North Carolina Personal Injury Lawyers Blog

The 2010 statistics are in for traffic citations and car accidents in North Carolina. In a few instances our numbers decrease from the previous year, but in many other cases we saw a significant increase illustrating the need for safer driving practices in 2012.

Our Asheville car accident lawyers ask that all motorists take a look at the following information and use it as a motivation to drive safer on our roadways in the New Year. Every year, there are far too many people killed on North Carolina roadways. Many of these accidents are preventable with cautious and disciplined driving habits.

In 2010, there were nearly 14,600 child restraint violations handed out in the state. While this is a decrease from 2009, it's still greater than both 2007 and 2008 totals. With nearly 15,000 people cited for failing to properly buckle a child in, it's apparent that too many children are in danger on our roadways.

The problem is much worse among adult vehicle occupants. In 2010, officers wrote more than 129,300 seat belt violations. The number of seat belt violations has decreased every year since 2007. Still, there are far too many people riding around without a seat belt buckled. Seat belts have been proven to save lives in the event of traffic accidents. Do your part to stay safe on our roadways and buckle up!

The number of arrests for drivers who were under the influence of alcohol has increased every year since 2008, according to the North Carolina Department of Crime Control & Public Safety. In 2010, there were nearly 26,400 arrested in North Carolina for driving under the influence. Impaired driving is completely inexcusable and causes fatal accidents that are 100 percent preventable. Do you part in 2012 to make our roadways safer and pledge to stay sober at the wheel.

Speeding is another category of traffic citations that has seen an increase every year since 2008. There were more than 413,200 speeding tickets handed out to drivers in North Carolina in 2010. Speed increases the risk of death in an accident. Speed limits are posted to keep you safe - they are limits not suggestions.

Some drivers were even let off without being cited for any of the violations above. In 2010, there were more than 203,000 warnings issued in the state, which serves as a decrease from 2009 statistics.

In 2010, there were more than 102,440 car accidents reported. This is a significant increase from the 98,800 that were reported in 2009. Traffic accidents killed nearly 1,000 people in 2010. There were about 10 fewer fatalities in 2009. In addition to these fatalities, another 48,500 people were injured in North Carolina car accidents. Even with all of these citations issued throughout the year, too many people ignored enforcement efforts, endangered innocent motorists and caused traffic accidents on our state's roadway.

Continue reading "North Carolina Car Accident Statistics: 2010 Not Appealing" »

Every year, close to 5 million people suffer from dog-bite injuries in Charlotte and elsewhere. Man's best friend can strike at any minute, but there are ways to reduce your risks for these types of injuries.

Our North Carolina dog bite attorneys understand that many families added a new member over the holidays -- a dog. We would like to use this time to educate owners about the risks involved with dogs and offer you some tips to keep you and you children safe around them. Many dog bites are caused by a close friend's pet or the pet of a neighbor or of a family member. If you or someone in your family has been bitten by a dog, it's important for you to contact an experienced attorney, especially when the injuries involve young children. Legal assistance can help you to file a claim in as amicable a manner as possible. Legal representation is important in the event that medical complications or emotional issues arise following a serious dog bite.

Of the people bitten by a dog every year, nearly 100,000 seek medical attention, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Half of these victims are children. Nearly 390,000 get their assistance from an emergency room. More than 15 die every year.

The injury rate for dog bites is highest among children who are 5- to 9-years-old. Most of these bite injuries occur to the neck or head area of the body for these young victims. Boys have a higher rate for these types of accidents than girls.

As many families got a new pup for Christmas, there are things to consider now for the safety of you and your family.

When getting a new dog:

-Be on the lookout for signs that your child may be scared of the dog. Talk with them about the role of a dog in the family.

-Be sure to spend adequate time with your dog to help it get acquainted with its new family and its new surroundings.

-Spay or neuter to help reduce its aggressive tendencies.

-Never allow your young child to play with the dog alone.

-Never play aggressively with your new dog. Teach it to play nicely.

-Teach the dog submissive behaviors, like sitting, rolling over and dropping food without growling.

What's most important is that your child knows how to act around dogs and that your dog is acclimated to playing with children. Devastating bite accidents can occur if this isn't done. Discuss the responsibilities and requirements of having a dog in the house with your kids.

Continue reading "Train Puppies from Santa to Help Reduce Risks of Dog Bite Injuries in Charlotte" »

While the Carolinas are safely out of the Snow Belt, that doesn't mean wet, slippery and icy roads are not a danger. In fact, car accidents in Greensboro and elsewhere in the Carolinas can be attributed to winter weather and/or the lack of proper preparation and planning on the part of motorists.

Our Greensboro car accident attorneys understand the role complacency plays. A dusting of snow can be more dangerous than a blizzard in a locale where winter driving is part of the daily winter grind.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a winter travel safety advisory.

"It's important that drivers properly maintain their vehicles and always drive responsibly - never texting behind the wheel or driving drunk and always wearing a seat belt," said Administrator David Strickland.

Proper preparation for winter travel requires that you have your vehicle serviced -- now.

Check your Battery: Cold weather reduces battery power. And it takes more power to start a cold engine. Electric vehicles have reduced range. Your battery should be checked to ensure proper voltage. And your mechanic should make sure the alternator, belts and charging-system components are in good repair and are functioning properly.

Cooling System: Freezing liquid expands. Not having the proper mixture (i.e. too much water and not enough antifreeze) can cause freezing and may damage your engine block or radiator. Your coolant must also be rated with withstand the rigors of winter weather and should be mixed 50/50 with water. Specific recommendations can be found in your owner's manual. The system should also be flushed and serviced periodically.

Inspect your Tires: Make sure your tires are in good repair and properly inflated. Keep a tire gauge in your vehicle and check cold tire pressure regularly.

Windshield Wiper Reservoir: Fill your reservoir and keep it filled with no-freeze fluid.

Wipers and Defrosters: Check to ensure your wipers and defrosters are in good repair.

You should also allow plenty of time to reach your destination, travel with a fully-charged cell phone and keep and emergency travel kit in your car. Poor tires and poor visibility can greatly increase your risk for an accident. And, as our Carolina personal injury lawyers have reported, being stranded greatly increases your risk for an accident. Secondary accidents are often causes by stranded motorists or by those slowing down, gawking or attempting to get around a stranded vehicle. Exposure, carbon monoxide poisoning and other risks are also common when a motorist is stranded in winter weather.

Check back often for more winter travel-safety tips and tips and other important safety topics. Safety is not an accident. Most often, it is planned. Resolve to do more to keep you and your family safe this holiday season.

Continue reading "Vehicle Maintenance Critical to Preventing Greensboro Car Accidents this Winter" »

When we think of traffic accidents, most of us think of car accidents. But Carolina bicycle accidents and pedestrian accident in Charlotte and elsewhere are a real threat. These accidents often lead to very serious injuries and account for a substantial portion of fatal traffic accidents each year.

Our Charlotte personal injury lawyers encourage you to make traffic safety a dinner-table conversation as we enter 2012 and to resolve to become a better driver. In most cases, the law gives the right-of-way to bicyclists and pedestrians; consequently, motorists are most often found at fault in these accidents.

Twenty-seven cyclists were killed in accidents in North and South Carolina in 2009, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. North Carolina pedestrian accident claimed 146 lives that year while South Carolina pedestrian accidents killed 89.

And, while there has been a nationwide reduction in the overall number of traffic fatalities, reducing bicycle and pedestrian accidents has been an ongoing struggle. The U.S. Department of Transportation reported in late December that 32,885 motorists died on the nation's roads in 2010 -- the lowest number since 1949.

However, the number of pedestrians killed actually increased, from 4,109 to 4,280. And another 618 were killed in bicycle accidents. More than 120,000 bicyclists and pedestrians suffered serious injury.

When it comes to pedestrian accidents, kids and older adults are most at risk. The trend in bicycle accidents however, has been a significant increase in the number of middle-aged men who are killed. With the rising popularity of cycling for recreation and fitness, the average age of males who are killed or injured in a bicycle accident has risen to the 30s and 40s.

Highlighting the need for kids to wear bicycle helmets, the North Carolina Department of Transportation reports the Raleigh Boys and Girls Club passed out more than 50 bicycle helmets at a recent event. The helmet initiative has passed out thousands of helmets to children and is funded through the "Share our Road" specialty license plate. Twenty dollars from each sale goes to the initiative.

North Carolina law requires children under the age of 16 to wear a helmet. Statistics show that a rider wearing a helmet is 85 percent less likely to be seriously injured.

Guidelines for requesting helmets:

-Must be a government agency.

-Maximum of 24 helmets per year may be requested.

-Helmets are for distribution to underprivileged children.

-Helmets are not for personal use and may not be sold.

When it comes to preventing bicycle and pedestrian accidents in the Carolina, much is in the hands of motorists. Failure to yield is a leading cause, particularly when a vehicle is turning at an intersection or exiting a private drive. Do your part in 2012. Share the Road. And help reduce the risks for the most vulnerable travelers among us.

Continue reading "Resolve to Reduce Carolina Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents in 2012" »

Car accidents are the leading cause of death for those ages 3 to 34, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

If our Charlotte car accident lawyers could encourage you to do one thing in 2012, it would be to avoid distraction and drive. Put down the cell phone. Don't text message. Leave the radio and GPS devices alone. And focus on the road ahead. Distracted driving has become an epidemic in this country.

In 2009, the number of motorists killed in accidents blamed on drive distraction topped 5,000. In 2010, that number was 3,092. The drop has nothing to do with a decrease in risk and everything to do with the challenge of reporting something as subjective as driver distraction across all 50 states. What we know is cell phones, and particularly the advent of smartphones, have increased the risk exponentially. And car manufacturers continue to add GPS navigation and other onboard electronics, which further serve to exacerbate the risk.

"Even as we celebrate the incredible gains we're making in reducing traffic fatalities, we recognize our responsibility to improve our understanding of the dangers that continue to threaten drivers and passengers," said NHTSA Administrator David Strickland.

"Incredible gains" is a relative term. Somewhere in the United States, someone dies in a car accident every 15 minutes. There is much work to be done.

And the effort must start with you.

Some Charlotte traffic accidents are unavoidable. But far too many could be avoided if drivers paid attention to the road, avoided speeding, aggressive driving and other dangerous driving habits, and refused to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.

Beyond the 3-34 age group, for which traffic accidents are the leading cause of death, the fault of motor vehicle accidents is no less sobering:

-Under 3: Third-leading cause of death behind birth defects and drowning.

-Ages 35 to 44: Fifth-leading cause of death behind cancer, heart disease, poisoning and suicide.

-45 to 64: Eighth-leading cause of death, behind cancer, heart disease, diabetes, stroke, respiratory disease, liver disease and suicide.

When it comes to distraction, no age group is more at risk than teen drivers. A generation that has grown up with text messaging and Facebook seemingly cannot stand to be out of contact for even a moment. Combine this with the fact that this age group is the least experienced, even as it is the most prone to overestimating driving abilities, and the end result is a sure recipe for disaster.

Talk to your teens about the dangers of distractions behind the wheel. And that includes riding with too many passengers in the vehicle. Talk to them tonight. Talk to them tomorrow. And talk to them often throughout their high school and college years. Many of the driving habits we learn when we are young stay with us into adulthood. Help your child by establishing what is and what is not acceptable behavior behind the wheel.

Continue reading "Less Distraction Reducing Risk of Carolina Car Accidents in 2012 " »

Our Asheville personal injury lawyers know that the holidays are a dangerous time of year for motorists because roadways become more congested with vehicles, distracted drivers and drivers under the influence. But they are equally as dangerous for pedestrians who are traveling by foot. People getting around by foot need to pay close attention to speeding or distracted motorists in order to avoid a pedestrian accident in Charlotte, Greensboro or elsewhere in the state.

Several recent pedestrian accidents keep us mindful of just how dangerous roadways can be this time of year. GlenEllynPatch.com reports of one pedestrian who was struck and killed by a car at an intersection in Wheaton. During early morning hours, a pedestrian was walking along Knollwood Drive when a vehicle driving along Geneva Road hit him as he was crossing an intersection. The accident is still under investigation but police officials reported that the pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene.

The-Dispatch.com reports of a separate incident that left two pedestrians dead after a car struck them and left the scene of the accident. The two pedestrians were allegedly having an argument when they got out of their vehicle on U.S. Highway 52. A motorist struck the couple and kept on driving while a second and third vehicle ran them over after they lay in the middle of the road. The second driver stopped and reported the accident. The two pedestrians were not able to be saved after having contact with three separate vehicles involved in the accident.

The Highway Safety Research Center reports that there are approximately 2,200 pedestrians struck by vehicles in police-reported crashes every year. Of these, roughly 150 to 200 are killed and another 500 are seriously injured from the collision. In a study looking at data from 2005-2009, researchers found that pedestrians failing to yield were the top cause of pedestrian crashes during this period, reporting a total of 1,756. The next leading cause or crash type were parking lot or off-roadway accidents which killed 1,091 North Carolina pedestrians from 2005-2009.

As pedestrians head out to do some last minute shopping or walk around town to see storefront holiday displays or parades, be mindful of the following safety reminders to avoid a pedestrian accident this holiday season:

-Nighttime falls sooner this time of year so keep a flash light handy to help avoid a trip and fall accident.

-Look both ways before you cross the street. Always use a crosswalk rather than dashing out into the street at mid-block.

-Don't become overloaded with too many shopping bags or gift items. Carrying excessive bags or cargo can deter you from seeing clearly or making it across the street safely if something falls from your arms.

-Try to shop with friends rather than walking to stores alone, especially in dark parking lots or isolated side streets.

-Join in the spirit of the holiday season by dressing in bright and easy to see clothing.

-Avoid walking on sidewalks or walkways that are icy or snow covered.

Pedestrians should use extra caution around motorists or other roadways users to avoid a collision that can lead to a serious injury during the holidays. Staying alert can help pedestrians to enjoy the season and spend the holidays with family and friends safely.

Continue reading "Pedestrian Safety Around the Holidays Can Reduce the Risk of Accidents in Charlotte, Elsewhere" »

Gastonia personal injury lawyers know that effective graduated driver's license (GDL) programs are gaining acceptance nationwide because it makes sense that the more experience a young driver can gain before being left alone to drive the safer they will be in making quick decisions or gaining confidence to handle difficult driving situations.

According to a recent article in USA Today, 2,000 lives could be saved throughout the country annually if each state were to adopt a comprehensive GDL program for young drivers which phases in driving privileges as they gain knowledge and experience. Some states already participate in strong GDL programs but others leave much to be desired when it comes to training young drivers.

We posted previously on our North Carolina Personal Injury Lawyers Blog that two former standouts from the U.S. Department of Transportation are pushing for federal legislation to pass the Safe Teen and Novice Driver Uniform Protection Act. Requiring states to strengthen and stand united on GDL programs can help minimize the number of teen car accidents in Hickory, Charlotte and nationwide.

USA Today reports that teen drivers between the ages of 16 to 19 are four times more likely to crash per mile driven than older adults according to data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Congress is preparing to make a decision about a multi-year highway and transit spending bill in the weeks to come. GDL program and teen safety advocates are pushing Congress to incorporate into the bill to include $25 million a year in incentives for states to take an initiative and build a stronger GDL program for teens training to get their license.

Every state has some sort of GDL program in place that will reward teens for meeting certain requirements as they learn to drive and gain maturity behind the wheel. Only New York and Delaware contain all seven key elements that are considered to make a program effective. The seven key elements of a comprehensive GDL program include:

-Turning 16 before a learner's permit is obtained.

-Gaining 6 months of driving experience before being permitted to drive unsupervised.

-During the learner's stage, teens must have a minimum of 30 hours of supervised driving.

-Enter the intermediate licensing phase at a minimum age of 16 years and 6 months.

-No driving is permitted after 10:00 p.m. in the intermediate licensing phase.

-Non-family member passengers are limited to no more than one during the intermediate phase.

-Must be age 17 to obtain a full license.

According to the report, an estimated 83 lives could be saved each year in North Carolina if a stronger GDL program were to be implemented. In South Carolina, 65 lives could be saved annually.

As parents, there are so many fears associated with your child starting the learning to drive process but the best thing you can do for your teen is to spend numerous hours supervising them to be safe drivers and always exhibiting safe driving practices when they ride in the vehicle with you.

Continue reading "Effective GDL Programs Help Teens Gain Experience and Reduce Teen Car Accidents in Hickory, Nationwide" »

Keeping track of distraction-related car accidents in Greensboro, Charlotte and elsewhere has become important in determining the cause of an accident. The government is pushing local and state law enforcement agencies to ask questions and retrieve phone or texting records of the driver following an accident to help determine the relevance of a distracting behavior, specifically cell phones, in causing an accident.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recently released a new traffic safety sheet with relation to driver electronic device use for 2010. Distraction-related accidents continue to rise as more and more drivers become tempted to multi-task with electronic devices while they operate a vehicle.

Charlotte injury lawyers know that as tempting as it may be to text while you drive, research is showing the behavior is proving to be more and more dangerous for drivers.

The National Center for Statistics conducts a survey every year related to how often drivers engage in using electronic devices behind the wheel. After reviewing the data provided in the National Occupant Protection Use Survey (NOPUS), researchers from the NHTSA found that there was a significant increase in accidents from 2009 to 2010 caused by drivers who were texting at the time of the accident. The number of accidents caused by talking on a cell phone remained about the same from 2009 to 2010. Reported data shows that roughly 3,100 people died in distracted driving accidents nationwide in 2010.

According to the NOPUS survey, 5 percent, or 650,000 drivers were witnessed using a cell phone from 2009 to 2010. Female drivers were more likely to use a hand-held cell phone than male drivers. The survey also indicated that drivers between the ages of 16 to 24 years-old are the most apt to engage in electronic device use behind the wheel. It is probably no surprise that the survey found the over-70 age group to be the least likely to text or talk on a cell phone while driving. It isn't to say that elder drivers never take part in this unsafe behavior but it is less likely to occur as drivers reach senior citizen status.

The NHTSA conducted a phone interview to determine how many drivers talk on cell phones while they drive. Participants gave the following responses to the phone survey:

-The majority of drivers answer calls while driving and almost half these drivers admit to holding a cell phone while operating a vehicle.

-A small percentage (20) said they use hands-free devices to talk while driving.

-Less than 20 percent use the speaker phone feature on their cell phone while driving.

-Only 5 percent of those surveyed responded that they place calls on all trips while they drive compared to 25 percent who admitted they place calls on some driving trips.

-Almost 10 percent of respondents said they will answer a call and pull over to talk rather than drive and another 12 percent said they would answer but tell the caller they will give them a call back later. Very few drivers responded that they pull over first before answering a call.

Interestingly, fewer than 10 percent of drivers surveyed responded that they have a built-in feature in their car that allows them to place or answer calls while they are in their vehicle. As the potential for cell phone bans while driving nationwide becomes more of a possibility, automobile manufacturers will start pushing consumers to buy vehicles with voice activated cell phone devices built right in the vehicle so that they can continue to multi-task and save time while making or answering calls when they drive.

No matter what your age, there is no time like the present to avoid becoming distracted while you drive. Eliminate distractions by giving the roadway all the attention it deserves each time you get behind the wheel.

Continue reading "Car Accidents Caused by Texting in Greensboro, Elsewhere Increase in 2010" »

Hickory injury lawyers want to remind pet owners to keep a watchful eye on their dogs during the holiday season to avoid a potential dog-bite accident. You may be having visitors coming and going this time of year that can cause a change in routine for your pet. Disruption can cause even the friendliest of dogs to become agitated or stressed, which can lead to serious injury when a dog attacks in Winston-Salem, Statesville or elsewhere in North Carolina.

American Humane Association reports there are an estimated 4.7 million dog bites annually in the U.S. Roughly 20 percent require a trip to the emergency room. Hands, arms, feet and legs are the most common areas to be bitten on an adult as evidenced in more than 70 percent of reported accidents. Children are more likely to be bit on the face, head or neck (65 percent) as these body parts are in close relation to a dog's mouth. Half of the dog bites that occur are to children under the age of 12 years-old. Alarmingly, 70 percent of deaths caused by a dog attack are children ages 9 and under. Newborns left unsupervised with a dog in the room are 370 times more likely to be killed by a pet.

Many pet owners have a misconception that their pets are so friendly that they would never hurt anyone, especially at home. What pet owners need to understand is that dogs are protective by nature, especially when it comes to family members or where they live. Almost 60 percent of dog bite fatalities occur on an owner's property compared to 24 percent off the owner's property when a dog is unrestrained. Almost two-thirds of bites occur when the victim is familiar with a dog on the victim's own property.

Dogs often give recognizable indicators when they become stressed. If you plan to have relatives or friends visit over the holidays, look for the following signs from your pet that they may have had too much excitement: yawning or constant licking of their chops, pacing, tail is tucked or moving stiff and swift like a rattle snake, hiding under furniture or behind your leg, intense staring towards a person, growling, fur is raised along their back or excessive barking.

Pet owners can reduce the risk of dog bite incidents this holiday season with the following dog bite prevention tips from doggonesafe:

-Keep your pet crated until visitors arrive and get settled in a seat.

-Instruct children not to approach your pet too quickly. Have them stand still and let the dog sniff them before they try to reach or pet the dog.

-Assign an adult to watch the pet for signs of stress. If the pet seems agitated or stressed, put them in a separate room or crate with their favorite chew toy or bone.

-Remind visitors not to feed the pet scraps from the table.

-Never permit visitors to bring their own pets to large gatherings, even if the dogs are familiar with each other.

-Make sure children and your pet are always supervised.

Continue reading "Supervise Pets at Holiday Gatherings to Reduce the Risk of Dog Bite Injuries in Winston-Salem, Statewide" »

Families may enjoy the smell of fresh pine around the holidays as they decorate and light up their Christmas tree. But there are some risks involved with having a real tree in your home. Christmas trees present a risk of fire or electrical hazards which can lead to smoke inhalation or severe burn injuries in Asheville or elsewhere.

Winston-Salem personal injury lawyers know that once a real tree becomes dry it can be highly flammable so it is important to water your tree frequently throughout the holiday season.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recently released a video to show just how dangerous real trees can be and how quickly they can cause severe damage to a home when flames ignite.

The NFPA reports from 2005-2009, there were an average of 240 homes fires that started from Christmas trees in the U.S. each year which required help from fire departments to put out the flames. During this period, 13 people were killed, 27 were seriously injured and $16.7 million in property damage occurred each year on average. It is reported that one out of every 18 Christmas tree-related fires resulted in death. In 20 percent of incidents a heat source too close to the tree started the fire.

The NFPA offers these Christmas tree safety tips while picking out a tree, placing the tree in your home and lighting the tree after it is decorated:

-Select a tree that has green needles. It is never a good sign if the needles fall when you touch the tree so always choose a fresh tree.

-Cut away 1 to 2 inches from the base of the tree before you put it in the tree stand.

-Check your home for the closest heat source like candles, heat vents, fireplaces, lights or radiators. Make sure your tree is positioned at least three feet away from any of these sources.

-Never stand a tree where it can block an exit in case of a fire or other emergency.

-Add water to the tree stand daily.

-Read labels on lights to make sure they are for indoor use and make sure they have been independently tested by a laboratory.

-No more than three strands of mini string sets should be connected. Screw-in bulbs should have a maximum of 50 bulbs.

-Always read the manufacturer's instructions before lighting the tree.

-As nice as a lit candle may look on a Christmas tree, candles should never be used as decorations.

-Never leave a tree lit overnight or when you aren't at home.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission also reports that decorating your home for the holidays presents hazards for fall accidents or severe cuts in addition to the risks related to tree fires. Family members are at risk of falling off the ladder while hanging decorations or being cut when a bulb or ornament breaks. Last year, the CPSC estimates there were 13,000 injuries treated in hospital emergency rooms from holiday decorating in November and December. This was 1,000 more medically treated injuries than each of the two previous years.

For more information about holiday decorating safety, visit CPSC online for helpful safety tips that can keep you or your family injury-free throughout the holiday season.

Continue reading "Holiday Decorating Puts Families at Risk of Severe Injury in Asheville, Elsewhere" »

Family, friends and co-workers are busy shopping at North Carolina malls and retail outlets in an effort to finish up last-minute gift purchases. Defective product accident attorneys in Greensboro, Charlotte and elsewhere want to remind shoppers to be cautious of what they buy because not all gifts are safe or hazard-free.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently announced that toys are safer due to more stringent manufacturing rules. But even though defective-toy recalls are down the last few years, child injuries and deaths still remain alarmingly high when it comes to toy-related accidents in North Carolina or elsewhere.

In 2010, 17 children under the age of 16 died in a toy-related accident in addition to another 181,500 kids who were injured badly enough to need immediate medical treatment. Parents and consumers should stay away from balloons, small balls and non-motorized scooters as they often put children at risk of choking hazards or fall accidents leading to serious injuries or death.

The CPSC has recently recalled several products for defects or safety hazards. Some of them include:

TXT golf cars, Cushman shuttle vehicles and Bad Boy off-road utility vehicles: manufactured by E-Z-GO, approximately 22,000 units have been sold. Drivers are at risk of losing control when the threaded end of the rack rod ball breaks and the ball joint becomes displaced. There have been 71 reported incidents of the ball joint breaking on these units. Products sold for $6,650 to $10,650 at Bad Boy and E-Z-GO dealers nationwide from February 2011 through July 2011.

Rocketfish Battery Case: approximately 31,000 units have been sold in the U.S. The battery case made for 3G/3GS iPhones is at risk of overheating while the phone is charging and can cause a fire. The CPSC has received seven reports of burn injuries or property damage while a phone covered with this product was recharging. The battery cases were sold exclusively at Best Buy stores and Future Shop or were available online between April 2010 and September 2011. The units range in price from $10 to $60. Consumers can receive a Best Buy gift card and instructions on how to return the unit by getting in touch with a local Best Buy store.

KEDS "Know It All" Girls Shoes: approximately 45,000 units have been sold from June through October 2011 at various online retailers or department stores for approximately $23 each. The shoes pose a laceration hazard when the ornamental stars on the heel loosen. There have been 27 reports of scratches or cuts caused by the metal stars coming loose. Girls in possession of these shoes should stop wearing them immediately and return them for a $30 gift card to be redeemed at Stride Rite stores.

More information about these recalls and many others is available online at CPSC.gov.

Continue reading "North Carolina Shoppers Can Check Consumer Group's Website for Defective, Recalled Products" »

You may have been sitting in your living room, filling your gas tank, or at the theater ready to watch a movie recently and noticed a public service announcement with a strong message for teens about the dangers of driving distracted. Hopefully it is getting through to younger drivers that texting while driving is a behavior that can lead to unfortunate consequences. Teen car accidents in Gastonia and elsewhere are often caused by a driver texting or otherwise not paying attention to the roadway.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released the "OMG" PSA a few weeks ago, just in time for the holidays. No parent or family member wants to mourn the loss of a teenage child during the holiday season, so the timing is perfect to initiate conversations with your kids after you both have viewed the advertisement.

Charlotte personal injury lawyers understand that roadways can be a little more dangerous this time of year with winter weather and holiday travelers using roadways more frequently. Plus, teenage drivers are more likely to be hanging out with friends or attending parties now that they have a few extra days off from school.

The "OMG" PSA is meant to relate to teens with the shortened abbreviations used while texting. Speaking to teens in a language they can understand is expected to drive the point home. The vivid images show teens texting with messages like "LOL" (laugh out loud) and "L8R" (later) before they look up and find it is too late to avoid a crash.

The PSA is airing at Regal Cinema theaters and on Outcast Pump Top gas station pump-top screens nationwide throughout December. Two different versions may be viewed on cinema or gas-pump screens. One version is meant for a teenage audience and will be aired on almost 6,600 movie screens in 526 Regal Entertainment Group owned-and-operated cinemas nationwide. Outcast Pump Top TV will air a more somber version on 12,000 high-traffic gas stations nationwide. Both versions are also available for viewing at the government website, distraction.gov.

The teenage group relies heavily on social networking devices to stay connected to friends and family. By portraying vivid images using their own teen lingo, the government and other anti-distracted driving advocates hope to get through to teens and eliminate these unsafe behaviors on U.S. roadways. Movie theaters and gas stations are some of the most highly trafficked avenues during the holidays and is the perfect way to portray a clear image about what can happen when you get distracted behind the wheel.

The government continues to be vigilant in their efforts to stop all drivers from using cell phones while they operate a vehicle. Parents and teens are reminded to do your part by putting down the cell phone each time you get behind the wheel this holiday season and beyond.

Continue reading ""OMG" Campaign Educates Teens About Potential for Distracted-Driving Car Accidents in Gastonia, Elsewhere " »

General Motors is offering to buy back your Chevrolet Volt. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Volts are under a thorough investigation after the vehicles were discovered to pose a fire hazard after side-collision safety testing. A car accident in Asheville and elsewhere involving a Chevy Volt could potentially lead to safety issues in the future.

In recent crash studies, the NHTSA determined that, during a side collision, the vehicle's coolant line could rupture and the vehicle's lithium-ion battery could catch fire. The Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Energy (DOE) are working alongside the NHTSA to collect information regarding the potential for fire in electric vehicles.

Our Asheville car accident lawyers understand how important it is to research vehicles for purchase and to stay up-to-date with the latest vehicle recalls. Drivers are urged to check out the Safecar.gov website frequently to ensure that their vehicles aren't putting them at risk for an accident. Long after a vehicle is manufactured, officials can determine there are problems that could cause injury to motorists. Please review this information frequently to help reduce your risks of an accident.

The Chevy Volt has not been recalled yet, but will be if the NHTSA determines that there's an unreasonable risk to safety. If a recall is issued, officials from General Motors will take the appropriate measures to notify drivers.

While these investigations are taking place, GM Chief Executive Dan Akerson says that the company is willing to buy back any Volt from concerned consumers. The automaker is also offering to loan out a temporary vehicle to owners until the safety concerns are resolved as well.

"While the investigation is going on, we will do whatever it takes to allay concerns and keep our customers happy and if that includes repurchase, we will work individually with any customer," says GM spokesman Greg Martin.

Currently, there have been nearly 10,000 Chevy Volts sold in the U.S. Only about 30 of these vehicle owners have asked the company for a loaner vehicle. The company has yet to determine exactly how the repurchase plan would work.

Jessica Caldwell, an auto analyst with Edmunds.com, says that the company is lucky that the problem involves such a small number of vehicles. If the Volt would have been more popular, then a recall or a buyback plan would be more difficult and costly.
General Motors would like to reiterate that there have been no reports from consumers of any fires. These allegations are only based on incidents that had taken place during testing.

John O'Dell, with Edmunds.com, says that he doubts that many owners will come forward with a buyback request considering the vehicles get about 40 miles per full electric charge and hundreds of miles when the gasoline power kicks in.

We understand that consumers nationwide have been waiting for electric cars for quite some time now. Still, these vehicles can pose fatal complications just as gas-powered vehicles can. Owners of all motor vehicles should check out the Safecar.gov website to make sure their vehicle is safe and isn't reporting any problems.

Continue reading "Chevy Volt Safety Tests Reveal Possibility of Fire Hazard After Car Accidents in Asheville and Elsewhere" »

BlueRidgeNow.com reports that the majority of older adults would prefer to live in the comforts of their own home until they die. But our Asheville personal injury lawyers know that probably is unrealistic for many people. In fact, 43 percent of older adults develop mobility, sensory, or cognitive problems or issues with taking care of themselves as they age and need assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, cooking and cleaning.

When elders reach the point of not being able to take care of themselves, family members are faced with the tough decision of what to do next. If bringing someone into the home to care for your loved one is not financially or physically feasible, you may need to consider other options such as senior-living communities, assisted living communities, or a nursing home or other long-term care facility.

As part of a two-part series "Visiting Nursing Homes During the Holidays" we hope to not only create awareness about abuse and neglect occurring at North Carolina nursing homes but we want to help make choosing the right nursing home for your loved one a little easier.

Bringing medical staff into the home can be costly. The majority of long-term care services are publicly funded by either Medicare or Medicaid depending on the extent of an older adult's stay at the facility. Family members need to be cautious in choosing the right facility because not all nursing homes are rated highly or provide the best medical care.

The South Charlotte News recently reported there are more than 2,000 residents living in long-term care facilities in South Charlotte. North Carolina is ranked ninth in the country for the number of adults over age 60 residing in the state. By 2030, it is expected that one in four adults living in North Carolina will be over 60 years-old, according to a U.S. Census Bureau survey.

There are 49 licensed adult-care facilities in Mecklenburg County alone, but only one paid regional long-term care ombudsman looking out for the rights and welfare of residents living in facilities. The purpose of the ombudsman is to make sure residents are treated properly and that facilities are following federal regulations and not committing violations that can endanger the health and safety of older adults. Ombudsmen are not regulators or inspectors but they can go around to facilities and talk to residents about whether their needs are being met or what kind of care they are receiving.

Family members in the process of looking for the right long-term care facility should first start by visiting the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation website. This site can serve as a resource and provide information about what a violation is and which adult care homes have received violations or have been cited for penalties.

Once you have done some research online, make a list of which facilities you want to visit. Choosing a facility that is close to your home is not always the best option so have a variety of nursing homes on your list. Make an appointment with someone in management at each facility to give you a tour and discuss the advantages to putting your loved one in their care. Once you have the list narrowed down, go for a second visit. It is important during the second visit to ask questions and pay special attention to the following:

-Talk to staff about how long they have worked at the facility. Staff longevity typically translates to residents being happier because the paid employees enjoy their job and like where they work.

-Plan to have a meal to get an idea of the quality, nutrition and amount provided to residents.

-Participate in planned activities or entertainment at the nursing home. Talk to residents about their experiences with staff and the kinds of activities provided.

-Recognize whether the state of health of residents at the facility matches the health of your own loved one. Look for mobility, communicativeness, and overall functioning of each resident. The idea is for your loved one to feel comfortable and make friends so residents should be free and able to interact with each other.

The important thing to remember is that both you and your elder loved one need to feel comfortable about which nursing home you choose. If it isn't a joint decision or the elder is resisting for some reason, communicate with them about the concerns they have. Choosing the right home can create a safe and healthy environment for them to live out the rest of their remaining days.

Continue reading "Researching North Carolina Nursing Homes Can Protect Elders from Abuse and Neglect in Asheville, Elsewhere" »

Families build traditions and spend lots of quality time during the holiday season. If you have parents, grandparents or other loved ones at a nursing home, don't forget to include them in your holiday celebrations.

Greensboro nursing home neglect and abuse attorneys know that patients who don't receive visitors regularly are more prone to abuse or neglect in a nursing home. Family members must keep tabs on their elders living in these types of facilities to ensure they are not being mistreated by residents, staff or medical providers.

In a two-part "Visiting Nursing Homes During the Holidays" series, we hope to open your eyes to some of the signs of abuse or neglect to look for as you visit loved ones. There is also some good information about how to choose the right nursing home for your loved ones when they can no longer take care of themselves.

Abuse and neglect in Charlotte nursing homes or elsewhere can range anywhere from not changing bed sheets regularly to nurses making an error in medication management.

WWAY reports of a recent example of nursing home neglect when a couple visited a parent at a nursing home in New Hanover County and discovered the facility was operating without water. The couple was about to leave and saw the staff carrying around five-gallon jugs of water, which raised suspicion after being told earlier by the loved one that all they had to eat for breakfast was cold cereal. When questioned, management confirmed the water had been shut off for more than a week forcing residents to live without running water. Routine tests on the water found signs of bacteria and forced the facility to rectify the problem by putting chemicals in the system. More than one test detected signs of bacteria, which resulted in the facility leaving the water turned off for days.

The Nursing Home Monitor keeps the public informed about news of abuse and neglect occurring in facilities throughout the country, including several recent incidents at Charlotte-area nursing homes. Several homes have received violations for medication errors, allowing residents to roam the streets at night, untreated wounds and abuse, among other citations.

As you visit an elder at a nursing home this holiday, stay attentive for signs of neglect or abuse. The following are some signs to look for from the Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Resource Center:

-Extended deprivation of food or water.
-Signs of assault or battery evidenced by bruising, lacerations or unattended wounds.
-Symptoms of over-medication or not being given the correct medication.
-Witness a resident being slapped, shaken or mistreated by a staff member or another resident.
-Failure to provide necessary care to prevent bed sores, malnutrition, or dehydration.
-Residents live in unsanitary conditions.

If it doesn't look right to you, then it probably isn't and it needs to be questioned and possibly reported. Help protect your loved ones from mistreatment by visiting often and asking frequent questions about how they like living at the facility.

Continue reading "North Carolina Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Attorneys Urge Families to Look for Signs During Holiday Season Visits" »