Hardee, Massey & Blodgett, LLPHardee, Massey & Blodgett, LLP2024-03-17T22:59:36Zhttps://www.hmblawnc.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1402467/2021/12/cropped-hmb-site-icon-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Hardee, Massey & Blodgett, LLPhttps://www.hmblawnc.com/?p=508372024-03-17T22:59:36Z2024-03-17T22:59:36ZDaydreaming while driving
Drivers don't always keep their focus on the road. They plan out their day, compose an email that they intend to send when they reach their destination or review the grocery shopping list. Other people fantasize about their upcoming vacation or otherwise indulge in daydreaming. Cognitive distraction can be very dangerous, as it may prevent people from properly monitoring their surroundings. Even if other people can't prove someone was daydreaming before a crash occurred, that could very easily be the underlying reason for a wreck.
Conversing with passengers
Passengers are a serious distraction risk for drivers in a variety of circumstances. Parents often find the presence of their children in a vehicle to be a source of distraction, while teenagers may have a hard time focusing on the road when they have other young adults in the vehicle with them. Even those carpooling on the way to work could become so focused on a conversation that they fail to properly monitor the road. Conversations using hands-free technology over a mobile phone can also cause a dangerous level of distraction.
Eating or drinking
Most people think nothing of enjoying a soda or a hot coffee while en route to a destination. Some people even try to enjoy a meal before getting to work or an appointment. Eating or drinking forces someone to take at least one hand off of the steering wheel and diminishes their cognitive focus on the road.
Avoiding distraction can help someone minimize their chances of causing a serious car crash. Drivers who learn about the biggest safety risks that motorists take may have an easier time reducing their risk of injury on the road.]]>On Behalf of Hardee, Massey & Blodgett, LLPhttps://www.hmblawnc.com/?p=508352024-03-17T21:39:33Z2024-03-17T21:39:33ZBike maintenance
The longer a bicycle has been in storage, the more likely it is to have some maintenance needs. There are small adjustments and repairs that someone may need to make before heading out on public roads. Additionally, people may need to inspect their safety gear. Helmets may require replacements if they have aged or if a child has grown. Proper bike and equipment maintenance is crucial for personal safety.
Driver negligence
Unfortunately, when cyclists have not been on the road recently, drivers may fail to notice them in traffic. Most motorists overlook even highly-visible bicycles unless they make a point of looking for them. Spring changes in foliage could also potentially lead to driver distraction that could contribute to a crash.
Springtime road hazards
There are many risks on the road during the transition from winter to summer. Animals are far more active. Even small animals, like rabbits, can pose a deadly risk for bicyclists. Striking an animal could throw someone into traffic and lead to severe injuries. Beyond that, there could be issues with the road itself due to fluctuations in temperature. Cracks in the pavement or potholes can develop as temperatures shift. Wet pavement is also a concern. Anyone biking during a rainstorm needs to know how to stay safe. Even if cyclists stay off the road during times of active rainfall, they could be at elevated risk of the crash when the pavement is wet after a storm.
If a bicycle-vehicle collision occurs, a cyclist may need to file an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit. Avoiding a bicycle crash is usually a better option than seeking compensation for the damages that a crash causes, although cyclists are not often given a choice in this regard.]]>On Behalf of Hardee, Massey & Blodgett, LLPhttps://www.hmblawnc.com/?p=508332024-02-09T14:37:47Z2024-02-09T14:37:47ZNorth Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles.
The information in the report can help someone determine what steps to make next in the pursuit of appropriate compensation. How does someone go about reading a police report?
Focus on the main details
Police reports are typically multi-page documents that go into great depth about every aspect of a collision. Officers must gather specific information for the purposes of crash analysis later. A standard crash report describes the scene of the crash, notes the make/model of the vehicles and includes identifying information about the motorists.
Statements from each driver regarding their actions during the crash are among the more important details for people to focus on when reviewing a crash report. Those details may either accurately reflect the situation or constitute a misrepresentation of the circumstances. Drivers who know they are at fault for a crash may lie, making their version of events seem strange to the other party involved.
Know when to get outside support
The details about what occurred during and immediately before a crash typically influence who the courts or insurance companies claim was at fault for the crash. When the other driver tries to blame someone who didn't cause the crash, their allegations could prevent someone from pursuing compensation.
If the police report appears to include inaccurate information or if someone has a hard time understanding the information within it, then they may require help. Going over a crash report with an attorney can be a very useful step. A lawyer can help so many evaluate whether they have grounds to pursue a personal injury lawsuit and could also help someone determine how to approach the process.
Obtaining a copy of a crash report can help people understand the complications they may encounter when seeking compensation and may help them find a way to resolve the matter favorably.]]>On Behalf of Hardee, Massey & Blodgett, LLPhttps://www.hmblawnc.com/?p=508312024-02-05T20:07:05Z2024-02-05T20:07:05ZCommercial crash claims are often incredibly complex
Large commercial crashes can have major implications for everyone involved. Commercial drivers who cause crashes could be at risk of losing their eligibility for their commercial driver's license. Transportation companies facing insurance claims could see a marked increase in their operating expenses.
The insurance company providing coverage for the transportation company also has reason to worry about the massive financial liability of a commercial claim. Federal regulations for semi-trucks require at least $750,000 of his liability insurance. Therefore, a claim involving catastrophic injury or death could mean a six-figure loss for the insurance company.
Often, the professionals representing the insurance company are very assertive when negotiating a claim after a semi-truck crash. They may attempt various different aggressive negotiation tactics in an effort to mitigate the company's financial liability. They may try to trick someone into giving up or saying the wrong thing on record. The average person likely does not have the composure or negotiation experience necessary to hold their own against insurance professionals.
Especially when recovering from injuries or helping support an injured loved one, people may struggle to handle a semi-truck insurance claim without professional assistance. Getting adequate support can help people understand their rights and secure the compensation they deserve after a catastrophic crash.]]>On Behalf of Hardee, Massey & Blodgett, LLPhttps://www.hmblawnc.com/?p=508262024-01-20T02:07:49Z2024-01-20T02:07:49ZWhere do semi-truck crashes tend to occur the most?
Expressways or freeways with higher speed limits are popular routes for commercial drivers, as they often feel the pressure of a very demanding schedule. Higher speed limits and more direct routes are beneficial for those who can only drive a certain number of hours and need to deliver goods or products to a client.
Operating commercial trucks at higher speeds and in more dense traffic conditions can significantly increase the risk of a wreck, which is likely to have worse consequences for the people in the smaller vehicle than the person operating the commercial truck. Particularly when the weather is bad or traffic is unusually heavy, drivers may want to avoid roads with a known history of serious semi-truck collisions.
Some of the more dangerous routes include I-95, which connects Wilson to Fayetteville. This interstate sees many semi-truck crashes, including a January 2024 rollover incident involving 40,000 pounds of bananas. I-40 also has a reputation for being the scene of relatively severe semi-truck crashes. Any interstate, highway or high-speed rural route could be a dangerous place to drive because of the risk of a semi-truck wreck.
While North Carolina drivers don't necessarily need to avoid interstates and freeways, being aware of the enhanced risk at certain locations might help them reduce their chances of a preventable collision.]]>On Behalf of Hardee, Massey & Blodgett, LLPhttps://www.hmblawnc.com/?p=507972023-10-10T10:53:16Z2023-10-10T10:53:16Z76% of all fatal pedestrian collisions that year took place during the darkest times of the day.
People can't simply avoid walking anywhere after dark, particularly if they rely on it as one of their primary means of transportation. However, they can reduce their likelihood of being involved in a major collision by following the three safety tips below.
Use the right clothing and gear
Low-light conditions put pedestrians at risk both because drivers are less likely to watch for pedestrians after dark and because they will have less time to react once they spot a pedestrian in the road. Pedestrians may want to wear illuminated safety equipment, like headlamps. Clothing with reflective strips built in can also help catch the eye of motorists by reflecting their headlights.
Comply with traffic laws
The rules of the road require that pedestrians face into traffic when walking or jogging on public streets. Walking in the right direction can increase someone's chances of spotting a drunk driver or catching the eye of someone on their evening commute home from work.
Plan routes carefully
There are two main factors that may influence the likelihood and severity of pedestrian crashes on public roads. One is the speed of the vehicles, as higher speeds usually translate to more severe collisions. The second is overhead illumination. Many of the worst crashes occur in the rural areas with no lighting. Pedestrians who plan routes on roads with lower speed limits and more illumination may reduce their chance of a major crash.
Pedestrians hurt by motorists often have the right to file an insurance claim or possibly a personal injury lawsuit. Making safety a top priority can help protect pedestrians from collisions that could change their lives and protect their ability to take legal action after one.]]>On Behalf of Hardee, Massey & Blodgett, LLPhttps://www.hmblawnc.com/?p=507692023-09-28T13:10:23Z2023-09-28T13:10:23ZHouse fires
The winter holidays come with a significant risk of accidental conflagrations. On Thanksgiving, for example, there are 1,600 reported cooking fires, on average, which is triple the usual daily average. Winter holiday decorations are also a fire risk. People may leave candles unattended or place them near flammable items, like wreaths. Certain factors, like the use of a turkey fryer or the decision to overload certain electrical outlets, can greatly increase the risk of a holiday fire.
Drunk driving crashes
Road travel to visit family members is part of many holiday traditions. Everyone might gather at Grandma's house on Thanksgiving, for example. Unfortunately, there is usually a major surge in crashes, particularly drunk driving crashes, on the holidays themselves and the weekends closest to them. New Year's Eve sees one of the biggest upticks in drunk driving crashes of all major holidays, making it one of the riskiest days to be on the road.
Dog bite incidents
Even well-trained animals may lash out at humans when they feel stressed or territorial. Whether someone brings a dog to a loved one's house for the holidays or visitors trigger the canine owned by the holiday host, a dog bite incident could quickly mar family celebrations by sending someone to the hospital. Children and older adults, as well as those who have too much to drink, might be at elevated risk of either antagonizing an animal or suffering particularly severe injuries should one attack.
There are plenty of other holiday risks, including the possibility of interpersonal violence among family members and defective products given as gifts. Identifying and watching out for some of the biggest safety risks during the holiday season can help people protect themselves and their loved ones.]]>On Behalf of Hardee, Massey & Blodgett, LLPhttps://www.hmblawnc.com/?p=507672023-08-26T00:47:54Z2023-08-26T00:47:54ZThe uninsured driver problem
Auto insurance is legally required to help protect drivers and victims of accidents. Unfortunately, not everyone complies with this requirement, which raises significant challenges for victims seeking compensation. However, there are things you can do to navigate such a situation. Right after an accident with an uninsured driver, you should try and be calm. Accidents can be jarring, but it's important to remain composed. Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary.
Once all health and safety concerns have been addressed, you and/or your legal team should embark on collecting as much information as possible. This can include the other driver's contact details, the model of their vehicle and its license plate number. Your and/or team should also document the scene by taking photographic evidence of vehicle damage, skid marks and road conditions. This documentation can be valuable later on.
Importantly, regardless of the at-fault party's insurance status, it's vital to contact the police immediately after an accident. They’ll create an official report that can prove invaluable in establishing fault and outlining the details of the accident.
Filing a claim with your insurance
Since you're dealing with an uninsured driver, you'll likely need to file a claim with your auto insurance provider. Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible and provide them with all the details and evidence you and your team have gathered.
Suppose you have uninsured motorist coverage. In that case, it can help cover your medical expenses, property damage and other losses. This coverage is specifically designed for situations like these. You may also be in a position to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Being a victim of an auto accident with an uninsured driver can be an overwhelming experience. However, understanding your options and taking appropriate actions can help you navigate this challenging situation more effectively. Remember to stay calm, gather information and consult with professionals to help ensure that you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.]]>On Behalf of Hardee, Massey & Blodgett, LLPhttps://www.hmblawnc.com/?p=507652023-08-02T14:55:08Z2023-08-02T14:55:08Zcan hurt you. Insurance companies don’t make money by being generous, and any mistake you make right now could potentially devalue your claim. Here are the big ones to avoid:
Allowing the insurance company to take a recorded statement
Expect the other party’s insurer to try to get everything you say on record – and make it sound like you don’t have an option. Insurance adjusters do this knowing that, in the aftermath of a disorienting crash, you’re more likely to forget important details. Later, your words could be used against you to imply that you’re just making up new information to try to bolster your claim.
Saying anything that could be taken as an admission of fault
Insurance adjusters are also pros at finding ways to twist people’s words around or take them out of context. For example, if you say something like, “I didn’t even see the other driver coming!” that could be turned into “proof” that you were a distracted driver and weren’t paying attention to traffic.
Disclosing too much information about your medical history
Don’t be in a hurry to sign any medical release forms, especially if the insurance company wants records prior to the date of the accident. They’re probably going on a “fishing expedition” to see if they can find any pre-existing conditions they can use to try to devalue your claim. If you do have any pre-existing conditions, expect the insurance company to argue that your medical problems are related to those, not the crash.
Accepting a quick settlement offer in exchange for a release
If the insurer doesn’t waste any time offering to settle, they probably know your claim is worth far more than they’re saying. Don’t fall for this. Once you sign a release form or accept a check marked “final payment,” you are barred from seeking further compensation.
It’s always wisest to have legal assistance with a car accident claim. It’s generally the best way to put a buffer between you and the insurance company in order to protect your future interests.]]>On Behalf of Hardee, Massey & Blodgett, LLPhttps://www.hmblawnc.com/?p=507632023-07-25T11:58:29Z2023-07-25T11:58:29ZExperimenting with alcohol can be dangerous
Young adults often have a hard time considering the long-term consequences of their actions when making choices, which may lead to very tragic and unnecessary outcomes. Choosing to drive home after attending a party where someone consumes alcohol is a perfect example.
Young adults might assume that if they only have to travel a few blocks to get back to campus, they can do so safely. However, the statistics about college-age drunk driving collisions say otherwise. Those who have had too much to drink, especially when they are relatively new drivers, can very easily cause collisions even when traveling short distances. Other people may end up suffering major injuries or even losing a loved one because a young adult made a bad decision due to peer pressure at a college party.
Drunk driving leads to financial liability
Those who choose to get behind the wheel after having too much to drink must accept some of the risk that comes with that choice. Specifically, they might find themselves legally and financially liable for any damages they cause to others.
Those harmed by a drunk driving crash may be able to file an insurance claim or may need to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Serious injuries and deaths often have costs that will likely far exceed what insurance will cover, making litigation necessary. Seeking justice after a drunk driving crash caused by a college student may require careful evaluation and an exploration of options so that those affected by a crash can more fully recoup their losses.]]>