Penn & Seaborn, LLCPenn & Seaborn, LLC2024-02-22T14:41:28Zhttps://www.pennandseaborn.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1602497/2021/07/cropped-Penn-and-Seaborn-fav-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Penn & Seaborn, LLChttps://www.pennandseaborn.com/?p=483292024-02-22T14:41:28Z2024-02-22T14:41:28ZMillions of car accidents occur yearly, ranging from minor fender benders to serious collisions, and preparedness can significantly affect the outcome of any particular situation.
Postponing medical attention
After a car accident, adrenaline can mask pain or injuries, leading individuals to underestimate the severity of their condition. However, even seemingly minor collisions can result from serious underlying injuries that may worsen without proper medical attention. Ignoring symptoms or delaying treatment can exacerbate injuries and prolong recovery time. Promptly visiting a healthcare professional can ensure that injuries are diagnosed and treated early, safeguarding both physical health and potential legal claims.
Failing to document the scene
Following a car accident, documenting the scene is crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Failing to collect pertinent information may hinder proving liability and obtaining fair compensation for damages. Essential steps for documentation can include capturing images of the vehicles involved, the surrounding area and any visible damages or injuries. Victims should also obtain contact details and insurance information from all parties involved in the crash.
Admitting fault
In the aftermath of a car accident, emotions may run high, leading individuals to admit blame for the incident unintentionally. However, admitting fault can have significant legal repercussions and may jeopardize the ability to seek compensation for damages. Victims should avoid making statements that could be construed as an admission of fault when conversing with other drivers or insurance representatives. It's essential to remain composed and refrain from discussing fault until all facts are thoroughly assessed.
Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly mitigate the challenges associated with car accidents and facilitate smoother recovery and resolution processes. Individuals can protect their well-being and assert their rights effectively by prioritizing medical care, diligently documenting the scene, refraining from admitting fault prematurely and seeking legal counsel after a wreck occurs.]]>On Behalf of Penn & Seaborn, LLChttps://www.pennandseaborn.com/?p=483282024-02-18T18:39:10Z2024-02-18T18:39:10ZAn outside business could be liable
Companies that produce equipment and machinery, particularly those that manufacture commercial equipment, should make safety a top priority. Careful quality control procedures and thorough product development are both necessary to ensure the safety of machinery used in commercial environments.
When a manufacturer does not control the quality of its products or properly test them for possible issues, injured parties may have grounds to take legal action. State law in Alabama permits those harmed by defective products to take legal action against manufacturers.
A product defect lawsuit against the company that manufactured a defective piece of machinery could augment what someone receives from workers' compensation. The wage replacement benefits available, for example, often leave a big gap in someone's budget. Those who successfully pursue a product defect lawsuit could recoup the difference between what workers' compensation offers and the true impact of their workplace injuries.
Given that workers' compensation laws largely prevent employees from taking legal action against the companies that employ them, holding a manufacturer accountable for dangerous products might be the best option for someone injured by a defective piece of commercial equipment. To that end, properly documenting the underlying cause of a workplace injury may help someone pursue the right path toward compensation after getting hurt on the job.]]>On Behalf of Penn & Seaborn, LLChttps://www.pennandseaborn.com/?p=482902024-02-08T15:34:42Z2024-02-08T15:34:42Zwhy 18-wheeler trucks are so dangerous is essential for drivers who share roads with these massive vehicles.
These enormous commercial vehicles have limited visibility, can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and have long stopping distances. All these features can make them a deadly threat to smaller vehicles – as well as pedestrians and cyclists – on the road.
The anatomy of an 18-wheeler
One of the primary factors contributing to the danger of 18-wheeler trucks is their sheer size and weight. When fully loaded, these vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making them several times heavier than the average passenger car. As a result, any collision involving an 18-wheeler is more likely to result in severe damage and injury due to the immense kinetic energy involved.
Beyond their weight, the length of 18-wheeler trucks poses challenges for maneuverability. Because of their length, negotiating turns, changing lanes and navigating through tight spaces may become intricate tasks for truck drivers, especially in urban environments or congested highways.
Challenges for truck drivers
Despite advancements in technology and safety features, 18-wheeler trucks still have significant blind spots, also known as “no-zones.” These areas are located around the truck where the driver’s visibility is limited or non-existent. No zones pose a considerable risk to nearby vehicles.
Another critical aspect contributing to the danger of 18-wheeler trucks is their braking distance. Due to their weight and momentum, these vehicles require much longer distances to come to a complete stop compared to smaller vehicles. This extended braking distance becomes particularly problematic in emergency situations or when encountering unexpected obstacles on the road.
Human factors
Long hours behind the wheel and demanding schedules often lead to driver fatigue among truck drivers. Despite regulations limiting driving hours and mandating rest breaks, many drivers still face pressure to meet deadlines. This can lead to compromised alertness and reaction times.
Furthermore, operating an 18-wheeler truck requires specialized skills and training beyond those needed for driving smaller vehicles. However, not all truck drivers receive adequate training or ongoing professional development. This can contribute to varying levels of proficiency on the road.
The inherent dangers of 18-wheeler trucks stem from a combination of factors, including their size, operational challenges and human factors. If you are a smaller vehicle owner, it’s always crucial to be extra cautious when driving next to an 18-wheeler truck to help minimize the risk of getting into a catastrophic accident.]]>On Behalf of Penn & Seaborn, LLChttps://www.pennandseaborn.com/?p=482892023-12-22T14:39:40Z2023-12-22T14:39:40ZRear-end crashes
Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of collisions that occur. Drivers who tailgate or who become distracted in traffic may not stop in time when other vehicles stop. That can lead to a preventable collision. Thankfully, rear-end crashes are among the least likely to cause fatalities. However, they do still sometimes lead to the death of vehicle occupants.
Head-on collisions
Head-on crashes occur when vehicles driving in opposing directions directly collide with one another. Such crashes can occur at very high speeds and may cause devastating damage to the vehicles involved. Head-on collisions may occur because someone did not stop at an intersection or because of someone driving the wrong way on a one-way street.
Angle collisions
Like head-one collisions, angle collisions involve vehicles striking one another at a clear angle. A T-bone collision is a type of angle collision. These crashes are responsible for the most fatal crashes when compared with other types of wrecks.
Sideswipes
Sideswipe collisions may involve vehicles traveling in the same direction or in opposing directions. Instead of a head-on collision involving the bumpers in both vehicles, the side of one vehicle strikes the side of the other vehicle. These crashes can disable vehicles and cause severe injuries, especially at higher speeds.
Single-vehicle crashes
Rollover collisions, jackknife incidents, crashes involving trees and other major motor vehicle issues may begin with one vehicle rather than two vehicles colliding. However, these incidents may snowball and end up impacting others, especially if they occur on busy streets with high speed limits.
The type of crash that occurs influences the best approach to pursuing compensation afterward. Holding another driver accountable for causing a crash often requires proving that their negligence or misconduct was the underlying cause of the wreck.]]>On Behalf of Penn & Seaborn, LLChttps://www.pennandseaborn.com/?p=482742023-12-15T03:08:51Z2023-12-15T03:08:51Zcurrent law in Alabama is quite thorough.
It is illegal to physically hold a device or read from it, just like it's illegal to type out a message while driving. Despite how clear and thorough the law is about digital distraction, it does not go nearly far enough to protect the public from the dangers of distracted driving.
It only addresses digital distraction
The primary issue with the current law against texting while driving is that it fails to acknowledge other forms of distracted driving. Distraction caused by mobile phones is a major safety concern, but it is far from the only kind of distraction on the road.
Drivers can also become distracted due to eating and drinking at the wheel. If they drop something while enjoying a snack, for example, they could burn themselves or react instinctually, possibly by slamming on their brakes or jerking on their steering wheel. Eating and drinking typically force someone to take at least one of their hands off of the steering wheel.
Grooming oneself is another common form of distraction. Playing with one's hair, putting on a tie or even shaving while driving are all dangerous distractions that could lead to people overlooking changing traffic conditions. Even conversations with passengers or through a hands-free headset could be enough of a distraction to lead to a preventable collision.
The law in Alabama does not prohibit these very common forms of distraction or allow police officers to stop and ticket people for eating at the wheel or other forms of distraction. Since the law does not specifically address these mistakes, many people assume that there is nothing wrong with continuing unsafe personal practices.
Drivers may still encounter countless highly-distracted motorists every day even if they don't spot anyone with a phone in their hands. If a distracted driver causes a crash, then the other people involved in the wreck may have grounds to take legal action against them. Holding someone accountable for a wreck might involve an insurance claim or possibly even a civil lawsuit. As a result, crash victims generally benefit from seeking legal guidance as soon as they have sustained harm.]]>On Behalf of Penn & Seaborn, LLChttps://www.pennandseaborn.com/?p=482072023-11-09T14:24:09Z2023-11-09T14:24:09ZWhy a lawyer can help
People trying to handle a car crash insurance claim on their own often make big mistakes about evidence. They move their vehicles before documenting the scene of the crash or take pictures that focus on the damage to the vehicles instead of their placement and the position of the debris in the surrounding environment.
They may get information about the other driver but may fail to obtain identifying information about witnesses who could make a big difference to the ultimate outcome of their case. They may also fail to properly assert themselves when communicating with the police and could forget to point out their concerns about chemical intoxication or distraction while driving, both of which could significantly increase the likelihood of a major wreck. An attorney will know what evidence to collect and preserve. They will also know how to strengthen someone's case if they need to take the matter to court later.
People with help can focus on healing
Trying to learn about the Alabama car insurance system or the rules for civil court could be a full-time job on its own. People may invest so much time and energy into understanding what must happen for their compensation claims that they may do themselves a real disservice. Stress affects immune system function and cognitive abilities. Even someone trying their best to learn about the right way to manage a car crash situation will have a hard time internalizing the information they learn and may actually make their recovery a more difficult process by compounding their current stress levels.
At the end of the day, obtaining the right assistance from someone familiar with insurance rules and civil law in Alabama can make a major difference for those recently affected by a crash caused by another driver.]]>On Behalf of Penn & Seaborn, LLChttps://www.pennandseaborn.com/?p=482032023-10-23T13:31:40Z2023-10-23T13:31:40ZThe toll on alertness
Several factors contribute to driver fatigue. One of the primary factors is a lack of adequate rest. Truck drivers often face tight delivery schedules; some might push themselves to meet unrealistic deadlines. This lack of rest accumulates and can lead to fatigue. Additionally, long-haul truckers, in particular, face the constant challenge of staying alert. They need to remain focused and responsive with journeys spanning hundreds of miles. However, fatigue can erode this essential alertness, leading to compromised reaction times and an increased risk of accidents.
Fatigue doesn’t just affect a driver’s reaction time; it can impair decision-making abilities. A tired driver may make poor judgments in critical situations, such as when navigating adverse weather conditions or heavy traffic. Endless stretches of monotonous highways can also lull drivers into a state of drowsiness. The absence of engaging scenery or challenging terrain can contribute to driver fatigue. This isn’t made easier by the fact that truck drivers often work irregular hours or night shifts. This disrupts their circadian rhythms, leading to sleep disorders and chronic fatigue.
The consequences of driver fatigue and how to mitigate them
Driver fatigue doesn’t only affect drivers themselves; it has far-reaching consequences for everyone on the road. Truck drivers should, therefore, be educated about the risks of fatigue and the importance of adhering to safety protocols. This includes recognizing their personal limits and prioritizing rest.
By recognizing the causes and consequences of driver fatigue, implementing regulations and fostering driver education, the prevalence of avoidable road accidents can be minimized. This knowledge can also serve injury victims well as they seek compensation in the wake of an injurious crash.]]>On Behalf of Penn & Seaborn, LLChttps://www.pennandseaborn.com/?p=482022023-10-16T22:52:19Z2023-10-16T22:52:19ZWho covers the cost of a crash?
Personal fault largely influences financial responsibility after a collision. The insurance policy of the person determined to be responsible for the crash will usually cover the losses generated by the wreck. Someone who causes a crash with catastrophic consequences may also be subject to a lawsuit initiated by the affected parties.
What steps should someone take after a crash?
People are often unsure of what they should do following a collision, but there are basic steps that everyone should take. Exchanging information with the other party involved in the crash will be important. People also need to contact the local police department to report the crash. Finally, they may want to take pictures or video of the scene of the crash before they move their vehicles.
How much will insurance cover?
Every driver in Alabama decides for themselves how much insurance they need. As long as their policies meet state minimum standards, they can choose to add additional coverage to protect themselves. Alabama only mandates liability coverage. Drivers need to have at least $25,000 in property damage coverage. If they cause a crash where one person gets hurt, they should have at least $25,000 in bodily injury liability coverage. The minimum coverage increases to $50,000 for crashes that cause injury to two or more people. Policy limits, rather than the actual cost of the crash, will determine the maximum amount of compensation that someone can receive through insurance.
Can small mistakes prevent someone from filing a lawsuit?
In most states, comparative fault rules allow someone who makes a small mistake to hold someone who made a bigger mistake accountable for their injuries. Someone who didn't use their blinker at an intersection, for example, could file a personal injury lawsuit against someone who caused a crash due to distraction or drunk driving. That is generally not the case in Alabama. State law instead applies contributory negligence rules. Any degree of responsibility for an incident will strip someone of their right to pursue litigation. However, if a defendant in a lawsuit wants to blame the plaintiff for the incident, the burden of proof will fall to them.
People with more complicated questions may need to talk to someone familiar with the law in Alabama. Having accurate answers to questions after a car crash can help people more effectively respond to the aftermath of a wreck.]]>On Behalf of Penn & Seaborn, LLChttps://www.pennandseaborn.com/?p=481992023-09-05T10:48:07Z2023-09-12T10:47:32ZThe anatomy of a T-bone collision
T-bone collisions typically happen at intersections when drivers fail to yield the right of way or disregard a traffic signal. Picture this: a car moving at a high speed smashes directly into the side of another vehicle. The force of impact is concentrated on the side of the car, leading to a range of dire consequences.
In a T-bone collision, the impacting vehicle often intrudes into the cabin of the struck vehicle. This intrusion increases the risk of severe injuries to the occupants. Unlike the front and rear of vehicles, the sides are less fortified. This lack of structural reinforcement makes the sides vulnerable to deformation, contributing to the accident's severity.
Injuries in T-bone crashes
Due to the inherent nature of these accidents, occupants are at a high risk of various head injuries; the sudden jolt and impact can cause concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Passengers in the impacted vehicle may also sustain chest and abdominal injuries. This is because the force of the collision is likely to cause chest and abdominal trauma, leading to broken ribs, internal bleeding and organ damage.
The spine is also quite vulnerable in T-bone car crashes, and the accident's impact can often result in severe back and neck injuries, including spinal cord damage. Furthermore, the rapid deceleration in a T-bone crash can cause whiplash, leading to neck and upper back injuries. Not to mention that legs and hips can suffer significant injuries, including fractures and dislocations.
T-bone car crashes are undeniably devastating events often resulting in severe consequences for those involved. Understanding the mechanics of these accidents and their potential outcomes is crucial for victims who want to pursue compensation for their injuries.]]>On Behalf of Penn & Seaborn, LLChttps://www.pennandseaborn.com/?p=481972023-09-01T07:24:09Z2023-09-09T07:23:20Zaccidents can often happen at intersections or while merging lanes.
Causes of wide-turn accidents
Large vehicles often have significant blind spots that limit the driver’s field of view. Therefore, inadequate use of mirrors or failure to check blind spots before turning can lead to collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians. For 18-wheeler drivers, estimating the clearance required to execute a turn is critical. This is because misjudging the space needed can result in sideswiping adjacent vehicles, curbs or even pedestrians.
Truck drivers should remember that executing a wide turn can be challenging in congested areas. This is due to the presence of other vehicles that make it more likely for collisions to occur. Additionally, inexperienced truck drivers may struggle with executing wide turns correctly, increasing the risk of accidents.
Impacts of wide-turn accidents
Wide-turn accidents often lead to property damage, including scratched paint, dented vehicles and broken mirrors, resulting in costly repairs. Moreover, collisions with pedestrians, cyclists or smaller vehicles can cause significant injuries. Pedestrians are especially vulnerable, as they lack the protection of a vehicle.
Luckily, all truck drivers are held accountable for their actions on the road. Therefore, suppose you are a victim of a wide-turn accident; you can take legal action against the at-fault truck driver and receive the compensation you deserve. Once negligence is proven, they may be liable for your medical expenses and other damages.
Education on blind spots, turning radius and safe turning techniques can greatly reduce the risk of accidents. Additionally, installing advanced safety technologies, such as blind-spot detection systems and rearview cameras, can enhance drivers’ awareness and help prevent collisions.
Wide-turn accidents are a significant roadway concern, posing risks to drivers and pedestrians alike. Understanding the causes and impacts of these accidents is vital for victims who want to take legal action against at-fault drivers who have caused them harm.]]>