Author: Charles E. Martin

Things to do in the Case of an Automobile Accident

Posted on by Charles E. Martin

Unfortunately, accidents do happen and preparing yourself for the steps to take after an automobile collision can only benefit you if you find yourself in that situation. Here are the steps we recommend you take in the event of an auto accident:

  1. Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 if necessary.
  2. Call the police and insist on a police investigation. This will create an accurate report of the facts.
  3. Avoid discussing fault with the other parties involved in the accident.
  4. Get the following information from all drivers and parties before you leave the scene of the accident:
    1. Insurance information
    2. Phone numbers
    3. Addresses (important to serve notices)
  5. Get names and phone numbers of all witnesses to the accident.
  6. Take photographs of the damage to all vehicles as well as the accident scene. Keep a disposable camera in your just for this purpose. Use your phone or borrow a witness’ camera or phone if yours is broken during the accident.
  7. Describe the damage to your vehicle.
  8. Draw the scene of the accident. Show the position of vehicles and the direction of travel. Show any lights and signs. Show distances.

If you or someone you love is involved in an automobile accident, contact us to discuss your case and get the expert advice you need to seek justice.

Personal Injury News: Avoiding Pedestrian Accidents in Seattle

Posted on by Charles E. Martin

When you cross the street, walk to and from your office on your lunch break, or traverse Seattle’s sidewalks as you enjoy a night out on the town, just how safe are you? Whether or not you follow pedestrian traffic laws such as crossing at crosswalks instead of ‘jaywalking’, pedestrians are at risk for all kinds of injury and even death – just by walking down the street.

Luckily, ours is one of the safest national cities for pedestrians. Earlier this year, the Seattle Times reported on a study that found, “Among large U.S. cities, Seattle has the second-lowest fatality rate for pedestrians and cyclists, according to a new report … Seattle came away with the second-lowest fatality rate for pedestrians.” (Click here for a map of collisions involving pedestrians and/or bicyclists from 2007-August 2014.)

However, walkers still need to practice caution while they go about their travels throughout the city – particularly if they are elderly, as a 2011 local Crosscut article noted. More than half of the 62 traffic fatalities from 2008-2010 involved pedestrians, and the average age of the 25 pedestrian fatalities was 64.

As the numbers of people biking and/or walking to work only increase, there is more risk for personal injury and fatality. But there are ways that pedestrians in particular can improve on the safety of their commute. Here are some tips for avoiding pedestrian accidents in Seattle…

  • Follow pedestrian traffic laws. Many walkers know that vehicles and even cyclists must always yield to pedestrians. While this is certainly true, that doesn’t make it safe to assume or trust that drivers and cyclists will – or can – do so. Don’t cross the street where there is not a marked crosswalk or pedestrian crossing sign. Even then, look both ways and wait for drivers and cyclists to come to a complete stop before crossing in front of them.
  • Walk with others. Research has shown that accidents and fatalities resulting from pedestrian-car accidents are reduced in areas where there are more people walking. As you commute, choose routes with higher pedestrian traffic.
  • Be noticeable and alert. When walking at night, wear reflective and bright clothing, and if you can, carry a flashlight. Do not walk and talk on the phone or text-message – especially when crossing the street. Stay alert and take note of vehicles that seem to be speeding, allowing them to pass or stop before you cross the street in front of them.

If you or someone you love is a pedestrian involved in an accident with a car or bicyclist, please contact our offices to acquire the guidance and expertise to seek justice.

Featured photo source: Flickr.

What to do When you Get into a Bicycle Accident

Posted on by Charles E. Martin

Cyclists can save a lot on their monthly and annual costs by biking to work instead of driving, and it also improves their health and fitness! Seattle and the Greater Seattle areas are popular for cyclists of all levels of skill. Approximately 20 percent of Washington State residents rode a bicycle in 2001, and it is the fastest growing mode of transportation in our region, according to the Cascade Bicycle Club.

The Seattle Department of Transportation reports that more than 158,000 Seattleites ride bikes – either for general recreation or to get to a destination (such as work). Seattle is ranked number two in the nation for urban walking and bicycling, as the Seattle Times reported this spring. However, hundreds of bicycle collisions still happen each year – more than 1,800 accidents involving a cyclist were reported between 2007-2011. Click here for more bicycling safety statistics.

Cyclists of all skill levels need to be alert, follow traffic and safety laws, and know their rights to avoid and protect themselves from car accidents and the repercussions.

Here are the important steps to follow when you get into a bicycle accident – particularly if it’s an accident involving another motor vehicle:

  1. Call the police. If you are able, call the police immediately after the bike accident and wait for them to arrive. If the police are involved, you can be sure that correct contact information will be exchanged. Additionally, the police will write an accident report so that there is documentation of the incident – you may need this later, to press insurance claims. Make sure to report all personal injuries even if they seem to be minor – after an accident, adrenaline in your body may trick you into thinking you are uninjured, so be aware. If there were any witnesses to the accident, it is helpful to also have them report what they saw or heard.
  2. Exchange information. Of course, you should get the contact information for everyone involved in the accident – the driver of the car(s), and any witnesses. For any vehicles involved, obtain the driver’s name, insurance information, phone number, home address, and driver’s license number. You should also get the contact information for any witnesses to the bicycle accident.
  3. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney. Before you contact the insurance companies, you should find and choose a personal injury attorney to help you with your case. These kinds of lawyers are skilled in this kind of situation, to ensure you receive the fullest extent of just compensation for damages to yourself, your bike, and future costs associated with the accident. If you talk to an insurance company before speaking to a lawyer, you may not receive the full recompense you are eligible for under the law.

Click here for some more tips on handling bicycle accidents with cars, according to a blog at Bicycling.com. Should you get into a bicycle accident with a car, contact Martin Law, PLLC for excellent, skillful support and guidance through the after-accident process.

Featured photo credit Flickr user Fort Greene Focus.

 

Ways You Can be Compensated from a Car Accident

Posted on by Charles E. Martin

When you are injured and your car is damaged in a car accident that is the fault of another driver, you are entitled under the law to compensation for certain damages. In order to get the best result in compensation, you should always talk to witnesses, document the scene (with photos, if possible), call the police, and never sign anything without the presence or support of your personal injury attorney.

With all of those things, here are some of the most notable and common compensation rights for car accident victims:

  • Restitution for property damages. When your car is hit and damaged in an accident – no matter how minimal the damage – the at-fault party’s insurance company should cover a settlement amount to cover the repair costs of the damage.
  • Recompense for medical fees related to your physical injuries. If you were injured in a car accident, whether the injury was extensive or developed later (like whiplash), the personal injury damages award to you should include compensation for any medical care and treatment associated with the accident. This compensation may come in the form of reimbursement for treatments you have already received and paid for, and/or funds for estimated future or continuing costs.
  • Reparation for loss of income. If you had to miss work (and therefore, were docked pay) due to your injury recovery or medical treatment, you may be eligible for compensation for income you have lost and have the potential to make, were it not for the accident.
  • Compensation for emotional distress. Sometimes (and more often for serious accidents), you are entitled to compensation for ‘pain and suffering’ on an emotional level such as anxiety, fear, sleep loss and other responses to trauma. You may also be eligible for recompense for loss of enjoyment in your recreational activities because of the accident, and even for ‘loss of consortium’ – or the loss of companionship or your ability to maintain a sexual relationship with your spouse.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident where the other driver was at fault, please contact the Offices of Martin Law, PLLC for your legal guidance and support. We will use our expertise and knowledge of the law to acquire just compensation for your losses.

Featured photo from here, labeled for reuse.

Safety Tips to Avoid Motorcycle Accidents

Posted on by Charles E. Martin

motorcycle

The fun and freedom of taking your motorbike on the open road is what keeps many devoted cycle fans on the road.  Make sure your experience is not affected by a terrible accident and take some precautions to keep yourself safe as you share the road with motorists.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 34,000 motorcyclists were killed between 2001-2008 in the U.S., and approximately 1.2 million were treated in emergency rooms for non-fatal injuries related to motorcycle accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that in 2006, the rate for fatal crashes involving a motorcycle was 72.34 in every 100,000 motorcycles, versus the rate of fatal car accidents, which was 13.1 in every 100,000 cars.

Start your safe driving practices with appropriate safety gear; it is the only thing between you and the road.

  • Helmet – D.O.T. Approved
  • Eye protection such as a face shield or safety glasses
  • Leather footwear with over the ankle protection and low heels
  • Long pants of denim or comparable durability
  • Long sleeve shirt or jacket
  • Full fingered leather gloves

Before you even get on your bike, be sure you are completely drug and alcohol free for your safety and that of everyone else on the road.

Here are some important safety tips to follow to avoid motorcycle accidents…

Take a quick walk around your bike to evaluate your bike’s condition.  Be on top of possible broken parts, maintain controls and proper oil changes on schedule, as well as check the chain, suspension, tires, signals working and proper tire pressure.

Be seen, be heard.  Lights on and use your horn if signs of danger are imminent.

Ride smooth.  That is to say to keep throttle use consistent and even steering pressure and acceleration. Smooth riding will not only give you better gas mileage and reduce wear and tear on your bike, but it makes it easier for other drivers to see you better and anticipate where you will be.

Always be aware of where you are in relationship to other drivers, including what is happening with oncoming traffic.

Keep a clear line of sight and travel path. If you can’t see as well due to weather, darkness, or curvy roads, slow down to be prepared for what lies ahead.

Allow extra space and time to adjust yourself to other motorists’ movements.

Travel in the part of the lane where you are most visible.

Always use your signals for lane changes, drive as if you are invisible and assume other drivers can’t see you: Ride particularly defensively.

Check left front, right, then left again before proceeding through an intersection. Know what hazards may await you and be prepared to adjust.

Always check your rearview mirror before reducing your speed.  Slowing down too quickly when a car is on your tail can put you at serious risk.

Allow for a 2-4 second following distance. If it is night or any weather conditions, increase that to 4-8 seconds to allow for the best cushion for safety.

Pay attention to turns and curves. They pay a significant role in the majority of motorcycle accidents due to rider error.

Know where driver’s blind spots are and take care not to ride in them.

The far left lane is usually the safest lane due to less vehicles merging from that side.

Also pay attention to highway exits that are on the left, as cars will be merging to exit and entering the highway occasionally from the left also.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation is committed to promoting safe driving and rider education nationwide. MSF can connect you with motorcycle safety classes near you.

Their site has a free library with great resources and tips. Check it out!

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident and you are not at fault, contact us at Martin Law, PLLC for a free case evaluation.

Charles Martin, Marin Law LLC
Call for a free consultation 206-684-9468

Legal Help for Semi Truck Accidents

Posted on by Charles E. Martin

semi truck accident

Semi truck accidents are seldom without serious injuries and often cause fatalities, since they typically occur on highways where vehicles are traveling at high speeds. Combined with the speed of travel and the size of these trucks, the risks of serious injury and even deaths when an accident occurs are very high. Semi trucks usually weigh more than 10,000 pounds, and depending on the load they are carrying, can take much longer to stop than a normal car or passenger vehicle – especially when traveling at highway speeds.

This article includes key information and semi truck accident statistics for the Seattle area, King County, and Washington State.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) lists the following semi truck accident statistics for King County in recent years:

  • 9 fatalities from semi-truck accidents in 2012 (of 46 in the whole state)
  • 6 fatalities from semi-truck accidents in 2011 (of 33 in the whole state)
  • From 2001-2011, large truck accidents involving injuries decreased by 30%
  • Over 75% of fatalities from semi truck accidents from 2009-2011 were occupants of the other vehicles, while less than 18% of fatalities were occupants of the truck

According to the 2012 Washington State Annual Collision Summary, there were a total of 4,453 collisions involving heavy trucks or commercial vehicles. Of those:

  • 43 were fatal collisions
  • 83 were serious injury collisions
  • 955 were minor injury collisions
  • 3,327 were collisions where only property was damaged
  • 43 were collisions with unknown injuries

If you or someone you love is involved in a semi truck accident and has been injured or killed, please contact our offices for legal services. Since semi trucks are often owned and operated by large companies with legal teams and insurance adjustors to defend their claims, it is critical that you acquire legal representation to fight for your just recompense.

Martin Law PLLC specializes in providing expert-level legal representation, to ensure you and your loved ones receive just compensation for personal injury or wrongful death cases.

Charles Martin, Marin Law LLC
Call for a free consultation 206-684-9468

Local Seattle Car Accident Statistics

Posted on by Charles E. Martin

Two cars crashed

Auto accidents can present insurmountable challenges for the victims injured and/or affected, and my aim is to help these individuals to navigate the process toward acquiring recompense. However, to understand the state of our region as it relates to auto accidents, I wanted to provide some car accident statistics…

According to data from the city of Seattle:

  • The fatal accidents in 2011 were down to 19 from 23 in 2010, with 20 total fatalities in 2011 and 25 in 2010.
  • Vehicles involved in fatal accidents were also down 29 in 2011 from 36 from 2010. A total of 37 people were involved (injured, killed, and uninjured) in fatal car accidents in 2011, down from 45 in 2010. Only 5 pedestrians were involved in fatal auto accidents in 2011, compared with 10 pedestrians in 2010.
  • Fatal drunk driving collisions decreased in 2011 to 7 from 11 fatal accidents caused by drunk drivers in 2010.

According to the 2012 Annual Collision Summary for Washington State (2013’s has not yet been released):

  • A car accident occurred every 5 minutes.
  • An individual died in an auto accident every 20 hours.
  • Every 12 minutes, someone was injured in a car accident.
  • Crashes involving a motorcyclist occurred every 4 hours.
  • Pedestrians or cyclists were involved in a crash every 4 days.
  • Every 25 minutes, a car crash involving a speeding driver occurred (Speeding was the most frequent contributing circumstance in all collisions).
  • An impaired driver (i.e. DUI) was involved in a car accident every 2 hours.
  • A fatality occurred as a result of a car accident involving an impaired driver every 2 days (Half of all traffic fatalities involved an impaired driver).

In the year 2012, there were 99,560 car accidents across the state of Washington.

For a national picture of fatal car crashes, click here for a map of fatalities from a collision involving a motor vehicle between January 2001 and December 2009.

If you are involved in a car accident that caused you injury and were not at fault, contact the office of Chuck Martin. I will use my extensive knowledge and expertise to acquire the best possible settlement outcome, and argue your case for justice.

Charles Martin, Marin Law LLC
Call for a free consultation 206-684-9468

Reasons You Might Need a Car Accident Lawyer vs. Working Alone

Posted on by Charles E. Martin

Car_Accident

When you are the victim of an accident due to another driver’s carelessness or mistakes, it can be a harrowing time to deal with insurance, vehicle damage, and any injuries that were sustained. You have rights under the law as a victim of a car accident, and you should protect those rights to avoid paying for someone else’s missteps or negligence.

There are lots of reasons why a car accident lawyer may benefit your chances to acquire recompense, versus trying to plead your case alone. Here are some of the most important:

  • You can’t always rely on other people or insurance companies for justice. Even if the driver(s) responsible for the accident provide you with all the important information to help you get medical and vehicular reparations, their insurance company may prove difficult. Many – if not most – insurance companies will do their best not to pay or pay as little as possible for claims. They may try to pressure you or rush you into a settlement, which will often be less than fair coverage for your property and personal injury. A car accident lawyer or personal injury attorney can help to get you just compensation for your property damage and any injuries.
  • There are certain rules to follow and steps to take to sue. It’s not always as easy as filling out a police report and ‘pressing charges’. Sometimes there will be other rules that require your compliance, or more requirements that you must meet in order to be eligible for personal injury restitutions after a car accident. A lawyer can help you navigate all of these needs.
  • Lots of potential damages are available – which can you receive? People injured in car accidents are eligible for lots of different damages, beyond just coverage for your medical bills and repairs for your car, and a car accident lawyer can inform you of all of the damages you are eligible for.
  • It’s all in the negotiation and representation. A personal injury attorney will be prepared and skilled to negotiate and represent your interests, both with insurance companies and in court (if necessary), for your fair compensation.

If you have sustained personal injury in a car accident that was not your fault, please contact our offices for a conversation about your situation. We can help you to acquire a fair settlement for your injuries.

Charles Martin, Marin Law LLC
Call for a free consultation 206-684-9468

Top 5 Safe Driving Tips for the Seattle Area

Posted on by Charles E. Martin

Safe driving should be a way of life, not a conscious decision! However, many drivers tend to lose some of the basics of the road as the years go on and that can lead to potentially dangerous situations. And with traffic getting worse by the minute, Seattle drivers need to keep several safety tips in mind when they get on the road:

 

  1. Don’t Drive Impaired

 

You’re in control of an automobile, so if you operate one while in an altered state there’s a good chance you’ll endanger yourself and others. Police are on the lookout for DUIs, so even if you’re a little tipsy it’s better to call a cab instead of risking an arrest and hefty fines. Same goes for driving drowsy – don’t drive if you’re not fully focused on the road.

 

  1. Don’t Speed

 

If the sign says 35, that’s the limit. Going over increases your risk of being involved in an accident or collision with a pedestrian or bicyclist. Ultimately, even if you break the speed limit by 10 mph, it’ll only buy you a few more minutes. Take your time and don’t risk causing an accident.

 

  1. Limit Your Distractions

 

Cell phone use, music players, eating, putting on makeup and goofing around with other passengers are all leading causes of accidents as a result of distracted drivers. Invest in hands-free cell phone solutions and plan ahead to stay focused on the road and offset your risk of distracted driving accidents.

 

  1. Drive Defensively

 

Just because you’re a focused and safe driver doesn’t mean the other drivers around you are. Look out for other drivers behaving irrationally and dangerously so that you don’t become involved in an accident as the result of someone else’s bad driving.

 

  1. Keep Your Car Safe

 

Checking tire pressure, replacing wiper blades and keeping brakes working effectively are all key elements to maintaining a safe vehicle. It’s probably been a while since your vehicle last saw a mechanic’s trained eye, so getting a professional opinion on the state of your vehicle can help you stay safe out on the road.

 

If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident as a result of an unsafe driver, contact the offices of Martin Law, PLLC to find legal support and guidance. We use all our ability and knowledge to help our clients obtain compensation for their injuries.

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