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Spinal cord injuries have the potential to be catastrophic. Not only can they result in permanent life-long damage to a person's health, but the costs associated with a spinal cord injury can be staggering. For example, the Dana and Christopher Reeve Foundation reports that a person in the United States with high tetraplegia may pay as much as $1 million in medical expenses and care within the first year of being injured. Those with low tetraplegia may pay nearly $770,000 in medical expenses the first year of their injury. Those with paraplegia can expect to pay approximately $518,000 in medical expenses the first year of their injury, and those who suffer an injury that produces incomplete motor function can expect to pay $347,000 in medical expenses during the first year of their injury. However, expenses related to medical care are not the only expenses those with spinal cord injuries may face. A person with a spinal cord injury may need to travel to obtain medical care, or their loved ones must travel to care for them. These travel expenses could cost the victim or their family thousands of dollars. Small expenses associated with a hospital stay, such as eating out, entertainment expenses and parking, can also add up. Another very real and very damaging expense is lost wages and earning potential. One year following the injury, only 11.7% of spinal cord injury victims can work, and 20 years following the injury, only 35.2% of spinal cord injury victims can work. Moreover, even if a spinal cord injury victim returns to the workforce, they may be unable to earn as much as they would have if they had not been injured. As this shows, there are many expenses related to spinal cord injuries. When these injuries are caused by the negligence of another, the spinal cord injury victim may be able to pursue compensation for the damages they suffered. For some, this means filing a lawsuit against the responsible party. If it can be shown that the responsible party had a duty to the victim, which was breached and caused the victim to suffer damages, the spinal cord injury victim may be awarded the compensation they need to get by financially as they move forward with their lives.

Artificial intelligence is the wave of the future for many products people in Reno use every day. This includes incorporating artificial intelligence into motor vehicles to make them safer. One recent collaboration has developed automated software that aims to prevent truck accidents. In a collaboration between Volvo Trucks North America, an automated vehicle software provider and a customer of Volvo, a project has been developed that uses automation to make it safer to operate a semi-truck. Through human intuition artificial intelligence, the new technology would perceive the actions of others on the road to make truckers more aware of their presence. The software would analyze the eye contact, posture, head motion and physical orientation of others on the road to detect what they may be doing. Then, the software would signal to the trucker if the people around them are about to do something different. This would make it possible for truckers to react earlier to prevent accidents. It remains to be seen if this new technology will one day be commonplace. However, as things currently stand, truckers are on their own when it comes to reacting to the actions of others on the road and they have a duty to drive safely themselves. Unsafe behaviors, such as aggressive driving, drowsy driving and drunk driving, may breach a trucker's duty of care to drive in a safe manner. If that duty of care is breached and it results in an accident that injures or kills another person, the victim of the crash may be able to hold the trucker and possibly even the truck company that hired the trucker responsible.

The Fourth of July is almost here, and people in Reno may already be planning their Independence Day celebrations. For many, this includes a party, complete with a cookout and fireworks. For some people, drinking alcohol is also part of their Independence Day celebrations. However, one survey has shown that the Fourth of July sees the most drunk driving fatalities. The study examined the number of drunk driving accidents that took place on the Fourth of July from 2010 to 2017. During that period, there were 1,192 drunk driving fatalities across the nation. This is almost 90 more deaths than those that took place on Memorial Day weekend during those same years, the holiday that sees the second highest number of drunk driving deaths. In addition, in 2017 drunk driving deaths were 57% more apt to occur on Independence Day in comparison to other days during the summertime. These numbers are troubling, as many people travel on the road during the Fourth of July holiday. If a person is struck by a drunk driver, they could experience significant injuries. In the worst of circumstances, they can even die due to their injuries. Drunk driving breaches a motorist's duty of care to drive reasonably under the circumstances. If this breach actually and proximately causes another person to suffer damages, the drunk driver may be held responsible for the incident. Each personal injury case based on a drunk driving accident is unique in its own way. Those who wish to pursue personal injury claims based on drunk driving accidents will want to get more information so that they can best determine how to proceed.

In Nevada and throughout the nation, bicyclists and pedestrians are ubiquitous on the roads. It is imperative for drivers to keep a close eye on them and share the road to keep everyone safe. Unfortunately, there are often accidents involving vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians. Given their vulnerability, there can be serious injury and death after a crash. Part of maintaining safety is to keep track of the statistics and trends for these auto accidents. Those who have been hurt or lost a loved one in a collision of this kind should be aware of how to attempt to recover compensation in a legal filing. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that there has been a minor reduction in the number of people who died in accidents overall, but there was a substantial increase in pedestrian and bicyclist deaths. In 2018, the projections say that there as a 1% reduction in fatal accidents from 2017, with 36,750 deaths. For pedestrians, it rose by 4%. Bicyclists had a 10% increase. From 2009 to 2017, there was an increase from 12% of traffic fatalities involving pedestrians, to 16%. For every 100 million miles traveled, there were 1.14 fatalities in 2018. In 2017, that was 1.16. This was the fewest since 2014. The safety statistics have generally improved from the worst year on record in 2007, when there were more than 41,000 deaths. Some states were found to be at higher risk for pedestrian fatalities than others. Nevada was among the states that saw a reduction of at least 10%. The NHTSA is seeking to find a way to gauge the impact of distracted driving on these fatalities. It can be difficult to do so because distracted drivers tend to avoid admitting they were distracted. When there is an auto accident involving a pedestrian or bicyclist, there is an overwhelming chance that the rider or pedestrian will get the worst of it. Broken bones, brain trauma, spinal cord damage and injuries so severe that they result in a fatality are common. When there is a crash and people need medical care, miss time at work and face exorbitant expenses, it is important to understand legal options after car accidents.

In Reno, throughout Nevada and across the United States, the way in which people get around has changed drastically with the rise of ride share services. Simply by pushing a button on their phone, a ride will come quickly. Whether that is Uber, Lyft or another service, it is considered a convenient alternative to public transportation or driving themselves. However, there are dangers with any motor vehicle and a recent study from Consumer Reports shows that many ride share vehicles have unaddressed recalls on their vehicles. This can cause injuries and death because of an auto accident. In its research, Consumer Reports found that one-sixth of all vehicles that are used for ride shares have had safety recalls that were not addressed. The study assessed vehicles in Seattle and New York. The recalls were all due to safety issues of varying severity. Since both locations have a requirement that drivers register their vehicles, it was easier for the study to take place. The investigation assessed almost 94,000 vehicles by using their serial numbers and registrations with Lyft and Uber. More than 16% had an open recall that the drivers had not taken care of. Some recalls were riskier than others. They included seatbelt issues, problems with the engine stalling, and the airbag dangers that sparked widespread recalls from the manufacturer Takata. In certain cases, the vehicles had more than one recall. The national average for recalls was comparable to what it is across the nation. Because there is a lack of oversight from the main ride share companies Lyft and Uber, drivers are not forced to fix their vehicles in accordance with the recalls so they can drive for the company. People who get into a ride share vehicle are not expecting the vehicle itself to put them in danger. Unfortunately, that does happen because drivers are operating vehicles with open recalls. Those who have been in an auto accident should be aware that they could have a claim for liability to recover compensation for injuries and fatalities that happened in these vehicles. A law firm that has experience with car accidents should be contacted for guidance on how to pursue a lawsuit for compensation.

In Reno, throughout Nevada and around the nation, there are many teens on the road. The number is multiplied in the summer. With that comes an enhanced risk of an auto accident. Since teens are not as experienced and are prone to making mistakes and committing dangerous actions, it is no surprise that so many crashes involve them. However, the problem is growing significantly worse as other dangers, such as distracted driving, become more prevalent. A recent report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety says that teens are at high risk, specifically in the summer from Memorial Day to Labor Day - also known as the "100 Deadliest Days." The study shows that out of the approximately 700 annual injuries and fatalities that occur involving a teen driver, almost two out of three injure or kill someone other than the teen. In the summer, there is a 17% increase when compared to the rest of the year. Teens are said to be the group with the highest vulnerability of having an accident. The statistics are from 2013 to 2017. They were released simultaneous to the beginning of the "100 Deadliest Days" to emphasize the point of how treacherous it can be to share the road with a teen driver and to encourage parents to teach their teens the rules of road safety. Teens who cause accidents tend to drink and drive, speed and drive while distracted. Despite teens not being legally allowed to drink alcohol, for every six accidents involving a teen during the summer, one had consumed alcohol. Half of the drivers who took part in the survey said they had driven at excessive speed in a residential location over the previous month. 40% said they drove at excessive speed on the highway. 52% admitted they read a text message or an email while driving. 40% said they sent them while driving. Researchers used dashboard cameras they had installed to observe teen drivers and found that 58% had distraction as a factor in a crash. While this information does not mean that drivers need to be terrified at the sight of a teen driver sharing the road with them, they should be cognizant of the inherent dangers teens pose. After an accident in which there are injuries and fatalities, it is imperative that those who were impacted understand the ramifications - medical costs, lost wages, the need to extended care, funeral expenses and more - so they can seek sufficient compensation with a potential personal injury legal action after car accidents.

Despite law enforcement's best efforts to educate drivers on the dangers of getting behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it is still a frequent problem throughout Nevada. People who are simply minding their own business and obeying all traffic laws can find themselves with serious injuries and even be killed when there is a drunk driving accident. One of the worst calls a family can get is that a loved one was hurt or lost his or her life in a drunk driving crash. After it has happened, it is important to consider the future and discuss a possible lawsuit with an experienced attorney. A two-vehicle accident killed one driver and led to the other being arrested for drunk driving. The accident occurred after midnight. Law enforcement was called to the scene after a 2018 Lincoln MKX driven by a 19-year-old was allegedly driving at excessive speed. A 2016 Ford Fusion being driven by an 18-year-old male was making a turn when the vehicles collided. The driver side of the Ford was hit. The driver was rushed to the hospital and was later declared dead. The driver of the Lincoln was taken to the hospital and later arrested. The investigation is continuing. A fatal accident is a terrible occurrence at any time and under all circumstances, but when it is a young person who is just starting his or her adult life, it is even more difficult to get beyond. When it is due to a driver who was under the influence, it is harder to accept. Although a legal filing will not bring the person back, it can help the family to deal with the incident and receive compensation for lost companionship, pain and suffering, lost contributions, funeral expenses and more. Consulting with a law firm is essential to a case. An alleged drunk driver sped through the streets and collided with a turning vehicle. The driver of the second vehicle was rushed to the hospital suffering from serious injuries and died. As the investigation continues, it is wise for the family to consider their options and take the necessary steps to file a wrongful death lawsuit. A law firm that has helped many people after car accidents should be contacted for advice.

Many Nevadans enjoy riding a motorcycle around the state whether in the cities or on the open road. It is a popular pastime despite its inherent risks. Most car drivers and motorcycle riders share the road safely and keep an eye on each other. Still, some drivers don't pay attention to what they are doing and behave recklessly or negligently. Since they are comparatively unprotected, a rider can suffer serious injuries and death. After a motorcycle collision occurs, it is imperative that the rider and their family think about the issues they will inevitably face in the aftermath and consider a legal filing for compensation. A mid-afternoon accident between a motorcycle and a car led to the rider being seriously hurt. According to the investigation, the rider was heading west when the vehicle exited a shopping center attempting to complete a U-turn. The vehicles subsequently collided. The driver did not suffer any injuries, but the rider was taken to the hospital in critical condition. Despite the improvements to safety technology, it only takes one mistake to cause an accident and change a rider's life forever. There can be head trauma, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, internal damage and more. A rider might need extensive medical treatment and long-term care. If there is a fatality, the family must learn to accept what happened and seek methods to get beyond it. Although a legal filing will not turn the clock back and prevent the crash, it can help the person with what they are facing in the immediate and long-term future. For people who are in a similar situation and need help deciding how to proceed, many key decisions must be made. Before doing anything, it is vital to contact a law firm experienced in investigating motorcycle accidents to decide how to move forward with a lawsuit.

Distracted driver study assesses frequency among parents On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • May 16, 2019 Nevada roads can be dangerous enough without the risk of distracted drivers. Unfortunately, as there are an increasing number of ways to be distracted, the problem has risen significantly. It is believed that younger people are more vulnerable to the temptation of using a smartphone when behind the wheel. However, a new survey has shown that parents are often distracted while behind the wheel. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration performed a survey that says there are more than 1,000 injuries and nine fatalities every day because of distracted drivers. In the survey, young parents are prone to using smartphones behind the wheel, despite the dangers involved. Surprisingly, older parents also text and drive at a troubling rate. The survey questioned 435 people regarding how often they texted, used social media, looked at maps and checked their email when behind the wheel. More than 50% of those surveyed stated they drive safer when there are children in the vehicle. Two-thirds stated they used their device less when there were children in the vehicle. After an auto accident, the medical costs, lost income and other problems can have a dramatic effect on a person's life. When there is a fatality, the family left behind will need to find a way to move forward. Having legal assistance to conduct an investigation and determine the cause of the accident is crucial. A law firm experienced in car accident cases can help a victim receive full compensation to cover their pain and suffering, medical costs, lost wages and more.

Back-to-back Reno motorcycle accidents injure one, kill another On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • May 09, 2019 Reno has many motorcyclists on its roadways. Drivers of passenger vehicles and trucks are obligated to keep an eye on them, yield when necessary and take steps to keep everyone safe and accident-free. However, theories and best-case scenarios aside, this does not always happen. When a rider is involved in a crash, they are vulnerable to injuries and fatalities. In some of these accidents, a second crash occurs in the immediate aftermath, causing more damage. With the litany of problems that come about after these accidents, legal assistance is advisable. Two separate motorcycle accidents resulted in one rider being injured and another dying. According to law enforcement, the first happened when a motorcyclist was going south and a vehicle turned in front of the rider. The vehicles collided and the rider died. Another rider was also going south and hit the first motorcyclist. That rider was hospitalized, but the injuries were said to be minor. The investigation is continuing and it is not known if charges or citations will be issued to anyone involved. There are natural risks involved when riding a motorcycle. Drivers of passenger vehicles need to keep riders in mind, watch their mirrors, give riders the right of way and take other steps to adhere to the safety laws. When they do not, riders can suffer catastrophic injuries and death. Medical costs, lost companionship, pain and suffering and other issues warrant compensation. A law firm that has experience in assisting people injured in motorcycle accidents must be called immediately to gather evidence and pursue a case. A firm that helps those who have suffered loss after motorcycle accidents can help.

Man injured by drunk driver in Reno On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • May 02, 2019 Reno drivers simply going about their business do not expect to be involved in an accident with a drunk driver. However, despite attempts by law enforcement to catch and penalize drunk drivers, it is a problem that has not gone away. Unwitting victims can be confronted with serious injuries and the costs that accompany them. To cover the medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and more, it is often necessary to file a claim for compensation. A 32-year-old man suffered life-threatening injuries after his vehicle was rear-ended by a drunk driver. The man was in a turning lane when a truck crashed into his car and then fled. An off-duty officer saw the accident and chased the truck. The truck stopped a few miles away and the driver was arrested. The man was taken to the hospital and was listed in critical condition. The investigation is continuing, and law enforcement is seeking witnesses. When an auto accident occurs, the victim and their family can be left reeling. It can be overwhelming to think about what steps need to be taken to ensure the medical expenses are covered and their loved one gets the care they need. Although a DUI accident will generally be viewed as the fault of the drunk driver, it is still important to have legal advice. To move forward with a legal filing, evidence is key. Victims injured by drunk drivers should remember their rights and understand the importance of legal help. A law firm that specializes in drunk driving accidents can be of assistance in a personal injury case.

Alleged drunk driver hits and kills bicyclist in Reno On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Apr 25, 2019 For residents of Reno and throughout Nevada, riding a bicycle can be beneficial in multiple ways. Riders can save money on gas, get exercise and help the environment. That, however, does not alter the dangers riders face when sharing the road with cars. Often, drivers of passenger vehicles do not pay as close attention to bicyclists as they should. Since bicyclists are inherently vulnerable, a crash can result in serious injuries and death. A 63-year-old man who was riding a bicycle died after being hit by an alleged drunk driver. After the crash, law enforcement and emergency responders were called and the rider was found on the roadway near where the crash occurred. He was unconscious and his injuries were believed to be life-threatening. After being taken to the hospital, he was declared dead. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and was cooperative. Law enforcement determined that alcohol was a factor and the driver was arrested for DUI and other charges. The investigation is continuing. Losing a loved one in an auto accident can be difficult enough without it being caused by a drunk driver. Unfortunately, it happens too often. Even if a bicyclist is wearing a helmet, it is rarely sufficient to avoid serious injuries and death when the rider is struck by a car. With medical costs, lost income, lost companionship, funeral expenses and the emotional impact of a fatal bicycle accident, the family left behind must protect their interests and think about a legal filing. When a bicyclist is killed in an accident, the family must make sure they have a legal representative that can provide them with guidance and advice as to how a legal filing can be pursued. The evidence is critical in such a case, so the first call they need to make is to a lawyer experienced in helping people who have lost loved ones in drunk driving accidents.