Personal Injury Lawyer Blog

Common St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle safety is one of the most common topics when talking about motorcycles. The popularity of motorcycles has risen almost every year since the 1970’s, when street-legal bikes came on the scene. Since that time, motorcycle accidents, injuries, and fatalities have become a way of life. Despite the known dangers, riders take to the streets daily seeking the unparalleled adrenaline rush.

One large component impacting the safety of motorcycle riders is the use of a helmet. Whether you are for or against helmet laws, it is undeniable helmets prevent head injuries. Helmet laws in 19 states require motorcycle operators and passengers to wear helmets when riding. At least 28 states have enacted some variety of a “partial” helmet requirement for certain operators. As of May 2016, Illinois, Iowa and New Hampshire are the only states which have no helmet requirements for rider or passengers.

The Importance of Information in Tractor Trailer Accident Litigation

Information is important in every aspect of life. One of the best ways to get information is by asking questions. But be careful, all information is not created equal. When you are seeking answers and information, it’s important to connect with the right source.

If you are injured in a tractor trailer accident, it makes sense to get the necessary information from a truck accident lawyer who handles 18-wheeler accidents. Accurate information will help you obtain full compensation for your injuries and damages. Inaccurate information will cause you years of headache and grief.

Don’t Become a Statistic After a Tractor Trailer Accident

There are over 250 million vehicles registered in the United States. About 2.5 million of those are tractor trailers. It’s worth understanding some basic information in case you are in a crash with one of the estimated 2.5 million trucks on the road.

It’s common for large insurance companies to take advantage of truck accident victims. It’s irritating to hear about insurance companies contacting injury victims immediately after a truck crash and before the injury victim has a chance to speak with a truck accident attorney.

St. Louis E-Cigarette Injury Lawsuit Attorney 

The use of electronic cigarettes—also called e-cigarettes or e-cigs—is becoming increasingly popular. E-cigs were initially marketed as a way to help people quit smoking tobacco cigarettes. E-cigarette devices aren’t currently regulated by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), so many consumer safety protections don’t apply. Many people throughout the world are being seriously injured when e-cigs and lithium-ion e-cig batteries explode. The explosions are causing serious burns and permanent disfigurement. A quick Google search reveals the shocking number of terrifying explosions.

What You Need to Know About Motorcycles

We notice motorcycles regularly weaving in and out of traffic. But, do we always see them? Because motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, many motorists often don’t see motorcycles. Most people have never ridden a motorcycle and are unfamiliar with controlling and maneuvering a bike. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has published a list titled, “Ten Things All Car & Truck Drivers Should Know About Motorcycles.” The list helps explain how motorcyclists operate their bike. The list can be found here:  http://www.forcardrivers.com/quicktips.html

Drugged Driving is as Dangerous as Drunk Driving

Statistics prove a connection between drug use and car accident deaths. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, 38 percent of people killed in car accidents in 2013 had detectable levels of impairing illegal and legal drugs in their system. This is almost the same percentage that tested positive for alcohol.

The Danger of St. Louis Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife accident happens when a tractor-trailer combination skids and the trailer swings out to one side of the tractor. When the trailer forms an angle that looks like the angle of a blade of a jackknife, it can result in a rollover, a runaway trailer, or a complete loss of control. These types of tractor trailer accidents often happen when the wheels of a rig lock up during wet conditions, but it can also happen as a result of driver error. Truck drivers who go over the speed limit, make abrupt turns, or abrupt lane changes, can cause devastating jackknife accidents.

Tips for Biking Safely Around St. Louis

St. Louis is one of the fastest growing business hubs in the Midwest. The population in the city and its suburbs has increased substantially in the last decade. Increased population means more commuters—and more people are choosing to ride bikes. St. Louis has nearly 80 miles of dedicated bike lanes.

Bicycle accidents often involve serious injuries. Wearing a helmet is more common today than ever before. The average age of an injured bike rider in St. Louis is 29 years old. The average age of a rider killed in a bike accident in the city is 39.

The Number of Missouri Car Accident Deaths On The Rise

Traffic accident deaths have been decreasing nationwide. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, there were 32,719 people killed in traffic accidents in the year 2013, a 3.1 percent decrease from 2012 and a nearly 25 percent decrease from 2004. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for traffic deaths in Missouri. The Missouri State Highway Patrol has reported a significant increase in car accident deaths in 2014.

The Deadliest Days for Teenage Drivers

Every day on the road is potentially dangerous for teenage drivers. In fact, teens have the highest crash rate of any group. They are less experienced and more prone to making a poor decision while driving. Some days are more dangerous than others. Make sure to remind your son or daughter about the safe driving tips they learned when they first got their license.