According to a study by Charlotte local news site Queen City Nerve, at least 70 people were killed in fatal car crashes in Charlotte in 2023, a minor increase from 61 in 2022. There were at least 20 pedestrian deaths in vehicle-related accidents, a number that stayed the same from 2022.
North Carolina, like every other state, has to deal with the consequences of bad driving behavior. If you have been a victim of any of the following driver behaviors, you should reach out to a car accident lawyer soon and find out if you have a claim to pursue. Even if you are unsure, it couldn’t hurt to find out. There are lots of kinds of driving that can be harmful for both passengers and drivers; these include:
A: According to the statewide roadway initiative, NC Vision Zero, there are approximately 82 car accidents in Charlotte every day. 40% of those accidents involved speeding to some degree, and 59% of people killed in those accidents died because they were not wearing a seatbelt. It is important to understand how frequent and unpredictable these accidents can be so you can be alert at all times.
A: The biggest cause of car accidents in North Carolina is distracted driving, which counts among the biggest causes of car accidents in pretty much every state in the country. It is so easy to get distracted in today’s constantly rushing environment, and it is up to responsible drivers to take accountability. Limit distractions and keep your phone out of sight if possible. People are too tempted to check their email or texts while they are driving, and that kind of behavior can cause accidents in the future.
A: Studies show that the odds of being in a fatal car crash in your lifetime are approximately 1 in 93. You have a greater chance of dying in an opioid overdose (1 in 58). While those odds may seem minimal, you should still practice defensive driving and be aware of your surroundings. You can reduce the odds of being involved in a car accident by not engaging in negligent behavior behind the wheel.
A: The most frequent type of car accident across the entire United States is a rear-end collision, which occurs when a driver hits the vehicle in front of them and damages the rear of the vehicle. This happens a lot at red lights, stop signs, traffic stops, and during bad weather like rain or snow. It is largely caused by distracted driving and does not usually result in serious injury or heavy vehicle damage, though it can in some instances.
Being involved in a car accident can be a painfully traumatic experience. You could be the most skilled driver in the world who is constantly aware of everything going on around you. That doesn’t mean the other drivers on the road are. You have to be prepared for anything while driving, including the possibility of an accident. You have to be ready to react properly in the event of a potentially traumatic experience.
Consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer can help you. A legal team like Bridgman Gantt Law can help you build your case and pursue your claim. We can help you determine the amount of compensation you may be owed and investigate the accident. Contact us as soon as you can to schedule a consultation.
]]>Here are just a few of the most dangerous roads and intersections that can lead to car accidents in Asheville.
According to a 2020 report by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, there were over 247,000 car accidents reported in North Carolina that year. In those accidents, there were over 1,600 fatalities, an increase of over 12% from 2019. 25% of those deaths were connected in some way to speeding, one of the leading causes of death in car accidents across the country. If you are involved in a car accident, fatal or otherwise, it may be wise to speak to an attorney.
A little under 18% of all reported car crashes in North Carolina were a direct cause of distracted driving, which still ranks as the leading cause of car accidents in nearly every state in the country. Anything that takes the driver’s eyes and focus off the road is considered distracted driving. That means talking on the phone, texting, eating and drinking, talking with other passengers, road rage, and failing to obey road signs.
North Carolina has some of the most beautiful scenery of any state in the country. Its gorgeous trees, lakes, and towns make it a popular tourist destination for vacationers around the world. The state is also home to some of the most dangerous stretches of road in the country, with several of them located in Asheville:
The North Carolina Department of Transportation has done what it can to try and make the road more secure, but ultimately, it is up to the drivers to be more alert and aware of their surroundings. Rumble strips, newly installed signs, and a bump in present law enforcement can only do so much.
The roads in and around Asheville are full of scenic greenery along the highways. Fatalities are higher on these highways because of the unexpected curves in the road, the steep slopes, and the semi-obstructed view, thanks to the scenery.
A: The most dangerous road in North Carolina is an 11-mile stretch of US-129 with 318 curves, very few guardrails, and an apparent magnet for thrill seekers, particularly motorcyclists. Locals and vacationers alike call it the “Tail of the Dragon.” The road begins on the Tennessee/North Carolina state line, and it remains a popular vacation spot despite the frequent deaths and injuries. There have been 29 reported deaths on this road since 1995.
A: North Carolina is very much an at-fault state, which means that the insurance company of the party who is found to be at fault is responsible for compensating the injured party for any losses the court and/or insurance investigator deems necessary, including medical bills, auto repair costs, lost wages, back pay, and any other expenses related to the accident.
A: North Carolina is in need of some infrastructure repair, as a report from the National Transportation Research Nonprofit (TRIP) revealed that at least a third of the state’s roads are in poor condition or on the verge of being in poor condition. The cities of Charlotte and Wilmington rank among the worst in terms of road maintenance. This may not automatically equate to “bad roads,” but it certainly means the state government should consider improving conditions to curb easily avoidable accidents in the future.
A: Many studies have ranked North Carolina among the safest states in America to drive in, with the state ranking 6th in the nation for drivers in a recent survey by WalletHub. The study considered the following factors for driving conditions:
The state ranked behind Iowa, Georgia, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Alabama in the top ten.
While the roads of North Carolina can be somewhat treacherous depending on who is driving on them, one way to avoid any potential trauma is to practice defensive driving and remain focused. But that’s easier said than done. It is way easier to focus on yourself and your own driving habits than it is to trust that other drivers are doing the same. Asheville’s roads and intersections are only as dangerous as the distracted drivers ignoring the warning signs.
Accidents are not an unusual occurrence, especially on roads that may be in dire need of maintenance or are known for being curvy and dangerous. The team at Bridgman Gantt Law understands how to help you seek proper compensation for an unexpected situation. Improperly maintained roads are just bad accidents waiting to happen, and you may have a car accident claim you can pursue with the help of an experienced team of attorneys.
Contact us as soon as you can to schedule a consultation.
]]>Whether drivers are simply passing through Charlotte or driving around the city every day to commute to and from work, it’s important for them to be aware of which parts of the city are prone to accidents so that they can exercise extreme caution in these places or avoid these areas altogether. For this reason, it is important to determine which are the most dangerous roads and intersections in the city of Charlotte.
As a general rule, the most dangerous roads and intersections in Charlotte are found where there are many intersecting roads and highways, with a lot of major traffic. Areas that are more densely populated and have poorly planned road infrastructure are more likely to see crashes in the city. However, more specifically, the most dangerous roads and intersections tend to be the following:
Although the four intersections mentioned above have been identified as some of the most dangerous in Charlotte, this is not an exhaustive list. Caution should be exercised on all major roads and interstates, especially during peak hours, to decrease your chances of getting involved in a car accident in the city.
A: In North Carolina and the United States, most accidents that occur on three-lane highways happen in the rightmost lane. This is due to the large changes in traffic in this area of the highway, mixed with frequent slowing down, speeding up, and merging. The risk of crashing can increase when drivers are distracted or forget to look where their blind spots are. If you have been the victim of an NC highway crash, it is advisable to get in touch with a Charlotte car accident lawyer who can represent you.
A: The state of North Carolina is an at-fault state for car crashes. This means that individuals are only entitled to compensation for subsequent crash injuries or damages if they can prove that the other party or parties involved in the accident were completely responsible. Due to the strict liability laws in the state, if a party is found to be even one percent responsible for causing the crash, then they are not entitled to any compensation.
An experienced car crash lawyer can help you understand whether you may be entitled to seek compensation for damages.
A: In North Carolina, it is possible to sue someone for a car accident if they are found to be completely at fault for the accident. While it is possible to settle outside of court through negotiations with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, the premiums from their plan might not be sufficient to cover their sustained injuries and damages. Therefore, it is possible, in some cases, to directly sue the at-fault driver for additional damages that were not covered.
A: North Carolina is considered to be a generally safe state to drive in, but this can depend on various factors, including the density of cars and people in the location where you are driving, the road conditions, and the time of the day. According to a report published in 2023 by a national transportation research nonprofit called TRIP, one-third of the major roads in the state are in mediocre or poor condition, while 44% of the roads are considered to be in good condition.
If you have been involved in a car accident in the Charlotte area or North Carolina in general, then you are likely feeling distressed and unsure about the next steps to take. If you sustained even minor injuries from the accident, it is important to contact a personal injury lawyer from Bridgman Gantt Law.
Our team can analyze all the details associated with your crash and help you file a claim in court. We take a client-first approach, ensuring that you are fully aware of all your options and updated on the evolving status of your case. Contact us today to get started working together.
]]>To understand how to avoid car accidents, it is critical to be aware of existing crash data so that drivers can be aware of steps they can take to keep themselves safe. Therefore, it can be useful to examine the recent car accident statistics in North Carolina.
The most comprehensive crash statistics for the state of North Carolina are published by the NC Department of Transportation. Their most recent report, “2021 TRAFFIC CRASH FACTS” covers all that drivers in the state need to know about car accident statistics, including:
In general, in 2021, there were over 114,700 people injured as a result of traffic incidents in the state, a figure that increased almost 9% compared to the prior year. The age group that was most heavily involved with traffic crashes in the state was 20- to 29-year-olds, who were responsible for 27.2% of all reported crashes.
Furthermore, over 1,700 died as a result of a North Carolina car accident in 2021, which was up 7.5% from the previous year. In terms of fatality, this means that, for every 100,000 people living in North Carolina, 16.9 of them were killed due to traffic accidents. Of these fatal crashes, almost a quarter of them had to do with speeding.
Overall, there were more crashes reported in the state in 2021, with an increase of 11.7% from the year before. There were about 276,000 traffic crashes that were on record in 2021. Roughly 70% of these reported crashes occurred during peak hours, which are between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm.
According to the NCDoT report, distracted driving is a serious concern that causes a large amount of traffic accidents in the state. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration considers distracted driving to be any activity that a driver engages in while driving that does not have to do with driving, which leads to an increased risk of crashing. The number of crashes that were reported to involve distracted driving was 17.9%. However, this number is self-reported and, therefore, expected to be much higher than this figure.
A: The leading cause of car accidents in North Carolina, and the United States overall, is distracted driving. Distracted driving can involve:
When drivers are distracted, they cannot be fully aware of what is happening on the road around them, and this leads to smaller reaction times before crashes or an immediate crash, depending on the situation. If you have been hit by a distracted driver, it is critical to get in touch with a compassionate personal injury lawyer.
A: In the state of North Carolina, the most fatal car accidents have been found to happen in the cities of Charlotte and Raleigh. In Charlotte, there is a reported 11.2 deaths per 100,000 living in the city. In Raleigh, there were a reported 3.9 deaths due to traffic accidents per 100,000 residents. While deadly accidents often happen in densely populated cities in the state, it’s important to keep in mind that many fatal accidents can also occur in rural areas.
A: North Carolina introduced a “Fender Bender Law” to address a dangerous situation that can slow traffic and cause other cars to potentially crash. The law requires all people who have been in a minor crash that does not result in injuries to pull over to the side of the road.
If an individual does not pull over after a minor crash, then they can face court costs and a fine of $110. If you have been involved in a fender bender and sustained even minor injuries as a result, it is important to get in touch with an experienced personal injury lawyer.
A: In North Carolina, liability is determined based on the strict law of contributory negligence. By analyzing evidence such as police reports, eyewitness testimony, photos, videos, and recounts of those who experienced the road accident, insurance companies and courts will determine the percentage that each involved party was at fault. If one party is considered to be even one percent at fault for the accident, then they are not entitled to compensation.
A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can present your case and fight for you to get compensation for your car accident injuries.
If you have fallen victim to a car accident in North Carolina, then it is critical to act fast. An NC car crash lawyer from Bridgman Gantt Law can help you gather evidence that you need to prove your case while there is still time. Then, we can help you file a claim with the insurance company of the at-fault driver. Our firm can work to prove the liability of the other driver and, in certain cases, help you pursue your car crash compensation through the court system.
Contact our loyal personal injury team today to discuss your options for securing compensation.
]]>In workplaces, activities often involve the movement of vehicles. Understanding how dangerous these vehicles are can help you when dealing with the aftermath of a crash.
One primary issue with workplace vehicle crashes is the combination of speed and distraction of people behind the wheel. Coworkers around you operating vehicles may find themselves multitasking or underestimating the impact of excessive speed. These factors amplify the risk of collisions.
Insufficient training in vehicle operation is another factor contributing to workplace crashes. When new or young employees are not educated on handling workplace vehicles, including forklifts or trucks, errors can happen.
Limited visibility in the workplace can increase the likelihood of vehicle crashes. Narrow aisles, blind spots and poorly lit areas create an environment where operators may struggle to see potential obstacles. Employers enhancing visibility through proper lighting, mirrors and signage is important in minimizing these risks.
Effective communication among workers is important for preventing vehicle crashes. Failure to communicate intentions, sudden stops or unexpected maneuvers can catch others off guard.
Employers neglecting regular maintenance of workplace vehicles is a silent contributor to crashes. Bad brakes, old tires or malfunctioning steering systems can transform routine operations into risky endeavors.
Workplace vehicle crashes are not isolated incidents. Safety is a collective responsibility, and a proactive approach to these contributing factors can pave the way for a secure workplace.
]]>When the U.S. Social Security Administration denies your SSDI application, you may ask for a reconsideration. This is the initial step in the appeals process for SSDI claims. Essentially, it gives you a second chance to prove that you qualify for SSDI benefits.
To request reconsideration, you must act promptly. There is a strict time limit for filing – usually within 60 days of receiving your denial letter. Failing to meet this deadline jeopardizes your chances of having your case reviewed.
The next step involves completing the Request for Reconsideration form. This form asks for updated information regarding your medical condition, treatment and any other relevant changes since your initial application. Providing as much information as possible helps strengthen your case.
Submit any new medical evidence that supports your claim along with your Request for Reconsideration form. This could include medical reports, test results and doctor’s statements that highlight the severity of your condition and its impact on your ability to work.
The SSA reports that, between 2010 and 2019, about 31% of all SSDI applicants had their applications for benefits approved. This includes applicants who had their initial claims approved as well as applicants whose claims were successful after an appeal.
]]>One of the key initiatives to aid in this goal is the Ticket to Work program. As someone looking to understand or take advantage of this program, you might have several questions about it.
The Ticket to Work program is a free program provided by the SSA. It aims to assist individuals who receive Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income benefits in finding and maintaining employment. By offering various services and resources, the program supports beneficiaries in their transition back to work.
If you are between the ages of 18 and 64 and currently receive SSDI or SSI benefits due to a disability, you qualify for the Ticket to Work program. Participation is completely voluntary, so you decide if and when you wish to use the program.
The Ticket to Work program provides access to a network of service providers, including employment networks and vocational rehabilitation agencies. These providers offer a range of services, from resume writing to job training and placement. Additionally, while you participate and make timely progress in the program, the SSA will not conduct medical reviews, providing a layer of security as you transition to work.
No. The SSA designed the Ticket to Work program to ensure that you can test your ability to work without immediately losing your benefits. There are specific rules, like the Trial Work Period, that allow you to work and still receive full SSDI benefits. After certain thresholds, the SSA might make adjustments, but the program offers multiple protections and stages to ease the transition.
If your condition worsens or you can no longer work for any reason, there are provisions in place to help you reinstate benefits without a new application. This ensures that you have a safety net if you decide to return to work but find out later that you cannot sustain it.
With its variety of services and safeguards, The Ticket to Work program represents the SSA’s commitment to empowering beneficiaries to achieve greater independence through work. As you navigate your personal journey, remember that this program is there to assist and support you every step of the way.
]]>Sometimes, people perceive teaching as a safe field, especially in comparison to construction and other lines of work. However, a significant number of teachers become seriously hurt in accidents each year.
A piece published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights the different workplace hazards that teachers encounter. For example, some teachers suffer serious injuries as a result of accidents related to transportation, overexertion and contact with dangerous objects. In the classroom, hallway and outside of a school, a teacher could slip on a slick surface or trip on debris. For example, a student could spill a drink on the floor or a teacher could fall on ice while walking into a building.
Teachers also face the risk of serious illnesses and even violence.
In the wake of a workplace injury, a teacher could struggle in many ways. Financial problems due to lost wages or medical bills, mental trauma and physical pain can make recovery very hard. It is pivotal for teachers who sustain injuries in work-related accidents to go over the options in front of them. For some injured teachers, workers’ compensation benefits can provide a lifeline that makes it easier to restore a sense of normalcy in life.
]]>According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 2.6 million workplace injuries and illnesses occurred in 2021. In many of the cases, the severity of the injuries requires time off from work. Some of the most common workplace injuries involved with workers’ compensation claims include the following:
From tripping to falling or simply moving awkwardly to complete a task can easily lead to tearing or stretching ligaments. A severe sprain may lead to the inability to complete the required work until it properly and fully heals.
Eye injuries often top the list, especially for people who work around chemicals, large equipment, or in the environment. Some irritants can scratch or damage the eyes, leading to long-term issues.
Any role that requires manual labor and navigating around heavy machines increases the odds of breaking or fracturing a bone. Key reasons include a slip or trip, getting caught between equipment, or falling off a ladder.
Although less frequent in some jobs burns still remain a common injury for people in construction, manufacturing, and the service industry. Tissue can get injured via steam, chemicals, electricity, and sunlight, as well as via inhaling chemical or smoke fumes.
Although they take time, jobs with repetitive tasks slowly start to damage the body. Eventually, vital joints, tendons, and muscles severely ache and no longer move as they once did. In many situations, these injuries never go away.
Even with all the safety measures in place, workplace accidents happen. When they do, workers deserve compensation.
]]>Understanding the common pitfalls that delay approval can help you avoid them, increasing your chances of a successful and swift SSDI application.
One of the significant mistakes you can make when applying for SSDI is providing incomplete or inaccurate information. The Social Security Administration requires specific details about your medical condition, work history and income. If any information is missing, incorrect or inconsistent, it can result in a delay or even a denial of your application.
Medical documentation serves as the foundation of your SSDI claim. SSA needs to see evidence of your disability and how it affects your ability to work. If your medical records are insufficient, outdated or do not clearly show your disability and its severity, it could slow down your SSDI approval process.
The SSA needs to know how your disability affects your ability to work even with treatment. If you do not follow the prescribed treatment, it becomes difficult for the SSA to determine the extent of your disability. Hence, not following the treatment can cause a delay in your SSDI approval.
During the evaluation process, you might have to provide additional information or documents, or you may need to attend a consultative examination with a doctor appointed by the SSA. If you fail to cooperate or do not respond to the SSA’s requests promptly, it can lead to a delay in your SSDI approval.
Even small errors such as incorrect spelling, wrong dates or not signing the application can result in delays. Ensure you double-check your application for any possible errors before submission.
Navigating the SSDI approval process can be challenging, but avoiding these common mistakes can help speed up the process. Every detail matters when it comes to SSDI approval, so take the time to make your application as robust and error-free as possible.
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