Attorney Blog

Determining Liability in a Louisiana Commercial Vehicle Accident

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you are injured in a commercial vehicle accident during work time, liability will need to be determined. Although fault doesn’t impact your ability to collect Workers' Compensation benefits, it could factor into other options that may be available. Consulting with a Louisiana truck accident attorney will help you better understand your rights.

Workers' Compensation benefits are available when an employee is injured during the scope of their work. However, if you are the driver or passenger of a commercial vehicle, and an accident causes injuries, you may be entitled to pursue a third party claim.

This is why determining liability is important. If another driver acted in a negligent manner -- such as running a red light or making an unsafe lane change -- and it resulted in an accident, additional compensation could be available through a third party claim.

You will need to be able to establish the other driver’s negligence in order to hold him or her liable and pursue a claim. Evidence such as a police report, statements from witnesses or photographs of the accident scene will be important.

When you are injured while on the job in a commercial vehicle accident, you may have questions about the legal options available. Contact a Louisiana truck accident attorney for help with your claim.

Get Legal Help Now – Contact a Louisiana Truck Accident Attorney

As the victim of a commercial vehicle accident, you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Accident attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 1-504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

When Driver Fatigue Causes a Louisiana Truck Accident

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When you consider that commercial vehicles weigh much more than a passenger vehicle, it’s no surprise to learn that 1 in 4 passenger vehicle fatalities involves a collision with a large truck. Unfortunately, truck driver fatigue may contribute to a number of serious and/or fatal truck accidents in Louisiana.

To combat the problem of truck driver fatigue, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration passed regulations regarding the amount of time a commercial truck driver may operate his or her vehicle and the amount of time needed for rest. To ensure compliance with these regulations, the truck driver is required to keep a log book detailing the hours spent working and resting. In some cases, an electronic on-board recorder may be used in lieu of a logbook.

Driver fatigue can affect a number of physical and cognitive abilities necessary to operate a motor vehicle safely. The effects of driver fatigue may include:

delayed reaction time;
reduction in alertness;
decreased motor coordination;
impaired information processing; and
memory problems.

Driving for a long period of time on an open road or at night also can produce a hypnotic effect on drivers. In some cases, truck drivers may succumb to sleep as a result of their fatigue, which could result in a serious, if not fatal, truck accident.

If you or a loved one sustained personal injuries or wrongful death due to commercial driver fatigue, an accident lawyer in Louisiana with truck injury claim experience can help.

Contact an Accident Lawyer in Louisiana – Truck Collisions

If a commercial truck driver’s actions resulted in serious injury or death to you or a loved one, you are entitled to file a claim in order to recover damages. As the victim of a serious or fatal truck accident in Louisiana, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 1-504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

The Number 1 Way to Destroy Your New Orleans Injury Claim

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If your car crashed and you were injured as the result of another driver’s negligence or recklessness, you may be entitled to compensation through a New Orleans injury claim. Speak with one of our Louisiana attorneys for a free evaluation of your case and get sound advice on how to proceed with your claim.

The number one mistake you can make with your New Orleans injury claim is to give too much information to the insurance company. Although quaint commercial campaigns featuring familiar faces, goofy characters, and adorable talking animals might lead us to believe that the insurance companies are on our side, their interests are the same as any other business – to make a profit.

Insurance companies do that by charging a premium for their coverage and then paying out as little money as possible for automobile insurance claims. The following are other ways you can prevent information from winding up in your insurance company’s hands:

don’t say anything on your social media sites that would damage your claim;
never give contact information to your claims adjuster - friends, spouse’s, or doctor’s; and
if you don’t know the answer to a question, don’t guess – just say you don’t know.

Insurance adjusters may seem nice on the phone, and some of them are, in fact, genuinely nice people, but they’re looking out for their employer’s interests, not yours. The easiest way to avoid giving too much data to the insurance company is to speak to them through your attorney.

Help with Your New Orleans Injury Claim – Contact Louisiana Attorneys

After your car has crashed in New Orleans, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties about automobile insurance claims.

Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

What kind of information should I gather at the scene of my car accident?

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

What to do after a car accident isn’t always obvious. You may have to tend to injuries or to make auto repairs. A New Orleans auto accident attorney can help if you decide to file a personal injury claim against the other driver. There are some pieces of information you should collect at the scene of the car accident to help your attorney support your case.

5 Things to Gather after Your Car Accident and What to do with It

Assuming you aren’t seriously hurt at the accident, you should:

collect the full names, driver’s license numbers, contact information, and license plate numbers of all drivers involved;
call the police even if no one seems injured or there appears to be no property damage;
take photos of everything at the accident scene including the cars involved, road conditions, debris, signs in the area, any injuries, etc.;
write down or audio record eyewitness accounts and make sure to also collect their names and contact information; and
seek medical attention even if you do not feel hurt or have any visible injuries.

Take copious notes about every detail at the crash site such as:

the weather and road conditions;
the behavior of the other driver leading up to the accident and afterward; and
the condition of the vehicles involved. Give all of these records to the personal injury legal team you hire.

By reading this list you will know what to do after a car accident. Don’t miss out on compensation because you did not have the proper evidence to back up your claim. In the time following a car accident, what to do afterward can seem overwhelming. Let an attorney take care of fighting for your rights.

Get Legal Help Now – Contact a New Orleans Auto Accident Attorney

As the victim of a car accident in New Orleans we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future, like what to do after a car accident. Auto accident attorneys Timothy J. Young,Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

A Closer Look At The Causes Of Louisiana 18-Wheeler Crashes

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

In many Louisiana traffic accidents, the cause of the crash is driver error, negligence or recklessness. When it comes to accidents with commercial vehicles, and more particularly with tractor-trailers or dump trucks, car occupants often suffer very serious injuries and need all the help they can get to obtain adequate compensation.
Two things are important at this point:

Your accident may have been caused or aggravated by a mechanical failure of the truck.
If so, the motor carrier operating the truck may be held liable for part or all of the damages you sustained.

Mechanical failure
Far too often after a Louisiana crash involving a tractor-trailer, the damaged vehicles are removed from the scene without further examination. However, a skilled mechanical failure analyst and accident reconstruction expert may be able to determine what parts and components of the truck were damaged in the crash, and what parts were damaged, failed or dysfunctional before the accident happened.
The investigation requires a balanced combination of accident forensics and reconstruction to determine, for instance, if the truck’s brake system was operating properly before the crash, even though part of the system is now wrecked. Tires can be inspected to distinguish damage caused by the crash from problems with their condition prior to the collision.
For victims of serious Louisiana truck crashes, a thorough examination of the causes and circumstances of the accident is crucial. Only an experienced truck accident attorney can offer the support they need to claim and obtain adequate compensation.
If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Also request our FREE lawyer book, “A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.”

Louisiana Motorists and Kicking Tires

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

You would not go hiking in the mountains without the right shoes. You know these shoes are essential because they provide the grip, sturdiness and cushioning to protect your feet, support your ankles and keep you from sliding down steep slopes.
Your car’s tires are not much different. They keep you on the road and on the right track. Like your shoes, they are submitted to daily mistreatment and abuse. They need your attention if you don’t want them to fail you at the worse possible moment. What should you do to prevent breakdowns and serious Louisiana accidents?

Inspect your tires every month and before any long trip, checking for proper air pressure, uneven wear, cracks and cuts, and foreign objects like glass or nails;
Check the tire information placard or your vehicle manual to find the maximum recommended pressure for the front and rear tires;
Go to a gas or service station to inflate or deflate your tires and bring them to the appropriate pressure. Make sure all valves have caps;
Verify the tire tread on all your tires at various places. If the tread is less than 1/16^th inch, your tires must be replaced. Front tires usually wear out faster than rear tires.

Tires lose air over time, and the pressure of your tires will vary if they are cold or warm. You should always have a tire pressure gauge in your car and check the pressure when tires are cold, i.e. before you start driving your car.
If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Also be sure to order our FREE lawyer book, “A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.”

Selecting a Louisiana Auto Insurance Policy

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you are a resident and own a car in the state of Louisiana, car insurance is required by law.Louisiana auto insurance laws state that you have car insurance in the event of a car accident. While auto insurance is mandatory, you do have the option to shop around to find a policy that fits your budget and offers the limits that are necessary for your family.

Comparison shopping is definitely recommended when selecting an auto insurance provider. Simply type “Louisiana auto insurance quotes” into your favorite search engine, and you are sure to find a number of websites that make this process quick and easy. You could also go the old-fashioned route and call up several insurance companies to ask for a quote over the phone.

Auto insurance policies can range substantially in price, depending on the insurer. There are several factors used by insurance companies when determining auto insurance rates, which include:

age;
sex;
marital status;
driving record;
prior claims record;
make, model, and age of vehicle; and
location.

When buying an auto insurance policy, you always have the option to increase your coverage beyond Louisiana’s minimum auto insurance requirements. You can also add an uninsured/underinsured motorist policy to your coverage to protect you in the event an accident in which the liable party cannot cover your expenses.

Get Legal Help Now – Contact a New Orleans Auto Accident Lawyer

Even if you feel you have the best insurance coverage possible, you may need the assistance of an auto accident lawyer when filing an insurance claim. As the victim of an auto accident in New Orleans, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. New Orleans auto accident lawyers Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Filing a UM Insurance Claim after a Recent Car Accident in Louisiana

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) insurance is a policy that you can purchase from your insurance provider to protect you in the event of an accident with a driver who has no or insufficient insurance coverage. For example, if your lost wages and medical bills cost more than the other driver’s insurance limits allow, your UM insurance will kick in to make up the difference.

If you were involved in a recent car accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist, you should immediately file a claim with your own insurance company. It is important to note that you will only receive compensation from your UM coverage if the other driver is at fault for the accident. A Louisiana personal injury lawyer can investigate your case to gather evidence proving that the other driver’s actions or negligence resulted in the motor vehicle collision.

Some insurance providers may attempt to deny or even reduce your UM claim. For this reason, having an injury lawyer on your side is highly recommended. Your Louisiana injury lawyer can review your coverage information to determine if your insurer is breaching your contract. He or she will also ensure that the correct paperwork is filed to expedite the claims process.

Get Legal Help Now – Contact a New Orleans Personal Injury Lawyer

If you were involved in a vehicle accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, you should contact an attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana, for assistance. As the victim of a truck car accident in Louisiana, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

5 Steps for Buying Uninsured Motorist Car Insurance in Louisiana

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you were involved in an accident with an uninsured motorist you should seek advice from a New Orleans lawyer to help you recover compensation. Having uninsured motorist coverage can help you avoid taking legal action. However, many people don’t know where to start when purchasing car insurance.

5 Steps When Selecting Car Insurance

It’s advisable to consider uninsured an underinsured motorist coverage when buying car insurance. If you do decide to purchase it, there are 5 things that you should do first.

Decide how much coverage you need. This can vary by state, type of vehicle and what kind of driver you are.
Review your current policy. If you already have insurance take note of how much you’re paying and what type of coverage you currently have.
Check your driving record. Request a report from your local DMV. A lot of speeding tickets or other fines could cause you to pay more for insurance.
Shop around. The internet makes it incredibly easy to compare insurance prices. Don’t go with the first quote you receive.
Look for discounts. Research discount programs insurance companies offer that you may qualify for such as for students, good drivers, military, etc.

Purchasing insurance is an important and often expensive decision that cannot be put off. You’ll need insurance to drive legally whether you decide to purchase uninsured motorist coverage or not. If you were involved in an accident with an uninsured motorist a New Orleans lawyer could help you file a claim.

Get Legal Help Now – Contact an New Orleans Uninsured Motorist Lawyer

As the victim of a uninsured motorist accident in New Orleans we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Louisiana Motor Carriers Could Save Money Investing In Safety

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you can’t fight them, join them seems to be the maxim followed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) when it tries to persuade trucking companies to invest more time, money and effort in safety. If the pain and suffering of those injured in devastating truck crashes isn’t reason enough, the FMCSA talks about money, a language all motor carriers understand.
The truth is that truck accidents cost motor carriers dearly. The FMCSA, on its website, highlights the huge additional volume ($5 million) that a motor carrier with a 2 percent margin (trucking companies are typically high-volume and low-margin businesses) needs to generate to compensate a loss of $100,000. In a truck accident, damages of $100,000 could be on the low side, if you consider all the direct and indirect costs that may result from a Louisiana tractor-trailer crash, such as:

Third party liability: medical costs, therapies, disability compensation, loss of wages, material damage, wrongful death damages, emergency rescue costs, etc.
Damage to tractor, or trailer, or both
Damaged or lost cargo
Towing expenses
Administrative costs
Commercial costs (non execution of delivery contract)
Truck driver related costs: workers’ compensation, hiring and training of new driver, loss of personal items, etc.
Accident investigation and reconstruction
Legal costs and expert advice
Higher insurance premiums and deductible
Fines and penalties
Negative public relations and publicity

Struggling trucking companies often try to cut corners and save money by scrapping programs and systems that are essential to the safety of their drivers, and other motorists. The above list should convince them that they are on the wrong track.
If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book, “A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.”

Why Hiring a Louisiana Injury Lawyer after a Truck-Car Accident is Beneficial

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you were recently injured in a commercial motor vehicle accident in Louisiana, you may decide to deal with the insurance companies on your own in order to collect compensation for your expenses. However, it may be worth hiring an experienced Louisiana injury law firm to ensure that your best interests are protected and to have a chance at recovering the maximum amount necessary for your health care bills and lost wages.

Most Louisiana injury lawyers are familiar with both personal injury and insurance law. Personal injury law is extremely complex because evaluating the costs associated with injuries sustained in a truck-car accident can be difficult. Your lawyer knows the amount of compensation that should be recovered for each type of injury.

For example, if your collision resulted in a back injury, your lawyer may know that this type of injury requires long-term rehabilitation and take this into account when requesting a settlement.

Your lawyer also can deal with the insurance companies to negotiate a fair settlement for your losses. He or she can read the coverage limits and request the entire amount to help you pay for your accident-related expenses. Because Louisiana injury lawyers deal with insurance companies on a regular basis, they know how to handle claims and what to do if the offered settlement is unfair.

Get Legal Help Now – Contact Louisiana Injury Lawyer

Dealing with legal matters after a commercial vehicle accident is probably the last thing you want to do. As the victim of a truck car accident in Louisiana, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 1-504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

What to Do (and Say) When an Insurance Adjuster Calls for Your Louisiana Accident Reports

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

After an auto accident an insurance adjuster may contact you for a recorded statement. They will most likely ask about the accident reports and any car crash injuries you might have sustained. Before you talk to an adjuster, it’s in your best interest to speak to a New Orleans personal injury attorney.

When an Insurance Adjuster Calls about Your Louisiana Car Crash Injuries

Understand that anything you say to the insurance adjuster can be used against you and remember these things:

don’t talk to an adjuster without first consulting with a New Orleans personal injury lawyer;
don’t trust an adjuster when they say they’re trying to help you because adjusters work for the insurance company and will only protect their interests;
don’t discuss the accident reports or any car crash injuries with the adjuster as they may try to ask you leading questions about what happened and get you to admit something that will hurt your case; and
don’t send them any car crash pictures or other evidence that they might request.

By sticking to these guidelines, you can better support your personal injury claim and protect yourself from the insurance companies. If you have questions about what to do when an insurance adjuster calls a New Orleans personal injury attorney can help you.

Get Legal Help Now – Contact a New Orleans Personal Injury Attorney

As the victim of a auto accident in New Orleans, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Do You Need a Lawyer after a Louisiana Bicycle Accident?

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Cyclists hop on their bikes because it is a fun, healthy and quite convenient way of going quickly from one place to another. For others, it is a sport, a very complete outdoors workout to train and develop their muscles and cardiovascular health. Whatever the motivation, accidents are not part of it.

Unfortunately, even if bicycle accidents do not happen very frequently, they can have very serious consequences, because the cyclist is so poorly protected in case of a crash or a fall. Many bicycle accident victims end up with broken bones, brain injury, road rash, or internal injuries.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious bicycle crash in Louisiana, you need to talk to a reputable New Orleans bicycle accident law firm, for several reasons:

You need to prove fault. Your claim rests on your ability to prove that the other party was at fault, whether you collided with a car, were victim of a hit-and-run accident, fell because of unmarked dangerous road conditions, or were struck by another cyclist. Proving fault requires immediate action on the scene and afterwards to collect evidence, reports and testimonies;
Your medical file must be airtight. You need to build your medical case to maximize your chances of getting just compensation, whatever the complexities of the medical issues you are facing. This requires the skills and medical proficiency of an experienced personal injury law firm.
You need lawyers who know how to deal with insurance companies. Insurance adjusters use time-tested methods to make you accept a settlement that is often much lower than the one to which you are entitled. Our firm knows what to expect from insurance companies and how to counter their tactics and threaten them with litigation if necessary.
You want attorneys who are ready to fight. Successful law firms reach a just settlement because of their determination and perseverance. This is not just a question of hard work, but of fighting spirit.

If you have been hurt in a bicycle, car, truck or motorcycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book, A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

Safer Cars Result In Much Lower Injury Claims In Louisiana

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Vehicle Characteristics and Auto Injury Claims is the title of a report on a new study by the Insurance Research Council (IRC) that looked at the types of passenger protection systems present in insured vehicles, and put them in relation to the extent of the injuries sustained in accidents. For motorists concerned about their own safety and that of their loved ones, the conclusions of the study show how effective recent restraint systems are in limiting the injuries sustained in car crashes, in Louisiana and in other states.

Safer vehicles

The sample study of 14,000 auto injury claims first found how rapidly the transition to new safety systems took place. In 1990 model cars, 80 percent had safety belts but no airbags, and only 20 percent had airbags. From the 1998 model year on, all passenger vehicles were equipped with front airbags, while 11 percent had both front and side airbags. In 2007 models, 82 percent had front and side airbags.

Lower injury claims

Researchers compared the size of injury claims with the presence of front and/or side airbags in vehicles. The analysis demonstrated that drivers and passengers were less likely to sustain serious injuries, to receive hospital treatment, to become disabled or to be killed in vehicles fitted with front and side airbags.

The improved safety of car occupants resulted in a significant drop in auto injury claims. The average Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claim for vehicles with seatbelts but without airbags was $6,994. For vehicles with front airbags, it was $5,308, or 24 percent less, and for vehicles equipped with front and side airbags, $4,457, or 36 percent less.

According to Elizabeth Sprinkel, Senior Vice-President of the IRC, “These favorable trends have helped offset some of the pressure caused by the accelerating cost of medical treatment for auto injuries.”

If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book, A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

Still Too Many Truck Underride Crashes In Louisiana

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Accidents with tractor-trailers in Louisiana often result in serious or critical injuries for car occupants because of a truck’s size and weight.

The weight

Slamming into a semi-truck’s cab is like hitting a concrete wall, and the violence of the impact can kill or seriously hurt the car’s occupants while leaving the truck driver virtually unhurt. A fully loaded semi-truck weighs up to 80,000 pounds, easily twenty times the weight of a car with passengers. A tractor-trailer is also predominantly made of heavy steel parts that do not easily crumple or deform when colliding.

The size

Unfortunately for Louisiana motorists, the size of an 18-wheeler also plays a significant role in the seriousness of injuries. When a passenger vehicle strikes a trailer, on the rear end or on the side, the collision often results in a trailer underride. In such a case, the lower part of the passenger vehicle penetrates deeply under the trailer, while its weaker upper part is sheared off or crushed by the trailer’s steel structure.

Tractor-trailers are supposed to have steel underride guards at the back of the trailer to prevent such underride crashes. There are no rules to impose guards on the sides of trailers.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has conducted crash tests showing that rear underride guards on trailers often fail even in low-speed collisions. Most cars have a front-end structure that is designed to absorb a large amount of crash energy while protecting the car’s occupants. When hitting the back of a tractor-trailer, the well-designed crumple zone of a passenger car is of no use if the truck’s rear guard is not strong enough to resist the impact. The car will underride the trailer, with disastrous effects.

IIHS is now actively campaigning to have the government require stronger standards for trailer underride guards.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book, A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

Some Louisiana Drivers Had Better Slow Down

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Whereas across the country speeding accounts for 31 percent of total car accident fatalities, in Louisiana the number of people killed in speeding accidents represents 35 percent of all traffic fatalities. Of the 288 Louisiana motorists who died in 2009 (the latest published statistics available) in speeding-related accidents, 257 were killed on non-interstate roads, and 31 on interstates.

Speeding is a serious factor in car accidents. At a speed of 65 mph or greater, a crash is twice as likely to result in death than at a speed of 45 to 50 mph, and almost five times as likely as an accident at a speed of 40 mph or less.

Most drivers routinely exceed the posted speed limits by 5, 10 or even 15 miles. On Interstate highways, a 5 mph excess may not make a huge difference, but 15 mph will. Each time a driver exceeds the limit by 5 mph, the distance required to stop the vehicle increases by 44 feet! Exceeding the legal speed limit on non-interstate highways has even bigger consequences, as the above-mentioned statistics show. Rural and feeder roads are much narrower and crisscrossed by other roads and driveways. The probability of an unforeseen obstacle is much higher on such roads, and there usually is very little room to escape sudden hazards.

There are many other reasons why speeding has such a major impact on the severity of accidents. Speeding:

Increases the risk of crashes because others do not adequately judge the time and distance available to them;
Increases the distance traveled before the driver recognizes a hazard and reacts;
Increases dramatically the distance required to stop on a wet surface or with worn tires or deficient brakes;
Reduces the driver’s ability to maneuver in curves or around obstacles.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book, A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

Auto Insurance Coverage Minimums in Louisiana

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

In Louisiana, the law mandates that drivers have auto insurance coverage for each vehicle that they own. When you file a claim, car insurance providers often look for reasons to deny you coverage. When that happens, you need a New Orleans personal injury lawyer who can build a clear and compelling case that demonstrates your eligibility for your insurance coverage.

Louisiana State Law Minimums for Auto Insurance

The minimum bodily injury liability coverage limits are $15,000 per person up to $30,000 per accident, and property damage liability coverage in the minimum amount of $25,000 per accident.

Uninsured and underinsured motorist bodily injury (UM) and uninsured and underinsured motorist property damage (UMPD) are additional types of coverage. Your auto insurance carrier is required by law to offer you these coverage options, and if you do not wish to have them, you must sign a form and officially reject it in writing.

If you have been in an accident, speak with a New Orleans personal injury lawyer about the auto accident insurance claims process for a consultation about your case, in which you provide details about your claim and an attorney will furnish you with some car accident information that will help you better understand the claims handling process.

Get Legal Help Now – Contact a New Orleans Personal Injury Lawyer

When you’ve been in an accident, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Auto accident insurance claims attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties about your claim. Car insurance cases can be complex and frustrating. Before you hire an attorney, order this injury and car accident information guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Types of Compensation Available to a Passenger after an Accident in Lafayette

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have been in an accident in Lafayette, LA, an attorney who is based in New Orleans and handles cases for clients throughout the region can help if you were seriously injured as a passenger in a car. You may be entitled to compensation that addresses your financial, physical and emotional losses.

Passengers can pursue a claim against the driver if the driver was negligent in a road wreck. An example would be if the individual driving made an illegal u-turn and was struck by another vehicle. If you were seriously injured as a result, the driver may be found liable.

Collecting Compensation after an Accident in Lafayette, LA

Some of the types of compensation that you may be entitled to as a passenger who was injured while riding in a vehicle include:

current and future medical expenses;
current and future lost income (or earning potential);
pain and suffering;
disfigurement;
permanent disability;
mental anguish; and
other losses/expenses resulting from your accident/injuries.

If you want to know what to do after a car accident caused by your driver in Louisiana, you should immediately consult with a Louisiana injury law firm. He or she can explain how to protect your rights and what options may be available.

Injured in Lafayette, LA? Call an Attorney

As the victim of a Louisiana car accident, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Accident attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 1-504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Uncovering The Truth After A Serious Louisiana Truck Wreck

Sun, 11 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Accidents with 18-wheelers in Louisiana often leave a trail of devastation. Over 85 percent of the people killed or severely injured in car crashes involving tractor-trailers are the occupants of the car. Determining who is at fault and liable for damage caused to the other party becomes a crucial question, and the stakes are very high.

Your truck accident case must rest on solid foundations.

In many accidents involving large trucks, the motor carrier who operates the truck will send its inspectors to the scene immediately after the crash. They will remove from the scene all evidence that might point to negligence or errors that may have caused or aggravated the crash. After a serious accident with a tractor-trailer, two things are essential to save your case:

Speed
A top-rated truck accident lawyer with great experience in fighting motor carriers and their insurers.

What kind of information do inspectors find on the scene of a truck crash?

Clues from the scene: Debris, tire marks, pavement condition, traffic signage, accident reconstruction, etc.

Truck inspection: Load, tires, brakes, leaks, mileage, head- and taillights, horn, blinkers, license plate, truck equipment like GPS or electronic onboard recorder, and driver personal items like cell phone, video screen, laptop, medication or drugs.

Paper trail: Logbook, weigh station slips, messages to and from the motor carrier, dispatch records, commercial driver license, insurance, lease agreement, and tractor and trailer title.

Much more information will become available when the motor carrier is requested to show records about the driver, the trip and the truck and trailer. This is only possible if the evidence uncovered at the scene points towards negligence on the part of the driver or the trucking company.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book, “A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.”

How Safe Is Your Car In A Collision In Louisiana?

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Each year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests new vehicles, from small cars to vans and pickup trucks, in order to rate the protection they offer according to the 5-Star Safety Rating System. The frontal and side impact crash tests are the first approaches to determining the vehicle’s crashworthiness, or the way buckled-up test dummies are impacted when submitted to various types of collision simulations.

Frontal Crash Testing

The vehicle crashes head-on into a fixed barrier at 35 mph. Test dummies are fitted with sensors that measure the force of the impact to the head, neck, chest, pelvis, legs and feet. Computer software processes the resulting information to produce a level of likelihood that the car occupant has suffered a serious injury. A serious injury is defined as one that requires immediate hospital care and may be life threatening. The chances of occupants receiving serious injuries are given a star rating as follows:

10 percent or less chance: 5-star rating
11 to 20 percent chance: 4-star rating
21 to 35 percent chance: 3-star rating
36 to 45 percent chance: 2-star rating
46 percent or greater chance: 1-star rating

Side Crash Testing

This test simulates an intersection collision with a three-thousand-pound barrier moving at 38.5 mph into the side of a standing vehicle. This vehicle has dummies in the front and back seats. The overall likelihood of an occupant sustaining injuries is higher in a side impact than in a frontal collision, which is why the star ratings reflect lower probabilities:

5 percent or less chance: 5-star rating
6 to 10 percent chance: 4-star rating
11 to 20 percent chance: 3-star rating
21 to 25 percent chance: 2-star rating
26 percent or greater chance: 1-star rating

Look at the NHTSA website for more details on safety ratings, what they mean and how car models and classes compare.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Also order now our FREE lawyer book, “A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.”

Louisiana Trucks Don't Want To Watch Their Weight

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

As if passenger car crashes with 18-wheelers in Louisiana weren't scary enough, overloaded trucks present even more danger. Hauling cargo weighing more than the limit authorized by federal and state authorities dramatically increases not only the odds of an accident, but also the damage inflicted on those involved.

Interstate traffic is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The FMCSA rules are very detailed and relatively well enforced. Well-managed large motor carrier companies abide by the rules because they know that a high accident rate is very costly in the end. However, others do not. There are many loopholes. A lot of cargo coming into the country through the port of New Orleans is hauled on trucks that do not stop at weigh stations because they are closed more hours than they are open.

Intrastate traffic is even worse. Apart from the port, weigh stations are usually located on the main highways where most of the interstate traffic is concentrated. Intrastate traffic travels mostly on secondary roads where there are no weigh stations. Construction firm trucks can operate for many years without ever stopping at a weigh station.

Even though overweight trucks cause a lot of damage to roadways and bridges, the State of Louisiana does not have the budget to adequately enforce the rules and inspect commercial vehicles operating intrastate.

Overloaded trucks are a great hazard to Louisiana motorists, and their owners should be held to account if they are involved in accidents.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book, "A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana."

Should you see a chiropractor after a Louisiana vehicle crash?

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a Louisiana vehicle crash you may be considering treatment from a chiropractor. Although chiropractic treatment may provide some relief, it is strongly advised that you first undergo an MRI or other diagnostic exam if you intend to file an auto accident insurance claim with the guidance of an attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans.

Whether your vehicle injuries occurred in New Orleans or elsewhere in Louisiana, The Young Firm can be of great assistance, as long as your injuries are serious enough to file a claim. Since we focus on serious claims, such as those involving nerve damage or inured discs, you should undergo diagnostic testing to determine the full extent of your injuries.

While chiropractic care can ease your discomfort, it can't cure damaged nerves or injured discs. In some cases, your best option for permanent relief may be surgery.

Serious vehicle injuries require:

orthopedic surgeons;
neurologists; and
neurosurgeons.

These professionals have the capability to order:

CT scans;
MRIs; and
nerve conduction studies.

These tests are needed in order to get a definitive diagnosis and plan your medical treatment after a vehicle crash. The associated costs should then be factored into your Louisiana auto accident insurance claim.

If your tests are normal, you may be advised to seek chiropractic treatment. Therefore, until you receive test results, you should avoid seeing a chiropractor.

Get Legal Help Now - Contact a Louisiana Attorney

As the victim of a vehicle crash, you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Documented Car Crashes Help LA Attorneys Save New Orleans Injury Claim

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Experienced LA attorneys who’ve dealt with car crashes, truck accidents, automobile damage and other motor vehicle mishaps will tell you that properly reporting the incident is of utmost importance, particularly when filing a personal injury or New Orleans injury claim.

Documentation of the incident can be invaluable when filing a suit for damages and compensation. Some of the ways you can help your case is to be sure:

The state or local law enforcement authorities are called to the scene so an accident report can be made.
You take steps to document the accident site, especially if police or state troopers are unable to make it to the scene. Use your cell phone to take pictures. Try to get names and phone numbers of individuals who witnessed the incident.
You receive formal medical treatment so your injuries are recorded. This may mean seeking immediate medical assistance if injured in car crashes. It’s important to follow up with your doctor every week so your injuries and symptoms are extensively documented.

Injured parties also should keep in mind that filing a New Orleans injury claim or a personal injury claim anywhere within the state needs to be done within 1 year of accidents. Automobile collisions, as LA attorneys can advise, fall under a statute of limitations, which does allow 2 years to file when dealing with UM claims.

Car crashes where someone is seeking damages should be discussed with LA attorneys.

Get Legal Help Now – Contact a LA Attorneys

As the victim of a personal injury accident in Louisiana, you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

How you can Benefit from LA Attorneys Who Specialize in Car Crashes

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

LA attorneys schooled in handling New Orleans injury claims and personal injury cases as a result of car crashes may help guide injured motorists through the maze of Louisiana’s statute of limitations

Accidents in automobiles, trucks or other motor vehicles where probable negligence is involved could be a solid case for a personal injury suit. Louisiana requires individuals seeking compensation for accidents in automobiles file their suit within 1 year. If the personal injury case is with an uninsured motorist (UM) and damages are sought then there is a 2-year window for filing suit.

UM Rules and Rights

Damages may be sought from your own UM insurance if a negligent motorist does not have adequate coverage to pay for all of your losses. LA attorneys specializing in personal injury and New Orleans injury claims should be able to outline the laws governing UM in Louisiana.

A couple laws that govern UM in Louisiana include the McDill Tender Requirement and the Good Faith Deal. The McDill Tender Requirement states that your insurance company is required to offer a fair settlement as soon as you provide evidence of a viable claim under your UM insurance coverage.

The Good Faith Deal states that you may file a claim against your insurance company if it fails to deal with you in good faith when handling your UM claim. This only applies to your insurance company and not the other driver’s.

Get Legal Help Now – Contact LA Attorneys

As the victim of a personal injury accident in Louisiana, you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

How Seat Belt Laws Are Used in Louisiana Motor Vehicle Accidents Claim

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Motor vehicle accidents in Louisiana are not uncommon and while most don't result in serious injuries, some can. When you have been injured in a bad car accident and face expensive medical care and treatment, you could be entitled to compensation. You should discuss your case with a New Orleans attorney who handles these types of claims.

Seat belt laws in Louisiana could impact your recovery of damages after an accident. It is against the law to operate or occupy a vehicle without a seatbelt. Therefore, the insurance company will likely use this as a reason either to diminish or deny your claim.

This is especially true if your injuries are severe. The other side's attorney may use your violation of the seat belt law as a way to argue that the injuries wouldn't have been as bad had you been wearing one.

If you normally would have been entitled to receive $10,000 in damages, your failure to wear a seatbelt may reduce it. That amount will depend on several factors. However, any loss in damages could mean the difference between covering all of your medical bills and not.

Claims involving motor vehicle accidents in Louisiana may be impacted by seat belt laws. To learn what options are available and if you have a legitimate claim, you should contact a New Orleans attorney who handles car accident cases.

Get Legal Help Now - Contact a New Orleans Attorney

As the victim of a Louisiana car accident, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Accident attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 1-504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

What Kind of Damages Can You Claim After a Car Accident in Louisiana?

Sat, 19 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The first priority of victims of a serious Louisiana car accident is to get the best medical treatment and to support one another. After a while, though, the question arises of how the victims and their loved ones can be compensated for what they are going through. Medical bills pile up, the car has been totaled, there is no income, and the process of healing and recovery is expected to be long and expensive. Provided that all the facts point towards the other party as being at fault, there are two types of compensatory damages that victims may claim.

Special damages

These are damages that can be expressed in monetary terms, and correspond to actual expenses or losses incurred. Typically, they include:

Medical and hospitalization expenses;
Wages and other professional income lost during incapacity to work;
Costs to repair or replace property, such as the wrecked vehicle or other personal items;
Costs of substitute transportation;
Costs of at-home help, therapies and other support services.

General damages

General damages seek to compensate the victim for direct negative consequences of the accident, damages that cannot be expressed or evidenced in monetary terms. Common general damages are:

Permanent disability or impairment;
Disfigurement;
Hard-to-predict future losses, such as loss of income, medical expenses, disability and adaptive services;
Loss of consortium, which means the loss of the benefits of a relationship;
Pain and suffering.

It takes a skilled and experienced personal injury attorney to determine what you can and should claim in general damages, based on your case, the court and jury, past awards in similar circumstances and the way the arguments are brought forward.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Also order now our FREE lawyer book, A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

How Qualified Are Louisiana Truck Drivers?

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Every once in a while, a major Louisiana truck wreck makes the headlines, followed by a sad report of terrible injuries, material damage, and ruined lives. While slightly more than half of all serious accidents involving trucks are caused by other vehicles, truck drivers bear a great responsibility. In more than 85 percent of all passenger car accidents with large trucks, the fatally injured victims are occupants of the passenger cars.

Hiring, selecting and training qualified truck drivers are some of the most important duties of a motor carrier's management. What are the minimum legal requirements to drive a tractor-trailer?

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, all truck drivers must at least:

Be 21 years old or older;
Be able to speak and read English in order to converse with the public, understand traffic rules and signals, answer official questions and make reports and record entries required by regulations;
Have a valid CDL (commercial driver license), and not more than one;
Present a valid medical certificate;
Be able to drive safely;
Know how to load, stow and secure cargo;
Present a list of all traffic violations or a signed statement that the driver has not been convicted of violations in the last 12 months;

Every motor carrier needs to keep an updated Driver Qualification File that includes the driver's application for employment, employment and driving records of the last three years, a road test certificate and medical records. This file can be a crucial source of evidence of a driver or motor carrier's liability after a serious and devastating tractor-trailer crash.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Also order our FREE lawyer book, A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

Louisiana Bicycle Crashes Analyzed

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The fatal bicycle accident rate per million population stands at 2.49 in Louisiana, higher than the U.S. average of 2.35. This is not a good result, not only because it is higher than the average, but also because bicycle use in Louisiana is much lower than in many other U.S. states.

Bicycle accident injuries are very serious, and can often be fatal. It is important to look at the results of a 2009 nationwide study to see how the number of bicycle crashes in Louisiana can be lowered:

Age
In 1998 the average age of cyclists killed in traffic accidents was 32, whereas the age of those injured was 24. The corresponding figures in 2008 had increased to 41 and 28 respectively.

Whereas children (aged 16 or less) accounted for 30 percent of all fatalities and 44 percent of all injured victims in 1998, these proportions had dropped in 2008 to 13 percent and 25 percent.

Alcohol
The impact of alcohol on bicycle accidents is high. Twenty-three percent of all fatally injured cyclists in 2008 had a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher.

Gender
Bicycle accidents are a male thing. Males account for 87 percent of all fatalities and 79 percent of all crashes with injuries.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck, motorcycle or bicycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book, "A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana."

Louisiana Motorists Should Know What A Safe Car Means

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Negligent or reckless drivers cause many serious traffic accidents in Louisiana. There is, however, much you can do to reduce the odds of being killed or injured in a car crash. You could drive a safer car, for instance. What should you look for when you decide to buy a safer car?

Motorists understand mostly what passive safety systems are: seat belts, head restraints, and air bags are essential features that will protect you in case of an accident.

How do active safety systems work? Systems like ABS (anti-lock brake systems) or ESC (electronic stability control) are called "active" because they actively replace the driver's action. Being much faster and more efficient than anything the driver could do, they work on the brakes, and sometimes on the engine, to correct the vehicle's path and prevent accidents from happening.

ABS

If you slam on the brakes and lock the wheels, your car will skid forward no matter in which direction you steer the wheels. This happens very often on wet or icy pavement. With ABS, the electronic controls will apply force on the brakes just enough to lower the car's speed, but release it as soon as the wheels lock. This happens in a continuous on-and-off cycle up to 16 times per second. ABS powered brakes do not prevent you from crashing if a crash is unavoidable, but they will reduce your speed in the shortest possible time and allow you to steer the car away from an obstacle.

ESC

This system controls the brakes of each wheel separately. When you lose control of your vehicle in a curve and start over- or under-steering, the system's sensors apply a different brake force on each wheel to correct the vehicle's path. In upper-end models, ESC may also control the engine's power to help regain control of the vehicle.

Safety officials estimate that ESCs reduce single-vehicle and rollover crashes by as much as 50 percent.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order our FREE lawyer book now: A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

Assessing Pre-Existing Conditions after Louisiana Crashes

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Injuries sustained in Louisiana car crashes should be taken seriously, even if you feel fine, and especially if you have a pre-existing injury. If you are injured in a motor vehicle injury, you should discuss your legal options with a Louisiana attorney from The Young Firm, which serves clients throughout the state.

Louisiana Crashes: Medical Treatment for a Motor Vehicle Injury

If you plan to pursue an auto insurance claim settlement, you have to prove that you suffered new injuries or aggravated an old injury because of someone else's negligence. To prove your injuries, your Louisiana attorney may recommend that you undergo any of the following diagnostic tests, which can be compared to old tests that you may have underwent in the past:

MRI - this will screen for injured neck or back discs, tendon or ligament damage in joints, other soft tissue damage, and closed head injuries.
X-ray - this is helpful for diagnosing broken bones, but not soft tissue damage.
EMG/NCS - this nerve conduction study is usually performed on your arms and legs to diagnose nerve injuries

When your current MRI, for example, is compared with a past MRI, the full extent of your injuries can be realized, increasing your chances of a fair auto insurance claim settlement. Consequently, having a pre-existing condition can lead to a solid evidence-based personal injury claim.

Get Legal Help Now - Contact a Louisiana Attorney

As the victim of a motor vehicle injury, you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Louisiana Doesn't Need Bigger Trucks

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The weight limit on 18-wheelers stands at 80,000 pounds. Trucks that weigh more, or are over the size limitations set by federal and state authorities can only take the road under a permit for a specific duration and on a specific route. The majority of motorists, wary of deadly tractor-trailer crashes in Louisiana, do not want to see these limits lifted to please the motor carrier industry and their lobbyists.

This is, however, precisely what happened recently in Vermont and Maine, where a one-year truck weight exemption has evolved into a permanent ruling allowing trucks on their highways weighing up to 100,000 pounds. This decision was taken without regard to the damage to the infrastructure and the serious safety issues resulting from overweight trucks.

What is the problem with super-heavy trucks?

Oversized and overweight double-trailer trucks create additional hazards that are very serious:

They take a very long time to get up to speed, need more distance to stop, and require far more space to turn and change lanes;
When super-heavy trucks do crash, the resulting damage is even worse than that created by regular 18-wheelers;
For passenger car drivers, passing an oversized truck is even more risky than passing a tractor-trailer. Most of the huge area around a super-heavy truck is a blind zone;
Double-trailer trucks are difficult to operate, the end-trailer is likely to swing back and forth, and control over the trailers becomes impossible in emergency situations.

Truck drivers often work under great pressure to meet deadlines or make ends meet. Motor carriers often cut corners hiring under-qualified drivers or skipping maintenance work. With super-heavy trucks in their hands, this would be a recipe for disaster.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck, motorcycle or bicycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book, "A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana".

Can You Change Louisiana Teens' Attitude To Risk?

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Louisiana teens have heard it a thousand times. Parents, teachers and officials unite in a relentless effort to hammer the same message into their heads over and over: drive safely, don't drink and drive, fasten your seatbelt.

All this has not prevented Louisiana traffic accidents from causing of 44 percent of all teenage fatalities. What is wrong with teens?

Do teens have a brain problem?

As it is, researchers studying the development of the brain during adolescence do not believe there is a problem; they only think that all the different brain systems mature at different times. Even though adolescents are perfectly capable of intellectually understanding the risks involved in driving a car, they may lack the brain development to restrain impulses and risky behavior, a brain system researchers believe will only be fully mature at the age of 25.

What should parents do?

Parents need to become more involved. The first 500 miles a teen drives are the deadliest, during which they are ten times more likely to crash than an adult.

Parents should continue to drive with their teenager long after they have earned their license. If you see that your son or daughter makes bad decisions, does not anticipate dangers, or hesitates and is nervous, think of what will happen when four or five friends are in the car, with loud music on and talking on cell phones.

Set restrictions on your teen's driving privileges, meet with their friends' parents to be on the same page, and practice driving with them as much as you can. Put them behind the wheel each time you travel with them and keep pointing out danger zones and situations.

Each hour they practice with an adult reduces the risks of accidents; do not hesitate to offer them more driving lessons if you don't have enough time to do it yourself.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck, motorcycle or bicycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book, "A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana".

Cargo Falling From Commercial Trucks Causes Massive Damage

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Over twenty thousand crashes every year are caused by cargo falling off or spilled by trucks. Tractor-trailers, flatbed, dumper and tanker trucks haul millions of tons of cargo every day, from steel pipes or coils to gasoline and chemicals, from boxed electronics to construction materials, from cotton bales to live poultry. Hundreds of Louisiana motorists have been seriously hurt when hit by, or trying to avoid, cargo spilled on the highway.

The motor carrier industry is heavily regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and they devote an entire section on General Cargo Securement, which puts the responsibility of properly securing the transported goods squarely on the motor carriers' shoulders.

Unfortunately, both truck drivers who are paid by the mile and motor carriers with an eye on the bottom line often fail to inspect the way the goods are secured in the trailer, and do not rearrange the cargo distribution and securement when part of it has been offloaded, creating a dangerous instability.

If the trailer's cargo shifts in a sharp curve or when the driver slams on the brakes, the resulting shock may cause the trailer to roll over or the cargo to spill onto the highway.

When a semi-truck is involved in a serious accident, it is not unusual for part of its cargo to spill or fall on the road, which can cause terrible damage to the motor vehicles approaching the scene of the crash. Hazardous product spillage can lead to fire, explosions and toxic fumes injuring or killing many people.

On top of these threats to the safety of Louisiana motorists, seeking compensation from motor carriers can be an overwhelming experience for which the assistance of an experienced truck accident attorney might be crucial.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck, motorcycle or bicycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book "A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana."

Protect Your Claim for Traffic Accident in Baton Rouge by Buckling Up

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

You may have a hard time pursuing compensation if you weren't wearing a seatbelt during the time of your traffic accident in Baton Rouge. As your law firm can explain, failure to wear a seatbelt is a violation of state law, and the defense may use this against you to minimize or deny your insurance settlement for a car accident.

Reasons to Wear Your Seatbelt

In addition to wearing your seatbelt to protect your traffic accident claim, you should also wear it for these more important reasons:

to protect yourself from being ejected through the windshield in a head-on collision;
to save you from hitting the steering wheel or dashboard;
to keep you from moving about the vehicle in the event that it tumbles on impact; and
to increase your chances of survival.

When you don't wear your seatbelt and you suffer serious injuries in an accident caused by someone else's negligence in Baton Rouge, your law firm may have a tough time building your case for a fair insurance settlement. Car accident cases can often be very difficult, and when the defense has legitimate ammunition to use against you, that makes a case even more frustrating. To protect yourself and potential injury claims, wear your seatbelt.

Get Legal Help Now - Contact a Baton Rouge Law Firm

As the victim of a traffic accident in Louisiana, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 1-504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Louisiana Fender Bender to Major Collision: Protecting Your UM Claim

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

No matter the severity of your accident, insurance adjusters will try to reduce the auto claim settlement they have to payout regardless of whether it's a fender bender or a serious head-on car crash. When everyone is secure at the car accident scene, you should consult with an attorney, especially if the other driver was uninsured.

If you were in an accident with someone who is uninsured or underinsured, but you have uninsured motorist coverage (UM), then your insurance company may be responsible for paying for the damages from your accident.

Insurance companies aren't really your advocates when it comes to auto claim settlements. Adjusters try to minimize payout amounts to increase profit for the company.

If you have UM coverage, the adjusters have a real incentive to lower the amounts they pay out.

Insurance adjusters will ask you to give a recorded statement where they'll question you about:

the seriousness of your injuries;
the details of the car accident scene; and
whether or not you contributed to the crash.

Remember that anything you say can be used by the insurance companies to place fault on you and reduce the amount of your settlement.

In order to protect your UM claim, you should discuss your case with a Louisiana car accident attorney. For any kind of collision, from fender benders to motorcycle accidents, a lawyer can help prevent you from making costly mistakes with insurance adjusters.

Get Legal Help Now - Contact a Louisiana Car Accident Lawyer

As the victim of a car accident in Louisiana, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Who Is At Fault If You Hit a Pedestrian in Louisiana?

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

For Louisiana drivers, accidents with pedestrians are a frightening experience. Even at a low speed, say 20 miles per hour, a motor vehicle is likely to severely injure a pedestrian, especially children and elderly people who are more vulnerable. If the driver will often be physically unharmed in such a collision, the emotional distress and guilt are likely to stay with him or her for a long time.

Because of the severe, sometimes fatal, injuries often sustained by pedestrians who are hit by a car, it is important to determine who is at fault.

In general, the laws of negligence determine who is liable for an accident. Did the driver or the pedestrian exercise reasonable care? Did the driver disregard the speed limit, or did the pedestrian bolt onto the roadway without looking at the traffic?

Pedestrians walking on crosswalks have a right-of-way. In general, vehicles will be expected to yield to pedestrians who are already on the roadway, especially where crosswalks are non-existent. In most accidents involving pedestrians, it will be essential to get witnesses to report what they saw, because there will be little to no other evidence about the circumstances of the crash.

Frequently, both the car driver and the pedestrian will have contributed to the accident, and share the blame. In a "comparative negligence system" such as Louisiana's, the injured party will see its compensation reduced by the proportion of its own contribution to the accident.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck, motorcycle or bicycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Also be sure to order our FREE lawyer book "A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana".

Louisiana Teens Are Told to Beware of Large Trucks

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving tractor-trailer and other large truck safety on North America's roads.

Recognizing the importance of what it calls "the Wheels of Commerce" for the nation's economy, the CVSA also realizes how passenger car drivers, and especially young drivers, often put themselves in harm's way when they fail to understand the characteristics of large trucks.

Why do teens often fail to appreciate the dangers of large trucks?
For all the attention on truck driver fatigue and motor carriers disregarding safety regulations, the truth is that over two-thirds of truck-passenger car accidents are caused by passenger car drivers.

Young drivers in Louisiana are particularly prone to make mistakes leading to serious tractor-trailer crashes. There are several reasons for this:

A fully loaded 18-wheeler weighs up to 80,000 lbs. and requires a far greater distance to come to a stop than a passenger car. Cutting in front of a large truck can be lethal; if the traffic stops or slows down in front of you, you are very likely to be crushed by the rear-ending truck.
Large trucks do have large blind zones. In most cases when you are driving alongside or behind a truck, the truck driver doesn't know you are there and could change lanes or make a turn that would bring you on a collision course. Don't drive close to a truck for an extended period of time; slow down or accelerate to move your vehicle away.
Driving at the rear of a tractor-trailer is dangerous for two reasons: One, you don't see anything ahead of you, and won't notice that traffic is slowing down until it's too late; and two, a rear-ending crash with a trailer could result in a deadly underride crash, where you car is crushed underneath the trailer.
Semi-trailer trucks take wide turns, and need to first swing in one direction before turning in the opposite direction. When a truck signals an intention to turn, stay away from it as much as possible.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck, motorcycle or bicycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order our FREE lawyer book now: "A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana."

Louisiana Drivers Can Eliminate the Risk of Back-Over Accidents

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Every week in this country, 2 children are killed and another 48 are injured when cars back up along the curb, in parking lots or on driveways, because drivers do not see the small children while they are maneuvering.

More than three-quarters of the time, it is a parent or close relative who is driving the vehicle, which only makes the accident more tragic.

Back-over accidents in Louisiana have become more prevalent with bigger cars, like SUVs, pickup trucks or minivans, which have large blind spots, especially at the rear.

What most drivers do not realize is that the rear blind spot is much bigger than they might think, ranging from some 25 feet long for a minivan to 50 feet for a pickup truck. This is more than enough space for small children to come into harm's way.

How do you prevent back-over accidents?
The first precaution adults need to take when they maneuver a car in a place where children are present is to check around the vehicle, and make sure the children are under supervision while you back up. Children can very quickly move from one place to another, which means that checking around the vehicle before you get behind the wheel is not enough.

The other precaution is to install a rear-view video camera that gives you a comprehensive view of hazards, pets or children that might stand in the rear blind spot. Many new cars have such a system already installed, as well as a warning system that beeps with increasing frequency when the vehicle approaches an obstacle. The beepers alone do not offer sufficient protection to prevent back-overs, but a camera does. Aftermarket cameras are now available and can be installed on most vehicles.

Many motor vehicle accidents are preventable. Read our library and blog for tips on how to make sure that, if you have an accident, it won't be because you didn't do everything possible to prevent it.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck, motorcycle or bicycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Also order our FREE lawyer book "A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana."

Louisiana Motorists Can Do a Lot to Make Bicycling Safer

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Bicycling safety specialists know that the two foundation blocks of cyclist safety are:

An extended "biking only" infrastructure, and
A critical mass of cyclists, i.e. enough cyclists to change the attitudes of motorists.

We haven't reached that point yet, and there are still far too many car-bicycle crashes in Louisiana resulting in serious, sometimes fatal, injuries.

Bicycle riding must be encouraged. It is healthy and fun, and you can't beat the gas mileage. Whereas some cyclists seem to be reluctant to abide by the traffic code (as they should) and ride on the wrong side of the road or cross intersections without stopping for red lights or signs, most bikers take a defensive and cautious attitude, hoping motorists will do the same.

What can motorists do?

Motorists are a key factor in making New Orleans, Lafayette, Baton Rouge, Shreveport and other large city streets safe for bikers, if they only would:

Check for bikes before pulling out into traffic from a parking space;
Avoid squeezing bicyclists into narrow spaces. When passing a bicycle, leave at least 3 feet clearance;
Not pass a bicyclist right before making a right turn or coming to a stop;
Watch for approaching bicycles before opening the road-side car doors;
Give cyclists enough room to circumvent potholes, debris or other obstacles.

Bicyclists are even less protected than motorcyclists and should behave accordingly. Cycling is addictive, because it does so much good for your body and mind, but bikers are vulnerable to serious injuries like broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and road rash, and should wear the appropriate protective gear to limit the damage.

If you have been hurt in a car, truck, motorcycle or bicycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book, "A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana".

Insurance Company's Damaging Tactics after Louisiana Car Accidents

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you become a victim of one of the many Louisiana car accidents, you first should seek medical attention and then get in touch with an attorney at your Louisiana law firm to help you file a claim for the compensation you need and deserve.

Be aware that if you speak to an insurance company before speaking to an attorney, you may say something that could be used against you. This is because an insurance adjuster is trained to use tactics that can devalue your settlement.

3 Tips for Talking to Insurance Adjusters after Louisiana Car Accidents

Although insurance adjusters may seem friendly, helpful and looking out for your best interests, they aren't.

Don't give medical records.
Don't give details of your car accident.
Don't give permission to record your statements.

This is especially imperative if your case goes to trial because an insurance adjuster may be called to the witness stand, and if he/she has a recorded statement from you that is damaging, it can and most likely will be used against you.

Often, an insurance adjuster will try to find ways to misinterpret your words so you won't be able to collect a full settlement. The Young Law Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, is familiar with these insurance tactics and can successfully help you pursue a fair and full settlement for your injuries.

Get Legal Help Now - Contact Your Louisiana Law Firm

As the victim of bad car accidents in Louisiana, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 1-504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Louisiana Truck Underride Collisions Are Deadly

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Louisiana, with its busy waterway connections to the Gulf and the Mississippi, has some of the densest 18-wheeler traffic in the nation. Sharing the road with so many tractor-trailers and other heavy trucks brings its own set of risks, and Louisiana motorists do whatever they can to stay clear and avoid devastating semi-truck crashes.

Approximately 25 percent of the fatalities from accidents with tractor-trailers in Louisiana are caused by underride accidents, of which there are two types: side and rear underrides.

What are truck underride accidents?

An underride is when a passenger car hits a straight truck or the trailer of a tractor-trailer and runs under the truck. This type of collision can either flatten or sheer the car roof off, which may result in the car occupants being killed.

Side underride crashes frequently happen when visibility is poor (at night or during low sun-angle conditions) when a truck driver makes a U-turn, crosses a highway or attempts to enter into a side street. With the assumption that drivers of other vehicles can see them, the truck driver's slow maneuver can result in a devastating crash if oncoming drivers don't see the truck until it is too late.

Rear underride crashes are frequently caused when semi-trailers are parked on the side of the road or are slowing to exit a highway or merge with highway traffic. Traffic jams are another cause of rear underrides, often aggravated when taillights are not functioning, dirty or obscured by cargo. It is not uncommon for car drivers to fail to realize the speed difference between their fast moving car and a slow truck. Inattention during a couple of seconds may lead to a rear-end crash and underride.

If you have been hurt in a truck accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book "A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana."

Distracted Driving Is Alive and Well In Louisiana

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Recent car accident statistics continue to show that more than 20 percent, one in five, of traffic accidents resulting in injuries were reported as involving distracted driving. Twenty percent, in hard figures, means 5,474 people killed and 448,000 injured in distraction-related crashes.

Why is distracted driving still a major cause of car crashes in Louisiana?

When you drive a vehicle, there are three forms of distraction that can affect your driving ability:

Visual distraction: Your eyes are off the road.
Manual distraction: Your hands are not on the steering wheel.
Cognitive distraction: Your mind doesn't focus on driving any more.

You just got into the car with a steaming hot cup of coffee in your hand and, trying to maneuver out of the parking lot your cell phone starts ringing; what is likely to happen? Spilled coffee burning your knees and a knocked over cyclist you never saw coming might be one answer.

Of all the sources of distraction, and there are many, none are more dangerous than the ones that keep, at the same time, your eyes, your hands and your mind off your driving; distractions like:

Texting, or reading and sending emails on a cell phone;
Trying to navigate all the functionalities of your smart phone;
Searching or putting a destination into the (GPS) navigation system;
Eating and drinking;
Applying make-up;
Searching for a phone, towel, medication, glasses, etc. in the glove compartment or a handbag;
Grooming kids and keeping the Dalmatian dog under control.

In Louisiana, several laws attempt to curb the use of phones while driving:

A ban on handheld devices for drivers with a learner's permit or intermediate license. This ban is irrespective of the driver's age;
A ban on all cell phone use for bus drivers and for novice drivers, whether handheld or hands-free;
A ban on texting for all drivers.

Don't allow a simple distraction to ruin your or anyone else's life. Focus on your driving.

If you have been hurt in a car accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case. Order now our FREE lawyer book "A Guide To Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana."

Picture's Worth a Thousand Words in Your Louisiana Car Accident Claim

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and that very true when it comes to proving fault after a serious road accident injury. In New Orleans you need to prove that the other driver was more at fault than you after a car accident in New Orleans. Your evidence needs to reflect this fact, and photographs are one of the best ways to do it.

Things to Document in Your Photos After a Car Accident

The more photos you take, the better, but be sure to get these important items:

wide views of the area of the road where the accident occurred;
skid marks;
debris;
all vehicles from multiple angles; and
all injured parties.

It's best to have a good digital camera to take the photos at your accident scene, but even a cell phone camera will do. In cases of serious injury, you may not be able to take the photos yourself, in which case you should ask another passenger or a witness to do so for you.

Even if you were unable to consciously take photographs at the scene, you or your attorney should contact the witnesses to see if they have any.

With good photographic evidence of the accident scene you can use these pictures to help back up any verbal testimony you give. Remember that there are many ways you can harm your insurance claim when speaking with the insurance company, so make sure you have photo evidence to back up your story.

Get Legal Help Now - Call a New Orleans, Louisiana Attorney

As the victim of a car accident in Louisiana, you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Law Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Truck Drivers Know They Shouldn't Be Driving After A Heavy Meal

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Driving over long distances can be boring. There is not much variety in driving for 10 hours on end at the same speed on freeways devoid of anything to stimulate the brain or lift the spirit.

Spare a thought for truck drivers who do this for a living, sometimes to the tune of 70 hours per week or even more. A significant number of tractor-trailer crashes in Louisiana are caused by truckers falling asleep or being in a state of drowsiness making them incapable of driving safely.

Experienced truck drivers and other motorists know that, no matter how tempting it is to take an hour-long break for lunch, one thing a driver should not do is go for a full meal.

After a full meal comes digestion. Food digestion is a powerful sleep inducer, particularly if you are stuck behind the wheel, unable to exercise or to engage in physical and intellectual activities. About half an hour after having finished your meal, you will notice the first signs of drowsiness:

You do not remember the last miles driven, didn't notice warning signs or exits;
You can't stop yawning and rub your eyes repeatedly;
Your eyelids feel heavy and your head sags;
Your speed slows down gradually;
You drift from your lane and repeatedly hit the shoulder rumble strip;
You feel restless and uncomfortable.

After a meal, a driver might be overwhelmed by fatigue if he or she was already tired to start with. Accumulated lack of sleep depletes your resistance and this is when a driver, thinking he or she can fight drowsiness, might fall asleep without warning. Do not count on an open window or a cup of coffee to keep you awake. The best way to react to the first signs of drowsiness is to stop driving and to take a 15 to 20 minute "power nap."

Truck drivers, like anyone of us on the road, are encouraged to take short, regular breaks, and to eat small quantities of snacks or fruit frequently, drinking water to hydrate the body.

If you have been hurt in a truck accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case.

Overview of Recent Car Accident Statistics for Louisiana

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

There are several types of accidents that happen on the roads like a runoff, rollover, sideswipe, rear-end, or head-on collision, which are the 5 most common car accidents. If you've become another number in car accident statistics, you should seek help from the attorneys at the Young Law Firm to see if you have a claim worth pursuing.

2009 Car Accident Statistics in Louisiana

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported in 2009 that 821 fatal car accidents happened in the state of Louisiana. The factors involved in these accidents:

drunk driving - 295 fatalities;
speeding - 288 fatalities;
commercial trucks - 83 fatalities;
motorcycles - 103 fatalities; and
pedestrians - 107 fatalities.

These are just a few types of accidents that occur on the roads throughout Louisiana. Keep in mind that these car accident statistics for Louisiana include only fatal accidents and don't include injuries or the number of people involved.

An accident that involved speeding and drunk driving, could result in just 1 fatality. A single accident can injure up to 5 people riding in a standard size automobile.

If you're ever facing the consequences of an accident due to a negligent driver, an attorney at the Young Law Firm can review your case and help you file a personal injury claim.

For example, distracted driving accidents are on the rise now, which includes talking or texting on the phone. This is something that an experienced lawyer can help you prove that may be difficult to research and argue on your own.

Get Legal Help Now - Call a Louisiana Attorney at The Young Law Firm

As the victim of a car accident in Louisiana, you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Law Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

How Can Louisiana Drivers Protect Themselves From DUI?

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Driving under the influence of alcohol is more frequent than most people care to admit. Some of the most devastating car accidents in Louisiana are caused by drunken drivers. Even though they have been warned time and again, and know of the severe penal consequences, many people continue to believe that they are capable of driving after having spent hours drinking beer, wine and strong liquor.

It is time for responsible drivers to shed the habit, and understand what drinking alcohol does to their driving abilities. The first line of action is to:

Protect yourself from drinking

Know the facts: Whether you drink a can of beer, a glass of wine or a shot of strong liquor, the alcohol content is about the same. Alcohol impairs your driving even at low levels; a blood-alcohol content of .06 increases the risk of a fatal crash 8 times. The effect of alcohol is compounded when taken with drugs or when tired;
Sip your drink: Avoid cheap alcohol and go for quality rather than quantity. Sipping the flavor and aromas of a good wine is preferable to drinking large quantities of whatever is available. Don't mix drinks that will make your head spin and give you a major morning-after headache;
Eat while you drink: Food, and especially high protein food like meat, cheese or peanuts, helps slow the absorption of alcohol in your body;
Stay active: Try not to just sit and drink. Engage in conversation and activities with others, go for food rather than alcohol, go outside, go for a short walk, etc. Moving around not only helps absorbing alcohol, it reduces the craving for drinking more.
Accept a drink only if you really want one: Ask for water and non-alcohol drinks to alternate with wine or beer. Try to stick to no more than one alcohol drink per hour, and keep your glass full to prevent it from being constantly refilled.
Be aware of what alcohol does: If you drink less than the others you are with, you will soon notice what heavy drinking does to them. Their behavior changes, some become sleepy, others more excited, and their speech becomes slurred. Think of what it must do to their driving.

If you have been hurt in a car accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case.

How a Semi Truck Is Insured Could Make a Great Difference

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Apart from the cost of gasoline, semi truck insurance is probably the largest expense a truck owner will make. For victims of a serious tractor-trailer crash in Louisiana, the way the truck is insured has a great impact on what compensation you can get if the truck owner or motor carrier is held liable.

Most owner-operator trucks can be used independently (the truck driver-owner operates for his or her own account) or under a lease with a motor carrier. If you have been involved in a crash caused by the truck driver, it is crucial to know which insurance contract will be activated and what the coverage amounts are. The main types of insurance are:

Primary Liability Insurance: This type of insurance is required by law. It covers the truck owner operating for his or her own account for any injuries and damages the truck may cause to third parties while on the road. The minimum amount of coverage required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is $750,000, while most shippers and brokers require $1,000,000.
General Liability Insurance: This insurance protects the truck owner against claims arising out of damage to products, vehicles, infrastructure or people on premises (not on the road) such as truck stops, shippers' docks, etc.
Non-Trucking Liability: Provides liability coverage while the truck is operated for personal convenience, outside the scope of the motor carrier.

When a truck owner operates the truck under a leasing agreement for the account of a motor carrier, the motor carrier covers the primary liability risks, instead of the truck owner. After a serious crash caused by a large truck, it is critical to ask for the support of an experienced Louisiana truck accident attorney to make sure you get the highest compensation possible for your pain, suffering, medical and rehabilitation treatment, loss of income and material damage.

If you have been hurt in a truck accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case.

Protect Your Claim! 3 Ways after a Car Accident in Louisiana

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

There are 3 ways that you can help to protect your claim after a car accident. The Louisiana law firm based in New Orleans can help you through this process with the accident information you give them.

The evidence surrounding your claim can impact the compensation you receive. With the help of an attorney in Louisiana, you will stand a better chance at receiving what you deserve.

3 Ways to Protect Your Claim after a Car Accident

Even if you think it is obvious you were not at fault for the accident, following these 3 rules post-accident will help keep anyone from discounting your claim:

Be honest. This means honesty with the doctor and sharing any previous injuries you have sustained, along with honesty with your lawyer. Don't try to exaggerate anything surrounding your car accident.
Show up for all of your medical appointments, whether it is with your doctor or physical therapist. Even if you feel better, don't miss an appointment.
Do not sign anything without first talking to an attorney. By allowing a recorded statement, you may be providing information that will be used against you. If you sign a medical release authorization form, the insurance company may try to use past injuries against you.

There are other things the insurance company may use against you in your Louisiana car accident claim. After a car accident, seek a Louisiana attorney who can help you. They can provide you with accident information that helps to protect your rights.

Get Legal Help Now - Contact a Louisiana Car Accident Attorney

As the victim of a Louisiana car accident, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Accident attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

It Is Easy To Make a Mistake After a Louisiana Car Accident

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

In a State of Shock, Don't Declare Anything

After the trauma of a serious car crash in Louisiana, many drivers have the very natural and human inclination to feel sorry for the damage others have suffered. Feeling guilty or apologetic, they tend to make statements that could be harmful at a later stage.

Not everyone has a compassionate view of others, and some people take advantage of a car accident to try to extort the maximum financial benefit, or to wriggle out of their liability.

This is why it is certainly wiser not to say anything immediately after the accident has occurred, and to allow yourself a couple of days of reflection before making or agreeing to statements of what happened.

Why should you wait before making any statement about your accident?

A car accident has three major components, and every one of them requires a thorough examination before you decide how you describe them:

Injuries: Immediately after the shock and stress of a crash, your body produces endorphins that temporarily alleviate the pain. Pain may start appearing at a later stage, and a thorough medical examination and tests could uncover more problems, such as brain injury, broken bones or neck and back strains that were not apparent at the scene of the crash.
Material damage: A superficial look at your vehicle may not reveal a lot of damage, but before declaring that "the car is fine," you need to have it checked by a good mechanic. It may be tricky to reverse course when you discover problems at a later stage that the opposing party can qualify as not related to the crash.
Fault: There are often several factors contributing to an accident. Your vision may have been obstructed by an illegally parked car, or the other driver did not have headlights on. You may have been speeding, but the other driver might have been under the influence. Wait until all the facts are established - cell phone use, traffic violations record, driver's license, speed, DUI, etc. - before you tell the other party you are sorry, or didn't see them coming.

Insurance companies may pressure you to sign a settlement agreement before all the facts are known. Here again, do not sign in a hurry; take your time to consult with a lawyer, your treating physician and your auto mechanic before putting your signature on any document.

If you have been hurt in a car accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case.

Navigating 3 Stages of Your Accident Insurance Claim in Louisiana

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you've been seriously injured in a car accident in New Orleans there's a good chance you'll be seeking compensation from the insurance company. It's not just a simple phone call that'll make that settlement check arrive - it takes 3 stages to get from accident to settlement.

First, you need to file your claim with the insurance company. This should be done quickly to avoid running out on the statute of limitations and letting critical evidence get damaged or lost. The sooner you file, the fresher the details are of your accident.

Second, you need to prove your claim. This is done through many types of evidence such as:

police reports;
photographs;
medical records; and
witness statements.

You're going to need to prove that the other driver was more at fault for the accident than you were to receive a better settlement.

Third, you need to settle your claim. Insurance companies will often offer a low initial settlement just to get your claim resolved quickly and without losing too much money on their end. This is where an attorney really comes in handy because he or she knows when an offer is too low and can help you further negotiate.

With a New Orleans, Louisiana attorney on your side you'll be able to navigate the 3-step claims process with less frustration and stress. It's important to understand how to file an accident insurance claim so you can protect your rights after a serious car accident.

Get Legal Help Now - Call a New Orleans, Louisiana Attorney

As the victim of a car accident in Louisiana, you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Louisiana. The Young Law Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Why Not More Women Cyclists On The Road In Louisiana?

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

City planners would love to have more people on their bikes, to alleviate both pollution and traffic. Bike lanes painted on streets and car-free bike trails have increased ridership over the years, but the overall share of the population relying on bicycles for transportation is still hovering around a paltry 2 percent. Bicycle accidents in Louisiana regularly remind us both how vulnerable bikers are, and how much work still needs to be done to improve the infrastructure. Is it too early to call on women to experience urban bicycling?

In the U.S., men's cycling trips surpass women's by at least two to one. These proportions are markedly different in some European countries. In the Netherlands, 27 percent of all trips are made by bicycle and 55 percent of the riders are women. In Germany the corresponding figures are 12 percent and 49 percent.

Researchers on bicycle use consider the proportion of female bikers to be a reliable indicator of the "bike-ability" of an urban environment. There are several reasons for that:

Studies across various disciplines (criminology, accidents, child rearing, etc.) have indicated that women are more averse to risk than men. In bicycling, this translates into an increased demand for a safe bicycle infrastructure;
Women do most of the child rearing and household work, which means that bike routes need to be organized around practical urban destinations.

Women won't hop on a bike just because the infrastructure has become better, though. Comfort (steep hills or excessive heat for instance) and the cost and need of a car are other factors that influence women's cycling rates.

The conclusion might be that if very few women engage in cycling in your area, it is probably because it is not safe, and this should be an excellent reason for you to take all the precautions you can to avoid bicycle accidents and protect yourself if you can't.

If you have been hurt in a bicycle accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case.

5 Things You Should Do after a Baton Rouge Car Wreck

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

You may wonder what to do after an accident leads to serious injuries. When a Baton Rouge car wreck was caused by the negligence of another, you should consult with a Baton Rouge accident attorney to learn what legal options are available.

You could be eligible to receive compensation that covers not only your medical expenses, but also lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. An attorney can determine all the types of damages that you may be entitled to.

5 Things to Do After Baton Rouge Car Wreck

file a police/accident report;
seek immediate medical attention;
contact your insurance agent as soon as possible;
learn the types of coverage you may have available (car, homeowners, umbrella polices); and
keep all documentation related to your accident.

Knowing what to do in an accident can affect whether your claim is diminished or even denied.

There are some dos and don'ts after your Baton Rouge car wreck that could impact the outcome of your claim. Enlisting the services of a Baton Rouge accident attorney may be your next step, so you should know that our injury firm in New Orleans is prepared to serve clients who live not only in Baton Rouge, but also other areas throughout Louisiana.

Get Legal Help Now - Contact a Baton Rouge Accident Attorney

As the victim of a Baton Rouge car wreck, we know that you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Accident attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Baton Rouge. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 1-504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Winning Your Tractor-Trailer Accident Case in Louisiana

Sun, 11 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

A serious crash with an 18-wheeler in Louisiana is likely to result either in wrongful death or in catastrophic injuries. For the surviving victims and their relatives, this could be a tragedy that will change their lives forever. You may have a right to substantial compensation, but does it mean you will get it?

Fighting for your rights in a serious accident with a large truck requires the support of an experienced, determined truck accident attorney with a great track record litigating motor carriers and their insurers. There are many reasons why such a case cannot be handled by a general practice lawyer:

Your claim probably involves a substantial amount of money, which is sure to trigger immediate and aggressive defense tactics by the motor carrier and their insurer. These companies handle accident cases on a daily basis and are primarily focused on limiting the negative financial impact of your claim;
All motor carriers and truck drivers are subject to stringent safety regulations imposed by the federal government on truck driver training, qualification, hours-of-service, drugs, alcohol and traffic violation records, truck maintenance (brakes, tires, lights), load weights, and more. Evidence of violations of these rules would seriously weaken the motor carrier's defense, which is why they often swiftly dispatch a team on the scene to remove incriminating logbooks, papers, and cell phones before authorities or you can seize them;
Proving that the truck caused the accident can be a highly technical affair, possibly involving crash reconstruction experts and a detailed on-the-scene investigation;
Finding out who is liable is another important question. Is it the independent truck owner-operator, or the motor carrier he has a leasing agreement with? Is it the owner of the tractor or of the trailer? Was the crash caused or aggravated by a defective mechanical component?

The New Orleans truck accident attorneys of the Young Firm have the resources and the skills to prevail against powerful motor carriers and their insurers. If you have been hurt in a truck accident caused by someone else, contact us for a FREE discussion of your case.

Louisiana Motorists Are Reminded To Check Their Tires

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

In a recent study on road safety, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) disclosed that over the 2005-2009 period nearly 3,400 people died and some 116,000 were injured in tire-related car crashes.

The study has shown that maintaining proper tire pressure, observing tire and vehicle load limits and inspecting tires for cuts and slashes are the most important things you can do to avoid tire failure, including tread separation, blowouts and flat tires.

Countless serious crashes in Louisiana are caused every year by tire failure, most of which could have been prevented. Checking your tires regularly can also:

Prevent your vehicle from skidding;
Increase your fuel mileage;
Shorten your braking distance;
Increase the life of your tires.

Tires should be replaced when they start to wear out. You know you should do it if the tread depth is as small as 1/16th of an inch. When you replace your tires, ask the service center:

To rotate the tires to reduce irregular wear;
To balance the wheels to avoid vibration of the steering wheel;
To align the wheels to prevent the vehicle from steering always to the left, or to the right.

Every month at least, you should check your tire pressure. Look the recommended tire pressure up in your manual or on the tire information placard. Go to the nearest gas station to record the pressure of all four tires with a gauge. If the pressure is too high, release air by pressing on the tire valve stem with the edge of your tire gauge. If you need to add pressure, inflate the tire in short batches, each time checking the resulting pressure.

If you have been hurt in a car accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans car accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case.

Is the Truck Parking Shortage Real?

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

In a recent article, we described the tough life of a long haul truck driver, and how a shortage of truck parking space could cause serious 18-wheeler crashes in Louisiana and elsewhere.

Truck drivers, at the end of a long driving day, or night, want to stop their truck, not only where they can park the big rig, but where the parking area offers amenities and conveniences they consider necessary. Some truck stops offer a lighted parking area, a fast food or conventional restaurant, a travel store, a Wi-Fi hot-spot, showers, truck scales, a maintenance shop, a fitness center, lodging, etc., while other places offer just parking space.

The shortage is therefore first a question of putting truck stops in categories of amenities offered, and checking what truckers want.

A second issue is to see where the truck stops are located, considering the freight traffic, the highway system and the likely hours and places when and where most trucks will converge to spend the evening and night. Most drivers, although not all, prefer driving during daytime, and most deliveries and pickups need to be made during the day.

The problem of truck parking areas is by its nature, a local problem. Local authorities in places with heavy commercial traffic should make space available for new truck stops, and select other places where truck drivers can safely park their rigs, even if only basic amenities are available.

Nobody wants a truck driver behind the wheel, exhausted after a long search for a decent rest place, to fall asleep and ram into a passenger car at an intersection. Who is to blame? Understanding the problem is the first step towards solving it.

If you have been hurt in a truck accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans car accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case.

Helping Louisiana Survivors Overcome the Loss of a Loved One

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Losing a dear one in a fatal Louisiana car accident is among the toughest experiences anyone could go through. The mere discussion about compensating the death of a mother, child or husband is difficult to imagine, because a monetary claim cannot be compared to what has been lost. This doesn't mean that a wrongful death claim does not make sense, and doesn't serve its purpose. It is an essential component of correcting a wrong in the pursuit of justice, and helps the victims rebuild their lives. The Louisiana community cannot afford to have negligent people pose a danger to life, which is why wrongful death laws exist.

Who can file a wrongful death claim and receive benefits?

In order of priority, descending each step if not applicable, those who can file a claim are:

The spouse and / or children of the deceased;
The parents;
The siblings;
Or the grandparents.

These family members are also eligible to receive compensation, while more distant relatives, like cousins or in-laws, can be beneficiaries under certain circumstances but cannot file the claim.

What sort of damages can be claimed?

Monetary damages that are the easiest to calculate, like:

Expenses in relation to the death: funeral and burial expenses, uninsured emergency and medical expenses, loss of community property;
Loss of benefits: what a person would have received from the deceased had he or she lived;
Loss of future earnings: what the person who died would have earned in professional income;

Other, emotional damages relate to the suffering brought about by the loss of a loved one:

Loss of companionship, mental pain and suffering resulting from the victim's death, loss of care and support.

How are emotional damages calculated?

An experienced wrongful death attorney will be able to show the jury how the loss of a loved one affects the lives of surviving family members, citing how dependent the survivors were on the decedent for guidance, affection, education, and moral support. The anticipated lifespan of the decedent is a major element in the amount of wrongful death compensation.

If you have been hurt or lost a loved one in a car accident caused by someone else, contact the New Orleans car accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE discussion of your case.

Is The Truck Driver Shortage Worsening?

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Are safety concerns clashing with economic ones? When it comes to the trucking industry, the question may be justified.

Louisiana motorists have long been worried about 18-wheelers on the road, aware that if the many safety regulations dictated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) cover most of the potential safety issues, their enforcement is far from being watertight.

Devastating large truck crashes in Louisiana can be caused by motor carriers who, pressured by competition, delivery deadlines and the need to cut costs, may be tempted to fiddle with the FMCSA regulations.

Be it tampering with the hours-of-service registry in logbooks, or hiring under-qualified drivers, most of the safety issues some motor carriers try to get away with revolve around truck drivers.

This is why the persistent shortage of qualified, experienced, healthy and drug- or violation-free truck drivers is a major factor in the battle between road safety and economic growth.

A recent article on the subject confirms that the shortage is the result of:

Older, baby-boom generation drivers retiring;
Young drivers not eager to work hard and away from home for a low pay;
Strict qualification requirements to apply for a CDL (commercial driver license);
High driver turnover.

It has now become so difficult to fill truck driver jobs that motor carriers are pursuing each other's drivers. If the shortage persists, the cost of delivering goods could rise, while truck drivers' wages rise. Let's hope that this last point will help in finding a new balance between the conflicting interests of economy and safety.

The New Orleans truck accident attorneys of the Young Firm take your safety seriously. If you have been hurt in a car or truck accident caused by someone else, contact us for a FREE discussion of your case.

Injuries from Car Wrecks That May Lead to a Louisiana Traffic Injury Claim

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

While car wrecks in Louisiana may not be uncommon, some can lead to serious injuries and result in the filing of a traffic injury claim. If you were injured in an accident in Lafayette, our attorneys can help you determine if your claim is worth pursuing.

In order for a claim to be worth pursuing, the injured party must have suffered more than just property damage. There must also have been serious injuries that are documented by medical records.

A pulled muscle or a broken arm may not be worth the cost of pursuing a claim. However, other injuries that require expensive and extensive medical care and result in missed time from work may be.

Some of the types of injuries from car wrecks that may lead to a Louisiana traffic injury claim include:

multiple fractures;
traumatic brain injury;
amputation;
burn injuries;
spinal cord injury;
internal organ damage; and
nerve damage.

Not only must injuries be serious, but there also are other factors that will play into the worth of pursuing a claim.

There are 3 ways to determine if a traffic injury claim is viable after car wrecks in Louisiana. Consulting with Lafayette attorneys is the next step you should take if you have been seriously injured by someone else's negligence.

Get Legal Help Now - Contact Our Lafayette Attorneys

As the victim of a traffic crash in Louisiana, you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Lafayette. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 866-660-7220.

Drugs Don't Need To Be Illegal To Be Harmful To Louisiana Drivers

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

A great many people in Louisiana take prescription and over-the-counter drugs to heal or alleviate pain and discomfort. People suffering from chronic illness take medications daily, sometimes in large doses, while others take them occasionally to fight a temporary illness.

Most of these drugs have side effects, which wouldn't be a problem if some of these side effects did not seriously impair the ability to drive. Many serious car accidents in Louisiana are caused by drivers who are not reacting well to medications. Whether side effects are harmless or treacherous depends on:

The type of medication;
The health and strength of the patient;
The dosage taken;
The combination with other drugs and alcohol.

What drugs could be dangerous for Louisiana drivers?

Tranquilizers, sedatives and sleeping pills slow down the central nervous system and cause drowsiness, diminished reaction time and reduced ability to concentrate;
Some stimulating drugs make you feel alert and confident. This can be a serious problem if you become a reckless driver as a result;
Common prescription drugs treating allergies, cholesterol, ulcers, depression, pain, diabetes, high blood pressure, anxiety, and insomnia cause drowsiness and affect vision, reaction time and coordination;
Antihistamines (taken to combat allergies) slow down reaction time and impair coordination;
A 10 mg. dose of Valium may cause greater impairment than a blood alcohol content of 0.1 percent (above the legal limit);
Sedating antidepressants can have the same effect as being drunk;
Over-the-counter drugs like cough and cold pills, decongestants, pain relievers, diuretics and pills to prevent nausea or motion sickness may cause drowsiness, dizziness and slower reflexes.

What should Louisiana drivers do: stop driving or stop taking pills?

Most people need to use their car as much as they need to take their medication. The point is that drivers should be aware of the possibly dangerous side effects of medication, and:

Read the description of the side effects on the medication guide;
Give their body time to adjust, and avoid driving right after having taken the drugs;
Talk to their doctor about the combination of driving and taking drugs.

The New Orleans car accident attorneys of the Young Firm take your safety seriously. If you have been hurt in a car accident caused by someone else, contact us for a FREE discussion of your case.

Question For Louisiana Bikers: You Wouldn't Ride a Bicycle Without Shoes, Would You?

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you are concerned about your feet, what about your head?

Fact: Bicycle helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 85 percent and the risk of brain injury by 88 percent.

Fact: Despite the fact that nearly 70 percent of all fatal bicycle crashes involve head injuries, only 20 to 25 percent of all cyclists wear a helmet.

Fact: In 2009, 630 bicyclists were killed and some 40,000 were injured in traffic accidents.

In Louisiana, the law requires children aged less than 12 to wear a helmet, whether they are riding a bike or as a passenger. Adults are supposed to think for themselves and make a smart decision.

Some adults still scratch their heads about using a helmet. Do helmets really work? All the evidence says yes.

A more serious question is to find out whether a mandatory helmet law is counterproductive. A study in Australia has shown that, when mandatory bicycle helmet laws are enacted, the number of bicyclists drops. The study is however not clear on how long the decline in bicycle use will last.

Some people argue that in the Netherlands, home to one of the highest bicycle usage rates in the world, cyclists usually do not wear helmets, not even children. This is true, but the reason the Dutch can afford to do this is that the sheer number of cyclists on the road, and their unique separate biking infrastructure makes the protection from motor vehicles highly effective.

The study concludes that mandatory helmet laws focused on children are the best way to go, while adults need to decide for themselves whether they fear brain injury at least as much as they are scared of hurting their tender feet.

The New Orleans traffic accident attorneys of the Young Firm take your safety seriously. If you have been hurt in an accident caused by someone else, contact us for a FREE discussion of your case.

5 Auto Insurance Claims Tips to Consider after Your Louisiana Accident

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you were injured in Lafayette, our law firm urges you to browse our car accident articles. We believe in educating and providing our clients with valuable information on the process of filing auto insurance claims and tips that can help protect your rights and your case. However, the information on our website is general and therefore, you should always consult a lawyer to discuss the details of your case.

When you believe someone else's negligence was the cause of your accident and you have suffered serious injuries, you may be entitled to receive compensation. Proving liability and obtaining fair compensation, however, is a challenging task, so you'll want to know how best to protect your claim.

Here are 5 auto insurance claims tips that can help preserve your case:

Don't provide the insurance adjuster with a written or recorded statement.
Keep discussions with the insurance company to a minimum because everything you say is being noted.
Don't sign a form releasing your medical records to the insurance company.
Don't agree to a settlement without assurance it is fair.
Consult immediately with a law firm experienced in car accident cases.

Browse our car accident articles for more helpful auto insurance claims tips.

Injured in Lafayette? Our Law Firm Can Help

As the victim of a car accident in Lafayette, you have a lot of questions about your health and your financial future. Personal injury attorneys Timothy J. Young, Robert J. Young Jr. and Jason C. MacFetters understand your concerns and anxieties. Before you hire an attorney, order this free injury guide to learn about your rights in Lafayette. The Young Firm is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Shreveport and beyond. Contact us today at 504-680-4100 or 1-866-660-7220.

Trucking Agreement Between USA and Mexico Finally Signed

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Accord allows trucks of each country to travel to and from the other country.

The cross-border trucking dispute had been going on for almost 15 years. After signing the NAFTA agreement, the United States never implemented the provision allowing Mexican trucks to travel on US highways, prompting Mexico to impose retaliatory tariffs on a range of US exports, from pork to consumer care products.

The agreement reached earlier this month has been greeted warmly by American trade, farm and business organizations, but could still face stiff opposition from US trucking unions and representatives who want Congress to oppose the bill.

What some in the Louisiana trucking industry fear is the unfair competition of Mexican 18-wheelers due to lower wages, and the absence of strict and numerous regulations imposed on US motor carriers.

Under the agreement, however, the US will reinstate a pilot program for Mexican truck certification first introduced under the Bush administration, and defunded by Congress in 2009.

Mexico, on the other hand, will drop half of the tariffs on about 100 products, and remove the rest when the trucks actually start rolling across the border.

All Mexican trucks operating in the US will have to comply with US truck safety standards, and compliance will be monitored by devices installed on the trucks.

Mexican trucks are already allowed to travel in the US within 25 miles of the border. Under the new agreement, Mexican trucks will be able to deliver goods into the US and from US delivery points to Mexico, but are barred from hauling goods between US destinations.

The New Orleans truck accident attorneys of the Young Firm take your safety seriously. If you have been hurt in an accident caused by someone else, contact us for a FREE discussion of your case.

Rollovers Account For Over One Third of Traffic Fatalities

Sun, 07 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

How Can Louisiana Drivers Avoid Deadly Rollover Crashes?

In a separate article on what makes vehicles roll over, we pointed out the distressing fact that, in 2009, out of 23,382 roadway accident fatalities, over 8,200 were due to rollover crashes.

The first advice we gave, echoed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is to buckle up, whether sitting in the front or in the back. Most victims of rollover crashes die as a result of being partially or completely thrown out of the vehicle. Wearing a seatbelt reduces the risk of being killed by 75 percent.

The NHTSA gives further advice on how to reduce the risks of deadly rollover crashes:

Make sure heavy items inside your vehicle are securely tightened, so they do not become projectiles during a rollover;
Load your vehicle carefully, distributing the load evenly and avoiding as much as possible heavy loads on the roof. Check the maximum allowed loads of your vehicle and of the roof rack. If you are heavily loaded, your speed should be reduced correspondingly;
Be especially alert on rural roads that are narrower and leave less room for error;
Do not panic or overreact when your vehicle hits a pothole, road debris or drops off the pavement. Slow down before you try to correct the situation.

The common reasons why people lose control of their vehicles are well known, and have little to do with top-heavy loads or narrow roads. They are:

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
Driving while sleepy or distracted;
Driving too fast for the road and vehicle conditions.

The New Orleans car accident attorneys of the Young Firm take your safety seriously. If you have been hurt in an accident caused by someone else, contact us for a FREE discussion of your case.

Can Technology Keep Large Truck Crashes Under Control in Louisiana?

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tractor-trailers and other heavy vehicles like dump trucks are involved in devastating truck accidents in Louisiana, resulting in thousands of people seriously injured and hundreds of fatalities every year.

In view of these worrying statistics, federal authorities have imposed stringent safety regulations on truck drivers and motor carriers, with limited success.

Louisiana motorists are not so much concerned about the safety regulations as they are about the way these are enforced. It is well known in the trucking industry that logbooks are often tampered with, allowing truck drivers to clock far more hours than rules dictate, and that many trucks are not nearly as well inspected and maintained as they should be.

There is one promising area, however, that offers hope that in the future, 18-wheelers or big rigs will become safer whatever the shortcomings of truck drivers or motor carriers.

Large truck technology has recently been the focus of a report to the Senate by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) to convince lawmakers that new, high-tech systems can make trucks a lot safer, and make the enforcement of existing regulations more effective.

The four technologies CVSA recommends are:
Brake Stroke Monitoring: This on-board device monitors the critical components of the truck's brake system, indicating issues of adjustment and operation. The truck driver will receive real-time warning that the brake system is deficient.

Vehicle Stability Systems: Stability control systems either warn the driver of slide, yaw or rollover risks, or intervene on the brakes and throttle to prevent the instability to develop. This device should sharply reduce risks of jackknife and rollover crashes.

Lane Departure Warning Systems: When a distracted or drowsy truck driver inadvertently steers away from the lane, a sound system immediately warns the driver when the edge of the calculated path is approached. The latest systems perform in a wide range of light and visibility conditions.

Collision Warning Systems: This technology warns the driver of stopped or slow-moving traffic ahead, indicates a shorter than safe distance with the preceding vehicle and acts as a "see-through" system in fog, snow, dust or rain.

Electronic On-Board Recorders (EOBR): EOBRs integrate GPS-technology with odometer speed and distance information to provide all the required information about the truck's operation, mileage, time, location and the driver's hours of work and driving. Replacing the paper logbook, EOBRs are tamper-proof.

The New Orleans truck accident attorneys of the Young Firm take your safety seriously. If you have been hurt in an accident caused by someone else, contact us for a FREE discussion of your case.

Louisiana Truck Driver Hurt In Road Rage Incident

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

The driver of an 18-wheeler, a 54-year-old man from Lake Charles, Louisiana, is recovering from a gunshot wound after an accident with a pickup truck on Interstate 10 near Orange, Texas.

This Louisiana truck crash occurred on Tuesday morning at about 1:50 a.m. when, driving westbound, the tanker truck ran into the GMC pickup and smashed it into the median, according to a report by Beaumontenterprise.com.

Orange police arriving to the scene shortly after the crash found the GMC squeezed between the median and the tanker truck, and the truck driver bleeding from a shot in the leg. He was taken to Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital with non life-threatening injuries.

Capt. Cliff Hargrave said the Orange Police Department received conflicting versions of what had happened. The tanker truck driver claims he struck the pickup in retaliation after having been shot at, while the GMC pickup driver, a 32-year-old from Spring, says the 18-wheeler ran into his vehicle in a bout of road rage, so he shot the driver in the leg.

If you are the target of road rage and are stalked by an angry driver, don't panic; slow down and focus on moving away from the highway, taking the nearest exit towards a more crowded place. Lock all the car doors and drive towards a shopping mall or the nearest police station.

In Louisiana, you can report aggressive driving by calling *LSP (*577).

The New Orleans car accident attorneys of the Young Firm take your safety seriously. If you have been hurt in an accident caused by someone else, contact us for a FREE discussion of your case.

Two St. Tammany Parish Women Killed by Truck in Careless Driving Crash

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Anthony Hernandez, aged 34, of New Braunfels, Texas, was driving an 18-wheeler westbound on Louisiana Interstate 12 about 3 miles from exit 59 when he tried to pass another vehicle. Reentering his previous lane, Hernandez didn't notice a Ford Explorer that was in his path, and he struck the back of the vehicle. The impact caused the SUV to spin out of control off the highway, striking several trees alongside the highway, KGNB.AM reports.

Two women inside the SUV, Desiree Hudson, aged 35, and Colleen Randall, aged 54, were killed despite having been restrained by seatbelts. They were pronounced dead at the scene.

Hernandez suffered only minor injuries. Louisiana State Troopers say that he submitted to a blood-alcohol field test which showed alcohol was not a factor in the crash.

Hernandez was arrested on charges of negligent homicide and careless driving and was booked into the parish jail in Covington.

The lawyers of the Young Firm offer their most heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Mrs. Hudson and Mrs. Randall.

The tragic loss of these two women is the result of a truck driver's inattention. There is no other explanation, because the Ford Explorer was hit in the back, and was therefore not riding in a blind spot. The accident occurred at 1 a.m., which means that even in a blind spot the vehicle had its lights on and would have been visible.

To New Orleans, Shreveport, Lafayette and Baton Rouge motorists, this is a reminder of how deadly an 18-wheeler can be, sending an SUV spinning just by hitting its back.

The New Orleans car and truck accident attorneys of the Young Firm take your safety seriously. If you have been hurt in an accident caused by someone else, contact us for a FREE discussion of your case.

Assigning a Value to Pain and Suffering in Louisiana

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Victims of serious car accidents in Louisiana often go through terrible hardship. Who can say what someone feels after the loss of a loved one, or the ordeal of multiple surgical interventions, or the dreaded prospect of lifelong impairment?

The price of pain and suffering

Claiming a monetary amount for pain and suffering is the only way our legal system has found to settle a case and see that justice be done. It does not mean that a comparison can be made between what the victim has suffered and what the defendant pays. It may, however, contribute to the victim's effort to build a new life.

There are many factors that an insurance company, a jury or a lawyer will look at to determine how pain and suffering should be compensated. Because of the very subjective nature of the claim, there are no rules to calculate the amount, and no two cases are alike. Comparisons will have to be made with similarly awarded settlements, and the plaintiff's personal situation will be considered, including:

Age: An older person's weaker body may hurt more, and longer, than a young one. On the other hand, a young victim could suffer for the remainder of a longer life.

Pre-existing injuries: It is easier to settle black-and-white cases, but quite often the picture is blurred. Does the victim suffer more because of his or her health history? Or is the patient taking advantage of a pre-existing condition?

Duration: The pace of healing and recovery can be very much dependant on the strength, health, lifestyle and mental attitude of each person. Some injured victims may suffer from crippling back pain for the rest of their lives, while others may recover rather quickly. The duration of physical pain can be an element of the equation.

Job and income: Even if there is no intuitive relationship between the victim's work or income and pain and suffering, there may be an indirect influence. A low income may induce a jury to award a larger settlement, or a lawyer may suggest that the victim's job makes it much harder to endure pain.

Choice of attorney: If the above examples point towards every possible direction, one factor is likely to play a significant role in the award of a just pain and suffering compensation. A skilled and focused car accident attorney with considerable litigation experience will probably achieve a much better result than a general practice attorney, or a firm practicing mostly business law, divorce or nursing home abuse.

If you have been involved in a car accident, contact the New Orleans car accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a free evaluation of your case.

Shopping For A New Car In Louisiana: Is Safety Something You Look At?

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Most of us drive the car we have, and not the one we are dreaming about. But when the time has come to go shopping for a new car in Louisiana, it is still a pleasant experience. For every budget and type of vehicle, there is a wide choice with a myriad of options and combinations. Decisions, decisions...

Now, considering the amount of time you are going to spend riding this car, the miles you are going to travel, the number of people you are going to carry over the next four or five years, do you really believe that a car accident is out of the question? And if not, shouldn't you include safety as one of the selection criteria, along with mileage and color?

Things have become easier when it comes to choosing a safer car. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) publishes annually their Top Safety Picks, the list of the best cars rated according to a number of crashworthiness tests and electronic stability control (ESC). The IIHS rating is based more specifically on:

Frontal Offset Crash Test: a 40 mph head-on collision where only one side of the vehicle's front end crashes into the barrier.
Side Crash Test: A 31 mph moving barrier with the height and size of an SUV strikes the side of the vehicle.
Rear Crash Protection: how seat and head restraint combinations protect against whiplash injury.
Rollover Ratings: One corner of a vehicle's roof is pushed by a metal plate at constant speed. The resulting crush is measured and compared to the vehicle's weight to assess structural protection in rollover crashes.
Bumper Evaluation: measuring the occupants' protection in low-speed crashes through 4 impact tests to the front and rear bumpers, full width and corner.
Electronic Stability Control: ESC contributes significantly to the safety of motorists, helping them not to lose control in emergency maneuvers.

You can look here at the 2011 Top Safety Picks. The IIHS safety ratings are a good way to start when you decide to buy a new car. And you can still choose the color you like!

The New Orleans car accident attorneys of the Young Firm take your safety seriously. If you have been hurt in an accident caused by someone else, contact us for a FREE discussion of your case.

Bicycling On Multi-Use Paths Carries Risks In Louisiana

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

There hasn't been enough research on the subject of bicycle accidents to conclude, with hard facts and statistical evidence, that bicycling is more or less dangerous than using a car or motorcycle. Several nationwide studies on bicycle riding infrastructure have, however, shown what most cyclists already know intuitively:

Major roads are more hazardous than minor roads;
Multi-lane roundabouts are more dangerous than intersections;
Multi-use trails are more dangerous than bicycling-only lanes and paths.

Multi-use paths are popular among Louisiana cyclists because they are often pleasant and quiet and cut across nature to cover long distances far away from cars and trucks.

These trails are normally accessible only to pedestrians, skaters and bicycles. When the trail intersects with a road, there usually are prominent warning signs to force motorists to slow down and give right of way. Bicyclists can easily limit the risk of accidents following a number of guidelines:

Always ride on the right side of the trail;
Give audible warning before overtaking other trail users (get yourself a loud bell);
Listen to warnings given by others, and avoid using headphones;
Use hand signals to indicate turns and stops;
Do not stop on the trail, but rather pull over in order not to block other users;
Ride single file so that other users may pass;
Slow down and look left and right before crossing a road;
Slow down and watch out for children and dogs;
Adjust your speed to the traffic.

Bicycling is fun and healthy. Keep it that way by following these precautions, and make sure you wear a helmet.

If you have been involved in a bicycle crash, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm for a free evaluation of your case.

Telling Teens How To Share The Road With Large Trucks

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Do Young Drivers In Louisiana Know How Dangerous 18-Wheelers Can Be?

For all the talk in Louisiana about truck driver fatigue and crashes caused by malfunctioning truck brakes, we could easily overlook the fact that more than 50 percent of large truck crashes with passenger cars are caused by the passenger car driver.

Far too many car drivers, especially young ones, unnecessarily endanger themselves by failing to recognize that trucks are different, and handle differently.

A fully loaded tractor-trailer weighs up to 80,000 pounds, or roughly 20 times the weight of a car with four occupants. Traveling at 55 mph, such a truck would take 430 feet to stop. This is the length of two football fields and a 90 percent longer distance than what a passenger car would need. 430 feet is also what it takes to stop if the pavement is dry, if all tires are in excellent shape, if the brakes are all well maintained and balanced, and if the truck driver reacts instantly. Take away one or two of these ideal conditions and the stopping distance increases sharply.

Don't cut off trucks.

When passing a large truck, never move back in the truck's lane right before the truck. Think of the 430 feet! Truck drivers hate being cut off; it forces them to slow down to increase the gap with your car to a safe distance, and it takes them a long time to get back to their original speed. Never stay long with a huge truck at your tail. Think of what would happen if you are forced to slam the brakes. Accelerate and move away to another lane.

Stay out of the truck's blind spots.

Trucks have large blind spots; their height and the trailer prevent the truck driver from seeing vehicles that are left and right from the tractor, and of course all those that are behind the trailer. Don't be surprised if you drive at almost the same speed next to a semi-truck, and it suddenly veers of its lane and forces you to brake or move away.

The NO ZONES are the ones where the truck driver can't see a passing or following vehicle.

Teen drivers can't be too cautious when it comes to sharing the road with tractor-trailers.

If you have been involved in a tractor trailer accident, contact the New Orleans truck accident attorneys of the Young Firm for a free evaluation of your case.

Finding Out More About Louisiana Truck Driver Hours Of Service Rules

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

This is a question Louisiana motorists ask, worried as they are about having to share the road with trucks that are sometimes involved in devastating crashes. As in all technical matters, though the question is straightforward, the answer is not. The freight haulage business needs to take many different situations into account. This is why the present Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration (FMCSA) hours-of-service (HOS) rules are complex, and their enforcement presents many challenges.

Do HOS rules apply only to interstate commerce? Yes and no. The federal (FMCSA) rules apply only to interstate transport, but the State of Louisiana has adopted those same rules to regulate intrastate commerce as well. Other states may have different rules for intrastate transport.

How would "waiting time" at a terminal or plant be considered? Waiting time can be considered off-duty, or duty/not driving, or sleeper berth time, depending on the circumstances:

Off-duty: if the driver has no responsibility for the care and custody of the vehicle or cargo, and can pursue activities of his/her own choosing;
Sleeper berth: if the driver is allowed to utilize a valid sleeper berth without being disturbed.

It is to be noted that this "sleeper berth" time will not count towards the obligation for a driver to be "ten consecutive hours off-duty" unless the waiting time is extended for an equivalent duration.

May a driver stay on duty for more than 14 consecutive hours? Yes, a truck driver may remain on duty for more than 14 hours, but cannot drive after the 14th hour. The additional on-duty time will be counted against the 60/70 hours limit in 7/8 consecutive days.

How is mealtime accounted for? Meals are considered off-duty time, and do not extend the 14 consecutive hour limit after which a driver is not allowed to drive. However, off-duty time does not count towards the 60/70 hour on-duty limit rule.

Truck drivers hours-of-service rule enforcement is critical to traffic safety in Louisiana. If you have been involved in a tractor trailer crash, contact the Young Firm for a free evaluation of your case.

Are Louisiana Drivers Falling Asleep Behind The Wheel?

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to a comprehensive study on the subject of drowsy driving, the proportion of fatal crashes in which the driver was reported as drowsy, sleepy, asleep or fatigued remained relatively consistent during the period 2005 to 2009, fluctuating between 2.2 and 2.6 percent of total fatal crashes annually and nationwide.

The number of fatalities due to drowsy driving, reflecting the general trend, dropped from 1,194 in 2005 to 832 in 2009. During the same period, the estimated number of injured persons due to drowsy driving declined from 42,000 in 2005 to 30,000 in 2009.

The study points out a number of limitations with respect to determining the presence of drowsy driving. The data are based on police accident reports and on investigations made after the event has occurred. The difficulty stems from:

The fact that police accident reports vary between the states, and within a state, some jurisdictions cite fatigue as a condition of the driver, while others include fatigue as an attribute of distraction.
Under-reporting drowsy driving is most likely due to a lack of firm evidence. The investigation is done after the crash, drivers can be unaware of the role that drowsiness played in the accident, and drivers could be reluctant to admit they were falling asleep or tired. Obviously, deceased drivers cannot tell their story.
Over-reporting can also be a factor because drowsiness or fatigue is better accepted than alcohol use, speeding or distraction.

By and large, driver fatigue can and should be controlled by the driver. Whether caused by medication, long hours of work, alcohol or a heavy meal, drowsiness is normally a gradual process. Drivers need to pull over their vehicle when the first signs appear, and rest. A 15-20 minute power nap goes a long way to re-energize the body.

At the Young Firm in New Orleans we are dedicated to the safety of our clients. If you have been involved in a car crash, contact us for a free evaluation of your case.

Louisiana Truck And Bus Accidents Scrutinized

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

On a clear June 2009 afternoon, a tractor-trailer crested a small rise on an interstate highway. In the distance, a dozen cars and trucks that had stopped because of a fender-bender were clearly visible. The massive truck never slowed down, plowing into the traffic at 70 miles per hour, riding over three cars, dragging them under its wheels and smashing others before finally coming to a stop. Ten people were killed.

Later, investigators found out the 76-year-old truck driver had slept only about five hours the previous night and had been on the road almost ten hours.

In a March 2010 accident, a speeding bus toppled off an elevated highway and hit a utility pole, peeling off the roof. Fifteen passengers were killed and eighteen injured.

The problem is not so much that truck transportation and big tour buses are unsafe, but that existing regulations are not respected by companies with poor safety records.

Fatalities involving large trucks have dropped significantly, from 5,200 deaths in 2005 to 3,200 in 2009. Big tour buses average about the same fatality rate as airline transport, with about 20 passenger deaths per year.

Despite these good results, as much as a third of all motor vehicle crashes are still due to driver fatigue. While the hours-of-service and rest hours regulations are meant to limit fatigue and drowsiness, enforcement of these rules is patchy at best. The bus industry says the problem isn't that buses are unsafe, but that the government allows companies with poor safety records to continue to operate.

Over half the tour bus fatalities between 1999 and 2009 involved either illegal carriers or carriers with a history of safety problems. The American Bus Association complains that only ten states have an effective bus inspection program.

If you have been involved in a truck or bus crash, contact the Young Firm for a free evaluation of your case.

Despite Seat Belts And Airbags, Louisiana Motorists Are Still At Risk In A Serious Car Crash.

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Why are people still dying in head-on auto crashes in Louisiana, despite seat belt use, airbags and the far better crashworthiness of recent cars?

All statistical surveys show the combination of seat belt use and air bags is highly effective, reducing fatality risk by 61 percent, compared to the fatality rate of a motorist not protected by seat belt or air bags. But 61 percent is not 100 percent and there are circumstances wherein, despite the extra protection, the occupants of a vehicle in a frontal collision can be killed.

What are the circumstances in which vehicle occupants might be killed in frontal crashes, despite the use of seat belt and air bags?

An extensive NRD-NHTSA study on the subject found the following cases:
Exceedingly severe crashes and/or anomaly: In these cases, either caused by very high speed or other unusual circumstances, the safety systems are overwhelmed and cannot prevent the death of the occupant.
Corner and/or oblique impact: When the impact diverges sufficiently from the head-on path, there can be insufficient structural resistance and shock absorption at the corner of the vehicle, or the occupant's trajectory towards the corner cannot be efficiently prevented by a seat belt and air bag.
Underride into side or rear of a heavy vehicle: Tractor-trailer accidents might end with the colliding vehicle being crushed under the trailer's steel structure, despite trailer guards. The result can be roof collapse or object-intrusion.
Vulnerable occupant: Some vehicle occupants, because of their weight, age, size or medical condition, are more susceptible to dying in a frontal collision.
Tall, narrow object: Typically a tree or a pole, a narrow object can penetrate the colliding vehicle far deeper than more massive obstacles, resulting in fatal injuries.

At the Young Firm in New Orleans we are dedicated to the safety of our clients. If you have been involved in a car crash, contact us for a free evaluation of your case.

Buying A Safer Car in Louisiana: What Is ESC?

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

You don't normally buy a new car every so many months. When you do, and spend a lot of money on it, manufacturers and Louisiana dealers are keen to advertise the latest in electronic wizardry and computer controlled mechanics, like ESC.

What is ESC?
ESC stands for Electronic Stability Control. It is a computer system monitoring the loss of steering control and applying the brakes on each individual wheel in order to bring the vehicle back into its intended path. Some ESC systems also reduce the engine's power when activated.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that ESC will reduce single-vehicle crashes of passenger cars by 34 percent and single-vehicle crashes of SUVs by 59 percent, sharply reducing the odds of rollover accidents.

ESC will become compulsory on all vehicles up to 10,000 pounds sold in the U.S.A. as of 2012. The NHTSA calculates that, once all passenger vehicles on the country's roads are outfitted with ESC, between 5,300 and 9,000 deaths and 156,000 to 238,000 injuries could be prevented every year in all types of crashes.

Along with ESC, make sure your new car has side air bags, another recent feature that has saved countless lives in the last 5 years.

Finally, you may want to consider the distance you will cover and the time you will spend driving your new auto. Are you still so sure nothing will happen to you, no rear-ending, no side crash at an intersection, no pileup? Wouldn't it be worth a little of your time, before you pick the type and model you want to buy, to check on the vehicle's crashworthiness and safety ratings?

At the Young Firm in New Orleans we are dedicated to the safety of our clients. If you have been involved in a car crash, contact us for a free evaluation of your case.

Bicycle Riding Is Meant To Be Fun In Louisiana.

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

The last time the Louisiana Department of Transportation (DOT) made a study on bicycle crashes was in 2008, covering the period from 2004 to 2006. 1,115 crashes were reported on local roads over that period, while 543 accidents were reported on the state highway network. Crashes on the state roads resulted in 30 percent more fatalities.

Many bicycle accidents result in death or very serious injuries. In a recent blog post on bicycle safety, we pointed out how bicyclists can remain safe and enjoy their ride.

Why are there so many accidents with bicyclists in Louisiana?

There are several reasons for this unhappy situation, some of them having to do with Louisiana, others being common to all bicyclists.

Bicycle Infrastructure. Bicycle riding paths and roadway shoulders are too few and often too narrow to provide a safe riding environment.

Visibility: Cyclists are even more exposed than motorcycle riders to accidents caused by drivers who fail to notice them, even when they look in the right direction. This is mostly the case at intersections and when vehicles pull out of a side street.

Car Doors: In urban areas, a cyclist will often ride along a line of parked vehicles. They should beware of any vehicle with occupants, who may open their doors right in front of a passing bicycle.

Large Trucks: When a truck driver turns right or left at an intersection, or changes lanes, a quick glance at the outside rearview mirrors will tell if the path is free. The problem is that there are many blind spots, even more so for cyclists staying much closer to the truck than a car. Another problem is that with a quick glance at the mirror, the driver may miss the cyclist altogether.

Pedestrians: Pedestrians also fail to see cyclists. On top of that, bicycles are silent and pedestrians are used to reacting to the noise of motor vehicles.

Poor Road Conditions: Cyclists have to be careful to avoid potholes, drainage covers, rail tracks or road debris. These obstacles could force them to swerve around, which increases the risk of being hit by a passing vehicle.

At the Young Firm in New Orleans we are dedicated to the safety of our clients. If you have been involved in a bicycle crash, contact us for a free evaluation of your case.

Do Large Motor Carriers Avoid Liability Using Owner-Operator Trucks?

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Devastating 18-wheeler accidents in Louisiana are often caused by driver errors or due to mechanical failures. Motor carriers operate under stringent rules and regulations, from driver qualification and hours-of-service to truck maintenance. These rules are enforced precisely to avoid such crashes and make our roads safer.

It is tempting, then, for large trucking companies to subcontract hauling to independent owner-operators under a leasing contract, creating a dangerous situation where victims of a crash caused by a tractor-trailer find themselves unable to receive compensation from a financially weak owner-operator.

In the past, it was indeed possible for large trucking companies to avoid regulations regarding drivers, truck specifications and maintenance by leasing the owner-operator trucks and pretending that the owner-operator was responsible for following all the rules.

Luckily, under current federal law this is not possible anymore. It doesn't matter what the leasing contract says or whether the driver is an independent contractor or an employee, the motor carrier is responsible for all accidents involving a truck that has its "placard" or name displayed on the vehicle. A placard is information affixed by the motor carrier on the leased truck, displaying the name of the motor carrier and its permit number.

Of course, when owner-operators use their own truck to haul cargo under their own authority and not under a lease contract with a motor carrier, they need to abide by the rules on their own, and are supposed to have Primary Liability Insurance to cover damages to third parties.

Most large trucks operating over long distances, however, are owned or leased by motor carriers and not by owner-operators.

At the Young Firm in New Orleans we are dedicated to the safety of our clients. If you have been involved in a tractor-trailer wreck, contact us for a free evaluation of your case.

No insurance after a car accident in Louisiana?

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Serious accident in Louisiana but you don't have insurance? You can still collect for most of your damages, however you will not recover for the first portion of your damages. Learn what amounts apply and how much of a penalty you will pay for not having insurance as explained by our serious car accident lawyers in Louisiana.

Poorly Loaded Semi-Trailers Cause Serious Accidents in Louisiana.

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

A sizeable portion of large truck accidents in Louisiana are caused by:

A truck driver error, like distraction, falling asleep, etc;
A mechanical failure, like defective brakes or worn-out tires;
Incorrectly loaded and secured cargo.

The truck driver is generally responsible for making sure that the cargo is loaded correctly and distributed evenly. It is the driver's duty to collect information on the sizes and weights of the various packages, crates, pallets or units that are being loaded onto the trailer, and to make sure the heaviest and more resistant parts are placed at the bottom.

Load distribution is more complicated when part of the cargo will be discharged at several points of delivery, each time requiring these items to be accessible and the remaining cargo to be re-distributed and secured again.

Inside the trailer or on a flatbed, cargo must be fastened in a way that prevents anything from rolling, shifting or falling in a sharp turn or sudden stop. After a few miles, cargo may settle and loosen nylon or steel straps. Experienced truck drivers will then stop to tighten the straps again, and will do a complete check each time the truck comes to a halt.

Furthermore, truck drivers will have to take into account federal and Louisiana regulations regarding total gross weight, tire load and weight per axle, applicable on the various roads and highways used by the truck.

A tractor-trailer with excess weight or with poorly distributed, top-heavy or incorrectly secured cargo is very likely to be drawn into a serious roll-over or jackknife crash, spilling cargo and bringing devastation to all those involved.

At the Young Firm in New Orleans we are dedicated to the safety of our clients. If you have been involved in a tractor-trailer wreck, contact us for a free evaluation of your case.

When A Sudden Change of Mind Could Also Be The Last One

Thu, 26 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Sudden Course Change in Heavy Traffic Causes Deadly Accidents in Louisiana

How often have we read the news of a devastating crash in Louisiana caused by a driver who, on a whim, decides to dart for the exit, turn left, change lanes, stop, make a U-turn or, even back up hundred yards?

Impulsive changes of mind are deadly when you are in rapidly moving traffic. The only reason why motor vehicles can ride at high speed so close to each other without crashing is because everyone moves in the same direction, at the same speed, in the same lane, as if linked to the other vehicles by invisible ties.

Changing the game without warning, the erratic driver brings on immediate chaos and destruction. Everyone knows this and agrees that changing lanes, turning or stopping needs to be signaled well in advance and done carefully.

The danger, however, lies in the impulsiveness of drivers, who react when something new suddenly comes up. A squirrel crosses the road? Just missed Exit 12? The left lane is much faster? Forgot your phone at home? Lafayette is left, not right? All this or any other sudden thoughts can make some drivers change course with a total disregard of other vehicles.

Louisiana traffic laws tell us no driver may make a right or left turn without giving signal continuously during no less than the last 100 feet traveled before turning. Furthermore, no person shall turn a vehicle at an intersection unless the vehicle is in proper position upon the roadway.

What this really boils down to is that drivers need to be in control of their impulses, and react calmly to a new situation. You missed the exit? Take the next one and you will get there with five minutes delay. This is a lot better than bringing on a five-vehicle pileup.

Multiple-Vehicle Pileup on I-20 near Shreveport

Mon, 23 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to a KSLA News report, a major accident involving 3 passenger vehicles and 2 tractor-trailers occurred last Friday, closing down I-20 at Bert Kouns Industrial Loop (Exit 8) in both directions for several hours. One elderly woman was killed in the crash.

A GMC pick-up truck, a Saturn Vue, a Peterbuilt and a Kenworth tractor-trailer and a Ford Bronco II were all traveling westbound on the interstate when the crash occurred.

Shreveport Fire Department Assistant Chief Lewis Johnson declared that three persons sustained serious but not life-threatening injuries and were transported to LSU.

The name of the deceased person had not been released at the time of the report.

The Caddo Parish Coroner's Office has sent a coroner to the scene to investigate the cause and circumstances of the crash.

Pileups are particularly dangerous because of repeated impacts crushing vehicles from all sides. Escaping survivors are often hit when they try to reach safer ground. A fire in one vehicle can quickly spread to other vehicles through spilled gasoline. Finally, a multiple-vehicle crash can overrun local emergency services and make it difficult for them to reach the victims.

Pileups often develop on high-speed traffic freeways when one vehicle abruptly stops, creating a deadly chain reaction of rear-ending crashes.

If you have been involved in a truck, car or motorcycle crash caused by someone else, contact immediately the motor vehicle accident attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans for a free, no commitment evaluation of your case.

Not Guilty, But Also Not Completely Innocent: the Role of Comparative Negligence in Louisiana.

Fri, 20 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Black-and-white situations are not the norm. In most cases, though, decisions need to be made even if conflicting parties are not entirely wrong, or entirely right.

When we try to prove that a car accident in Louisiana was caused by someone else, most victims start from the assumption that the other party's liability is obvious, or evident.

The problem arises when the defense comes up with a detail that was overlooked, and may have played a role in the crash. Examples: You were rear-ended which puts the blame squarely on the vehicle striking you from behind, but your rear lights didn't function, according to witnesses.

In a number of U.S. states, where the law of pure contributory negligence prevails, this would be enough to kill your case. Fortunately, Louisiana applies the principle of comparative negligence, which means that you may claim damages from the other party that caused the accident, whether or not your own negligence played any role in the crash.

In that case, the recovery for damages could be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. This is called allocation or apportionment of fault.

If you are turning left at an intersection without your turn signal on, and are hit by an oncoming car riding 20 miles per hour above the speed limit, the jury might decide that the collision was caused 70 percent by the speeding vehicle and 30 percent by you, because you failed to signal your intention.

Of course, attributing percentages to define each party's responsibility is very subjective, but this is precisely where an experienced car accident attorney can help you.

How Do You Prove the Other Party Was at Fault in a Louisiana Car Crash?

Wed, 18 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you were hurt in a serious car accident in Louisiana, you are probably going through a very difficult time. Pain, suffering and worries about the future are compounded by medical bills piling up, material damage and loss of income. In some cases, the family is left grieving the loss of a loved one, or wondering how they will cope with permanent disability.

If the accident was caused by someone else, you should be entitled to compensation.

How do you actually prove the other party's liability?

Police reports: Police officers generally show up to accidents that involve injuries. Their report is a record of what happened as far as they could see when they were on the scene. A police report normally carries weight.

On the Scene Expert Report: Whenever the police report does not allow you to conclude who was at fault, a traffic accident expert, generally appointed by your lawyer, can make an investigation on the scene to find out what caused the crash and why. Looking at skid marks, taking pictures, and examining the vehicles for worn tires or defective brakes, a good expert will be able to reconstruct the way the crash happened. This sort of investigation needs to be done right after the accident to make sure no essential clues disappear.

Further Investigation: In some cases, your legal representation will find it necessary to collect information about the other driver. Does he or she have a traffic violation record or a valid driver's license? Is the car insured and registered? Was he or she using a phone while driving? These and other questions could boost your chances of proving liability. Further critical elements might be collected from witnesses, who need to be contacted and interrogated.

State Traffic Laws: It is important to look at all the traffic code regulations that are applicable at the time and in the locality of the accident. What is the speed limit? Who had the right of way? What other signage was relevant on that road section?

In most serious accident cases, it is highly advisable to have an experienced car crash lawyer at your side. Contact the car accident attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans for a free, no commitment evaluation of your case.

Simple Ways to Enjoy Your Bicycle Ride

Thu, 12 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Bicyclists are vulnerable, even if Louisiana and local authorities have recently recognized the need to protect them from other vehicles, building exclusive bicycle trails and lanes wherever possible.

Nationwide, 630 bicyclists were killed in traffic accidents in 2009, a 12 percent drop from the year before, while the number of injured cyclists was put at 51,000, almost unchanged from 2008.

This high injury rate points to the core of the problem: bicycle riding is still unsafe.

What can bicycle riders do to avoid being injured?

Follow these safety tips and you will be fine:

Obey the rules of the road: Ride with the traffic, avoid changing lanes, stop at intersections and signal your intentions.
Be visible: Wear brightly colored clothing. At night, make sure you have bright head and rear lights, and wear reflective tape or clothing
Anticipate danger: Stop at intersections even if you have the right of way. Look back before you cross the intersection to make sure no one cuts across your path turning right. Keep a safe distance from parked cars to avoid being "doored," and always look over your shoulder before you change lanes or make a left turn.
Be predictable: Signal your lane changes and left turns well in advance. Do not make sudden stops (bikes stop almost instantaneously, cars don't). Indicate to followers when they may overtake you.
Protect yourself: Bicyclists need protective gear, starting with a helmet, which you should never fail to wear. Depending on the terrain, you may want to protect your hands, elbows, knees and eyes as well, especially on hilly roads where you can reach high speeds going downhill.

One tip we would like to insist on. Most bikers are not at risk because they are speeding, distracted or under the influence. They are likely to be injured in a crash because of other drivers. A sure way to lower the crash risk factor is to avoid traffic altogether.

It is not always possible, of course, but some routes are far better than others, even if the ride is longer. After all, you ride a bike because it is healthy and fun, not because you are in a hurry. Give preference to:

Low traffic roads
Roads with broad shoulders
Roads with exclusive bicycle lanes and trails

You can now search your itinerary on Google Maps by clicking on the bicycle icon to find the most appropriate route. Enjoy the ride.

After a Louisiana Crash With a Large Truck, Investigation is Imperative

Fri, 06 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

A serious, devastating crash with an 18-wheeler can be a life-changing experience. The surviving victims and their loved ones are often so overwhelmed by grief, pain and suffering that they do not have the emotional and mental capacity to think clearly about the future.

Unfortunately, if you know that the crash was caused by the truck driver, speed is critical to protect your rights to compensation. You will probably need compensation, and a large amount at that, to cover the huge medical bills, loss of income, loss of consortium, material damage, home care and rehabilitation services and more.

What is the best course of action?

The best course of action is to appoint someone in the family to contact an experienced Louisiana large truck accident law office like the Young Firm in New Orleans. Why?

The first thing to do after a serious 18-wheeler crash is to dispatch an investigator to the scene. Every hour counts, just like on a crime scene that is cordoned off to prevent evidence to be tampered with, wiped out or contaminated. Motor carriers handle crashes all the time, and do not want to be dragged into costly settlements or lawsuits. They often know that their records are not squeaky clean, that the driver may have dozed off, or that the brakes are worn out and should have been replaced a long time ago.

What can be found on the scene?

The investigation involves:

Visual inspection of the vehicles involved in the crash: impact damage, tires, brakes, cargo, mileage, etc.;
Inspection of the scene: skid marks, leaks, signage, location, position of vehicles, damage to the infrastructure, etc.;
Photographing and filming;
Collecting witness statements;
Driver interrogation;
Review of Police reports;
Collection of other evidence: driver qualification file, cell phone record, violations record, log book, hours of service, load weight, motor carrier license, driver employment contract, etc.;
Truck accident cause analysis.

Like for the Feds, speed and thoroughness are essential to achieve results. If you have been involved in a crash with a semi-truck, contact us without delay for a free evaluation of your case.

Why Do 15-Passenger Vans Roll Over?

Wed, 04 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Just about fifty percent of the 15-passenger van crash fatalities in Louisiana died in roll-over accidents.

Most of these vans are virtually identical in make and concept: the Ford E-350 accounts for 65 percent of van registrations, and the Dodge 3500 and Chevrolet Express 3500 account for another 31 percent.

Is a 15-passenger seating capacity too much for these vans?

These models naturally all react the same way; their center of gravity rises with the number of passengers on board. This is common to all passenger vehicles, but with their greater seating capacity, passenger vans become increasingly difficult to handle and prone to rollovers.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) looked at changes in the odds of rolling over in a single-vehicle crash. When the driver is alone in a 15-passenger van, the risk was found to be lower than for SUVs. Adding occupants increased the rollover risk in both types of vehicles by 9 to 12 percent per added passenger. When fully loaded, a passenger van is 400 percent more likely to roll over than when the driver travels alone. For cars, the odds of a rollover crash when fully loaded are 20 percent higher than when driving alone, for pick-ups 50 percent and for SUVs and minivans 100 percent.

These conclusions are closely related to the increased height of the center of gravity in fully loaded vehicles. Fully loading the vehicles meant a 0.9 inches higher center of gravity for minivans, 1.4 inches for 7-passenger vans and 4 inches for 15-passenger vans.

It is once again worth stressing the point that most people die in rollover accidents because they are unrestrained. Passengers securely fastened by seatbelts are far more likely to survive in rollovers.

At the Young Firm in New Orleans we are dedicated to the safety of our clients. If you have been involved in a 15-passenger van accident, contact us for a free evaluation of your case.

Think Twice About Your BAC Before You Take Your Car in Louisiana.

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

We all know we shouldn't do it. We all know the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08 percent. Then, fumbling with the car keys after a great dinner party the usual excuses come up:

I feel perfectly okay
I hold my liquor pretty well;
I think I am below the limit;
It's only a short ride;
If I see that I can't handle it, I'll stop;
etc.

For your safety, and for that of other people, you need to reconsider. Excuses are just a way of fooling yourself. The reality is, you are seriously increasing your chances of getting into deep trouble.

How is DUI treated in Louisiana?
If your BAC is 0.08 percent or higher (0.02 percent if you are younger than 21) you are considered intoxicated. You may still be arrested for DUI in Louisiana with a BAC under the legal limit if the arresting officer deems that you were driving recklessly.

In Louisiana, a DUI arrest involves first a civil action (affecting your driving privileges) and possibly a criminal action depending on the DUI charge. DUI offenses have penalties and sentences that grow more severe with each subsequent DUI arrest. If you are tried and convicted of DUI, the state will share this information with other states, which could seriously impact your sentencing.

In addition to having your driver's license suspended, you may have to pay heavy fines and be subjected to high insurance premiums and jail time up to 6 months. It could be even worse if you get involved in a crash with injuries.

At the Young Firm in New Orleans we are dedicated to the safety of our clients. If you have been involved in a car accident, contact us for a free evaluation of your case.

Does The Average Louisiana Truck Driver Know How To Avoid a Rollover?

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

The answer might seem obvious. A truck driver who doesn't know how to prevent a rollover is probably not a truck driver anymore or didn't survive to tell the story. It is, however, legitimate to ask the question, because most devastating 18-wheeler rollovers, in Louisiana and elsewhere, take the driver by surprise.

Whereas most qualified truck drivers will know how to prevent their tractor-trailer from tipping over under normal driving conditions, inexperienced drivers are often wrong-footed by something they had not anticipated like an unusually top-heavy load, a steep curve, or a collapsed suspension. What are some of the factors contributing to large truck rollovers?

Driver factors:

Excessive speed entering curve
Truck steered into soft shoulder
Abrupt counter-steering after drifting off the road

Vehicle factors:

Abnormally high center-of-gravity load
Collapsed suspension on one side
Under-inflated or blown tires on one side
Defective brake system
Uneven cargo distribution
Shifting cargo

Highway factors:

Unsafe speed advisory
Exaggerated road banking
Unusual sharpness of a curve

A semi-truck rollover can wreak havoc, crushing cars, spilling cargo and blocking the highway for hours on end. In this kind of crash even the truck driver isn't safe and could sustain serious, even fatal injuries. This is where experience comes in handy.

If you have been hurt in a New Orleans truck accident, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

After a Car Crash in Louisiana, Is the Claims Adjuster Going To Help You?

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

You have had the shock of your life, a Louisiana car accident so violent you thought you were dead. A week later, everything hurts, but you are thankful to be alive. And slowly, gradually, on top of your pain and distress, the worries start seeping in your mind about your wrecked finances and long healing process. You are trying not to think about the possibility of losing your job.

The insurance adjuster is due to call you later in the day. What should you tell him?

Things you need to know about insurance adjusters:

Adjusters are not sales people. They won't even try to please you. They are employees working with targets and instructions. One of their objectives is to keep your settlement out of court. They will do this by either proposing a quick settlement at a low level, making sure you sign a waiver for any future claim, or letting the process drag on forever, starving you of the funds you need to pay the bills until you are ready to settle.

Every adjuster handles hundreds of claims every month. They know exactly how people react to kindness and to threats.

What are the arguments an adjuster might use to defeat or minimize your claim?

Our experience with claims adjusters is that they always come with arguments like:

You caused the accident;
Their policyholder was not negligent or at fault;
You were both responsible for what happened;
You can't have serious injuries when the car suffered only minor damages;
Your injuries are not clearly demonstrated;
Your injuries result from a prior accident;
You had earlier treatment for this sort of injury;
Your medical care has been interrupted, or is too expensive, or is not necessary;
Your wage losses are exaggerated or unproven;
Or any combination of the above.

Don't be surprised if, with this kind of approach, the settlement proposal they come up with is just a fraction of what you need to rebuild your life.

Don't let anyone deny you the compensation to which you are entitled, for your pain and suffering, medical treatment, rehabilitation and home care, loss of wages and work, material damage and car replacement.

If you have been hurt in a New Orleans car accident, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans immediately for a FREE consultation of your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Preparing Teenagers to Drive in Louisiana

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Teens and cars can be an explosive mixture. The facts are certainly not reassuring. Every day, car crashes kill more teens than cancer, homicide, poisoning, drowning and suicide combined.

Over a period of ten years (1998 to 2007) 10,338 drivers aged 15 to 17 were killed in crashes, of which 639 were age 15, 4,052 age 16 and 5,697 age 17. The first years of driving are clearly the most critical.

What can Louisiana parents do?

Supervised driving: Practice driving with your teen under varied conditions. Establish a schedule and rules to manage the process. Do it frequently and for as long as possible to steer your teenager towards more experience in different driving conditions.

Safety belt use: Establish the rules and set a good example by requiring everyone in the family to buckle up.

Distracted driving: This is critical. Write down rules everyone abides by, that are strict and non-negotiable. One rule should be that a call is put on hold until the car can be stopped, and that texting while driving is completely forbidden.

Set more rules and a timetable: Set limits on driving at night, number of passengers, driving in bad weather, and driving with children, and verify the agreed upon rules. Apply zero tolerance for speeding or alcohol use.

Between 1998 and 2007 a total of 24,655 young drivers were involved in crashes that killed 28,138 people. 10,388 of them were the young drivers themselves, 8,829 were passengers, 6,858 were occupants of other vehicles and 1,973 were non-motorists.

Scroll through the numerous and excellent websites about teenager driving and safety with your teens and discuss with them the facts, figures and approaches to a safer future.

If you have been hurt in a New Orleans car crash, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm immediately for a FREE consultation of your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

2009 Truck Accident Fatalities: Half The Number in 1979 For Twice The Mileage!

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

If in 2009 a nationwide total of only 3,163 people died in large truck crashes, this number still represents an equal number of tragedies for the family and friends of the victims. 18-wheeler crashes are devastating, and fatal accident statistics do not reflect the suffering of tens of thousands of severely injured victims, most of them passenger vehicle occupants, motorcyclists and pedestrians.

Nevertheless, for those in Louisiana who fight daily to improve highway traffic safety, the above-mentioned figure represents a bit of a victory, or at least the hope that their efforts are bearing fruit.

Sharp decline.

In 1979, large trucks on the nation's roads traveled 109 million miles and 6,539 people died in truck accidents. The corresponding figures for 2009 are 228 million (estimated) miles and 3,163 fatalities. The decline has been spectacular in the last 5 years, as the number of victims was still as high as 5,049 in 2005.

Safer cars?
Because the overwhelming majority of large truck accident victims are occupants of passenger cars, experts believe the steep decline in fatalities is in part due to better car crashworthiness and safety devices such as seatbelts and airbags. Many large motor carriers also have improved enforcement of hours of service and invested in electronic on-board warning and control systems.

It is still a sad fact that large trucks account for only 4 percent of registered vehicles but for 11 percent of road accident fatalities.

If you have been hurt in a New Orleans truck accident, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

What are the risks for pedestrians in Louisiana?

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Public transport is used by workers and other Louisianans who either cannot afford a car, or want to avoid the hassle and cost of being stuck in traffic and searching for a parking place. It is estimated that 14 percent of the workforce are transit users in New Orleans, and that the proportion is about the same in Baton Rouge, Monroe, Shreveport, Alexandria and Lafayette.

All these transit users start and end their trip as pedestrians. They are joined by countless schoolchildren, retirees and shoppers to form the most vulnerable group exposed to road accidents.

A recent 3-year study in New Orleans has found that 4,133 people were victims of pedestrian crashes, of which 2,671 (65 percent) were on local streets and 1,462 (35 percent) on state highways.

On state highways, accidents resulting in more severe injuries or death represented 24 percent of the total, while on local streets the proportion was 9 percent. This is obviously explained by the higher speed of vehicles on highways.

How do pedestrian accidents happen?

Most of the time (30 percent) pedestrians are hit by a vehicle while crossing the street or highway. In 15 percent of the crashes, pedestrians are walking or standing alongside the road. In other cases, pedestrians are hurt in parking lots or on sidewalks.

Whatever the causes, pedestrian accidents can have terrible consequences: broken bones, traumatic head injury, spinal cord damage and wrongful death. Even outside a crosswalk, motorists are expected to respect the speed limits and exercise due caution in areas crowded with pedestrians. Driving without a license or under the influence might seriously weaken the motorist's defense and strengthen your claim for compensation.

If you have been hurt in a New Orleans pedestrian crash, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Risky Rides: Checking Out the New Orleans Taxicabs.

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

In most cases, New Orleans taxicab drivers are friendly, professional and careful. "In most cases," because we have all experienced a few cab rides with some fearless character behind the wheel wanting to show off his skills by swerving through the traffic at breathtaking speed as if in a giant slalom.

You don't get to choose the driver when you hail a taxi. Risks of being injured in a car ride are always present but could easily be two to ten times higher if the cab driver:

Is speeding;
Changes lanes, tailgates and makes sudden turns;
Is distracted, talks on the phone or the radio, or unwraps food;
Overtakes slower vehicles without proper vision;
Doesn't keep a safe distance with other vehicles.

On top of this, many taxis are old and worn out, are driven in shifts by different people and get only the most basic maintenance, which means improper suspension, brakes and tires.

This is to say that next time you take a taxi in New Orleans, you should buckle up.

A detailed study has been made on seatbelt use in taxis, showing interesting results:

11.5 percent of rear-seat passengers involved in crashes sustained fractures, concussions, internal injuries, bleeding and abrasions, which is three times higher than the rate for passengers in other vehicles;
17 percent of rear-seat passengers involved in crashes were wearing seatbelts. This is a much lower proportion than passenger seatbelt use in other vehicles than taxis;
Unrestrained passengers are nearly twice as likely to sustain severe injuries as those using a seatbelt.

The study further mentions a well-known fact: rear-seat passengers in medallion taxicabs are likely to sustain more serious injuries in a crash due to the very hard glass partition separating them from the front seats.

If you have been hurt in a New Orleans taxicab crash contact the attorneys of the Young Firm immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

The elderly behind the wheel: are they at risk in Louisiana?

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Traffic accident statistics show that auto accident rates go down with the driver's age, until the driver reaches the 61-70 age bracket. Then, crash frequency starts going up again very steeply.

There are two ways to look at the problem of unsafe elderly drivers in Louisiana:

How does old age affect their driving ability?
Why do older drivers keep driving?

Why are older drivers at risk?

With every passing year, older drivers are subject to more impairment that affects their ability to drive safely:
Vision: The natural evolution is to have declining vision with old age, which is frequently compounded by an increase in conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration and stroke. Elders are also far more sensitive to changes in light and glare.

Cognition: Driving is a complex activity requiring focus, coordination, speed of execution, anticipation, memory and visual processing. For many elderly people, the stress of driving is far higher than what they are used to during the course of any day, and goes beyond their ability to cope. Many older drivers are also taking medication that can further impair their abilities and reaction time.

Motor function: For elders, getting in and out of the car is difficult and takes time. Their grip on the steering wheel, ability to slam on the brakes or turn the head is also reduced because of muscular weakness.

Impairing ailments: Far more than people in younger age groups, elders could be suffering from a variety of illnesses that limit their mobility and capacity to drive, such as: arthritis, strokes, Parkinson's disease, sleep apnea, diabetes or seizures.

Why do elderly people keep driving?

Everyone has a duty to prevent elderly drivers from getting behind the wheel if and when they have become a risk to themselves and the public. Whereas the renewal of a driver's license can be refused if a driver is visually impaired, other means of preventing impaired elders from driving require the active involvement of their doctor and family members or friends.

For elders, having to give up driving is often a dreadful prospect. It means giving up their cherished independence and ability to go around freely and meet people.

If you have been hurt in a Louisiana car accident, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free), or by sending us an e-mail.

Louisiana traffic safety: Safer cars do make a difference.

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you are worried about your teenager behind the wheel, or your spouse's daily commute to the school or to work, remember that a great deal can be done to avoid auto accidents in Louisiana, and to limit the damage if there is a crash. For instance, you can make sure to buy a safer car.

Safety should be one of the top criteria when you buy a car. Fine, but what does car safety mean? In a nutshell, these are the various elements you should look at:

Weight of the vehicle: If a heavier vehicle collides with a lighter one, the lighter will suffer substantially more damage. Even if a large or mid-sized sedan does not have the best mileage, the yearly cost difference could be small, especially if the car isn't driven much.
Passive safety features: Apart from the car's weight and size, there are a number of features that are critical to your safety in a crash. You will need to check the proper functioning and ease of use of safety belts in the front and back. Airbags save thousands of lives every year and all experts agree on the even greater safety provided by side-impact airbags; give them a top priority in your list of criteria. Headrests are essential to prevent whiplash, but they need to be close to the back of your head and at the appropriate height: directly behind the centerline of your head.
Structural integrity: The way the car's metal structure reacts to front, rear and side impacts or rollovers determines your fate in high-impact collisions. All cars are rated for crashworthiness and results can be found online.
Active safety features: Almost all these features are crucial in your ability to avoid a crash or reduce the impact of one. The most basic ones are the vehicle's tires, brakes, handling, acceleration and visibility. Others are electronic features like the anti-lock brake system (ABS) and the electronic stability control (ESC) system, which prevent the car from spinning out or plowing into something. Take some time to understand the functioning and importance of these devices.

New safety systems are brought on the market every year, like Collision Warning and Brake Support or Emergency Brake Assist devices, first installed on high-end vehicles, then gradually becoming standard on all new passenger cars. It may come as a surprise that even the car's color has a great influence on the likelihood of a crash; check out some statistics on this phenomenon before choosing a car color.

If you have been hurt in a serious car accident in Louisiana, contact the car accident attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free), or by sending us an e-mail.

Louisiana motorists killed and injured by poorly designed truck bumpers.

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

In an article published last week, the editorial board of the Sun Journal asked for immediate action by federal regulators to improve the design and strength of the rear-impact safety guards of trucks and trailers.

What is wrong with truck and trailer rear bumpers?

In 1967 actress Jane Mansfield was killed when her convertible plowed into the rear end of a truck in Louisiana. The tragic accident prompted authorities to require that all heavy trucks and semi-trailers be fitted with rear-end bars.

A highway insurance group recently tested the so-called Mansfield bars and concluded that the present U.S. standard for rear-impact guards is grossly inadequate.

When the effectiveness of the guard was questioned in 1996, new standards were adopted, setting a uniform height of 22 inches. Accounts of the hearings at the time showed safety advocates urging that a lower and stronger guard be installed. This was, however, overruled after intense lobbying by the trucking industry.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, in Canada the rear guard minimum standard is 75 percent stronger than the present U.S. standard and performs adequately. Crash test photos illustrate the difference in a compelling way:

At speeds as low as 35 mph, the Chevrolet Malibu sedan collapses the bar and rides underneath the truck or trailer (left picture). The front seat passengers are crushed. The Canadian rear-impact guard (right picture), however, stops the car, whose body is designed to gradually collapse and dissipate the energy of the impact. The frame around the front passenger remains intact.

Every year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 423 people die and over 5,000 are injured when their vehicles rear-end a semi-trailer or heavy truck.

Forty-four years after Jane Mansfield's death, it is about time effective measures were taken.

If you have been hurt in a Louisiana truck accident, contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

If 63 percent of young drivers are on the phone behind the wheel, who is driving?

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood is scared, as he has been each time one of his four children turned 16. He explains why:

Car crashes are the leading cause of teen deaths.
Nearly 5,500 people died in the U.S. in distracted driving accidents in 2009.
63 percent of drivers under age 30 acknowledge using a cell phone while driving.

Commenting on these scary statistics, LaHood said at the headquarters of Consumer Reports magazine, "The safest way to get from one place to another is to hang up and drive."

Announcing a partnership aimed at raising the awareness of young drivers that using the phone and driving is an either / or situation, he gave details of the program. Most of it involves parents setting a good example and setting and enforcing ground rules. Fliers will be distributed to schools and volunteer groups, and announcements distributed to TV stations nationwide with videos played in retail stores.

In Louisiana, as in the rest of the country, distracted driving has become an epidemic, causing an ever increasing share of deadly accidents.

According to a WRAL report on the subject, a recent poll showed that only 30 percent of young drivers consider using a phone while driving dangerous.

Consumer Reports is better known for testing the safety of autos and has only recently been drawn into the distracted driving issue because, as Jim Guest puts it, "it's a critical auto safety issue that needs attention." Jim Guest is the president of Consumer Union, which publishes the magazine.

Curbing the appalling upward trend of distracted driving will save lives and prevent unspeakable misery. If you have been hurt in a Louisiana car accident caused by someone else, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Weightwatchers: Louisiana truck loads and weigh-station checks.

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

From a business standpoint, it makes sense to load a truck as much as possible. The additional wear on the equipment is more than offset by far lower transport costs per unit. What the motor carrier does not take into account, however, is the additional cost borne by the community: road and bridge damage, and higher risks of accidents.

Exactly the same reasoning applies to the way a truck is loaded. Motor carriers are in a hurry; the cargo has to be delivered on-time. So are truck drivers, who are mostly paid by the mile. It takes time to load a semi-truck properly, spreading the cargo weight evenly over the trailer’s surface and securing it. It also takes time to do this work all over again when part of the cargo has been unloaded and the truck must resume its voyage.

Federal, state and local regulations govern the cargo weight, weight distribution, and tire and axle load that are permitted in the various territories crossed by a large truck. Truck weigh stations are present alongside all major Louisiana highways, where truck drivers are required to stop when they are operating.

Why do overloaded or improperly loaded trucks cause accidents?

There are several reasons why the truck’s cargo can be the cause of a crash:

Excess weight can cause one or more tires to blow out;
An overloaded truck needs a longer distance to come to a halt;
Overloaded trucks move too slowly uphill and too quickly going down;
When the cargo load is not distributed evenly, the truck’s steering and braking are hindered;
Excess weight and uneven loads cause trucks to roll-over and jackknife.

Not only do heavy truck accidents cause terrible damage, getting fair compensation from a motor carrier can be exceedingly challenging, as outlined in a number of previous articles.

If you have been hurt in a Louisiana truck accident, contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Who is going to stop speeding semi-trucks in Louisiana?

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

In a statement issued earlier this month, Road Safe America (RSA) announced that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation, filed a Grant Decision on a petition to require speed limiting devices to be set on all heavy commercial vehicles at 68 miles per hour.

This is good news for all of us in Louisiana who are very uncomfortable with the risks associated with large trucks on the road. Every month in the United States, accidents between large trucks and passenger cars kill the equivalent number of people of two commercial airliners crashing with no survivors.

The RSA had filed their petition back in 2006, together with the American Trucking Association and numerous large trucking companies, and is very pleased that the present administration has allowed it to move forward. A few comments allow us to better understand the background of the proposed regulation:

Electronic on-board speed governors are standard equipment on all tractor-trailer trucks since 1992, but only some of them are activated and no mandatory limit has been set;
Japan, Australia, parts of Canada (the more heavily populated provinces) and the European Union all have truck crash related fatalities lower than ours. They also have mandatory speed controls set at between 55 and 65 mph;
An 18-wheeler can come to a standstill over a distance at least 20% longer than a passenger car. At least, because the brake system of a truck only works well when all tires are in good shape, all brakes are properly balanced and well maintained and the truck’s cargo is well distributed. In most cases, one or more of these conditions are missing and the truck’s distance to stop can be double the distance of a car.

The RSA has also devoted a lot of energy to convincing lawmakers and leading trucking industry personalities that the pay-by-the-mile formula is a dangerous incentive for truck drivers to drive long and fast. “Truckers deserve a professional pay system for the hard and crucial job they do. We want them to get paid for all of their working hours, whether the truck is moving or not.” declared Tom Hodgson, RSA’s Executive Director. This is the only way for truck drivers to be truly concerned about safety.

If you have been hurt in a Louisiana truck accident, contact immediately the truck accident attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

New truck driver rules to keep Louisiana roads safer.

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

In December 2010, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) launched CSA, for Compliance, Safety, Accountability. CSA is a program to improve safety through a new model of enforcement and compliance. This model allows the FMCSA to contact a much larger number of carriers earlier in order to address safety problems before crashes occur.

Regarding their impact on Louisiana truck drivers, the new CSA tasks are to:

Monitor the performance and safety records of individual truck drivers;
Address drivers with safety issues, based on their histories with previous and current employers;
And hold both the motor carrier and the driver responsible for safety concerns.

The new model will allow the FMCSA to monitor and assess performance of drivers during a 3-year period, across multiple employers, through a scorecard that a truck driver can now consult in real time.

The FMCSA can start investigations on “high profile” drivers leading to a Notice of Violation or Notice of Claim. As a result, drivers could face fines, corrective actions or even a request to completely cease operations, all of which can be avoided if they agree to follow a safety program.

Some of the violations that will penalize a driver in the new point system are:

Following the vehicle ahead too closely;
Failure to keep the previous 7 days’ log;
Not signing duty status (service or rest hours) records;
And violation of an Out-Of-Service order.

CSA also implies many changes for Louisiana motor carriers. Most of all, CSA allows the FMCSA to follow up and control the safety regulations enforcement of a much larger proportion of the 700,000-plus motor carriers operating in the country.

Several violations are deemed by the FMCSA to be automatic audit failures, such as:

Refusing to implement a drug testing program;
Employing a driver who has tested positive for any controlled substance;
Hiring a driver without a valid driver’s license;
Failure to correct service defects in a truck;
And failure to regularly inspect all vehicles.

With all the regulations to which motor carriers are subject, a claim following a truck accident in Louisiana is going to be played by very different rules than a crash with a passenger car.

If you have been hurt in a Louisiana truck accident, contact the truck accident attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Back pain: constant reminder of a Louisiana car crash you'd rather forget.

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

In Louisiana, when people are hurt in a car crash that was caused or aggravated by another party, they can get compensation for their pain, suffering, medical expenses and the loss of wages during the time that they are unable to work.

Neck and back injuries are among the most common injuries in auto accidents, and are often particularly difficult to diagnose and treat. From whiplash to spinal cord trauma, the term covers a wide range of injuries that can heal in a week or result in permanent disability.

Your back is a complex structure of bones, muscles, nerves and tissues extending from the neck to the pelvis. Common back injuries include:

Sprains and Strains: Sprains affect your ligaments, stretching or tearing them. Ligaments are the tissues that connect and hold bones together at a joint. Strains are torn or stretched tendons or muscles, the tendons being tissues that attach muscle to bone. Treatment includes immobilizing and resting the injured area and therapeutic exercises.
Herniated disk: The 26 vertebrae of your spinal column are separated by soft disks filled with a jelly-like substance in order to cushion them and keep them in place. A disk is herniated when it slips out of place or ruptures. If either the disk or the substance presses on a nerve, it can cause sciatica, affecting your lower back, calf and foot. Symptoms vary with the position of the hernia, and usually involve back pain, tingling, numbness or muscle spasms.
Fractured vertebrae: Unfortunately, many accidents cause more severe injuries. A trauma to the spinal column can have very serious consequences because the displaced or broken bones are likely to damage, sometimes permanently, the nervous system connecting the muscles with the brain. Whether lumbar (lower back) or thoracic, vertebrae fractures require immediate immobilization, analysis and imaging and neurological tests. In many cases, surgery will be required. Some fractures can lead to partial or total paralysis and disability.

To make matters more complicated, victims of car accidents in Louisiana are often not aware that they have suffered neck or back injuries until later on, after they have signed a statement about their medical condition. Back pain may go away and re-appear at irregular intervals, or may prevent you from doing certain activities. Untreated, your back pain could get a lot worse over the years.

If you have been hurt in a Louisiana car accident, contact the New Orleans attorneys of the Young Firm immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Icy weather causes deadly truck crashes in Iberville.

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Texas man was driving a 2004 Ford pickup truck on Interstate 10 eastbound near Ramah in Iberville Parish when he lost control and struck the guardrail. Stepping out of the vehicle he could not make it to safety and was hit when a semi-truck rammed into his pickup.

Just after the collision, another semi-truck came to a controlled stop but was struck from behind by a third 18-wheeler. According to a Post South report of the accident, the Louisiana State Police do not think alcohol was a factor, but black ice certainly was, and I-10 was later closed to traffic.

The weather can change very quickly in Louisiana, and conditions are often extreme with rain, snow, sleet and ice in the winter, or storms or blinding sun in the summer.

As we have mentioned regularly before, trucking companies are subjected to detailed safety regulations, and one of them, section 392.14, deals with weather conditions.

Titled Hazardous conditions; extreme caution, this section of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules instructs the truck driver to reduce speed or even to discontinue operating the truck if hazardous weather conditions adversely affect visibility or traction.

Key words in this rule are “extreme caution,” putting the responsibility for what might happen squarely on the truck driver’s and motor carrier’s shoulders.

All too often, motor carriers and truck drivers consider these compulsory FMCSA safety regulations as secondary to the all-important goal of making money, delivering on time and expanding business. In extreme weather conditions, this attitude has devastating consequences.

If you have been hurt in a Louisiana truck accident, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Check your tires. Everything rides on them.

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Think about it: at 60 miles per hour, your wheels spin more than 13 times per second. That’s fast and you shouldn’t be surprised, after having driven your car weeks and months on end without even looking at them, that one of your tires suddenly decides it’s had enough. A flat tire, tire blowout or tread separation at high speed or in a crucial maneuver could lead to a terrible accident. What should Louisiana drivers do to avoid such an outcome?

It is part of normal, basic car maintenance to regularly check your tires for:

Adequate pressure
Cuts and slashes
Tread depth

Good tires will not just improve the steering, stopping, traction and load-carrying capacity of your car, they will also reduce your fuel consumption and last longer if kept at the proper pressure.

Tire pressure: Your vehicle owner’s manual indicates the proper tire pressure in a fully or partially loaded situation. For many cars, the pressure, expressed in psi (pounds per square inch), is indicated on a sticker in the front left door edge.

It is recommended to check your vehicle’s tire pressure at least once a month for the following reasons:

The air pressure in your tires may vary with the ambient temperature;
You can lose air suddenly if you drive over a pothole or strike the curb when parking;
Many tires lose air over time;
With radial tires, it is usually not possible to determine under inflation visually.

Tire tread: Once the tires are worn down to where the tread is no more than 1/16 inch deep, they must be replaced. There are very cheap measurement tools to check the tire tread depth, but just a regular visual inspection will alert you when the time has come to change your tires.

Tire change, balancing and wheel alignment: Tires do not wear down evenly. In a front wheel drive car, for instance, the front tires will need to be replaced far more often than the rear tires.

Check with your service technician if your tires should be rotated, and where to place the new ones. Ask for detailed explanations about the new tires’ characteristics and if they fit with the old tires. At times, it is best to replace all four tires if you want to change the type of your tires.

With a tire change, it is necessary to balance the tire, which is done by positioning weights on the wheel to counteract heavy spots. If your steering wheel vibrates at a high speed, you should request a wheel balancing. The wheels should also be aligned to adjust their angle relative to the body’s frame. This prevents your car from veering to the left or right when driving on a straight, level road.

Your safety is in your hands. Regularly check your tires and ask yourself if you should upgrade and/or replace them. If you have been hurt in a Louisiana car accident, contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Why do some large trucks jackknife?

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Last week, the News3Channel reported that a 54-year-old man died on Interstate 10, east of Grosse Tete, when the cab of his 18-wheeler rolled onto its side and caught fire.

The truck driver, Donald Hunt of Louisville, Miss., was driving west when the semi-truck ran off the road to the right. The trailer began to jackknife but stayed upright, while the cab turned around and rolled over. The Iberville Parish coroner pronounced Hunt dead at the scene.

This illustrates how catastrophic Louisiana jackknife accidents can be. Most jackknife situations occur when the tractor pulls a light or empty trailer, because the trailer’s brakes are made for heavy loads and will easily block the wheels, the skidding wheels immediately losing all traction. The far heavier tractor unit, trying to come to a standstill, will be pushed sideways by the forward moving mass of the trailer until it turns around and, in some cases, rolls over.

Many jackknife accidents occur when the 18-wheeler moves out of its path and the driver suddenly overcorrects, or when he enters a sharp curve at high speed and needs to slam on the brakes while turning. At times, a semi-truck having to brake hard on a forward path will do the same because of poorly maintained or unbalanced brakes.

Jackknifed truck crashes can be devastating, causing death and destruction on a large scale. Not only do they come as a complete surprise, the trailer and tractor often end up blocking the path of vehicles over several highway lanes, including the ones coming from the opposite site. It is not unusual to have a dozen vehicles involved in such a crash with debris and cargo spilled over a large surface.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a jackknifed truck accident, contact immediately the New Orleans attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Are Louisiana drivers losing control of their vehicles?

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

The News Star reported yesterday that a head-on collision in Ouachita Parish killed both drivers. The accident occurred Wednesday in the early morning hours, when a 1996 Chevrolet truck traveling east on Louisiana 34 suddenly crossed the center line and hit a westbound 2000 Chrysler van head-on.

Both the Chevrolet driver, 42-year-old Emmitte Fleming and the Chrysler driver, 39-year-old Steven Green, were pronounced dead at the scene. They were both from West Monroe.

The reason why the Chevrolet truck steered away from its lane is unknown as the Coroner’s Office is still awaiting autopsy results.

The attorneys of the Young Firm wish to convey their warmest sympathy to the families and friends of both victims.

The renewed tragedy of this accident raises again the question on how so many crashes are the result of vehicles steering away from their normal path. There could be many causes, like:

Driver distraction;
Driver falling asleep;
Driver under the influence of alcohol, medication or illegal drugs;
Speeding;
Stroke or other medical event.

The number of crashes in Louisiana due to a sudden loss of control by the driver is staggering. Apart from accidents like the above reported head-on collision, single vehicle accidents and roll-over crashes are reported every week.

Most of these accidents are deadly, for the simple reason that none of the drivers involved can see the accident coming and react in time to either avoid or lessen the impact.

Read this new FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what to do and what to avoid after a serious crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

If you have been the victim of a serious car or truck accident caused by someone else contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

What are the most common causes of Louisiana car accidents?

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Traffic accidents are the leading cause of death among people aged between 3 and 33. If you look closely at the latest statistics reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), you should not be surprised that the greatest threat to drivers is the drivers themselves.

What are the leading causes of vehicle crashes in our country?

Distracted driving: Various recent studies have pinpointed the growing importance of driver inattention as a cause of accidents, accounting for between 25 and 50 percent of all motor vehicle crashes. Among the many sources of distraction, two stand out: texting and “rubbernecking” (slowing down to gawk at another accident). Other distractions involve passengers, children or dogs, adjusting the radio, CD-player or GPS, calling and talking on the cell phone, or reading a paper, map or other document.
Driver fatigue: Most fatigue-related accidents occur between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., when people are used to sleeping. People also become drowsy between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., in many cases after the digestion of a meal sets in.
Drunk driving: Alcohol-related crashes killed some 13,000 people in 2009. More than 30 percent of all fatal crashes were caused by alcohol impairment, and this proportion varies widely according to place and time. In Louisiana, the proportion is 37 percent, and during weekends, the rate jumps to 53 percent.
Speeding: When a vehicle accelerates from 40 mph to 60 mph, the energy released in a crash more than doubles, and the distance required to stop increases in proportion. A staggering number of accidents are caused by drivers having “lost control” of their vehicle, which in many cases indicates that they were driving too fast.
Aggressive driving: Aggressive or reckless drivers are dangerous because they either want to cause harm or are indifferent to it. Their behavior needs to be reported at once to the Highway Patrol.
Bad weather: Looking at the weather warnings and pulling over to a stop are the best preventive measures to avoid serious accidents caused by torrential rains, fog, ice, snow or heavy winds.

If you have been the victim of a serious car or truck accident caused by someone else in Natchitoches, Leesville or Alexandria, contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE consultation of your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Unsettling U.S. and Louisiana road accident statistics.

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Even though the attorneys of the Young Firm are confronted almost daily with car and truck accidents in Breaux Bridge, New Iberia, Broussard, St. Martinsville, Lafayette, Opelousas and elsewhere in Louisiana, we can’t get used to them. Each accident is a shock, and this is why we are doing all we can to make our clients, their relatives and the public aware of the mostly avoidable causes and terrible consequences of vehicle accidents.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2009, accidents caused some 2.3 million people to be injured, while fatal crashes resulted in 33,808 deaths (drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, bicyclists or pedestrians). These sobering figures hide the even more unpleasant reality that most accidents are perfectly avoidable.

32 percent of the auto accident fatalities in the United States in 2009 were caused by drunk driving. This represents almost 13,000 deaths in one year. For the State of Louisiana, the percentage is 37 percent, representing 415 fatalities. Of fatal accidents occurring between midnight and 3 a.m., 79 percent involved alcohol.

Roll-over accidents are deadly. While 20 percent of the fatal accidents involved a vehicle that rolled over, roll-overs only account for 5 percent of the accidents resulting in injuries, and 1.3 percent of the accidents resulting only in material damage.

Teenagers drive less than most but the oldest age groups, but their numbers of crashes and crash fatalities are much higher. The crash rate per mile driven is 4 times higher for the 16-19-year-old age group than for older drivers. The risk is highest at age 16, twice as high in fact as for 18-19-year-olds.

Read this new FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what to do and what to avoid after a serious crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

If you have been the victim of a serious car or truck accident caused by someone, else contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Make sure children are safe when riding in your car

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

There is no need to elaborate on the necessity of protecting Louisiana children from devastating car accidents. Traffic accidents are the major cause of severe and fatal injuries to children. Fortunately, countrywide car accident fatality numbers for children aged 13 or less have come down every year in the last 20 years, from 2,701 in 1988 to 1,062 in 2009.

But what can you do, and how can you make sure you are doing the right thing?

Rear-facing infant seats: Until they are at least one year old or weigh 20 pounds babies should be seated facing towards the rear. Carefully check the manufacturer’s manual to attach and place the seat at the right angle. Place the rear-facing seat on the front seat of your car only if you can switch off this seat’s airbag. It is always better to place the baby seat on the back seats.

Forward-facing seats: For toddlers who have outgrown their infant seats, the forward-facing seat becomes necessary. The same precautions need to be taken to make sure the seat is securely and tightly fastened to the car seat. The child will be buckled in straps that need to be held together by a retainer clip at armpit level.

Booster seats: If a child has become too big for his forward-facing seat, and has not yet reached the right size to use the adult safety belts, a booster seat will be the perfect solution. Placed and securely fastened on the car’s seat, the booster seat brings the child to the right height to use the car’s safety belts, without having the lap belt across the stomach or the shoulder belt across the neck.

Adult belts: For older children the use of adult belts will provide the best protection. Children should continue to be seated in the back as long as possible. If a child has to be seated in the front, make sure the seat is moved as far back as possible and that the child does not lean forward with his or her head close to the dashboard. With older children you will have to frequently verify that they haven’t unbuckled or put the belt behind their back or under their arm.

In Louisiana, the law says a child must be in a child restraint or booster seat if aged less than 6 or weighing less than 60 pounds. Children 6 to 12 years of age must be restrained by a lap belt, shoulder harness, or an age- and size-appropriate child safety or booster seat.

Read this new FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what to do and what to avoid after a serious crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

If you have been the victim of a serious car or truck accident caused by someone else, contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Looking at the tires after a large truck crash in Louisiana

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Highways are littered with long, black, rubber strips, showing how truck tires can be used until they start disintegrating.

Are all Louisiana large trucks riding with completely worn out tires? Of course not. Many motor carriers have a tire control, maintenance and replacement policy in place, but there are several very good reasons to look at the truck’s tires after a serious crash with an 18-wheeler in Louisiana.

Truck tires play a crucial role in a semi- truck’s ability to stop. A large truck at 65 miles per hour requires, in the best of circumstances, 20% more distance to come to a stop than a passenger car. The problem is that “the best of circumstances” are almost never achieved in the case of a large truck. Leaving aside the question of how truck brakes should be controlled and maintained, in many cases truck tires are below standard and increase the risks of a serious truck crash:

Worn out tires: An 18-wheeler travelling 100,000 miles per year requires constant tire controls and changes. Truck tires are expensive and each replacement takes time and money. Truck drivers are mostly responsible for inspecting their trucks and requesting a tire change, but they are paid by the mile and will keep rolling until the truck reaches the base and the truck can be taken off the road for maintenance.

Changing trailers: Most motor carriers operate a fleet of tractors with interchangeable trailers. Trailers are fitted with 8 of the 18 wheels of the tractor-trailer combination. If the truck driver mostly drives the same tractor, he or she does not have much control over the trailers.

Mismatched tire wear: The efficiency of the brake system of a truck depends on the brake power being applied equally to all the wheels. If one wheel has worn out tires and the other does not, the worn out tire wheel will block and skid, creating a dangerous imbalance and reducing the braking efficiency or causing a jackknife.

Mismatched tire type: The same problem occurs when tires of different types are mounted, such as radial and bias tires, or tires of different sizes or treads.

Inadequate air pressure: Tire inspection implies checking the tire pressure. On a large truck, making sure that all the tires are pressurized as they should be is essential, not just to reduce wear and fuel consumption, but also to maximize the efficiency of braking.

On a large semi-truck, in other words, there are many reasons why tires can be below standard and create a much greater crash risk. This is why you may need an experienced truck accident law firm like the Young Firm to investigate on the scene whether the motor carrier has abided by the numerous rules and regulations of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

If you have been the victim of a serious car or truck accident caused by someone else, contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free), or by sending us an e-mail.

When distraction loses its funny side in Louisiana.

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Distracted people often find themselves in unexpected or annoying situations and are the source of amusing anecdotes. But, as any airline pilot or ship captain will tell you, when you are in charge and the stakes are high, distraction is out of the question, and only a laser sharp focus will prevent a catastrophe.
To what extent can drivers in Louisiana afford to be distracted?

There is no room for compromise. Distracted driving in Louisiana is lethal and puts not just the driver in harm’s way, but can kill or inflict terrible injuries on pedestrians, cyclists, bikers and other drivers.

According to a recent study, 80 percent of all crashes and 65 percent of all near-crashes involved driver inattention within three seconds of the collision. The researchers measured the increase of a crash risk in various driver distraction situations, and the results are frightening:
Behavior                           Crash risk increased
Texting on cell phone               23 times
Reaching for a moving object    9 times
Drowsiness                        4 times
Using cell phone                        4 times
Looking at an external object    3.7 times
Reading                      3.4 times
Applying makeup                  3 times

Because cell phones are so widespread and are often used during a long drive, they have become the number one source of driver inattention behind the wheel.

Distracted driving has also increased as a result of more comfort and technology in the car, with navigation systems and video screens competing with lunchboxes and coffee for the driver’s attention.

Read this new FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what to do and what to avoid after a serious crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

If you have been the victim of a serious car or truck accident in Monroe, New Orleans or elsewhere in Louisiana caused by the distraction or recklessness of another driver, contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

In Louisiana, aggressive driving needs to be curbed.

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Who hasn’t been a witness to aggressive driving in New Orleans and elsewhere in Louisiana? At times, the mad driver is just rushing past you giving you one hell of a scare, while you can only hope no one will get hurt farther down the road. And at times, the enraged driver is mad at you and gives you a terrible time while you scramble to escape this unwelcome attention.

Aggressive driving is scary and dangerous and should be stopped.

If you are the target of “road rage” and are harassed by an angry driver don’t make sudden maneuvers; slow down without stopping and steer your car to the right lane where you can exit the highway. If you are being followed, lock all the car doors, do not stop and do not go to your home but drive to a police station or crowded area.

Drivers who lose their self-control and behave aggressively in traffic, tailgating, speeding, weaving or running red lights, are a terrible danger to others and should be immediately reported to the Louisiana State Police, using the short number *LSP (*577).

When reporting aggressive driving, the police officers’ task will be greatly facilitated if you can provide more information, such as:

Description of the vehicle (type, make, model, color, license plate state and number);
Description of the driver (sex, race, age, hair color);
Location and time of incident;
What happened?

Also be prepared to act as a witness in case the driver is caught.

Read this new FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what to do and what to avoid after a serious crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

If you have been the victim of a serious car or truck accident caused by an aggressive driver in New Orleans or elsewhere in Louisiana contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Is paying truck drivers by the mile making Louisiana roads unsafe?

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

There has been much talk about unsafe trucks, and more particularly about too-long hours of service and truck driver fatigue provoking devastating large truck crashes in Louisiana and elsewhere.

One contentious issue in this debate regularly comes up without ever being settled, namely the manner of paying truck drivers.

The overwhelming majority of interstate, full-load carriers use the pay-per-mile method, whereas 62.5% of the short-haul, less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers pay by the hour.

Paying truck drivers per mile has many consequences, a number of which are stressed hereafter:

Truck drivers want to drive longer, especially if there are no new hauls waiting for them after they complete the present one.
Motor carriers don’t have to pay overtime on longer driving distances, as would be the case if they paid the driver by the hour.
The driver carries the risk of congested roads, bad weather and mechanical problems.
The faster you drive, the better you are paid.

One of the major issues plaguing the trucking industry is the lack of trained and qualified truck drivers. It is quite obvious that a pay system involving long working hours, many nights spent away from home and overtime or constant risks of delay without compensation is not likely to improve the situation, as truck drivers seek other types of employment as soon as they can. The high truck driver turnover in the transport industry is in itself a major source of accidents.

Read this new FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what to do and what to avoid after a serious crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

If you have been the victim of a serious car or truck accident in Monroe, Bossier, Lake Charles, Alexandria, Lafayette, Baton Rouge, New Orleans or elsewhere in Louisiana, contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE consultation of your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

How do motor carriers handle a truck crash in Louisiana?

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Last week, another crash caused by an 18-wheeler, this time in Plaquemine near Baton Rouge, killed the driver of a Cadillac. According to the WAFB.com report the truck crossed an intersection, disregarding traffic signals, coming into the path of the Cadillac that ended up pinned under the trailer and bursting into flames.

Read this new FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what to do and what to avoid after a serious vehicle crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

The tragedy of an accident with a big rig is that the damage and the injuries can be terrible. On top of that, often times in Louisiana the victims of an accident with a commercial vehicle have to fight for compensation against trucking and insurance companies that have become increasingly sophisticated in the defense of their financial interests.

Typically, their investigators and experts are on the scene within hours of a major wreck. They talk to police officers, take pictures and collect statements from witnesses. One of their main objectives is to remove evidence from the truck, concealing blatant breaches of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules that could weaken their defense. A logbook, a vehicle inspection report or Driver Qualification File can be revealing and show that the motor carrier does not abide by the safety rules prescribed by the FMCSA.

An experienced truck accident attorney will counter these tactics by requesting all the documents pertaining to the motor carrier, the truck and the driver involved in the crash, like the inspection, repair and maintenance records or the driver’s medical exams and drug and alcohol testing records. It is also increasingly necessary to investigate the extent of the motor carrier’s insurance coverage, beyond the apparent minimum cover they are ready to show.

If you have been the victim of a serious car or truck accident in Bossier, Lake Charles, Alexandria, Lafayette, Baton Rouge, New Orleans or elsewhere in Louisiana contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Is drug use increasingly the cause of fatal car crashes in Louisiana?

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

The first ever analysis of fatal crashes involving drugs has been conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The NHTSA report, published in November 2010, shows sobering figures that are likely to catch the attention of Lake Charles and Louisiana drivers who want more safety on the road, not less.

Of the 21,798 drivers who were killed in 2009 in motor vehicle crashes, 3,952 tested positive, meaning that 18 percent of the drivers had been under the influence of drugs at the time of the accident. The analysis does not mean that the driver was impaired or that drug use was the cause of the crash.

Read this new FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what to do and what to avoid after a serious vehicle crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

Drawing similar post-mortem data on drug use among drivers, this time from the different states, the NHTSA concluded that the use of drugs by drivers had increased as follows:

13 percent in 2005;

15 percent in 2006;

16 percent in 2007;

18 percent in 2008.

The collected drug data concern both illicit drugs and prescribed or over-the-counter medication, mainly: narcotics, depressants, stimulants, hallucinogens, cannabinoids, phencyclidines, anabolic steroids and inhalants.

The NHTSA warns that the trend of increased drug use is worrisome, even though more studies will be required to ascertain the correlation between drug use, impairment and crashes. Drug use legislation also needs to evolve in all the states to improve testing methods and standardize procedures, so as to make all data comparable.

Whether drugs are taken illegally or for medical purposes, there is a need to increase the awareness in Louisiana that, like alcohol, drugs lead to impairment while driving and can cause terrible damage on the road.

If you have been the victim of a serious car or truck accident in Louisiana caused by the negligence or recklessness of someone else, contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Can technology bring large truck accidents down in Louisiana?

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

Over the years, big rigs in Louisiana and elsewhere in the country have become safer. But at the same time, there are more and more trucks on the road and the denser traffic has sharply increased the risk of accidents.

While better enforcement of existing regulations, like limited hours-of-service and regular truck maintenance, would certainly improve the picture, another trend gives us hope that better truck safety is coming: electronic safety systems.

Read this new FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what to do and what to avoid after a serious vehicle crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

ABS, or antilock brake system, is mandatory since 1997-98. Since then very promising new electronic devices have appeared on the market, such as:

Collision warning systems: Using radar, sonar, infrared or laser technology, the system warns the driver when the vehicle comes too close to another vehicle or object. This helps drivers avoid rear-end and lane-change crashes.

Lane departure warning: This system uses video technology to alert the driver when the truck wanders away from its projected path. The system is put on hold when the driver uses his turn signal.

Roll stability systems: A set of sensors gives a warning when the vehicle approaches a yaw or roll edge, and connects with the engine and the brake system to reduce speed and avoid skidding, thereby stabilizing the vehicle.

Electronic on-board recorders (EOBR): Integrating GPS-technology with odometer speed and distance information, EOBRs provide all the information required by government regulations about the truck’s operation and driver’s duties. Replacing the paper log book, it is believed to be more accurate and less prone to tampering.

The biggest obstacle to a widespread use of these systems is cost. Government regulation and incentives will certainly help. Lawmakers are now discussing the mandatory use of EOBRs and it is believed that a number of incentives are being studied to promote the other systems.

Some of the motor carriers are slowly coming to the perception that avoiding accidents is bringing value to their company. We can only hope that they include human life, pain and suffering in their calculations.

If you have been the victim of a serious car or truck accident in Louisiana, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Texting while driving a semi-truck is dangerous.

Sat, 18 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

An 80,000 pound semi-truck weighs 20 times more than the average car with passengers. It has been demonstrated that trucks need a much longer distance — between 60 and 80 percent longer — than cars to come to a stop. That is, under dry conditions, with good tires and if all the brakes are well balanced and function properly.

Read this new FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what to do and what to avoid after a serious vehicle crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

What it means is that no one should drive a truck in dense traffic and be distracted. Recent catastrophic truck crash events in Louisiana have shown the need to curb cell phone use, and particularly texting, which is the worst sort of distraction, as it takes a driver’s hands off the wheel, eyes off the road, and attention off of the task of driving.

An innovative study conducted by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI), using elaborate cameras and instrumentation in the participants’ vehicles, has provided new insight and eliminated common misconceptions regarding cell phone use and texting while driving.

Both light vehicles, or cars, and heavy vehicles, or trucks, were studied, leading to the undeniable conclusion that, while talking or listening on the phone carries risks, dialing or texting is far more dangerous because it keeps the driver’s view away from the road.

How dangerous is texting while driving a heavy truck in Louisiana?

CELL PHONE TASK Risk of Crash or Near Crash event

Heavy Vehicles / Trucks

Dialing cell phone 5.9 times as high as non-distracted driving

Talking / listening to cell phone    1.0 times as high as non-distracted driving
Reaching for phone            6.7 times as high as non-distracted driving
Text messaging            23.2 times as high as non-distracted driving
(source VTTI)

Texting, according to the VTTI study, has the highest duration of eyes-off-road time, 4.6 seconds over a 6 second interval. This is the equivalent of driving the length of a football field at 55 miles per hour with your eyes shut.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious car or truck accident in New Orleans, Lafayette, Shreveport, Baton Rouge or Alexandria, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

What is so difficult about buckling up?

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

A recent headline in the Daily World: Thanksgiving holiday crashes kill 6 Louisiana residents.

This depressing report on six separate fatal crashes concluded that most victims were not wearing seatbelts.

Whereas safety belt use has been made compulsory by the Supreme Court and the Government, there are still far too many accidents in Louisiana causing terrible injuries and death because the driver or passengers aren’t wearing a seatbelt. Safety belts, as proven in countless accidents and experiments, are crucial to your survival.

What happens in a crash?

There are two shocks: one when the vehicle hits or is hit, and a split-second later when the driver or any passenger who is not buckled flies forward and rams into the steering wheel, dashboard, windshield or front seat. In a roll-over crash the centrifugal force is tremendous, causing the doors to open or tear away, and anyone who is not firmly attached to the seat will be ejected into a deadly trajectory.

How do safety belts save your life?

Seatbelts help in many ways:

They keep you inside the car: If you are ejected you are 25 times more likely to be killed or injured.
They spread out the impact of the collision: The belts keep you in the seated position and spread the force of the impact over the strongest parts of your body.
They reduce or prevent the second shock: Hitting the windshield, front seat, dashboard or steering wheel is what causes the greatest injuries.
They keep you conscious: After the crash you have far better chances of remaining conscious if you had your seatbelt buckled up. This allows you to call for help, or even leave the car and help others.

People use all kinds of reasons for not wearing seatbelts, but these only reflect a mental attitude; they are not based on facts or do not stand up to reality.

Read this FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what to do and what to avoid after a serious vehicle crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

If you were involved in an auto or truck accident in Louisiana caused by someone else, contact immediately the attorneys of the Young Firm for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Are Injuries From A Louisiana Truck Accident Different?

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

Yes, truck accident injuries can be different. Often times when a car crashes with a large truck or semi-trailer in Louisiana the resulting injuries are either fatal or have long-lasting consequences, like spinal cord or traumatic brain injuries.

There are two reasons for this:

Because of the truck’s massive weight the shock is often as violent as when crashing into a concrete wall;

The truck’s height causes the car to under-ride, which leaves the upper-body exposed to the collision.

Read this new FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what you should do and not do after a serious vehicle crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

Treating injuries affecting the brain or spinal cord is likely to be long, and expensive. In many cases of severe, life-changing injuries rehabilitation therapies will be necessary, sometimes during the remainder of the patient’s life. The family or relatives might have to make adaptive changes to allow easier access and mobility to a paralyzed victim. Regular medical treatment and home care services could also be required.

Calculated over a very long period, these expenses represent hundreds of thousands, possibly millions of dollars for which the victim will need to claim compensation. These claims are fought tooth and nail by insurance companies and motor carriers who want to protect their balance sheets at all costs.

Major truck accident cases require experienced truck accident lawyers. If you have been involved in a crash with a large truck, bus or commercial vehicle, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm immediately for a FREE consultation of your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Drive Safely: Steer Away From The Deadliest Louisiana Highways

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

Over the years a Louisiana driver who has witnessed a few collisions and near-crashes acquires the wisdom to play it safe on the road. It is just not worth it to try to get there on time when you left much too late, to reply to a text message or answer the phone when approaching a three-highway interchange, or to drive at night when you don’t see well.

One way experienced and prudent drivers avoid terrible auto accidents in Louisiana is to stay away from the state’s most dangerous roads, knowing that certain sections and intersections are deadly.

Order your copy of this FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana. It is the best tool you can think of to avoid the common mistakes that could ruin your case after a serious car or truck accident. Place your order online now.

After hurricanes Katrina and Rita, many Louisiana roads have suffered damage that still remains to be repaired. Poor roadway conditions contribute heavily to a higher than normal accident rate, like:

Inadequate markings and traffic control in construction zones;
Missing or inadequate barriers;
Absence of shoulders;
Poor water drainage;
Potholes;
Insufficient or missing markings and signals.

According to a recently released study Louisiana has the second highest car crash fatality rate in the nation, with an average of 956 people killed every year. The study further points out that 44 percent of the state’s roads are in poor or mediocre condition — most particularly in New Orleans and Baton Rouge —, 15 percent of the bridges are structurally deficient, and 43 percent of the urban highways are overloaded.

Vehicle accidents caused by blatantly unsafe roadway conditions can, in certain cases, be blamed on the authorities who are responsible for the road network’s design, maintenance, repairs, safety markings and signals.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a serious car crash in Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Shreveport, New Orleans, Alexandria or elsewhere in Louisiana due to someone else’s negligence, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm without delay for a FREE consultation of your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

Not all Louisiana truck operators are equal before the law.

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

Service hours of Louisiana truck drivers are strictly regulated. In an effort to prevent driver fatigue and curb truck accidents due to exhausted drivers falling asleep behind the wheel, the federal government has enacted detailed hours-of-service (HOS) rules. HOS basically include not just time spent driving the truck, but also hours spent on other duties like loading, unloading, truck servicing, etc. Minimum rest time between on-duty hours is also specified.

The truck accident attorneys of the Young Firm have long been advocating stricter enforcement of HOS regulations, and more specifically the implementation of on board electronic recorders (EOBR) replacing the paper and carbon copy logbooks that are so easily faked.

Read our FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what you should and should not do after a serious vehicle crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

This is, however, not the end of the story; a proliferation of motor carrier safety exemptions is out of control, weakening further the HOS enforcement. In a recent report to the Senate Committee on Surface Transportation, Mr. Francis France, president of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) stressed how important it is to repeal existing safety exemptions and to grant exemptions only when sufficient safety monitoring can be guaranteed.

The most blatant abuse of hours of service exemptions is in the utility service industry, where drivers are at times required to work 16 to 18 hours per day, adding up to 120 hours in 7 days during emergencies. In some cases, a driver having worked under these conditions is allowed only 8 hours of rest before returning to work. In that short period he has to commute, work on personal duties, eat and try to sleep a couple of hours. Many accidents are the result of these reckless practices, the utility companies being protected by their exempted status.

There is no justification for the lack of oversight of “exempted” motor carriers. Some companies, due to the nature of their activities, need more flexibility in the implementation of HOS rules. But this should not prevent them from oversight by inspectors and from setting up other HOS rules that guarantee the safety of truck drivers and the public.

For those who have suffered terrible injuries or the loss of a loved one in a Louisiana truck crash, securing decent compensation for their grief, pain, suffering, medical expenses and loss of income can be an uphill battle. Some motor carriers tend to be quite adept at removing or hiding evidence, and they are defended by powerful insurance companies who deal with accidents daily and know how to protect their balance sheets. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by a truck contact the attorneys of the Young Firm immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

The deficient brakes behind many Louisiana truck crashes.

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

It happens more often than you might think: a fully loaded Louisiana truck crashes into a passenger car; the truck driver is blamed and wants to transfer the blame from himself to a failure of the truck. Experts step in and find out that the truck’s brakes are deficient due to poor maintenance.

In a large truck accident, pinpointing the exact cause of the accident is critically important. Not just because of the devastation accidents create, but also because motor carriers have become experts at deflecting blame to either the car driver or to the hapless truck driver, to the truck or trailer’s manufacturer, or to some logistics company, etc.

What a thorough expert testing of the braking system of the truck might show, however, is that the 18-wheeler’s brakes did not function properly, and that the responsibility for this sorry state of affairs lies squarely with the motor carrier. Why else did the crash investigator see just ten or twelve skid marks on the roadway, when all 18 wheels should have left tracks?

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Truck brakes will seldom fail entirely. What happens most of the time is that some brakes perform poorly, or that the entire braking system operates at a lower than normal level. Truck drivers, by law, are required to check their vehicle every day and to note any technical problem in their log book. These problems must be fixed before operating the vehicle.

Brake imbalance: Most trucks operate with poorly balanced brakes. The reason is that when one brake is found to be deficient, it will be serviced and brought back to a performance level that is higher than the other braking units. Carriers are reluctant to service all the brakes each time and spend time and money on balancing the system with each intervention. At times, the imbalance is due to mismatched system components, making some brakes work harder than others.

The consequences of brake imbalance on an 18-wheeler are serious: A brake imbalance will wear out some brakes more than others. After a while, the semi-truck relies on a shrinking number of brakes to come to a standstill. Brake imbalance has other effects, such as bringing the truck to jackknife, when the trailer’s brakes are deficient and the tractor’s drive axles are locked. Another result could be overheating brakes, for instance in a long steep descent, rapidly destroying their performance.

Expert companies can make on-the-scene investigations and test the truck’s braking system’s performance in order to pinpoint accurately whether deficient brakes were the cause of or aggravated the accident.

If you were hurt in a serious truck accident in New Orleans or elsewhere in Louisiana, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.

There is more to a qualified Louisiana truck driver than being able to back up a semi-trailer

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Driving an 80,000 pound semi-trailer on Louisiana roads feels a bit like entering a port with a cruise ship or landing an airliner. Make one mistake, and destruction ensues. Rightfully, just like marine and aircraft pilots, truck drivers are subject to detailed training and qualification regulations. But this is where the comparison stops.

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The basic requirements for truck drivers are straightforward: aged 18 minimum (except for hazardous materials, age 21), speaking and reading enough English to do the job, truck driver’s license and proven driving capability, capable of loading, securing and unloading the cargo, medically qualified and successfully tested for drugs and alcohol. Of course, offenses like DUI or leaving the scene of an accident would immediately disqualify a candidate driver.

Even so, there is a shortage of trained and qualified truck drivers in the country and many motor carriers in Louisiana and elsewhere now employ under-qualified and poorly trained drivers. There are many reasons for this dreadful situation:

The rapid growth of parcel delivery and logistics activities;

The low pay, harsh life and long working hours of truckers;

The high turnover of truck drivers leaving their jobs as soon as a better opportunity arises;

The long process of training drivers, and high cost associated with federal and state regulations;

The low qualifications of candidates.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules further state that trucking companies will keep a Driver Qualification File (DQF) on hand for each regularly employed truck driver as long as the driver is employed and for three years after. The rules indicate precisely the content, how long the documents must be kept and the frequency of updating.

What should the DQF contain?

Driver application for employment;

Medical certificate;

Copy of commercial driving license and certificate of road test;

Response from past employers for past three years;

Response from state agencies on driving record for past three years;

Response from state agencies to the annual driving record inquiry;

Note on the annual review of driving record by the motor carrier;

Listing of all the driver’s moving violations for the past 12 months;

Information on drivers subject to controlled substances testing.

The importance of the DQF in case of a large semi trailer accident is not to be underestimated. Everything is, or should be, in this file to show that the driver is qualified and that the motor carrier adheres to the FMCSA rules. A significant proportion of Louisiana truck accidents are caused by driver failure; be it shifting cargo, health or drug related problems, fatigue or simple inexperience. It is the motor carrier’s responsibility to see that no truck leaves the base without a fully trained, qualified and experienced driver behind the wheel.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a Louisiana truck accident, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans immediately for a free consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free), or by sending us an e-mail.

Does a Louisiana motor carrier have the financial backbone to settle a major liability claim?

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

We all know how devastating a semi-trailer can be when crashing into another vehicle, spilling its cargo on the road or jackknifing on a freeway. But Louisiana car drivers are right to be concerned about the capacity of motor carriers operating these monster trucks to hold to their financial responsibility when such terrible truck accidents occur.

Read this new FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what to do and what to avoid after a serious vehicle crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

What kind of financial responsibility is required from trucking companies?

Rules of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) require operators of property carrying trucks to have insurance, surety bonds or self-insurance covering their public liability for a minimum amount, as follows:

$ 750,000 for non-hazardous property transport;

$ 1,000,000 or $ 5,000,000 for hazardous substances or waste depending on the type of product and method of containment.

Motor carriers must file evidence to the FMCSA and maintain proof of the required minimum level of financial responsibility at their principal place of business, and must produce these documents for review upon reasonable request by a member of the public.

Section 30 of the Motor Carrier Act of 1980 gives precise instructions on how carriers should abide by these rules, and what documents they need to keep on hand, and for how long.

Apart from the chaos and substantial damage arising from the spillage of toxic chemicals, an 18-wheeler can be involved in multi-vehicle accidents resulting in hundreds of thousands of dollars in material damage. Far more important still than material damage, many big truck crashes unfortunately can be fatal or cause catastrophic injuries, ruining the lives of the injured victims. It is crucial therefore, that motor carriers maintain the legal financial guarantees at all times so they can at least offer adequate financial compensation to those who have suffered terrible hardship in a truck accident.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a Louisiana truck accident, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm immediately for a free consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free), or by sending us an e-mail.

Can truck brakes do it? The life-saving potential of new truck stopping distance requirements

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

You don’t need a lot of imagination to picture the disaster of an 80,000 pound semi-trailer at 60 miles an hour on a Louisiana freeway suddenly faced with stopped traffic at 300 feet.

The truck’s speed could be higher, or the distance shorter, making the crash inevitable, but improving the braking performance of trucks will save lives in many cases. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has decided to cut the allowed stopping distance of heavy tractor-trailers by 30 percent for new trucks, beginning in 2011. For a truck at 60 miles per hour, this would cut the allowed distance from 355 feet to 250 feet, a considerable achievement.

Many passenger car drivers do not realize that massive trucks, like 18-wheelers, need a far longer distance to come to a standstill than cars. Some motorists will fill a short open space in front of a truck just to be in the right lane, unaware that the truck will never be able to stop in time if they have to brake. Trucks need distance in front of them, in proportion to their ability to come to a stop.

How do stopping distances of cars and trucks compare?

The stopping distance is calculated as travelled distance during the reaction time plus the travelled distance during the decelerating phase. The distances needed to come to a standstill for passenger cars and big trucks compare as follows at different speeds (*):

Speed        Stopping Distance Cars    Stopping Distance Trucks    Truck / Car
40 mph        124’                169’            + 36 percent
55 mph        225’                335’            + 49 percent
65 mph        316’                525’            + 66 percent

* The above estimates are for 80,000 pound loaded tractor-trailers and mid-size passenger cars traveling on a dry, level road. Source: National Safety Council's Defensive Driving Course for Professional Truck Drivers.

Let’s hope that with the new braking regulations, the truck fleet on Louisiana’s roads will gradually become safer and that, despite ever-increasing traffic, truck accident statistics will continue to point southwards.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a Louisiana truck accident, contact the truck accident attorneys of the Young Firm immediately for a free consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free), or by sending us an e-mail.

Don't stand in the way of a Louisiana semi-trailer roll-over.

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Fully loaded semi-trucks, especially the ones with heavy loads stacked up high like cars, logs or steel pipes, enter curves on a fine balancing act. Typically, such a truck will tip over running downhill on entrance or exit ramps of expressways, when the truck driver misjudges the ramp curve.

The driver first does not perceive that something is wrong, until looking at the rearview mirror he sees the inside trailer wheels lift off the ground. Immediately afterwards, the tractor tips. The result is chaos; any vehicle on the rolled over side would be crushed, motorists or pedestrians killed or severely injured, cargo and debris spilled over a vast surface and the highway blocked for an indefinite amount of time. A rolled over truck in Louisiana is not a pretty sight.

Read this new FREE book by the attorneys of the Young Firm to find out what to do and what to avoid after a serious vehicle crash. Order online now: A Guide to Steering Through a Serious Vehicle Accident in Louisiana.

How can a truck driver bring his semi-trailer to roll over?

There are different contributing factors, originating in the driver, the vehicle or the highway.

Driver factors: Excessive speed in relation with the curve or the slope, or the cargo weight. Another factor can be the steering of the truck into a soft shoulder or abrupt counter-steering after drifting off. Other possible causes are driver fatigue or driving under the influence.

Vehicle factors: A heavily loaded truck with under-inflated tires, or worn-out tires that disintegrate at high speed, or with a collapsed suspension, can roll-over at any time, even at lower speed or on a gentle curve. Poorly stowed goods, with uneven load distribution and shifting cargo will have the same effect.

Highway factors: A sharper than normal curve, a poor banking of the roadway in the curve, or simply the wrong speed limit indication can all lead to a higher risk of truck roll-overs.

If you or someone you love has been the victim of a serious Louisiana 18-wheeler accident, you could need a lot of help and support. If not fatal, injuries can be so severe as to require long term or lifetime treatment and adaptive care. If the crash was caused by the negligence or recklessness of the truck driver or motor carrier, call the truck accident attorneys of the Young Firm immediately. They know exactly what needs to be done to defend your interests and secure a just compensation.

Contact the attorneys of the Young Firm immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free), or by sending us an e-mail.

Subsequest Remedial Measures in a Truck Accident

Sun, 14 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our office is currently handling a very serious truck accident case in which our client sustained injuries to his neck and lower back. The trucking company employee was clearly at fault and the company fired the employee the day after his accident. We immediately obtained the employee's personnel file and depositions proving that his termination was due to his negligence in causing the accident and seriously injuring our client. You would think that this evidence would make our case easy to win in court.

However, the law has a principle known as subsequent remedial measures. Under this principle, the actions that a company takes after an accident in order to prevent future similar accidents is often inadmissible (or not allowed) in court. This means that when a company terminates an employee because the employee caused an accident, the fact that the employee was terminated often cannot be used in court to show that the company was at fault. Fortunately we have other strong evidence which will win our client's case in court. However, the law unfairly allows a large trucking company to hide behind the principle of subsequent remedial measures when it was clear to the company, our client and anyone with common sense that the company's employee caused the accident and seriously injured our client. All we would ask is that a jury be allowed to also know this information in determining the outcome of our client's case.

The above example indicates why it is critical to hire an experienced truck accident lawyer if you have suffered any type of serious injury in a truck accident. Sometimes common sense does not apply in the courtroom and your attorney needs to know the procedural rules which can help win, and also lose, your case. You can learn more about truck accident laws and motor vehicle laws by visiting our truck accident lawyer and Louisiana injury lawyer web site.

Uncovering Causes of Terrible Louisiana Truck Accidents

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Why is a thorough investigation in the immediate aftermath of a crash so important?

When someone gets hurt or killed in a Louisiana crash involving a large truck, the obvious cause may be the truck. However, the difficulty of the situation lies in the fact that the case will be fought against a motor carrier.

Many freight carriers and logistics companies operate hundreds, sometimes thousands, of trucks over the entire country. These large corporations get coverage from even larger insurance companies and deal with road accidents every day. They know what to do to protect their interests.

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When truck accidents occur for which carriers and their insurers could be liable, they swiftly dispatch investigators, adjusters, and lawyers to screen the evidence on the scene and remove anything potentially detrimental. If you have been involved in a crash in Louisiana caused by a truck, then as soon as the medical emergencies have been taken care of you will need to do the same: immediately launch an investigation on the scene.

What is so important on the scene of the truck accident?

When we launch an investigation after a truck accident, we first collect everything on the scene that supports your statement that the truck driver caused the accident: pictures of the scene and of the damaged vehicles, skid marks, debris, road and weather conditions, speed limit, and road signs. We ask for police and witness reports. We look at the truck’s official paper or electronic trail, with restraining orders if necessary, as well as at other clues that will support or invalidate the trucker’s account of the accident: log books, electronic black box (EOBR) on-board GPS-data, cell phone data, gas station and meal receipts, etc.

At times, it can be necessary to go further and talk to doctors about reports of injuries, autopsy reports, or toxicology reports.

Truck accidents can destroy far more than your car. Many lives have been ruined in Louisiana truck crashes causing terrible, life-changing injuries or death. The attorneys of the Young Firm in New Orleans have been trained to swiftly and patiently gather and process the evidence to demonstrate convincingly what happened and who is at fault.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a Louisiana truck accident, then immediately contact the Young Firm in New Orleans for a free consultation of your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free), or by sending us an e-mail.

You will have to fight for your rights after a Louisiana truck accident. But fight against whom?

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

A shocking accident with a large truck becomes a challenge for those involved, especially for the victims, either killed or seriously injured, and their family and friends. Very quickly, however, a number of important decisions need to be made: you need to protect your interests if the crash was caused by the truck’s driver in order to get compensation for your loss, the medical expenses, loss of income, and so many other damages that you envision in the coming months or years.

As mentioned in a previous blog post, your case will be fought against a motor carrier and its insurers. In fact, it could prove even more complicated. In some cases, liability remains unclear, and there could be more than one party from whom you could claim.

Let’s look at the possibilities:

The truck owner. Usually, the company owning the truck is liable. This could be a logistics company (UPS, Fedex, etc.), a government agency, a private carrier, a waste management firm, or any kind of institution or corporation operating trucks. Frequently, one firm owns the tractor and another one owns the trailer. Both could be liable.

The freight owner. There are cases where damages were caused or aggravated by the type of cargo being carried, for which the motor carrier can’t be held liable.

The truck or trailer manufacturer. The crash could have been caused by a defective part of the truck or trailer. A claim against one or more manufacturers can increase your chances of getting compensation.

The driver’s employer. The driver is not necessarily employed by the truck’s owner. In accidents caused by the negligence or recklessness of the driver, his employer can be held responsible.

A truck maintenance company. Many trucking companies sub-contract their trucks’ maintenance to garages, dealers, or technical maintenance firms, who could be held liable if the crash was caused by maintenance that they should have performed.

Even more parties could be involved in a large truck accident, such as third-party vehicles. If a multiple choice of liable parties allows you to claim from a variety of corporations with adequate financial means to meet the compensation to which you are entitled, then the claim and legal process is likely to be complex and time consuming. You will need an experienced Louisiana truck accident law firm to handle such a case, such as the New Orleans-based Young Firm.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a Louisiana truck accident, then immediately contact the attorneys of the Young Firm for a free consultation of your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free), or by sending us an e-mail.

Overturned Louisiana Truck Spills Cargo and Closes Highway 45

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Headlines like this are a daily occurrence in Louisiana, with thousands of semi-trailers crisscrossing the state and carrying the most diverse freight, from produce to cars, steel coils to electronics, and chemicals to chickens. Trucks present a risk for passenger car drivers because of their size and weight. The maximum gross weight of a truck is 80,000 lbs., and the freight load can reach 50,000 lbs.

That is a lot of weight to carry around. What do you think happens when cargo gets loose and starts shifting?

Securing (or stowing) cargo on a semi-trailer is a fundamental responsibility of the truck driver and the motor carrier. Apart from driving, this is the most critical element in their assignment to bring the freight safely to its destination. While driver training remains essential, it can become problematic when the carrier hauls very different types of cargo, for they all have specific requirements for securing a load. A half-full tank of liquid bulk cargo will create a massive forward push if the truck comes to a brutal standstill. A top heavy car transporter could flip over on a sharp curve, while steel coils will roll onto the roadway when the straps get loose and snap due to vibrations.

Cargo spillage and shifting can be devastating, taking all oncoming vehicles by complete surprise and creating havoc on the motorway. Freight carriers have a responsibility toward all those who share the road with their large trucks, risking death or severe injury by a cargo shift or spill. Federal regulations require truckers to stop and inspect cargo after the first 50 miles of travel and again after 150 miles or three hours.

An experienced law firm that focuses on Louisiana truck accidents can be an invaluable help in supporting your right to full compensation against negligent commercial carriers or untrained truck drivers.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a Louisiana truck accident, immediately contact the Young Firm in New Orleans for a free consultation of your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free), or by sending an e-mail.

Find Competent Legal Representation to Insure Your Legal Rights

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Just think about this scenario:

A young man is leaving home for work. He travels the interstate to get to work on time at 8:00 A.M.

Meanwhile, a long-haul truck driven by an experienced driver is also on the interstate. The driver has been up since very early morning. He works for a large, major carrier.

Unfortunately he is too tired to drive. He falls asleep at the wheel after too little sleep over his last few trips on the road, and his truck crosses lanes.

His truck scrapes the side of another truck that was in the other lane. This wakes the driver up quickly but he groggily overcompensates into the left lane where the young man is driving.

The young man’s car is hit and he is forced across the median into oncoming traffic, and tragically his life ends during the ensuing crash.

When the legal case starts, one of the first things the lawyer for the young man’s family does is request the truck driver’s logbook.

The logbook says the truck had only been on the road for a couple of hours, so the lawyer looks at the truck’s GPS data and it confirms the lawyer’s suspicion that the logbook had been faked. It is apparent that the driver had driven beyond the legal limit. He is limited to 11 hours over a fourteen-hour period. Once those eleven hours have expired, the law says he must take a break for ten straight hours.

Unfortunately, this scenario can be all too real. This is just one reason you should seek competent legal advice if you find yourself in a similar situation.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Visit our website and get your free guide, A Guide to Steering through a Serious Automobile Accident in Louisiana.

Why can't I use drugs if the other guy can?

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

While reviewing information about truck accidents in America, we recently came across a letter to the editor in a newspaper in a different state.

This letter read in part:

“I drive a fuel truck for a living. I am drug-tested by law and as required by my company.

My problem is that I have several friends who work as health care professionals: registered nurses, nurses [sic] aides and ambulance personnel. None of these people are drug-tested regularly, only pre-employment.

Should a truck driver be held to higher standards then [sic] those of our health care workers? These people have the lives of others in their hands. Why would you not want them to be held to the same or higher standards then [sic] those of a truck driver?”

Now, do you get the feeling that somehow this truck driver just does not get it? The answer, of course, is that we do want health care workers held to the same standards on drug use as truck drivers. But the fact that apparently they are not does not relieve in any way the need to test truck drivers regularly.

And yes it may seem unfair. The reason is likely political. Health care workers may have more political capital than truck drivers or trucking companies, but no matter the reason, drivers must and should be tested.

We all know that impaired driving is a major factor in truck crashes, and we must do everything we possibly can, within reason, to avoid impaired driving incidents, which means preventing the driver from becoming impaired, especially through his or her own will.

Let’s not give up on maximum truck safety because the other guy doesn’t have to do it!

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Visit our website and get your free guide, A Guide to Steering through a Serious Automobile Accident in Louisiana.

Fatigue an Issue in Fatal Truck Accidents

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Last year, a tractor trailer ran into a line of cars that had stopped on an Oklahoma highway, killing 10 people. The National Transportation Safety Board ruled that the driver failed to stop as a result of fatigue.

The board also criticized the government and the trucking industry for failing to follow safety recommendations that they believe could have prevented the accident. Some of these regulations have been around for at least ten years.

In 2001 the board recommended that heavy trucks should be equipped with warning systems to provide visual and audio alerts to drivers when the truck is within 350 feet of colliding with another vehicle. These systems are available for only about $1000 to $2000 from a number of manufacturers.

Estimates are that these systems could prevent at least 4700 accidents annually and at least 96 deaths. There is still no requirement to install these systems aboard heavy trucks.

The board also identified fatigue as a major risk factor in truck accidents over 20 years ago. Likewise, efforts for new regulations seeking to avoid such fatigue have gone unfulfilled. Records show that about 31 percent of all heavy truck crashes involve driver fatigue.

In the Oklahoma crash, the driver, who was 76 years old, likely had only five hours of sleep before starting his workday near Kansas City. His shift started at 3 A.M. By the time of the accident near Tulsa he had been on the road over 10 hours. The driver also suffered from sleep apnea, another fatigue factor.

It is clear that any new rules that can prevent tragic accidents like the Oklahoma crash should be reconsidered immediately.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Visit our website and get your free guide, A Guide to Steering through a Serious Automobile Accident in Louisiana.

Louisiana joins the drive against distracted driving

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

The state of Louisiana officially joined the national offensive against distracted driving, which is partially caused by the use of portable electronic devices.

The U. S. House of Representatives passed a resolution last April making it National Distracted Driving Month. A number of agencies joined in the program, whose goal is to create awareness among drivers of the dangers of being distracted while driving.

Causes of distracted driving can include rubbernecking, eating, talking to others in the vehicle, adjusting controls in the car, drinking, using a cell phone, texting, or working a GPS device.

Believe it or not about 80 percent of all traffic incidents and 65 percent of all near crashes involve a distraction. In the country, distraction was reported in 16 percent of all fatal accidents in 2008. This is up from 12 percent in 2004.

“The statistics point to distracted driving as a growing and deadly problem,” said Lt. Col. John LeBlanc, executive director of the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission. “During April we want to remind everyone that when behind the wheel, their full attention should be on driving and not on talking on the phone, adjusting the vehicle’s electronic devices, texting or other activities that distract them.”

Louisiana law now prohibits texting while driving. Drivers under the age of 17 are prohibited from using a cell phone except to report an emergency. The fine can be up to $175 for the first offense and $500 for each offense after that. The fine doubles if the driver was in an accident while texting. Minors can be fined $100 for the first offense for using a cell phone while driving and following offenses can be up to $250.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Visit our website and get your free guide, A Guide to Steering through a Serious Automobile Accident in Louisiana.

Truck Safety Coalition Survivor Advice

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

The Truck Safety Coalition has a group of volunteers who have experienced the grief and pain of a truck crash survivor. The members of their national network of volunteers are family members of truck crash victims or victims themselves. You can call 703-294-6404 to speak with one of their counselors. The group offers some practical advice for survivors.

First, take care of yourself by eating nutritious meals, getting rest, and exercising when possible.

Second, it is important that you talk to someone. Make sure you have someone around who will listen and to whom you feel comfortable talking.

Third, don’t hesitate to ask for help from people whom you trust. There are things you have to do to recover and you may need help.

You can have your loved one’s picture posted on the Memorial section of the Truck Safety Coalition website if you lost that special person in a truck crash. The coalition’s goal is to reduce truck crash deaths that could have been prevented. We do so in the memory of those who died in such crashes in the past. Posting photos of victims and family members provides a celebration of life dedicated to those loved ones and to those who are helping us reduce future fatalities. You can email a picture to the coalition with the name of the victim, date of the crash, cause of the crash, and any comments you wish to share.

The Truck Safety Coalition seeks to prevent other families from going through the same pain and trauma that they have suffered. Contact the coalition if you wish to help.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Be sure to get your FREE copy of our book, A Guide to Steering through a Serious Automobile Accident in Louisiana.

The Driving Environment Can Affect Your Driving

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Sometimes accidents are so tragic, it is difficult to contemplate the consequences and the pain they create. Sadly, a recent truck accident falls into that category, and it reminds us that we all must think about safety issues and how our environment can affect our safety.

One environmental issue may be how curves are built in a particular roadway. Are they sharp? Do you have plenty of warning before a sharp turn? Environmental issues are those that you do not have control over. You can’t get the highway rebuilt – at least not very quickly.

However, you do have control over how you handle those curves as you drive or the precautions you may take if the vehicle in front of you seems to be driving too quickly or erratically for an upcoming curve in the road.

Four teens were tragically killed in a truck accident on LA 183 near Bayou Blue and Coteau roads. We send our sincerest condolences to their family and friends.

Authorities searched several parishes after the teens were reported missing. Their pickup truck was discovered in a bayou. They were reported missing after they failed to return home from an LSU football game.

They were located via a GPS signal from one of the teens’ cell phone. While the cause of the wreck is still being investigated, the truck failed to negotiate a curve in the road, struck a guard rail and took out several feet of it before going into the bayou.

This may well be a case of environmental conditions creating the context for an accident.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Be sure to get your FREE copy of our book, A Guide to Steering through a Serious Automobile Accident in Louisiana.

How New Energy Taxes Could Affect Truck Accidents

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Dr. Joseph R. Mason, Endowed Banking Chair at Louisiana State University, reports that the proposed new energy tax changes will include the following fallout over the next ten years:

Initial losses of over 154,000 jobs by the end of 2011, not only in the energy sector but across the whole economy;

More than $341 billion in lost U.S. economic output; and

In excess of $68 billion in lost wages nationwide.

Mason reports that the administration plans to single out the U.S. oil and gas industry which will raise the cost of energy for consumers by eliminating tax credits that all taxpayers are entitled to.

Mason goes on to report that politicians may think they are targeting Big Oil but the proposals will hurt thousands of small American businesses. He believes there are at least 150,000 jobs at risk.

Now, how might this affect the trucking industry and truck accident rates? This does require connecting a few dots.

One, if trucking company expenses go up, they will do what they can to compensate for their loss of profit. Two, there is already a shortage of drivers and driver fatigue is a problem. Three, firms will be reluctant to hire, making the issue of driver shortage and fatigue worse. While the trucking industry must be held accountable, it is important to note pressures that may put additional strain on drivers and possibly increase accident rates.

Actually, Dr. Mason provides conservative estimates of the economic impacts. The economic fallout could be even worse, and that will further impact the trucking industry.

The Save U. S. Energy Jobs project sponsored Dr. Mason’s report. This organization is an alliance dedicated to promoting the energy industry.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Truck Drivers Under Pressure

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

The reality is that truck drivers are under quite a bit of pressure. Their rate of divorce or separation is much higher than others’. They can be party animals or even recluses. They rarely live moderate lives.

They tend to endure more health problems that the average person. Stroke, heart disease, stomach and bowel problems are all more common in truck drivers than in other people. Both alcohol and drug abuse is much higher than the normal rate. They have sleep problems, and these have a negative effect on the body’s immune system. Truck drivers are more susceptible to colds, flu, and viruses. They miss quite a bit of work.

To make sure that others are safe on the road, trucking companies should observe guidelines to help their drivers perform safely.

Companies should recognize that their first obligation is to the safety of both their drivers and the public. They should make sure drivers have enough time to do their jobs and to rest. Companies should make sure that all safety precautions are in place before the start of each driver’s trip. A company should never put a driver in a situation that may compromise their safety or the safety of others. Companies should try to assign drivers a variety of driving situations, so they do not get bored or fatigued from overly repetitious work.

Driver schedules should take into account the real situation of human physiology and psychology. When companies do not do so, serious and expensive crashes can result.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

The Truck Safety Coalition

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Did you know there is an organization that is dedicated to helping the victims of truck crashes? It is the Truck Safety Coalition.

The Truck Safety Coalition has a First Response Program. This is a network of volunteers who are dedicated to providing quick and compassionate support for survivors of truck accidents and their families. These volunteers are usually members of the Truck Coalition Survivors Network. They serve their local community and state for families of victims and survivors of truck crashes.

The First Response Program seeks to find and help new victims of truck crashes. They provide information meant to encourage those victims and provide a sympathetic and understanding person to talk to. They give assistance, comfort, and information that they wish had been provided to them. They realized that post-crash is a tough time and First Response wanted to help people try to make sense out of their situations. The foundation of the First Response Program is to comfort truck crash victims and help satisfy their post-accident needs.

Their goal is to contact every truck accident victim. It is a challenging goal because of the large number of truck accident victims each year. The network is designed to help victims state by state. They feel it is important for victims and survivors to know there is help available and they are not alone in their time of need.

You can get more information about the First Response Program of the Truck Safety Coalition by emailing crash@trucksaftey.org.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Hidden Road Hazards

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

The reality of driving today on America's roadways is that hidden hazards exist. A well known movie director, Alan Pakula, was driving his car from Manhattan to his Long Island home a hundred miles away. It was a drive he knew well and did often.

As Pakula got to exit 49 on the Long Island Expressway, a car ahead of him ran over a seven-foot steel rod. The rod was kicked up into the air, whereupon it smashed into Pakula's windshield. It struck his head and killed him instantly. The rod was the type used to secure a tractor-trailer load. It could not be determined where the rod came from.

All too often such a strange accident occurs from road hazards that some would call freak, but they can still be deadly. A 22-year-old may suffer severe bodily damage from an accident after avoiding a deer on the road. A piece of cargo may fall off a truck and strike a following vehicle causing major injuries to the driver, or a falling tree may kill occupants after it falls onto a car traveling on a highway.

What all of these incidents have in common is that they were caused by hidden and unique hazards, but they can and do take lives.

Believe it or not, there are over 1.6 million accidents each year caused by animals, debris, trees, etc. Such accidents result in over 600 deaths each year. These types of accidents resulting in death increased significantly over the last few years.

With so many more highway deaths each year, totaling over 42,000, these strange and unique highway deaths don't draw much attention but they happen even if the root causes go somewhat ignored.

No matter how conscientious you are as a driver, you can become the victim of such a freak accident, and someone else may have started the chain of events that resulted in your accident or injury. A car or truck may have left debris in the road that eventually led to your crash.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

ONE THING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SHIFT WORKERS: DRIVING AT NIGHT

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Do you know what diurnal means? Probably not. It is not a word we use often. It means of the day or daytime. Humans are diurnal. We live our lives mostly during the day and we sleep and rest at night.

We are not nocturnal, a word you may have heard more often. It means living your life at night. Bats are a good example. They rest during the day and come out at night. If you have ever watched one of those nature shows with lemurs moving around tree limbs at night, you know what nocturnal is.

When a human is forced to live and work at night, it is disruptive. There are human endeavors that need to be done at night but it is always done at a loss in efficiency and awareness. It is not easy to be nocturnal when you are naturally diurnal.

This is especially a problem when you have to function very effectively outside or your natural sleep/work rhythm.

This problem is brought home to shift workers, people who must work at night and sleep or rest during the day. They have a hard time maintaining good sleep and eating habits. This becomes a more serious problem when a person's activities outside of the norm can seriously affect the safety of others.

Many truck drivers are shift workers. They have to work at night when their bodies want to work during the day. They are working at night often with 80,000 pounds of vehicle and load in their charge. They have to get that vehicle and goods from one place to another after dark.

Naturally, this can lead to serious problems for those who share the road with shift drivers. If these problems ever affect you, contact us immediately.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Some Things You Probably Don't Know About Big Trucks

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Do you know what a commercial truck is? It is a vehicle that is commonly used in business functions to transport goods. Some commercial trucks include tractor-trailers, delivery trucks, tanker trucks and a number of other large freight carrying vehicles.

Why do you think that a commercial truck more often causes injury compared to a passenger vehicle? It’s because size matters. A big truck can weigh 80,000 pounds and when it collides with a 3,000-pound car, the car loses. It is plain physics. When big hits small, small usually suffers.

Do you know what is common about crashes between truck and passenger vehicles? Trucks have certain performance factors that exacerbate the problems of crashes. They are limited in certain ways: acceleration, braking, visibility, etc. Passenger drivers are often not familiar with those characteristics.

So what happens when you are in an accident with a truck when the truck driver is at fault? Well, you can recover certain losses through a personal injury attorney including payment for loss of income and other losses as a result of the accident.

Let's say you are in a crash with a truck that was carrying hazardous materials. What can that mean to you? Well, it means you may be able to sue the manufacturer of the materials as well as the truck driver. Believe it or not, sometimes the maker of the materials does not fully inform the driver just what he is carrying.

Do you know what a truck's No Zone is? It is where a truck driver has limited visibility, behind the truck and to the left and right rear quarters. It is dangerous to drive in those zones.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Trucker Safety - What You Need to Know

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Did you know that truck drivers had a larger total number of fatalities than any occupation? They experienced 12% of all work related deaths in a three-year period. They are five times more likely to die in a work-related accident than the average employee. Most of these deaths were on America's highways. These deaths are usually the result of a truck/passenger car encounter.

Drivers are also the victims of crime as a result of parking and spending rest time in dangerous areas. A number of deaths are caused by thieves targeting drivers for valuable cargo or money. When a driver has a flatbed truckload, they are responsible for securing their cargo and strapping it down. They often have to climb on the cargo and sometimes spread out tarps over that cargo. Tarps can weigh over 100 pounds with up to 3 tarps per load. Drivers sometimes die from injuries incurred in a fall.

Drivers spend long hours behind the wheel. This can strain the back muscles. Some drivers must unload their cargoes. This can lead to back strains and sprains, further tiring out a driver.

Injured and tired drivers can be a danger to themselves on the road and to people in other vehicles.

In a 1985 study, it was found that 57% of all truck accidents are due solely to driver factors, another 27% to roadway and driver problems, 6% to combined driver and vehicle problems, 3% to roadway factors, 3% to combined driver, vehicle, and roadway problems, another 2% to vehicle factors alone, and 1% to combined vehicle and roadway factors.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Truck Blind Spots

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

You should always be aware and extra cautious when driving in another vehicle's blind spot. All vehicles, including motorcycles, have them. Some motorists, even experienced truckers, will change lanes without checking carefully their blind spot. You should always try to adjust your driving position to stay out of other vehicles' blind spots.

Your blind spot depends on the vehicle you are driving. Cars usually have blind spots on the sides and at the rear of the car. You can't see anything in those areas by looking in the rear view mirrors. Some drivers in some vehicles can't see anything behind them or even sometimes in the front quarter. Some drivers can't see anything low to the ground.

Tractor-trailer rigs have very particular blind spots. These rigs bend in the middle; they are articulated. Picture in your mind a semi-trailer turning. As it turns around a corner, the side mirrors are the only rear vision that the driver has.

When the tractor heads into the turn, the turning side mirror only views the side of the truck's trailer. The other side mirror points off into space. The driver literally cannot see anything behind him. He actually must stick his head out and look. You can also hide completely behind the trailer of a large truck. It is not a good idea at all to drive close to the rear of a truck that you cannot see around or over. The driver might not even know you are there.

Always try to make sure you are visible to the driver when driving near large trucks.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Truck Accident Safety Factors

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

The trucking industry in America is a necessity. Goods must be moved across the nation. The trucking industry does not want their vehicles involved in crashes, and motorists want the trucking industry to reduce accidents as much as possible. Truck accidents are more common than all of us would like. Therefore, the trucking industry is regulated throughout the nation. There will always be a need for balance between the safety of motorists and the need for the trucking industry to move goods and make a profit.

What are some of the factors that must be regulated because they are primary causes of truck accidents?

Rest

One is a lack of rest. As we all know, if we go without sleep for too long, we cannot be sharp in our driving abilities. Right now, truckers can drive up to 11 hours without rest. This regulation is now under review.

Size

Two is the size of trucks. Bigger trucks are involved in more accidents, relatively speaking. Both overweight trucks and double-trailer trucks are involved in more crashes proportionally to the their numbers on the road. These vehicles must be carefully monitored and their use on the roadways carefully controlled.

Side Guards

Three may be no side guards. The trucking industry opposes side guards because of the cost factor. Yet, side crashes are deadly. Cars can ride under a truck from the side and the results are very damaging to the car under riding. Rear crash barriers generally prevent this from the rear but no such guards are used on the side.

Maintenance

Fourth is maintenance. Believe it or not about 76% of trucks causing an accident are not properly maintained. As any car owner knows, a poorly maintained vehicle is a dangerous vehicle. A poorly maintained truck simply multiplies the risk to other, smaller vehicles on the road.

Regulations

Fifth is simply not following the law and regulations. It is an unfortunate rule of nature that some people and some firms will skirt the law for the sake of cost or expediency. The rules exist for a reason, and the reason is safety. Truck drivers want to drive the most miles they can in the shortest possible time, so they will sometimes violate speed limits, rest regulations, maintenance rules and logging their time on the road.

The bottom line is that the rules exist for a reason, and most of those reasons involve safety. It is unfortunate that some people will break the rules for simple expediency.

If you are involved in a truck accident in Louisiana, contact The Young Firm to determine your legal position.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

DRINKING AND DRIVING -- NEVER A GOOD IDEA

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

For many adults it is easy to take a drink or two or a few and think you can drive home safely. However, it is just never a good idea. We simply cannot gauge our own impaired driving, so you must avoid drinking and driving all the time.

Every year over 16,000 people die in alcohol-related accidents in the United States. Young people seem especially vulnerable to such accidents. They are likely going out more than older adults, and they like to enjoy themselves while thinking that the worst cannot happen to them. In America, family members are lost every half hour to drunk driving. Even if you are not injured or killed in a drunk driving incident, driving while under the influence can seriously affect your life. Over 1.5 million Americans are arrested each year on a DUI charge.

You can lose your license and have a blemish on your driving record for a very long time. Even if you do not drink and drive yourself, you have a significant chance of being involved in an alcohol-related accident each year.

There really is only one safe decision about drinking and driving. Just avoid it completely. If you find yourself out with no one to drive you home after a few drinks, take as much time as you need to sober up completely before driving or better yet call a taxi.

There are organizations that will help you if you have a problem. Do a quick search on the Internet to find local places where you can call for help. Just make the call.

The legal limit in states ranges from 0.08% alcohol to .10% but the best advice is to avoid drinking completely when you know you must drive.

The answer is simple. Just don't drink and drive.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 or a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Truck Accident Statistics

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

The main problem with truck accidents may not be the total number of accidents each year but how dangerous and deadly any truck accident can be.

That notwithstanding, there are a significant number of truck accidents throughout America each year. Each year there are often more than 50,000 truck accidents and in some years, the number approaches 60,000.
There are over 4,500 fatal accidents each year involving large trucks. Most fatal accidents occur in rural areas and during the day. Few are DWI related on the part of the truck driver. These statistics are much lower than for light trucks and motorcycles, with 22% and 29% of fatal accidents involving DWI, respectively.

Large truck drivers involved in fatal accidents do have a greater history of speeding violations compared to passenger vehicle divers – 27% versus 22%.

California had the most fatal vehicle accidents in 2003 but Texas had the most fatal truck accidents.
Large trucks are 9% of all vehicles involved in fatal accidents but only 4% of injury and property damage only accidents. In one year, of 4,898 large trucks involved in a fatal accident, 76% were combination trucks.

Front accident collisions occur most of the time, 2,354, or 50%, in one year versus 382 left side, 188 right side, and 720 rear collisions. In 2003, 608 large trucks were involved in fatal accidents caused by a rollover.
If you are involved in a truck accident in Louisiana, contact The Young Firm to determine your legal position.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

You Have Time Limits on Filing a Claim

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

In Louisiana, time limits to file a claim after an accident are called the statute of limitations. This is something you must pay careful attention to, because if you don't you may lose your ability to recover damages from an accident.

The statute of limitations limits the amount of time you have to initiate legal action. These limits can vary from state to state and from one type of case to another. If you let the time limit pass without taking action, you lose your right to recover money damages with certain exceptions in certain types of cases.

In Louisiana, in personal injury cases, the time limit is one year from the date of the injury. You must file within this year or lose your right to file.

In the case of an uninsured motorist, you have a little longer to file suit. You have two years from the date of the accident. File then or lose your rights.

Wrongful death cases must be filed within one year.

There are some exceptions to the statutory time limits. In these cases, the statute of limitations is “tolled.” An example may be when the victim is a minor at the time of the injury or mentally incompetent, or when the defendant has filed for bankruptcy.

In all cases, when you are unsure of your legal rights after an accident, contact a attorney just as soon as you can.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Aggressive Driving is a Serious Problem

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

It probably would be no surprise for you to learn that aggressive driving is a serious problem on today's roadways in America. This problem is intensified when the aggressive driver is driving a large truck.

Aggressive driving is simply when a driver behaves in an unusual way on the road. It can be dangerous enough to be termed “road rage” and can include a number of behaviors like:

tailgating
weaving
careless lane changes

We've all seen these types on the road. It is like they are “going to a fire” but with little regard for others on the roads.

Reckless Driving
Dangerous and aggressive driving can often result in the charge of reckless driving but in serious cases can also result in criminal charges. Can you imagine the consequences of an 80,000-pound truck involved with a 5,000-car in an accident resulting from aggressive driving?

Tailgating
Think about looking into your rear view mirror and seeing a large truck just a few feet from the back of your car! It can be more than frightening. Take action to avoid being tailgated. Speed up if that gets the other vehicle off your tail or signal the other vehicle to pass you when safe. Pull over on a one-lane road or stop when safe at a public location.

Weaving
Don't be caught weaving yourself. If you see someone coming up behind you doing so, get in the far right lane and let that person get as far in front of you as possible. Again, pull over if you must.

Dangerous Lane Changes
Experienced truck drivers know they have blind spots that limit their ability to see other vehicles. They know they must take extra precautions when changing lanes. Sometimes, however, either the driver or the vehicle itself is impaired. Once again, drive defensively to avoid the consequences of another driver making a bad decision when lane changing.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Louisiana Truck Load Limitations

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

Louisiana imposes reasonable limits on large truck loads on both interstate and non-interstate highways. Those limits include the following.

Maximum Legal axle weights on Interstate Highways for large trucks:

Single axles 20,000 pounds
Tandem axles 34,000 pounds
Tridum axles 42,000 pounds
Quadrum axles 50,000 pounds

Variances are allowed on non-Interstate highways:

Single axles 22,000 pounds
Tandem axles 37,000 pounds
Tridum axles 45,000 pounds
Quadrum axles 53,000 pounds

The maximum legal weight on a tire is 3,650 pounds per inch width of tire.

The maximum legal gross weight of a vehicle regardless of number or type of axles is 80,000 pounds.

The exceptions are legal gross weights for tridum or quadrum axles:

83,400 pounds for Interstate Highways
88,000 pounds for Non-Interstate Highways

Vehicles may not exceed maximum legal gross weight.

There are also formulas for bridges in Louisiana.

Bridge Formula
Louisiana is currently enforcing compliance with the Federal Bridge Formula.
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development adopted a rule regarding implementation of the Bridge Formula applied to vehicles that operate on state Interstate highways

The Bridge Formula applies to all vehicles except:
a. Type Six (five axle configurations with one single axle and two sets of tandem axles) carrying one of the commodities listed in Item c.
b. Type Eight (six axle configuration with one single axle, one tandem axle and one tridum axle) carrying one of the commodities listed in Item c.
c. The above types of vehicles must be carrying the following commodities in their bulk or natural state: forest products, sand, gravel, agricultural products or lumber.
d. All permit loads including Containerized Cargo with a valid oversize/overweight permit are exempt from the Bridge Formula.

Width
The maximum legal width of any vehicle shall not exceed 102 inches, exclusive of safety devices.
The load on any vehicle shall not project more than twelve (12) inches beyond the width of its body. The overall width of a vehicle and load shall not exceed the legal dimensions as described above.
Exception: Appurtenances extending no more than 6 inches beyond the body of recreational vehicles.

Height
The maximum legal height of a vehicle is 14 feet 0 inches on interstate highways and 13 feet 6 inches on non-interstate highways.

Length
The maximum legal length of any single vehicle is 45 feet.

The maximum legal length of a combination of vehicles on highways other than the Designated Truck Route shall be 65 feet.

The maximum legal length of a semi-trailer on the Designated Truck Route shall be 59 feet 6 inches.

The maximum legal length of any trailer or semi-trailer portion of a twin trailer combination of vehicles shall not exceed 30 feet.

Exception: The maximum legal combination length of specialized equipment (i.e., auto transporters, boat transporters, dromedary units) is 75 feet. In addition, the front overhang is not to exceed 3 feet and the rear overhang is not to exceed 4 feet.

Exception: The maximum legal length of the load carried by a combination of vehicles transporting forest products in their natural or treated state is 65 feet plus one (1) foot additional tolerance in length. However, these vehicles must comply with flag and lighting requirement

Exception: Sportsmen coaches or vehicles obviously used solely for recreational purposes and registered, therefore, may tow a combination of no more than two (2) vehicles and shall not exceed seventy (70) feet in total length.

http://www.dotd.louisiana.gov/

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck

Commercial Truck License Scam and Homeland Security

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST

Believe it or not, there have been cases of foreign nationals gaining commercial truck licenses even when they do not meet minimum standards. Considering our ongoing threats to national security and the facet that large trucks often carry dangerous materials, this is a serious matter.

Just a couple of years ago, eight people pleaded guilty to helping foreign nationals in just that way. Citizens of Bosnia and Somalia were given passing grades without completing their driving exams.

The U.S. Attorney for the area where this happened was quoted at the time as saying the defendants shirked their responsibility to safeguard the public and even protect national security.

What can be of major concern is that the fraud was committed at the level of superintendent of a Career Center driving school, which was part of a local school district. They had a contract to be a third party tester of persons taking the driving portion of the commercial drivers test.

This individual made an agreement with a truck company training school to give preferential treatment to the company's trainees, all of whom were foreign nationals. The superintendent violated several rules and state regulations to ensure the students obtained their licenses.

This was done for an under-the-table payment of just $20 for each student receiving special treatment, though the total number of students so treated approached 300, netting the guilty parties up to $6,000.
Even when national security is not an issue, fraudulently obtained commercial truck driving licenses put unqualified drivers on America's roads every day.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Madison Parish Auto Accident on Highway 65 - read story here

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Last month in Madison Parish, 48 year old Harry Ingram was pronounced dead at the scene of a head-on collision. Ingram was traveling southbound on US Highway 65 when suddenly a 2010 Chevrolet truck crossed the center line and collided into his 2008 GMC truck head-on at milepost 55 for reportedly "unknown reasons."

The driver of the Chevy was Donald Vandersypen, 42, of Alexandria, Louisiana. He was immediately taken to the Madison Parish hospital and was quickly after air-transferred to the University Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi. Mark Dennis, public information officer for the responding Troop F, said that there are charges pending an ongoing investigation, while both drivers involved were said to have been wearing seat belts and neither were suspected of being impaired.

This is an example of a seemingly simple accident that should be fully investigated. Possible UM coverage must be determined, as well as ownership of the vehicles. If a tire blow out played any role in the accident, a product liability claim may be pursued. Finally, the nature of the highway and the design of the highway should be considered. Many older highways are poorly or even improperly designed and a claim against the Department of Transportation should be considered in such cases.

Accidents like these are common and hard to handle. Families in these situations need a strong and powerful voice speaking for them. Attorney Tim Young is a Louisiana car and truck attorney with a powerful voice and a compassionate hand, his firm is here to help make these situations easier. Call (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

Federal Truck Length Regulations & Louisiana Truck Accidents

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

While states have regulations concerning the size and length of trucks, Federal regulations govern minimum lengths on the highways for certain truck combinations.

Those combinations are tractor-semitrailer and tractor-semitrailer-trailer, and these regulations only apply to the national highway network and transit between highways and terminals or service locations.

Tractor-Semitrailer Combinations
In fact, states cannot impose limits on the national highway system that are longer than the minimums for tractor-semitrailer combinations even if they are longer than the Federal minimum limit of 48 feet. States also cannot impose an overall limit on a truck pulling a semitrailer or the difference between axles on such combinations.

Straight trucks, those that carry cargoes in the same chassis as the power unit, are not regulated by the Federal government but by the states. However, straight trucks towing a trailer are limited to 65 feet by the Federal government and limited by the states.

Truck Tractor-Semitrailer-Trailer Combinations
States must allow a minimum of 28 feet for trailers and semitrailers in combination with some grandfathered exceptions.

You can find out more about these regulations here.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.

UM insurance laws in Louisiana- express rejection

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

You may have UM insurance and not even know it in Louisiana. Learn about the law that can help you if you are injured in an automobile accident in Louisiana. Our New Orleans injury lawyers explain here.

The Regulation of Trucks Carrying Hazardous Materials

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

So the Federal government can regulate the transport of hazardous materials on the nation's highways, it has strict record keeping requirements.

Each business must maintain a Certificate of Regulation at its place of business for three years after issuance. These certificates include a copy of the registration statement filed with the Pipe Line and Hazardous Materials Administration (PHMSA) and a copy of the Certificate of Registration issued by the PHMSA.

Each truck carrying hazardous materials must also carry a copy of its current certificate issued by the PHMSA. Other acceptable documents may be carried in all trucks used to move hazardous materials. These documents must identify the registration number.

Enforcement personnel can demand to see such documents at any time. These documents must include all records relevant to information contained in the registration statement.

Transporting hazardous materials is serious. Regulatory agencies and carriers must make sure they can meet all requirements. Trucks carrying hazardous materials can obviously be more dangerous on the road than other trucks.

You can find more information about these regulations here.

At the Young Law Firm, we are obviously very concerned about truck safety and especially concerned about the transport of hazardous materials, since an accident of a truck carrying such materials can be very dangerous.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.