Snapchat's "Speed Filter" Allegedly Causing Accidents on the Road?

Distracted Driving Car Crash Lawyer

Snapchat, the increasingly popular picture phone app, is now at the center of attention for those looking for causes of distracted driving. Many are pointing to the app’s “speed filter” feature which allows drivers to track how fast they are going, tag it on a photo, and share it with their friends. Because pictures and videos disappear in 10 seconds or less, drivers allegedly become more distracted from the road and place more focus on the picture before it’s gone. According to the United States Department of Transportation, distracted driving activities such as sending or receiving pictures can take your eyes off of the road for about 4.6 seconds. At 55 mph, that is similar to driving the length of a football field blindfolded. 

In April, Georgia resident Wentworth Maynard sued Snapchat and a young driver for a car crash that left him with serious brain injuries. The lawsuit alleges that a young driver was driving at speeds over 100 mph because she was using the filter. While distracted, the driver crashed into the Mitsubishi that Maynard was driving. He suffered major brain trauma as a result. The accident took place in Clayton County, and the minimum driver’s insurance is $25,000, an amount which will likely not be enough to cover Maynard’s medical costs. 

Following the suit, Snapchat released the following statement: 

“No Snap is more important than someone’s safety. We actively discourage our community from using the speed filter while driving, including the ‘Do NOT Snap and Drive’ warning message in the app itself.” 

Drivers should remember that no text or picture is important enough to take their eyes off the road while driving. If it's an urgent matter, drivers should pull over to the side of the road. Taking this cautious step will not only help reduce the chances of you getting injured in a car accident, but it can also help save the lives of other drivers on the road. 

If you or someone you know has been in an accident caused by distracted driving, feel free to call The Michigan Law Firm PLLC. Our attorneys are experienced in handling these types of accidents, and will get you the help you need. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

Hamtramck, Michigan Residents Take Road Repairs Into Their Own Hands

Residents of Hamtramck, Michigan are taking road damage control into their own hands as the summer approaches and potholes become a bigger problem for the community. 2014 data shows that Michigan is near the top of the list for worst roads in the U.S: Almost 40% of Michigan roads can be considered to be in “poor shape”. According to a national study by the Associated Press, funding for roads in Michigan fell 8% from 2008 to 2013, so there is not enough money to go around, for these local side streets. 

Pothole Car Accident Lawyer


After purchasing 17 bags of cold patch, about 900 pounds worth, for about $120, residents of Lumpkin Street were able to repair the littered potholes. Lumpkin Street is just one of the mild cases of road damage in Hamtramck, as Charest Street alone has 33 different potholes. 


“We thought we’d just do this quietly,” resident Jonathan Weier told the Detroit Free Press. “There’s holes in the ground, and there’s no one filling them, so let’s fill them.”


The efforts of this self-made repair crew have not gone without notice, as they have garnered an interview from NPR’s “All Things Considered” show and gaining financial support through a GoFundMe page that raised $4,475. They have even received the support of Hamtramck’s mayor Karen Majewski. 


“It just speaks to me about the level of commitment to and affection for Hamtramck that residents here have. There’s such a strong sense of community spirit and a feeling that we’re all in it together. People here are willing to step up and do what they can to make the city work,” Majewski told MLive. 

Road Damage Car Accident

Tips for Avoiding Potholes: 

Here are some tips from the Michigan Department of Transportation on how to avoid rough patches during your commute: 

  • Be Vigilant: Potholes aren’t always easy to see, especially at night. Make sure that the vehicle’s headlights are working properly before getting on the road. 
  • Vehicle Maintenance: Tires should be properly inflated. Also, it is good to have suspensions and steering components inspected. 
  • If you have no way of avoiding the pothole, it is best to slow down and then release the brakes before you hit it. You should also straighten your wheel to hit it squarely and roll through it. 
  • If you do hit a pothole, it’s important to inspect the vehicle for any damage that may have been done once you get out of the car. A properly maintained car can help avoid any further damage to the vehicle. 

If you or anyone you know has been involved in a car accident, including collisions caused by potholes or other types of road damage, please call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are very experienced in handling car accident cases, and will get you the help that you need. Call us, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation. 

Nissan To Recall Over 3.5 Million Vehicles Due To Faulty Airbags

Nissan Recall Lawyer

The Nissan Motor Company put out a statement on Friday, April 29, 2016 that it will be recalling 3.53 million vehicles, most of which are in the United States, due to a passenger airbag issue. Reuters reported that the issue is that the passenger airbag may not work properly due to a malfunction of the vehicle's sensors. This is the Japanese automaker's fourth recall since 2013 concerning air bag issues affecting the front passenger side. The sensor may malfunction, making the automobile believe the passenger is a child or the seat is empty, leading to the airbag not deploying.

Nissan has reported three injuries so far due to this issue but luckily, no deaths as of yet. The recall includes some 2013-2017 models of the Nissan Altima, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, Pathfinder, Sentra, Rogue, NV200, NV Taxi, Infiniti JX35/QX60, and Q50. The 2015-2016 Chevrolet City Express was also included, because Nissan manufactured this vehicle for General Motors. About 3.2 million of these recalls are within the United States. Some 600,000 Nissan Sentra cars are also on recall for a safety belt defect, adding to the list of vehicles currently on recall. Nissan will be contacting those affected by recalls within the next few months and the issue will be fixed at no charge to the owner.

Nissan Recall Attorney

It is very important to stay on top of recalls because they can sometimes fix fatal defects in the automobile. Issues such as this one, regarding seat belts or airbags, can be the difference between life and death, when the car is involved in an automobile accident. If a car is believed to be under recall, always fix it as soon as possible. If a car is recalled, owners should receive a pamphlet in the mail or can check online at SafeCar.gov. Simply enter the VIN number of the car in question and all potential recalls will be listed.

The news of this recall comes in the wake of a number of other large recalls. This recall alone affects over 3.5 million vehicles, which equates to almost 1 car recalled per every 100 persons in the United States. Automakers do their best to ensure car safety, but sometimes are at fault and will attempt to fix these issues. It is important for drivers to ensure they are up to date on all safety checks and recall information to ensure their own safety, and the safety of drivers around them.

If you or someone you know has been involved in an auto accident due to a defect with your car, call The Michigan Law Firm PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of motor vehicle accidents including those caused by recalled vehicles. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Dog Bites: Everything You Need To Know

A huge fear for many parents when allowing their children to play in public areas, especially in cities, are dogs. Cities like Detroit, Michigan have an abundance of both tame and feral dogs, many of which roam the city streets as they please. Children may not always know when a dog is safe or unsafe to approach, which could lead to being bitten and taken to the hospital or even dying, depending on the severity of the bite. As a parent, it is very important to understand which kinds of dogs are most likely to bite, and how to treat a bite if it does occur.

According to DogsBite.org, an organization which has been collecting data since 1982 through the end of 2014, only 9.2% of the dog population are breeds such as pit bulls, rottweilers, presa canarios, cane corsos, mastiffs, dogo argentinos, fila brasieros, sharpeis, boxers. Although this represents a very small percentage of all dogs, these breeds and their mixes account for 86% of attacks that induce bodily harm, 81% of all attacks on children, and 86% of all attacks that result in maiming or long-term damage. Also, dogs that are biters are 6.2 times more likely to be male than female and are just under 3 times as likely to be biters if they are chained up rather than free roaming. Not only is it important to keep these statistics in mind when allowing children to play in the neighborhood, but they is important to keep in mind when in public areas like parks and on sidewalks. 

Over 4.5 million Americans suffer from dog bites every year, with a significant proportion of those being children between the ages of 5 and 9. When a dog bite occurs, there are some very simple steps to take, to try and prevent further injury or infection.

What To Do After Being Bitten By A Dog

  1. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION!
  2. If help is taking too long to arrive, get a clean towel and place it on the injury and keep it elevated.
  3. It is important to wash the wound with soap and water and apply antibiotic ointment every day that the wound is still open.
  4. Wrap the injury with a sterile bandage to keep debris out.
  5. If the owner of the dog is known, find out whether the animal is up to date with shots, most importantly the rabies vaccine. 

Although dogs are man’s best friend, they can still be dangerous animals. It is important to know how to interact with these animals and what to do if something goes wrong. If you or someone you know has been bitten by an animal, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of dog bite cases. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

$21 Million Project Connects 20 Miles Of Detroit, Michigan Pathways

Detroit, Michigan has shown a lot of growth this Spring, with many projects coming to a close and and many starting anew. A project that is finishing up right now is one that is connecting 20 miles of walking, running, and bicycling paths through the city of Detroit. According to CBS Detroit, these paths cost about $21 million and were started in 2012. This project began due to funding from the city and the state, and from donations from groups like the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, The McGregor Fund, and the Kresge Foundation. A staple of this project is the Dequindre Cut Greenway, a path that is just over a mile long.

The new pathways and connector pathways now connect areas like Wayne State, Eastern Market, and Hamtramck. The main push for these pathways is to make Detroit a biker friendly city, which many believe in turn will make Detroit a family friendly city. Many city groups on both sides of the Detroit River hope that with the construction of the Gordy Howe International Bridge, which is scheduled to open in 2020, will allow bike paths to extend from Windsor, Canada to Detroit, which would be a unique, international connection.

Detroit Bicycle Accident Lawyer

A bike friendly city is very important for automobile drivers as well. Allowing bikers to get around without riding on roadways makes bicycling far safer and allows for drivers to focus on other traffic impediments. Bicycle crashes are often fatal, so this is a big win for cycling enthusiasts. This move will also hopefully inspire a new breed of Detroiters to start riding their bicycles to run errands, go to work, and for leisure, thereby keeping cars off the road. Fewer cars on the road makes driving safer for those on the road, and keeps down on traffic. The city of Detroit keeps investing in projects such as this and is seeing both short term and long term benefits, so many hope these projects will continue within the city limits.

If you or someone you know has been involved in an auto or bicycle accident, call The Michigan Law Firm PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in helping bicyclists who have been hit by cars, identify and receive any benefits they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Lots of Highway Construction Coming to Metro-Detroit

It is officially that time of year once again: road work season. The Detroit Free Press reported that the state of Michigan plans to spend around $422 million on road repairs in the Metro Detroit area. The lengthiest of these projects is the 14-year reconstruction of I-75 and I-275. This work, although stressful for drivers, will make for nicer roadways in the long run. Other, less significant, projects include  the reconstruction of the retaining wall between Meyers and McNichols on the Lodge Freeway in Detroit, replacements to the Trumbull bridge over I-94 in Detroit, reconstruction of Van Dyke in Warren and Sterling Heights, and the resurfacing and reconstruction of Lapeer Road in Auburn Hills and Orion Township. All of these projects cost tens of millions of dollars each, with finish dates ranging from this coming summer until the end of this year.

Detroit Construction Accident Lawyer

With so many projects going on this summer, it is very important for drivers to be on the lookout for construction workers, not only for their safety, but for the drivers' safety as well. Road work conditions are often far less safer than regular driving conditions, as there may be steep drop offs or two way traffic in areas that do not normally have it. Almost all traffic fines are doubled in work zones, so choosing not to slow down could really cost drivers. It is very unwise and unsafe to speed in construction zones. It is very easy to injure or kill a construction worker due to lack of attention or drunk driving as well.

Drivers need to pay extra attention to the road and their surroundings when driving in construction zones. This attention can be the difference between a safe trip through the zone, and a huge fine, or worse, the death of a construction worker.

If you or someone you know has been involved in an auto accident, call The Michigan Law Firm PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of motor vehicle accidents, including those occurring in construction zones. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Detroit's Potential MLS Franchise Creates A Potential Traffic Nightmare

All the buzz in Detroit, Michigan lately has been about sports. The Tigers have started their season, the Red Wings and Pistons made the playoffs, the Lions have their new class of players, and rumors of a Detroit MLS franchise spark controversy. On Wednesday, April 27, 2016, it was announced by a number of news outlets that Detroit billionaire and owner of Quicken Loans, Dan Gilbert, is entering a joint venture with current Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores, to invest in a stadium at the current site of the Wayne County jail on Gratiot Avenue in downtown Detroit, for the use of soccer, rugby, or lacrosse. Although these are still just rumors, it has many Detroiters wondering what may become of this investment.

Detroit MLS Soccer Team

The MLS typically has its season starting in March and ending in October. This overlaps with the MLB, which typically runs from April through October, the NFL, which typically runs from September through February, and the NHL, which typically runs from October through April. This means that during any one month, there are at least two Detroit sports teams currently contending in their leagues, which potentially means home games in Detroit. (Although the Detroit Pistons currently play in Auburn Hills, there has been rumor of their move back to Detroit in the not too distant future.) This would mean that there could be 5 major league sports teams playing within a 10-15 minute walk of one another, and considering the Pistons also play from October through April, this could really lead to some traffic woes for sports fans and Detroiters living and commuting in the area.

The unification of all of these teams in downtown Detroit would really put stress on major roadways like Woodward, Jefferson, Gratiot, and Michigan Avenues. This would also put a lot of traffic on the major highways near downtown, such as I-75, I-375, I-94, I-96, The Lodge, and all of their tributaries, before and after games. With most people coming to sporting events in Detroit not living downtown, this really puts a lot of pressure on these roadways, and on other services like restaurants, public transportation, and hotels as well. The completion of the M-1 Rail, or QLine, will drastically help the traffic issue, but will still only take a small chunk out of the thousands of Detroit sports fans attempting to get into the city on game day. 

Increased game day traffic is an issue because accidents often happen when people are frustrated by built up traffic. Stop and go traffic leads to drivers not paying attention and bumping into one another and road rage car crashes. Traffic in downtown areas can also lead to pedestrian and bicycle accidents. City streets are not typically jammed packed in Detroit, and many drivers are not used to driving in a city like Detroit, with its many one way streets and multiple stop signs, and Michigan lefts. This can lead to confusion and accidents between cars, pedestrians and cars, bicyclists and cars, and even pedestrians and bicycles.

Although, by ramping up police enforcement on game days and increasing public transportation from areas in which sports fans are coming from, the city may be able to curb this traffic issue that is now looming with the potential for two new teams moving into downtown Detroit (MLS and the return of the Pistons). However, this is not a guarantee, and even if it were, accident are still bound to happen.

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

Macomb County Car Crash Heard For Blocks, Leaves One Dead

A car was ripped in half this past week in a life-taking crash in Macomb County, Michigan. Fox 2 Detroit reported that many witnesses stated that the crash sounded like an explosion. One witness in particular, stated that the two car crash sounded like a ten car crash, and that even a day later she could not get the noise out of her head. The noise may have come from one of the vehicles in the collision which was split into three pieces.

Speeding Lawyer

The speed limit in the area is 50 miles per hour but eye witnesses stated that the car was going at least double that, lost control, and crashed. Another car crashed into that car afterwards. The driver of the second car attempted to help the driver of the first car but there was nothing anyone could do. The first driver was pronounced dead at the scene. It was certain that the speed of the accident was a factor, but some believe drugs and alcohol may have played a factor. For the residents of the neighborhood in which the crash took place, the spot of the accident will never feel the same.

This accident should be a haunting reminder for drivers to always follow posted speed limits. It is very easy for drivers to speed, but it is one of the most unsafe things a driver can do. Crashes caused by high speeds often leave drivers, passengers, and bystanders paralyzed or even dead. Following posted driving speed limits is a very easy way save lives. 

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

Semi-Truck Hits Stopped Car on Michigan's I-94

One person ended up dead this week, on I-94, after a deadly crash involving a semi truck and a stopped vehicle. The Detroit Free Press reported that a semi-truck drove over the top of a stopped car near the I-94 and I-69 interchange, because the car was stopped in the middle of the highway and the truck could not stop in time. Although the semi truck driver was not hurt, the driver of the vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene. The accident occurred around 2:14 A.M. in the eastbound lanes of I-94. The names of the drivers have not yet been released, but alcohol is suspected to have been a factor in the crash given the time of the accident. The accident closed both sides of the highway and traffic was diverted to the closest exits until around 7 A.M. Police and Firefighters worked vigorously to clear the scene, but it still took many hours.

Drunk Driving Accident Lawer

As The Michigan Law Firm blog has covered before, drunk driving is a serious issue plaguing almost every corner of this country. Drunk driving leaves thousands dead every year and is the cause of much property damage. The main issue many people have with drunk driving is that there are so many alternatives to avoid driving after drinking. Public transportation is being ramped up all around the state of Michigan, especially in cities in the Metro Detroit area. Also, ride sharing services like Uber and Lyft are becoming more and more popular and are appearing in almost every major city. And of course, designating a sober driver is always the best option to drunk driving. Choosing to not drink and drive can literally be the difference between life and death, or at least a huge fine and a safe ride home. The choice is easy, drive sober or get pulled over.

If you or someone you know has been involved in an auto accident, call The Michigan Law Firm PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of motor vehicle accidents. Our firm also specializes in helping victims of drunk driving identity and get any benefits they maybe entitled to, under Michigan law. We can help you deal with your legal issues while you focus on recovering your health. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Road Rage Causes Accident on I-94 in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Michigan State Police have released a statement that road rage was the cause of an accident in Ann Arbor on Thursday, April 7, 2016. MLive reported that the three car crash occurred on I-94 near Platt Road. The altercation began when a 17-year-old Dearborn, Michigan native driving a 2016 Ford Escape tried passing a 64-year-old Ann Arbor native in a 1998 Subaru, and the Subaru driver slammed on his brakes. The altercation went on for a few miles, and ended with the two cars ramming into each other continuously causing an accident with another vehicle. A 43 year old woman was brought into the collision when her 2006 Honda was struck by the two vehicles. Luckily, she was not injured. Both of the other drivers were treated for minor injuries at the University of Michigan Health System but were said to be okay. The State Police are currently working on a report to submit to the Washtenaw County Prosecutor's Office for review.

Car Crash Lawyer

This is another example of how a driver who has nothing to do with confrontation and is abiding by the law may be dragged into something they had nothing to do with, due to the recklessness of other drivers on the road. Even though the woman was not driving recklessly, like her counterparts, she was still involved in the accident and had to take time out of her day to deal with the aftermath.

Ann Arbor Car Accident Lawyer

Road rage causes a lot of accidents every year, and often most of the damage does not fall on the driver, but whatever or whoever that driver ends up hitting and damaging due to their neglectful driving habits. By failing to drive by the law and letting their emotions get the best of them, drivers who fall victim to road rage can not only injure or kill themselves, but they can also cause extreme damage to property or even injure or kill another driver on the road, who had nothing to do with the issue at hand. While driving, it is important for drivers to remember that should not let their emotions get the best of them. Also,  if a reckless driver is spotted, drivers should call the authorities and avoid the dangerous driver at all costs. Reckless drivers are a danger to themselves and everyone else on the road. 

Even if you drive safely, you can still be affected by other reckless drivers. If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident that involves road rage or reckless driving, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of motor vehicle accidents, including victims of road rage and reckless driving collisions. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Detroit Area Freeways To See New Lights

The Michigan Law Firm blog recently updated readers on a study which revealed that most headlights on common cars are of below average quality, at best. As we mentioned, having poor quality headlights can be directly correlated to many accidents that occur at night and their consequent resulting injuries and deaths. In the majority of car accidents occurring at night, the lack of lighting was the main issue, because drivers were not able to see obstacles ahead of them. The same issue of poor lighting is also one that is currently plaguing Detroit, Michigan highways.

A poor and crumbling infrastructure system in Detroit has neglected the lighting system for roads and freeways for almost a decade, but that is about to change this week. The Detroit Free Press reported that The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) announced this week that Freeway Lighting Partners, a public-private partnership, will be installing upgrades to the failing lighting system in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties. The 15 year contract which the state of Michigan signed with the company, states that after the first year of replacements, 90% of the lights must be operational and after the second year, 98% of the lights must be operational. The need for lights has been a long time problem. MDOT reported that of the some 15,000 freeway lights in the Metro Detroit area, 87% are currently high-pressure sodium or metal halide fixtures, a style which is out of date. The plans for replacement call for energy efficient LED lights. This change in light bulbs will not only save money for the city on electrical bills, but it will make the road safer for citizens of Detroit, at night.

Detroit Car Crash Lawyer

As Detroit’s comeback comes further and further along, the infrastructure that supports Detroit does as well. Not only is the city doing well, but roads and bridges are being replaced to combat the new influx of traffic in the city. Although a majority of these changes are happening in the more populated areas like downtown and New Center, these changes have been needed for a long time. In the years to come, Detroiters hope that these changes will also start to affect the neighborhoods surrounding downtown. For the safety of drivers in Detroit, it is important that these infrastructure issues be addressed in a timely manner, because without the infrastructure to support a city with the magnitude of Detroit, a revitalization is pretty hard.

If you or someone you know has been in an accident involving infrastructure issues, call the Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of motor vehicle accidents. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Hillsdale, Michigan Teen Killed In Car Crash, Another Hospitalized

On Tuesday, March 29, 2016, a teen was killed in a car crash in Reading Township, Michigan when his vehicle struck a railroad crossing pole. MLive reported that the vehicle, a 2000 Mitsubishi Mirage then spun out and laid to rest on the side of S. Edon Road just north of Lilac Road. The accident appeared to have occurred shortly after 9 P.M. The driver, Kade Parish Moes, a sixteen year old from Hillsdale, Michigan, was not wearing his seatbelt and was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. The passenger of the vehicle, who was wearing a seatbelt, was taken to Parkview Regional Hospital via Samaritan Medical Transport of Fort Wayne. There has been no update of the passenger's condition, but it is safe to say that the seatbelt she was wearing saved her life, for the time being.

This crash is a brutal reminder that the leading cause of deaths for teens in this country is auto accidents. Young adults also have the highest crash related injury rates among all drivers. According to the Centers For Disease Control And Prevention, seat belts reduce serious crash related injuries and deaths by about half. Of all teenagers who died in crashes in 2012, about 55% were not wearing their seat belts. Men are also 10% less likely to wear their seat belts than females. Passengers in the rear seating portion of a vehicle are less likely than those in the front seat to wear their seat belts also, making them far more at risk to injure themselves or die in a car crash.

Car Crash Lawyer

Every state in the United States of America has laws requiring seat belt use. Although the laws may vary in severity, each state requires drivers to wear a seat belt and almost all states require passengers to do so as well. Police have stepped up their coverage of the issue in recent years with the ‘Click It Or Ticket’ campaign, but it is the driver's and the passengers' responsibility to ensure their own safety when travelling in an automobile. The time to wear a seat belt is not just after being pulled over for not wearing one, it’s every time a driver gets in the car to travel any distance. As the statistics show, wearing a seat belt is literally the difference between life and death in many automobile collisions. 

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

Can Music Cause A Car Accident?

In 2015, Newsplex posted an article in which they spoke about how loud music may cause drivers to become distracted, leading to car accidents, inability to hear emergency vehicles, and distracted driving. But, why do people listen to music as they drive? Because it adds excitement to driving, bumping down the street to the latest hit just seems like a lot more fun than silently strolling down the avenue. But, since when does driving have to be fun?

Car Crash Lawyer

At it’s core, driving is a means of transportation, nothing more. With the high speeds that vehicles travel at and the amount of damage that can be caused in auto accidents, due to neglectful driving, music should take the passenger seat. That being said, teens are still turning up the radio with every chance they get. Upgrading car stereo systems is a very popular thing, and often students compare who has the loudest system in their cars before and after the school day in the parking lot. Not that a love for music should be discouraged, but such loud music is not safe.

The Telegraph reported that a study in the early 2000’s found that reaction times diminished up to 20% when a driver was subject to loud volumes. These stereo systems are a recipe for disaster, seeing that slower reaction times may cause accidents especially in worse driving conditions such as rain, snow, or fog.

It is important to ensure that when listening to music in the car that the level of noise is not at a distracting level, and that you are constantly aware of your surroundings. Be wary of songs on the radio that feature sirens or horns, because these can startle other drivers. Always be aware on the roadways, because you never know if the driver next to you is doing the same.

Be sure to monitor your audio levels while driving, 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 accidents identify and receive any compensation they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Can’t See At Night? Maybe It's Your Headlights

A new study revealed some shocking information about car headlights. The Miami Herald reported that a recent study found that only one out of the 31 mid sized car models tested received a headlight rating of ‘good.’ This means that most mid sized car models have sub-par headlights. Out of those 29, one third came in at ‘acceptable,’ one third ‘marginal,’ and one third ‘poor.’ The difference between good and poor was very substantial, affecting not only how far drivers could see into the night, but how well they could see, as well.

Car Defect Crash Lawyer

The only vehicle which received a "good" rating was the Toyota Prius V, which comes with LED headlights. The headlights on this vehicle were so spectacular that they were able to see a pedestrian, bicyclist, or other obstacle, over 380 feet ahead of them on the road. This would leave the driver enough time to completely stop if they were traveling 75 miles per hour. The worst rated vehicle was the BMW 3 Series with halogen headlights. This car could see obstacles only 128 feet ahead, only giving drivers traveling 35 miles per hour enough time to stop completely.

These headlight statistics are important because about half of the deaths that occurred last year, in car-related crashes, happened at night. That is over 16,000 deaths in night or dusk crashes. Drivers with poor headlights sometimes cannot stop in time to avoid collisions due to fast travel speeds, but if vehicles had higher quality standard headlights, these crashes may have been avoidable.

It is always important to pay more attention when driving at night, especially if there are other variables such such as rain, snow, or fog which make driving harder. If drivers are able to afford it and their cars are able to be refitted, upgrading headlamps is a good solution for fixing sight issues on older or basic model vehicles. Also, it is important for drivers to remember that high-beams are always an option if conditions are very dark and there are not many other vehicles around.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of motor vehicle accidents including night time car collisions. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Honda Rolls Out New Pocket Breathalyzer

Over the past few decades, most of the new technology we have seen in automobiles has been related to safety. Automotive companies and government agencies have been obsessed with making cars safer for everyone, in an attempt to lower fatality rates for drivers of all ages. All of these have been curbed except for many one of the most important ones, drunk driving. The Car Connection reported that almost 10,000 deaths per year are related to drunk driving. That is significantly more lives than technology such as back up cameras or automatic brakes have been able to save so far.

Yes, this technology is important, but to a point. Drivers and lawmakers have to wonder what is going to be done about lowering the risk of being struck by a driver who is under the influence. Many believe it is foolish to hope that lawmakers can stop people from driving drunk. They think that there are not enough police, some areas do not have services to enable drinkers not to drive, and a number of other negative reasons. However, auto manufacturers and tech companies like Honda and Hitachi have other ideas.

Drunk Driving Car Crash Lawyer

Although the design will not be unveiled until next month, the a new idea which may curb drunk driving, has been released. The two companies have created a pocket-size breathalyzer that drivers can use to monitor their drinking to help determine whether they have had much to drive. Although drivers do not have all the details about the technology yet, a few things have been promised by the designers.

First, it's very simple. It’s small. According to sources it can fit easily into your hand or pocket for use on the go. Second, it's fast. It can give readings in as little as three seconds for quick access and ease of use. Lastly, it can be configured to work with smart key technology. This means that it can be enabled within a vehicle to only allow the vehicle to start when a blood alcohol content level is below a certain level, meaning driving drunk would actually be physically impossible.

Technology like this is a breath of fresh air for those directly affected by drunk driving. Someone is finally doing something about a problem which leads to thousands of deaths every year. It’s important to remember the basics to preventing drunk driving deaths however. If planning to participate in any sort of drinking, it is never safe to drive. Always arrange a designated driver if you plan to drink or call a cab or Uber. If a driver appears to be intoxicated, give them space and do not get into a position where said driver can cause harm. Choosing to not drink and drive can be the difference between life and death, literally.

If you or someone you know has been in an accident involving a drunk driver, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced helping victims of drunk driving motor vehicle accidents identify and receive any benefits they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Toyota & The University Of Michigan Autonomous Car Collaboration

Toyota Autonomous Car

Bloomberg Technology reported that the Toyota Motor Company will be collaborating with the University of Michigan to focus on autonomous vehicles. The initiative has been sparking among all automakers to try and curb the some 1.2 million deaths per year in auto accidents, worldwide. This will be the company's third center focusing on the technology, all of which are a part of their initial $1 billion investment in autonomous technology. The other two centers are in Palo Alto, California and Cambridge, Massachusetts. Both of these centers are very close to very influential colleges, Stanford University in California, and The Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard College in Massachusetts. With the University of Michigan added to that prestigious list, Toyota will be working in close quarters with some of the best and brightest students in the country.

This joint venture is only one of many ways in which automobile manufacturers are attempting to gauge the waters of other industries. Companies like General Motors have invested hundreds of millions of dollars in ride sharing companies like Lyft. General Motors also started a new ride-sharing app called Maven recently, offering a cheap alternative to Zip Car in major cities to increase brand awareness. Automobile companies are thinking differently and citizens are reaping the benefits.

University of Michigan Car Crash

In fact, the University of Michigan center is far from the first of its kind in the area. General Motors and Ford both have plans for autonomous vehicle centers in the Metro Detroit area. MCity, the University of Michigan’s autonomous vehicle testing area, has been operational since July. The part of the country that once made almost every car which was produced in the world is now leading the research going into self driving cars. This technology could be paramount for preventing lives lost to automobile accidents. Automobile technology has been erupting from the motor city for over a century and it does not appear to be slowing down today. The safety benefits that research like this will bring is yet to be seen, but one can imagine it will be almost as huge as the invention of the automobile itself.

Autonomous car technology may be on the way, but it has not quite arrived yet, and accidents still happen. If you or someone you know has been involved in a motor vehicle accident, call the Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of personal injury cases. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

State Police Crack Down On Distracted Driving

With the summer on the way state troopers are buckling down on distracted driving. ABC 7 News reported that Michigan State Police will now be patrolling with the intent of looking for distracted drivers, in particular. One might ask what they plan to do differently to ensure they can curb this dangerous trend, and the answer is simple. Undercover police cars.

The Michigan State Police plan to start patrolling in plain site, making use of undercover cars to catch distracted drivers. The habit of distracted driving has been becoming more and more common, leading to more and more auto related deaths. Texting and driving is a serious offence, some police say, almost as bad as drunk driving. Looking down for even a moment to check a text or take a call can lead to the death of the cell phone user and the death of whoever they strike with their vehicle.

Car Accident Lawyer

This is just one of many initiatives around the country being started to curb distracted driving. Not only are states making the use of cellular devices while driving illegal, many states are cracking down even further on drunk driving. More and more sobriety checkpoints and increased night patrolling have been many states' answer to heightened drunk driving related deaths in recent years.

Many cities are also investing in their public transportation systems to offer drunk drivers alternatives and also to try and keep drivers off the road in general, to curb traffic issues. In an unrelated but positively correlated field, many automakers are currently investing in ride-sharing and autonomous vehicle programs. This will make driving safer for all, and will eliminate the issue of drunk or distracted driving completely. With a network of computers behind the wheel, cars will be able to do almost all of the work.

While all of this technology and hard work of Michiganders is making our roads safer, accidents still happen. If you or someone you know has been in an accident involving a car collision or motorcycle crash, call the Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of personal injury cases. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Towing Fee Struggles

Towing companies, such as Goch and Sons in Detroit, Michigan rake in big profits by towing dozen of cars each day. Secret spotters, who are similar to meter cops but with big trucks, are paid to sneak around to find cars without parking passes or cars which are illegally parked, and call in a tow.

Their job, according to a towing insider is to "Get as many cars as you can, and put money in everybody's pocket." Since towing companies and spotters are paid in cash, they “can’t waste time” and “go in for the kill,” the spotter says.

No one is except from these tickets. Whether they are a legitimate visitor who step inside to get their parking validated or a senior citizen who needs to par closer to the entrance of the building, these spotters don't hesitate in calling in a tow. They don't care about understanding the situation.

 

Car Accident Lawyer

Goch and Sons account manager, Kate Pope however, feels that they and other towing companies are just enforcing the rules. "You hear the word scam or scheme or predatory towing, but were not out there with a flag waiving people in," Pope said. "We put up signs throughout the complex saying don't park here."

Goch and Sons, who are reviewed online as “towing cars unfairly,” explains that they legally do not have to wait to tow vehicles.

Towing, although very frustrating, is only the beginning. What really slam people are the fees, which can climb up into the hundreds! Goch, according to Pope, charges $390 in addition to a $20 per day fee, even on weekends. But when taken to Detroit courts, judges usually say they are reasonable.

Need advice on avoiding towing cost?

The best way to keep from having your car towed and pockets drained is to avoid private parking altogether. An easy way to accomplish this is to just call ahead. Many businesses and residential complexes have alternative parking and are willing to disclose that they will have your car immediately towed. 

Another thing to remember is that by parking in spots in which parking is allowed, people can avoid getting into car accidents. When parking in illegal spaces, you run the risk of the towing company damaging your car when they remove it. Also, other drivers may not notice your car in the illegal spot and may hit it. 

 Contact The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC if you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident. We are experienced in handling all types of personal injury cases including car collison. Call us today at 844.464.3476 for a free consultation. 


Teens, Drugs, and Driving: A Recipe For Disaster

Turning 16 is a huge part of the American high school experience. Not only do teens gain the ability to drive, but many are also experimenting with drugs around that same age. The University of Michigan conducted a experiment in 2014 and found that over 11% of 8th graders had tried Marijuana in the past year, and over 35% of 12th graders had as well. With larger and larger amounts of the youth population smoking, this makes getting on the road even more dangerous. According to The National Institute of Drug Abuse, the use of Marijuana can slow down reaction time, impair judgement of time and distance, and hinder motor coordination. This is an issue for all those who choose to drive under the influence of marijuana, not just those who have only been driving for a few years.

Marijuana street sign
According to the Pew Research Center, almost 50% of adults in American have tried Marijuana

Not only are more and more teens smoking marijuana, but they are also the most at risk age group when it comes to auto accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for every mile driven, teen drivers age 16-19 are almost three times as likely to be in a fatal crash than those 20 and over. Teens have less experience behind the wheel and this inexperience leads to more opportunities for them to make mistakes, especially when drugs and alcohol are part of the equation. In 2014, Michigan alone had 54,935 crashes, 115 of which were fatal, for drivers between 16-20, according to Michigan Traffic Crash Facts.

There are currently many groups taking petitions around the state of Michigan to attempt to get Michigan's Congress to vote on legislation that would make recreational marijuana legal. Although most likely Michigan would copy states such as Colorado and Alaska where the legal age to posses marijuana is 21, this would likely make it easier for minors to get marijuana, just as youth currently do with alcohol. With this on the not too far off horizon it is very important to educate our youth on the facts of distracted driving. Whether that be impairing yourself with drugs such as marijuana or alcohol, texting and driving, eating and driving, or many other things that teens are especially susceptible to. By keeping ourselves and our youth informed, we will be able to lower the amount of teen car crashes, injuries, and fatalities. 

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. 

GM Introduces New Car-Sharing Service

General Motors has joined the ranks of Ford, Audi, and BMW in introducing its new car-sharing service, Maven. Fortune reported that Maven is really three car-sharing services in one. First, it is a city based service that rents GM vehicles out by the hour using an app, secondly, it's an app for urban apartment dwellers in New York and Chicago, and lastly it's a peer-to-peer sharing service that began in Germany last year. This isn’t the first time GM has gone out of it’s usual realm of just manufacturing cars. Recently, the motor company paired up with the app Lyft, a service similar to Uber, and invested $500 million in the service.

Lyft Car Crash Lawyer

Maven is taking an interesting approach in starting the service, only allowing the service to be used in a few major cities that already have great public transportation systems. They began marketing the product to students in Ann Arbor, Michigan, holding information sessions on how become representatives for the company, explaining how it works, and why it is important for General Motors to invest in this kind of company.

Maven was explained to students as  a simpler and cheaper version of Zip Car, with an Uber/Lyft feel to it. General Motors also informed students that is, in a way, trying to curb the use of cars in cities, and in turn enabling the use of public transportation. By providing cheap cars available for rent, people are able to live in the city without owning a car and only renting a vehicle when they need to, and using public transportation when the need is less dire. This is a great marketing technique for General Motors, because people are driving their vehicles and they are enabling cleaner, safer, and more green cities.

Uber Car Accident Lawyer

The idea behind Maven could be a relief to drivers as well, because with potentially less vehicles on the road, there is less traffic, lessening the chance of a car crash. This also comes at a perfect time for the city of Detroit, Michigan, because of the rapid expansion of public transportation that is occurring in the currently city. As The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC blog has informed readers, several bus routes are being extended and the QLine is due to be completed in the next year or so. If an application like Maven could successfully be implemented in Detroit, this would be huge for the public transportation sector of the city and could really cut down on traffic and accidents, due to less drivers on the road and more in public transportation.

Hopefully applications like Maven are successful in decreasing our carbon footprint, increasing public transportation usage in cities, and lessening your likeliness of getting stuck in traffic or into an automobile accident. But, 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 motor vehicle accidents identify and receive any compensation they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.