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Pennsylvania recognizes Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

2012-05-18T21:30:30Z

Many Pittsburgh area residents enjoy riding motorcycles both for transportation as well as fun. While the use of motorcycles is widespread, and becoming even more so throughout the state, it is important to remember the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be devastating.

Motorcyclists throughout the nation may be aware that May is National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Accordingly, states throughout the nation are recognizing the event in different ways. Pennsylvania is no exception. In recognition of the national campaign, Governor Tom Corbett recently signed a proclamation designating May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in the state of Pennsylvania.

]]> This proclamation is not the only thing the state is doing to try to make things safer for motorcyclists on Pennsylvania state roads. It also has an interactive website geared toward the riders of motorcycles called Live Free Ride Alive. In addition to safety tips, it provides visitors with the opportunity to share stories about riding. The "Be One Less" pledge can also be accessed there.

Focusing on motorcycle safety is important for the state. This is because the number of motorcyclists licensed by the state increased by 8,500 in 2011. In addition, 5,600 additional motorcycles were registered.

Last year a total of 3,600 motorcycle accidents occurred in the state. Of that number, 199 deaths occurred. While these numbers actually reflect a decrease from the previous year, most would agree they are still too high. Accordingly, PennDOT is urging everyone on the road, motorcycle riders and car drivers alike, to share the road and take the steps necessary to stay safe.

Source: The Sacramento Bee, "May Declared Motorcycle Safety Month by Governor Corbett," Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, May 4, 2012

Man riding lawn tractor in hospital after being struck by car

2012-05-16T20:45:20Z

People are injured in different types of accidents throughout the Pittsburgh area on a regular basis. While motor vehicle accidents are often the cause of the personal injuries, most would agree that it is uncommon for one of the motor vehicles to be a lawn tractor. This was the case earlier this month in Beaver County, however.

A 47-year-old man was hurt when the lawn tractor on which he was riding was struck by car driven by an 18-year-old man. The collision occurred on Georgetown Road as the man on the tractor was mowing his grandparents' lawn. Though not known for sure, it is believed that he was on the road, in the process of turning around, when the car hit him.

]]> The man on the tractor was injured in the incident and was transported to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. Though the specifics regarding his injuries are unknown, his condition was characterized as serious. The man in the car was not hurt.

It is not clear what caused the younger man's vehicle to hit the lawn tractor. The accident occurred around noon so he should have been able to see the tractor without a problem. Thus far no charges have been filed against the 18-year-old and the accident is currently under investigation.

Even if the younger man is not criminally charged, it is possible that he could still face a lawsuit. The man on the lawn tractor may decide to file a personal injury lawsuit against the man in the car. The monetary damages potentially available in such a case would likely make it easier for the man to deal with his recovery. Whether this will transpire remains to be seen.

Source: WPXI, "Man in serious condition after lawn tractor hit by car in Beaver County," May 15, 2012

Several drivers injured during police chase near Pittsburgh

2012-05-12T04:41:28Z

For most people, driving is a mundane experience. But imagine what it would be like if, while you were casually traveling to your destination, you suddenly found yourself in the middle of an erratic high speed police chase. That is exactly what happened to one Pennsylvania woman who became entangled in an intense police pursuit near Pittsburgh that resulted in a motor vehicle accident last week.

According to news reports, the chase began when an officer approached a parked vehicle to investigate what appeared to be suspicious activity. Rather than cooperating with the police officer, the driver of the vehicle fled, nearly hitting the officer with his car. This sparked a high intensity chase that reached speeds of over 80 mph.

]]> The chase continued for nearly two miles before the vehicle collided with several other cars and came to a stop after running a stop sign and ramming into a large truck. According to authorities and eye witnesses, the impact of the crash sent the vehicle flipping through the air. It landed on the roof of the car driven by an unsuspecting woman. While the woman was not severely injured in the collision, she told reporters that she was "in shock" and severely shaken by the crash.

A man who lived near the scene of the accident reported that police officers surrounded the suspect's car once it came to a rest. He recalled that they had their guns drawn and were demanding that the driver show is hands and get out of the car. The suspect and his passenger, a teenage girl, were both taken to the hospital for treatment following the crash. It is not currently clear what consequences the driver will face.

Source: msnbc, "2 hurt in police chase, crash," May 3, 2012

School bus accident on Route 30 injures 4

2012-05-10T03:40:16Z

Just days after the bus accident on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, another bus has been involved in a motor vehicle accident. This one occurred earlier this week on a stretch of Route 30 in Westmoreland County.

According to the police, the crash occurred when the bus, which is owned by Lodestar Bus Lines, attempted to cross Route 30 at West Main Street. Prior to crossing, the bus had been stopped at a stop sign placed at the intersection. At the time of the accident, the bus was in the process of transporting students to a school in Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

]]> Several people were injured in the collision including the person behind the wheel of the bus and two children, ages 6 and 14 who were passengers. The person driving the car that was struck by the bus was also hurt. The children were taken to the hospital and released after receiving treatment. The nature and severity of the drivers' injuries is unknown.

It currently is not clear what caused the accident to occur. Preliminarily, because the bus hit the car it would appear that the driver of the bus was at fault. As we all know however, things are not always what they seem.

Though presumably the bus driver looked both ways at the stop sign before commencing the crossing, it is possible that for some reason the driver did not see the car it struck. It is also possible that the driver of the car was traveling faster than the bus driver anticipated, resulting in the vehicles coming into contact. Seeking to determine exactly what happened, the police are conducting an investigation into the cause.

Regardless of the outcome of the investigation it is possible that personal injury lawsuits will be filed to cover expenses such as lost wages and medical bills.

Source: WTAE, "Students, driver injured in school bus crash," May 3, 2012

Fox Chapel High School addresses drunk driving before prom

2012-05-04T21:43:05Z

For many teens throughout the Pittsburgh area the last milestone before they graduate and leave high school is prom. For some attending the event, planning for the celebration starts early and includes finding the perfect outfit, shoes and hair style. Unfortunately this happy occasion is often marred by car accidents related to drunk driving.

Recognizing drunk driving is an issue often associated with prom, Fox Chapel Area High School took proactive action to try to limit the number of car accidents that happen on that night. In doing so, it received assistance from area fire departments, county 911, police departments, the medical examiner and several EMS crews.

]]> The goal of the group is to highlight the potentially serious consequences of driving while intoxicated. Together, the group created a mock accident scene, complete with students made-up as victims and the Jaws of Life. Obituaries were read for the students who "died" in the pretend incident and walking the halls of the school as the "living dead," they were unable to talk to anyone the rest of the day. One student actor participated in, and failed, a sobriety test.

The Activities Director believes the event will make a difference. She indicated that even if only one student changed his or her behavior as a result of the program, a life or lives could be saved, and it will be worth it.

What do you think? Do you think these types of programs designed to illicit emotion are effective in preventing teen drinking and driving?

Source: KDKA, "Fox Chapel High School Demonstrates Drunk Driving Effects," April 25, 2012

School bus involved in minor accident with truck outside Pittsburgh

2012-05-02T20:18:20Z

Truck accidents often result in devastating injuries. Likewise, because of the number of individuals often involved in bus accidents, the outcome of these types of crashes can be dire.

Late last month the parents of students attending Pittsburgh Obama 6-12 school, were likely initially troubled to learn of an accident involving a charter bus transporting some students from the school. The bus was reportedly briefly hit by a tractor-trailer, transporting cars, as it travelled on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

The truck accident, which took place around 15 miles outside of the city, caused some outside panes of glass, located on the side of the bus involved in the collision, to break. Fortunately, the bus was equipped with double-paned glass windows and the inside layer was unscathed.

]]> At the time of the incident the bus was carrying around 25 high school aged student from the school. They had been on a field trip in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where they attended a YMCA sponsored Youth and Government program designed to help the students learn firsthand how the state's government works. Miraculously no one was injured in the in accident.

Common reasons cited for truck accidents include:

Equipment failure
Distracted driving
Driver fatigue
Substance abuse
A load that is too large

It is unclear what caused the two large vehicles to make contact, or who was at fault. Because state police characterized the accident is minor and indicated it was non-reportable, it is unclear whether any time or energy will be spent to determine what exactly happened.

Source: WFMJ, "Pittsburgh school charter bus hits car carrier," The Associated Press, April 23, 2012

Pennsylvania man faces hit-and-run, death resulting, trial

2012-04-27T11:59:10Z

A Cheswick driver faces trial for a hit-and-run death of an East Vandergrift man. The Pennsylvania motor vehicle accident occurred on Wildlife Lodge Road in March 2012. A resident of Wildlife Lodge Road witnessed the aftermath of the tragedy when hearing a loud "thud" outside, while he was watching TV at around 9:15 p.m.

The witness testified at a recent hearing that he and his wife looked out, seeing a man, obviously injured, lying in the street. As soon as the witness ran outside, he found the victim "unconscious and bleeding." Although he saw no vehicles, the witness observed various automotive "debris" on the road.

]]> Unfortunately, the victim died the next day at a Pittsburgh-area hospital, where he was transported with serious injuries. The deceased was staying with a friend in Lower Burrell at the time of the roadway tragedy.

A police investigation determined that the road debris matched parts from an E-150 Ford van. Confirming their belief was surveillance footage from a nearby camera displaying a Ford van near the accident scene around 9:16 p.m. This evidence led police to a Cheswick plumbing company, where they found the damaged van. The driver charged in the hit-and-run accident had use of that vehicle.

Further cementing their circumstantial case, police testified that a GPS system in the van confirms that it was on Wildlife Lodge Road around 9:15 p.m. when the tragedy happened. A district judge determined that the weight of available evidence warranted a trial as all original charges had relevance in light of police findings to date.

Such a tragic accident has likely left a hole in the lives of the deceased man's family. While nothing can be done to bring that person back, a civil lawsuit may provide compensation that will make it easier for them to move forward. A personal injury attorney can help determine if it is a plausible endeavor.

Source: Valley News Dispatch, "Cheswick man faces trial in hit-and-run death," Chuck Biedka, April 6, 2012

First year on the road most dangerous for motorcyclists

2012-04-26T03:48:12Z

Once the ice and snow of winter disappear, motorcycles are the chosen method of transportation for many throughout the Pittsburgh area. As is the case with any type of motor vehicle, motorcycle accidents can happen. In an effort to make sure one is ready to hit the open road, classes on motorcycle safety are often a good idea.

One such class offered in most states by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation has reportedly trained more than 6 million riders. The items covered in the training include: how to use the controls and brakes, how to turn and what to do in an emergency. While helpful, according to studies, in addition to the training, practice is still very necessary.

]]> Studies conducted regarding motorcycle safety indicate that the first 12 months following the receipt of a motorcyclist's license is the most dangerous. To pinpoint it further, crashes are most likely to occur in the first month after obtaining the license. According to the vice president of the Highway Loss Data Institute, compared to the second year of riding a motorcycle, the first month is four times riskier.

One study conducted by the Highway Loss Data Institute indicated that of close to 57,000 collision claims that were filed between the years of 2003 and 2007, a total of 22 percent of the accidents prompting the claims took place within 30 days of the start of insurance coverage.

Motorcyclists face many challenges on the roads from other vehicles. While it is impossible to control the behavior of other drivers, it is probably worth the time and effort of those on motorcycles to make sure they can safely operate the vehicle before heading out to ride. It could be the difference between life and death.

Source: The Republic, "Motorcycle crash risk drops sharply after the first month on the road," Michael Virtanen, April 15, 2012

Seriously injured? Chopper transport is probably best

2012-04-20T18:02:04Z

Each day individuals throughout the state of Pennsylvania find themselves injured in a variety of accidents. These personal injuries vary in severity depending on the accident that causes the injury. One of the most common ways in which these injuries occur is in car accidents. As is the case in any serious injury, for the best outcome, it is important to get medical treatment as quickly as possible.

A recent study supports this contention. Published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the study indicates that there is a greater chance for survival when a person who sustains serious injuries is transported via helicopter to a trauma center, rather than by an ambulance.

]]> How much greater is that chance? According to the study, the number of people who survive traumatic injuries due to the use of a helicopter compared to the use of an ambulance is between 1 and 2 percent.

Though not backed by research, possible reasons cited for the better result are the speed in which a chopper can travel as well as the personnel who are tending to the patient on the helicopter.

To some, the outcome of the study may seem obvious and therefore unnecessary. It does however serve an arguably important purpose. Transportation via a helicopter is much more expensive than when an ambulance is used. For this reason, in the interest of cost savings, some areas may be inclined to forego the use of a helicopter for an ambulance instead. This study makes it clear that there is a benefit to utilizing air travel in certain situations, when possible.

Source: Reuters, "Trauma patients taken by chopper may fare better," Andrew M. Seaman, April 17, 2012

Study finds high rate of fatal car accidents on Tax Day

2012-04-17T20:31:26Z

The day that is for some, the worst day of the year, has arrived-Tax Day. Procrastinators throughout the United States, including in the Pittsburgh area, are likely scrambling to complete their income tax return. While this is the focus of many people today, a recent study suggests that drivers throughout the nation should pay a little more attention to what is happening around them on the road.

The study indicates that Tax Day, traditionally April 15 of each year, is the most deadly day of the month, at least where fatal motor vehicle accidents are concerned. This conclusion was reached in a study recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, utilizing data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The data covered 30 years, from 1980 through 2009.

]]> Specifically, the study found that throughout the 30 year period, there was an average of 226 fatal traffic accidents on that day. This is 6 percent higher than the number recorded on other days in April. Pedestrians and vehicle passengers were more likely than those behind the wheel to be killed in these incidents.

In addition to the loss of life, the lead author of the study determined that those13 additional deaths each year have had a financial impact on society. In total, he indicated that the dollar amount is around $40 million each year.

The study did not indicate why the number spikes on that day. It also did not determine where those involved were headed when the fatal car accidents occurred or if they had completed their income tax return at an earlier date. The speculation however is that the accidents could be due to there being more people on the road that day, trying to get to the post office to get their completed tax return in the mail.

Source: Huffington Post, "Deadly Car Crashes Spike By 6 Percent On Tax Day: Study," Lindsey Tanner, April 10, 2012

Pennsylvania bike safety laws create controversy

2012-04-13T16:03:16Z

New laws are now in effect to protect bicyclists from personal injury in Pennsylvania. Sharing the urban landscape can lead to controversy, however. The new legislation, solidifying the rights of bicyclists, has generated strong comments from motorists and bicyclists at message boards and news organizations since the "safe passing" regulations when into effect in April 2012.

The new law mandates that autos must pass a cyclist by at least four feet of clearance. The law prohibits a motorist right turn that "interferes" with a cyclist going straight.

]]> A recent article on the topic indicates that some car drivers resent bicyclists because they feel they slow them down and keep them from getting to their "important" destinations. Some contend that auto drivers resent bicyclists because they are getting exercise, while not paying exorbitant prices for gasoline or parking. Bicyclists likewise refuse to be considered "road kill" from automobile drivers because they choose to adopt a healthy and environmentally-friendly lifestyle for commuting.

Currently, less than two percent of Pittsburghers commute via bicycle each day, but that is an increase of 269 percent since the 2000 census, ranking 13th in the U.S. This data does not include those who commute occasionally or are recreational bikers.

This new law raises awareness (hopefully) of drivers and gives bicyclists more legal recourse should an accident occur. While some Pennsylvania motorists appear to not be pleased with the development, bicyclists, who are not breaking traffic laws, now have increased legal protection.

Do you believe these new laws will reduce personal injury to bicyclists in Pittsburgh?

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, "Pennsylvania's new bike safety law starts war of words," Bill Wade, April 8, 2012

Motorcycle accident on Route 51 characterized as attempted homicide

2012-04-12T02:45:20Z

Though motor vehicle accidents are a daily occurrence on roads throughout the state of Pennsylvania, it is safe to say that most people who find themselves involved in a car or motorcycle accident do not do it on purpose. Most drivers take the time to make sure they are following the rules of the road and take the steps necessary to ensure that they do not collide with another vehicle. As is the case in most any situation however, there are of course always exceptions.

Recently, it appears that a car ran into a motorcycle that was travelling down a road in Fayette County, on purpose. The incident occurred one evening on Route 51 near Bitner Road.

]]> According to the police report a car was parked along the road. As the motorcycle made the move to pass the car, the car reportedly ran into the motorcycle forcing the 37-year-old rider off the road and into a nearby field. Before the motorcycle came to a stop, it struck a street sign.

Police investigating the incident believe the motorcyclist was run off the road on purpose. Accordingly, they have characterized it as attempted homicide. The person behind the wheel of the car that struck the motorcyclist is reportedly known to the authorities. His name is currently being withheld however.

Police believe a woman stopped after the accident and provided aid to the man on the motorcycle. She apparently left the scene before police arrived however and is currently being sought by the police who are hoping she can provide additional information on the case.

It is unclear whether the man riding the motorcycle was injured in the accident. If he is, the driver of the car that hit him could be facing more than criminal charges. A personal injury lawsuit would most likely also be in order to attempt to recover compensation for any injuries the man on the motorcycle sustained.

Source: Tribune-Review, "Fayette car, motorcycle crash termed homicide attempt," April 8, 2012

Pittsburgh area school children injured by falling pipe in lunchroom

2012-04-06T16:23:08Z

An accident at a Pittsburgh area elementary school sent 12 people to the hospital earlier this week. The accident occurred when a large pipe suspended from the ceiling of Shaler Area Elementary School's cafeteria fell, causing personal injury to four adults and eight students.

At the time of the accident the school's fourth graders were eating their lunch. When the pipe fell it pinned some of the students beneath it. As a result of the pipe's fall, hot water began to fall from the ceiling as well.

]]> Of the eight students who were hurt in the incident, seven of them were taken to Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. Their injuries were apparently not life threatening as four of them were released and the three remaining are said to be in good condition.

Two of the four adults who were injured were transported to UPMC Passavant. Neither of them are currently hospitalized. Fortunately no one was killed in the incident.

The incident occurred two days before spring vacation was slated to begin. Due to the accident however, school was cancelled the next day and that break started a day earlier for students of the school.

Authorities are taking the accident very seriously. Following the accident an engineer was contacted to do a forensic examination of the accident site. He visited it with a detective from the district attorney's office as well as the Deputy District Attorney.

In addition, two gyms at the area's high school were also closed due to having similar equipment installed.

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, "Shaler Area Elementary School pipe accident under investigation," Moriah Balingit, April 5, 2012

5-year-old in crosswalk struck by distracted driver in Bridgeville

2012-04-04T20:38:37Z

There are many reasons that cars are ultimately involved in accidents. One of the most common reasons these days is drivers who are not concentrating on driving. The distracted driving can be due to many things including using a hand held device such as a cell phone, applying makeup and eating or drinking while operating a motor vehicle.

A cup of coffee is apparently at the root of a car accident involving a pedestrian that occurred last month in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania. According to authorities, a 5-year-old boy was struck by a car as he, his mother and his young sibling were attempting to cross Washington Avenue. At the time of the incident, the family was using a crosswalk.

]]> The force of the collision caused the boy to be knocked out of his shoes. Though miraculously, he did not appear to have sustained any serious injuries, he was transported to a hospital to be checked out. No one else was hurt in the accident.

When an accident occurs due to a driver being distracted, they are usually considered to have been negligent. When injuries result from that negligence, it is possible that the injured party may decide to file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent party. The financial compensation sought in such a lawsuit is often helpful in paying things such as medical bills that can quickly mount in a serious accident.

It is almost unbelievable that the outcome of this accident was not much worse. Whether a personal injury lawsuit will be filed in this case remains to be seen.

Source: WPXI, "Child, 5, hit by car in Bridgeville; Police say coffee distracted driver," March 27, 2012

Party attendee struck by car that leaves the scene

2012-03-31T04:09:19Z

A Sweet 16 party turned sour for one teen who was a guest. While most party attendees hope to leave with a party favor, she left with a seriously injured leg. The injury occurred when the teenager was run over outside of the party, in the parking lot, by a vehicle that then left the scene.

The young woman had been at the party that was taking place at the Blackridge Civic Association located in Churchill, Pennsylvania. Just before midnight a fight took place and gun shots were fired. As people attempted to leave, the young woman was struck by the car. She said it ran over one of her legs after she fell.

]]> Despite her cries, immediately following the accident no one came to aid her. Eventually the photographer who was working at the party discovered that she needed assistance and got in touch with her parents.

She was taken to the hospital and underwent five operations to insert various pins and rods in her right leg.

No one else was injured in the chaos.

So far, the driver of the car that hit the teen has not come forward. Police are currently looking for leads in the matter. The vehicle that hit her is being described as a dark colored sedan that had tinted windows.

Should the driver of the vehicle be identified, he or she will likely face criminal charges. A civil personal injury case could be filed by the teen against the driver as well. Among other things, she could attempt to recover compensation for the medical bills that likely accumulated due to her surgeries.

Source: CBS Local, "Leads Sought In Churchill Hit-And-Run Accident," Mary Robb Jackson, March 27, 2012