Columbus Personal Injury Law Blog

As truck crashes rise, some push for mandatory safety tech

On behalf of The Keating Firm LTD. posted in commercial vehicle accidents on Tuesday, October 16, 2018.

Truckers and truck fleet owners in Ohio should know that more than 4,300 people died in large truck accidents in 2016. This was a 28 percent increase from 2009, according to federal data. These findings have even caught the attention of several members of Congress, who may prompt action to improve truck safety.

Crash avoidance systems, according to the trucking companies that have implemented them, can prevent more than seven out of 10 rear-end collisions as well as mitigate injuries and vehicle damage. However, only a small percentage of truckers have implemented them. Lobbying groups like the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association believe that implementing this technology should remain a voluntary decision.

Smart intersections: The future of traffic safety?

On behalf of The Keating Firm LTD. posted in motor vehicle accidents on Friday, October 5, 2018.

Intersections see a lot of activity. Unfortunately, this comes with dangers. A fair portion of motor vehicle accidents happen at intersections. Intersections can see many types of crashes, such as T-bone collisions and vehicles striking pedestrians or bicyclists. Such accidents can lead to many different types of injuries (such as head injuries, back/spinal injuries, internal injuries, severe cuts and broken bones) and raise a range of compensation-related legal issues for victims.

Might technology be able to make intersections safer? Among the technologies being developed on this front are smart intersections.

Important points to know about wrongful death cases

On behalf of The Keating Firm LTD. on Thursday, September 13, 2018.

Serious motor vehicle accidents sometimes end in fatalities. When this occurs, the victim's family has to try to pick up the pieces after their loved one's death. There are many things this entails, including final arrangements. When the person who passed away was an income earner for the home, the untimely death can be financially devastating.

Some people might choose to seek compensation after a death like this. A wrongful death lawsuit is often possible if the crash was caused by another driver who did something negligent, reckless or on purpose. These cases aren't always easy to handle, but those left behind often find that closure can be beneficial.

Proving “bad faith” after an insurance denial

On behalf of The Keating Firm LTD. on Friday, July 27, 2018.

It’s only human nature to expect the best of people. But car accidents and insurance companies ironically tend to clash. We all hope the process will go smooth. Unfortunately, oftentimes, it does not.

Motorcyclists face big risks on the open road in Ohio

On behalf of The Keating Firm LTD. on Friday, June 1, 2018.

As the weather turns from cool to warm and sunny, more people take to the roads on two-wheel transportation. Both bicycles and motorcycles tend to head out when spring starts blurring into the heat of summer. It's a lovely time to feel the wind rush by and enjoy the seasonal beauty. However, it can also increase your risk of getting hurt while you're on the road.

Every year, dozens of motorcycle crashes kill people in Ohio. Hundreds more result in serious injuries to drivers and passengers on motorcycles. After spiking up to 200 in 2016, motorcycle deaths in Ohio dropped to 157 in 2017. Overall, though, they seem to be on the rise. Those who enjoy motorcycles should take great care when heading out to hit the road.

Are you ready to safely enjoy summer motorcycle season?

On behalf of The Keating Firm LTD. on Tuesday, May 29, 2018.

Warmer weather has finally arrived to Ohio, which means that motorcycles are back on the streets. For those who enjoy this popular two-wheeled form of transportation, spring and summer weather is excitedly anticipated throughout the dreary Midwest winters. The enthusiasm and excitement for that first ride could leave you willing to overlook several important factors when getting on your bike.

Whenever you head out for the ride, the first and most important goal should always be to return home safely at the end. Sadly, while Ohio has one of the highest number of motorcyclists, not all of them will make it through the summer season without injury. There are some steps you can take to keep yourself safe as you head out for a ride on your bike.

How insurance companies determine fault after a car accident

On behalf of The Keating Firm LTD. on Friday, April 27, 2018.

Proving fault in an accident stems back to identifying the negligent party to determine who pays for damages. In Ohio, the at-fault driver's insurance company pays for the victim's expenses resulting from the accident.

Even a relatively minor accident can lead to significant expenses. Economic expenses include medical bills, lost wages and vehicle repair or replacement, which are easy to prove with invoices and pay records. Accident victims may also collect non-economic damages for pain, suffering and emotional distress.

Ways that commercial trucks create danger on the road

On behalf of The Keating Firm LTD. posted in blog on Tuesday, October 17, 2017.

Most people who drive or ride on public roads understand that there's an element of risk. No matter how safely someone drives, there are weather issues and the potential for sudden vehicular issues.

As a result, most people engage in risk management on the road. They slow down when the weather is bad. They avoid driving late at night, when drunks may be on the road after last call. They even give extra space to commercial trucks on the road.

Your insurance company won't be looking out for you after a crash

On behalf of The Keating Firm LTD. posted in blog on Monday, October 16, 2017.

You pay for motor vehicle insurance partially because it's the law and partly because you want protection in the event of a crash. Then, an accident happens, caused by another driver's negligence, mistake or even intoxication. You contact your insurance company, expecting that you won't really need to worry about anything once they're involved.

You've been a faithful customer for years. You pay your policy on time. Maybe you've had a minor claim or two in the past, or maybe this is the first time you've ever needed help from your insurance company. You may think your insurance company will look after you. They may make a settlement offer or pay your claim, but you need to know from the start that they are mostly interested in limiting their own financial liability to you after an accident.

Fall weather could increase your risk of a serious car crash

On behalf of The Keating Firm LTD. posted in blog on Monday, October 2, 2017.

There are a lot of great things about Autumn. There's the annual influx of pumpkin spice products, if you enjoy that flavor. There's the crisp, cool air, which is so refreshing after a hot Ohio summer. There's the spooky fun of Halloween and preparation for the holiday season. There's also a major drawback to fall, because it can cause conditions that could result in a serious motor vehicle accident.

Most Ohio drivers understand the seasonal risks associated with winter driving and even the potential risks of the rainy weather in spring. For one reason or another, many people tend to overlook the potential for weather-related car crashes in the fall. Taking the time to familiarize yourself with the risks can improve your chances of avoiding a collision.