How Can Semi-Truck Drivers Prepare for Fall?
Truck drivers must always be vigilant about safe driving. As the seasons change, so do safety issues. During fall, certain safety topics should be reviewed. Hazards in fall can lead to serious truck accidents if motorists are not prepared for the weather transition.
How Can Truck Drivers Prepare for Nighttime Driving?
As the days become shorter in autumn, more drivers will be on the roadways. Glare from the sun makes it difficult to see the brake lights of other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles in the road. The presence of water or ice on the road magnifies sun glare. Truck drivers should have sunglasses at hand to avoid sun glare and be aware that other drivers are dealing with the hazard as well.
With fewer daylight hours, truckers will spend more time driving in darkness. Now is a good time to inspect headlights to ensure they are in good condition and fully operational. Keeping mirrors and window glass clean and free of debris reduces glare. Night driving is more dangerous, so all motorists should leave plenty of following distance and check mirrors frequently.
How Does the Change in Weather Impact the Roads?
In many areas, fall weather can be highly unpredictable. Cooler temperatures can bring morning and evening fog. Frost can also be an issue at higher elevations and when the temperature drops dramatically.
Truck drivers travel the whole country and must be prepared for the sudden changes in autumn weather. When roadways are wet, slower speeds and longer stopping distances are required. Special caution should be used when approaching overpasses and bridges as they frost over before the rest of the roads. As part of routine maintenance, fog lights should be checked along with tire pressure and treads.
Wildlife is More Prominent in Autumn Months
Deer are most active in fall during mating season. Drivers need to be especially alert during dawn and dusk when animals may try to cross the road. When entering an area marked with deer crossing signs, keep an eye out for any deer. The presence of one animal indicates that more are probably around as deer travel in herds. Truck drivers should drive at speeds that are safe in case of emergencies, such as crossing deer. It is important to not swerve if a deer approaches the roadway. A motorist should try to brake while maintaining control and avoiding the animal. Staying as straight as possible is important because swerving could put the truck into oncoming traffic or can cause the truck to tip over.
Can Fall Leaves be Dangerous?
As the trees lose their leaves in autumn, drivers must be aware of the hazards they cause on the roads. The rain causes some leaves to fall off, which can lead to slick surfaces. Heavy semi-trucks can hydroplane in slippery, wet conditions.
Dry leaves also reduce tire traction as there is less contact with the surface of the road. They can also cover hazards, like bumps and potholes, on the roads and obscure road markings. When encountering leaves on the road, it is best to slow down because some leaves may be wet or slick. A truck driver should avoid sudden braking or swerving, and never park a truck over a pile of leaves. In very dry conditions, an exhaust system can ignite the leaves.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Hazards
Fall is when school resumes, and children are more common on the roadways as they commute to and from school. They may be on foot or on bikes and can behave unpredictably, sometimes veering out into the road without warning. As the days get shorter, they will be less visible and may not always be wearing bright colored clothing. A truck driver should always check blind spots carefully, and use mirrors and backup cameras to check for pedestrians and bicyclists.
What Should be Inspected on a Semi-Truck?
Trucking companies and truck drivers have responsibilities to maintain their vehicles to high safety standards. Federal laws require that trucks be systematically inspected, repaired, and maintained so that parts and accessories are in safe, proper condition at all times. Records must be kept for each truck that shows the truck identification, date, type of inspection, repair, and maintenance operation. It is also required that tests be conducted on emergency doors and windows.
At the end of each driving day, truck drivers must complete post-trip inspections and written reports of any defects or deficiencies that could affect the safety of the vehicles.
Evaluate Safety in Autumn
All truck drivers must be fit to drive and perform their job duties. This is why the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA) requires that truck drivers pass medical exams. A truck driver must be able to stop, turn, and maneuver a heavy semi-truck. The FMSCA also regulates the amount of time a driver may spend on the road before they must take a break to rest.
Since trucks are large, truck accidents involving passenger vehicles and bystanders cause much more damage than regular car accidents. Safety in trucking is paramount, and the autumn season is a good time to review safety tips.
What Should I Do After a Serious Truck Accident?
Trucking companies, manufacturers, and truckers can all be liable for accidents. Since many parties may be involved, truck accident cases are complex. After a truck accident, a victim should speak to a lawyer about their options. A lawyer will be able to determine if a victim can collect compensation.
Wilmington Truck Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Advocate for Victims of Truck Accidents
If you were hurt in a truck accident that was caused by a negligent truck driver, contact our Wilmington truck accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Our skilled team will fight tirelessly to get you compensation for your injuries so that you can concentrate on your recovery. For 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.
Do Truck Drivers Who Drink More Caffeine Have More Truck Accidents?
Driving while drowsy is extremely dangerous and should be avoided. In fact, one out of three drivers admit to driving while drowsy, making it one of the top causes of car accidents and truck accidents. So, how do drivers who travel for long periods of time combat drowsiness? Many drivers might say that caffeine is a good source of energy, but a recent study has linked the over consumption of caffeine to an increase in accidents.
What Did the Study Reveal?
Researchers from the United Kingdom and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute surveyed over 3,000 truck drivers and divided them into two groups. One group would consume five cups of caffeinated beverages, and the other group would consume one beverage. During a three-year span, the results showed that nearly 28 percent of those in the higher-caffeinated group were in truck accidents.
It is important to note that those in the higher-caffeinated group also reported poor health and habits, such as not eating, sleeping, and drinking excessively and smoking.
Why is it Bad to Drink Too Much Caffeine?
Drinking too much caffeine is linked to poor health, which may be an underlying cause of drowsiness and accidents. In fact, there are many studies that show that coffee and other caffeinated drinks provide energy only on a short-term basis.
Consumers that drink too much caffeine seem to have other unhealthy habits as well. This implies that the body becomes accustomed to the caffeine, which makes it ineffective. Instead of getting the energy and focus they need to operate their trucks safely, truck driver might be unaware that caffeine may not be helping at all. Drinking too much caffeinated beverages may actually endanger drivers.
Additionally, studies show that coffee drinkers actually become dependent on caffeine. It is important that truck drivers limit their caffeine consumption because it leads to healthier lifestyles and reduces their risk for accidents.
What Should I Do if I am Injured by a Negligent Truck Driver?
If a truck driver is drowsy and causes an accident, the driver or the trucking company may be liable for property damage and injuries. If a truck driver wants to drink caffeinated drinks to combat drowsiness, it is best to do so in moderation.
After a truck accident, a victim should seek immediate medical care. Truck accidents are often serious, so it is imperative that a victim takes care of their injuries and also receives compensation for the costs. An experienced lawyer will help a victim file a personal injury claim to collect necessary damages.
Delaware Truck Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Clients Injured by Drowsy Truck Drivers
Drowsy driving is prevalent in the trucking industry, but it is also important that drivers avoid drinking too much caffeinated beverages. If you were injured by a negligent truck driver, speak to one of our Delaware truck accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Our knowledgeable lawyers help truck accident victims get compensation for their costly injuries. Complete our online form or call us at 302-656-5445 for a free consultation today. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Why are Teenagers Vulnerable to Drowsy Driving Accidents?
Drowsy driving impairs a driver in ways similar to drugs and alcohol. Delayed reactions and drifting off behind the wheel are serious dangers associated with drowsy driving.
Drowsy driving contributes to more than 328,000 car accidents every year, and 6,400 of drowsy driving accidents result in fatalities. Teenagers have the highest risk among all age groups for drowsy driving accidents. The combination of the lack of sleep prioritization and erratic sleep habits shown in teens and young adults may contribute to these accidents. Drivers between 16 and 24 years old are approximately 80 percent more likely than drivers over 40 years old to be involved drowsy driving accidents.
Demanding schedules and developing circadian rhythms in young adults causes young drivers to push through their daily activities on an inadequate amount of sleep. Late night cramming and early morning classes create hardships when high school or college students attempt to drive home late at night or during the morning commute to school.
How can I Recognize Sleep Deprivation?
Often, teenagers do not accurately assess their need for sleep, especially when their focus is on being productive at work or school. Teenagers tend to push themselves to their limits, which too often leads to sleep not being a top priority.
Unfortunately, when young adults are faced with the mundane task of driving, they do not always factor in their level of sleep deprivation before getting behind the wheel. Even if they do feel tired, research shows that young adults routinely overestimate their ability to overcome the sensation of needing sleep.
The following are some cues that might indicate to a driver that it may be time to rest before driving:
- Dozing off
- Powerlessness to keep eyes open
- Uncontrolled yawning
- Restlessness and irritability
- Inattentiveness or daydreaming
- Missing exits, turns, or road signs
- Inability to recall the last few miles
- Sudden realization of tailgating another car
- Drifting into other lanes or onto the shoulder of the road
How can Drivers Prevent Drowsy Driving?
When drivers begin to feel drowsy, they may try to revive themselves by blaring the radio or rolling the windows down. Despite the immediate refreshing burst, these temporary strategies do not usually work. Fortunately, there are some tactics that will mitigate drowsy driving:
- Avoid alcohol or drowsy-inducing medications.
- Take a nap prior to a late-night drive.
- Drink caffeine 30 minutes before driving.
- Take another form of transportation, such as a taxi or bus, in lieu of driving.
- Let a more alert friend do the driving.
- If sleepiness strikes while driving, pull over for a quick nap.
If one is involved in a drowsy driving accident, they should speak to a lawyer. A lawyer will help one file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver.
Millsboro Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Represent Victims of Drowsy Driving Accidents
If you were hurt in an accident involving a drowsy teen driver, you may be able to collect compensation for the injuries you sustained in your accident. Our Millsboro car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. assist clients with obtaining compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Complete our online form or call us at 302-656-5445 for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
How can My Children Stay Safe During the Upcoming School Session?
When parents are sending their children to school, they need to know how to keep their children safe. Parents often worry about how their children will adjust to school, but the COVID-19 pandemic has caused additional concerns that most parents are not ready for. It is important to learn how parents can prepare their kids for the upcoming school year.
Should Parents be Concerned About Social Distancing?
Parents should be concerned about social distancing at schools. While schools have a difficult time forcing children to socially distance, schools can take steps to create a socially-distanced educational experience. For example, cafeterias can remove seats from tables so that children will be separated.
Schools have class changes, crowded hallways, and gatherings that are not necessarily appropriate during a pandemic. Due to this, parents need to know what the schools will do to limit exposure. For example, a massive high school cannot allow thousands of students to pack the halls every 50 minutes.
How Long can Children be Close Together?
Children can be close together for short periods of time based on simple rules that have been created for schools. Children can be about six feet apart for about 15 minutes. This is why schools need to try to keep kids as far apart as possible because a traditional class period is longer than 15 minutes.
Six feet apart is considered close contact by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If schools take extreme measures to separate students, they will also need to reduce class sizes. This might be the only way that classes can take place without breaching protocols. Parents are well within their rights to ask if class sizes have been reduced.
Is it Still Important to Wear a Mask?
Masks are the priority for all students. When schools bring kids back into buildings, everyone must wear masks. Schools might ask children to come to school with masks, or they might provide masks when students arrive. Mask supplies in buildings could easily be a concern for parents.
The CDC has said that masks must be the priority to stop the spread of saliva droplets, coughs, and sneezes. At the same time, the CDC says that students who are wearing masks and walking through hallways quickly are safer than students who are sitting in close proximity for long periods of time.
Therefore, a student must be a little bit further away from their classmates when they are in classes. Masks must remain on at all times, and students must be trained to wash their hands as often as possible.
Should Kids Focus on Hand Washing?
Students should focus on hand washing after they put on their masks. Hand washing was one of the first techniques touted by experts to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Parents can teach their kids to wash their hands often, and the kids will go to school with an understanding of why hand washing is so important.
A student that is wearing a mask regularly and washing their hands regularly is more likely to remain safe inside the school building. Hand washing might also include hand sanitizers that are offered in classrooms or that the students carry in their bags. A good care package for a student might include a few masks and some hand sanitizer products.
Should Adults Clean Surfaces Frequently?
Experts believe that surface cleaning should be done only after masks and hand sanitizers have been used. It is helpful to clean surfaces throughout the building. Parents should ask the school how they plan to clean all the surfaces in the buildings, including the floors, desks, tables, and chairs. Children can sit down for class or lunch with the knowledge that the school is as clean as possible.
Parents can send their children to school with sanitizing wipes that they can use to wipe down surfaces. Teachers can do the same, but parents should reach out to the school to ask about cleaning protocols if they have concerns about the cleanliness of a certain room or facility.
Should Parents Talk to Their Children About School?
The best thing that parents can do for their children is talk about the pandemic and how school will work during this time. Children need to know why it is important to wash their hands, use hand sanitizers, and socially distance. Kids who go to school without this information are not prepared to stay safe.
Children who go to school and treat everything as if it is normal will put other kids at risk. For example, a child who is an asymptomatic carrier could infect other children because of their carelessness. While they are only children, they need to know that their reckless actions can cause others to become ill.
Should Parents Contact the School for Information?
Parents may also reach out to the school to share their concerns. Parents may need to ask the school for a virtual education plan, or parents might go to the doctor to provide medical evidence that their child is not healthy enough to return to school.
The school can provide accommodations for children who may be at a higher risk for infection. Every teacher will be informed of these accommodations, and the child can go about their school day as safely as possible.
If a child is injured at school or a parent feels that a school is not providing proper accommodations, contacting a lawyer may be beneficial. A lawyer can help a parent file a personal injury lawsuit if their child is injured on school property.
Delaware Personal Injury Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Families Stay Safe During the Coronavirus Pandemic
When kids go back to school, it is important that they follow safety guidelines to prevent an injury or illness. Contact one of our Delaware personal injury lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. if your child was injured at school. Call us today at 302-656-5445 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve families throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
How Do I File a Toxic Tort Claim?
A tort, such as a toxic tort, can be defined as a civil wrong committed by one party to another that causes property damage, personal injury, or another loss.
A toxic tort claim is when a personal injury resulted from exposure to a hazardous substance. This could include chemicals, pesticides, lead, asbestos, and toxic landfill waste. These lawsuits can be brought by individuals or groups; the latter can be defined as a class action lawsuit.
What are the Types of Toxic Tort Cases?
Plaintiffs will usually claim that their illnesses or injuries were caused by exposure to dangerous substances. Here are a few categories of different types of toxic tort cases:
- Consumer goods: Pesticides or dry-cleaning solvents.
- Home exposure: Toxic mold, lead paint, and chemicals used to clean carpets.
- Pharmaceutical drugs: Some dangerous drugs, such as Prozac.
- Occupational exposure: Workers exposed to benzene or asbestos.
- Class action lawsuits: These take place when groups of people all become ill or injured after being exposed to hazardous substances.
Who is Sued in Toxic Torts?
Finding the root cause of the plaintiff’s damages in a case could take time, especially if the problems took years to develop, like in mesothelioma cases.
Plaintiffs and their legal teams must consider every entity that could be linked to the illness or injury. There could be more than one party responsible, including:
- Owners of the location where the plaintiff was exposed.
- Companies who stored the dangerous substances.
- Manufacturers
- Distributors
How Do I Gather Proof for a Toxic Tort Claim?
When getting started, it is essential to understand how state laws apply to the toxic tort case, including any applicable statutes of limitations.
During the evidence gathering stage, plaintiffs must focus on showing that they were exposed to the substance, that the substance was toxic, and that this resulted in harm to the plaintiff. This can be challenging since the exposure may have taken place over a long time period. To pursue toxic tort claims, plaintiffs can focus on the following:
Fraud: To establish a fraudulent claim, the plaintiff has to prove that the defendant had a duty to disclose about the toxic materials but neglected to do so. The plaintiff can allege that the defendant knew that the substance was hazardous but hid this fact. The plaintiff can also show that the defendant marketed and sold the substance as a safe product through the use of false or misleading information.
Strict Liability: Strict liability toxic tort cases are more straightforward. The plaintiff must verify to the court that the product or substance was defective. It must also be shown that the plaintiff was sickened or injured by the defect.
Negligence: For negligence claims, plaintiffs focus on proving that the defendant exhibited a negligent failure to research and investigate a chemical. Also, the plaintiff can attempt to prove that the defendant failed to warn consumers about these harms.
Having expert testimony, scientific studies, and guidance from an experienced toxic tort lawyer can also be very helpful when gathering evidence for a claim.
Delaware Toxic Tort Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Have Immense Experience in Difficult Toxic Tort Claims
Filing a claim can be difficult, but you can trust our knowledgeable Delaware toxic tort lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. We will fight aggressively to get you the compensation you deserve. For 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.
Why is it Crucial to Preserve Evidence for a Personal Injury Claim?
After an accident happens, one can easily be consumed with dealing with injuries and become confused on what to do next. In all the chaos, one may not be thinking about building a personal injury case, but there are a number of steps one can take in the time following an accident that can set up for a successful claim. Preserving evidence is important after an accident, it will be helpful in a personal injury suit.
What Should I Do Right After an Accident?
As soon as possible after the accident, one should revisit the scene to collect information to support the claim. It would be ideal to gather evidence immediately following the accident, but revisiting the scene soon afterwards can provide a chance to collect evidence to understand what caused the accident, and to begin building a case against those liable for the injuries.
Look for conditions or details that could have caused or contributed to the accident, such as a loose step that caused a slip and fall accident, or a broken traffic signal that contributed to a car accident.
Some items that may seem unimportant at first may turn out to be valuable evidence. For example, a wrecked car could show the impact of the crash. If one cannot keep the actual physical item, preserve it in a photograph.
Should I Photograph the Accident Scene?
Taking pictures can provide compelling evidence to support a claim. These photos can be shared with the insurance company considering the claim or with an attorney that is building the personal injury case.
Photos of the accident scene should be taken at the same time of day the accident occurred to best represent the conditions. For car accidents, taking photos on the same day of the week can be the best way to capture any local traffic conditions that may have been factors in the accident.
Why is it Important to Get Witness Statements?
Witness accounts can support one’s story or even inform one of a perspective of events to support the claim. Also, a witness can be someone with first-hand knowledge of how the injuries impacted one’s health.
While it can be helpful to collect names and numbers for later contact, it is better to record a statement. This can be done by writing down what they have to say about what happened or by recording them with an audio device or a cellphone. Obtaining contact information is still very important, as a follow-up with the witnesses for verification or for more information will probably be necessary.
How Should I Document My Injuries?
This is another instance where a camera can be useful. Take pictures of any injuries when they are fresh, as well as the bruising and swelling that may occur as they heal, including any visible marks or effects left after treatments or surgeries. Make sure to record one’s recovery. Remember that the timestamp on these digital photos can help lend credence to one’s case.
Keeping a journal or other personal notes can help one remember the journey to recovery after an accident, which can help one’s memory over time. Contemporaneous notes can support an account of events and the timeline of the recovery, but official documentation can be vital to a case.
Perhaps the single most important piece of evidence that will support a claim is verifiable documentation of the injuries. It can be invaluable to have an official health record indicating the extent of the injuries and details the attempts to seek medical treatment. X-rays and other medical scans can also be used as evidence of one’s injuries.
Why is it Important to Have a Police Report?
When an accident happens, the police are often called to the scene. This is usually the case with car accidents. Police who respond to an accident scene typically fill out an incident report, or a police report, which serves as an official record of the event.
The officer will include all pertinent information, including the identities and addresses of the people involved. The report may provide an overview of the events as they unfolded, but the officer’s notes are likely to stick to the observable facts. A rough summation of the injuries and property damage may be noted as well. Having this official report may be useful for a claim.
Are Work Records Useful?
Another official record that one will want to get a hold of is work records. If one’s injuries prevented one from working, one should have the paperwork to prove that the accident has affected one’s employment.
Used in conjunction with the medical records indicating that a doctor considers it too soon for one to return to work, supporting paperwork from an employer may provide a clear picture of what the injuries are costing.
Should I Retain a Lawyer After an Accident?
Most importantly, after an accident happens, one should hire a lawyer to file a personal injury suit. A lawyer will make sure that the necessary evidence is collected and that the legal process goes efficiently and smoothly.
Delaware Personal Injury Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Get Results for Clients Hurt in Accidents
If you wish to seek compensation through a personal injury claim lawsuit, contact one of our Delaware personal injury lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Our skilled lawyers help clients file successful personal injury claims. We help injured clients get maximum compensation. Contact us online or call us at 302-656-5445 for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Hidden Injuries Can Occur After Car Accidents?
After a serious car accident, one may find it necessary to move on in order to prevent added stress. A car accident victim probably considers themselves lucky to be alive and may actively work to minimize any nagging concerns that crop up in the wake of the incident. Still, hidden injuries do not present themselves until after the dust has settled. For this reason, it is important to always seek immediate medical attention after a car accident happens.
After dealing with the headache of car repairs, the invasiveness of initial medical evaluations, and the aggravation of interactions with insurance representatives, one may be hoping to put the incident behind them. It can be tempting to try to move forward instead of addressing the stress of an accident. Yet, a victim may be unable to avoid some lingering hidden effects of the accident.
Many car accident injuries are immediately apparent and are treated right away. However, other injuries are not evident at the scene of the accident. Some injuries take days or week or longer to develop. Some of these latent car accident injuries include the following:
Whiplash
The most common hidden injury that shows up hours or days after a car accident is whiplash. Also known as cervical strain, whiplash is an injury to the soft tissues of the neck. It is caused by the force of the body being thrown violently during the impact of a crash. Whiplash causes pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders. The condition can be diagnosed with the use of X-rays, MRIs, or CAT scans. Whiplash is treated with a combination of physical therapy and prescription medication or other pain management options.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Besides whiplash, there are many other types of soft tissue injuries that do not appear right away. Ligaments and connective tissues in the body can also be injured during car crashes. Besides the neck, the knees and shoulders can also be damaged during automobile collisions.
Ligaments connect the bones in the body. When the body is jostled around in a car accident, the ligaments that connect the bones at major joints can be stretched, strained, torn, or damaged in other ways. This damage can result in pain, stiffness, and swelling at the site. The injury may affect someone’s mood, sleep habits, or other aspects of daily life, including one’s ability to work or perform certain activities.
Back Pain
One type of injury that can be life-altering is a back injury. If a car accident damages the muscles, vertebrae, and the connective tissues of the back, it can be debilitating.
One painful back injury involves a herniated disc, which occurs when one of the pads that cushions the bones of the vertebrae protrudes through its outer casing. This often causes unbearable pain for the victim. Sometimes, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs can result. A herniated disc often requires surgery to correct it.
Headaches
The stress and activity of being involved in a car accident can mask a common symptom that has the potential to become a chronic problem, which is a headache. Headaches can occur right after the accident and then subside as things return to normal.
In other cases, headaches can be a sign of something much more problematic. In the blur of the accident, one may not realize that a hit on the head can lead to serious problems. If headaches persist, a car accident victim should talk with a doctor right away.
Traumatic Brain Injury
The effects of a traumatic brain injury can result in a concussion or contusion that alters the brain. Concussions can be quite serious, but they usually heal over time. This type of trauma can cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, drowsiness, or problems with vision or balance, as well as sensitivity to light and noise. Serious traumatic brain injuries have the potential to affect cognition, memory, mood, or personality.
Internal Bleeding
If a victim experiences swelling or pain in their abdomen along with dark bruises, they should seek immediate medical care for possible internal bleeding. Symptoms may also include dizziness, fainting, nausea, headaches, coughing up blood, blood in urine, breathing trouble, among other serious problems.
Psychological Trauma
The lasting effects of car accidents are not limited to physical injuries. The trauma of being in a serious crash can haunt a car accident survivor long after the physical wounds have healed. The mental torture involved in reliving the event or living in fear can affect people for the rest of their lives. With intervention, people can overcome the stress, depression, insomnia, phobias, and other mental health problems that stem from accidents.
When Should I Speak to a Lawyer?
Once a car accident survivor notices symptoms and realizes that they are linked to the car crash, they should immediately seek help. A victim should consult with a physical or mental health professional to get started on treating the symptoms and to identify the underlying problems.
A victim should also speak with a lawyer to solidify their chances of having an injury covered by insurance or by the person liable for the accident and injury. Car accident victims should not delay filing legal actions related to accidents. There are deadlines victims must meet if they hope to collect compensation for injuries and financial losses.
Millsboro Car Accident Lawyer at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Recover Damages for Car Crash Survivors
If you were in a car accident and you suffer from physical or psychological injuries, you may be entitled to collect compensation. Claims through auto insurance companies must be filed in a timely manner, the same is true for personal injury claims. Our Millsboro car accident lawyer at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. help car accident victims obtain necessary compensation. Complete our online form today or call us at 302-656-5445 for a free case evaluation. Location in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we represent clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Who Should be Sued After a Truck Accident?
When a giant commercial truck collides with a passenger car, resulting in a truck accident, the damage usually affects the smaller vehicle. Often, this significant size discrepancy between the two vehicles also means that the occupants of the smaller car are at risk for serious injuries.
Many truckers become injured in truck accidents with smaller cars, but the passengers of the smaller vehicle are much more likely to suffer substantial consequences. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in 2017, accidents that involved large trucks resulted in 4,102 fatalities. The survey found that just 17 percent of those deaths were truck occupants, while 68 percent of the lives lost were people inside the smaller vehicles. Additionally, 14 percent of the deaths calculated were bicyclists, motorcyclists, or pedestrians.
Liability in Accidents with Commercial Trucks
If a driver is in an accident, a driver’s first instinct might be to blame the other driver. If injuries or property damage result, a motorist may go after the driver’s auto insurance to cover losses suffered. When the other vehicle in a traffic accident is a commercial truck, the equation becomes somewhat more complicated. Whether or not the other driver may be at fault for the accident, there may be other avenues for a driver to explore when it comes to collecting compensation from liable parties.
What Parties May be Held Liable for Truck Accidents?
There are numerous parties who may be held liable for damages caused by truck accidents. Due to the risks associated with big rigs, the trucking industry is subject to adhere to strict regulations. When an accident can be traced back to the actions of one or more persons, those responsible parties may be held liable for the accident.
Mistakes or reckless drivers are often the direct cause of all types of traffic accidents. When the offending driver is behind the wheel of a gigantic truck, the results of human error or deliberate disregard for traffic norms can be catastrophic. Truck drivers are required to be licensed and trained to handle their vehicles safely. In addition to general driving rules, like following speed limits and traffic laws, truck drivers are subject to industry-specific standards, such as observance of rules regarding hours of service, which regulate how long a driver may drive continuously without a break. Driving behaviors, like distracted driving or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, are also likely to be found as reasons to hold the truck driver liable for an accident.
Employers can be held legally liable for the actions of their employees if those actions are performed within the scope of employees’ job duties. In other words, the negligent actions of employees could be the legal responsibility of the trucking company. However, the distinction between an employee and an independent contractor is not always clear.
A trucking company that considers its drivers independent contractors may actually be exercising control over the drivers, which effectively proves an employer-employee relationship exists. If this relationship can be proven, it can be beneficial for the injured party to pursue a legal course of action against the trucking company. A company is more likely to have the resources available to cover the demands of the owed compensation.
If an investigation into the accident determines that the cargo being shipped in the truck was improperly loaded, the shipping company may be held liable for the accident. An uneven load or a load too heavy for the truck may cause the truck to tip over while transporting the shipment of goods.
Additionally, the person or company hired to perform maintenance on the truck may be found responsible for the crash, if the accident investigation shows that poor upkeep on the truck was to blame for the collision.
Truck manufacturers may be found liable for design flaws. A parts manufacturer may be responsible for defects in specific component of trucks, such as brakes, brake lines, steering systems, and tires.
In some cases, a trucking company operates fleets of other companies. The company that rents or leases their trucks may be held accountable if an accident is caused by their mismanagement.
Auto insurance in Delaware
Delaware is considered a no-fault state when it comes to insurance claims. In a typical accident involving two cars, this allows both drivers to claim auto insurance payouts to cover expenses incurred in an accident. There are many complicating factors when it comes to accidents with commercial trucks, but auto insurance may play a role. Many of the liable parties may carry insurance for their businesses. If one can prove that the other driver was at fault, then one may be able to seek compensation from insurance.
No-fault insurance in Delaware includes coverage through a driver’s own insurance for physical injuries, which is called personal injury protection (PIP). However, the PIP program only covers two years of expenses resulting from an auto accident.
One may be able to make the case that one’s injuries require the insurance company to pay more, such as when an accident causes extensive injuries or a disability. An insurance claims adjuster may make it difficult to collect on a claim. A claims adjuster may require one to go through a doctor’s medical evaluation or try to disavow a claim in other ways. If an insurance company is giving a victim a hard time, it is advisable to contact a lawyer right away.
Delaware Truck Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Fight Against Those Responsible for Truck Accidents
A truck accident can result in life-long trauma. Negligent truckers, truck companies, and truck manufactures must be held accountable for their dangerous actions. If you were hurt in a truck accident, you may be able to collect damages for your accident. Our Delaware truck accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. help truck accident victims collect compensation. Contact us online or call us at 302-656-5445 for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we represent clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
How to Prepare for the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer
Summer is a dangerous time for teen drivers. Teens are recognized as the group who is most at risk for car accidents due to inexperience. In the summer, teenagers are free to roam the highways since they are out of school, which increases the risk for accidents. In fact, the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known as the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer for teen drivers.
This year, it is predicted to be even more problematic since the COVID-19 pandemic has forced many teenagers to be cooped up at home. As restrictions are lifted, some anticipate that teens will be more eager to hit the road to join their friends and seek out summer parties.
Statistics for Teen Drivers
Not surprisingly, teen drivers have the highest crash rate of any age group. Research by the American Automobile Association (AAA) shows teen drivers who are 16 years old and 17 years old are three times more likely to be involved in a deadly crash. During the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer, teens are killed in car crashes at a rate that is 26 percent higher than other months of the year. In general, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers.
What Mostly Causes Teen-Related Crashes?
Summertime affords teens much more freedom and time to hang around with their friends. They may also stay out later, and many accidents occur in the early morning hours between 12 a.m. and five a.m.
The three most common causes of teen car accidents are speeding, distracted driving, and drunk driving. Teens may speed for the sheer thrill of fast driving or peer pressure from friends. Inexperience on the road could be a factor in speeding, they might drive too fast for the road or weather conditions and not realize the risks involved.
Distracted driving is a huge problem for all drivers, but for teens, just the presence of another teen as a passenger is a major distraction. This is why so many states bar new teen drivers from carrying passengers in the first months after receiving a driver’s license. Studies show that male teens are especially susceptible to peer pressure, and often drive fast and aggressively. In addition to their friends, cellphones and car entertainment systems are also big distractions for teen drivers.
Drunk driving is often a factor in fatal crashes. Although drugs and alcohol are not legally accessible to teens, they remain significant factors in crashes that happen during the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer.
How Can Teen Car Accidents be Prevented?
Parents should play an active part in continuing driving education by reminding teens to drive often and safely. Encourage teens to do the following:
- Wear a seat belt
- Put away the cellphone
- Obey the speed limit
- Get a good night’s rest
- Be home by curfew
It goes without saying that parents have to demonstrate these good driving behaviors as well. Leading by example is the best way to impress upon teens that safe driving practices make a difference for everyone. If a teen is involved in an accident, it is crucial to seek legal counsel right away.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Advocate for Injured Car Accident Victims and Their Families
If your teen was innocently involved in a crash or you were hit by a teen driver, contact one of our Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. today. Our skilled team helps car accident victims get the compensation that they need. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we proudly serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Happens if I Slip and Fall at a Resort?
Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere. Depending on where the accident happened, you may be able to obtain compensation for any injuries. If you were hurt while staying at a resort, you may be wondering if management can be held responsible for your injuries.
When is Hotel Management Responsible for Slip and Fall Accidents?
A duty of care is the obligation to keep others safe. If guests are injured while on a hotel manager’s property, management can be held responsible for any injuries sustained if the injuries were caused by negligence. Hotel management is responsible for keeping guests safe. If the slip and fall accident could have easily been prevented, the management could be responsible, such as failing to post warning signs or maintaining the property.
What Are Common Hotel Management Duties?
Hotel management duties normally include the following:
- Maintaining stairs and elevators.
- Controlling insect infestation.
- Maintaining adequate lighting.
- Repairing hotel defects.
- Making sure any spills are promptly cleaned.
Hotel management may be held responsible for accidents and injuries when management fails to perform these duties.
How Can I Prove Negligence?
In order for a hotel to be held responsible for your injuries, you must be able to prove that the hotel breached a duty that was owed to you while you were on the property.
This breach of duty must have led to your injuries. Taking pictures at the accident scene or obtaining information from witnesses can be helpful. If your accident was filmed on a security camera, this could possibly be used as evidence.
What if I am Responsible?
If you are planning to sue for your slip and fall injuries, you should prepare yourself to hear the property owner’s side of the story in court. The property owner will most likely argue that you are partially responsible for your accident. In most cases, a guest has a responsibility to maintain his or her own safety. Failure to do this may result in deduction of compensation.
Should I Seek a Lawyer After I Slip and Fall at a Resort?
If you slip and fall at a resort, it could be hard to determine who is responsible for the accident and your injuries. Slip and fall cases can be tricky, so it is best to obtain legal representation right away.
Hiring a lawyer that will help you with receiving compensation is crucial. A lawyer will evaluate your case, help you collect evidence, and will guide you through the legal process. Determining liability can be difficult. If you are partially responsible, you could receive little or no compensation, depending on the accident and the laws of the state. For these reasons, it is vital to hire a lawyer.
Dover Slip and Fall Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Represent Clients Injured in Slip and Fall Accidents
If you have injuries from a slip and fall accident that happened at a resort, contact us today. Our Dover slip and fall lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. will fight hard for your rights and will get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries. For a free consultation, complete our online form or call us at 302-656-5445. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.