Safe Driving

Summer Driving Safety Tips

July 24, 2018 by Christopher

The Summer can be a dangerous time to be on the road in St. Louis. The traffic gets thicker, vacationers are everywhere, and the heat picks up.

For many people, Summer is their favorite time if the year. The weather is excellent, it’s vacation season, and there’s a certain carefree vibe in the air. Unfortunately, it is also the most dangerous time of year to drive. This seems counter intuitive, given that the winter features icy roads, but the statistics back it up. The primary reasons for this are increased pedestrians and increased traffic congestion. If you end up in a Summer car accident, it is best to speak with a St. Louis auto accident attorney. That being said, if you follow our safety tips, you will significantly increase your chances of avoiding an accident and having a safe Summer.

Stay up to Date on Vehicle Maintenance

Whether you’re staying in the city or taking a long road trip, you will want your vehicle in tip-top shape for the Summer. You can ensure this by taking it in for a maintenance checkup. Your mechanic will let you know if you need new tires, brakes, fluids, or anything else.

Be Wary of the Heat

If you park your car in the sun, it’s going to become incredibly hot. For your own comfort, you should consider getting a sun shield. You should also never leave a pet or child unattended in your car. It will get very hot very fast and have dire consequences.

Block the Glare

When the sun is shining brightly, it can adversely affect vision. The best way to ward this off is with an effective pair of sunglasses. For the best performance, opt for a polarized lens.

Be Safe When Packing

When packing your car, make sure you mind two factors: Weight and visibility. If your car is too heavy, it might have a harder time stopping quickly, which could lead to a crash. If you pack your car too tight, you could block your vision and end up not seeing something you otherwise would have.

Manage Allergies

Allergies can lead to eye-watering, sneezing, and a general drop in alertness. The most extreme cases are similar to having a low blood alcohol level. Stay safe by always having your preferred allergy medication handy.

Beware of Summer Rains

The slickest road conditions come when it rains for the first time in a while. There is a lot of dirt and oil buildup on the roads, and when the water comes, they are very slick for the first thirty minutes or so. When a summer rain starts, drive slowly or not at all.

Be Responsible When Sharing the Road

Summer means increased motorcyclists, bikers, road work, and pedestrians. To keep yourself and others safe, always be alert and minimize distractions.

The Summer can be a dangerous time to be on the road in St. Louis. The traffic gets thicker, vacationers are everywhere, and the heat picks up. The best way to avoid accidents is by driving defensively and following the tips we outlined above. If you do end up in a crash, don’t panic. Call a St. Louis car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

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(314) 361-4242

St. Louis Among Most Dangerous Cities for Drivers

January 29, 2018 by Christopher

Insurance companies often rank these cities as “high risk” areas, meaning you’re statistically more likely to be involved in a traffic accident or auto theft if you live there.

If you live in one of these four cities, you could actually be paying more for auto insurance. Why? Insurance companies often rank these cities as “high risk” areas, meaning you’re statistically more likely to be involved in a traffic accident or auto theft if you live there. Living in one of these cities could also mean stricter legal penalties for accidents.

The following cities are considered to be among the most dangerous for drivers in the US. If you live in one of these metropolitan areas, you’re going to want to take some extra precautionary measures to protect yourself.

Detroit

In general, big cities are more dangerous for drivers. With 16.2 fatal accidents per 100,000 people, Detroit, Michigan is no exception. Residents of Detroit also pay thousands more a year in car insurance than those who live in “safer” cities.

Baton Rouge

In 2016, there were almost 200,000 car accidents in Louisiana. Considering Baton Rouge ranks as the second most dangerous city for drivers, you can bet that a large portion of these accidents happened in this major college town. With the traffic of any capital city and over 45,000 college students at LSU alone, it’s unsurprising Baton Rouge is such a dangerous place to drive.

Baltimore

With heavy traffic from D.C. commuters and an auto-related death rate higher than the homicide rate, it’s no wonder Baltimore is considered such a dangerous city for drivers. The state of Maryland has pinpointed a phenomenon of what they call “aggressive drivers” as one of the causes. Now, in Maryland, you can call a hotline to report any aggressive drivers you may witness. Aggressive behavior may include reckless driving or tailgating. Be sure to do your part to keep your city safe.

St. Louis

Traffic-related deaths have been steadily increasing in St. Louis, MO. In order to combat these numbers, police are targeting at-fault drivers with harsher consequences.

In St. Louis, car theft is also a huge problem. St. Louis actually has the most motor vehicle theft of any city in Missouri. If you don’t have advanced safety measures in your vehicle, you should consider having an alarm installed, which could possibly even bring down your insurance rates.

Buckle Up

If you live in one of these cities, there are a few things you can do to stay safe. Avoid driving late on weekends when drunk drivers may be coming home from bars. In your household, you should practice a zero tolerance policy for driving while intoxicated and using the phone while in the driver’s seat. If you drive to work in the morning, always stay focused and don’t do your make up or take work calls while you’re behind the steering wheel. Should an accident occur despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to contact a trusted St. Louis auto accident attorney. And of course, buckle up.

The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C.

7751 Carondelet Ave #601
St. Louis, MO 63105

Phone: (314) 361-4242

Prescription Drugs Use a Leading Cause of St. Louis Car Accidents

February 23, 2017 by Christopher

It is very important for both adults and teenagers to understand the risks associated with drugged driving.

Preventing car accidents is the responsibility of everyone on the road. Each driver should be attentive and alert to what is happening on the road. Anything that causes driver distraction or affects the way the driver pays attention to the road can prove dangerous. The use of alcohol or drugs is notorious for causing fatal car accidents, however, prescription drugs also have the potential to impair drivers and cause fatal crashes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drugs other than alcohol are responsible for causing 16 percent of motor vehicle accidents.

A study conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), revealed that 47 percent of drivers who tested positive for drugs had prescription drugs in their blood. Around 37 percent of these drivers had used marijuana and another 10 percent has used cocaine. Surprisingly, the study made no distinction between the effects of prescription drug abuse and the effects of illicit drugs, because drivers react similarly to both. Our St. Louis car accident lawyer explains that painkillers were the most common drug responsible for crashes.

How prescription drugs affect driving performance

Those who take prescription drugs usually do not realize that their medications have adverse effects on their driving. Some common symptoms that these legally prescribed drugs can cause include drowsiness and altered perceptions. These drugs also affect the driver’s ability to focus on the task at hand, and they alter the driver’s perception of distance and speed. It can also impact judgment, memory, and balance. All these symptoms can increase car accident risk.

Who is more likely to cause a drugged driving crash?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports a high incidence of prescription drug use in younger and older adults. A recent study has indicated a 45 percent increase in the number of injury-causing accident in people who take benzodiazepines that remain in the bloodstream for more than 24 hours. Common drugs associated with a higher incidence of motor vehicle accidents include:

Diazepam (Valium)
Clonazepam (Klonopin)
Chlordiazepoxide (Libratabs)
Clorazepate (Tranxene)
Flurazepam (Dalmane)

Another research study conducted by NHTSA has shown that more than a quarter of drugged drivers that caused a fatal crash were aged 50 or more. NIDA also reports that the mental decline in older adults can cause them to take prescription drugs more often than they should. They may also take an incorrect dose, and the drug may not metabolize as quickly as it does in adults, leading to unintended intoxication.

Preventing car accidents caused by prescription drug use

If you are the parent of a teenager learning to drive, you should ensure that they understand that they understand the risks associated with drugged driving. Older adults should discuss whether or not they can drive safely after using a prescription drug.

If you have been injured by a drugged driver, you should discuss your rights with an experienced St. Louis car accident lawyer.

Fall Driving Tips

October 28, 2016 by Christopher

The holiday season in quick approaching. Take note of these fall driving safety tips before you take to the roads!

With the air becoming crisp and the leaves changing their color, the signs are clear that the holiday season is quickly approaching. Many enjoy this season by taking long, relaxing drives with their loved ones. However, before you take to the roads, you should take note of these fall driving tips.

Fall Road Hazards

From sun to frost and rain, fall weather could take many turns. These temperature changes can make driving difficult. During this season, drivers should stay cautious of the following hazards:

Sun Glare

Sun glare during rush hour can make it difficult for the drivers to see street signs, oncoming traffic, and pedestrians. When the sun sets behind the car, it can become extremely difficult to see out of the rear view mirror or the traffic lights ahead. Drivers should slow down and be cautious.

Fog

Fog is a dangerous driving hazard and the risk is greater when driving around areas surrounded by hills, water, or trees. So, drivers should slow down, and use low beams or fog lights when they encounter foggy conditions. In dense fog drivers should turn on their hazard lights.

Slippery Roads

Rains during the fall season can make roads extra slippery, because of the rubber and oil buildup from traffic during the summer. So, until the first few rains wash it away, motorists should exercise caution and drive slow. Drivers should keep their headlights and windshield wipers on.

Jack Frost

With weather getting colder, the effects of ice and frost can be dangerous. Drivers should be extra careful when driving on overpasses and bridges, because these areas tend to freeze quickly. Keep a look out for black ice and defrost your windshield before driving.

Ensure That the Car is Well-Maintained

Get your car serviced before the temperature drops. Pay special attention to these car parts:

Tires: Colder weather causes the air pressure in the tires to drop. Make sure the tires are properly inflated. This will ensure both safety and fuel efficiency. For optimal driving traction, brakes and tires should be in good condition.

Windshield wipers: Check the wiper blades and ensure they are fit to last through the season.

Fluids: Ensure that all fluids and oil are clean. Check the fluid levels, they should be above minimum recommended levels.

Remember, traffic from motor vehicles and pedestrians increases during the fall season, and drivers need to be extra cautious. You should keep an eye out when driving in areas with children and deer. With children back to school, drivers should slow down when driving around school zones and buses. Also, deer tend to be more active in the fall months, especially during dawn and dusk.

These simple tips can go a long way in keeping you and others safe. However, it is nearly impossible to completely eliminate the possible of an accident. If you get into an accident caused by another driver’s negligence, discuss your case with an experienced St. Louis accident lawyer. Call us today at (314) 361-4242 for a free case evaluation.

Accident Attorney Discusses Missouri Laws on the Use of Headlights

April 15, 2016 by Christopher

If you have been involved in a St. Louis car crash and headlights were a factor, you may be entitled to financial compensation.

The darkness of the night, rain, snow, or fog can decrease a motorist’s visibility. In such conditions, use of headlights is important to decrease the risk of a St. Louis car wreck. Our attorneys would like to take this opportunity to discuss Missouri’s law regarding headlight use. Missouri law requires a vehicle’s headlights to be switched on when visibility is decreased due to fog or other weather conditions, or when the windshield wipers are in use.

In 2004, a law came in effect that dealt with the use of headlights at specific times. Section RSMo 307.020 that deals with when headlights are required were amended to include new requirements. Here is what the law reads. “When lighted lamps are required” means at any time from a half-hour after sunset to a half-hour before sunrise and at any other time when there is not sufficient light to render clearly discernible persons and vehicles on the highway at a distance of five hundred feet ahead. Lighted lamps shall also be required any time the weather conditions require the usage of the motor vehicle’s windshield wipers to operate the vehicle in a careful and prudent manner as defined in section 304.012, RSMo. The provisions of this section shall be interpreted to require lighted lamps during periods of fog even if the usage of the windshield wipers is not necessary to operate the vehicle in a careful and prudent manner.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reminds the drivers that it is always better to be visible then to be in an accident. Laws have been enacted in order to promote safety on the highways. The Missouri State Highway Patrol also explains that it is a good idea to slow down in bad weather conditions and to wear a seat belt and make sure that the passengers are either in an approved child restraint seat or are buckled properly when riding in a vehicle.

High Beams Vs. Low Beams

As most of us are aware, high beams are not useful in rainy or foggy conditions as they reflect off the water particles at the motorist. However, low means aim down at the road and are helpful when visibility is poor.

Lights as a Factor in Car Accident Causes

In many cases, the driver neglects to turn on his/her headlights and this leads to a collision with other vehicles or even pedestrian. If the eyewitnesses testify that at the time of the crash, one of the vehicles had not switched on headlights, the driver of that vehicle may be held liable for the crash.

If you are involved in a car accident, whether during the day or night, and lights could be a factor, make sure you talk to eyewitnesses, take photographs of the accident scene, and get all the information you can. Speak to a qualified St Louis Automobile Accident Attorney for legal help.

Call (314) 361-4242 for a free case evaluation.

100 Deadliest Days for Teen Drivers

September 23, 2015 by Christopher

What makes the summer time more dangerous for teen drivers?

Car accidents are an everyday occurrence on Missouri roads. Thousands of people are injured and many others are killed every year. Of all drivers, teen drivers are believed to be at the highest risk of car accidents because of their inexperience and recklessness. Teen drivers are more prone to making poor driving decisions, often leading to car accidents.

The AAA Foundation conducted a study of police-reported teen driver accidents over a period of 10 years. The study revealed that during the summer of 2012, close to 1,000 people were killed in accidents involving teen drivers. Surprisingly, around two-thirds of the victims who were killed in the accidents involving teen drivers were not the teens.

A Dangerous Time of Year for Teen Drivers

Although an accident involving a teen driver can occur anywhere and at any time, some days are known to be more dangerous than others as far as teen accidents are concerned. During 2013, there was a 43 percent increase in teen driving accidents in the summer compared to other times of the year. The time period between Memorial Day and Labor Day seems to the deadliest for teen drivers.

What makes summer more dangerous for teen drivers? In summer, teenagers tend to drive more for recreational purposes than just back and forth to school. In addition, they are more likely to be driving with teen passengers and this means the risk of an accident increases further, because passengers can be a serious distraction for a young driver. Teen drivers also tend to speed or take risks just to impress their passengers. Teen passengers are also known to ride without a seatbelt when they are riding with their peers. All of these distracted behaviors increase the risk of a car accident, making summer the most dangerous time of the year for teen drivers.

The Role of Parents

Parents can play a huge role in training their kids to be safer drivers, reminding them of safe driving practices. Keep reminding them to put their cell phones away while driving. The best way to teach safe driving habits is by being a good role model. Make sure you wear a seatbelt, put away your cell phone, and obey all traffic rules when driving.

Injured by Negligent Driver?

If you have been injured in a car crash caused by a negligent or reckless driver, pursue a claim for damages from the at-fault driver. Consult with a St. Louis car accident attorney to discuss your case. Call The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. at (314) 361-4242 for a free consultation.