The Goldman FirmPersonal Injury Lawyer Atlanta | GA Accident Attorney | Workers' Comp2024-01-17T20:31:00Zhttps://www.goldmanlawatlanta.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1400710/2019/10/apple-touch-icon-75x75.pngOn Behalf of The Goldman Firmhttps://www.goldmanlawatlanta.com/?p=482792024-01-16T20:31:42Z2024-01-17T20:31:00ZThe rideshare driver
If a rideshare driver causes an accident due to their own negligence, such as speeding or distracted driving, they might be personally liable. The rideshare company’s insurance may not cover damages in the event of an at-fault accident in this case.
The rideshare company
Rideshare companies can sometimes share liability depending on the circumstances. For example, if a driver was improperly screened or lacked proper training, the company may share fault for any resulting accidents. Rideshare companies may also be liable if the accident occurred while the driver was en route to pick up a passenger.
Other drivers
If another driver strikes your rideshare vehicle, that driver and their insurance would be liable for any damages. The injured rideshare passenger could file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance.
Research shows that 36% of American adults have used ridesharing services at least once. With such a prevalence of these services, it is beneficial to understand who might be liable for an accident in a rideshare vehicle. Determining liability after a rideshare accident can be complex, with the driver, rideshare company and other motorists potentially sharing responsibility. These are important facts to consider as you determine how to proceed.]]>On Behalf of The Goldman Firmhttps://www.goldmanlawatlanta.com/?p=482772023-11-22T02:59:28Z2023-11-22T02:59:28ZThe significance of car accidents
According to Forbes magazine, police reported 5,250,873 car accidents in 2020, which works out to approximately one accident every six minutes. This is a staggering statistic that highlights the importance of vigilance and safety on the road.
Fatalities on the road
Statistics from the NHTSA indicate that there were 38,824 deaths from auto accidents in 2020. This is an average of 106 deaths per day as a result of auto accidents. The severity of the potential consequences of these accidents illustrates why drivers should remain attentive at all times.
Contributing factors
There are several contributing factors that can directly affect the severity of your injuries after a car accident. For example, speeding can increase the risk of injuries after an accident, so drivers should be mindful of their speed and behaviors behind the wheel. Seatbelt use is just as important. Failing to wear a seatbelt, or wearing it improperly, can put you at risk of more severe injuries in the event of an accident.
The statistics surrounding catastrophic injuries serve as a poignant reminder of the need for continued efforts to enhance road safety. By staying informed and advocating for responsible driving practices, you can reduce your risk of accidents and potential injuries.]]>On Behalf of The Goldman Firmhttps://www.goldmanlawatlanta.com/?p=482062023-09-18T20:26:06Z2023-09-18T20:26:06ZReduced visibility
One glaring issue that emerges with the onset of nighttime is worse visibility. The absence of natural daylight creates significant challenges for both pedestrians and drivers. This compromised visibility sets the stage for potential accidents.
Artificial lighting
While artificial lighting aims to alleviate visibility issues, it can sometimes have unintended consequences. The glaring illumination from streetlights and vehicle headlights can be blinding, harming someone's ability to focus. This visual overload can lead to misjudgments and errors when attempting to navigate streets safely.
Nighttime social activities
The allure of the night often beckons people out for social activities or work-related commitments. Consequently, urban streets reflect an increase in pedestrian traffic during the evening hours. This influx of foot traffic invariably heightens the risk of accidents involving vehicles.
Alcohol
A significant contributing factor to nighttime pedestrian accidents is alcohol consumption. As of 2022, the bar and nightclub industry in America alone is worth an impressive $26.67 billion, reflecting its popularity.
When individuals consume alcohol, their judgment and coordination become impaired. This impairment can lead to risky behaviors such as jaywalking, disregarding designated crosswalks and ignoring traffic signals.
Infrastructure
Inadequate road infrastructure also plays an important role in the surge of nighttime pedestrian accidents. Poorly lit streets, missing or damaged pedestrian signage and neglected crosswalks create a dangerous environment. Pedestrians may struggle to discern the safest path to cross streets or navigate sidewalks, further elevating the likelihood of accidents.
Even a few extra seconds of caution may make a huge difference. However, a pedestrian accident can also happen without warning.]]>On Behalf of The Goldman Firmhttps://www.goldmanlawatlanta.com/?p=482032023-07-21T20:35:50Z2023-07-21T20:35:50ZInexperience with the transport method
While they are growing in popularity, many people do not have much experience with operating an e-scooter. Just like someone who is new to driving a car or truck, someone with little experience or understanding of how to use an e-scooter is more likely to get into an accident. If someone is new to riding a scooter, they may want to get some practice in a less populated area first.
Operating under the influence
Downtown areas generally contain a large number of drinking establishments, and people might incorrectly think of scooters as a safer alternative to driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. However, intoxicated riders of e-scooters can face the same penalties that they would if caught driving a car while intoxicated and put themselves at risk of injuring themselves or someone else.
Failing to wear proper safety gear
E-scooters can travel quite fast, so it is a good idea to wear a helmet when riding one, just as one would when riding a bike. In addition, it is prudent to wear bright, reflexive clothing when riding at night.
Being aware of some of the causes of e-scooter accidents can help riders avoid sustaining severe injuries.]]>On Behalf of The Goldman Firmhttps://www.goldmanlawatlanta.com/?p=482012023-05-19T21:22:20Z2023-05-22T21:22:13ZOperator errors and inexperience
One of the leading causes of boating accidents is operator inexperience. Boating requires a different set of skills than driving a car, and without proper training or experience, operators can make mistakes that lead to accidents. Overconfidence can also contribute to accidents when boaters take unnecessary risks or do not respect the power of the water.
Environmental conditions
Environmental conditions such as weather, water currents and visibility also play a significant role in boating accidents. Severe weather can make the water turbulent and difficult to navigate, while low visibility can make it hard to see other vessels, obstacles or changes in the water's surface.
Equipment failure
Equipment failure is another common cause of boating accidents. This could include engine problems, steering failure or equipment malfunctions. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent such incidents.
Alcohol consumption
Alcohol consumption impairs judgment, reaction time and coordination. On the water, the effects of alcohol are often amplified, making it a significant contributor to boating accidents.
Boating can provide endless fun and relaxation, but it comes with its share of potential dangers. Understanding the factors that can lead to boating accidents and taking necessary precautions can significantly reduce these risks.]]>On Behalf of The Goldman Firmhttps://www.goldmanlawatlanta.com/?p=481992023-03-28T01:38:54Z2023-03-28T01:38:54Zinjuries involving e-scooters.
High speeds
Most e-scooters can travel around 20 miles per hour, which is comparable to how fast people ride a bicycle on city streets. Higher-end models are capable of reaching speeds exceeding 30 miles per hour or more.
Falls or collisions at high speeds can easily cause riders to sustain soft-tissue injuries or broken bones. Riders have a considerable risk of traumatic brain injury, particularly if they do not wear a safety helmet.
Sharing the road
The dynamics between drivers and e-scooter riders sharing the road are problematic for several reasons. It can be difficult for drivers to see e-scooters in their path. They have a very slim profile, and many models are not equipped with conspicuous lights. It can also be difficult to take notice when a rider is in close proximity because most e-scooters are almost entirely silent. Moreover, drivers everywhere are still learning how to share the road with e-scooters.
In recent years, public safety concerns prompted regulation putting limits on the use of e-scooters. Atlanta enacted an ordinance prohibiting e-scooter rentals after 9:00 pm, and surrounding areas outright banned the use of dockless, shared e-scooters.
As the use of e-scooters continues to gain traction, it is foreseeable that injuries in densely populated areas may continue to climb despite legislative efforts to keep people safe.]]>On Behalf of The Goldman Firmhttps://www.goldmanlawatlanta.com/?p=481772023-01-24T19:07:49Z2023-01-24T19:07:49ZDriver fatigue
Truck drivers often work irregular hours, sometimes with very early start times. When an individual driver makes the decision to work for an excessive amount of time well into the night, it can lead to fatigue that affects decision-making or even falling asleep behind the wheel. The FMCSA enforces hours of service regulations to mitigate the risk of such occurrences, but the policy does not entirely eliminate the possibility of negligence.
Poor visibility
It goes without saying that everyone must overcome poor visibility when driving after dark. While many motorists tend to make the decision of limiting their nighttime driving, though, commercial truck drivers operate at all hours of the day and thus may contribute to a higher accident statistic.
If you experience a truck accident at night, it is important to seek compensation from truck drivers who are guilty of negligence. Be aware, however, that you might also hold the trucking company liable for being lax about enforcing necessary safety regulations.]]>On Behalf of The Goldman Firmhttps://www.goldmanlawatlanta.com/?p=481752022-11-23T21:09:40Z2022-11-23T21:09:40ZTraumatic brain injuries (TBI)
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an injury that makes a difference in brain function and development. A person may suffer from a TBI after a severe jolt or violent blow to their head or body. Symptoms of moderate or severe TBI include seizures, dilated pupils, slurred speech, loss of coordination, repeated vomiting and worsening headaches.
Paralysis
Car crashes may cause various levels of paralysis. Paraplegia is the paralysis of the lower half of the body and quadriplegia occurs when most of the body becomes paralyzed. Hemiplegia happens when one side of the victim’s body has paralysis. Monoplegia often occurs due to nerve damage above the singular paralyzed limb.
Severe burns
After a crash, a vehicle might catch fire, or the person’s skin might touch chemicals, steam or other hot surfaces. Severe burns might require skin grafting and surgery. Scarring from burns may go deep enough to affect your nerves and muscles. The tightness experienced from these contracture scars may hamper the victim’s movement.
Disfiguring scars
The scarring one experiences after a motor vehicle accident depends on the size of the injury, the location of the wound, genetics and the victim’s age. Keloid scars are usually noticeable since they extend beyond the boundary of the injury and may even diminish mobility.
If someone suffers from severe injuries after a car accident, seeking immediate medical attention and documenting the status of the wounds may help them in any future legal action.]]>On Behalf of The Goldman Firmhttps://www.goldmanlawatlanta.com/?p=481702022-09-29T19:19:40Z2022-09-29T19:19:40Z1. Use the right tires
It is time to switch your sporty summer tires for a set that is appropriate for fall. Sporty tires have softer rubber and are great for warmer weather, but they tend to lose traction in the cold. Install touring tires instead.
2. Check your lights
Now that the days are shorter, you may find yourself out after dark more often. Check your headlights, brake lights and turn lights to be sure they are in working condition.
3. Wear the right clothes
Dress in layers to combat autumn's notoriously fickle weather. Don't forget riding gloves and rain gear, both of which you may need at a moment's notice.
4. Look out for fallen leaves
A pile of dry leaves can cover potholes on the road and can increase your risk of accidents; sharp objects hidden beneath the debris can also cause a flat tire. Additionally, wet leaves can create slick conditions and reduce your bike traction, so be alert and proceed with caution.
Autumn can be the best time of year for motorcycle riding. Take precautions to ensure your ride is a safe and happy one.]]>On Behalf of The Goldman Firmhttps://www.goldmanlawatlanta.com/?p=481672022-07-31T01:31:45Z2022-07-31T01:31:45Zapproximately 12.6% of motorists you see in the United States will not have insurance.
Here are three potential actions you can take if you get injured by an uninsured motorist.
Use medical payment coverage
If you opted for medical payment coverage, often called med pay, you can use money from that policy towards medical costs. Med pay is an option within your insurance coverage that you can use regardless of who is at fault in the accident that caused your injuries.
Use health insurance
You can use your health insurance policy to receive medical treatment for your injuries. Additionally, regardless of any settlement, alternative payment source or compensation you may receive, you can pay your medical bills using your insurance instead of attempting to have the medical provider attempt to collect directly from these other sources.
File a lawsuit
If you are not at fault, you can file a lawsuit against the at-fault party in the accident. This allows for the at-fault driver to compensate you directly instead of the insurance company.
In some cases, you can find yourself in a situation where the driver has insurance but has insufficient coverage for the damage and injury caused. You can take the same actions you would take for an uninsured driver and use your uninsured/underinsured motorist policy if you had opted to add this coverage to your insurance package.]]>