Ypsilanti To See Increased and More Frequent Bus Routes

The Ann Arbor Area Transit Authority (AAATA) plans to more than double the current number of public transportation routes in eastern Washtenaw County, Michigan. MLIVE reported that the AAATA has been servicing the area since 1979, but has only just now begun to increase transit lines in the area. Beginning on May 1st, seven new routes will service Ypsilanti, Michigan and bump their frequency from every hour to every half an hour on weekdays. There is no current expectation for how this will change ridership on AAATA buses, but it is expected that increased access to transportation will help those in Ypsilanti commute and travel to Ann Arbor and the surrounding areas. Not only is the AAATA boosting routes in Ypsilanti, but they are also spending $120,000 to construct improvements and modernize the Ypsilanti Transit Center.

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Increasing public transportation is always very important in helping to develop communities. More transportation means more people travelling in and out of cities, thereby creating more jobs, more tourism, and more money for everyone. 

While easier and shorter commutes are important to citizens of cities like Ypsilanti, people should also understand that better and increased public transportation will actually make the city safer for driving. If a city has better public transportation systems, more people will use public transportation, which leaves less people on the roads. With less people on the roads there will be less traffic and less risk of getting into an automobile accident. This also is very helpful for navigating the city safely while intoxicated, helping to lower the number of individuals who choose to drink and drive due to options for drinking mobility.

Ypsilanti Car Crash Lawyer

College campuses will especially benefit from more public transportation because this new transit in particular will be helpful for students from Eastern Michigan University to travel to the University of Michigan and Concordia, and vice versa. This will eliminate some younger drivers from the road who may typically be more prone to being involved in car collisions due to inexperience. Also, this will help students avoid getting into motor vehicle accidents becasue they no longer have to drive a long distance while tired.

Overall, adding public transportation is very good for the community and drivers in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Although this addition by the AAATA may seem small in scope, it is a move in the right direction. With more and more improvements, Washtenaw County will continue to prosper and continue to be a safe place for drivers in Michigan.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an automobile accident, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of motor vehicle accidents, including bus crashes, car accidents, and motorcycle accidents. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Volkswagen & Porsche Recall Almost 1 Million Vehicles

It was announced this past week that Volkswagen and Porsche have recalled almost 1,000,000 SUVs over a pedal issue. This recall was enforced by the automakers themselves and not by the federal government. Only two vehicles in particular have been recalled by the automakers, the Volkswagen Touareg and the Porsche Cayenne, both of which are SUVs assembled under the Volkswagen Group.

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CNET reported, that in a release from the automakers, it was explained that a clip may become dislodged in the assembly, which could negatively affect the pedal functionality. This obviously sounds like a very large issue, but the recall is simply a precautionary measure, according to the automaker. Fortunately, there have been no recorded accidents, injuries, or deaths caused by the defect. This is a case in which the automakers decided to issue a recall before any malfunctions may have occurred, instead of waiting for an accident to occur and having the government get involved.

It is always important to keep up on all warranty information for your vehicle. Typically vehicle recall information is relayed by mail. You can also check to see if your car has been recalled at SafeCar.gov or at your dealership. Not only is it important to ensure that drivers keep up with relevant recall information, but it is very important to make sure those on the road keep up with all safety checkups on their vehicle as well.

Routine car checkups can prevent accidents and damage to vehicles that costs significant amounts of money. By keeping cars safe, the likelihood of getting into an accident is far less and keeps the road safer for everyone. This is just one of many things drivers can do to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of personal injury cases, including automobile accidents. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Alternatives To Driving Drunk - Decisions That Can Save Lives

The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC recently updated drivers on several, current, drunk driving statistics. These statistics are unfortunately so staggering that reading them results in shock and awe. And while knowing these statistics is important, learning about alternatives to getting behind the wheel when intoxicated, is a much more helpful tool in preventing drunk driving accidents. These alternatives may save drivers a lot of trouble with the law and maybe even their lives.

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In the state of Michigan, it is illegal to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) is above .08%. Of course, that is for adults over the age of 21. For those drivers under 21, the legal BAC limit must be .00% indefinitely. Even if a driver's BAC is below the legal range however, it is never smart to endanger anyone’s life by getting behind the wheel, when alcohol has been consumed. There are a number of ways drivers can avoid getting behind the wheel, if they have been drinking.

The first option, which is the most common and simple, is to always bring a designated driver. When planning on drinking, bring a friend who will stay sober and can operate a motor vehicle to ensure that you get home safely. If you are in a situation in which you did not plan on drinking but ended up too intoxicated to drive, you can also call a friend or relative, who you believe to be sober at that given time, to come and pick you up. Many bars will even allow you to leave your car overnight if you are getting a ride home, so talk with management to see if that is the case before abandoning your vehicle.

Another simple option is to call a cab or another car service such as Uber or Lyft. These services operate in most metropolitan areas and are often cheaper than cabs. Their applications are free to download and many offer discounts for first time users, so it is possible to save a few bucks for newcomers.

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If a cab or ride from an application is too expensive, many metropolitan areas have stellar public transportation. It is easy to locate a bus stop or train pick-up location on most cell phones and public transportation is often very cheap. Detroit, Michigan offers the People Mover in addition to a public bus system. Students who live on campuses and in college towns with bus systems such as Flint and Ann Arbor, especially don't have an excuse to drive after drinking.

Finally, we bring you the fitness option to driving while drunk. If you are going to a location that is not far from your home, many drivers can walk, run or bring their bicycle with them and ride it home, so as to avoid getting behind the wheel. But remember, it is always important to wear a bicycle helmet when riding and to make sure that your reflective gear is showing. And of course, stay away from roads. 

Whatever tactic drivers choose to use, all of these options are far more safe than getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. It may not only save a driver from a DUI, but save a life as well.

If you or someone you know has been involved in an auto accident involving a drunk driver, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of car crash cases, including drunk driving collisons. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Money For Michigan Road Repairs

Anyone who lives in or has visited Michigan knows that Michigan’s infrastructure is in dire need of repairs. Crumbling roads and polluted water supplies are just the start of a very long list of problems citizens of Michigan face. Therefore, when Michigan Governor Rick Snyder recently proposed a $165 million increase in spending to help address road and infrastructure conditions, Michiganders from Madison Heights to Marquette was overjoyed. 

According to CBS Detroit, this new commission would approve of all funds allocated by the governor and also determine where some of the money would go. The committee will be made up of business, government, nonprofit, and philanthropic experts and will strive to modernize Michigan’s roads, pipes, sewers, and communication systems. And the money would currently be put towards transportation, water, sewer, energy, and communications infrastructure if the committee approves of Snyder’s fund allocation.  

This money couldn’t come at a better time for the state, due to the many issues surrounding Michigan’s infrastructure, including those brought on by the ongoing Flint Water Crisis. Many roads need servicing, tons of bridges need replacing, and there are still numerous other issues with Michigan's transportation sector.

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A recent study ranked Detroit, Michigan as having the fourth worst roads among cities with over 500,000 people, with almost 56% of all roads in a state of disrepair. Flint, Michigan had the worst road conditions among cities with between 250,000 and 500,000 people, with 74% of roads in poor condition.

It is apparent that Michigan’s roads are in dire need of repair, and Snyder’s proposition is a breath of fresh air for drivers. If the committee approves this spending bill, millions of dollars may be hitting Michigan streets within the year, hopefully improving the percentages listed above and tackling many other infrastructure issues as well.

Driving on crumbling roads with giant potholes can result in motor vehicle collisions. If you or someone you know has been injured in an auto accident due to poor road conditions, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of personal injury cases including, car accidents. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Michigan Drivers Hate Their Roads More Than Most

A 2014 Gallup poll found that only 35% of drivers in Michigan are satisfied with the current road conditions. Only Rhode Islanders disliked their road more, coming in at 31%. The Detroit News reported that the states with the most satisfied drivers were North Dakota, Wyoming, Utah and South Dakota, coming in at 81, 78%, 77%, 77%, and 74% approval ratings respectively. All of these states have more than double Michigan’s approval rating.

Gallup stated that “States vary widely in how much they spend on road construction and maintenance, and how they raise that revenue.” Of course, road maintenance and it's requisite budget is something which Michigan is currently making changes to try and fix. Michigan lawmakers have really struggled in the past tocome up with funds for road projects, but this past year a law passed, which would generate $1.2 billion in surplus to address Michigan’s crumbling infrastructure. Although this will be a huge step up for the state’s transportation sector, the money will not be raised for a number of years to come. The state is also raising the gas tax for both unleaded and diesel gasoline in an attempt to raise money. In addition, registration fees will also be raised.

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Although this flow of money will undoubtedly help better road conditions, it doesn’t necessarily guarantee satisfaction. Gallup stated that “the 10 states spending the most percapita on roads average 67 percent satisfaction, compared with 61 percent satisfaction among the 10 states spending the least percapita on roads,” showing that even the states that spent the most to keep up their roads, did not have the highest satisfaction rates. These are higher than Michigan’s satisfaction rating, but it shows that spending money alone is not always the only solution. However, it is nice to see that Michigan lawmakers are trying to fix the problems that Michiganders care about, especially since so many take issue with the current road conditions

It is very important for our infrastructure to remain in tact, because without sound roads, bridges, and highways, transportation is very difficult and dangerous. Bad road conditions can cause damage vehicles and even cause auto accidents. By spending money to fix these issues, Michigan lawmakers are showing they care about saving citizen’s money and lives.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a motor vehicle accident due to poor road conditions, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of auto accidents and all types of personal injury cases. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

How To Interact With Semi-Trucks On The Road

A huge aspect of driving is being aware of your surroundings and ensuring that you do not impede or are not impeded by other drivers, something that is taught very well and heavily in driver's education courses. Something that is not discussed, as in depth, however, is how to interact with semi-trucks. Every driver at some point has encountered one of these beasts on the highway and felt panic or or fear.  For those who often drive on highways, semi-trucks sightings are common.

Semi-trucks or eighteen-wheelers, are by far the biggest and heaviest automobiles that drivers will encounter on the road, makes them one of the more dangerous and scary vehicles. Not only are semis far larger and heavier than the average sedan, but they are also operated by a driver, with the same amount of susceptibility for human error and auto malfunction.

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According to the Truck Safety Training, it is always very important to give trucks a lot of room. Tire blow outs are far more common for semi trucks than for regular vehicles and drivers caught in the wrong place during one of these blowouts could be heavily injured or die.

Trucks are also far more susceptible to blowing over in the wind, especially when driving on bridges or other elevated surfaces. Their height makes them act like a sail in the wind and if a driver is too close to a truck and it blows over, the weight of the truck could crush your vehicle.

Also important to know when sharing the road with eighteen-wheelers, is that they have blind spots too. And, semi-truck blind spots are far larger than those of a normal vehicle. This means that you are not always visible to a semi, which is dangerous. If the driver cannot see a vehicle, he may transition into a lane that another driver are already occupying, which is a quick way to get into a collision. Semi-truck blind spots are typically right in front of them, directly behind them, and diagonally back from their front windows. It is therefore wise for drivers to avoid these areas.

While some drivers' instincts cause them to immediately slow down or switch lanes to get far away from eighteen-wheelers, others try to pass them. While it is never okay to speed, passing semi-trucks is a good idea because drivers should avoid lingering next to a semi-truck. Drivers should pass on the left if possible and when doing so should hug the left side of the lane to give the semi driver as much room as they need. Motorists should do their best to never pass around wide turns, because viewing distance is limited.

When not driving on the highway, trucks are like a fish out of water. These vehicles are not made to make close turns and their width is often almost as wide as a lane. Extreme caution should be used when interacting with semi-trucks whether they are on city roads or highways.

It is also very important to remember that truck drivers are doing their very best to accommodate other drivers on the road and that they are not trying to be in the way. Drivers should remember that and try to be as accommodating as possible to our big rig friends, because this will allow the relationship between smaller vehicles and semi-trucks to continue as safely as possible.

If you or someone you know has been involved in an auto accident involving a semi-truck, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our accident attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of car crashes, including semi-truck collisions. We help victims of motor vehicle crashes identify and claim any compensation they may be entitled to, under Michigan law.  Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

High Speed Accident Lands Four In The Hospital

A car accident on the eastside of Detroit, Michigan has landed both drivers and two children in the hospital. On Saturday, March 12, 2016, a Chevy Impala piloted by a 22 year-old man, was speeding along Conner Street, when it crossed over into the other lane and smashed into a Ford Expedition. The Expedition was driven by a woman in her mid-30s travelling with two children. Fox 2 Detroit reported that the children included a 11 year old girl and a 7 year old boy.

Conner Street is not new to car crashes, having its fair share of accidents every year. It is often home to drag races and rampant speeding due to its long, flat, and curving nature as it winds along City Airport and eventually turns into Outer Drive East. This particular accident was so severe that the one of the automobile’s engine flew across the street into a yard and sent the Expedition flying towards the fence of the airport. Although the speed limit on Conner Street is 35, it is seldom followed by drivers and causes many accidents every year.

The passengers of the Expedition are expected to survive, but as of Sunday March 13th, the driver of the Impala was listed in critical condition due to the fact that he suffered from head injuries when he was ejected from the vehicle. 

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News such as this should be very sobering for drivers. Even when not at fault, driving be dangerous enough to land people in the hospital. Drives who obey the law, helpless child passengers, and animal passengers can be severely injured or even killed because of neglectful drivers. It is important to always follow all traffic laws, and if you see a reckless driver, avoid them at all costs. If their driving is a hazard to other drives and they are at risk of hurting themselves or others, call the Michigan State Police at (517)-332-2521 or Detroit Police at (313)- 267-4600. These are non-emergency numbers, so if there is an emergency that requires immediate assistance, always be sure to call 911.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of personal injury cases, including car crashes caused by negligent drivers. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation

Man Ejected from Car During Accident On I-94

CBS Detroit reported that on February 7th, 2016, between Mt. Elliott and Van Dyke on I-94, a roll-over car accident occurred leaving one man in critical condition. The accident occurred on the east-bound side of the highway causing the highway to be closed for hours. The man was ejected from his vehicle after the vehicle rolled over and slammed into the the median wall, landing him in the hospital in critical condition. Details have not been released, but it is evident that the man was not wearing his seat belt. Had he been strapped in he would not have not been ejected.

According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, seat belt use cuts the number of crash related injuries and deaths by about 50%. Although air-bags are a good safety supplement, they do not take the place of seat belts. In 2012, of all teens who died in car accidents, approximately 55% were not wearing their seat belts. It is likely that this number would be far lower if proper seat belt usage had been practiced. According to the data, rear-seat car passengers are far less likely than front-seat passengers to wear their seat belt, putting them far more at risk of serious injury in an auto accident.

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Although driving laws differ from state to state, every single state in the United States has some sort of seat belt law. In Michigan, a police officer can pull over a driver for the sole reason of not wearing their seat belt.

It's not just about the driver's safety however. All passengers in the front seat must also be buckled up. And although riders over the age of 18 can choose whether or not to wear a seat belt in the back seat, it is recommended by the state that all passengers in motor vehicles wear seat belts.

It is also important to make sure seat belts are functioning properly and to get routine checkups to ensure a vehicle's safety. After all, time can cause wear and tear on these safety mechanisms. Also, drivers should ensure that their car does not have any recalls, and if it does, that they are fixed as soon as possible.

Seat belts are vital to car safety, especially in the even of a car crash. However, like all safety mechanisms, seat belts might not be enough to protect victims of automobile collisions from serous injuries. If you have been injured in an auto accident, speak to an attorney at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our experienced attorneys are highly skilled in helping people involved in auto accidents receive any compensation they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

University of Michigan and City of Ann Arbor Propose Light Rail System

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City officials and staff at the University of Michigan are looking into the construction of a light rail system in downtown Ann Arbor, Michigan. The Detroit Free Press reported that the plan would make use of the already existing roadways to take passengers from Central Campus to downtown Ann Arbor, to North Campus, the Medical Campus, and eventually out to Michigan’s southern athletic campus, and Briarwood Mall south of campus. The rail, named the Ann Arbor Connector, would also allow riders to park their vehicles at the edge of the city and ride into town, dropping them off around the town and connecting bus routes to the new grid.

The projections for the new rail system put it only six-to-twelve years away, which may seem distant to current students, but in reality is not that too far off. Current costs lurk in the $500-$700 million range, coming from a variety of sources, including both federal and state budgets. The new system could be as high as 43% faster than the current bus system, which accounts for more than 30,000 of the 50,000 trips made per day from UofM’s Central Campus to its North Campus. More information can be found on the Ann Arbor Connector website.

Michigan Bus Accident Lawyer

A rail system could also be a relief to drivers, because having fewer vehicles on the road lessens the chance of a crash and lessens traffic during rush hour. Utilizing public transportation could be far safer for commuters and pedestrians on the streets of Ann Arbor, Michigan. If projects such as this light-rail can successfully be implemented in Ann Arbor, this could be huge progress for the public transportation sector of the city and University and could really cut down on traffic and accidents, due to less drivers on the road and more on public transportation.

Hopefully, with more and more public transportation system upgrades, the chance of being involved in an automobile accident the likeliness of getting stuck in traffic will decrease. However, car collisions are still always possible. In fact, motor vehicle accidents involving public transportation happen more frequently than Michiganders realize. If you have been injured in bus accident or any other public transportation accident, speak to an attorney at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our personal injury attorneys are highly skilled in helping victims of bus crashes and automobile collisions receive any compensation they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Recall Alert: Over 56,000 Evenflo Child Safety Seats

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Continuing with our theme of recalls, The Portland Press Herald reported that child safety seat manufacturer, Evenflo, has issued a recall on over 56,000 products. The recall was issued because children sitting in the safety seat have been able to loosen the harness that straps them in, which increases the likelihood of injury, if the car crashes. The recall covers a very wide time frame, but only one product: the Transitions Three-in-One Combination Booster Seats made from Dec. 18, 2014 through Jan. 29, 2016.

Luckily, no injuries have yet been reported. And because the recall was self-inflicted, meaning it was discovered by the producer, Evenflo, and not an agency, many future injuries may have been prevented. Although a booster seat recall due to the looseness of the harness may not seems like a serious issue, it may have become a dangerous problem if people had to wait for an incident to hit the news and for Evenflo to be investigated, before finding out about the defect. 

Evenflo is contacting everyone who purchased their booster seats and will be sending a kit with the required items to fix the fault. There may be a great number of Michiganders who own an Evenflo booster seat as according to the Michigan State Police, children under the age of four must ride in the backseat with a car seat and children under the age of eight or the height of 4-feet-9-inches tall must be properly buckled in a car or booster seat.  

Parent drivers need to be aware of the importance of child safety in cars and need to be educated on the laws governing the issue. Many parents believe that when a child reaches a certain age, they don't need a car seat. But as the Michigan State Police states, the need for a car seat also depends on the weight and height of a child. This is a serious distinction because not using a car seat may be the difference between life and death, in the event of a motor vehicle accident. New parents should also be on the lookout for recalls, not just on car seats, but for all things they purchase for their children because almost all produced goods are susceptible to defects.

Safety should always come first, but accidents do happen. If you have been injured in an auto accident, speak to an attorney at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our lawyers are highly skilled in fighting for the compensation you deserve so that you can focus on recovering your health. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

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Car Recalls: How To Know And What To Do

Yesterday, we brought news of a federal investigation into over 400,000 Ford truck recalls due to brake failure. Today, we continue on the topic of recalls and inform drivers further on how to know if their vehicle has been recalled and what to do if it has. 

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Car recalls are a serious issue. Most often the recall is simply a cosmetic issue, but occasionally recalls can be dangerous and even life threatening. A recall is issued either by the company which made the faulty product or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The NHTSA is a particularily great source of information for drivers because they put out statements for every issued recall, whereas manufacturers only put out recalls for their own products. And because most cars are made with parts from multiple manufacturers, drivers may not have the most recent or accurate recall updates if they only check their car maker's website.

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Another way to find out about recalls is to check the mail and to keep driver's license addresses current. Recalls in Michigan are typically mailed to all of those who have their name on the title of the car in question. 

Though the recall and the faulty part is the bigger problem, many automobile owners are more worried about the cost of replacing or mending the defect. This should not be a concern however, as in almost all recall situations, the work required to fix the recalled part is free to the owner of the vehicle as long as the vehicle is taken to an authorized workshop. The only case in which the fix will not be free is if the part has been tampered with or replaced, because that voids the warranty.

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It is very important for drivers to constantly keep up with your vehicle's safety checkups. This includes checking for recalls, keeping all fluids stocked, and keeping air in the tires. By ensuring these safely checks, the likelihood of being involved in an accident due to machine failure is significantly lessened. Information about what a recall is and a car owner's rights are can be found here, and information about specific car recalls can be found here, powered by the NHTSA. Simply enter a vehicle's VIN number on the second site and a list of all potential recalls will be appear.

Car defects a serious problem which can lead to motor vehicle accidents if they are not detected and fixed. If you have been injured in an auto accident, speak to an attorney at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in helping victim's of automobile collisions identify and recover any benefits they may be entitled to, under Michigan Law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

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Tell The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC today about your injury case. We handle car accident, slip and fall, dog bite lawsuits throughout Michigan.  We offer free consultations.

Feds Investigate 400,000 Ford Trucks For Brake Failure

The Ford Motor Company, the second largest auto-manufacturer in the United States, is currently being investigated by the Unites States government in regards to issues with faulty brakes in trucks between 2013 and 2014, The Detroit News reported. About 420,000 Ford F-150 pickups with 3.5-liter, six-cylinder engines manufactured between 2013 and 2014 could potentially be prone to break failure, which is a very large and dangerous problem for drivers.

The report that brought this issue to light explained that so far, there have been over 30 complaints, some even stating complete brake failure. Four accidents have also been reported, but no injuries have been linked to the issue. Ford F-series pickup trucks are the top selling car model in the nation and the F-150 accounts for a very large bulk of those sales, so this may leave a lot of drivers at risk.

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It is important for all drivers, not only those with cars currently under investigation or under recall, to always ensure that their vehicle is in safe driving condition. Most vehicles suggest getting a tune-up every two years or every 30,000 miles. It is also important to regularly keep up with car’s maintenance, including things such as changing the engine oil frequently, checking the transmission fluid, keeping the windshield wiper fluid stocked, and keeping the tires inflated to their correct PSI. Drivers can also check their owner's manuals to see what else their car may need to stay safe.

And equally importantly, drivers should also remember to keep their license address updated, because most states send recall information through the mail. For more recall information, visit at safecar.gov.

While keeping up with your vehicles safety is always the best bet, sometimes things go wrong with vehicles that are not your fault and accidents or injuries may occur because of them. If you have been injured in an auto accident, speak to an attorney at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our experienced attorneys are highly skilled in helping victims of automotive injuries receive any compensation they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

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Tell The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC today about your injury case. We handle car accident, slip and fall, dog bite lawsuits throughout Michigan.  We offer free consultations.

Hands Free Technology in Cars Makes Driving Safer

Could driving while using your smartphone make the roads safer? Well, we are about to soon find out, as automotive companies are partnering up with Android and iOS operating systems, allowing consumers to start seeing some added technology to their driving experience. As people become more connected, so will the things around them, especially as a part of the "auto industry's strategy and new product development," says Project Manager Andrew Brenner from Google's Android Auto.

In January, in Detroit, Michigan, Brenner spoke at the Automotive News World Congress and said, "Consumers are finally starting to shop for cars with the expectation that the vehicles operate with the technology, design and pace of innovation that they are used to with their mobile phones."

 

Texting and Driving Car Accident

Digital technology is vastly changing the driving experience from “connecting” to being “connected.” Consumers, under the strain of trying to use their phones in the safest way possible while driving and being under the radar from law enforcement, can now gain better piece of mind that their mobile device will have full functionally on their dash.

Android Auto, for example, which launched back in 2015, already offers user many apps including Pandora, iHeartRadio and Skype. The platform, which has 60 partners as of January, 2016, and has plans of increasing by 20 more according to Benner, was designed “with safety in mind.” With future plans of adding Google Maps with voice-guided navigation, live traffic information, lane guidance, on-demand Google Play Music, and voice calling in addition to messaging abilities, Android Auto could potentially provide users with a better and safer driving experience.

"Anything we can do to reduce distraction for people in their cars-whether they have an Android or iPhone-I think is a huge benefit," says Brenner.

Like its competitor, Apple Carplay offers similar apps although with a slightly different interface. iPhone users can also expect to gain more connectivity and options in their motor vehicles in the years to come.

With more hands free access, lawmakers may have to adjusts the rules for driving while using a cellular device.

But the bigger debate may not be which platform is better for drivers, but whether this new technology will have an effect on smartphone related automobile accidents. The National Safety Council, a nonprofit organization that stands on advocating safety for over 100 years, seems to think so. Back in 2012, the organization published a study titled “Understanding the Distracted Brain: Why Driving While Using Hands-Free Cell Phones is Risky Behavior,” indicating that cognitive use is a form of “distracted driving,” pointing at hands-free phones as the risky behavior. It’s no secret distracted driving incidents inflate lawsuits, injuries, and deaths. Subsequently, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and the automotive industry should get ready as cognitive distraction may become a hot topic in the coming future.

If you or someone you know has been involved in an auto accident involving a distracted driver, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of car crashes. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Massive Sinkhole Damages Detroit Road

A massive sinkhole has taken out almost two lanes on Tireman Street in Detroit, Michigan’s west side, The Detroit Free Press reported. The unusually large sinkhole was caused by a failing sewer pipe underneath the street, though it is still unknown why the sewer pipe failed. To remedy the situation, workers will send a camera down, into the pipe, to see what caused the breakage, fix the breakage, and then fix the road. Until then, drivers will have to avoid the area. Luckily, no reports of sewer leakage or backups in homes have been reported so far.

This sinkhole comes as a surprise to Detroit residents who have been experiencing an overall kind winter. The unusually warm temperatures have been kind to Detroit sewer workers, but accidents like this are a haunting reminder of the polar vortex two winters ago, in which the workers had to handle more than 2,000 water main breaks. City officials are urging drivers to use caution in the Detroit and Metro Detroit areas in case there are any more road issues.

Detroit Car Accident Lawyer

It is important for drivers, especially in cities such as Detroit which are known for having poor roads, to be especially careful when driving in metropolitan areas. In the winter, drivers should be especially careful, because roads are more susceptible to breakage, due to ice getting in cracks and expanding, water main breaks, and other winter-related issues. In cities like Detroit, Michigan and Flint, Michigan, it is also harder for road crews to get to poor road conditions in a quick manner, leaving drivers at further risk. Drivers should always scan the road in front of them for potholes and debris. And of course, if the winter conditions are too dangerous, it is better to stay indoors rather than risk your life or the lives of others by going out in treacherous conditions.

Safety is always important, but sometimes winter weather conditions foster accidents. If you have been injured in an auto accident, speak to an attorney at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our experienced attorneys are highly skilled in helping victims of automotive collisions receive any compensation they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

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How to Prevent Slow Winter Weather Travel Time

This winter has been very unpredictable in a number of ways and it appears that Mother Nature isn’t quite done with us yet. The entire Detroit, Michigan area has been getting pelted with snow, sleet, and rain the past couple of weeks and according to MLive, it looks like the bad weather will continue. 

Bad weather causes bad injuries. As such, it is very important to stay safe when driving in winter weather conditions. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has reported many accidents, cars in ditches and medians, and other winter weather related issues on our roadways. These road related problems become even bigger issues during peak traffic hours due to the sheer volume of drivers on the road. Thus, traffic is jammed and drivers spend a lot longer trying to reach their destinations. 

Car Accident Snow

Weather services have predicted up to fourteen inches of snow in some areas, with snowfall extending all the way until 11 AM on Thursday morning. This continuation of snowfall will worsen driving conditions, heighten the probability of car crashes occurring, and will extend commutes indefinitely.

To shorten commutes and to promote save driving, commuters should find alternate ways to get to work, school, or wherever it is they are going. As thousands of people in Detroit, Michigan and its suburbs work for very large companies, it makes sense that since they are travelling to the same location, they should carpool. Carpooling significantly reduces the number of vehicles on the road, allowing for faster travel times, even in bad weather conditions.

Another alternate mode of transportation to reduce commuting time is to utilize the public bus system. Though buses are not usually the fastest way to get around town, they can certainly be faster during times of poor road conditions. Since buses are so large, the average bus can fit 40 people and only take up the same of 3 cars on the road. Therefore, if more people were to use public transportation as opposed to driving one car per person,  there would be much more space on the road, thereby reducing travel times. 

Not only would these alternate methods of transportation make for faster commutes, but they would also be more friendly to the environment. After all, the reason for this winter being so unpredictable is because the environment is hurting from all of the pollution cars produce. Therefore, to be safer, to cut down on commuting time, and to help the environment, it is important for drivers to consider carpooling or taking the bus. 

Driving in poor weather conditions increases the chance of car crashes and in turn increases the chances of serious bodily harm. If you or someone you know has been injured in an auto accident due to bad weather conditions, call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation.. The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC is highly skilled in helping victims of automotive injuries. Our experienced attorneys fight to help receive any compensation victims of car accidents may be entitled to, under Michigan law. 

Contact Us | Michigan Accident Attorneys | The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC

Tell The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC today about your injury case. We handle car accident, slip and fall, dog bite lawsuits throughout Michigan.  We offer free consultations.

Flint In Snow-Emergency Mode After Winter Weather

MLive reported that Karen Weaver, the mayor of Flint, declared a snow emergency earlier this week due to worsening conditions in the area. This state of emergency, which was extended through Thursday, February 25, 2016 at 6 PM, made it illegal to park cars on city streets to ensure that city plows could take to the streets as easily as possible. Extra snow removal crews were also out and about in Flint helping the regular crews clear roads and helping any individuals who may be in need of assistance.

Flint Car Accident Lawyer

This weather could not come at a worse time for citizens of Flint, because many residents are still having their water rationed due to the recent water crisis plaguing the city.  Michigan State Police Capt. Chris Kelenske told the Detroit Free Press, “I strongly encourage Flint residents to plan ahead and obtain their filters, cartridges and bottled water early to avoid being out in the storm.” release. Water can be picked up at a number of fire stations in Flint including stations #1, 3, 5, 6, and 8.

It is also important to drive cautiously in winter driving conditions. AAA posted these winter driving tips to help ensure you are safe when driving in the snow:

  • Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Applying the gas slowly to accelerate is the best method for regaining traction and avoiding skids. Don’t try to get moving in a hurry. And take time to slow down for a stoplight. Remember: It takes longer to slow down on icy roads.
  • Drive slowly. Everything takes longer on snow-covered roads. Accelerating, stopping, turning – nothing happens as quickly as on dry pavement. Give yourself time to maneuver by driving slowly.
  • The normal dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds. This increased margin of safety will provide the longer distance needed if you have to stop.
  • Know your brakes. If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS) and need to slow down quickly, press hard on the pedal-it’s normal for the pedal to vibrate a bit when the ABS is activated. In cars without ABS, use “threshold” breaking, keeping your heel on the floorboard and using th ball of your foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal.
  • Don’t stop if you can avoid it. There’s a big difference in the amount of inertia it takes to start moving from a full stop versus how much it takes to get moving while still rolling. If you can slow down enough to keep rolling until a traffic light changes, do it.
  • Don’t power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads just starts your wheels spinning. Try to get a little inertia going before you reach the hill and let that inertia carry you to the top. As you reach the crest of the hill, reduce your speed and proceed down hill as slowly as possible.
  • Don’t stop going up a hill. There’s nothing worse than trying to get moving up a hill on an icy road. Get some inertia going on a flat roadway before you take on the hill.
  • Stay home. If you really don’t have to go out, don’t. Even if you can drive well in the snow, not everyone else can. Don’t tempt fate: If you don’t have somewhere you have to be, watch the snow from indoors.

Drivers in Flint, Michigan or any place with bad winter weather should be extremely cautious when driving in snowy or icy conditions. Motor vehicle collisions are much more likely to occur in winter weather than in normal weather conditions. By following these rules, drivers can help prevent serious bodily harm or possibly even death.

It is always important to drive cautiously poor weather conditions because it can lessen your chance of being involved in a car crash. If you or someone you know have been injured in an auto accident, speak to an attorney at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our experienced attorneys are highly skilled in helping victims of automotive injuries receive any compensation they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

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Drunk Driving Statistics- What You Should Know

Drunk Driving is illegal in every state and can land you in jail with a heap of fines to boot. Although everyone knows drunk driving is illegal, the statistics can be somewhat staggering. Here are some statistics about drunk driving from Mothers Against Drunk Driving:

  • 50% to 75% of convicted drunk drivers continue to drive on a suspended license.
  • The average drunk driver has driven drunk 80 times before his first arrest.
  • The rate of drunk driving is highest among 21 to 25 year-olds (23.4%).
  • Every two minutes, a person is injured in a drunk driving crash.
  • Drunk driving costs the United States $199 billion a year.
  • On average, 2 in 3 people will be involved in a drunk driving crash in their lifetime.
  • Drunk driving costs each adult in the United States almost $800 per year.
  • In 2012, 29.1 million people admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol.
  • Every day in America, 28 people die as a result of drunk driving crashes.
  • In 2013, 10,076 people died in drunk driving crashes - one every 52 minutes - and 290,000 were injured in drunk driving crashes.
Drunk Driver Lawyer

As you can see, the statistics about drunk driving are distressing. It is very important to keep a level head while drinking and always arrange a designated driver if you plan to drink. If you are the designated driver, even one drink is one too many to get behind the wheel and endanger your life, the lives of those in the car with you, and the lives of those on the road. It is also very important to educate our youth on the dangers of drunk driving, because they are the most at risk. By ensuring that we know how to control ourselves, we can teach our youth the same. Drive sober or get pulled over!

If you have been injured in a drunk driving accident, speak to an attorney at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our experienced attorneys are highly skilled in helping victims of automotive injuries receive any compensation they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Contact Us | Michigan Accident Attorneys | The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC

Tell The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC today about your injury case. We handle car accident, slip and fall, dog bite lawsuits throughout Michigan.  We offer free consultations.

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Metro Detroit Physician Sentenced To 45 Years For Health Care Fraud

DETROIT, MI - Think you may be a victim of health care fraud? Well you aren’t the only one. A prominent Metro Detroit physician was recently sentenced to 45 years after he was found guilty of prescribing chemotherapy treatment to thousands of patients without probable cause.

The once prominent physician, Dr. Farid Fata sat in a courtroom in downtown Detroit last summer awaiting sentencing for over-treating, under-treating and mistreating hundreds of patients in addition to insurance fraud. Expert witness Robert Sobieray, a former patient of the doctor and present at the hearing, described the treatment the doctor recommended for his supposed “metastatic bone cancer.”

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Associate professor, Dr. David Steensma of Harvard Medical School and cancer physician testified for the prosecutors stating, 

“I’m not sure what they thought they were radiating.”

Sobieray, who was misled about the side effects of the chemo drug, Zometa, stated in front of the U.S. District Judge Paul Borman’s court during the sentencing last summer:

"I have one tooth left. I had to have pieces of my gums and teeth cut out."

About 22 victim's statements were read last year. Some called Fata an “evil monsters” and others dropped his credentials saying he no longer deserved the title of “doctor.”

Fata, a married father of three, plead guilty back in September of 2014 to one count of conspiring to pay and receive kickbacks, 13 counts of health care fraud and two counts of money laundering. Federal prosecutors said Fata had over 500 victims and has collected millions of dollars.

The hearing, which began on a Monday went on for a week with hundreds of victims giving their statements. Prosecutors aimed for a 175 year sentence but Fata’s attorneys fought for just a 25 year sentence. Fata received 45 years.

"One question was asked over and over, 'How was Dr. Fata allowed to get away with this?' In the pending civil litigation we hope to answer that question and hold accountable everyone who played a role in this epidemic of medical malpractice." said the personal injury lawyer who represented several of Fata’s victims in civil court. 

Source: freep.com

Involved in a personal injury accident? Contact a lawyer at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC.  Our experienced legal team is ready to help with your injury lawsuit and recover the compensation you are entitled to under Michigan law.  Call us at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation today.

State of Michigan to See Potential Speed Limit Changes

A committee within Michigan's House of Representatives approved a package recently that would allow for a change in speed limits in rural areas ABC 10 of the Upper Peninsula reported. This would raise the speed limit for cars on highways to 75 miles per hour and larger trucks to 60 miles per hour. Some in the House oppose this shift for a number of safety reasons, including many of the areas mentioned needing new asphalt, higher risk of accidents, and a swing in costs due to the higher number of potential auto accidents.

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It appears that these fears are not unwarranted, especially considering the large amount of data that is available about automobile accidents. in 2012, the U.S. Department of Transportation found that of the 33,561 auto fatalities, 30 percent of those were speeding related. This statistic is even higher in earlier years. These numbers get even higher when alcohol is mixed in, reporting that in 2012 over 40% of speeding drivers had BAC levels of .08 or higher, compared to only 16% of drivers who were not speeding. This not only raises a safety issue for those who are speeding, but for the drivers around those few reckless drivers as well.

It is important to keep safety in mind whenever operating an automobile, not only for your own well being, but for the well being of those around you as well. Be sure to not exceed the posted speed limit, and to slow down in worse driving conditions such as snow, rain, and fog. If you encounter a driver who is driving recklessly or appears to be driving drunk, avoid the driver at all costs, and if they become a hazard to drivers call the police to report it.

If you have been injured in an auto accident, speak to an attorney at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our experienced attorneys are highly skilled in helping victims of automotive injuries receive any compensation they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Texting and Driving: New Police Technique Foils Law-Breakers

Police in San Antonio have a new tactic for catching violaters of texting and driving laws, Fox 29 of San Antonio reported. On certain roads and highways police are now using spotters on city buses to catch drivers texting behind the wheel. This new technique places people on buses in communication with police throughout the bus route to try and catch people violated the law that started in 2009. The department issued 40 citations in only two and a half hours, and they even let some drives go because they did not have enough police in the area to give out all the citations.

New techniques such as this are popping up around the country and they are really helping cut down on texting and driving accidents and deaths, which are still a huge problem for drivers of all ages, but in particular young drivers. A recent study shows that 40% of teens say they have been a passenger in a car in which the driver used a cell phone in a way that put themselves and their passengers in danger, Huffington Post reported. In 2013 over 340,000 accidents were reported that cited texting and driving as a factor in the incident. On average, 9 Americans die every day due to distracted driving, including disturbances such as texting or general cell phone use.

Texting and Driving Crash Lawyer

Texting and driving is a huge deal in the current technological age we live in, and it compromises safety of drivers and their passengers. States are passing laws to try and cut down on the number of accidents due to texting and driving, but there is only so much that the state and our police force can do. It is important to keep your cell phone out of your hands while driving and ensure that when riding in a car ensure that your driver does the same. A text message is never worth your life or the life of another.

Be sure to educate yourself on Michigan driving laws, and if you have been injured in an auto accident, speak to an attorney at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our experienced attorneys are highly skilled in helping victims of automotive injuries receive any compensation they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.