How Can I Remain Calm After a Car Accident?
After any type of a car accident, it is important to remain calm and be aware of your surroundings. A car accident can be an overwhelming experience, so it is important to learn about ways you can stay safe and calm.
After you have safely gotten out of your vehicle, take a deep breath to help ease your anxiety and to keep your adrenaline in check. Being able to keep your composure can be a difficult task, but a calm demeanor will help you handle the aftermath of a car accident, such as collecting evidence.
If you do need immediate medical help, call 911 and report the accident. Even if you do not think that you will need medical help, car crash injuries may not appear until hours or even days later. That is why remaining calm is important; you will be able to take necessary steps following a car accident if you are calm.
Seeking medical care will give your relief from any injuries that you have sustained and will also provide medical documentation. While healing from your injuries is paramount, medical documents will also support your case against the at-fault motorist.
A car accident can be minor or severe, but injuries can occur in either circumstance. Focusing on your immediate needs, such as medical care and calling a lawyer, will help you stay ahead of the game when you pursue legal action against the at-fault driver. Being able to keep your composure will help you begin the process of physical and financial recovery.
What Steps Should I Take After a Car Accident?
Even though remaining calm is important, you should also know what to do after a collision happens.
Immediately after a car accident, you should make sure that everyone is okay. Always seek medical care for any serious injuries, and if you do not need emergency medical assistance, you can report the car accident to the police.
Document the car accident scene by taking photographs that may determine the cause of the car accident, such as skid marks, damage to a sign, guardrail, or pole. Also, take pictures at various angles of the cars involved in the accident.
If there are witnesses, obtain their names and contact information, along with information on how they saw the car accident unfold.
Document everything in writing, including physical details from the crash scene, witness statements, the at-fault motorist’s behavior before and after the crash, and how you are feeling after the accident.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Advocate for Drivers Injured in Collisions
A car accident can happen at any time, and it is important that you remain calm should one occur. If you were injured by a negligent motorist, our Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help you identify the liable party so you can focus on recovery. Contact us online or call us at 302-656-5445 to set up a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Do Car Accidents Increase on Halloween?
One of the scariest parts of Halloween is an uptick in car accidents. In fact, State Farm reports that car accidents kill more children on Halloween than any other day of the year. The influx of foot traffic on sidewalks combined with rush hour traffic during trick-or-treating hours is a deadly combination. Children in search of treats may not be focused on road safety. Additionally, Halloween costumes can impair vision, which can cause a trick-or-treater to head into traffic.
On Halloween night, drivers and pedestrians face many dangers. With Halloween quickly approaching, drivers should learn about ways they can stay safe on the holiday.
How Do I Prevent a Halloween Car Accident?
Responsible drivers obey traffic signals, road markings, and signage, maintain a safe speed, and keep their focus entirely on the road. On Halloween night, drivers must be extra vigilant and go above and beyond their usual level of attention. Drivers should always avoid distractions. Common distractions include cellphones and other electronic devices.
There is one additional safety concern that is a significant threat on Halloween: intoxicated drivers. When a driver gets behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, there are undeniable dangers for all road users. Federal traffic data shows that approximately 50 percent of all fatal motor vehicle accidents on Halloween involve an alcohol-impaired driver.
The increase in drunk driving could be due to Halloween parties and other events surrounding the holiday. Halloween festivities usually involve alcohol consumption, making drunk driving accidents a high possibility.
A lesser-known threat is driving while under the influence of marijuana. Marijuana has become a problem in states that have legalized its use. Marijuana can have similar effects to alcohol, such as slowed reaction time, impaired decision-making abilities, and reduced focus. Driving under the influence of marijuana is dangerous and illegal.
What Should I Do if I Plan to Drink on Halloween?
If you plan to drink on Halloween, you should prepare for a safe way home ahead of time. Options include asking a sober friend to serve as designated driver, calling a rideshare service, or taking public transportation. Planning ahead is best. Putting off making arrangements can lead to poor decisions.
Party hosts can also do their part by making sure guests have a safe way home. If a guest is in no shape to drive, take away their keys and call them a ride. A party host can also allow the intoxicated guest to sleep over.
How can Trick-or-Treaters Stay Safe?
Parents should warn children about the dangers of running into the road, and they should teach them how to safely cross the street. Children under 12 years old should be accompanied by an adult. Older children should stick to familiar neighborhoods when they are trick-or-treating, preferably in well-lit areas. Adults and children should walk on sidewalks.
Costumes can obstruct vision, making it harder for the trick-or-treater to hear an oncoming vehicle and hindering their ability to move quickly and freely. All of these factors can lead to a dangerous situation. Children in dark costumes are difficult to see at night as well. Consider using reflective tape. It is also important to carry a flashlight.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Clients Navigate Halloween Car Accidents
Halloween is a fun holiday, but drivers should be extra cautious. If you become injured in a Halloween collision, our Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help. You can contact us online or call us at 302-656-5445 to set up a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Should I Do if My Friend Crashed My Car?
Many people want to help their friends when they are in need. Sometimes, your friend may want to use your car. However, if you loan your car, your friend make get into a car accident. If that happens, what do you do? Whether it is their fault or the fault of a negligent driver, you may have a lot of questions about whose insurance covers the damages and whether or not your insurance will support you. There are many scenarios where your insurance or the other driver’s insurance will cover the damages.
There are two types of coverage that may come into play if your friend crashes your car. Many people do not know the difference between liability and collision coverage. Liability covers any damages that you have caused. There is a minimum amount of liability required for all vehicles in all states. Collision coverage is optional and covers any damage to your vehicle. Some people do not have collision coverage because it costs extra and is not required by law.
In most cases, your automobile insurance company will cover any accident in which your car was involved because insurance usually follows the car. However, this is assuming your friend had your permission to drive the car. The concept of a “permissive driver” is simple. If they had permission and did not drive your vehicle on a regular basis, then your insurance will take effect and cover any accident up to the policy limit.
You do not need to be present in the vehicle for your insurance to apply. If your policy limits are not enough to cover all of the damages caused in the collision, then your friend’s automobile insurance policy might come into play and cover the rest of the damages. However, this may be a problem if your friend does not have insurance or the assets to cover the damages.
When Will Insurance Not Cover the Accident?
There are some instances where your vehicle’s insurance will not cover the accident:
- Your friend did not have permission to drive your car. If this is the case, then your friend’s insurance will likely cover the accident. It then becomes a factual argument as to whether or not you gave your friend permission. Was your friend mistaken about being allowed to use your car? Did you allow them to use it in the past? All of these issues will have to be addressed.
- Your friend is a designated excluded driver on the policy. Most insurance companies will allow their insureds to specifically exclude people from being covered under the policy.
- Your friend does not have a valid driver’s license. If your friend does not have a driver’s license or the license expired or has been suspended, then your insurance policy will not cover the accident. Also, if your friend caused the accident and you knew they did not have a valid driver’s license, then you could be held responsible for any damages.
- Your friend was driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Also, if you knew your friend was drinking alcohol or under the influence of drugs and you let them use your car anyway, then you could also be held responsible for any damages.
Additionally, even though you were not in the vehicle and were not driving, most likely, your insurance rates will go up, but that will depend upon your particular insurance company. If they attempt to raise the rates, you may want to have a discussion with your insurance agent.
How Do I Get the Best Coverage?
Many people try to get the least expensive coverage because they do not think they will ever be involved in an accident. It is a mistake to think this way. If you want the best coverage, talk to your insurance agent to go over all of the options and additional coverages available to you.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can Help You if Your Friend Crashed Your Vehicle
If your friend crashed your car, you may have many questions or concerns. Our Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. are here to help you get through this difficult time. Call us at 302-656-5445 or complete our online form for a free consultation. We are located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, and we proudly serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Are Women More Likely to Die in Crashes Due to Poor Car Design?
Even though many studies show that more car accidents are caused by men, women are more likely to die in a car accident. One of the reasons for this disparity in car accident fatalities between the sexes is improper vehicle design by auto manufacturers.
Female Car Accident Statistics
Experts and auto safety advocates argue that vehicle manufacturers have no incentive to design vehicles with women in mind; designs are more geared toward men. This is a complicated subject, but there is seemingly a disparity in fatalities among genders.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) compiles yearly statistics on car and truck accidents, making note of many details. In 2019, which is the latest year data is available, out of 36,096 automobile crash-related fatalities in the United States, 10,420 of them were female. In that same year, well over 1 million females were injured in car or truck crashes, including pedestrian accidents. In 2018, the number of car accident fatalities among women was 10,766, and in 2017, that number was 10,806.
Women are 72 percent more likely to be injured and 17 percent more likely to die in a car crash than men. The vehicle manufacturers and the government agencies tasked with vehicle safety have known about this disparity but have not changed safety designs and protocols.
NHTSA Safety Tests
In order to receive a coveted “5-star safety rating” from the NHTSA, a vehicle has to pass four tests. These tests include:
- Frontal crash test scenario
- Side barrier crash test scenario
- Side pole crash test scenario
- Rollover resistance test scenario
The NHTSA test vehicles in these four scenarios because they are the main types of accidents. On every test but the side pole crash test scenario, the test is done with a crash dummy that is designed to reflect the average size male body. Only the side pole crash factors in a small adult woman.
The crash test dummies for both male and female lack any type of physiological distinctions between males and females. The only difference between the male and the female dummies is the size and weight. They do not use female crash test dummies that reflect actual female physiological conditions, such as varying bone densities, muscle structures, and abdominal and chest differences.
The NHTSA also tests for the possibility of injuries. Whiplash can be caused by the head and neck whipping back and forth after the vehicle is struck from behind or in front. Whiplash can cause very serious muscle, tendon, and spinal cord injuries in the neck and upper thoracic spine. The NHTSA test for whiplash protection is designed with the man’s body in mind, despite the fact that the average woman has far less muscle mass and strength in her neck. Due to this discrepancy, safety devices, such as seat belts and airbags, can potentially harm women.
Women Tend to Drive Smaller Vehicles
Another reason to have properly calibrated safety devices in cars is that, on average, women tend to drive smaller vehicles. When larger, heavy vehicles get into collisions with smaller, lighter cars, then drivers and passengers in the smaller cars will have more significant injuries. If more women drive smaller cars, then they have a higher chance of being injured, especially when the seat belt and airbag are designed and tested with the average male physical characteristics in mind.
The tendency for women to drive smaller vehicles on average is getting even more dangerous due to more sales of larger vehicles. Over the last 20 years, there has been a dramatic increase in the size of some vehicles on the road. SUVs have become much bigger. Also, passenger trucks are the largest they have ever been in weight, length, and height. With more larger vehicles on the road, there may be more serious injuries, especially in people who tend to drive smaller vehicles.
What can be Done?
One way to reverse the disparity between the tests is to update the New Car Assessment Program. Congress is currently working on passing legislation that will update the testing requirements. This would include using more realistic female crash test dummies that reflect the true aspects of the average woman’s body.
If you are seriously injured in a car accident due to the negligent, careless, and dangerous action of another motorist, then you should speak with a lawyer about your options. You may be entitled to reimbursement of your medical bills and lost wages. You deserve justice, and a lawyer can protect your rights.
Delaware Auto Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Clients Injured by Negligent and Reckless Drivers
Although auto manufacturers design vehicles to keep drivers safe, there are discrepancies in the tests that can lead to serious injuries. Our Delaware auto accident attorneys at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help you if you were injured in a serious collision. Call us today at 302-656-5445 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. We are conveniently located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, and we proudly serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Happens if I am in a Car Accident With an Uninsured Driver?
After a car accident, you may wonder who is responsible for your damages. However, what if the at-fault driver does not have enough or any coverage to reimburse you? Even though it is illegal to be uninsured, there are many motorists who still drive without car insurance.
Since they could not afford any or better insurance coverage, they likely do not have assets to cover any losses you incurred. However, insurance companies offer coverage for this situation. In fact, many states require drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, while some require both. In Delaware, it is not required to have uninsured motorist coverage, but it is beneficial to add it to your policy.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured/underinsured insurance coverage comes in two different forms: bodily injury and property damage coverage. Both cover you against drivers who do not have insurance, have minimal insurance, refuse to give their insurance information, or leave the scene of the accident. It is recommended to carry uninsured/underinsured coverage for bodily injuries. Personal injury protection (PIP) and similar policies are likely not enough to cover severe injuries.
Property damage coverage is meant to cover the damages your vehicle sustained in the accident. It could also cover rental car expenses, additional repairs, or any out-of-pocket costs related to the accident. Like bodily injury coverage, some states require property damage protection from uninsured/underinsured drivers.
It is important to note that uninsured/underinsured coverage will not exceed the amount your primary coverage allows. For instance, you may only have up to $100,000 uninsured/underinsured coverage if your main policy has a $100,000 liability limit. This prevents drivers from purchasing minimal primary coverage.
How Do I File a Claim?
Following a car accident, it is best to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. It is necessary in all car accident scenarios, even if you believe the other driver does not have insurance. There is a specific deadline to file this type of claim, which is normally 30 days from the date of the accident. Additionally, let the insurance agent know you intend to file the claim under the uninsured/underinsured policy.
The process is generally the same as any other insurance claim, but it may take a little longer to receive compensation. The insurance company may have a different figure to cover your expenses. This is where issues arise when dealing with your own insurance company.
The main difference between using the uninsured clause of your insurance policy compared to suing the at-fault driver is that you are in negotiations with your own insurer. This also entails your insurer going through all your medical records, car driving history, vehicle history, and may require you to go to their doctor or their vehicle repair shop. They may also question any additional expenses you feel are necessary for your recovery. Although going through your own insurance may seem easier, it may be more difficult to handle, particularly if your insurer does not cover all of your expenses.
The insurance company may offer you a settlement or suggest you go through arbitration, which is more informal than the court system. However, should your insurance company decline coverage or is not willing to cover all of your damages, then it is best to contact a reputable lawyer.
Speaking to Your Insurance Company
There are many important steps to take following a car accident. One of those steps is to contact your insurance company to report the accident. Many states follow a variation of a no-fault insurance policy, where each driver would use their own insurance policy to cover their damages, regardless of who is at fault. Should an accident occur, you simply contact your insurance company and file a claim to get expenses covered.
In Delaware, you must have car insurance in order to operate a vehicle. With PIP coverage, insurance policies must cover a minimum of $15,000 of expenses per person involved in the accident. Also, a motorist can sue the at-fault driver for damages, such as pain and suffering, but they may not seek reimbursement for lost wages or medical expenses that are otherwise covered under their PIP policy.
Our Uninsured Motorist Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Assist Those Injured by Uninsured Drivers
Any accident can be difficult to deal with, especially if the other driver does not have insurance coverage. However, our uninsured motorist accident attorneys at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help. Call us today at 302-656-5445 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. We are conveniently located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, and we proudly serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Does Autumn Bring Driving Hazards?
Autumn is an enjoyable season for many people. However, fall also brings many driving dangers. Fortunately, you can prepare for some fall driving dangers ahead of time. Below is a list of autumn driving hazards, as well as some strategies to prevent car accidents.
Darkness
As fall arrives, the days gradually get shorter. The sun goes down earlier, and drivers who are used to returning home at the end of their workday in daylight may not get to their destination until after dark.
If you are on the road when the sun is setting, you must remember to switch on your headlights as daylight fades. Using your headlights allows you to see the road in front of you, but it also makes it easier for other drivers to see you coming.
Visibility
Driving safety can be affected by visibility issues in autumn, like darkness, rain, fog, and ice. Headlights are vital for visibility, but they can actually work against you in foggy conditions. While high beams are useful on dark roads, they are detrimental when driving through fog.
When fog is present, you should use your low beams so that the light shines onto the surface of the road. When it is foggy, you should always proceed with caution, as it can be difficult to see.
Road Traction
Autumn is known for colorful foliage, cool temperatures, and increased rainfall, all of which can affect the traction between the road and your tires. A road surface covered with fallen wet leaves, morning frost, or accumulated rain water can cause an accident if the slippery surface causes you to lose control of your vehicle.
School Zones and Buses
Another big change that comes every autumn is the shift back to school. Preoccupied students and their busy parents take to the roads. Pedestrian traffic picks up as well as motor vehicle traffic. Street corners become congregation sites for clusters of students who are waiting for school buses, while crossing guards direct both walkers and motorists.
School zones are a bustle of activity during drop-off and pick-up times. Drivers must remain aware of the dangers that come with the increased activity in school zones as well as in residential neighborhoods.
Our Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Drivers Injured in Autumn
Autumn is a beautiful season, but it also brings many hazardous road conditions. If you were injured in an autumn-related collision, speak with our car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. today. We can help you identify the liable party so you can focus on recovery. Contact us online or call us at 302-656-5445 to set up a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Should I Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
After a hit-and-run car accident, you should try to gather as much evidence as possible. It is important to take pictures and videos of property damage and injuries. It is also critical to document any debris or skid marks that are visible on the road.
If it is possible, you should try to remember details about the other driver and their car. This information will help validate that you are not at fault for the accident, and it will hopefully help the police track down the hit-and-run driver.
After you record the accident scene, it is helpful to speak to any witnesses. A witness can provide an unbiased perspective of the hit-and-run accident. You should ask what they saw, and you should also record their accounts. Gather their contact information in case you need to follow-up with them at a later date.
File a Police Report
One of the first steps is to call the police so you can file an official report. Regardless of the extent of the damages, it is important to speak to the police. You should tell an officer everything that happened, and they will complete an official accident report. You should give them as many details as possible, such as the make and model of the car that hit you. The police might be able to use this information to track down the driver.
Get Medical Attention
You should get immediate medical attention at the accident scene if you have serious injuries. However, it is important to follow-up with a doctor after the collision as well. If you have any injuries, document them. You should keep all medical records.
Some car accident injuries show up later or worsen over time. It is beneficial to get a full medical evaluation by a physician soon after the accident. By doing so, you can prove that the accident directly caused your injuries. This will be extremely helpful if the police are able to track down the at-fault driver.
Speak to a Lawyer
If the hit-and-run driver is discovered, a lawyer might be necessary for various reasons. A lawyer will fight on your behalf and protect your rights. You might be able to hold the at-fault driver accountable for damages.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Those Injured by Hit-and-Run Drivers
Our Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. understand the stress of hit-and-run accidents. We can help you explore your legal options. To schedule a free consultation and for more information, complete our online form or call us at 302-656-5445. We are located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, and we proudly serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What if I Have No Insurance in a Rental Car Accident?
When you rent a vehicle, the rental car company will ask you if you would like to purchase insurance. Opting not to get the company’s offer of insurance will not exactly come back to haunt you should you get into a car accident. Some variables that will impact your rental car accident case:
- Who is at fault.
- Whether your own insurance covers you when you are driving a rental car.
- How the transaction took place, as paying for the car rental using a credit card can sometimes provide car rental insurance.
Car rental contracts can be tedious to understand because they are often filled with verbiage that states you are responsible for any damage to your car rental, no matter who is at fault for a car accident.
When you rent a car, you need to make sure that you inspect it for any damage and notate it on the paperwork the company gives you. Make sure you ask for a copy of the rental statement, as the company can charge you for even a minor scratch, whether it is your fault or not.
Does Your Insurance or Credit Card Cover You?
Often, your car insurance policy will cover you when you get into a car accident involving a rental car. It is best to read the fine print on your policy to make sure that it covers rental cars, however, speaking with your car insurance agent can help you make sense of your policy.
Ask whether your coverage can be applied to a rental car if you are going to use it for personal use. Liability coverage will help pay any damage you cause using your rental vehicle, and comprehensive coverage will help repair your rental car if it is stolen or damaged in a natural disaster. Collision coverage helps pay or repair your rental car if it has been damaged in a car accident. Depending on what your policy insures, you can then also decide whether to take the rental car company’s offer to cover the car.
It is also worth noting that many credit cards cover rental car insurance as long as you utilize the card to rent the vehicle. In these cases, credit card rental car insurers typically cover you no matter who is at fault. However, some credit cards only cover secondary coverage which would only take care of damages that go beyond your primary insurance carrier. The details are in the fine print, and you may want to discuss this option with a representative from your credit card issuer to see how it works for cardholders. If they do offer secondary coverage, you will need to report any damage that was sustained when you rented the vehicle, and remember that credit card car insurance only works if you used it during the rental car transaction.
It is important to remember that there are credit card providers who will not extend coverage for certain vehicles, including luxury vehicles and motorhomes. If you are interested in renting any of the aforementioned vehicles, it is wise to check with your credit card and see if they are excluded.
When Should I Consider Rental Car Insurance?
If you do not own a vehicle or do not have car insurance, it is a wise investment to take the rental car insurance company’s offer. Delaware, along with most states, requires at least liability insurance to operate a motor vehicle.
Also, it is a good idea to take the rental car’s offer for extra protection if your car insurance policy does not include comprehensive and collision coverage. You are only insured under a commercial car insurance policy.
Fault in a Rental Car Accident
If your policy with your insurance company does not cover you in a rental car accident and neither does your credit card, then the car rental company will seek reimbursement for damage that the car sustained. As with any car accident, there can be other variables involved, such as injuries, that can make paying a car rental company seem trivial.
However, if the other driver caused your car rental accident, then their insurance will be liable for any property damage that occurred. You will still need to notify the car rental company that you were involved in an accident using one of their vehicles. The car rental company will hopefully work with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to recoup compensation, however, the possibility exists that the car rental company will choose to charge your credit card for the damages. Then, you will have to seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Provide Legal Assistance to Those Injured in Rental Car Accidents
Often, someone will rent a car while on vacation. Unfortunately, even when you are out of state, you can still get into a car accident. If you have been involved in a car rental accident, then speak with one of our Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. today. Call us today at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we proudly serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Should I Do if a Car Accident Caused My Brain Injury?
Following a car accident, you may be overwhelmed by many emotions. You may wonder if your life will return to normal, especially if you have a severe injury, such as a traumatic brain injury (TBI). In some cases, you might be able to pursue a legal case if you were injured by a negligent party.
For some people, it will take time and plenty of hard work developing a strong personal injury case. A permanent injury can change your life completely, and you may not even be able to work again. That is why it is of great importance to seek reputable legal representation if you have a severe car accident injury.
What is a TBI?
A TBI is caused by a severe blow to the head, often from a solid object that disrupts the natural functions of the brain. In a car accident, a TBI can occur when a person is traveling at a high speed and comes to a sudden stop, resulting in the brain moving back and forth inside the skull.
Brain injuries are not as easy to diagnose as broken bones or other ailments. Head trauma often goes undiagnosed. A TBI can linger long after the accident has taken place.
What are the Symptoms of a TBI?
After a car accident, you should seek immediate medical care. It is important to monitor any symptoms. Some symptoms of a TBI include:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Problems with speech
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Inability to smell
Symptoms may not appear right away, which is why it is critical to seek medical attention after any type of accident.
Time Constraint
If you have been involved in a car accident, you should know that there is a time limit when it comes to filing a car accident lawsuit, which is known as the statute of limitations. In Delaware, you have two years from the date of your car accident to file a lawsuit, otherwise, you run the risk of your case getting tossed from court. Consulting an experienced lawyer is an important step when you wish to pursue a legal case for a TBI related to a car accident.
Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Advocate on Behalf of Those Suffering From Accident-Related TBIs
The extent of damage caused by a traumatic brain injury from a car accident can be severe. That is why you need the legal help of our compassionate Wilmington car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Call us at 302-656-5445 or complete our online form for more information and to schedule a free consultation today. We are located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, and we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
How can I Stay Safe on Labor Day Weekend?
Many families finish up their vacations on Labor Day weekend, which is the unofficial end of summer. Following the lockdowns brought on by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, many people are anxious to get outdoors. Travel destinations will be packed with vacationers, particularly at the local beaches.
Although the beach provides fun and relaxation, accidents can still happen. It is important to review tips on how to stay safe on Labor Day Weekend.
Beach Safety
A trip to the beach is much more enjoyable when you are prepared for the outing. The beach environment has many unpredictable variables, so it is best to keep some safety tips in mind:
- Lifeguards: Never swim in an area where a lifeguard is not present. Even if a lifeguard is present, it is always a good idea to go into the water with a friend instead of alone. Always enter the water feet first, and only dive where signs clearly say it is okay. Finally, having a first-aid kit is strongly recommended, as well as plenty of water, food, and a cellphone.
- Rip currents: Rip currents can be so powerful that even the most experienced swimmer can struggle to reach the shore. It is extremely important to pay attention to any warning signs of a rip current, or follow the advice of any lifeguards. If you are caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shoreline, and never swim into the current. Swimming into the rip current will only exhaust the muscles and drain your energy. After getting out of the current’s path, it is best to swim back to shore immediately.
- Hydrated: To fully protect yourself from the sun’s rays, not only should the right sunscreen be applied, but your body needs to be properly hydrated. This includes not swimming on an empty stomach, and more importantly, never drink and then go swimming.
- Weather: If thunder or lightning is seen, the lifeguard will alert everyone to get out of the water immediately. If no alarm is sounded, pay attention to the weather and if there are any signs of rain, like dark clouds. If you are out on a boat, head back to shore immediately, but if that is not possible, go into the cabin and find shelter.
- Drowning prevention: Never leave a child unsupervised while on the beach, and always have life jackets available that could fit them. It may also be valuable to take swimming and CPR lessons.
Driving Safety
No Labor Day Weekend is complete without a trip to the beach, and getting to the beach safely is just as important as being there. The highways will become packed with beachgoers, turning a short trip into a long one. Here are a few Labor Day driving tips:
- Obey all traffic laws: Always obey the local speed limits, always buckle up your seat belt, and never drink and drive. Even one alcoholic beverage is enough to limit a person’s reaction time or cause drowsiness. With holiday traffic, the chance of a car accident
- Drive defensively: Be polite while driving, and never drive aggressively or tailgate other motorists. Everyone on the road is in a rush, and getting others angry will ruin your vacation.
- Avoid distractions: Even if the car is packed with children and luggage, it is imperative to avoid distractions. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents.
- Get enough sleep: Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. Closing your eyes for a few seconds while travelling at 50 miles per hour is the equivalent of traveling the length of an entire football field. Get plenty of rest before taking a long road trip.
- Vehicle maintenance: It is always a good idea to have a vehicle’s oil changed, fluids topped off, and tire and brakes checked before taking a lengthy road trip. This could save a family from being stuck on the side of the highway.
Good Hygiene
It is still important to stay up to date with COVID-19 regulations and local health advisories. Some recommendations when traveling include:
- Wear a mask. Wearing a mask protects you and others from illnesses.
- Social distancing should be followed. A minimum distance of 6 feet should be maintained while you are around strangers.
- Celebrate outside. Any holiday gatherings should also be outdoors, where the open air helps prevent the spread of infection.
- Be safe when preparing food. Regarding food safety, make sure all food is cooked thoroughly, and eating areas are sanitized and cleaned. Cutting boards and other surfaces that contact raw meat should be sanitized. Food should never sit out longer than a few hours.
Delaware Personal Injury Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Vacationers Injured on Labor Day Weekend
Safety should always be on your mind when you are attending a Labor Day event. If you are injured by a negligent party on Labor Day weekend, one of our Delaware personal injury lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help. Call us today at 302-656-5445 or fill out an online form for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we proudly serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.