The John Price Personal Injury Law Firm Blog

Employee discrimination is an unfortunate occurrence that never seems to go out of season. Now that the COVID-19 pandemic continues to run rampant, employee discrimination has taken on a new form. Here is a closer look at how the pandemic has impacted employee discrimination in the workplace.

COVID as Pretext

For some employers, the pandemic may be viewed as a chance to get rid of some employees. It could use the current climate to justify layoffs when, in reality, it is just an excuse to get rid of some employees. It is important for employees to know their rights and also realize they are not liable to be laid off just because there is a pandemic going on. Not all businesses are bottoming out. If it can be established that an employer let go of an employee by using COVID as pretext, they could be held liable.

Individual Layoffs

In the midst of this pandemic, many businesses had to reduce their number of employees. But when only select individuals are laid off, it could raise a bit of skepticism. Why was one person laid off and not someone else? If whole departments are cut, then there is no basis for a lawsuit as it is an apparent show of a decline in business. But when individual layoffs occur, there is a reasonable basis to question why each one occurred.

Reduced Hours

A reduction in hours during the pandemic has been commonplace in an abundance of companies. Some are just not making enough money to keep all their employees. However, if there is a common theme within these layoffs, there may be reason to file a lawsuit. Are the hours reduced for members of the same ethnicity, gender or age group? If so, then there are grounds for a case.

Age Discrimination

Some companies have denied employee requests to work from home because of fear of contracting the coronavirus. Older employees, who are more susceptible to negative health effects of COVID-19, would be in a safer environment in their homes. However, a denial of that request has resulted in discrimination lawsuits being filed.

Mask Policies

Employees should be aware that refusal to wear a mask at the workplace could result in termination and is not considered a form of employee discrimination. If an employee cannot wear a mask because of a legitimate medical condition, then arrangements must be made by the company so they can perform their duties. However, a sheer refusal to wear a mask at work is not grounds for an employment discrimination lawsuit.

For most people, spending time on social media is an everyday part of life. It can be used professionally and personally with a wide variety of platforms to choose from. However, posting on social media should be done very carefully when you are in the midst of filing a personal injury lawsuit. Here is a look at some helpful social media tips on how to use social media while waiting to settle a personal injury lawsuit.

Think Before You Post

One goal of your adversary in a personal injury claim is to find a flaw in your claim. Claims adjusters are tasked with protecting their client and that means they will look to hinder your credibility by monitoring your online activity. If you are waiting on a settlement for a back injury, do not post pictures of a physical activity.

Use Privacy Setting

One way to keep prying eyes away from your social media page is to turn on your privacy setting so that only your connections can view your posts. This is not a full-proof plan as there are some third-party entities that will give access to a portion of your images, statuses and videos. Nevertheless, privacy settings offer another level of protection.

Do Not Accept Requests from People You Don’t Know

Forget about trying to build your follower numbers during this time. If someone you do not recognize sends you a friend request, keep in mind that it could be a claims adjuster. This ploy can be used to monitor your social media activity and if you post something you shouldn’t, that phantom friend will be there to make a record of it.

Refrain from Checking In

It is popular to check in when you travel to places. Avoid this altogether. Even if you are doing nothing strenuous, an adjuster could point out all the places you have been and argue that a legitimate injury would prevent so much traveling around. Frequent check-ins will give them an opportunity to challenge your claim with evidence that you are getting around.

Stop Friend Tags

It is also a good idea to discontinue any tagging from friends. You may not post about a trip somewhere, but a friend could tag you on a shared trip or adventure. Most social media sites have a setting to prevent you from being tagged in other users’ social media posts. It’s recommended that you activate that setting until your claim is settled.

As a responsible driver focused on safety, you are likely well aware of the risks speeding carries. Unfortunately, every day at our law firm, we see the damage caused by dangerous driving behavior, and speeding certainly falls into that category. We understand the pain accident victims experience at the hands of drivers traveling at unsafe speeds, and we want to do everything we can to stop speeding. In today’s post, we’re going over the concerning statistics around this dangerous driving behavior and what you can do as an informed driver to reduce your risk of injury should you encounter a driver who is speeding. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury at the hands of a reckless driver, please reach out to us. Keep reading to hear more about speeding risks from the perspective of an accident lawyer in Charleston.

Speeding Statistics

The statistics tell a stark story about the consequences of speeding. A recent AAA survey found close to half of drivers admitted to going 15 mph above the speed limit on a freeway in the past month. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) breaks down the numbers around speeding:

• There were 9,378 speeding-related deaths in 2018
• 48 percent of speeding drivers in fatal crashes in 2018 were not wearing seat belts
• In 2018, 30 percent of men who were driving and involved in fatal crashes were speeding

Why Do Drivers Speed?

NHTSA cites several factors that may contribute to speeding, which they describe as an aggressive driving behavior. Not surprisingly, traffic congestion is on their list. We often see an escalation in aggressive driving when traffic is heavy. When a person is running behind schedule, they may also make the unwise choice to speed. NHTSA also included anonymity and a “disregard for others and the law” as possible factors.

What Can You Do?

To reduce the likelihood of being involved in a collision with a driver who is speeding, put these tips from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety into practice:

• Leave ample room between yourself and other drivers, especially when merging
• Limit time in the left lane and safety exit to make room for other drivers
• Don’t engage an aggressive driver
• Contact the police if you feel you may be in danger

We’re Here to Help

Are you searching for an accident lawyer in Charleston? If you or a loved one has been injured due to a speeding driver, our personal injury firm offers a free consultation and 24-hour answering service. Call John Price Law Firm, LLC at (843) 632-5672

Additional Resources:

https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding
https://exchange.aaa.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Road-Rage-Brochure.pdf

Many of us look forward to wrapping up the holiday season with New Year’s Eve festivities. That often means gathering with family and friends as you reflect back upon the joys and challenges the year held. As we weather a global pandemic, your plans may look different than when you ushered in 2020. Perhaps you are keeping your circle small, taking things virtual with a Zoom party or staying home. For those who have plans to attend a New Year’s Eve event while social distancing, fingers crossed the weather cooperates and you are able to celebrate under the stars. Today’s post is for you; keep reading for tips on celebrating New Year’s Eve from the John Price Law Firm family. We are lawyers in North Charleston who are ready to serve you with more than 118 years of combined experience.

As you bid farewell to 2020 and greet 2021 with hopeful anticipation about the blessings ahead and memories that await, remember to celebrate in a responsible way. Our firm represents DUI victims, so we know first-hand the devastating consequences of driving under the influence.

Driving Under the Influence Statistics

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports, “during the Christmas and New Year’s periods in 2018, there were 285 drunk driving-related fatalities nationally.”
• AAA reports New Year’s Day “ranks among the year’s deadliest days for alcohol-related traffic fatalities.”
• The majority of alcohol-impaired driving crashes take place in the evenings and on the weekends.
• Most alcohol-impaired driving crashes occur during the evening hours and on weekends, according to AAA.

Celebration Tips

• Reach for non-alcoholic options: If you will be driving, commit in advance to avoid alcoholic drinks altogether. Enjoy non-alcoholic versions of your favorite adult beverages and know that making the responsible choice is the right thing to do.
• Stay put: If you plan to consume alcohol, speak with the host beforehand about staying overnight.
• Designate a driver: An alternative to staying overnight is designating a driver well before the festivities begin.
• Arrange an Uber in advance: Don’t rely on an Uber driver being available without notice. Use the “schedule” feature to lock in your transportation.
• Drive cautiously and defensively: When you make your way home after the party (after not having any alcohol), be especially mindful of other drivers on the road. Statistically, there will be other drivers on the road who have not made the responsible choice. Keep a safe distance and report reckless drivers by calling the authorities.

We’re Here to Help

Are you looking for a team of experienced lawyers in North Charleston? If you or someone you love was a DUI accident victim, turn to John Price Law Firm, LLC. We offer a free consultation and 24-hour answering service. We have five convenient locations, with three South Carolina locations being fully staffed with full-time attorneys and experienced support staff, or we can meet you at your home or hospital, with evening and weekend appointments available. Call John Price Law Firm, LLC at (843) 632-5672.

Additional Resources:

https://www.nhtsa.gov/es/drunk-driving/drive-sober-or-get-pulled-over-holidays
https://www.wtoc.com/2019/12/31/aaa-new-years-day-among-deadliest-days-nations-roads
https://www.uber.com/us/en/ride/how-it-works/scheduled-rides

Fatigued driving is a topic we regularly cover on the blog, and for good reason: the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) reports more than 6,000 lives are lost each year due to drowsy driving. When you factor in holiday to-dos, strained sleep schedules from concerns around COVID-19, and conditions on the road this time of year, a reminder about the dangers of driving while drowsy is in order. Keep reading for tips on how to avoid fatigued driving from an accident lawyer in North Charleston.

What Is Fatigued Driving?
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine’s (AASM) definition of fatigued driving: “When a person who is operating a motor vehicle is too tired to remain alert. As a result, the driver may have slow reaction times, reduced vigilance and impaired thinking. In the worst case, the driver may fall asleep behind the wheel.”

Groups at a Higher Risk of Fatigued Driving According To AASM Include:

• Those with untreated sleep disorders
• Shift workers
• Those experiencing medication side-effects
• Young men

Learn the Warning Signs of Fatigued Driving

AASM cautions drivers to be aware of the signs of fatigued driving:

• Yawning
• Not able to keep your eyes open
• “Nodding off” and trouble keeping your head up
• Not able to remember driving the last few miles
• Driving too close to nearby cars
• Missing road signs or turns
• Drifting into other lanes or onto rumble strips on the shoulder

An additional sign of fatigued driving listed on the National Safety Council (NSC) website is having difficulty maintaining your speed.

How To Avoid Driving Drowsy

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s suggestions to prevent fatigued driving:

• Get adequate sleep (7+ hours for adults, 8+ hours for teens)
• Practice good sleep habits (a sleep schedule may be helpful)
• Pursue treatment if you have a sleeping disorder
• Don’t drink or take medications that make you sleepy before driving

Other ideas from the AASM to keep in your toolkit:

• Avoid driving late at night
• Drive with a companion
• Take turns driving with a partner
• Pull over at a safe place to take a nap
• Consume caffeine for a quick boost
• Arrange for a ride home

We’re Here to Help
Are you looking for an accident lawyer in North Charleston? If you or someone you love was the victim of an accident due to fatigued driving, turn to John Price Law Firm, LLC. We offer a free consultation and 24-hour answering service. We have five convenient locations, with three South Carolina locations being fully staffed with full-time attorneys and experienced support staff, or we can meet you at your home or hospital, with evening and weekend appointments available. Call John Price Law Firm, LLC at (843) 632-5672.

Additional Resources:

https://www.sleepfoundation.org/articles/problem-drowsy-driving
http://sleepeducation.org/sleep-topics/drowsy-driving
https://www.nsc.org/road-safety/safety-topics/fatigued-driving

In 2020, the effects of COVID-19 on families with a loved one in a nursing home have been significant and heartbreaking at times. In an effort to reduce the spread of the virus, in mid-May of this year, the federal government called for “extreme caution” regarding nursing home visits and established benchmarks around when visits could resume. AARP reports: “Older people are at higher risk for COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus. So are people with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease and respiratory illness.” Though the reasoning behind the precautions was clear, the impacts on seniors of feelings of isolation were quite severe in some cases. In mid-September, officials revised benchmarks, allowing for outdoor and indoor visits at many facilities not facing an active COVID-19 outbreak (at the time of this post, South Carolina is one of the states on the list). As a nursing home lawyer in Charleston, we’re sharing tips on how to show loved ones you care while navigating the global pandemic.

We Are Wired for Connection

As reported in Scientific American, scientist and author Andrew Lieberman says, “our need to connect is as fundamental as our need for food and water.” Lieberman goes on to say, “data suggests that we are profoundly shaped by our social environment and that we suffer greatly when our social bonds are threatened or severed.” We’ve long used terms such as ‘heartbreak’ to describe social pain, and Lieberman found that “social pain is real pain.”

Ways to Show Your Loved One You Care:

• Plan virtual visits. Many nursing homes have responded to the need for virtual check-ins by providing tablets and assistance with communication. Think beyond the typical exchange as you embrace technology to share an experience (AARP suggests bringing your phone to Facetime or Zoom during a walk in the woods).
• Send a video message. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) suggests video messages as a second option when live video chat is not available. Since the file can be saved to your loved one’s device, it’s something that can be enjoyed more than once.
• Visit in-person (safely). Review in-person visitation guidelines and do what you can to spend time in-person safely.
• Send love by mail. AARP suggests sending thoughtful cards or notes. Jot down your thoughts or have your children make a card for their grandparent. Small gestures to show your loved one is on your mind and in your heart can sweeten a gloomy day. The CDC’s ideas for care packages: photos, snacks, puzzles, books and more).
• Stay in the loop. AARP recommends closely following nursing home updates so that you know what’s going on in the facility where your loved one resides.

Questions to Ask About Your Loved One’s Care

AARP recently published a list of nursing home questions for loved ones and family members during COVID-19:

1. Has anyone in the nursing home tested positive for COVID-19?
2. What is the nursing home doing to prevent infections?
3. Does nursing home staff have the personal protective equipment (PPE) — like masks, face shields, gowns, gloves — that they need to stay safe and keep their patients safe?
4. What is the nursing home doing to help residents stay connected with their families or other loved ones during this time?
5. What is the plan for the nursing home to communicate important information to both residents and families regularly?
6. Is the nursing home currently at full staffing levels for nurses, aides and other workers?

We’re Here to Help

Are you looking for a nursing home lawyer in Charleston? Attorney John Price has practiced law since 1985, and his North Charleston firm offers compassionate yet vigorous representation in all types of nursing home negligence claims. If you believe a loved one’s injury or death was caused by a breach of negligent care or abuse by staff members, contact us . We offer a free consultation and 24-hour answering service. We have five convenient locations, with three South Carolina locations being fully staffed with full-time attorneys and experienced support staff, or we can meet you at your home or hospital, with evening and weekend appointments available. Call John Price Law Firm, LLC at (843) 632-5672.

Additional Resources:

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/health/info-2020/nursing-homes-coronavirus-faqs.html
https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/health/info-2020/nursing-home-visits-by-state.html
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-we-are-wired-to-connect/

The havoc (and heartbreak) wreaked by driving under the influence is far-reaching and inexcusable. Those who choose to get behind the wheel when they are not safe to do so put the lives of others at risk (as well as their own). The South Carolina Department of Public Safety reports, “nearly half of all fatal crashes in South Carolina involve an impaired driver.” In today’s post, we’ll be covering the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) campaign against holiday drunk driving. Their messages include: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over and If You Feel Different, You Drive Different — Drive High Get a DUI. If you are searching for a DUI victims lawyer in Charleston, know that our founding attorney, John Price, is a former state prosecutor who has prosecuted numerous drunk drivers and habitual traffic offenders. Now, he puts his 25-plus years of trial experience to work for DUI accident victims.

What is Driving Under the Influence?
Law.com defines driving under the influence: “Commonly called ‘drunk driving,’ it refers to operating a motor vehicle while one’s blood alcohol content is above the legal limit set by statute, which supposedly is the level at which a person cannot drive safely.” The South Carolina Department of Public Safety website states: “South Carolina law prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol to the extent that the person’s faculties to drive are materially and appreciably impaired.”

Drunk-Driving Statistics

According to NHTSA, in the U.S., the lives of nearly 30 people are lost each day due to drunk-driving crashes. Their website states: “The tragedy of these deaths is felt year-round, but for many, most strongly during the holidays.”

• For the periods covering Christmas and New Year’s in 2018, there were 285 fatalities related to drunk-driving
• In 2018, 10,511 deaths were caused by drunk-driving crashes
• Deaths caused by drunk-driving are preventable 100 percent of the time

Planning Ahead

The NHTSA urges making smart choices and planning safe transportation in advance for those planning to attend a holiday gathering or event. Other seasonal safety tips on their website include:

• Designating a sober driver
• Using public transportation or a ride-hailing service
• Staying 100 percent sober as the designated driver
• Contacting law enforcement right away in the event you spot an impaired driver on the road
• Preventing friends from driving impaired (taking their keys and helping them secure a safe ride home)

We’re Here to Help

If you or someone you love was one of this year’s DUI accident victims, turn to John Price Law Firm, LLC. We provide compassionate yet appropriately aggressive representation to injured individuals throughout South Carolina. We also pursue maximum compensation for families in wrongful death cases. You can count on our Charleston lawyers to be diligent advocates for you.

Are you looking for a DUI victims lawyer in Charleston? Contact our personal injury firm if you or a loved one has been the victim of a DUI accident in South Carolina. We offer a free consultation and 24-hour answering service. We have five convenient locations, with three South Carolina locations being fully staffed with full-time attorneys and experienced support staff, or we can meet you at your home or hospital, with evening and weekend appointments available. Call John Price Law Firm, LLC at (843) 632-5672.

Additional Resources:

https://scdps.sc.gov/scsoberorslammer/
https://www.nhtsa.gov/es/drunk-driving/drive-sober-or-get-pulled-over-1
https://dictionary.law.com/Default.aspx?selected=588
https://scdps.sc.gov/scsoberorslammer/scduilaws

The countdown to the holidays has been on many people’s minds. Focusing on favorite recipes, decorations, festive music and time by the fire feels especially inviting this year. If you decided to put up your tree or begin holiday shopping a little earlier than usual, you’re not alone. What’s more, Realtor.com reports decorating early can lighten your mood. We could all use a burst of happiness in what can feel like an otherwise heavy time. When it comes to holiday shopping, the options are seemingly endless. As you make your shopping list and check it twice, keep reading for toy safety statistics and safe holiday gift-giving tips from a personal injury lawyer in Charleston.

Why Toy Safety?

• The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports an estimated 251,700 toy-related injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments in 2017
• Of those injuries, 38 percent were lacerations, contusions, or abrasions and 44 percent were injuries to the head and face
• Nonmotorized scooters were the toy category associated with the most injuries for children 12 years and under and children 15 years and under
• The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reports one-third of all toy-related injuries take place in children under 5 years (with a “significant spike” occurring at age 2 years)

Tips for Shoppers
The CPSC released shopping tips for consumers, which include the following considerations:

• Refer to the label or age guidance and safety information
• For children under age three, stay away from toys containing small parts, marbles and small balls (AAP adds balloons to this list)
• Check for safe features in stuffed toys (embroidered or secured eyes and noses for young children and reinforced seams)
• Be cautious with magnets as high-powered magnet sets are a safety risk (toddler-teen)
• Match the child’s interest and abilities with your family’s play environment when shopping for toys
• Remember safety gear such as helmets for scooters and riding toys (use appropriate sizing)
• Research sellers and shop with reputable retailers

Check the Recall List
In addition to the tips mentioned above, take a moment to check the CPSC toy recall list online. You may also find signing up for their recall emails provides peace of mind.

Shopping Ideas
Are you wondering where to find age-appropriate, safe toys for little ones this season? The National Association for the Education of Young Children publishes a list of recommendations by age and stage on their website (covering birth-6 years).

We’re Here to Help
Are you looking for a personal injury lawyer in Charleston? If you believe a defective product caused a loved one’s injury or death, contact us. We offer a free consultation and 24-hour answering service. We have five convenient locations, with three South Carolina locations being fully staffed with full-time attorneys and experienced support staff, or we can meet you at your home or hospital, with evening and weekend appointments available. Call John Price Law Firm, LLC at (843) 632-5672.

Additional Resources:

https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2019/CPSC-Expands-Toy-Safety-Collaboration-Efforts-with-Retail-Toy-Industries-Safe-Kids-Top-Toy-Safety-Tips-for-Shoppers-This-Holiday-Season

This year, it’s no surprise that many families are feeling the urge to decorate for the holidays a little sooner than usual. Good Housekeeping reports that doing so may lift your spirits due to “a technique psychologists call savoring, a way to fully absorb life’s special moments.” Tapping into childhood memories and the holiday spirit may increase your excitement levels. While relishing in playfulness and finding more joy, don’t forget to prioritize safety. As lawyers in Summerville, we’re sharing pointers for safely decorating for the holidays. We hope you have a bright season full of blessings.

Holiday Fire Hazards

Decorating a Christmas tree is a tradition many families look forward to each year. Before you purchase, cut down or unpack this year’s tree, take some time to brush up on fire safety. These National Fire Protection Association facts may surprise you:

• Christmas trees start an average of 160 home fires each year
• Of these fires, 44 percent were tied to electrical distribution or lighting equipment
• In 25 percent of these fires, a heat source (candle or equipment) was “too close to the tree”
• More than 20 percent of Christmas tree fires were started on purpose

Wondering what you can do to lower tree fire risk? The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends the following:

• Checking for a “fire resistant” label on your artificial tree
• Properly preparing and watering your live tree (cut two inches from the trunk for “better water absorption”)
• Ensuring there is adequate space between your tree and hazards such as fireplaces, radiators and sources of heat

Other holiday fire hazards to be aware of include decorations being too close to a heat source, candles leading to household fires, fires in the kitchen from cooking and holiday fireworks fires.

Holiday Lights
Who doesn’t love a home beautifully adorned in glowing holiday lights? Before you go shopping or test out last year’s lights, do your research. Lowes has a helpful holiday light guide on their website that covers everything from planning your design to choosing the right lights and safe installation. A few of their tips:

• Be mindful of your surfaces (gutter thickness and shingle flexibility)
• Always use “UL-approved extension cords designed specifically for outdoor use”
• Select lights that are safe for indoor/outdoor use
• Review manufacturer’s guidelines and err on the side of caution

We’re Here to Help

Are you searching for lawyers in Summerville? Our personal injury firm offers a free consultation and 24-hour answering service. We have five convenient locations, with three South Carolina locations being fully staffed with full-time attorneys and experienced support staff, or we can meet you at your home or hospital, with evening and weekend appointments available. Call John Price Law Firm, LLC at (843) 632-5672.

Additional Resources:

https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/tips-for-hanging-outdoor-christmas-lights

There is much to look forward to during the holiday season. Holiday music sparks feelings of nostalgia, decorations and lights conjure up favorite childhood memories and the spirit of generosity runs deep. With all the merriment, it’s important to remember the holiday season also comes with additional stressors for many employees. For those industries who have their busiest times during these months, there is the usual rushing and pressure to perform. Layer on the heaviness of staying safe during COVID-19 and compromised sleep schedules from elevated stress and/or anxiety, and you have cause for concern. As workers’ compensation attorneys in Charleston, keep reading for our thoughts on holiday workplace safety.

The Facts About Workplace Injuries
The National Safety Council (NSC) reports “every 7 seconds, a worker is injured on the job.” That amounts to nearly 13,000 American workers sustaining injuries each day.

The most common types of workplace injuries:

• Sprains, strains or tears
• Soreness or pain
• Cuts, lacerations or punctures

The top three workplace injury events linked to lost work days:

• Overexertion
• Contact with objects and equipment
• Slips, trips and falls

Employer Responsibility
A sobering reminder: these injuries are preventable. It’s your employer’s responsibility to maintain a safe working environment. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) states that “employers should take appropriate actions to protect workers fulfilling customer orders, delivering packages, and managing crowds of shoppers.”

Holiday Hazards

OSHA reports that workplace hazards go up in the wholesale, transportation and retail industries because of the “increase in merchandise sales during the holiday shopping season.” Other safety concerns highlighted by SafeStart: ladder safety, electrical safety, food safety, winter hazards and more.

Decorating Safely
For those decorating their workplace to bring in the holiday spirit, Family Safety & Health reminds readers to avoid standing on chairs to hang decorations. They also warn against hanging decorations from fire sprinklers (keep a distance of at least 18” below sprinklers). Extra care should be taken with electrical items and extension cords, as they present additional dangers.

We’re Here to Help

Your employer’s insurance should cover temporary disability, medical expenses, and any temporary or permanent disability relating to the accident or injury. This may include vocational rehabilitation training to learn another trade.  Are you searching for workers’ compensation attorneys in Charleston? Contact our personal injury firm if you or a loved one has been the victim of a workplace injury in South Carolina. We offer a free consultation and 24-hour answering service. We have five convenient locations, with three South Carolina locations being fully staffed with full-time attorneys and experienced support staff, or we can meet you at your home or hospital, with evening and weekend appointments available. Call John Price Law Firm, LLC at (843) 632-5672.

Additional Resources:

https://www.nsc.org/work-safety/tools-resources/infographics/workplace-injuries
https://www.osha.gov/holidaysafety.html
https://safestart.com/news/7-holiday-safety-concerns-workplace/
https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/15004-workplace-holiday-safety

With clocks falling back one hour overnight on Nov. 1, 2020, the roads become darker during the evening commute or while running family errands. As we recently covered in our safety tips for driving at night blog, nighttime road conditions are more dangerous for many reasons, including limited depth perception, color recognition and peripheral vision. Adding a global pandemic into the equation means the number of drowsy drivers on the road may very well be higher than in the past. The National Institutes of Health National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute reports: “Many people are sleeping less or longer than they need to, which can make people feel groggy, unfocused, and even irritable throughout the day. Some are sleeping at different times or getting a lower quality sleep than before the pandemic.” As a car accident lawyer in Charleston, we’re covering the dangers of drowsy driving.

What is Drowsy Driving Prevention Week?
According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), “Drowsy Driving Prevention Week (DDPW) is a public awareness campaign designed to educate drivers about the dangers of driving while sleepy.” The week lands right after the end of daylight saving time and runs Nov. 1-8, 2020.

The Numbers on Drowsy Driving

NSF reports drowsy driving is linked to 6,400+ U.S. deaths each year. They caution the public in saying, “drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence.” Regarding the number of accidents linked to drowsy driving, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety believes the number is much higher than the 100,000 police-reported crashes (AAA estimates the number is closer to 328,000).

Additionally, the National Safety Council reports:

• Nearly half of adult drivers in the United States “admit to consistently getting behind the wheel while feeling drowsy”
• The risk of being involved in a car accident increases threefold for fatigued drivers
• Getting behind the wheel after “going more than 20 hours without sleep is the equivalent of driving with a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.08% – the U.S. legal limit”

Resources

Visit the National Sleep Foundation’s website for their tips on drowsy driving detection and prevention. Pay special attention to at-risk groups and do your part to raise awareness about the dangers of driving while drowsy. Watch their 2020 announcement video and share it with your friends and family.

We’re Here to Help

Are you searching for a car accident lawyer in Charleston? Contact our personal injury firm if you or a loved one has been the victim of a drowsy driver crash in South Carolina. We offer a free consultation and 24-hour answering service. We have five convenient locations, with three South Carolina locations being fully staffed with full-time attorneys and experienced support staff, or we can meet you at your home or hospital, with evening and weekend appointments available. Call John Price Law Firm, LLC at (843) 632-5672.

Additional Resources:

https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/2020/covid-and-sleep-better-slumber-during-pandemic-may-help-protect-your-health
https://drowsydriving.org/resources/drowsy-driving-prevention-week-toolkit
http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.684.6347&rep=rep1&type=pdf
https://www.nsc.org/road-safety/safety-topics/fatigued-driving
https://drowsydriving.org/about/detection-and-prevention
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPJX_QVMsqw

As temperatures cool down and fall foliage transforms into a colorful show of scarlet, gold and burnt orange, a motorcycle trip sounds especially inviting this year. You may be planning a ride in the Smoky Mountains, returning to the Tail of the Dragon or Cherohala Skyway. If you prefer to stay closer to home, the Lowcountry has plenty of scenic routes available, from those overlooking the Charleston Harbor to rides through the Francis Marion National Forest. When autumn road conditions meet Daylight Saving Time, taking extra precautions as a motorcyclist can help to keep your ride safe and enjoyable. Keep reading for our safety tips from a Charleston motorcycle crash attorney.

The Statistics on Motorcycle Crashes
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 80% of all reported motorcycle crashes result in injury or death. The NHTSA found 4,985 motorcyclists were killed in crashes in 2018. This is a small decrease from 2017 (5 percent), keeping in mind “motorcyclists are about 28 times as likely as passenger car occupants to die in a motor vehicle traffic crash.” The National Safety Council (NSC) found motorcyclists accounted for 14% of all traffic fatalities in 2017.

Daylight Saving Time
Including Daylight Saving Time  in the mix means “shorter days, fatigue, compromised night vision, rush hour and impaired drivers” according to the NSC. If you’ll be riding into the evening, understand the impacts of compromised depth perception, color recognition and peripheral vision for those on the road.

Staying Safe on the Roads This Fall
Adequately preparing for your time on your motorcycle could save your life. Below are a handful of safety tips for motorcyclists.

• Ride Legal—NTHSA reports 29 percent of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes in 2017 lacked a valid motorcycle license.
• Ride Sober—NSC reports “28% of riders who died in a motorcycle crash in 2017 were alcohol-impaired.” Steer clear of this major safety risk by always riding sober.
• Wear the Right Helmet—Review the research and reach for a new, full-coverage, DOT approved helmet.
• Educate Yourself—New to riding? A motorcycle safety course is essential. Has it been some time since you took a ride? Look into a refresher course.
• Be a Defensive Driver—NSC recommends driving defensively, taking extra care at intersections.
• Safety Check—Ensure your motorcycle is ready to ride (NHTSA’s list includes checking tire pressure, tread depth, hand and foot brakes, headlights, signal indicators and fluid levels).
• Watch Your Speed—Observe speed limits and adjust down for road conditions and time of day or night.
• Increase Your Conspicuity—There are a variety of ways to boost the likelihood of other drivers seeing you. Refer to this article from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF).

We’re Here to Help

In need of a Charleston motorcycle crash attorney? Contact our personal injury firm if you or a loved one has been the victim of a motorcycle crash in South Carolina. We offer a free consultation and 24-hour answering service. We have five convenient locations, with three South Carolina locations being fully staffed with full-time attorneys and experienced support staff, or we can meet you at your home or hospital, with evening and weekend appointments available. Call John Price Law Firm, LLC at (843) 632-5672.

Additional Resources:

https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/motorcycle-safety
https://www.nsc.org/road-safety/safety-topics/night-driving
https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/812512
https://one.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/pedbimot/motorcycle/00-NHT-212-motorcycle/motorcycle49-50.html