Motor Vehicle Accidents

Being overtired can cause deadly accidents

When people consistently do not get proper sleep, their physical and cognitive performances slip. This is especially apparent behind the wheel of a vehicle as sleepiness slows reaction times. Although it is difficult to count precisely the number of car accidents in Massachusetts caused by drowsy drivers because it cannot be tested for like alcohol or drug use, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NTSB) attributes thousands of crashes a year to it. These types of crashes tend to be very serious because the driver was unable to respond, unlike other situations in which conscious drivers attempt to avoid collisions. Also, accidents on high-speed roads, such as highways like Route 128, 93 or 90, where people often travel long distances have a likelihood of resulting in a drowsy driver. When a person is injured in a car accident, he or she could miss work, incur high medical bills and, in the worst situations, suffer permanent disability. If the negligence of another driver caused the accident, then the injured person might be able to win compensation with a personal injury lawsuit. Speaking with David M. Gabriel & Associates could help a person learn about the damages he or she might be able to recover. Attorney Gabriel might also be able to identify evidence of negligence in an accident investigation that would support a lawsuit.

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Stop yourself from driving distracted

One of the biggest dangers on Massachusetts roads today is distracted driving. With so many things competing for a driver’s attention, it’s no surprise distracted driving accidents are on the rise throughout the U.S. As states pass laws to curb dangerous driving behavior, safer choices behind the wheel can prevent distracted accidents from ever happening. According to a joint study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) the most common cause of accidents was due to cell phone use. To protect yourself and others, take the following steps provided by the Governors Highway Safety Administration (GHSA): Turn it off. Cell phones are at the top of the distraction list, taking a driver’s eyes, hands, and attention away from the road. Before starting the car, turn your cell phone off or switch it to silent mode. Prepare before you go. If you are traveling to a new location, be sure to review the directions beforehand to have a clearer idea of where you are headed, even if you use a GPS device. Focus on driving. No matter how many years of driving experience you may have, it is never a good idea to multi-task behind the wheel. Avoid texting, drinking, eating, grooming, or smoking until you’ve reached your destination. Many families in Massachusetts have lost loved ones in auto accidents that could have been avoided if the other driver had simply paid attention to the road. If you have been injured or lost someone you care about in a distracted

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4 things to remember after being involved in a motor vehicle accident

Motor vehicle accidents can wreak havoc on your life. When a motor vehicle accident wasn’t your fault you may want to make a claim for damages. Everything you do starting from the day of the accident can make difference when litigating for damages. Below is a short summary of the most common do’s and don’ts for anyone after an accident. 1. Make sure you take pictures at the scene of the accident. Please remember to be safe when doing so. 2. Begin keeping a record or log of your related injuries. Write down what pain you feel, and for how long. Write down all the activities you can’t participate in or daily tasks you need help with because of the sustained injury. 3. Do not talk to the other driver’s insurance company. Decline any of their communication. Do not sign any papers that the other insurance company sends you. 4. Send all correspondence from anyone or any company (including your own insurance company) to your attorney. A lawyer is the only person who is actually and legally completely on your side after an accident. A win for you is a win for them. When clients come to David Gabriel and Associates after an accident, we understand that you are in crisis. Let us help you work through your injury and get you what you deserve.

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Technology is helping parents rest easy with teen drivers

Unfortunately more U.S. teens die from car accidents than any other cause; however, new technology may give Massachusetts parents a reason to breathe easier when their teenager gets behind the wheel. While dashboard cameras aren’t new to the market, Drivecam for Families adds a technology that can provide peace of mind to parents everywhere. The Drivecam is a video feedback program that activates when a driver does something risky. The program determines if the driver’s actions increase the likelihood of a motor vehicle accident and then notifies the drivers parents via the company’s data center. Parents can then review what their teen is doing. Keeping the lines of communication open with one’s teenager is important, and if parents plan to utilize Drivecam it is encouraged that they inform their teen about the intended use of Drivecam. While some teens may object, parents can explain that the new technology is designed to help them be safer drivers and not meant to convey parental distrust. If a Massachusetts resident has been harmed by the actions of a reckless driver, they may be entitled to compensation. David M. Gabriel & Associates can evaluate the conduct of a negligent driver and determine the best course of action to recover damages.

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