Greensboro Personal Injury Lawyer - highway

The Deadliest Job: Crash Takes Life of Road Worker on US 29

Pierce Egerton — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 21:26:15 GMT

It’s one of the most dangerous jobs in America -- road construction. This afternoon another road worker died. Paul Daniel Macintyre, working for Protective Services of High Point, was riding in a trailer while retrieving traffic cones.

The driver of a Chevy S-10 was passing the trailer. The driver of the S10 said he looked down to adjust his radio. The S10 sideswiped the trailer.

Paul Macintyre died in the collision. His coworker, Marcus Jones, was hospitalized with serious injuries. A 5-year-old child traveling in the S10 was also injured and reportedly suffered broken bones and lacerations.

The accident occurred on U.S. 29 in Rockingham County -- one of the Piedmont area’s deadliest roads. Another worker who was also in the trailer picking up cones was also injured.

We see road crews on the road all the time. As drivers, it’s easy to become so accustomed to their presence that we don’t really pay attention. Our complacency, however, is a deadly threat to the lives of the people who work on our roadways. It is so important that drivers slow down and pay close attention whenever work crews are present.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

Fight Breaks Out; I-40 Down for the Count

Pierce Egerton — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 15:51:14 GMT

Why was I-40 backed up for over an hour in Winston-Salem? According to WXII (get ready) two women and a man pulled over and engaged in a fistfight over a cell phone. The spectacle distracted passing drivers setting off an accident. Several lanes of the interstate were closed for over an hour while officers attended to the scene.

The man was treated for an unspecified injury. One of the women was cited for underage drinking. All three were charged with fighting.

The facts of this occurrence render comment superfluous.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

Highway Cowards - Running From Decency & Responsibility

Pierce Egerton — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:08:33 GMT

The past week or so several of my colleagues and I have written about the perils posed by uninsured drivers. Many of the postings pointed out that uninsured drivers are more likely to be persons who’ve had their licenses revoked for various offenses such as DWI, careless and reckless, etc. In other words, uninsured drivers are often among the most dangerous on the road.

Most of our articles pointed out that the best way to protect yourself from financial loss at the hands of an uninsured driver is through the purchase of uninsured motorist coverage.

There is another deadly peril on the roads, however, that uninsured motorist insurance covers: the hit and run driver. Every year thousands of people are injured or killed in accidents caused by drivers who flee the scene. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, almost 4% of all deadly collisions in 2001 involved a hit and run driver. San Francisco Chronicle, 27 July 2003.

Unless the identity of the hit and run driver is subsequently discovered, the injured victims have no way of determining whether that driver has insurance. In effect then, the unidentified hit and run driver is also an uninsured driver.

You can insure yourself against hit and run drivers the same way you protect yourself from uninsured drivers -- by adding uninsured motorist coverage to your auto policy. Check with your agent today!

Take a look at these postings which are part of the ongoing series on interstate and highway safety.

Are Double-Bottomed Semis More or Less Dangerous to You? - Devon Glass from Church Wyble, P.C.(Michigan), August 26, 2009

Who wins and loses when a Ford Focus and a fully-loaded semi-truck crash? - Steve Lombardi from The Lombardi Law Firm (Iowa), August 25, 2009

Hawaii Freeway Chronicles #1: What Are The Danger Points On H-1, H-2 and H-3?, by Wayne Parsons of Wayne Parsons Law Offices. (Hawaii), August 27, 2009

The Interstate Highway Graveyard, “Speed Kills”, Lombardi, August 28, 2009

Why Speeders on the Highway Cause More Serious Accidents, Glass, August 28, 2009

Death and Injury On Interstate Highways Increase With Higher Speed Limits, Wayne Parsons, August 29, 2009 2:31 AM

Drunk Drivers Caused 40% of Traffic Fatalities In Hawaii In 2006, Wayne Parsons, August 31, 2009 12:16 AM

Interstate Highways Are No Place For Drunk Drivers Over The Labor Day Weekend Wayne Parsons | September 01, 2009 4:36 PM

Uninsured Motorist Car Insurance: It’s Your Most Important Car Insurance and Here Is Why | Rick Shapiro, September 01, 2009 10:30 AM

Uninsured Drivers: Who Are These People?, Pierce Egerton | September 02, 2009 12:00 PM

Risky Drivers Don't Just Drive Drunk and Speed - They Often Don't have Insurance by Wayne Parsons | September 03, 2009 4:09 PM

Uninsured Drivers On The Highways: Cause of Higher Rates of Injuries & Deaths?

Rick Shapiro | September 07, 2009 1:15 PM

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

UPDATE: Police Still Searching for 5 People Connected to Fatal Hit and Run Accident on Hwy 29

Pierce Egerton — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 09:40:50 GMT

The driver of the Ford Expedition involved in the hit and run accident that left Cherita Jones dead has been brought into custody. Alton Womack Jr., age 26, was arrested at his home on Saturday where police also found the SUV involved.

Three others charged in the accident have yet to be found.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

Police Still Searching for 5 People Connected to Fatal Hit and Run Accident on Hwy 29

Pierce Egerton — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:09:20 GMT

Highway 29 was host to a fatal hit and run early Monday. The circumstances surrounding the crash remain unclear. What is clear is that one young woman, Cherita Jones, died as a result.

There is suspicion that the BMW and Acura involved may have been racing when the BMW hit a guardrail and the Acura flipped. It is unclear whether or not the cars ever collided with one another. After the accident the driver and 3 passengers of the BMW fled on foot. A Chevrolet Tahoe stopped and picked up the driver from the Acura, and one of the SUV passengers was left behind, in an attempt to assist the passenger of the Acura, but was picked up again.

On Tuesday the driver of the Acura, Shaquetta Johnson, has turned herself in and has been charged with involuntary manslaughter, felony hit and run and driving while license revoked. Wednesday police made two more arrests. According to WFMY:

Police arrested 17-year-old Antoine Butler and 28-year-old Casheem Richardson Wednesday.

The Greensboro magistrate's office says both men are from New York, but investigators have not said how the men are linked to the case.

Police say both men fled on foot from the BMW left at the scene.

As of Thursday police are still searching for at least five other people who may have been involved, and now believe "intoxication was a factor."

Auto accidents are always frightening, and too often end in tragedy. And, for families of victims, bizarre circumstances like these only exacerbate the pain. The mother of Cherita Jones told police all she wants to know is "Just what happened. Did she say anything what happened at the end?"

While coming forward and accepting responsibility for their actions won't bring back her daughter, it can help bring closure. Those involved need to come forward and explain what happened, at least out of respect for this girl and her family.

I don't think it needs to be said, but please remember that alcohol and driving do not mix, and public roads are not race tracks. What seems harmless and exciting can end in terrible tragedy, and have serious repercussions for those left behind.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

Watch for Deer on the Highway: Lawrence and Linda in Virginia

Lawrence Egerton — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 09:15:48 GMT

My wife Linda and I recently took a trip through Virginia and West Virginia. As we traveled past the beautiful trees mountains and creeks that make up the countryside here, we were lucky enough to spot quite a few deer. Most people would expect to find some 18-wheelers, trucks, and other cars along the way. And, was the hot pavement flies by beneath you it can be easy to forget about all the nature those roads pass through. Deer are a common sight along many highways. Spotting a group of deer can be fun and unexpected, but even more important to remember is that they can dart out into traffic.

Hitting a deer as it runs across the road can be as severe as any collision with a car. And not only does this usually kill the animal, but leaves the driver high and dry financially. Over the years plenty of people have contacted our firm trying to sue someone for damages after they hit a deer. But, unfortunately even when the deer is at fault, there are no "bucks" to be found.

Others have taken a different tack and proclaim that the government should put up fences of some kind to keep the deer from the path of cars. This may seem like a good idea at first, but not only would it be extremely expensive, but I know firsthand that fences don't do much good. Deer don't just run fast. They are pretty good jumpers too.

So next time you are cruising the green highways keep an eye peeled for wildlife along the road. It's one situation where being safe is just as fun as it is smart.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Lawrence Egerton

Highway Patrol Out In Force This Weekend

Pierce Egerton — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 16:48:56 GMT

We have already seen several serious accidents in the Piedmont this week and with far too many fatalities. Now we are on the eve of what is traditionally one of the most dangerous weekends of the year to be on the road.

In an effort to cut down on accidents and promote safe driving over the Independence Day weekend, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol will be participating in the nationwide Operation CARE (Combined Accident Reduction Effort).

In advance of the holiday weekend, the NC State Highway Patrol posted the following press release.

Highway Patrol Encouraging Motorists to Slow Down During the July 4th Holiday

The N.C. Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to be careful as they enjoy the July 4th holiday. Motorists who slow down and travel at posted speeds will not only increase their chances of arriving at their destination safely they will also conserve fuel.

There will be an increased presence of Troopers on the interstates and major four lane highways.

Speed is the leading cause of traffic collisions and fatalities in the state. State Troopers will be cracking down on speeders during the holiday and will be using LIDAR and other speed timing devices to assist them in enforcing the speed laws.

Additionally Troopers will increase patrols on all interstates and major four lane highways during the holiday. Last year in North Carolina, eight people died and 634 were injured over the July 4th holiday period. The 2009 July 4th holiday begins at 6:00 p.m., Thursday, July 2nd and ends at midnight, Sunday, July 5th.

Troopers will target aggressive drivers who tend to cause the most crashes. The aggressive driver has been identified as 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.

“I have instructed our troopers to crackdown on traffic violators on our interstates and to apply strict enforcement to those motorists who are traveling at dangerous speeds or in a careless manner,” said Colonel Walter J. Wilson Jr., Highway Patrol Commander. “Our Troopers will be looking for aggressive drivers, drunk drivers, and other violators while patrolling throughout the state during the holiday week.”

Reuben Young, Secretary of the Department of Crime Control and Public Safety, said, “We are committed to doing our part to reduce traffic collisions throughout our state. Motorists should do their part by obeying all traffic laws while traveling to their holiday destination.”

Troopers will be participating in the nationwide “Operation C.A.R.E.” (Combined Accident Reduction Effort). “Operation C.A.R.E.” is a coordinated education and enforcement effort involving all Highway Patrol and State Police agencies across the nation. These high visibility patrols during national holiday periods are designed to prevent crashes and ensure voluntary compliance with the motor vehicle laws.

Troopers will also increase their efforts to enforce the state's litter laws. Troopers will crackdown on litter bugs and keep litter off of North Carolina's roads. Tougher littering laws passed by the N.C. General Assembly first-time offenders can be fined as much as $1,000 and be ordered to perform up to 24 hours of community service. Repeat offenders can get a $2,000 fine and 50 hours community service. The Department of Transportation's Office of Beautification maintains the website where litterbug reports can be submitted. The address is www.dot.state.nc.us/litterbug . The page can also be found by going to the SHP website at www.nccrimecontrol.org .

Citizens may report crashes, drunk drivers, stranded motorists or other highway situations to the Highway Patrol by dialing *HP (*47) on their cellular telephones. This is a toll free call that connects the caller with the nearest Highway Patrol communications center.

# # #

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton

Update on Fatal US 64 Accident -- Troopers Investigating Blowout

Pierce Egerton — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 10:53:55 GMT

The News & Record is now reporting more information about yesterday’s tragic accident on U.S. 64 in Randolph County that took the lives of Clarence and Elizabeth Poe of Sophia, NC.

It now appears the accident occurred when a tire on an eastbound El Camino blew out and the driver lost control. The El Camino crossed into oncoming traffic and struck a westbound Chevrolet utility truck owned by Snider Tire Company. The utility truck then crossed into the eastbound lane and struck the Poe’s Ford Taurus head on.

The Poes died at the scene. Jarrell Snody of Lexington, the driver of the utility truck, was airlifted to Baptist Hospital.

Troopers say they are investigating the cause of the ruptured tire. According to Fox8 News, police speculated that heat may have been a factor in the blowout. Investigators will be looking into maintenance records for the El Camino.

Blowouts can occur for a variety of reasons. It is important to pay careful attention to your tires. One of the biggest problems is underinflation. When a tire is underinflated the sidewall flexes more. This can lead to a build up of head and a blowout or tire separation.

Because tires can lose air at the valve and through the rubber, it is particularly important to check your tire pressure frequently. When you do, check your tires for excessive wear, uneven wear, bulges, blisters and other defects. If you have any doubt about the safety of your tires, consult a mechanic.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Pierce Egerton