December Is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month
The National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHTSA) designated Dec. as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. This month is when families and friends celebrate the winter holidays, but the number of drunk driving fatalities increases as well. Here is how you can do your part to increase safety awareness this month and all year round.
Watch Out for Intoxicated Drivers
It is always important to be on the lookout for intoxicated motorists, and you may see more of them during the holiday season. If you see a vehicle that is drifting in and out of lanes, weaving in between traffic, or making wide turns, that driver could be under the influence.
Other things to watch for include erratic braking, nearly striking other vehicles or objects, driving too slowly, making overly wide turns, and driving on the wrong side of the road. Intoxicated drivers may also:
- Not proceed when traffic lights turn green.
- Hit their brakes or turn abruptly.
- Forget to turn their headlights on in the dark.
- Suddenly stop for no reason.
What should you do in these situations? Slow down, and carefully change lanes when it is safe to do so. You can voice call 911, have a passenger do it, or pull over somewhere safe to make the call. Try to remember the make and model of the vehicle and know where it is driving, as the operator will need this information.
Additionally, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) expanded its awareness and prevention campaigns to include drugged driving. The opioid crisis and legalization of marijuana have contributed to the problem, as have misuse of legal prescription and over-the-counter drugs. The side effects can make drivers lose focus, make poor driving decisions, and get into serious car accidents.
Speak With Young Drivers About the Dangers of Impaired Driving
If you have teenagers or young adult drivers in your family, National Impaired Driving Prevention Month is a good time to speak with them about the dangers of impaired driving. Share resources that prove how hazardous it is, and set expectations for their behavior, including consequences. Offer to pick them up or pay for a ridesharing service when they go to parties, and set strict curfews. You can also try reaching out to their friends’ parents to set up carpooling.
Do Not Drive Under the Influence
Setting a good example is also wise, so if you are going to an event where alcohol will be served, plan ahead. Choosing a designated driver does not always work since people often give in to peer pressure and end up drinking. Use a ridesharing service or public transportation instead, and never get into a vehicle with someone who has been drinking.
Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Advocate for Save Driving During National Impaired Driving Prevention Month
Increasing awareness about impaired driving is important, but this will not prevent some accidents from happening. If you have been injured in a crash, speak with one of our Wilmington car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Call us at 302-656-5445 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Are Witnesses Important for My Car Accident Case?
Witnesses may confirm or refute what one or both drivers say about a car accident. After a car accident, it is important to file an insurance claim and present evidence, including witness testimony. Finding credible witnesses and collecting their statements is part of the process.
Who Qualifies as a Credible Witness?
A credible witness is someone whose statement is seen as reliable or impartial. A best friend or close family member of one of the drivers might have a conflict of interest. A third party with no strong connections to either driver might be considered more objective by comparison. There are other several factors to consider:
- Honesty: Whether or not a witness has a reputation for honesty is a major influence on their credibility.
- Distraction: It is also important to establish whether or not any witnesses were preoccupied when the accident occurred. A third-party driver may have been too busy trying to avoid the collision to take a close look at the other cars.
- Timing: How much of the accident a witness saw is an important consideration. A witness who saw the accident from start to finish may have more testimony.
- Nearness to the accident: Other concerns include proximity. A person standing 10 feet from the scene of the accident could have had a clearer view than someone 10 yards away.
- Physical condition: The state of the witness can influence their credibility. If they have poor eyesight, consider whether or not they wore corrective lenses at the time. Witnesses with poor hearing may not be able to report conversations or certain sounds of the collision. A person with a weak memory may not be able to provide much testimony.
How Do I Collect Witness Statements?
When gathering information from a witness, record their name, address, telephone number, and other contact information. Also note, through writing or video, what they saw or heard. If they provide statements in your favor, such as believing the other driver is liable, ask them to explain their reasoning. If you are taking written statements, ask the witness to sign their name and write the date on every page.
What if There Are No Witnesses?
If there are no witnesses, you may still have a case. There are other forms of evidence, including:
- Medical records: Getting medical attention is priority if you or others have been injured. One purpose this serves is to alleviate any harm incurred and to prevent or reduce long-term damage. Another is to create a record of any medical evaluations.
- Photographs: Photographing the scene of the accident from multiple angles, documenting the state of both cars, the weather, lighting, traffic signs, road conditions, and other details might also help with your claim.
A lawyer can help you collect the information you need to make a claim. If you have trouble finding witnesses, they can find other ways to build your case.
Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Can Provide Legal Assistance
If you have been involved in an accident and wish to explore your legal options, reach out to one of our Wilmington car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. To schedule a free consultation, call us at 302-656-5445 or fill out our online form. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Who Is At Fault for a Lane Change Accident?
A lane change car accident can be a major source of confusion and frustration, as it can be difficult to determine who is at fault. However, with an experienced attorney on your side, you can work to hold the negligent driver responsible.
There are a number of factors that contribute to lane change car accidents, which can make it difficult to determine who is at fault. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include distracted driving, aggressive driving behaviors, inclement weather conditions, and recklessness on the part of one or both drivers.
When drivers are texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other activities while behind the wheel, they may not respond quickly enough if their vehicle begins to change lanes. This can lead to a collision with another car and serious injuries for all involved parties.
Another contributing factor is aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating or speeding. These behaviors put pressure on drivers to take action quickly, which can cause them to react impulsively rather than carefully and safely. Furthermore, aggressive drivers may become impatient or frustrated if another vehicle does not move out of their way immediately, increasing the risk of a collision.
In addition to driver behavior, inclement weather conditions like heavy rain and snow can also contribute to lane change accidents. These conditions make it difficult for drivers to see clearly and maintain control over their vehicles, often leading them to make sudden adjustments without checking their blind spots. Additionally, slick roads can cause vehicles to lose traction or skid suddenly into another lane or into oncoming traffic.
When determining who is at fault for a lane change accident, there are several factors that need to be considered. One of the most important things to consider is whether the driver making the lane change actually had the right-of-way. Additionally, it is important to look at speed, visibility, and other safety-related considerations.
In order for a court to figure out who is at fault in a lane change accident, they will review evidence from the scene of the accident. This might include reviewing photos of skid marks and other damage, as well as injuries, speaking with any witnesses who may have been present, and examining any relevant data from vehicle systems, like black boxes or dashboard cameras.
Compensation for a Car Accident
If you have been involved in a car accident, then you may be eligible for compensation for your injuries. Your compensation may include:
- Pain and suffering.
- Emotional distress.
- Lost income.
- Lost earning potential.
- Medical expenses.
Your compensation might come from a settlement negotiated by your lawyer. It may also come from a trial.
Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Will Help Prove the Other Driver Caused Your Lane Change Accident
It is not easy to tell who is at fault for a car accident. That is why you need a trusted legal advocate on your side. If you have been involved in a lane change accident, speak with one of our Wilmington car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Call us at 302-656-5445 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we proudly serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
How Can You Avoid a Thanksgiving Car Accident?
When there are more cars on the road, like during holidays, it can increase your chances of getting into a car accident. To combat this during Thanksgiving travel, here are some driving tips to help keep you safe:
- Avoid distractions. Stay alert while driving and avoid distractions, such as using your cellphone or eating while behind the wheel.
- Adjust your speed to road conditions. Pay attention to road conditions and adjust your speed accordingly, especially during bad weather or heavy traffic.
- Get enough sleep to avoid drowsy driving. Make sure that you are well-rested before hitting the road for your Thanksgiving trip. If possible, consider driving during off-peak hours to reduce congestion. If you find yourself feeling drowsy while behind the wheel, pull over as soon as it is safe to do so, and take a short nap or switch driving responsibilities with someone else in your group if possible.
- Watch out for dangerous drivers. Always keep an eye out for other drivers who may be speeding, tailgating, or otherwise exhibiting aggressive behaviors on the road.
- Have a safe following distance. Respect other drivers’ space and give plenty of room when changing lanes or merging into traffic.
- Be careful when driving in construction zones. Be extra cautious when driving through construction zones. Follow all posted speed limits and warnings signs carefully to avoid unexpected hazards on the road.
- Make sure your vehicle is in good condition. Always make sure that your vehicle is properly maintained so that any mechanical issues can be caught and addressed before you hit the road for Thanksgiving travel.
- Give large trucks extra room. Use caution when approaching large trucks on the highway, as these vehicles may require more time to brake than smaller vehicles due to their size and weight limitations.
- Plan your route. Familiarize yourself with local holiday traffic patterns ahead of time so that you can navigate busy roads or alternate routes if necessary.
- Do not drink and drive. Be aware of drunk driving laws in your area before going out for celebratory drinks over the holidays. Plan ahead by designating a sober driver or calling a taxi service if needed so that you can safely enjoy the festivities.
- Use public transportation. Consider taking advantage of public transportation options, such as buses or trains, instead of getting behind the wheel after drinking. This will help keep everyone safe from drunk driving accidents.
- Keep your focus on the road. Stay focused on driving throughout your journey so that you can reach your destination safely.
Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Provide Legal Assistance to Drivers Who Have Been Injured in Thanksgiving Accidents
Traveling during Thanksgiving can be wonderful. Seeing family and loved ones you have not seen for a long time can be fun and rejuvenating. However, it may also mean you are spending some time on the road with many other travelers, increasing the chances of an accident. If you become injured in a car accident this Thanksgiving, speak with one of our Wilmington car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Call us at 302-656-5445 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. With offices in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we proudly serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Important Safety Tips for Dealing With Flood Waters on the Road
Even though you might hear more reports of floods during hurricane season, these dangerous events can occur at any time of the year. Anyone out driving when it happens is vulnerable to getting stuck, injured, or worse.
The National Weather Service and the CDC claim that more than 50 percent of flood-related drownings happen when motorists drive into hazardous water. People often underestimate the water’s depth and think they can safely cross over. Drivers can end up getting stranded, losing control and causing an accident, or even get swept away when the water is moving quickly.
Those are not the only risks of getting caught in flood water. Vehicles can hydroplane and crash into trees, poles, or other cars, they can also get pushed into ditches. Besides that, there could be debris or downed wires, and the latter could cause electrocution. Even if you are unharmed, your vehicle could be damaged beyond repair.
The National Weather Service makes some important points about not driving in flood waters:
- Just 6 inches of water can reach the bottom of passengers cars, leading to potential stalling and loss of control.
- Only 12 inches of water can float many vehicles.
- Two feet of rushing water carries away most vehicles, and this includes pick-up trucks and SUVs.
Listen to weather reports when storms are predicted, and stay away from areas that are already flooded or prone to flooding. Never drive through flowing streams or flooded roadways, and avoid parking your vehicle next to streams and other bodies of water. Be extra careful at night because it is much harder to see flood dangers.
Getting caught in flood waters can be frightening, but it is important to stay calm and remember to slow down and not slam on your brakes. Take a deep breath and stay in the middle of the road, where the water tends to be the shallowest. If you see that the water has risen up above the center of your wheels, you may want to coast to a stop. The water only needs to be about ½ inch or higher for drivers to lose control.
It is also best to keep the vehicle in a low gear as you navigate the water. For automatic transmissions, stay in first or second by keeping one foot on the gas and applying the brake to regulate the speed. You can also keep the brakes dry by tapping lightly on the pedal while driving.
You might not be the only one driving through flood waters, and splashes from other cars and trucks can make the situation even more stressful. Instead of passing, maintain a single lane and follow at a safe distance. The vehicle in front of you can actually help move water away so you will have a bit more traction.
Avoiding flood waters is the best advice. If you end up getting into a crash because of flood conditions and/or another driver’s negligence, it may be time to contact an experienced car accident lawyer.
Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. May Be Able to Help With Your Weather-Related Accident Case
If you need legal help after a weather-related accident, you can contact one of our knowledgeable Wilmington car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. We are located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware and serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County. Call us at 302-656-5445 or complete our online form for a free consultation.
How Can I Drive Safely on Halloween?
Halloween is a fun holiday for children who love getting candy and for parents who enjoy taking their children out for trick-or-treating. Many adults also enjoy attending Halloween costume parties and other events held over the weekend and on Halloween night. Because of all the festivities, there will be in an increase in traffic, and more pedestrians will be on the road too.
Halloween falls on a Monday this year, but many people and communities will likely celebrate the holiday over the weekend. If you are among the many who intend to participate in Halloween activities, or just find yourself driving on Halloween night, following some tips can help you avoid a car accident.
Be Extra Cautious on Halloween Night
Most trick-or-treaters head out to collect free sweets when the sun goes down. From dusk until about two hours after sunset, trick-or-treating activities tend to be at their peak. Be careful and watch out for walking trick-or-treaters.
In Delaware, the sun sets at about 6:00 p.m. on Halloween night. The setting sun can cause a blinding glare that makes it nearly impossible to see where you are going. Traffic also can be very busy at 6:00 p.m., which adds to the driving dangers on Halloween night. You can drive more safely by using the visors on your vehicle to block the low-lying sun as its sets. You also could wear a hat with a wide brim and use sunglasses.
After the sun has gone down, many drivers fail to adjust to driving in the dark. You should slow down, and use your bright and dim headlights when appropriate so that you can see better while driving.
Obey Traffic Laws
You always should obey posted speed limits, traffic lights, and traffic signs to ensure the best possible level of safety. Speeding is a significant factor in fatal accidents. Slowing down and following other vehicles at a safe distance can help you avoid an accident.
Driving at a safe speed also makes it easier to stop or avoid hitting a pedestrian who might suddenly dart into the road. You should scan the sidewalks and crosswalks as you are driving so that you see any pedestrians.
Many trick-or-treating events take place during the first two hours after sunset, so keep in mind that the foot traffic should lighten up around 8:00 p.m.
Ensure Your Vehicle Is in Good Condition
It is impossible to drive safely at any time when your vehicle is not up to the task. You should ensure that your vehicle is in good running condition and has working brakes, tires, and lights.
Maintaining your vehicle can help you make sure the tires have plenty of tread for good traction and the brakes are working properly to ensure quick stops. You also need to ensure all of the lights are working so that you have good visibility at night and other people can see your vehicle.
You should also check the wiper blades and replace them if they are worn. Topping off the windshield fluid will help you keep the windshield clear as well.
Millsboro Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Encourage Safe Driving on Halloween
Your best efforts to drive safely on Halloween might not be enough to prevent an accident. If so, you can contact one of our experienced Millsboro car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Complete our online form or call us 302-656-5445 to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Is a Rollaway Car Accident?
A rollaway car accident is when a car moves without the driver intentionally moving it. A rollaway car accident could happen with or without the driver or anyone else inside the car.
A rollaway accident with the driver inside the car would mean that something went wrong; the driver did not intend to move the vehicle, but the vehicle moved anyway. The types of accidents that normally happen this way are those in which the car travels only a short distance since the driver is inside the car to hit the brake.
A rollaway accident without the driver in the car would mean that the car was not properly parked and something went wrong. This type of rollaway accident could end up badly if no one is inside the car.
What Are Causes of Rollaway Car Accidents?
There are a number of ways that a rollaway accident could happen. The most obvious way is for a driver to improperly shift the car into park. The car, then, could slip into another gear and move.
A worn transmission is an accident waiting to happen, and it could just as easily happen while the car is in park. A worn transmission means gears are worn and easily shifted, and that could happen without someone shifting them. A worn transmission could cause a car to go from park to forward or reverse.
A transmission could also have a design flaw. Machines sometimes have flaws and faulty parts, and transmissions in cars are no exception. Automatic transmissions rely on a control module. Different model cars use different control modules, but they are all designed to regulate speed, clutch engagement, and gear changes. A design flaw in the control module could take a car out of park.
Another faulty part that could cause a rollaway accident is a defective solenoid pin in the brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) system. Solenoid pins are electro-hydraulic valves that are responsible for the changing of gears. The electric signals control the flow of transmission fluid that the transmission needs to change gears.
How Can a Rollaway Accident Be Prevented?
Do not forget to take your keys with you when you leave your car. Although forgetting your keys is an easy thing to do, especially when bringing groceries from the car and into the house, creating a habit of taking your keys could lessen the possibility of a rollaway accident.
It is a good idea to never leave your car running, even on a cold day or hot day when you are expecting heat or air conditioning as you enter your car. The temperature outside is not going to prevent a worn or faulty transmission from slipping gears.
Using your emergency brake as a part of your parking routine is a good safety measure. If your driveway or parking area is on a hill, make sure to turn your wheels toward the side to limit the rolling distance and objects your car may hit.
Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Represent Those Injured in Rollaway Car Accidents
If you have been injured in a rollaway car accident due to the negligence of another driver or a mechanical failure, consult one of our experienced Wilmington car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Should I Do After a Rental Car Accident?
Whether you are on a business trip or vacation, you do not want the extra stress of a rental car accident. Although handling a rental car accident is similar to any other car accident, there are a few additional steps that you must take.
Before signing that rental car agreement, you most likely have a lot of questions, like whether or not you actually need rental car insurance, what does it cover, and what do you do if you do get into an accident. Your own car insurance will likely cover you should you get into a car accident. Even some credit card companies will cover you for rental car damage. Before you decline any additional coverage, it is best to verify this with your insurance or credit card company.
If you do get into an accident with your rental car, there are some important steps you have to take right away.
Check for Injuries
The first step to take is to assess the situation, and also check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If someone is injured, whether it is someone in your car or another car involved, call 911 immediately. If you are able to, move the vehicles to a safer location and out of the road.
Call the Police
If you called 911 because someone is injured, a police officer will come to the scene of the accident. If an officer does not come, it is probably best to contact the local police department anyway and get a police report, especially if there is property damage.
An officer will create a police report that will contain important details of the accident, including the drivers’ accounts of what happened and what conditions might have had a role in the cause.
Exchange Information
The next step is to exchange information with the other driver involved in the accident, including insurance information, names, phone numbers, and contact information. If the police are there, make sure to get a copy of the police report, the officer’s name, and their information, as well like their badge number.
Keep the conversations you have to a minimum. Do not admit fault, and avoid apologizing, as that might be used against you later on.
Gather Evidence
Take photos and video of the scene, particularly of any injuries and the damage done to the vehicles. Be sure to get the year, make, and model of the cars involved in the accident, and note down the locations or street names of where the accident occurred.
If there are any witnesses, be sure to get their contact information as well. If there are businesses nearby, you may want to get their information, as they may have security footage of the accident.
Contact the Rental Car Company
You should next contact the rental car company to let them know about the accident. There is likely an emergency number you can call in the glovebox or on the rental agreement, or you could call the office where you rented the car.
You will likely fill out additional paperwork with the information you gathered previously, as well as your version of the events. The rental car company will then explain to you how they would like you to proceed, such as towing the car to what location and so forth.
Contact the Insurance Company
You will want to contact your own insurance company following the accident, especially if you are using them as your primary source of coverage for the rental car. Ask your insurance agent if you have collision or comprehensive coverage, and find out your deductible as well. If you have collision and comprehensive coverage, it most likely will apply to your rental car.
Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Those Injured in Rental Car Accidents
Getting into an accident can be stressful, particularly if you are injured or the vehicle you are in is a rental. Speak with one of our Wilmington car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. for legal help. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Are Some Important Street Parking Safety Tips?
When you park your vehicle on the street, you may have some hesitation locking it up and walking away. Street parking leaves your vehicle vulnerable to damage from the elements, pedestrians, and other vehicles.
Some drivers park on the street if they do not have a designated space, driveway, or a garage near their residence. Others utilize street parking when they are visiting another location. Whatever the reason, here are tips for locating and navigating on-street parking, along with practical advice if your parked car is damaged or if you are in a car accident.
Avoid No-Parking Zones
No-parking laws are important because they prevent vehicles from impeding vehicle and foot traffic. They also allow emergency vehicles to go where they need to go and help to keep curbs, ramps, crosswalks, and other pedestrian crossings unobstructed.
Per Delaware law, you cannot park or stop your vehicle in the following locations:
- On a sidewalk.
- On a crosswalk.
- In front of a private or public driveway.
- Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
- In front of a public or private driveway.
- Near a yellow curb or yellow line at the edge of a roadway or shoulder.
Know How to Parallel Park
Parallel parking can be intimidating, even for experienced drivers, especially when a row of cars is waiting for you to move. However, with practice and patience, you can successfully parallel park.
Here are the steps to parallel park at a right-hand curb:
- Stop when your vehicle is even with the vehicle ahead of the open parking spot. Keep 2 feet of distance between you and the vehicle to your right.
- Turn the wheels sharply to the right, and slowly reverse back toward the vehicle parked behind the open spot.
- As your front door passes the back bumper ahead, straighten the wheels and continue to reverse the vehicle straight into the open spot.
- Once your vehicle has cleared the vehicle ahead, turn the wheels sharply to the left as you reverse slowly toward the vehicle behind.
- Now, turn the wheels sharply to the right and pull toward the center of the parking spot.
Someone Damaged My Parked Car and Left. What Should I Do?
It is possible that insurance may cover the damage. If your vehicle is hit in a parking lot or while parked on the street, treat the scene like an accident. Do not leave the scene without gathering evidence and reporting the accident.
If you are lucky, a witness saw the other driver. Ask around to see if anyone saw the accident. If you can locate the driver who hit your car, exchange contact information with them. Remember, you cannot predict how the other person will respond. Stay calm, and maintain a safe distance from the driver who hit your car. Call 911 for assistance.
Always take photos of the damage and file a police report. The police may be able to identify who hit your vehicle. In some cases, the driver will leave a note on your car with their contact information to let you know they caused the damage.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Before You File an Insurance Claim
Insurance companies are in business to make a profit and pay out as little as possible for accident claims. If you are dealing with bodily injuries from an accident, it is wise to contact a lawyer for legal guidance. Legal counsel is essential to ensure your interests are protected and to build a compelling case for fair compensation.
Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Can Help You if You Have a Car Accident Injury
Accidents involving parked cars can still result in catastrophic injuries and substantial financial losses. If you need help after an accident, contact one of our Wilmington car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we represent clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Burn Injuries Caused by Car Accidents
While many people might not associate serious burn injuries with motor vehicle crashes, they are more common than one might think. Accident survivors who have them can face significant pain, disfigurations, and long-term recoveries – not to mention overwhelming medical expenses. These kinds of burns are often compounded by other issues like broken bones, lacerations, and traumatic brain injuries, which can make a prognosis even more unfortunate.
How Can a Motor Vehicle Crash Cause People to Get Burned?
You have likely seen fiery car and truck crashes on television and in movies, and they are much more traumatic in real life as they can happen in high-speed, high-impact collisions. A gas tank or other fuel delivery system can rupture on impact, and gasoline can ignite when it makes contact with just one little spark. Any occupants in the vehicle could experience devastating burns if they are not rescued in time.
These kinds of explosions do not happen that often, so burns are more likely to be experienced through exposure to very hot debris and surfaces. They can also happen from exposure to a live current, a nearby explosion, or airbag deployment (airbags have chemicals in them). Other sources of burns include scalding hot steam, hot liquids like oil, or other kinds of chemical burns.
Types of Burns
There are four kinds of burns, and they are always listed from the least to most serious as follows:
- First-Degree (Superficial) Burns: These cause minor damage to the skin’s outer layer and generally heal in a few days. Still, they can painful enough to affect your daily routine. These burns present with minor inflammation, redness, pain, and sometimes peeling and dry skin after a few days.
- Second-Degree Burns: Second-degree burns also affect the skin’s outer layer, but the second layer under it as well. Symptoms include redness, soreness, swelling, and blisters. These usually heal, and then the skin forms thick, soft scabs that fall off or peel away afterwards.
- Third-Degree Burns: Severe third-degree burns impact all the skin’s layers, down to the layers of fat beneath it. This can lead to nerve damage, making it hard to feel the pain. The skin can look swollen, waxy, dry, and charred.
- Fourth-Degree Burns: As the most serious kinds of burns, these can affect skin, nerves, muscles, and bones. They are also the most likely to cause fatalities, but it is possible survive after extensive medical treatments and surgeries.
Can I Sue for Auto Accident-Related Burn Injuries?
Every case is different, but plaintiffs in auto accident cases have successfully sued responsible parties for burn injuries. In general, it would involve pursuing a negligence claim against another party or even a product. To do this, you would need to prove that a defendant owed you (the plaintiff) a duty to act with reasonable care in the set of circumstances, and that their behavior breached that owed duty. In addition to that, it must be shown that the breach was directly linked to the burns and that you suffered actual damage (medical bills, lost time from work, pain, and suffering).
With other burn cases, plaintiffs have claimed that product liability led to their damages. This might involve a defective air bag or fuel tank that is deemed to be unreasonably dangerous, leading to the injuries. The defect could be from a design flaw or a problem during manufacturing. These cases can be challenging to prove, but juries that grant plaintiffs with burn injuries damages sometimes award significant amounts because of the considerable pain, medical procedures, and mental anguish involved.
The Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Car Accident Survivors Who Have Suffered Burn Injuries
Serious burns are known to be some of the most extensive and painful kinds of injuries out there, and the compassionate, skilled Delaware car accident lawyers from Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. are experienced with these kinds of cases. For a free consultation, contact our Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware offices at 302-656-5445 or complete our online form. We proudly serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.