On Behalf of Holmes & Wiseley, P.C.

A motor vehicular accident will result in property damage and personal injury, but some injuries are more devastating. A catastrophic injury is a critical and disabling injury that can permanently alter a person’s life. It prevents a person from working and performing the daily routines we often take for granted.

Aside from the debilitating and traumatic long-term effects on the surviving victim, a catastrophic injury will become a huge financial and emotional burden on their loved ones. Their lives will never be the same.

The effects of a catastrophic injury

The catastrophic injuries associated with car collisions have physical and psychological effects on an individual. The physical effects include:

• Paralysis
• Amputation
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Loss of mobility
• Chronic excruciating pain
• Inability to complete daily takes or self-care
• Inability to care for their loved ones

The trauma from the car accident can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety. But if the victim suffered catastrophic injuries, the psychological effects will be far worse. The psychological effects include:

• Depression
• Helplessness
• Fear
• Frustration and anger
• Substance abuse, including painkillers and prescription medications
• Loss of appetite or increased appetite
• Loss of purpose
• Mood swings
• Violent behavior

They must adjust to a life where pain and suffering become routine. Catastrophic injuries can even be harder to bear than death.

How the law can help a victim cope

Victims who suffer catastrophic injuries may never get back the life they once knew. If an injury affects a victim’s general ability to lead their normal life, Michigan laws allow them to sue the at-fault driver. They have a legal right to recover compensation for the physical and psychological damages they must live with daily because of their injuries from the crash.

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On Behalf of Holmes & Wiseley, P.C.

Drivers in Michigan are required to carry no-fault insurance in addition to basic liability coverage. No-fault personal injury protection (PIP) coverage means that anyone injured in a collision can use their personal insurance policy after a crash instead of relying on the insurance coverage of anyone else who may have caused the wreck.

This approach can protect people from situations in which someone causes a crash and then does not have sufficient insurance coverage to reimburse others. The no-fault injury coverage required by Michigan state law protects people by guaranteeing that they will have access to insurance for bodily injuries suffered in a crash regardless of the insurance status of the other driver. However, many people understandably want to hold the driver at fault for a crash personally responsible in addition to seeking insurance benefits.

People can hold at-fault drivers accountable in court

Michigan law may require more robust insurance than the rules in other states, but insurance coverage does not eliminate the possible need for civil litigation. So long as one driver is at least 50% responsible for the crash or more, the people injured in the collision could take legal action against the party at fault for the wreck.

The liability coverage available under a standard Michigan insurance policy isn’t as generous as the no-fault coverage can be. Many drivers carry just $20,000 in residual bodily injury coverage. That won’t be nearly enough to pay for the care required to treat brain injuries, back injuries or other major medical issues following a crash. If someone’s injuries are serious enough to impair bodily function, they may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit after a wreck.

Generally, there will need to be losses related to the crash that exceed what insurance will cover. Especially if the person at fault for the crash does not have appropriate liability coverage and the party who didn’t cause the wreck has significant injuries, a lawsuit may be the only means of ensuring the appropriate party bears financial responsibility for the wreck.

Seeking legal guidance to better understand available options after a West Michigan car crash can help crash victims to better understand how they can pay their hospital bills and repair their vehicles.

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On Behalf of Holmes & Wiseley, P.C.

Roundabouts, as their name suggests, are a type of intersection with a circular shape. Their geometric angle has a slowing effect, forcing drivers to operate at a slower speed that reduces the number of or the gravity of car accidents.

In comparison, traditional intersections have several straight crossing paths that often encourage drivers to increase their speed and run the red light, which can both lead to tragedy.

Per the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), roundabouts lessen fatalities and severe injuries by 82% compared to two-way stop-controlled intersections, making them one of the agency’s safety countermeasures based on evidence.

Reasons that roundabouts are proven safety countermeasures

The FHWA reveals that roundabouts are one of its proven safety countermeasures to reduce deaths and severe injuries from head-on or T-bone collisions. They contend that roundabouts promote safety and operational efficiency because of their:

• Curved design that slows drivers down when approaching or navigating around the circular formation; slow speed also calms traffic, and gives more space and time to cyclists and pedestrians
• Reduced conflict points, where cars typically collide, due to the similar counterclockwise flow of vehicles around a central island
• Yield control or when drivers give right-of-way to those already in the circulating traffic

However, some critics still claim that roundabouts are more confusing than typical intersections. They argue that drivers tend to be unfamiliar with how to drive around them. For example, some drivers lose control and collide with the central island.

Thus, it will help if Michigan drivers learn the roundabout laws related to entering or exiting, changing lanes or using them with other road users in mind.

Safe design and responsible driving go hand in hand

Roundabouts show that road design can help combat deadly car crashes. However, even the safest road plan can still record deaths and serious injuries if drivers keep driving drunk, drugged or distracted. Thus, it will be wise for victims to consult their legal counsel about protecting their future from negligent drivers, who are not mindful of their actions’ repercussions.

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On Behalf of Holmes & Wiseley, P.C.

Motorcycle riders often enjoy a solo cruise. But sharing it with loved ones elevates the experience.

However, riders must be wary of how Michigan’s emphasis on motorcycle safety extends to passengers. Knowing what specific laws to observe can help keep the roads safer and make for more rewarding rides.

On motorcycle passenger laws

With a motorcycle passenger aboard, increased rear weight may cause gravitational shifts. The rider must adjust how they accelerate or reduce speed to prevent potentially fatal accidents. Thus, there must be clear communication between the rider and passenger throughout the ride to avert sudden movements or responses.

Those operating with only a temporary instruction permit cannot carry a passenger. But for those with the necessary operator’s license, they must take note of the following:

• No helmet use under certain conditions: Motorcycle passengers can ride the motorcycle without an approved crash helmet if they are at least 21, have at least medical insurance worth $20,000 on top of the required liability insurance, have at least a two-year endorsement or proof of passing a motorcycle safety course.
• No age restrictions: Unlike other states, Michigan allows children to ride motorcycles as passengers. However, riders or parents must consider their child’s size. They must be tall enough for their feet to reach designated rests or pegs. But the rule considers exceptions on disability cases.

Despite these accommodating rules, motorcycle riders and passengers can still do more to heighten safety measures. For example, riders can apply force steadily to avoid abrupt breaks. Similarly, passengers should hold on as tightly as possible and steer clear of distracting actions or behaviors.

On enjoying smooth and safe rides

Everyone has the right to enjoy the roads, including motorcycle passengers. If they observe state laws strictly, they can savor the ride while protecting other road users from life-threatening risks. But suppose passengers are already fighting for their lives after a tragic crash. In that case, their legal counsel can guide them through their options and the legal navigation.

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On Behalf of Holmes & Wiseley, P.C.

An underride accident is one of the most dangerous types of truck accidents that a motorist in a passenger car can be involved in, and very often leads to severe injuries and even fatalities. All accidents involving semi-trucks and small passenger cars are dangerous due to the size difference between the vehicles, but underrides are impacted by a few unique factors that make them stand apart.

Essentially, an underride accident happens when a car strikes a semi-truck’s trailer and becomes wedged or stuck underneath. Because of the lower height of most passenger cars, the front portion can fit in the space between the bottom edge of the trailer and the road, especially between the truck’s tires.

Why is this so dangerous?

The first reason that this is so dangerous is that the impact point of the collision is very high. It does not involve the crumple zones or the bumper on the smaller vehicle, two areas that are designed to help keep passengers safe. Instead, the lower edge of the trailer hits the front windshield, the A-pillars, the roof and the passenger compartment on the smaller car.

What this means is that head and neck injuries are much more common when these kinds of crashes occur. So are chest injuries. These are all more likely to be fatal than leg injuries and other issues lower on the body. When you combine this reality with the fact that some of a car’s safety systems aren’t as effective as those outfitted in large commercial trucks, it drastically increases the odds of a fatality.

Furthermore, it can be difficult for emergency crews to get to the driver or passengers in the smaller car. That vehicle can become wedged under the truck, delaying the medical treatment for those involved in the crash. In some cases, if a semi-truck doesn’t stop immediately, the smaller vehicle can even be dragged for a certain distance. Severe injuries and a delay in medical treatment are a very dangerous combination.

What options do people have?

Unfortunately, underride accidents happen frequently, despite some safety innovations designed to prevent them. Those who have suffered severe injuries or lost loved ones due to the negligence of other drivers need to know how to seek financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages, funeral costs and much more. Seeking legal guidance is a good way to start.

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On Behalf of Holmes & Wiseley, P.C.

Brain injuries can manifest in various forms after a car crash, including concussions, contusions and diffuse axonal injuries. Each type presents unique challenges related to diagnosis, as symptoms may not manifest immediately.

The truth is that even minor collisions can result in hidden consequences, and one of the most concerning is the potential for undetected brain injuries. These are some of the reasons why brain injuries sometimes go unnoticed after a car accident and why promptly addressing this issue is crucial.

Delayed onset of symptoms

One of the primary reasons brain injuries go undetected is the potential for delayed onset of symptoms. Unlike physical injuries, such as broken bones, the symptoms of a brain injury may not become apparent until hours, days or even weeks after the accident. This delayed onset can lead to a false sense of security, making it essential to seek medical evaluation after any car accident, regardless of how minor it may seem.

Masked pain and symptoms

Adrenaline is the body’s natural response to stress and danger. During a car accident, the release of adrenaline can mask pain and symptoms, including those related to brain injuries. Car crash survivors may not realize the extent of their injuries until the adrenaline subsides, further complicating the diagnostic process.

Ignoring subtle signs

Sometimes, individuals involved in car accidents may not be aware of the subtle signs of a brain injury. These signs can include confusion, memory problems, mood changes and difficulty concentrating. Individuals may dismiss these symptoms as stress-related or unrelated to the accident without proper awareness. Even healthcare providers may overlook brain injuries if they focus solely on visible injuries or rely on patients to report their symptoms.

Imaging limitations

While advanced medical imaging technologies like CT scans and MRIs are valuable tools for diagnosing brain injuries, they are not foolproof. Some injuries may not be immediately visible on these scans, leading to false negatives.

Brain injuries are a significant concern after a car accident, and they can go undetected for various reasons. To help ensure your well-being and prevent long-term consequences, always seek immediate medical attention after a car crash, no matter how minor your symptoms may seem at first.

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On Behalf of Holmes & Wiseley, P.C.

In the fast-paced world of transportation, truck drivers play a vital role in keeping goods flowing across the country. However, the long hours on the road can take a toll on their health and safety.

One of the most significant concerns in the trucking industry is sleep-deprived driving, which can lead to accidents, injuries and even fatalities. Thankfully, there are ways that truck drivers can avoid sleep-deprived driving and help to ensure safer journeys for themselves and others on the road.

The dangers of sleep-deprived driving

Sleep-deprived driving is a serious safety hazard. Fatigue impairs a driver’s ability to focus, make quick decisions and react to unexpected situations. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving was responsible for 684 fatalities in 2021 alone.

Aside from the immediate safety risks, chronic sleep deprivation can have severe long-term health consequences. It can lead to conditions such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. Therefore, truck drivers should prioritize getting enough rest to maintain their health and well-being.

Tips for preventing sleep-deprived driving

An effective way for truck drivers to help prevent sleep-deprived driving is establishing a consistent sleep schedule. Consistency helps regulate the body’s clock so you can fall asleep and wake up refreshed. Truck drivers should also invest in comfortable mattresses and pillows for their sleeper berth. Additionally, they should block out noise and light to create an ideal sleeping environment. Consider using earplugs, an eye mask and blackout curtains to improve sleep quality.

More importantly, taking short breaks to rest and recharge is essential during long hauls. Brief naps (20-30 minutes) can help to effectively combat drowsiness. Pull over at a safe location, set an alarm and take a power nap if you feel fatigued. This can provide a quick energy boost and enhance alertness.

Sleep-deprived driving is a significant concern for truck drivers, but it’s a problem that can be mitigated with the right strategies and lifestyle adjustments. By understanding the dangers of sleep deprivation and seeking professional help when necessary, truck drivers can lower the risk of accidents and improve their overall well-being.

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On Behalf of Holmes & Wiseley, P.C.

Most people recognize that distracted driving is dangerous, as there have been many campaigns intended to raise awareness about the hazard of mobile devices used by those driving vehicles. However, distraction remains a consistent safety concern that causes thousands of preventable traffic deaths every year in the United States.

The average motorist will be able to spot at least a few distracted drivers on any given drive, as many people do not even attempt to hide that they have their phones in their hands while driving. Despite near-universal awareness of the risks and laws intended to deter people from distracted driving, it remains a major safety concern. There are a few fairly obvious reasons why distracted driving is such a challenging issue to address.

People can’t bring themselves to disconnect

Digital distraction, in particular, is challenging to resolve because it connects to addictive behaviors in individual motorists. People feel like they need to respond instantly when they get a message from someone else and may struggle to set their phone down or ignore incoming notifications. Even hands-free systems intended to enhance driver safety are still a source of distraction, and drivers may pick up their phones to look over a message before sending it to check for accuracy. Most people tell themselves that just checking a single message isn’t a major issue, but then they continue doing so repeatedly through a drive and every time they get behind the wheel, which adds up to significantly enhanced risk.

Distraction isn’t just about devices

Another reason that distraction at the wheel is such a difficult issue to address is that many people only think about mobile phones and similar sources of digital distraction when trying to improve public safety. However, distracted driving includes all kinds of activities, including drinking a coffee on the way to work, putting on makeup at a stoplight or having an intense conversation with a passenger. Any activities that keep someone from fully focusing on driving are a distraction, and it is virtually impossible to pass legislation prohibiting all forms of distraction at the wheel.

Motorists can reduce their personal risk by acknowledging and avoiding sources of distraction and trying to identify distracted drivers on the road. Adjusting personal habits for the risk factors that contribute to most crashes might help someone stay safer or at least avoid personal responsibility for a crash.

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On Behalf of Holmes & Wiseley, P.C.

In the fast-paced world of today, it’s not uncommon for people to find themselves battling exhaustion and stress. Unfortunately, the consequences of sleep deprivation can extend far beyond “mere” fatigue. Sleep is a fundamental biological need and without it, one’s physical and mental well-being suffer. Modern lifestyles often lead to sleep deficits, which can result in severe consequences in a number of scenarios, including when one gets behind the wheel.

Sleep-deprived driving, sometimes called drowsy driving, occurs when a driver goes behind the wheel while lacking adequate sleep. Sleep-deprived driving has become a significant concern, and its correlation with drunk driving is an important topic for all road travelers to understand.

Exploring the correlation with drunk driving

Both sleep-deprived and drunk driving share a common factor – impaired judgment and decision-making. When you’re tired, your ability to assess situations, react to unexpected events and make rational choices diminishes significantly. This is analogous to the impaired judgment experienced by individuals under the influence of alcohol.

One of the most alarming correlations between sleep-deprived and drunk driving is the increased risk of accidents. Fatigue and alcohol both slow down reaction times, making it difficult for drivers to respond promptly to changes in traffic conditions. This leads to a higher likelihood of collisions, injuries and even fatalities.

Sleep debt affects the brain’s ability to function optimally, reducing alertness and concentration. Moreover, it can result in microsleeps – brief lapses in attention that can last for just a few seconds but are long enough to cause a collision.

Studies have shown that being awake for 18 hours straight can be equivalent to having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05%. If you stay awake for 24 hours, it can be as impairing as having a BAC of 0.10%, which is higher than the legal limit for driving.

The correlation between sleep-deprived and drunk driving is undeniable. Both impair an individual’s ability to drive safely, leading to increased risks on the road. Understanding this correlation can help car crash victims pursue compensation for their injuries in the event that they have been harmed by a drowsy driver and are concerned about whether they have strong grounds upon which to pursue a personal injury lawsuit or not.

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On Behalf of Holmes & Wiseley, P.C.

Before embarking on an adrenaline-packed ride to bask on Michigan’s scenic routes or to simply run quick errands, some motorcyclists tend to test their limits by wearing whatever clothing they want.

However, failure to wear the appropriate protective gear only leaves them more vulnerable than they already are alongside other enclosed vehicles on the road. Fatal crashes involving motorcycles in 2021 reached 171, the highest since 2012.

While wearing gear specifically designed for motorcycling is not the only factor in the equation to avoid potential crash injuries and deaths, it can help reduce the severity of damages.

With minimized risks, riders can avoid costing time, resources, emotional welfare and, perhaps, even their lives.

Being mindful of what to wear

The state’s Office of Highway Safety Planning asks riders to follow the four C’s when choosing what helmet, boots, gloves, pants and jacket to wear.

• Covered: To prevent body parts from direct impact
• Comfortable: To provide ease even during seasonal changes
• Conspicuous: To display bright colors easily recognizable by other road users
• Contemporary: To keep up with the times that produce new and more impact-resistant materials

Aside from ensuring that their gear is ready to go, state authorities also remind riders to check their equipment. Through a pre-ride inspection – tires and brakes, oil and fluids, lights and other electrical signals, stands and mirrors, and chassis — riders can avoid technical inconveniences that may lead to potential harm.

Gearing up to keep riding

Motorcyclists can ride safely without compromising the adventurous thrill. But since motorcycle riding requires heightened precaution due to the treacherous paths it often takes, it would be safe to ride in the appropriate style. Unfortunately, sometimes, even the most clothed rider suffers a tragic crash. But a crash should not end their journey then and there. A dedicated legal counsel can work with them day in and out until they receive favorable outcomes. They can guide them toward healing to feel that familiar rush pumping through their veins again.

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