Types of Car Accidents by a Providence Lawyer

Speeding Related Accidents in Rhode Island: In this day and age, many motorists are rushing to get to work or to their intended destination. As a result, there are numerous rear end car / automobile or truck crashes caused by speeding and careless operation of a motor vehicle. Speeding violations are not only limited to travelling faster then the designated speed limit but could include what is commonly known as ‘Conditions requiring reduced speed’.

(See, RI General Law § 31-14-1 Reasonable and prudent speeds. – No person shall drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing… ) This means that if it is snowing, sleeting or raining, a motorist must take that into account when determining how fast to travel. If the roads are icy, slick or wet a motor vehicle operator must reduce his speed so that an auto accident does not result. If the roads are covered with black ice or oil or you see a police detail on the side of the road or highway, it is crucial that you reduce your speed.

If someone is injured in a motorcycle accident in Rhode Island or an automobile wreck as a result of a tortfeasor speeding then the motorist who was speeding was at least partially at fault / negligent and responsible to pay damages to the injured person. If you were injured in an auto accident in RI or MA, please contact a Rhode Island or Mass. personal Injury Attorney.

Texting and Driving and Distracted Driving: Distracted driving runs the whole gamut from texting and driving, web surfing, instant messaging, gps usage to cell phone calls and driving. The RI distracted driving statute has a very broad definition of ‘texting and driving’  “”Text Message”, also referred to as short messaging service (SMS) means the process by which users send, read, or receive messages on a wireless handset, including but not limited to, text messages, instant messages, electronic messages or e-mails, in order to communicate with any person or device.” 31-22-30

Hit and Run Accidents- Many hit and run accidents result from drunk driving. There have been numerous instances of a motorist who was operating under the influence of alcohol seriously injuring or killing another person and then leaving the scene of the collision to avoid criminal charges, accountability and responsibility for the deadly RI car crash.

Recently, there was a very serious fatal hit and run accident in which a woman was killed in Somerset, MA. Police is Somerset, Massachusetts arrested a man on suspicion that he was involved in the fatal hit and run car accident. Police found his front license plate at the scene of the deadly motor vehicle crash. After police requested that he turn himself in, he drove the damaged motor vehicle to the police station.

“The Somerset Police Department seized Cooper’s vehicle and his cellphone to see whether he had been calling or texting at the time of the crash. Ferreira said he did not have any further information as to what investigators found on Cooper’s phone.” Herald News

At the alleged perpetrator’s arraignment the district attorney documented a rather lengthy criminal record which includes ” two prior arrests for operating under the influence, as well as operating to endanger, shoplifting and larceny, and marijuana and drug possession charges from Rhode Island.” Herald News

Reckless driving crashes: “In United States law, reckless driving is a major moving traffic violation. It is usually a more serious offense than careless driving, improper driving, or driving without due care and attention and is often punishable by fines, imprisonment, and/or driver’s license suspension or revocation.” Wikipedia “Unfortunately, pedestrians were one of the few groups of road users to experience an increase in fatalities in the United States in 2011, totaling 4,432 deaths. ” NHTSA

In a strange yet dangerous situation a motorcyclist played a cat and mouse game with police. Thankfully, no one was injured as a result of this reckless and allegedly criminal conduct. “The motorcyclist who routinely drove his bike at 100 miles per hour along Interstates 93 and 95 and Route 24, eluding State Police and other officers for the past month was captured after a pursuit early today, authorities said.” Boston  

“The suspect, identified as Daniel Rebello, 29, of Somerset, had engaged in a cat and mouse game with law enforcement, taunting an Arlington police officer on Friday and then roaring away, officials said. The State Police said on Monday Rebello called their headquarters in Framingham and boasted that he had gotten away from them once again.”

“But Rebello’s luck ran out about 7:30 a.m. today. He was arrested by Randolph Police Officer Charles Boudreau hiding behind a parked tractor trailer off Route 139 in Randolph, but only after he first sped north on Route 24 and then drove south on the grassy median strip to avoid State Police troopers waiting for him, police said.” Id. 

Pedestrian accidents: Pedestrian accidents are particularly sad since many pedestrian accidents are fatal leading to Providence Superior Court Wrongful Death litigation. If you or a loved on was injured in a car-pedestrian accident then it is imperative that you retain a RI Personal Injury attorney or a Wrongful Death lawyer in Rhode Island asap.

The Benefits of Hiring a RI Distracted Driving Accident Attorney

Driving a vehicle on city streets and highways in Rhode Island and Massachusetts is both a privilege and an enormous responsibility. Motorists must pay attention and remain focused whenever operating their car, truck, motorcycle or other vehicle. Unfortunately, too many individuals become easily distracted when behind the wheel from a variety of sources inside and outside their vehicle.

Distracted driving creates a dangerous environment that can quickly lead to serious injury or death for motorists, passengers, bicyclists, pedestrians and others. This is because operating a motor vehicle requires a high level of coordination of the driver’s vision and reflexes. Anything that easily distracts the mind or eyes from traveling on the roadway or takes a car driver’s hands away from the wheel can cause an accident.

Driving distracted on roadways happens when the motorist’s cognitive capacity, manual abilities and vision become impaired. The motorist can easily lose their cognitive capacity when their mind drifts away from operating the vehicle to thinking of anything else. This includes texting, reading or emailing while driving. Taking one or both hands off the wheel can create a hazardous condition when the driver loses the ability to control the vehicle while moving. Visual distraction can happen in an instant when motorists divert their eyes from the roadway.

In addition to speaking on a cell phone in Rhode Island and Massachusetts (MA), other types of distractions include:

• Talking or arguing with passengers
• Adjusting the vehicle’s radio/CD/MP3 player
• Dealing with a crying child
• Applying makeup or performing other grooming
• Consuming beverages and foods
• Reaching for objects inside the vehicle
• Reading or watching a video
• Looking at a GPS navigation screen for directions
• Looking at events and objects outside or inside the vehicle
• Texting on the cellular device
• Emailing on a mobile device

Performing any one of the above activities, even for an instant, increases the potential of being involved in a RI or MA automobile, truck or car accident. Driving an automobile distracted puts the motorist’s life at risk as well as others including passengers in the car and others sharing the road.

Distracted Driving Injuries in Rhode Island and Mass.

Because the Providence distracted motorist loses their capacity to maintain control of the vehicle, a distracted driving accident in RI or Massachusetts usually produces catastrophic results. In many incidences, victims involved in these types of RI and Mass. accidents often suffer a variety of injuries that include:

• Temporary or permanent disability from spinal cord injuries and TBI (traumatic brain injury)
• Disfigurement
• Broken bones and fractures
• Organ damage
• Contusions and concussions
• Bruises, lacerations and cuts
• Dismemberment and amputation
• Death

The types of injuries from a distracted driving accident in Rhode Island and Massachusetts can be long lasting and expensive.

Protecting Your Rights

Distracted driving accidents are the result of recklessness and negligence. When others harm victims through their negligence in a vehicle accident, all injured parties can seek financial compensation in Providence Superior Court for the injuries they have endured. As their right to recover financial damages for their injuries, victims often hire a Rhode Island personal injury attorney specializes in distracted driving claims.

Typical compensation and reimbursement for a distracted driving case might include:

• Hospitalization costs and medical expenses
• Lost wages due to missed work because of the accident
• Pain, suffering, mental anguish and emotional distress
• Inconvenience
• Loss of companionship, consortium and quality of daily life
• Funeral and burial costs in a wrongful death case

It is imperative to protect your rights by hiring a Providence distracted driving personalinjury attorney before speaking to any auto insurance company that represents the negligent party. Your East Providence tort attorney can ensure you do not sign a release form, accept a low settlement offer or provide a recorded statement without legal representation.

Woonsocket, Cranston and Warwick Personal injury attorneys who specialize in distracted driving cases provide legal services on a contingency fee basis. They offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case and can offer numerous options to help you seek financial compensation.

Legal Notice per Rules of Professional Responsibility: The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers and attorneys in the general practice of law, but does not license or certify any lawyer / attorney as an expert or specialist in any field of practice. While this firm maintains joint responsibility, most cases of this type are referred to other attorneys for principle responsibility.

Stop Sign Violation Accident lawyer in Rhode Island

Many Rhode Island drivers violating a stop light control system by running a red light, driving past a stop sign or neglecting to yield will be involved in some type of motor vehicle accident. In some situations, the crash results in serious injuries or fatalities. These accidents often occur in Rhode island when others with the right-of-way are suddenly confronted with a vehicle in their path or unexpectedly blindsided in a collision. Unfortunately, stop sign violation accidents in RI are on the rise.

Stop Sign accident Lawyer in Rhode Island

Every driver in Rhode Island is required to obey the rules of the road and come to a full and complete stop when approaching a stop sign. Unfortunately, too many motorists on the road simply ignore the stop controls. Other times, the driver will slowdown only long enough to view arriving oncoming traffic before quickly moving through the intersection or turning. Stoplight violation accidents in Rhode Island are usually caused by bad driving behavior that results in damage to vehicles and personal injuries to other motorists, passengers, bicyclists and pedestrians.

Intentional Violators

In many situations, a stop sign violation occurs when an ordinary driver intentionally runs the sign because they believe it to be safe. Typical law-abiding drivers who might normally stop at a posted stop sign every other time will make a decision to simply ignore the control sign. These intentional violators are guilty of negligence in total disregard for the safety of others on the road.

Other times, Providence drivers intentionally pass by the stop sign because it is considered nothing more than a nuisance that interrupts the flow of steady traffic. However, every posted stop sign is installed to improve safety at the intersection and minimize the potential of anyone being harmed by the reckless or unintentional actions of other motorists.

Distracted and Fatigued Driving in Rhode island and Providence Plantations

Often times, unintentional violators will pass by a stop sign or fail to stop completely because they are driving distracted and not focused on the road ahead. Common distractions include:

• Texting, talking on smart phones or reading email
• Driving while in conversation with passengers in the vehicle
• Combing hair or applying makeup
• Reading a map on a GPS navigation system
• Driving while intoxicated, on drugs or other impairment
• Driving too quickly when approaching the intersection

In some scenarios, the driver is fatigued when behind the wheel due to driving are working long hours and not getting enough sleep. Driving fatigued or sleepy driving is dangerous and negligent because many times the motorist is unable to maintain their focus on the road.

Driving Defensively in Warwick or Cranston RI

Driving defensively against motorists abandoning the rules of the road is usually ineffective. Drivers have no control when other motorists perform a “rolling stop” or fail to stop completely at intersections with posted signs.

In many situations, victims of stop sign violation accidents take for granted that drivers approaching stop signs would actually obey the law and stop at the intersection. However, when the other driver merely slows down or does not stop at all they place victims’ lives in danger.

Filing for Compensation in Providence Superior Court

Pedestrians, bicyclists, and other motorists in Rhode Island are given the legal opportunity to file a claim for compensation when injured by another in a stop sign violation accident or T bone accident. However, these  broadside crash types of claims are complex and often require the competent skills of a reputable RI personal injury attorney.

Hiring a Cranston personal lawyer is a wise decision. This is because the  Rhode island car accident attorney can protect the rights of the victims to ensure they receive adequate compensation to pay their medical bills, recover lost wages and obtain compensation for their pain, suffering and damages.

These types of  RI personal injury cases are usually accepted on a contingency fee basis. This helps the victim avoid paying any upfront fees while still receiving legal representation to obtain an out-of-court settlement or jury award.

Legal Notice per Rules of Professional Responsibility: The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers and attorneys in the general practice of law, but does not license or certify any lawyer / attorney as an expert or specialist in any field of practice. While this firm maintains joint responsibility, most cases of this type are referred to other attorneys for principle responsibility.

Rhode Island Motorcycle Accident Wrongful Death Lawyer

Even with significant advancements in motorcycle technology and evolving helmet laws, thousands of responsible riders become victims of a motorcycle accident wrongful death every year. In many incidences, the fatalities were the result of collisions with other vehicles and the lack of body protection of both the rider and passenger. A large percent of motorcycle accident wrongful death occurs in multiple vehicle crashes.
When a rider is killed in a collision in Rhode Island or Massachusetts through the negligence or misconduct of others, surviving family members have a legal right to seek financial compensation for the loss of companionship and love from the decedent. A civil claim for wrongful death in RI or MAmust be filed in civil court in order for the surviving family members to receive financial compensation.

Defining Wrongful Death in Rhode Island and Massachusetts

Wrongful death in RI and Mass. is a legal term referring to any death caused by the negligence, wrongdoing or recklessness of another. Wrongful death lawsuits are personal injury claims involving civil action against parties responsible for the fatality. When the action of an irresponsible party causes the death in a motorcycle accident, they may face both criminal charges and a civil court liability lawsuit.

Motorcycle accidents in Rhode island and Massachusetts involving fatalities happen with single vehicles, multiple vehicles, highway defects, equipment malfunctions and defective motorcycle parts. Surviving family members can file a motorcycle accident wrongful death lawsuit against any third party determined to be at fault for the death of their loved one, including motorcycle manufacturers, equipment suppliers and road maintenance crews.

Accidents Caused by Mechanical Issues in RI and Mass.

Numerous motorcycle accidents in Massachusetts and RI are the result of design or manufacturing defects of the entire bike or its components. Numerous mechanical and equipment issues can cause the accident including:

• Faulty brakes
• Defective tires
• Cracked or broken wheels
• Accelerator issues
• Malfunctioning exhaust pipe system
• Defective seat
• Defective helmet

Filing a Claim or Lawsuit in Rhode island and Providence Plantations or the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Immediate surviving family members of the deceased typically file a claim for wrongful death compensation in Rhode Island  (RI) Or Massachusetts (MA). Survivors could include the spouse, children, siblings, parents, grandparents or any individual set forth in the wrongful death statute in the applicable state. Usually, the plaintiffs (surviving family members) will seek recovery for their losses that could include:

• Lost earnings
• Medical expenses associated with the accident
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of future income, care, support, inheritance, benefits and retirement
• Out-of-pocket expense reimbursement
• Loss of companionship and consortium
• General damages
• Emotional distress, mental anxiety and grief
• Pain and suffering experienced by the decedent prior to death
• Pain and suffering experienced by the plaintiffs

Hiring a RI motorcycle accident  Attorney or a Massachusetts Bike crash lawyer

If you have suddenly lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, you likely have many legal questions on how to seek financial compensation. Filing a claim against a party responsible for the accident can be confusing and complex. Because of that, it is essential to consider hiring a  Massachusetts personal injury attorney  or Rhode island motorcycle accident lawyer who specializes in motorcycle accidents with injuries and death. A reputable law firm will have a comprehensive understanding of state tort law and the rules of the road.

Experienced Boston Bike crash lawyers have access to valuable resources and investigators that can reconstruct the accident to determine fault. The evidence may prove that another negligent motorist caused the death of your loved one. It may be that the driver of the other vehicle was irresponsible, speeding, disobeying posted traffic signs, violating traffic safety laws, ignoring adverse weather conditions or operating their vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Losing your loved one has likely changed your life forever. Even though monetary compensation can never serve as a replacement, you should never be financially strapped with difficult times because of the irresponsible actions of another.

Motorcycle accidents can result in various types of injuries, including fatal ones. Some common causes of death in motorcycle accidents include:

1. Head Injuries: Head injuries are a leading cause of death in motorcycle accidents. Even when riders wear helmets, severe head trauma can occur upon impact. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be fatal or lead to long-term disabilities.
2. Internal Injuries: The impact from a motorcycle accident can cause internal injuries such as organ damage, internal bleeding, or damage to blood vessels. These injuries can be life-threatening if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
3. Chest Injuries: In a motorcycle crash, the chest can be vulnerable to impact with the handlebars, other vehicles, or the road. Severe chest injuries, including damage to the heart or lungs, can be fatal.
4. Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to paralysis or death. The spinal cord is a critical part of the central nervous system, and severe injuries can disrupt vital functions.
5. Exsanguination (Bleeding Out): Severe external bleeding from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident can lead to exsanguination, which is the loss of a significant amount of blood. Rapid blood loss can be fatal if not treated promptly.
6. Multiple Trauma: Motorcycle accidents often involve multiple impacts and can result in injuries to various parts of the body. When a person sustains injuries to multiple body systems, it is referred to as multiple trauma. The severity of these injuries can be overwhelming and fatal.
7. Airway Obstruction: In some cases, the airway may become obstructed due to facial or neck injuries, leading to difficulty breathing or suffocation.
8. Infection: Injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident can expose the body to the risk of infection. If infections are not promptly treated, they can become systemic and life-threatening.

It’s important to note that many motorcycle accidents can be prevented or their severity reduced through the use of protective gear (including helmets), adherence to traffic laws, defensive riding, and proper motorcycle maintenance. Additionally, awareness and education campaigns can contribute to reducing the number of motorcycle accidents and associated fatalities. Always prioritize safety and follow local traffic regulations when riding a motorcycle.

More Dangerous: Texting & Driving or Drinking & Driving in RI, MA?

Since the beginning of automotive transportation over a century ago, drunk driving has been considered one of the worst public hazards causing pain, injuries and death. However, recent innovations including smart phone technology with texting and messaging capabilities has shown law enforcement officers, other drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians that other serious hazards exist. So exactly which is more dangerous in Rhode island and Massachusetts – texting while driving or drunk driving?

Sadly, motor vehicle accidents  across the united States and in RI and MA kill thousands of individuals each year. Federal and state legislators are often baffled on implementing effective laws to ensure the safety of others is protected by reducing risky driving behavior. Serious laws with heavy fines and jail time for drunk driving have been firmly in place in every state in the union for decades. While most states ban texting while driving, it is still permissible under the law in a few states including Arizona, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Montana and Texas.

Distracted Driving in Rhode Island and Massachusetts (Mass.)

Many studies including those conducted by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) show that distracted driving, including texting and talking on smart phones is just as dangerous, if not more, as drunk driving. Even though most responsible motorists  in RI and MA would never consider operating a vehicle after consuming a drink or two, many adults and teenagers admit they text while driving.

Statistics maintain by the National Safety Council (NSC) indicate that more than 100,000 vehicle accidents involving texting while driving occur every year. In a survey conducted by AT&T Wireless, three out of every four teenagers claim that “texting while driving” occurs all too commonly with them and their friends. On average, more than 3000 individuals lose their lives every year as a result of distracted driving, including while texting and speaking on their cell phones.

Drunk Driving in Rhode Island and Massachusetts

The numbers of individuals who lose their lives in drunk driving accidents every year is three times greater than those who die from texting while driving. Statistics maintained by the NHTSA show that over 10,000 individuals are killed and another 290,000 suffer serious injuries every year in alcohol-related vehicle accidents. This number is too high. However, it has decreased significantly every year in the last few decades as compared to the increasing numbers of deaths occurring from texting-related vehicle accidents.

Driving impaired on alcohol alters the driver’s judgment and perceptions. The alcohol decreases reaction time which can be fatal when operating a vehicle under the influence. The majority of deaths associated with drunk driving involve impaired motorists with a BAC (blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher.

Increasing Public Awareness in Boston and Providence RI

We all recognize that mobile technology makes life easier. We can use our smart phones to send emails, play games, talk to friends, hail cabs and a myriad of other things. However much the technology has simplified our lives, the electronic device makes it challenging to stay focused, aware and alert while operating a vehicle.

While there is a social stigma placed on those who drive drunk, texting while driving continues to be widely tolerated. In recent years, the numbers of fatalities caused by drunk driving has decreased significantly by over 28 percent. However, in that same time, accidents related to texting while driving or talking on a cell phone while driving has risen substantially to more than 650 percent.

Even though texting while driving and other distracted behaviors continue to rise in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, public awareness of the problem is slow to follow. While nearly all of us would never consider getting behind the wheel when imbibing too much alcohol, many of us take a carefree approach to neglecting existing “no texting” laws. The facts and figures are clear. Talking on cell phones and texting while driving has just as great a potential of causing an accident with injuries or death as driving drunk. However, legislators are slow to change the discrepancies of penalties against those who choose to continually perform the bad behavior texting while operating a vehicle.

If you were injured in an accident in RI and MA then contact a Rhode island or Massachusetts personal injury lawyer / attorney.

Legal Notice per Rules of Professional Responsibility: The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers and attorneys in the general practice of law, but does not license or certify any lawyer / attorney as an expert or specialist in any field of practice. While this firm maintains joint responsibility, most cases of this type are referred to other attorneys for principle responsibility.

Motorists behaving badly: Drunk, Distracted & Reckless

Drunk driving and Stoned Driving:

Drunk and stoned automobile motorists are particularly dangerous to bicyclists, pedestrians and motorcycle drivers. In the case of bicycles, motorcycles and pedestrians, even a minor car crash could be deadly or cause life threatening injuries.

Surprisingly, In some instances, it is the motorcycle operator or bicycle rider who is drunk or high and negligenty causes the wreck because he cannot safely operate a bike.

In a very sad motor vehicle accident in South Kingstown, Rhode Island a drunk driver killed an innocent woman in a head on car crash / collision. The details of this auto wreck are set forth below: In an impassioned victims statement, the deceased woman’s child lashed out out at the now convicted felon. “I think everyone can agree that the wrong person died that night. But unfortunately, my mom is dead, and what is even more unfortunate is that you are still alive, and the world is a worse place because of it,” turn to 10

Below you will find another very troubling example of a drunk driving accident:

In this accident an alleged drunk driver was charged with vehicular manslaughter as a result of killing a motorcycle driver. Police charged this allegedly impaired driver with numerous motor vehicle offenses including “homicide by vehicle while DUI, homicide by vehicle, involuntary manslaughter and related offenses.”  This bike and SUV crash was what personal injury lawyers call a ‘left hand turn collision. Thankfully, the police did their due diligence in investigating this tragic mishap “They reconstructed the accident, interviewed other drivers and submitted Smith’s blood for testing at Doylestown Hospital.” Philly Burbs

“Police said Smith’s SUV tried to turn left from southbound Route 202 into the Logan Square shopping center that day. Smith, whose 15-year-old daughter was in the SUV with her, failed to yield the right-of-way to Maximiliano Urzua, who died after his motorcycle slammed into the side of Smith’s SUV, according to police.” Id.

“Cops: New Hope woman drunk in fatal motorcycle crash” “Nancy Smith’s blood alcohol content that day was 0.288 percent, more than three times the legal limit when her SUV and Maximilliano Urzua’s motorcycle collided, killing the Ontario, Canada, man, according to police.” Id.

“According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), in 2011, there were 9,878 alcohol-impaired driving fatalities, which represented 31 percent of all highway deaths. This represents a 53 percent reduction from the 21,113 people killed in crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver in 1982. Tragically, since 1995, the proportion of fatalities associated with alcohol-impaired drivers has remained between 30 and 32 percent. In other words, progress to drive the number of deaths towards zero has slowed.” NTSB

“According to NHTSA General Estimates System database, in 2011, more than 173,000 people were injured in alcohol-involved crashes, including more than 27,000 who received incapacitating injuries. Moreover, nearly twice as many people in alcohol-involved crashes are killed or injured (32 percent) compared to those in non-alcohol-involved crashes (17 percent).” Id.

Sleepy or drowsy driving:

“Sleep-deprived driving is the operation of a motor vehicle while being cognitively impaired by a lack of sleep. Sleep deprivation is a major cause of motor vehicle accidents, and it can impair the human brain as much as alcohol can” http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sleep-deprived_driving reckless driving

Reckless driving of Motorcycle causing a Fatality:

“A Walnut Creek woman said the dead motorcyclist appeared to be racing the black coupe and that the motorcyclist appeared to be doing tricks.” San jose Mercury News 

In a different head-on motor vehicle crash, “Sykes admitted causing death by dangerous driving, and was sentenced to eight years in prison, as well as being banned from getting behind the wheel for ten years.But the parents of 18-year-old Olivia said the sentencing guidelines for dangerous drivers responsible for fatalities were ‘wholly inadequate and not fit for purpose.”  Daily News

Texting and Driving / Distracted Driving

“The U.S. Department of Transportation intensified its message on Wednesday about the dangers of distracted driving with a shocking video on their new website, distraction.gov….In the video, three carefree teens are seen in a car laughing and talking, when the driver starts texting on her phone, unaware of the approaching stop sign — the outcome is catastrophic…The disturbing video was released as part of National Distracted Driving Month. According to the DOT, 27 percent of distracted drivers in fatal crashes are in their twenties. In 2012, more than 3,000 people were killed in accidents from distractions and about 421,000 people were injured.” NBC News

If you were injured in an accident in Rhode island or Massachusetts, please contact RI Personal Injury Attorney David Slepkow or a MA Car accident Lawyer.

Legal Notice per Rules of Professional Responsibility: The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers and attorneys in the general practice of law, but does not license or certify any lawyer / attorney as an expert or specialist in any field of practice. While this firm maintains joint responsibility, most cases of this type are referred to other attorneys for principle responsibility.

RI Car Accidents Caused by Snowstorms, Icy Roads

Slick and slippery roads are not a proper excuse for causing a Motor vehicle accident in Rhode Island or Massachusetts. Motor Vehicle operators are expected to reduce their speed and take proper safety precautions to account for black ice, icy rain, sleet and snow covered roads.

Not even a lack of visibility as a result of a snowstorm or blizzard is a valid excuse to get out of liability for an automobile crash in bad weather causing personal injury in Rhode Island or Mass. In nearly all situations a van, car or tractor trailer operator is negligent for rear end collisions, even if the crash occurs when the road or highway is a slippery mess or the black ice on the road is not visible.

Authored by RI and MA Injury Lawyer David Slepkow

Police officers are often very aggressive in pulling over and ticketing drivers who are going too fast considering the weather conditions. Officers in Rhode Island can ticket a car driver for ‘conditions requiring reduced speed’. Police Officers are trying to prevent pedestrians and motorists from being seriously injured or killed in a motor vehicle wreck when a motor vehicle skids, spins or slides as a result of icy conditions.

Pedestrians are not the only thing a motor vehicle operator must be on the watch for. There are also persons who are skiing, snowboarding, utilizing snow blowers, shoveling or clearing their car of snow on or near the street.

If you injured in a Massachusetts or Rhode Island car crash it is important that you immediately contact a RI Car Accident lawyer or a Massachusetts Personal injury Attorney from Mass or the Providence RI area.

If you are driving an auto or truck during a powerful storm in the winter with a foot of snow and freezing rain and tough driving conditions, it is not going to get you out of being liable for a motor vehicle wreck in RI.

Unfortunately, truck drivers and semi truck operators in Mass or Rhode Island often are in such a rush to get their load to its destination they do not pull their tractor trailer/ big rig over to wait out a dangerous storm! This type of reckless conduct by 18 wheeler truckers often leads to crashes causing personal injury.

Especially in Urban centers such as Boston MA or Providence RI, it is particularly important to drive carefully and watch for pedestrians on the roads or sidewalks. After snowstorm, pedestrians are often force onto the street when the sidewalk is covered with snow
accumulations or covered with ice. It is also important to not get too close to pedestrians who could slip and fall on an icy street, curb or sidewalk onto the path of an oncoming car or truck. If you are injured in a pedestrian accident please consult with a Massachusetts Personal Injury Lawyer or a Pedestrian Accident Injury Law lawyer in RI.

It is also imperative that motorists watch out for children who may be sledding near a road or playing in snow accumulations near a neighborhood street. Motorist should anticipate a child playing and not being careful and should reduce speeds and steer clear of all children.Pedestrian accidents that are fatal are particularly sad during the snow filled holiday seasons. Tragically, some car accidents in nor’easters or bad weather conditions are deadly / fatal and can result in years of wrongful death litigation.

Legal Notice per Rules of Professional Responsibility: The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers and attorneys in the general practice of law, but does not license or certify any lawyer / attorney as an expert or specialist in any field of practice. While this firm maintains joint responsibility, most cases of this type are referred to other attorneys for principle responsibility.

Police Chase Motorcycle- Biker killed by a Pickup Truck

Police in Missouri were pursuing a 2008 yellow Suzuki 600 motorcycle driven by a motorcyclist who was evading the police recklessly. The bike was going in a westerly direction when a 1994 Chevrolet Silverado Pickup Truck was turning left. The trucker unknowingly pulled into the path of the offending motorcyclist. Sadly, the biker paid for his transgressions with his life as he was killed in the motor vehicle wreck. The truck sustained heavy damage and the motorcycle was also destroyed.

Witnesses to the motorcycle crash reported “flying debris”, sirens and a confusing situation.

There was some information in a yet to be confirmed report that the motorcycle operator attempted to ram a police cruiser prior to the law enforcement pursuit. The report did not indicate why the cyclist was evading the cops or whether the motorcycle operator had an extensive criminal record or was under the influence of any drugs or alcohol.

According to the Semissourian.com, “At the crash scene, a helmet and a pair of shoes were scattered; pieces of a yellow motorcycle shell could be seen nearby as emergency personnel investigated. A green truck was extensively damaged, with a tire lying a few feet away, apparently knocked loose by the impact.” SE Missourian

Thankfully, no innocent pedestrians, bicyclists or motorists were killed in this fatal motorcycle collision.

The issue of whether police should chase criminals is a significant issue in Rhode Island, Massachusetts (MA) and across the United States. These reckless and high speed pursuits often unreasonably put pedestrians, car drivers, truckers and cyclists at risk for serious injury or even wrongful death.

In a staggeringly shocking report “real police, Law enforcement Resource” reported that “In this 9 year period, the data showed that there were 2654 fatal crashes involving 3965 vehicles of which there were 3146 fatalities. Of these, 1088 were to people not in the fleeing vehicle. This means, 1088 innocent people, or 3rd parties died as a result of these pursuits.”

Over 30 percent of people who died as a result of police pursuits were innocent civilians “(30.1%) were occupants of vehicles uninvolved in the police pursuit. According to an important report by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), “Between 2001 and 2008, more than 34,000 motorcyclists were killed and an estimated 1,222,000 persons were treated in a U.S. emergency department (ED) for a non-fatal motorcycle-related injury.” CDC

In an unrelated incident in Massachusetts “In 2011, 23-year-old Matthew Denice was dragged to death by a drunk-driving illegal alien from Ecuador. Nicolas Guaman, with a blood alcohol level at 3x the legal limit, ran a stop sign, crashed into Denice’s motorcycle and dragged the young man for a quarter mile as bystanders banged on Guaman’s truck to make him stop.” VDARE

If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, truck accident, car crash or motorcycle accident in Rhode Island (RI) or Mass. please contact a Rhode Island Personal Injury attorney or a RI Wrongful Death Lawyer.

Legal Notice per Rules of Professional Responsibility: The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers and attorneys in the general practice of law, but does not license or certify any lawyer / attorney as an expert or specialist in any field of practice. While this firm maintains joint responsibility, most cases of this type are referred to other attorneys for principle responsibility.

Drivers Age 20 or Younger Involved in Fatal Crashes stats

There are a number of vulnerable driver demographics that those in charge of the roadways in Rhode Island are tasked to look out for. These would include drivers over the age of 75 and drivers who are 20 and under. Unfortunately, if one isn’t careful there can be an epidemic of accidents involving younger drivers simply because of the immense inexperience they have at the wheel. In that same vein, a recent report presented statistics that show just how this group fared from 2009 to 2013. They tell an important tale that definitely merit some in-depth analysis.

Rhode Island statistics

First of all, the numbers started off high in 2009 and got lower in 2013. For example, in the first year there were 11 fatal crashes in Rhode Island with six young drivers killed. In 2010, that number was reduced to just 6 fatal crashes with four drivers under 21 killed. The number basically held steady in 2011 with a mark of four fatal crashes with two young fatalities and then another four in 2012 with three fatalities. In 2013, the number of crashes rose to seven but the deaths remained low at only two. see website

What caused fatal accidents to decrease among young drivers?

What caused the fatalities to go down? A number of variables played a role. First of all, professionals  became much more vigilant regarding the stats. They focused more on the education plans and that played a huge role in bringing the number down. Second, if one recent report is any indication, they remained loyal to the statistics. Statisticians realize that fatal crashes in the state of Rhode Island will ebb and flow just like any factor. For example, in 2017 the state has already noted that nine people, including three individuals under 21, have already passed away as a result of car crashes.

Officials are aware that they are already losing the struggle this year when it comes to keeping traffic fatalities down in this important group. This is why they are going to crack down on all traffic violations as well. The simple fact remains: these officials realize that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Because of that, they are going to instruct their state troopers to immediately begin vehemently enforcing the laws regarding seat belts, excessive speed, and reckless driving incidents. This is how they got the troubling statistics down from their high of 2009 and this is how they will do it again.

1. Driver Involvement:
   • Drivers aged 16 to 19 are more likely to be involved in car accidents than older drivers.
   • Inexperience, along with risky behavior such as speeding and distracted driving, contributes to the higher accident rates among young drivers.
2. Fatalities:
   • Car accidents are a leading cause of death for teenagers.
   • Teenagers are more likely to be in fatal crashes, particularly when driving with peers.
3. Gender Differences:
   • Male drivers under 20 are generally more likely to be involved in car accidents than their female counterparts.
4. Risk Factors:
   • Risk factors for young drivers include distracted driving (e.g., phone use), impaired driving (alcohol or drugs), speeding, and not using seat belts.
5. Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Programs:
   • Some regions have implemented GDL programs, which are designed to gradually introduce young drivers to more complex driving situations, aiming to reduce the risk of accidents.
6. Safety Measures:
   • Education and awareness campaigns focus on promoting safe driving practices among young drivers.

To access the most current and specific statistics, it’s recommended to refer to official reports from relevant authorities such as national transportation departments, traffic safety organizations, or insurance agencies. They often release annual reports summarizing accident data. Additionally, research studies and publications in the field of traffic safety can provide more detailed insights into the factors contributing to accidents among young drivers.

Source: http://www.dot.ri.gov/documents/community/safety/Highway_Safety_Performance_Plan.pdf

Types of Negligence and Injury Claims in RI

This posts by RI and MA Attorney, David Slepkow sets forth non automobile / car crash personal injury claims which most commonly occur in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

Pedestrian Accidents- Pedestrian Accidents in RI and MA typically occur in large metropolitan areas such as Boston or Providence. Often, these involve a motor vehicle hitting a pedestrian crossing the street or on the sidewalk. Many of these mishaps are caused by distracted driving such as motorists texting and driving, web surfing and driving or even updating their Facebook status.

In some personal injury claims a key issue is whether the pedestrian was partially at fault for the car accident. In some instances the pedestrian is reading a magazine, playing on their smartphone, listening to music with headphones or texting and walking. Rhode Island is a pure comparative fault state in which a pedestrian can still receive damages if they are more than 50 percent at fault for the pedestrian accident. In Massachusetts, a person can not recover any damages if a jury or judge determines they are more than 50 percent at fault for the crash or mishap.

Motorcycle Accident: Bike collisions in Mass. and Rhode Island require a skilled and experienced Personal injury attorney. Sadly there are numerous fatal motorcycle accidents which often lead to wrongful death litigation.

The US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration reports: “The number and rate of motorcyclist deaths on U.S. roads are rising dramatically. Motorcycle rider fatalities rose 115 percent between 1997 and 2005. During the same time, fatality numbers and rates for passenger car crashes “Motorcycle fatalities and the related fatality rate have been significantly increasing over the last 10 years. This has become a serious safety issue for NHTSA and FHWA. Between 1996 and 2005, motorcyclist fatalities increased more than 110 percent and now account for more than 10 percent of all motor vehicle traffic crash fatalities. FHWA

Premises liability– Premises Liability claims are all types of accidents occurring on premises as a result of the actions or inaction of an owner or operator of the property. Although Slip and fall Personal injury Causes of actions in Mass and RI make up a large percentage of all premises liability negligence cases, there are hundreds of different premises liability claims.

These Rhode Island and Massachusetts injury claims include: Trip and fall, asbestos exposure, dog bites, falls from cliffs, Inadequate security measures enabling criminal conduct, negligent security, Sidewalk or roadway defects, Poorly lit stair cases, falling debris, falling merchandise, or hanging hazards, carbon monoxide leaks, escalator accidents, elevator accidents, iced entrance ways, slippery or obstructed floors, electric shock due to exposed electric wiring etc.

Slip and fall Accidents: In Rhode island “”[A] landowner has a duty to exercise reasonable care for the safety of persons reasonably expected to be on the premises, and that duty includes an obligation to protect against the risks of a dangerous condition existing on the premises, provided the landowner knows of, or by the exercise of reasonable care would have discovered, the dangerous condition. The burden of proving that sufficient evidence existed to show that the defendants knew or should have known of an unsafe condition on their premises is on the plaintiff.” Lieberman v. Bliss-Doris Realty Associates

A RI or MA Slip and Fall Attorney can asses the value of your slip and fall claim and the likelihood you can prevail.

Bicycle accidents “Approximately one out of six highway fatalities in the United States is a bicyclist or pedestrian each year. Estimates for 1995 indicate that 61,000 bicyclists were injured and 830 were killed in traffic crashes. These crashes can be classified or “typed” by their precipitating actions, predisposing factors, and characteristic populations and/or location that can be targeted for intervention.” FHWA

Boating Accidents– Boating related accidents could occur on land or out on the river, ocean or lake. Typically the normal laws of negligence apply to these boat accidents. A Boating accident is not only limited to motorboat and Sailboat crashes but includes jet ski, canoe accidents and other personal watercraft accidents.

Truck Accidents- Tractor trailer Accidents in RI and Mass can involve a big rig or semi truck colliding with an automobile, bus, van or other motor vehicle. Sadly many trucking accidents result from drowsy or sleepy driving by the 18 wheeler trucker who is under pressure to get his or her load to its intended destination on time. Recently there have been an increase in distracted driving fatal truck collisions when a motor vehicle operator or trucker is texting and driving, using a cell phone or operating a GPS.

TruckAccident.org reports that “Of the 15.5 million trucks in the U.S., nearly 13 percent are semis, big rigs, 18 wheelers and tractor trailers
•About 98 percent of all semi accidents result in at least one fatality
•Fatal tractor trailer accidents cost Americans more than $20 billion each year, $13.1 billion of which is the cost associated with loss of quality of life
•For every 100 million miles driven on U.S. road ways, there are 2.3 deaths and 60.5 injuries caused by big rigs”  Truck accident 

If you were injured in a MA or Boston Area Accident involving injuries or death, please contact a Mass. Personal injury Attorney or a Wrongful death lawyer. If involved in a Rhode Island or Providence area accident then contact a RI Personal Injury Lawyer. If you are looking for a hernia mesh lawsuit law firm, contact us.

Legal Notice per Rules of Professional Responsibility: The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers and attorneys in the general practice of law, but does not license or certify any lawyer / attorney as an expert or specialist in any field of practice. While this firm maintains joint responsibility, most cases of this type are referred to other attorneys for principle responsibility.