Pennsylvania Injury Lawyer Blog

There are few moments as important to a teen and as frightening to a parent as letting a newly licensed teenager drive without parental supervision. You trust your child and believe that he or she is ready for this important step toward adulthood, but the thought of a fatal car accident keeps you up at night.

What Can You Do To Keep Your Child Safe?
Your child has completed a good driver’s education course, has driven with you many times, and has earned his or her license. Now is the big moment. To further promote good driving practices, consider signing a contract with your teen that includes the following:

• A limitation on the number of passengers your teen may have in the car at any time. Serious accidents are more likely for teen drivers who have more passengers with them in the car.
• A strict prohibition on all use of cell phones and other electronic equipment including but not limited to iPods and GPS.
• A no tolerance policy for any amount of alcohol or drugs.
• A requirement that your teen, and all passengers, always wear seat belts.
• A requirement that your teen always obey the speed limit and other traffic laws.
• A curfew, or time by which your teen must be home at night.
• Other requirements that meet the needs of your family and foster responsible driving practices.

Of course, many of these things are already imposed by state law. However, your teen needs to know that you are also enforcing these safety requirements and that any violation, no matter how minor, will result in a loss of driving privileges.

Fatal car accidents involving teen drivers are unbelievably tragic. They are mistakes that can’t be righted. Thus, it is important to take the steps necessary to protect your child, and your family, from a fatal car accident before your child gets behind the wheel of the car.

That’s a good question.
If the driver of the car was at fault and has insurance, you should be covered by his or her insurance. You may be entitled to pain and suffering and expenses related to your injuries from the multiple vehicles involved as well as the car you were in.

Since you are the passenger, you would not be considered at fault unless you grabbed the steering wheel, distracted the driver, or assaulted the driver.

However if you were driving someone else’s car and you do not have insurance, it will depend on the car owner’s insurance policy as to whether or not you are covered. If you have insurance, it’s not a problem or if you are not at fault and the other driver was, it shouldn’t be a problem.

However, don’t for a moment think that since it wasn’t your car that you won’t have a blemish on your driving record. The accident will follow the driver. The car owner’s insurance company may still pay for the damage if you carry collision coverage on your own policy providing you have car insurance. The car owner may see rates increase because of the claim, but would not have an at fault accident on his or her record.

Underage drinking and driving don’t mix. Underage drinking is a serious public health and safety problem.

Here are some Pennsylvania DUI death statistics for 2010 provided by the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS).

Pennsylvania ranked 35. That means the state ranks on the higher end of DUI traffic deaths. There were 433 DUI fatalities. MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) has been working diligently in Pennsylvania for years to get stronger interlock legislation, but the Legislature has still not acted.

What are they waiting for?

Continue reading "Drunk Drivers and Underage Drinking" »

Are you ready to turn off your cell phone and stop texting while driving?

Ready or not, if the National Transportation Safety Board has its way -- there will be a nationwide ban on personal electric devices like cell phones.

According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, more than 3,000 people lost their lives in 2010 in distracted driving related accidents.

Can't that text message wait? That's what voicemail is for...to listen to the messages later.

The safety recommendation calls for all 50 states and D.C. to ban the non-emergency use of portable electronic devices (other than those designed to support the driving task) for all drivers. The safety recommendation also urges use of NHTSA model of high-visibility enforcement to support these bans and implement targeted communication campaigns to inform motorists of the new law and greater enforcement.

Three thousand deaths due to (avoidable) distracted driving are too many.

Continue reading "Toxic Cocktail: Texting while Driving " »

Why do people of all ages participate in known risky behavior behind the wheel of a motor vehicle?

According to a new November 2011 Harris Interactive/HealthDay poll, most adults (2,800 were interviewed) admitted to engaging in distracting behaviors while driving:

86% eat and/or drink
59% talk on the cell phone (not hands free)
41% fiddle with their GPS devices
37% text
36% reading a map
14% apply makeup (plus 1 in 10 comb hair)
13% surfing the Internet
7% watching videos

“Every 1 percent of drivers polled represents more than one-and-three-quarters of a million people," said Humphrey Taylor, chairman of The Harris Poll.

Continue reading "Driving to Distraction and Death" »

Classes are back in full swing, which means there are droves of teen drivers out on the roads commuting to and from school, sports practices, and many other extracurricular activities. But many of them are inexperienced drivers, which often leads to mistakes behind the wheel that can quickly become tragic. Whose job is it to educate and train these youngsters to know the safe rules of the road? The responsibility almost always falls on parents, according to AOL Auto Blog.

According to research done at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), parents who establish rules, describe to kids the importance of rules, and then honor consequences when rules are broken, possess the most power over their children’s well being.

Some of the most effective and important guidelines that parents can put into place for their high school drivers mirror some of the related state legislature across the nation. These rules may include some of the following staples:

• Limiting how many passengers are allowed in a teen’s car: This reduces the potential for distraction.
• Enforcing household curfews: Many teen accidents occur after dark.
• Training kids to use seat belts: Start them as soon as they are old enough to wear one so it becomes second nature.
• Enforcing strict household penalties for speeding: If your teen is caught speeding (by the police or you), the punishment should go much further than a police issued ticket. Household punishment such as grounding or the loss of other valued privileges can deliver an even stronger and more lasting message.

According to statistics, teens are among the most likely drivers to be involved in accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident that you believe was the fault of another driver’s negligence, call 1-866-735-2792 to speak to a Wilkes Barre PA car accident lawyer with Anapol Schwartz.

A 26-year-old woman and a male passenger were killed in a Philadelphia car accident recently after a Chrysler 300 crashed into a home. According to PhillyBurbs.com, the fatal accident occurred on Byberry Road in Upper Moreland. The authorities have stated that there was no evidence of the vehicle braking before it crashed into the home. Both the driver and the passenger were killed. Officials suspect that alcohol or speeding may have played a part in this fatal crash, but an investigation and toxicology exam are still underway.

Anytime someone is killed in a Philadelphia single-vehicle accident, there are a number of questions that must be asked. Did another vehicle force the vehicle off the roadway? Did a dangerous roadway contribute to the crash? Did a defective auto part such as faulty brakes or a defective tire cause the driver to lose control? There are a number of reasons why a vehicle may veer off a roadway and driver negligence is not always the answer.

According to the 2009 Pennsylvania Crash Facts and Statistics, 47 percent of all car accidents in Pennsylvania were single-vehicle crashes. The family of someone killed in a single-vehicle crash would be well-advised to preserve the vehicle in its damaged state for a thorough investigation by a qualified expert.

The experienced PA car accident lawyers at Anapol Schwartz help injured victims and their families determine liability for serious injury crashes. We know how to get our clients fair compensation for the damages they have suffered. To find out if you are able to seek financial compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses, please call our law offices today at 1-866-735-2792.

Four teenagers were killed in a tragic Philadelphia car accident involving a vehicle leaving the roadway and crashing into a wooded area. According to The Associated Press, the fatal car crash occurred on Manor Road in West Brandywine Township in Chester County. For unknown reasons, the car left the roadway and all four victims were ejected from the vehicle. All of the victims were reportedly under the age of 18. It is not clear if they were wearing seatbelts or what could have caused the vehicle to veer off the roadway.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's 2009 crash statistics, there were 1,143 fatal crashes resulting in 1,256 deaths in Pennsylvania car accidents. During that same year, there were 4,484 crashes resulting in 27 deaths and 1,808 injuries in Chester County car accidents.

Anytime someone is killed in a fatal Philadelphia car accident, it must be determined what caused the crash and who may be held liable for the loss of life. The family of someone killed in a Pennsylvania car accident may seek financial compensation for their losses by filing a wrongful death claim against the at-fault motorist or his or her insurance company. Damages that may be covered include medical bills, funeral expenses, lost future wages and emotional distress.

The experienced Pennsylvania car accident attorneys at Anapol Schwartz handle all types of injury accidents. When someone is killed in a crash, our skilled wrongful death attorneys get to the bottom of the cause of the crash while protecting the rights of the victim's family. If you have lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, call our offices at 1-866-735-2792 right away to discuss your legal rights and options at absolutely no cost.

Philly.com reports that the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) will be participating in the national “Click It or Ticket” campaign over the Memorial Day holiday weekend. In addition to increasing patrols and implementing regulatory checkpoints, the PSP will also be offering free child seat safety inspections across the state.

In Pennsylvania, drivers and front seat passengers over the age of 18, as well as kids from ages eight to 17 in any seat, are required to wear a seat belt. However, it is considered to be a secondary offense, which means police aren’t able to pull a driver over only for not wearing their seat belt. The fine is $10. Children between the ages of four and eight are required to be in a booster seat, and the fine is also $10 for a violation. Pennsylvania police are able to stop a car on suspicion of having a child from birth to age four who is not in a car seat, the penalty for which is $100.

During the “Click It or Ticket” campaign, the PSP will set up extra regulatory checkpoints where drivers will have to show police their license and registration. If police issue a ticket for a primary violation, they will also be able to issue one for a seat belt violation, if applicable. It is estimated that about one in 12 drivers in Pennsylvania do not use their seat belt regularly.

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), it is estimated that over 400 deaths and another 39,000 injuries will result from traffic accidents over the Memorial Day holiday weekend. The NCS also estimates that over 300 people potentially may survive the weekend if they wear their seat belts, and over 100 other lives could be saved if everyone wore their seat belt. Over the past six years, there has been an increase of 12 percent in traffic accident fatalities over the Memorial Day holiday weekend as compared to other non-holiday periods.

The Pennsylvania car accident attorneys at Anapol Schwartz have dedicated their practice to helping those who have been injured as the result of the negligence of another. If you have been injured in a car crash in Pennsylvania that was caused by a negligent motorist, call 1-866-735-2792 to find out more about your legal rights.

WGAL reports that a four-vehicle accident occurred in Fawn Township, York County, on Tuesday, May 17, injuring all four motorists involved as well as two vehicle occupants. Police believe that alcohol or drugs may have been a contributing factor in the crash.

According to the article, the Pennsylvania car accident occurred on State Road 851 in front of Kennard-Dale High School at about 4:20 p.m. A 23-year-old woman was driving east in a 2003 Ford Focus when she crossed into the westbound lanes of traffic. A 56-year-old man driving west in a 2004 Ford Explorer swerved to avoid hitting the woman, and crossed into the eastbound lanes of traffic, where the vehicle was struck head-on by a 2005 Ford Edge driven by a 50-year-old woman. The collision caused the man’s Explorer to flip onto its side. The woman in the first Ford vehicle continued driving until she hit a 2008 Chrysler Town and Country driven by a 33-year-old woman head-on.

All four drivers were taken to a local hospital for treatment. The woman driving the Ford Focus suffered the most severe injuries, sustaining a broken collar bone, possible vertebrae fracture, multiple facial fractures, and other injuries. The man driving the Ford Explorer sustained a shoulder injury, and also reported back pain. His 18-year-old passenger sustained abrasions to his head and a shoulder injury. The woman driving the Ford Edge sustained a broken ankle and her 9-year-old passenger reported a sore neck. The woman driving the Chrysler Town and Country suffered chest, back, and shoulder pain.

Authorities report that all injuries suffered in the collisions are non-life threatening. In a news release, police stated it is believed drugs and/or alcohol were factors in the York County injury accident. The crash is currently under investigation and no charges had been filed at the time the article was written.

If you have suffered injuries as the result of a car crash caused by an impaired or otherwise negligent driver in Pennsylvania, contact the Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Anapol Schwartz. Call 1-866-735-2792 to schedule your free consultation to learn how we can help you obtain the compensation you need and deserve.

Philly.com reports that two bills that would increase the restrictions placed on young drivers are going to the Pennsylvania Senate after getting approved by the House on Tuesday, May 10. Both bills aim to reduce distracted driving, particularly among young drivers.

According to the article, the first bill restricts the number of passengers a junior driver is permitted to have in their vehicle. A junior driver is a motorist ages 16- and 17-years-old. These drivers would not be allowed to have more than one teen passenger in their vehicle at a time, in hopes to reduce talking and other distractions. However, younger siblings would be an exception, and having more than one younger sibling as a passenger would be allowed.

Additionally, the bill would increase the number of hours of practice a teen driver must have in order to receive their driver’s license from 50 to 65 hours. Many of the hours would also be required to be at night and in inclement weather. The bill would also require junior drivers to wear their seat belt or they may be stopped by police. In Pennsylvania, it is a secondary offense for drivers 18-years-old or older to fail to wear a seat belt, which means a police officer needs to have another reason to stop a motorist in order to cite them.

The second bill aims to reduce distracted or careless driving, such as using a cell phone or eating and drinking while behind the wheel, in an effort to decrease the number of Pennsylvania cell phone car crashes. However, careless driving, like seat belt violations, would be considered a secondary offense.

The Philadelphia car accident attorneys at Anapol Schwartz have successfully aided many victims who have suffered an injury due to a distracted or otherwise negligent motorist in Pennsylvania. To schedule a free consultation to learn how our lawyers can help you, call 1-866-735-2792.

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports a fatal Pennsylvania car accident occurred early Tuesday morning, January 11 on the McKees Rocks Bridge that claimed the life of a 68-year-old woman.

According to the article, the crash happened just before 7 a.m. A 55-year-old male driver was driving a Ford Explorer and crossing the bridge. Police state the man swerved into the opposing lane of traffic and struck the Toyota sedan in which the woman was a passenger head-on. While the Pennsylvania car crash is still being investigated, police believe the male driver swerved into oncoming traffic to attempt to pass a tractor-trailer that was in front of his vehicle.

The woman was taken to Allegheny General Hospital where she was pronounced dead. The man as well as the driver of the sedan sustained only minor injuries.

It is a sad fact that many motorists often drive recklessly, aggressively, or distracted and when they do so, they put others on the road at great risk. The National Highway Traffic Safety Transportation (NHTSA) reports that 33,808 people lost their lives in traffic accidents in 2009 in the U.S. Another 2.22 million people were injured as a result of these crashes. In Pennsylvania, there were 1,256 fatalities in traffic accidents in 2009, and thousands more were injured.

It is the responsibility of all motorists to drive with the utmost care to ensure their safety and the safety of others. If a motorist fails to drive safely and a crash results because of their negligence, they can be held legally responsible for any injuries and damages that their actions caused.

At Anapol Schwartz, our Pennsylvania car accident lawyers offer their legal skills and experience to anyone who has been injured in a car collision in Pennsylvania. If you have suffered an injury as a result of a car crash caused by another driver’s negligence, contact our law firm. Call 1-866-735-2792 to schedule a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable attorneys.

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that Pennsylvania State Police have issued a winter weather warning to drivers to be cautious of slippery, icy roads after snow and falling temperatures appear to have been a factor in several traffic accidents recently. Heavier snow is expected to fall over the next few days with an approaching storm front.

In an advisory sent out, state police cautioned motorists to avoid unnecessary travel; however, if driving was required, they urged motorists to be careful, particularly on ramps and bridges, which usually freeze quickly and can accumulate more snow than other sections of a road.

The following driving safety tips are for all motorists, not just those driving passenger vehicles, who travel during the winter season, suggested by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation:

• Always travel with your gas tank at least half full.


• Avoid suddenly stopping.


• Be careful of roads that look wet, but are actually frozen.


• Before driving, clear ice and snow from your vehicle’s windows, mirrors, and lights.


• Do not use cruise control when driving on snowy roads—this can decrease your reaction time if something occurs suddenly.


• Drive slower than usual and increase the following distance between your vehicle and others on the road.


• Drive with your headlights on so other motorists can see you more clearly.


• Have your cell phone as well as a winter emergency travel kit, with items such as matches, jumper cables, flashlight, first aid supplies, blankets, and more.


• If you become stranded, stay in your vehicle until help arrives. You should run your vehicle’s engine about every hour, but be certain the tailpipe is not obstructed and keep a window that is downwind open.


• Let someone know that you are traveling somewhere and when you expect to arrive; in case of an emergency, someone will know where to look for you.


• Of course, always wear your seatbelt.


• Use low beams in bad weather, such as heavy or blowing snow.

Planning ahead can help prevent winter weather traffic accidents. Unfortunately, however, many motorists do not use caution when they drive, which puts themselves and all others on the road at risk. The Philadelphia motor vehicle accident attorneys at Anapol Schwartz provide legal assistance to those who have been injured in car, truck, motorcycle, and pedestrian accidents in Pennsylvania caused by another’s negligence. If you have been injured in a traffic accident in Philadelphia, our lawyers will help you understand your legal options and explain what compensation may be available to you. To learn more, contact our law office today by calling 1-866-735-2792.

The U.S. Department of Transportation categorizes driver distractions into three groups: visual distractions, which cause a driver to take their eyes away from the road; manual distractions, which cause drivers to take their hands away from the steering wheel; and cognitive distractions, which cause drivers to take their minds away from what they’re doing.

According to experts, texting is the most endangering activity a driver can perform because it involves all three kinds of driver distractions. A recent opinion piece in The Huffington Post posed the question of whether driving with kids is more distracting to drivers than driving while texting.

Somewhat satirically, the author of the piece noted how he is distracted in all three driver distraction categories while driving with his infant daughter, who cries and throws her pacifier constantly. However, he raises a good point—one study found that 60 percent of parents who drove alone with their infant in a car seat in the backseat were “very distracted.” Roughly 80 percent worried it would lead to a traffic accident. The American Automobile Association (AAA) reported in 2001 that having young children in a motor vehicle was one of the leading causes for driver-distraction accidents for people between the ages of 20 and 29.

In the United States, 37, 423 people lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents in 2008. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, almost 20 percent of crashes that year involved some sort of distraction. They report that almost 6,000 people died and more than half a million were injured in traffic accidents that involved a distracted driver.

While there aren’t statistics regarding accidents involving parents distracted by their children, it is understandable that children pose a distraction when they are occupants in motor vehicles. Parents need to be extra careful when driving with their children to ensure the safety of all motorists on the road.

Those injured in a Pennsylvania car accident by a distracted driver should consult with a Philadelphia auto accident lawyer to discuss their legal rights and options. At Anapol Schwartz, our injury attorneys have dedicated years to protecting the rights of accident victims. Call us today at 1-866-735-2792 for a free consultation.

A Pennsylvania man is recovering after his truck was involved in a three-car crash with a dump truck carrying 300 degree molten black top in Dean Township, according to ThePittsburghChannel.com. Officials say the dump truck tipped over, crushing the cab on the driver’s truck and then began pouring molten asphalt inside. The man was buried up to his waist when a construction worker began quickly shoveling the black top out and keeping the man conscious. Had the crew not acted as promptly as they did, the man may not have survived.

The driver’s identity has not been released, but he is recovering at a local hospital. The details surrounding the crash are not known at this time.

The circumstances surrounding this accident may be unusual, however, the fact remains that this unfortunate series of events began with an auto accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 2,575,000 million people were injured in vehicle crashes in 2006.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident in Pennsylvania involving a large truck or other vehicle, you may be able to seek compensation if it’s found that another person’s negligent or reckless actions caused the accident. The skilled Pennsylvania auto accident attorneys at Anapol Schwartz have the experience it takes to ensure you’re represented fairly in a court of law. You deserve to know your rights and our attorneys will discuss all of your options with you so that you may begin to heal and move forward. Call Anapol Schwartz today at (866) 735-2792 to learn how we can help.

A Cheltenham High School senior was hit by a vehicle and killed in a recent accident, according to reporters at WPVI Channel 6 News. The girl was walking home with her twelve-year-old brother at about 10:00 p.m. The victim and her brother were less than a block from their house when a van struck the girl, who died at the scene. The van driver, whom witnesses described as a middle-aged white or Hispanic male, then fled the scene.

Police and the girl's family are urging anyone with information about the accident to come forward. Police followed a trail made by a leak in the van's engine for about a mile, but then lost track of the van. The van is described as a silver or grey GMC or Chevrolet work van. Police believe the van will show extensive front end damage as a result of the accident.

Persons who have committed a hit and run car accidents in Pennsylvania may have their licenses suspended and may face criminal charges, particularly when the hit and run results in injury or death. In addition, cases of reckless driving that cause injury should be investigated thoroughly, as the driver could easily be liable for damages to the injured person or their family in a civil suit.

Continue reading "Cheltenham High Schooler Killed in Hit-and-Run Accident" »

When we walk our children to the bus stop before school, we take for granted that sound judgment has been made in regard to the bus driver selection process. As a recent Los Angeles Times article explains, a driver's history is often a good indication of future action, and paying attention to that history, at least in this case, could have prevented both injury and the senseless loss of life.

Reportedly, a school bus was involved in a fatal accident after its driver turned in front of and collided with a Honda Civic. The accident resulted in serious injury to the driver and took the life of the vehicle's passenger. What makes this incident even more problematic is that the driver was previously involved in a cell phone related accident in 1999 in which he ran a stop sign, consequently taking the life of a 2-year old girl.

According to the article, the bus company that employs the man, Student Transportation of America, reasoned that while they knew of a traffic infraction in the driver's past, they did not investigate it because the statute of limitations for investigations of such driving infractions is only five years. The driver had an otherwise clean driving record, came highly referred from his previous employer, and even completed safe-driver training prior to employment. However, regardless of whether or not such statutes had expired and such an exemplary driving record after the fact existed, one could argue that transporting children is a job that requires a more thorough background check, and that a complete driving record should have been fully taken into consideration.

Continue reading "Reckless Driving Leads to Fatal, Allentown School Bus Accident" »

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is being taken into consideration by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) as a possible cause for the influx of acceleration-related vehicle issues plaguing Toyota Motor Corporation and its vehicles. The issue was recently highlighted in a usatoday.com article that discussed the problems associated with EMI and how auto manufacturers have known about these issues for quite some time. While faulty floor mats and gas pedal malfunction have been the more closely examined causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles, EMI could end up being cited as a contributing factor in at least some crashes which, at this point, have not been assigned a definite cause.

The theory of EMI explains that electronic devices emit a certain amount of electronic radiation, and it may be possible for that radiation to interfere with electronic control systems that all modern day cars now rely on. In regard to the unintentional acceleration issue, it is being examined whether or not the electronic throttle systems in Toyota vehicles are experiencing interference which is causing them to malfunction. However, regardless of whether or not this issue or another is found to be the cause of motorist accidents involving Toyota vehicles, it is safe to say that negligent action of some kind may be greatly contributing towards the numerous auto vehicle recalls that seem to be taking place on a weekly basis.

Continue reading "NHTSA Investigating EMI as Possible Cause of Toyota Acceleration Issues" »

A 61-year-old man from Derry recently lost control of his vehicle in Westmoreland County. Reportedly, the man had just purchased a 1965 Pontiac GTO and was on his way home when the car suddenly failed to stop, came to rest on railroad tracks, and was then struck by a Norfolk Southern freight train. The operator of the train did attempt to apply the train’s brakes prior to striking the car, but was unable to stop in time. This incident marks the third fatality involving a train to have taken place in Derry since this past summer.

According to Pittsburgh’s ABC affiliate, WTAE-TV channel 4, the man was able to bail out of the vehicle prior to the collision, and was found about 40 yards from the scene of the accident. It was determined that the 61-year-old died at the scene from blunt force head trauma. Police are investigating the accident and trying to determine what exactly went wrong with the vehicle. In accidents where vehicle malfunction plays some sort of contributing factor, it is important to attribute any instance of negligent action to the appropriate party so that they can be held liable for their actions. Although the vehicle involved certainly wasn’t brand new, the man involved in the accident had purchased the vehicle the very day that the accident took place. Whether or not the seller of the car knew that there was something wrong with the vehicle is yet to be determined.

Continue reading "Derry Man Dies After 65' GTO Fails at Railroad Crossing" »

Inclement weather conditions contribute towards a large number of traffic accidents each and every year. According to a philly.com article, multiple accidents have been occurring in Pennsylvania and New Jersey as a result of icy road conditions. Reportedly, a Blue Route accident involving a Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) bus and two other vehicles took place when the bus crashed into the two vehicles that had already been involved in a crash with each other. According to the article, a total of 10 bus passengers were injured. There was no mention of injuries sustained by the motorists of the two other vehicles involved.

Inclement weather conditions are certainly not the fault of motorists, but driving recklessly in such conditions is. Reckless driving practices result in far too many Pennsylvania auto accidents each year. In the event that a motorist chooses to drive in a reckless manner, that motorist can be held liable for injuries and other damages that take place as a result of said reckless driving practice.

Continue reading "Icy Road Conditions in Pennsylvania Contribute to SEPTA Crash that Injured 10" »

According to a report from KYW 1060 News Radio, a total of six people sustained minor injuries when a trolley collided with a passenger car in West Philadelphia. The accident occurred near South 36th Street and Market, and involved five adults and one child. The injured adults were taken to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, while the lone child was taken to Children’s Hospital. None of the involved individuals sustained major injuries, and the cause of the crash is still being investigated.

Traffic accidents in Pennsylvania always need to be carefully examined to ensure that the negligent party deemed responsible for the accident is held accountable for his or her actions. Furthermore, it needs to be investigated as to whether or not some other entity played a contributing role in the accident as well. That is, if a faulty auto part leads to an accident, then the manufacturer of that part can be declared negligent in their ability to provide the consumer with a supposedly safe product.

Continue reading "West Philly Trolley and Car Collide Injuring Six" »

Energy conservation is becoming more and more commonplace amongst not only private citizens, but businesses and other entities who are seeking to be more eco-friendly. However, not all ideas are as effective as they are in theory when put into action. According to an ajc.com article, energy-efficient traffic lights are doing more than just cutting down on energy usage. They’re also cutting down on how safe motorists are while traversing city streets equipped with the LED-powered lights.

Reportedly, the traffic lights outfitted with the energy-efficient light bulbs are not creating enough heat during their usage, which makes traveling in freezing temperatures rather difficult. The reason for this is that frost can now easily build up over the traffic light lens, making it impossible for a motorist to be completely sure as to which traffic law must be obeyed. The issue has already led to dozens of traffic accidents, one of which included a motorist fatality. While governing authorities cite monetary savings as a significant factor in installing the efficient bulbs, opponents of the move can cite several cases where individuals were involved in car accidents as a result of the low heat-producing light bulbs that contributed towards the obstruction of a traffic signal.

Municipalities have a responsibility to provide and maintain safe road conditions for city residents and visitors alike. In the event that a governing body fails to provide such conditions, then that government entity may be held liable for damages resulting from said instance of improperly maintained conditions. Ultimately, if a city fails to provide safe conditions and does not address and correct known problems in a timely manner, then the city is exercising negligent behavior that needs to be addressed in a court of law.

Continue reading "Energy Efficient Traffic Lights Prone to Frost Buildup, Pose Danger to Motorists" »

A recent article from thepittsburghchannel.com reported that a fatal head-on auto collision between a passenger car and a UPS truck in Pennsylvania took the life of the passenger car driver. The UPS truck driver’s condition was not provided but the article stated that he was taken to a local hospital. According to police, the car swerved out of control after skidding on some oil that was on the road. Although the article does not mention at what speeds the vehicles collided, considered the catastrophic consequences of the head-on crash, it is fair to say that speed may have been a factor.

When auto accidents are caused by foreign substances on the road, such as excessive oil, or by poor road conditions, these factors are unfortunately enough to cause vehicles to lose control, taking an automobile in unexpected directions and resulting in a collision with other vehicles. Head-on collisions in Pennsylvania are some of the most serious auto accidents to take place due to the vulnerability of drivers and front-seat passengers, especially for individuals in small passenger cars who are involved in accidents with larger vehicles like delivery trucks and SUVs.

Continue reading "Robinson Township Auto Collision Kills 1" »

It was reported on the website sfexaminer.com that families of the 10 people killed when a semi truck smashed into stopped cars on the Will Rogers Turnpike in Oklahoma have decided to file a joint lawsuit against several defendants. The defendants mentioned in the lawsuit are the driver of the truck, his employer, Associated Wholesale Grocers, ACE American Insurance located in Pennsylvania, G.D. Transport out of California, their insurer National Liability and Fire Insurance Co. located in Nebraska, Rajeev Sharma a resident of California, and Erin Alf who is from Texas.

At approximately 1:15 p.m., the 73-year-old truck driver slammed his big rig into the cars while cruising at 70 miles per hour. Oklahoma Highway Patrol reports that the driver made no attempt to avoid the devastating collision. The lawsuit contends that the driver was rushed by his employer Associated Wholesale Grocers to make a delivery and forced him to work beyond what is deemed safe and lawful. The two residents mentioned in the lawsuit were the drivers of another tractor trailer involved in the collision that had stopped traffic on the turnpike when unfortunately the worst case scenario occurred. G.D. Transport is their employer and they are accused of not training their drivers properly.

A lawyer for the plaintiffs said the grieving families acted this way as “a means of obtaining efficiency and economy in the administration and handling of the case, and demonstrates the enormity and gravity of the loss, and harm caused.”

Continue reading "Family Members File Joint Suit In Tragic Truck Accident That Killed 10 People" »

A jury in Carlisle Pennsylvania listened attentively to the testimony of Pennsylvania’s deputy secretary of the state Labor Department, who is accused of driving drunk and crashing his state issued vehicle with a parked car. The report stated that the 50-year-old secretary testified that he was completely sober and had absolutely nothing to drink prior to him running into a parked car at approximately 3 a.m. He did admit to having some drinks shortly afterwards, specifically three or four beers and two whiskey drinks. Cumberland County prosecutor strongly contended the deputy secretary’s testimony pointing out that his blood alcohol level was higher than twice the limit four hours after the crash.

Fortunately no one was injured in this car crash, but it does raise eyebrows in regards to the justice system. In this country, everyone has a right to a trial, but we hope that no one is given any special favors. In this case, it appears that the deputy secretary was completely intoxicated when he crashed and is now trying to save himself going as far as to lie under oath in the courtroom. The owner of the vehicle should be able to receive full compensation from the deputy secretary.

Continue reading "PA Official Testifies in Carlisle Courtroom that He Was Not Drunk Driving" »

A lawsuit alleges that the famous former Wrestler Hulk Hogan, his wife, and their son are culpable in the tragic car accident that left a friend of the Hogan son and Iraq veteran with a serious brain injury, the celebrity news website eonline.com reported. The 23-year-old friend was a passenger in Hogan’s son Toyota Supra that had been altered for racing. They were racing another friend who was driving a Dodge Viper that is also owned by Hulk Hogan. The race ended with the Supra crashing into a palm tree.

The lawsuit also alleges that the Hogan parents are responsible for their son driving “reckless and negligent” and that “they not only encouraged it, but they did not take appropriate action to stop it and to protect the safety of the public.”

Hogan’s son has had a history of speed driving since he acquired his license in 2005, including twice being pulled over for driving in excess of 100 miles per hour in 2006, and three separate speeding tickets in 2007. The lawsuit claims that Hogan’s son was a drift racer akin to the Movie The Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift.

Most implicating is the accusation that Mrs. Hogan was heard saying, “Oh, I love it. I love it. The rush, the speed on the road, stereo-blasting, heat-pounding, racing in between all the cars, dodging the cops. It’s awesome.”

In addition, the lawsuit claims that Mr. Hogan, the co-owner of the car, purchased the alcohol that was consumed on the day of the accident and furthermore Mr. Hogan was aware or should have been aware that his son had customized his car, in effect making it “exceedingly dangerous instrumentality for his son.”

Continue reading "Hulk Hogan and Wife Facing Lawsuit Alleging they Encouraged Son to Race" »

A news report on the wdtv.com website informed the public of a dreadful pedestrian accident involving an SUV which took the life of a Pennsylvania man in front of the Cottrrells Store in Morgantown. Sheriffs from the Mon County Department reported that at approximately 9:30 p.m. a 56 year old woman was behind the wheel of a Dodge Durango heading north on Point Marion Road when she ran over a the 43 year old man.

Emergency response teams transported the victim to Ruby Memorial Hospital via ambulance but it was too late, and doctors pronounced him dead. Authorities are investigating the circumstances that led up to the accident and urge the public with any relevant information regarding this case to call the sheriff’s department at (304) 291-7260.

Many of us enjoy eating foods that may not be to healthy for us, which in turn, leads many us to exercise to try to burn some of those pounds off. Many Americans choose to do their exercise outdoors in various fashions such as biking, jogging, or simply taking a stroll around the neighborhood. Unfortunately, each day in the United States, innocent pedestrians are injured by negligent motor vehicle drivers. The effects on injured pedestrians can be quite serious, including broken bones, comas, paralysis, brain injury, and even death as in this story.

Continue reading "Pennsylvania Pedestrian Killed by SUV in Morgantown" »

The website post-gazette.com reported that another big rig accident on route 22 in West Wheatfield claimed the life of an 82 year old man from Apollo, in Armstrong County. The man suffered serious injuries according to the authorities. He was immediately taken to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, where he was later pronounced dead of multiple traumatic injuries according to the Cambria Country Deputy Coroner. State police said the 82 year old man crossed over to oncoming traffic and hit the semi truck. The man stood no chance of surviving the impact, and there was a third vehicle involved which ran over a tire that became loose from the truck accident in Pennsylvania. That driver suffered minor injuries.

Accidents involving trucks account for over 130,000 injuries in the United States. There are 5,000 deaths each year and close to 35% of the injuries are catastrophic. Trucks over 10,000 pounds (semis and tractor-trailer) represent only 3% of all registered vehicles but are responsible for over 25% of vehicle related deaths. The most common causes of truck accidents are unsafe driving, driver fatigue, oversized loads and mechanical negligence.

Continue reading "PA Trucking Accident Kills Senior Citizen" »

Honda has recalled many models of its 2001 Civics and Accords for an airbag defect, which may cause serious injuries to vehicle occupants. According to this news report, a 26-year-old woman was nearly killed when metal fragments shot out of her Honda airbag during a car crash in April.

The metal shards from the airbag apparently cut two arteries in her neck and left her with a whole in her chest. What this woman, like many others in the country, found out was that the airbag that was supposed to protect her in the event of a car crash instead hurt and almost killed her.

Honda recalled these vehicles for a problem with a device that inflates the airbag on the driver's side, which produces too much pressure. This in turn can cause the device to rupture, sending metal fragments through the airbag. These sharp metal pieces can injure or even kill a driver during an auto accident. Consumers expect that the vehicles they purchase are safe and won’t pose any direct harm caused by a defective auto part.

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A two-car crash in Warren County killed two people, according to this news report. The fatal auto accident in Pennsylvania occurred when a pickup truck collided with a sport utility vehicle on Route 6 in Columbus Township. The driver of the pickup attempted to pull out of a driveway into Route 6 when he drove into the path of an SUV driven by a 20-year-old man.

Police say the man tried to avoid the collision, but that his vehicle struck the truck. The impact caused the pickup to roll over to its left side. One person was ejected from the vehicle. The driver of the SUV and a passenger were transported to an area hospital with injuries. Police say none of those involved in this accident may have been wearing seatbelts.

Auto and truck accident cases in Pennsylvania can be extremely complex. The causes for car crashes could range from drunk driving, negligence, recklessness, dangerous roadways or defective automobile. Some auto accidents, such as the incident previously described, may involve multiple defendants and claims against auto makers or even governmental agencies. In various other cases, our attorneys have seen auto accident cases often involve uninsured or underinsured motorists.

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Two teenagers suffered injuries in a Pennsylvania car accident when one car turned left in front of another, according to this news report. The two-car crash occurred when a 19-year-old man driving a Chevy Lumina turned his car left onto Route 51 in the path of a Cadillac El Dorado that was northbound on Route 51. The Cadillac was also being driven by a 19-year-old, Pennsylvania State Police said. The El Dorado struck the back of the Lumina causing severe damage to both vehicles.

The driver of the Lumina sustained moderate injuries, but his 18-year-old female passenger suffered severe injuries. The driver of the Cadillac was not injured and his passenger suffered only minor injuries. The driver of the Cadillac said he had no time to stop because the Lumina cut out in front of him and that he couldn't get out of the way because there was another car next to him in the adjacent lane.

When it comes to liability in auto accidents in Philadelphia, a lot depends on who was at fault for it. A number of car accidents commonly occur when left turns are being made. In such cases it is important to see who had the right-of-way. If the auto accident victims suffered injuries because of another driver's negligence, carelessness, or wrongdoing, then they may be entitled to receive compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of wages, property damage and other losses.

Continue reading "Pennsylvania Car Accident Seriously Injures 18-year-old Woman" »

Rollover and roof crush is a serious auto product liability issue. Because of a defective or weak roof, vehicle occupants can suffer serious brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, or even death when the collision’s force causes the roof to cave in. These rollover accident victims are put at risk of being rendered disabled for the rest of their lives because of these defective autos. This is particularly true when it comes to several brands of sport utility vehicles or SUVs that have a propensity to roll over because of their high center of gravity.

The federal roof strength standard has not been changed since the 1970s. Large auto makers including Ford and General Motors have lobbied to keep those standards unaltered in spite of knowing that these roofs will only result in more injuries and deaths. It wasn't until this April that the U.S. Department of Transportation announced new roof standards for light vehicles weighing up to 6,000 pounds.

In an effort to help lower the severity of rollover accidents in Pennsylvania and throughout the nation, the new rule specifies that both the driver and passenger sides of the roof must be capable of withstanding a force equal to three times the weight of the vehicle. The Department of Transportation also announced recently that heavier vehicles from 6,000 to 10,000 pounds must now have both sides of the roof capable of withstanding a force equal to 1.5 times the weight of the vehicle. The phase-in schedule, which begins in September 2012, will be completed for all affected vehicles by the 2017 model year.

Continue reading "Roof Crush during Rollover Accidents Causes Serious Injuries" »

The website www.dangeroustrailers.com reported in an article on April 26, 2009 that families of three victims killed on the Bay Bridge in 2007 have filed a $19 million dollar wrongful-death lawsuit in which they claim the state is partially at fault for the auto accident. Matters discussed included prior crashes and fatalities during two-way traffic on the bridge and concern that the state should have been aware that the bridge needed barriers to divide lanes as well as a sign system to caution drivers of the “dangerous and perilous condition” approaching them.

Representatives with the transportation authority who are listed as one of the defendants and responsible for the bridge declined to comment on the allegations.

Downplaying the significance of two-way traffic, Sgt. Jonathan Green said, “If the trailer had not come unhitched, there would not have been an accident.”

Attorney Paul D. Beckman, disagrees and said, “This was a preventable tragedy.”

According to police reports a man was driving a 2000 Lincoln Navigator West across the Bay Bridge at about 4 p.m. when a homemade trailer he was hauling came loose ending with a 7 car pileup.

The families have named the following 8 parties as defendants in their wrongful-death civil lawsuit: Maryland Transportation Authority, the agency that oversees the Bay Bridge; Stephen Adam Burt, driver of the SUV hauling a trailer that became unhitched and caused the seven-car pileup; Levon Andonian, owner of the trailer that caused the accident; Joshua Hargrove, driver of a 18-wheeler semi involved in the crash; Mobile Mini Inc., a Tempe, Ariz., company that employed Hargrove; Edwin Dixon, driver of a second 18-wheeler semi involved in the crash; AG Trucking Inc., a Goshen, Ind., company that employed Dixon.; Travelers Property Casualty Co. Of America, the company that issued the car-insurance policy for one of the men killed in the crash.

Along with the pain and suffering of losing a loved one, you may have to battle many parties in a wrongful death claim, which can be overwhelming. This tragic story demonstrates that wrongful-death lawsuits can be incredibly complicated and require the help of a skilled attorney. The experienced Philadelphia personal injury lawyers at Anapol Schwartz have been helping victims of such tragedies for over 30 years.

Of course, wrongful death monetary gain can never replace the loss of a parent, child, sibling, or other family member. However it can support loss of income earned and pay for medical bills, if there were any, and funeral costs, and perhaps mental anguish.

The skilled Philadelphia wrongful death lawyers at Anapol Schwartz know it’s hard to come to grips and file a wrongful death lawsuit. Statutes of limitations apply and you don’t want to lose the rights you have in filing a wrongful death lawsuit. You have two years to file a wrongful death lawsuit in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Don’t wait until the last minute. Please call 1-866-735-2792 for a free consultation.

The website philly.com reported in a story on May 13, 2009 that the trial involving a New Jersey State Trooper who collided with a minivan killing two teenagers while on pursuit of a speeder. Unknowingly, Joshua Wigglesworth, the speeder who the trooper was following, was a classmate of one of the victims and had no idea anyone had died in the auto accident.

Testifying in court Wigglesworth, 20, said, “I just broke down.”

There is no doubt that Trooper Robert Higbee sped through a stop sign at Tuckahoe and Stagecoach Roads in the Marmora section of Upper Township approximately around 10 pm.

The force of the collision on the Dodge van was so violent that Jacqueline, 17, a student at Ocean City High School, and passenger Christina, a student at Richard Stockton College of New Jersey, were flung through the passenger’s window and died at the scene of the car accident. According to the data recorder on the police cruiser, the trooper was traveling at 70 m.p.h. He claims he wanted to “close the gap” before turning on his emergency lights and siren.

Another witness who was in a car hit by the Dodge van testified that he was shocked when he went to check the conditions of the other occupants.

Wrongful death is a heartbreaking event. There is never a chance to say goodbye. Wrongful death is caused by a defendant’s misconduct or negligence. If you have lost a loved one due to the negligence of another person in a car accident in Pennsylvania, contact the skilled Philadelphia auto accident lawyers and personal injury attorneys at Anapol Schwartz who will inform you of your legal options. Please call 1-866-735-2792 for a free consultation.

The website philly.com reported in an article on March 17, 2009 that a semi truck had been cited time and time again for faulty brakes and operating with a falsified inspection sticker purchased at a Philadelphia shop. This truck crashed into stopped traffic on the Schuylkill Expressway in Janury, killing David Schreffler, father of three. The investigation of the Pennsylvania truck accident lasted seven weeks and now the driver Valerijs Belovs, 55, of Northeast Philadelphia is being charged with vehicular homicide.

Along with Belovs, the co-owner of the 18 wheeler and a garage owner were charged with vehicular homicide, which authorities say is rare in these cases but shows how seriously they are taking the case. All three are now sitting in jail.

Risa Vetri Ferman, Montgomery County District Attorney, stated that the auto accident in Philadelphia should serve as a wake-up call. She said, “It’s a death machine. The take-away is that these machines are all over the road, and people are going to get killed.”

Ferman added that the 18 wheelers worn-out brakes were unable to slow down the truck in time before it crashed into traffic.

Accidents involving trucks account for over 130,000 injuries in the United States. There are 5,000 deaths each year and close to 35% of the injuries are catastrophic. Trucks over 10,000 pounds (semis and tractor-trailer) represent only 3% of all registered vehicles but are responsible for over 25% of vehicle related deaths. The most common causes of truck accidents are unsafe driving, driver fatigue, oversized loads and mechanical negligence.

If you have suffered serious injury or lost a loved one due to a truck accident in Pennsylvania, the lawyers at Anapol Schwartz can help you. The skilled Philadelphia truck accident lawyers at Anapol Schwartz handle a multitude of cases involving automobile and truck accidents. They have the experience and knowledge in personal injury claims to help you get the maximum compensation possible. Please call 1-866-735-2792 for a free consultation.

It was reported in March 2009, that Pennsylvania state police announced that two men died after their cars collided on Route 6 in McKean County. According to the authorities, one car was traveling westbound and was driven by Leslie Badanes, 67 from Olean, NY. Ronald K. Gehman, 61 of Port Allegany was behind the wheel of his pickup truck traveling west when he was struck by Badenas vehicle that had crossed over the center lines. Both drivers were killed as a result of the Pennsylvania car crash.

Tragically car accidents are part of today’s society that relies so much on the automobile. Auto accidents change the lives of both the victim and their families. In fact, in the year 2001, over 3 million people were seriously hurt in motor vehicle accidents, and approximately 42 thousand people were killed.

Repairs to your vehicle are important and can be assessed by a body shop. Physical and emotional problems related to your auto accident, however, are a little more complicated to attend to. Some results of an auto accident are pain and suffering, loss of current and future income, impaired physical ability, and loss of enjoyment, just to name a few. After an auto accident, contact a Pennsylvania Auto Accident Attorney at Anapol Schwartz immediately to begin the process of exploring your options under the law. Do not consider accepting a settlement from an insurance company without first contacting and obtaining a lawyer.

The auto accident lawyers in Pennsylvania at Anapol Schwartz handle a multitude of cases involving automobile and truck accidents, as well as insurance issues. They have experience in cases ranging from automobile accidents involving modest injuries to those in which death and catastrophic injuries are the result. They also represent clients in actions against their own insurance companies, uninsured and underinsured motorist cases, when the responsible party either has no insurance or not enough insurance to pay for the damages caused. Please call 1-866-735-2792 for a free consultation.

The online Daily Journal reported in a story that former Missouri Rep. Brad Robinson, 42 has been charged with hit and run, being sentenced to five years of probation. According to the St. Louis Post Dispatch, Robinson was also ordered to pay out of pocket expenses for the victim Donald Marler of Desloge. The car accident happened in Bonne Terre approximately 60 miles south of St. Louis.

Capturing the whole thing was a high school surveillance camera. The video shows Robinson and his wife switching positions and returning to the scene of the crime.

Each day in the United States innocent pedestrians are injured by negligent motor vehicle drivers. The effects on injured pedestrians can be quite serious, including broken bones, comas, paralysis, brain injury, and death.

The experienced Pennsylvania auto accident lawyers at Anapol Schwartz handle a multitude of cases involving automobile and truck accidents. These cases range from automobile accidents involving modest injuries to those in which death and catastrophic injuries are the result. They also represent clients in actions against their own insurance companies, uninsured and underinsured motorist cases, when the responsible party either has no insurance or not enough insurance to pay for the damages caused. Often, the most devastating injuries occur when trucks are involved in the accident. Their attorneys are knowledgeable with respect to state and federal regulations governing the conduct of truck drivers, as well as the condition of their vehicles.

If you have been seriously hurt in auto accident in Pennsylvania contact Philadelphia’s skilled personal injury lawyers at the law firm of Anapol Schwartz. They will help you fight against those who have wronged you or caused you harm because of negligence. Please call 1-866-735-2792 for a free consultation.

The centredaily.com website reported in an account on March 23, 2009 that Scott Hilliard was struck and killed by a vehicle while walking alongside Airport Road in the Pennsylvania auto accident in Bellefonte. There is a bike path running along this road but it is a couple hundred feet before it reaches State Route 550. Markings along the road indicate that Hilliard must have been struck while he was walking on the side of the road where the bike path runs short.

Maureen Farber said, “When we found his Bible he had pictures of the kids in there.”

Hilliard’s relatives believe that he was struck while walking home to his apartment on Governors Park Road, and was attempting to reach the bike path that runs alongside that road. The tragic auto accident in Pennsylvania happened around 7pm.

Farber said, “I just feel like Scott, he didn’t really get a chance. His life was brief and he spent most of his time in pain. It really frustrated me that he died with his feet at the bottom of the bike path. There was no where for him to walk.”

According to Farber, many elderly people without cars live in the area were the Pennsylvania wrongful death accident happened.

“They need a way to get back and forth. My own kids had to walk to the high school. It’s not safe. I don’t understand why there’s a bike path with no way to get to it. I don’t ever want to see that happen again,” said Farber.

Ralph Stewart, Borough Manager, said talks have been raised about constructing a sidewalk that would connect into the bike path; but two problems have hindered this from happening. Stewart stated that Zion and Airport Roads are state roads and that “our grant funds did not allow us to do that.” Secondly, the Department of Transportation has plans to widen the roads in that area, possibly changing the alignment of the Airport Road intersection. Stanley Goldman, Mayor, stated they are open to options.

If you or a loved have been involved in serious traffic accident in Pennsylvania you should contact a skilled attorney to protect your rights during this difficult time. The experienced Pennsylvania auto accident lawyers at Anapol Schwartz handle a multitude of cases involving automobile and truck accidents. These cases range from automobile accidents involving modest injuries to those in which death and catastrophic injuries are the result. Please call 1-866-735-2792 for a free consultation.

Over the course of one day on Friday, February 20, two car accidents in Pennsylvania left one pedestrian dead and one driver in critical condition, according to an article from philly.com.

Around 7pm, Kurt Spielberg, 81, was hit by a car driving westbound on Kelly Drive as he walked into oncoming traffic, according to a police spokeswoman. Spielberg was taken to Hahnemann University Hospital where he was pronounced dead due to the serious injuries. It was reported that it is unknown why Spielberg walked into oncoming traffic and the driver who hit him will not face charges.

Later that night, Lewis Leon, 26, was driving westbound on Somerset Street when he allegedly hit a car stopped at a traffic signal. The woman in the hit vehicle suffered head trauma, extensive bruising, and broken bones from this auto accident in Philadelphia. She was reported to be in critical condition on Monday February 23. Leon was arrested and charged with recklessly endangering another person, driving while under the influence of intoxicants, aggravated assault, and related offenses.

Continue reading "Philadelphia Pedestrian Accident Kills Man While Auto Accident Injures Another" »

A recent story from philly.com reported an auto accident in Pennsylvania caused by a SEPTA bus. The bus driver was reportedly experienced at maneuvering the bus, but on this particular day, the driver happened to choke on a throat lozenge, causing him to lose control of the vehicle while heading west on Ford Road near Balwynne Park Road. A SEPTA spokesperson said that the bus driver and six passengers were taken to a local hospital where they were treated for minor injuries and then released.

The bus had crashed into the residence of Tania James, 36, who was fortunately not home during the Pennsylvania bus accident. Witnesses say that on one side of the road, the bus hit five parked cars and struck a utility pole over. Luckily, no pedestrians or any other drivers were injured. According to reports, the bus also destroyed a metal awning at a house owned by Claudia Conway, 58, and then crashed into the brick front of a home owned by Wanda Kee Taliaferro, 49. There were no reported injuries in any of the buildings the bus crashed into.

Continue reading "Pennsylvania Bus Crash Injures Six Passengers and Driver" »