Personal Injury Law Blogs

The threats of asbestos

When you’re taking a refreshing walk along the beach, the last thing you’d expect is to be exposed to is asbestos. This shocking discovering was made by a man in Kent, when he spotted pieces of the material washed up on shore.

Residents have called that the popular family beach should be closed so that a proper search and clean-up process can begin. No such closure has occurred, but regular checks are being carried out to remove any traces of hazardous material. The council revealed that 15 kilos of asbestos had been removed from the beach in September. Kent Online has the full story, here.

When it’s not washing up on beaches, asbestos is typically found in factories, mines and buildings that were constructed during the 1950s. The material was prolifically used as an insulating and fireproofing material and has since been banned due to its hazardous nature. However, the dangers of asbestos remain in many buildings still to this day. Even when a house or factory is demolished, the risk of escaping asbestos is present.

What makes asbestos so deadly and difficult to treat is that symptoms can take anywhere between ten and 50 years to show. At this point, it can be hard to recall when you came in contact with the material. This is especially difficult for workers in the construction industry who have worked on countless projects during their career.

It’s vital that asbestos sufferers seek legal advice once they have been diagnosed with an asbestos related condition. Sintons are a law firm in Newcastle upon Tyne that deal with asbestos claims by making full use of the court’s fast track procedure. This helps them secure an early admission of legal responsibility from insurers of the negligent company that was responsible for your exposure.

Asbestos can lead to a number of serious medical conditions such as mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis. No amount of money can make everything okay, but it does help with medical costs and supporting the family while you recover.

The owner of a cladding company in Bedfordshire was recently fined £7,015 and ordered to pay £3,200 in costs after exposing workers to asbestos fibres in a house. It’s worrying to think that the owners of these companies can put their workers in potential danger through their own negligence. If you can’t rely on them, legal action is a safety net you can. To read more about the Bedfordshire story, click here.

The Personal Injury Industry and Jackson Reforms face half-year health check

SIX months on from the introduction of the Jackson Reforms, lawyers are still getting to grips with the sweeping changes to civil litigation costs and much uncertainty remains.

A review into some problematic areas of the reforms is already underway through a team led by Justice Ramsey, with results expected to emerge in April 2014.

According to reports from some quarters, certain claimant lawyers believe it is too early for such a review to make any inroads into finding and fixing the key issues.

However, there is recognition from others within the industry that some form of reflective scrutiny is needed.

The arising problems which Ramsey, alongside District Judge Christopher Lethem and Mr Justice Stewart, are looking into include:

  • The compatibility of the bill with costs budget form precedent H
  • Litigation funding and enabling proportionately priced access to justice
  • The lag time occurring when handling case and case costs management hearings

Meanwhile, on the other side of the legal system, questions have been raised over whether the reforms have actually helped or hindered the men and women on the street.

The argument put to the industry is that what now exists is a system which places more weight on limiting the cost of claims than the needs of accident victims.

The reforms were billed as the way to stem the tide of rising insurance premiums, but there are concerns among consumer groups that targeting litigation fees does not directly – or even indirectly – affect car insurance premiums.

As the review into the Jackson Reforms gets underway, however, several prominent figures have added their suggestions as to how it should be carried out.

Among them is Craig Budsworth, chair of the Motor Accident Solicitors Society.

As quoted in trade publication The Post, he said: “Some caution has to be given to the fact further change at such an early stage may well miss some of the opportunities to understand the full impact of the reforms.

“There are so many unforeseen consequences of the Jackson reforms that we are not going to see until a lot of files are brought to litigation in 12 months or more. I welcome what [Ramsey] is doing, but with caution because there has been so much change so far and that has got to bed-in first.”
John Spencer, VP of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) – also speaking to The Post – suggested additional areas need reviewing.

“The regulations for damages-based agreements are in need of amendments to make them workable and ensure they are used by personal injury practitioners,” he said.

Time will tell whether Ramsay’s review into the Jackson Reforms fallout achieves its aims. Until then, problems on either side of the legal divide will continue as the personal injury industry continues to adjust.

In the meantime, those firms that have amended their infrastructure and technology are the ones that will cope best and cater for the changes that have taken place within the claims management industry.

Keep Your Head on Straight: Workplace Safety Precautions

 Staying safe in the workplace is important to your health and well-being. There are some organizations that work hard to provide employees with the correct headgear and safety training, preventing serious accidents and saving lives. Here are some of the requirements of safety headgear, and how to wear it correctly so you don’t place your life at-risk while you are on the job.

Dangerous Work Activities

Most companies that place their employees in dangerous work activities are required to provide proper headgear for their staff. The construction industry, electrical industry, mining industry, riot police, and other industries commonly provide quality helmets to their employees to protect them from brain injury.

A hard hat is essential to staying safe in many jobs. Falling objects or accidental collisions on the job can easily cause a serious brain injury if you aren’t wearing proper headgear. A hard hat will deflect a blow to the head by distributing the impact over the helmet. Some helmets are designed to cover a larger area and may include protection for the neck and face as well.

Selecting a Helmet

Employers will typically provide a helmet to their employees if their work requires one. You need to look at the approved hard hats and check them to make sure they meet industry standards. Try the hat on to make sure it fits you correctly. You might need to adjust the chin straps to help the hat stay securely in place.

Certain careers require people to wear a helmet by law, in an effort to protect both the worker and their employer. It is important that you read the regulations for your industry to know if you must always wear your helmet, or if it should only be worn at specific times. Individuals in violation of the helmet law risk losing their job, and they often won’t be properly represented in a lawsuit due to their own negligence.

How a Helmet Works

The way a helmet works is based on the shock absorbing space between your head and the shell. The suspension straps need to fit securely for the helmet to perform properly. Sunlight and sweat can rot out a helmet’s sweatbands and straps, so it is important to make sure they are functioning correctly. Replacing your helmet straps yearly or annually is a great way to prevent serious problems. It is important to inspect the helmet for any issues, including cracks or holes. If it is unable to provide complete protection to your head, it can fail at a crucial time – such as when something falls and hits your head.

When implemented properly, a company will have different colors of helmets to indicate job positions. This can help workers quickly identify a supervisor from other workers. Companies with effective policies will work hard to train their staff to always wear their helmet. The supervisors can set great examples for others by always wearing a helmet when they are working.

This article was provided by Sandy Wallace, aspiring lawyer and safety advocate. Sandy recommends researching the correct head protection for your profession and work conditions, not to mention taking time to find the perfect fitting helmet and gear to ensure maximum safety and protection.

Does Your Job Owe You for an Injury?

A recent survey conducted by the insurance industry shows that 1 in 7 employees will be injured at work during any given year. This startling statistic is shadowed by the other data revealed in this study. Of the injured workers counted in the study, less than half actually report their injury. Most employees believe that their injury is either too small to make a claim or believe that their job may be in danger if they reveal the injury.

What Employees Need To Know

1. There Are Laws In Place To Protect You. As an employee, you have specific protections under workers compensation laws to have your injury cared for when it occurs at work. According to one workmans comp lawyer in Michigan, “Injuries and illnesses covered by workers’ compensation benefits can be caused by a specific incident or by constant and repetitive stresses of the job.” You are entitled to receive all the necessary medical care to ‘make whole’ your injury, and you may also be entitled to additional compensations. You are protected from your employer firing you for making a claim against their insurance policy. In fact, you will have the right to sue your employer for wrongful dismissal if they try to relieve you of your duties due to an injury.

2. You Need To File A Report. Any injury that you receive should be documented with an injury report at your work. Regardless of size or severity, you should document all injuries. Even a small injury can lead to something larger down the road. Without that documentation, you cannot claim benefits for your injury.
3. Understand State Laws. Take a moment of your time and visit your state workers compensation website and look over the data. You will gain some useful knowledge about these laws in your state. Knowledge is always beneficial. In addition to knowing your rights, this will also help you determine if your employers possibly violating those rights.
4. Hire An Attorney. The best thing that an employee can do when they have been injured is hire a workers compensation or personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you easily navigate the workers compensation system, ensure that you are receiving the full benefits that you are entitled to, and offer you any legal advice or help may need with your employer.
5. Follow Medical Advice. It is very important that you follow all medical advice and treatment options that are given to you under workers comp. Failure to follow directions, missing appointments, or going against doctor’s orders can have your case closed immediately. The insurance company will view these actions as wither you want to remain injured and therefore are committing fraud, or that you are healed and no longer require treatment.

The most important thing, however, that an employee must remember is that their health is their greatest asset. Any injury can lead to permanent damage, and every injury deserves to receive the proper medical care. Your employer is required to cover you either under their own policy if they are a small employer or under workers compensation if they are a larger employer. Your job is not at risk, and if it is, you have other rights under the law to protect you.

 
As an author with a wide variety of employment experience, Molly Pearce shares this article to remind reader’s of the importance of knowing their employer’s workman’s compensation policies. She often writes on the topics of health, law, and human rights. She searched workmans comp lawyer in Michigan to find out more about employment laws in the U.S.

 

Sports That Are Tough on the Hips

Anatomy of a Hip Injury

The hip is a complex structure composed of several bones and muscles as well as supporting nerves and connective tissue. A ball and socket joint is formed where the femur meets the acetabulum, a bowl-like depression of the pelvis. The quadriceps, hip flexors, hamstrings, and gluteals are all muscles that support and create movement at the hip joint. The sciatic nerve is the major nerve branching off from the spinal cord and through the hip structure. Structurally, the hips are designed to absorb a lot of stress. However, they are also the body’s center of gravity and work with the lower back and thighs to produce most of the body’s power. A balance of flexibility in the hip joint and strength in the lower back, hamstrings, gluteals, and hip flexors is necessary to lessen the incidence and severity of hip injuries in athletes.

Soccer

Millions of children and adults around the world play soccer. Whether you play in a youth league or for a professional team, soccer can be very stressful on your hips. The different kicks players must execute, often from less than ideal positions, can cause tears and strains in the hip structure. Strain in the inner thigh or groin is one of the more familiar injuries, causing pain, swelling, and a loss of function.  Although soccer is not a contact sport like football and hockey, collisions do occur between players, often at a high rate of speed. Hip pointer injuries can result from collisions. These are bruises of the iliac crest of the pelvis.

Distance Running

Regularly running long distances can cause a whole different set of problems than what soccer players experience. The repetitive motion can cause overuse injuries such as stress fractures or tiny cracks in the pelvic bones. Stress fractures can be very painful and may require the athlete to take considerable time off from training to heal. Runners can especially benefit from CBG cream for pain relief and a consistent stretching program that focuses on the muscles of the hips, thighs, and calves. These muscles must work in concert through a complete range of motion to sustain proper running form over long distances.

Track & Field

The sport of track and field is made up of a number of different events, ranging from the high jump to sprints to discus throws and pole vaulting. These events all use the power of the hip structures to generate power, maintain balance, and execute dynamic movements. The more demanding events like hurdles and pole vaulting can cause acute tears and other trauma, but the more common injuries seen in track and field are from overuse. For example, the repetitive nature of practicing for running and throwing events can cause small tears in soft tissues, leading to strains and sprains. Tiny fractures in the pelvic bones can cause a lot of pain, forcing the athlete to reduce or stop training altogether.

Gymnastics and Dancing

Gymnasts and dancers perform a wide range of dynamic and powerful movements that subject the hip structures to quite a bit of stress. Jumps, landings, twirls, splits, and kicks executed quickly can cause a number of different injuries. For example, repeated jumps and landings can lead to stress fractures in the hips. These injuries can occur if the supporting musculature of the hamstrings and hip flexors is not flexible enough. Like in all sports, proper training and coaching are essential to reducing injuries, but there will always be a certain amount of risk involved to the athlete.

Byline

Vance Moreland is a freelance writer based in Biloxi, Mississippi. Vance understands the difficulties that athletes deal with on a regular basis; for assistance with hip injuries in particular Vance recommends sportsmedalabama.com.

Don’t give into the Hype: Voice Texting is Not a Safer Option

voice textingOn the outside, it looked as if the texting while driving problem may have been resolved. Voice texting apps were introduced and they were thought to be a safer option than manual texting. Car manufacturers have even jumped on board by installing new technology into their vehicles that allows for voice-activated texting. After all, the driver’s hands should theoretically never leave the steering wheel, and because of that, voice texts should be safer to send than manual texts. As it turns out though, that isn’t the case after all.

Two independent studies, one conducted by Texas A & M University and another by AAA with the University of Utah, each yielded similar results. When a driver sends a voice-activated text it is no safer than when he or she sends a manual text

  

Texas A & M Study

It seems a bit counterintuitive that a voice-activated task would make a driver just as distracted as a completely manual task. But, Texas A & M University conducted a study and, to some, the results were surprising. On the test course, the reaction time of the subjects who were texting was double that of those who were driving undistracted. The result was the same for those who were voice texting and those who were manually texting. But, why was that?

In the A & M University test, the drivers who were texting manually had their eyes on the road ahead of them for an average of 27.2 seconds for every minute of driving. Drivers who were voice texting had their eyes on the road for an average of 28.6 seconds (Siri) and 25.8 seconds (Vlingo) for every minute of driving time. The average of 28.6 and 25.8 is 27.2 seconds, which means that the amount of time spent focusing on the text message was, on average, identical whether the driver was sending a manual text or a voice text.

 

AAA Study

 The results of a comprehensive study done by AAA Insurance Company and the University of Utah seem to echo those of the Texas A & M study. In the AAA study, which focused on cognitive distractions, drivers were tested performing a series of common in car activities, such as talking on a cell phone (either hands free or handheld) or to a passenger, listening to audiobooks and music, and using voice-activated speech-to-text apps to send texts and e-mail. The results showed that, for all of the listed activities, those who send voice-activated texts and e-mail measured the highest level of distraction. On the workload rating scale used for the study, speech-to-text application use measured a 3.06 out of 5.0. The next most distracting activity was the use of a hand-held cell phone, which scored a 2.45 out of 5.

The reason voice texts are so distracting is that they aren’t completely hands free. The user has to bring up the app, speak the message (holding the phone to his or her mouth in many cases), and confirm the entry is correct before sending it. Those actions distract the driver on every level: manual, visual and cognitive.

One of the biggest takeaways from the studies conducted by both A & M University and AAA is that sending a voice-activated text can give the driver a false sense of safety. Both independent studies showed that voice texting is no safer than manual texting, and, in fact, voice texting causes much more of a distraction than many other in car activities.

 

States with the Best Environmental Track Record

While many green efforts are federally mandated, there are several states that go above and beyond federal requirements to support green living. This can mean anything from providing easy access to recycling facilities, reducing statewide emissions, supporting resource preservation, or establishing conservation programs. Below is a list of states whose green efforts go above and beyond federal mandates, and who lead the nation when it comes to protecting the environment.

Washington

Known as the Evergreen State, Washington is dedicated to implementing and supporting green living and green business practices. They have the highest number of LEED certified buildings in the country, and one of the highest green business ratios in the nation. While Washington is famous for its cloudy and overcast weather, the state is at the forefront of renewable energy source use, including solar power technology and wind turbines.

Oregon

While Oregon does not have as many green businesses as many other states, it has the largest number of green businesses per capita. The state’s commitment to recycling is so significant that almost 50 percent of the state’s businesses and residents recycle, a notably higher percentage than any other state. Oregon also produces a significant amount of hydroelectric energy.

California

When it comes to all around green initiatives California leads the pack by a landslide. They are the leaders when it comes to recycling, investing in mass transit, and using renewable energy sources. Many areas of California have gone as far to ban plastic water bottles and plastic bags, encouraging residents to opt for reusable alternatives.

Vermont

Vermont is a small, yet mighty state, and has the lowest carbon footprint in the country — proving that all states can make a difference. The Green Mountain State supports the environment by investing resources in alternative energy sources, energy efficiency, and emission reductions.

Colorado

Colorado is best known for its mountain ranges, high altitude, and consistently sunny weather — even when it is snowing or cold out. The state proudly produces more than six percent of its energy from alternative energy sources. Their water is the sixth cleanest in the country when it comes to carcinogens and toxins in their water.

Idaho

Where renewable energy is concerned, Idaho is the clear winner, as the Gem State produces over 85 percent of its energy from alternative energy sources. Much of this is produced by power created from the state’s rivers, as well as their many geothermal energy sources. They also have the fourth lowest emissions rate in the country.

While the states above lead the pack when it comes to overall environmental awareness, there are many other states making notable changes. Some of the states listed above have always focused on recycling, conservation, and green living. However, some states have only recently paid more attention to green initiatives, and they have far more room for improvement. By establishing environmentally friendly green living and green business practices, states can reduce their carbon footprint, create a healthier environment for their residents, and save their communities money by turning to alternative energy sources.

Byline

Nelson Stewart writes on eco-conscious living, green energy, alternative fuel, environmental science, preservation, conservation, off-the-grid living, plastic tanks for storage purposes, environmental law, the EPA and other related subjects. For more info on storage tanks Nelson recommends Go-To-Tanks.

5 Tips to Winning a Claim in a No-Fault State

Most people in America live with the understanding that if they’re involved in a car accident due to a negligent driver, the negligent driver’s insurance company will have to provide compensation. In a minority of states, however, this isn’t always the case. In “no-fault insurance” states, the insured person’s insurance company actually has to pay for their policyholder’s losses suffered due to an auto accident. This is a complex structure that most aren’t used to, so it’s imperative for individuals in these states to understand the best steps to take to be successful in these situations.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

It seems almost common sense to seek medical attention after an accident, but unfortunately, the stress and adrenaline that comes along with these accidents can lead a person to not fully recognize the injuries that they’ve sustained. Sadly, the few days between a person’s accident and when they seek medical attention can be detrimental. Insurance companies will often try to assert that an injury was unrelated to the accident and occurred some time thereafter.

2. Follow Doctor’s Instructions

An injured person should also follow all of their physician’s instructions. If they don’t, an insurer can claim that the injury must not have been as serious as the victim initially let on. Additionally, they can claim that a person’s continued pain and injury is a consequence of them ignoring their doctor’s orders. It’s best to meet this challenge head on before it ever arises.

3. Obtain and Keep Good Records

It’s also imperative for an accident victim to hold onto all of their medical records. Insurers in no-fault states, and every other state for that matter, will want copies of everything medically related that they’re required to provide compensation for. Without these records, an individual isn’t likely to get the financial recompense that they deserve.

One auto accident in Orlando law firm states that even for “minor injuries, a no-fault insurance claim may be made to allow you to get a portion of your lost wages covered and to get your medical bills paid.” Keeping good records will be important, even to a claim for these small injuries that can be obtained.

For more minor injuries, a no-fault insurance claim may be made to allow you to get a portion of your lost wages covered and to get your medical bills paid. – See more at: http://www.injurylawyers.com/orlando-car-accident-lawyer/#sthash.2UXBEzZJ.dpuf

4. File Claim in a Timely Manner

It’s also essential to file a claim as soon as possible. Every state has specific deadlines related to filing a claim, and once this deadline passes, the victim is likely out of luck. This is one of the many reasons that a person should hire an attorney to help them in their quest for compensation. Legal professionals will know these deadlines and be able to properly file claims on time.

5. Know State-Specific Laws

Maybe one of the most important tips to winning a claim in a no-fault state is to understand the state’s specific laws. Even though a minority of states require this type of insurance, each state has its own rules. If an accident occurs in Orlando, FL, for instance, the victim of the accident may still be able to sue the negligent driver for damages. This will only occur, however, if the injuries sustained meet a certain level of seriousness.

In other states, such as Hawaii, however, a driver can only bring forth a suit against a negligent driver if their financial losses, medical bills included, reach a certain threshold. Once again, it’s imperative to have an attorney in either of these situations. An injured victim will often have to take on two insurance companies in these instances, and the legal aptitude of these companies often overtakes victims who aren’t represented legally.

The insurance laws in no-fault states definitely seem convoluted, but with the right preparation and knowledge of the law, a person can successfully file an accident claim in a no fault state. Whether filing for an auto accident in Orlando or Detroit, count on the fact that insurance companies are in the business of making money, and if this means that they need to try their best to find any reason to deny a claim, that’s what they’ll do. In these cases, having an attorney is essential, and legal help especially comes in handy since it’s still possible to get compensation from a negligent driver in some instances.

Decreasing Personal Injury Claims for Property Owners

As a property owner, it can be challenging to know who you can trust to work on your home or commercial property. Something as simple as another person slipping on your sidewalk can cost you thousands of dollars in a personal injury lawsuit, so you want to be careful with who you invite to your home.

How can you protect yourself from personal injury claims on your own property? Here are some of the things you need to be aware of, and what insurance options you have to protect yourself.

Keep Your Yard Hazard Free

Property owners have a responsibility to keep their yard free of hazards. A large crack in your driveway, ice on the porch steps, and large trees falling over can all be serious hazards If someone injures themselves on your property, they can legally sue you for damages. As such, homeowners need to be aware of the various hazards on their property and take the right precautions to protect their guests.

There are a number of common hazards homeowners should know about. Owning a pool can increase your insurance rates, as they are one of the most common safety hazards. If you have a dog, you need to take the right steps to warn people about the pet, especially if it is territorial or prone to biting. Other common reasons for personal injury lawsuits against property owners include a failure to adequately maintain property, poor lighting, broken structures and facilities, falling objects, lack of security, lack of fencing, improper signage or lack of signage, slippery surfaces, and faulty pool equipment.

It is important to perform routine yard maintenance to prevent yourself from becoming the victim of a lawsuit. Trim your trees and do not allow them to grow to a height where wind can easily blow them over. If you hire anyone to work on your home, always verify their liability insurance. This is the best way to make sure they can pay for any accidents or problems that might occur when they are on your property.

Also, remember that there are certain cases where trespassers are not protected by the law: if a homeowner can prove a person was illegally trespassing on their property, they may not need to pay damages if the trespasser injures himself or herself.

What is covered on Insurance Plans?

There are some things that property insurance will cover. To find out what your plan offers, you need to speak to your agent or read the fine print of your contract. It is important to know what your plan covers to protect yourself from legal action. Most insurance plans will cover slip and fall accidents, assaults, dog bites, and injuries from serving intoxicated guests.

There are strict rules pertaining to most personal injury claims, so you need to disclose any pertinent information to your insurance company. For instance, if you have a dog, you need to inform your insurance provider. Whether their breed is considered a “bite risk” or not, even the nicest dogs can attack someone if they feel they are intruding on their property.

When you serve alcohol to guests at your home, they might become intoxicated. These individuals could injure others if they drive, or injure another person while intoxicated, and you could be liable for damages. Liability will stay with the other party if they brought their own alcohol, or if they were not intoxicated when they left your home.

Byline: Thomas Dehrkoop specializes in assessing properties for hazard and danger from structural problems or landscaping problems. Click here to learn more about tree removal as a way to reduce hazard near your home.

New York Drivers: Are You Safe?

Driving in New York can be considered an art form, especially in metropolitan regions such as New York City. Defensive driving practices can be difficult to maintain in aggressive and congested traffic. The result is a high accident rate, as the NY state experienced 250,000 automobile accidents in 2012. Of course, the aggregate statistics for pedestrians and cyclists is much lower, but the averages per million may be similar. The general social conditions associated with living in urban areas could be contributory, but ultimately the safety practices of all motorists have the most impact. 

Automobiles, Pedestrians, and Cyclists

With over 250,000 accidents in 2012, fatalities on NY highways totaled over 1,000. This resulted in a death rate of over 10 victims per 100,000 residents. This also included an injury rate of approximately 1500 victims per the same population. David Perecman, a car accident attorney New York based states; “New York has no-fault laws in car accident cases, which means every auto accident victim can have his or her medical bills and lost wages covered by insurance regardless of who was to blame for the crash.”

There were over 15,000 accidents involving automobiles and pedestrians, with approximately 6,000 more involving bicyclists. There were 312 pedestrian and 45 bicyclist fatalities. Total accidents for motorcycles are also approximately 6,000, but they are considered as motor vehicles by law. However, motorcycle operators experience many of the same safety concerns as pedestrians, even though they use the highway almost exclusively.

Commercial Vehicles Statistics

The regional commercial environment also creates a huge amount of traffic involving commercial vehicles. These vehicles can range in size from a van to a tandem of eighteen-wheelers, but they are a significant portion of the traffic density. Although each accident involving a huge highway vehicle is serious and often deadly, the total number of accidents in NY is relatively low. There were approximately 10,000 accidents involving eighteen-wheelers in New York state, with 83 fatalities.

State Comparisons

New York state did have higher rates when compared to surrounding states, such as Pennsylvania. However, most of the surrounding region is generally rural with nothing to compare to the megalopolis that is New York City. Even the area across the Hudson River is densely populated and practically a state unto itself population-wise. One advantage of the urban area is the comprehensive network of public transportation that many residents utilize completely. This greatly helps alleviate what would surely present a worse congestion and accident rate scenario.

So, how safe are New York drivers? New York appears similar to other states in the New England area, but may be vulnerable to higher statistical ratings because of aggregate levels of socioeconomic activity in the metropolitan areas. New York City is infamous for aggressive traffic. Ultimately, New Yorkers are “as safe as they drive” if the typical motorist will implement good driving skills and make good driving decisions.

Anyone involved in an accident that occurred in the the big apple should retain a local car accident attorney New York based for legal representation because New York is a “no-fault” insurance state and an injury victim may be entitled to damages from multiple respondents with a maximum compensatory award. Also known as first-party insurance, it provides coverage of the drivers injuries and vehicle damage from their own insurance policy up to a certain amount, but does not exclude the possibility of an additional suit against a negligent “at-fault” driver.