Top Reasons Car Accidents Happen

While there are many different reasons auto accidents happen, it’s essential to know how and why the most common ones happen so that you are able to optimize your safety while navigating the road.

• Distractions: It goes without saying, drivers are distracted! Phones are frequently to blame but distracted driving can include anything from fiddling with the GPS, eating, applying makeup, to texting or talking with passengers. No matter what, it’s essential as a motorist to keep your eyes on the road and be aware of your surroundings whenever you’re behind the wheel. Many drivers think they are able to multitask while driving but it’s been shown time and again that our brains do not successfully perform multiple functions at the same time at the same level, hence the high number of crashes caused by distracted drivers in Rhode Island and throughout the country.

• Driving while intoxicated: Of the 63 car accident fatalities in the Ocean State in 2021, approximately 1/3 were a result of drunk driving. Tragically, too many fatal accidents are caused by a totally preventable cause- impaired drivers. Alcohol is a big culprit, but drugs, whether illegal or prescription, contribute to impaired driving accidents as well. If you’re going to be drinking alcohol or taking any other substance, including prescription drugs, that may impair your fine motor skills and ability to drive, it’s imperative to plan ahead. Use a ride share service like Uber or a cab for safe transportation, or have a trusted designated driver so that you don’t get behind the wheel and put yourself, your passengers, and others on the road in danger. If you or a loved one have been hurt in an accident caused by a drunk driver, an experienced Rhode Island car accident attorney can help you file a personal injury claim to seek money for your injuries and damages.

• Speeding: Another top reason for crashes is fairly obvious- speeding. Due to the high impact of a speeding collision, fatalities are more common in these types of accidents. At a high speed, a driver has much less time to react to a hazard and a vehicle cannot stop as quickly as one operating at a slower speed. Even when in a rush, it’s critical for motor vehicle operators to put safety first and maintain a safe driving speed and remain in control of their vehicle.

• Road rage: Another easily preventable cause of car accidents, conflict and confrontation between angry drivers contributes to fender benders. If you are confronted by one of these irate drivers, remain calm and in control and don’t engage with an aggressive driver. A minor road mishap can easily escalate into dangerous actions by an aggressive motorist like cutting off other drivers, tailgating, and speeding.

• Road conditions and weather: If you must commute during adverse weather conditions, like heavy rain, snow, or sleet, plan accordingly by allotting extra time and adjust your driving speed slower to account for poor visibility and slippery road conditions. Construction, road work, potholes, and road defects, are some of the everyday conditions to be aware of while driving as well and its critical for drivers to adjust their speed for everyone’s safety.

Contact A Rhode Island Car Accident Lawyer After a Collision

If you’ve been hurt in a car crash caused by a negligent driver, seek medical attention immediately and then contact an experienced attorney in Rhode Island or Massachusetts to determine your legal rights. Attorney David Tapalian has over two decades of personal injury practice in RI, MA, and FL, and has helped hundreds of clients successfully win compensation for their injuries caused in a car accident, motorcycle crash, truck collision, or other type of collision. Contact Attorney David Tapalian today at 401-552-5000 to review the details of your accident and discuss your legal options or book your free consultation online.

RI Pedestrian Deaths

In 2020, Rhode Island experienced 17 pedestrian fatalities, according to the most recent data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Based on the number of total traffic fatalities that year, 67 traffic accident-related deaths, pedestrians accounted for 25.4% of the total traffic fatalities in Rhode Island. Clearly, the safety of those on foot is a concern.

Across the United States, the NHTSA provides the following data for the year 2020:

• Not surprisingly, over ¾ of pedestrian fatalities occur in the dark, a majority taking place between the hours of 6pm-8:59pm.
• Alcohol use (driver, pedestrian, or both) is a contributing factor in almost half of all pedestrian deaths.
• More pedestrians are killed in urban areas (82%), than rural areas (18%).
• Only 15% of pedestrian traffic fatalities take place at intersections.

Are Crosswalks a Safe Option?

Pedestrians are urged to always use a designated crosswalk when attempting to cross a street. Of course, there is no guarantee of safety but there is definitely a benefit. According to Rhode Island General Law 31.18.3, the driver of a vehicle must yield the right of way and allow a pedestrian within a crosswalk, or approaching closely, to safely cross. Despite the law, not all drivers heed it and most of us have seen dangerous near-collisions between cars and people crossing the street. Reckless drivers may be distracted by a text or phone call, while others carelessly choose to ignore the requirement and plow right through a crosswalk without even attempting to look for people on foot. As a Providence personal injury attorney, David Tapalian handles all types of auto accidents and, no differently than other types of car crashes, driver distractions are a huge contributing factor in pedestrian injuries, especially cell phone use.

Although pedestrian accidents are frequently the fault of a reckless motor vehicle operator, this is not always the case. The same RI General Law also states “… no pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield.” Pedestrians need to take accountability and ensure they are taking safety measures as well. It’s essential that pedestrians pause and check, and re-check, for approaching vehicles prior to crossing. This is particularly critical if there are hindrances such as parked cars that may block the view of a driver. By no means should a pedestrian be looking down at their phone, or using headphones or earbuds, that limit their senses. For instance, a motor vehicle operator may be temporarily blinded by the glare of the sun and not see they are approaching a crosswalk. If this is compounded by a person on foot recklessly crossing while looking down at their phone and not paying attention to their surroundings, it could result in a deadly, and completely avoidable, collision between the car and the pedestrian.

Contact a Rhode Island Personal Injury Lawyer After a Pedestrian Injury

If you are a pedestrian who was hit by a car and injured, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention regardless of how grave, or minor, your injuries seem at the time. If the driver who hurt you is found to be at fault, they may be held responsible for your damages including medical bills, lost wages from work, future medical needs, pain and suffering, and more. As soon as possible, contact an experienced injury attorney in Providence who can help you sort through the confusion and determine if you are eligible to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation. Attorney David Tapalian has helped hundreds of clients throughout RI and MA receive maximum compensation for their injuries. There is no fee to discuss your claim and our personal injury firm doesn’t get paid until you receive money for your losses. Call Tapalian Law today at 401-552-5000 to schedule your free consultation.

As a personal injury lawyer helping victims throughout RI and MA, Attorney David Tapalian knows how critical injuries to the neck and head can be and unfortunately, many have tragic or life-altering outcomes. A music lover who enjoyed his job cooking at Uni, a Japanese restaurant, Will Good is now confined to a wheelchair with around the clock nursing care requiring two caretakers alternating day and evening shifts.

A lawsuit filed by attorneys on behalf of Mr. Good this past Tuesday in Suffolk Superior Court, alleges Uber was negligent in hiring the driver responsible for the crash and, based on the driver’s past history, knowingly put others in harm’s way. With a questionable driving record dating back to 1996 showing multiple moving violations, crashes, at least 20 citations, and a state-imposed driver retraining, there is hardly a doubt that the Uber driver was a potential danger to others on the road.

Mr. Good’s lawsuit seeks $63 million in damages for severe physical, mental, and emotional injuries, extraordinary pain and suffering, and permanent disability.

Should Uber Drivers Be Classified as Independent Contractors or Employees?

A big topic of contention lying underneath this lawsuit, as well as others against ride-sharing companies, is the question of whether Uber should be allowed to continue to classify their drivers as independent contractors versus employees. Uber has continually fought to be able to classify those driving for them as independent contractors. By doing so, the ride-hailing company is able to claim less responsibility for the actions of their workers. At the same time the drivers miss out on benefits such as basic rights under state labor laws.

In Massachusetts, Attorney General Maura Healey is suing Uber and Lyft, claiming the ride-share companies are breaking the law by not classifying their drivers as employees and depriving these drivers of certain rights.

In 2020, Uber, along with a group of other app-based companies spent over $205 million in California in a fight to keep the ability to classify their drivers as independent contractors, under Proposition 22. They won; however, a state judge later declared the proposition unconstitutional. The ride share companies are expected to appeal.

Tapalian Law Handles Car Accident Cases Involving Uber & Lyft

With over 20 years of experience focused on personal injury law, Attorney David Tapalian is dedicated to getting you the results you deserve. He has helped hundreds of victims across Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Florida, successfully seek compensation for their damages as a result of an auto collision or other type of accident.

If you have been involved in a crash with an Uber driver, Lyft driver, or other ride-sharing service, it’s important to seek help from an experienced personal injury attorney to protect your rights against these large companies. As most ride-sharing services classify their workers as independent contractors, their legal teams will aggressively argue they are not liable for your injuries.

At Tapalian Law, our expert injury team will go through any means necessary to get you what is fair, including arbitration and litigation. For any type of accident or injury, no matter how large or small, contact our Rhode Island personal injury office at 401-552-5000 or send us an e-mail. We offer a free consultation to discuss your claim and determine how we can help you. There are no fees to hire our legal representation, and we only get paid when you win compensation. Let us put our experience to work for you.

Drugged Driving Bill in MA

The aim of Governor Baker’s drugged driving bill is to close gaps in the current laws that can allow motorists impaired by drugs such as cannabis, prescription medications, and other drugs, to be held unaccountable for these offenses. The proposal seeks to expand the 12-step drug recognition expert (DRE) training for police officers to identify whether a person is impaired and if so, by what substances. The DRE process includes specialized observations of the motorist as well as measurements of heart rate, temperature, and blood pressure. The bill would also subject suspected drivers to a blood test for THC (the primary active ingredient in marijuana) and require Massachusetts courts to recognize the DRE trained police officers as experts. Does Legal Marijuana Use Result in More Auto Accidents?

While marijuana usage was made legal in Massachusetts in 2016, whether or not its legalization has contributed to an increase in auto accidents is a hot topic. Studies by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that auto accidents increased in states that eased up on their recreational marijuana laws compared to those states where marijuana remained illegal. (The particular studies cited did not involve Massachusetts.) Accidents involving injuries rose by 6% while those that ended up in death also rose by 4%. The amount of accident claims filed following the legalization of marijuana has increased in the range of 3% to 21% depending on the state in question. When it comes to whether the actual ingestion of marijuana is causing this increase, the results are more mixed. Studies found that those under the influence of marijuana have slower reaction times and are more likely to drive into other lanes unintentionally, while other studies found that marijuana users often drive slower and remain farther away from other vehicles.

The difficulty in conclusively analyzing the effects of marijuana on drivers is that there are significantly less reliable drug tests performed on the road compared to alcohol exams. When a driver is using both substances, it can be difficult to pinpoint which one is causing the symptoms in question. In addition, the reliability of blood tests for THC has been taken into question by those opposed by the bill.

Marijuana Use & Car Accidents

Still debatable, one potential theory for why legal recreational marijuana use has increased accident rates in some states is that people are more likely to drink alcohol at the same time as using drugs such as marijuana, but future studies are needed to test this theory. An analysis based on self-reporting found that joint use of marijuana and alcohol has increased according to the AAA Foundation, which also found those who engaged in both of these activities at the same time were more likely to get behind the wheel of a car and drive recklessly than a driver consuming alcohol only. The analysis also stated that drivers using both substances at once were also 20% more likely to speed and 16% more likely to drive through red lights as opposed to drivers only under the influence of alcohol. They also were 24% more likely to act aggressively on the roadways and 19% more likely to text at the same time as operating their vehicles.

Contact a RI and MA Personal Injury Lawyer for a Free Consultation

Drivers should not operate a motor vehicle under the influence of any type of substance that could impair their driving in any manner, including many OTC medicines and prescription drugs. Anything that affects a driver’s focus and attention increases the risk of a car accident resulting in injury or death to the driver, its passengers, and innocent people. Regardless of the substance, drugs or alcohol, driving impaired by any type of substance, whether legal or illegal, can prove deadly. If a driver operates a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both, and their actions result in injury or death, they may be held liable for their actions. Contact a personal injury attorney in Rhode Island or Massachusetts today if you were injured due to the actions of a driver under the influence of marijuana or alcohol. You may be eligible to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, car repairs, and pain and suffering.

Attorney David Tapalian works with people suffering from injuries in all types of auto accidents, including those where recreational marijuana was involved. As a car accident attorney with over 20 years of experience successfully seeking compensation for his clients, he can help you determine what steps to take following an accident. Attorney Tapalian offers a free consultation to speak with you personally and Tapalian Law does not get paid until we win you money for your case. Licensed to practice in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Florida, we can accommodate you at our offices in Providence, Seekonk, and Fort Lauderdale. To reach a member of our expert legal team, call 401-552-5000 or send us a message.

How Can Vehicle Technology Prevent Drunk Driving Accidents?

With an infinite number of safety options available in today’s newest vehicles, from sensors and cameras that detect pedestrians to approaching cars in a motorist’s blind spot, it seems logical that some type of anti-drunk driving technology would be an addition to the large menu of options. Yet, the critical question remains of exactly how to prevent drunk driving crashes with the latest in technology. The proposed bill isn’t exact, but calls for something that will “passively monitor the performance of a driver of a motor vehicle to accurately identify whether that driver may be impaired”. Studies will need to be conducted involving various alcohol detection systems before recommendations are provided to auto manufacturers. Infrared cameras are one example, and are currently being utilized by car manufacturers like GM and Nissan. The camera looks for signs of a lack of driver alertness, such as drowsiness or impairment, and if identified, warns the driver and if need be, takes further action. Another idea tested by Volvo involves alcohol sensors that detect a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) by measuring the air inside the vehicle. Ultimately, the Department of Transportation will have to make the final call as to what is the best solution to put a damper on intoxicated drivers.

Car Safety Measures in Infrastructure Bill

The issue of drunk driving is clearly a critical one and has been for decades, with approximately 30% of traffic deaths involving an intoxicated motorist. A 2020 report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) predicted built-in anti-drunk driving technology in vehicles could prevent over a quarter of the traffic fatalities in the U.S. each year.

Other motor vehicle safety provisions proposed in the infrastructure bill include emergency braking systems and technology that can alert parents and caregivers to children left in the backseat, to avoid the potential tragedy of a child being left in a hot car. It’s unclear how, or when, these mandates will take place, but they are seen by many as a positive move in the right direction towards preventing drunk driving crashes as well as injuries and needless fatalities from other types of auto accidents.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer if You’ve Been Hurt in an Auto Accident

If you, or a loved one, have been injured in a drunk driving car accident in RI or MA, it’s critical to take legal action immediately. Contact a personal injury attorney experienced with the drunk driving laws of Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Attorney David Tapalian has been helping victims of crashes caused by negligent motorists for over 20 years and can help you protect your legal rights after getting hit by a reckless drunk driver. You may be eligible to file a personal injury claim to seek damages for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, car repairs, pain and suffering and more. Tapalian Law always offers a free consultation and we are available at all hours, including nights and weekends, to discuss your car accident case. Speak to Attorney Tapalian today by calling our Providence RI office at 401-552-5000, or contact us online to schedule your free case review.

How Much Value Does a Car Lose After an Accident?

Currently, if your vehicle is damaged in an auto accident in Massachusetts by another driver who is at-fault, the at-fault driver’s insurance company is responsible for paying for your vehicle repairs. That’s well and good to get you back on the road, but what happens when you decide to sell that car in the future? When it comes to resale, you’re likely going to get less money for that same car because it’s been involved in a crash.

So, just how much value does your car lose after it’s been involved in a crash? That depends on a number of factors including, of course, year, make, model, and mileage, but also whether the vehicle has been involved in a serious collision or a minor wreck. According to a recent report, online auto sites show the loss in value is typically between 10-25%. On average, this amounts to a loss of about $2,000 in value for a car involved in a serious wreck, and approximately $500 for all vehicles involved in crashes.

This loss in value is called intangible value– what happens after the vehicle is fully repaired but regardless, its resale value still plummets. The insurance companies refer to this intangible loss as “inherent diminished value”, or IDV. If you’ve been in a car accident, whether your car is new or old, and even if it’s been meticulously repaired after the collision, you’ve probably experienced some surprise at the price hit it has taken when you decide to sell it on the private market or back to a dealer.

How Might IDV Change for Massachusetts Drivers?

Until now, the insurance companies have been responsible for paying for vehicle repairs, but not IDV. Therefore, the owner of the vehicle is on the line for absorbing whatever loss in value takes place upon resale. However, a Supreme Judicial Court ruling in Massachusetts on October 19, 2021 is changing who is monetarily affected by that loss in value. With this new ruling, the court says that the at-fault insurance company is now responsible for the loss in value, or IDV.

If you do qualify, getting compensated for the IDV is not automatic at this time. Claimants wishing to seek compensation are responsible for proving and quantifying their loss to the court, likely with the support of an accident attorney who will probably involve outside experts, such as licensed appraisers. Currently, there is no method specified to quantify the amount of damage and therefore, it’s expected insurance companies will fight this ruling as such. It also remains to be seen whether the ruling will be retroactive for past cases.

Contact an Injury Attorney in MA or RI After Your Car Accident

It’s important to note the Massachusetts ruling applies only to owners whose vehicles have been damaged due to the fault of another driver. The IDV ruling does not currently apply to those involved in accidents where they are at fault themselves. If you think this new ruling may apply to you, consult with an injury lawyer experienced with car accident law in Massachusetts to determine your eligibility. Even if you aren’t eligible to collect this specific IDV compensation, you may be eligible to seek compensation from the insurance company after your car accident for your damages including medical expenses, lost wages, vehicle repair bills, and pain and suffering. To protect your legal rights and ensure you are treated fairly by the insurance companies, contact a top-rated attorney with decades of experience with personal injury law in MA and RI. Attorney David Tapalian will make sure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call Tapalian Law today at 401-552-5000, to schedule your free consultation.

Car Accidents on Bridges

Bridges can already be a hazardous place for drivers before speeding is added into the mix. When a motorist drives across any bridge, they are placing their trust in the engineers, architects, and construction workers who designed and built the structure. Errors can result in structural failures, even a whole infrastructure collapse. If bridges aren’t regularly inspected for safety hazards, they can incur damage that, if left unrepaired, could result in a treacherous situation. For example, if two cars collide in an accident near the edge of a bridge with a missing or damaged guardrail, it’s possible for one or both vehicles to fall off the side into the water or highway below. Visibility can also be difficult on bridges without adequate lighting, making it difficult for motorists to visualize their surroundings. In addition, car accidents on bridges frequently occur at the entrance or exit ramps, especially if there is inadequate signage or a tricky merge with other vehicles.

As huge pieces of infrastructure requiring regular upkeep, construction on bridges can be a frequent necessity and requires extra caution from drivers. Compounding the hazards of speeding discovered on the Pell and Verrazzano bridges is the construction currently underway on both, making the situation all the riskier to both drivers and construction workers. The Pell Bridge has begun phase two of a scheduled project to make the road safer and easier to navigate with a focus on creating a ramp system that officials hope will decrease the amount of congestion. Other parts of the project involve creating a bike path and removing elevated portions of the bridge. Even with improvements to bridges, drivers need to be cautious to maintain a level of safety for themselves and those around them. Specifically in busy tourist spots like Newport and Jamestown, many out of towners are unfamiliar with the local traffic rules, or choose to ignore them. If you are involved in an accident in Newport, Jamestown, or elsewhere in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, its crucial to seek advice from a highly experienced personal injury attorney like David Tapalian who can hold the negligent driver responsible for your damages.

Recent Auto Collisions on Bridges in RI

In January 2020, a 70-year-old woman died when her car crashed into the concrete barrier and pole surrounding a toll booth on Pell Bridge. A month later, another crash occurred on the Pell Bridge involving multiple cars traveling in the high-speed lane. The Jamestown Verrazano Bridge also has had its fair share of accidents, such as a September 2020 crash involving a tractor-trailer hitting a water barrier.

Tapalian Law Can Help You After a Car Accident in RI or MA

No matter how your accident occurred, it’s important to seek legal advice right away from a highly qualified personal injury lawyer in RI or MA, to determine your eligibility to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for your losses such as medical bills, hospital expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. With over 20 years of legal expertise in RI, MA, and FL, Tapalian Law’s injury team has helped hundreds of clients successfully win compensation from their injuries caused by auto accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle crashes, worksite accidents, medical malpractice, and slip and falls. Call a top-rated personal injury attorney in RI for a free consultation at 401-552-5000, or contact Tapalian Law online.

Importance of Wearing a Helmet

Plenty of data shows that wearing a helmet can significantly increase your chances of surviving a motorcycle accident, as well as minimize the severity of the injuries suffered. This is one simple step, yet a very critical one, that motorcyclists can take to protect themselves from potentially life-threatening injury. Motorcyclists are less protected than those travelling in cars and therefore, are more prone to serious and life-altering injuries if involved in a collision. Sadly, the majority of motorcyclists who were killed in crashes this year in Rhode Island were not wearing helmets, according to Peter Alviti, Director of the Rhode Island Department of Transportation.

For an example of the life-saving properties of a helmet, a Bristol police officer was lucky this summer when he walked away from a motorcycle collision with only a few injuries due to his helmet and protective gear. The on-duty officer was riding the bike through an intersection where he had the right of way when another driver crashed into him, damaging his bike in the process. Fortunately, the officer was not severely injured.

Preventing Motorcycle Collisions

Some crashes occur due to driver error, often car or truck drivers fail to look out for bikes, especially since they may be closer to the ground and less visible than larger motor vehicles. Due to the relative size of a motorcycle compared to a car, they can get lost in a driver’s blind spot, making it more likely that an accident occurs as cars are switching lanes. As a result, drivers are often surprised when they notice how close they are to a motorcycle but don’t have enough time to prevent the resulting crash. Motorists need to heed extra caution and be vigilant especially when changing lanes, making turns, and pulling out of a driveway or parking spot.

Another common reason for motorcycle accidents is drunk or distracted drivers. When drivers are under the influence or not paying attention to their surroundings, they increase their chances of hitting a motorcycle. In addition, a motorcycle operator under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speeding, or otherwise acting recklessly, greatly increases their risk of collision. With ride share services like Uber and Lyft readily available, those under the influence of substances or otherwise unwell are urged to utilize these alternatives. By decreasing the number of dangerous drivers on the road, we can also hopefully decrease the number of motorcycle and motor vehicle fatalities in Rhode Island.

Inexperience comes into play with these types of accidents as well. While Rhode Island requires operators to obtain a permit before they can ride a motorcycle, some other states do not. Many states allow anyone with a valid car drivers’ license to ride a bike without any extra training steps in this process. As a result, inexperienced riders might be increasing the total number of crashes occurring in 2021 in the state and data still needs to be collected on whether the motorcycle riders involved were primarily from Rhode Island or another state. Requiring more extensive safety training for all riders could prevent some of these collisions involving inexperienced operators.

Tapalian Law Can Help You After A RI Motorcycle Accident

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash or automobile accident in RI or MA, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to protect your legal rights. With offices in Providence, Warwick, Seekonk, and Fort Lauderdale, Attorney David Tapalian helps victims of personal injury all over Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Florida. He has successfully settled hundreds of cases ranging from drunk driving accidents to wrongful death claims and helped his clients receive the maximum compensation they deserve. To see how our skilled personal injury team can help you, call Tapalian Law’s Providence RI office at 401-552-5000 or schedule a free consultation online.

Throughout the pandemic, cars and trucks on the highways had less traffic to contend with and, in turn, increased their driving speeds. In some states, the number of tickets issued for speeding offenses was about double that from before the pandemic. As a personal injury lawyer in Providence, Rhode Island, Attorney David Tapalian has seen first-hand the dire consequences of speeding crashes that are easily preventable and all too often result in serious, life-threatening injuries, or tragic death.

With school back in session and many returning to their pre-pandemic work and travel schedules, the speeding issue hasn’t slowed down but rather continues. Some drivers will continue their poor habits and speed for the thrill or simply because of a lack of visible police enforcement, while others do it because the other vehicles around them are speeding as well. Others feel like they are safe to drive faster since there are increased safety features in cars such as airbags and anti-lock brakes. While a danger on its own, speeding is often exacerbated by distracted drivers, leading to an even greater lag in reaction time and greater risk of collision. Increasing that risk, some precarious motorists have taken to illegal street racing. One such event had drivers across the country competing to break a record for the fastest trip from coast to coast with some drivers travelling at speeds of over 150 mph on empty highways. Street racing in Rhode Island is an extremely dangerous concern to not only those involved in the racing, but other innocent drivers on the road, pedestrians, and bystanders.

While less perilous, there is also the issue of noise disturbance from speeding vehicles. For example, a study commissioned by the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority this summer found that only 4% of drivers on the Pell Bridge adhered to the 40-mph speed limit, and the average speed recorded was 53-mph. The study was commissioned after complaints from local residents of a high level of noise from speeding cars. The RI Turnpike and Bridge Authority is considering alternatives to police presence on the bridge, such as cameras, to assist in alleviating the issue.

State and local police are working with their respective areas to mitigate the issue of speeding drivers and the potential car accident risks they involve. Officers are working on public outreach campaigns, as well as increasing their visibility around particular speeding-prone areas in the hope that motorists will be less likely to drive recklessly if they know they may be facing potential legal consequences.

Call Tapalian Law If You Were the Victim of a Speeding Accident in RI or MA

Any car accident is traumatic, but it becomes even more devastating when the incident could have easily been prevented to begin with. Personal Injury Attorney David Tapalian knows what to do to get you the justice you deserve after a car crash caused by a speeding car or truck in Rhode Island or Massachusetts. With over 20 years of personal injury experience in RI, MA, and FL, David is completely fluent with the complexities of the law and how to hold a negligent driver responsible for your damages. If you’ve been hurt in an accident caused by a reckless driver, you may be eligible for compensation for your losses including medical bills, hospital expenses, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You need a trusted and highly respected injury lawyer by your side to ensure you are treated fairly by the insurance companies and receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to. Our experienced personal injury law firm will make sure of that, and will be by your side every step of the way. We serve clients in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Florida with offices in Providence, Warwick, Seekonk, and Fort Lauderdale. Call Tapalian Law at 401-552-5000 or schedule a free consultation online.

Role of the Wolfpack

Formed in 2019 and nicknamed the “wolfpack”, the State Police Traffic Safety Unit makes sure that people are aware of their existence. On a quest to decrease the amount of fatal car accidents on Rhode Island roadways, the officers ensure that they are visibly present on the highways in an effort to deter reckless motorists. A recent interaction involved an officer pulling over a 19-year-old male for trying to prompt other cars to race him on the highway. The officer pulled the teen over and began the protocol to test for driving under the influence. Law enforcement stresses the importance of going through the process of conducting the entirety of the test when there is proper warrant to pull someone over. By going through the motions, people are deterred from engaging in reckless behavior in the future, including both the person in question and those who happen to see while passing. The Department of Transportation is also expected to increase funding for the Traffic Safety Unit which will be used to double the size of the “wolfpack” and keep RI drivers safer on the roads.

Government Responses

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation has made a big effort to inform people of the damages that can result from careless driving; over 8 million dollars has been spent on ads that show the most devastating results of a crash, such as family members crying, bodies in a morgue, and crushed cars. The department also placed alarm systems on ramps that go off and activate bright lights to alert a driver that they are driving in the wrong direction. Video footage shows that the alarms are working, and multiple people turned around before being involved in what could have been a fatal head-on crash. The government is also pushing people to pay attention to those around them before they even get behind the wheel of a car; if someone you know seems unfit to drive a vehicle, be sure to take their keys and make sure they do not drive.

A RI Personal Injury Attorney Can Assist Car Accident Victims

If you, or someone you love, has been involved in a vehicle collision caused by a driver who was drunk, speeding, or otherwise acting negligently, seek legal help right away from Tapalian Law, a personal injury law firm highly experienced with RI auto accident law. Attorney David Tapalian has over 20 years of experience helping victims of personal injury in RI, MA, and FL, seek the compensation they deserve after being hurt. Nobody should have to suffer serious injuries, or the death of a family member, at the hands of a careless driver. Attorney Tapalian can help you negotiate the economic hardships that follow a traumatic accident and will fight to get you the maximum amount of money for your losses. If you have lost a loved one, we will discuss your eligibility to file a wrongful death claim on behalf of your beloved. Throughout the duration of your claim, you will work directly with Attorney Tapalian and be supported by him and his skilled team. To find out how we can help you, call Tapalian Law today at 401-552-5000, or schedule a free consultation with a dedicated injury lawyer today.

Frontal crashes occur when the front of one vehicle slams into the front of an incoming vehicle or stationary object. The leading causes of head-on collisions involve impaired drivers, unsafe passing, wrong-way driving, driver distraction, driver fatigue, and unsafe road conditions. Although head-on collisions may seem straightforward, there are often various factors at play that can affect liability and damages. For example, a wrong-way driver may claim that road signs were unclear or not visible. Similarly, a driver may claim that they had no choice but to swerve into oncoming traffic to avoid an accident. However, these defenses may not dissolve liability or diminish the motorist’s negligence.

Those that do not suffer fatal injuries in a head-on crash often experience severe and permanent disabilities. Frontal crashes may result in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, neck injuries, broken bones and fractures, organ damage, paralysis, and burns. Victims often experience secondary injuries from flying debris or additional accidents. In some cases, adrenaline and stress mask serious injuries. It is important that head-on collision victims seek medical attention, even if their injuries appear minor.

Earlier this year, a local news report described a tragic Rhode Island head-on collision. Law enforcement reported that a 39-year-old man driving north in his sedan slammed into a southbound minivan. Emergency personnel used the Jaws of Life to extricate the men from the vehicles. However, the sedan driver died at a local hospital. The minivan driver suffered serious injuries.

Drivers should take steps to reduce their likelihood of being involved in a head-on collision. Motorists should abide by the speed limit because higher speeds typically result in more serious impacts. Further, drivers and passengers should wear a seat belt to prevent the risk of serious or deadly injuries. Finally, all drivers must ensure that their vehicle’s safety features are working correctly.

Have You Been In a Rhode Island Head-On Accident?

If you or someone you love has suffered injuries or died in a Rhode Island car accident, Attorney Tapalian can help you recover damages. Tapalian Law handles a diverse array of personal injury cases stemming from Rhode Island car, truck, bicycle, motorcycle accidents, slip and fall accidents, and wrongful death claims. We provide clients with individualized attention ensuring that clients understand their rights and remedies. Through our diligent representation, our clients have recovered substantial amounts of compensation related to their medical expenses, ongoing medical treatment, lost wages and benefits, loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and funeral and burial expenses. To learn more about your options, contact Tapalian Law at 401-552-5000, or email us, to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your Rhode Island accident case. With offices located in Providence, Warwick, and Seekonk, MA, we are easily accessible to our clients all over Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

All-terrain vehicles, commonly known as ATV’s, are classified as recreational vehicles and their use has been an issue of concern for years to local residents throughout Rhode Island and police alike, who field complaints concerning the loud noise created by the ATV’s and, more importantly, the unsafe and improper operation of the recreational vehicles. Injuries incurred in a collision with an ATV can be serious and especially dangerous to children.

ATV Laws in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, ATV’s are required to be registered with the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and are subject to a set of rules and safety requirements including where they may, and may not, be driven. All-terrain vehicles are classified as recreational vehicles under RI General Laws § 31-3.2-1:

(8) “Recreational vehicle” means a motor vehicle including minibikes designed to travel over unimproved terrain and which has been determined by the division of motor vehicles as unsuitable for operation on the public way and not eligible for registration for such use. This shall not be construed to include golf mobiles or golf carts, riding lawn mowers, or garden tractors, which are not registered as farm vehicles, but shall include any three (3) wheel driven vehicle and any other four (4) wheel driven vehicle, regardless of type or design, including all classes of all-terrain vehicles.

As such, ATV’s are subject to the legal requirements laid out in RI General Laws § 31-3.2, including but not limited to:

• ATV’s may not be driven on public streets in Rhode Island, only on designated trails determined by the state or on private property.
• The recreational vehicles may be allowed on the street in emergency situations such as snow conditions that are otherwise unsafe for a motor vehicle.
• Vehicles must be operated in a safe and controlled manner.
• ATV operators must be age 12 or older. Any operator between the ages of 12 and 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

What to Do If You Are Hit by an ATV

If you are involved in an ATV accident in Rhode Island, it’s important to contact the local police to file an incident report, even if the damage to your vehicle is minor. If you are physically injured by an ATV, whether as a pedestrian or motorist, its critical to seek medical attention right away.

When an ATV accident occurs, the operator of the ATV is required to follow the same protocol as a driver involved in a motor vehicle accident. This includes not leaving the scene of the accident, rendering aid as able, providing identification and contact information, and contacting the local authority to report the accident.

Although some recreational vehicle owners carry liability insurance which can be beneficial if the vehicle incurs damage or if the ATV is involved in an accident that causes damage to another person, motor vehicle, or property, many others do not. If you are hurt by an ATV driver, it’s essential to seek legal help from a Rhode Island personal injury lawyer to determine your legal rights.

Contact Tapalian Law If You’ve Been Hurt in an ATV Accident

If you’ve been involved in an accident with an ATV in Rhode Island, it’s important to seek help from a highly qualified personal injury law firm. Attorney David Tapalian is an experienced personal injury lawyer with over 20 years of practice helping people hurt in car accidents, motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, slip and falls, and other types of accidents. As a top-rated injury attorney, he will hold the person at-fault for the accident responsible, and seek maximum compensation for his clients’ damages and losses. Tapalian Law offers a free consultation and with offices located in Providence, Warwick, and Seekonk, MA, we are easily accessible to all areas of RI and MA. Call us today at 401-552-5000, or contact us online.

Car Accident Fatalities So Far This Year

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation reported 45 motor vehicle or motorcycle accident fatalities as of Wednesday, October 29th. Only days after the announcement, three more people were killed in auto crashes on Route 95 on Sunday. In comparison, there were 49 motor vehicle fatalities total in RI last year. In addition, over 200 people have been injured in car accidents so far this year.

Pedestrian accidents have also increased and 16 pedestrians have died in Rhode Island so far this year, compared to 8 pedestrian fatalities in the state in 2019. Specifically, with less drivers on the road, these numbers are disturbing, not to mention puzzling. State officials are attributing the increase in crashes and fatalities to risky driving behavior, another possible side effect of the Coronavirus pandemic. As a Rhode Island Car Accident Attorney, David Tapalian sees a great majority of car crashes and pedestrian accidents caused by negligent drivers including driving under the influence, speeding, and cell phone use.

Pandemic Stress Contributes

Although traffic volume has declined, stress levels remain high for innumerable people throughout the country, largely in part related to the pandemic. To deal with the stress, some are using alcohol and drugs as a destructive coping mechanism. When an intoxicated driver gets behind the wheel, the end result is all to often a serious, or deadly, car accident.

Drivers are also speeding more, possibly due to the temptation of more open roads and less cars and trucks with which to contend. The higher the speed of a vehicle, the lower the chance of a person surviving a crash if hit by the speeding vehicle. Often times, a combination of risky driving behaviors are at fault, for instance, the recent crash on Route 95 that killed three people on November 1^st has been attributed to excessive speed and alcohol.

Holiday Season Typically Sees a Rise in Accidents

As the holiday season approaches, it’s an unfortunate reality that the holidays usually bring with them an increase in motor vehicle accidents. As a Rhode Island Car Accident Lawyer, David Tapalian is familiar with seeing an influx of clients injured in car accidents throughout the holidays, frequently due to a drunk driver. These types of tragic accidents are completely preventable. This holiday season will be atypical due to the pandemic and therefore it will be even more important to be diligent about road safety whether you are traveling a long distance or staying local. Police in Rhode Island will increase patrols to be on the lookout for impaired drivers and offer the reminders to drivers to always wear a seat belt, motorcycle riders to always wear a safety helmet, don’t drink and drive, and don’t speed. With less daylight this time of year, there are a number of safety precautions both drivers and pedestrians can take to help ensure their safety.

Contact Tapalian Law for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, it’s important to contact an experienced car accident attorney to protect your legal rights. Attorney David Tapalian has helped hundreds of car accident victims in RI and MA seek compensation after they have been hurt by a negligent driver. You may be eligible for compensation for your medical expenses, hospital bills, lost wages, physical therapy, vehicle repairs, pain and suffering, and more. Contact the experienced personal injury team at Tapalian Law at our offices in Providence, RI, Warwick, RI, and Seekonk, MA, at 401-552-5000 for a free, no obligations review of your car accident, motorcycle accident, slip and fall, or workers compensation claim. You can also reach us with our easy, online contact form.

This summer has been marked by tragedy and serious concern from Block Island residents and long-time vacationers. Typically, a summer retreat for longer stays, the island is experiencing visits from a higher than usual number of people visiting for the day, possibly due to the coronavirus pandemic. With vacations put on hold for most, the desire to “get away” is still there. Some are satisfying that desire with local day trips, many of whom are unfamiliar with the island and unfortunately, under the influence of alcohol while operating vehicles.

Moped Accidents

In particular, mopeds on Block Island are getting a bad rap lately due to a rash of serious crashes, including the deadly collision between a moped and an SUV in mid-August. At least 55 crashes involving mopeds have been reported on the island so far this year, an increase from the past two years. Due to the lack of protection afforded a person on a moped, Personal Injury Attorney David Tapalian has seen significant injuries result when a moped collides with a vehicle, particularly a heavy SUV or truck. Grave concern has resulted in a backlash against moped rental companies and a tightening of restrictions on rentals. Moped rentals are always a popular attraction to visiting tourists, however, locals are pushing to tighten rental restrictions, or ban the vehicles all together, due to the number of the crashes resulting from inexperienced moped drivers, reckless use, and disregard for the rules of the road.

In Rhode Island, moped operators are required to follow the same rules of the road as motor vehicle operators, including obeying traffic signals. Although the speed of these vehicles is normally under 30 mph, when a moped collides with a vehicle, the injuries to the moped driver and any passengers can be severe or deadly, especially if the rider or passenger is not wearing a helmet. As with a car accident, an injured moped rider may be able to hold the at-fault driver of the vehicle responsible for the accident, liable for damages. Any person involved in a moped accident caused by the fault of another driver should consult a personal injury lawyer in Rhode Island to determine their eligibility to seek compensation for their physical injuries and property damages.

Car Accidents on Block Island

In addition to moped accidents, Block Island has experienced some dangerous car accidents this summer, again, marked by inexperience, negligence, and alcohol use. Certain roads on the island are hilly, and both sides crowded with bikers and moped riders, making it difficult to safely navigate the area. To those unfamiliar with the winding roads, speeding, or driving intoxicated, the drive can be even more treacherous. A 16-year-old boy riding as a passenger was tragically killed when the driver, suspected of being intoxicated, lost control of the vehicle on unfamiliar roads. Tragic incidents like this are motivating locals to push for stricter legal enforcement.

Contact a Rhode Island Personal Injury Attorney If You Are Hurt in an Accident

If you, or a loved one, have been hurt in a car accident, moped crash, motorcycle collision, or bike accident on Block Island, Newport, or anywhere in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, Tapalian Law is here for you. With over two decades of experience helping injured victims, David Tapalian is a top-rated injury lawyer who can help you seek compensation from the negligent driver responsible for causing the accident. You may be eligible to seek compensation for your medical expenses, hospital bills, lost wages, vehicle damage, and pain and suffering. With offices in Providence, Warwick, and Seekonk, MA, we are conveniently located to all areas of RI and MA. If you are injured and can’t come to us, we will visit you in the hospital or at home. Call Tapalian Law today for a free consultation at 401-552-5000, or contact us online.

Causes of Boat Accidents

Known as the Ocean State, Rhode Island is always a popular summer destination for boaters. In particular Newport, Narragansett, Jamestown, Block Island, and other coastal cities and towns, experience high water traffic in the summer as do areas of Massachusetts, like Cape Cod. Sales of boats, jet skis, and other personal water craft have surged this summer due to the pandemic – their use also made more attractive by a decline in fuel prices. Water traffic collisions and mishaps are prevalent each summer, but more so this year. Negligent behavior accounts for a significant portion of boating related injuries and fatalities, similar to the cause of the majority of car accident cases seen as a personal injury attorney. This uptick in boat accidents and water rescues can be attributed primarily not only to the increase in water traffic, but the use of alcohol, drugs, and inexperience.

Boat Accidents in RI & MA

In June, 8 young people were hurt, one seriously injured, in a boat accident in Massachusetts on the Westport River when their 20-foot power boat ran aground. Though officials aren’t clear on this particular incident, they do say new boaters often lack a formal boating education, proper safety equipment, and adherence to the rules of safe water operation like speed and alcohol use. One concern is that the Environmental Police have not been able to provide educational classes due to Covid-19, and have been working with various providers to offer online training. This delay in, or lack of, formal training may exacerbate the problem of inexperienced operators causing injuries due to a lack of knowledge of proper safety rules.

Through late June of 2020, Coast Guard District 1, which covers Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, New York, and northern New Jersey, has reported 18 fatal boat accidents thus far. In comparison, District 1 reported 9 fatal boat accidents last summer.

Hurt in a Boat Accident Due to Negligence

If you are hurt in a boat, jet ski, or other type of water craft incident in Rhode Island caused by the negligence of another person, you may have a valid personal injury claim. Boating operators, jet ski drivers, or other recreational vessel users, who cause serious bodily injury or death due to reckless operation may be charged by the state. This type of lawsuit is very different than a typical private personal injury claim. Due to the legal complexities and variations among localities, a personal injury attorney experienced in maritime laws in RI and MA is highly recommended. Compensation awarded in a boat accident settlement can be similar to that of a car accident settlement and may include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and other related costs. If a death occurs, certain family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim against the party responsible for the accident that resulted in the loss of their loved one.

Examples of boating negligence include:

• Recklessness- such as riding at an excessive speed, or allowing too many people on the boat at once making it overcapacity
• Intoxication- operating a boat or jet ski under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal
• Distractions- boat operators can be distracted by the same things that distract motor vehicle operators, i.e. cell phones, navigation systems, eating, drinking
• Inexperience- a lack of training, or improper training, can be deadly
• Maintenance neglect- an operator fails to keep his or her vessel properly maintained, or fails to carry adequate safety equipment

Contact Tapalian Law for a Free Consultation

A recreational day on the water can take a turn for the worst in a matter of seconds when a negligent driver, such as one impaired by alcohol or drugs, is operating a boat. An inexperienced boat driver acting recklessly, either intentionally or unintentionally, can cause a water accident resulting in serious injuries or death. Attorney David Tapalian is a highly respected personal injury lawyer in Rhode Island and Massachusetts with over 20 years of personal injury experience. David and his skilled legal team at Tapalian Law will guide you through the proper procedures to move forward with your injury or property damage claim to ensure you have the best chance at receiving compensation for your losses. With offices in Providence, Warwick, and Seekonk, MA, you can visit us, or we can visit you for a free consultation. Call Tapalian Law at 401-552-5000, or contact us online.

It’s Not Just You, It’s the Drivers…

Though not always the case, negligent motor vehicle operators are frequently the cause of a bicyclist getting hurt. Even the most prepared and careful cyclist can fall victim to a negligent driver. Drivers are distracted more than ever by cell phones. The ping of a text or a social media update is just too tempting for some to ignore, even while driving 60mph. In addition to technology, negligence can take the form of drunk driving, speeding, road rage, even plain inexperience. As a Rhode Island personal injury attorney, David sees an abundance of serious bicycle accidents in Providence and all over the state, caused by distracted drivers. These types of crashes are completely preventable. Why should an innocent cyclist die because of a text message?

Steps to Consider Before Your Next Bike Ride

Before we get into specific ways to prepare, as an injury attorney we’d be remiss not to mention the importance of wearing a properly fitting safety helmet! Although helmets are only legally required in Rhode Island for those aged 15 and under (aged 16 and under in Massachusetts), we can’t stress enough the importance of everyone, kids and adults, wearing a helmet every single time you get on a bike. Head injuries are the leading cause of death for bike riders and the majority of cyclists involved in fatal accidents are not wearing a helmet.

Check your Insurance

If you are hit by a driver while riding your bike, there’s a chance the motorist who hit you is uninsured or under-insured. Simply put, this means that the driver does not have insurance, or the amount of insurance coverage they do carry is inadequate to cover your damages, meaning you may be left with huge medical bills. Be prepared and check your own insurance policy to determine what type of coverage you have, if it will cover you as a bike rider, and if so, the amount of coverage provided. A number of auto insurance plans offer uninsured and under-insured motorist coverage that covers the insured, even if on a bicycle and not in the vehicle. As personal injury lawyers, unfortunately we’ve also seen our fair share of hit and run bike accidents in Rhode Island. Hit and runs may be covered if you carry uninsured motorist coverage, however its important to verify your particular coverage with your insurance carrier.

Emergency Contact Info

It’s helpful to have emergency contacts saved in your cell phone that you carry on bicycle trips, but cell phones are frequently damaged during a crash. Therefore, it’s beneficial to carry some other form of identification, such as a written emergency contact list that is enclosed in a zipped pocket on your bike, business cards with your contact information, and/or an ID bracelet that shows critical health information and medications you take. In case of an accident, providing multiple options for rescue personnel to identify you and your emergency contacts quicker and provide proper medical treatment, can be extremely beneficial.

Have an Action Plan

If you ride with others, discuss how each will respond in the event one of you are injured. Carrying a simple first-aid kit and having a cell phone on hand to take pictures of any injuries that occur, or vehicles involved in a collision, can be helpful and also aid as evidence in a potential personal injury claim after your Rhode Island bike accident.

Technology Options

If you are an avid bicyclist, you might consider front and rear cameras for your bike. Though these won’t prevent a crash, they can make it easier to determine the circumstances surrounding a collision, and help prove liability in a potential injury claim. Ensure your family is aware of the technology and how to access the evidence, in case you are hurt and unable to provide this information.

Contact a Rhode Island Personal Injury Lawyer if You Are Hurt in a Bike Accident

If you, or a loved one, were injured in a bicycle accident in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, you may be eligible to seek compensation for your damages including hospital bills, medical expenses, lost wages, property damage to the bike, and pain and suffering. Consult Attorney David Tapalian, a top-rated personal injury lawyer in Rhode Island and Massachusetts with over 20 years of experience, as soon as possible to protect your legal rights and file an injury claim within the three-year statute of limitations as required by law. Tapalian Law helps injured people in RI and MA recover compensation after they’ve been hurt in a car accident, motorcycle accident, bicycle crash, or slip and fall. Contact us today in our Providence, Warwick, or Seekonk offices, for a free consultation at 401-552-5000, or use our easy, online contact form.

Causes of the Rise in Pedestrian Accidents

One of the main sources of pedestrian injuries and accidents in Rhode Island, and the entire country, is distracted driving. Distracted driving, commonly taking the form of texting and overall smartphone use while operating a vehicle, might also include the distractions of other passengers in the car, loud music, eating or drinking. A rise in population growth, specifically in cities, is another reason for the uptick in pedestrian injuries and accidents. Cities like Providence RI are a hotbed for pedestrian activity. With multiple colleges and universities throughout the city, on any given day thousands of people are walking the streets. What makes pedestrians more likely to be hurt in a car accident in Providence, is that many of the thousands of college students are new to the city and therefore not familiar with the city’s roads and infrastructure. As personal injury lawyers in Providence RI, at Tapalian Law we have seen a number of clients hurt in car accidents caused by out of state drivers. Inexperienced pedestrians and inexperienced drivers are a dangerous mix. Other factors attributed to the rise in pedestrian fatalities include weather conditions, fuel costs, and the upsurge of SUV’s on the roads.

Should Pedestrians Share Some of the Blame?

When a person is hit by a car, typically people point to the driver of the car or SUV as the cause of the auto accident. When it comes to pedestrian accidents, should pedestrians bear some blame? That depends. Time and again while navigating the streets of Providence, people young and old are looking down at their smart phones while walking. Some pedestrians are not only looking at their smart phones while walking, but even have headphones on as well. Everyone today is distracted for any number of reasons but both pedestrians and motor vehicle operators need to take responsibility. The majority of car accidents involving pedestrians take place on local roads and since people feel comfortable with their familiar surroundings, they may be less aware and less likely to pay attention. The combination of distracted driving and distracted walking are a big cause of pedestrian and car collisions throughout the state of Rhode Island.

Reducing Pedestrian Deaths

Many states, including Rhode Island and Massachusetts, have laws governing cell phone use and/or texting while driving. Despite the laws, as Rhode Island personal injury attorneys we see people hurt every day in auto accidents caused by texting and driving. A recent case in NJ relied on texting while driving in order to establish recklessness when a 50-year old woman was convicted of second-degree vehicular homicide due in part by evidence of texting while driving. This woman could face up to 10 years in prison in her texting while driving fatality conviction. Will harsh sentences and stronger laws alter human behavior? In addition to enforcement approaches, the GHSA recommends various strategies to combat pedestrians getting killed by automobiles, including infrastructure/engineering changes, education, and public outreach.

Were You Injured in a Car Accident in RI?

If you were injured due to a car accident as a pedestrian, or as the driver or occupant of another vehicle, it is essential you have competent legal representation. You may be entitled to significant compensatory damages for your resulting injuries. As a personal injury attorney in Providence, Rhode Island, David Tapalian’s 20 years of experience can be put to work for you. Compensatory damages that a personal injury lawyer can obtain for you may include, but are not limited to:

• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• lost income
• medical expenses
• pain-and-suffering
• disability
• future lost earning potential
• future impairment

For a free consultation, contact the RI personal injury team at Tapalian Law. Attorney David Tapalian will personally meet with you to discuss the details of your injuries, gather necessary information including police reports and medical records, and recommend the best plan of action to move forward. Call Tapalian Law’s Providence office today at 401-552-5000, or reach us online with our contact form.

With all of the cutting-edge safety technologies available, some critics still think not enough is being done to keep drivers and pedestrians safe from car accidents. The goal should be “fewer, not smarter, cars”, reports opinion writer Allison Arieff in a recent New York Times article, because despite all of the latest cutting-edge features available in today’s new vehicles, far too many fatal car accidents and serious injuries are still happening.

Increase in Pedestrian Deaths

Despite over $80 billion spent on “smart”, connected, and autonomous vehicles, over 6,000 pedestrians were killed in the U.S. in 2018 alone. Pedestrians accounted for over 25% of Rhode Island traffic fatalities in 2017. Some say safety measures, like radio-frequency tags that emit a signal that can be detected by cars, should be taken by pedestrians and bicyclists. Is this only putting the onus on pedestrians to keep away from cars, and not the other way around? As a RI personal injury lawyer, Attorney David Tapalian knows that safety goes both ways and the responsibility must be shared by both drivers and pedestrians. Not only do drivers need to do their part by staying focused and aware, but pedestrians should also take every measure they can to be more visible to drivers such as wearing bright or reflective clothing, and following traffic rules such as using crosswalks.

Why is New Vehicle Technology Not Making Driving Safer?

Over 3,000 people were killed in car crashes in 2017 caused by distracted driving. The majority of driver distractions are caused by cell phone use, texting and driving, and other technology. Ironically, in-vehicle technology meant to improve safety can be a huge distraction to motor vehicle operators. Bigger, and more complex, dashboards compete for driver’s attention, taking it away from the road. The popularity of bigger vehicles, specifically sports utility vehicles, has led to a huge increase in single-vehicle pedestrian deaths involving SUV’s, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Due to an SUV having a higher front end than the average car, it is twice as likely than a car is to kill a walker, runner, bicyclist, or child.

What Are Some Solutions?

There is no quick or easy solution to reduce the number of deadly car accidents. However, Ms. Arieff offers up some potential solutions, first of which is that we all drive less. Not only will this lessen environmental pollution, but it will also lessen the number of auto accident fatalities and injuries. Other ideas she proffers are reducing speed limits, eradicating right turns on red, and adding protected bicycle lanes. As a RI personal injury attorney, David Tapalian always urges drivers to take the simple step to put down their phone and avoid unnecessary technology while driving to avoid a senseless accident.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a proposal in 2018 called the Safer Affordable Fuel-Efficient (SAFE) Vehicles Rule. Its focus is to reduce the “national automobile fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions standards”, make newer, safer cars more affordable, and ultimately reduce car accident related injuries and save up to 1,000 lives annually. Just last month, the first steps were taken towards finalizing the proposal.

Contact Tapalian Law if You Have Been Injured in a Rhode Island Car Accident

Although in many cases, vehicle technology is a useful tool to prevent car accident injuries and fatalities, in some cases it may worsen the distraction to drivers. Safety technology is never a substitute for an attentive, focused driver or following safe driving practices and should not be relied on as such. If you have been injured in a car accident in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, seek the advice of experienced RI & MA Personal Injury Attorney David Tapalian and his skilled legal staff at Tapalian Law. With offices in Providence, RI, Warwick, RI, and Seekonk, MA, we are easily accessible. For a free consultation of your car accident or personal injury case, contact our Providence office today at 401-552-5000 or complete our online form and we will contact you right away to discuss the details of your personal injury or auto accident case.

Drunk Driver Cause of Coventry Car Accident

The significant head-on collision occurred on Main Street in Coventry, Rhode Island, when the defendant crossed over the yellow line into the opposite lane of travel. The crash was clearly caused by the highly intoxicated defendant. The responding Coventry police officer provided a very thorough description in his police narrative and took his time to be extremely detailed in describing the defendant’s impairments. Found inside the defendant’s vehicle were numerous empty beer bottles, flasks with fluid, rum bottle with fluid, a cognac bottle with fluid and a full-size police style expandable baton. This individual was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol at the scene of the accident.

The injured victim, our client, was transported by ambulance to Rhode Island Hospital. While at the hospital, injuries were noted to her back, shoulders, face, wrist burns and numbness in both arms. In addition, she experienced temporary loss of hearing with concussion related symptoms such as forgetfulness, nausea, and significant headaches. As a car accident attorney serving injured people in Coventry, Attorney Tapalian always advises victims to seek immediate medical treatment regardless of the severity of their injuries, and be consistent with follow-up care. Our client treated with chiropractic care, orthopedic intervention and physical therapy. MRI examinations performed of her spine and brain after the accident fortunately found no significant findings present. The young woman’s persistent symptoms were neck pain and disabling headaches and she treated with a neurologist, yet there were no objective significant findings. Concussion Following an Auto Accident

Long-term concussion symptoms can be some of the most difficult cases to litigate and to settle for fair value. The reason is that the insurance company will almost always argue that the client “should not” be in pain and “should have” recovered. Believe it or not, several auto insurance companies now have computer programs that tell them when the client “should be” done treating their injuries. Unfortunately, a computer program cannot take into account all of the factors and uniqueness of the client and the impact and therefore there is no computer that can tell you when a specific client should be done treating. As a Coventry car accident attorney, David Tapalian knows and that each and every accident is different and every individual recovers at a different pace. Tapalian Law has helped countless victims who were involved in auto accidents in Rhode Island and Massachusetts and understands that each case is individualized and there are too many variables involved to accurately predict an “appropriate” recovery time.

The particular challenges with this personal injury case were to convince the insurance company that our previously healthy teenage client, was truly injured. Tapalian Law received an initial offer from Allstate that was less than $10,000. Our client’s medical expenses were almost $20,000! This is a common tactic that the auto insurance companies practice. They think that if they offer a little bit of money that the client will be happy and go away. In this situation, with our client’s injuries and persistent symptoms, there was no way our injury attorney would accept anything less than the full policy limits. With the RI statute of limitations approaching on this case, we filed a civil action. Even once the civil action was filed, the insurance company still argued with our Coventry car accident lawyer that our client couldn’t be hurt and refused to tender the policy limits. Only when the insurance company finally had a defense attorney review the case, did they then tender the full policy limits.

Allstate Insurance finally did tender the policy limits for this Coventry car accident, however not because they are nice and concerned for the injured client, but because they were worried about excess exposure above and beyond the $50,000 policy limit. There is case law in Rhode Island that articulates that if an auto insurance company doesn’t offer the full policy limits and a judgment is granted in an amount above and beyond the policy limits; then that auto insurance company could be on the hook for the entire judgment. What that means for this Coventry car accident case was that if they didn’t tender the $50,000 to our client and for sake of discussion, if we received a judgment in the amount of the $100,000, the insurance company would have to pay the $100,000. Allstate was well aware of this case, as it is known as Asermely vs. Allstate insurance company.

Contact RI Attorney David Tapalian Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has a similar situation to this victim, please don’t hesitate to call Coventry car accident attorney David Tapalian. With Attorney Tapalian’s over 20 years of experience and personal injury team, you will be able to realize the maximum amount for your settlement. This case had the difficult aspect of proving to a defendant insurance company that our client was still experiencing neck pain and headaches, even with no objective findings. We were able to do that through persistence and the patience and treatment of the client herself. If you are injured in an accident, there is never a fee to speak with Attorney Tapalian. The longer you wait to consult with an attorney the weaker and more challenging your auto accident claim can become so time is truly the enemy when it comes to engaging an experienced injury attorney for your auto accident claim. Call the Rhode Island personal injury team at Tapalian Law today at 401-552-5000 or contact us online to set up a free consultation at our Providence, Warwick, or Seekonk offices.