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and spinal cord injuries are often the result of a catastrophic truck accident. Traumatic brain injuries have varying levels of severity, ranging from mild to moderate concussion to injuries that result from metal or other objects penetrating the skull. Victims may also sustain further injuries, including broken bones, issues with the ribs, internal injuries and surface injuries that can include bruising and lacerations.
Seeking medical treatment is essential
Although some personal injuries from truck accidents, such as broken bones, are immediately apparent, others are not. Some injuries, like whiplash and soft tissue injuries, or ligamentous injury, slowly manifest symptoms. Having a medical professional provide a thorough examination soon after the accident will help with documenting any injuries that have occurred, and setting you on the right path for effective and appropriate medical treatment. Your medical provider will recommend an appropriate course of treatment to maximize healing potential
Getting prompt medical treatment is also imperative in any type of motor vehicle collision. In these cases, victims and their families must keep detailed medical records to submit to insurance companies for compensation. Requested compensation may include, but is not limited to, compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages and medical costs, and treatment not covered by insurance. If death is involved, a wrongful death lawsuit would need to be filed in the appropriate court.
Getting appropriate legal counsel is extremely important so that you understand your rights and responsibilities when facing the aftermath of a serious collision. Call us and we can help.]]>On Behalf of Geary & Geary, LLPhttps://www.gearyandgeary.com/?p=496462023-10-19T05:14:06Z2023-07-26T08:31:16ZWhat is the femur?
The femur is the thigh bone and the longest and strongest bone in the human body. The femur reaches all the way from the hip to the knee. The femur is strong and large bone because it helps carry the weight of the human body. The femur is also strong enough to support 30 times the weight of a typical-sized adult.
The femur plays a role in a person’s ability to stand, walk and run. In addition to allowing movement, the femur supports tendons, muscles and ligaments. Because of the strength and size of the femur, it takes a great deal of force to cause femur fractures. However, the severe trauma resulting from motor vehicle accidents can cause femur injuries.
Femur fractures
A fracture can occur anywhere on the femur. During motor vehicle accidents, femur fractures usually run along the length of the bone because violent force generally causes the femur to fracture in a specific pattern.
The knee can also be injured if a femur has a fracture. In fact, the femur is considered a part of the knee. The knee includes the femur, the shinbone and the kneecap. So technically, a knee fracture is also a femur fracture.
Treatment
Treatment for this injury requires the care of an orthopedic specialist. The location of the fracture also plays a role in treatment options. Recovery times vary, and complications are possible. This is the type of injury that requires specialized medical care for the best possible outcome.]]>On Behalf of Geary & Geary, LLPhttps://www.gearyandgeary.com/?p=496442023-10-19T05:14:49Z2023-06-20T06:24:09ZLost wages
Car crashes often result in very serious injuries. You may also face the prospect of being partially or completely debilitated after a crash with limited income to pay your bills. In such a case, you may be able to file a claim for lost wages.
The term "lost wages" is used to describe the total amount of money that you should have earned from the time of your accident to the date of settlement. This type of award will not happen automatically. To receive it, you must be able to prove that the wages you lost as a result of your injuries were directly related to the incident.
Recent studies have shown that the effects of car crashes are much worse than they used to be. This is because people tend to drive a great deal faster than they used to. They also have more distractions to deal with. When combined, fast and distracted driving can lead to crashes.
The claims process
To begin the process of filing for lost wages, you can complete and file an employment authorization form. This is the document that will permit your employer to give your insurance company vital information about your employment.
You will typically have to undergo an independent medical examination. You can then submit all of the relevant medical documents. Once you have done so, your case will be considered.]]>On Behalf of Geary & Geary, LLPhttps://www.gearyandgeary.com/?p=496412023-10-19T05:16:03Z2023-05-22T08:59:19ZIncreased traffic
With schools out and more people on vacation, the roads are often more congested than during other times of the year. This increase in traffic can lead to longer travel times and result in greater frustration, factors that come with a higher risk of car crashes.
Road construction projects
Many road construction projects tend to occur during the summer, resulting in detours, lane closures and other obstacles that can make driving more unpredictable. It's crucial to be aware of these potential hazards and plan your route accordingly.
Hot weather
High temperatures can cause tire blowouts, while the intense heat can lead to fatigue and dehydration, impairing your ability to drive safely. To combat these dangers, ensure your tires are properly inflated and take breaks to stay hydrated and refreshed.
Thunderstorms are also common during the summer months and create dangerous driving conditions. Heavy rain can reduce visibility, and lightning strikes can cause power outages that affect traffic lights and other important infrastructure. Slowing down and being extra cautious when driving in stormy conditions will ensure you have time to react to possible dangers.
Wildlife
Many animals tend to be more active during the summer, which can increase collisions. Be aware of the potential for wildlife encounters and slow down if you see animals near the road. This will help you avoid swerving dangerously if an animal crosses your path.
Keeping your summer driving safe
Summertime driving hazards can be dangerous and even life-threatening if you're unprepared. By avoiding the temptation to allow for the lowering of your inhibitions and compromising your awareness, you can ensure your summer road trips are safe and without incident.
Motorcycles
Share the road safely by keeping an eye out for motorcycles now that the nice weather has arrived.
Bicyclists
This is prime season for cycling. Watch out for bikes, and pay careful attention when driving in neighborhoods where children are riding bikes.
Many cities and towns have designated bike lanes. Always be careful when pulling in and out of a bike lane, and when exiting your vehicle.]]>