Dealing with PTSD From Car Accident in Fargo
It’s critical you know that PTSD is common after car accidents. Millions of people experience the same thing after being in a wreck. If you recognize the symptoms of PTSD, seeking help immediately can go a long way toward helping you find relief. Support groups and self-care can help you cope with PTSD. An experienced attorney can help you obtain compensation from those responsible for the car accident and your resulting PTSD. Being in a vehicle wreck is a traumatic event that can leave lasting emotional scars. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from a car accident is one such trauma. It can affect anyone. If this has happened to you or a loved one after a car accident in Fargo caused by someone else, the attorneys with Sand Law will help you get the compensation you deserve. Please schedule a free case evaluation by calling 701-609-1510 or contacting us online. Understanding PTSD Researchers estimate more than 50 million people around the world suffer PTSD due to vehicle accidents. Nearly 40% of car wreck survivors experience the condition. PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after an individual has experienced a profoundly traumatic event. It's essential to recognize that PTSD...
How Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Are Reducing Accidents
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are becoming increasingly prevalent in modern vehicles, revolutionizing how we drive and significantly enhancing safety on the road. In this article, we’ll show you what ADAS entails and its key features. You’ll also learn that ADAS isn’t perfect and why safe driving is still essential. The car accident attorneys with Sand Law have extensive experience helping people hurt in car wrecks that weren’t their fault. We can do the same for you. Don’t hesitate to use our online form or call 701-609-1510 for a free evaluation of your case. What are Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)? ADAS encompasses a comprehensive set of technologies integrated into modern vehicles to enhance driver safety. These systems rely on a combination of sensors, cameras, radar, and sophisticated software to provide real-time assistance to drivers, mitigating risks and reducing the likelihood of accidents. The evolution of ADAS from rudimentary systems like cruise control to highly advanced, semi-autonomous features has dramatically reshaped the landscape of automotive safety. ADAS systems are an integral part of the broader movement towards autonomous driving, where manufacturers equip vehicles to perform tasks independently, further enhancing safety by minimizing human error. Key Features of ADAS and Their...
Can a Fargo Car Accident Claim be Reopened?
There were 9,585 motor vehicle crashes in North Dakota in 2021, leading to 101 deaths and 3,947 injuries. If you suffered an injury or lost a loved one in a wreck that was someone else’s fault, filing a car accident claim will be critical. It will be the only way to receive compensation for all the expenses you've incurred due to the accident. But what if you’ve settled your claim but later realized you didn’t get the money you deserve? Can you reopen that claim? In the vast majority of instances, you can’t. That’s why you need a skilled attorney. At Sand Law, we’ll work to help you get every dollar you have coming for all of your accident-related losses. Schedule a free consultation by calling 701-609-1510 or contacting us online. Understanding Fargo Car Accident Claims A car accident claim helps those not to blame for a wreck seek compensation for damages incurred in an accident. These damages, or financial losses, can include vehicle repairs, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Filing a claim is essential to recover from your financial burdens and return to normal. Circumstances Under Which a Claim Might Close A car accident claim can...
Can Someone Sue Me for a Car Accident?
In most car accident cases, the victim of an injury will sue the at-fault driver’s insurance company – not the person. You might have to pay higher insurance rates, or there’s a chance the insurer could cancel your policy. But in most instances, you won’t have to pay anything out of pocket. However, someone can sue you for a car accident if they believe you were at fault and caused them harm or property damage. If you’re facing legal action from a driver who claims you’re to blame for the wreck, the lawyers with Sand Law are standing by to help. We’ll investigate how the accident occurred and protect your rights at every turn. Schedule a free review of your case by contacting us online or calling 701-609-1510. Determining Liability for a Car Accident Investigators typically determine who was “liable” or caused the accident based on the evidence. They can collect that evidence from the accident scene, obtain witness statements and police reports, and gather other relevant information. Depending on the circumstances, one or multiple parties involved in the accident can face liability. North Dakota Fault Laws North Dakota follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule when determining liability in car...
Can an Insurance Company Hire a Private Investigator to Deny Your Accident Claim?
Yes, an insurance company can hire a private investigator to deny your accident claim. The investigator will work to gather evidence and information that the insurance company can use to keep you from obtaining compensation. While not all insurance companies employ private investigators in every claim, they may resort to hiring one if they suspect fraud or if there are inconsistencies or doubts regarding the circumstances of the accident. Insurers are notorious for using questionable tactics, including dispatching an investigator to track your every move. However, if you have a Sand Law attorney on your side, we’ll make the experience of being investigated as easy on you as possible. If the investigator’s report contains inaccuracies, we’ll gather the proof it takes to refute them. We won’t rest until we’ve done everything possible to help you get the money you have coming. Schedule a free consultation by calling 701-609-1510 or contacting us online. The Purpose of Hiring a Private Investigator Insurance companies hire private investigators to uncover any evidence that may cast doubt on your accident claim. Insurance companies are responsible for assessing the validity of claims. They're also responsible for ensuring that they’re not paying for fraudulent or exaggerated claims....
Treating a Neck Injury After a Car Accident
Neck injuries are common in car accidents, often resulting from sudden impact and rapid head movement. These injuries can range from mild to severe and may have long-lasting effects on the victim's health and well-being. Treating a neck injury after a car accident alleviates pain, promotes healing, and prevents further complications. The attorneys with Sand Law are ready to help if you’ve suffered a neck injury in a car crash that wasn’t your fault. If you would like to learn more about how we can work to get you the money you have coming, call 701-609-1510 or use our online contact form for a free case review. How Car Accidents Cause Neck Injuries Car accidents can cause neck injuries due to sudden and forceful movements during impact. These movements can strain or damage the delicate structures in the neck, including muscles, ligaments, tendons, discs, and nerves. You’ll learn more about some of the specific types of neck injuries in the next section. Common Types of Neck Injuries After a Car Accident Any neck injury can lead to intense pain and debilitation. While some might be considered “minor,” others can make it impossible for victims to enjoy the quality of life...
Types of Treatment for Back Pain after a Car Accident
Back pain after a car accident is quite common. Back injuries range from mild to severe. If you were in a car accident and are experiencing back pain, seeking medical attention is important. A healthcare professional will evaluate your symptoms and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs. There are several types of treatment for back pain after a car accident. The following is an overview of some of the most common options. Talk to a Sand Law attorney immediately if you suffered a back injury due to a car wreck that was someone else’s fault. We’ll fight to help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation by contacting us online or calling 651-291-7263. How are Back Problems Diagnosed? Before treatment can begin, you must see a doctor who can determine the cause of your back pain. Establishing a diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. These tests help identify any damage to the spine, muscles, or nerves contributing to your pain. Treatment Options for Back Pain After a Car Accident Fortunately, there are several treatment options available depending on the severity and nature of...
What to Expect from an Insurance Adjuster After Your Car Accident
Car accidents can be an overwhelming experience. Not only do you have to deal with the physical and emotional aftermath of the accident, but you also have to deal with all the complexities associated with filing a claim with your insurance company. Unfortunately, you also may endure harassment from the other driver's insurance company. No one should have to deal with hassle and harassment. This is especially true for someone who suffered a severe injury in an accident that wasn’t their fault. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, contact Sand Law as soon as possible. Our firm has extensive experience in car accident cases. We also have a long track record of defeating insurance companies. We know all of the tricks they try to play. When you work with us, we’ll protect you from the harassment of insurance company adjusters. Your Sand Law attorney will handle the insurer. You continue to focus on your physical and emotional recovery. Please don’t hesitate to schedule a free consultation by calling Sand Law at 651-291-7263 or contacting us online. Filing a Claim with Your Insurance Company The first step in dealing with the aftermath of a car accident is to file...
When is a Fargo Car Accident Injury Serious Enough to File a Lawsuit?
Car accidents can range from minor fender benders to catastrophic collisions that result in serious injuries or death. When they occur, they can have significant and lasting impacts. If you've been in a car accident, you may wonder if your injuries are severe enough to file a lawsuit. A Sand Law attorney can tell you whether or not it will be worth it to take legal action against the at-fault driver. If it is, we’ll provide you with the aggressive representation you’ll need to obtain maximum compensation. If you would like a free evaluation of your case, please don’t hesitate to call 701-609-1510 or contact us online. What are the Most Common Outcomes of Car Accidents? There were more than 5.2 million car accidents in the U.S. in 2020. Of those, about 3.6 million collisions resulted in property damage only. About another 1.6 million led to injuries. There were 35,766 fatal crashes. Some of the most common outcomes of car accidents include the following: Property damage: Thankfully, most car wrecks fall under the “fender bender.” Yes, they’re frustrating. Yes, they can cause significant property damage. But there are no injuries involved. Minor injuries: These can include cuts, bruises, and sprains....
Facial Injuries Caused by a Car Accident
Car accidents can be devastating and cause various severe injuries, including facial injuries. Facial injuries can be particularly traumatic, resulting in long-lasting physical and emotional effects. Victims not only experience excruciating pain, but they can also lose their self-confidence. The attorneys with Sand Law can help if you’ve suffered facial injuries in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence. You can contact us online or call 701-609-1510 for a free consultation. Common Causes of Car Accidents Car accidents can occur for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common include: Distracted driving Speeding Drunk driving Reckless driving Poor weather conditions Types of Car Accidents that Cause Facial Injuries Some accidents are more likely to cause facial injuries than others. These include the following: Head-on Collisions This is one of the worst kinds of accidents and almost always leads to disaster for anyone involved. When two vehicles collide head-on, the force of the impact can cause severe facial injuries. A head-on wreck is also fatal in many instances. Rear-end Collisions If a driver strikes the back end of another car, the driver of the vehicle being hit can suffer severe facial damage. Their face will often slam into the...
5 Things You Should Teach Your Teen Driver
As a parent, one of the most nerve-wracking moments is when your teen driver is ready to hit the road for the first time. The thought of your child behind the wheel can be daunting, but there are several things you can teach your teen driver to help them become a safe and responsible driver. In this article, you’ll learn five essential things you should teach your teen driver. If your teen is involved in an accident that’s not their fault, the attorneys with Sand Law will be ready to work to help your family obtain full compensation. You can give us a call at 701-609-1510 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Don’t Have a Lead Foot One of the most important things to teach your teen driver is to avoid speeding. Young drivers are at a higher risk of accidents; excessive speed only increases that risk. In addition to breaking the law, speeding can cause your teen driver to lose control of the vehicle, leading to severe injury or a tragic fatality. The statistics are alarming regarding speeding and teenage drivers. According to one study, teenagers were involved in nearly 20,000 accidents related to speeding. Research...
How to Prepare Your Car for a Winter Storm in Fargo
If you’ve lived in North Dakota for a while, you already know how essential it is to prepare your car for severe winter weather. But you might not know what to do if you’ve just recently moved here. The following information will help you get your car ready whenever forecasters predict a major winter storm. No matter the time of year, Sand Law will be here for you if you're in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence. You can schedule a free case evaluation by using our online contact form or by calling 701-609-1510. Common Causes of Winter Car Accidents Winter weather can make driving more dangerous due to snow, ice, and low visibility. There are several common causes of winter car accidents, including the following: Speeding: Drivers in a hurry and fail to slow down for winter conditions are at a higher risk for accidents. Black ice: This type of ice is difficult to see and can cause cars to lose traction and spin out of control. Poor visibility: Snow, fog, and sleet can reduce visibility, making it harder for drivers to see the road and other vehicles. Tailgating: Following too closely behind another car can be...
How to Stay Safe During a Multi-Car Pile-Up from Icy Roads
Amazingly, people will drive recklessly when roads are icy, but it happens. When it does, it can result in a devastating multi-car pile-up and severe injuries. If you ever find yourself in a multi-car crash on slick roads, remaining calm will help you stay safe and avoid damage to your vehicle. If you suffer an injury in this kind of crash, a car accident lawyer with Sand Law will be ready to help you obtain maximum compensation. We’ll investigate to determine the at-fault party and then work to hold them accountable. Our attorneys will keep you informed throughout your case so that you know what to expect at all times. Please get in touch with us as soon as possible for a free review of your case. Contact us online or call 701-609-1510. A Recent Example On November 10, 2022, a multi-car pile-up involving more than 20 vehicles occurred on Interstate 94. According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol (NDHP), a squad car responded to a truck accident when a passenger hit the unit. Within minutes, seven more collisions occurred in the same area due to a fine mist covering the road surface in ice. While the NDHP reported several...
What if My Car Accident Was Caused by a Defective Part or Maintenance Issue?
You might assume that the other driver will be at fault if you suffered severe injuries in a car accident. That will be the case in most instances, but some accidents are beyond the driver’s control. Their vehicle could have failed due to a defective tire, braking system, or another critical component. Then again, that driver could be to blame. Not because they made a mistake behind the wheel, but because they neglected regular maintenance. A Sand Law car accident attorney can investigate the accident. They'll also determine who should pay for your expenses. Contact us online or call 701-609-1510 for a free consultation. Defective Parts and Maintenance Issues in Single-Car and Two-Car Accidents Defective parts and maintenance issues can be contributing factors to car accidents. If a vehicle part is defective, it can cause the vehicle to malfunction and potentially lead to an accident. Similarly, if a vehicle isn't maintained correctly and a problem arises, it can also contribute to an accident. In such cases, the manufacturer of the defective part or the party responsible for the vehicle's maintenance can be held liable for any injuries or damages. If a car accident occurs due to defective parts or maintenance...
Internal Injuries Caused by Car Accidents
Whenever someone drives in a negligent fashion, whether they drive recklessly, they drive impaired, or they commit some other type of negligence, that can put other motorists in serious danger. Other drivers will be at risk of suffering severe internal injuries that could be life-threatening. What makes internal injuries caused by car accidents so dangerous? That’s what you’ll learn in this article. If you’ve been hurt due to a negligent driver, get in touch with a Sand Law car accident attorney as fast as you can. We’ll investigate the accident, gathering all of the facts needed to determine exactly how much compensation you should receive. If you would like to learn more about how we may be able to help, schedule a free evaluation of your case by contacting us online or giving us a call at 701-609-1510. Common Internal Injuries Caused by Car Accidents No matter what the cause of your car accident, there’s a very good chance that you suffered some sort of internal injury. You may have hit the steering wheel or the dashboard, or the airbag may have deployed. These are just some of the many types of internal injuries that can result from a wreck....
What do I do if the At-Fault Driver Offered Me Cash?
So, a reckless driver has hit your car. Or, you were riding on your motorcycle when you were struck by a negligent motorist. You might have been in a wreck on a snowy day and hit by someone who wasn’t driving safely enough, considering the conditions. Whatever the scenario, the at-fault driver offered to pay cash for the damage to your vehicle, as well as any injury you may have suffered? Should you accept that offer? Granted, this doesn’t occur very often. But when it does, it can create an incredible amount of confusion. If this ever happens to you, the wise choice would be to refuse that offer and get in touch with an automobile accident attorney with Sand Law. We’ll tell you the proper steps you should take, and we’ll work to make sure you get exactly what you need – without falling for any sort of shady cash deal. Just give us a call at 701-609-1510 or contact us online for a free review of your case. Is it Legal to Offer Cash at the Scene of a Car Accident? It’s obviously unusual for someone to try to offer a large amount of cash after they cause...
Bad Faith Insurance Practices in Car Accident Claims
The process of filing any sort of personal injury claim after a car accident can be stressful and frustrating. When your insurance company fails to come through, by either low-balling your claim or denying it entirely, you might feel hopeless. But you can fight, and a personal injury attorney can help you do just that. Sand Law car accident attorneys know all of the tricks that insurance companies play. You would think they would do everything they can to make sure their clients are taken care of after being injured. But that’s not the way it works in far too many instances. If you have any reason to believe your insurance carrier is acting in bad faith, get in touch with us as soon as you can. Please schedule a free consultation by using our online contact form, or by giving us a call at 701-609-1510. What are Bad Faith Practices? You might have been rear-ended by a drunk driver, and now you’re suffering from severe back and neck pain. It’s natural that you assume your insurance company is going to pay for the mounting medical bills and other expenses that you’ve incurred. Insurance companies are supposed to follow through...
Reckless Driving Behaviors that Can Cause Car Accidents
Any kind of reckless driving is dangerous, leading to the possibility of accidents that can lead to catastrophic, life-altering injuries – or even worse. When someone has a wanton disregard for not only traffic laws, but also the well being of everyone else on the road, the consequences can be devastating. If you have suffered an injury due to someone else’s reckless behavior, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the car accident attorneys at Sand Law. We are passionate about protecting the rights of innocent victims of other’s negligence. And we’ll do everything we possibly can to help you obtain fair compensation. You can schedule a free consultation to discuss your case by using our online form or giving us a call at 701-609-1510. What is Considered Reckless Driving Behavior? Reckless driving is, in a nutshell, driving in a way that shows no regard whatsoever for other motorists. It’s a blatant, conscious decision to drive in a dangerous manner, knowing full well that an accident could be the result. People who do this couldn’t care less about the potential consequences of their actions. They’ll drive recklessly no matter what the conditions, whether it’s right after the first snow...
Why You Should Never Admit Fault in a Car Accident Case
Being involved in any sort of vehicle accident can cause a lot of anxiety, and a lot of stress. You might have suffered relatively minor injuries in a car wreck. Even worse, you might have been seriously hurt in an accident involving a large truck. You may feel overwhelmed as a result, wondering if you were in any way at fault for the accident. You may feel like talking to someone, thinking it may help clear your mind. Please be cautious about talking to anyone about your case. If you even raise the slightest question as to whether you were to blame, you could seriously damage your case. Doing so could even lead to the other driver filing a lawsuit against you – leading to potential financial ruin. The attorneys with Sand Law would like to share some information regarding just how important it is to never, ever admit even the tiniest amount of fault for a car accident. If you have any questions, or you would like to learn more about how we may be able to help you in your case, feel free to contact us online or call 701-609-1510. Why Attorneys Tell You Not to Admit Fault...
Stressful Situations You Can Avoid by Consulting a Car Accident Attorney
Car accidents occur every single day in the United States. Approximately 90 people die every day because of car accidents, with even more people sustaining injuries. On top of that, studies show that the average person gets into a car accident every 17 and a half years. Most people will get into a car accident at least once in their lifetime. But filing a lawsuit against the negligent party still seems to be a foreign concept to those who have never had to do it before. This is totally understandable. The lawsuit process can be confusing and even daunting for those who have never had to deal with it. That's why it's so important to hire an attorney to help with your case. By hiring an attorney, you'll be able to avoid many stressful situations and headaches, including these described below. Losing Out on Benefits Because You Settled Too Quickly In many cases, often because people don't know any better, they'll contact their insurance company to start the process of filing a claim immediately after the car accident occurs. When you contact insurance companies without an attorney present, they may try to pressure you into settling quickly and for a...
Motorcyclists, Bicyclists, and Pedestrians are the Most Vulnerable Road Users
What is a Vulnerable Road User? A vulnerable road user is a person on the road that isn't behind the wheel of a car or truck. This includes pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, roller skaters, and skateboarders (and more). They are classified as vulnerable because of the lack of protection they have compared to a passenger vehicle or larger commercial vehicle. Vulnerable road users are more likely to get into accidents that result in serious injury or fatality because of this lack of protection. They are also considered vulnerable because road infrastructure is made to benefit drivers and not pedestrians or cyclists. The infrastructure in place for vulnerable road users isn't as good, leading to more accidents and injuries. Vulnerable Road User Statistics in North Dakota When compared to other states, North Dakota is generally a pretty safe place for vulnerable road users. However, that doesn't mean that accidents don't occur. In 2019 14,221 total motor vehicle accidents resulted in 4,258 injuries and 100 fatalities. Out of those 100 fatalities: 25% were car occupants 40% were pickup truck and SUV occupants 3% were large truck occupants 11% were motorcyclists 5% were pedestrians 2% were cyclists That means that 19% of the fatalities...
Vision Zero: How North Dakota is Working to Eliminate Severe & Fatal Motor Vehicle Accidents
It seems that no matter what we do to prevent motor vehicle accidents from occurring, they still happen. People die every year in fatal car accidents because of reckless and negligent drivers who text while driving, speed, or otherwise drive irresponsibly. Vision Zero, a subsection of the North Dakota government, works to decrease these accidents through education and strategy. Unfortunately, even with Vision Zero's hard work, fatal crashes still occur in North Dakota. And across the country. Motor Vehicle Accident Statistics in North Dakota North Dakota, with a population of 762,062 people, experienced 91 fatal crashes. Consequently, this resulted in 100 fatalities in 2019. Out of those 100 fatalities: 65% were car, SUV, or pickup truck occupants 11% were motorcyclists 5% were pedestrians 3% were large truck occupants 2% were bicyclists What is Vision Zero and What Strategies Are They Using to Decrease Serious and Fatal Accidents? Vision Zero was put into place in January of 2018 by the Governor of North Dakota. It's a strategy hosted by North Dakota Highway Patrol and North Dakota Department of Health. Vision Zero aims to have zero fatalities and zero excuses, establishing a culture where motor vehicle fatalities and severe injuries are recognized...
Will I Need to Hire a North Dakota Car Accident Lawyer?
After you're involved in a car accident, you may go back and forth about whether or not you want to file a lawsuit for your damages. If you have a case against the at-fault party, filing is always your best option. You'll not only get compensated for your damages. But you won't have to pay anything up-front. Reputable car accident attorneys will take their fee from your settlement. Or if your case goes to trial, from the money won at trial. Your attorney will also handle the entire process for you. While there are some key parts that you'll need to be involved in, your attorney will work as hard as possible to ensure that they aren't adding any extra stress to your life. Therefore, there's nothing to lose when filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party. Common Causes of a North Dakota Car Accident Each year, in the United States, there is an average of six million total car accidents. Because of those accidents, three million people end up with injuries, with two-thirds of those injuries causing permanent damage. 6% of crashes result in a fatality, meaning about 38,000 people die every year because of car accidents alone. In...
How Long Does it Take to Settle a Car Accident Claim?
After a car accident, you may be wondering how long it takes to settle an injury claim for your damages. After you’re involved in a car accident, you may be stressed about the amount of debt that you’ve accumulated. From medical bills to lost wages, the costs of a car accident can add up. The more severe your injuries are, the more you’re going to have in debt. Many people believe that a car accident will never happen to them, so when it does, they’re usually unprepared for the toll it can take on a person. In 2018, there were approximately 37,000 fatalities associated with car accidents. And that’s just fatalities. There are around six million car accidents in the United States each year, with half of those resulting in injuries. Similarly, filing a lawsuit often seems like a mystery. Generally, you don’t know the process of a lawsuit until you actually have to go through one, which can make things all the more stressful. However, an experienced attorney will be able to walk you through the process easily. Should I Settle my Car Accident Case? Deciding whether or not to settle your car accident case can be a tricky...
Winter Driving Tips for North Dakotans
Common Winter Accidents At least 1,300 people are killed and 116,800 people are injured each year in winter related accidents across the United States. Driving in the winter can be scary, especially if you aren’t properly prepared for it. If you’re the parent of a young driver, make sure you teach them how to drive in the winter, if it’s their first time. Enforce the safe driving tips listed below, as they may be uncomfortable or uncertain on snowy or slippery roads. Accidents in the winter are avoidable, whether it be by preparing your car ahead of time, learning how to drive in dangerous conditions, or simply staying home when you know it’s too dangerous to drive at all. However, the most common causes of winter car accidents include icy roads, poor visibility, bad tires, snow or slush, poorly maintained roads. Icy roads, especially black ice, can cause vehicles to slip and slide even when there’s not an ongoing storm. Black ice blends in with the pavement and can be almost invisible. An inexperienced driver may not know how to keep their car from sliding and causing an accident. During a snowstorm, it can be incredibly hard to see, especially...
First Snow Brings Increase in Car Accidents
Car accidents are more common as cold weather rolls around in North Dakota, especially fatal accidents. With the arrival of the North Dakota winter season, snow, slush, rain, and ice all bring an increased risk of accidents. With slippery roads and poor weather conditions, accidents are at an all time high. Each year, 1,300 people are killed and more than 116,000 people are injured because of winter weather conditions on the roads. Winter car accidents can cause serious injuries such as traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and even wrongful death. While it may seem like you know what you’re doing, anyone can get into a car accident. It can be hard to avoid an accident altogether, but there are a lot of tips you can follow to help you prevent an accident occurring by your fault. Causes of North Dakota Car Accidents in Winter Common causes of accidents in the winter include poor visibility, blizzards and snowstorms, intense wind, sleet, hail, and rain, black ice, and slushy/snowy roads. When you get into your car, you want to make sure that you’re prepared for the road conditions. If the visibility is too bad or the roads are too slippery, you...
How Much is my Car Accident Claim Worth?
Are you struggling with your bills after a car accident? After you get into a car accident, you will probably figure out pretty quickly that bills are going to be an issue. How are you going to pay back your medical debt? What are you going to do about the wages you lose while you are receiving treatment and recovering from your injuries? What if your car was damaged beyond what your insurance covers? There may be many questions like this floating around in your head. And it’s normal to be stressed after an accident occurs. Many people go through this every day, and an experienced attorney can help relieve you of that stress. The claim process can be stressful, but we’re here to help. According to Driver Knowledge, on average three million people are injured in car accidents in the United States each year. Two million of those people are left with permanent injuries because of car accidents. The top causes of car accidents include distracted driving, drunk driving, speeding, reckless driving, not adapting to poor weather conditions, running a red light, inexperienced driving, and aggressive driving. The cause of your car accident plays a role in your claim’s...
FAQ: Black Ice Vehicle Accidents
North Dakota winters are always an active time for car accidents, especially when black ice is present. Winter accidents in North Dakota can be incredibly common. Each year it snows 26-38 inches during the winter months. That’s a lot of snow. With snow, comes rain and ice, making roads harder to drive on. Learning to drive in icy and snowy climates is a learning curve. People who grow up in the North are used to this, but new drivers can be overwhelmed by driving in the snow. Sometimes, you may not even see the ice on the roads. Good tires and proper driving skills are imperative for driving in North Dakota to ensure that you remain safe and avoid an accident. However, sometimes accidents are unavoidable, especially with black ice on the roads. What is Black Ice? Black ice, also referred to as “clear ice”, is a coating of thin ice over asphalt. It’s referred to as black or clear ice as it’s highly transparent, and can be hard to see when driving. Black ice can cause accidents, as many people don’t know how to react when their car hits a patch of black ice, leading to them losing control...
What to Know About the Car Accident Injury Claim Process
After a car accident, you might be wondering what to expect from an accident injury claim. Getting Treatment for Injuries After a car accident, it’s easy to be shaken and scared about what happens and what the proper steps are. It can be a nerve-wracking experience, but the first step is always to seek medical attention. This should always be your very first priority in a car accident, especially if you’re more severely injured. The sooner you see a doctor, the more credible your case and your injury will be to the court. Waiting too long can often lead insurance companies to believe that your pain isn’t real. Therefore, it’s important to receive medical attention as soon as possible. You may also require follow up medical attention and appointments with specialists and therapists. You’ll want to document all of these appointments so you can receive compensation for the money you may have spent out of pocket. If you can, you should also make an effort to document evidence at the car accident scene. This will be useful to your auto accident attorney later on. Filing a Claim with Your Insurance Company The next step is to report the accident to your...
Wrongful Death Caused by Car Accidents
Car accidents can cause injuries that range from minor to fatal. Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents Car accidents are dangerous, and can be fatal depending on the cause of the accident, and where the collision occurs. There are many causes of fatal car accidents, including speeding, reckless driving, distracted driving, and driving while under the influence. Car accidents account for a majority of cases brought to court. Therefore, having an experienced lawyer by your side can help your case exponentially. Reckless and Aggressive Driving Reckless and aggressive driving can mean multiple different things, and is dangerous for many reasons. A driver who drives recklessly may not be paying attention to their surroundings as well as they should. This is dangerous and can cause an accident if they’re not being careful. This could include accidents after changing lanes, running red lights, or following someone too closely at a high speed. Drunk Driving Drunk driving is one of the causes of car accidents that you hear about more often than others, simply because driving while under the influence is so unsafe. Driving under the influence can be dangerous, as the driver may lose control of the car, forget that they’re driving,...
9 Common Car Accident Injuries
Five million car accidents happen in the United States every year. While most of these accidents aren’t fatal, that doesn’t mean all motorists walk away unscathed. One person suffers an injury every two hours due to an automobile accident in the state of North Dakota. 1. Traumatic Brain Injuries Close to 3 million people across the country are afflicted with a traumatic brain injury on an annual basis. Riders whose heads are bumped against surfaces like car seats or suddenly jolted forward may develop a TBI. Even lifesaving airbags can cause TBIs when they’re deployed. Half of TBI patients endure ongoing headaches. TBIs can also impair an individual’s memory, attention span, and communication skills. Living with a TBI is often frustrating. Damage to certain areas of the brain can make it impossible for those with TBIs to regulate their emotions. They can become unreasonably angry or upset suddenly even if they were mild-tempered before their car accident. If you’re suffering from a TBI, you might not necessarily immediately notice these changes yourself. Friends and family who regularly spent time with you before your accident may recognize the changes more rapidly. 2. Neck Injuries Many people think of whiplash as a...
How Technology is Helping Reduce DUIs in North Dakota
Driving under the influence of alcohol is never a good idea. Alcohol consumption slows down brain activity and affects a person's body reflexes and the ability to judge their surroundings properly. Drunk driving is a serious problem. It can not only result in DUIs but in serious accidents leading to injuries and death. New Technologies Reduce Drunk Driving and Make Roads Safer According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, almost 30 people die in drunk driving crashes everyday in the United States, totaling up to 10,000 deaths each year. 17% of the victims are minors. Fortunately, people are becoming more aware of the dangers related to drunk driving. Many are choosing not to get behind the wheel after having a drink. Modern technology also comes in handy with various applications designed to warn drivers about their blood alcohol level and to offer an alternative to driving. Ridesharing Apps Ridesharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are an affordable, safe, and convenient alternative to regular cabs. With the click of a button, you can locate a driver in minutes. You can even pay, tip, and leave a review from your smartphone. Such services are a lifesaver when it comes to...
DUI and Car Accidents
North Dakota Car Accidents Caused by Driving Under the Influence Driving under the influence is taken very seriously by the criminal justice system of North Dakota and can have significant consequences for those that engage in this behavior. Those that drive under the influence are at an immensely high risk of being arrested for this crime due to the nature of inebriation. Car accidents caused by drunk driving can also result in severe damages to those involved. People that have been injured by drunk drivers can seek compensation for the injuries they suffered by taking legal action in the form of a car accident injury claim against a liable third party. What Will a DUI do in the Long Term? If someone is caught driving a vehicle with a blood alcohol content over 0.08% or 0.06% for drivers of commercial vehicles then they will be put under arrest for driving under the influence or DUI. Driving under the influence is a misdemeanor for the first offense and then considered a felony. A fourth or subsequent DUI offense within a 15-year period is a felony. The penalties for a DUI in North Dakota can consist of the following: 1st Offense Class...