Charleston Personal Injury Law Blog

How can truckers prevent fatigued driving?

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC on Friday, October 23, 2020.

Semitrailers are larger and heavier than other vehicles on the road, and they are capable of causing significant damage when involved in accidents. Because of this, West Virginia truckers have the responsibility of driving safely and carefully as well as adhering to safety standards and regulations designed to prevent truck accidents. An important factor in the safe operation of a commercial truck is preventing drowsy driving.

Drowsy driving is a prevalent problem in trucking. Because of the nature of the job, the men and women who operate these vehicles are often behind the wheel for long periods of time, and they often battle fatigue. Tired drivers are more dangerous drivers, even when they do not fully understand how their drowsiness impacts their ability to operate a truck safely.

Be especially cautious at West Virginia intersections

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC on Wednesday, September 23, 2020.

Whether you've been a licensed West Virginia driver for years or recently passed the test as a new driver, your safety and that of your passengers largely depends on your personal driving habits. While you understand that you're obligated to adhere to all traffic laws, you also know that you can't control what other drivers do. Distracted drivers, drunk drivers and others can place you and your passengers at immediate risk for collision and injury. Intersections are locations requiring tremendous caution at the wheel.

There are several types of intersections, including some that are secured by traffic lights or signage and others that have no signs or lights at all. Even if you do everything right as you approach and navigate an intersection, another driver might do something wrong, which causes a crash and lands you in a hospital emergency room.

Do you know what to do after an accident?

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC on Friday, August 21, 2020.

A car accident is a traumatic and overwhelming event. The aftermath can be confusing, and you may be unsure of how to move forward from this point. Picking up the pieces can feel impossible, especially when you are dealing with significant property damage and potentially serious injuries. It is helpful to know what to do next and how to protect your interests.

If your accident was the result of the negligent or reckless actions of another person, you may have grounds to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. There are certain steps you can take in the days and weeks following an accident that may give you a better chance of a successful claim. An assessment of your case can help you understand if this is an appropriate way to recoup your losses and hold liable parties accountable for your pain and suffering.

Drunk driving statistics paint a bleak picture

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC on Thursday, July 23, 2020.

As a careful driver, you know how important it is to avoid alcohol before getting behind the wheel of your vehicle. Sadly, other drivers in West Virginia do not take the dangers of drunk driving as seriously as you do. So even if you do your best to practice safe driving habits, you are still at the mercy of other drivers.

Drunk drivers are second only to distracted drivers when it comes to the number of car accidents they cause. However, drunk driving accidents are the most deadly of all collisions. In 2017 alone, drunk driving caused 22% of the approximate 56,000 fatalities that year. Of those, 2,000 involved drivers who were impaired but below the legal limit.

How air bags may save your life in a car accident

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC on Tuesday, June 23, 2020.

There are numerous safety features in cars designed to minimize injuries and save lives in the event of a crash. One of those features is air bags, which are bags that inflate upon impact that can cushion any blow that a vehicle occupant may experience. Though air bags have saved countless lives since their installation in most vehicles, it is important to understand how to use them properly.

Some people assume that if their car is equipped with air bags, they do not have to wear seat belts. However, air bags are meant to work in conjunction with safety belts in the event of a car accident. Perhaps you or someone you know here in West Virginia is still alive today because of an air bag. If you've ever wondered just how air bags work and why they are an important safety feature, here are some basic facts.

Common misconceptions about drowsy driving

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC on Wednesday, May 27, 2020.

Most people understand just how dangerous it can be to drive while sleepy. A drowsy driver has a significantly higher chance of causing a car crash than a fully alert driver. However, some people may not think that they, themselves, are at risk of having a drowsy driving accident.

The reality is that anyone in West Virginia may be at risk of a car accident due to drowsy driving. Still, several misconceptions persist about the facts around these types of crashes. If you want to know how to protect yourself and your family, read on to dispel some of the more commonly held beliefs.

A fatal trucking accident can change everything

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC on Thursday, April 23, 2020.

Large tractor-trailers are necessary for transporting consumer products all over the country, but it can be unnerving to share the road with them. You probably understand just how big these trucks seem when driving right next to one. That bit of fear you feel when one is nearby is not unfounded, either. Being involved in a trucking accident can easily be fatal.

It is also difficult -- if not impossible -- to totally avoid large trucks in West Virginia. Trucks transport around 70% of America's freight, which means there are plenty of these vehicles on the road at almost every point of the day. However, you are most likely to encounter a fatal trucking accident on weekday afternoons.

Ways to avoid a car accident with a drunk driver

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC on Friday, March 27, 2020.

Many people drink alcohol as a way to celebrate or to unwind after a long day. When people handle the consumption of alcohol responsibly, it can be a pleasant addition to other activities. Unfortunately, people don't always adhere to safety guidelines.

If you've ever encountered a possibly drunk driver on the road here in West Virginia, you know how scary that can be. You may have wondered if there is any way to protect yourself from getting into a car accident with an intoxicated driver. While no foolproof solution exists, experts have tips that you and your loved ones can use to decrease the chances of that happening.

Was the Virginia driver who hit you distracted at the time?

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC on Thursday, February 27, 2020.

Navigating West Virginia roadways can be challenging. In fact, you've likely had moments while driving where you wished you were just about anywhere other than trying to safely maneuver through traffic to reach your desired destination. Aggressive drivers make travel time all the more stressful. Distracted drivers, as well, increase the danger risk and chances of you being involved in a collision.

Avoiding distraction at the wheel isn't always easy. If you have one or more passengers in your vehicle, casual conversation or needs of children in the backseat can quickly take your focus away from the task at hand. As a skilled and experienced driver, you understand the importance of remaining alert, cautious and focused every time you get behind the wheel.

Various types of injuries are common in motor vehicle accidents

On behalf of Romano & Associates, PLLC on Friday, January 24, 2020.

You come to a halt at a red light and enjoy a sip of coffee as you wait for the traffic signal to turn green. However, when you look into the rearview mirror, you see a pickup truck making its way toward you. And it does not stop. Suddenly, you feel the truck collide with the back of your car, and you start to feel pain as a result.

Unfortunately, another person's careless driving can cause you to suffer serious harm. Fortunately, though, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries in this situation in West Virginia. Here is a look at some common types of injuries resulting from motor vehicle accidents.