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Motor vehicle accidents are a common occurrence for motorists. While many drivers emerge from these incidents without injury, some are not as fortunate and may suffer life-threatening injuries or, in the worst cases, fatalities. 

While any car accident has the potential to cause harm, certain types of collisions are more likely to result in serious injuries. Accidents occurring at high speeds, such as those on freeways, or those involving T-bone impacts at intersections, are often the most severe. 

Automobile manufacturers design vehicles to withstand a specific level of force. However, certain accidents, particularly those involving high-speed impacts or severe collisions, can exceed the vehicle’s structural capabilities, making it difficult for even the most advanced safety features to protect occupants. 

The crumple zones of a vehicle are designed to absorb impact and reduce harm to passengers. However, when a crash occurs with such force that it extends beyond these zones into the passenger compartment, the risk of severe injury increases significantly. In such situations, individuals are most vulnerable to injuries such as: 

• Broken bones; 

• Internal organ damage; 

• Contusions; 

• Lacerations; 

• Severed limbs; 

• Spinal cord injuries; and/or 

• Head trauma. 

WHICH FACTORS INCREASE THE POTENTIAL FOR AN ACCIDENT? 

Some of the more common contributors to crashes include: 

• Drowsy driving; 

• Poor car maintenance; 

• Distracted driving; 

• Automobile defects; 

• Drunk or drugged driving; 

• Drag racing; and/or

• Speeding. 

Reckless driving, anything that takes a motorist’s attention off the road or leads to a less-than-sound vehicle being out on the roadway, increases the chances of an accident occurring. 

WHAT ROLE DOES AN ATTORNEY PLAY AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT? 

Car accident attorneys are well-versed in proving liability. Experienced personal injury lawyers have the expertise to negotiate effectively with insurance adjusters, ensuring their clients receive fair compensation for their losses. 

A car accident attorney can offer a complimentary case evaluation to determine whether you have a valid personal injury claim. If the attorney agrees to take on your case, you typically will not incur legal fees unless a settlement is successfully secured. 

At Vicken Law Group, our attorneys represent plaintiffs who have been injured due to the misconduct or negligence of others. We are dedicated to achieving justice and securing compensation, including monetary awards, to help our clients cover medical expenses resulting from their injuries. 

Call Vicken Law Group today for a free consultation with an experienced accident attorney who will advocate for your rights and ensure that your interests are properly protected. 

STATISTICS 

Every 15 minutes, an individual is either seriously injured or killed in a truck accident. In the United States, approximately 500,000 truck accidents occur annually, resulting in over 5,000 fatalities each year. Trucks are statistically more likely to be involved in fatal crashes compared to passenger vehicles. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, approximately 98% of fatalities in accidents between trucks and passenger vehicles are sustained by individuals in the passenger cars. 

CAUSES 

Accidents involving trucks can be attributed to a variety of factors. Common causes include driver fatigue, negligent driving, improper loading that compromises vehicle stability, inadequate maintenance, and mechanical defects. Notable truck defects that often contribute to accidents include faulty brakes, transmission malfunctions, defective steering systems, and issues with wheels and tires.

COMPLEXITY 

A truck accident case is typically more complex than a standard car accident. Unlike passenger vehicle drivers, truck drivers and trucking companies are subject to specific state and federal regulations. Additionally, multiple parties may be legally involved in a truck accident, beyond just the at-fault driver. Partnering with Vicken Law Group can help you navigate these complexities and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. 

Call Vicken Law Group today for a free consultation with an experienced accident attorney who will advocate for your rights and ensure that your interests are properly protected.

As motorcycles continue to gain popularity, the frequency of related accidents has also risen significantly. The physical and financial impact of such accidents on victims is often severe. 

COMMON CAUSES OF MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS 

Motorcycle riders encounter numerous challenges and dangers on the road, many of which are caused by other vehicle operators. One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is collisions with cars resulting from driver negligence. Frequently, drivers fail to properly assess a motorcyclist’s speed or proximity to their vehicle. 

Additionally, due to the lack of protective structure on motorcycles, riders are more susceptible to sustaining severe injuries in the event of an accident. 

Common causes of motorcycle accidents include: 

• Speeding; 

• Distracted driving; 

• Switching lanes irresponsibly; 

• Driving under the influence; 

• Vehicle defects; and/or 

• Dangerous road conditions. 

WHAT TO DO AFTER A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT? 

1. MOVE TO A SAFE LOCATION: The scene of a motorcycle accident can be hazardous, with risks such as fuel spills and the potential for explosions. Given these dangers, it is crucial for all individuals involved in a motorcycle accident to immediately move to a safe location and assess their injuries. 

2. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION: The next essential step after an accident is to seek medical attention. If injuries are severe, immediate transport to an emergency room may be necessary. Head injuries, particularly traumatic brain injuries, and chest injuries are the leading causes of fatalities following motorcycle accidents, making it important to undergo an MRI and/or other necessary examinations. 

3. REPORT THE ACCIDENT: It is vital to report the accident to the authorities. A police report will be instrumental in supporting any legal claims made against the party responsible for the crash. If your injuries are not severe enough to require ambulance transport, you should contact the police promptly to document the incident. 

4. CALL A REPUTABLE ACCIDENT ATTORNEY: Finally, it is important to consult with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible. Engaging legal representation early in the process will help ensure a strong case is built, increasing the likelihood of securing financial compensation for both physical and emotional damages. 

Call Vicken Law Group today for a free consultation with an experienced accident attorney who will advocate for your rights and ensure that your interests are properly protected. 

WHAT IS A SLIP AND FALL CLAIM? 

Injuries resulting from slip and fall accidents are a prevalent concern for many individuals today. 

A slip and fall claim is typically filed when someone slips, falls and/or trips on a property due to hazardous conditions. These types of accidents fall under premises liability law. 

For a valid slip and fall case to be pursued, there must be an existing dangerous condition at the time of the incident. If no such hazard is present, the situation would not qualify as a slip and fall case. 

WHO CAN FILE FOR A SLIP AND FALL SUIT? 

The injured party should retain legal counsel to assist in proving that the property was unsafe. To establish a case, the attorney will need to gather essential details, including the type of property involved, its location, and the time the incident occurred. 

When evaluating a slip and fall case, several factors are considered based on the specific circumstances of the incident. Key factors include: 

• Type and severity of injuries sustained; 

• Extent of medical treatment required; and/or 

• Any potential loss of future income. 

At Vicken Law Group, we offer a comprehensive evaluation of your case’s value, taking into account the unique circumstances of your situation. 

We are committed to seeking compensation for both your monetary losses and the pain and suffering you have endured. Monetary losses encompass all direct, out-of-pocket expenses incurred as a result of the accident, while pain and suffering are assessed based on the severity of the injuries sustained. 

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs. You will only be required to pay if we secure a successful outcome in your case. 

Call Vicken Law Group today for a free consultation with an experienced accident attorney who will advocate for your rights and ensure that your interests are properly protected. 

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result from a wide range of incidents, including car accidents, falls, workplace accidents, being struck by an object, or any other event involving a blow or jolt to the head. TBIs vary greatly in severity, ranging from mild concussions to more serious injuries with long-term neurological consequences. 

Brain injuries are often serious and costly, and they can sometimes be challenging to prove in court, as their effects are not always immediately visible. In certain cases, symptoms may not manifest right away and could appear hours or even days after the incident. Initially mild symptoms may also evolve into more severe, long-term issues over time. 

Symptoms of a traumatic brain injury can include, but are not limited to: 

• Dizziness; 

• Slurred speech; 

• Balance issues; 

• Headache; 

• Difficulty conveying thoughts; 

• Difficulty focusing, or excessive focus on one thought or idea; 

• Partial paralysis; 

• Persistent fatigue; 

• Irregular mood swings; and/or 

• Prolonged weakness. 

If you experience any symptoms or suspect a brain injury, it is crucial to seek a medical examination for brain damage immediately, followed by contacting Vicken Law Group. It cannot be emphasized enough how vital it is to work with an experienced TBI lawyer to help determine the full extent of damages you may be entitled to after such an injury. 

You may be entitled to damages that include:

• Medical care and ongoing treatment; 

• Home care if assistance is needed for daily needs or tasks; 

• Loss of wages or earning capacity because of the injury’s effect on your ability to work in the short or long-term; 

• Pain and suffering from physical or cognitive effects of the injury; 

• Lifestyle changes if the injury impedes your ability to continue normal daily functions; 

• Future damages, which include the possible issues that may arise in time as a result of the incidence; and/or 

• Punitive damages, which can be pursued if it can be proven the party at fault acted with malice, intent, or recklessness. 

Brain injury cases are often complex and challenging to navigate. We strongly recommend securing legal representation as soon as possible to ensure that the facts and evidence are gathered quickly and accurately. Delaying legal action can significantly weaken your claim. 

Call Vicken Law Group today for a free consultation with an experienced accident attorney who will advocate for your rights and ensure that your interests are properly protected. 

UNDERSTANDING RIDESHARING ACCIDENT POLICIES 

Ridesharing companies, such as Uber and Lyft, are publicly traded entities with revenues exceeding billions of dollars. Due to their scale, these companies maintain substantial insurance policies to cover both their drivers and operations in the event of an accident. 

There are generally four liability periods during which a rideshare driver may have different insurance coverage, based on their status in the app: 

1. DRIVER OFFLINE: When the driver is offline and not using the app for ridesharing purposes, any accidents or claims that arise are the driver’s responsibility. When offline, drivers are responsible for securing their own insurance policies. 

2. DRIVER WAITING FOR A PASSENGER: When the driver is logged into the app and waiting for a passenger match, Uber and Lyft currently provide liability coverage with the following limits to a driver or passenger who sustains injuries in a non-fault car accident: $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 total per accident for bodily injury, $25,000 for property damage. 

3. DRIVER EN ROUTE TO PICK UP A PASSENGER: When the driver has accepted a fare and is en route to pick up the passenger, Uber and Lyft currently offer up to $1 million in liability coverage to a driver or passenger who sustains injuries in a non-fault car accident. Additionally, coverage for medical expenses, as well as uninsured and underinsured coverage, is provided. If the driver is found to be less than one percent at fault for an accident, contingent excess insurance policies may also apply. 

4. DRIVER WITH A PASSENGER: Once the driver has picked up the passenger and is en route to their destination, Uber and Lyft currently offer up to $1 million in liability coverage to a driver or passenger who sustains injuries in a non-fault car accident, as well as uninsured and underinsured coverage. During this period, Uber’s and Lyft’s excess insurance policies are also applicable. 

Call Vicken Law Group today for a free consultation with an experienced accident attorney who will advocate for your rights and ensure that your interests are properly protected. 

Lemon law is a consumer protection statute designed to safeguard automobile buyers and lessees from the frustration of repeatedly having to repair defects in their vehicles. This law applies to individuals who have purchased or leased cars and find themselves facing ongoing issues despite the vehicle being under the manufacturer’s warranty. 

WHAT IS LEMON LAW? 

Motor vehicle purchases or leases typically proceed without issue; however, there are instances where a consumer may acquire a defective vehicle from a manufacturer or dealership. During the warranty period, the vehicle may continue to exhibit defects despite repeated repair attempts by the dealership or manufacturer. 

This process often results in significant financial costs and considerable time spent following up on repair efforts. In many cases, dealerships and manufacturers may deny responsibility, asserting that the defect is not covered by the warranty, claiming the vehicle is not a lemon, or even suggesting that the consumer is liable for the issue. 

Consumers are protected by various state and federal laws that provide warranties on products, including defective motor vehicles. Manufacturers and dealerships are legally obligated to honor warranty promises and make reasonable attempts to repair the defects. If, after a reasonable number of repair attempts, the manufacturer fails to resolve the issues, the vehicle is classified as a lemon, and the manufacturer is required to provide compensation. 

Manufacturers are required to compensate consumers for the lemon vehicle by either refunding the purchase price or replacing the defective vehicle. Additionally, manufacturers are responsible for covering the attorney fees associated with the legal process. 

WHEN IS YOUR MOTOR VEHICLE A LEMON? 

There is no standard test that qualifies your motor vehicle to be a lemon. Courts assess each case individually to determine whether a vehicle meets the criteria for this designation. If a manufacturer has failed to permanently repair a recurring issue despite multiple attempts, the vehicle may be considered a lemon. 

For a rebuttable presumption that your vehicle is a lemon to be triggered, three conditions must be met: 

1. The defect is covered by the warranty, and the warranty period is still valid during the repair attempts;  

2. There have been a reasonable number of repair attempts, at least four, that have been unsuccessful. In cases where the defect poses a risk of serious injury or death (such as brake defects), at least two repair attempts must be made; and 

3. The vehicle has been out of service for a cumulative total of at least 30 days due to repairs. 

It is essential to maintain thorough documentation of the repair attempts related to the defect as evidence that the manufacturer was aware of the issue and attempted to address it. 

The documentation should include the manufacturer’s assessments, their findings regarding the defect, and the number of repair attempts made. If the manufacturer or dealership admits they are unable to fix the defect, ensure you obtain this admission in writing. This will provide valuable evidence in case the defendants claim that you did not take adequate steps to resolve the issue. 

LEMON LAW REMEDIES 

If the court determines that you are entitled to compensation, you will have the option to choose between receiving a refund for the losses you have incurred or receiving a replacement vehicle from the manufacturer. 

Manufactures are entitled to deduct the value you have derived from the motor vehicle by measuring the mileage when making refunds for: 

• Attorney fees; 

• Amount spent on repairs; 

• Registration fee, taxes and lease payments; 

• Time value spent in correcting defects; 

• Deposits and down payments; and/or 

• The loss of usage. 

Where the motor vehicle does not qualify to be considered as lemon as it has no substantial impairment, the manufacturer is required to compensate you in cash for the motor vehicle’s diminished value. You receive money, keep the motor vehicle, and the remaining warranty period will be in effect. 

At Vicken Law Group, our attorneys are dedicated to guiding you through the lemon law process for your motor vehicle, including any business vehicles covered under warranty. We will vigorously advocate on your behalf to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve and gain a competitive advantage in the dispute resolution process. 

Call Vicken Law Group today for a free consultation with an experienced accident attorney who will advocate for your rights and ensure that your interests are properly protected.