Cyclist Hit By An SUV In Crosswalk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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Memorial Day Weekend Traffic Fatalities

Memorial Day celebrates the many men and women who have risked their lives to defend our country, but it also kicks off Summer travels. Whether by plane, train, boat or car, most Americans use this long weekend for a short getaway. With so many people leaving on vacation however, congestion and accidents are expected to follow. The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that 439 people will be killed and 50,500 will be seriously injured, over this three day weekend, due to Memorial Day motor vehicle crashes. 

Memorial Day Car Crash Statistics

This year, it is expected that nearly 39.3 million Americans will go on vacation for Memorial Day. 88.1% of those traveling are planning to do so by driving, despite gas prices being increased by 11 cents since Memorial Day 2016. Additional statistics estimate that out of the over 50,000 car accidents and injuries incurred on this holiday every year, that 44% of these car crashes involve alcohol. In Michigan alone, out of all of the fatal car accidents that took place over Memorial Day weekend in 2015, approximately 33% of these motor vehicle accidents included a pedestrian or driver with alcohol in their system, according to Michigan State Police (MSP) reports.

Safe Driving Recourse

Although there are’t any plans to set up drunk driving checkpoints over the holiday weekend due to the questionable legality in Michigan, the MSP will still be on the road identifying drunk drivers and distracted drivers. MSP will also be involved with the Crash Awareness and Reduction Efforts operation (C.A.R.E.), which is an international traffic safety initiative to keep the roadways safe during the Memorial Day weekend. Other programs that MSP will be participating in are the nationwide “Click it or Ticket” kickoff geared toward making sure that both children and adults are properly wearing and using their seat-belts. If a Michigan police officer discovers a driver not wearing a seat-belt between May 23 to June 5, they can expect to receive a base fine of approximately $65. 

Memorial Day Weekend Travel Safety Tips

Unfortunately, tickets and fines don't deter everyone into following the rules of the road. Therefore, even if you are adhering to the law, that doesn't mean that every other driver on the road will. So, for those who are planning on traveling by car, truck, bus, or RV this weekend, here are a few traffic safety tips provided by CNN News:

  • Drive shorter distances. It is reasonably deduced that with the large number of drivers on the road who are traveling long distances, accidents can be reduced if other drivers drive shorter distances.  

  • Take the highway. On highways everyone is heading in the same direction and there are no turn lanes, so, traffic doesn't often stop - unless a car crash or traffic jam occurs. This helps make for a quicker journey than taking local roads which usually eat up time with red lights, turn lanes, and four way traffic.

  • Congestion could save a life. As odd as it sounds, taking the road less traveled could lead to speeding and accidents. In congested traffic, the only way to go is slow, which can further prevent accidents from happening or at least lessen the damage caused by any potential impact.

  • Leave early. Based on Waze traffic congestion studies, it is best to avoid the roads on Thursday between 3 to 5 P.M., on Friday from 8 A.M. to 3 P.M., and on Monday from 10 A.M. to 3 P.M.

  • Don’t drive under the influence. Is there really much more that needs to be said? Driving under the influence can affect reaction time, cognitive functions, and motor skills, all of which can lead to drunk driving car accidents.

  • Drowsy driving is a no-go. When experiencing constant blinking, swerving, or trouble recalling the last few miles, take it as a sign to pull over and rest or to switch drivers if possible. Falling asleep behind the wheel can lead to motor vehicle accidents and irreparable injuries. 

It's also a general rule when driving any time that drivers should stay focused at all times on the road. That means no distractions from pets, phones, or even passengers. In this day and age, it's especially important to refrain from trying to text, post, tweet, record a video, or do anything else that can potentially cause attention to move away from the road. As many studies show, there are enough accidents caused around Memorial Day every year that could be avoided if drivers just take their time, drive responsibly, and abide by traffic laws.

Unofficial start of Summer aside, Memorial Day should be respected and we should do our best to remember those who died to serve our country. Thank you to those who laid down their lives in service, to those who have served, and to those who are serving. 

It is important for Michigan drivers to be aware that with the Summer travel season upon us, that the roads will quickly fill up with people wanting to take advantage of the warm weather. This surplus of out of town drivers on the road will cause travel times to be extended and thereby make crash statistics increase. Long weekends like Memorial Day, may even bring out an influx of road rage accidents and aggressive driving accidents. If you or a loved one becomes involved in a car accident over Memorial Day weekend, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. We provide free consultations to victims of motor vehicle accidents. Speak to a Michigan car crash lawyer today at 844.4MI.FIRM. 

GM Ignition Switch Update

Earlier this year General Motors (GM) agreed to pay $1 million in a settlement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commision (SEC). The Detroit News reports that the civil penalty is a result of the SEC’s investigation into GM’s ignition switch recall. A recall that led to nearly 2.6 million motor vehicles to be serviced for faulty ignition switches that GM was aware of for more than 10 years and had refused to address. The malfunction in the ignition switches could flip the switch from the run position and prevent the airbags from deploying in case of a car crash and caused several injuries and linked to 124 deaths.  

 

GM Ignition Switch Cost 

Despite the settlement agreement with the SEC, GM clarified that just because a settlement was reached with the SEC, did not mean they were admitting any wrongdoing. GM even made a statement that the settlement with the SEC, “does not call into question any of GM’s current or prior financial statements or its disclosures. Also, no material weakness or significant deficiency was found by the SEC.”

To date, the GM ignition-switch crisis has cost the company more than $2 billion in penalties, fines, and settlements including the $600 million spent in compensation and lawsuits to the victims and their families, a civil penalty that was worth $35 million to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and $900 million paid in a settlement to the Justice Department. So it comes as no surprise that GM is arguing that deaths and claims that occurred before their 2009 bankruptcy filing should not be admissible at court. 

GM Bankruptcy Appeal

 

A federal court permitted claimants with cases involving wrongful death, personal injury and even economic loss to court with proper proof due to the fact that GM may have been aware of the ignition switch defect. GM argues that under bankruptcy law that there are not responsible for past liabilities related to “Old GM” and that they are essentially wiped out under bankruptcy law. But with the backing of the Supreme court, several hundred remaining claims made on or before 2009 can proceed to trial.  

“There are a lot of cases out there that either are going to have to be settled by G.M. or litigated, now that the Supreme Court is not getting involved,” said Robert C. Hilliard in The New York Times, a lawyer that is handling more than 200 claims against GM. 

In the meantime, GM is not accepting the Supreme court's ruling and will continue to fight and file appeals to remove the court's decision since it was not based on the merits of bankruptcy law. Those who have a case that takes place before 2009 should move quickly in submitting their claim so that it will be heard and possibly receive proper payment. 

The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC is a civil litigation law firm in Birmingham, Michigan.  Our legal team handles personal injury lawsuits throughout the state.  Call a Michigan personal injury attorney for a free consult at 844.4MI.FIRM. You deserve a great attorney in your corner.

Injuries and Fatalities Attributed To Road Rage Increase

From January 2014 to March 2017 a steady increase in road rage incidents, in Michigan and around the country, has been noticed by many road safety organizations. These incidents have been attributed to aggressive drivers escalating their behaviors to involve violence in their upset over various road annoyances. 

The Difference Between Road Rage and Aggressive Driving

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that road rage is when a driver “commits moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property; an assault with a motor vehicle or other dangerous weapon by the operator or passenger of one motor vehicle on the operator or passenger of another motor vehicle.” Aggressive driving on the other hand, is a traffic offense involving rude gestures, screaming, tailgating, cutting off traffic, and other violent actions.

So, while traffic congestion bothers every driver on the road, some people take offense to this and unnecessarily tailgate the car in front of them, honk, or curse, as if it will change the traffic pattern. These behaviors are examples of aggressive driving. Sometimes however, they take their actions to the next level by trying to injure others on the road. This response is an act of road rage. 

The Psychology Behind Road Rage Statistics

Aggressive drivers are more likely to become hostile during traffic jams, when they are running late, and during road closures or construction. Most of the time aggressive driving occurs due to some drivers having stress in other areas of their life and they take it out of the traffic. In fact, 66% of traffic fatalities are attributed to aggressive driving. Rather than just yelling or cursing however, some aggressive drivers venture into road rage territory by assaulting innocent people on the road way with their vehicle or by introducing another type of weapon into their rage.

Source: GIPHY, Fox's Lethal Weapon

In Detroit alone, The Trace reports there have been 14 cases of gun violence due to road rage. Add that with the American Safety Council (ASC) statistical evidence highlighting male drivers under the age of 19 being more likely to engage in road rage and the NHTSA's survey that found 37% of road rage incidents involve a firearm, Detroit finds itself in an alarming situation. Even more troublesome is the fact that in over a seven year period, 12,000 injuries and 218 lives were lost due to road rage. 2% of drivers have even admitted to trying to run an aggressor off the road!

Some psychiatrists attribute road rage incidents involving extreme violence to Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED). The disorder is believed to come into play in our society due to the common practice of wearing a “false face” like in internet settings where anonymity serves as a barrier. In a similar way, a car acts as a safety mechanism or barrier for those dealing with road rage and leads them to believe that there are no repercussions for their actions.

How To Decrease Road Rage

Source: GIPHY, The Fast and the Furious

The NHTSA along with the ASC says that it’s best for drivers to avoid participating in behaviors that encourage aggressive drivers to turn their attention onto them. Actions such as driving while distracted, turning on high beam lights, not checking blind spots, or not signaling turns and lane changes are all behaviors that incite rage. The NHTSA and ASC are warning drivers to take notice of their behavior in order to keep conflict down while on the road, no matter who is at fault. The ASC also recommends drivers to avoid making eye contact and to refrain from reacting and/or retaliating to an aggressive driver's actions, in order to neutralize a hostile situation.

Following the rules of the road should keep drivers safe and should keep other drivers from being annoyed by your road behavior. However, there are drivers out there who are easily annoyed when other motorists who are following the speed limit aren't going fast enough for them, or drivers who honk if the car in front of them doesn't move quickly enough after a light change. There may never be a way to avoid such situations. Hopefully however, following these tips may be enough to help some motorists avoid getting into a road rage incident.

Aggressive driving and road rage are serious problems in larger cities like Detroit where commuters can be stuck in rush hour traffic for hours on end. With so much congestion on the road, motorists can easily lose their calm and begin to drive aggressively, triggering negative reactions and responses from other drivers, and potentially causing car accidents. If you or somebody you know have been a victim of road rage, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our firm can help those injured in an aggressive driving car crash get the help they deserve. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.

Clinton Township Hall Road Reconstruction

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

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

The Cost Of Clinton Township Safety

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

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

What Has Been Done So Far?

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

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

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

Anton Yelchin's Parents File Lawsuit Against Fiat Chrysler

Back on August 9, 2016 The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC blog informed readers that actor Anton Yelchin's parents had filed a wrongful death and product liability lawsuit against Fiat-Chrysler and the dealership that sold Yelchin his 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Yelchin was an actor best known for his role as Chekov in the remake of the fan-beloved Star Trek film franchise. Reuters reported that Yelchin had driven back to his home to grab an item he thought he had forgotten and hopped out of his vehicle thinking it was in park. However, the car began to roll backwards along Yelchin’s steep driveway crushing the 27-year-old.  This motor vehicle vs pedestrian accident caused his tragic death. It was later discovered that Yelchin's vehicle was under recall for a defective gear shift.

Late Recall Letter

811,000 vehicles nationwide and 1.1 million cars and SUVs globally, were affected by the recall. The auto recall covered models of the Jeep Grand Cherokee Sport from the 2014-2015 model year, and models of the Dodge Charger and the Chrysler 300 Sedans from the 2012-2014 model years.

The lawyer representing Yelchin's parents contended that a recall letter arrived seven days after Yelchin’s death, which was obviously too late to be of use to the late actor. The Yelchin lawyer has since chosen to reveal the contents of the undated letter which stated, "Your vehicle may roll away, striking and injuring you, your passengers, or bystanders, if the vehicle's engine is left running, the parking brake is not engaged, and the transmission is not in the "PARK" position before exiting the vehicle."

In response to the lawsuit, the Valencia, California dealership that sold Yelchin the Jeep, submitted a request to be removed from the wrongful death lawsuit. Their explanation for the request was that Yelchin should be blamed for his own death due to the "misuse, misapplication, or damage” of the vehicle. The New York Daily news reported that the dealership accused Yelchin's parents of tampering with the Jeep after the accident and that they suggested that Yelchin himself made adaptations to the Jeep shortly after purchasing it.

Fiat-Chrysler Recall

In light of Yelchin’s death and the Jeep recall, his parents were not the only ones that sued over the defective gear shift. In fact, seven more class action lawsuits from California, Tennessee, and New York have been filed and are being consolidated here in Michigan, close to Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles' (FCA) U.S. headquarters, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Additional lawsuits like one from Texas involving a San Antonio woman jumping from her roll-away Jeep, seem to filed more and more frequently. Sonya Dawson, 49, parked her 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee before she exited the running vehicle and closed the door. Dawson alleges seeing the vehicle starting to roll backwards out of the corner of her eye and then began to give chase to stop her vehicle. She tried stopping it by pressing down on the brakes but was ejected.  The car ran her food over causing significant foot injuries.  Her personal injury attorney argues that the shifter doesn't include a safety override to allow drivers to exit the vehicle when it is not in park. 

Yelchin's story shows the importance of automakers sending recall notices out in a timely fashion - preferably as soon as the malfunction is discovered. In turn, owners of those vehicles owe it to the safety of themselves and others to quickly get the vehicle serviced by the manufacturer and/or their certified mechanics.

It is important to take immediate action when a vehicle is under recall. Ignoring the recall or getting the vehicle serviced too late may lead to serious consequences such as minor and fatal injuries and death, if the vehicle's malfunctions lead to a car accident and the possibility of serious injury.

Drivers who are interested in knowing if their vehicle is under recall are encouraged to look up their VIN number on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's website. Have you or someone you know been injured in an accident involving a vehicle under recall? If so, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC for a free consultation today. Contact us at 844.4MI.FIRM.

Roseville Man Ticketed For Warming Up His Car

Many Michigan residents were unaware until recently that they could be ticketed for leaving their cars running, with the keys in the ignition, on private property. That is exactly what happened to Nick Taylor Trupiano, 24, of Roseville, Michigan back in January. Mr. Taylor started up his car to get it warm and left his keys in the ignition before going back inside his house for a few minutes. He told XILX 10 News that when he came back to his vehicle however, he noticed a ticket on the windshield. Angry about receiving the ticket, Taylor posted a picture of the ticket along with his enraged feelings about the officer who issued it, on Facebook, where it was shared more than 14,000 times.

The Reason For The Ticket

The ticket said, “Vehicle parked in drive with keys in the ignition, motor running -- no one around." Roseville Police Chief James Berlin explained that Taylor was “putting the public at risk” and that it was "purely a public safety issue" because by leaving the car unattended with the key in the ignition, Taylor gave carjackers a chance to steal the vehicle. Berlin also clarified that using a remote starter is fine, but leaving the keys engaged in the car is where the issue arises. 

Taylor said he would have respected the ticker had the officer knocked on his door and informed him that he was in violation. "I had no clue that this was a law, an ordinance. I’ve done this every day for seven years. Every person warms up their car. We live in Michigan." On those grounds, Taylor therefore decided to fight the ticket.

The Judge's Decision

Judge Marco Santia of the 29th District Court ruled that the $128 ticket will stand. Santia stated that the ticket was given under reasonable circumstances under the  law despite Taylor's argument that the ticket should not apply to his private property. City Attorney Tim Tomlinson essentially argued that Taylor left his car open and viable for criminals to steal his car which is why the ordinance exists in the first place - to deter "nefarious people." Tomlinson even reported to the court that not long after Taylor received his ticket that two incidents of car theft occurred due to similar circumstances-one including children and the other, a high speed chase.

House Bill 4215

The viral response to Taylor's Facebook post caused so much public outcry that Republican Rep. Holly Hughes submitted a bill in February to excuse residents from receiving a ticket if their car was left running on private property. The bill known as HB 4215 was approved in March in a 77 to 30 vote in the House. Hughes argued that it's up to the owner of the car if they want to take the risk of having it stolen by leaving it outside and running. 

The Safety of Idling A Car

Though warming up cars in winter is an age old practice for citizens of Michigan, it is in fact discouraged by car experts. Popular Mechanics says that letting your car idle, "decreases [the life of your engine] by stripping oil away from the engine's cylinders and pistons...Driving your car is the fastest way to warm the engine up to 40 degrees...The best thing to do is start the car, take a minute to knock the ice off your windows, and get going...It takes 5 to 15 minutes for your engine to warm up, so take it nice and easy for the first part of your drive...Warming up your car before driving is a leftover practice from a time when carbureted engines dominated the roads."

So, in addition to car theft and opening up the public to potential violence, warming up a car isn't even good for the cars. This is an important fact to remember as a car that is not in good condition is more likely to become involved in a car accident. Therefore, drivers should remember to always keep their car maintenance up to date, and in the event that they do rely on warming up their cars in winter, should have their vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic regularly, to ensure that it is in good shape. 

Idling your car to warm it up is a popular practice in the cold, harsh winters of Michigan. However, warming up your car and leaving it unattended can open drivers up to a host of problems including car theft and potentially, a broken engine. If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash due to winter weather or a worn out engine, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

Plymouth, MI Automotive Supplier Aims To Change Pet Travel Safety

Last week, The Michigan Law Firm blog informed readers about The American Humane Society's tips for driving safely with pets in the vehicle. One of the tips was to belt or restrain animals so that they can't distract the driver.

While innovations in the field of human car safety are being produced seemingly every day, pet travel safety has been largely unstudied and is lacking data in the automotive industry. However, Johnson Controls in Plymouth, Michigan tells The Detroit Free Press that they are aiming to change the way drivers travel with their pets. The company has brainstormed ideas on how to engineer seats and devices that can protect pets and their owners while riding in a vehicle. 

Pet Safety Laws

Pet vehicle safety lacks guidelines and regulations since the government has yet to pass any into law. This is very concerning to the 53% of dog owners who have traveled with their pet, at least once a month, over the past year, according to a study conducted by Kurgo.   

“Cars are developed for people; they aren't developed for dogs," said Lindsey Wolko, the chairman of the Center for Pet Safety in Reston, Virginia. "We have to get to the point we can have solutions that work for both. Dogs are the number 1 traveling companion, and they have little protection in the marketplace."

Pet Travel Statistics

The American Humane Society (AHS) estimates that around 100,000 dogs die in car accidents each year due to riding in truck beds. This estimate doesn’t include dogs that have jumped from vehicle windows or those that were improperly restrained - if at all - during a car collision. The number is hard to determine when most accidents involving a pet's death are rarely reported. Sadly, there are even fewer statistics and data available concerning cats and their safety and fatality rate involving car accidents.

An article in USA Today highlighted the chilling facts that most dog restraints fail. So, it comes as no surprise that a whopping 84% of dog owners do not use restraints when traveling with their dog.

Not only do most pet owners not bother with restraints, but Kurgo’s survey lists that 65% of drivers admitted to engaging in at least one distracted activity while they were driving with their pet, such as feeding them treats, trying to take a picture of the animal, or tying to pet the animal. Any of these distracted driving behaviors are serious issues when considering that a driver traveling with their pet could get into an automobile accident. Pets can be a major safety risk due since they can cause distractions leading to car accidents and since they can easily be tossed out a car and killed instantly in an accident, thereby possibly distracting other drivers on the road and causing them to get hurt too.

The Future of Pet Travel Safety

For now, Johnson Controls is still conducting their research by using pets volunteered by their employees, and observing the way pets enter and exit a vehicle and watching how they move around inside the vehicle.  

“We want to understand the future of pet travel safety — and what it should look like," Wolko said. "Because of the work Johnson Controls has done with seating development in automobiles, this could lead to a whole new world of pet safety."

Wolko has pointed out the importance of supplying proper animal safety restraining devices for those motorists who travel with their pets. If pets don't have proper restraints while on the road, their owners are leaving themselves, their pets, and innocent bystanders at risk of getting into a serious auto accident. Hopefully, the public won't have to wait long for Wolko to invent or improve on restraining devices used to secure pets in vehicles. Have you or a loved one been involved in a motor vehicle collision involving a pet? Call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC at 844. 4MI.FIRM for a free consultation today. 

Michigan Roadside Drug Testing Pilot Delayed

Rick Snyder signed a bill in June 2016, instructing Michigan police to create a roadside drug testing pilot program in five counties in Michigan. The criteria for picking the five counties will be based on the number of impaired driving crashes, impaired driver arrests, and the number of Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) in the county. 

Why Was The Bill Passed?

The bill was signed because of an incident which took place in Escanaba, Michigan. A tractor-trailer driven by Harley Davidson Durocher, ran a red light and killed Barbara and Thomas Swift. Durocher, was sentenced to 5 years in prison after toxicology reports showed that he had THC, a chemical usually found in marijuana, in his system. After the death of his parents, Brian Swift contacted the Republican senator of Escanaba, Tom Casperson, to create a better way to catch and charge drivers under the influence of drugs. Thus the roadside drug testing pilot came to fruition.

What Does The Roadside Drug Testing Pilot Include?

"The five-county pilot program will be used to help determine accuracy and reliability of the tests." Gov. Rick Snyder said in a press release after signing the bill. 

Reports from the Office of Highway Safety Planning listed Michigan as having 99 certified DRE officers covering 37 counties. Michigan State Police spokeswoman Shannon Banner reassured the public that DRE officers have to undergo “highly specialized training” in order to identify people who are drug impaired. Banner also insisted that the test will only be administered by DRE officers who are employed by the state, county, and municipal agencies involved in the pilot. 

Banner told MLive that, "In order to receive an oral fluid test, a driver must be suspected of impaired driving -- there will be no random traffic stops or traffic checkpoints. The police officer making the traffic stop must follow established policies and procedures and have reasonable suspicion to make a traffic stop."

If someone suspected of having drugs in their system while driving refuses to take the oral fluid test, they will acquire a civil infraction, as the new law states. During the course of the year that the pilot program will be running, an independent lab will conduct and confirm the testing to ensure the accuracy of the test kits, along with its handling.  

Who Opposes The Drug Testing Pilot? 

The main opposing force for the bill is Attorney Neil Rockind of Rockind Law, who argues that the bill is setting a dangerous precedent for Michigan motorists to be treated as guinea pigs. Rockind said, “The criminal justice system wants to take science and turn it into a fast, easy utility...science is neither fast nor easy...People are not guinea pigs. No citizen should be the subject of a test program when their liberty and way of life are on the line."

Is The Pilot Underway? 

In an article concerning the rise in traffic fatalities in Michigan, Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning Director Michael L. Prince said, "Some trends are emerging, especially with regard to drug-impaired traffic deaths, and our office is aligning resources accordingly. More resources are available to train law enforcement officers in the detection of drug-impaired drivers and OHSP is continuing federal funding for impaired driving traffic patrols throughout the year."

Prince's comment seems to imply that the roadside drug testing pilot is still under delay even though it was rumored to start in Spring of 2017. In spite of this pilot being able to prevent or at least bring awareness to the 10 million people who choose to drive while on drugs nationwide, the Michigan State Police have yet to finalize the five counties chosen for the pilot. 

When the program is put into effect however, hopefully the number of car accidents involving drug and alcohol use will go down. In the meanwhile, drivers should be extra cautious on the road. Keep clear of drivers who are not following road rules, in order to avoid becoming involved in a car crash. On the other hand, if drivers plan to drink, they should find an alternative way to get home that doesn't involve putting themselves behind the wheel, so they don't harm other innocent drivers.

Once it's in effect, the roadside drug test pilot could possibly cut down the number of accidents and thereby prevent deaths and serious injuries caused by drivers under the influence. If you or someone you know has been in an accident caused by an impaired driver, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Victims of drunk driving accidents deserve an attorney who will stand by them and fight for their rights. Call us today, 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

Motorcycle Safety Tips

April showers bring May flowers. May sunshine brings motorcycles. Therefore, May is Motorcycle Awareness Month. In celebration of those who have been riding a motorbike for years and in concern for the safety of first timers, The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC would like to address the importance of motorcycle safety.

Motorcycle safety is a very serious concern. The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that motorcycle riders are 27 times more likely than other motorists to die in car crashes and 6 times as likely to be injured. For motorcyclists who are 60 years of age or older, the risk of serious injuries and death increase exponentially due to physical factors such as brittle bones, slower reflexes, and poor eyesight. Bearing this in mind, here are some important tips that could benefit riders who take their bikes for a spin over the next few months.

Motorcycle Safety Tips

How To Obtain A Motorcycle Endorsement

Along with a traditional automobile driver's license, motorcyclists mush obtain a state regulated motorcycle license endorsement, in order to legally operate a motorcycle. To gain this endorsement, people who are interested in driving motorcycles should invest in a motorcycle education course. As with basic driver’s education classes, bikers should make sure they are properly informed and instructed on their state's biker laws and how to properly ride a motorcycle.

Michigan motorcyclists have two ways that they can obtain a cycle endorsement on their license. One way is by taking a basic rider or returning rider course from an approved Secretary of State (SOS) training facility and instructor. Once the course is completed, the rider will receive a certificate of completion from the sponsor that they should then take to be submitted at a SOS branch. From there, a vision test is administered and if the rider passes, they must pay a small fee of $13.50 to obtain their motorcycle endorsement.

The second option is to go directly to an SOS branch and take the vision and written test, whereupon successful completion, the purchase of a temporary instruction permit is needed. In obtaining the temporary license, bikers are instructed to clock 180 days worth of driving time with a currently endorsed motorcyclist, before they can take the road test. Then, only if the rider passes the road test will they receive a completion certificate to take to the SOS where they are then obligated to pay an additional $9.00 for their motorcycle permit. 

How To Purchase A Safe(r) Motorcycle

Many people admit that the main thing they look for when purchasing a bike is speed and aesthetic appeal, right? Well, motorcycles are more than a beautiful and powerful machine to use on the road. They should also be safe, seeing as they offer much less protection than a car, when involved in a motor vehicle accident. First and foremost, riders should not even consider purchasing a bike they cannot handle. Is it too powerful? Too fast? Is the rider able to touch the ground when seated on the bike? Those are all valid questions to ask when purchasing a bike. Other important items to add to the checklist are:

Motorcycle Safety Feature Checklist

Source: Giphy, The Hangover

  • Make sure handlebars and other controls are easy to reach.

  • Is it easy to mount and dismount the bike?

  • Check the pressure and tread of the tires.

  • Make sure headlights and other indicators are working properly.

  • Make sure fluid levels are adequate.

  • Are the hand and foot brakes in working order and easy to grip?

After purchasing the bike, it's important to check for leaks, working brakes, traffic indicators, mirrors and tire pressure every time, before taking the bike for a spin. Making sure the motorcycle is well maintained will not prevent a car crash every time, but it could help reduce the the likelihood of involvement in a crash and/or limit the damage incurred in an accident.

Don't Forget Your Helmet

One look at a bike and it becomes glaringly obvious that it provides less protection than a car or a SUV. Without a top or sides, it's the opposite of a sturdier metal box car or truck. Although every state, including Michigan, does not require riders to have one, helmets are a biker's best friend. According to the NHTSA, "58% of motorcyclists killed in 2015 were not wearing helmets, as compared to 8% in states with universal helmet laws." That is a big difference in the lives that may have been saved if the biker was just wearing a helmet.

The best place to start when looking for a motorcycle helmet, is by looking for helmets that have the Department of Transportation (DOT) sticker of approval. They are usually no more than 3 pounds heavy, have thick interior lining, and come with a face shield that acts as a line of defense for the eyes. After securing a helmet which protects, arguably the most important part of a biker, the brain, it's time to start purchasing items that can protect the rest of the body. The body is essential to shield from the elements of the road or weather, when riding a motorcycle.

Motorcycle Safety Gear and Clothing

  • A heavy leather, denim, or long sleeve jacket or shirt are clothing items that may protect the rider's arms.

  • Full fingered gloves aide the riders grip.

  • Eye gear such goggles or glasses are imperative. 

  • Durable and heavy duty pants that completely cover the legs are a good idea.

  • Boots, especially ones that cover the ankle and have a hard or thick sole, will help protect the riders feet.

  • Bright and/or reflective gear is recommended, especially for night rides.

  • Pack or wear appropriate weather climate gear in case of driving long distances or as the weather forecast permits it.  

And yes, even during the summer time, thick and padded gear is expected to be worn to be as safe as possible.  

Passenger Motorcycle Safety Tips

For riders who are carrying extra cargo, balance is key. It is important that passengers mount the bike only after it is turned on. Then, both riders should adjust seating arrangements to where the passenger and the rider are both comfortably seated on the bike. Passengers should sit as close to the rider as possible to prevent throwing the bike out of equilibrium. Wrapping their arms around the rider's waist or hips, while keeping both feet planted on the foot pegs at ALL times, is highly advised to all passengers-even when the bike has stopped.

Motorcycle drivers should explain the importance of avoiding touching the muffler to the passenger, because it gets extremely hot and can cause severe burns. Passengers should also keep their movements to a minimum unless they are leaning at the same time and direction as the rider, in order to keep the bike balanced. Another precaution is that passengers should only dismount once the driver says so, to avoid them from accidentally tipping the bike or losing their grip while driving or parking the bike.

Driving A Motorcycle Safely

Riders of motorcycles are held under many of the same laws and expectations as any other motor vehicle operator. For instance, distracted driving, drowsy driving or falling asleep behind the wheel, and operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol are all serious driving offenses that can be punishable under law. Therefore, abiding by simple traffic laws, driving carefully during bad weather, always remaining vigilant and aware of the road, avoiding road hazards, and making sure to be as visible as possible to other vehicles, are all safe driving habits that bikers should utilize everyday. Some additional defensive driving tips the DMV.org list riders to use are:

Motorcycle Defensive Driving Tips

  • Be courteous to cars, trucks, bicycles, pedestrians, and any others who share the road with bikers.

  • Bikers should keep a car length worth of space between themselves and the vehicle in front of them.

  • When looking back, to the side, or over the handlebars,  it is best to do so by looking above or over the shoulder, and not below or under the arm.

  • Be assertive. Bikers who hesitate can cause other drivers to react nervously due to them expecting the motorcycle to make unexpected driving maneuvers. 

  • Don't be afraid to use a car as a shield when on the road. An example from the Road Guardians is for motorcyclists to remain close to a vehicle to avoid being hit by left-turning traffic from the opposing direction, when passing through stoplights.

  • Avoid riding aggressively. This includes changing lanes without a turn signal, aggressively swerving around traffic, and slamming on the brakes-all of which are behaviors that can cause a collision.

Since their choice of vehicle offers less protection than other modes of transportation, bikers must be twice as careful when hitting the road.Considering that motorcyclists are more likely to die in a fatal car crash than the occupants of a car, these tips, though they are not 100% effective in preventing motor vehicle accidents, could potentially decrease the number of fatalities and accidents that occur every year. 


With proper training, gear, a well-maintained motorcycle, and the above tips in mind, bikers should be ready to safely hit the road. Of course, no amount of safety tips can ever prevent a motor vehicle accident. Driving is a dangerous an unpredictable action. If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our consultations are free and our firm is knowledgeable on Michigan motorcycle laws. We help victims of motorcycle injuries identify and obtain any benefits they may be entitled to under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM.

Cat Attacks vs Dog Bites

Everyone has heard about the dangers of dog bites and have seen ads and articles about how to avoid dog attacks. While dog attacks are a serious concern, there aren't nearly enough public service announcements about cat aggression? Although, cats attacking people have become a viral video obsession, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), cat aggression should be taken just as seriously as dog bites, if not more. 

Don't believe that cats attacks are dangerous? Just watch the video posted on the Michigan Law Firm's blog yesterday. The scratches and bites that Mr. Woodward received from his pet cat-not a wild cat-were serious enough to require stitches.

In fact, the ASPCA says that cat bites and scratches can inflict severe lacerations and can become easily infected. They advise people to be aware of the subtle body language that cat's normally display and help identify the differences between offensive and defensive postures. 

Offensive Cat Postures

If a cat takes one of these postures, it's a good idea to keep distance from it as it may be gearing up to attack.

Source: GIPHY, Disney's The Aristocats

  • A straight-legged upright stance.
  • Stiffened rear legs, with the rear end raised and the back sloped downward toward the head.
  • Tail is stiff and lowered or held straight down to the ground.
  • Direct stare.
  • Upright ears, rotated slightly forward.
  • Raised hackles including fur on the tail.
  • Small (constricted) pupils.
  • Directly facing opponent, possibly moving toward him.
  • Growling, howling, or yowling.

Defensive Cat Postures

If a cat assumes one of these postures, it may be feeling threatened or scared. Again, it's best to leave cats alone when they are displaying these behaviors.

  • Crouching.
  • Tucked head.
  • Tail curved around the body and tucked in.
  • Eyes wide open with large, dialated pupils.  
  • Ears flattened sideways or backward on the head.
  • Raised hackles.
  • In an anxious cat, whiskers might be retracted. In a fearful cat, whiskers might fan out and forward to assess distance between them self and danger.
  • Not facing the opponent, usually turned sideways.
  • Open-mouthed hissing or spitting.
  • Might deliver quick strikes with front paws, claws out.

Other Aggressive Cat Signs

Be mindful of a potential turn in behavior if a cat starts to do one or more of the following.

  • Swatting, striking with paws.
  • Biting.
  • Fighting.
  • Growling, shrieking.
  • Scratching.
  • Cats will roll on to their side or back while exposing their teeth and claws in preparation for an all out attack.

Aggressive Behavior Triggers

These aggressive cat behaviors can be triggered if a cat feels the need to protect its territory, feels fear, if the cat is displaying maternal instincts, or even if a human plays too roughly, tries to pick them up, or pets them in a way they do not like. The ASPCA warns those who are in the vicinity of a possibly aggressive cat to be mindful that cats can be also triggered by the smell of another cat(s), hearing high pitch noises, and if they are being antagonized by a dog or other pets. Additional triggers that may lead to offensive behaviors is if major changes occur within the cat’s home and when someone intervenes in a cat fight. 

If such behaviors start to arise or are already apparent within a cat, it is advised that a professional is called to best determine the next steps to take with the feline. Treatments are offered and a record establishing the behavior patterns of the cat should always be kept on file. And of course in the case of a cat attack, especially if the cat is not domesticated, humans should immediately seek medical treatment.

Cats are just as likely as dogs to viciously attack their owners as well as children and pets when they become agitated. Though the attacks occur seemingly for no reason and the injuries may seem negligible, cat attacks can cause the victim serious harm. If you or someone you know has been injured by a rabid animal or someone's pet, contact The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Call us at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation. We can help you.

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.

Pet Passenger Safety

It’s not uncommon to see people traveling with their pets whether they are going to and from a friend's house for a pet play date, traveling on vacation, or even just running errands. While it's common to see dogs hanging their heads out of car windows, just how safe is it to have a pet in a moving vehicle?

The Dangers of Traveling With Pets

According to Kurgo, a leading supplier in dog traveling products, only 16% of dog owners who drive with their pets actually restrain them inside the vehicle. Letting pets roam free is not only dangerous for man's furry little friend, but for the driver too. Cuteness aside, pets can serve as a huge distraction to the driver by barking, seeking attention for pets, or climbing all over the vehicle. These distractions can cause the driver to become more concerned about attending to their pet rather keeping their eyes on the road. 

Pet Safety Precautions

The American Humane Society (AHS) recommends that when traveling with animals, it is best for pets to travel in a carrier that has been secured to the vehicle by a seat belt or by other secure means. There are even custom or specifically engineered dog restraints and belts that drivers can purchase to keep pets still in the vehicle, which in turn prevents them from causing distractions to the driver. 

Another precaution to take when driving with a pet is to stop them from sticking their heads out of the window. This can lead to the pet becoming sick, accidentally being blinded by debris, or getting it's head stuck or caught in the window, which not only hurts them but requires the driver to take their eyes off the road to help the animal. There is also the possibility that unsecured pets, especially those small in size, could jump or fall out of the window. Not only would a dog ejected from a window cause the driver to immediately stop possibly leading to the driver being rear-ended, but a dog in the middle of traffic could cause endless commotion to other motorists, many more potential accidents, and even the dog's death.

In the case of such an accident or in the event that the pet is experiencing a Marley & Me moment, pets should always wear their ID collar so that they can be properly identified and/or tracked. Finally, The AHS would suggest taking frequent rest stops so that pets can walk off excessive energy and go to the bathroom.  

Source: GIPHY, Marley & Me

Pet-Safe Vehicles

For those who really love to travel with their pets, the safest way to transport them is to use a roomy vehicle. According to Autotrader, a minivan or crossover SUV would be best suited for pet travel. These types of vehicles provide more room for crates and allow pets to have enough space be comfortably move around but not enough that they distract the driver.

Drivers who travel with their pet should also look for vehicles with rear climate control, a containment barrier to keep the front seat a designated human area, and a rear lift-gate to make getting animals in and out of the vehicle easier. 

Autotrader’s 2016 Pet-Friendly Vehicles Include:

  • Volkswagen Tiguan 
  • Nissan Pathfinder
  • Chrysler Pacifica
  • Toyota 4Runner
  • Volvo XC90

Pets are a cherished addition to any family and as such, their humans should take their safety just as seriously. Since most pets are the size of children, not restraining them when vehicles are in motion may result in serious injury or even death, in the event of a motor vehicle accident. While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, by following these tips, hopefully people will be better able to protect their pets while traveling. 

Pet owners should be prepared to take the necessary precautions to protect their pet because accidents can happen in a blink of an eye. If you or someone you know has been injured in a collision due to a pet’s distraction, please contact The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys know how much pets mean to their humans but also how dangerous they can be when let loose in a moving vehicle. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation. 

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.

Seat Belt Safety Hazards

In 2015, seat belts were credited with saving nearly 14,000 lives and were used by 88.5% of Americans, according to the National Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Despite seat belts being designed as a safety measure to keep passengers restrained in case of an accident however, these restraints can cause serious injuries to passengers that have a more delicate frame-like children and the elderly.

In an example of elderly drivers being harmed by a seat belt, Pam Sohn, 60, sustained a concussion and back injuries and even had to wear a neck brace after being hit by a Jeep. Sohn told CBS News, “I remember sitting there, and my body was just flipping back and forth. I probably would’ve went through the window or something the way I was moving around had I not had it on yeah, but it didn't do what I thought it would.” So, while the seat belt did indeed keep Sohn from being thrown out of the car, researchers also believe that the seat belt was not the proper fit for Sohn's 5'4 frame, which caused Sohn to be injured. Readers can reasonably conclude from Sohn's situation that had the seat belt been sized for Sohn's size, weight, and age, perhaps she would have been properly restrained to her seat instead of being jostled around during the car crash, thereby avoiding a concussion and back injuries. 

Seat Belts Are Not One Size Fits All

Professor John Bolte of Ohio State University College of Medicine, claims that seat belts weren’t originally built with drivers like Sohn in mind. Bolte says that seat belts are designed with the idea to protect a 40-year-old male. This brings Bolte to ask the legitimate question of, “If a car can drive today without a person controlling it, why can’t we have a safety system that can respond to better save someone?”

With this question in mind, Bolte is currently studying cases like Sohn’s and other similar accidents in crash tests to study the amount of force needed to protect those who have smaller and fragile frames. He’s hoping that one day seat belts will be created to adjust to the driver in order to better protect them in case of an accident. Hopefully, factors such as weight, size, and height will all be taken into account in the study for inventing better seat belts. 

How To Properly Wear A Seat Belt

There is no denying that wearing a seat belt while driving is a major safety precaution. In fact, the NHTSA reports that if every driver from 1975 to the present time had been wearing a seat belt, nearly 382,000 lives could have been saved. However, the NHTSA also warns that seat belts are only effective if they are properly used. Guidelines state that the lap belt should be safely secured across the hips, not the stomach, and the shoulder strap should be resting in the middle of the driver's chest, on their shoulder and away from their neck. 

The number of senior drivers is expected to rise by approximately 65 percent in 2045, putting an even larger percentage of drivers on the road, at risk for serious injuries caused by seat belts. Hopefully, this can be avoided if new seat belts are invented by then. If not, drivers would do well to learn how to properly wear a seat belt, to avoid as much injury as possible, in case they are involved in a motor vehicle accident. 

Safety when driving is a serious issue. Though car accidents can't always be avoided, taking as many precautions as possible, such as wearing your seat belt properly, might be able to protect you from some of the more serious injuries sustained in a car collision. "In a 60 mph car crash, not wearing your seat belt is like falling from the 12th floor of a building." If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, call the Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. We can handle your legal problems while you focus on getting the care and treatment you need to recover from your injuries. Call us today at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation. 

Detroit Earns Poor Traffic Congestion Ranking

Detroit, Michigan was recently ranked 128th in the top 200 cities with the worst traffic congestion in the world, and 24th nationally. The ranking was compiled by INRIX, a global company that provides mobile applications and internet services. They conducted their study on more than 1,000 cities from around the world and found that Detroit motorist spend an average of 33 hours in traffic. 

According to the report, “Based on the findings, the U.S. ranked as the first most congested developed country in the world, with drivers spending an average of 42 hours a year in traffic during peak hours...For the first time, the INRIX Traffic Scorecard also includes the direct and indirect costs of congestion to all U.S. drivers, which amounted to nearly $300 billion in 2016, an average of $1,400 per driver."

Michigan Cities' Rankings

MLive says that INRIX's report that drivers in Detroit were found to spend 6% of their driving time in traffic compared to the average 104 hours motorists spent in traffic in 2016. However, other major cities in Michigan such as Ann Arbor, Saginaw, Flint, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Kalamazoo were also included in the study. Ann Arbor came close on Detroit’s heels finishing at number 257 worldwide and 40 in the US. Overall. INRIX found that Ann Arbor drivers spent 24.4 hours on average in congestion versus the 13 hours motorists in Grand Rapids would most likely spend behind the wheel of their vehicle. Lansing drivers spent 9.5 hours on average in traffic, followed by Flint with 8.9 hours, Saginaw at 3 hours, and Kalamazoo clocking in at 2 hours.  

How to Avoid Traffic Congestion

With traffic congestion becoming a growing problem on Michigan roadways, MLive offers a few tips that drivers could follow to make their commute a more enjoyable one.  

  • Plan Your Commute. Gauge how much time your traffic route takes during rush hour. Drivers can simply plug in the address of their destination on Google Maps or another mapping service to discover alternative routes and their estimated times of arrival. Also, taking the time to decide on clothing attire for the next day, making lunches beforehand, packing, etc. can all aide in making sure motorists leave the house without rushing and becoming flustered. 
  • Be Productive - Safely. During time in congestion when traffic is at a complete stop or when at a red light, make that appointment that has been postponed, learn a new language, send a quick email or text or even read up on some of The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC blog posts that were missed. However, when traffic is moving, even if it's at a snail's pace, all eyes and attention must be on the road. 
  • Choose Your Station Wisely. If the other two options fail at making time move faster, try putting on a favorite podcast, comedy station, or playing a soothing playlist to calm any agitated nerves. 

Road Rage and Car Crashes 

Incidents of road rage can occur during times of rush hour. People are irritated and ready to get home but are prevented from doing so because so many others are trying to do the same thing at the exact same time. Even thinking about tailgating, cutting people off, incessant honking, weaving in and out of traffic, lane blocking, and all of the irritating aspects of traffic congestion are enough to make a saint angry. These irritating aspects are also actions that may cause dangerous and injurious car accidents. So, motorists should keep in mind that all drivers are in the same boat, that sharing the road is proper etiquette, and that adhering to traffic laws will assist with making roadways safe and easy for everyone to use.  Hopefully using the tips listed above can also help with safely commuting during rush hour.

Detroit is called the Motor City for a reason. Cars are made here, driven here, and are an essential piece to the culture. With so many motorists on the road, possible agitations can arise and lead to accidents caused by aggressive driving. If you or someone you know have been a victim of road rage, contact The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC at 844.4MI.FIRM today. Our offers free consultations to help victims of car accidents figure out the next step in their case.

Teens Die Recording Facebook Live Video

“Are you going live?” were the last words heard by Chaniya Morrison-Toomey, 19, before being fatally killed by a tractor-trailer, back in Decemeber 2016. Morrison-Toomey was riding in the passenger seat while her friend Brooke Miranda Hughes, 18, was simultaneously driving and recording a Facebook live video. The Times-Tribune reports that the Facebook video shows Hughes face before flickering lights flash within the car followed by the sound of screeching tires. Before the video ends, the sound of a man talking can be heard accompanied by a bearded face. 

The video was posted to Ms. Hughes profile, not by Ms. Hughes herself, and was viewed more than 7,000 times before being removed due to investigation. The video was not banned from Facebook because it did not violate Facebook rules of explicitly showing a violent death and/or suicide of a victim. 

Pennsylvania State Trooper Dave Peters speculates that the accident was caused by the teens driving on a spare tire, despite initial reports stating that the teen girls were driving on a flat tire. Due to the car catching fire, authorities are having a difficult time determining the original state the car was in before the accident and could not visually identify the teens. However, authorities did announce the girls dead at the scene. 

Unfortunate accident like these should warn drivers that distracted driving behaviors and un-maintained vehicles can lead to accidents. In order to avoid being involved in motor vehicle accidents, drivers should not text, use hand-held devices, and drivers and passengers alike should refrain from engaging in social media. Motorists should also keep up with regular car maintenance and in case of a flat tire or other emergency, work to fix the problem as soon as possible. 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2015 alone, 60% of people that were killed due to distracted driving crashes were teenagers. This is a statistic to keep in mind with summer break fast approaching leading to many teens hitting the road. If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident caused by a distracted driver, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. We help victims of negligent, speeding, and distracted driving cases identify and receive any benefits they may be entitled to under Michigan law. Call today, 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.