It jumps right out at you, that envelope from the County. There’s no mistaking a summons to appear as a juror, even at its first sight in the mailbox. A jury duty summons is usually the last thing people want to see. “Most folks would rather see anything else,” says Asheville attorney Perry Fisher. “We see it all the time, because people feel like they’re losing something. They would rather get anything else in the mail; a surprise bill, an invitation to an event they don’t want to attend, an overdraft bank notice… anything except a jury summons.” How was I selected for jury duty?Many potential jurors feel that jury duty will inconvenience them. “But I had X, Y, Z planned for that day! Or, I have to go to work that day. And I have a big project due. That’s when my son’s baseball game is. I planned to take my wife on vacation,” are common thoughts among potential jurors. Potential jurors don’t know how and why they were selected. In truth, though, jury duty falls equally among its citizens. In Buncombe County, North Carolina, every two years, the Jury Commission compiles a master jury list of names, randomly selected from residents who have driver’s license records or are registered voters. If you’ve received a jury summons, it’s because your name was randomly selected from that list. How long does jury duty last?Perhaps the biggest fear people have about jury duty is the unknown. “They don’t know when they get that summons, what it actually means,” says Fisher. “And they don’t know what the case is going to be. Also, they may not know where to go. Most of all, they don’t know how long they’ll have to be there.” How long will it take? Obviously, the time required to serve as a juror depends on the particular case for which you are selected. However, most trials in Buncombe County and beyond conclude within three days to a week. Where will it take place? The summons will have the address and possible directions listed. In Buncombe County, jurors report to the County Courthouse. What does a juror do?As a juror, you will be asked to listen to evidence of a court case, be it civil or criminal. Appraising the value os what was unnaturally taken from a person is the main job of juries. “No special training is needed,” says Fisher. “All you need to do is listen carefully and use your common sense that you use in everyday life.” Juries change the worldServing on a jury is rarely glamorous. No one’s in it for the money or the fame. The reason that we voluntarily agree to be a member of a jury is because of the impact decisions can make. “Participating in a jury can affect the health and safety of everyone,” says Brad Stark, partner at Fisher Stark, P.A. “It may not seem monumental, but jury decisions can save lives. They change poor procedures that endanger people, enforcing community standards that keep us all safe from unreasonable harm and death. This service can and routinely do change the world for the better.” How much are jurors paid?In Buncombe County, jurors receive $12 for the first day of service and $20 for the second through fifth days. If your jury service goes beyond five days, you will be paid $40 for each day thereafter. What to wear for jury dutyIn Buncombe County as well as most places in America, there is no set dress code for jury duty. You should dress comfortably and appropriately because temperatures can vary considerably throughout the day. Most people would consider the courtroom to be a business casual environment. Can I be fired from my job for jury duty?Under North Carolina state law, you cannot be fired or demoted for serving on a jury. An employer can, though, withhold pay for the time away from work. If this would create an undue hardship, a potential juror may be dismissed from service. What happens if I ignore the jury summons?You don’t want to do this. A notice to appear for possible jury duty is an official court summons. Failure to appear can result in a fine. You can even be held in contempt of court and thrown in jail. Plus, there are so many reasons to enjoy jury duty too. It’s something new that only 11 other people get to experience with you. Each case is unique. People often learn more about the laws affecting us all. Most importantly, you get to make a difference and can make our communities safer places. Should I bring anything with me to jury duty?Since the process is out of your control, there might be some down time while serving on jury duty. It’s usually okay to bring a book, needlework, crossword puzzle and other such materials to occupy time. Most courts try to minimize downtime and delays in trial starts. However some waiting time should be expected, especially while people are being selected to sit on a jury. Will I be locked up in a hotel during the trial?The typical answer is, “No.” Being “sequestered” or kept in a hotel during a trial is extremely rare. Most jurors are allowed to go home at the end of each court day. In an emergency, how will my family contact me?In Buncombe County, your family can call the Clerk of Superior Court’s office at 828-259-6407. The staff will make sure that you will get the message. How will I know what to do as a juror?When a juror reports to the Buncombe County Courthouse, they are shown a short, instructional video explaining what to expect. The Court Staff will also hand out some additional information. All jurors will take an oath and be given a red juror’s badge to wear until they are released from jury duty by the judge. Once a trial begins it’s the judge who instructs jurors as to their duties. Jury duty – a right and a privilegeAll cases are important, often affecting aspects of Buncombe County life beyond that particular trial. You could even potentially be involved in a landmark case with nationwide consequences. Most importantly, though, you are making your community a safer place while participating in an important process. “People may have been brought [to jury duty] against their will,” says Fisher. “But they can choose to participate in this process as a positive thing. And when they do choose, they have an opportunity to really rise and become heroes. And not just for the plaintiff or for the case, but for themselves and their community. “That is the opportunity that jury duty is giving them and affording them. By changing your mindset of who you are as a juror, people have a chance to be Citizen Heroes.” Making America strongAs a North Carolinian, jury service is one of the most valuable contributions you can make as a citizen. Protecting one of the most important rights guaranteed by the United States and North Carolina Constitutions- the right to a trial by jury- is an important service. “Jury service is the constitutional right that protects the rest of the constitutional rights,” Fisher says. With the right mindset, serving as a juror is a right, a duty and a positive experience that can change the world for the better. Knowing the jury duty process is civically rewarding is good for everyone. Trial attorneys respect jurorsSometimes fearing jury duty may be because of feelings about lawyers manipulating the process. The attorneys at Fisher Stark, P.A., understand the value of an impartial jury because justice is their goal. “Here at Fisher Stark, we are not trying to manipulate any person serving as a juror,” says Fisher. “We’re not trying to be anyone but ourselves. In fact, our whole mission is to be the best version of ourselves in the first place. And that’s the type of jurors we want too. “Good people, making informed decisions as good citizens.” American freedomsExercising our rights as American citizens often means acting for the betterment of everyone. Serving on an impartial jury is an important right. Having competent individuals serving their communities for a matter of days is just one way we can all give back, be part of the process, ultimately making our communities stronger and the world a better place. Jury scamsAnother possible reason for people to react negatively to jury duty are the scams. People are getting calls saying that they didn’t appear for jury duty and will be fined. They are told that fine will be steep, of course, unless they are willing to hand over personal information. Don’t believe a caller claiming to be with the Courts, who then want personal information over the phone. No county in America will ask for personal information over the phone regarding jury duty. Remember:
Asheville trial lawyersAs trial lawyers we know serving on a jury is important. Each juror has the potential to contribute to a greater good, so we appreciate those who engage willingly. Good lawyers want jurors to be themselves and respect their work as contributing citizens. “Being community minded means you truly do make an important difference,” says Fisher. “Citizens of many other countries never get to exercise such liberties, but in America, we are strongest when we come together, like serving on a jury.” Fisher Stark, P.A., is a boutique law firm serving Buncombe County and surrounding areas. We have represented people throughout North Carolina in the counties of Madison, Mitchell, Yancey, McDowell, Rutherford, Henderson, Polk, Transylvania, Jackson and Haywood. The firm has also represented clients across the nation, from northern states to southern, east coast to west. We are located in Asheville, NC, but also serve clients in the surrounding communities of Woodfin, Weaverville, Hot Springs, Mars Hill, Black Mountain, Montreat, Fairview, Royal Pines, Fletcher, Arden, Flat Rock, Hendersonville, Brevard, Highlands, Waynesville and beyond. Fisher Stark, P.A., has experience with Business, Personal Injury and Condemnation law. You can reach us at 828-505-4300. Our offices are located at 172 D-2 Asheland Ave.
The post Oh NO!!! Jury duty!!! appeared first on Fisher Stark, P.A.. via Fisher Stark, P.A. https://fisherstark.com/5690-2/
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You have been involved in a crash resulting in injuries. Now what? While you include visiting doctors, finding a replacement vehicle and adjusting everything from your work schedule to your busy life, it is important to understand what is happening behind the scenes that may impact you. The Asheville personal injury trial lawyers at Fisher Stark know that, like you, every case is unique. Our experience allows us to see the nuances in an injury that others may miss. Personal Injury LawLet’s start with the goal of the law. The goal of the legal system involving injury claims is to have the injured person put in the same position that they would have been in “But for” the negligence-caused injury. All medical bills should be paid that are related to the injury. All wages lost as a result of the injury including time away from work should be restored – including vacation or personal leave days taken in lieu of missing salary. In essence, those are monies paid to others. The next and most important aspect that you will encounter is determining an amount of money that is large enough to balance the harms and losses unnaturally taken from you as a result of the injury. Injuries Can Be LifelongFirst things first. When an injury occurs, seeking medical treatment right away is important. Getting well is the goal. Seek medical treatment in order to return as much pre-injury function as possible. Often the treatment team of medical professionals are important witnesses to the injuries and recovery path that you experienced. While you are seeking medical treatment, don’t forget that important facts and witnesses need to be secured. Witnesses are important to helping the truth come out before a court or adjuster. For example, it may be important to match up fresh gouge marks in the pavement to impact damages under the vehicle. If you are unable to do these things, hiring an experienced attorney is important. Insurance companies do not have your interests at heart; they are trying to save money. Regardless of who you call, you should seek the counsel of an attorney who knows how to stand up to insurance companies, including taking your case to trial if need be. Trial AttorneysA law firm with a reputation for going to trial will always put the insurance companies on notice. Fisher Stark will fight for fair compensation for lifelong medical bills, lost wages, as well as pain and suffering. From there, Fisher Stark can help you by filing a complaint (lawsuit), gathering evidence, attempting to settle, and then if necessary, going to trial. We’re well experienced with the process, and can guide you along the way. Where Do Personal Injuries Happen?Catastrophic personal injuries can happen anywhere, to nearly anyone. Such traumatic injuries can include brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, loss of limbs, ruptured organs and more. Injuries can be the result of a car or truck crash, medical mistake, fall from height, workplace injury, even crossing the road as a pedestrian. Injuries from Traffic AccidentsOne of the most common ways people can be hurt is the result of a car or truck accident. Aggressive driving, distracted driving, faulty equipment and more can result in traumatic wounds for victims. Injuries from traffic accidents can result from car crashes, truck crashes, pedestrian injuries, motorcycle injuries and bicycle injuries. Traffic Accident Injuries can include:
Injuries from Workplace AccidentsPersonal injuries can also happen at work. Whether it was a fall from height, getting hit in the head, severe burns, and more, the workplace can be full of dangers. If an accident on the job results due to unsafe practices or negligence, Fisher Stark holds the responsible parties accountable and knows how to gather evidence before it disappears. Injuries From Medical MistakesA recent Johns Hopkins Survey suggests that medical mistakes are now the third leading cause of death in the United States. These accidents are completely avoidable and could be the result of improper care from a doctor, nurse, staff and even a hospital itself. Malpractice cases can include injuries due to misdiagnosis, medication errors, childbirth traumas, anesthesia errors and surgery errors. Medical Malpractice cases are very complex and virtually impossible to win proper compensation without a Medical Malpractice Attorney. The trial lawyers at Fisher Stark take critical steps to fight for our clients’ rights to proper compensation. This means investigating and gathering evidence, reviewing medical documentation, interviewing witnesses, examining licenses and credentials and ensuring proper procedures were followed. How Can I Help My Case?
Medical Treatment After an AccidentProper medical care should always be of first importance. If you are injured, do not refuse medical treatment at the scene if you can do so reasonably. It can help your case to have the injury documented as soon as possible. Depending on the type and severity of the accident, medical treatment can mean being treated at the scene, a trip to the hospital, follow up examinations, extensive medication regimens, medical supplies and equipment, retrofitting a house for wheelchair accessibility, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and psychological counseling. Hire a Personal Injury AttorneyInsurance companies want you to take the first offer they make, but Fisher Stark knows that is a mistake. Until long term effects are factored into the equation, it’s impossible to determine what a fair settlement will be. Before you sign anything the insurance companies give you, talk to an attorney. You can call Fisher Stark for a free consultation at 828-505-4300. Questions You Should Ask an AttorneyDuring an initial consultation, Fisher Stark, P.A., wants to let you know you are good hands. But no matter who you talk to, feel free to ask:
Filing a ComplaintOnce a victim has hired an experienced attorney and is focused on recuperation, the lawyer’s work begins. Fisher Stark, P.A. is an experienced team of lawyers, dedicated to thoroughly investigate personal injury accidents to fight for your rights! Gathering EvidenceIt’s important to gather evidence quickly as it can grow cold. Having an experienced legal team on your case quickly helps your case. The trial attorneys at Fisher Stark know how to seek needed information as well as look for falsified evidence too. During the case process, Fisher Stark:
Experience with complex casesHaving a lawyer prove negligence in any accident is very important when filing a personal injury case. There are complex State and Federal laws and regulations which can be hard to interpret. Fisher Stark lawyers have experience with complex laws and litigation as well as the resources to represent our clients. Experienced lawyers also know that strict procedures hold companies to higher standards, which can help your case. For example, there are specific rules regarding how long a truck driver can be behind the wheel and how much rest they must get in a given time frame. Industry laws are in place to protect the public and keep us safe whether on the road, at work, or under medical care. Attempting to Settle a ClaimNegotiation is where an experienced lawyer really makes a difference. Because we’ve helped so many clients through the personal injury process, we know how important a fair settlement impacts ongoing care, pain and suffering, and medical expenses. Insurance companies have their own interests at heart, not yours. If you don’t have lawyers with reputations for going to trial to get proper compensation, an insurance company will fight against a fair settlement. The trial lawyers at Fisher Stark understand the costs associated with ongoing medical care. Any catastrophic accident can result in ongoing medical expenses, lost wages, diminished earning potential, emotional distress and permanent disfigurement. Catastrophic Injury ChallengesLifelong injuries can cause other medical issues over time. Someone who suffered a spinal cord injury can develop respiratory problems much later. Someone who has suffered a brain injury can appear perfectly normal, but may face debilitating, lifelong issues like chronic headaches, memory loss and cognitive dysfunction, making it nearly impossible to keep a job or even hold long term personal relationships. Numerous studies illustrate how traumatic brain injuries affect the person on a cellular level as well as substantially increasing the likelihood of future cognitive conditions. Catastrophic injuries should have experienced representation like Fisher Stark, P.A.. Serious injuries deserve serious lawyers. Our lawyers won’t take the first offer and will fight to obtain the full recovery that you are due. Going to Trial for Personal InjuryIf the insurance company refuses to settle for a fair amount, an experienced trial attorney will have no qualms about going to court. Fisher Stark attorneys are proud of our willingness to fight for your rights in court to insure that those responsible for personal injuries are held fully accountable. If you or someone you love has suffered a catastrophic injury, the process of receiving fair compensation is complex. An experienced legal team can help mitigate the complex nature of the personal injury claim process. Asheville Personal Injury LawyerAt Fisher Stark, P.A., we have more than 60 years’ experience on our side. We know the extent of personal injuries and will fight for fair compensation. Call today for a free consultation at 828-505-4300 if you or a loved one has been injured. We can help you through a complex injury claim process, fighting for your rights to full compensation, so you can focus on healing. If you or loved one has been injured in an accident, contact us today. The post The Personal Injury Claims Process appeared first on Fisher Stark. via Fisher Stark https://fisherstark.com/safety-and-personal-injury/the-personal-injury-claims-process/ You have been involved in a crash resulting in injuries. Now what? While you include visiting doctors, finding a replacement vehicle and adjusting everything from your work schedule to your busy life, it is important to understand what is happening behind the scenes that may impact you. The Asheville personal injury trial lawyers at Fisher Stark know that, like you, every case is unique. Our experience allows us to see the nuances in an injury that others may miss. Personal Injury LawLet’s start with the goal of the law. The goal of the legal system involving injury claims is to have the injured person put in the same position that they would have been in “But for” the negligence-caused injury. All medical bills should be paid that are related to the injury. All wages lost as a result of the injury including time away from work should be restored – including vacation or personal leave days taken in lieu of missing salary. In essence, those are monies paid to others. The next and most important aspect that you will encounter is determining an amount of money that is large enough to balance the harms and losses unnaturally taken from you as a result of the injury. Injuries Can Be LifelongFirst things first. When an injury occurs, seeking medical treatment right away is important. Getting well is the goal. Seek medical treatment in order to return as much pre-injury function as possible. Often the treatment team of medical professionals are important witnesses to the injuries and recovery path that you experienced. While you are seeking medical treatment, don’t forget that important facts and witnesses need to be secured. Witnesses are important to helping the truth come out before a court or adjuster. For example, it may be important to match up fresh gouge marks in the pavement to impact damages under the vehicle. If you are unable to do these things, hiring an experienced attorney is important. Insurance companies do not have your interests at heart; they are trying to save money. Regardless of who you call, you should seek the counsel of an attorney who knows how to stand up to insurance companies, including taking your case to trial if need be. Trial AttorneysA law firm with a reputation for going to trial will always put the insurance companies on notice. Fisher Stark will fight for fair compensation for lifelong medical bills, lost wages, as well as pain and suffering. From there, Fisher Stark can help you by filing a complaint (lawsuit), gathering evidence, attempting to settle, and then if necessary, going to trial. We’re well experienced with the process, and can guide you along the way. Where Do Personal Injuries Happen?Catastrophic personal injuries can happen anywhere, to nearly anyone. Such traumatic injuries can include brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, loss of limbs, ruptured organs and more. Injuries can be the result of a car or truck crash, medical mistake, fall from height, workplace injury, even crossing the road as a pedestrian. Injuries from Traffic AccidentsOne of the most common ways people can be hurt is the result of a car or truck accident. Aggressive driving, distracted driving, faulty equipment and more can result in traumatic wounds for victims. Injuries from traffic accidents can result from car crashes, truck crashes, pedestrian injuries, motorcycle injuries and bicycle injuries. Traffic Accident Injuries can include:
Injuries from Workplace AccidentsPersonal injuries can also happen at work. Whether it was a fall from height, getting hit in the head, severe burns, and more, the workplace can be full of dangers. If an accident on the job results due to unsafe practices or negligence, Fisher Stark holds the responsible parties accountable and knows how to gather evidence before it disappears. Injuries From Medical MistakesA recent Johns Hopkins Survey suggests that medical mistakes are now the third leading cause of death in the United States. These accidents are completely avoidable and could be the result of improper care from a doctor, nurse, staff and even a hospital itself. Malpractice cases can include injuries due to misdiagnosis, medication errors, childbirth traumas, anesthesia errors and surgery errors. Medical Malpractice cases are very complex and virtually impossible to win proper compensation without a Medical Malpractice Attorney. The trial lawyers at Fisher Stark take critical steps to fight for our clients’ rights to proper compensation. This means investigating and gathering evidence, reviewing medical documentation, interviewing witnesses, examining licenses and credentials and ensuring proper procedures were followed. How Can I Help My Case?
Medical Treatment After an AccidentProper medical care should always be of first importance. If you are injured, do not refuse medical treatment at the scene if you can do so reasonably. It can help your case to have the injury documented as soon as possible. Depending on the type and severity of the accident, medical treatment can mean being treated at the scene, a trip to the hospital, follow up examinations, extensive medication regimens, medical supplies and equipment, retrofitting a house for wheelchair accessibility, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and psychological counseling. Hire a Personal Injury AttorneyInsurance companies want you to take the first offer they make, but Fisher Stark knows that is a mistake. Until long term effects are factored into the equation, it’s impossible to determine what a fair settlement will be. Before you sign anything the insurance companies give you, talk to an attorney. You can call Fisher Stark for a free consultation at 828-505-4300. Questions You Should Ask an AttorneyDuring an initial consultation, Fisher Stark, P.A., wants to let you know you are good hands. But no matter who you talk to, feel free to ask:
Filing a ComplaintOnce a victim has hired an experienced attorney and is focused on recuperation, the lawyer’s work begins. Fisher Stark, P.A. is an experienced team of lawyers, dedicated to thoroughly investigate personal injury accidents to fight for your rights! Gathering EvidenceIt’s important to gather evidence quickly as it can grow cold. Having an experienced legal team on your case quickly helps your case. The trial attorneys at Fisher Stark know how to seek needed information as well as look for falsified evidence too. During the case process, Fisher Stark:
Experience with complex casesHaving a lawyer prove negligence in any accident is very important when filing a personal injury case. There are complex State and Federal laws and regulations which can be hard to interpret. Fisher Stark lawyers have experience with complex laws and litigation as well as the resources to represent our clients. Experienced lawyers also know that strict procedures hold companies to higher standards, which can help your case. For example, there are specific rules regarding how long a truck driver can be behind the wheel and how much rest they must get in a given time frame. Industry laws are in place to protect the public and keep us safe whether on the road, at work, or under medical care. Attempting to Settle a ClaimNegotiation is where an experienced lawyer really makes a difference. Because we’ve helped so many clients through the personal injury process, we know how important a fair settlement impacts ongoing care, pain and suffering, and medical expenses. Insurance companies have their own interests at heart, not yours. If you don’t have lawyers with reputations for going to trial to get proper compensation, an insurance company will fight against a fair settlement. The trial lawyers at Fisher Stark understand the costs associated with ongoing medical care. Any catastrophic accident can result in ongoing medical expenses, lost wages, diminished earning potential, emotional distress and permanent disfigurement. Catastrophic Injury ChallengesLifelong injuries can cause other medical issues over time. Someone who suffered a spinal cord injury can develop respiratory problems much later. Someone who has suffered a brain injury can appear perfectly normal, but may face debilitating, lifelong issues like chronic headaches, memory loss and cognitive dysfunction, making it nearly impossible to keep a job or even hold long term personal relationships. Numerous studies illustrate how traumatic brain injuries affect the person on a cellular level as well as substantially increasing the likelihood of future cognitive conditions. Catastrophic injuries should have experienced representation like Fisher Stark, P.A.. Serious injuries deserve serious lawyers. Our lawyers won’t take the first offer and will fight to obtain the full recovery that you are due. Going to Trial for Personal InjuryIf the insurance company refuses to settle for a fair amount, an experienced trial attorney will have no qualms about going to court. Fisher Stark attorneys are proud of our willingness to fight for your rights in court to insure that those responsible for personal injuries are held fully accountable. If you or someone you love has suffered a catastrophic injury, the process of receiving fair compensation is complex. An experienced legal team can help mitigate the complex nature of the personal injury claim process. Asheville Personal Injury LawyerAt Fisher Stark, P.A., we have more than 60 years’ experience on our side. We know the extent of personal injuries and will fight for fair compensation. Call today for a free consultation at 828-505-4300 if you or a loved one has been injured. We can help you through a complex injury claim process, fighting for your rights to full compensation, so you can focus on healing. The post The Personal Injury Claims Process appeared first on Fisher Stark. via Fisher Stark https://fisherstark.com/the-personal-injury-claims-process/ Accidents on the road happen all year ‘round, but holidays see a sharp spike in both accidents and fatalities for unique reasons. It’s unfortunate that wonderful times like Christmas and New Years are in the Top 10 Accident / Fatality Days when they should be about celebrations. At Fisher Stark, we see it too often; accident levels rise sharply during the holidays. Car crashes occur for different reasons at different seasons; bad weather, aggressive traffic, distracted driving, drowsy driving, holiday get togethers, more alcohol being consumed and more people going over the rivers and through the woods, just to name a few. Accident AwarenessWhile there are general reasons why accidents increase during holidays, the time of day itself can also be key. Take Christmas for example. Many employers give their workers extra time off regardless of religious affiliation. Consequently, many statistics show the greatest number of accidents happen on the afternoon of Christmas Eve and the evening of Christmas Day according to the American Safety Council. Likewise, New Years is notorious for its alcohol-fueled accident rates in conjunction with time of day issues. After people countdown to the magic hour of midnight while partying, it stands to reason that there’s more drinking and driving in the early hours of New Year’s Day than on any other specific time of day throughout the year. The day of the week also affects accident rates. Statistically, more traffic fatalities occur when holidays like Christmas and New Years fall on weekends as opposed to weekdays. So, bearing in mind the specifics circumstances than can create holiday accidents, knowing where problems often lie and how to prepare well may hopefully help us avoid accidents in the first place. Give Stress the BootBecause holidays are family time and often celebrated together with feasts and presents, budgets are often strained. With airfare being so expensive, it’s natural to pile a whole family into a car for a trip. More cars on the road leads to more traffic jams, more aggressive driving, more road rage and more stress in general. Because of all these factors leading to greater accident rates, it’s important to avoid distracted driving, drunk driving or drowsy driving in order to keep your full focus on the road. It’s equally important to report any other car suspected of dangerous driving too. The holidays have enough stressors built into them already without completely avoidable problems! Always remember to drive safely, leaving lots of room between yourself and other vehicles on the road and, if possible, driving on less busy days to avoid the most dangerous times and conditions to avoid those holiday headaches! Maintenance MattersSafe driving starts with the basics. Before packing a vehicle full of family, food and other holiday fun, start with maintenance. This means topping off or replacing all fluids as needed; radiator, power steering, oil and windshield wiper solvent. Tires should have good tread and be inflated to proper levels which is essential for a smooth, safe ride as well as maximizing gas mileage. Make sure all lights work including brakes, headlights, turn signals and even interior dome lights. Windshield wipers should be replaced as needed (especially if there’s inclement weather to come). In addition to standard vehicle maintenance, it’s also important to be prepared for emergencies. This is especially true in colder weather. Make sure you have everything needed to change a flat tire (and that the spare is inflated). A pair of jumper cables are always good to have on hand in case of battery problems. It’s even good to have blankets on hand for everyone in case you do get stuck. No Holi-DozeDrowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy driving caused 72,000 crashes, 44,000 injuries, and 800 deaths in 2013. Other reports feel these numbers are seriously underestimated (there’s no test for drowsiness as a cause of an accident) and believe up to 6,000 crashes each year resulting in fatalities are caused by drowsy drivers. Fortunately, there are some practical steps holiday drivers can take to minimize sleepy situations during the holidays. Avoid last minute shopping and staying up all night to wrap presents before a long drive. Don’t cram in extra hours at work to enjoy several days off and then try to drive exhausted. At Fisher Stark, we’ve seen the damage that a distracted driver can cause. Get lots of rest before hitting the road, especially if driving overnight hours. If necessary, share drive time with other people to ensure all drivers are well rested, alert and attentive. PlanningWhen packing a car full of family, presents and food, planning ahead avoids time wasted turning around to retrieve some necessary forgotten item! No one wants to go backward on a road trip, so take a tip from the master travel planner, Saint Nick; make a list, check it twice. When planning for a holiday trip, it’s important to remember both things at home and things going with you on the road, especially if travelling a long distance or overnight. In addition to making sure the stove is off, check that windows and doors are shut and locked (including on any vehicles staying at home), alarms set and other household concerns are addressed before you leave. Plus, it’s also critical to consider any critters! We love our pets and know they deserve to be safe and secure! “Arf” You Forgetting Something?If you will be away for more than a day and pets are staying home, make sure all animals are secure and have enough food and water. Hire a sitter well ahead of time if necessary. If pets are travelling in the car with you, make sure they have food and water and bowls from which to eat as well as necessary bedding, crates, medicine, leashes, collars, toys and other critical equipment. And make sure they have proper space; it’s never safe to have an animal roaming freely in a vehicle. Map It OutIf travelling a long distance, it’s always good to plan your route (and maybe even a backup or two in case unexpected delays spring up). And while GPS is a wonderful thing, it’s always good to have an actual map on hand to cover your travels in case of internet connection issues. Planning a route comes in handy when considering gas fill ups, rest stops, mealtimes and bathroom breaks. It’s a good way to have unrushed time for travel as well as stretching your legs while still reach your destination safely and on time. AAA has mapping services, for careful planning. Weather or NotDuring the winter months, bad weather can sometimes be accounted for, and sometimes not, but it should always be something for which you and your family are prepared. Follow weather reports to stay ahead of any hazardous conditions, even while on the road. Leave Early (Or At Least On Time!)One of the best ways to reduce stress while travelling is to give yourself enough time to reach your destination. As one should always expect the unexpected when on the road, it’s always a good idea to leave earlier than you think you’ll need. If traffic snarls or there’s an accident, an extra hour or two might help make up for it. If it’s smooth sailing all the way through, you can use that extra time to relax during a meal (or two), give the dog a walk, see the sights or relax and let the kids play a bit at rest stops. Content Kids = Undistracted DrivingOne way to avoid distractions is ensuring kids have necessary emotional support blankies and / or stuffed animals. This is just as important to the Captain as it is to the crew too, so add comfort items to your holiday travel list. Ensuring kids are comfortable usually means things to do or watch. Entertainment is kid-specific but could include road games like license plate bingo, books (if motion sickness isn’t an issue), portable DVD players (headphones are also awesome), tablets and even simple crafts like coloring books can keep kids content for the long haul. For younger infants and toddlers, keep a change of clothes handy in case of accidents. Monitor snacks and drinks to avoid unwanted pit stops (but plan for them anyway). As necessary, make sure you have diapers, wipes, paper towels, ointments, sealing plastic bags for dirty diapers, medicine, pacifiers, bottles and other critical equipment. Pack With PrideTo avoid cramped conditions, packing perfectly follows the same rules as your groceries. Make sure the largest, heaviest things are on the bottom. Consider anything that might be necessary in an emergency pit stop (i.e. kids clothes, diapers, etc.) and keep it near the top. If you are travelling with food, ensure everything is well sealed to avoid spills and leaks. While good packing can keep most items stable, remember that you will be moving, so plan on food moving too. Keeping hot food well secured and away from contact with people. This avoids scalding injuries in the event of short stops and possible accidents. If you have food that should remain cold, consider refreezable cold packs that are safe to travel with food in order to avoid soggy messes. Finally, if you are short of space to fit everything in, consider a travel trailer or hard shell container to ride on a luggage rack. You should never have so much packed into your vehicle that it blocks your field of vision or is constantly shifting weight. Best Asheville Personal Injury LawyersWhile we wish you a safe and happy holiday season, we know that car crashes and vehicle injuries happen due to other people’s negligence and lack of planning. If you or a loved one has been injured on the road, you need a strong advocate on your side with the expertise to assure that insurance companies don’t take advantage of you. If you live in Asheville, North Carolina, or surrounding areas, and have been injured from distracted holiday driving resulting in a car crash or truck crash, please call the personal injury lawyers at Fisher Stark, P.A., for a free consultation at (828) 505-4300. The post Holiday Driving Dangers appeared first on Fisher Stark. via Fisher Stark https://fisherstark.com/holiday-driving-dangers/ |