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Seniors encounter both physical and mental challenges as they age. These challenges often affect the driving ability for the elderly. It is important for seniors to stay safe while driving in order to prevent a potential car accident that could result in auto-injuries. Aging does not necessarily mean that you need to stop driving. However, there are some tips to help senior drivers be safe on the roads.
As a senior, more physical challenges arise. The following are some physical challenges that seniors may face:
In order to safely operate a vehicle, a senior driver can do the following:
If you or someone you know was injured in a car accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Our experienced New Castle car accident lawyers at Rhoades & Morrow support victims who have suffered injuries in a car accident. Contact us online or call us at 302-427-9500 for a free consultation regarding your potential case. Our dedicated lawyers will fight to protect your rights. Located in Wilmington, Bear, and Milford, Delaware, we also serve clients in Elsmere and Seaford, and throughout the state.
When a person enters an intersection after the light turns red, they committed a traffic violation. This is referred to as running a red light. The only exception to this is when right-on-red turns are allowed. In this case, a driver failing to stop fully at the red light before turning is considered to have run a red light.
Running red lights is dangerous and has caused hundreds of traffic-related deaths each year. Over half of these deaths involved pedestrians or bicyclists. A recent analysis by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that more than two people are killed every day in crashes from someone running a red light. Unfortunately, the frequency of fatal accidents caused by running red lights is on the rise. Further, running red lights causes many serious injuries. A recent study found that over 130,000 people were injured in red light accidents in a single year.
Research shows that knowledge of the serious risk of running red lights does not translate well into appropriate action. A recent survey by the AAA Foundation found that while most of those surveyed viewed running red lights as dangerous, one in three of them admitted to running a red light within the past 30 days.
Stopping people from running red lights has not been easy. In order to create a deterrent effect, most states impose substantial penalties for running red lights, which may include fines and issuing points on the driver’s license. Insurance companies will typically raise rates on customers having points on their license. Fear of getting ticketed alone does not provide an effective deterrent effect.
Sometimes the yellow light on the signal is too short and does not give drivers enough advanced notice to stop. Adjusting timing of the yellow light to values established by the Institute of Transportation Engineers has been shown to decrease the frequency of violations, as well as the number of crashes from red light running.
Use of red light cameras to monitor intersections and enforce traffic laws has proven to be a useful tool. The cameras are mounted on traffic signal poles and photograph vehicles that run red lights. The photographs can be reviewed, and tickets issued of clear evidence of a violation is found. The cameras also serve as a visual cue to warn drivers to think twice before running a light. Before and after studies of crash data at intersections equipped with cameras showed significant reductions in the number of crashes from red light running.
Since pedestrians and bicyclists are at an increased risk of serious injury in the event of a crash, it is important that they stay safe at intersections. AAA recommends:
If you or someone you know was involved in a red light accident, contact a Delaware car accident lawyer at Rhoades & Morrow today. For a free consultation, call us at 302-427-9500 or complete an online form. Located in Wilmington, Milford, and Bear, Delaware, we serve clients throughout the state, including the areas of Elsmere and Seaford.
Around this time each year, the consumer safety group World Against Toys Causing Harm, Inc. (W.A.T.C.H.) puts together a list of toys that present safety hazards to children. This nonprofit group has been releasing this list for over 40 years. Toys that make these notorious lists range for different age groups. Risks include choking, entanglement, ingestion, and worse. The group stated that in addition to poor design, some of the toys have inadequate warning labels.
Though toys are supposed to provide fun and entertainment, many have hidden dangers that can put children at risk for an injury or even death. Parents and caregivers should be aware of these potential hazards and should always read warning labels. Some toys, such as plastic guns and pogo boards, require protective gear, such as goggles or knee pads.
During the holidays, relatives and friends may buy toys for children without considering the potential dangers, especially if they do not have children of their own. Diligent parents and caregivers are advised to take heed of the warnings and be extra careful when buying toys and when children receive gifts from others. The following are the most dangerous toys of the year, researched and chosen by W.A.T.C.H.
Priced at $49.99, Hasbro’s Nerf Ultra One is a dart blasting toy designed to resemble a machine gun. It is sold at major retailers, such as Walmart and Target, and is recommended for children aged eight and older. It has the potential to injure users who may ingest the darts, and cause battery-related injuries. The darts can also hurt other people, especially if they land in someone’s eye.
Spike the Fine Motor Hedgehog is another dangerous toy that retails for $17.99 at Kohls, Amazon, and other large retailers. It is manufactured by Learning Resources, Inc. and has no warning labels. Designed for toddlers aged 18 months and older, it has removable, small quills that can be swallowed or cause choking.
Spin Master LTD’s “Bunchems” Bunch n’ Build toy retails around $16.50 at Amazon, Michael’s, and Walmart. It is recommended for children aged four and older, and was flagged because of its small parts that can get stuck in children’s hair or swallowed.
The remaining seven dangerous toys that made W.A.T.C.H.’s list include:
If you or someone you love was injured by a dangerous toy, an experienced Delaware personal injury lawyer at Rhoades & Morrow can help. We provide trusted legal guidance to every case. For a free case evaluation, call us at 302-427-9500 or complete our online form. Located in Wilmington, Bear, and Milford, Delaware, we serve clients throughout the state, including the areas of Elsmere and Seaford.
The most wonderful time of the year has some shortcomings. Some of the festive traditions come with safety risks that result in serious injuries every holiday season. With careful consideration of safety concerns, you can avoid unnecessary injuries. The following are safety tips to keep your holidays injury-free.
One of the most beloved aspects of the holidays is getting to enjoy the beautiful decorations. The twinkle of strings lights, the flicker of candles, and the warmth and splendor of a fireplace create the familiar ambiance of holidays. All too often, however, those elements can create real danger if they are not tended to responsibly. The following are a few tips to remember while decorating:
Dry trees catch fire: You should water your Christmas tree daily since dry branches can become kindling if an electrical fire breaks out along a string of electrical Christmas lights.
Open flames are dangerous: Keep open flames on candle decorations, such as menorahs and kinaras, a safe distance from curtains, furniture, and decorations; at least three feet is recommended. Do not leave candles within reach of a child or where a pet can knock into it. Consider flameless candles for your decorations; plug-in or battery-powered options are also available.
Ladders: When using a ladder to hang outside lights or to top off your tree with a sparkly star, make sure to use proper ladder safety practices. Place the ladder on level ground before climbing it. Have someone hold the ladder steady, if possible. Do not attempt to stand on the top step or reach out too far.
Electrical safety: Look over your lights for signs of wear and tear. Replace worn, broken, or questionable lights. Plug in no more than three light strands in a row. A power strip can accommodate additional strands, if necessary. Unplug lights overnight and if you leave the house. When decorating outdoors, use string lights that are meant for use outside. Outside light strands have a fuse in the plug to prevent problems.
Fireplace use: Use a fireplace screen whenever you have an active fire in your fireplace. Stray sparks can land on nearby carpets or other objects. Be sure to keep all flammable materials a minimum of three feet away from the fire. Put the fire out completely before going to bed or leaving the house.
If you were injured due to the negligence of another, contact a Delaware personal injury lawyer at Rhoades & Morrow today. We help clients obtain the compensation they rightfully deserve for their injuries. Contact us online or call us at 302-427-9500 for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington, Bear, and Milford, Delaware, we serve clients throughout the state, including the areas of Elsmere and Seaford.
Storeowners in malls and shopping establishments throughout the country eagerly await the onslaught of shoppers that converge each holiday season. Shoppers buy thoughtful gifts and hunt for seasonal deals, but they do not always fully consider the safety of this activity. While stores are generally considered safe, shoppers can sometimes forget that danger may be lurking just outside the doors.
Shoppers are often warned to stay alert for danger in parking lots as they return to their cars with their newly purchased merchandise. The lure of expensive gifts can make you a target for thieves. With hands full of bags, fingers fumbling for keys, and eyes distracted from your surroundings, you could become the victim of a sinister attack. The advice to be alert and cautious is certainly warranted, however, thieves and attackers are not the only dangers to avoid in parking lots and garages.
Busy holiday-season parking lots, with their tight parking spaces, congested aisles, and abundance of pedestrians, can present a host of possible headaches. The following are some tips to avoid potential parking lot pitfalls:
Obey traffic rules: Just because you are not driving on the street does not mean you should flout traffic rules. Use your turn signal when turning and use your headlights to remain visible after dark. Also, do not drive across the lot, cutting through open parking spaces; use the aisles as intended so other drivers and pedestrians can predict traffic patterns.
Pick a good spot: Instead of aiming for the parking spot closest to the building, consider factors besides the shortest walk. A spot farther back might help you prevent shopping cart dings or give you more space to get in and out of the car, but no matter the proximity to the door, your chosen parking spot should be safe. The main objective of a parking spot search should be to ensure that when you return, you can easily find your car in a well-lit spot.
Back into your spot: If you back into your parking spot, you will have an easier time leaving when it is dark and the lot is more densely packed with people and cars.
Pedestrian dangers: While walking to and from your car, watch for other cars backing out of spots. Just as you should stick to the appropriate car path while driving, you should make sure to use crosswalks as a pedestrian, making your intentions predictable for those around you.
Slip and falls: Be conscious of your footing while walking on un-leveled ground or slick walkways. Walk in lighted areas and stay alert for objects in your path.
If you were injured in a car accident or other incident in a parking lot, you should contact a Delaware personal injury lawyer at Rhoades & Morrow. For a free consultation, contact us online or call us at 302-427-9500. Located in Wilmington, Bear, and Milford, Delaware, we serve clients throughout the state, including the areas of Elsmere and Seaford.
Thanksgiving is one of the biggest travel holidays of the year. Millions of people across the country will be hitting the road to celebrate with loved ones. With traffic much higher than usual, it is more important than ever for drivers to stay safe on the road. Below are some tips for travelers to minimize their risk of a car accident.
Safe Thanksgiving travel begins well before the trip. Proper planning can make all the difference on long journeys, starting with making sure vehicles are in good working condition. Drivers should check their tires, brakes, and windshield wipers to make sure they are fully functional and check their fluid levels before hitting the road. Drivers should also make sure they are well rested for the trip; if they are going long distances, they should plan to rotate drivers.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
Most drivers use a GPS for long trips, but drivers should still familiarize themselves with their routes in advance and carry a map just in case it fails. In late November, many areas in the U.S. experience winter weather. Drivers should check the forecast not just for their destination, but along their route, to see if they will encounter any inclement weather. If they do get stuck in severe weather, drivers should have emergency supplies with them, including a flashlight, radio, batteries, first aid kit, bottled water, jumper cables, blankets, flares, a fire extinguisher, and non-perishable foods. Drivers should always start their trip with a full tank of gas and make sure the tank does not get too low in case they have to stop.
When on the road, drivers must engage in safe driving behaviors, maintaining safe following distances and obeying posted speed limits. Leaving early can help avoid peak congestion, and drivers will not feel the need to rush if they get stuck in traffic. Drivers should always keep their eyes on the road and away from distractions, such as cell phones or food and drink. As always, drivers should wear a seat belt and never drive while under the influence.
AAA estimated that 54.3 million drivers would be traveling over 50 miles during Thanksgiving weekend, and that number is likely to increase. With that many cars on the road, the risk of an accident is exponentially higher. Thanksgiving travel accidents can cause serious injury, especially those involving more than two vehicles or large vehicles, such as tractor trailers.
If you or a loved one was injured in an auto accident during holiday travel, call the New Castle car accident lawyers at Rhoades & Morrow. Our knowledgeable lawyers have successfully represented accident victims in all types of cases. We will thoroughly review the facts of your case to determine who is at-fault for your injuries and obtain the maximum compensation to which you are entitled. With offices conveniently located in Wilmington, Bear, and Milford, Delaware, we help accident victims throughout the state, including Elsmere and Seaford. Call us today at 302-427-9500 or contact us online for a free consultation.
Trucks cross Delaware roadways every hour of every day to get their freight where it needs to go. Even seasoned truckers with years under their belts may not always use the correct streets or thoroughfares to get from one point to another. Similarly, they may rely on an outdated GPS and end up driving their trucks in areas that cannot accommodate their full truck height.
To cut down on the incidents of truckers knowingly or unwittingly traversing roads not meant for vehicles their height, Delaware legislators have passed new regulations. The legislation ensures violators will be penalized financially.
Most motorists have seen warnings aimed at truckers, especially before underpasses and bridges. Usually, these warnings note the maximum truck height allowed on the road. They may also offer alternative routes for truckers to avoid problems such as bridge strikes. A bridge strike occurs when an excessively tall truck trailer hits the bottom of a bridge, potentially causing property damage or a truck-related accident or fatality.
Emerging technologies now allow municipalities to determine when a truck of an inappropriate height has passed along a roadway. Mounted sensors send information including truck license plate numbers to the municipality, ensuring law enforcement can issue fines to truckers who neglect to drive responsibly.
Other states have adopted similar truck vehicle height monitoring legislation, but only Delaware appears to allow any municipality to take advantage of the monitoring system. In other words, any city, township, or other applicable entity can use vehicle height monitoring to help reduce problems on their roadways. Other states typically focus their vehicle height monitoring legislation on or around large cities.
It should be noted that the legislation is not limited to commercial trucks. Individuals driving rental trucks, such as self-service moving vans, could also be fined for violation of height and road restrictions.
The goal of all vehicle height monitoring laws is to reduce any collisions with truck trailers or beds and bridges or underpasses. Additionally, vehicle height monitoring can be used to encourage trucks to use alternate routes. Currently, some municipalities have reported repeated problems with truckers ignoring warning signs and driving through residential neighborhoods.
How does the legislation impact offenders? It hits them in the wallet as opposed to taking away their ability to work or continue a chosen career.
Truckers caught violating posted vehicle height limits will receive a warning the first time they are caught. For second and subsequent violations, they will be fined $250 and $500, respectively. They will not, however, receive any points on their driver’s license as a result of violating vehicle height restrictions.
Everyone who drives or is a passenger deserves to arrive alive and unharmed to their destination. Still, sometimes accidents with trucks happen. If you have been hurt or a loved one was killed in a truck accident, call the Milford truck accident lawyers at Rhoades & Morrow. To schedule a free, initial consultation, call us at 302-422-6705, or contact us online. Located in Bear, Wilmington, and Milford, Delaware, we represent clients throughout the state including Seaford and Elsmere.
Workers in numerous fields encounter objects, items, and situations that can lead to the possibility of chemical burns. Like all burns, chemical burns can range from minor to deadly, making it important for every employee to take safety concerns seriously. Otherwise, workers may need to take time off to recuperate, necessitating the initiation of a Workers’ Compensation claim or, in more extreme cases, a personal injury lawsuit.
Chemical burns occur when a chemical agent or otherwise toxic substance causes harm to the soft tissues, organs, or other parts of the body. A few frequently seen chemical burn-causing substances include acids, pesticides, and solvents.
The chemical does not have to spill directly on a person to cause problems. For instance, airborne chemical distribution can lead to irritation and injury of the eyes, lungs, and other areas. Similarly, inhaled toxic items may cause burns inside the body that can only be seen through medical tests.
Workers who are most likely to be impacted at work by chemical burns should always rely on safety equipment and protocols to limit exposure to chemical agents. Some of the basic safety gear available to employees include helmets, prescription or non-prescription protective eyewear, and gloves. In some situations, employees may have to access eye wash stations immediately to wash away chemicals when appropriate or wear whole-body hazmat suits for coverage.
In addition to these types of safety options, teams may adopt certain processes and procedures that reduce the risk of chemical burns. Normally, any operational safety measures will be explained to workers through initial and ongoing training and development. Over time, the measures may change relative to evolving needs of the company or an individual worker’s position.
When an individual suffers from a chemical burn, the person may experience numerous symptoms, not all of which are immediately apparent. Rashes, blisters, red marks, welts, and obvious signs of irritation and tissue burning often coincide with chemical burn incidents. Additionally, less obvious symptoms can include mouth, lung, throat, and eye irritation, and pain. Exposure to especially toxic agents have even been linked to brain damage, nerve damage, and other potentially life-altering conditions.
Response time remains critical in limiting the lasting effects of chemical burns. Workers should follow the designated first aid steps after exposure to any toxic chemical, such as washing off the chemical, applying burn cream, or calling 911. Medical attention is always warranted to document even mild chemical burns, as the burns could lead to difficulties later.
Workers who cannot go back to work immediately after a chemical burn accident may want to file a Workers’ Compensation claim with the help of a legal representative. This allows them to receive the correct monetary compensation for their suffering.
Chemical burns can lead to extensive physical and mental problems. If you or a loved one was exposed to a chemical at work, you may be entitled to compensation. The Wilmington work accident lawyers at Rhoades & Morrow have the experience to walk you through the process and help you obtain the maximum benefit for your injury. Contact us online or call us at 302-427-9500 for a free consultation today. Located in Wilmington, Bear, and Milford, Delaware, we serve clients throughout the state, including the areas of Elsmere and Seaford.
While many enjoy the vibrant colors of the autumn landscape, all those beautifully colored leaves must fall. Wet leaves can become as slippery as an icy pond while piles of leaves can hide hidden dangers, such as uneven sidewalks, potholes, and wheel stops in parking lots. Injuries from slip and falls on autumn leaves can result in serious injuries requiring long recovery periods and lost wages.
Autumn leaves can be overwhelming to keep under control. Just when you think you cleared your property, a windy day can bring more leaves that cover your lawn, sidewalk, and steps. When someone falls and is injured on your property, you can be held liable if you fail to properly maintain it. Clearing leaves from sidewalks, driveways, steps, and curbs is the responsibility of the home or business owner. Failure to keep up with clearing leaves on your property can result in liability for the injuries of those who slip and fall.
When individuals are injured in a slip and fall accident in public places, retail establishments, and entertainment venues, liability falls on the property owner or the proprietor responsible for maintenance of the property. Many people realize the dangers of snow and ice at these establishments, but others may fail to realize how dangerous autumn leaves can be when they get wet or accumulate.
Walkways and parking lots covered in leaves can hide a multitude of dangers. Uneven sidewalks, potholes, wheel stops, debris, rocks and sticks, and icy patches under the leaves can easily cause someone to lose their balance. Sharp objects such as broken glass and metal pieces under the leaves can cause serious injury when victims fall on them.
Homeowners and property owners are responsible to maintain their properties and keep them free from hazards. While making sure every leaf is picked up as soon as it falls is impossible, a realistic effort at maintaining the leaves is required by law. Proving that landscaping crews have worked on the property, visible piles of blown or raked leaves, or reasonable amounts of leaves on the ground can help a property owner prove that they were not negligent in their legal responsibilities.
If you are involved in a slip and fall accident, it is important to know what to do to protect your legal rights.
If you were injured in a slip and fall accident, call the Delaware personal injury lawyers at Rhoades & Morrow at 302-427-9500 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. We will review your case and fight to obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Located in Wilmington, Milford, and Bear, Delaware, we serve clients throughout the state, including the areas of Seaford and Elsmere.
For most families, trick or treating means costume hunting, high anticipation of the neighborhood walkaround, and a load of candy to devour at the end of the night. Yet, like all holidays, Halloween offers unique concerns that cause parents to worry. On the bright side, Halloween safety issues can be mitigated often by a little forethought. A bit of preparation can pay off by ensuring that the only thing spooky about the night is the faux stuffed ghoul sitting on the porch swing, instead of potential accidents.
When children imagine their perfect Halloween outfits, they might not consider how risky some accessories can be. Plastic swords and daggers, as well as masks that obstruct vision, can lead to bumps, falls, and other physical injuries. Every costume should be evaluated for its safety value. It should also be warm enough if trick or treating will be in cold temperatures, as well as protective against rain and wind.
Halloween is not the night to get too adventurous and head into an unknown neighborhood. Children and parents should stick to areas they know well. Ideally, the streets will be well-lit and lots of homes will participate in handing out candy and goodies. The more involved homeowners are, the more likely they can make sure children who visit them are safe and have fun.
Trick or treating takes place during the evening hours. Everyone should try to wear reflective gear in the form of footwear, a hat, or a vest. This allows passing motorists to see trick-or-treaters in time to put on the brakes. Children may dart across streets out of excitement. Being outfitted in reflective items gives them an added measure of security and protection.
At least one responsible adult should supervise a group of children. That way, if something does go wrong, the adult can take the lead immediately. Even young teens should have a parent tag along, just in case.
It can be tough for a child to make good decisions about candy, so parents need to take the lead and examine all treats before allowing their children to eat them. Any goodies with opened wrappers must be discarded. This lowers the risk of youngsters taking in tampered food items or food that has gone bad.
Flames can destroy more than the inside of a pumpkin; they can also cause fires to costumes, trick-or-treat bags, and personal property. If children are visiting a house with a carved pumpkin that has a real candle, parents need to make sure they stay away from the decoration. Otherwise, they could get in harm’s way.
Every parent wants Halloween to be filled with fun. However, if your trick or treating goes awry and someone gets hurt, you may want to talk with a Delaware personal injury lawyer at Rhoades & Morrow right away. Call us at 302-427-9500 or contact us online for a free consultation. With offices in Wilmington, Milford, and Bear, Delaware, we represent clients throughout the state, including the areas of Seaford and Elsmere.
