New Reports Show SUVs in Dallas, Nationwide, are Safer

by admin on December 15, 2011

in Car Accidents, Teen Drivers

SUVs may be not be as likely to be involved in rollover accidents in Dallas and elsewhere throughout the country anymore. New research shows that high-riding SUVs are now much safer and less likely to be involved in these deadly accidents, especially in comparison to ordinary cars, according to CNN.

What may be most surprising is that research done by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety concluded that an occupant of a 2009 model car is nearly twice as likely to die in a rollover accident than an occupant of a 2009 model SUV.
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Our Dallas personal injury attorneys would like you to be aware that the type of vehicle you drive can have a huge impact on your safety and ability to survive a traffic accident. Many safe driving advocates worried in the past that SUVs were more likely to roll over on our roads. New statistics show that the vulnerability of a rollover accident is more evenly distributed between all types of vehicles.

New electronic stability control (ECS) may be resposible for the drop in risks for SUV drivers. The Institute believes that this technology may be the biggest factor in the declining rate of these rollover accidents. ESC is a computer-based system that helps drivers to maintain control of their vehicle during abrupt maneuvers. It even helps to keep the driver in control on slippery roads. The new technology is available in all new SUVs sold in the United States. It is said to have greatly reduced the tendency of SUVs to skid and even flip over.

“The rollover risk in SUVs used to outweigh their size/weight advantage, but that’s no longer the case, thanks to ESC,” said Anne McCartt, the Institute’s senior vice president for research.

According to the IIHS report, the overall driver death rate for 2005 to 2008 model-year vehicles from 2006 to 2009 was 48 per million registered vehicle years. The IIHS conducts these death-rate studies every couple of years. This recent rate illustrates a large decline from years past.

According to USA Today, here are the top-10 most improved cars of 2011:

-Buick Regal

-Chevrolet Cruze

-Dodge Durango

-Dodge Journey

-Ford Explorer

-Ford Focus

-Hyundai Elantra

-Kia Sorento

-Kia Optima

-Jeep Grand Cherokee

When vehicles are grouped together by segment, minivans are ranked the best with a driver death rate of 25. SUVs score 28 and pickups averaged 52 driver deaths. Cars averaged 56. It’s important to note that large cars performed better than small ones. Four-door subcompacts have a death rate of 82 compared to 46 for large four-door vehicles.

If you have been injured in a car accident Carrollton, or anywhere in the surrounding areas, contact a Dallas car accident attorney at the Goolsby Law Firm for experienced advice about your rights. Call 1-972-394-2141 for a free consultation today.

More Blog Entries:

Most Dangerous Roads Released for Dallas Teen Car Accidents, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, June 1, 2011

Holiday Travel Expected to Bring a Higher Risk of Dallas, Carrollton Car Accidents, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, May 26, 2011

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Test Scores Show High Risk of Texas Car Accidents

by admin on December 15, 2011

in Car Accidents, Older Drivers, Teen Drivers

The test results are in – Texas ranks 33rd out of the 50 states for having the most knowledgeable drivers.

According to the GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test scores, Texas scored an average of 78.6 percent. More than a quarter of drivers tested in our state failed the test. It is these drivers who increase the risks for everyone to be involved in a Texas car accident.
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Nationwide, the test results determined that one out of every five drivers on the road would be unable to pass a written drivers exam if they took it today, according to GMAC Insurance. This means that nearly 37 million American, or roughly 18 percent, of drivers lack adequate driving knowledge and skills.

Our Dallas personal injury attorneys understand that many accidents are caused by inexperienced and ignorant drivers. This is why defensive driving skills are so important. Being aware of your surroundings at all times can help you to prevent a serious — if not fatal — accident.

“The GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test has become the benchmark for America’s driving IQ,” said Scott Eckman, chief marketing officer, GMAC Insurance. “All Americans need a refresher course when it comes to rules of the road and it begins with education. We’re hoping this year’s GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test results will inspire drivers to arm themselves with the knowledge they need to stay safe.”

Kansas was ranked number one again with an average score of 82.9 percent. It was good news for New York as well, as they were bumped from last place by Washington D.C. The nation’s capital scored an average of 71.8 on the National Drivers Test.

The nation’s driving score average was a 77.9 percent this year. This was a 1.9 percent increase from the score of the previous year, but these results still prove that a large number of drivers on our roadways lack basic driving skills and knowledge.

The test results indicated that 85 percent of drivers were unable to identify the proper action to take when pulling up to a yellow light at an intersection. Another 25 percent of drivers were unable to identify what a safe following distance is.

GMAC Insurance continues to conduct this yearly test in an attempt to remind drivers to re-up their driving skills and knowledge before they experience a serious accident.

GMAC Drivers Test Highlights:

-Men have better road knowledge than women as men scored an average of 80.2 percent and women an average of 74.1 percent. One in four women failed the driving test.

-Older drivers, or those ages 60 to 65, performed better than any age group with an average score of 80.3 percent.

-The Northeast region of the country saw the worst scores. This area reported an average score of 74.9 percent.

-The region with the highest scoring average was the Midwest with 77.5 percent.

-One out of every three tested drivers in New York and Washington D.C. failed the test.

-Wyoming returned the lowest percentage of failing scores.

Drivers are urged to take a look at their knowledge of driving rules and regulations to preserve the safety of themselves and their loved ones, especially as the summer travel season kicks off.

If you have been injured in a Carrollton car accident, contact a Dallas car accident attorney at theGoolsby Law Firm for experienced advice about your rights. Call 1-972-394-2141 for a free consultation today.
More Blog Entries:

MADD Announces Most Dangerous Days for Teen Car Accidents in Texas and Elsewhere, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, June 10, 2011

Most Dangerous Roads Released for Dallas Teen Car Accidents, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, June 1, 2011

Holiday Travel Expected to Bring a Higher Risk of Dallas, Carrollton Car Accidents, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, May 26, 2011

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Check Vehicle Tires to Prevent Car Accident in Dallas

by admin on December 15, 2011

in Car Accidents

The U.S. Department of Transportation urges all motorists to take a look at their vehicle’s tires to make sure they’re properly inflated and not showing any severe signs of tread wear or damage.

The summer months provide plenty of heat and sunshine for family vacations, but they also provide an increased risk of a tire-related car accident in Dallas.
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During the summer months, there is usually a drastic increase in travel across the United States. Our Texas personal injury attorneys ask that you check all aspects of your vehicle before heading out on any long summer trips. Keeping your vehicle in good working order can help to keep you, your family and other motorists safe on the road this summer.

“As the weather warms up, it’s especially important for drivers to ensure their tires are properly inflated,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said. “For your safety and the safety of others on the road, inspect your tires regularly and maintain the proper inflation.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that about 3,400 people were killed in these tire-related accidents from 2005 to 2009. Another 116,000 people were injured.

“While it’s true improperly maintained tires can contribute to a crash at any time of year, it is particularly critical for motorists to check tires during hot weather, when families and luggage often overload vehicles for long vacation trips,” NHTSA Administrator David Strickland warned. “Underinflated tires spinning on hot asphalt for extended periods of time can be a recipe for disaster.”

Keeping your tires properly inflated will not only help to keep you safe on our roadways this summer, but it can also help you keep a little extra money in your wallet. Riding with under-inflated tires can reduce the miles per gallon of your vehicle. If you have a vehicle that averages about 30 miles per gallon and your tires are under-inflated by just 1 PSI (pound per square inch), you could be losing out on nearly three miles per gallon. You might as well be throwing your hard earned-cash out the window.

There are a couple ways that you can check your tires. You are urged to check them regularly, but especially before you hit the road for a long summer vacation. You should check your tire sidewall to see if there’s any severe damage or wear. You can also check the owner’s manual of the vehicle or check with the tire manufacturer to see how often it is recommended that your change your tires.

This is just one of a few precautionary steps you can take to make sure that your vehicle is in good-working order. Remember to check your fluids before hitting the road, too. These preventative measures can make all the difference when it comes to staying safe on the road.

The Goolsby Law Firm is dedicated and motivated to fighting for victims and their families who have suffered in Dallas, Carrollton or the surrounding areas. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with a distracted driver or any other car-related accident, call for a free consultation at 1-972-394-2141.
More Blog Entries:

Most Dangerous Roads Released for Dallas Teen Car Accidents, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, June 1, 2011 

Holiday Travel Expected to Bring a Higher Risk of Dallas, Carrollton Car Accidents, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, May 26, 2011

Cell Phone Use Blamed for Deadly Dallas Car Accident, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, May 17, 2011

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Happy Fourth of July from Our Dallas Injury Lawyers

by admin on December 15, 2011

in Car Accidents, Drunk Driving Accidents

Our Dallas personal injury attorneys would like to wish everyone a safe and fun holiday weekend. The Fourth of July holiday weekend is one of the most crowded on our roadways, and our waterways. To stay safe, travelers should double-check their boat’s and car’s equipment to help ensure the safety of family and loved ones.

Although many boat owners opt to not go out on our waters during holiday weekends like the one approaching, that doesn’t stop many novice boaters. Experienced boaters expect that, on holiday weekends, the waterways will be jam-packed with inexperienced boaters who go too fast and drink while boating.

During the Fourth of July weekend, it is not uncommon for friends and family to join together to celebrate. Many times these celebrations involve the consumption of alcohol. What they should not include is driving a motor vehicle after drinking. Your risks of being involved in a boating or car accident in Dallas only increase during these long holiday weekends.

Recent studies show that drivers who have a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher are 11 times more likely to die in a car accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were nearly 11,000 deaths because of traffic accidents involving a drunk driver in 2009. These accidents accounted for more than 30 percent of total traffic fatalities for the year. Texas witnessed nearly 1,500 of these drunk-driving-related accident deaths during that year.

According to Life Tips, these are the some of most dangerous holidays for DUI accidents:

-New Year’s Eve

-St. Patrick’s Day

-Fourth of July

-Thanksgiving

-Christmas

It is during these times that drunk driving accidents happen with more frequency. Motorists are urged to completely avoid our roadways during these major holidays.

It is also important for you to help keep our roadways safe and to help reduce the risks of a drunk driving accident. You should follow these tips to if you witness a drunk driver on the road:

-Stay away from the vehicle. Do not try to stop them yourself.

-Try to get their license plate number and the make, model and color of the vehicle driven by the suspected drunk driver.

-Call local authorities and report this information along with the location of the vehicle and the direction it is heading it. If possible, get a description of the driver.

It’s worth just a few minutes of your time to save that drunk driver from hurting themselves and/or hurting others.

Intoxicated boaters can produce deadly results in the event of an accident, too. The effects of the sun, wind, waves and a boat’s motion can add to an operator’s impairment. Don’t think that enforcement is not out there busting intoxicated boaters. If you’re busted boating under the influence, you can face both federal and state charges with penalties of up to one year in prison and up to $100,000 in fines.

It is important to have at least one passenger on a boat that is able to help the driver to monitor other boats in your area.

Boating safety tips for your Fourth of July weekend:

-Make evasive maneuvers early and deliberately.

-If you’re out boating at night, check your lights before heading out and have spare bulbs on board.

-Avoid overloading your boat. You may think the more the merrier, but not when we’re talking about boating.

-Remember that the night speed is 30 miles per hour.

-Make sure you have enough life jackets for everyone on board.

Every Fourth of July, the U.S. Coast Guard gets a number of calls about boaters firing emergency flares from their vessels. While it is encouraged for you to carry flares on your vessel, the Coast Guard stresses that flares should only be fired to indicate trouble. With the increase of traffic on our waterways on the Fourth of July, the firing of a flare in a non-emergency situation could result in a delayed response to a real emergency. You could also receive a Class D felony charge, six years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines for lighting off one of these in a non-emergency situation, according to the United States Coast Guard.

According to the Coast Guard, there were nearly 5,000 reported boating accidents in the United States in 2009. These accidents resulted in nearly 700 deaths and more than 3,100 injuries. Reported accidents in 2009 cost nearly $40 billion in damage to property as a result of recreational boating accidents.

Alcohol is the number of cause of fatal boating accidents. Officials estimate that alcohol contributed for nearly 20 percent of all boating deaths.

About.com has offered you a list to top places in our area to watch 4th of July Fireworks in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Go out, have fun and be safe!

The Goolsby Law Firm is dedicated and motivated to fighting for victims and their families who have suffered in Dallas, Carrollton or the surrounding areas. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, call for a free consultation at 1-972-394-2141.

More Blog Entries:

Holiday Travel Expected to Bring a Higher Risk of Dallas, Carrollton Car Accidents, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, May 26, 2011

Prom night a danger to teens involved in Dallas drunk driving accidents, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, May 7, 2011

Proposed Alcohol-detection Devices could Reduce Risk of Dallas Car Accidents Caused by Drunk Driving, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, April 12, 2011

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Fire and Water – Increasing Your Risks for Injury in Dallas this Fourth of July Holiday Weekend

by admin on December 15, 2011

in Injuries to Children

First and foremost, our Dallas injury attorneys would like to wish you a safe and exciting Fourth of July holiday weekend. We understand this time of the years provides the perfect conditions for pool side barbecues and fireworks to celebrate Independence Day. We also understand that your risks of injury during this time increases tremendously.

As everyone is expected to enjoy fireworks this upcoming weekend, many will be putting on their own fireworks show. Residents are urged to be extra careful this weekend to avoid firework-related injuries in Dallas.

 According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 7,000 people were treated in emergency rooms because of injuries caused by fireworks in a single year. This averages out to approximately 19 injuries a day. Texas, unfortunately saw a significant number of these injuries because we are one of the states that allow the use of consumer fireworks.

You are most likely to be injured by a firework between June 20th and July 20th. During this time in 2008, there were more than 900 injuries resulting from firecracker use, 800 associated with sparklers and approximately 300 because of rockets.

Between the years of 2000 and 2005, it is estimated that more than one-third of fire-work related deaths involved the use of professional devices that were sold illegally to consumers.

Fireworks caused an estimated 22,500 reported fires in 2008. These fires resulted in approximately $42 million in direct property damage.

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commissionoffers you these tips to stay safe during your at-home fireworks display:

-Don’t allow children to play with fireworks under any circumstances. No child under the age of 12 should play with sparklers.

-Older children should be permitted to use fireworks, but only under close adult supervision.

-Only set off fireworks outdoors. Make sure to light them off away from houses, grass, dry leaves or any other flammable materials.

-Keep water nearby. Use either a bucket of a hose.

-Don’t try to relight malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.

-Never light fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.

-Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.

-Only light fireworks as the instructions describe. Do not alter or combine any fireworks.

-Don’t experiment with homemade fireworks.

Residents are also likely to jump into the pool over the long weekend, either to escape the heat from the sun or to enjoy a poolside barbecue. The pool can present a number of dangers to swimmers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were nearly 3,500 fatal unintentional drownings in the United States in 2007. This averages out to approximately ten deaths a day. Children are the most at risk for a drowning accident. It is estimated that more than one in five people who died from drowning were children 14-years-old and younger. For every child that dies in a pool, another four are rushed to the emergency room for nonfatal submersion injuries. Nonfatal drownings can cause brain damage that may result in a number of serious and permanent conditions, including memory problems, learning disabilities, and permanent loss of basic functioning.

Approximately 80 percent of the people who have died from drowning have been male. Children between the ages of 1 and 4 have the highest drowning rate. In this age group, almost 30 percent of those who died from an unintentional injury died from drowning. Fatal drowning continues to be the second-leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children under the age of 15.

Make sure that, if you are celebrating this holiday weekend at the pool, that all children are supervised at all times. Make sure that someone knows cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Knowing and correctly performing CPR can help to save a victim’s life in the event of an accident. It is encouraged that your enroll you child into a swimming class to better ensure their safety near water.

The Goolsby Law Firm represents personal injury victims and their families in Carrollton, Dallas or the surrounding areas. If you or a loved one has been injured, call 1-972-394-2141 for a free and confidential appointment.

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AAA Website Could Help Parents Prevent Carrollton Car Accident Involving Teenagers

by admin on December 15, 2011

in Car Accidents

A new feature, provided by AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, allows Texas residents to access important state information to help them to teach their teen driver safe and effective driving skills. It is with the proper education, both in the classroom and out on our roadways, that we can help reduce our teen’s risks of being involved in a car accident in Dallas and elsewhere throughout the state. For this reason, the Foundation has created AAA Keys2Drive: The AAA Guide to Teen Driver Safety, to help Texas parents get their teen to become the very best driver they can be.

The Foundation focuses their efforts on educating our teen drivers because, each day, car accidents end more teen lives than cancer, homicide and suicide combined. Many of the teens killed in these accidents are passengers of other teen drivers. According to a recent study, your teen is at an equally dangerous risk for an accident whether they’re riding with older siblings, teenage neighbors or siblings and friends. Results from these studies illustrate that even the best and brightest teens experience an increased risk of being involved in a fatal accident compared to drivers who have more experience behind the wheel.
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Our Carrollton peronal injury lawyers would like Texas parents to take the time to properly and effectively teach your teen driver the correct rules of the road. It is important that parents emphasize the importance of safe driving habits and focused driving. Every bit of driving information and experience can help to reduce your teen’s risk of experiencing a serious car accident.

In Texas, a teen must complete a two-step process to receive their driver’s license:

-Instruction Permit: First, at the age of 15, your teen can apply for their instruction permit. To get this permit, you and your teen need to visit the local driver exam office with a state-certified copy of the teen’s birth certificate, or a valid United States passport, and show proof of Social Security number, name and age. Teens must then pass a written driver’s knowledge test, a sign recognition test and a vision test in order to receive an instruction permit. Lastly, your teen must be enrolled in a driver education course.

-Provisional License: When your teens turns 16-years-old, and has already had an instruction permit for at least 6 months and completed 20 hours of practice driving, they can then apply for this provisional license. To get this license, they need to pass a behind-the-wheel driving test, complete a state-certified driver’s education course and obtain the classroom and behind-the-wheel certificates. Legal guardians must be present with their teens to sign the application form.

-Full license: Once your teen turns 17, and has successfully completed the provisional license phase, they are eligible for an unrestricted license.

An instruction permit allows a teen to drive with a licensed driver age 21 or older that is supervising and sitting in the front seat. Teens with this license are required to practice driving for at least 20 hours. These 20 hours must include 10 hours at night, with a parent or a legal guardian, before they’re allowed a provisional license.

With a provisional license, a teen is allowed to drive alone, but they are to follow certain restrictions for the first six months. They may not transport more than one person under age 21 who is not a family member. With this license, they are not allowed to drive between midnight and 5 a.m. except when accompanied by a licensed parent or guardian or driving to/from employment, a school-authorized activity or for a medical emergency.

At 17, and after all the previous steps are completed, a driver is then able to drive whenever they need without being supervised.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 2,500 teens were killed in traffic accidents in 2009. During this year, nearly 600 teens were killed in Texas because of traffic accidents that involved a teen driver.

If you have been injured in a Carrollton car accident involving a teen driver, contact a Dallas car accident attorney at the Goolsby Law Firm for experienced advice about your rights. Call 1-972-394-2141 for a free consultation today.

More Blog Entries:

MADD Announces Most Dangerous Days for Teen Car Accidents in Texas and Elsewhere, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, June 10, 2011

Test Scores Show High Risk of Texas Car Accidents, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, June 14, 2011

Most Dangerous Roads Released for Dallas Teen Car Accidents, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, June 1, 2011

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Texas May be Forced to Join the Nation in Banning Cell Phone Use by Drivers

by admin on December 15, 2011

in Car Accidents, Older Drivers, Teen Drivers

Talking on a hand-held cell phone while driving is banned in 10 states, but it’s not in Texas. Texting while driving has also been banned in a number of states, but not in Texas. This could all quickly change if a proposed House bill becomes law. Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, D-N.Y., recently introduced legislation that would federalize driving and cell phone usage for everyone. Currently, laws are managed by individual states.
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Under this proposed legislation, the bill would require the U.S. Department of Transportation to set up a nationwide standard for all drivers that would prohibit cell phone use while driving. This proposed law aims to reduce the risks of distracted-driving car accidents in Texas and elsewhere throughout the country.

Our Dallas personal injury attorneys understand that this may be a necessary move by the federal government to increase the safety all drivers around the nation. As technology continues to advance, so does the frequency of these types of accidents. Drivers are paying more attention to their cell phone, GPS devices and other technological applications. Drivers in Texas may no long have the “luxury” of using their handheld cell phones while operating a motor vehicle.

“Driving while making a phone call, texting or using apps can be as dangerous as driving drunk, and much more common,” Rep. McCarthy said. “With some basic commonsense rules that are already in place in some parts of the country, we can reduce injuries and save lives in America.”

This proposed law comes at a time when drivers are welcoming these new technologies with open arms. Today’s drivers are able to talk to their friends, shuffle through their iPod play lists and find their destinations, all while driving.

“Consumers are wanting, expecting and you could say demanding more technology in their cars,” said Tim Jackson, president and chief executive of the Colorado Automobile Dealers Association. “As their lives have become more technologically driven, they want those same creature comforts in their cars.”

The proposed legislation does exclude some of these new technologies. Drivers will still be allowed to use voice-operated, vehicle-integrated devices, as well as voice-operated GPS systems. Hands-free devices will still be allowed, even though they still cause cognitive distractions. Researchers have concluded that these types of devices pose much less serious problems than using a hand-held device.

Under this bill, if passed, the DOT would have to conduct a study on distracted driving and focus particularly on the issue of cognitive distraction and the impact of distraction on young, inexperienced drivers. Within two years, the DOT would then be required to report its findings to Congress. They would then have to provide recommendations for revising the minimum distracted driving prohibitions and penalties states must comply with. States would then be given two years to comply with the law. If they fail to do so, they could face a 25 percent reduction in federal highway funding.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 5,500 people were killed in traffic accidents in the United States in 2009. The number one distraction reported in these accidents was the use of a cell phone. Drivers that were age 30- to 39-years-old had the highest proportion of cell phone involvement in these incidents. Drivers under age 20 made up the greatest proportion of distracted drivers.

“We have found any sort of distraction increases the likelihood of being in a crash, even with hands-free options,” said Kevin Hobbs, vice president of marketing and communications for AAA Colorado. “We encourage people to eliminate as much distraction as possible.”

The Goolsby Law Firm is dedicated and motivated to fighting for victims and their families who have suffered in Dallas, Carrollton or the surrounding areas. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with a distracted driver or any other car-related accident, call for a free consultation at 1-972-394-2141.

Additional Sources:

Safe Drivers Act of 2011 Introduced to Congress, by Matt Keegan, Auto Trends Magazine

Today’s drivers expect more from their cars, triggering an influx of tech-infused vehicles, by Christian Toto, Denver Post

More Blog Entries:

MADD Announces Most Dangerous Days for Teen Car Accidents in Texas and Elsewhere, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, June 10, 2011

Cell Phone Use Blamed for Deadly Dallas Car Accident, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, May 17, 2011

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Red-Light Cameras in Dallas – For Safety or For Cash?

by admin on December 15, 2011

in Car Accidents, Older Drivers

The battle continues. Texas motorists have handed over more than $103 million in fines since red-light cameras were installed back in 2007.

Lawmakers argue that these cameras reduce your risks of an intersection car accident in Carrollton or elsewhere in Texas. Some in the public have a different view. They claim the rising revenue totals only prove that themain impetus is money, according to Dallas News. College Station voters were successful last fall in forcing their city to take down all of the intersection cameras. The Texas House of Representatives passed a measure last year that would have eliminated these cameras, but it failed in the Senate. Those opposed to the cameras say the fight’s not over.
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Our Dallas injury attorneys understand that these cameras have caused quite a debate. A recent study, conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety concluded that cities with red-light cameras reduced the fatal red-light running accident rate by 24 percent and the rate of all types of fatal accidents at intersections by 17 percent. Yet the number of fatal accidents elsewhere decreased as well during the study period. So the debate continues.

“There is a backlash, for sure,” said state Rep. Solomon Ortiz Jr., D-Corpus Christi, who co-sponsored the anti-camera push. “City budgeters are counting on these fines as a revenue stream and simply using the argument of safety as cover.”

Here’s exactly how they work. Red-light cameras take pictures, and sometimes video, of drivers who run red lights. The images are then examined and evaluated by the camera company and then by the police. The fine for running a red light in most Texas cities is between $75 and $100. More studies than not report that these cameras work, at least to some degree.

“They’ve performed much better than I ever imagined,” said Elizabeth Ramirez, chief traffic engineer for Dallas. The city has witnessed declines in red-light accidents at nearly every one of its 59 camera-equipped intersections since the first wave launched in January 2007, she said.

Camera critics not only debate the safety benefits, but also the large amount of money that these cameras have generated. A state law, put into effect back in 2007, requires that all cities set aside half of all of the profits from these tickets to help fund regional trauma care centers. A majority of cities with red-light cameras use their share of the money to fund traffic safety and enforcement efforts.

“In College Station, cameras were not put at the most dangerous intersections, but the most profitable ones,” said Jim Ash, a sales representative who began the petition drive to take down the cameras.

It’s not just the red-light runners that determine how much money a city will make off these cameras. The contracts that cities have with camera vendors may determine revenue. Cities with cameras do not purchase, operate or even maintain the equipment. They rent these cameras from a vendor under negotiated terms.

Houston reeled in about $24 million since they started the program back in 2007. That’s more than triple the total fines that Dallas has collected. Over the last two years, Dallas’ red-light camera program has cost more to run than Houston’s.

The rates are different because Houston pays a flat monthly fee of $3,000 for each camera plus bonuses if the cameras catch a high number of violators. Dallas on the other hand pays $3,800 a month for each camera. Houston has 70 cameras and Dallas has 59 cameras. They are both contracted with different vendors.

The larger the collections a city receives, the larger the public resistance it seems. This is why city residents are quick to petition to ditch the cameras.

The Federal Highway Administration reports that, in 2004, there were 190,000 injuries and more than 900 fatalities related to motorists running red lights. The City of Dallas installed these cameras in an attempt to reduce the number of right-angle collisions throughout the city by 25 percent. Some argue they’re working, while some argue they’re doing nothing more than generating a hefty income for the city.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, contact Dallas Personal Injury Lawyer Mike Goolsby of The Goolsby Law Firm for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights. Call (972) 492-8758.

Additional Resources:

Red-light cameras spark debate in Texas cities, by Theodore Kim, Dallas News

More Blog Entries:

Test Scores Show High Risk of Texas Car Accidents, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, June 14, 2011

Motorcycle Awareness Reduces risk of Dallas Accidents, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, May 11, 2011

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Most Wanted Drivers List Revealed to Halt Preventable Car Accidents in Dallas and Elsewhere

by admin on December 15, 2011

in Car Accidents, Drunk Driving Accidents, Teen Drivers

A “most wanted drivers” list has been released to target the most at-risk drivers on our roadways. The National Transportation Board (NTSB) created this list through data regarding the most common occurring car accidents in Dallas and elsewhere in the country. Drunk drivers, teen drivers and motorcyclists are some of the most vulnerable drivers on our roadways and through a number of new safety recommendations the NTSB is making an attempt at preserving the safety of these motorists.
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Our Carrollton car accident attorneys understand that car accident fatalities affect motorists of all types, but there are a few groups of motorists that witness more fatalities than others. Through numerous safety recommendations, the NTSB targets these drivers to raise awareness about the importance of safe driving habits and ultimately to help save lives.

It’s not breaking news that driving while intoxicated is extremely dangerous. Drunk driving not only affects the intoxicated motorists, but other innocent drivers and passengers on the road as well. The NTSB reports that alcohol-impaired driving is a complicated and severe problem that requires a comprehensive solution. The Board suggests that states create and enforce proactive programs like sobriety checkpoints and administrative license revocation. They also urge states to limit plea bargaining and diversion programs. Driving drunk is a serious offense and needs to be treated with serious consequences to help reduce the risks for everyone.

The problem is so serious that it is estimated that someone dies in a traffic accident that involves an alcohol-impaired driver every 48 minutes. In 2009 alone, nearly 11,000 people died across the nation because of these accidents. Traffic deaths that involved an intoxicated driver account for more than a third of all traffic fatalities. This is a statistic that hasn’t changed in the last decade.

How can you help keep drunk drivers off our roadways?:

-If you see a drunk driver, you’re asked to get the make, model and color of the vehicle and call local authorities. Get the vehicle’s plate number if possible.

-You are asked to remain a safe distance from the suspected drunk driver. Don’t get too close and put your own life at risk.

-Dial 9-1-1 to report the driver and you could be eligible for a $50 dollar reward through the “Mobile Eyes” program.

-When speaking with local law enforcement, tell them the location of the vehicle and which way it’s headed.

-Step back. Let law enforcement handle the situation from there.

Next on the most wanted list are motorcyclists. These motorists are some of the most vulnerable on our roadways. It is estimated that, from 1997 to 2009, the annual number of motorcycle deaths doubled from 2,116 to 4,462. It’s estimated that about 12 motorcyclists die every day on our roadways. Even though motorcycles only make up about 3 percent of the total number of vehicles on our roadways, they’re involved in nearly 15 percent of all highway fatalities.

“Before this year, the Safety Board has not investigated accidents involving motorcycles. However, last year, 4,315 motorcyclists died in crashes and the rate of motorcycle fatalities has increased more than 25 percent since 1997. At a time when highway fatalities have been decreasing, fatalities involving motorcycles have continued to increase, both in overall number and in fatality rate,” said Deborah A.P. Hersman National Transportation Safety Board.

Lastly, the NTSB is targeting teen drivers. This age group, 15- to 20-years-old, loses nearly 10 people a day because of car accidents. As a matter of fact, traffic accidents are the number one cause of death for teens in the United States.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 2,500 motorists of this age group were killed in traffic accidents in 2009 alone. Another 196,000 suffered injuries in the same incidents. During the same year, it was reported that more than 30 percent of these fatal accidents involved an intoxicated teen driver. Texas witnessed nearly 600 teen deaths because of traffic accidents in 2009.

Parents have a strong influence on their teen’s safe driving habits. Here are some tips to help parents get their teen on the road to being a better driver:

-Ride along. Provide your child with plenty of supervised driving time.

-Offer constructive criticism. Avoid yelling at your teen or getting upset when they’re behind the wheel as it only hinders effective learning.

-Lead by example. Be sure to practice what you preach and always display safe driving skills when your teen is riding with you.

-Prohibit the use of a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle.

-Limit the number of passengers they can drive with. Passengers serve as another driver distraction.

-Set a curfew. Limit the time your teen drives during the nighttime hours.

-Create a parent-teen driving contract to get your rules on paper.

A number of car accidents can be prevented if the proper safety precautions are practiced. The NTSB will continue to analyze traffic data, target problem areas and propose safety recommendations until our roadways can be safe for everyone.

The Goolsby Law Firm is dedicated and motivated to fighting for victims and their families who have suffered in Dallas, Carrollton or the surrounding areas. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with a teen driver or any other car-related accident, call for a free consultation at 1-972-394-2141.

More Blog Entries:

AAA Website Could Help Parents Prevent Carrollton Car Accident Involving Teenagers, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, July 4, 2011

Test Scores Show High Risk of Texas Car Accidents, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, June 14, 2011

MADD Announces Most Dangerous Days for Teen Car Accidents in Texas and Elsewhere, Dallas Injury Lawyer Blog, June 10, 2011

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Avoiding Bicycle Accidents in Dallas

by admin on December 15, 2011

in Uncategorized

Bicycle accidents have become more common in Dallas because of the increasing number of people who are riding their bikes each day. In a study conducted recently, it has been shown that 60 percent of all accidents involving bicycle are single participant incidents that are caused by cyclist error or collision with animals or road obstacles. Almost all of them are preventable. There are certain precautions that you could take to prevent bicycle accidents from happening, and particular things to do if ever they occur.
First of all, you should be very attentive when riding your bike. Always watch the road ahead, actively identifying potential obstacles and creating plans to steer clear of them. If the situation calls for it, slow down. Even if you cannot avoid an accident completely, going at reduced speed will greatly decrease your risk of sustaining serious injuries. If you will ride at night or in low light conditions, be sure that your bike is equipped with clean reflectors. Installing a lamp would be even better because it will allow you to see potential dangers ahead.

Between sixty to 85 percent of serious injuries resulting from bicycle accidents are caused by negligent motorists. Although the cyclist cannot prevent such accidents by him or herself, there are still precautionary measures that you could take to reduce the severity of an injury. Foremost among them is wearing a helmet. Around 75 percent of bicycle accidents resulted to head injuries. Preventing it from happening to you will not take a lot of money since there are helmets approved for bicycle riding that can be bought for as low as twenty dollars.

When you are riding through the roads of Dallas, you should follow the same rules that are followed by motor vehicles, and other provisions that may be mandated by the local legal code. Perform hand signals when stopping or turning to allow motorists to know about your intention. Defensive driving is a constant reminder to drivers and you should observe it as well when riding a bicycle. Always be attentive and alert for escape route should your lane of travel be cut off all of a sudden.

No matter how good you are as a cyclist, you cannot avoid all accidents, especially those that are caused by negligent drivers. In case you find yourself actually involved in one, you should not forget certain things. As with car accidents, be careful in preserving your rights. Get hold of pertinent information while remaining calm and polite at all times. These should include the driver’s name, address, contact number, vehicle information and insurance information. In addition, you should also obtain the names and contact details of any available witness. If you have a camera, take pictures of the accident site including the damages on your bike and on the other vehicle. Call the Dallas police on the scene of the accident and insist on an accident report. Should you fail to contact the police department, make sure that you file a report with them within 72 hours.

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