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

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

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

The arrival of autumn in the Lowcountry is welcomed by many after a long summer with sometimes scorching days. As we make our way through the global pandemic, fall plans may take different forms this year. While some festivities may be on hold, spending time on the road is still a part of many families’ routines. Whether driving around town to socially distant activities or headed to an airbnb for a weekend away, the roads will be darker sooner as Daylight Saving Time (DST) ends. In today’s post, we’re sharing tips for safe driving at night from a personal injury attorney in Charleston.

 

Driving at Night Risks
The National Safety Council (NSC) urges citizens to exercise caution on the roads as we ‘fall back,’ citing risks such as “shorter days, fatigue, compromised night vision, rush hour and impaired drivers.” NSC also notes the effects of the dark on depth perception, color recognition and peripheral vision. Additionally, NSC reports half of traffic deaths take place at night. They go on to say, “it doesn’t matter whether the road is familiar or not, driving at night is always more dangerous.”

 

Safety Tips for Driving at Night

1. Slow Your Speed: NSC recommends slowing your speed to account for limited visibility.
2. Drive Alert: Geico emphasizes keeping yourself alert on the road, especially considering others may be drowsy.
3. Drive Defensively: Understand others may be lacking sleep and not taking appropriate precautions (adjust your driving accordingly).
4. Be Aware of Road Conditions: Changes in the weather could mean the roads are wet, debris is present or wildlife is on the move.
5. Dim Dash Lights: Doing so will allow you to better focus your vision on the road.
6. Check Your Vehicle: Drive Safely suggests cleaning your windshield and checking your lights (headlights and taillights).
7. Limit Distractions: Distracted driving is dangerous day and night. The CDC urges drivers to avoid visual, manual and cognitive distractions.
8. Leave More Space: Add another second to the NSC’s 3-second rule because of road conditions.
9. Audit Your Eyewear: Geico reminds drivers to have their vision checked yearly, and NSC advises reaching for anti-reflective glasses.
10. Keep Your Vehicle Serviced: You’ll want adequate tread on your tires and well-maintained brakes to ensure your vehicle can handle road conditions and emergencies.

We’re Here to Help

In need of a personal injury attorney in Charleston? Contact our firm if you or a loved one has been the victim of an auto 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://www.nsc.org/road-safety/safety-topics/night-driving
https://www.geico.com/living/driving/auto/car-safety-insurance/driving-at-night
https://www.idrivesafely.com/defensive-driving/trending/night-driving-tips-what-you-need-know
https://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/distracted_driving/index.html#:~:text=Each%20day%20in%20the%20United,to%20involve%20a%20distracted%20driver.&text=Distracted%20driving%20is%20driving%20while,your%20attention%20away%20from%20driving.
https://arrivesafeusa.org/3-second-rule

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more than one million employees suffer back injuries each year, accounting for nearly 20 percent of all workplace injury claims. A closer look at the data reveals workers with manual materials handling tasks are at greater risk, and the majority of these injuries affect the lower back (80 percent). If you’ve ever experienced a back injury, you learn just how quickly everyday tasks and activities must be put on hold. Living with chronic pain becomes a reality for far too many people, which undoubtedly spills into relationships and mental health. There is help available as you navigate life with a back injury. In today’s post, we’re covering back injuries in the workplace, how they may affect you, and the steps needed for medical care and financial compensation.

 

Back Injuries in the Workplace

According to data from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), low back pain is a reality for more than 26 percent of working adults. Of those suffering, the pain was found to be work-related at least 20 percent of the time. What’s more, NIOSH states “this is likely an underrepresentation of work-relatedness as the majority of workers did not discuss with their healthcare provider whether their pain might be work-related at all.”

 

Types of Back Injuries

The most common back injuries in the workplace according to Business & Legal Resources (BLR) are strains, sprains and herniated disks. Cleveland Clinic defines back strain as “an injury to either a muscle or tendon” and a back sprain as “the stretching or tearing of a ligament.” As for herniated disks, Cleveland Clinic states: “A herniated disk — also called a slipped disk or ruptured disk — occurs when pressure from the vertebrae above and below force some or all of the nucleus pulposus through a weakened or torn part of the annulus. The herniated nucleus pulposus can press on the nerves near the disk, resulting in pain.”

 

Additional types of workplace back injuries include:

• Nerve impingement
• Spinal compression
• Lumbar or lower back pain
• Fractured vertebrae
• Spinal cord injury
• Paralysis

Who Is at Risk?
Workplace back injuries are common amongst construction workers, industrial workers, nurses and nursing aides and manual laborers , though they affect other South Carolina employees as well.

 

Serious Consequences
Research from (NIOSH) sought to explore a potential link between certain disabilities resulting from work-related injuries and death rates. Their findings: “Those with a lost-time disabling low-back workers’ compensation claim had a higher rate of mortality when compared to those with claims accepted for the same diagnoses who did not miss time from work.”

 

We’re Here to Help

Contact our personal injury firm if you or a loved one has suffered from a back injury in the workplace in South Carolina. We are here to help you obtain the medical and financial benefits you deserve. 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.

If a fire were to break out at home or in your place of work, how would you react? According to Ready.gov, a fire can become life-threatening in a mere two minutes. Fast forward to the five-minute mark and an entire residence can be enveloped in flames. Fire is “fast,” “hot,” “dark” and “deadly.” Having a fire escape plan in place could save your life. In today’s post, a Charleston lawyer highlights the importance of fire safety at home and in the workplace.

 

Since 1922, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has sponsored Fire Prevention Week, which is October 4-10 this year. According to NFPA, “During Fire Prevention Week, children, adults, and teachers learn how to stay safe in case of a fire. Firefighters provide lifesaving public education in an effort to drastically decrease casualties caused by fires.”

U.S. Fire Statistics

According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), there were 1,318,500 fires in 2018 resulting in 3,655 deaths and 15,200 injuries. Of the more than 1.3 million fires, 30% took place on residential property, 9% were nonresidential, 14.8% were vehicle, 40.6% occurred outside and 5.5% fell in the other category.

 

Home Fire Safety Basics
American Red Cross has a host of free resources available on home fire safety. They emphasize having working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan. Tips at the top of their list include:

• Installing fire alarms on “every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.”
• Testing smoke alarms monthly (changing batteries as needed).
• Discussing your fire escape plan with all family members and practicing the plan twice a year.
• In the event of a home fire, “GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.”

 

Home Fire Prevention

Ready.gov outlines several key areas where tragedies can be prevented:

• Cooking
• Smoking
• Electrical and appliances
• Space heaters
• Fireplaces and woodstoves
• Educating children on fire safety

In the Workplace

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2016, there were 88 occupational fatalities as a result of workplace fires or explosions. They recommend discussing fire safety with your management team at work. The conversation should cover the emergency action plan and the role supervisors will play as well as walking the evacuation routes as a team. Routine fire drills help drive home “memory created through practice,” which is critical during a crisis.

We’re Here to Help

In need of a Charleston lawyer? Contact our personal injury firm if you or a loved one has been the victim of a personal injury from a fire due to unsafe premises 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.ready.gov/home-fires
https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Staying-safe/Preparedness/Fire-Prevention-Week/About
https://www.usfa.fema.gov/data/statistics/
https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire.html
https://www.bls.gov/iif/oshwc/cfoi/cfch0015.pdf

In an effort to stop drunk driving, this Aug. 19 to Sept. 7, 2020, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) mobilizes their “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. Drunk driving takes the lives of 10,000+ people each year. NHTSA reports nearly 30 people lose their life in drunk-driving crashes in the United States every single day (one person every 50 minutes). In fact, drunk drivers are involved in nearly one out of every three traffic crash fatalities in the United States (with BACs of .08 g/dL or higher).

Effects of Alcohol on Driving

The National Safety Council cautions that “impairment begins with the first drink,” noting the risk of crashing goes up with each drink. NHTSA has published a table that details both the typical and predictable effects of blood alcohol levels on drivers. Note that a “decline in visual functions (rapid tracking of a moving target)” and a “decline in ability to perform two tasks at the same time (divided attention)” happen with a BAC of .02 g/dL. Coordination and response times are reduced with a BAC of .05 g/dL, along with “reduced ability to track moving objects” and “difficulty steering.” As you can imagine, the effects are even worse as BAC levels rise.

 

Drunk Driving Dangers in South Carolina
The State recently published an article about drunk driving in South Carolina, describing the issue in our state as “among the worst in the nation.” Rebecca Edwards for SafeWise ranked South Carolina third on the 2019 list of states with the most drunk driving deaths (5.72 per 100,000 people). Edwards also notes “the southern states (minus Georgia and Florida) ranging from South Carolina to New Mexico feature some of the most dangerous roads for impaired drivers.”

Drunk Driving During COVID-19

Live 5 News reported drunk driving arrests were down in March and April of 2020 likely due to bars being closed and fewer cars on the road. However, as businesses reopen and tourists travel to the Lowcountry, we may see those numbers increase. AAA cautions parents about the “100 Deadliest Days” between Memorial Day and Labor Day, reporting, “the combination of schools closed, activities curtailed, summer jobs canceled, and COVID-19 restrictions being lifted, could prove deadly as teens take to the road this summer.”

 

DUI Accident Victims
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.

 

We’re Here to Help

Contact our personal injury firm if you or a family member has been the victim of a drunk driving 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.

Verbiage from John Price website

 

The National Heatstroke Awareness Campaign from the United States Department of Transportation runs from July to September of this year. Perhaps you’ve seen their public service announcements for Park. Look. Lock. As personal injury lawyers, we are all too familiar with injuries to children and would like to help spread the word about what parents and caregivers can do to help minimize the risk of Pediatric Vehicular Heatstroke (PVH). Keep reading for more about PVH as you take simple steps that may save a life and avoid a heartbreaking tragedy.

PVH Statistics
NoHeatStroke.org reports that since 1998, 857 children have died due to PVH (as of July 9, 2020). The lives of 53 children were lost in 2018 alone due to vehicular heatstroke, a high over the past 20 years. Sadly, these deaths were preventable, which is why it’s so important to be informed about safety recommendations concerning children and vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that “in just 10 minutes, a car can heat up by 20 degrees and become deadly.” They also note that “a child’s body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adult’s.” When the core body temperature is around 104 degrees, heatstroke starts. The consequences are lethal at around 107 degrees.

Safety Reminders
The following safety reminders are highlighted on the NoHeatStroke.org website:

 

• “Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle. Not even for a minute!”
• “If you see a child unattended in a hot vehicle, call 9-1-1”
• Check to see that all passengers have left the vehicle when unloading
• Remember babies who may be asleep
• Lock your vehicle and keep keys and entry devices away from children
• Let children know vehicles are not play areas
• “If a child is missing, always check the pool first, and then the car, including the trunk.”

 

Other ideas shared include using a stuffed animal as a visual cue to remember your child. Putting another item out of reach such as a phone, handbag or briefcase may also be a helpful tool. They also remind parents and caregivers to adopt a “look before you leave” routine when exiting the vehicle. One more suggestion is to ask your child’s school or daycare to notify you if your child isn’t present.

Printable Visuals

NHTSA created an asset library with free printables with hangtags, window clings, stickers and more. Download life-saving visuals and display them in your vehicle. Share them with loved ones and help spread the word.

 

We’re Here to Help
Contact our personal injury firm if your child has been injured due to heatstroke 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.

Most new parents are aware of the important task of baby proofing their home, carefully anchoring furniture, covering outlets, removing cords, installing baby gates, locking cabinets, and more. Sharp edges become a hazard and stove knobs pose a threat. Keeping your sweet baby healthy means everything and the extra precautions you take to provide a safer space for all to enjoy the comforts of home. Thankfully, there are plenty of checklists and resources available online. As little ones grow and become more curious and mobile, baby proofing becomes childproofing. With families spending more time at home due to COVID-19, taking inventory of your environment for potential safety hazards is critical. The focus of today’s blog is on keeping children safe around areas with water at home.

 

KidsHealth from Nemours reminds caregivers that water safety is more than pool safety. It’s areas of the home with water, such as the bathroom and kitchen as well as “things you might not think about — like catchment ponds, drainage ditches and runoff areas in your neighborhood.” The National Safety Council (NSC) reports “drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional death in children ages 1 to 4 years and ages 10 to 14 years.” Dangers include children “falling into a pool or being left alone in the bathtub,” and NSC notes “bathtubs, toilets and even buckets also can pose a danger for very young children.”

Some helpful water safety precautions from NSC include:

• Stay with your child around water
• Enroll your child in swim lessons but remember “lessons do not make your child ‘drown-proof’”
• Keep children away from drains and suction fittings
• Have a first aid kit nearby
• Be trained in CPR
• Remember “if a child is missing, check the water first”

 

Bathroom Safety
HealthyChildren.org shares essential bathroom safety tips for parents and caregivers to keep in mind. At the top of their list is making the room “inaccessible unless your child is accompanied by an adult.” One method for this precaution is installing a door latch at adult height. Since children can drown in just a few inches of water, “never leave a young child alone in the bath, even for a moment.” Distractions in today’s world include the phone and doorbell. Monitor the temperature of water in the bath and adjust your water heater (no more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit). They also suggest installing toilet lid locks and keeping toilet lids closed when not in use. Review the HealthyChildren.org website for more tips, including suggestions for medicine and toiletry storage and electrical appliances in the bathroom.

Precautions Around Pools

PoolSafety.gov emphasizes the dangers posed by pool drains, asking caregivers to avoid “a pool or spa that has a loose, broken or missing drain cover.” Be sure that compliant drain covers are present in pools and spas. Before entering a home spa, check for the emergency vacuum shutoff. They also detail the proper height for a pool fence, which should be at least four feet tall surrounding “the pool or spa on all sides and should not be climbable for children” (Norton’s Children recommends a self-closing gate with a childproof lock). Consider additional barriers or alarms as well, as they may save a life.

 

We Are Here to Help

Children often don’t see danger when playing near water. That’s why there are special laws to protect them.  Our personal injury attorneys have represented many child injury cases on behalf of young victims. Contact our personal injury firm if your child has been injured in a household 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.

If you are involved in a car accident, many things will run through your mind in the moments after the crash. Your primary concern, of course, is health – your own and the others who have been involved in the accident. Only later will you start to think about financial matters, and at that point you may decide to contact a car accident attorney for assistance. 

Not Every Case Requires an Attorney

For many car accidents, the use of an attorney simply will not be necessary. For instance, in the case of a simple rear-end collision at low speed where no one is injured, working with a car accident attorney would not be required. The insurance companies can sort out the details of the small dollar amounts at play, and everyone can move on. 

Higher Stakes

It is when major injuries come into play that a car accident attorney may be a good choice. If you have been injured in an accident and would like to pursue damages that have resulted from your injuries, working with an experienced lawyer is the right move. This type of case is simply too important to take on without the help of representation. You may rack up sizeable medical bills as a result of your accident, and you might have to miss work for a significant period of time. The person responsible for your injuries should be held accountable, so team up with a law firm that is going to work with your best interests at heart. 

Explore Your Options

One common mistake seen time and time again is when victims of car accident injuries decide on their own that they don’t have a case, or that the case isn’t worth pursuing. It’s yet to be determined what your case might look like, but don’t just assume that it’s not worth the time or effort. Request a free consultation to discuss the possibilities and make a determination from that point. 

Let’s Get Started

At John Price Law Firm, we fight hard for every single client. No matter what the case may be, and no matter how much is at stake, you are sure to get our best effort. For a free consultation, please contact us at your convenience. Give us a call at (843) 632-5672. We are excited to serve you!

Cool School Teacher: Hannah Butler

John Price Law Firm, LLC | Teacher Hannah Butler says she can relate to students who may be struggling and works hard to make her class engaging and fun. We’re in Mount Pleasant with our Cool School Teacher of the week.

Ms. Hannah Butler is a second and third-grade teacher at Crown Leadership Academy.  A teacher for five years, she’s been at Crown three years.  She decided to become a teacher because she was inspired by her mother who was also an educator.  She says watching her mother teach, showed her a great teacher can change any child’s life.  That’s the goal for her classroom, and for each child, she teaches.  She believes education can give children the confidence they need to do anything they dream.

Ms. Butler says she struggled in school but had teachers along the way who believed in her, spent the time to foster her talents and helped her breakthrough to success. “It makes me a strong teacher today because I can understand the kids’ struggle, and what they go through.  For me, it was finding those little creative ways to make spelling fun or make math make sense that helps me get through school, and to be able to do that for the kids today is really exciting.  It’s as simple as making a song for spelling words, helping them to work through that, and see them succeed is awesome, and it makes my struggles worth it.”

Third-grade student Selina Griffith says, “She’s really nice, and she’s really kind, and she’s funny.  She’s a really good friend.”  Second-grade student Jimothy Brown says, “This really feels like a dream.  She’s really nice, very funny, and when we need help always there to help us and were allowed to work with our friends.  She’s really the best teacher ever.”

Ms. Butler has an interactive classroom.  She teaches life lessons.  Her students also have a classroom money system.

Congratulations Ms. Hannah Butler!

Additional Resources:

https://www.counton2.com/news/cool-school/cool-school-teacher-hannah-butler/1897179145

A. C. Corcoran Elementary receives the News 2 Cool School Award

John Price Law Firm, LLC | News 2 presents A.C. Corcoran Elementary with our Cool School award.

A. C. Corcoran Elementary in North Charleston is our Cool School of the week.

Students have one-to-one technology.  The school implemented a new program called, Kindness is the New Cool.  Every month, teachers select exceptionally kind students to be recognized school wide for modeling outstanding social and emotional growth.

Congratulations A. C. Corcoran Bulldogs!

Additional Resources:

https://www.counton2.com/news/cool-school/a-c-corcoran-elementary-receives-the-news-2-cool-school-award/1832695275

Fort Dorchester High School receives the News 2 Cool School award

News 2 presents Fort Dorchester High School our Cool School award.

Fort Dorchester High School in Dorchester School District Two is our Cool School of the week.

Fort Dorchester High School is a large comprehensive high school located in North Charleston. The school has 23-hundred students.

Students take pride in their accomplishments.  In addition to being a powerhouse in sports, the school also offers a wide variety of academic, arts, and career and technology programs. Fort D is the only International Baccalaureate School in Dorchester District Two.

Congratulations Fort Dorchester Patriots!

Additional Resources:

https://www.counton2.com/news/cool-school/fort-dorchester-high-school-receives-the-news-2-cool-school-award/1801140409