As winter approaches, not only does the weather turn for the worse, it often seems as if motorist’s driving abilities turn for the worse. Unfortunately, the bad weather brings many car accidents with it. This article is to help motorists get through the winter safely and gives some pointers on what to do to protect their interests should a car accident occur.
How To Safely Drive And Survive This Winter
The first, and most important, thing to do is get your vehicle serviced and ready for the winter. This includes having your tires and brakes checked and replaced, if necessary. The change in temperature and notorious road conditions can wreak havoc on your tires. Also, make sure your windshield wiper blades are new and sufficient to stand up to the freezing rain, slush, ice, snow and copious amounts of salt-filled spray coming off of the roads. It is also advisable to have your battery checked, as a sudden drop in temperature will drain you battery of power and could leave you stranded. All of these things are very important, as poor visibility and mechanical failures are some of the leading causes of accidents during the Midwest’s harsh winter.
It is also important to be properly equipped to handle any situation. This includes making sure you have plenty of warm clothing and blankets in your vehicle, including hats and gloves. If you become stranded you may also find a flashlight necessary. Make sure your vehicle is equipped with a sufficient spare tire, working jack and jumper cables. No one wants to change a spare tire without a coat or gloves in -10 degree weather.
What To Do If You Are In An Accident
Unfortunately, no matter how well you prepare, car accidents do happen. If you are involved in car accident, the first thing to do is call 911, regardless if you are injured or not. It is important that the police respond and make a report of the car accident. Also, get the information off of the other driver’s license and insurance card, as well as the names and phone numbers of any witnesses to the accident. Doing so will help preserve important information and provide evidence that the car accident happened, should you need to prove your claim at a later date.
It is also important that you seek immediate medical attention. Many times, people in car accidents do not even realize they are injured immediately after the accident, due to adrenaline and nerves. Leave your health and well-being to medical professionals. Even if you don’t find it necessary to go to an emergency room immediately, it is important that you follow up with your primary care physician or other medical professionals. Many times, symptoms may not arise for several days after a car accident. Also, follow your doctor’s orders and course of treatment. Not only is this important for your health, it is important to document your injuries and treatment, should you need to pursue a claim for your injuries.
Conclusion
We hope these few pointers will help you get through the upcoming winter. However, If you are one of the unfortunate few to be involved in a car accident this winter, the above-pointers should help. If you are injured in a car accident, the professionals at The Crim Law Firm, P.C. are here to assist you. Please call 713-807-7800. Or if in Dallas, Texas, call 214-748-7800 for a free consultation.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Monday, October 25, 2010
Injury Case Result
Mediated Settlement - $775,000
Case - M. Cristian Ionescu v. Arpin Van Lines, Inc.,
William Blansky, Lawrence Roberts, II and Ciolfi Van Services, Inc., No. 2008-49986
Court - Harris County District Court, 11th, TX
Judge - Mike Miller
Date - 6/15/2010
Plaintiff Attorney(s) - Dax F. Garza, The Crim Law Firm, Houston, TX
Defense Attorney(s) - Robin N. Blanchette, Hays, McConn, Rice & Pickering, Houston, TX (Ciolfi Van Services, Inc., William Blansky)
Evan N. Kramer, Law Offices of Evan Kramer, Houston, TX (Lawrence Roberts, II)
M. Dean Solomon, David Klosterboer & Associates, Houston, TX (Arpin Van Lines, Inc.)
Troy A. Williams, Hays, McConn, Rice & Pickering, Houston, TX (Ciolfi Van Services, Inc., William Blansky)
Facts & Allegations - On October 16, 2006, plaintiff M. Cristian Ionescu, 50, a marine surveyor, was traveling from Mississippi to Houston on Interstate 10. it was dark and raining in a construction zone outside of Orange when Lawrence Roberts II, who was driving ahead of Ionescu, hedroplaned and spun out on the highway. The car directly behind Roberts slowed down and didn't hit Roberts. Ionescu was the next vehicle, and then another vehicle. All managed to slow down or stop and not hit Roberts. However, William Blansky, in an Arpin Van Lines Truck, collided into the other four vehicles pushing them together. he claimed neck injuries.
Ionecu sued Arpin Van Lines; Inc., Blansky, roberts and Ciolfi Van Services Inc. (the Florida franchise corporation of Arpin Van lines).
Roberts contended that because of the rain and the heavy construction in the area, the accident was unavoidable and the result of a sudden emergency.
The other defendants maintained that the accident would not have happened had Roberts not lost control of his vehicle, ending up facing the wrong way in a blocked-off construction zone. Alternatively, the rain and construction in the area made the accident unavoidable, resulting in a sudden emergency.
Injuries / Damages discectomy; fusion, cervical
The plaintiff declined an ambulance and did not seek any medical care that night, but continued on to work. he saw a general practitioner within a week, then sporadic follow-up care with this chiropractor in Mississippi.
three years after the accident, the plaintiff underwent a discectomy and two-level anterior cervical fusion at C5-C6 and C6-C7. he claimed $126,000 in past medical expenses and $76,000 in past lost wages.
The defense argued that the plaintiff's injuries were preexisting, since he had been under the care of a chiropractor in Mississippi and was seen for neck complaints as recently as two weeks before the accident. The defense argued that Ionescu had a good surgical result, and it was undisputed that he returned to work making six-figure salary.
Result - The parties reached a settlement with the assistance of Nancy Huston. Roberts tendered his limits of $25,000 and Travelers Insurance paid $750,000.
Insurer(s) - Travelers Arpin Van Lines, Inc., Ciolfi Van Services, Inc., William Blansky
Nationwide Lawrence Roberts, II
Plaintiff Expert(s) - Roger C. Allen, trucking industry, Friendswood, TX (did not testify)
Stephen I. Esses, M.D., orthopedic surgery, Houston, TX (did not testify)
Ken McCoin, Ph.D., economics, Dallas, TX (did not testify)
Defense Expert(s) - James P. Mandel, Ph.D., economics, Bellaire, TX (did not testify)
Jose A. Spencer, M.D. radiology, Houston, TX (did not testify)
William Watters, M.D., orthopedic surgery, Houston, TX (did not testify)
This report is based on information that was provided by plantiff's counsel. Defense counsel did not respond to reporter's phone calls.
- James Withers, Verdict Resources.
Case - M. Cristian Ionescu v. Arpin Van Lines, Inc.,
William Blansky, Lawrence Roberts, II and Ciolfi Van Services, Inc., No. 2008-49986
Court - Harris County District Court, 11th, TX
Judge - Mike Miller
Date - 6/15/2010
Plaintiff Attorney(s) - Dax F. Garza, The Crim Law Firm, Houston, TX
Defense Attorney(s) - Robin N. Blanchette, Hays, McConn, Rice & Pickering, Houston, TX (Ciolfi Van Services, Inc., William Blansky)
Evan N. Kramer, Law Offices of Evan Kramer, Houston, TX (Lawrence Roberts, II)
M. Dean Solomon, David Klosterboer & Associates, Houston, TX (Arpin Van Lines, Inc.)
Troy A. Williams, Hays, McConn, Rice & Pickering, Houston, TX (Ciolfi Van Services, Inc., William Blansky)
Facts & Allegations - On October 16, 2006, plaintiff M. Cristian Ionescu, 50, a marine surveyor, was traveling from Mississippi to Houston on Interstate 10. it was dark and raining in a construction zone outside of Orange when Lawrence Roberts II, who was driving ahead of Ionescu, hedroplaned and spun out on the highway. The car directly behind Roberts slowed down and didn't hit Roberts. Ionescu was the next vehicle, and then another vehicle. All managed to slow down or stop and not hit Roberts. However, William Blansky, in an Arpin Van Lines Truck, collided into the other four vehicles pushing them together. he claimed neck injuries.
Ionecu sued Arpin Van Lines; Inc., Blansky, roberts and Ciolfi Van Services Inc. (the Florida franchise corporation of Arpin Van lines).
Roberts contended that because of the rain and the heavy construction in the area, the accident was unavoidable and the result of a sudden emergency.
The other defendants maintained that the accident would not have happened had Roberts not lost control of his vehicle, ending up facing the wrong way in a blocked-off construction zone. Alternatively, the rain and construction in the area made the accident unavoidable, resulting in a sudden emergency.
Injuries / Damages discectomy; fusion, cervical
The plaintiff declined an ambulance and did not seek any medical care that night, but continued on to work. he saw a general practitioner within a week, then sporadic follow-up care with this chiropractor in Mississippi.
three years after the accident, the plaintiff underwent a discectomy and two-level anterior cervical fusion at C5-C6 and C6-C7. he claimed $126,000 in past medical expenses and $76,000 in past lost wages.
The defense argued that the plaintiff's injuries were preexisting, since he had been under the care of a chiropractor in Mississippi and was seen for neck complaints as recently as two weeks before the accident. The defense argued that Ionescu had a good surgical result, and it was undisputed that he returned to work making six-figure salary.
Result - The parties reached a settlement with the assistance of Nancy Huston. Roberts tendered his limits of $25,000 and Travelers Insurance paid $750,000.
Insurer(s) - Travelers Arpin Van Lines, Inc., Ciolfi Van Services, Inc., William Blansky
Nationwide Lawrence Roberts, II
Plaintiff Expert(s) - Roger C. Allen, trucking industry, Friendswood, TX (did not testify)
Stephen I. Esses, M.D., orthopedic surgery, Houston, TX (did not testify)
Ken McCoin, Ph.D., economics, Dallas, TX (did not testify)
Defense Expert(s) - James P. Mandel, Ph.D., economics, Bellaire, TX (did not testify)
Jose A. Spencer, M.D. radiology, Houston, TX (did not testify)
William Watters, M.D., orthopedic surgery, Houston, TX (did not testify)
This report is based on information that was provided by plantiff's counsel. Defense counsel did not respond to reporter's phone calls.
- James Withers, Verdict Resources.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Texas Benzene Exposure and Your Rights
By now, we all know that BP's Texas City refinery blasted 538,000 pounds of dangerous chemicals into the air, including 17,000 pounds of the carcinogen benzene. A reported 40-day benzene leak has triggered a new lawsuit against BP, claiming $10 billion in damages.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality investigated the leak and called it an "excessive emissions event." The agency concluded it was probably caused by poor maintenance. The Texas Attorney General’s Office is considering possible fines against BP. However, BP does not believe there is any basis to pay claims in connection with this event. BP is not taking or paying such claims.
What is Benzene?
Benzene is a liquid chemical that is colorless or light yellow at room temperature. It has a sweet odor and is flammable. Benzene evaporates very quickly when exposed to open air. If placed in water, Benzene will dissolve slightly and float.
What are the potential long term effects of Benzene exposure?
- Cancer (leukemia);
- Harmful impact on bone marrow, leading to anemia;
- Excessive bleeding and increased chance for infection;
- Birth defects
Limited Time to Get Tested
The Crim Law Firm, P.C. represents many individuals who were exposed to Benzene after the leak at BP's Texas City refinery. We are setting all of our clients up for testing with qualified doctors. If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to Benzene, and if you wish to be tested by qualified doctors, for FREE, please contact us at 713-807-7800 or toll free at 800-807-9360.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality investigated the leak and called it an "excessive emissions event." The agency concluded it was probably caused by poor maintenance. The Texas Attorney General’s Office is considering possible fines against BP. However, BP does not believe there is any basis to pay claims in connection with this event. BP is not taking or paying such claims.
What is Benzene?
Benzene is a liquid chemical that is colorless or light yellow at room temperature. It has a sweet odor and is flammable. Benzene evaporates very quickly when exposed to open air. If placed in water, Benzene will dissolve slightly and float.
What are the potential long term effects of Benzene exposure?
- Cancer (leukemia);
- Harmful impact on bone marrow, leading to anemia;
- Excessive bleeding and increased chance for infection;
- Birth defects
Limited Time to Get Tested
The Crim Law Firm, P.C. represents many individuals who were exposed to Benzene after the leak at BP's Texas City refinery. We are setting all of our clients up for testing with qualified doctors. If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to Benzene, and if you wish to be tested by qualified doctors, for FREE, please contact us at 713-807-7800 or toll free at 800-807-9360.
Monday, May 10, 2010
We want to help in Louisiana
I know everyone has heard about the tragic oil spill off of the Gulf Coast of Louisiana. Obviously, the environmental fallout may be the worst that we have ever experienced. Unfortunately, the economic consequences to a multitude of businesses will be just as devastating. The fishing, oyster, and shrimping industries are going to be decimated by this preventable tragedy; businesses both large and small centered around tourism and catering to travel will also be destroyed by the spill. Specifically, some of the groups we have already been contacted by, or are likely to have significant claims include:
1. Fishermen, oyster harvesters, shrimpers and all businesses involved in the processing and packaging of the fishing industry;
2. Owners and crews/employees of charter and private boats, condos, restaurants, Marinas and docks;
3. Businesses catering to the Tourism industry and private property owners; and
4. Local City, County, Parrish, and State governments.
If you know of anyone that we may be able to help in Louisiana, Alabama, or Florida, please let us know. Likewise, while Texas has not yet been directly affected, consider the aforementioned list and let us know about your friends, acquaintances, or family in those businesses in Texas - - the scope of this spill may affect Texas as well.
Thank you for your support as we work to help victims of this tragedy.
More at www.thecrimlawfirm.com
1. Fishermen, oyster harvesters, shrimpers and all businesses involved in the processing and packaging of the fishing industry;
2. Owners and crews/employees of charter and private boats, condos, restaurants, Marinas and docks;
3. Businesses catering to the Tourism industry and private property owners; and
4. Local City, County, Parrish, and State governments.
If you know of anyone that we may be able to help in Louisiana, Alabama, or Florida, please let us know. Likewise, while Texas has not yet been directly affected, consider the aforementioned list and let us know about your friends, acquaintances, or family in those businesses in Texas - - the scope of this spill may affect Texas as well.
Thank you for your support as we work to help victims of this tragedy.
More at www.thecrimlawfirm.com
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Large Trucks Make for Dangerous Texas Roads
Texas is the nation’s current leader in the number of fatal crashes involving large trucks. After covering several vehicle accidents involving 18-wheelers, CBS 11 decided to conduct an investigation of the large truck accident reports of the past five years. By inputting the GPS coordinate information of the accidents into a mapping program they were able to identify the most dangerous sections of highway in the state. More than 100 fatal accidents were included in the study and the results found give a much clearer picture of the trouble spots of these dangerous Texas roads.
The study was able to locate several areas of concern. I-20 from Benbrook to Balch Springs has the notoriety of being the most dangerous stretch of highway, with 14 fatal accidents involving large trucks in the last five years. With four deaths, the highway intersection with the worst track record is I-35 and I-20. The area with the largest number of non-fatal large truck accidents is I-30 and Cockrell Hill, in Dallas County. Dallas County is also signalled out as having the highest overall number of fatalities at 75 in the five years studied. While this information could be very helpful in finding ways to improve accidents involving large trucks, there has been no mapping or similar analysis done by the Texas Department of Transportation, where CBS 11 obtained the statistics for their study. This is quite shocking, as a recent federal study showed that the decisions made by large truck drivers (tail-gating, excessive speed, etc.) account for 90 percent of crashes.
If you, or a loved one, have been the victim of a large truck accident you should speak with an experienced attorney. We specialize in large truck accident cases and can offer a free assessment of your case.
For more information please visit: www.thecrimlawfirm.com
The study was able to locate several areas of concern. I-20 from Benbrook to Balch Springs has the notoriety of being the most dangerous stretch of highway, with 14 fatal accidents involving large trucks in the last five years. With four deaths, the highway intersection with the worst track record is I-35 and I-20. The area with the largest number of non-fatal large truck accidents is I-30 and Cockrell Hill, in Dallas County. Dallas County is also signalled out as having the highest overall number of fatalities at 75 in the five years studied. While this information could be very helpful in finding ways to improve accidents involving large trucks, there has been no mapping or similar analysis done by the Texas Department of Transportation, where CBS 11 obtained the statistics for their study. This is quite shocking, as a recent federal study showed that the decisions made by large truck drivers (tail-gating, excessive speed, etc.) account for 90 percent of crashes.
If you, or a loved one, have been the victim of a large truck accident you should speak with an experienced attorney. We specialize in large truck accident cases and can offer a free assessment of your case.
For more information please visit: www.thecrimlawfirm.com
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Injured by an intoxicated driver?
The personal injury attorneys at The Crim Law Firm are passionate about pursuing justice on behalf of victims of DWI/DUI & drunk driving accidents in Texas. If you have been injured by a drunk driver and you are considering hiring a lawyer, you need to make sure that your rights are fully protected before you speak to the insurance companies. Along with their skills and effective staff, DWI accident & injury attorneys at The Crim Law Firm will teach you how to maximize the potential for your personal injury claim against a drunk driver and will show you what steps to take before talking with insurance adjusters. Obtaining this information from our firm is imperative to the success of your case and will directly affect the worth and validity of your DWI accident claim.
Have you or someone you love been involved in an auto accident that was caused by a drunk driver? Was the responsible driver a repeat DUI offender? If so, you need to seek help from our firm right away. We can help by offering a free evaluation of your personal injury claim.
For more information please visit www.thecrimlawfirm.com
Have you or someone you love been involved in an auto accident that was caused by a drunk driver? Was the responsible driver a repeat DUI offender? If so, you need to seek help from our firm right away. We can help by offering a free evaluation of your personal injury claim.
For more information please visit www.thecrimlawfirm.com
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Facts about 18 Wheeler Accidents
Over 500,000 trucking accidents occur every year in this country, and the injuries sustained by those lucky enough to survive are usually horrific. Of these, approximately 5,000 trucking accidents result in fatalities. In fact, 18-wheeler trucking accidents account for one of every eight traffic deaths.
Common Causes of 18-wheeler accidents:
-Failure to properly to accommodate blindspots
-Brake failure
-Debris or articles in the road
-Exhaustion or fatigue on the part of the driver
-Excessive speed and failure to follow rules of the road
-Tire failure or separation
-Driving under influence of drugs or alcohol
-Unsecured cargo or freight shifting in the payload section
-Unsafe driving practices
There are many reasons why 18-wheeler accidents are so catastrophic. The pressure for speed and efficiency by the trucking companies and the deregulation of the industry are both major factors - 18-wheeler drivers are typically required to work long hours with little or no sleep. Large trucks consistently break the speed limit in order to deliver goods quickly - adding fuel to an already dangerous fire. The sheer size of an 18-wheeler makes for a massive impact and hinders the ability of the truck to make sudden stops. The results are too often fatal.
If you have survived being hit or injured by an 18-wheeler accident only to be left with expensive and painful injuries, you deserve help. At The Crim Law Firm, an experienced accident attorney can help you maximize the reparations that you receive for your suffering.
For more information please visit www.thecrimlawfirm.com, www.personalinjurylawyerdallastx.com
Common Causes of 18-wheeler accidents:
-Failure to properly to accommodate blindspots
-Brake failure
-Debris or articles in the road
-Exhaustion or fatigue on the part of the driver
-Excessive speed and failure to follow rules of the road
-Tire failure or separation
-Driving under influence of drugs or alcohol
-Unsecured cargo or freight shifting in the payload section
-Unsafe driving practices
There are many reasons why 18-wheeler accidents are so catastrophic. The pressure for speed and efficiency by the trucking companies and the deregulation of the industry are both major factors - 18-wheeler drivers are typically required to work long hours with little or no sleep. Large trucks consistently break the speed limit in order to deliver goods quickly - adding fuel to an already dangerous fire. The sheer size of an 18-wheeler makes for a massive impact and hinders the ability of the truck to make sudden stops. The results are too often fatal.
If you have survived being hit or injured by an 18-wheeler accident only to be left with expensive and painful injuries, you deserve help. At The Crim Law Firm, an experienced accident attorney can help you maximize the reparations that you receive for your suffering.
For more information please visit www.thecrimlawfirm.com, www.personalinjurylawyerdallastx.com
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Slip and Fall Causes
Just imagine that you are going about your business like any other day or are meeting friends for lunch or coffee when suddenly - you are sprawled on the ground, probably in an awkward position, and realize you’re in great pain.
Most likely you’re very embarrassed as are the people with you. They may even phrase questions triggering feelings that your being on the floor or ground is somehow your own fault. If you’ve fallen in a store or restaurant or office building, management may assume the same as somehow this is your fault.
Do not take blame yourself or take ownership for falling. There are many causes why people of all ages slip and fall. Here are some:
Uneven sidewalks
Wheelchair ramps without handrails
Poorly designed wheelchair ramps
Unexpected steps
Improperly designated or labeled steps
Wet or slippery steps
Wet or slippery floors
Uneven flagstone patios
Single or multiple steps without handrails Patios with missing mortar
Floor mats not laying flat
Uneven elevator to floor ratio
Holes in the street
Awkwardly placed steps
Steps that are difficult to see because they are carpeted the same as surrounding floors
Numerous other ways of premise negligence
These slip and fall causes are just as likely to cause younger people to fall as well as older people. Yet, there is a certain bias that somehow the elder person fell because of their age or their physical condition or perhaps they cannot see as well or some mysterious medication made them dizzy or weak.
Uneven sidewalks or wet floors are not your fault. Neither are steps without a handrail or grievous violations of building codes.
It’s time to speak out. The best way to do so is by having The Crim Law Firm on your side. Let the attorneys at The Crim Law Firm know how your slip and fall injury happened then find out how they can help you.
For more information go to: www.personalinjurylawyerdallastx.com
Most likely you’re very embarrassed as are the people with you. They may even phrase questions triggering feelings that your being on the floor or ground is somehow your own fault. If you’ve fallen in a store or restaurant or office building, management may assume the same as somehow this is your fault.
Do not take blame yourself or take ownership for falling. There are many causes why people of all ages slip and fall. Here are some:
Uneven sidewalks
Wheelchair ramps without handrails
Poorly designed wheelchair ramps
Unexpected steps
Improperly designated or labeled steps
Wet or slippery steps
Wet or slippery floors
Uneven flagstone patios
Single or multiple steps without handrails Patios with missing mortar
Floor mats not laying flat
Uneven elevator to floor ratio
Holes in the street
Awkwardly placed steps
Steps that are difficult to see because they are carpeted the same as surrounding floors
Numerous other ways of premise negligence
These slip and fall causes are just as likely to cause younger people to fall as well as older people. Yet, there is a certain bias that somehow the elder person fell because of their age or their physical condition or perhaps they cannot see as well or some mysterious medication made them dizzy or weak.
Uneven sidewalks or wet floors are not your fault. Neither are steps without a handrail or grievous violations of building codes.
It’s time to speak out. The best way to do so is by having The Crim Law Firm on your side. Let the attorneys at The Crim Law Firm know how your slip and fall injury happened then find out how they can help you.
For more information go to: www.personalinjurylawyerdallastx.com
Thursday, January 28, 2010
2008 Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Facts
Every year, the Texas Department of Transportation collects information from the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Reports and produces a series of Texas Motor Vehicle Crash fact sheets. The most recently available statistics are from 2008, and can be found on the Texas DOT’s website. The information about traffic accident injuries and fatalities contained in the various reports is sobering.
Texas motor vehicle accident facts
· More people were killed on Texas roads in 2008 than in 2007, but the difference was fairly small – seven people. In 2008, 3,468 people were killed in traffic accidents while 3,461 were killed in 2007.
· In 2008, somebody died every day on a Texas road; there were no days without a death that year.
· A total of 84,508 people were seriously injured in 61,954 Texas motor vehicle crashes in 2008.
· A total of 242,698 people were injured (all types of injuries) in traffic crashes in 2008.
· Texas drivers are driving more than last year. In 2008 a total of 245.264 billion vehicle miles were traveled, 1.46 percent more than in 2007.
· Rural crashes (1,877) account for more than half of all traffic fatalities (54.1 percent) in Texas.
· Single-vehicle run-off-the-road crashes were responsible for a surprising 32 percent of all motor vehicle traffic accident deaths in 2008. A total of 1.116 people were killed in these type of crashes.
· 829 people were killed in crashes related to an intersection or taking place in an intersection in 2008.
· Head-on collisions took the lives of 510 people in 2008.
· The deadliest day on Texas roads was August 8, 2008 when 32 people were killed in traffic accidents.
· There were two deadliest 2008 months in Texas; August and October tied for top honors with 320 deaths each.
Average traffic crash statistics
Did you know that in Texas in 2008…
· One person was killed every two hours and 32 minutes
· One person was injured every 2 minutes and 10 seconds
· One reportable crash happened every 72 seconds
· 56 percent of those killed in a motor vehicle accident were not using the appropriate restraint (i.e. no seat belt) when they died.
Additional motor vehicle accident statistics
· Motorcycle riders: 529 motorcycle riders (drivers and passengers) were killed in 2008, and 56 percent were not wearing a helmet when the crash happened.
· Pedestrians: Five percent more pedestrians were killed in 2008 than 2007, a total of 438.
· Cyclists: 48 cyclists were killed in 2008, a 4 percent decrease from the previous year.
· Drunk drivers: 975 people were killed in alcohol-related traffic accidents in 2008. These fatalities account for 28.1 percent of all people killed on Texas roads that year. The most common time for an alcohol-related crash to occur was between 2am and 3am, with Saturday being the most common day for such an accident.
Do you need help after a serious car or truck crash? Please contact The Crim Law Firm, P.C.. Our experienced motor vehicle accident lawyers will meet with you and discuss your case for no cost or obligation.
For more information please visit www.thecrimlawfirm.com, www.personalinjurylawyerdallastx.com
Texas motor vehicle accident facts
· More people were killed on Texas roads in 2008 than in 2007, but the difference was fairly small – seven people. In 2008, 3,468 people were killed in traffic accidents while 3,461 were killed in 2007.
· In 2008, somebody died every day on a Texas road; there were no days without a death that year.
· A total of 84,508 people were seriously injured in 61,954 Texas motor vehicle crashes in 2008.
· A total of 242,698 people were injured (all types of injuries) in traffic crashes in 2008.
· Texas drivers are driving more than last year. In 2008 a total of 245.264 billion vehicle miles were traveled, 1.46 percent more than in 2007.
· Rural crashes (1,877) account for more than half of all traffic fatalities (54.1 percent) in Texas.
· Single-vehicle run-off-the-road crashes were responsible for a surprising 32 percent of all motor vehicle traffic accident deaths in 2008. A total of 1.116 people were killed in these type of crashes.
· 829 people were killed in crashes related to an intersection or taking place in an intersection in 2008.
· Head-on collisions took the lives of 510 people in 2008.
· The deadliest day on Texas roads was August 8, 2008 when 32 people were killed in traffic accidents.
· There were two deadliest 2008 months in Texas; August and October tied for top honors with 320 deaths each.
Average traffic crash statistics
Did you know that in Texas in 2008…
· One person was killed every two hours and 32 minutes
· One person was injured every 2 minutes and 10 seconds
· One reportable crash happened every 72 seconds
· 56 percent of those killed in a motor vehicle accident were not using the appropriate restraint (i.e. no seat belt) when they died.
Additional motor vehicle accident statistics
· Motorcycle riders: 529 motorcycle riders (drivers and passengers) were killed in 2008, and 56 percent were not wearing a helmet when the crash happened.
· Pedestrians: Five percent more pedestrians were killed in 2008 than 2007, a total of 438.
· Cyclists: 48 cyclists were killed in 2008, a 4 percent decrease from the previous year.
· Drunk drivers: 975 people were killed in alcohol-related traffic accidents in 2008. These fatalities account for 28.1 percent of all people killed on Texas roads that year. The most common time for an alcohol-related crash to occur was between 2am and 3am, with Saturday being the most common day for such an accident.
Do you need help after a serious car or truck crash? Please contact The Crim Law Firm, P.C.. Our experienced motor vehicle accident lawyers will meet with you and discuss your case for no cost or obligation.
For more information please visit www.thecrimlawfirm.com, www.personalinjurylawyerdallastx.com
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
The Crim Law Firm Settles Car Accident for $350,000
J. Stephen Crim, II of The Crim Law Firm, P.C. filed suit on behalf of a man who suffered serious injuries in a violent head-on car crash that occurred at an intersection in Houston, Texas. According to court records filed by Mr. Crim, the client’s vehicle was proceeding through a green light when the defendant driver failed to yield the right of way causing an immediate collision. The record reflects that the client suffered severe injuries, extensive medical bills and lost wages as a result of this accident. The favorable settlement of this lawsuit shows the advantages of involving The Crim Law Firm as soon as possible after a car accident. As a result of the firm’s early involvement in this case, attorney J. Stephen Crim, II was able to secure and preserve actual accident scene photographs, eye witness testimony, and other important evidence. The insurance company apparently knew that if the car accident case went to trial that the victim of the accident was sure to win on the merits of a jury trial.
As typically the case, the insurance company did not wish to compensate the victim of the accident to make him whole, so Mr. Crim had to fight on the victims’ behalf. Insurance companies always try to pay as little as possible for the business bottom line. Accordingly, many claimants may not be made truly whole without adequate legal representation. Moreover, insurance companies often argue for tort reform as a means not make whole the victim of a personal injury accident such as a car crash incident. This is merely an attempt to avoid compensating the victims of serious auto accidents and preventing them from being made whole when they have a legitimate claim with the insurance company. Since insurance is mandatory in the state of Texas, the victims of an auto accident deserve to be made whole by the insurance companies when the victim suffers serious injuries to person or property. For these reasons it is important to have proper legal representation when dealing with insurance companies.
For more information please visit www.thecrimlawfirm.com or www.personalinjurylawyerdallastx.com
As typically the case, the insurance company did not wish to compensate the victim of the accident to make him whole, so Mr. Crim had to fight on the victims’ behalf. Insurance companies always try to pay as little as possible for the business bottom line. Accordingly, many claimants may not be made truly whole without adequate legal representation. Moreover, insurance companies often argue for tort reform as a means not make whole the victim of a personal injury accident such as a car crash incident. This is merely an attempt to avoid compensating the victims of serious auto accidents and preventing them from being made whole when they have a legitimate claim with the insurance company. Since insurance is mandatory in the state of Texas, the victims of an auto accident deserve to be made whole by the insurance companies when the victim suffers serious injuries to person or property. For these reasons it is important to have proper legal representation when dealing with insurance companies.
For more information please visit www.thecrimlawfirm.com or www.personalinjurylawyerdallastx.com
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
What if I am involved in a car crash with an uninsured driver?
Uninsured motorist insurance coverage pays for damages caused by a driver with no insurance. In many situations, that driver may have had insurance at one time, but let it expire. Underinsured coverage pays for damages caused by a driver with less insurance than is required to make you "whole."
It's important to protect yourself first by checking to see if you have uninsured/underinsured coverage on your policy, as your state may not require it. You can always add uninsured or underinsured coverage to your existing policy.
If you're in an accident, make sure you get contact information from the other driver, including insurance information, and give it to your own insurance company.
In the case of an uninsured driver, your insurance company may require a signed statement from the uninsured driver stating that he or she has no insurance. Then you may make a claim with your own company for all of your damages. In the case of an underinsured driver, you'll be compensated for your damages by the other driver’s insurance company up to their policy limits, and then make a claim with your own insurance company for the balance.
Uninsured and underinsured coverage may put you at odds with your own insurance company, especially if you disagree on whose fault the accident was or the extent of your injuries. The company may reduce your compensation if it decides you were at fault, even in a minor way. If you are in conflict with your insurance company, talk with The Crim Law Firm, we are experienced in uninsured or underinsured claims.
For more information, visit www.thecrimlawfirm.com
It's important to protect yourself first by checking to see if you have uninsured/underinsured coverage on your policy, as your state may not require it. You can always add uninsured or underinsured coverage to your existing policy.
If you're in an accident, make sure you get contact information from the other driver, including insurance information, and give it to your own insurance company.
In the case of an uninsured driver, your insurance company may require a signed statement from the uninsured driver stating that he or she has no insurance. Then you may make a claim with your own company for all of your damages. In the case of an underinsured driver, you'll be compensated for your damages by the other driver’s insurance company up to their policy limits, and then make a claim with your own insurance company for the balance.
Uninsured and underinsured coverage may put you at odds with your own insurance company, especially if you disagree on whose fault the accident was or the extent of your injuries. The company may reduce your compensation if it decides you were at fault, even in a minor way. If you are in conflict with your insurance company, talk with The Crim Law Firm, we are experienced in uninsured or underinsured claims.
For more information, visit www.thecrimlawfirm.com
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
New State Laws January 1st, 2010
Starting January 1st, 2010 more than two dozen State Laws went into effect. These laws will effect everyone from teenages to smokers. Some of the news laws include: Teens 16 to 18 years old who use tanning beds must start providing permission slips, new college students who want to live on campus must prove they have been vaccinated against bacterial meningits, and retailers may only sell cigarettes that extinguish themselves if left unattended. Also there will be a new state wide hand held cell phone usage in school zones and that does include texting messaging - carrying a 500-dollar fine.
Here's a look at other new laws taking effect January 1st, 2010:
Cigarettes: All cigarettes sold in Texas must be "fire safe," or the type that self-extinguish, under a law approved in 2007. Retailers had all of this year to sell their inventory that was not "fire standard compliant" but must stop selling them Friday or face a fine of up to $100 per pack, said Jerry Hagins, a spokesman with the Texas Department of Insurance.
Fire safety: Smoke detectors must be able to alert hearing-impaired Texans living in rental properties, if tenants request it of their landlord. The Americans With Disabilities Act does not require that landlords install visual smoke alarms, although it does require that Texans have access to reasonable accommodations.
Help for renters: Tenants whose utilities are wrongly disconnected by landlords will find some relief. Landlords had faced strict penalties only if the case went to court. The new law changes that, shoring up tenants' rights.
Tenants also will have the right to break a lease, without facing fines or additional charges, if certain sex crimes or domestic violence occur on the property. Current law lets domestic violence victims end a lease only if the cases are documented and if the offender is on the same lease. Now, victims may terminate a lease even if the offender is not on the same lease, and parents of children who are victims of sexual abuse may end a lease in certain circumstances.
Property values: Homeowners in neighborhoods that have been riddled with foreclosures might find some relief. A new law requires appraisal districts to consider properties that have been foreclosed on when determining a home's value. Homeowners in Texas have complained that appraisal districts have excluded foreclosed properties and those with distressed resale values when setting some home values.
Prenatal care: State health officials say that as of Friday, health-care providers must test pregnant women for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B during their first prenatal visit. They also must do a second HIV test during the third trimester or when the woman is admitted for delivery, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. The goal is to protect babies by treating the woman during pregnancy or the baby after delivery.
For more information please visit www.thecrimlawfirm.com
Here's a look at other new laws taking effect January 1st, 2010:
Cigarettes: All cigarettes sold in Texas must be "fire safe," or the type that self-extinguish, under a law approved in 2007. Retailers had all of this year to sell their inventory that was not "fire standard compliant" but must stop selling them Friday or face a fine of up to $100 per pack, said Jerry Hagins, a spokesman with the Texas Department of Insurance.
Fire safety: Smoke detectors must be able to alert hearing-impaired Texans living in rental properties, if tenants request it of their landlord. The Americans With Disabilities Act does not require that landlords install visual smoke alarms, although it does require that Texans have access to reasonable accommodations.
Help for renters: Tenants whose utilities are wrongly disconnected by landlords will find some relief. Landlords had faced strict penalties only if the case went to court. The new law changes that, shoring up tenants' rights.
Tenants also will have the right to break a lease, without facing fines or additional charges, if certain sex crimes or domestic violence occur on the property. Current law lets domestic violence victims end a lease only if the cases are documented and if the offender is on the same lease. Now, victims may terminate a lease even if the offender is not on the same lease, and parents of children who are victims of sexual abuse may end a lease in certain circumstances.
Property values: Homeowners in neighborhoods that have been riddled with foreclosures might find some relief. A new law requires appraisal districts to consider properties that have been foreclosed on when determining a home's value. Homeowners in Texas have complained that appraisal districts have excluded foreclosed properties and those with distressed resale values when setting some home values.
Prenatal care: State health officials say that as of Friday, health-care providers must test pregnant women for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B during their first prenatal visit. They also must do a second HIV test during the third trimester or when the woman is admitted for delivery, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. The goal is to protect babies by treating the woman during pregnancy or the baby after delivery.
For more information please visit www.thecrimlawfirm.com
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