Michigan is no stranger to polarized police brutality cases. These cases have captured the eyes of the country and shine a negative spotlight on Michigan, if even for a brief moment. Many of these cases usually grab the country’s’ attention for a particular amount of time, and then people move on. While the rest of the country might have moved on, the courts and local police department must still handle the matter at hand. For as many of the cases that lead to no justice for the victim or the victim’s family, there has been a few that have led to major payouts to the afflicted. We have compiled a list of a few of the largest payouts in Michigan history for a police misconduct cases.(more…)
Head-on collisions happen everyday. They occur when two cars driving in opposite directions crash into each other. The results can be devastating and both parties involved can have serious injuries. There are quite a few factors that can result in a head-on collision. These include:
Faulty brakes
Poor visibility
Distracted drivers
Drunk drivers
According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, head-on collisions are more common in rural areas than they are in urban areas. While head-on collisions are not as common as rear-end collisions or sideswiping, it is still one of the most deadly types of car accidents. Due to the angle and speed at which these types of accidents occur, the results are more likely to be fatal. Head-on collisions make up about 13 percent of all fatal rural crashes while in urban areas it’s responsible for 7 percent.
To prevent the likelihood of a head-on collision it is important that you:
Pay attention to the signs of the road – Signs are put in place regarding wrong directions in especially problematic areas.
Scan the road ahead –By simply paying attention to the road ahead of you, you will be in a position to act fast if you notice trouble ahead.
Check your brakes –Braking failure can result in a head-on collision so it is important remain on top of this. If you notice your brakes are not responding, try to ride off the road to get away from the traffic.
Steer to the right – never steer left into oncoming traffic.
In addition to following the recommendations above, remember to always wear your seatbelt and drive with your headlights on when necessary. Avoid driving while tired and stay away from alcohol before getting behind the wheel. Unfortunately accidents do happen, but by doing your part, we can make the roads safer for everyone. In the event that you or someone you know has been involved in a head-on collision, it may be time to get in contact with an experienced attorney. Contact us at the Michigan Legal Center today to discuss your case and get the help you need.
While some laws are nationwide, there are others that can vary from state to state. Some state-specific laws dealing with motorcyclists include whether or not motorcyclists need to have insurance or wear certain safety gear. In this case, Michigan exercised this freedom to allow motorcyclists to ride without a helmet. A recent study found that when motorcyclists crashed, they were 24 percent less likely to be wearing a helmet. The study also concluded that these same riders were 14 percent more likely to suffer some sort of head injury when they crashed. As you may assume, the number of mild concussions reported in the emergency room decreased as the number of skull fractures increased. This is the first statewide investigation since the law was loosened in 2012.
This study was conducted by a team at the University of Michigan Injury Center. The study analyzed and compared the rates of helmet use, serious head injuries, and fatalities in the 12-month period before and after the law was repealed.
Helmet Law Details
The law that led to this recent study had particular elements to it that may have been implemented to lower the risk of head injuries. It was either for that reason, or to ensure that the helmetless motorcyclists could cover their injuries. The details are as follows:
Riders must have at least $20,000 in first party medical benefits
Riders have to be at least 21 years of age
These same riders have had to pass a motorcycle safety course or held a motorcycle endorsement on their license for two years
These requirements may have had positive motives but that facts still show that “safe” and insured drivers are suffering massive head injuries and at a higher rate. This is a unique decision for Michigan as many other states have increased their helmet laws.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, our lawyers here at Michigan Legal Center can get you the compensation you deserve. We have experience representing the people of Michigan, and will make sure that your motorcycle accident case is properly addressed. Give us a call at (800)-961-8477 or visit us online for a free case evaluation.
