Charleston Personal Injury Law Blog

Top 4 fall road hazards for truckers

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC posted in blog on Monday, September 11, 2017.

Regardless of the time of year, driving a heavy truck is always dangerous. There are many hazards on West Virginia roadways. However, each season has its own special considerations. Being aware of what to expect when the seasons change can enable you to be a better and safer driver. As summer fades into fall, it is time to familiarize yourself with the new risks you can expect on the roads.

The changing weather conditions, the end of Daylight Savings Time and natural changes this time of year, all come together to make fall a difficult time on the roads and increase the risks for truck accidents. Here are four of the most common things you will run across as you are out there on the roads this fall.

Understanding mining truck accidents

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC posted in blog on Sunday, August 13, 2017.

Mining trucks and other haul trucks are everywhere in West Virginia. When you are driving along Interstates 79, 77 or 64, you likely share the road with mining vehicles with frequency. While this is a normal occurrence, you should also be aware of the potential dangers of driving near these trucks. Due to the sheer weight, size and unique type of loads of these tractor-trailers, any accident can result in severe consequences.

It is important to know about the risks of these vehicles so you can stay safe and know what to expect. Keep reading to learn about common causes of mining truck crashes and why they occur.

Understanding how fault is measured in a car accident

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC posted in blog on Monday, July 17, 2017.

In some car accident cases, determining who is at fault is straightforward. However, there are certain instances where the answer is not obvious. In such instances, it can be beneficial to you to understand how the West Virginia injury laws measure fault and how that may affect your personal injury case.

The judge determines fault utilizing the available evidence presented during the case. This includes a range of things such as photographs, skid marks, road damage, reports from law enforcement and witness statements. When trying to build a credible case, you should gather as much evidence as possible. Especially in complicated incidents, including left-turn and rear-end collisions, the right evidence may be essential in proving your case. Other documents such as medical bills and repair estimates help to determine and validate the settlement amount requested. A knowledgeable lawyer can assist you in compiling the evidence and determining the proper amount of a claim.

When commercial truckers are distracted

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC posted in blog on Wednesday, June 14, 2017.

Just as you may find yourself distracted by ringing phones, roadside accidents, billboards and food, so, too, are those at the helm of today’s commercial trucks. Because of the sheer size and weight of these vehicles, however, the repercussions associated with driving large trucks while distracted can prove quite considerable.

While the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration establishes guidelines meant to enhance safety on the roadway for you and other motorists traveling near semi-trucks, today’s truckers do not always follow these distracted driving guidelines. Regrettably, the results sometimes prove deadly.

3 common causes of logging truck accidents

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC posted in blog on Tuesday, May 16, 2017.

The timber harvesting industry is prominent in West Virginia. It is not uncommon to see logging trucks driving down the highway. Due to the sheer weight, size and unique loads of logging trucks, accidents involving them can have catastrophic consequences.

Improperly loaded trucks, poor maintenance and driver error are some of the most common causes of logging truck collisions. Keep reading to learn more about why these accidents happen.

Why spring can be a hazardous time on the roads

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC posted in blog on Monday, April 17, 2017.

Temperatures have risen. The grass is turning green. Days are longer.

No doubt, spring can be a beautiful time of the year in West Virginia. It can also be hazardous to drivers and other people using the roads. Here are a few reasons why.

How big a problem is truck driver fatigue?

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC posted in Injuries on Tuesday, March 21, 2017.

Did you have a close call with an 18-wheeler? Were you almost forced off the road by a semi-tractor trailer that drifted into your lane? Most truckers are responsible drivers, but they work long hours and are always subject to fatigue. That drowsy feeling is insidious; it can creep up and take over in seconds, creating a hazardous situation for the trucker and any other vehicles nearby, including yours.

Tips on how to prevent your guests from driving drunk

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC posted in DUI/OUI on Wednesday, February 8, 2017.

When you invite people to your home for a social occasion that includes alcoholic drinks, your first consideration should be their safety, especially where driving is concerned once the party is over. As the host, you want to pay attention to the quantity of alcohol your guests consume and how it affects them. Some people can put away several drinks without appearing to be intoxicated, but the fact is that alcohol absorbed into the body's bloodstream constitutes a potential problem in terms of driving. With this in mind, there are several steps you can take to help prevent your guests from drinking and driving.

Poor construction safety procedures put owners at risk

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC posted in Injuries on Tuesday, January 17, 2017.

Although profit is the focus in all construction projects, safety at the jobsite is critical. The possibility of risks to employees, tenants or visitors must be top of mind for the owner who, in turn, wants to feel comfortable placing trust in the contractors who have been hired. Comprehensive safety programs should be in place, and both owners and contractors should carry liability coverage. However, the owner may be left open to general liability or property damage claims if he or she has not demanded that the proper safety programs be instituted.

4 ways to improve your visibility as a motorcycle rider

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC posted in Injuries on Monday, December 19, 2016.

From traveling in the blind spot of the car next to you to being practically invisible after dark, you confront safety issues whenever you take your motorcycle out for a spin. As a biker, much of your concentration is directed toward watching the road and looking for possible hazards. However, because it is also very important for you to be observed by other motorists, here are four things you can do that will help drivers see you more clearly.