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Safety tips for every driver

On Behalf of | Oct 31, 2018 | Firm News

Driving a car is both a privilege and a huge responsibility. When you get behind the wheel, you have a duty to your passengers, other drivers, pedestrians, motorcycle riders and anyone else with whom you share the road. This duty includes making reasonably safe decisions while you are operating your vehicle.

Whether you are a new driver or have years of experience, it is always a good idea to re-familiarize yourself with basic driving safety tips. Here are a few driving techniques to help you stay safe the next time you are on the road.

Focus on the task

When you are driving, it is vital that you make it your primary focus. Avoid multitasking and other distractions. For example, just the few seconds you take your eyes off the road to change the radio station could be enough to not see the car running the red light before it hits you.

Be a defensive driver

Stay alert and watch what the other drivers around you are doing. Always assume that other motorists will do the unexpected and be prepared to react. Also, be sure you have plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front of you in case things come to a sudden stop. If the weather is bad, double this distance so that you have time to react.

Have a plan

Speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents in Stamford and across the state, which is why it is important to have plan when you get behind the wheel. If you need to stop on your way to work for fuel, breakfast or a cup of coffee from your favorite café, be sure you have allowed enough time to do so without having to drive fast to make up for lost time. Also, make all the necessary seat, mirror and thermostat adjustments before you put your car in drive.

In addition to the above tips, there are other safety techniques that you should make a habit out of implementing. For instance, be sure to secure any cargo so that it does not move around while the car is in motion. Also, keep necessary items within easy reach and always wear your seat belt.

While these safety tips can help you avoid an accident, there are many drivers out there who do not take safe driving seriously. If you have been the victim of a reckless driver, you might be able to file a claim for your injuries and other damages.

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36-year-old laborer for landscaping company fractured wrist when fellow employee hit him with truck. Claimant received in excess of $30,000 in workers’ compensation benefits for total disability and medical expenses and settled with automobile insurance company for fellow employee for $95,000.

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47-year-old deli clerk sustained low back injuries at work for local supermarket. Carrier originally denied claim on the grounds that the injury was pre-existing. After formal workers’ compensation hearing carrier accepted claim and paid all total disability benefits and medical expenses in excess of $100,000. Case then settled for an additional $100,000 after injured person received a permanent disability rating.

34-year-old male roofer sustained multiple injuries to his shoulder, neck, back and hip when he fell from roof during work. Claimant was provided workers’ compensation benefits in excess of $100,000 and settled remaining claims for an additional $55,000.

40-year-old male working for cleaning company sustained neck and low back injuries when he fell on defective staircase while cleaning local museum. Claimant recovered over $95,000 in workers’ compensation benefits and resolved claim against museum for $85,000.

26-year-old laborer sustained fractured foot when a cast iron pipe was dropped on his foot. Employer and workers’ compensation carrier denied claim on basis that injured worker was an independent contractor. After a series of informal and formal workers’ compensation hearings, carrier conceded that claimant was an employee and settled case for $85,000.

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Delivery truck driver sustained right wrist fracture in rear-end motor vehicle accident while in the course of his employment. Claimant recovered in excess of $40,000 in workers’ compensation benefits for medical expenses and total disability benefits. Claimant settled case against at-fault driver for $105,000.

22-year-old male working as stocking clerk at “big box” retailer sustained herniated disc in low back. Workers’ compensation carrier refused to accept the claim. After formal workers’ compensation, hearing commissioner ordered carrier to pay over $35,000 in past total disability benefits and pay for surgery and all related medical expenses. Case settled for an additional $35,000 for a total recovery in excess of $100,000.

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CT Transit bus driver sustained torn meniscus in collision with another vehicle. Claims made against at-fault driver, workers’ compensation carrier and client’s underinsured motorist policy. All claims settle for a recovery in excess of $100,000.

68-year-old woman sustained neck and back injuries in rear-end collision and required extended course physical therapy, but was not a surgical candidate. Case settled for $100,000 prior to filing suit.

34-year-old woman sustained concussion and neck and back injuries in hit-and-run accident on a New York highway. Claimant settled uninsured motorist claim for her $100,000 policy limits.

80-year-old woman sustained right foot fracture when her foot was run over in a parking lot. Case settled for at-fault driver’s policy limit of $100,000 prior to filing suit.

38-year-old nanny sustained right femur fracture when she fell down defective stairs in home of her employer’s neighbor. All medical expenses and lost wages reimbursed and case settled for an additional $150,000.

Claim against landlord for defective staircase in multi-family rental house. Claimant sustained a right femur fracture. Case settled for $125,000 prior to filing suit.

$95,000 judgment obtained against bar and nightclub for assault by one of its patrons against another patron.

47-year-old woman sustained a broken left wrist when she fell from porch stairs at house she was renting. Case settled for $95,000 shortly before trial.

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