Playgrounds are designed to be areas where children can develop cognitive, motor, perceptual and social skills. Unfortunately, these developmental areas are also accident zones. Each year, hundreds of thousands of children under the age of 15 are treated in a hospital emergency room for playground-related injuries.
Playground accidents are preventable. The following are a few tips that may help keep your children safe:
• Scope out the playground before allowing children to play. This includes making sure the area is designed so that adults may supervise children at all times. Check to see if the playground is free of trash or broken glass. Look to see if there is safety surfacing under equipment like sand, a thick layer of mulch, or shock absorbing shredded rubber.
• Check the equipment. Make sure the equipment is in good condition and repair. Any exposed screws or nails, rust, or loose pieces are red flags and increase risk of injury. Any plastic parts should be free of cracks and wood parts should be free of splinters.
• Adequate shading. Having shading is important and you should see if the equipment is not too hot to play on.
• Steer children in the right direction. Many playgrounds are designed for various age groups. To optimize safety, steer children to equipment that is appropriate for their age.
• Remain alert. According to experts, nearly half of all playground-related injuries are due to poor supervision. For example, always keep an eye on the slide to make sure children go up one at time. If there is more than one adult, split up so you can both cover different angles of the area.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Avoiding Bathroom Injuries
The bathroom is one of the most dangerous areas of your home. With all the hard and slippery surfaces, it is a high-risk zone for injuries. According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2008 an estimated 234,000 bathroom injuries occurred in the United States among people 15 years old and older.
Follow these tips that may help you avoid falling victim to a bathroom-related injury:
• Eliminate any and all throw rugs. These items are slippery and are the #1 cause of falls. If you don’t want to get rid of them, you can secure them with slip-resistant backings, double-faced tape or tacks.
• Secure the bathtub or shower floor. Placing mats, tiles, or nonslip strips on the floor of your tub or shower can help give you extra security. To avoid tripping, secure any loose corners on mats.
• Try keeping the tub as clean as possible to eliminate slippery soap scum or mold.
• Keep the bathroom floor dry. Place a weighted shower curtain to ensure your floor will stay dry from leaks.
• Place rails or grab bars in or around the tub, shower, or toilet. If installed properly, they will help you keep your balance as you stand or sit and give you somewhere to grab if you find yourself slipping. Never rely on a soap dish or towel bar for grabbing. These items are not designed to hold your weight.
• Keep the bathroom adequately lit. For nighttime, have nightlights on the path to the bathroom and then also inside the bathroom, or you can install an illuminated switch. You should also keep the bathroom lit during the day as well.
• If you have a low toilet seat, it’s recommended you buy a toilet seat extender or switch it out for a higher toilet seat. This is so you can get up safely and with decreased effort.
• Install an adjustable or handheld showerhead. These kinds of showerheads make it easy to maneuver it wherever you want and ultimately minimize your need to move while showering.
• Don’t rush. Taking your time and being careful decreases your chances of suffering a slip or fall.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Follow these tips that may help you avoid falling victim to a bathroom-related injury:
• Eliminate any and all throw rugs. These items are slippery and are the #1 cause of falls. If you don’t want to get rid of them, you can secure them with slip-resistant backings, double-faced tape or tacks.
• Secure the bathtub or shower floor. Placing mats, tiles, or nonslip strips on the floor of your tub or shower can help give you extra security. To avoid tripping, secure any loose corners on mats.
• Try keeping the tub as clean as possible to eliminate slippery soap scum or mold.
• Keep the bathroom floor dry. Place a weighted shower curtain to ensure your floor will stay dry from leaks.
• Place rails or grab bars in or around the tub, shower, or toilet. If installed properly, they will help you keep your balance as you stand or sit and give you somewhere to grab if you find yourself slipping. Never rely on a soap dish or towel bar for grabbing. These items are not designed to hold your weight.
• Keep the bathroom adequately lit. For nighttime, have nightlights on the path to the bathroom and then also inside the bathroom, or you can install an illuminated switch. You should also keep the bathroom lit during the day as well.
• If you have a low toilet seat, it’s recommended you buy a toilet seat extender or switch it out for a higher toilet seat. This is so you can get up safely and with decreased effort.
• Install an adjustable or handheld showerhead. These kinds of showerheads make it easy to maneuver it wherever you want and ultimately minimize your need to move while showering.
• Don’t rush. Taking your time and being careful decreases your chances of suffering a slip or fall.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Signs its Time to Change Your Windshield Wipers
Changing your windshield wipers periodically is crucial for your safety. Driving in rain, sleet, or snow with run down wiper blades is dangerous because your visibility is greatly reduced and you run the risk of having an accident.
Here are a few signs that will let you know if it’s time to get new blades:
- Examine the blade. Do you see cracking or some discoloration? Usually these are indicators that it’s time to replace them.
- Notice how clean is the swipe. If you see any streaks or smudges that means the blades aren’t cleaning properly.
- Noise. Blades in good condition hardly make a sound when being used. If your windshield wipers make a chattering or scratching sound, or basically any form of sound, then it’s probably time to get new ones.
Some wipers come with a special indicator that lets you know when the blades have reached the end of their functional life. If your wipers don’t have such a thing, the National Highway Transportation Board recommends that you change your windshield wipers every year at minimum, with every 6 months being the ideal timeframe.
The average vehicle owner only replaces their wipers once every 2-½ years. Procrastination should never apply when it comes to ensuring your own safety. Just remember, you’re not only protecting yourself but you are also protecting the lives of other people on the road.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Here are a few signs that will let you know if it’s time to get new blades:
- Examine the blade. Do you see cracking or some discoloration? Usually these are indicators that it’s time to replace them.
- Notice how clean is the swipe. If you see any streaks or smudges that means the blades aren’t cleaning properly.
- Noise. Blades in good condition hardly make a sound when being used. If your windshield wipers make a chattering or scratching sound, or basically any form of sound, then it’s probably time to get new ones.
Some wipers come with a special indicator that lets you know when the blades have reached the end of their functional life. If your wipers don’t have such a thing, the National Highway Transportation Board recommends that you change your windshield wipers every year at minimum, with every 6 months being the ideal timeframe.
The average vehicle owner only replaces their wipers once every 2-½ years. Procrastination should never apply when it comes to ensuring your own safety. Just remember, you’re not only protecting yourself but you are also protecting the lives of other people on the road.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Items you Should Avoid leaving in the Car when it’s Cold
You’ve probably heard about what you shouldn’t leave in the car when it’s hot, but what about when it’s cold? Surprisingly, there are certain things that could suffer harm or damage if left in a car with freezing temperatures.
Here is a list of items you should avoid leaving in your car when it’s cold:
• Laptops- Condensation and colder climates can have a negative impact on your laptop. A frozen laptop could suffer damage to the LCD screen; significantly weaken the battery, and you could lose all of your data.
• Children or Pets- Just like leaving a child or a pet in a hot car in the middle of summer is dangerous, so is leaving them in a cold car in the middle of winter. A car interior can become like a refrigerator in cold temperatures and can literally freeze them to death.
• Never leave your medicine in the car. Even though most medications state that they need to be stored in a cool, dry place, the interior of your car during freezing temperatures is actually too cold. The low temperatures can weaken your medicine’s properties and reduce their effectiveness.
If you’re diabetic, leaving your insulin in a cold car could cause it to lose its effectiveness, too.
• Your smartphone. Regardless of the brand, smart phones are designed to function properly between 32-95 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything out of this range could cause failure.
• Beverages. When temperatures drop below 32 degrees, beverages like water, juice or soda will begin to freeze. A frozen liquid that exceeds the capacity of the container it’s being stored in could result in rupture and an unpleasant mess.
• Guitar. A guitar’s neck and strings can be strained if left in cold temperatures. To avoid this, loosen up the guitar’s strings to release tension before it gets too cold.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Here is a list of items you should avoid leaving in your car when it’s cold:
• Laptops- Condensation and colder climates can have a negative impact on your laptop. A frozen laptop could suffer damage to the LCD screen; significantly weaken the battery, and you could lose all of your data.
• Children or Pets- Just like leaving a child or a pet in a hot car in the middle of summer is dangerous, so is leaving them in a cold car in the middle of winter. A car interior can become like a refrigerator in cold temperatures and can literally freeze them to death.
• Never leave your medicine in the car. Even though most medications state that they need to be stored in a cool, dry place, the interior of your car during freezing temperatures is actually too cold. The low temperatures can weaken your medicine’s properties and reduce their effectiveness.
If you’re diabetic, leaving your insulin in a cold car could cause it to lose its effectiveness, too.
• Your smartphone. Regardless of the brand, smart phones are designed to function properly between 32-95 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything out of this range could cause failure.
• Beverages. When temperatures drop below 32 degrees, beverages like water, juice or soda will begin to freeze. A frozen liquid that exceeds the capacity of the container it’s being stored in could result in rupture and an unpleasant mess.
• Guitar. A guitar’s neck and strings can be strained if left in cold temperatures. To avoid this, loosen up the guitar’s strings to release tension before it gets too cold.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Riding in a Truck Bed is Dangerous
Although not necessarily illegal, riding in the bed of a pickup truck can be very dangerous. Many states have laws established regarding people riding in vehicle cargo areas. The majority of these laws are intended to protect persons under the age of 18. In the state of Michigan, it is unlawful for a minor to ride in the open bed of a pickup on a public roadway, at speeds greater than 15 miles per hour.
No matter your age, riding in the cargo area puts your life at risk. If the truck is going at high or even low speeds, you have an increased chance of being ejected out of the truck and becoming injured, or worse. This also applies if the truck is going around tight curves or going over bumps.
Passenger compartments are designed to provide the utmost protection to its occupants in the event of a crash. But occupants that are riding in the bed (cargo area) of a truck don’t have the proper restraints or seat belts to hold them down in an impact.
The safest option is to avoid riding in the bed of a truck at all. In the event that you must ride in the cargo area of a truck, make sure it is under safer conditions. This includes the driver of the truck going a very reduced speed in city streets. The driver should also not travel on interstates or busy highways and should avoid making sudden maneuvers or going through roads that have potholes or bumps. Under no circumstances should you ever stand in a moving truck bed.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
No matter your age, riding in the cargo area puts your life at risk. If the truck is going at high or even low speeds, you have an increased chance of being ejected out of the truck and becoming injured, or worse. This also applies if the truck is going around tight curves or going over bumps.
Passenger compartments are designed to provide the utmost protection to its occupants in the event of a crash. But occupants that are riding in the bed (cargo area) of a truck don’t have the proper restraints or seat belts to hold them down in an impact.
The safest option is to avoid riding in the bed of a truck at all. In the event that you must ride in the cargo area of a truck, make sure it is under safer conditions. This includes the driver of the truck going a very reduced speed in city streets. The driver should also not travel on interstates or busy highways and should avoid making sudden maneuvers or going through roads that have potholes or bumps. Under no circumstances should you ever stand in a moving truck bed.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Nighttime Driving: Reducing Glare
Even for experienced drivers, driving at night can still be unsettling. Statistically, the highest crash rates occur at nighttime between the hours of 6pm-6am. In addition, the traffic fatality rates are 3-4 times higher during these darker hours than in the daytime. The causes of these accidents are usually caused by exhaustion, stress, or the drivers are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
You can be a safer driver at night by doing a few things. At night, our visibility is reduced. Low lights decrease your peripheral vision and depth perception as well as causing your pupils to dilate (which may blur your vision). Glare coming from the headlights of other vehicles may also blind you. This form of glare is especially invasive and dangerous as it may cause confusion, dizziness, and temporary blindness.
Follow these tips for helping with glare:
- Make sure to keep your windshield, windows and glass surfaces clean. Any smudges, streaks, or road grime on these surfaces can reduce the contrast of objects on the road and make them appear invisible to you.
- Clean your vehicle’s headlights. Small amounts of dirt on headlights can still decrease the light output by about half, restricting your ability to see and for others to see you.
- Try not to look directly into the headlights of oncoming traffic. What you can do is look down and to the right. Keep in mind that you should be able to see the white line on the side of the road or where pavement meets the shoulder. Use the right side of the road to keep track of your lane rather than the left side. You’ll still have the ability to see other vehicles with your peripheral vision but their glare won’t be as much of a nuisance.
- Try flipping your rearview mirror. You can change your mirror to its nighttime setting by just flipping the small lever located at the bottom of the mirror. You will still see lights appear in the glass but they will be dimmer.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
You can be a safer driver at night by doing a few things. At night, our visibility is reduced. Low lights decrease your peripheral vision and depth perception as well as causing your pupils to dilate (which may blur your vision). Glare coming from the headlights of other vehicles may also blind you. This form of glare is especially invasive and dangerous as it may cause confusion, dizziness, and temporary blindness.
Follow these tips for helping with glare:
- Make sure to keep your windshield, windows and glass surfaces clean. Any smudges, streaks, or road grime on these surfaces can reduce the contrast of objects on the road and make them appear invisible to you.
- Clean your vehicle’s headlights. Small amounts of dirt on headlights can still decrease the light output by about half, restricting your ability to see and for others to see you.
- Try not to look directly into the headlights of oncoming traffic. What you can do is look down and to the right. Keep in mind that you should be able to see the white line on the side of the road or where pavement meets the shoulder. Use the right side of the road to keep track of your lane rather than the left side. You’ll still have the ability to see other vehicles with your peripheral vision but their glare won’t be as much of a nuisance.
- Try flipping your rearview mirror. You can change your mirror to its nighttime setting by just flipping the small lever located at the bottom of the mirror. You will still see lights appear in the glass but they will be dimmer.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Preventing Food Poisoning
Getting food poisoning is an unpleasant experience that can affect anyone and occur in all sorts of situations. Food poisoning occurs when you swallow water or food that contains bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins that are made by these germs. Common bacteria like E. coli or Staphylococcus cause the majority of food poisoning cases.
Getting food poisoning typically occurs after eating at restaurants, large social functions, picnics, or school cafeterias. Contamination occurs when germs make their way into the food.
Common ways food can become contaminated:
- Food that is handled unsafely when being prepared in restaurants, homes, or grocery stores
- People that don’t wash their hands when preparing food
- Water that’s been used during growing or shipping (may contain human or animal waste)
- Meat or poultry coming into contact with bacteria from animal intestines
In order to help prevent food poisoning, follow these tips:
- Before cooking or cleaning, always wash your hands carefully and often. Make sure to wash them after touching raw meat.
- Thoroughly clean utensils and dishes that have had contact with poultry, raw meat, eggs, or fish.
- Try using a thermometer when cooking to accurately know when the food is ready. Poultry should be cooked to at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit, beef to at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit, and fish to at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Never place cooked fish or meat back on the container or plate that once held raw meat, unless it has been washed.
- Place leftovers or perishable foods in the refrigerator within 2 hours. Always keep the fridge around 40 degrees Fahrenheit and freezer at or below 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Never eat poultry, meat, or fish that has been refrigerated uncooked for more than 1-2 days.
- Follow the instructions on the packaging for cooking frozen food.
- Always check food to make sure it doesn’t have an unusual smell or spoiled taste.
- Never drink water from wells or streams that aren’t treated. Drink water that has been chlorinated or treated.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve,
Getting food poisoning typically occurs after eating at restaurants, large social functions, picnics, or school cafeterias. Contamination occurs when germs make their way into the food.
Common ways food can become contaminated:
- Food that is handled unsafely when being prepared in restaurants, homes, or grocery stores
- People that don’t wash their hands when preparing food
- Water that’s been used during growing or shipping (may contain human or animal waste)
- Meat or poultry coming into contact with bacteria from animal intestines
In order to help prevent food poisoning, follow these tips:
- Before cooking or cleaning, always wash your hands carefully and often. Make sure to wash them after touching raw meat.
- Thoroughly clean utensils and dishes that have had contact with poultry, raw meat, eggs, or fish.
- Try using a thermometer when cooking to accurately know when the food is ready. Poultry should be cooked to at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit, beef to at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit, and fish to at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Never place cooked fish or meat back on the container or plate that once held raw meat, unless it has been washed.
- Place leftovers or perishable foods in the refrigerator within 2 hours. Always keep the fridge around 40 degrees Fahrenheit and freezer at or below 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Never eat poultry, meat, or fish that has been refrigerated uncooked for more than 1-2 days.
- Follow the instructions on the packaging for cooking frozen food.
- Always check food to make sure it doesn’t have an unusual smell or spoiled taste.
- Never drink water from wells or streams that aren’t treated. Drink water that has been chlorinated or treated.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve,
Monday, February 16, 2015
Dangers of Overloading Vehicles
Many people pack their cars to capacity and then some, without realizing how much risk their putting themselves in. A vehicle that is overloaded not only causes damage to your vehicle, but it also puts others on the road at risk as well.
There are many dangers associated with an overloaded vehicle. Too much cargo can impede a driver’s ability to maneuver and control the vehicle since their operating space is greatly reduced. When people overload their vehicles with people, its common for seat belts to not be worn. This is extremely dangerous as in the event of a collision; occupants can end up crushing each other.
Excessive weight can affect your ability to steer properly. It can become difficult to steer in a straight line or turn safely. If you hit a pothole or obstruction, you risk losing control and causing serious injury and damage. If you make a sharp turn quickly, you also risk overturning.
Your vehicle’s traction of tires is greatly reduced due to the weight of the car. This causes a car to make a “washing” movement and makes it unstable at higher speeds. The added weight also affects the suspension and braking system. Brakes have to work harder and if the vehicle is way too overloaded, they could overheat and lose their ability to stop the car.
If you are unsure if your vehicle is overloaded, take note of a few things. If the steering feels different, the brakes are not as responsive, and the car sways when making turns, it’s most likely surpasses its limit. You can always check the manual your vehicle came with to get the exact weight carrying capacity figures.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
There are many dangers associated with an overloaded vehicle. Too much cargo can impede a driver’s ability to maneuver and control the vehicle since their operating space is greatly reduced. When people overload their vehicles with people, its common for seat belts to not be worn. This is extremely dangerous as in the event of a collision; occupants can end up crushing each other.
Excessive weight can affect your ability to steer properly. It can become difficult to steer in a straight line or turn safely. If you hit a pothole or obstruction, you risk losing control and causing serious injury and damage. If you make a sharp turn quickly, you also risk overturning.
Your vehicle’s traction of tires is greatly reduced due to the weight of the car. This causes a car to make a “washing” movement and makes it unstable at higher speeds. The added weight also affects the suspension and braking system. Brakes have to work harder and if the vehicle is way too overloaded, they could overheat and lose their ability to stop the car.
If you are unsure if your vehicle is overloaded, take note of a few things. If the steering feels different, the brakes are not as responsive, and the car sways when making turns, it’s most likely surpasses its limit. You can always check the manual your vehicle came with to get the exact weight carrying capacity figures.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Effects of Loud Headphones
Many people use headphones on a daily basis, especially in the adolescent age group. Using headphones is supposed to be a harmless activity, that is, until the volume is blasted. Due to their increased use, headphones have caused 1 in 5 teens to have some form of hearing loss. Today, that rate is 30% higher that it was 20-30 years ago. Using headphones at high volumes for extended periods of time can result in lifelong hearing loss. Younger children are at higher risk for developmental delays in language and speech due to the excessive noise.
If you can’t hear anything that is going on around you, chances are the decibel level is too high. You should avoid exceeding 60% of maximum volume when listening through headphones. Per day, the maximum time you should have headphones plugged in is 60 minutes. As a rule of thumb, the louder you set the volume, the shorter your use of the headphones should be. Headphones at maximum volume should only be used for 5 minutes per day.
The hearing loss someone experiences with headphones is a gradual and cumulative process. If you feel you have experienced hearing loss, you should have a medical examination and take a hearing test. These are the only true ways to obtain a diagnosis.
Signs of hearing loss:
- Buzzing, ringing, hissing, roaring in the ear
- Trouble understanding speech in noisy places or places with lackluster acoustics.
- Feeling that your ear is plugged and experiencing muffled sounds
- Finding yourself listening to the radio or TV at a higher volume than in the past
Unfortunately, hearing loss as a result of overexposure to extremely loud noises is irreversible. Implants and hearing aids may help with amplifying sounds and make hearing easier. In order to prevent that from happening, it’s best you use older style headphones that are placed on the ears rather than ones that go directly into your ears.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
If you can’t hear anything that is going on around you, chances are the decibel level is too high. You should avoid exceeding 60% of maximum volume when listening through headphones. Per day, the maximum time you should have headphones plugged in is 60 minutes. As a rule of thumb, the louder you set the volume, the shorter your use of the headphones should be. Headphones at maximum volume should only be used for 5 minutes per day.
The hearing loss someone experiences with headphones is a gradual and cumulative process. If you feel you have experienced hearing loss, you should have a medical examination and take a hearing test. These are the only true ways to obtain a diagnosis.
Signs of hearing loss:
- Buzzing, ringing, hissing, roaring in the ear
- Trouble understanding speech in noisy places or places with lackluster acoustics.
- Feeling that your ear is plugged and experiencing muffled sounds
- Finding yourself listening to the radio or TV at a higher volume than in the past
Unfortunately, hearing loss as a result of overexposure to extremely loud noises is irreversible. Implants and hearing aids may help with amplifying sounds and make hearing easier. In order to prevent that from happening, it’s best you use older style headphones that are placed on the ears rather than ones that go directly into your ears.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
What to do if you see a Wrong-Way Driver
One of the most terrifying sights a motorist can witness is a car or truck heading straight into their direction. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), each year, roughly 400 people die from wrong-way drivers. Wrong-way driving can occur in either one or two-way roads, parking lots, parking garages, and highways.
The cause of wrong-way driving can be many, and may be due to driver impairment (under the influence of drugs or alcohol or sleep deprivation), inattention, and confusing or insufficient road signage or marking. According to reporting done by ABC News, 22% of wrong-way crashes are fatal. Here are a few tips you can follow that could help keep you safe if you’re in the trajectory of a wrong-way driver:
Always look ahead. Usually people don’t look further than a couple hundred feet in front of them. In lighter traffic, you can easily look ahead a quarter of a mile, which can allow you to see any approaching danger and give you enough time to react.
Make your intentions known. If you have time, use your lights to signal to the wrong-way driver or use your horn. Lack of mental alertness or inexperience is sometimes the cause of these situations and alerting the driver could help.
Swerve to the right side. When you are avoiding a wrong-way driver, it’s always best to swerve to the right. Many wrong-way drivers hop on freeways and immediately head all the way to the right side or the fast lane because they believe it’s the slow lane.
Buckle-up and look out for others. Since the majority of wrong-way crashes are sideswipes and head on collisions, it’s important that you wear a seatbelt. As soon as you avoid the wrong-way driver, pull over and call 911. Be prepared to give the dispatcher the description of the vehicle, license plate number, and its direction of travel.
Know when you’re on the wrong side. If you see red reflectors, you are on the wrong side of the road and need to turn around immediately.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
The cause of wrong-way driving can be many, and may be due to driver impairment (under the influence of drugs or alcohol or sleep deprivation), inattention, and confusing or insufficient road signage or marking. According to reporting done by ABC News, 22% of wrong-way crashes are fatal. Here are a few tips you can follow that could help keep you safe if you’re in the trajectory of a wrong-way driver:
Always look ahead. Usually people don’t look further than a couple hundred feet in front of them. In lighter traffic, you can easily look ahead a quarter of a mile, which can allow you to see any approaching danger and give you enough time to react.
Make your intentions known. If you have time, use your lights to signal to the wrong-way driver or use your horn. Lack of mental alertness or inexperience is sometimes the cause of these situations and alerting the driver could help.
Swerve to the right side. When you are avoiding a wrong-way driver, it’s always best to swerve to the right. Many wrong-way drivers hop on freeways and immediately head all the way to the right side or the fast lane because they believe it’s the slow lane.
Buckle-up and look out for others. Since the majority of wrong-way crashes are sideswipes and head on collisions, it’s important that you wear a seatbelt. As soon as you avoid the wrong-way driver, pull over and call 911. Be prepared to give the dispatcher the description of the vehicle, license plate number, and its direction of travel.
Know when you’re on the wrong side. If you see red reflectors, you are on the wrong side of the road and need to turn around immediately.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Electric Space Heater Safety
Over the past decade, electric space heaters have gained popularity for a number of reasons. The greatest benefit of these heaters is that they allow you to warm a small area of your home or office without having to turn the rest of the place into a sauna. Manufacturers have also made newer models that resemble fireplaces or wood burning stoves, adding to their charm and making them a must-have item in many homes.
Unfortunately, not all electric space heaters are safe to use. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFi), space heaters cause 32% of home heating fires (approximately 21,000) and are to blame for 82% of home heating deaths.
If you use an electric space heater, there are a few things you can do to remain as safe as possible and ensure that your product itself is safe:
• First, check to make sure the space heater has been safely tested and UL approved. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is a product safety testing and certification company
• Always read, follow and understand the instructions for its proper use, operation and care.
• Make sure the space heater has safety features like emergency shut-off or heating element guards.
• If you have them (and you should) check your carbon monoxide detectors and make sure they are functioning properly
• Always avoid putting an electrical heater on furniture, countertops or carpets. Place the heater on a non-inflammable surface that is study and leveled
• Never use a space heater as a way to dry wet clothing
• Keep the space heater away from flammable things like fuels, paint, spray cans and upholstered items
• Avoid overloading the circuit you’re using to operate the heater
• Whenever you’re not in the room, keep the space heater off.
• When needed, replace old space heaters
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Unfortunately, not all electric space heaters are safe to use. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFi), space heaters cause 32% of home heating fires (approximately 21,000) and are to blame for 82% of home heating deaths.
If you use an electric space heater, there are a few things you can do to remain as safe as possible and ensure that your product itself is safe:
• First, check to make sure the space heater has been safely tested and UL approved. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is a product safety testing and certification company
• Always read, follow and understand the instructions for its proper use, operation and care.
• Make sure the space heater has safety features like emergency shut-off or heating element guards.
• If you have them (and you should) check your carbon monoxide detectors and make sure they are functioning properly
• Always avoid putting an electrical heater on furniture, countertops or carpets. Place the heater on a non-inflammable surface that is study and leveled
• Never use a space heater as a way to dry wet clothing
• Keep the space heater away from flammable things like fuels, paint, spray cans and upholstered items
• Avoid overloading the circuit you’re using to operate the heater
• Whenever you’re not in the room, keep the space heater off.
• When needed, replace old space heaters
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Tips for Pregnant Drivers
All motorists face risks and safety concerns whenever they are on the road. When it comes to pregnant women, these risks and safety concerns are heightened. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists, pregnant women should not disconnect the airbag and always wear a three-point safety belt.
If you’re pregnant, your seatbelt should never cross or be above your belly. Adjust the seat belt so that the shoulder strap fits across your chest comfortably. The lap belt portion should rest under the belly. In the event of an accident, an improperly placed seat belt can hurt both you and your unborn child.
Whenever driving, adjust the seat so you are as far away as possible from the steering wheel. If you need extra space, try tilting the seat back or adjusting the angle and position of the steering wheel. If you’re going for a long drive, take regular breaks. Sitting for long periods of time can affect your blood circulation and may cause dangerous blood clots.
Make sure you eat regularly and carry snacks with you in the car. Sudden dips in your blood sugar could result in dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, disorientation and confusion. It’s also important to carry plenty of water with you since pregnancy increases the chance of dehydration.
If possible, avoid driving at all. If your belly makes contact with the steering wheel in a car accident, you and the unborn child could be victims of serious injury.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
If you’re pregnant, your seatbelt should never cross or be above your belly. Adjust the seat belt so that the shoulder strap fits across your chest comfortably. The lap belt portion should rest under the belly. In the event of an accident, an improperly placed seat belt can hurt both you and your unborn child.
Whenever driving, adjust the seat so you are as far away as possible from the steering wheel. If you need extra space, try tilting the seat back or adjusting the angle and position of the steering wheel. If you’re going for a long drive, take regular breaks. Sitting for long periods of time can affect your blood circulation and may cause dangerous blood clots.
Make sure you eat regularly and carry snacks with you in the car. Sudden dips in your blood sugar could result in dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, disorientation and confusion. It’s also important to carry plenty of water with you since pregnancy increases the chance of dehydration.
If possible, avoid driving at all. If your belly makes contact with the steering wheel in a car accident, you and the unborn child could be victims of serious injury.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Most Distracting Foods to Eat While Driving
You may have heard the saying, “don’t drink and drive” but you should also make note of, “don’t eat and drive”. More than 70% of drivers admit to eating while they are behind the wheel. A study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute shows that eating certain foods while driving can be just as distracting as texting or using your phone.
Reaction times while eating and driving have been reported to be similar to drivers that use a cell phone. Drivers who eat and drive are twice as likely to suffer a car accident due to the fact that they are more focused on their food and avoiding spills than they are on driving.
With the busy lives people lead; sometimes eating in the car is inevitable. There are certain foods that are more dangerous than others when driving:
- Soft drinks
- Hot beverages like coffee or tea
- Drippy or greasy foods like burgers or tacos
- Foods that have sauce
- Foods that require utensils
- Foods that require two hands
- Foods that are larger than your hand
Due to its tendency to spill, the most common food that tends to cause issues is coffee. Liquids tend to find ways out and carrying a travel lid might not be enough to prevent a spill. Spills might not even happen when you’re trying to drink the beverage, many times they occur when you hit bumps in the road. When this happens, the driver might get coffee on their clothes and in the frustration of trying to get the stains out, they can become distracted from the road. Even worse, coffee can cause serious burns that could really distract a driver and put them at risk of an accident.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Reaction times while eating and driving have been reported to be similar to drivers that use a cell phone. Drivers who eat and drive are twice as likely to suffer a car accident due to the fact that they are more focused on their food and avoiding spills than they are on driving.
With the busy lives people lead; sometimes eating in the car is inevitable. There are certain foods that are more dangerous than others when driving:
- Soft drinks
- Hot beverages like coffee or tea
- Drippy or greasy foods like burgers or tacos
- Foods that have sauce
- Foods that require utensils
- Foods that require two hands
- Foods that are larger than your hand
Due to its tendency to spill, the most common food that tends to cause issues is coffee. Liquids tend to find ways out and carrying a travel lid might not be enough to prevent a spill. Spills might not even happen when you’re trying to drink the beverage, many times they occur when you hit bumps in the road. When this happens, the driver might get coffee on their clothes and in the frustration of trying to get the stains out, they can become distracted from the road. Even worse, coffee can cause serious burns that could really distract a driver and put them at risk of an accident.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Friday, February 6, 2015
How to Spot Drunk Drivers
With so many people navigating the roads, accidents are bound to happen. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 32,719 people died in traffic-related accidents in 2013. An estimated 10,076 people died in drunk driving crashes in the same year, which accounted for 31% of all traffic deaths.
Sometimes the people who die in drunk driving accidents aren’t under the influence at all. Instead, these individuals died due to the recklessness of an individual who was in fact intoxicated. Educating yourself on the signs that someone who is inebriated might be operating a vehicle can save not only your life but also the driver’s and other motorists.
Here are a few red flags you can look out for:
- Tailgating
- Rapid acceleration
- Unpredictably braking
- Making very wide turns
- Swerving on or off the road
- Driving into oncoming traffic
- Driving at extremely slow speed
- Driving at night without headlights
- Straddling the center lane of the road
- Narrowly avoiding vehicles, curbs, or objects
- Holding their face closer to the windshield than necessary
If you are driving near a vehicle that you suspect is being operated by someone who is intoxicated, stay out of their way and remain at a safe distance. Find a safe spot that you can stop and call 911 to report the vehicle.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Tips on Preventing Backover & Frontover Accidents
Auto accidents are commonplace on roadways no matter where you go. But what many people don’t realize is that some of the most tragic incidents occur very close to home. Many accidents occur in neighborhoods and driveways. More often than not, these accidents are backovers or frontovers. Toddlers and young children are usually the victims in these situations that may cause serious injuries or death.
A backover occurs when a driver backs out of a driveway or parking space and fails to see the child behind their vehicle. Here in the United States, about 50 children are backed over by vehicles each week. A frontover is the opposite of a backover and involves a child being struck by a driver that is moving forward and does not see the child in front of their car. Cars have a blind zone that extends up to 8 feet in front and up to 50 feet in the rear.
In order to avoid this happening, there are a few things you can do:
Before moving your vehicle, make a complete circle around it. Look for children or any objects beside or beneath the car that might attract their attention. Move the items a safe distance away from the car before you get in and start the engine. Stay alert and be aware of where the children are before moving the vehicle. You can also install backup warning devices such as a rearview camera or cross view mirrors in your vehicle in order to better view your blind spots. Whenever entering or exiting the car, always accompany children and hold their hand.
The best thing you can do to avoid such accidents is to educate children on the dangers of automobiles parked or in motion. Children should understand that parked vehicles can potentially move and a driver might not be able to see them. Playing or hanging around vehicles should be prohibited at all times.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Driving Safe Near School Buses
One of the safest forms of transportation on the road today are school buses. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, children riding a school bus are 10 times safer than they are walking to school and 13 times safer than riding in a passenger vehicle.
The reality is that more children are hurt outside of the bus than inside, and many have lost their life in bus-related crashes as pedestrians. This is why it is important to use extra precaution when driving around school buses and always follow the signals.
Always pay attention to the flashing signals on the bus. When a bus starts to flash it’s yellow signals, it is indicating that it will stop soon and you should decrease your speed. When the bus flashes its red signals and displays it’s stop signs, you should come to a complete stop. Children are most susceptible to being hit in the area that is 10 feet around the school bus. Stop your vehicle at a safe enough distance to allow children to safely exit or enter the bus or cross the street. Never attempt to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children. In fact, all 50 states have a law making this action illegal.
Always keep a close eye on children as they’re getting on and off the bus. There is a chance that a child may run once they step off onto the road. Children are unpredictable and tend to be oblivious to the dangers around them, which is why motorists need to pay extra attention. Always remain alert and don’t begin driving until the bus has retracted its signals and all children are safely away from the road.
Parents should also educate their children on proper bus etiquette. The National Safety Council (NSC), recommends that children should wait away from the road while they wait for the bus and only board it once it has completely stopped. If children must cross in front of the bus, they should walk at least 10 steps away from the bus so that the driver will be able to see them. Also, it is never a good idea to walk behind the bus as the drivers may lose sight of children in the blind spots.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
The reality is that more children are hurt outside of the bus than inside, and many have lost their life in bus-related crashes as pedestrians. This is why it is important to use extra precaution when driving around school buses and always follow the signals.
Always pay attention to the flashing signals on the bus. When a bus starts to flash it’s yellow signals, it is indicating that it will stop soon and you should decrease your speed. When the bus flashes its red signals and displays it’s stop signs, you should come to a complete stop. Children are most susceptible to being hit in the area that is 10 feet around the school bus. Stop your vehicle at a safe enough distance to allow children to safely exit or enter the bus or cross the street. Never attempt to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children. In fact, all 50 states have a law making this action illegal.
Always keep a close eye on children as they’re getting on and off the bus. There is a chance that a child may run once they step off onto the road. Children are unpredictable and tend to be oblivious to the dangers around them, which is why motorists need to pay extra attention. Always remain alert and don’t begin driving until the bus has retracted its signals and all children are safely away from the road.
Parents should also educate their children on proper bus etiquette. The National Safety Council (NSC), recommends that children should wait away from the road while they wait for the bus and only board it once it has completely stopped. If children must cross in front of the bus, they should walk at least 10 steps away from the bus so that the driver will be able to see them. Also, it is never a good idea to walk behind the bus as the drivers may lose sight of children in the blind spots.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Driving on Flooded Roads
Just like homeowners, floods also pose a huge threat to motorists. Floods can occur just about anywhere and can sometimes strike suddenly. In the United States, flash floods are the number one weather-related cause of death, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The majority of the fatalities involved with floods are because people try to navigate through them instead of avoiding them altogether.
When driving in a flood, pay attention to any barricades and do not ignore them. The barricades are there for a reason. Avoid driving through standing water on roads or parking lots. The average vehicle can be swept off the road in a foot of moving water. In addition, roads that are covered by water are prone to collapse. Driving through water can also stall your engine, which may lead to irreparable damage if you attempt to restart the engine. You’re better off avoiding a flood zone at all costs.
If avoiding flooded roads is not an option, take extra precautions. First, try and estimate the depth of the water. If you see other cars driving through it, make a note of how deep it is. If you determine that the water isn’t too deep, drive slowly and steadily. Always avoid driving in water that downed power lines have fallen into as electric current passes through water very easily.
If you have navigated water that reached up to your car’s rims or higher, you should test your brakes on a clear area of road at lower speeds. If the brakes are wet and not stopping the car like they’re supposed to, try drying them. To dry them, take your left foot and press gently on the brake pedal while maintaining speed with the right foot.
Be on the look out for any items or debris that is traveling towards you. If you’re in their path, these items can potentially trap or crush you. If you vehicle stalls in water, you might have to restart the engine. Remember that restarting the engine could cause irreparable damage. In the event that you cannot restart your car, abandon it immediately by attempting to open the door or rolling down the window. If you cannot get out safely, call 911 or alert someone nearby on higher ground to do so.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Monday, February 2, 2015
How to Get your Car Unstuck from Mud
Cars are designed to drive best on paved roads that provide traction. Even vehicles designed for off-roading, like Jeeps, can still get stuck in mud. You risk getting stuck in the mud whenever you drive on wet or unpaved roads or even when you go out four-wheeling. If you ever find yourself in this type of situation, there are a few tips you can follow that may help you get out of such a sticky mess.
As soon as you reach mud and get stuck, don’t panic. Avoid pushing hard on the accelerator in an attempt to get out of the mud, as this will cause your car to get stuck even deeper. Instead, gently press on the accelerator to try and ease out of the muddy pit. If your car has automatic transmission, put it in the lowest gear and give it a little bit of gas to see if your tires will get any traction. If your car has a manual transmission, put it in a higher gear and gently let out the clutch, while moving your tires inch by inch.
If the above steps fail you, rock the car back and forth. Turn your steering wheel so the wheels are straightly aligned, and then rapidly switch back and forth from reverse to drive about 8 or 10 times. Only do this no more than 8 or 10 times because you can damage your vehicle. Try letting a small amount of air out of your tires. A tire that is slightly flat will increase the amount of surface area that comes in contact with the ground and could provide the extra traction you need to get yourself out of the mud. Remember to fill up your tires once you get out to safety.
Try to find something that you could place under the tires to provide extra traction. This includes a blanket, old coat, floor mats, sand, tree branches or boards (make sure to check for nails). Place the items under the front tires and slowly drive over them. This trick will usually get a car out of the mud but if it doesn’t, you may need to seek help.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
As soon as you reach mud and get stuck, don’t panic. Avoid pushing hard on the accelerator in an attempt to get out of the mud, as this will cause your car to get stuck even deeper. Instead, gently press on the accelerator to try and ease out of the muddy pit. If your car has automatic transmission, put it in the lowest gear and give it a little bit of gas to see if your tires will get any traction. If your car has a manual transmission, put it in a higher gear and gently let out the clutch, while moving your tires inch by inch.
If the above steps fail you, rock the car back and forth. Turn your steering wheel so the wheels are straightly aligned, and then rapidly switch back and forth from reverse to drive about 8 or 10 times. Only do this no more than 8 or 10 times because you can damage your vehicle. Try letting a small amount of air out of your tires. A tire that is slightly flat will increase the amount of surface area that comes in contact with the ground and could provide the extra traction you need to get yourself out of the mud. Remember to fill up your tires once you get out to safety.
Try to find something that you could place under the tires to provide extra traction. This includes a blanket, old coat, floor mats, sand, tree branches or boards (make sure to check for nails). Place the items under the front tires and slowly drive over them. This trick will usually get a car out of the mud but if it doesn’t, you may need to seek help.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
Dealing with Potholes
Potholes big and small can be found anywhere and are considered a nuisance. Chances are you’ve come across them before, and as you know, they can make for an uncomfortable and bumpy ride. Potholes have the potential to cause serious damage to your vehicle, with some potholes having as much impact as a car crash at 35mph. Structural damage can be caused by potholes as well as damage to your tires. Alignment problems may also happen which leads to uneven wear on your tires. If your tires are underinflated, potholes may cause them to blow out, potentially leading to an accident.
The freezing and thawing of water under the pavement are the cause of many potholes. This process weakens the road and causes large-sized cracks. With the weight of vehicles continuously driving over, these cracks eventually turn into potholes. Areas with severe winter weather are more prone to potholes.
Here are a few tips that may help you navigate pothole-filled roads:
If there is a vehicle in front of you, leave plenty of room between you both so you can avoid the pothole without getting involved in an accident. If there is a pothole you can’t avoid, slow down before hitting it but do not brake directly over it, as this can cause even more damage.
When you drive over the pothole, firmly hold the steering wheel to prevent yourself from losing control. Use extra caution when driving over a puddle of water because it might actually be a pothole in disguise. If you usually take routes with pothole roads, you need to watch out for symptoms of pothole damage. Here are some symptoms to watch out for: Your car is pulling to the left or right instead of going straight or has uneven tire wear- both can be signs of an alignment problem, blisters or bulges on the sidewalls of the tire, dents in the wheel rims, low tire pressure, swaying when making turns, excessive bouncing on rougher roads, bottoming out on city streets. These could indicate a suspension or steering problem. If you notice any problems, take your vehicle to a car shop for inspection.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
The freezing and thawing of water under the pavement are the cause of many potholes. This process weakens the road and causes large-sized cracks. With the weight of vehicles continuously driving over, these cracks eventually turn into potholes. Areas with severe winter weather are more prone to potholes.
Here are a few tips that may help you navigate pothole-filled roads:
If there is a vehicle in front of you, leave plenty of room between you both so you can avoid the pothole without getting involved in an accident. If there is a pothole you can’t avoid, slow down before hitting it but do not brake directly over it, as this can cause even more damage.
When you drive over the pothole, firmly hold the steering wheel to prevent yourself from losing control. Use extra caution when driving over a puddle of water because it might actually be a pothole in disguise. If you usually take routes with pothole roads, you need to watch out for symptoms of pothole damage. Here are some symptoms to watch out for: Your car is pulling to the left or right instead of going straight or has uneven tire wear- both can be signs of an alignment problem, blisters or bulges on the sidewalls of the tire, dents in the wheel rims, low tire pressure, swaying when making turns, excessive bouncing on rougher roads, bottoming out on city streets. These could indicate a suspension or steering problem. If you notice any problems, take your vehicle to a car shop for inspection.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
What to Do: Power Line is Touching Your Car
Downed power lines can be extremely dangerous and have caused many accidents and fatalities. You should never touch a power line or even use an object to touch one. But what if you’re in your car and the power line is touching your car? There are a few steps you can do that may help you get out of this situation safely.
First thing you should do is stay in your car. Warn any people to stay away from your vehicle and ask them to call 911 and the electric utility company. If no one is around, try honking your horn and rolling down your window to yell for help. Remain in your vehicle until rescue workers arrive. Staying inside your car is safe because the rubber tires help electricity from not going to the ground.
In the event that you absolutely have to leave your vehicle because of fire or some other danger, avoid stepping out of the car. If you make contact with the car and the ground at the same time, you will get shocked. Instead of stepping right out of your car, jump away from your car so you do not make contact with your vehicle and the ground all at once. Make sure your feet are together when you land. Shuffle away without lifting your feet from the ground.
Avoid trying to help someone else from your car while standing on the surrounding ground. Doing so will make you a path for electricity and you risk being seriously injured or killed.
Be aware that once you jump away from your car, you might not be all clear of danger. Electricity may spread throughout the ground in a circle from a downed power line. As you move away from the point of contact, the voltage drops. If one part of your body touches a low voltage area and another part makes contact with a high voltage area, you automatically become a conductor for electricity. This is why it is extremely important that you shuffle away from the line, keeping your feet together and not lifting your feet off the ground.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
First thing you should do is stay in your car. Warn any people to stay away from your vehicle and ask them to call 911 and the electric utility company. If no one is around, try honking your horn and rolling down your window to yell for help. Remain in your vehicle until rescue workers arrive. Staying inside your car is safe because the rubber tires help electricity from not going to the ground.
In the event that you absolutely have to leave your vehicle because of fire or some other danger, avoid stepping out of the car. If you make contact with the car and the ground at the same time, you will get shocked. Instead of stepping right out of your car, jump away from your car so you do not make contact with your vehicle and the ground all at once. Make sure your feet are together when you land. Shuffle away without lifting your feet from the ground.
Avoid trying to help someone else from your car while standing on the surrounding ground. Doing so will make you a path for electricity and you risk being seriously injured or killed.
Be aware that once you jump away from your car, you might not be all clear of danger. Electricity may spread throughout the ground in a circle from a downed power line. As you move away from the point of contact, the voltage drops. If one part of your body touches a low voltage area and another part makes contact with a high voltage area, you automatically become a conductor for electricity. This is why it is extremely important that you shuffle away from the line, keeping your feet together and not lifting your feet off the ground.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
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