#ChangeYourMind This March

March is brain injury awareness month! It’s time to #ChangeYourMind and spread awareness on brain injuries!

#ChangeYourMind is a public awareness campaign presented by The Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA), an organization which, “provides a platform for educating the general public about the incidence of brain injury and the needs of people with brain injuries and their families.”

The Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI) defines a brain injury, such as a traumatic brain injury (TBI) as, “a disruption in the normal function of the brain that can be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, rotational force, sudden acceleration and deceleration, shock from an explosive blast, or a penetrating head injury.”

A traumatic brain injury is a very serious injury that affects many people. The human brain is the most complex and remarkable organ in the human body and is responsible for all of an individual's actions and drives their senses. A brain injury can affect who an individual is, the way they think, act, and feel. In Michigan alone, 58,500 people will sustain a traumatic brain injury each year, according to BIAMI. In the United States, 153 people die from injuries that include an injury to the brain every day, according to The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Brain injuries can be very mild and even go undiagnosed, which can lead to permanent damage or possibly even death.

Most people aren’t aware of brain injuries and their common causes. BIAMI mentions that some of the most common causes of TBIs are:

Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries

  • Falls

  • Athletic and recreational activity

  • Assaults, including domestic abuse and shaken baby syndrome

  • Motor vehicle and bicycle accidents

  • Military blast injuries

It’s very well known that car accidents may lead to TBIs, but most people don’t consider bicycle accident TBIs. Bicycle accidents are very common and just as life-threatening as motor vehicle accidents. According to CDC, “in 2010 in the U.S., 800 bicyclists were killed and an estimated 515,000 sustained bicycle-related injuries that required emergency department care.” 26,000 of these bicycle-related injuries resulted in TBIs. The CDC urges bicyclists that practicing helmet safety can play a major role in preventing bicycle related injuries, saying, “any bicyclist who does not wear a bicycle helmet is at increased risk of head injury...a bike helmet can help protect your child or teen from a serious brain or head injury.”

While our hearts can be replaced, there is no such thing as a brain transplant, yet. Coping with and trying to heal from a traumatic brain injury can be one of the most grueling challenges an individual can go through. Since March is brain injury awareness month, people should discuss the seriousness of brain injuries so that everyone can be educated on TBIs and how to prevent them and treat them.

Brain injuries are very common and can be caused in many ways including motor vehicle accidents, falls, and even bicycle accidents. As BIAMI members, the attorneys at The Michigan Law Firm, PC are armed with up-to-date traumatic brain injury knowledge so they can better help car accident TBI victims. If you or someone you know has suffered a TBI due to a car accident, call 844.4MI.FIRM for a free legal consultation.

Hövding Bicycle Helmet: An Airbag for Your Head

Helmets may not be the most stylish look when riding a bicycle but they are necessary to help prevent bicycle accident injuries. In cities like Detroit where bicycle transportation, like MoGo, is popular, no one wants to walk into a trendy Detroit restaurant like Takoi, carrying around a bulky, heavy helmet that requires you to give up arm real estate. However, there is now a very cool alternative to the traditional bucket helmet - Hövding, that you can start conversations about over your chickpea tofu!

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in a survey done in 2001-2003, only 48% of children between the ages of 5-14 wore helmets while cycling, and older children were less likely to wear helmets than younger children. Similar statistics are likely one of the reasons Sweden passed a law in 2005 that required children under the age of 15 to wear helmets while biking. However, head injuries sustained while cycling are not a problem just for children. In 2010, over 800 bicyclists were killed and approximately 515,000 were injured in a bicycle-related accident, with about 26,000 of them receiving traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Because of how dangerous and frequent bicycle car accidents are, this much safer helmet may help prevent car accident head injuries from occurring.

According to their website, Hövding, also known as the airbag for your head, was created in 2005, the same year the law for children under the age of 15 being required to wear helmets in Sweden passed. The new bicycle safety law for children made people wonder if adults should also have to wear helmets. And so Anna Haupt and Terese Alstin, two students of Industrial Design, decided that they wanted to make a helmet that made people want to wear it, whether they needed it or not. Soon after, in 2006, Hövding won the Venture Cup competition, in which young business people get to turn their ideas into an actual business plan. Hövding Sweden AB was founded later that same year, and after another seven years, the airbag helmet idea became an approved and certified product. To date, over 60,000 Hövdings have been sold!

How The Hövding Helmet Works

Hövding has a built in airbag system, sensors and algorithms, activation, charging, and a collar and cover. The airbag is designed like a hood and is made from an ultra-strong fiber that won’t rip. It protects your head while still allowing you to see, and covers more than a typical helmet would. The bicycle helmet also has soft shock absorption components and can absorb multiple blows in the event of a bicycle accident. After the airbag is deployed from a blow to the head, it will deflate. As for the sensors and algorithms, thousands of tests were performed in order to get accurate data on the movements of someone in a bicycle accident, by both crash-test dummies and test riders of Hövding, in order to develop an algorithm that can distinguish between regular bike riding and bike accident conditions. 

Hövding requires a charge in order to work. The charge lasts for 9 hours of active cycling and can be done through an USB charger included in the purchase of a Hövding. There are LEDs at the front that show the wearer how full the battery is. The helmet is also waterproof and has an enclosing collar that wearers can change to fit their outfit or mood. The weight is distributed carefully to make sure it doesn’t disrupt cycling, with weight slightly heavier on the front so that the helmet is resting on the wearer’s back while cycling. In order to activate the Hövding, bicyclists must place it around their necks and zip it up all the way, or it won’t work. Then attach the button on the zip tag onto the right side of the collar. To deactivate Hövding, unclip the button. The helmet should only be activated while cycling.

If you want to see Hövding in action during a bicycle car crash or in the event of a bicycle accident head injury, check out this video.

Helmets aren’t very popular to wear for a lot of cyclists and can be bulky and uncomfortable. Perhaps Hövding is the answer to this. Not only is Hövding more fashionable, compact, and comfortable, it is also safer than a conventional helmet and may prevent injuries typical helmets wouldn’t. If you or a loved one have been injured in a bicycle car accident, call The Michigan Law Firm, PC at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free legal consultation, with an experienced accident attorney.

Life With A TBI

Brain injury Awareness Month is recognized every March by The Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) to raise awareness for brain injuries, the severity of brain injuries, and also the toll brain injuries take on the entire family of a person with a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The BIAA leads the country in spreading awareness on how TBIs affect a person's life and how completing even the smallest tasks can be a struggle. The BIAA’s mission is very important, since according to their research, every 9 seconds, someone in the United States sustains a brain injury. Thanks to the efforts of organizations like the BIAA, in part with TBIs becoming part of everyday conversation due to press like the NFL head injury scandal, knowledge on TBIs is increasing and TBIs are being discussed more often. One example of TBIs gaining national attention is their use as plot points in TV shows.

Source: Giphy, ABC's The Fosters

One show that is incorporating TBIs is The Fosters, a popular show that airs on FreeForm. During the show's latest season, one of the characters, 16-year-old Jesus, was involved in an accident and was knocked unconscious. He was rushed to the hospital and ended up in a medically induced coma. It was later revealed that he suffered from a (TBI). The show documented Jesus’ fight with his TBI through multiple rehab centers and through the transition of returning home. The Fosters gives a perfect example of the struggles someone who has sustained a TBI faces. This depiction, though fictional, is in line with the same awareness that the BIAA is trying to raise on the difficulties of TBIs. Giving a character a TBI on the show was not only a major plot twist, but it also educated the show’s demographic of people aged 12-34, who might not have previously known what traumatic brain injuries are.

Although The Fosters is a fictional show, accidents like Jesus’ happen all the time in real life. One real life person living with a TBI is 13-year-old Paul. BrainLine, a national multimedia project that offers information and resources to help people prevent, treat, and live with a TBI, discuss Paul’s story on their blog. Paul was once just like any other kid his age who enjoyed spending time with his family and playing sports outside with his friends. Paul’s whole world was turned upside down after an afternoon of bike riding turned into a car accident. Paul was immediately taken to the hospital following the car crash but was left with life changing injuries. While his TBI wasn’t diagnosed at the ER, TBI symptoms manifested while he was still admitted to the hospital due to car accident injuries. Paul was soon diagnosed with a TBI that left him immobile and in a vegetative state. His recovery was very slow and he fought hard to accomplish things that most people do without even realizing it, like lifting his eyelids, moving a finger, or saying a word. After spending many months in the ICU, Paul was transferred into a TBI rehabilitation hospital. While in the rehabilitation hospital, Paul had to learn how to walk, talk, and do simple everyday tasks all over again.

After a long journey in the rehabilitation hospital, Paul was finally able to return home with his family. However, the problems stemming from the car crash TBI weren’t over yet, and Paul’s journey was nowhere near finished. Even after leaving the rehabilitation hospital Paul was still dependent on a wheelchair and walker. His parents still had to assist him with everyday tasks including self care, such as dressing and bathing. The stress level in the house was extremely high, according to Paul’s mom. Paul’s siblings struggled to get used to what they referred to as their “new” brother. Other than the stress of dealing with the TBI itself, Paul’s parents felt very guilty that all of their time was put toward taking care of Paul, and felt like they were neglecting their other children. Eventually, Paul’s parents knew they needed help balancing everyday life and taking care of Paul, so they asked for help whenever they needed it. Paul’s mom said regarding taking care of Paul and his TBI,

“The care giving was both never ending and exhausting. We had to recognize our own limitations, shed any guilt, and ask for help from our community, friends, and family.”

As years passed Paul continued to improve and was eventually able to return to school, but couldn’t do it on his own. BrainLine says that according to his parents, “Paul needed an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) geared toward his specific needs. He underwent a neurophysiology examination, which is concerned with the relationships between brain function and behavior and considers how injury may affect learning, communication, planning, organization, and relationships with others.” A personal aid was offered to Paul by his school to help him keep up with all the other students. He was also given a personal laptop to do assignments on. Graduating high school was a huge accomplishment for Paul, but was only the beginning to many other hard challenges.

Getting a job and figuring out what he wanted to do after high school was another difficult decision Paul and his parents had to make. Even though Paul had made tremendous improvements, he was still not the same person he was before the car crash. He walks off-balance, his voice is slow and monotone, and he is slightly slower to process information, to form a thought, or to respond to a question. Paul eventually got a job after high school and worked at a local retail store where he started as a greeter, moved up to sales clerk, and then cashier. Ten years after his accident, at the age of 23, Paul is now attending Lesley University where he is studying the Threshold Program in Boston and is living independently. He also volunteers at the hospital that took care of him and speaks about TBIs and the importance of bike and car safety.

Stories like Paul's show that traumatic brain injuries don’t just affect the live of the person suffering from brain trauma, but that a TBI leaves everyone in the family changed for the rest of their lives as well. Paul’s mom shared,

“Despite all the miraculous gains my son has made over the years, my heart often remains heavy. When I look into my husband’s or my children’s eyes, I can still see the lingering fear, the permanent scars.”

Hospitals and the sounds of ambulances have permanently scarred Paul’s parents and siblings. Paul’s mother continued,

“the sound of an ambulance or the sight of a hospital can evoke tears as we relive and experience flashbacks to that unthinkable day of the accident.”

To help people cope with the ways TBIs can disrupt a family’s life, the BIAA offers webinars that people can watch online to educate themselves on all topics related to traumatic brain injuries. Some such topics include up-to-date TBI research, possible TBI treatment options, TBI rehabilitation, and how families can learn to manage living with someone has a TBI.

Whether you are riding a bike or driving a car, you may be at risk of sustaining a TBI. Being knowledgeable about what traumatic brain injuries are and how they affect individuals and families may result in people taking more caution while engaging in physical activities or even driving, in order to prevent traumatic brain injuries from occurring. Traumatic brain injuries like many other car accident injuries not only harm the victim’s health but oftentimes bring up legal burdens for the injured person and their family as well. Our lawyers are experienced in helping families who are struggling with brain trauma handle their legal problems while they focus on their recovery. Call The Michigan Law Firm, PC at 844.4MI.FIRM to meet with a car accident TBI attorney for a free consultation.

Kalamazoo Bike Accident Could Change Michigan Law

A 2016 bicycle accident in Kalamazoo, Michigan that sent shockwaves through the community is still having an impact over a year later. On June 7, 2016, 5 bicyclists were killed by a speeding driver, and on September 27, 2017, the Michigan Senate Judiciary Committee voted unanimously on a group of bills designed to change state laws in order to protect cyclists. According to Mlive, survivors of the crash Paul Gobble and Jennifer Johnson say that they have observed “animosity towards bicyclists using the roads” and that “it's time to make Michigan safer." The proposed bills aim to do just that.

The Kalamazoo crash was the worst in Michigan’s history, killing 5 and seriously injuring 4 others. A social cycling group called The Chain Gang had departed out on a ride to Plainwell, Michigan and back. About half an hour into the ride, a speeding, blue Chevy pickup truck came flying down Westnedge Ave, driven by Charles Pickett Jr., and collided with the group from behind. Tony Nelson, 73; Larry Paulik, 74; Debra Bradley, 53; Melissa Fevig Hughes, 42; and Suzanne Sippel, 56, were all pronounced dead at the scene. Sheila Jeske, 54, and Paul Runnels, 66, survived along with Gobble, 48, and Johnson, 42. The survivors say they are still dealing with the physical and psychological effects of the crash.

Sen. Margaret O'Brien, R-Portage and Sen. David Knezek, D-Dearborn Heights, introduced a package of bills aimed at protecting cyclists on the road. The bills now heads to the Senate floor. Currently, Michigan is one of only seven states to not have laws requiring cars to pass cyclists safely. The proposed bills are as follows.

Proposed Bicyclist Road Safety Bills

  • Senate Bills 123 and 170 require cars to observe a five-foot passing zone for bicycles.

  • Senate Bill 124, sponsored by O'Brien, requires driver training courses to include at least one hour of education on the laws pertaining to bicycles, motorcycles, and other vulnerable roadway users.  

  • Senate Bill 330, sponsored by O'Brien, allows prosecutors to count a driver whose license had expired or suspended in another state as having a suspended or revoked license when they are charged with operation of a vehicle causing death while holding a suspended or revoked license or registration.

  • Senate Bills 580 and 581, sponsored by Knezek, expand the prohibition on texting while driving to include the use of a computer, tablet, camera, or other internet-based communication device, and update sentencing guidelines.

Mlive reported that Pickett was charged with 5 counts of operating a vehicle while intoxicated causing death, 5 counts of second degree murder, and 4 counts of operating a vehicle while intoxicated causing serious injury. Also, According to a police report, officers found marijuana, a small amount of methamphetamine, rum, vodka, beer and wine in Pickett's pickup truck after the crash." Nearly a year and a half after the crash, Pickett’s trial still has yet to occur. It was originally scheduled for April 24, 2017, and then rescheduled for September 19. 

In that time, Pickett was denied application for leave to appeal his second degree murder charges. Pickett’s attorney, argued that evidence used to charge his client with second degree murder was insufficient. His lawyer says that an interview between his client and a detective that took place in a hospital directly following the crash violated Pickett’s constitutional rights, and therefore could not be used as evidence. His lawyer also argued his client should be charged with reckless driving causing death, but not second degree murder. The court denied the application, “for failure to persuade the Court of the need for immediate appellate review." Pickett plans on pleading insanity to the charges.

This past June, on the one year anniversary of the accident, a mass was held to honor the victims. The Chain Gang also held their first annual Finish the Ride Memorial Ride, a 27-mile bike ride to remember the victims and honor the survivors of the tragedy, following the same route the riders were planning on doing the day of the crash.

Bike accidents are unfortunately common in the United States, with many receiving little to no media attention. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), bicyclists made up 2% of all traffic related deaths and 2% of all crash related injuries in 2014. In 2015 alone, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported over 1,000 cyclists deaths, and over 467,000 bicyclists were injured. The NHTSA also found that bicyclists deaths were more likely to occur between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM, and in urban areas. This is likely due to decreased visibility when the sun goes down, and congested city streets. Bicyclists who are killed are usually males between the ages of 20 and 24. The NHTSA notes that, “a large percentage of crashes can be avoided if motorists and cyclists follow the rules of the road and watch out for each other." The NHTSA also provides the following tips for motorists and cyclists to safely share the road.

Safety Tips for Motorists

  • Yield to bicyclists as you would motorists and do not underestimate their speed. This will help avoid turning in front of a bicyclist traveling on the road or sidewalk, often at an intersection or driveway.

  • In parking lots, at stop signs, when backing up, or when parking, search your surroundings for other vehicles, including bicycles.

  • Drivers turning right on red should look to the right and behind to avoid hitting a bicyclist approaching from the right rear. Stop completely and look left-right-left and behind before turning right on red.

  • Obey the speed limit, reduce speed for road conditions, and drive defensively to avoid a crash with a cyclist.

  • Give cyclists room. Do not pass too closely. Pass bicyclists as you would any other vehicle—when it’s safe to move over into an adjacent lane.

Safety Tips for Cyclists

  • Check your law to make sure sidewalk riding is legal.

  • Watch for pedestrians.

  • Pass pedestrians with care by first announcing “on your left” or “passing on your left” or use a bell.

  • Ride in the same direction as traffic. This way, if the sidewalk ends, you are already riding with the flow of traffic. If crossing a street, motorists will look left, right, left for traffic. When you are to the driver’s left, the driver is more likely to see you.

  • Slow and look for traffic (left-right-left and behind) when crossing a street from a sidewalk; be prepared to stop and follow the pedestrian signals.

  • Slow down and look for cars backing out of driveways or turning.

Drivers and bicyclists learning to share the road with each other is key to reducing the number of cyclist injuries and fatalities due to car accidents. While those on bikes are the ones most likely to be injured or killed, both parties need to be aware of and watch out for each other. While bicycle car accidents can’t be avoided altogether, drivers and bicyclists can work together to ensure travel safety. Whether it be by following tips from organizations like the NHTSA, or through bills like the ones Senators O’Brien and Knezek are hoping to pass, bicyclists need more protections on the road so accidents like the one in Kalamazoo don’t become the norm.

While drivers and cyclists can both work to ensure that those traveling on bikes are safer, bicycle car accidents still happen. What's worse is that bicyclists are more likely to be injured and to suffer more serious injuries than those in the motor vehicle, when involved in a bicycle car accident. If you or a loved have been the victim of an automobile collision, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free legal consultation. Let our highly experienced attorneys handle the legal matters while you focus on recovering from your injuries.   

The Dangers Of Driving In Heels

A Florida woman from Fort Walton Beach claims that her flip flops are the reason behind her automobile accident. The anonymous female driver stated that she was in the process of backing out of her driveway when her foot slipped and her heeled shoe got caught under the gas pedal preventing her from braking in time. She crashed through her neighbor's house across the street and nearly killed a young boy in the process. Accidents like this may seem outlandish but are more common than people might believe. In fact, a UK court recently heard an ex-model's tale of how she accidentally hit a cyclist while test driving a car, due to wearing 2-inch-heels.

Why Proper Driving Footwear is Important

The model in the UK case was Julie Hunter. Ms. Hunter was supposedly test driving a car in a 30 mph zone but was going 50 mph. In an attempt to avoid hitting another vehicle on the road, Ms. Hunter spun out her car and hit a cyclist named Debbie Riches. Upon impact, Riches’ bicycle flew 20 feet into the air before landing and becoming pinned under Ms. Hunter's vehicle. Ms. Riches was pinned under Hunter’s vehicle for about 30 minutes until fire crews arrived and were able to lift the car by utilizing inflatable airbags. Riches was pronounced dead at the scene. The medical team rushed Hunter to a nearby hospital for her fractured skull and internal ear damage.   

The crash investigator who worked on the scene determined that there weren’t any mechanical issues with the car Hunter drove or the bicycle that Riches was riding at the time of the accident. However, the investigator did say that the, "very high" heels worn by Hunter may have inhibited her ability to drive. 

Examples of Improper Driving Footwear

Coincidentally, Shell Oil Company conducted a survey on over 1,000 drivers and determined that at 29% of drivers aged 18-30 are more likely to drive while wearing inappropriate footwear, including shoes with wide bottoms, thick soles, or even driving barefoot. Shoes that have wide soles can make it harder for a driver to properly place their foot on one pedal at a time. In a similar sense, shoes with thick soles make it harder for a driver to gauge the amount of pressure needed to apply to the pedals. Respectively, improper footwear does not just pertain to woman, but includes male footwear as well. Some typically male styles of shoes that may be improper for safe driving include oxfords, work or steel toe boots, and sandals.

The Recommended Footwear for Driving

The Telegraph advises that drivers should stick to shoes like the moccasins or athletic footwear for easy stow-ability, comfortability, and proper sole-to-pedal ratio. Motorsports shoes are also a responsible alternative to prevent scuffing while providing grip. 

With summer having arrived in Michigan, many drivers refuse to wear anything but sandals until cold weather hits returns. These drivers should remember the importance of wearing proper foot gear as a precaution to avoid getting into car accidents. If compromising their style is their biggest worry, drivers can keep a pair driving appropriate shoes in their car year round that they can switch out with whatever shoes they want to wear once they get out from behind the wheel of their motor vehicle. Valuing fancy footwear over driving safety is not worth a trip to the ER!

All drivers, and not just ladies, should be aware of the shoes, or lack their of, that they wear when driving. Wearing the right footwear could possibly prevent motor vehicle accidents. If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident, The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC at 844.4MI.FIRM today, for a free consultation. 

Detroit's New MoGo Bike Share Program

Detroit, Michigan is working diligently to expand its reputation beyond being the Motor City. Not only is the Q-Line up and running to the public, but now a bike share program, MoGo, has been added to the Detroit transportation roster. Sponsored by Henry Ford Health System and Health Alliance Plan, MoGo has 430 bikes in 43 stations found in 10 Detroit locations such as the Eastern Market, Woodbridge, the New Center area, Lafayette Park, Southwest Detroit, the Riverwalk, Clark Park, and of course in Downtown. MoGo lists reasons to get behind the bike-share initiative, by saying that it saves money, saves time, is fun, and is green. Not only can people travel throughout the city, while enjoying a more scenic route, getting exercise, and reducing their carbon footprint, but the bike-share program also helps those who are rushing to and from bus stops, the Q-Line, and other transit stops.

The executive director of MoGo, Lisa Nuszkowski told The Detroit News that, “They say it takes a village to raise a child. If that’s the case, then it takes a city to launch a bike share, that’s for sure. Bike share can transform the campus community, and it will transform community health as well.”

The Detroit News also mentions that, "Garry Bulluck, deputy chief of Mobility Innovations for Mayor Mike Duggan, said MoGo, the QLine and improved transit in the city are the building blocks of a transportation network that is going to be world class. “It’s an opportunity just not for people to access different parts of downtown Detroit, but also to increase physical fitness. ... This is about people’s lives.""

How Does MoGo Work?

Since MoGo has bike stations spread out all over the city as far as Southwest Detroit and North End, riders have easy access to a bike station near them. Then, renters can go to www.mogodetroit.org, to see how many bikes are available and how many bike docks are open. MoGo also uses two apps, Transit App and Cyclefinder.

As far as handling the bike return properly, riders will know if the bike is properly docked by waiting to see if the light on the dock turns green. For those who wish to ride as a group, 4 bikes can be rented and removed at a time. Bikes are available to rent 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, and 365 days a year, if weather permits it.

How Much Does MoGo Cost?

For those bicyclists who plan to use a bike on-and-off throughout a day, daily passes are available for $8. There are also monthly passes ($18), annual passes ($80), and access passes ($5) for registered members of state benefit programs. These passes allow for unlimited 30 minute rides for their respective duration. It is important to note that any ride is limited to 30 minutes, unless extra time is needed, in which case riders will incur an additional $4 for every extra 30 minutes, or $2 with any of the passes. In case a bike is lost or stolen, renters will have to pay a $1,200 fee.

For a limited time, MoGo is offering a Founders Pass ($100) that includes a MoGo Founders T-shirt, four Daily Passes to give to friends and family, and the opportunity to ride in their launch event, in addition to an annual pass.

Bicycle Safety

The MoGo bicycle was manufactured in New York, and is reddish in color with black seats, relaxed handlebars, a basket, plastic protected fenders, and lights. At this time however, bike helmets and other safety equipment do not come equipped with the MoGo bikes, and nor are they handicap accessible. MoGo is waiting on additional grants so that helmets, hand bikes, and tandems will be available for the public at-large. MoGo users and bike riders in general are asked to be careful while out during anytime of day, but especially at night. So, until MoGo implements safety features, it's important for MoGo renters, to wear reflective and protective gear while riding and to be mindful of other bike riders and motorists on the road. This is actually a good rule of thumb for any bicylist and not just MoGo renters, as taking such safety precautions can help bicyclists avoid getting into car collisions and bicycle accidents.  

MoGo Bike share is an awesome addition to the revitalization of Detroit. Hopefully, with the bike share program in use, added tourism and fitness excursions will further help the health and economy of Detroit. With the soon to be flourishing bicycle scene in Detroit however, it is important for motor vehicle operators and bicycle riders alike to be extra mindful of road safety in order to avoid serious injuries from bicycle car accidents. If you or someone you know have been injured in a bicycle accident, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

Cyclist Hit By An SUV In Crosswalk

A lawsuit was filed in Chicago by the husband of a woman struck on her bike in a crosswalk by an SUV. The lawsuit is a wrongful death lawsuit against 56-year-old driver Hanna Burzynska. Eric Jakubowski, the cyclist's husband, is seeking more than $100,000 for his wife Joni Beaudry, according to the Chicago Tribune. Authorities state that Beaudry, had activated the crossing signal before riding her bike in the crosswalk.

“This is a situation where no amount of money can ever change the circumstances here," said the personal injury attorney representing the Jakubowski family.

The Jakubowski lawsuit claims that Burzynska “carelessly and negligently drove and operated [the SUV] and failed to keep a reasonable [and] careful lookout ahead for other traffic or pedestrians attempting to cross [the road].” This personal injury suit seeks monetary compensation for medical expenses, funeral expenses, and burial expenses. Another reason Jakubowski filed the lawsuit is  pain and suffering due compensation for the loss of Beaudry. 

Burzynska was originally charged with a $150 fine following the auto accident and was later issued fines for misdemeanor traffic citations including failure to yield to a pedestrian and failure to reduce speed. Her attorney, stated that Burzynska has also suffered as a result of the accident “not nearly to the degree of this family but psychologically...she's not been able to work.”

According to the National Highway for Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2014,  deaths similar to Beaudry’s accounted for 726 deaths, the equivalent of nearly 2 lives lost every day. However, 50,000 injuries were reported due to bicycling versus motor vehicle incidents. The NHTSA research shows that 29% of cyclists are killed as a result of accidents involving motor vehicles.  The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) listed some promising interventions that could protect cyclist when traveling. 

Interventions that showed to be promising in reducing auto accident injuries and fatalities to bicyclists include: 

  • Wearing fluorescent clothing that also aids cyclists in being visible from further away. 
  • Dressing in retro-reflective clothing to allow bicyclists to be visible at night.
  • A cyclist can fit their bike(s) with active lighting that can be attached to the tires or the bike frame for increased visibility. Active lighting includes the front white and rear red lights that usually come attached to the bicycle. 
     

The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC is a personal injury law firm located in Birmingham, MI.  Our firm handles serious injury cases throughout the state.  Speak to a Michigan accident lawyer today. Call 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consult.  You deserve a great lawyer.

Clinton Township Hall Road Reconstruction

If any motorists have ventured down Hall road (M-59) recently, they should have noticed that the area is under major construction. That's because Michigan’s Clinton Township Board of Trustees voted to upgrade M-59 back on December 7, 2016. 

These upgrades include adding an extra lane to help ease traffic congestion, new roads paved with asphalt, easily visible traffic signs, and replacing traffic lights with safer versions that are designed to decrease swaying.

The Cost Of Clinton Township Safety

Local 4 disclosed that the estimated cost of the total reconstruction project, which will take place over a year and a half, is $60 million. Despite the high cost, Clinton Township Supervisor Bob Cannon claims that the upgrades are necessary in order for Clinton Township to be up to par with Sterling Heights, Shelby Township and Macomb Townships' new upgrades. Also, Cannon confirmed with the county's Finance Department to confirm that the cost of this massive reconstruction wouldn't actually put a strain on the county's budget.

Cannon also agrees with Macomb Township Supervisor Janet Dunn that these upgrades will alleviate safety concerns on Hall Road, in regards to the perils of walking or biking across M-59, due to the current status of the broken down crosswalks. In fact, just in the months of January through August 2016, the Accident Data Center (ADC) recorded Macomb Township having 7 accidents, 3 of which involved pedestrians. That is more than enough justification for Clinton Township to repair their crosswalks.

What Has Been Done So Far?

The reconstruction of Hall Road officially started back in March, 2017 and so far Phase 1 of the project is underway. Phase 1 entails repaving the street in asphalt, adding the modern mast arm traffic signals, improved drainage, replacing traffic signs, upgrading the sidewalks to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, and planting some new greenery. Once this is all completed, Phase 2 is scheduled to begin in March 2018. 

While the replacement of unsafe traffic lights and the repair of broken down roads leads to the future safety of the citizens of Clinton Township, Michigan, the construction itself may cause problems in the current time. Accidents in construction zones are unfortunately very common. Whether it's an improperly labelled construction site or debris from tearing up concrete that may lead to a pedestrian fall, or angry drivers experiencing road rage from closed roads possibly causing automobile crashes, construction sites can be unsafe. Therefore, it is important for drivers and pedestrians to be cautious and attentive when they see construction cones and signs, in order to avoid serious construction injuries.

With many cyclist, pedestrian, and motor vehicle accidents accidents occurring on M-59, it's wonderful that Clinton Township is updating Hall Road's safety. Although the construction will be costly, it is worth spending the money to save innocent pedestrians and bicyclists from being involved in automobile accidents. However, while the upgrades are taking place, travelers on Hall Road should take extra precaution to avoid becoming injured by the construction. If you or someone you know has been involved in a collision at a construction site, call the Michigan Law Firm, PLLC today. We fight for our victims rights to receive compensation as they may be entitled to under Michigan law. Call 844.MI.FIRM today for a free consultation.

The Motor City Embraces More Bicycle Paths

What a difference a decade can make. Detroit, Michigan was vacant of any bike lanes just 10 years ago, today there are plans for nearly 200 miles worth of marked biking lanes for cyclists. 

WDET explained that the bike lanes which were “dreamed up, designed, approved, painted and protected is the work of citizens, community advocates, bicyclists, city officials and engineers,” are just getting started. “There’s a lot of stuff on the drawing board,” said Mike Darga, Senior Project Engineer at Giffels Webster Engineering.

In the southwest area of Detroit, the handful of bike lanes have now expanded to a larger network of pathways as roads are beginning to be maintained or improved, according to Teresa Zajac, VP at the Southwest Detroit Business Association. “The city of Detroit began looking at bike lanes as the asset that they are and can be, and so as they renovate different roads throughout the city of Detroit, including southwest Detroit, they’ve added bike lanes,” Zajac explained. 

This network of bike paths does not solely serve the purpose of recreation. According to the latest U.S Census, about 25% of Detroit households do not have access to a car, so many are turning to bicycles as a way to get to their workplace or local food store. “Most of the people I would say that we deal with are using bikes more so for transportation. They're trying to get to the store or trying to get to work. We have some recreation riders but they’re mostly riding their bike because they’ve got to get somewhere,” Alex Allen, CEO of the Candler Park Conservancy, stated. 

There is still a lot of work to be done, including figuring out how to build pathways for Detroit neighborhoods that don’t have any. “The next step is really to get the various public agencies that are responsible for the roadways and the sidewalks including the city and in our case the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to agree and buy into that same vision,” Tom Goddeeris, Executive Director of the Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation stated. 

While out enjoying a bicycle ride, riders should be conscious of cars and traffic signals to avoid any dangerous accidents. Bicyclists are encouraged to wear a helmet during their ride to protect themselves against any type of severe head injuries. If you or somebody you know has been involved in an accident while riding their bicycle, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are experienced in handling bicycle collisions and will fight to help you identify and receive any benefit you may be entitled to under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

Most Common Bicycle-Automobile Fatality Accidents

Although not as common as auto accidents involving only motor vehicles, accidents do occur between automobiles and bicycles. These accidents are very dangerous due to the lack of protection while riding a bicycle and the raw power and force cars posses. According to the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center, in 2013 alone almost 750 bicyclists were killed in car crashes. In that same year, about 48,000 bicyclists were injured in crashes. These numbers are slightly up from 2001, but not radically different, showing that these statistics are staying somewhat stagnant over time. 

Bicycle Car Crash Lawyer

The 4 Types of Bicycle Crash Scenarios

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), there are four typical bicycle crash scenarios which involve automobiles.

  1. The first is an accident in which the car and the bicyclist are travelling the same way on the same roadway, and the automobile strikes the cyclist.
    • This type of crash accounts for 9% of crashes, but a staggering 45% of deaths to bicyclists.
  2. The second scenario is when a car is travelling down one street and a bicyclist is travelling down a perpendicular street, and without seeing the cyclist, the driver makes a turn or pulls through the intersection, thereby striking the cyclist. 
    • This scenario accounts for 29% of crashes and 22% of deaths.
  3. The third scenario is when a bicyclist is riding against traffic and is struck by a vehicle going the other way.
    • This type of accident accounts for 3% of crashes and 6% of deaths.
  4. The last scenario is when a driver pulls out across traffic, to turn, and a bicyclist is travelling down a perpendicular road from the driver, unseen by the driver, and is struck by the vehicle.
    • This scenario accounts for 22% of crashes and 2% of deaths.

Although these scenarios are the most common, they only account for 63% of crashes and 75% of deaths, leaving a lot of wiggle room when it comes to the variety of accidents bicyclists may be involved in. It is always very important for drivers to pay special attention to the road for bicyclists, because collisions involving automobiles and bicycles are often fatal.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a bicycle accident or has been struck by a vehicle while riding a bicycle, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of motor vehicle accidents accidents, including those involving bicylces. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.