The man driving the vehicle died at the scene and his two children were taken to a local hospital with significant injuries; their condition has not been updated since the crash. There are many unanswered questions regarding the events leading up to this fatal car accident.
]]> Texas authorities are working together to piece together what led to this tragic fatal MetroRail train-car accident. The train's six external and 10 internal cameras reportedly malfunctioned shortly before the collision, making it difficult to distinguish the events leading up to the crash. The black box on board the train is said to have been functioning properly and is in police custody.In unfortunate cases such as this one where two children are now without one of their parents, the issue of medical expenses and care throughout their recovery comes quickly to mind as well as the sudden and tragic loss of life. These two young children likely have family that will endure the financial hardship, extended recovery, and emotional trauma.
It is unclear at this time whether or not the children's mother or family members will seek any damages in this case to help support the children's recovery and overall well being, and that determination may well depend on the findings of investigators as to what actually occurred. Such an investigation will likely focus on the intersection, any potential road defects, warning devices and the actions of the train engineer and car driver in the moments leading up to the fatal car accident.
Source: American-Statesman, "Train cameras malfunctioned before fatal crash," Ben Wear, May 1, 2012
]]>Both the cyclist and the driver received medical attention at a nearby hospital where the cyclist was listed in stable condition, though the nature of her injuries was not released.
]]> Upon impact with the building, the driver of the Mustang is said to have caused damage to the exterior and interior structures, including equipment inside the building. The extent of the damage has not been released. Authorities do not believe alcohol was involved in the accident, and further investigation is pending, but authorities have said that the driver is facing charges in the accident. The condition of the driver of the Mustang has not yet been released.Witness statements suggest that they were afraid for those around the vehicle as the driver was placing more than his own life in jeopardy. In congested areas like Houston where pedestrians and bicyclists are common on street corners and crosswalks, speeding can be deadly. The injured cyclist is among the lucky who survive car accidents involving high speeds.
She escaped with her life, but not without the added stress that she may face from potential long term injuries and extensive medical bills. Thankfully, Texas law provides for the right of those seriously injured by the negligence of others to seek redress in its courts in the form of personal injury claims for damages suffered.
Source: KTRK-TV Houston, "HPD: Driver runs over woman, strikes building," April 29, 2012
]]>While the official cause of the four-vehicle accident has not been declared, the accident investigation may include driver inattention, aggressive driving or tailgating as possible factors in the collisions. Astoundingly, of the 13 individuals injured and sent to the hospital, including nine students on the school bus, none of the injuries were considered life threatening. The driver of the 18 wheeler was said to be in critical condition, but expected to survive his injuries.
]]> The impact of the accident caused the school bus to overturn, landing on its roof. No doubt that the students inside were jarred and bruised heavily from the frightening collision. In accidents such as this, it is common to experience head, neck or back injuries, as well as joint injuries and pain, and in some cases, even spinal or brain injuries depending on the precise nature of the impact. Often, people experience a combination of two or more injuries and may find themselves facing extensive medical care and resultant bills.Many drivers become nervous when they feel encroached upon by large trucks such as 18 wheelers, though it remains to be seen if that was a factor in this collision. But every time an individual gets behind the wheel of a vehicle in Texas, large or small, the driver owes a duty of care to others in or near the roadway.
The official accident report will likely focus on what caused this particular accident and driver inattention may be one of the issues investigators consider. When the negligence of another party is deemed to have caused or contributed to an accident, those seriously injured in that accident may have the right to pursue claims for personal injury under state law.
If you have been injured in a car accident it is important to document your injuries and preserve as much of the evidence as possible from the accident. The extent of your injuries along with the available evidence will be reviewed to determine what rights you may have to file personal injury claims for recovery of expenses and other damages incurred as a result of the accident.
Source: Your Conroe News, "13 injured in crash involving school bus," April 27, 2012
]]>Losing a loved one to such a senseless act can be heartbreaking and often families don't know where to turn. A drunk driver can be subject to civil liability for damages caused to his or her victims or families, including punitive damages designed to punish their decision to drive drunk and risk you and your family's lives.
Insurance adjusters are skilled in intimidation and other pressure tactics to ensure as little as possible is paid to their drunk insured's victims. Do not become a victim twice. If you or someone you care about has been hit by a drunk driver, call a board certified personal injury attorney today to ensure your rights are protected; victims deserve a voice. Make the at-fault drunk driver held accountable and you are compensated for the pain and suffering you have been forced to endure by their choice to drink and drive drunk. They had a choice, you didn't.
]]>There was another recent accident in Austin involving a drunk driver crashing into a law-abiding citizen causing terrible injuries.
Drink driving resulting in an accident with injuries is often viewed and charged as intoxication assault - a serious crime in Texas. Guilt in such an offence subjects the perpetrator to civil liability for not only the personal injury damages suffered by the victim but also punitive damages to punish and deter such outrageous behavior.
]]>Unfortunately, this is the story all too often. It's estimated that one individual dies every 50 minutes due to the negligent act of a drunk driver. However, despite the heightened measures by legislators and law enforcement agencies to reduce DWI accidents, individuals continue to get behind the wheel drunk, putting the lives of innocent individuals in jeopardy. The result of this decision to drive while drunk can be devastating to the families and friends of their victims.
Losing a loved one to such a senseless act can be heartbreaking, and often families don't know where to turn. In addition to criminal charges, a drunk driver can be subject to civil liability for damages caused to his or her victims or families, including punitive damages designed to punish their decision to drive drunk and risk you and your family's lives. If you or someone you care about has been hit by a drunk driver, call a board certified personal injury attorney today to ensure your rights are protected; victims deserve a voice.
]]>In a fatal accident allegedly caused by a Houston millionaire, jury members saw a computerized recreation of how the accident supposedly occurred. A reenactment was presented to the jury showing the defendant's vehicle traveling at 63 miles per hour and entering into an intersection where it struck the vehicle of the individual killed.
]]> To put together such a recreation requires more than just computerized imagery. It requires months of investigations and studies to retrace precisely how the accident occurred before such a crash can be reconstructed. It will also involve haggling with the other attorney in front of a judge to allow for such evidence to actually be presented to a jury. Probably only attorneys with a vast amount of personal injury litigation experience can garner all of the resources to piece this information together.Yet when all of the witnesses are heard and all of the evidence is presented, someone has to try to make sense of what occurred in such a tragedy. It's too easy to forget that what is happening at trial is anything but a game.
The deceased individual likely has family that has lost financial and emotional support. Children may have lost a parent and one spouse has to learn to live without the other spouse. It's then that jury members need to make a determination as to what's best for all parties.
Source: Chron.com, "Jurors look at cars involved in fatal crash," by Dan McGraw, March 16, 2012
]]>One 80-year-old man is taking a stand against those who are quick to label older drivers as being poor drivers who cause traffic accidents. He contends older drivers are unfairly depicted as being dangers to society and causing many accidents. While in actuality older drivers tend to drive slower and overall be more cautious.
]]> A former professor emeritus of Civil Engineering, he recently published an article where he discusses how existing and proposed measures aimed to limit older drivers are unfair. He points out how drivers between the ages of 16-19 are actually the most dangerous age demographic and are involved in the most traffic accidents. Fatalities among older drivers are higher, but he believes that's because they tend to avoid highways and use city and side streets which tend to be more dangerous and historically have higher incidences of traffic accidents.Another reason for higher instances of fatalities among older drivers is the fact that they tend to be frailer and have existing health conditions. Therefore, when an older driver is involved in a car or truck accident, their injuries tend to be more severe and often ultimately result in death.
Any time a story involving an elderly driver makes the news, it reignites the debate over whether states should do more to monitor and ultimately prohibit older drivers from getting behind the wheel.
Some states have already taken measures such as additional or more frequent testing to discourage older drivers from driving. Many older drivers, however, believe they are the best judges of their abilities and take steps to adjust their driving based on ability and weather conditions.
Source: Bloomberg Businessweek, "In Defense of Older Drivers," Ashlee Vance, Apr. 2, 2012
]]>Currently, interlock devices are required in many states for those found guilty of drunk driving. While these devices are reserved for those already convicted of drunk driving, the proposed devices would be present in every motor vehicle sold, regardless of an individual's age or driving record.
]]> Millions of dollars have already been appropriated to research alcohol-sensing technology. News of the potential technology has resulted in many, including those in the restaurant industry, to protest. They claim the technology will detect alcohol levels well below the legal limit which will ultimately curb patrons from having a drink or two with dinner.Proponents of the measure, however, believe the safety benefits far outweigh any potential negatives and think proper detection technology can be developed to mitigate any potential problems. While current interlock devices are very obvious and require drivers to blow into the device prior to the vehicle starting, the new technologies being developed would be much more discrete and unobtrusive.
One option for detecting whether or not a driver has been drinking includes the use of lasers and a touchpad to detect alcohol in human tissue. Another promising option relies on sensors that can detect alcohol on a driver's breath. While both promising, researchers do acknowledge the devices may potentially display false-positive results and account for the stranding an estimated 4,000 drivers each day.
Debate over the use of interlock technology will likely continue to be waged across the country and in states like Texas, as safety proponents seek ways to stop drunk driving.
Source: Los Angeles Times, "Should future cars curb drunk drivers?," Dan Turner, Mar. 28, 2012
]]>A 56-year-old Texas semi-truck driver was recently involved in an accident involving two pickup trucks. Upon coming to an intersection, the semi driver failed to stop at a traffic light and rear-ended and pushed one pickup truck and its occupant to the side of the road. After hitting the first pickup truck, the semi then continued forward striking another pickup truck that was carrying a family of six.
]]> The driver of the first pickup truck remained trapped in his vehicle until emergency workers arrived on the scene to rescue him. He sustained injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Luckily, no members of the family of six required were injured.Police arrested the semi-truck driver on charges including reckless driving and intoxication assault. No additional charges have been brought by the occupants of either pickup truck, but lawsuits that include charges related to negligence may be forthcoming.
Those injured in semi-truck accidents may want to discuss their case with a personal injury attorney who can help determine if a lawsuit may be appropriate to help recover compensation and damages related to medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages and wrongful death.
Source: Victoria Advocate, "Semi-truck driver arrested on intoxication charges after striking 2 pickups," Erin Pradia, Mar. 25, 2012
]]>The mother and daughter were passengers in a car driven by the mother's fiancé. The fiancé pulled the car in which they were driving over to the side of the Interstate to fix a flat tire. He exited the vehicle while the young mother and her daughter remained inside. Shortly thereafter, a SUV driven by a 25-year-old man crashed into the stopped car, pushing it more than 130 feet.
]]> The woman suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Her 10-year-old daughter was transported to a nearby hospital, but tragically also died as a result of her injuries. The woman's fiancé was not injured in the accident, but obviously is suffering from the huge loss as well as the trauma of witnessing the accident.The 25-year-old driver of the SUV failed a sobriety test and was arrested by police. Unfortunately, accidents caused by the negligent acts of drunk drivers occur all too often on Texas highways. This tragic event proves how the poor judgment and careless actions of one individual can negatively impact the lives of so many.
The family of the 28-year-old mother and her 10-year-old daughter are likely suffering greatly from their loss. While the 25-year-old man will face criminal charges, the victims' family may also pursue justice under a wrongful death lawsuit.
While nothing can bring a loved one back or ease the pain of such a significant loss, a wrongful death claim can help families recover damages associated with pain and suffering as well as any medical or funeral expenses.
Source: San Antonia Express-News, "Mom's death stuns friends," Eva Ruth and Michelle Casady," Mar. 23, 2012
]]>The bus was transporting people to a concert when it experienced mechanical problems. In an effort to prevent the bus from overheating, the bus driver pulled into a truck stop at which point the man exited the bus through the front doors.
]]> While discussing the potential problem with the bus driver, the man had one leg in the bus' doorway. The bus driver closed the bus doors and the man's knee was trapped and subsequently injured. Upon returning home from the trip, the injured man sought medical treatment and discovered his injury would require surgery.He has brought a lawsuit against the bus company claiming negligence related to supervision and training and gross negligence related to the fact that the bus driver let passengers use the bus door while aware it wasn't working properly. The man is asking for damages related to loss of earnings, disfigurement and medical expenses.
While some injuries that occur on buses may not seem serious at the time, they are often more debilitating than originally thought. If you've sustained an injury on a bus, it's wise to seek a medical evaluation to determine the severity of your injury. If warranted, you may want to bring legal action against the bus company or bus driver if their negligent actions directly lead to your injury.
Source: The Southeast Texas Record, "Charter bus company sued after passenger's knee trapped in door," Michelle Keahey, Mar. 20, 2012
]]>2011 traffic statistics from the Texas Department of Transportation indicate that there were 329 total instances of reported wrong-way crashes, 79 of those occurring in the four major north Texas counties. Not surprisingly, alcohol was a main factor in the majority of these accidents. In fact, it's believed that roughly 75 percent of drivers involved in wrong-way accidents are under the influence of alcohol.
]]> On Texas mother recalled the horror of losing her 22-year-old son in a wrong-way head-on crash. Her son was the passenger in a car driven by a friend who was found to be drinking and driving. The prevalence of wrong-way crashes is alarming, as the resulting accidents and injuries tend to be serious or fatal.A planned study by the Texas Transportation Institute aims to determine ways to combat wrong-way driving. TxDOT researches will examine not only why the accidents occur, but also try to discover the best methods for alerting drivers, even if they are impaired, that they are going the wrong way.
Source: CBSDFW, "2 Wrong-Way Crashes Getting Attention of TxDOT," Sharrie Williams, Mar. 14, 2012
]]>Citing negligence, a Texas woman has filed a personal injury lawsuit against the driver of a tractor-trailer truck and his employer for a truck accident that occurred in June 2010. The woman was stopped at a red light when her vehicle was struck from behind by the big rig. The woman sustained serious injuries that have required ongoing medical treatment including those to the neck, back and brain.
]]> The lawsuit accuses the truck driver of several negligent driving actions related to failing to maintain enough space between his vehicle and the one in front on him, failing to keep a proper look out and failing to act as a responsible truck driver. Also named in the lawsuit is truck driver's employer as the victim claims they are ultimately responsible for the negligent actions of their employers.The lawsuit is currently pending and she is seeking damages to recover compensation related to pain and suffering, medical bills, disfigurement, loss of income and earning capacity and property damages.
Drivers involved in accidents involving trucks and tractor-trailers face serious injuries that often require extensive physical therapy and recovery time. As a result of their injuries, victims of these accidents typically incur large medical expenses and are unable to work. Individuals suffering as a result of the negligence of a truck driver should not suffer in silence, but rather take legal action to ensure they are sufficiently compensated for their pain, suffering and debilitating injuries.
Source: The Southeast Texas Record, "Trucking company sued after tractor-trailer fails to stop at red light," Michelle Keahey, Mar. 12, 2012
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