Cromartie LawCromartie Law2024-03-11T05:56:26Zhttps://www.hlcromartielaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1302091/2021/03/cropped-favicon-cromartie-law-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Cromartie Lawhttps://www.hlcromartielaw.com/?p=2526982024-03-08T14:21:36Z2024-03-08T14:21:36Znursing home abuse or neglect, it’s critical to act immediately.
Advanced bedsores
Bedsores are ulcers on the skin and sometimes into the underlying tissue that result from prolonged pressure on the skin. They are a common sign of neglect in nursing homes because they often develop on residents who are bedridden or use a wheelchair. This injury typically occurs on skin that covers bony areas of the body and can range from red areas to deep ulcers that go down to the bone. Minor bedsores can happen even in safety-conscious and caring environments. But, if bedsores become advanced, this is almost certainly a clear sign that something is terribly wrong.
Dehydration and malnutrition
Dehydration and malnutrition are serious concerns in nursing homes, signifying potential neglect. Dehydration occurs when a resident doesn’t take in enough fluids to keep their body functions running smoothly, while malnutrition results from not receiving the necessary nutrients.
Both conditions can lead to significant health complications, including weakened immunity, increased risk of infections and worsened pre-existing health conditions. These issues can stem from inadequate staffing, lack of personalized care and failure to monitor and meet each resident's dietary needs.
Frequent falls
Frequent falls can be a red flag for nursing home abuse or neglect. Older adults in nursing homes are at a higher risk of falling due to factors like mobility issues, medications that affect balance and cognitive impairments. However, frequent falls often indicate a lack of proper supervision and safety measures within the facility.
Nursing homes are responsible for implementing fall prevention strategies, such as installing grab bars, providing walking aids and ensuring that the environment is free of hazards that could lead to falls. A pattern of frequent falls may suggest that these precautions aren’t being adequately followed.
Legal action is possible when nursing home abuse or neglect occurs. If something is wrong, seeking assistance from a legal representative who can walk you through the process is beneficial so you can focus on helping your loved one while your case evolves.]]>On Behalf of Cromartie Lawhttps://www.hlcromartielaw.com/?p=2526892024-02-10T19:06:23Z2024-02-10T19:06:23ZWith video footage
Some locations around Georgia have traffic cameras that record what happens on the road. Traffic cameras that major intersections, for example, can identify when people run red lights. Some drivers have dashboard cameras installed in their vehicles as a way to prove whether or not they are at fault for crashes. Finally, there could potentially be security cameras at businesses or private residents that record footage of the streets nearby.
With witness statements
Even in scenarios where one driver did something blatantly unsafe, they may try to avoid personal responsibility by lying or playing dumb. Police officers often have to make a snap judgment in which they weigh the statements made by each driver without knowing what really happened. Someone who locates and gets identifying information from witnesses who saw the crash could have assistance proving their perspective. Those witnesses could attest to watching someone drive through a red light immediately prior to the collision. Witnesses with no direct relationship with either party involved in the crash tend to be the most credible.
With crash reconstruction
People may need outside support from crash reconstruction professionals. Using model vehicles or specialized software, professionals can recreate what likely occurred prior to a crash based on the damage to the vehicles and certain other key details. Although it may require a lot of effort, the attempt to establish that the other driver was at fault for a wreck could make someone eligible for more financial support from insurance and possibly give them the necessary grounds to take legal action as well.
Proving who was at fault for a crash is an important part of a compensation claim. As such, seeking legal guidance to better ensure accuracy and efficiency is generally wise.]]>On Behalf of Cromartie Lawhttps://www.hlcromartielaw.com/?p=2526332023-12-12T20:51:08Z2023-12-12T20:51:08Zhave healthier lives than the average person even if they don't engage in more strenuous exercise regularly. They gain less weight, maintain healthier cardiovascular systems and have less joint pain than others who don't walk every day.
Despite see theoretical health benefits of walking, people have to accept certain risks as well. Encounters with motor vehicles are the most pressing safety concern for anyone who walks, jogs or runs in public spaces. If a pedestrian walks on a rural road or in an urban area where paths cross public roads, they are at risk of a crash caused by a motor vehicle. Pedestrian crashes can easily cause tragedies, as vehicles could cause fatal injuries even at relatively low speeds. According to federal collision data, pedestrian fatalities are more of a concern now than they have been in years.
What does the recent crash research show?
Tracking pedestrian crash rates across the country allows government entities to better plan appropriate safety measures for the protection of the public. The data gathered in 2022 indicates that pedestrians are at an all-time high regarding the degree of risk that they have when out walking.
There were at least 7,500 pedestrian deaths in 2022. That figure is the highest of any year since 1981, and the state of Oklahoma did not report pedestrian fatalities in time for their inclusion. The total number of pedestrian deaths is probably higher than 7,000.
A pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle may have the option of filing an insurance claim. When the injuries involved are significant, pedestrians may have grounds for a civil lawsuit if the costs generated in the collision are beyond what insurance would cover.
Those who are aware of how their risk has increased in recent years may be in a better position to protect themselves on the road and may also be more attuned to the fact that they have the right to take action when someone else hurts them as a result of negligence or traffic law violations. As such, understanding the real-world implications of recent traffic trends may help people better advocate for themselves if they get hurt while out on a walk.]]>On Behalf of Cromartie Lawhttps://www.hlcromartielaw.com/?p=2526322023-12-12T14:19:52Z2023-12-12T14:19:52ZDrunk driving
Unfortunately, despite years of public awareness campaigns and enforcement efforts, many people still drive drunk. Some do so because they overestimate their driving ability. Others underestimate how much the alcohol they consume affects their ability. Drunk drivers are typically responsible for the crashes that they cause if they injure or kill another person.
Distracted driving
Cell phone addiction has become a significant safety issue in the United States. Many people cannot tolerate going even a 20-minute commute without checking their incoming emails and text messages. People also frequently groom themselves or eat at the wheel. Any of these places might lead to them overlooking changing traffic conditions and causing a severe collision.
Traffic infractions
A surprising number of people would never drive drunk but think very little of speeding, running a red light or failing to consistently use their turn signals. Quite a few crashes occur because of dangerous driving practices, like tailgating others in traffic.
When someone recognizes that a recent collision likely occurred because of someone else's unsafe conduct on the road, they may decide that they want to take legal action. Filing an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit may be an appropriate response when someone experiences significant losses because of a crash caused by someone else.]]>On Behalf of Cromartie Lawhttps://www.hlcromartielaw.com/?p=2526252023-10-13T04:52:14Z2023-10-13T04:52:14ZHigh speeds and more traffic lead to greater risks
When looking at an analysis of where many semi-truck collisions occur, there are certain interstates that are far more dangerous than others. In general, highways and their on and off-ramps near major thoroughfares tend to see some of the highest crash rates in the state. Drivers are in a hurry at those locations, and the high volume of traffic also contributes to the overall likelihood of a wreck.
Commercial trucks often have to get on and off the highway. Commercial drivers want to take the fastest and most direct routes, which means that access points to highways can be particularly dangerous. I-20 is one of the most dangerous highways in America. It should come as no surprise that there are multiple points where people merge onto or off of I-20 that see a large number of crashes, including crashes with semi-trucks.
State Highway 4 is also particularly dangerous, with many severe and deadly crashes reported annually. Georgia Highways 316 and 11 have also seen some very serious semi-truck collisions. Interstate 285 in Atlanta, I-16, I-75 and I-85 also all report a number of major collisions in any given year, many of which have tragic consequences for others in traffic.
Drivers in passenger vehicles need to use interstates for expedience, just as commercial vehicles do. They have to accept a greater risk of being injured in a crash involving a truck than those in larger commercial vehicles do as the trade-off for convenient travel. Being able to identify risk factors and avoiding the most dangerous interstates, when possible, could help drivers better prioritize their safety on Georgia roads.]]>On Behalf of Cromartie Lawhttps://www.hlcromartielaw.com/?p=2526232023-09-15T13:44:43Z2023-09-15T13:44:43Zdriving while fatigued are often underestimated. This mindset is concerning, especially considering the impact of fatigue on a driver's reaction times, decision-making skills and overall alertness.
Understanding the depth of drowsy driving
Drowsy driving isn’t just about falling asleep behind the wheel, although that's a severe risk. Even if a driver doesn't entirely fall asleep, fatigue can lead to decreased attention, slower reflexes and impaired judgment. These factors can result in a driver missing critical signals or failing to react in time to avoid a collision.
Factors leading to drowsy driving
Several factors can contribute to drowsy driving. Lack of adequate sleep is the most apparent reason, but it's not the only one. Long working hours, especially for those working irregular shifts, can disrupt one's internal clock, leading to fatigue during unexpected times. Medications with side effects causing drowsiness, untreated sleep disorders like sleep apnea and prolonged periods of driving without breaks can also contribute to fatigue.
Why is drowsy driving so hazardous?
When a driver is tired, their cognitive processing speed slows down. This sluggishness means they're slower to recognize potential hazards and even slower to react to them. For instance, if a pedestrian suddenly steps onto the road or another vehicle brakes abruptly, a drowsy driver might not respond quickly, leading to potentially catastrophic outcomes.
Fatigue can lead to microsleeps, which are short, involuntary episodes of inattention. During a microsleep, a driver can travel a considerable distance without any awareness of their surroundings. Imagine driving blind for a few seconds at high speeds and you can probably figure out how catastrophic this could be.
Personal implications and broader impacts
Drowsy driving doesn't just endanger drivers; it threatens everyone on the road. The potential for harm is vast, from other drivers and passengers to cyclists and pedestrians. Beyond the immediate threat to life and limb, collisions caused by fatigued driving can lead to significant financial, emotional and societal costs. Personal injury lawsuits against at-fault parties can help to address some of those financial impacts for victims.]]>On Behalf of Cromartie Lawhttps://www.hlcromartielaw.com/?p=2526222023-08-07T22:54:27Z2023-08-07T22:54:27ZTraffic density
The busier a location is, the greater the likelihood of a collision occurring in general. When vehicles have to be very close to one another in traffic, it may be harder for people to stop in time when something changes abruptly. Interstates with rush hour traffic and multi-lane roads that end up congested will often see collisions with commercial vehicles because some people will have to drive in a truck's blind spots, which will increase their risk of a crash.
Speed limits
Higher speed limits can reduce the likelihood of major traffic jams, but they also make it harder for people to control their vehicles. Traveling at interstate speeds might mean that a truck driver cannot stop in time when someone suddenly merges in front of them and cuts them off in traffic. Especially when the flow of traffic or speed limit on the street or interstate is relatively high, motorists may need to leave extra space between their vehicle and others in traffic to reduce the chances of the crash with a commercial truck.
Small spaces and poor visibility
The factors that make intersections particularly prone to truck collisions are different from the risk factors on roads and interstates. Visibility can be a major issue, as trucks may have to turn a corner without seeing the traffic around the corner, which could lead to an unsafe angle of approach. Additionally, small intersections with single lanes of traffic may not provide enough space for the wide turns that trucks have to perform, which can increase the likelihood of a crash occurring, especially if smaller vehicles don't adjust their behavior based on the presence of a semi-truck.
Drivers on busy streets and roads with highspeed limits, as well as motorists approaching intersections with tight corners or limited visibility, may keep themselves safer if they acknowledge that they are approaching an area where semi-truck crash risk is higher. Learning more about the factors that contribute to some of the worst collisions may help people more effectively avoid a crash in traffic.]]>On Behalf of Cromartie Lawhttps://www.hlcromartielaw.com/?p=2526212023-06-12T13:10:09Z2023-06-12T13:10:09Zare three scenarios in which that instinct may be grounded in the law.
They created a dangerous condition
First and foremost, the store owner may have intentionally created a dangerous condition. Maybe they tried to get around building codes and didn’t put up proper railings. Maybe they simply spilled something on the floor and they didn’t clean it up when they knew that they should have because they were in a rush.
They neglected a dangerous condition
More common is when a store owner knows that a dangerous condition exists and simply neglects to change it. An example of this could be a chronic issue, like a pipe that leaks over a tile floor. Cleaning up the leak is one thing, but the pipe needs to be fixed in order to actually repair the situation and make it safe. If the store owner knew that a condition could compromise safety but didn’t address that risk, then they may be liable, even though they’re not the one who caused the pipe to leak.
They should’ve known about a dangerous condition
Finally, there are situations in which a store owner will say that they obviously didn’t know about the dangerous condition. This can be used as a defense for short-term issues. You can’t expect a store owner to know immediately when something goes wrong. But if that condition existed for a long time and the store owner certainly should’ve known about the danger, then they may still be liable for harm caused by the hazard in question.
These are just three areas to keep in mind if you’re looking for compensation for medical bills. Seeking legal guidance in the wake of a slip-and-fall scenario can allow you to benefit from more personalized feedback.]]>On Behalf of Cromartie Lawhttps://www.hlcromartielaw.com/?p=2526202023-06-12T12:19:56Z2023-06-12T12:19:56ZRemember that any stored bike needs an inspection
Anytime a motorcycle has gone unridden for an extended period, the rider will likely need to perform a thorough inspection before taking the bike out on the road. Walking around the bike, checking its main systems and taking it for a short test ride before a longer ride are all important when a motorcycle has been in storage.
Rotate and flip the tires
Factors ranging from someone's health to design issues with the motorcycle may lead to uneven wearing on the tires. It is wear, rather than age, that often makes tires unsafe. Replacing tires whenever they start to go bald is of the utmost importance, as traction is crucial for rider safety on a motorcycle. Frequently turning or flipping the tires is a way to extend their useful life while minimizing the risk of a blowout on the road.
Check the lights before every ride
Safety experts suggest that every driver and motorcycle rider perform a few basic checks on a vehicle before heading out onto public roads. Many motorcycle crashes are the result of other drivers making mistakes in traffic, often because they fail to notice the motorcycle. Ensuring that brake lights and turn signals work properly can reduce the likelihood of a driver hitting a motorcycle because they don't know what the rider will do next.
Keep fluids fresh
There are several kinds of fluids that keep a motorcycle running beyond just fuel. Riders also need to check and refresh brake fluid and coolant. There are also filters, including oil and fuel filters, that require inspection and changes when necessary.
Riders who perform routine maintenance frequently and who inspect their motorcycles often will be much less likely to experience some kind of mechanical issue in traffic that can put their life at risk. Keeping a motorcycle in peak operating conditions is one of the simplest ways to reduce one's personal risk of a motorcycle crash.
]]>On Behalf of Cromartie Lawhttps://www.hlcromartielaw.com/?p=2526182023-04-05T21:42:26Z2023-04-05T21:42:26ZEasy tips for a safe trip
A few proactive measures can make for a much safer spring break road trip. Take a look at these and share them with your child before they leave:
Service the car
Whether they will be borrowing your car or driving your own, make sure your child takes it to the shop beforehand for a tune-up. A standard 10-point inspection is the minimum necessary to make sure the car is fit for long-distance driving. Have them ask the service technician whether there are additional safety features that they can add for a reasonable price.
Put down the phone
Texting while driving may not sound serious to a young person, but wizened adults understand how dangerous it is. Have a frank, direct conversation about not texting while driving, even if it is to respond to a message or call of your own.
Drive defensively and stay alert
Obeying the rules of the road is just the start when it comes to safe driving. Drivers should also keep their eyes peeled for motorists who are drifting over the lines, tailgating, speeding and otherwise driving recklessly. Safe driving cannot always prevent a wreck, though.
Know what to do after a wreck
Even safe, defensive drivers can suffer a wreck due to another driver’s negligence. In case of an emergency, this is what your child should do:
Get medical attention immediately
Call the police to have them file an accident report
Get the name, contact information and insurance information of the other driver and any witnesses
Take photographs of the crash site and any injuries
Do not speak with an insurance company representative until they have counsel
Spring break should be a time of fun, freedom and relaxation. Teenagers and college kids might not have safety at the forefront of their minds when preparing for a vacation, but, with these smart tips, they can enjoy their free period while staying safe and giving you peace of mind.]]>