Virtual Reality Tools Could Help Design Future Cars

CNN has just brought to light an important tool in developing future automobiles and making them safer on the roadways. The article makes mention of a London-based design firm, Seymourpowell, which is working with cutting edge technology to design and edit car plans in virtual reality, wearing VR headsets and working with a new 3D sketching program. It has been reported that the new VR software speeds up the process of designing vehicles, as opposed to traditional programs like Photoshop.

Here's where the new software steps in. Put on the VR headset and you are transported to a 3D workspace where the view adjusts to your head movements. The left control stick lets you sketch lines, which can be twisted, moved and manipulated with the right one. Then, you can then jump around your digital surroundings with the press of a button.


With so few functions to worry about -- and because you can see the two controllers as if they were your own virtual hands -- the process is surprisingly intuitive.

Automakers are working with this new software too. CNN reports that Ford and Jaguar Land Rover are already using similar VR software for vehicle design and that more car manufacturers are interested in working with this technology as well.

As car manufacturers begin to streamline their design and development processes by taking advantage of emerging virtual reality technologies, it's conceivable that more attention could be provided to auto safety and ensuring that the risk of drivers and occupants sustaining serious injury in auto accidents is further minimized.  

The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC is a civil litigation firm in Birmingham, Michigan, handling cases throughout Michigan. Our law office regularly files car accident lawsuits and seeks compensation for victims who were injured in auto accidents. Contact us for a free legal consultation at 844.464.3476. Speak to an experienced injury lawyer today.

Defective Gas Tank Part Investigation Is Ongoing

According to Claims Journal, the NHTSA has started investigating certain auto parts which appear to be made by Continental Automotive GmbH, a German auto parts manufacturer, after the manufacturer filed paperwork indicating that there is a possibility of defective parts and that a recall will take place. A Continental spokesperson has went on the record saying "[o]ur filing is signaling that basically there’s a potential defect and here’s who we sold it to." The full extent of this auto part recall remains to be seen.

Bloomberg has recently reported that the "recalls so far affect certain Porsche Macan, Audi Q5, Audi Q7 and VW Touareg SUVs sold over the last decade. The fuel pump flange is generally mounted in the fuel tank and closes an opening used to mount other fuel and vapor management." It has also been reported that Continental may have also supplied the potentially defective fuel pump flanges to McLaren, Lamborghini, and Volvo, as well as multiple auto suppliers.

Continental has said that it is communicating with those who may have been impacted by the gas tank part being investigated.  The potential number of vehicles involved in this recall is still being determined, but estimates "could spread to millions of other vehicle" according to Claims Journal.

The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC is a Birmingham, Michigan personal injury firm. Our Metro Detroit law office handles all types of injury accidents and seeks to recover monetary damages for our clients. Call our law office today at 844.4MI.FIRM (844.464.3476) for a free consultation.  Speak to an accident attorney today. 

Flint Gets $15 Million for Water Crisis

More federal aid money is being provided for Flint, Michigan area residents affected by the Flint Water Crisis. According to a recent June 30, 2017 press release from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, approximately $15 million in funding will be provided to the Genesee County Healthy Start Program, which is overseen by the Genesee County Health Department. This program provides "health and social services for women, infants, and their families who have had, or are at risk for, lead exposure in Flint, Michigan and the surrounding community."  

The Department of Health and Human Services press release mentioned that not only can lead stay in the bones for decades, but that women and infants might face ongoing exposure through pregnancy and breastfeeding, even after the lead source is removed.  

Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Tom Price, M.D. commented, “[w]e understand the urgency of the situation, and this funding will help connect affected and at-risk Flint residents to comprehensive health and social services proven to mitigate the effects of lead exposure.” It's important for those who show symptoms from the Flint water to see their doctor and discuss the best medical course of treatment. 

As Flint, Michigan residents continue to recover from the Flint Water Crisis and the city's infrastructure continues to be restored, our personal injury law firm will continue to monitor new governmental aid for victims who have suffered injuries and general information for the public at large.  

More details regarding the Healthy Start Program can be found at this site: https://mchb.hrsa.gov/maternal-child-health-initiatives/healthy-start.

The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC is a Birmingham, Michigan personal injury firm. Our firm handles personal injury lawsuits throughout the state. Call 844.464.3476 today to speak to an experienced injury attorney today. We offer free consultations and honest and fair legal representation.

The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC Returns to Sponsor Birmingham’s Summer Concert Series

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Thursday, June 15, 2017

FIRM CONTACT: Josh Freedman Business Manager & Director of Provider Department Josh@TheMichiganLawFirm.com

Birmingham, MI - The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC is thrilled to announce its sponsorship of Birmingham's In the Park Summer Concert Series.  2017 is the second consecutive year that the firm has sponsored this exciting community program.

Representatives from The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC will be attending the concerts to hand out free treats, promotional materials, and interact with the community.  Concertgoers are welcome to visit the firm’s table and meet the friendly and knowledgeable personal injury law firm staff.

The series will kick off with the Birmingham Bloomfield Community Coalition Youth Action Board’s Teen Summer Concert on Friday, June 13th, at 7 PM. Most of the remaining concerts will be on Wednesday nights starting at 7 PM.   Most notably, the U.S. Army Field Band Jazz Ambassadors will perform at 7 PM on Tuesday, July 4th.  The concerts, weekly through August 16th, appeal to all ages and will feature a variety of musical genres.

The Summer Concert Series has brought families and neighbors together for over three decades. Attendees can pack a picnic and spread out a blanket as they enjoy the music!

The concerts will take place among the scenic greenery of the centrally-located Shain Park, near Merrill Street in downtown Birmingham, Michigan. The concerts will take place on the performance stage and seating is first-come, first-served on the open lawn space. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and to dress lightly. Parking is available in the Chester Street and Pierce Street parking structures.

In the Park Concert Schedule

  • Friday, June 16, 2017 - Birmingham Bloomfield Community Coalition Youth Action Board's Teen Summer Concert, 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, June 21, 2017 - Steve Acho (Pop/Rock), 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, June 28, 2017 - Sinjon Smith (Country), 7 p.m.
  • Tuesday, July 4, 2017 - ***Special Fourth of July Concert by the Jazz Ambassadors of The U.S. Army Field Band*** 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, July 5, 2017 - Weekend Come Back (Pop, Rock, Country, Funk & Motown), 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, July 12, 2017 - Brand New afternoon concert by Gia Warner and Bobby Lewis (Rock/Classical), 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.
  • Wednesday, July 12, 2017 - Magic Bus (Psychedelic Music, 60’s & 70’s), 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, July 19, 2017 - Toppermost Beatle Tribute (Beatles), 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, July 26, 2017 - Elvis Tribute Artist, Darrin Hagel, 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, August 2, 2017 - Brand New afternoon concert by The AnTekes (Classic Rock & Roll), 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.
  • Wednesday, August 2, 2017 - The Sax Maniacs from Detroit (Soul), 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, August 9, 2017 - Mainstreet Soul (Blues), 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, August 16, 2017 - The Favorites! (50’s), 7 p.m.

For more info about the In the Park Concert series, visit www.bhamgov.org/summerconcerts. To learn more about The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC, visit www.themichiganlawfirm.com.

 The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC is a civil litigation firm that handles a variety of personal injury cases, including auto accidents, motorcycle accidents, medical provider cases, dog bites, and slip and falls. Call us today for a free consultation at 844.4MI.FIRM (844.464.3476).

Download a PDF Version of our Press Release - 6.15.17 Press Release

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Michigan Supreme Court Ruling Affects Medical Providers And Car Accident Victims

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Friday, May 26, 2017

FIRM CONTACT: Josh Freedman Business Manager & Director of Provider Department Josh@TheMichiganLawFirm.com

Birmingham, MI - Yesterday, the Michigan Supreme Court issued a significant ruling in the Covenant Medical Center v State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company case that affects all Michigan medical providers who treat auto accident victims.  The Court ruled that “a healthcare provider does not possess a statutory cause of action against a no-fault insurer.”

Prior to the Court’s Opinion, it was well settled Michigan law that medical providers could bypass the car accident victim and sue the no-fault insurance company directly for unpaid bills.  The standard for medical providers to collect unpaid no-fault related bills has likely now changed.

The Covenant decision points out that Michigan medical providers may still retain certain rights under Michigan law.  The Court stated in a footnote that its conclusion was “not intended to alter an insured’s ability to assign his or her right to past or presently due benefits to a healthcare provider.”

Best practices for medical providers may now include working closely with car accident victims so that they better understand the billing process and to obtain signatures for assignments of rights to permit the medical provider to litigate against no-fault insurers directly for unpaid medical bills. 

The effect of this Opinion on Michigan auto accident victims may be significant as well.  It may become routine for medical providers to seek an assignment of rights from auto accident victims.

The full impact of this decision is not yet fully realized by the Michigan trial court practice.  Today, multiple Wayne County Circuit Court judges did not hear medical provider motions to intervene into auto accident lawsuits and have already began implementing the Michigan Supreme Court ruling as it relates to MCL 500.3112 motions regarding disbursement of No-Fault settlements.  It remains to be seen exactly how Michigan trial courts apply the Covenant decision moving forward.

The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC represents auto accident victims and medical providers across the state of Michigan.  We are continuing to evaluate this new decision and will issue more analysis in the coming days and weeks regarding how Covenant will affect Michigan medical providers and Michigan auto accident victims.

For more information about The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC, visit www.themichiganlawfirm.com or call us at 844.4MI.FIRM.

The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC is a civil litigation firm which handles a variety of personal injury lawsuits including auto accidents, motorcycle accidents, medical provider cases, dog bites, and slip and falls.

Download the PDF Press Release here: Covenant v. State Farm -Press Release -  5.26.17

 

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Video: Pet Cat Attacks Owner

Though we're coming up on Memorial Day, The Michigan Law Firm wants to bring your attention to an animal attack that happened last Christmas. 

When you read the words animal attack, we're sure the first thing that came to mind was a massive beast mauling an innocent human. Or perhaps you pictured a rabid pit bull with a foaming mouth that you've seen in your neighborhood. What you probably didn't think of was a domesticated, fluffy, house cat, ripping into its owners neck. That's exactly what happened to Andrew Woodward.

The euphoric excitement that Mr. Woodward displayed when he unwrapped his gift to find a PlayStation 4, quickly morphed into pain and shock when his cat launched itself at Mr. Woodward's head. While the attack seems like it occurred for no reason, the video shows that the cat, named Magneto, was initially terrified by Mr. Woodward's screams of elation and excited movements. Since Magneto was startled by the sudden commotion, it could be possible that he thought he was under attack and retaliated. 

Whatever the reason for Magneto's attack, Mr. Woodward's Christmas concluded with a trip to the doctor and several stitches.

Source: Inside Edition

Animal attacks are a dangerous occurrence that can result in serious and sometimes life threatening injuries. Even the smallest, cutest, seemingly harmless animals can turn vicious if they think someone poses a treat to them. As seen in this video, even our own pets can turn on us when startled. As such, it's wise to proceed with caution and to be mindful of our actions when in the presence of any animal, in order to prevent animal attacks. Since we can't communicate with animals however, we can't ever completely know how to prevent attacks. If you or someone you know has suffered a dog bite or cat attack, contact The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our firm works with victims of animal attacks to identify and recover any benefits you may be entitled to under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

Pens and Pencils Banned At 36th District Court in Detroit

Guns, knifes, drugs, and alcohol. That's a list of things that are banned in every courthouse in the country, and for good reason. The 36th District Court in Detroit, Michigan however, is adding some far more innocent items to that list. Pens, pencils, and markers!

Yes, pens and pencils and markers. While banning these writing utensils from schools would be even more ludicrous (though students may rejoice), banning them from courthouses seems counter productive. After all, so much paperwork is involved in going to court. From paying for parking tickets, to taking notes in hearings, to filling out court documents about landlord-tenant disputes, pens and pencils are a vital to 

Of course banning writing tools all together wouldn't be fruitful for carrying out business at the court house, which is why attorneys and credentialed press members will be allowed to carry writing instruments. As for the courthouse itself, each of the 26 courtrooms now stock clipboard with irremovable pens attached to them. 

While this ban may seems like a joke to those who are hearing about it for the first time, there is a legitimate reason behind it. The 36th District Court has several murals depicting Detroit's skyline, the city itself, and symbols of justice. The murals went up not even a week ago but have already been vandalized. Court Administrator Kelli Moore Owen told The Detroit News that "the wall coverings are the latest improvements to the five-story courthouse in the last couple of years. There’s fresh paint, new fencing and signage, and a power washing of the building’s exterior for the first time since 1985. We are trying to project a better image." 

A look at the list of prohibited items on the court's website shows that pens, pencils, and markers will have plenty of company alongside other banned items such as, batteries, can openers, combs, dental floss, whistles, smart watches, and of course food and beverages. It's an eclectic list for sure, but safety is no laughing matter.

While some citizens may be disappointed that they won't be able to bring their curling iron or pet bedbugs with them to the 36th District Court, other citizens of Detroit will be thankful that because those items are banned, they can avoid burns and courthouse fires and skin-breaking itching.

The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC handles all types of personal injury cases, including, but not limited to, car accidents, motorcycle accidents, dog bites, slip and fall, and medical provider lawsuits. Call us today at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Lamborghini Huracan Added To Italian Police Service Fleet

While Italy is already known for its production of ultra high-end sports car manufacturers like Ferrari and Maserati, the country's police department is currently making a splash for its newest service vehicle. On March 30, 2017, the keys to a Lamborghini Huracan were handed to Interior Minister Marco Minniti, during a ceremony in Rome, Italy.

According to CNN, "In addition to the as-standard all-wheel drive and aluminum-carbon fiber hybrid chassis, the Huracan comes equipped with crime-fighting gadgets, including an on-board police tablet computer. It's also decked out in police decals and comes in the official color of the Italian police - police medium blue. The car also features the standard cop-issue gun holster, portable extinguisher, VHF police radio and even hooks to hold the "paletta," the traditional hand-held red-and-white "stop" sign, in place."

The question on everyone's mind is why does a police department need a supercar with a top speed of 201 mph that can go 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds? 

Well, "The supercar will be used for special assignments such as the urgent transport of blood and organs, but when its not required for ultra-quick deliveries, it will patrol the highways surrounding the Italian city of Bologna, according to the manufacturer. Its specialty, unsurprisingly, will be chasing down speeders." Fortune reports, "There's also a defibrillator in the car, which can save lives by inducing targeted electric shocks that restore normal heartbeat in case of serious arrhythmia or ventricular fibrillation."

CNN also informed readers that "It isn't the first supercar pressed into the service of the law. Another Huracan has been operated by Rome's traffic cops since 2015, and a Gallardo LP560-4, with its top speed of 230 mph (370 km/h), will be retired as the new vehicle comes into service."

The Dubai Police Department's Luxury Platoon

Using supercars as police vehicles is not exclusive to Italy. In Dubai, tourists stopping the police to take a selfie with their service vehicle is a common occurrence. Who can blame tourists from being amazed when among the Dubai Police Department's collection are a bespoke Aston Martin One-77 (only 77 of these were ever built), a Bentley Continental GT, three hybrid Porsche Panameras, two BMW i8s, and a Bugatti Veyron. The Veyron is the department's most impressive vehicle, boasting a top speed of 253 mph and the capability to go from 0 to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds, which The Guinness Book of World Records certified as the world's fastest police vehicle in service.

These luxury police cars are however are only typically driven around the Dubai Mall and Jumeirah Beach and other tourist hot spots, in order to drum up attention. In fact, Major Sultan Al Marri of the General Department of Transport & Rescue told CNN, "We're not looking to just show off with the car, we're looking to show tourists how friendly the police is here in Dubai. We are looking for ways to connect with people all the time."

The Michigan State Police's Sports Cars

Though they may not be on the same six-to-seven-figure price level of the Huracan and the Veyron, the Michigan State Police (MSP) is no stranger to sports cars. In addition to Chevrolet and Ford SUVs and the nationwide police standard vehicle, the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor, the MSP also uses Dodge Chargers. And though they're known for the "Blue Goose," for their 100th Anniversary earlier this year, the Michigan State Police added 50 new 2016 Dodge Chargers, painted black and gold in homage to the 1937 Ford Model 74-one of their first patrol cars. 

Source: GIPHY, Top Gun

Sports cars, whether the go 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds like the Charger or in 2.5 seconds like the Veyron, are all designed with the same purpose in mind: speed. However, speed is also one of the main causes of car accidents. In research conducted by The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it was found that, "There were 32,675 traffic fatalities in 2014, among them 9,262 (28%) that occurred in speeding-related crashes." So, even if you "feel the need for speed, " like Top Gun's Maverick, it's safer for drivers of sports cars to stick to the speed limit. Otherwise, speeding drivers might find themselves being speedily rushed to the hospital in an ambulance.

Car accidents caused by speeding are very preventable. By following the speed limit, drivers are less likely to be involved in motor vehicle collisions, and in the case they are still involved in car crashes, are likely to avoid more serious injuries than they would have sustained if they were speeding. Speeding to save five minutes off of your travel time is not worth being involved in a collision that could cause serious injury or even death. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a car crash caused by speeding, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. We help victims of speeding collisions identify and receive compensation from any benefits they may be entitled to under Michigan law. Call us at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultaion.

Tesla Cars May Self-Drive Sleeping Owners in 2017

Autonomous vehicle technology isn't going anywhere. In fact, more and more companies are researching and testing self-driving technology. Back in May of 2015, The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC blog introduced its readers to the Google Self-Driving Cars, which were a platoon of self-driving cars being tested on public roads in Mountain View, California. And just two weeks ago, we informed readers about sighting of GM's autonomous Chevy Bolt around San Francisco. High end sports cars, to affordable American car companies, to the company responsible for the world's most used search engine, everyone is getting into the autonomous car game. Last month, Elon Musk, the CEO and product architect of Tesla Motors and the CEO/CTO of Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX), gave a TED Talk in which he discussed Tesla's goal for implementing self-driving technology. 

In an exchange between Musk and TED owner Chris Anderson, Musk says, "I think we're still on track for being able to go cross-country from LA to New York by the end of the year, fully autonomous." Anderson seeks clarification by asking, "OK, so by the end of the year, you're saying, someone's going to sit in a Tesla without touching the steering wheel, tap in "New York," off it goes...Won't ever have to touch the wheel — by the end of 2017." Musk confidently tells Anderson, "Yeah. Essentially, November or December of this year, we should be able to go all the way from a parking lot in California to a parking lot in New York, no controls touched at any point during the entire journey."

According to BGR, what makes Musk's statement so impressive is that the driver-less cross-country journey he thinks the Tesla vehicles will be capable of are not set to "a static route, which is to say that the Tesla vehicle will be able to adjust its route in real-time based on traffic patterns. What's more, Mush said that the vehicle would even be able to handle a change in destination on the fly." Musk says, "...certainly once you enter a highway, to go anywhere on the highway system in a given country. So it's not sort of limited to LA to New York. We could change it and make it Seattle-Florida, that day, in real time. So you were going from LA to New York. Now go from LA to Toronto."

While Tesla's goal to "not have the driver touch the wheel by the end of 2017," is impressive, even more astonishing is Musk's ambition to allow drivers to "be able to buy one of your cars and literally just take the hands off the wheel and go to sleep and wake up and find that they've arrived," in two years time.

Musk made a counterpoint to his own idea by saying, "So the real trick of it is not how do you make it work say 99.9 percent of the time, because, like, if a car crashes one in a thousand times, then you're probably still not going to be comfortable falling asleep...but if you say it's perhaps — the car is unlikely to crash in a hundred lifetimes, or a thousand lifetimes, then people are like, OK, wow, if I were to live a thousand lives, I would still most likely never experience a crash, then that's probably OK."

Tesla Semi-truck

As if fully autonomous cars that drivers can sleep in weren't a tall enough order, Musk also plans to announce an electric Tesla Semi-truck in September, which he claims, "actually can out-torque any diesel semi." And if Tesla's autonomous technology is a success in their cars, perhaps like Otto, Musk will start testing autonomous semis as well, (if he hasn't already)!

While we soon may be able to fall asleep behind the wheel of a Tesla, falling asleep while operating a vehicle will likely result in a motor vehicle accident today. Though fully self-driving cars are in the near future, the world is currently still dependent on ordinary human controlled vehicles. As such, human error is still a cause for concern on roadways, as car accidents are possible. If you or someone you know has been involved in a collision, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation.

Semi Truck Driver Pushes Limits, Gets Arrested

The Recorder recently published an article showing how one semi truck driver tried to illegally push his limits and was caught and arrested by Massachusetts police. The truck driver reportedly drove without rest from Washington State, across the entire country, to Massachusetts-a nearly 3,000 mile distance! The semi truck driver was allegedly under the influence of crystal meth, LSD, and cocaine to keep him awake and functioning for the dangerous journey. 

“It appeared the driver didn’t rest, only used drugs, and he drove from Seattle, Wash., to Deerfield, with a destination on the East Coast.”

Deerfield, Massachusetts Police officer Adam Sokoloski commented that the driver, Garry Robbins "was clearly a danger to himself and others." Luckily however, there were no reports of the truck driver causing any auto accidents along his journey. In fact, the driver somehow actually delivered his shipment despite the condition he was in when he was arrested. It should be noted that his driver's license was suspended after he was arrested by local police. Also, the semi truck was impounded and he was charged with several drug and motor vehicle violations, turning the matter over to the court system.

While cross country trucking is a difficult job, it is important to take breaks and rest when needed when driving thousand of miles. According to The Automobile Association (AA), "1 in 5 accidents on major roads are caused by tiredness." In an effort to prevent such accident, The AA gives the following safety trips for long distance driving:

Long Distance Driving Safety Tips

  1. Don't drive for more than 8 hours in a day.
  2. Take regular fifteen minute breaks in journeys over three hours.
  3. Aim to stop every two hours or so, especially if you're not used to driving long distances.
  4. If you feel at all sleepy, stop in a safe place. Don’t stop on a motorway hard shoulder.
  5. The best way to counter sleepiness is to drink two cups of caffeinated coffee and to take a short nap of at least 15 minutes - check for parking restrictions before you do so.
  6. Plan journeys so that you can take breaks, allowing for an overnight stay if necessary. Even experienced HGV drivers are prevented from driving more than 9 hours in a day or working for over 13 hours in a day. Most car drivers are nowhere near as used to driving for this long.
  7. Don't start a long journey if you’re tired.
  8. Heavy meals can make you sleepy.
  9. Driving at times when you would normally be asleep brings extra risk, particularly the early morning.
  10. Strenuous exercise before driving can also have a bad effect - especially for older people.

Most importantly, drivers should never consume alcohol or drugs when they know that they will be driving. Though motor vehicle collisions are very common, hopefully by following these tips, some unnecessary and preventable car accidents can be avoided. 

Distracted driving and drunk driving are dangerous and in many causes can lead to truck accidents. Though these types of accidents are highly avoidable, they do happen. If you or someone you care about has been involved in a Michigan truck accident, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Speak to a Michigan injury lawyer today at 844.464.3476. Our Metro Detroit law firm offers free consultations. 

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What is pain and suffering compensation?

Pain and suffering compensation is a form of non-economic damages that are available to victims of injury accidents who sue a  person or company for negligence. Pain and suffering consists of the physical pain, emotional pain, and the plaintiff's loss of enjoyment of life.  One of the ways to calculate pain and suffering damages is by considering how the defendant's negligence affected the plaintiff's life.  It is typically up to the jury to determine what the pain and suffering damages are for any particular case. 

Typically, in a personal injury case if a person becomes unable to continue with an activity that they normally perform, like a hobby, career, or a sport, this will be taken into account.  For example, if someone was injured due to the negligence of another, and this person played pickup basketball every weekend with their friends, but after the personal injury accident, they are unable to continue to play basketball, this loss of enjoyment will be a significant factor for the damages in the lawsuit.  

It's important to work with a Michigan accident lawyer who is well-versed in handling pain and suffering cases.  If you have any questions about whether you have sustained injuries and they have affected your life greatly enough to obtain pain and suffering damages, you should speak to a local attorney who is experienced in personal injury law right away.  There are strict statutes of limitations in every jurisdiction which cover how long you have to make a claim.  Certain types of injuries, such as those caused by a governmental entity, like the US Post Office, the local public works department, or injuries caused by most emergency responders have even more strict rules regarding when notice of the injury must be provided, what information about the injury must be provided, and even who witnessed the accident occur.

Contact The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC if you have questions regarding a Michigan personal injury accident.  Our Birmingham law firm handles car crash lawsuits, dog bite lawsuits, slip and fall law suits, and other types of personal injury accidents as well.  Our toll free number is 844.464.3476.  Speak to a Michigan injury attorney today.  We offer free consultations.  

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Autonomous Chevy Bolt - Spotted

Yesterday, April 19, 2017, GM released video of a Chevy Bolt driving autonomously in the streets of San Francisco, California.  The video (part of a three video series) shows a dashboard view of the car as it drives on regular streets at night.  The autonomous Bolt stopped at traffic lights, yielded to other vehicles, and ultimately drove safely throughout its journey. 

Although a live person was sitting in the car, ready to take over if necessary, it doesn't appear that the human driver was needed in the videos.  According to Automotive News, GM has been testing these self-driving Bolts in multiple cities including San Francisco, CA and Scottsdale, AZ.  It has also been reported that GM is testing these self-driving Chevy Bolts in Detroit, Michigan as well. 

It's likely that auto insurance companies are watching these self-driving developments closely as government regulators, auto insurers, and consumers alike determine how to handle the new situation of insuring self-driving vehicles.  It's going to be critical to determine how autonomous cars involved in injury-causing auto accidents will be insured.  While accounts vary, most of the speculation is that fully self-driving cars will not begin becoming commercially available for at least a couple of years.  

If you have been involved in an auto accident, contact The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC.  Speak to a Michigan injury lawyer today at 844.464.3476.  Our experienced legal team will assist with your claim for auto insurance benefits which have been denied, including pain and suffering compensation.  Call for a free consultation today. 

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Safe Used Cars for Teen Drivers

Cheryl Jensen recently wrote an article in Forbes discussing how to find the safest used car for a new teen driver within a reasonable price range. Jensen mentions how the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has just released its rankings for top choices in the under $20,000 and under $10,000 categories.  Surprisingly, over 100 used car makes and models are listed with the IIHS safety stamp of approval for teen drivers on a budget.  Jensen makes note of the lowest priced option on the list, a $2,000 Saab 9-3.  Prices on the list are set at the Kelly Blue Book pricing so the actual prices may vary depending on the seller or car dealer.

"technology helps drivers maintain control of a vehicle on curves and on slippery roads and is a proven lifesaver"

Some additional tips for selecting a safe used car for a teen include, making sure the vehicle has electronic stability control, make sure there are no active recalls on the vehicle, look for a car with too high of a horsepower rating, and pay careful attention to safety ratings on very small cars. 

To research if your car has any active recalls which could affect the vehicle's safety on the road, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's recall site (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls).  All you need is your car's VIN number, which should be located on the lower left corner of your car's windshield.  The VIN may also be found on your vehicle registration.  

It's crucial to ensure that you are selecting a safe car for your teen driver.  Avoiding an auto accident begins with the research and purchase of a vehicle. 

If you have any questions regarding your motor vehicle accident or the rules of the road, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC.  Speak to an experienced car accident lawyer who can assist with lawsuits against auto insurance companies, lawsuits against negligent drivers, obtaining pain and suffering compensation, and more.  Our legal team works hard to get your life back on track after an accident.  Call our personal injury law firm today at 844.464.3476 for a free consultation. 

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Auto Safety: Regulating Cybersecurity in Cars

New information is being provided every day regarding the possibility of driverless cars and the potential for autonomous motor vehicles in the future.  While that rosy future isn't quite here yet, most cars on the road do rely heavily on computer coding and other advanced technology.

Making sure that that your vehicle is safe from hackers is a concern that many industry experts are talking about in the auto world. Ryan McCauley recently published an article for Government Technology, which addresses the question, who should regulate cybersecurity for connected cars?

The federal government regulates safety standards for vehicles. Should cybersecurity standards be treated differently?

The article quotes, Sam Lauzon, a senior engineer at the University of Michigan’s Transportation Research Institute.  Lauzon brings up a fair point when he states that government regulations rarely keep up with technology.  

According to a February 2017 study conducted by the University of Michigan, more people are concerned about hacking to obtain control of individual vehicles or the traffic management system than hacking cars for their personal information.  The study also found that older respondents had more concern of vehicle hacking than younger respondents. 

The FTC released a March 20, 2017 press statement where it was announced that the FTC and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will hold a workshop on June 28, 2017.  Up for discussion are topics like motor vehicle consumer privacy, security issues posed by automated motor vehicles, and security issues posed by connected motor vehicles.  The workshop will also address issues such as the role of government in regulating auto cybersecurity, pros and cons of data collection from cars, and potential auto industry self-regulatory standards that might apply to privacy and security issues for connected vehicles. 

The FTC invites the general public to comment on these issues.  The public can submit their comments by clicking on the following link - Connected Cars - Request for Comments Link.

The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC has an auto accident lawyer ready for you to speak with about your Michigan car crash.  Our firm offers free consultations and honest and fair representation.  Give us a call today at 844.464.3476 to see if our firm can help you get back on your feet after an auto accident. 

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Workplace Accidents Are On The Rise

Michigan Workplace Safety Lawyer

For those who work in the comfy confines of an air conditioned office space, the idea of being injured or even dying seems outlandish at best. Unfortunately, for many occupations, the threat of a workplace accident happening is something employees must consider every day. This past April, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics finalized its data on worker fatalities in 2014. The report found that the U.S workplace fatality rate increased for the first time since 2010, and the total number of an-the-job deaths were at their highest since 2008. 

Out of the nearly 5,000 work-related deaths, 4,454 were men and 367 were women, and most of the victims fell between the ages of 45 and 64-years-old. The industries that saw the most deaths occurred in construction (899 deaths), transportation and warehousing (766), agriculture (584), government (435), as well as professional and business services (425). The most common cause of workplace fatalities are car crashes, which resulted in 1,984 worker deaths in 2014. Unfortunately, a vast majority of those deaths were caused due to distracted driving. The National Safety Council encourages every professional organization to put safe driving policies in place, and to remind their employees that making a client call or taking part in a meeting over the phone isn’t worth the potential risk. 

Michigan Worker's Compensation Lawyer

The Huffington Post reports that for every seven seconds that passes, a worker in the United States suffers an injury which requires medical assistance. These injured workers combined for 99 million work days in 2014, and the leading cause of these injuries were overexertion, being hit by an object, or injuries resulting from falls. Works should remember that overexertion or ergonomic injuries don’t always happen in blue collar industries. “Whether lifting heavy loads or spending too much time typing on your computer, be aware of your body’s limits. Make sure you take regular breaks, avoid repetitive tasks and set up your workstation to fit your body,” the article reads.

PREVENTING WORKPLACE INJURIES 

Detroit Worker's Compensation Lawyer

Arbill, a website which focuses on safety in the workplace, has provided the following tips for preventing serious injuries or death while on the clock: 

Shortcuts and Shortcomings 

While it might be tempting to cut a few corners in order to get the job done quicker, it’s not always the safest bet. Taking shortcuts means that the worker did not do their due diligence, which can lead to big consequences down the line. Additionally, if there is something unclear about the instructions, it’s best to hold off on starting the task until getting clarification. 

Safety In Transit 

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, workplace-driving accidents cost employers an average of $60 billion a year. It’s important to make sure that all company vehicles are inspected each month and the necessary repairs are made as soon as possible. 

Weather The Weather

Michigan Work Accident Lawyer

Before heading out on the job in the morning workers should take a look outside and check the upcoming forecast for an idea of what type of weather they can expect. If it’s going to be a cold one, it’s best to dress in layers and properly cover the head, feet, hands and face. If possible, keeping an extra change of clothes in case clothes get too wet, is a good idea. Conversely, if it’s scorching hot outside, wearing loose-fitting clothes, taking frequent breaks and drinking plenty of water, can help to avoid injuries. 

Make PPE A VIP

Personal Protective Equipment is crucial to prevent injury, so it needs to be worn properly at all times in the work area. The PPE includes: Goggles and other face protection gear, gloves, hard hats, safety shoes, and ear plugs if necessary. Employers are encouraged to not only make sure this safety equipment is provided, but that all employees know how to properly use it. 

Shipshape Safety 

Workplace cleanliness can go a long way in making sure workers are in a safe environment. Poor housekeeping like scattered paper, debris, clutter and spills can happen on a daily basis and when they aren’t taken care of, it can become a real hazard. Workers should pay attention to their work space and make sure it’s organized and out of the walking path of other workers. 

Even if all of these preventative steps have been taken, injuries in the workplace can still occur. If the injury is severe enough, a worker can find themselves without a source of income for months and even years. That's where The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC can help. Our experienced attorneys will not only make sure you get reimbursed for any medical services you may be entitled to, but they will fight to recover any wages lost due to the injury. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

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.

Teens Drinking And Speeding Before Deadly Crash

Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

On May 8, 2015, three teenagers passed away after crashing in Stony Creek Metropark, located in Shelby Township, Michigan. 

The story started after the three boys finished their school at 3:00 pm, as one of them had a fake Ohio I.D to buy alcohol from a Shelby Township party store.  According to the Detroit Free Press, the tragic evening  ended with the five teens packed into a black Jaguar going between 72 and 82 mph. when it crashed into a guardrail and rolled five times.  Manolios, the driver, went in the wrong direction at high speed likely due to the effects of alcohol. This was a serious car accident and the vehicle was heavily damaged in the crash.

Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham said "He said all five boys had alcohol in their system, with the driver, identified as Jonathan Manolios, having a 0.08 blood alcohol level."  In Michigan, the legal limit is 0.08 BAC.  In this accident, the driver was over the legal limit for alcohol consumption.  It is likely that this factor contributed to the drunk driving accident.  

The girls that were with the boys actually survived the car crash, without life threatening injuries. The girls helped the police and described the story to the Macomb County detectives. The three young men picked up each other after school, then they went to the party store with a fake ID. 

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of deaths involving a drunk driver in Michigan between 2003 and 2012 was 2912. Most of those victims were male. Additionally  Michigan has the same rate of drunk driving reports  as the rest of the U.S.  This indicates that drinking and driving can cause serious injuries from an automobile accident.

If you have involved in an accident because someone was drunk driving or speeding, contact a lawyer at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC.  Call 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation today.

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Workplace Injuries

The work environment can be a dangerous place. Especially for those who work in certain strenuous industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2014, construction workers, law enforcement agencies, fire fighters, health care providers, and truck drivers accounted for the most work-related injuries.

Many of these work-related injuries were in the form of Musculoskeletal Disorder or MSD, which is a deteriorating disease that has inflammatory effects that cause pain and discomfort and can inhibit normal motions. In 2014 alone, there were 325,580 musculoskeletal cases which were the direct result of heavy lifting that lead to strains and sprains in workers. Certain jobs also have an inherent and often unavoidable risks which can render employees permanently disabled.

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Three industries which have had workers away from their jobs for over 100,000 days, due to injuries, are the healthcare, manufacturing, and retail industries. These three industries are all hectic this time of year, with overeating and energetic holiday shoppers creating a spike in hours worked to cater to the needs of consumersOccupational hazards associated with many of these labor based industries often result in falls, slips, and trips. Falls, slips, and trips were the reason for 316,650 days away from work, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Also, overexertion resulted in 384,260 cases.

Because of the enormity and seriousness of these workplace injuries, it is important that thorough guidelines are followed and routine facility improvements are made in these industries. Michigan is a state which prides itself on being a blue collar, working class, state which employs many people who work with their hands to support their families.  As such, businesses in Michigan need to keep in mind the enormous toll dangerous work conditions could have on a worker who loses his job and can't support his family because proper guidelines and safety precautions weren't implemented for his job. 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics findings should be used as an additional indicator for employers that there is still work to be done to create safer work environments for employees who are put into potentially hazardous circumstances continuously.  

If you have been injured in a workplace accident, speak to an attorney at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our experienced attorneys are highly skilled in helping victims of work place 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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Michigan Bike Crash Statistics

Due to the unseasonably warm weather, citizens in Michigan are riding their bikes more than ever. Though winter weather usually causes Michiganders to put their bikes away in favor of public transportation or cars, many of them are using their bicycles to travel to work, to work out, and just for fun. 

As much fun as being able to ride bikes in December is, it is just as dangerous. This is because many bicyclists tend to share road space with automobiles, which causes the danger of bike riding accidents to extremely increase. Bicycle collisions with cars are even more likely during rush hours, between 3:00 P.M. and 6:00 P.M., when the majority of commuters are heading home. In fact, 27.2% of fatal and serious bicycle crashes took place between 3:00 P.M. and 6:00 P.M. in Michigan, in 2012. Also, 21.8% of fatal and serious bicycle crashes took place between 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. and 18.5% between 12:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M.

bicycle car accident lawyer

According to the Michigan Department of Transportation, becoming involved in a bicycle crash in Michigan has a higher percentage of happening than national statistics for youths ages (5-15). In fact, the likelihood of children getting into bicycle accident is 32.4% compared to 26.8% in other parts of the nation. That means nearly one-third of all young people in Michigan are involved in a bicycle crash, one-fourth of which (25.3%) are fatal/serious. Also, men are involved in 81% of all fatal bicycle crashes in Michigan.

These statistics are more then scary enough to warn Michiganders of the importance of bicycle safely. By paying attention to traffic, avoiding roads during peak hours, and by practicing bicycle safety procedures such as wearing protective gear, citizens of Michigan can avoid becoming bike crash statistics themselves. People or Michigan need to be aware that drivers of cars don't always pay attention to bicyclists or even slow down for them. Therefore, to avoid being hit by cars and facing serious bodily harm or even death, bicyclists need to take every precaution to cycle safely. Society Today should be more careful on the road, exclusively when there is  a biker in front of them. 

If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident while riding a bicycle, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling auto accidents including bicycle collisions. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

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Man Killed In Lenox Township, MI Crash

On Friday, December 18, 2015,  around midnight a man was a victim of a head on crash when he was on his way home on 26 Mile Road at Place Road in Lenox Township, Michigan.

Two cars crash lawyer

Lenox Township police reported a 38 year old woman from New heaven smashed hard into another man's vehicle killing him on the spot. The female apparently was driving erratically before the collision, and alcohol might be the factor around this accident.

Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham said "the woman was driving a Dodge Journey eastbound on 26 Mile Road when she crossed into the westbound lanes and crashed head on into a Hyundai sedan.'' Also, he indicated that witness approved on the woman that she was speeding and swerving moments before the collision. Moreover, the detective pointed out that alcohol could be the reason behind this careless driving, as he was waiting for the blood test results from both the hospital and the medical examiner’s office to make a conclusion regarding the reason for the crash.

According to CBS Detroit, the injured female was "initially trapped" until help arrived.  Fire crews had to help her escape from the seriously damaged car. Reports indicate that the woman suffered injuries, but is in stable condition after visiting a local hospital.

If you or someone you know was involved in an accident, contact our lawyers at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our accident lawyers specialize in all types of auto accident cases, including those involving injuries from a drunk driving accident. Calls us today for free consultation at 844.4MI.FIRM

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