Lansing Personal Injury Lawyer - Car Accidents

Allegedly Drunk Driver Slams into Car: Kills Six Year Old

David Mittleman — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 10:18:13 GMT

A tragic weekend accident in Grand Rapids serves as an unfortunate reminder of the toll drunk driving takes on Michigan families. A man with a history of drunk driving arrests sideswiped one car, crossed the center line, and slammed head-on into a second car carrying six children. One child died of his injuries; two more passengers are in serious condition. Authorities say that alcohol may have been a factor in this crash, as well.

Drunk and impaired drivers cause thousands of car accidents in Michigan every year, claiming hundreds of lives in this State. Although most people associate impaired driving with excess consumption of alcohol, many other drugs can contribute to an impaired state. Even legally-prescribed prescription medication can cause drowsiness and slow one's reaction time.

State and local law enforcement agencies have begun to crack down on impaired driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is leading an effort to raise awareness of the problem and coordinate nationwide solutions to impaired driving. Tougher measures include the use of an ignition interlock device and more stringent sentencing. In Michigan, it is against the law to allow an intoxicated individual to drive a car that you own. If the driver is arrested for drunk driving, a law enforcement officer may destroy the metal license plate of your car, even if you are not in the vehicle.

Drunk and impaired drivers pose a serious threat to Michigan motorists. If you suspect someone of driving while impaired, use extreme caution and put as much distance as possible between your vehicles. Never get into a car with a drunk driver. Drive carefully, use common sense, and remain alert to ensure you arrive safely at your destination.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by David Mittleman

Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Rolls Out New Traffic Signals

David Mittleman — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 16:48:31 GMT

Michigan drivers should be on the lookout for a new type of traffic signal: the flashing yellow left-turn arrow. The new signal will eventually replace all current flashing red left-turn signals. Many of the new signals are already installed, and unprepared drivers may be caught off guard and become confused about who has the right of way at an intersection.

The Michigan Department of Transportation based its decision to update the traffic signals on a national study that suggested the new signals reduced the risk of collisions. However, Michigan drivers who have not seen the new signals or have not been educated about the progression of multicolored arrows may become confused, putting themselves and other motorists as risk. There are four main rules to remember when approaching a new left-turn traffic signal: 1) Red, as always means stop; 2) Flashing yellow means turn with caution - oncoming traffic has the right of way; 3) The green arrow means it is safe to turn left and oncoming traffic must stop; 4) Steady yellow means the light is about change back to red.

The new signals will appear nationwide. Introduction of new traffic signals in Michigan of any kind often results in more dangerous situations than before, at least initially. In the long run, however, as drivers become more familiar with the new signals traffic flow should improve. At high-risk, high-volume intersections, the new left-turn signals should reduce the risk of an accident for Michigan drivers.

Remember, it is important to be familiar with all types of traffic signals. Failure to obey a signal is a violation of the Michigan Motor Vehicle Code and could subject you to criminal and/or civil liability. Help reduce the risk of injury to all motorists in Michigan by learning about and obeying the new traffic signals.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by David Mittleman

SUVs Make Strides in Safety, Still Present Some Risks

David Mittleman — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 09:46:05 GMT

Sport utility vehicles have revolutionized the roadways. With their higher stance and substantial proportions, they provide many drivers with peace of mind amid often chaotic traffic conditions. Recently released SUV crash test results, however, suggest that beneath their rugged-looking exteriors, many SUVs are not as safe as they could be.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is a non-profit group that constantly investigates the effects of motor vehicle crashes and periodically releases informational reports. Although some models faired reasonably well, others can be dangerous under certain conditions. Four common SUVs were rated "marginal" or "poor" - the two lowest rankings - when a side-impact collision was simulated. Despite the availability of curtain airbags, testing showed that injuries to the ribs and internal organs were still possible in this type of crash.

Another well-known risk involving SUVs is the potential for rollover and ejection. Along with their higher ground clearance, SUVs also have higher centers of gravity. As a result, SUVs and trucks have less lateral stability, especially during evasive or aggressive driving maneuvers. Adding to the rollover risk is the fact that some SUVs may not be as structurally sound as necessary, particularly with regard to roof strength. A lesser-known, but equally tragic, threat posed by SUVs is their relatively large blind spots. Gaps in a driver's vision are dangerous enough on the highway, but those threats are magnified in more populated areas, where children might be present without warning.

SUVs and trucks also present a special problem for drivers in Michigan. Vehicles equipped with four wheel drive or all wheel drive systems, such as many SUVs, are ostensibly built to handle rough and slippery terrain. Unfortunately, many drivers are unaware of their vehicles' limitations. Although some SUVs may have better traction than two-wheel drive vehicles, not even the best four wheel drive system is completely safe. Furthermore, stopping distances for SUVs are no better than for other vehicles.

Used properly, SUVs are safe and enjoyable vehicles. Like any other vehicle, however, they carry unique risks. If you drive an SUV, remember to use caution - it could save your life or the lives of your loved ones.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by David Mittleman

Teen Drivers Increase Risk to Passengers

David Mittleman — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 15:28:20 GMT

Lack of experience can make any task difficult. Practice is required to master even seemingly simple activities. When it comes to something as dangerous and complicated as driving, inexperience can be fatal.

A new study emphasizes the point that inexperienced drivers can be dangerous. The focus of the study, which was conducted by the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, was on young passengers between the ages of eight and seventeen who had been killed in automobile accidents. Several factors are identified as increasing the risk of death. Fifty-four percent of fatalities occurred when the driver was a teenager. High speeds and lack of seatbelt use were also significant contributing factors.

The risky behavior of teenaged drivers has received extensive research. The University of Michigan Traffic Research institute has several publications that explore the threat of young drivers to the health and safety of Michigan families. The data so far is not particularly uplifting: on the whole, novice drivers are unquestionably dangerous drivers.

The news is not all bad, however. A Grand Rapids couple has introduced a service known as "Teen Spy" to help monitor young drivers and protect Michigan families. Parents who register for the service receive a bumper sticker to affix to their teen's car. Other drivers on the road can then call the number on the sticker to register a complaint, which will be relayed to the teen's parents. It is hoped that the sticker itself will have a deterrent effect on the teenaged drivers, and complaints hopefully will be rare.

Parents might also want to consider entering into a written agreement with their teenager to govern their behavior when driving and riding in a vehicle. The document could cover such issues as:
-Mandatory seatbelt use
-Observance of posted speed limits (or, in poor weather, observing a lower appropriate speed)
-Never riding with someone who is intoxicated
-Roads, highways, and other areas that are off limits

If nothing else, this agreement will let the teenager know the expectations and limitations of his or her behavior.

Of course, not all teen drivers are dangerous. The Children's Hospital study reminds us, though, that even if your teenager is a safe driver, he or she can still be injured as a defenseless passenger.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by David Mittleman

Michigan Sees Increase in ATV Related Accidents

David Mittleman — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 11:11:54 GMT

Adults and children alike have enjoyed the use of ATV off-road vehicle in Michigan. However, a new study completed by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has revealed that more than 500 people nationwide died in ATV accidents in 2006. Children 16 and younger accounted for 20% of ATV related fatalities. Michigan ranked fifth in the number of ATV related fatalities from 2003-2006 with 67 reported deaths.

Because so many children in Michigan have access to an ATV off-road vehicle, there is an increased need for children to be educated more on ATV safety. Most of the deaths and injuries to children are the result of youngsters riding adult-size ATVs, and consumer groups say the CPSC needs to keep kids off ATVs that are too big and too powerful for them. Michigan ATV regulations require children under the age of 16 to acquire a safety training certificate and be under the direct supervision of an adult.

The CPSC also reported a staggering 146,600 ATV related emergency room reported injuries in 2006, with children under 16 accounting for 27% of those injuries. Also, the CPSC just announced an ATV recall of about 95,000 Polaris ATVs because they can have defective control panels that could catch on fire.

A recent article in the Lansing State Journal reported that under a voluntary agreement between the industry and the commission, major ATV distributors require dealers not to sell adult-size ATVs to people who might allow children to ride them. But consumer groups say few dealers abide by the rule. Hopefully Michigan ATV dealers are more responsible due to the increased use of ATVs throughout the state.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by David Mittleman

New Child Seat Program Aims to Reduce Injuries

David Mittleman — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 12:20:22 GMT

As any Michigan family with small children will likely tell you, kids can be hard to restrain. Nowhere is containment more important, however, than in a motor vehicle. Young children face a high risk of injury in an automobile accident unless they are properly restrained in a safe and effective child seat. But with so many makes and models of child seat on the market, many parents face a difficult decision between price and quality.

According to a recent study, motor vehicle crashes result in more deaths among children than any other cause. Thousands of Michigan children are injured or killed in motor vehicle accidents every year. This heartbreaking toll has resulted in a number of local, state, and federal responses.

A new National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) program aims to provide parents with the information they need to reduce the risk of injury to their children. While all child seats are supposed to meet federal safety regulations, the seats vary widely in their ease of use. The new NHTSA rating program evaluates child seats based on the features offered in a particular class of restraints.

A new website and a snappy five-star rating system will only go so far, however. Michigan families who want to prevent injury to their children should check with their local child seat inspection station to ensure a safe and proper fit. Don't wait until you actually become involved in an automobile accident to find out if your child seat is properly installed.

Automobile accidents are dangerous and often tragic, but many injuries can be avoided. Michigan families should take the time to ensure their precious cargo is safe and sound in an appropriate child seat.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by David Mittleman

Road Salt Shortage Puts Michigan Drivers at Risk

David Mittleman — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:32:25 GMT

Road salt is a mixed blessing. Anyone who has driven in Michigan over the years knows the toll this gritty material can take on a vehicle's paint job. All the cars on the road begin to resemble one another with their rusty, gray exteriors. On the other hand, road salt is a crucial weapon in the fight against treacherous icy roads.

According to a recent story in the Jackson Citizen Patriot, a lack of road salt could result in hazardous road conditions for Michgian drivers. This year's massive snowfall and repeated freeze-thaw cycles have taxed municipalities' ability to keep Michigan roads safely salted. As a result, the roads remain slick and dangerous. Automobile accidents in Michigan are common in these conditions, and often have tragic consequences.

Motorists in suburbs and outlying rural areas are at the greatest risk of injury from the imminent salt shortfall. Major cities such as Detroit are turning down requests from other Michigan communities to share road salt resources. Oddly, the shortage looms despite the fact that Michigan salt mines produce a large percentage of the nation's road salt.

In order to help avoid automobile accidents and alleviate dangerous road conditions, some Michigan counties are scrambling to add sand to their dwindling salt supply. While sand helps improve traction, it does little to remove ice and snow.

Drive slow and proceed with caution to help avoid injury. When the winter weather is at its worst, even the most diligent drivers are at risk.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by David Mittleman

Michigan provides no fault benefits to all persons injured in auto accidents

Devon Glass — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 09:13:04 GMT

If you have ever been involved in an automobile accident, there are a number of benefits that your auto insurance is required to provide to you under Michigan law. These benefits are guaranteed to you when you are injured in an automobile accident, regardless of whether you have your own policy of insurance.

If you do not have your own auto insurance, Michigan law allows you to collect no-fault benefits from any of the following people:

* Any family member or spouse who you have been living with for more than 30 days prior to the accident
* The driver or a passenger of the vehicle you were riding in when the accident occurred
* The owner or registrant of the vehicle you were riding in when the accident occurred
* The driver of the other vehicle involved in the accident

If none of those individuals have auto insurance, then an injured person can apply for no-fault benefits through the Michigan Assigned Claims Facility. This allows for no-fault benefits to be provided to persons injured in auto accidents when there is no auto insurance available, if the appropriate auto insurance carrier cannot be identified, or if there are more than one insurance carrier who may be responsible and neither carrier is paying benefits.

But just what are these "no-fault" benefits? No-fault benefits refer to a 5 part set of medical and economic services provided by an auto insurance carrier to persons injured in an auto accident. These benefits are given regardless of fault, hence the name no-fault benefits. The benefits are:

* Wage loss, covering up to 85% of your pre-tax wages for time off work related to the auto accident
* Medical coverage for life for any injuries reasonably or necessarily related to the auto accident
* Medical mileage, reimbursement for driving to and from doctors appointments or other necessary treatments
* Replacement services reimbursement up to $20 per day for household services (cooking, cleaning, etc) provided a family member, friend, or professional
* Attendant care coverage which provides skilled nursing for personal care or other needs

You have up to one year from the date of the accident to apply for no-fault benefits, but you should apply for benefits immediately. This will ensure that you are provided with all of the benefits you are entitled to under Michigan law. If you have been in an auto accident and have not applied for no-fault benefits or are not receiving all of the benefits you are entitled to, please use the contact form at the top of the page to put you in touch with a professional who can assist you with getting all of your no-fault benefits.

For more information on this subject, please refer to the section on Car and Motorcycle Accidents.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Devon Glass

Traumatuic Brain Injury and Closed Head Injuries: Serious Head Injuries Can Result From Minor Auto Accidents

David Mittleman — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 14:05:25 GMT

According to the National Institute for Health, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is any injury to the brain that occurs suddenly. A TBI can occur when the head violently impacts an object, such as someone's head hitting the steering wheel or dashboard in a auto accident. Any head injury that does not penetrate the skull is referred to as a closed head injury.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for a TBI. Once a person has sustained a closed head injury, there is a window of time in which you can minimize the damage. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances for a less significant injury. The largest concerns for a patient with a closed head injury include maintaining proper oxygen and blood supplies to the brain, among others. An x-ray or a computed tomography (CT) scan may also be used to properly diagnose the extent of the injury. Surgery may be required to fix any damage to the brain.

Signs of a TBI include, but are not limited to:

* Headache
* Confusion
* Memory Difficulty
* Behavioral/Mood Changes
* Nausea, Vomiting
* Seizures
* Slurred Speech
* Pupil Dilation
* Inability To Wake From Sleep

A TBI can occur anytime there is an injury to the head. It can even be caused when the brain tissue impacts the skull, causing a bruise or other trauma. According to the Mayo Clinic, nearly half of all TBI's are caused by auto, motorcycle, and bicycle accidents. Additionally, more than half of all TBI's in elderly people are the result of a fall.

Memory problems related to a TBI include problems with both short term and long term memory. Short term memory problems relate to a decreased ability to recall recent events or conversations. Long term memory complications relate to a difficulty in storing information for later use, such as remembering the details of a business presentation after preparing for a few days. Amnesia can also result from a TBI, causing a loss of memories that either occurred before or after the accident.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms and have recently been involved in a motor vehicle accident or have fallen and hit your head, you should seek medical attention immediately.

For more information on this subject, please refer to the section on Head and Brain Injury.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by David Mittleman

All Drivers Should Have Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

David Mittleman — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 08:58:03 GMT

The law in Michigan requires all drivers and owners of motor vehicles to carry No-Fault Insurance. But, the No-Fault Act established back in 1973 only requires us to carry a minimum of $20,000 to compensate individuals injured as a result of a negligence. That amount has never been increased and in todays dollars it is worth less than $2,500.

This amount is hardly enough to adequately compensate someone with a moderately serious injury, let alone a catastrophically injured person. What is even more concerning is the dramatically increasing population of people driving vehicles without any insurance coverage whatsoever. How can you protect yourself and your family from this growing concern? Before you are in an accident, make sure your No-Fault Insurance policy has uninsurance and underinsurance coverage.

* Not all automobile insurance companies offer this coverage
* It is the least expensive way to protect you and your family from negligent drivers who are inadequately insured or have no coverage at all
* Buy as much underinsurance and uninsurance insurance coverage as you can afford
* The higher the amount of coverage you purchase, the less it costs per dollar of coverage
* It will provide protection for you and your family in the event that a negligent driver either has no insurance or only the minimum policy required by law

Contact the Injury Board so they can put you in touch with a trained professional to evaluate your situation before you need the help.

For more information on this subject, please refer to the section on Car and Motorcycle Accidents.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by David Mittleman