Phoenix Car Accident Lawyer Blog

Two early morning crashes were reported on the Interstate 10 Thursday which left three people dead and several others injured (AZ Central 06/30/2011). Arizona Department of Public Safety says the fatal accidents blocked eastbound traffic near the border of La Paz and Maricopa counties.

The first crash happened at about 1 a.m. at mile post 88 between 411th Avenue and Salome Road when a semi-truck veered off onto the opposite lane for reasons yet unknown and overturned. A vehicle carrying 5 people then hit the overturned truck. All but one passenger, an elderly woman, got out of the vehicle before it was engulfed with flames.

The surviving passengers and the driver of the truck suffered minor injuries. Authorities say fatigue and not alcohol may have been a factor in the accident.

The second car accident happened around 3 a.m. at mile post 85 when a van towing a car hit a stopped semi-truck from behind. Department of Public Safety say two died in the crash, and a woman was seriously injured. The driver of the truck was unhurt.

The wreck resulted in an 8-mile long back up in the eastbound lane. Detours were made as a temporary solution to the aftermath of the accident.

Filing a wrongful death claim in Arizona can help the families of fatal car crash victims receive compensation for losses such as medical bills, funeral costs, lost future wages, and loss of companionship.

Approximately 93 people are killed in the U.S. each day because of car crashes. To be safe at all times, make sure to follow traffic signals and travel within speed limits. Drivers are also urged to avoid alcohol before driving to prevent car accidents from happening.

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal car accident in the Arizona area you may contact our dedicated wrongful death attorneys in Phoenix at (602) 457-6222 for a free consultation.

Gunshots were heard near 17th Street and Southern Avenue in South Phoenix which then resulted into a car crash Tuesday evening (AZ Family 04/26/2011).

According to witnesses, two pickup truck drivers were heading east on Southern avenue when the shooting occurred. The victim then crashed into another vehicle following the incident.

There is no further information is available yet as to the motives behind the shooting or if authorities have a suspect in custody.

This adds to the hundreds of roadway fatalities the state witnesses each year which mostly are a result of fatal accidents. From 2005 – 2009, Arizona has had 5,288 recorded deaths from fatal crashes with an annual average of 1,058 deaths for the five-year period (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration).

The story above is quite unusual compared to the roadway fatalities that the NHTSA records, and contributes to the rising concern regarding public road safety – something the authorities have been working on to improve.

Every year at least 30 thousand Americans are killed because of fatal crashes. To help prevent roadway fatalities, authorities ask for cooperation from the public by following traffic laws, avoiding bad driving behavior such as speeding and alcohol consumption, and by showing respect to other people on the road.

If a loved one has been killed in an Arizona car accident and you are interested in receiving compensation our dedicated car accident wrongful death lawyers in Phoenix are available for a free consultation at (480) 389-2463.

In the United States in the year 2009, thousands of people died of car accidents. About 33,808 people to be exact, and this is a horrible number. Today, car accidents are a common cause of death for people all around the world.

Recently in Central Phoenix, a pedestrian attempting to cross the street was hit by a car and killed. Police reported that the incident happened at around 12:30 in the morning as the man was crossing the Indian School Road near 10th Street. The vehicle that struck the man was a Volkswagen four-door sedan, whose driver was 28 years of age.

The victim was only 32 years of age. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital later. Police are investigating the involvement of impairment in the accident because they believe the driver of the Volkswagen four-door sedan might have been impaired when he struck the victim.

If someone you love was killed in an Arizona pedestrian accident caused by a negligent or impaired driver, call our pedestrian death attorneys in Phoenix at (480) 389-2463 for a free consultation. We will help you in any way we can.

Recently a fatal Mesa car collision occurred between a scooter and a car. This left the driver of the scooter dead after the incident. According to a Mesa Police spokesperson, the time it happened was around 9:30 in the morning near Grand Street and Brown Road.

On that morning, a man was driving a motorized scooter with three wheels and he was later hit by a car. The car involved in the collision was reportedly driving to the east when the scooter crossed it on the street, causing the collision. It is reported that the man was more than 80 years old. The man instantly died on the scene, and no other person suffered any injuries.

Scooters are much smaller than cars and drivers often have a hard time seeing them. To protect yourself and your passengers never drink and drive and always remain alert. To maintain safety at all times anyone on a scooter should wear a helmet in case they are involved in an accident.

If a loved has been the victim of a fatal car accident in Arizona, our Mesa wrongful death lawyers can help with a free consultation at this number (480) 389-2463.

Did you know that as of 2009, eight teens ages 16 to 19 passed away every day from motor vehicle injuries? Based on research, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. Teens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that teen drivers ages 16 to 19 are four times more likely to crash than older drivers.

In research conducted from 2000 to 2006, it revealed that male drivers and passengers ages 15 to 19 who were killed in car crashes were two times higher than female drivers and passengers who were killed. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also revealed that teens are more likely to be involved in crashes at night than during the day.

A two-car Arizona traffic collision occurred on Thursday night at around 10:20 p.m. (04/28/11). According to reports, a female teen failed to yield before making a left turn from Grove Street to southbound Signal Butte Road. Her car hit the oncoming Chevy Blazer causing it to roll-over. The driver of the Blazer was ejected but died while he was about to be taken to a local hospital.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the accident. However, they do not suspect the teen of being impaired.

Research shows that teen drivers are more aggressive when it comes to driving. They also have the lowest rate of wearing seat belt use as compared to other age groups. Thus, as parents it is our responsibility to influence our kids to become responsible drivers especially at a young age. Experts suggest that parents should sit down and talk with their teens about safe driving.

Contact one of our top Mesa accident injury attorneys to learn more about our services and our approach to helping victims and their families recover the money damages they need and deserve. Dial (480) 753-4534 for your free consultation.

Did you know that 33,808 people in the United States died in 2009 because of alcohol impaired driving accidents? According to the NHTSA, fatal car crashes are the leading cause of death for teens and one out of three of those are alcohol related. On average Arizona suffers 200 accidents annually that are alcohol related with fatalities.

In the United States, one person is killed every 45 minutes as result of motor vehicle crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver. This April, we are celebrating Alcohol Awareness Month, a campaign which was started by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence in 1987. AAM's main objective is to enlighten and change society's norms of drinking.

Statistics show that every day 350 Americans die because of alcohol abuse and alcoholism, while thousands more are suffering in hospitals, psychiatric facilities, and prison. When it comes to motor vehicle accidents, the number of alcohol-related crashes is quite high.

This month, let us put extra effort in appreciating the importance of having safe roads not only for us but for our children. The first weekend of April is intended for Alcohol-Free Weekend, a great opportunity for parents to teach their children about alcohol and reflect on the dangers and consequences that it can bring if abused.

Continue reading "Drunk Driving Prevention During Alcohol Awareness Month in April" »

Recent research conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA-FARS) in 2009 revealed that 3,215 or 7.1 percent large trucks and 17,902 or 39.4 percent light trucks were involved in fatal crashes nationwide. NHTSA also revealed that approximately 2.6 million passenger vehicle occupants were injured due to motor vehicle accidents.

Based on statistics, fatal truck crashes often occur in rural areas and only 1 percent of those accidents are DUI-related. Fatal passenger car accidents on the other hand are more commonly caused by impaired driving. Most truck accidents are caused by fatigue. In fact, 30 percent of all truck crashes were the result of truck drivers driving without proper rest or enough sleep.

At around 6 a.m., a collision between a pickup truck and dump truck occurred on the Interstate 17 access road north of Dixileta Drive (AZ Family 03/25/11). According to investigations, the driver of the Ford F250 was negotiating a turn when he collided with an Isuzu dump truck.

The driver of the pickup truck, a 30-year-old man, died in the collision while his passenger suffered minor injuries. Meanwhile, the 35-year-old driver of the Isuzu also sustained minor injuries. Authorities believe that speed was a factor in the collision.

Arizona roads are prone to motor vehicle accidents and driving in this state requires safety precautions. Most of the time carelessness and negligence are primary causes of traffic accidents. It is important to be responsible drivers by following road safety signs and reminders. By being more alert to our surroundings we can contribute in the decreasing number of fatal traffic accidents.

Continue reading "1 Dead, 2 Injured in a Pickup and Dump Truck Collision" »

Every day, roads are very busy due to an overwhelming volume of road vehicles like cars, trucks, motorcycles and bikes and the congestion very often leads to road accidents. In 2009, 33,808 fatalities from car accidents were recorded by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The severity of the impact greatly damages properties and millions of innocent lives.

At around 9 pm, last Wednesday evening, a multiple car collision left two people injured and one in critical condition.

A landscaping truck with a trailer was travelling on 47th and Olive Avenues when the driver lost direction in trying to avoid a pedestrian. With the sudden stop, another silver car, with two women and a young boy, slammed the truck. Then another car smashed into the silver car.

The great impact from the sudden stop of the truck lead its two occupants to be thrown outside the truck. The occupants of the silver car, the driver and the young boy, were immediately taken to the hospital because of the injuries they sustained from the collision. The driver’s injuries were not life threatening but the young boy is in critical condition according to the Glendale officer.

The alarming census of increasing car crashes is the main reason for the authorities to implement the usage of safety equipment like seatbelts strictly. Accordingly, proper use of seatbelt can reduce fatal injuries about 50 percent and 60-70 percent survival.

Continue reading "Fatal Crash in Glendale Injured Two People" »

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration revealed that fatal crashes in the United States have declined from 34,172 to 30, 797 crashes from 2008 to 2009 according to Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) – Federal Highway Administration. The latest data from NHTSA also revealed that there were 45,435 vehicle types involved in fatal crashes in 2009. Passenger cars have the highest percentage of fatal crashes with 40.4 percent while light trucks came next with 39.4 percent.

In Arizona, passenger cars and light trucks have the highest number of fatal crashes. Despite the continuous decline of the number of fatal traffic accidents, fatal car accidents remain notorious as being the number one killer of people between the ages 1 to 34.

On Wednesday, a crash involving a car and a pickup truck happened in Yuma (AZ Central 03/16/11). Authorities reported that the driver of the car, a 35-year old Somerton woman died following the crash. She was accompanied by her three children when the car collided with the truck. Two of her children were flown to a Phoenix hospital to be treated while the third one as taken to a hospital in Yuma.

Meanwhile, the driver of the truck, a 35-year old Salinas man was treated and released from the hospital. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the crash.

Traffic related accidents often involve impaired driving, speeding, and distracted driving. About a third of the country’s car crash fatalities involved an alcohol impaired driver. Speeding on the other hand, has been a major factor in fatal vehicle crashes. It is time for us to be more responsible in following speed limits, following traffic rules, and refraining from distracted and impaired driving.

Continue reading "Mom Killed, 3 Killed injured in Yuma Crash" »

Most drivers are aware of the risk of rear-end collisions during everyday driving. What is not surprising is that they are one the most common driving accidents that people suffer from today. In 2006, of the about 6.2 million crashes that resulted in injury in the United States, 29 percent of them, that’s around 1.8 million injuries, were due to rear-end collisions (Science Daily 2008).

Two weeks ago around two in the morning on Glendale Avenue, a rear-end accident claimed the life of yet another driver (AZ Central 3/3/11). Although the passenger did not suffer any fatal injuries, the crash was still enough to kill the driver of the Ford Crown Victoria sedan instantly. The crash involved a moving Dodge truck and a semi truck that was parked.

An officer spoke on behalf of the Glendale Police Department. He recounted that while the sedan was going west nearby 127th Avenue, police in the area saw it smash into the rear end of a pickup truck and after swerving to the right, it smashed right into a semi truck that was parked. The couple in the pickup truck that the sedan first collided with did not suffer any fatal injuries.

Nearly all drivers and passengers have either been in a rear-end accident or just narrowly avoided one. It is a common occurrence on the roads of the United States, claiming the lives or significantly changing the lives of many people involved.

Although fortunately many of these accidents do not result in fatal injuries, people spend $8.5 million a year to merely treat back injuries or neck injuries resulting from these accidents.

Continue reading "Three-Way Car Crash on Glendale Avenue Leaves 1 Dead and 3 Injured" »

Did you know that Arizona was ranked 8th worst in terms of Pedestrian Fatality Rate per 100,000 people among all other states? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released data stating that 120 pedestrians were killed as the result of traffic-related injuries in 2009. NHTSA revealed that approximately 12 percent of all traffic fatalities in 2009 and 3 percent of those injured in car crashes were pedestrians. Nationwide, there were 33,808 persons killed in 2009, and pedestrian fatalities accounted for 4,092. This number has declined from 4,414 fatalities in 2008.

Pedestrian crashes often occur in urban areas where there is a high volume of traffic and pedestrian activity. The National Safety Council revealed that about 85.7 percent of all non-fatal pedestrian crashes in the United States occur in urban areas and 14.3 percent occur in rural areas.

In Tucson, it was reported that one pedestrian died after being struck by a car which was racing another vehicle on Wednesday around 2:40 p.m. The accident occurred on South Campbell Avenue and East Minorka Street near East Drexel Road (AZ Central 3/9/11). According to the witnesses, two cars were racing when one lost control; it struck a fire hydrant before hitting the victim who was walking on Campbell. The suspect, an 18-year old man, was booked on one count of leaving the scene of a fatal accident.

According to NHTSA 31 percent of all fatal crashes are due to speeding. In order to not to become part of this growing statistic, it is important for drivers to keep their minds on the road. It is important to always follow the designated speed limits and to slow down especially when approaching crosswalks. Pedestrians should always use designated crosswalks and check both ways when crossing the street. Also, report any sign of negligence on the road that may lead to fatal car accidents such as impaired or speeding drivers. Or if you ever are a witness to a hit and run accident such as this, please be a good citizen and call our hit and run tipline:

Continue reading "Pedestrian Killed by Racing Car" »

Arizona pedestrian accidents more often than not take place in urban places compared to rural areas. From 1975-2005, an increase from 59% to 72% of pedestrian accidents took place in urban areas, while in rural areas, it decreased from 41% to 25%. But the bright side of this is that from 1975, the annual number of pedestrian accidents dropped from 7,516 to 4,409 incidents in 2009. This was based on the statistics gathered by the NHTSA. Although the numbers are getting lower, the injuries and fatalities are still devastating.

Just yesterday, around 3 a.m., a fatal car accident took place at westbound loop 202 to Interstate 10 in Phoenix, Arizona. The accident happened on a ramp of the westbound loop 202. The ramp had been closed and then suddenly it was reopened for traffic enabling the I-10 traffic to go through.

The pedestrian's identity is still unknown, but it is claimed that the person sustained fatal injuries in the accident. The Department of Public Safety Officers were on the scene immediately to take action. Investigations are still going to find out what really happened.

A lot of pedestrian accidents happen because of impaired drivers and pedestrians at night wearing dark clothing. Wearing dark clothing makes it hard for the driver to see the pedestrian. Experts indicate that pedestrians should be careful when walking at night and if possible, do not walk alone at nighttime or wear dark clothes, especially on streets that are not well lit or where there are no sidewalks.

Continue reading "Arizona Fatal Pedestrian Accident At Loop 202 Ramp And I-10" »

Did you know that in 2009, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Fatality Analysis Reporting System (NHTSA-FARS) found that there were 4,092 pedestrian fatalities nationwide? Arizona accounted for 120 of those fatalities. Twenty one percent of accidents occurred in intersections while 67.5 percent occurred in non-intersections.

Pedestrian fatalities are not new to Arizona. The NHTSA found that Arizona ranked 8th in terms of Pedestrian Fatality Rate per 100,000 residents. In total, pedestrian accidents made up 12 percent of traffic fatalities in 2009, and approximately 3 percent of the 2,217,000 that were reportedly injured in vehicle crashes.

In Peoria, a pedestrian died after being struck by a large flatbed truck early Monday morning (AZ Central 3/7/11). The accident happened near 109th and Northern avenues around 5:30 a.m. when the victim, a woman in her mid-30s, was struck by the truck.

Investigators said that the truck driver might have seen the woman and tried to avoid her but was not successful. A member of the Air Force was first to arrive and tried to revive the woman but she was pronounced dead on the scene. Further investigations have shown that the woman was not walking in the crosswalk and that the truck driver was impaired when the accident occurred.

Many people choose not to utilize sidewalks and crosswalks however; they are built for our safety and are valuable in protecting pedestrians. It is important to use crosswalks and follow pedestrian signals even when no vehicles are approaching. Always look both ways before crossing and avoid using your cell phone or any gadget that could impair your senses especially when crossing the street. Also use the sidewalk and walk against the flow of traffic to have a clear view of oncoming vehicles.

Continue reading "Woman Died After Being Hit by a Truck" »

Driving under the influence of alcohol is a large contributor to fatal car crashes. Not only they can cause injuries and death, the practice of driving while intoxicated is an indicator of alcohol abuse. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) 33,808 people died in traffic crashes in 2009 in the United States. Deaths from crashes associated with alcohol are estimated to be 10,839—on average, someone is killed in an alcohol-impaired driving crash about every 50 minutes.

A repeat offender in Arizona was sentenced for another 20 years in imprisonment after being arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol (AZ Central 2/27/11). Luckily the authorities took him off the road before he caused a serious accident.

The 58-year-old offender was already sentenced before with an 8-year imprisonment for the same offense. Six months later, he was released. He was arrested again last February for aggravated DUI and driving with suspended license.

Six months later, he was arrested for a third time for the same offense. He was seen coming out of a bar, stumbling across the parking lot to a white truck, then driving home.

Despite Arizona’s strict DUI laws, there are still many repeat offenders; so authorities have begun a repeat offender program that will identify and target drunken drivers who are caught frequently. The court will decide if the driver’s license will be cancelled, revoked or restricted because of a DUI conviction. If the driver is charged of DUI within seven years, the suspect can face felony charges of aggravated DUI.

Public warnings, public awareness, educational programs, stiffer penalties for violations, and efforts by law enforcement agencies across the nation must be fully implemented to avoid drunk drivers in repeating offenses and driving while intoxicated. On average, a drunk driver drives under the influence 87 times before getting caught for the first time—it only takes one time to kill an innocent victim.

Continue reading "Repeat DUI offenders in Arizona: A Challenge for the Authorities" »

Fatal pedestrian accidents totaled 120 in 2009 (NHTSA). The pedestrian fatality rate in Arizona as a result is the eighth worst rate in the nation. Those most at risk include adults aged 65 or older, and children between 5 and 9 years of age.

Time of day plays a large part in the frequency and severity of pedestrian accidents. Early morning hours and dusk to evening time are some of the most deadly times of day for pedestrians sharing the road with vehicles. The position of the sun may hinder the visibility of approaching cars, and as most pedestrians do not carry lights with them, they can be very hard to see.

One recent fatality in Flagstaff killed a 50 year old man (ABC 15 2/22/11). He was crossing the street early in the morning and he was hit by a commercial van. Witnesses say he was wearing dark clothing and the driver said he appeared so quickly she didn’t have time to stop. He passed away from his injuries shortly afterwards at the hospital. Alcohol is not believed to have been a factor in the accident but it is still under investigation.

To keep yourself and your loved ones safe as pedestrians, it is always helpful to wear bright or light-colored clothing, reflective gear such as shoes, pants, or vests, and carry a flashlight if in the early morning or dusk hours. When crossing the street it is imperative to never assume an approaching driver sees you. Wait for traffic signals before crossing the street and even when it is your turn, look both ways for approaching cars. You never know who could be distracted at that same moment you step foot in the road, so as a pedestrian you should always be on alert.

Continue reading "Another Arizona Pedestrian Death" »

Did you know that fatal crashes decreased by 3.6 percent from 2006 to 2007 (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Fatality Analysis Reporting System)? As a result of this, the fatality rate also dropped to 1.36 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles of travel in 2007.

In Arizona, out of 807 fatalities in 2009, 195 passengers and 27 unknown occupants were killed in car crashes, a decline of 40 fatalities from 2008.

Another vehicle occupant, a grandmother, was killed in a fatal crash just past 8:00 p.m. at the intersection of Higley Road and Southern Avenue last week (KPHO 02/07/11). According to the investigators, three cars were involved in the incident. The drivers of the first and third vehicles were unconscious after the crash and were taken to the hospital by the firefighters who responded to the incident.

For the second car, although the driver was not hurt, her grandmother, who was with her during the accident in the passenger seat, died because of the injuries she acquired. Police say that impairment was not the cause of the crash.

Many of us have become more aware of how dangerous the roads are, and have become much more safety-minded. Evidence of this can be perceived in the slight decline of the number of car accidents and fatalities from recent statistics. Wearing seat belts is one of the most effective ways to stay safe while on the road and inside a vehicle. Most government and private sectors have continued to advocate the benefits of this in order to further reduce car accident fatalities.

Continue reading "Grandmother Killed, 2 Unconscious in a 3-car crash" »

Did you know that the majority, 68 percent, of fatal truck accidents occur in rural areas during the daytime and on weekdays? In 2009, tractor trailer trucks accounted for 2,131 or 4.8 percent of the total vehicles involved in fatal crashes while 82 or 0.2 percent of farm equipment vehicles other than trucks were involved on fatal accidents on the same year according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

In the state of Arizona, 52 tractor trailer trucks and 2 farm equipment vehicles other than trucks out of a total of 1,008 vehicles were involved in fatal accidents. Although the number is not as high as compared to other types of vehicles involved in crashes, the dangers of large truck accidents should not be neglected. In fact, statistics show that one person is either killed or injured every 16 minutes in accidents which involve 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers or semi-trucks.

On Sunday, a San Carlos Apache officer died due to a collision involving a stray trailer and his vehicle around 3:30 p.m. along U.S. 70 near milepost 279 (AZ Central 02/13/11). The victim was on his way to a mandatory meeting that afternoon when his car was struck by a detached trailer from a vehicle. Further investigations are currently being conducted by the authorities to gather more information about the accident.

Continue reading "Apache Officer Killed in a Collision" »

US roadways have witnessed more than 30,000 fatal crashes every year for the past ten years. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) latest count was 30,797 for the year 2009. What causes these road accidents and why are fatalities still in alarming numbers despite advances in traffic safety?

According to research, a majority of car accidents are due to human error. But adding to the numbers are equipment failure, roadway design, and poor roadway maintenance (Smartmotorist). In an effort to reduce Phoenix car accidents and to address the last two roadway accident causing factors previously mentioned, the Arizona Department of Transportation closed the westbound Loop 202 from Cooper Road to McQueen Road last Saturday for HOV lane construction (KPHO 01/07/2011). The roadway maintenance was scheduled from 2 am until 9 pm. Southbound Price Road was also closed from Frye Road to the Loop 202 over the weekend in connection with the said maintenance.

HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lanes or carpool lanes are used to separate vehicles with two or more people in it. HOV lanes offer a smooth flow for qualified drivers even when parallel (non-HOV) lanes become congested.

Continue reading "Making Our Roads Safer to Prevent Fatal Crashes" »

A 93 year old man died after being involved in a Sun City car accident earlier this week. As reported by AZ Family Monday night, the man drove his car straight through his house near 99th Avenue and Union Hills Drive, ending up in a swimming pool in the backyard.

After witnessing the car crash, a neighbor reportedly jumped into the pool in an effort to save the man. The victim was transported to the hospital where later he was pronounced dead. Though still unclear as to why the accident happened, a neighbor said that the victim was supposed to be transferred into a nursing home the following day.

While the cause of this fatal accident may never be confirmed, it is still stands as another life lost due to a car crash. Last year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recorded a total of 33,808 deaths from car accidents. Of these, 23,382 were either the driver or a passenger of the car.

Globally, car crashes are one of the major threats to human health, killing more than a million each year. With the current trend on vehicle accidents, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approximates that by 2020, car accidents are expected to rank third in the list of threats to human health.

Continue reading "Sun City Man Dead after Crashing Car through House" »

Did you know that everyday, 32 people in the United States die in fatal vehicle crashes that involve an alcohol-impaired driver? The good news is that the data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA-FARS) shows that in Arizona, there was a decrease in the number of DUI fatalities from 2008 to 2009.

Despite the decline of the number of fatalities due to drunk driving, the risk of getting into a car accident is higher now that we are in the holiday season. At this time, everyone is celebrating and some people may be drinking irresponsibly. About a month ago, the government implemented an Impaired Driving Prevention Campaign. This acts as a watchdog for those who are driving impaired during the holiday season. Drivers may be asked to pull over to check whether they are impaired.

Last Wednesday night, a 32 year old woman died in a Phoenix car accident after her car slammed into a palm tree near 24th Street and Missouri Avenue (AZ Central 12/22/10). Police authorities believe that the woman had been drinking. She was speeding, lost control of the car, and crashed it into a median. Due to the intense impact of the crash, the car was split in half. Worse, the woman was not wearing a seatbelt when the accident happened. She was sent to the nearest local hospital but later on died. The wet street because of the rain also contributed to the impact of the collision.

Impaired driving, speeding, and not wearing seatbelts are major causes of death on the road. It is always important to understand that the simple act of buckling up could mean the difference between life and death.

Continue reading "Drunk Driver Dies After Crashing into Palm Tree in Phoenix" »

According to the data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration- Fatality Analysis Reporting System (NHTSA-FARS), from the total of 9,813 vehicular accidents are caused by alcohol impaired driving 2009, 198 cases happened in Arizona. Impaired driving is one of the primary causes of vehicular accidents in the United States.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) has ranked Arizona 8th place in the nation, and reported a decline in the number of people getting killed or injured by -16 percent from 2007 to 2008. This decline was due to the passing of all offense interlock law in 2007 and continued aggressive enforcement.

Around 8 p.m. last Wednesday night, another man was added to the DUI fatality list when he died in a Glendale car accident (KPHO 12/22/10). The accident occurred on 59th Avenue, north of Olive Avenue. In the partial investigation by Glendale police, the victim, whose name was not released, was trying to retrieve something from the road and walked right into the busy street. The man was believed to be in his 60s. The police do not believe the driver was impaired at the time, but this accident is a scary reminder again of the need to be aware on the roads, as both pedestrians and drivers.

This alarming fatality count is something that should not be neglected. Older drivers may experience changes in vision, physical fitness and reflexes, and alcohol combined with those changes can be very risky. To be a responsible older driver, try to see an eye doctor regularly and always use required eyewear in order to stay safe on the road.

Continue reading "60-year Old Man Dies after Glendale Car Accident" »

Alcohol and speeding are a lethal combination, not just for the driver but for everyone else on the road. Both speeding and impaired driving are two of the common causes of vehicle crashes. Fatalities from drunk driving accidents have reached to 10,839 in the US back in 2009 making up 32 percent of the total fatalities from vehicle crashes. In Arizona 219 people died in 2009 due to alcohol impaired driving, 27 percent of total traffic fatalities (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Fatality Analysis Reporting System).

In recent news, a man died after being involved in a Mesa car accident last Tuesday morning (AZ Family 12/14/2010). The 29 year old male was pronounced dead at the hospital after crashing his van into a guard rail. Although investigations are still ongoing, alcohol and speeding are two of the main factors the authorities are looking at that may have caused the wreck.

A passenger was also inside the van who suffered minor injuries. He was brought to Scottsdale Healthcare Osborn for proper treatment and is expected to recover.

Please remember, don’t drink if you plan on driving. This is common knowledge yet some drivers do not take it seriously. There is a long history of deceased victims of drunk drivers. And though efforts by authorities, companies, and non-profit organizations have successfully helped to discourage alcohol impaired driving, there is still much to be done to lower the death toll. Drunk driving accidents are completely preventable by keeping impaired individuals off the roads. We can contribute by reporting such negligent drivers to the authorities.

Continue reading "Alcohol and Speeding Leads to Fatal Accident on US 60 in Mesa" »

Driving through neighborhood streets in the evenings during this time of year it is easy to get into the holiday spirit. Homes are lit up with lights, inflatable displays, and moving lawn decorations. Many Arizonans have braved ladders and roofs in honor of this special time of year. However, despite having such good intentions, there are some very dangerous risks that could pose serious injury, electrocution, or even death if proper procedures are ignored while decorating the house, both inside and out.

Here are some questions to ask before you start putting up the lights and other decorations this holiday season to stay safe and prevent serious injury, as compiled by professional decorators, Mission Landscaping.

• Who’s your spotter? Often decorators must use ladders to secure displays appropriately—a spotter should always be used to hold the ladder against the building.
• Is your ladder tall enough? Most homeowners only have 6 foot ladders, but the roofline is at least 8 feet high. Using a ladder that is too short means you will be leaning and stretching to reach above your head, which may cause you to lose your balance and risk a serious fall injury.
• Staples or hooks? There are many different ways to adhere lights and decorations to your house, and some people make them so secure that they leave them up all year round! The pros discourage the use of staples because they may puncture the wire and risk causing a fire or electrocution. Hooks are much safer, and less permanent usually.
• Where’s the power? If you are using extension cords, make sure they are rated to work in the outdoors, which means they are weather-resistant and usually tougher than household cords. Don’t pull cords too tight or leave them exposed in high traffic areas as they could pose a tripping hazard.

Continue reading "Holiday Displays Pose Serious Electrocution or Falling Hazard" »

Another Arizona life has been lost due to a car crash. AZ Family reports it happened at night on Wednesday, November 24th on Interstate 10 near Watson Road (11/24/10). Two other victims were airlifted to the nearest local hospital. Investigations by the Arizona Department of Public Safety can’t determine yet the reason as to why the crash happened on Valley freeway. Authorities decided not to release the victim’s identity. I-10 was closed for investigation and was only re-opened before midnight.

To help decrease deaths in car accidents, there are many pro-active choices drivers can make, such as refraining from cell phone use while driving, following posted traffic signs, and committing all attention to the road ahead. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also advocates for these positive driving habits, and especially to never drink and drive.

Additional safety precautions include using appropriate safety gear, such as seat belts. Wearing seat belts is not only highly advised, but required in all states. Parents with children inside the car are also familiar with the required child safety seats and booster seats depending on child’s age and weight.

In 2008, the percentage increase of seat belt use, while statistically insignificant, is still a positive sign that more people are aware of the importance of buckling up. In fact, seat belts have saved more than 13,000 lives nationwide.

Continue reading "Fatal Crash in Phoenix Leaves 1 Person Dead, 2 Injured" »

Did you know that every minute, one person is injured from an alcohol-related crash? According to the data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (FARS) and Mothers Against Drunk Driving, 10,839 people will be killed in alcohol-related crashes in United States this year alone (2009). Did you know that out of the 45,435 vehicles in the U.S. that were involved in fatal crashes, 4,595 of them were motorcycles, and in those accidents, around 97 percent of motorcycle riders were the ones killed in the accidents? As Scottsdale motorcycle accident attorneys, we help the victims of these careless drunk drivers and their survivors get the assistance—and the justice—they deserve.

Another drunk driver might be charged of manslaughter due to the death of a motorcyclist on the night of Sunday, November 29th in Scottsdale (Arizona Republic via AZ Central). A woman was driving her BMW, turning left to 124th Street from Shea Boulevard when she struck a motorcyclist.

According to reports, the motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet. He was sent to a local hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival because of severe head injuries. The suspect was said to be driving under the influence when the collision occurred.

Statistics from the National Occupant Protection Use Survey (NOPUS) states that there has been a four percent gain of DOT-complaint motorcycle helmets from 63 percent in 2008 to 67 percent in 2009. In fact, motorcycle helmet use in the past five years has been steadily increasing (NHTSA). It only shows that more and more riders are aware of the benefits of wearing a helmet.

The NHTSA has developed a program called “Share the Road” language. It aims to provide common themes and language to effectively communicate the importance of safely sharing the road to motorcyclists. We hope all Arizona drivers share the road this holiday season with bikers, bicyclists, and pedestrians alike so everyone can travel safely.

Continue reading "Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Scottsdale, Suspect faces Manslaughter Charges" »

Every year, there are nearly 2,000 train accidents in the U.S. (Federal Railroad Administration 2010). From these accidents, there are nearly 2,000 individuals killed or injured. As Tucson train accident attorneys, we are here to help the victims of these horrifying accidents get the justice they deserve.

On Sunday in Tucson, a woman was fatally struck by a train (KPHO 11/28/10). She was trying to cross the tracks when the train hit her. The operator called the authorities but she died shortly after.

The most common place where train accidents happen is at crossings. People and cars try to beat the train and pass over the tracks before it comes, but trains take over a mile to stop, so there may not be enough time for drivers and pedestrians to safely cross once the gates go down, signaling a train is approaching.

A typical train weighs 4,000 times the weight of the average passenger vehicle (FRA 2010). What seems like a slowly traveling train at a speed of 30 miles an hour can be devastating to cars and pedestrians with all the weight behind it.

To be safe around train tracks, always obey the traffic signals. Once you see the flashing lights and gates go down, wait until the train passes to proceed. Never assume that it is safe to cross the tracks after a train passes until the signals say it is clear. Often there may be another train coming from the opposite way that you may not spot initially and that could cause a fatal accident.

Continue reading "Tucson Woman Fatally Struck by Train" »

As Arizona drunk driving victim attorneys, we help those injured and their survivors who have suffered at the hands of these irresponsible drivers, and our thoughts are with the families of these victims always.

Alcohol over-consumption is the leading risk factor for injury in the U.S., causing thousands of injuries and deaths every year (Center for Disease Control and Prevention 12/29/09). It is also the third leading cause of preventable death.

A fatal accident in Yuma left one man dead, and alcohol is suspected to be a factor (ABC 15 11/26/10). The man was speeding excessively early last Friday morning when he lost control of his vehicle, sending him into a cinder block fence and a violent roll, ending up in a storage yard. He was ejected from the car and died later at the hospital.

A recent report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that 1 in 5 drivers killed in 2009 had drugs or alcohol in their system at the time of the fatal accident (ABC 15 11/30/10). The number could be even higher, say the researchers, as only 3 out of 5 drivers killed in accidents were tested for drugs after the wrecks.

Continue reading "Alcohol Believed to be Factor in Fatal 1-Car Accident in Yuma" »

Another pedestrian life is lost to a traffic accident. As Arizona pedestrian accident attorneys, we are tired of it! The state is ranked 8th in the nation for the worst pedestrian fatality rate, and it seems to only be climbing higher and higher (NHTSA).

A Phoenix woman, 60 years old, was walking home after cashing a winning $10 lottery ticket when she was struck by an SUV and killed (ABC 15 11/22/10). She was in a crosswalk and other cars had acknowledged her, but the SUV driver swerved around the stopped cars and fatally injured her. The authorities do not suspect impairment to have been involved, and no charges have been made yet as the accident investigation is still ongoing.

Older adults aged 65 and older are most at risk for pedestrian accidents, accounting for 18% of all pedestrian deaths (Center for Disease Control and Prevention 6/17/10). Most fatal accidents occur in non-intersection locations at night. This most recent accident happened at a crosswalk at 4:15pm. While we may be in a hurry at times, it is no excuse to break traffic laws and putting other lives at risk.

Our thoughts are with this grieving family at this difficult time.

Continue reading "Phoenix Lottery Winner Killed in Car Accident" »

As Mesa wrongful death attorneys, we hear about the devastating effects of losing a loved one to a tragic, preventable accident too often to count. Despite the sadness and grief following these events, the families involved are so strong, always trying to see the positive and celebrating life. We hope no family has to endure such losses, but our hearts are warmed to see the support of the community to come out and help where help is needed.

A Mesa family is without their mother, daughter, and sister after a wrong-way accident (ABC 15 11/19/10). A wrong-way driver trying to evade the police on the highway ran into her car, head-on. The driver was caught speeding by officers at the time, and has now been charged with manslaughter. The family is working together now to help raise money for her 4 year old daughter’s future without her mom. A benefit concert was held to help the family as well this past Sunday. It is so nice to see a community come together to help each other out after tragedy.

Speeding-related crashes cause approximately 30% of all traffic fatalities (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 06/05).

Arizona just recently stopped the use of automatic speeding cameras on the freeways, designed to capture speeding drivers and send them a ticket in the mail. The cameras were highly controversial, with some drivers claiming they invaded privacy, others saying they were more efficient than police officers. We’re not taking sides on this issue, we just want these drivers to be caught and brought to justice for endangering all others on the roads.

Continue reading "High Speed Chase Leads to Death of Mesa Mother" »

As parents and wrongful death attorneys it saddens us to hear of another teen dying due to an impaired driver. An arrest has been made in the case of the hit and run that killed a young Peoria teen on Oct. 29. Police reports show that the 23 year old driver was driving impaired when she hit the teen, in fact she was so heavily medicated while driving that she didn’t even realize that she drank a tube of nail polish.

In the police report it states that the 23 year old driver was prohibited from driving while under the influence of the medications she was taking. Due to her disregard she hit and killed a teen pedestrian, then fled the scene. She has been since arrested and charged with manslaughter and leaving the scene of a collision after a death (abc15.com). It is relieving to know that someone will be held accountable for taking the life of this innocent boy, but unfortunately, nothing can return the life of a lost child.

As wrongful death attorneys we know that accidents such as these are 100% preventable. There are many safe ride programs to prevent anyone from driving while impaired such as taxis, buses, and specific services offered only to drive those who are impaired to their homes. We encourage all drivers to utilize these programs before driving under any influence.

Continue reading "Driver Arrested for Pedestrian Hit and Run Death" »

Just because the temperatures are finally cooling down in Arizona doesn’t mean water activities come to a halt; even though water temps drop there are still many who enjoy a good swim outdoors. However, even the most experienced swimmer is at risk of a drowning accident if water temperatures are low enough.

Tempe Town Lake opened a few weeks ago to the public after the dam was repaired and the lake was refilled with water. Rental boats are available to the public and for the elite athlete, the water is now open for training (KPHO 11/4/10). Athletes will be able to swim in the lake as training for the Ironman distance open water swim that will be taking place on Saturday. No swimming is allowed by the general public at this time.

When enjoying your time by the lake make sure to be safe around the water. The percent of drowning in natural water settings increases with age. Most drowning accidents among those over 15 years of age occur in natural water settings like lakes. (CDC 11/5/10). If you decide to take a rental boat just remember to be safe and always wear a life jacket. In 2008, 3,330 people were injured, and more than 700 died, in boating incidents. Of those who drowned, 9 out of 10 were not wearing life jackets (CDC). To get more information on this subject or to understand the risks of boating you can go to www.cdc.gov/features/boatingactivities.

Continue reading "Water Safety Tips to Remember as Tempe Town Lake Re-Opens for Athlete Training" »

With an eighth child on the way, we have a lot of baby things in the house; cribs, strollers, toys, playpens, etc. Even though it’s great that we get to re-use these items from our older children, we always make sure to check all the products for wear and tear, damage, or recalls. A recent recall of 2 million Graco strollers after the death of four infants reminds us again of how important it is to keep all baby products current and in good operating shape to prevent injury.

Check out your child’s items today and periodically with your children’s safety in mind:

1. Strollers:
a. If collapsible, make sure all latches are firmly in place.
b. Always keep your child strapped in the seat.
2. Car seats: Make sure they are properly installed and that all buckles and straps are secure. There are many locations throughout Phoenix you can take your car and car or booster seat to have it inspected for free!
3. Cribs
a. Slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart to prevent a child from getting stuck.
b. The corner posts should not be any higher than the end panels to prevent strangulation from clothing.
c. Mattresses should fit firmly to prevent a child from getting stuck between the crib and mattress.
d. Remove all mobiles once your child can pull him or herself up to prevent it from falling on them and keep the crib free of stuffed animals.

Continue reading "Baby Safety Tips" »

AZ Family news reported that AAA Arizona will be offering a free “Tipsy Tow” this Labor Day Weekend, starting Sunday evening and stretching into the morning of Sept 6th. Available to those who have become impaired after drinking alcohol, the service is designed to reduce the number of cars on the road with drunk drivers behind the wheel. We appreciate the message AAA Arizona is sending to valley residents and stress that even when this service is not available, never have a drink of alcohol when you plan on driving.

There are too many drivers who think it is okay to drink and drive. Even one drink is enough to influence a driver, and they may not even be conscious of the effect. If you are driving and notice another driver showing signs of possible intoxication, including swerving, speeding, changing lanes without signaling or even driving excessively slowly, try to keep your space from them. If it is severe enough, you may want to notify the authorities. Visit MADD for more information and statistics about drunk driving.

Continue reading "Arizona Tow Company Offering Free Service to Prevent Drunk Driving" »

As Phoenix auto accident attorneys, just a reminder that we are offering our Arizona Accident Book for a limited time. The book details the 13 Biggest Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Accident Claim.

Also check out our new website. We have live chat and are available 24/7 to help you.

To talk to Phoenix Car Accident lawyers now, just give us a call.

As Mesa personal injury lawyers, we see all the time that people are taking cell phone for granted when talking on the phone and driving. People believe that they can use cell phones anywhere while doing anything thing. Drivers do not realize how much attention is taken away from the road when they are on the cell phone and speaking to someone. Texting and driving is even more dangerous.

In seven states now, drivers are not allowed to drive while talking on their cell phones. In six of these seven states, if the driver is caught on the cell phone, they only get basically a warning or a ticket but only for driving while talking on the phone. They do not get any other tickets for other traffic offenses.

Over the last three years, text messaging while driving was made illegal in 28 states. In Arizona, texting while driving is legal. In fact, in Arizona people can still drive and talk on the cell phne as well and that is not illegal yet either. The Arizona Senate banned texting in March 2010 through the bill SB 1334 however the bill did not make it out of the House of Representatives and never became a law.

If you or a loved one was in a Mesa car accident involving the use of a cell phone, contact our law team. We have an office conveniently located in Mesa and as Mesa car accident lawyers we understand what is necessary to achieve the best settlement possible. Mark Breyer is a certified specialist in injury and wrongful death law – certified by the State Bar of Arizona. Here at Breyer Law Offices, P.C., we are experienced attorneys who can provide you with the information you need to make a good decision on what to do next in your case. There are very important deadlines and statute of limitations that many people do not know about. If you need the help of a lawyer or just want a free consultation call us right away. We will give you honest answers and let you know what should be done on your case to get the best results, which is what you deserve.

Mesa auto accident attorneys deal with insurance claims on a very frequent basis. As attorneys in Mesa and throughout the Valley, we see Mesa car accident victims all of the time. When you are involved in a Mesa car accident, the first thing that you should do is file a claim with the adverse party as well as your own insurance company. Of course, when you are injured or the family member of someone who has been killed by the negligence of another individual this is not the first thing that is on your mind. As Mesa car accident lawyers, we handle filing the claim against the adverse party, the property damage (free of charge with handling the injury claim) and filing against your own insurance company as well.

The insurance companies are in business to make a profit. The adjuster is not your friend. The insurance companies want to deny as many claims as possible and this includes the adverse as well as your own insurance company. In order for insurance companies to make the most profit they need to minimize injury payments. Many victims think that they can negotiate with the adverse insurance company or their own and obtain a fair settlement, however, in keeping in mind the insurance company’s goal to make the most in profits, remember the adjuster is not going to have fairness in mind. Why would they?

Important to know as well is that filing a claim is not the same as filing a lawsuit. There are specific steps that must take place and the rules that apply for an injury claim are different than those rules that apply for filing a lawsuit. The deadlines for each are different. The rules of evidence in Court for example do not apply when dealing with an insurance company prior to litigation but they do apply after you file a lawsuit against a negligent party.

It is important to consult with a Mesa car accident lawyer before speaking to anyone who represents the insurance company. At Breyer Law Offices, as “The Husband And Wife Law Team” we welcome your calls and offer free consultations. We also offer a no fee guarantee which means if we can accept your case we will accept it on a contingent fee basis, which means we will not be paid until we obtain a settlement on your case. By calling our office, you will learn the deadlines on your case and get the advice that you need so you can make the best decisions that is necessary for your family, whether it be filing a lawsuit, filing a claim, or not pursuing the claim at all.