Greensboro Personal Injury Lawyer - Safety

One Roadway to Carry Them All

Pierce Egerton — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 09:02:56 GMT

Bicyclists are perhaps the most vulnerable vehicles on the road. The accident rate for bicycles is lower than for other vehicles because they move slower. But, when there is an accident involving a bicyclist, he or she is at a greater risk for injury and death. As drivers, it is important to watch out for two-wheeled vehicles – they are harder to see, and their occupants are not encased in a protective layer of glass and steel.

Being myself a bicyclist, however, I hear the question often, “What about the bicyclists we see riding erratically, unsafely, and/or illegally?”

Sadly, the question has some merit and deserves a look. In Greensboro recently, a bicyclist was severely injured when she failed to yield at a stop sign and t-boned an SUV:

http://www.news-record.com/content/2009/11/09/article/bicyclist_seriously_injured_after_hitting_car

Stop signs and traffic signals apply to bicyclists too! Many bicyclists think that they can treat Stop signs as Yield, and red lights as Stop signs. This idea may be reasonable in some situations, but any vehicle, bicycle included, ignores stop signs and traffic signals at its peril.

Another thing we see often in Greensboro is bicycles on sidewalks where they shouldn’t necessarily be. To an inexperienced cyclist, the sidewalk can seem like a safer place to ride than the roadway. This is usually not the case!! Although speeds are lower on the sidewalk, there are many additional hazards riding there, and not just for the bike. Riding on the sidewalk, first and foremost, endangers the pedestrians who have a right to be there. Also, bicyclists using the sidewalk are often not aware when a crosswalk approaches, that a car or truck making a turn might contest the roadway, with disastrous results for the bicyclist.

The roadway is usually the safest place to ride. Yes, it can be scary for riders who are not familiar with the exercise – the cars are so much closer! Drivers, however, are more likely to see a bicycle on the roadway than one on the sidewalk or the shoulder. Don’t think that bicycles are required to ride near the side of the road – in most places, the law requires bicycles to ride as far to the right as is practicable, not as far right as possible. Plus, being seen on the roadway as a bicyclist, and obeying the laws of the road, drivers will be able to predict what the bicycle will do, and thereby avoid running it over.

The NC Department of Transportation site provides resources on safe riding: Streetwise Cycling — A Guide to Safe Bicycling in North Carolina

For more I’ve written recently on this topic, have a look at:

Be on the Look Out for 2-Wheeled Vehicles!

Update: Arrest Made for Greensboro Cyclist's Hit-and-Run Death

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

Aggressive Driver? -PWNED!

Pierce Egerton — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 10:30:00 GMT

Aggressive drivers are big, fat pains in the rump. It’s amazing how some people act when they get behind the wheel. They cut people off, tailgate, try to skip to the front of backed up traffic -- basically they act like kindergartners.

This holiday weekend, don’t get mad. GET EVEN!!

According to the NC Highway Patrol, aggressive drivers account for the majority of the traffic collisions that occur on the state roadways.

That’s why this holiday the Highway Patrol says it will crack down on “those drivers who flagrantly violate the motor vehicle laws, including but not limited to: excessive speeding, following too closely, erratic lane changes, safe movement violations and other forms of reckless endangerment.”

And guess what?!? They want your help! Yep, that’s right. Here’s how: “Citizens can report highway problems to the Patrol by dialing *HP (*47) on their cellular phones. The toll free call goes directly to the nearest Highway Patrol communication center.”

You gotta love that. Turn a jerk in -- toll free!

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

Thank You Officers

Pierce Egerton — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 06:57:00 GMT

I’m one of those people that think the media focus too often on negative stories and ignore newsworthy positive events. So when I came across a press release about five people were recently honored in Raleigh for rendering exemplary service to the citizens of North Carolina, I knew it wasn’t going to get much attention.

I know individual blogs don’t reach many people, but these wonderful individuals deserve some recognition. So here it is:

Three state troopers and two citizens received awards this week from the N.C. Department of Crime Control and Public Safety and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.

Recipient and Award:

· Trooper C. R. Davis - received the CCPS Meritorious Service Award and the Highway Patrol Meritorious Award. Trooper Davis, along with several other members, participated in a crackdown on street racing in Guilford and Forsyth counties.

· Lt. C. R. Lee and Trooper S. G. McKeel - received the CCPS Commendation Award and the Highway Patrol Samaritan Award. Trooper McKeel and Lt. C. R. Lee performed life-saving CPR to a distressed motorist on US 64 in Wake County.

“Each Trooper went beyond the normal call of duty, and demonstrated outstanding judgment. This level of service exemplifies what it means to be a state employee—to serve others,” said Colonel Randy Glover, Highway Patrol Commander.

The Highway Patrol recognized two citizens, Mr. Jamie Bennett and Ms. Mendy Grenier, by presenting the Citizen Life Saving Award for their willingness to assist patrol members in a time of need.

The Commendation Award is CCPS's second highest award for heroism and is given only to those who have demonstrated judgment and courage that saved others. The Meritorious Award is CCPS's second highest award for meritorious service or achievement. The patrol presents the Meritorious Award to a member who serves the State of North Carolina in an outstanding manner. The Samaritan Award is given an award bestowed to a patrol member who went beyond the call of duty to aid or assist a fellow citizen.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

Twitter Traffic Reports Statewide in North Carolina

Pierce Egerton — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:13:33 GMT

North Carolina drivers, check out the press release below. This is a great new service the state is offering to help motorists steer clear of traffic jams. I’m not always wild about the way the state spends my taxpayer dollars, but this is something I can use almost every day.

As an injury attorney I’m also glad to see the caution to check the service before starting out rather than while driving. Those of you who had the chance to read an earlier post on driving while texting know how deadly driver distraction can be.

Travel Information Now Available On Twitter

Citizens can access highway and ferry updates using free online tool through NCDOT

Finding out if an accident will delay your morning commute is as easy as looking at your cell phone.

The N.C. Department of Transportation now offers travel information for motorists and ferry passengers on Twitter, a free social-networking Web site.

“A quick check of Twitter can make for a quicker trip to work,” said Gov. Bev Perdue. “State government and our DOT are using 21st century technology to connect you to up-to-date travel information so you don’t start or end your day in a frustrating logjam or bottleneck.”

"North Carolina is known for effective use of cutting edge technologies," said Perdue. "Being able to check traffic conditions before you start the car can reduce congestion, frustration, and fuel consumption."

The department reminds motorists not to use mobile devices while driving. Instead, NCDOT encourages them to check the alerts before they leave home, work or school. This will not only enhance safety but also help motorists determine the best route to take.

“The goal of this high-tech initiative is to help people ‘know before you go,’” said Transportation Secretary Gene Conti. “By sending them important updates about traffic conditions and ferry delays, we can help citizens better plan for the day ahead.”

The NCDOT Twitter updates regarding highways include information about:
• Congestion;
• Accidents;
• Road or lane closures;
• Construction projects; and
• Maintenance work.

The department’s Twitter alerts about the state’s ferry system include details on:
• Schedule changes;
• Weather-related delays; and
• Ticket sales.

Citizens can get brief updates, or “tweets,” for 16 different routes or regions of the state. To see all the Twitter options NCDOT offers, they can go to www.ncdot.gov/travel/twitter/. There, they also will find information on how to sign up for a Twitter account. Doing so allows users to receive tweets on mobile devices such as cell phones and PDAs.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

Life Vests A Must For Boating Safety

Pierce Egerton — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:33:00 GMT

As we approach mid-summer, now is a good time to revisit safe boating practices Remember to always wear your life vest and remain alert and aware while on the water.

In some circumstances, it is not just smart, it is the law.

North Carolina requires anyone younger than 13 to wear an appropriate life vest when on a recreational vessel that is underway. Anyone riding a personal watercraft or being towed by one must also wear an appropriate life vest.

Both state and federal regulations require that a Type I, II or III personal flotation device in good condition and of appropriate size be accessible for each person onboard a recreational vessel, including canoes, kayaks, rowboats and other non-motorized craft. (Sailboards, racing shells, rowing sculls, racing canoes and racing kayaks are exempt from this requirement.)

“Accidents can happen quickly and without warning,” said Capt. Chris Huebner of the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission and the state's boating safety coordinator. “In those situations, there often isn’t time to grab a life vest and put it on properly before you are in the water. The best preparation is to wear it whenever you are underway. A life vest can be a life saver when it’s worn. It also gives you the ability to assist others who may be in danger.”

When choosing a life vest for a child, always check for:

U.S. Coast Guard approved label
Matching it to the child’s current weight
Making sure it is snug but comfortable

For more information on life vest requirements or how to enroll in a free boating education course, click here or call (919) 707-0031.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

Federal Officials Tour Greensboro Hospital In Wake of Infants' Exposure to Swine Flu

Pierce Egerton — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 15:41:35 GMT

The Triad Business Journal reported today that federal officials from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid are touring Greensboro’s Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital after issuing a notice that “the hospital was found not in compliance with issues surrounding its governing body, patient rights and infection control.”

The notice stated that the hospital was at risk of losing payments. The notice followed the announcement that infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) were exposed to the H₁N₁ virus. The federal officials expect to tour the hospital through Tuesday.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

New Style Left Turn Signal In Concord Part Of Nationwide Study

Pierce Egerton — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 12:17:00 GMT

The N.C. Department of Transportation has installed a new four-head traffic signal at the intersection of N.C. 73 and Gold Hill Road (State Road 2408) in Concord. The North Carolina Department of Transportation is evaluating the new traffic head as part of a national study sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration.

This new signal includes a flashing yellow arrow between the solid green and solid yellow arrows indicating that left turns are permitted, but motorists must also yield to oncoming traffic before turning. The signal became operational on Wednesday, July 1.

The new signal head is designed to make it easier for drivers to know what to do when making a left turn and reduce accidents. Not a bad idea in my view as we see far too many accidents arising from left turn situations.

Often the problem is that the person turning left on a green ball (not an arrow) will proceed into the middle of the intersection hoping for a gap in the oncoming traffic. If the light turns yellow and there is still oncoming traffic, the left-turning begins to feel pressured. The driver may then attempt the turn when he or she is unclear whether the approaching traffic is slowing to stop or intending to proceed through the intersection.

If you’ve had experience with one of the new signal heads, please drop a comment. I’d love to know what you think about them.

I’m not the only one. The Department of Transportation would also like to hear from you. Contact Sean Epperson, Deputy Division Traffic Engineer, at (704) 982-0101 or smepperson@ncdot.gov.

You can see the new design and read more about it here or here.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

Safety Tips For Jetski Operators When Carrying or Towing Passengers

Pierce Egerton — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 10:26:00 GMT

NC Wildlife Officers recently warned jetski users to be careful when carrying or towing passengers.

Onboard passengers can fall or be thrown off and towed passengers can spill into the water, making them vulnerable to being run-over. In some instances, they may be struck by the very jetski on which they were previously riding or being towed.

Photo courtesy of the Personal Watercraft Industry Association

Jetskis or “personal watercraft” use an inboard engine with jet pumps turning an impeller to create a powerful thrust for propulsion and steering. The jet pumps present a hazard for entanglement. To avoid injury, turn off the engine when people are in the water.

“Personal watercraft operators must operate their vessel in manner that ensures the safety of people and property,” said Sgt. Carl Hatcher, a wildlife officer stationed in Halifax County. “They should be familiar with their vessel and how to maintain control in various circumstances. They must be aware of their surroundings and watch for people in the water and other vessels.”

When approaching within 100 feet of people, vessels or objects in the water, the operator should already be traveling at no wake or idle speed, Sgt. Hatcher said. While at idle speed and when within reach of someone or floating objects – such as tow ropes, tubes, floats or bow lines – the operator should cut off the personal watercraft to avoid entanglement.

All personal watercraft operators, riders and those being towed must wear an approved personal flotation device. Also:

When towing, have a rearview mirror or a passenger observe the person being towed, whether they are on skis, tube, float or wakeboard.
No one can operate a personal watercraft on state waters between sunset and sunrise.

For more information on boating safety, including personal watercraft operation and free boating education classes click here or call (919) 707-0031.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

Pedestrian safety: Greensboro girl struck by car on her way to the library

Pierce Egerton — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 13:11:36 GMT

A Greensboro child was struck by a car while crossing the street Monday, raising questions about pedestrian safety in Greensboro. The accident occurred around noon at the intersection of Summit Avenue and Church Street, according to the Greensboro News and Record.

Kendall McAdoo had just exited a Greensboro city bus and was crossing the street on her way to the Greensboro City Public Library. Though witnesses say she crossed the street in a group of people, she was the only pedestrian struck. The driver of the car denied seeing the city bus that Kendall had exited.

Police report that she was conscious and alert after the accident. She was transported by ambulance to Moses Cone Hospital, though the extent of her injuries is unknown. The driver was not charged in the accident.

The Highway Safety Research Center at the University of North Carolina reports that 2,200 motor vehicle accidents involving pedestrians are reported each year in North Carolina. Around 150-200 are fatal, while an additional 500 involve serious injury.

According to the PEDSAFE pedestrian safety guide, children between the ages of 5 and 9 are the most likely to be involved in pedestrian accidents. A child’s peripheral vision is only 1/3 of an adult’s, making it all the more important for drivers to use an excess of caution in areas where children will be crossing the street. Hopefully, Kendall escaped this with only minor injuries, but this should serve as a reminder for parents to teach their kids about the dangers of crossing the street, and for us all to slow down a little when we’re driving through crowded areas.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

Tighter Safety Standards Sought In Wake of Tragic Fireworks Accident

Pierce Egerton — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 22:51:43 GMT

According to State Senator Marc Basnight, new legislation will be introduced next week to tighten safety standards for the handling of large quantities of fireworks. The move comes in the wake of the tragic deaths of 4 workers in a fireworks explosion on Ocracoke Island.

The AP is reporting that the bill will direct the state fire marshal to provide oversight in the handling of pyrotechnics. Further details were not available at this time. While the change comes too late to help the families who lost loved ones in the recent explosion, let’s hope new safety standards will prevent future tragedies.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton