Maryland Car Accident Lawyer Blog

You may have a dehumidifier in your house and you may be putting your family at a serious risk for a defective product injury in Maryland. During the warmer months and during rainy season, these products are a hot commodity in many homes in the Northeast. According to a recent release from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the LG Electronics Tianjin Appliance Co. has recalled its Goldstar or Comfort-Aire dehumidifiers. The company is recalling nearly 100,000 of these devices as they've been proven to pose serious burn and fire hazards to users. Accidents have already caused over $1 million in damages.

Washington D.C. defective products attorneys warn residents that autumn and winter are the most dangerous time of the year for fire hazards in the home. Such hazards are often caused by defective products, including space heaters, holiday lights, and children's toys and clothing.

In the case of the dehumidifier, the connector can potentially short circuit, causing burns or fires. Consumers can check the database of recalls at the Consumer Product Safety Commission -- hundreds of adult and child products are recalled each year by the federal government. All too often, consumers are provided with faulty products that can result in serious injury or death. As we head into the winter season, we urge everyone to keep an eye on safety information regarding space heaters and other indoor appliances.

The dehumidifiers were first put on the CPSC's recall list back in December of 2009. This recall was the result of more than 10 incidents, which included 4 serious fires. Since the first recall, the company has received sixteen accident reports regarding smoke, arcing and other fire-associated complaints with these particular dehumidifiers.

Home damage costs caused by the reports of the malfunctioning dehumidifiers:

-Gibsonia, Pa.: $500,000.

-New Brighton, Minn.: $200,000.

-Hudson, Mass.: $183,000.

-Valparaiso, Ind.: $192,000.

-Salem, Ohio: $139,000.

-Brielle, N.J.: $129,000.

-Philadelphia, Pa.: $ 95,000.

Only about two percent of those who have purchase the estimated 100,000 dehumidifiers have responded to the recall thus far. The company has offered free repairs to those who have purchased the unit.

If you own the Goldstar or Comfort-Aire dehumidifier, you are urged to stop using it, to unplug it and to call LG Electronics for the repair. (877-220-0479)

The dehumidifiers that are being recalled were sold at Walmart, Home Depot, Ace Hardware, Orgill Inc, Do It Best and a number of other large retailers throughout the country from January of 2007 to June of 2008. The items ranged from $140 to $150 each.

Every year, household electrical fires kill more than 300 and injure more than 1,000 people. A majority of these fires are caused by incorrectly installed wiring, defective products, extension cords and overloaded circuits.

To help keep your house safe from a fire:

-Check your electrical appliances and wiring often.

-Immediately replace any old, worn or damaged appliance cords.

-Keep these types of appliances away from wet counters and wet floors. Keep a close eye on these products in the kitchen and bathroom.

-Keep all loose materials, including curtains and clothes, at least 3 feet away from all space-heaters.

-Only use three-prong plugs in three-slot outlets. Do not try to force them into a two-slot plug.

-Keep all children away from electrical appliances.

-Consider child-proofing your outlets.

-If you see a spark or a flicker, immediately unplug and stop using the appliance.

-Never overuse extension cords or wall sockets.

Continue reading "Defective Product Injuries in Maryland, D.C., a Risk through Autumn, Winter" »

National Child Passenger Safety Week runs this week and aims to prevent the risks of child injury in Maryland which are too often associated with car accidents.

According to Johns Hopkins Center for Injury Research and Policy, about 90 percent of people who have car seats inspected at the center have the seat improperly installed. National statistics reveal that only about 70 percent of all child seats are properly installed.

For this reason, from September 18th to the 24th Maryland will be conducting a number of child car seat safety inspections.

"All it takes is following a few basic guidelines so parents and caregivers can determine which restraint system is best suited to protect their children in a vehicle." said the Coordinator of Safe Kids Lower Shore Maryland, Tammy Griffin.

Washington D.C. car accident attorneys urge all parents to take advantage of these safety inspections to make sure that seats are properly installed. Car accidents continue to be the leading cause of death for children ages 3- to 14-years-old. Without the proper supervision and protection from parents, these statistics will continue to stand true. As a matter of fact, there were more than 1,300 children under the age of 15 who were killed in traffic accidents in the U.S. in 2009. Another 179,000 were injured in these incidents. Many of these deaths and injuries could have been avoided if a parent were to have properly buckled their children in the car.

Experts calculate that nearly 250 children under the age of 5 were saved in 2008 because of proper car seat use. Experts have also calculated that car seats reduce the risk of death for infants by more than 70 percent and for toddlers by more than 50 percent.

According to Maryland's child passenger safety laws:

-All children who are under the age of 8, are shorter than 4'9" and weigh less than 65 pounds are required to be seated and properly fastened in an appropriate child restraint.

-Child restraints include car seats, booster seats and other federally approved safety devices.

-All children between the ages of 7 and 17 are required to wear a seat belt if they're not secured in a child restraint.

-These laws apply to all in- and out-of-state vehicles.

-Drivers are responsible for making sure that all child occupants are properly buckled in.

-Individuals under the age of 16 are prohibited from riding in an unenclosed bed of a pickup truck.

Although parents are urged to keep children in the backseat and away from an active airbag for as long as possible, Maryland has no law in place to regulate this. The only exception is that a child cannot sit in the front seat in front of an active air bag in a rear-facing car seat. This even applies to vehicles that have a control that allows a driver to turn off the airbags.

Continue reading "National Child Passenger Safety Week Aims to Prevent Child Injury in Maryland" »

As we recently reported on our Maryland Car Accident Lawyer Blog, drivers in Washington D.C. have been ranked the worst in the nation for the second year in a row. Drivers aren't only putting other motorists at risk, but increasing the likelihood of a bicycle or a pedestrian accident in Washington D.C. as well. While many drivers are quick to judge the skills of other drivers, motorists are neglecting to focus inward to correct their own driving poor driving habits.

Our Maryland car accident attorneys recently told you about our area's ranking in the Allstate's America's Best Drivers Report; Washington D.C came in last place for the second year in a row. We're not only seeing more frequent car accidents per resident than the rest of the nation, but we're witnessing more accidents that involve a pedestrian or a bicyclist as well.

"Everybody is rude and in a hurry," said John B. Townsend II, a spokesman for auto advocacy group AAA-Mid-Atlantic.

Pedestrians and bicyclists are oftentimes overlooked in traffic on our roadways. As a matter of fact, a 75-year-old Washington resident was recently hit and killed by a county bus in an intersection accident. After the collision, the elderly man was taken to the hospital and was pronounced dead just one day later, according to Addison Independent.

The problems that many bicyclists and on-foot travelers face are that the roadways weren't designed with the idea of their safety in mind. Many of our local roadways were constructed to accommodate fast-moving and congested traffic. Without proper recognition from these drivers, pedestrians will continue to be the victims of serious motor-vehicle accident.

The five most dangerous places to driver in the United States:

189. Providence, Rhode Island

190. Newark, New Jersey

191. Glendale, California

192. Baltimore, Maryland

193. Washington D.C.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were more than 30 deaths on District roadways, including nine pedestrian deaths in the last year for which statistics are available. Bicyclist and pedestrian deaths accounted for approximately 25 percent of all traffic fatalities that occurred from 2006 to 2010 in the District of Columbia, suburban Maryland and northern Virginia.

Bicyclists and pedestrians are urged to consider these safety tips to help prevent a serious accident on our roadways:

-Be as predictable as possible. Don't walk in areas where pedestrians aren't typically found. Always make eye contact with drivers before proceeding to cross a road.

-Never walk along highways or interstates. Walking on the shoulder in these areas is illegal.

-Don't dart out into the road from behind a parked car. Drivers may not be able to see you in time as their line of vision is obstructed in this scenario until you've stepped out onto the road.

-Don't jay walk.

-Remain visible. Make sure to wear bright and reflective clothing during the evening and early morning hours.

-Never travel on a bike or by foot along a busy roadway while intoxicated. Not only are you in danger of stumbling into the path of a motor vehicle, but you could potentially stumble, fall and injure yourself.

-When there's not a sidewalk to walk on, walk facing traffic. Bicyclists are urged to ride with the flow of traffic.

-Know your surroundings. Know where cars are and where cars are traveling around you at all times.

"This is why we do the study. It's not to chastise Washington drivers," said Debbie Pickford, spokeswoman for the Allstate Capital Region. "It's to raise awareness and say driving in this area requires a lot of caution and attention."

Continue reading "Bad Drivers a Common Cause of Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents in Washington D.C." »

Washington D.C.'s metropolitan area has been ranked dead last in Allstate's recent America's Best Drivers Report. We were ranked at the bottom of the list after researchers analyzed the number of car accidents in Washington D.C. Drivers are more likely to be involved in a car accident in our area than anywhere else in the nation.

Our Maryland car accident attorneys understand that there are outside factors, including road design and weather conditions, that contribute to the number of car accidents. But it is the skills of drivers, their abilities and their habits that contribute to a majority of the accidents we see on our roadways.

A number of our roadways have been constructed to reduce the risks of severe traffic accidents, but in turn have increased the probability of minor collisions. Take the modern roundabout for example. These intersections are circles that haven't been equipped with road lights. Yes, they help to keep traffic flowing smoothly (and slowly), but they have increased the number of minor accidents. When all is said and done, government officials defend the road designs by saying that lives and limbs are more valuable than bumpers.

One the other hand, some minor road modifications can greatly contribute to the number of serious accidents in a specific area. Take the shortening of yellow lights for example. Shorter yellow lights can lead to more red-light runners. Unfortunately, more red-light runners oftentimes can lead to more intersection accidents.

Some safe driving advocates are brainstorming on ways to help out our Washington D.C. drivers -- by aiming to give them a little boost in the skills department. Some suggest that local officials should enact a stricter licensing program to help stop poor drivers from getting a driver's license. The only problem is that officials can't figure out a way to do this that would be considered politically correct and wouldn't be on the receiving end of some serious protest.

Other advocates think that the solution lies within law enforcement. Some support the idea of more laws, more enforcement efforts and more traffic cameras. Traffic laws should help motorists to think twice before engaging in an act that has been deemed illegal -- same idea with the traffic cameras. A number of motorists protest the cameras though, calling them an extreme invasion of privacy.

Regardless of what may or may not be done to make our roadways safer, the key may be in our own hands. More aware, focused and cautious driving habits by all drivers may be the most beneficial way to help reduce the risks of fatal accidents on our roadways.

Washington D.C.'s most recent population estimate is more than 599,000. It is believed that drivers will get into a car accident every 5 years in the area. This is the second year in a row that Washington D.C. has been ranked dead last for having the worst drivers in the nation, according to the Allstate study.

Continue reading "D.C. Car Accidents Land Drivers Dead Last for Driving Skills" »

According to TripAdvisor, 30 percent of local residents plan on hitting the open road and venturing out for Labor Day vacation. There will also be a large number of tourists that will be visiting our area making this their Labor Day weekend vacation spot.

The increase in traffic increases everyone's chance for a Washington D.C. car accident.

Our Maryland car accident attorneys understand that all of these travelers may be left to deal with some of the damage from Hurricane Irene. But add in the drop in gas prices and the holiday weekend, and we're bound the see some busy roadways. AAA predicts that there will be more than 27 million Americans traveling more than 50 miles by vehicle this upcoming holiday weekend. The recent spike in airlines tickets will also be contributing to the increased number of four-wheeled travelers. Airfares are more than 10 percent higher than they were during this time last year. Even worse, airlines are adding more fees to their ticket prices.

The number of roadway travelers could increase even more if gas prices drop even lower because of lower crude-oil prices. AAA is forecasting the average traveling distance for vacationers to be slightly over 600 miles with an average cost of about $700.

Still, drivers over the Labor Day weekend will be trying to conserve fuel to save money, according to PEMCO Insurance.

The insurance company estimates that about 80 percent of travelers will be cautious of their driving techniques over the holiday weekend. A number of drivers say they will be cautious of how fast they accelerate and how hard they brake. Another 60 percent said that they will be checking their tire pressure periodically to make sure they're getting the maximum fuel mileage possible. Another 40 percent of drivers say that they're going to lighten the load by leaving the extra cargo at home. Regardless, drivers in unfamiliar places prove to be road hazards.

Many residents will even be staying local and enjoying some of the great Labor Day events in Washington D.C. over the holiday weekend.

Labor Day weekend isn't only a time for an increase in vacationer traffic, but it's also a time when we see more drunk drivers on our roadways. Many locals use this time for one more summertime bash. In 2009, there were nearly 600 deaths because of traffic accidents that involved an intoxicated driver over Labor Day.

You can help to save some lives on the roadways of Maryland. If you think you see an intoxicated driver, you're urged to call #77 to alert law enforcement.

Whether you're staying local or you're heading out of the area for the upcoming Labor Day weekend, you're asked to be on the lookout for dangerous drivers on roadways across the nation. As more people will be traveling on the roadway during the time, your risks for a car accident are greatly increased. Please enjoy your weekend, driving cautiously and return home safely.

Continue reading "More Drivers Expected to Venture out During Labor Day Weekend - Increasing Risks for Car Accidents in Washington D.C." »

More drivers hit the roadways during the month of August than any other month of the year. For this reason, motorists are most likely to die in a car accident in Washington D.C. during this month than during any other time of the year.

A number of statistics continue to conclude that both the nation and the region experience the highest number of car accidents during the 31 days of August. So far this month, approximately 10 people have died during August weekends, according to ABC 7.

"More people are on the roads in August and they travel greater distances, increasing their chances of being involved in a fatal crash," said AAA spokesman John Townsend II.

Maryland car accident attorneys understand that, since 1994, August has witnessed more fatal car accidents than any other month. During this month, many motorists typically venture out on vacations and travel to visit family members. An increase in the number of miles traveled always accompanies an increase in the risk of being involved in a car accident. We urge motorists to be cautious on our roadways and to remain alert behind the wheel to prevent a potentially fatal incident.

If you calculate the number of deaths that each month sees per 100 million miles traveled, August continues to be the most dangerous with an average death rate of about 1.09. The second most dangerous month is September with an average of 1.08 deaths per 100 million miles traveled. If you'd like to travel during a safer time, your best bet would be to travel in March as it has the lowest death rate with an average of 0.94 deaths per 100 million miles traveled, according to MSN Money.

August has been proven to be the deadliest month in Maryland since 1995.

This year we've seen the following fatal accidents in August:

-Two motorists were killed on the Capitol Beltway during a multiple-car accident that happened near Forestville. This accident happened during rush hour. Two others were injured in this incident.

-An accident between a dirt bike and a tractor-trailer left a teen dead. The accident happened on Northeast Washington and Florida Avenue.

-A head-on collision killed two women. This accident happened on Route 5 in St. Mary's County.

-An accident between a truck and a tractor-trailer in the northbound lanes near Fairfax County left the driver of the truck dead.

-A three-vehicle accident killed three people in an accident close to Fullerton Road and Backlick Road.

The cost of traffic accidents in the Washington metro area totals a little more than $5 billion every year.

Continue reading "Residents Most Likely to Die in a Maryland Car Accident during August" »

Drivers could potentially start paying taxes based on the number of miles they drive.

A number of insurance companies and state governments are toying with this idea, according to MSN Money. They see the idea as a good one as they believe that it could make up the difference in the tax money they're losing from the increasing popularity of hybrid cars, fuel-efficient cars and electric vehicles. At least that's the government's excuse -- insurance companies just want to make more money.

Since these vehicles consume less fuel, government officials are looking for more ways to collect taxes from you. These taxes are commonly used for road projects.

Many safe driving advocates see this as a horrible idea. Many drivers enjoy taking the scenic routes and enjoy avoiding areas congested with heavy traffic. Charging drivers with more taxes per mile will only throw more drivers into dangerous, congested, speedy routes, in turn increasing risks of a car accident in Washington D.C. for everyone.

Our Maryland car accident attorneys understand that drivers aren't the first travelers to be targeted with use taxes. Private aircraft owners are also feeling the wrath. A number of states currently require private pilots to pay an excise tax, a registration tax, a fuel tax, a property tax, a use tax and a sales tax. These taxes only discourage travelers, both of planes and of vehicles, from considering safety first. Many motor-vehicle drivers will now be forced to take the more direct route to their destination, which is oftentimes the most dangerous, just to save some money behind the wheel. A pilot tax based on the number of landings is also under consideration. Typically, politicians haven't taken into account all the ramifications. Pilots often practice landings. Discouraging that will likely increase the number of general aviation accidents in Maryland and elswhere. The same is true for a use-tax on drivers.

The United States isn't the only country exploring this tax idea. European countries are also throwing it around. Their idea would have GPS systems installed into vehicles that would track the per-mile fees. This technology has already been experimented with in the Netherlands. This area has some of the most dangerous and severe traffic problems on that continent. Their experiment was heading for a per-mile charge that was supposed to take effect in 2012, but the system was canned last year when the new government took office.

A number of motorists are against the technology saying that it is too invasive.

"It is an issue we will have to deal with," said Mary D. Nichols, chair of the California Air Resources Board.

Here in the United States, Oregon, Minnesota and Texas have also proposed similar laws. Oregon is considering a fee of about 0.85 cents per mile until 2015 and then another jump to $1.85 through 2018. According to the most recent statistics, the average vehicle in America runs on about 25 miles per gallon. Motorists are currently paying less than 2 cents for each traveled mile in fuel excise taxes.

Another concern of safe driving advocates is that motorists will be more focused on the climbing price on their dash meter, similar to that of a taxi, instead of being focused on traffic.

"The trials work well, but it's first a psychological issue and second a political choice," Eric-Mark Huitema, a specialist with IBM, which developed the system, told the newspaper.

Continue reading "States Toy with Idea of Taxing Drivers by the Mile- Increased Risk of Maryland Car Accidents Possible " »

A Maryland car accident left a 21-year-old woman dead and a bill from the state at her family's door. The accident happened back in May when the woman's car struck a guardrail as she was heading east on Route 32 where it crosses U.S. 29.

Shortly after the fatal car accident, the mother of the victim received a bill of more than $600 and a copy of the accident report in the mail, according to NBC Washington. The bill was sent from Governor Martin O'Malley, the Lieutenant Governor and Transportation Secretary Beverly Swaim-Staley.

Our Washington D.C. car accident attorneys understand that the loss of a loved one is a tough time for any family member, but to be billed for it is uncalled for. When car accidents involve government property or government workers, residents should contact an experienced attorney to help you to fight for your rights. Oftentimes resident are at an unfair advantage as the government is able to team up with the court system to produce a favorable verdict.

The highway administrator later apologized for the bill that the victim's mother had received. He also said that she was not responsible for paying the bill. The family later received a personalized phone call from Darrell B. Mobley, the acting head of the highway administration, who apologized to the family for the letter after learning about the incident and the death of their loved one.

The State Highway Administration says that it is normal for those involved in an accident that damages state property to receive a bill, but this does not happen when the driver is killed.

In 2008, there were nearly 6 million car accidents in the United States. Roughly 1,630,000 of these accidents resulted in injury, more than 4,000,000 of them resulting in property damage only and another 34,000 result in death.

In Maryland, there are more than 100,000 car accidents in year. These accidents resulted in nearly 400 deaths in 2008. More than 60 percent of these deaths occurred to the occupants of passenger vehicles. Nearly 15 percent occurred to those in SUVs, another 11 percent to those in pickup trucks and nearly 10 percent to those in vans.

Maryland's dangerous counties with the most traffic fatalities in 2007, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

-Prince Georges: 125 traffic accident-related deaths.

-Baltimore County: 72

-Anne Arundel County: 48

-Montgomery County: 48

-Baltimore City: 48

Our car accident attorneys have the experience to sort through all of the complicated issues that can possibly hinder your claims. We're also able to fight back against the insurance companies and government organizations that may neglect to provide you with the compensation you deserve. This is especially important in an accident that involves government property or government employees.

Continue reading "Family Receives Bill from State after Daughter's Fatal Car Accident in Maryland" »

When it comes to the more than 600 pedestrian accidents in D.C. each year, one thing is certain: Our aging population faces the highest risk. While many consider D.C. to be a relatively young city, older residents and children continue to face outsized risks when it comes to being involved in a serious or fatal pedestrian accidents.

D.C. personal injury lawyers note a recent study by Transportation for America, which found the number of serious and fatal pedestrian accidents is expected to skyrocket with the aging of the Baby Boomers, particularly in areas that do not have adequate public transportation options. "Aging in Place, Stuck Without Options" found that more than 15.5 million retired Americans will lack adequate public transportation options.

• "Washington, DC will be a city where any trip can be taken on foot safely and comfortably, and where roadways equally serve pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users and motorists."

Or at least that's the dream, according to the District Pedestrian Master Plan 2009.

Still, the District Department of Transportation reports there are about 650 pedestrian accidents each year -- about 15 of which are fatal.

The District made neither the list of the worst metro areas -- Atlanta, Riverside-San Bernardino, Houston, Detroit and Dallas -- nor the best cities -- Kansas City, Oklahoma City, Fort Worth, Nashville and Raleigh-Durham.

Unlike many cities, the District of Columbia was at least built with walking in mind -- the initial design of Pierre L'Enfant remains largely intact over 200 years later.

D.C. Authorities advise walkers to:

-Cross the street at a crosswalk or intersections.

-Wait for the "Walk" sign.

-Yield to motorists when crossing mid block.

-Make eye contact with a motorist before crossing.

-Don't walk in the street in areas where crosswalks are provided.

Continue reading "D.C. Pedestrian Accidents a Risk for Older Walkers" »

Seventy percent of fatal Beltway car accidents in D.C. occur on the stretch running through Prince George's County.

D.C. car accident lawyers understand speed and congestion both play a role in serious or fatal car accidents. As we reported on our Maryland Car Accident Lawyer Blog, freeway accidents often result in serious or fatal injuries.

But it's still an alarming statistic considering that stretch of I-495 makes up less than one-third of the Capital Beltway. Statistics from 2006 to 2008 show that 42 people lost their lives on that stretch of road, which runs from the Virginia border to the interchange where I-95 splits off to Baltimore. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports 18 lives were lost on the rest of the Beltway during the same time period.

Authorities are uncertain of the reasons for the outsized dangers, though long-term construction projects likely play a role, as does the fact that so many motorists who are passing through and who are unfamiliar with the area are tossed into the insanity of D.C. traffic along that stretch of road.

Still, that area of the Beltway carries as many as 30,000 fewer cars a day than some areas of the Beltway in Montgomery County, where just six people were killed during the three-year study period.

Slower speeds along more congested areas of the Beltway could also lead to less serious accidents -- in other words, all that bumper-to-bumper traffic could be saving lives. While the speed limit on the Beltway is 55 mph, motorists along the Prince George's stretch report 70mph and faster is commonplace.

Speeding, alcohol, or both, were a factor in about one-third of Beltway deaths -- or 20 cases. D.C. motorcycle accidents accounted for seven fatalities. Twelve deaths involved collisions with large trucks.

Twelve other deaths were caused by D.C. pedestrian accidents that resulted as a motorist was tending to a disabled vehicle.

The Washington Post reports that Maryland State Police renewed enforcement efforts along that stretch of road this month, conducting a recent blitz that stopped 195 vehicles and issued 91 traffic citations, ranging from speed and seat belt violations to charges of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Continue reading "Prince George's Beltway Drivers at High risk of D.C. Car Accident" »

As the sun shines down on the city, more and more bicyclists head outdoors to enjoy the season and to get in some exercise. Our new bike-sharing program, Capital Bikeshare, was designed to accommodate resident's travel in our area and has had some conflicting reviews.

During commuting rush hours, when bike racks overflow with chained bikes, it's nearly impossible to find a spot to park your ride. With fewer places to park and more cyclists on the roads, bicyclists face an increased risk of a Washington D.C. bicycle accident.

A number of Capital Bikeshare members already feel the negative effects of the program as they have to park their bikes much farther from their designated stations because of full lots, making their trips even longer. One pleasantly unexpected side effect is emerging from this chaotic cluster of bicycles, however -- a culture of urban chivalry. Bicyclists are now going out of their way to look out for one another and synchronizing spot handoffs, according to The Washington Times.

If you don't already know, Capital Bikeshare, is a program that provides 1,100 bicycles to residents and visitors of the area. There are more than 110 stations across Washington, D.C. and Arlington, VA. Our D.C. bicycle accident attorneys understand how convenient this program can be as you can borrow a bike and return it to any station near your destination. The problem is that stations near popular destinations are full as the program has experienced overwhelming popularity.

The company has expanded from 6,000 annual members to more than 15,000 members. The increase in members means more and more bikes traveling throughout the city. Many members are not veteran riders and may not be familiar with the rules of the road.

Here are some Washington D.C. bicycle laws to help you navigate safely through the city:

• No one shall stand or park in a bike lane.
• No one is to open the door of a vehicle on the side where traffic is approaching unless it can be done without interfering with moving traffic or pedestrians and bicyclists. The person in the car is always at fault in these dooring accidents.
• Each bicycle shall be equipped with a brake.
• It is legal to talk on a cell phone while riding a bicycle.
• Cyclists must yield right-of-way to pedestrians at intersections.
• At signalized crosswalks, drivers must yield the right-of-way.
• Bicyclists are allowed to ride on the sidewalk as long as they are outside the central business district.
• Bicyclist riding in the center of a narrow travel lane can be stopped by police for impeding traffic.
• During nighttime riding, a bicycle is required to be equipped with a lamp on the front and a red reflector on the rear
• There are no regulations in D.C. which state that bicyclists must use a bike lane when one is provided.
• Bicycles are required to be equipped with a bell or other device capable of giving a signal audible for a distance of at least one hundred feet.

Continue reading "Popularity Of BikeShare Increases Risk of Bicycle Accidents in Washington D.C. " »

Five people were killed in just 24 hours after a number of freeway car accidents in Washington D.C. -- including a massive accident on the Capital Beltway.

Earlier this week, police started their investigation into an accident on Florida Avenue and Eckington Place that happened when a motorcyclist collided with a tractor-trailer. At about the same time this accident happened, two cars on the Outer Loop of the Beltway in Prince George's County collided. This accident caused a deadly series of events, according to The Examiner.

Our hearts go out to the families of the motorists that were killed in these accidents. Maryland car accident attorneys understand how dangerous our freeways can be and the increased risks motorists face of being involved in a serious accident.

Early Monday morning, a motorcyclist was killed in an accident with a pickup truck. Later that afternoon, a driver was ejected from his vehicle and killed in Anne Arundel County.

According to recent traffic safety research, a majority of fatal traffic accidents occur on rural roads. But it's no secret that freeway driving is among the most dangerous parts of our day. What's interesting about this report, provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is that it has yet to be determined if these accidents involve people who live in rural areas or residents of urban areas traveling on rural roads.

It is estimated that only 55 percent of all fatal accidents happen on rural roads each year -- 45 percent happen on urban roadways.

A majority of all fatal accidents happen on two-lane, two-way highways. Higher speeds, like the speeds seen on freeways. are also a contributing factor.

Motorist tips for safe driving on freeways:

• When entering an interstate, you should accelerate your speed while on the on-ramp to match other vehicles.
• When there is a yield sign on the entry ramp, an entering vehicle must yield to traffic already on the freeway.
• Don't rely solely on your mirrors.
• Look ahead. Looking further ahead will allow you to be able to read the road and traffic better.
• Always keep tabs of the cars around you and even behind you.
• Plan ahead. Know ahead of time what exit you'll need to get off at.
• Always maintain a steady and safe speed is on highways.
• Stay in the farthest right lane unless you have to pass a slower motorist.

Continue reading "Washington D.C. Freeway Accidents Claim Lives" »

A newcrash study, sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration, was the focus of a recent two-day symposium that was held in Washington, D.C. The new study will be recording the driving behavior of more than 3,000 drivers in an attempt to get an up close and personal look into the actions and reactions of drivers involved in car accidents in Maryland and elsewhere in the United States. Researchers are going to be using this information to develop systems that can help prevent car accidents, according to Forbes.

"Collision prevention is the central goal of the study" said Ken Campbell, chief program officer overseeing safety for the Strategic Highway Research Program, which is part of the non-profit Transportation Research Board. "And the driver is the key to prevent collision."

Our Washington D.C. car accident attorneys understand that these studies may be able to produce the next generation of passenger protection. While previous crash studies and safety measures included countermeasures meant to protect vehicle occupants after collisions, like seatbelts, airbags, and crash-worthy vehicles, this study focuses on accident avoidance.

"This study is long overdue and has the potential for providing the most comprehensive look at why highway crashes occur," said Peter Kissinger, president and chief executive of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, a nonprofit research and educational organization that provided technical advice for the study. "It is unprecedented in its scope and approach. It will be a wonderful supplement to other ongoing and planned traffic safety research efforts. My only disappointment is that the transportation research community didn't initiate the study several years ago."

This Naturalistic Driving Study, is the world's largest field study in which driving behavior will be monitored using in-car equipment. The equipment is constructed to record how drivers interact with traffic conditions and roadway design. During the two-year study, driver's actions will be recorded by four video cameras. The cameras will record forward and rearviews and the driver's face and hands. Roadway data, including lane width and curve radius, will also be recorded. Lastly, researchers will be examining environmental variables, including traffic, lighting, and weather conditions.

All of this data will be collected in a storage box that's about the size of a text book in the vehicle's glove compartment. Researchers will retrieve the information every four to six months.

"You can't just look at collisions or near collisions to know what risk factors are. It's that comparison with what the driver is doing when there is not a safety-related event that tells you what the risk factors are," said Dr. Campbell.

The study is looking to recruit drivers in Buffalo, Seattle, Tampa Bay, Durham, central Pennsylvania and Bloomington, Ind. Each participating driver will be given $500 for each year they participate. To participate, you must have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance and an approved vehicle.

"We are particularly interested in people under 25 and over 65" Dr. Campbell said. Both groups represent a small percentage of all drivers and have high collision rates.

All of the data that is collected from the participant's vehicles will be analyzed and then used to construct a number of safety improvements in road design, cars and driver training programs. The study will be focusing first on car accidents at intersections and accidents where the driver runs off the road.

Continue reading "Researchers Meet in Washington D.C. to Discuss Car Accident Prevention Study" »

As we recently reported on our Maryland Car Accident Lawyer Blog, summer is the deadliest time of the year for young drivers. It is during these months that we lose more teens on our roadways than any other time of year. We've asked before for parents to get involved in their teen's driving education, but now we're taking it one step farther. Getting involved in selection of your teen's first car can also help to keep them safe in the event of an accident.

"Having a car is not a birthright," says Gail Cunningham, spokesperson for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, who raised four children. "Today's teens seem to think that they should have a car waiting for them in the driveway when they return home from the Motor Vehicle Department with their driver's license. If that's right for your family, fine. But don't be held hostage to peer pressure, and by that I mean from other families who are buying their teen a car."

Our Washington D.C. car accident attorneys understand that parents want to provide for their children as best as possible. For those who choose to purchase their teen's first car, there are some important things to think about -- Do you buy used or new? What type of vehicle is best? Where do I look first? Don't worry. We're here to help.

"Buying a new car is insurance against breakdowns and repairs, regardless of the age or experience of the driver," says Bob Gritzinger, executive editor of AutoWeek.com.

Unfortunately, not all of us are able to afford a new car. That's okay, because you're almost always better off buying a used car anyway. With a certified pre-owned vehicle you'll still be able to get the perks of a new-car like warranty. Late-model used cars will have come equipped with airbags, anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control. With a used car, your teen will less likely be overwhelmed with new-car power and performance.

"I see these young, inexperienced drivers in Mustangs, BMWs, and large SUVs. These automobiles are big, powerful and difficult to control for even experienced drivers. In the hands of a new driver, they can be deadly weapons," says LeeAnn Shattuck, co-owner and chief car chick with Women's Automotive Solutions.

Once you've figured out if you're going to go new or used, it's time to figure out which type of vehicle will best suit your teen and your budget. It is important for you and your family to look over safety and crash-test information. This information can be found on the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration websites. You can also check quality and reliability on the J.D. Power and Associates website.

You should also be hesitant to get them a small car. Smaller vehicles can be problematic as they're less likely to effectively protect them in the event of an accident.

"Your teen is safest in a mid-sized sedan with a four cylinder engine, airbags and a good crash test rating," says Shattuck.

Picking out your teen's first car is no easy task. It's a decision that should take plenty of time and research. Remember, teens are four times more likely to die in a car accident than an adult, according to OpenPR. Equip them with a vehicle that's going to effectively protect them.

"A first time driver doesn't need a new car, but of course they want one," says Lori Mackey, president of Prosperity4Kids. "The depreciation, probability of fender benders and the price tag [means new] is not the most logical way to go."

Continue reading "Choosing a Realistic and Dependable Car for your Teen Driver Can Save Their Life in a Maryland Car Accident" »

A number of vehicle and highway safety advocates and authorities recently met at the nation's capital to kick off the 22nd annual International Technical Conference on the Enhanced Safety of Vehicles.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said this yearly meeting has contributed to the decrease in the number of fatal car accidents in Washington D.C. and elsewhere in the United States. In fact, he says that the fatality rate resulting from car accidents is down to its lowest level since the 1950s, according to Insurance Corner.

Our Maryland car accident attorneys understand that a number of factors have contributed to fewer fatal crashes. Cars are getting safer and coming equipped with more and more safety features, like air bags, stability control, crumple zones, better construction techniques and better tire technology. More strict law enforcement has also helped to lower these rates as well. The "Click It or Ticket" campaign has contributed to increased seat belt usage rates and officers nationwide are cracking down even harder on drunk drivers. Still, improving motorist's driving habits may be one of the best tools against potentially fatal traffic accidents.

"The dedication of auto safety experts around the world is one of the many reasons we've seen an impressive drop in highway deaths in recent years," said LaHood. "Here in the United States, the advances we've witnessed in vehicle safety technology complement our efforts to combat distracted driving, curb drunk driving, maximize seat belt use and improve roadway designs."

The recent conference took place over a four-day period and demonstrated the latest technologies that are used to reduce the risk of traffic-related deaths. These new features have not only helped to protect vehicle occupants in the event of an accident, but they've also helped to lower auto insurance premiums. With these features, vehicles are able to absorb more damage without injuring occupants.

"This is exciting news, but there are still far too many people dying in traffic accidents," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "Drivers need to keep their hands on the steering wheel and their focus on the road in order to stay safe."

There's one more factor to be considered in these statistics. The death rate may have fallen so low in 2009 because Americans drove a lot less during that year. Experts believe that travel decreased because of the struggling economy, meaning that as our economy recovers and Americans start driving more, the death rate will probably begin to rebound.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were roughly 34,000 traffic accident fatalities in 2009. This number illustrated an 8.9 percent decrease from the number of deaths reported in 2008.

"This continuing decline in highway deaths is encouraging, but our work is far from over," said National Highway Traffic Safety Administrator David Strickland. "We want to see those numbers drop further. We will not stop as long as there are still lives lost on our nation's highways. We must continue our efforts to ensure seat belts are always used and stay focused on reducing distracted and impaired driving."

Continue reading "International Technical Conference Meets to Discuss Car Accidents in Maryland and Elsewhere" »