Colley Shroyer AbrahamColley Shroyer Abraham2024-03-08T20:02:35Zhttps://www.colleyshroyerabraham.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1604333/2023/09/cropped-ID-image-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Colley Shroyer Abrahamhttps://www.colleyshroyerabraham.com/?p=506682024-01-25T18:52:15Z2024-01-29T18:50:53ZTop causes of truck accidents
Several factors contribute to semi-truck accidents in Ohio:
Excessive speeds and aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, significantly contribute to semi-truck accidents.
Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, impairing reaction times and decision-making. Impairments caused by fatigue are similar to those from alcohol and drug use.
Malfunctions or failures in the truck's mechanical components pose a risk. Faulty brakes and worn tires often fail, causing drivers to lose control of their trucks.
Ohio experiences various weather conditions, including snow and heavy rain. Adverse weather can amplify the challenges of operating large trucks, contributing to accidents.
Trucks have unusually large blind spots. Truckers often can not see vehicles in these areas, increasing the chances of collisions.
Additionally, Ohio has the dubious distinction of having the fifth-worst drivers by state in the U.S. With traffic often heavy in and around Columbus, truckers may find it difficult to avoid collisions.
Trucks take longer to stop than cars because of their bigger size and weight. The sheer mass of a truck makes it harder to come to a quick stop. Traveling at 65 mph, a car needs 316 feet to stop, with trucks requiring 525 feet. This difference in stopping ability can lead to accidents, especially if drivers of smaller cars do not realize how much space a truck needs to brake.
Injury risks in semi-truck accidents
Tractor-trailer accidents often result in a heightened risk of injuries due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. Occupants of smaller vehicles involved in collisions with large trucks face a higher likelihood of severe injuries, including fractures, head trauma and spinal injuries.
Help avoid truck accidents
Car drivers can enhance road safety by understanding and respecting the challenges faced by trucks. Maintain a safe following distance, avoid sudden lane changes in front of trucks and do not linger in blind spots. Being mindful of a truck's longer stopping distance and providing ample space during maneuvers contributes to a safer coexistence on the road, reducing the risk of accidents involving trucks.]]>On Behalf of Colley Shroyer Abrahamhttps://www.colleyshroyerabraham.com/?p=506422023-11-29T14:03:07Z2023-11-29T14:03:07ZBigger vehicles cause bigger losses
Given the severity of the damages a commercial vehicle can cause, the rules are different for these bigger vehicles. Commercial drivers need special licenses to legally drive a bus or a semi-truck. The companies that offer commercial transportation services need to carry bigger insurance policies because of the damages these vehicles can potentially create.
Frequently, commercial vehicle collisions may involve multiple vehicles. A recent Ohio bus collision started with a semi-truck rear-ending a charter bus full of students and eventually involved five separate vehicles. It can be difficult for insurance professionals and police officers to figure out who is at fault when there are multiple vehicles involved in a wreck.
Liability can also be harder to establish. People wonder whether the driver is to blame or possibly their employer. Sometimes, even outside businesses, like those that manufacture vehicle parts, could be liable because they contributed to the crash occurring.
After establishing liability, it can be difficult to obtain an appropriate amount of compensation. Companies providing commercial liability insurance are often very aggressive when negotiating claims because the policies are bigger. The people affected by these crashes may have a hard time estimating the compensation they should request. The average person finds it difficult to put a price tag on injuries that have affected their life or claim the life of a loved one. Thankfully, seeking legal guidance can lead to favorable outcomes for crash victims grappling with any number of challenging circumstances.]]>On Behalf of Colley Shroyer Abrahamhttps://www.colleyshroyerabraham.com/?p=506232023-11-22T02:40:38Z2023-11-28T02:39:08ZPrioritize safety first
Immediately after a truck accident, prioritize safety for yourself and others involved. Move to a safe location away from traffic and turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Check for injuries and call for emergency medical assistance if needed. In the absence of immediate danger, assess the well-being of others involved in the accident.
Exchange information with the truck driver
Communication is key after an accident. Exchange information with the truck driver, including names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance details and vehicle registration information. Documenting this information is important for any potential insurance claims or legal proceedings that may happen later on.
Document the scene
Take thorough documentation of the accident scene. Capture photographs of the vehicles involved, the surrounding environment and any visible damage.
Note road conditions, weather and traffic signals. This can serve as valuable evidence in the event of an insurance claim or investigation.
Gather witness information
If there are witnesses to the accident, get their contact information. Witness statements can be important in establishing the sequence of events and determining liability. Their unbiased accounts can provide additional perspectives that may be helpful in the aftermath.
Report the accident
Contact local law enforcement to report the accident. Provide a detailed account of the events leading up to the collision. The police report generated can be an important document in insurance claims and legal processes.
Seek medical attention
Even if injuries seem minor, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Some injuries may not show up immediately. A medical examination ensures that you address any potential health issues in a timely manner.
Notify your insurance company
Promptly tell your insurance company about the accident. Provide them with any information and details about the incident. This proactive communication helps start the claims process.
With around 275 million vehicles traveling on America's roads as of 2020, crashes can happen without warning. Working through the aftermath of a truck accident may seem overwhelming at first. By learning more, you can better protect yourself in the aftermath of a potentially traumatic event.]]>On Behalf of Colley Shroyer Abrahamhttps://www.colleyshroyerabraham.com/?p=505632023-11-07T20:11:03Z2023-11-03T17:29:51ZInterstate 71
This major north-south highway has multiple lanes and high-speed limits, making it susceptible to a range of accidents, including rear-end collisions, lane departures and rollovers. Distracted driving, speeding and adverse weather conditions are common contributing factors to accidents on I-71.
Interstate 70
Another vital east-west highway, I-70 frequently experiences traffic congestion and a high frequency of accidents. Rear-end collisions and accidents involving large trucks are commonplace on this route. Speeding, reckless driving and inadequate following distances are primary causes.
U.S. Route 33
The Riverside Drive section of U.S. Route 33 is infamous for its narrow, winding lanes. Accidents on this road primarily involve lane departures, head-on collisions and sideswipes. The crashes often result from excessive speed, impaired driving and the road's challenging layout.
Interstate 270
The Columbus Outerbelt, or I-270, is a busy circular highway around the city. It experiences various accidents, including multi-vehicle collisions and rollovers, with contributing factors such as speeding, distracted driving and aggressive maneuvers during heavy traffic.
Broad Street
Broad Street, a major east-west thoroughfare, has diverse traffic conditions and accident-prone intersections. Accidents typically involve pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles, with common causes including failure to yield, red-light running and driver inattention.
Cleveland Avenue
U.S. Route 23, also known as Cleveland Avenue, is notorious for its high traffic volume and frequent accidents. Rear-end collisions, intersection crashes and pedestrian accidents are common here, with speeding, failure to yield and impaired driving as significant contributing factors.
North High Street
North High Street, a bustling urban thoroughfare, sees a high number of accidents, especially in the downtown area. Intersection collisions, bicycle accidents and rear-end crashes are typical. Driver distractions, red-light running and the presence of pedestrians contribute to these accidents.
Accidents on these tricky roads in Columbus, Ohio, usually happen for more than one reason. To stay safe, drivers should be careful, follow the traffic rules and stay alert when driving on these challenging roads.
]]>On Behalf of Colley Shroyer Abrahamhttps://www.colleyshroyerabraham.com/?p=505602023-10-05T21:55:28Z2023-10-05T21:55:28ZReports of the pothole
The first step is to establish whether anyone reported the pothole to the authorities. Ohio law mandates that public entities, such as city or county governments, must receive written notice of a dangerous condition, such as a hazardous pothole before they are liable for any accidents resulting from it.
Time since report
If there was a report of the pothole, the next step is to consider how long it has been since the report. The law presumes that a public entity has a reasonable amount of time to address hazards. However, this timeframe can vary depending on the specific circumstances.
Characteristics of the pothole
The size and depth of the pothole also play a role in determining liability. Smaller, shallower potholes may be less dangerous and may not lead to liability unless they result from negligence on the part of the public entity. On the other hand, larger and deeper potholes that pose a substantial risk to bikers are more likely to result in liability if the responsible authorities fail to take timely action.
Cyclist's actions
Bikers have a responsibility to exercise reasonable care and diligence while navigating roads, including avoiding obvious hazards like potholes. If a cyclist encounters a pothole that is clearly visible and avoidable but chooses not to avoid it, negligence may be a contributing factor in any resulting accident.
In Ohio, liability for bike accidents due to potholes is a complex matter. The Ohio Supreme Court may soon hear a case that can help to clarify at least a portion of the law.]]>On Behalf of Colley Shroyer Abrahamhttps://www.colleyshroyerabraham.com/?p=504992023-08-21T22:21:19Z2023-08-21T22:21:19Z1. Distracted walking and driving
Distracted walking and driving are two major contributors to accidents in school zones. With the advent of smartphones, pedestrians and drivers alike are often engrossed in their devices. Pedestrians may not pay attention while crossing the road, while drivers may take their eyes off the road to send a text or make a call. Focusing attention on walking and driving can easily prevent such accidents.
2. Speeding in school zones
Ohio law mandates speed limits within school zones to 20 mph. However, some drivers may disregard this, putting pedestrians at risk. All drivers need to slow down when traveling near a school to allow for better reaction time and the ability to avoid serious accidents.
3. Crossing at non-designated areas
Jaywalking is a common issue as students rush to school. It is easy for a child to decide to cross mid-block rather than using crosswalks to save time. Drivers may not anticipate pedestrians crossing unexpectedly, leading to potential accidents. Encouraging students to use crosswalks and waiting for the signal can significantly reduce the risk of collisions.
4. Not yielding to pedestrians
Drivers have a responsibility to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections. Failing to do so can result in accidents that cause serious injuries. Drivers should be aware of this and exercise caution.
5. Limited visibility
As the school season coincides with the changing seasons, limited visibility can be a contributing factor to accidents. In Ohio, it is common for early mornings to be foggy, and school start times often occur before the sun is up. These factors make it harder for both pedestrians and drivers to see each other. Using headlights, reflective clothing and keeping windshields clean can improve visibility and prevent accidents.
The start of the school season brings an increased risk of pedestrian accidents. Both pedestrians and drivers can help to ensure a smooth and accident-free school season by remaining vigilant, following traffic rules and prioritizing safety.]]>On Behalf of Colley Shroyer Abrahamhttps://www.colleyshroyerabraham.com/?p=505002023-07-27T22:26:00Z2023-07-27T22:26:00ZMistake #1: Refusing to wear proper gear
Helmets and leather jackets are expensive, yet they cost less than surgery. Some decry the lack of mobility they impose or find them uncomfortable in hot weather. Heat discomfort and a drain on the wallet will always be more bearable than road rash from hitting the pavement at top speed without protection.
Mistake #2: Neglecting practice
Brushing up on fundamentals is essential. Over time, riding skills diminish without conscious sharpening. In combination with overconfidence from years of experience, rustiness can be deadly. Making a habit of running through vital cycling techniques such as tail braking and line selection might save a life.
Mistake #3: Shifting into neutral at intersections
When coming to stoplights, lazy motorcyclists go into neutral. If the car behind them is tooling down the road too fast, lackadaisical hog riders cannot escape. The wisest protocol is to keep the bike in gear, keep checking the mirrors and have a plan to zoom away.
Motorcycle riding is an endless love affair between man and machinery. Nonetheless, a lack of respect for the inherent danger sometimes leads to disaster. Every two-wheeled enthusiast should exercise active mindfulness when it comes to riding safety.]]>On Behalf of Colley Shroyer Abrahamhttps://www.colleyshroyerabraham.com/?p=505012023-07-18T20:24:40Z2023-07-18T20:24:40Z1. Ensure safety first
The immediate aftermath of a parasailing accident can be chaotic. Your first priority should always be to ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. If possible, move away from the water and get to a secure place.
2. Seek immediate medical attention
Regardless of whether you feel fine after the accident, you should always seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately clear and may only show symptoms hours or even days after the accident.
3. Document the accident
If you can, take photographs or videos of the scene of the accident. This includes the parasailing equipment, your injuries and any other relevant elements. Also, remember to write down all the details of the accident while they are still fresh in your memory.
4. Report the accident
Inform the local authorities about the accident. This is an important step as it creates an official record of the incident. Provide them with as much information as you can.
5. Collect witness information
If there were witnesses to the accident, try to collect their contact information. They could provide valuable testimonies that can support your version of the event.
6. Preserve evidence
Keep any evidence related to the accident safe. This includes medical records, receipts of any expenses incurred due to the accident and any correspondence you may have had with the parasailing company.
7. Contact insurance
Report the accident to your insurance company. They can guide you on the next steps to take to claim possible benefits.
An unfortunate parasailing accident can transform a fun experience into a nightmare. Taking these steps after an accident can help ensure your safety and protect your rights.]]>On Behalf of Colley Shroyer Abrahamhttps://www.colleyshroyerabraham.com/?p=494312023-08-04T10:27:11Z2023-06-27T00:50:19ZWind and risks on the road
The Federal Highway Administration details some of the ways that wind can play a role in traffic accidents. For example, strong wind can result in lane obstruction due to debris on the road and snow drifts. Wind can knock down tree branches and blow various objects onto the road, and this can affect driver behavior. For example, a driver could swerve into oncoming traffic to avoid a tree limb.
Heavy wind becomes especially concerning with respect to large trucks and vehicle stability, and drivers can have difficulty seeing the road as a result of wind-driven dust, smoke, snow and debris.
Reckless driving during windy weather
If you encounter a negligent driver, their erratic driving could become especially dangerous during windy conditions. For example, someone driving too fast around a turn could hit you after abruptly swerving due to debris on the road. Additionally, a distracted driver might fail to see you when visibility deteriorates. If a reckless driver hits you, carefully review their behavior, wind and other factors that could have played a role in the accident.]]>On Behalf of Colley Shroyer Abrahamhttps://www.colleyshroyerabraham.com/?p=494272023-08-04T10:27:21Z2023-06-23T19:42:09Z1. Inadequate training and experience
Operating an ATV requires specific skills and knowledge. Many ATV injuries result from a lack of proper training and experience. A rider who does not understand how to control the vehicle, especially in challenging terrain, faces a higher risk of accidents.
2. Excessive speed
Speed is another significant contributor to ATV injuries. High speeds make it difficult for riders to control the ATV and react to unexpected obstacles or changes in terrain. Excessive speed often leads to overturning or collision incidents, resulting in injuries.
3. Lack of safety equipment
Helmets, protective clothing and eye protection can mitigate the severity of injuries if an accident occurs. Injuries often become more severe when riders neglect to use proper safety equipment.
4. Carrying passengers
ATVs are generally designed for single riders. When an additional passenger is on board, it alters the vehicle's balance and handling. This imbalance increases the risk of overturning, one of the most common causes of ATV injuries.
5. Riding on paved roads
Though ATVs are capable of riding on various terrains, they are not designed for paved roads. The tires and suspension of ATVs do not handle well on pavement, increasing the risk of losing control and colliding with other vehicles.
By recognizing these common causes of ATV injuries and implementing appropriate safety measures, riders can significantly reduce the risk of injuries and enjoy a safer ride.]]>