What are Essential Back-to-School Safety Tips?
As summer comes to an end, parents are redirecting their focus on the upcoming school year. This year will certainly be different as Coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions begin to lift, and many more people will be on the roadways. Regardless of where children will attend class, getting to school safely is a top priority.
Bus Safety
School buses are among the most regulated and safest vehicles on the road, but accidents can still happen. It is important to be mindful of a few safety tips when children take the bus to school:
- If possible, parents should walk with their child to the bus stop.
- While waiting, maintain a distance of at least five steps away from the street. It is wise to limit any distractions as well, such as cellphone use.
- Always wait until the bus comes to a full stop and the stop-arm comes out before attempting to get on the vehicle. Make eye contact with the bus driver, and wait for them to signal it is okay to board.
- If having to cross the street to the bus, walk at least 10 feet in front, and make sure the bus driver gives the okay to cross.
- Use the handrail when getting on and off the bus.
- When on the bus, children should stay in their seats and face forward at all times.
- Children should always listen to the bus driver’s directions.
Drive Safely in the School Zone
Some parents drive their children to school. Even with traffic laws in school zones, accidents still occur. Here are a few tips to keep in mind during the back-to-school season:
- Always obey the school zone speed limit.
- Be aware of pedestrians and crosswalks because people may be walking in between parked cars or exiting a bus.
- Never drive while looking at a cellphone or any other distraction.
- Never change lanes in a school zone.
- Red flashing lights on a school bus means to stop immediately and wait. Always stay stopped until the stop-arm is released and the bus begins to move again.
- Yellow flashing lights on a bus mean to slow down and be prepared to stop.
- Maintain a safe distance of 10 feet when around a school bus.
- Never pass a school bus when they are parked and picking up or dropping off children.
Be Careful When Walking or Biking to School
Walking or biking to school may be healthier options. Parents should remind children to never converse with strangers. If someone tries to talk to them or offers a ride, children should run away and yell as loud as possible to alert others nearby.
Some other important tips for walking and biking to school include:
- Children should never use a cellphone or play a game while walking to school.
- Always stay on a sidewalk and use crosswalks.
- Before crossing the street, look left, then right, then left again, and make sure all nearby vehicles are stopped.
- It is recommended to not let a child walk or ride a bike to school before the age of 10 years old.
- Bike riders should always wear a helmet and reflective clothing.
Millsboro Personal Injury Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Clients Injured During the School Year
During the school year, safety becomes a top priority for families. If you or your child becomes injured during the school season, speak to a Millsboro personal injury lawyer at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. right away. Call us today at 302-656-5445 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we proudly serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Popular Phone App Removes Dangerous Speeding Filter
Smartphones have various applications for different uses. Snapchat is one app that includes photo and video sharing. In 2013 Snapchat, added a speed filter, and a driver could send a video of how fast they were driving to other Snapchat users. Before the app was taken down, some Snapchat users were making a game out of driving fast while videoing and sharing it with others.
In many states, it is illegal to text and drive, and this includes using an app in the car. In Delaware, drivers cannot send or read a text, and they cannot use handheld devices. If a driver has a learner’s permit, they cannot use a cellphone. A driver distraction is anything that takes one’s attention away from the task at hand.
Texting takes one’s eyes off the road for only five seconds. However, at 55 miles per hour, that five seconds is the equivalent of driving down an entire football field. Teenage drivers tend to speed and drive closer to the car in front of them, and they do not always wear seat belts. A 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that 39 percent of the teenage survey respondents texted or emailed while driving at least once in the previous 30 days.
How can I Prevent a Distracted Driving Accident?
Some helpful tips to prevent a distracted driving car accident include:
- Teenagers have to influence their peers. Student groups can inform teenagers through messages on social media.
- Parents can set a good driving example. Restrictions on cellphone use should be in place.
- Schools can increase education and outreach. Employers can send the message as well.
- Insurance companies can raise rates for distracted driving.
Distracted driving can lead to vehicle accidents and injuries of all degrees as well as property damage. Any driver found to be distracted can also face punitive measures, such as fines, license restrictions, and other legal penalties.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Distracted Driving Accident Victims
After a distracted driving accident, a victim should focus on healing, and having a trusted legal advocate by your side can be beneficial. The Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. understand what accident victims are going through. To learn more about your case, call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online. We are located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, and we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What are the Long-Term Effects of a Car Accident?
The long-term effects of a car accident can persist for months, years, and even for a lifetime for some individuals. Some physical impairments, like one that involves someone needing a wheelchair, are visible, but some damage involves emotional distress and other conditions that may not be apparent to others.
Some accidents are fatal, which can lead to significant emotional trauma. Losing a loved one in a car accident can cause post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and trauma. People who have a history of psychological problems or emotional challenges or have no available family or social support systems after a car accident could be more susceptible to PTSD and other mental health conditions.
Physical Effects
While a small bone fracture or a few lacerations can be painful and require time to recover, more serious car accident injuries can turn one’s life around completely. Severe back and neck injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, traumatic brain injuries, and shattered bones can take years to heal. Sometimes, surgery for a car accident injury can lead to complications that make people unable to function at the same levels as before. In some cases, returning to work may not even be a possibility.
One of the more common car accident injuries is whiplash, which can also lead to long-term effects. Whiplash is when the victim’s head and neck snaps back and forth, causing minor or major soft tissue damage. The more severe symptoms include pain and stiffness, blurred vision, numbness, weakness, dizziness to the head and neck, and additional injuries to the jaw and upper and lower back.
Financial Impacts
Someone who is severely injured in a car accident may have significant medical expenses that insurance may not fully cover. If the injured person is unable to return to work temporarily, permanently, or in the same capacity as before, the amount of money they are able to earn can also decrease significantly.
Time is worth money too, and it can take quite a while for an insurance provider to settle with an injured claimant. If the company is not willing to negotiate a fair settlement, a claimant may need to reach out to a qualified car accident lawyer. Dealing with issues and the frustration of getting just compensation can take even longer when one is unfamiliar with the legal process. For this reason, it is important to speak to a lawyer after a collision.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Clients Handle the Long-Term Effects of Collisions
If you are facing long-term consequences from a serious collision, the skilled Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. may be able to help. For a free consultation, call us at 302-656-5445 or complete our online form. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
How Common is Road Rage?
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), approximately 50 percent all motorists respond negatively to driving frustrations. In some cases, road rage might be involved. Road rage is not as common as aggressive driving, but when it does happen, the situation can be very dangerous.
Many drivers have little patience. Traffic delays and other minor inconveniences can test drivers’ abilities to keep calm. Some drivers, however, escalate the situation. Some motorists deliberately behave aggressively with the intention to intimidate or even physically harm others. Being cutoff in traffic or being blocked by a driver unaware of one’s intention to pass can be frustrating for any motorist, but for some, this minor offense can trigger dangerous driving behaviors.
In response to some perceived injustice, an angry driver may undertake a vendetta against another motorist they think wronged them in some way. When this happens, serious consequences can result, such as a car accident or an injury.
What is the Difference Between Aggressive Driving and Road Rage?
Road rage is what happens when a driver loses patience with the circumstances around them, and they take action that endangers other road users. Often, the impetus for at road rage incident is an inconvenience that enrages the driver to the point that they become intent on getting revenge. Sometimes, another driver gets involved with the aggressive driver, but often, one motorists targets another road user to teach them a lesson.
Aggressive driving usually refers to reckless behaviors, and road rage incidents have dangerous levels of hostility and intent to cause harm. While there are many similarities between aggressive driving and road rage, neither are acceptable. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) explains that aggressive driving is a dangerous driving behavior that can be considered reckless, such as speeding, tailgating, or blocking another car from passing. Road rage on the other hand, involves an intent to intimidate or hurt another driver. Some examples of road rage include:
- A motorist trying to drive another car off of the road.
- A driver ramming into another car because of a minor incident.
- A motorist using a weapon to intimidate or harm another driver.
- Drivers getting into a physical altercation off the side of the road.
How Dangerous is Road Rage?
According to the NHTSA, about 66 percent of traffic deaths are the result of aggressive driving. It is a significant problem, and many drivers are unable to control their emotions, even though they may be aware of the dangers involved. The APA reports that 30 people are killed in road rage incidents each year, and thousands of more victims are seriously injured. Data from the AutoVantage Club shows that 37 percent of aggressive driving incidents involve a firearm. CNN reported that there is a 500 percent increase in road rage incidents over the last 10 years.
Even though road rage is less common than aggressive driving, it is still dangerous. When encountering an aggressive driver, it is wise to pull over and let them pass. It is better to deescalate the situation.
What Causes Road Rage?
Impatience is a main reason for road rage incidents, however, in some cases, there are other root cases. Some road rage episodes are isolated occurrences, such as when an overstressed driver is having a bad day. Although having a bad day is not an excuse to act dangerously, emotional stress can impact how a driver conducts themselves behind the wheel. A driver in severe distress due to psychological illness or some other cause can be a danger to all road users.
Other road rage situations are more about poor decision-making. Motorists that are in a rush may make the mistake of thinking that forcing another driver out of their way will help them get to their destination faster. Feeling stressed about getting to their destination as soon as possible can cause anger issues that are misplaced, leading to an unsafe situation.
Another dangerous situation that can lead to a road rage incident is impaired driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can make a motorist more likely to engage in road rage behaviors. When people are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may be more confrontational to those around them. Being impaired is a dangerous mental state for anyone operating a vehicle, making them more prone to react to driving frustrations in ways that put everyone at risk.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Fight on Behalf of Injured Road Rage and Aggressive Driving Victims
If you were seriously injured in an aggressive driving or road rage accident, you should speak to a lawyer right away to discuss your legal options. The Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help you understand your rights. We understand that aggressive driving and road rage can cause serious accidents, and we will help you figure out your next best steps. Contact us online or call us at 302-656-5445 to schedule a free case consultation today. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Should I Know About Rear-End Car Accidents?
A rear-end car accident occurs when a driver cannot stop in time to avoid slamming into the vehicle ahead of them. In the United States, around 2.5 million rear-end accidents cause property damage and personal injury, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Although many rear-end crashes happen at lower speeds, they still can lead to lifelong medical problems. They can also be more complicated than many other types of collisions, which is why it is important to speak to a car accident lawyer after one happens.
What are the Leading Causes of Rear-End Accidents?
Some of the most common reasons for rear-end collisions include:
- The following driver was distracted.
- The following driver was speeding.
- The following driver tailgated the car ahead of them.
In most cases, the following driver is at fault for the rear-end accident. Most insurance adjusters and law enforcement officers automatically will assign responsibility for a rear-end crash to the following driver. However, sometimes, the driver in front is partially or fully to blame for the incident.
When is the Leading Driver Responsible for a Rear-End Accident?
The leading driver may have responsibility for causing a rear-end accident in some scenarios. For instance, the leading driver may have no working brake lights or stop suddenly while turning. In these situations, the leading driver may be deemed partially responsible. This is where the concept of comparative negligence comes into play.
Delaware follows the rule of comparative negligence when assigning liability after any kind of traffic accident. Comparative negligence allows for the possibility that both drivers can share responsibility for causing the rear-end crash. A percentage of fault is assigned, and that percentage of fault is deducted from the overall compensation award. A person who is more than 50 percent responsible for an accident is barred from collecting damages.
Since most people assume that the following driver is at fault, an injured following driver may want to work with a lawyer to receive fair compensation. A lawyer can help their client reconstruct the accident scene to determine fault. Without help from a legal professional, a victim may have difficulty recovering damages to pay for hospital bills, surgery, or physical therapy.
How can I Avoid a Rear-End Accident?
Some rear-end crashes cannot be avoided, but drivers can minimize their risk by practicing the following:
- Obey the speed limits at all times.
- Keep a generous following distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Avoiding driving while distracted.
- Pay attention to other drivers and their speeds.
- Stay on top of routine car maintenance.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Injured Drivers Determine Liability in Rear-End Car Accident Cases
If you were involved in a rear-end crash, call one of our Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. today. A rear-end car accident can cause lifelong injuries, and we can fight on your behalf. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What are Common Types of Summer Accidents?
Summertime is known to be a relaxing season, but the warm weather also increases some dangers. While it is important to enjoy the beautiful summer months, it is always a good idea for everyone to keep safety in the back of their minds. Listed below are some of the most common summertime accidents and how to avoid them.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
While those who live in the northeast may think winter brings the most motor vehicle accidents, car accidents and other collisions frequently happen in the summer as well. There are many reasons for summertime motor vehicle accidents, including:
- Teenagers and young adults are out of school and on the road more often in the summer.
- Road construction and associated issues, such as closed roads, merged lanes, and detours.
- More tourists and travelers, often causing congestion and traffic backups.
- More people traveling on the roads for vacation who may be fatigued, unfamiliar with the roads, or distracted.
Motorcycle Accidents
Most motorcycle riders will claim there is nothing better than hitting the open road on a beautiful summer day. However, motorcycle accidents increase in summer, often because a car or truck driver does not see the vulnerable motorcyclist. It is important that all car and truck drivers be mindful of motorcyclists.
Trampoline Accidents
Children and some adults injure themselves on trampolines by either jumping and falling off or from horseplay. Since summertime increases outdoor play, trampoline safety should be encouraged. Parents should monitor children when they are using the trampoline.
Slip and Fall Accidents
While slip and fall accidents can happen at any time of the year, summer opens up more opportunities for these accidents to occur. From wet water parks, uneven walkways, to extra slippery floors in a museum, everyone should take care when they take a step.
Additionally, pool-related slip and fall accidents happen frequently in the summer months. Many people can be in a public pool at one time. Wet pavement, crowded slides and boards, and horseplay can all cause pool accidents. Home pools are especially dangerous because there are no lifeguards, and homeowners must be vigilant about small children accidentally falling into the pool.
Bicycle Accidents
Bicycling is among the top summer pursuits, either for leisure or exercise. With more bikes on the road, there is a higher chance for an accident. Bike-car accidents top the list as drivers may not be accustomed to sharing the road with bicyclists.
Boating Accidents
Boaters and their passengers should always be cautious on the water. Speeding boats, boat congestion, wakes, and choppy water can all potentially cause a disastrous accident. Boating while drinking is a common cause of accidents as well.
Playground and Park Accidents
As people enjoy outdoor entertainment, picnics at the park, and fun play equipment for the children, caution is advised. A fall from the monkey bars can result in a badly sprained ankle.
How can I Avoid a Summertime Accident?
Some small steps can help prevent a summertime accident:
- Always supervise children in the pool, whether at a public pool or an at-home pool. Most children are not strong swimmers and may not know how to help themselves or recover from a pool incident.
- Teach children and adults safe trampoline behavior. Better yet, enclose the trampoline with safety netting and other measures that prevent people from falling off.
- Be careful while bicycling. Never assume a driver will see the bike. Follow all the safety rules, too, such as biking in the right direction and signaling for turns and lane changes.
- Talk with teenagers about summer driving. Help young adults anticipate and handle some of the unusual circumstances they may come upon in the summer, including traffic backups, construction, and other hazardous road situations.
Millsboro Personal Injury Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Advocate for Accident Victims Any Time of the Year
Summertime accidents are common. While everyone should always be vigilant, accidents can and do happen. After a summer accident, you should contact one of our Millsboro personal injury lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. A lawyer will determine the negligent party that caused the accident. To schedule a free consultation, call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Should I Discuss With My Car Accident Lawyer?
When a person is involved in a car accident that is not their fault, it may be the first time they have ever had to hire a lawyer and use a lawyer to file a legal claim. Legalese and legal procedures can be daunting. Therefore, it helps to be prepared to both hire and work with a lawyer who has the victim’s best interests in mind.
When speaking to a lawyer, a client should have an open and frank discussion with them. This initial discussion can ensure that both parties understand expectations, needs, the process and timelines, and every other aspect of the legal process.
The following are important discussion points that will help the accident victim feel more comfortable and confident about their case.
Documentation and Evidence
While a lawyer will collect evidence after the accident, a plaintiff can help by procuring as much of the following as possible:
- Photographs and videos from the accident scene, such as vehicle damage, location, road and weather conditions, and strewn parts.
- Personal account and timeline of what happened in the accident.
- Witness statements and their contact information.
- Police reports, diagrams, and photographs. Always summon police after an accident, no matter how seemingly minor.
- Medical records, including diagnoses, visit summaries, injury photographs, and receipts of anything related to medical care after the accident, such as hospital stays, surgeries, therapy, rehabilitation, and prescriptions/medical equipment.
- Pay stubs and wage/lost wage information. Accident victims may need to take time off work or use vacation and sick days. The lawyer will need employment information to help calculate damages.
- Insurance information from all parties involved. Also, bring insurance reports and estimates regarding vehicle damage.
- List of other damaged property and their values, such as items lost in the wrecked vehicle.
Process
The legal process after a car accident is complex and involves collecting evidence, negotiating with insurers, and possible litigation. Therefore, accident victims should fully understand how the lawyer plans to represent them, what strategies they will use, and the significant steps in the process.
Damages
One of the most critical responsibilities of a lawyer is to calculate the damages that will be sought in a personal injury claim. The lawyer will analyze current and future medical costs, property damage, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and pain and suffering to arrive at a fair and just compensation amount.
Settlement
As part of the discussion on strategy, the plaintiff should understand the differences between settling with an insurance company and bringing the claim to court. They should rely on their lawyer to advise the best route to take and how the lawyer plans to proceed with negotiation or litigation.
Timeline
It is easy for an accident victim facing medical bills to feel exasperated and desperate for compensation. Having an honest discussion with their lawyer about how long the process may take can help ease stress and frustration. In addition, the lawyer should always provide deadlines for each major step in the process so that important dates are not missed.
What Questions Should I Ask a Car Accident Lawyer?
After a car accident, it is vital to speak to a personal injury lawyer quickly. The reasons for this include:
- Preservation of evidence.
- Witness statements more attainable.
- Fresh recollection of events.
- Statute of limitations.
- Ample time to complete the negotiation and litigation process.
The only way to really know if a lawyer will be the right fit is to ask the right probing questions. Disregard any lawyer who will not answer important questions. The accident victim needs to be comfortable with and trusting of the lawyer they choose.
While it is essential to move quickly, it is equally important to ensure the best representation for the specific type of claim. The following are some critical questions to ask:
- Is the consultation free? Most lawyers will offer no-cost consultations to start. These consultations give both the lawyer and the plaintiff an understanding of whether they will be a good fit for each other.
- What are the fees and costs? Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis. That means they get paid only if the plaintiff wins their case and receives compensation for damages. They will take a previously stated percentage of the award for payment, usually 25 to 30 percent. However, some lawyers work at an hourly rate or for a flat fee. Be clear on how the lawyer will get paid and the costs if they lose the case.
- What is their communication style? For example, some lawyers schedule regular updates, while others find it better to communicate on an as-needed basis. A plaintiff should state their expectations and preferences for communication during the interviews. They should also be clear on whether updates will come from the lawyer, paralegal, or an administrative employee.
- What is their experience with this type of claim? Ideally, a lawyer should have great expertise in winning similar cases, especially those tried in court. Also, ask about their track record of negotiating fair and just settlements with insurance companies.
- How much time will be devoted to the case? Every plaintiff wants to feel as if everything possible is being done for them. Get a feel for how the lawyer will prioritize the case and how much time they will spend on it.
Wilmington Personal Injury Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Advocate for Car Accident Victims
After a car accident, a victim should focus on healing and not on the stress of dealing with insurers and negligent parties. Having a trusted and experienced legal advocate by your side can be comforting. The Wilmington personal injury lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. understand what accident victims are going through. To learn more about your case and to schedule a free consultation, call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online. We have offices located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, and we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Evidence Should I Collect for a Car Accident Case?
In the confusion and stress that occurs in the moments after a car accident, it can be nearly impossible to think clearly about what just happened. Even individuals who are sure that their accident was caused by the other driver’s negligence might not be in the mindset to collect evidence.
However, collecting evidence on the scene or shortly after the crash can prove invaluable when trying to make the case that the accident occurred as a result of the other driver’s negligent behavior. Some evidence will need to be collected as the case proceeds.
The location of the accident is the best place to gather the most powerful evidence of what caused the crash. Even for individuals who have to reason to suspect that they might run into problems with their claim, the scene of the accident is where visuals and statements can be accessed and preserved. Anyone involved in an accident should try to collect evidence at the scene if it is possible.
A driver should know what can strengthen a personal injury case. Some key pieces of evidence that should be collected after a collision are listed below.
Other Driver’ Information
If everyone is medically stable after the accident, the drivers should exchange identification and contact information. While this information will be made available if an incident report is produced by the responding police officer, exchanging this information can help get a jump on an insurance claim. This information includes the names, addresses, and contact phone numbers of all drivers involved in the crash. It is important to collect license numbers and insurance policy numbers from each driver as well.
Additionally, make note of the make, model, and license plate numbers of the cars involved in the accident. All of this information will help with a claim.
Police Officer’s Information
Drivers can jot down the police officer’s name and badge number so they can be contacted if necessary. It can also help to ask for the police report number. All of this information will make it easier to get a hold of the police report, which is extremely important.
Photographs
It is crucial to document the scene with photographs. Pictures of the cars, their positions, and any damage they received in the crash can help prove negligence and liability.
Photograph anything that reveals adverse road or weather conditions, damaged traffic signs, or any other features that may have played a role in the crash, such as skid marks. Take pictures of visible physical injuries as well.
Videos
Like photos, videos can reveal information that was missed. Videos taken after the crash on a smartphone are good to have, but footage of the crash itself can be vital as well. Surveillance videos from homes and businesses in the area might hold this important form of evidence.
Eye Witness Accounts
Useful information from an outside perspective may also be available in the form of eye witness accounts from people who saw what happened. Whether they were nearby drivers or pedestrians, a statement from each witness can be helpful supporting evidence in an accident case.
Notes
Another step that can produce helpful evidence is for the claimant to write down notes about what they remember from the crash. Recording a statement right away is best. As memories fade, the testimony may become obscured. Clear and fresh recollections are most useful.
Medical Receipts and Records
In the days and weeks after the accident, many pieces begin to fall into place. Proving a claim is likely to depend on a clear understanding of what damages were caused and what the material costs were of those damages. For this reason, claimants should document all medical care they need as a result of the injuries they sustained from the accident.
It is also important for claimants to keep records of how their recovery is going and what treatments, medications, and accommodations are recommended in the future. Keeping all documentation of medical receipts can help with a claim.
Keep Conversations
Claimants should keep careful records of their conversations with insurance company representatives. An individual should make sure to note the times of calls, who they spoke to, and what was said. This information can be used if the insurance attempts to deny the claim.
Should I Speak to Others About the Accident?
In addition to knowing what evidence to collect to support an accident claim, it is also important for claimants to know how to keep the other motorist from building a case against them. While it is hard not to replay the incident and try to figure out what went wrong, talking to the other driver may give them information that they can use.
After an accident, some drivers will talk about what they think happened, but it is important to resist doing this. Even though it may seem polite, do not apologize. Do not blame the other driver either. Just give a truthful and complete statement to the police, and let the evidence speak for itself.
Additionally, claimants should refrain from speaking to friends, loved ones, and neighbors about the incident. It is best to leave speculation out of it. Enlisting a lawyer to do all the talking can help.
It is important to note that car accident victims should never tell the police officer, the other driver, or anyone at the scene that they are unharmed. Some injuries take time to develop, so it may not be possible for them to know right away that they are injured. Saying they are fine may impede a claim.
Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Collision Victims Preserve Evidence for Claims
After a car accident happens, it is imperative to collect as much evidence as possible. Some evidence can even be collected at the scene. For help with your case, speak to a Wilmington car accident lawyer at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. today. Call us at 302-656-5445 or complete our online form for a free consultation. Based in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
How can I Drive Safely With Pets in the Vehicle?
Most pet owners travel with their companions. In fact, a 2018 survey by Go Pet Friendly revealed that approximately 95 percent of pet owners said they planned to make at least one overnight trip with their pets when traveling. Many of those who were surveyed owned dogs.
While many cat owners can leave food, water, and clean litter for their pets and leave for a couple of days, dogs require much more attention and often cannot be left alone for more than a few hours. That spurs many dog owners to take their pets on long road trips.
Whether one is traveling with a cat, dog, or another pet, some practical advice can help to prevent a car accident. The following tips can help make trips with pets safer and easier.
Restrained Pets Travel the Best
A pet owner should have a good idea of how their pet reacts to car travel. If not, the owner needs to find out. A pet that is comfortable while inside a moving vehicle is terrific, but many suffer from separation anxiety that could lead to a panic attack or worse. An incessantly mewing cat or a dog that is nervous and moving around in the interior is a potential danger, but a pet owner can try to get their pet used to being in a car and in a carrier.
Even if the pet is accustomed to car travel, it is always wise to keep them restrained and in the back seat. A pet carrier is great for keeping a dog or cat under control and safely secured during travel. The driver can even use the seat belt restraints and purchase special pet travel equipment that makes it safer.
Create a Pet Barrier
One of the best ways to let a pet travel safely is to place a barrier between the front and rear seats or otherwise create a barrier that limits the pet’s ability to interfere with the driver. A simple clear plastic partition is very affordable, enables them to see clearly, and makes it impossible for the pet to jump into the front seat and possibly trigger an accident.
A driver will need to ensure that their pet has water available and small amounts of food. Regular stops and walks with a leashed pet can help them stay calm if it is used to being outdoors and around strangers; otherwise, it is best to keep the travel distances relatively short.
What are the Potential Dangers When Driving With Pets?
A relatively docile pet lying next to its owner seems like an idyllic setting, but that is often not the reality. Pets need food, get restless, and must have breaks on long road trips. A distraction from a pet could cause an accident.
If the pet is like many and gets nervous while in the car, it could become harder to control. Even when completely docile, a pet could become potentially deadly during an accident. A pet could projectile and even hit the owner during a collision.
Dover Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Advocate for Safe Driving Habits
A negligent pet owner can cause a serious collision if they are distracted. If you were injured by a reckless driver, contact a Dover car accident lawyer at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. today. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What are Some Tips for Driving in Fog?
It is always best to avoid driving in foggy conditions, but when fog approaches out of nowhere or when driving is unavoidable, drivers should be informed about the best ways to stay safe. Fog is common early in the morning, but it usually clears as the sun comes up. While there are other less predictable ways fog can appear, the best action for motorists to take is to avoid driving if possible. Listed below are some driving safety tips for foggy conditions.
Reduce Speed
The most important response is to slow down. Whenever a driver has difficulties seeing what lies ahead, it makes sense to slow down to provide some time to react to any possible danger ahead on the road, including other vehicles or dangerous road conditions. Drivers should accept that their trip is bound to take longer when fog is present and put safety ahead of making good time.
Stay Visible
Drivers should attempt to make their vehicles visible to other motorists. This starts with using the car’s lights. Illuminated headlights and taillights allow vehicles to be more visible to one another. Foggy conditions call for the use of low-beam headlights or fog lights, not high-beams. Although high-beam headlights create a brighter view up ahead under normal conditions, using them in fog actually causes glare as the light reflects off the vapor droplets in the air.
Keep Windows Clear
Make sure the windshield is clear by limiting moisture buildup using the car’s defrosters and windshield wipers. The defroster will combat high humidity levels that cause interior moisture to create condensation on the windows, making it difficult for the driver to see. Let the defrosters work without trying to speed up the process by wiping the inside of the windshield; this often causes smear marks and further reduces clarity.
Find Visual Aids
When fog makes the road hard to see, drivers should look for reflective markers or follow the yellow strip along the right side of the road. It can be tempting to keep an eye on the taillights of the vehicle ahead, but drivers should keep their distance for safety, even if it means losing sight of the illuminated guide.
Keep Focus
In addition to making sure visual focus is optimized, strict mental focus is also necessary in dangerous fog. Drivers should avoid anything that distracts them from the task at hand. The radio or smartphone can wait.
Choose a Safe Spot
Drivers should look for a safe location to pull off the road. Pulling over onto the shoulder is better than driving when it is impossible to see well. If the only choice is to pull over to the roadside, try to find a place that is as far away as possible from the road. Once stopped, drivers should leave hazard lights flashing to notify any passing vehicles of their presence.
Follow Safety Protocols
Even when drivers take all the right precautions to deal with fog, car accidents can still happen. It is important to call 9-1-1 to get a medical response team on the scene. A responding officer will make a police report. Drivers should exchange contact and insurance information. Finally, it can be useful to take notes, pictures, and gather eyewitness statements. Another important step is to contact a lawyer.
Millsboro Personal Injury Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Drivers with Weather-Related Car Accident Cases
If you were hurt in a car accident that involved foggy conditions, you may have a case against the person whose negligence caused your accident. The Millsboro personal injury lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can determine who is at fault. For more information and a free consultation, complete our online form or call us at 302-656-5445. We are located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, and we represent clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.