Category: Car Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 26 percent of all Americans aged 16 or older have been injured in a car accident at some point in their lives and needed medical treatment as a result. More than half of those who are hurt require additional, follow up treatment and some will suffer from their injuries for the remainder of their lives.

While almost any activity can lead to an injury, car accidents pose a particular threat because the actions of other drivers affect everyone’s safety. Therefore, cautious and defensive drivers can still be hurt in a collision if another motorist acts in a negligent or reckless manner. When a crash strikes, those who suffer may bear no fault for the cause of the collision yet may be forced to endure pain and suffering in addition to serious injuries. Medical expenses can quickly put victims in debt and can affect their abilities to provide for their families and themselves. Following an incident, those who have been hurt may be shocked to learn that the efforts of police and state’s attorneys to punish at-fault drivers do not benefit the victims directly; rather, if an injured accident victim wants relief, it is up to that victim to seek and obtain it alone or with the help of a personal injury lawyer.

Around 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday evening, two vehicles collided near Interstate 17 and New River in Phoenix and caused devastation to those involved. Three people were left with life-threatening injuries and at least another two people were hurt in the collision. Police have not yet revealed a suspected cause of the crash but they have confirmed that their review is ongoing at this time.

The three victims facing life threatening injuries were transported by helicopter for emergency treatment at an area hospital while the remaining two victims were taken by ambulance. Southbound I-17 was closed while the injured were evacuated and while emergency crews removed the debris from the crash.
Continue reading “Phoenix Car Crash Leaves 3 in Critical Condition”

Though 2014 came to an end this week, the fallout from major automobile recalls continues to affect drivers across the country, including those in Phoenix and the Valley of the Sun. Recent news has focused on problems with ignition systems in several models of General Motors vehicles as fatal car accidents are believed to have been caused by underlying issues which can cause the vehicle to turn off in a collision, potentially deactivating airbags. Some models have already been repaired by now General Motors is targeting additional vehicles in their recall efforts.

This new round of recalls involves the ignition lock like prior 2014 recalls but the problem is believed to be slightly different. Even some previously repaired vehicles are included in this most recent recall because the ignition lock is too big and can make it impossible to turn the key if the vehicle is hot, according to officials. Drivers of certain 2007-2014 Chevrolet Silverados, Avalanches, Tahoes, Suburbans, GMC Sierras, Yukons, and Cadillac Escalades may be notified in the coming weeks of the need to have their vehicles repaired. Some of these owners will have been involved in the last round of ignition-related recalls issued by General Motors.

GM says the current issue has not been associated with any collisions or injuries to their knowledge but the prior ignition issues did result in 42 suspected deaths and 58 additional suspected injuries.

Drivers of any type of vehicle in Arizona should feel confident that their car, truck, or SUV is free from design flaws that may cause an accident, but as the record number of recalls in 2014 reflect, cars are manufactured each year that are unsafe. Unwitting buyers of these cars may be placed in an unsafe situation simply by driving each day. What is worse is that these drivers likely are unaware of hidden defects and design flaws which means that nothing can be done by these motorists to prevent a crash.

Car accidents happen each day in Phoenix and many of them are caused by a mistake or an error on the part of someone involved. In some cases, it is the fault of a driver. But when it comes to a defect in design, it may be the fault of a company or manufacturer involved in the process of building the car.

When a collision is the fault of another, victims of that crash may be entitled to seek compensation for their losses, including the injuries they sustain. Arizona law makes it clear that these victims are entitled to relief and that the right to obtain help belongs to the victims and cannot be prevented by a company looking to avoid liability. Speaking with a personal injury attorney in Phoenix may help you understand your options and your rights if a collision has harmed you or has left your loved one injured or dead.
Continue reading “General Motors Expands Ignition Recall”

New Year’s Eve is a busy holiday for many in the greater Phoenix area who choose to celebrate the end of one year and the start of another. Today, many across the Valley of the Sun are preparing to spend time with family and friends tonight and will be taking to the roads later today. Though school is not in session for many kids and though many people may have the day off work, the roads in Phoenix are likely to see a heavy traffic load through the morning hours of New Year’s Day.

With increased traffic comes an increased chance of a car accident, and on New Year’s Eve, odds are that some of those drivers will be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. During a normal year, this combination of increased traffic and impaired operators can turn fatal in the blink of an eye. This year, the conditions are worse as the Valley is preparing for rain throughout the night and as northern areas prepare for snow.

Inclement weather is a contributing factor in millions of car accidents across the country ever year. The normally dry and consistent weather in Phoenix means that, outside of monsoon season, Phoenix does not have as many weather-related accidents as some other large cities. Yet weather still strikes in the Valley and can contribute to collisions that result in injuries, damages, or even death. Contrary to popular belief, weather is rarely the sole cause of a crash, though, and in most cases, weather combines with some form of driver conduct to cause an accident. Whether it is speeding, aggressive driving, or failing to stop at a stop sign or red light, the actions of a motorist generally play a role in a traffic incident.

The personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. wish you a safe and happy New Year. To increase safety, we recommend the following actions be on your mind before you take to the roads tonight:

– Never drink and drive: Drunk driving accidents happen every New Year’s Eve and often, they involve innocent victims who happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. If you will be celebrating tonight and your celebration involves alcohol, do not drive. It is not only a violation of Arizona law to drive while drunk but it is a threat to the safety of all those on the road. Instead, use a designated driver, take a taxi cab, or consider staying in one place so you do not need to get behind the wheel.

– Slow down: Nearly half of all accidents in the country involve speeding, according to several national studies. Speeding is a common activity among a large number of drivers but that does not make it acceptable. Slow down, pay attention to traffic conditions, and watch for others who are traveling too fast for conditions.

– Increase following distance: With rain anticipated tonight, the roads may be slippery and it may take additional time to slow or stop your car. Be prepared for this and respond appropriately by increasing the distance between your vehicle and those in front of you to insure you have adequate time to stop if needed.

– Drive defensively: No one wants to believe they will be the victims of an accident but even the safest driver can be hurt by the conduct of another. Tonight, look for aggressive drivers or motorists who do not stay in their own lanes. Be prepared for drivers who may fail to yield the right-of-way. It is always best to prevent an accident from occurring so be careful if you are driving tonight.
Continue reading “Inclement Weather Anticipated for New Year’s Eve in Phoenix”

When you drive, do you obey all posted signs and follow all driving-related laws? If every motorist did in the state of Arizona, the roads would be much safer than they are and fewer car accidents would result. But today, that is not the case as thousands of drivers act negligently every year with many of those located in the greater Phoenix area. it only takes one driver making a mistake to threaten the safety of dozens on the road or even to lead to a multi-vehicle crash.

But what are victims supposed to do? You may not know it, but the rights of accident victims are protected in Phoenix and elsewhere in Arizona by laws that are designed to hold at-fault drivers liable for the consequences of their actions. This goes beyond any possible traffic citations or criminal charges brought against these drivers and encompasses civil claims for injuries – a type of action that belongs to a victim and cannot be prevented by those who caused the crash. The ability to seek financial compensation exists but victims must take affirmative steps to get the relief they deserve, and speaking with a personal injury lawyer is a good place to start that process if you have questions or if you are looking for assistance.

Early this morning, a collision occurred near Scottsdale that claimed the life of one person involved. Local officials responded to the scene near Longmore Road and McKellips Road shortly after midnight on the Native American reservation in the area. At this time, police believe that a southbound vehicle in the area ran a stop sign and collided with a second car nearby, causing a serious accident that left one person dead and two others injured. Emergency crews responded to the scene and evaluated the victims, transporting the two survivors to area hospitals for greater assistance. The conditions of those victims is not clear at this time.

Police have not yet confirmed the identities of those involved in the crash nor have they confirmed from which vehicle the victim who was killed was in prior to the impact. The official investigation began on the scene, which was opened by approximately 8:00 a.m., but continues off-scene at this time. The results of that investigation may determine whether any charges will be issued or any additional legal action taken.
Continue reading “Fatal Crash Caused by Suspect Running Stop Sign”

The more vehicles involved in any car accident, the greater number of potential victims that result. In addition to the drivers of these cars, passengers may sustain injuries and may need help. Further, when the vehicles involved are large or have a passenger capacity greater than a typical car, like a bus for example, the number of potential victims can increase exponentially.

Multiple vehicle car accidents also make it difficult to determine who caused the crash or whether the actions of multiple drivers contributed to the collision. While one driver may witness a certain version of events, the position and placement of a second driver may reveal other complexities that led to the collision. It can take police officers weeks or even months to fully investigate a crash that results in serious injuries and many victims need help long before that time. Fortunately, Arizona recognizes this and allows accident victims the right to retain an attorney of the victim’s choosing to help them seek compensation they deserve. Speaking to a lawyer who handles injury cases may help you understand your options whether you were a driver, a passenger, a pedestrian or another victim of a car accident in Phoenix or the surrounding Valley cities.

Early this morning, police in Phoenix were alerted to a multi-vehicle crash near the Loop 101 and McDowell just before 5:00 am. At least three vehicles were involved in total and authorities have confirmed that a pickup truck was one of them. At this time, there has been no definitive word as to the cause of the crash and police are still in the midst of their investigation.

At least one of the vehicles involved rolled over and came to rest on its roof. While it is unclear how many people were inside the cars, authorities have stated that two men were left in critical condition and were transported by ambulance to area hospitals for emergency treatment.
Continue reading “Multiple Vehicles Collide in Phoenix”

With the holiday season in full swing in Arizona, many residents are starting to think about their travel plans, whether they will take place inside or outside of the state. Many school districts in Phoenix and across the Valley are on winter break and many others will be in the coming days so some residents are already on the move. Most of these people will travel on some of the busiest expressways in the area, including the Loop 101, Loop 202, 10, 60, and 17.

More Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home this year than in any year since 2009. With nearly 100 million travelers anticipated, roads will be busy and will be congested. Arizona will not escape this influx of vehicular traffic and therefore those in Phoenix are wise to consider this possibility before they leave home.

At Abels & Annes, P.C., our personal injury lawyers have experience in holiday car accidents and their devastation. With all we know, we want to pass on the following tips to make your trip as safe and uneventful as possible if you are traveling this year:

– If traffic is heavy, keep to your lane: Drivers can be frustrated when traffic backs up, leading them to seek any opening or any opportunity to get ahead of the congestion. But needlessly switching between lanes rarely improves a motorist’s situation and often leads to increased risk. Changing lanes during times of heavy traffic is a common cause of side impact collisions and other accidents which will not only ruin your day but will also cause that traffic to worsen. Instead, stick to one lane when possible and when you have no need to move and try to be patient until traffic lessens.

– Keep your focus on the road: If you are traveling this season, it is easy to focus on the events ahead with your family and friends. But while you are in your vehicle, keep your attention on the road and on traffic surrounding you. Try to ignore outside distractions like billboards and scenic views and do not let inside distractions take you away from your task. If your passengers are arguing or children as misbehaving, do not endanger your entire car by losing focus. If you need to, pull over to the side of the road and address any distractions while your vehicle is parked safely.

– Remain calm: Losing your cool will not improve your drive or will not ease traffic but it will increase your risk for an accident. Instead, try to remember that you are not capable of controlling the actions of other drivers and do your best to stay level headed if you find yourself in a frustrating situation.

– Never drink and drive: Many will celebrate the holiday season with alcohol but the holidays do not change the fact that it is illegal to drink and drive in the State of Arizona. In addition to being a crime, drinking and driving is a threat to public safety as motorists who are inebriated are more likely to cause a collision. If you choose to drink this year, abstain from driving and instead use a designated driver, public transportation, or a taxi cab is possible. If not, wait until it is safe for you to drive before leaving your location.
Continue reading “Reminders for Safe Travel this Holiday Season”

Did you drive a car in Phoenix in 2013? Or were you a passenger in a vehicle? If you did not travel in Phoenix, did you drive in Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Glendale, or Tempe? What about the rest of the state? If you are like most who call the Valley home, odds are that you were in a vehicle at some point last year. If so, the personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. hope you made it to your destination safely and without incident and that your family remained unaffected by a car crash. Unfortunately, the Arizona Department of Transportation reports that 107,348 traffic accidents happened in 2013 alone and that 34,047 of those caused injuries to the people involved.

Victims of car accidents can range from the very young to the very old and across all types of social indicators. It does not matter whether you drive an older car that has seen better days or a brand new, top-of-the-line vehicle with fully loaded features. The truth is that anyone can become the victim of a car crash at any time in Phoenix. When these accidents leave victims injured, those who have been hurt may be entitled to seek compensation for their losses through the use of a civil claim, a court action that has been authorized by Arizona law. But victims do not have to try and sort through their options by themselves as they are entitled to hire a lawyer of their choice to enforce their rights and pursue relief that these victims deserve. If you have been injured or if your loved one has been hurt, you may understand your options better after consulting with an injury lawyer in Arizona.

A collision on Sunday afternoon left one woman dead and another person injured, according to local police who responded to the scene. The incident took place near Chandler Boulevard and Desert Foothills Parkway around 12:30 p.m. in Phoenix. While it is early in their investigation, police suspect that one driver may have lost control over her vehicle, leading her to hit a median and then cross into oncoming traffic, causing a head-on collision with a second car. Both vehicles reportedly were driven by women and one was killed due to the accident; the other sustained serious injuries and was taken to an area hospital where she is expected to survive, but the extent of her damages is not clear.
Continue reading “Phoenix Car Crash Leaves 1 Dead”

In national surveys, more than 80 percent of all American drivers consider themselves to be “better than average” when it comes to operating a car. Of course, 80 percent cannot be better than average, meaning that a large number of motorists identify themselves as good drivers even though that might be an inaccurate description. This holds true in Arizona where hundreds of thousands of motorists hit the streets every day. Unfortunately, when some drivers believe they are more skilled or safer than others, they tend to engage in activities that threaten everyone. The most common of these is speeding. Experts opine that speeding is a deadly factor in car accidents in Phoenix because empirical studies reveal it occurs in almost half of all collisions.

But what happens if you are a safe driver and you are still involved in a crash due to the actions of another? Where do you turn if you are hurt or if your family member is injured or killed? In Arizona, lawmakers understand that victims should not be forced to bear this burden but rather negligent drivers should be held responsible for all that results from an accident. In practice, this means a victim can seek relief for any injuries sustained through the use of a civil claim for damages, a type of legal claim that is separate and distinct from any charges brought by local officials or police. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer in Phoenix or across the Valley may help you understand how to obtain the relief you deserve if an accident has affected you or whether you have a valid claim if your loved one was hurt.

Police believe that a fatal accident in Tempe on Friday began by one driver speeding on I-10. The incident took place in the eastbound lanes near US 60 and started when a driver lost control of a speeding car. The car struck a concrete median along I-10 and also collided with a second vehicle in the area, leading to injuries for four people involved. In addition to those who were hurt, one woman was killed. Her name has not been released but officials have confirmed that she was a back seat passenger in the speeding car prior to the crash.

The conditions of the other four victims are not clear at this time.
Continue reading “Speeding a Factor in Fatal Tempe Car Accident”

Every year, the population in the Valley of the Sun continues to increase at a high rate. As the population grows, everything grows, including the number of motorists. A greater number of drivers take to the road every year and with the young population of the Phoenix area, a large number of new motorists are anticipated for years to come. Traffic in Phoenix is heavy as a result and few areas are sparred from the congestion that many drivers loathe.

Car accidents can happen at any point on a road, street, highway, or a parking lot but some situations are more likely than others to lead to a crash. For example, intersections have a large number of collisions because traffic moving in different directions must yield the right-of-way so that only one direction of traffic is in a designated spot at any one time. Failing to yield by running a red light or a stop sign may place multiple vehicles in the intersection simultaneously and lead to a crash.

The cause of an accident can be difficult to determine but the majority of collisions occur when a driver makes a mistake or acts negligently in some way. This negligence can lead to a driver receiving a traffic ticket or other punishment including a criminal charge based on the facts of a specific crash, but that may not be where the penalties end. Arizona law enables victims to obtain the relief they need by bringing a civil claim against the responsible driver or vehicle owner. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer may help you understand your options if an accident has affected your life or left your loved one injured or killed.

A motorist was driving in the area of 69th Street and Shea in Scottsdale on Monday when the driver collided with two other vehicles, according to local authorities. The crash happened in the intersection and the cause of the accident has not been confirmed but police did state that the first vehicle’s driver lost control after the initial impact, sending the vehicle off the road’s surface and into a nearby canal. The canal had several feet of water in it which led to the vehicle becoming partially submerged.

Two people involved in the accident were hurt and were taken to hospitals for treatment of injuries that were not believed to be life threatening. Witnesses likely played a role in helping the occupants of the partially submerged vehicle escape but it is not clear whether that early escape helped prevent any more serious injuries.
Continue reading “3 Car Crash in Scottsdale Sends Vehicle into Canal”

Annually, thousands of people in Phoenix fall victims to car accidents and many more suffer across the state of Arizona. But collisions threaten the safety of motorists and passengers nationwide, not just in Arizona. Though significant advances in automobile construction and manufacture have produced safety innovations, injuries continue to result from accidents and some victims lose their lives.

The losses caused by car crashes can be difficult to measure because the full gravity of the collision may take years to materialize. From property damage done instantly to immediate medical needs to injuries that never fully heal, these incidents can harm a victim, families, friends and neighbors for decades. While these accidents cannot be erased once they occur, the laws in Arizona are designed to protect those who are hurt by allowing them to seek financial compensation for their damages, regardless of the form those damages take. To understand your rights if you have been involved in a collision, you may want to consult with a personal injury lawyer in Phoenix to learn if a crash entitles to you payment or whether you have a valid claim against anyone involved.

Unfortunately, sources have confirmed that Cam Newton, starting quarterback for the Carolina Panthers NFL football team, was involved in a collision earlier today in North Carolina and that he was hurt in the crash. Officials have reported that Newton was driving near the Panther’s stadium in Charlotte when he collided with a sedan in the area. Newton’s truck reportedly flipped onto its side before coming to a rest on a bridge near the scene of the impact.

Emergency crews responded to the scene and evaluated Newton as well as the driver of the sedan. Newton allegedly showed signs of injury and pain, prompting emergency crews to place him on a backboard and transport him by ambulance to an area hospital. Though the nature and extent of his injuries are not known, reports indicate that Newton was conscious at the scene and that his injuries did not appear to be life threatening.

The driver of the sedan likely sustained injuries but conflicting reports have been released at this time so it cannot be confirmed.

There has been no declaration by officials as to the cause of the collision or whether either driver involved acted negligently prior to the impact. As the investigation into this crash continues, tickets may or may not be issued.
Continue reading “NFL Quarterback Cam Newton Hurt in Car Accident”