Inexperience and Alcohol Linked to High Number of Teen Traffic Accidents

Hutchinson, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 12/03/2015 -- Automobile accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Motorists between the ages of 16 and 19 are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal auto accident than any other demographic. In 2013, over 2,000 teen motorists were killed and almost 250,000 were injured in traffic accidents (CDC).

"Teen motorists are at a significant risk for auto accidents for several reasons," Scott Mann says, auto accident attorney for Mann, Wyatt & Rice. "Due to their inexperience behind the wheel, teen motorists are more likely to make mistakes or drive recklessly. They are also more prone to internal and external distractions that can cause accidents. These this can include texting while driving, talking on the phone, alcohol, drugs, or a teen passenger in the vehicle."

Teenagers who have recently received their driver's license are at an especially high risk. Inexperienced teen drivers are more likely to take unnecessary risks, misjudge traffic, follow another vehicle too close, and disobey the speed limit. In 2012, speeding was the cause of 35 percent of all auto accidents involving male teen motorists (CDC). Teenagers also wear their seat-belts less than any other age group, which puts both teen motorists and passengers in danger. According to the CDC, only 55 percent of teenagers wear seat-belts on a regular basis.

When these factors are combined with alcohol, the probability of an auto accident fatality only increases. Seventy-one percent of teen motorists killed in 2012 were driving under the influence and not wearing a seat-belt (CDC). According to a national survey in 2013, 22 percent of teenagers admitted that they had ridden in a vehicle within the previous month, in which the motorist had been drinking alcohol (CDC).

"Teen motorists should use extreme caution when they get behind the wheel," says Mann. "They need to think about the consequences of their actions and practice safe driving habits at all times. Drive responsibly, follow traffic sings, wear a seat-belt, and never drive while intoxicated. Using basic common sense will go a long way in saving not only your own life, but also the lives of others."

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Zero-Tolerance Laws Continue to Help Prevent DUI Motor Vehicle Fatalities

Hutchinson, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 10/05/2015 -- Alcohol-impaired motorists put passengers and other drivers at a significant risk for severe injury and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 30 people are killed each day in the United States as a direct result of an alcohol-impaired driver. Costs associated with DUI and DWI vehicle accidents also exceed $59 billion in expenses each year (CDC).

"DUI has one of the highest arrest rates among all major crimes," says Scott Mann, auto accident attorney at Mann, Wyatt & Rice Midwest Injury Firm. "However, this has not deterred motorists from putting their lives and those of others at risk. Many motorists who have been drinking mistakenly believe they are 'okay' to drive and take the situation lightly. Others view giving their keys to a designated driver as a sign of weakness."

In 2010, it was estimated that 4 million adults admitted to driving while impaired by alcohol. That year there were 112 million motor vehicle accidents in the United States caused by DUI and DWI (United States Department of Transportation). Furthermore, 31 percent of all vehicular fatalities in 2013 were due to alcohol-impaired collisions (CDC). This resulted in 10,076 deaths, 17 percent of which were children between the ages of 0 and 14. Fifty percent of these were child passengers of the alcohol-impaired driver (CDC).

"Zero-tolerance laws are doing their part to help reduce these tragic fatalities," says Mann. "It is a criminal DUI offense for motorists under the age of 21 to operate a vehicle with the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.00 to 0.02 percent. For motorists over the age of 21, the BAC for DUI is 0.08 percent in all 50 States and the District of Columbia. However, there are still precautions that motorists need to take in order to increase road safety."

It's crucial for motorists to practice responsible habits, and always prevent the combination of alcohol and driving. If you are planning on drinking, then avoid getting behind the wheel by using a designated driver or a professional car service. Motorists can eliminate driving altogether by choosing a bar or restaurant within walking distance of their residence.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Parents, Children and Motorists Need to Take Extra Safety Precautions for the New School Year

Hutchinson, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/26/2015 -- Every year, school zones and bus stops pose a significant safety threat for school children. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motor vehicles kill 500 students between the ages of 5-18 each year in school zones. There is also an estimated 21,000 students injured each year traveling to or from school. Seventy-seven percent of these victims were pedestrians struck by a school bus or another vehicle (NHTSA).

"Speeding motorists are the major cause of school zone vehicle accidents and fatalities," says Scott Mann, auto accident attorney of Mann Law Offices. "When this is combined with children crossing intersections, running into the street, playing close to the road, and crossing behind or in front of vehicles, it can result in tragic consequences."

There has been a proven correlation between a rise in pedestrian deaths and speeding vehicles. Two-thirds of motorists driving through school zones exceed the posted speed limit (NHTSA). This is why it is extremely important for motorists to slow down and be extra cautious. Many motorists also drive distracted because of cell phones, or they are simply ignoring their surroundings while "auto-pilot" driving.

Parents and children must practice extra caution in school zones. Students should be especially aware of traffic when 10 feet in front, behind, or on either side of the school bus. While waiting for the bus, children should keep six feet away as the bus approaches. Wait for the bus driver to give you permission to board the bus.

"Children are not the best at accurately judging traffic depth. Motorists need to look for children crossing the street on foot or bicycle, and anticipate those who might attempt to cross," says Mike Wyatt, auto accident attorney of Mann Law Offices. "Children should use the help of a crossing guard or parent for busy intersections, and stay away from the street if you stop to play or have a conversation with friends."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Passenger Safety Crucial in Helping Decrease Vehicular Deaths in United States

Hutchinson, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 07/27/2015 -- The high number of passenger vehicle occupant deaths is an alarming trend that affects tens of thousands of motorists every year. In 2013, there were 21,268 passenger vehicle occupant deaths, which accounted for 65 percent of all vehicular fatalities that year (U.S. Department of Transportation). The same study also notes that 53 percent of passenger vehicle occupant deaths were caused by frontal impacts, while 25 percent were from side impacts.

"Occupants of cars, minivans, pickups, SUVs and cargo/large passenger vans all face significant risks in a traffic accident," says Scott Mann, auto accident attorney of Mann Law Offices. "This is especially true for children and other passengers who are not wearing a seatbelt. According to the most recent reports, 27 percent of passenger vehicle occupants who lose there lives are 25 or younger."

Passengers in smaller vehicles are at a higher risk for death when involved in accidents with larger vehicles. However, passengers of SUVs and pickups are more susceptible in fatal single-vehicle crashes due to rollovers. In 2013, rollovers caused 7,067 passenger vehicle occupant deaths, and almost 30 percent of those accidents did not involve a collision (U.S. Department of Transportation). Since 1975, pickup occupant deaths have increased by 15 percent, while SUV occupant fatalities have increased by a staggering 900 percent (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety).

"Wearing a seatbelt is the most effective safety precaution passengers can take to protect themselves," says Mike Wyatt, auto accident attorney of Mann Law Offices. "There is a common misconception that passengers don't need seatbelts if they are sitting in the backseat. However, this puts them at considerable risk. Passengers of all ages need to buckle up no matter the type of vehicle, or where they are sitting."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), wearing a seatbelt decreases the chance of a fatality by 50 percent. In 2011, 33 percent of children killed in traffic accidents were not wearing a seatbelt (CDC). Passengers need to securely fasten both the lap and shoulder part of the belt every time they get in an automobile. In addition to seatbelt safety, drivers of SUVs and pickup trucks need to safely follow basic traffic laws to avoid rollovers and collisions with smaller vehicles.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Bicycle and Pedalcycle Traffic Safety Crucial for Saving Lives

Hutchinson, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/23/2015 -- Bicyclists are at an extremely high risk for injury and death following traffic accidents. In 2010, there were 800 bicyclists killed and 515,000 injured in traffic-related accidents in the United States (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). This disturbing trend continued in 2011 with the death of 682 pedalcyclists. Pedalcyclists are any cyclist on a non-motorized pedal vehicle, which include bicycles, tricycles, and unicycles. In 2012, 726 pedalcyclists were killed and 49,000 were injured in traffic accidents (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). According to the NHTSA, pedalcyclist fatalities make up 2 percent of all traffic fatalities each year.

"There are several ways for cyclists to protect themselves in traffic," says Scott Mann, auto accident attorney at Mann Law Offices. "In most states bicycles are considered vehicles with the same rights and responsibilities as automobiles. Cyclists should always ride in the same direction as cars and trucks. Stay in the right lane to increase visibility and go with the flow of traffic -- never against it. Bicyclists should also obey all traffic signs, lane markings, and signals."

Cyclists need to yield to other vehicles when appropriate. If there isn't a stop sign posted, slow down and watch for automobiles and pedestrians. Signal before making a turn, ride in straight lines, and do not weave in and out of traffic. Following these basic traffic rules can make your bicycle more visible to other vehicles. Cyclists need to be aware of their surroundings and avoid wearing headsets. Look before turning and ride far enough away from parked cars to avoid collisions with opening doors.

"Most bicycle accidents happen at intersections," says Mike Wyatt, auto accident attorney at Mann Law Offices. "To increase their visibility in intersections, cyclists should wear bright clothing, obey traffic signs, ride defensively, and proceed with extreme caution. Don't take it for granted that automobiles will yield for your bicycle or see you in traffic."

Bicycle and tricycle riders under the age of 10 need to stay on the sidewalk to avoid traffic. Keep a lookout for automobiles driving down alleys or turning into driveways. Before crossing the street, stop at the corner and look both ways for oncoming traffic. Let pedestrians know you are coming by ringing a bell, and verbally indicate which side you are passing on.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Motorcycle Fatalities Most Often Caused by Speeding, DUI & Lack of Helmet

Hutchinson, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/29/2015 -- Motorcycles only make up 3 percent of all registered road vehicles in the United States. However, it is estimated that motorcyclists are 35 times more likely to be involved in an accident. Each year, motorcycles are involved in 11 percent of all traffic accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA), there were 4,612 motorcycle rider fatalities in 2012. This was a 2 percent increase from 2010. These alarming statistics point to the fact that motorcycle accidents remain a serious problem for both motorcyclists and motorists.

"Over 50 percent of all motorcyclist fatalities involve another vehicle," says Scott Mann, auto accident attorney of Mann Law Offices. "This can be the result of a car or truck failing to see the motorcycle in traffic. It can also be caused by a motorcyclist ignoring traffic conditions, splitting the lanes, not signaling before turning, and speeding."

In accidents involving another vehicle, speeding by the motorcyclist is the number one cause of the collision. Furthermore, 50 percent of solitary motorcycle accidents are also due to speeding. In 2011, 35 percent of motorcycle fatalities were caused by the speeding of the motorcyclist (NHTSA). Additional causes of motorcycle accidents include inclement weather, inexperienced riders and motorists, road rage, poor road conditions, and vehicle defects.

Drugs and alcohol also play a major role in motorcycle accidents. In 2011, over 40 percent of riders killed in accidents had blood alcohol levels (BAC) of 0.8g/dL or higher (NHTSA). Motorcyclists between the ages of 40 and 44 were more likely to be involved in alcohol-related motorcycle accidents (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

"The main reason why there are so many rider fatalities is because motorcycles provide very little protection during a collision," says Mike Wyatt, auto accident attorney of Mann Law Offices. "Wearing a helmet is the best way for a motorcyclist to prevent a fatality during an accident."

According to recent studies, helmets reduce motorcycle fatalities by 40 percent (NHTSA). In 2009, almost 45 percent of all motorcycle accident victims killed in a crash were not wearing a helmet. It is estimated that over 1,800 lives were saved in 2008 because of motorcycle helmets (NHTSA).

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Hutchinson, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/26/2015 -- The safety of highway workers and motorists in construction zones remains a major concern in the United States. There were 609 work zone traffic fatalities in 2012 and 579 the following year (Federal Highway Administration). The consistent number of work zone deaths each year further illustrates the seriousness of the issue.

"The frequency of auto accidents in work zones is due to the errors of both motorists and construction companies," says Scott Mann, auto accident attorney of Mann Law Offices. "Some motorists drive recklessly and fail to obey the reduced speed limits in work zones. In other cases, construction companies post improper warning signs that give motorists insufficient time to stop."

Laws and regulations try to protect both workers and motorists from accidents in several ways. Fines are doubled for speeding in work zones in most states, including Kansas and Missouri. The law also stipulates that the speed limit must be posted, and workers must be present in order for these fines to be enforced.

The Department of Transportation hopes that the threat of a larger fine better protects construction workers on the highway. However, speed limits in work zones continue to be ignored. Many times drivers refuse to slow down if they do not see construction workers (which would not constitute a doubled fine). Unfortunately, workers are often hard to see and motorists do not discover their presence until it is too late.

"There are times when construction companies are also at fault," says Mann. "They have a duty to keep their work zone safe for both motorists and workers. This means they have an obligation to warn motorists of uneven road surfaces, and give them ample warnings before a sharp turn or stop."

In order to reduce the number of work zone traffic fatalities, motorists need to obey the speed limit in construction zones and be aware of any workers in the area. Pay attention to flaggers and avoid distractions while driving. Likewise, construction companies should do everything in their power to post proper signage and make themselves more visible to oncoming traffic. By working together, motorists and construction companies can help increase the road safety of all parties.

About Mann Law Offices, LLC
The attorneys and staff of Mann Law Offices, LLC are devoted to representing victims and families that have suffered serious injury by accident. We've won thousands of cases for people involved in car accidents, truck accidents, accidents with a drunk or impaired driver, motorcycle accidents, bus accidents, work or on-the-job accidents, and wrongful death accidents. We also handle cases involving nursing home negligence, product liability, and premises liability.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Spring Break Cities See Increase in Auto Fatalities Every Year

Hutchinson, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/01/2015 -- There is a 10 percent increase of auto accident fatalities in popular spring break cities between the last week of February and the first week of April (Economic Inquiry). The rise of these accidents is due to the estimated 1.5 million spring breakers who travel to these locations each year. The cities of South Padre Island, San Diego, Miami Beach, Las Vegas, and Panama City Beach all experience a significant increase in auto fatalities during spring break. The majority of these accidents involve out-of-state drivers under the age of 25.

"Binge drinking, drug abuse, and sexual assault remain serious areas of concern for spring breakers. However, the danger of auto accidents is often overlooked," says Scott Mann, auto accident attorney of Mann Law Offices. "It is estimated that there are 16 more auto accident fatalities in a spring break city per year than a non-spring break city."

The study further concludes that alcohol is not the determining factor for the increase of auto fatalities in spring break cities. The main cause of spring break auto fatalities include: distracted driving, texting while driving, driver fatigue from all-night partying, and other passengers in the vehicle.

"There are several tips that spring break motorists can follow to increase road safety," says Mike Wyatt, auto accident attorney of Mann Law Offices. "Young drivers need to be focused on the road and not on their phones, texts, or talking to friends in the car. Passengers also need to be aware of their actions, and do everything possible to avoid distracting the driver."

When traveling to spring break hot spots, students are encouraged to travel by plane. This can help them avoid driver fatigue and the traffic congestion caused by other tourists. While on spring break, college students can avoid driving altogether by choosing restaurants and bars within walking distance. If a longer drive is required, then using a ride share car service such as Uber is highly recommended. This not only decreases the number of cars on the road, but can also help lower the risk of accidents caused by alcohol and distracted driving.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Hutchinson, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/19/2015 -- Large semi-trucks, tractor trailers, and big rigs are involved in a growing number of accidents and fatalities each year. There are 170,000 people injured in large truck accidents annually, while 5,000 trucks are involved in accident fatalities (Semi Truck Accident Victims Center). According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, over 3,500 people died in 2013 due to accidents with large trucks. This was a 14 percent increase from 2009, which shows a clear rise in commercial trucking fatalities in the United States.

"The number one cause of commercial trucking accidents is truck driver error," says Scott Mann, auto accident attorney of Mann Law Offices. "Some truck drivers spend too many continuous hours on the road without stopping, or don't get enough sleep which causes fatigue. Other drivers suffer from substance abuse, which greatly affects their ability to safely operate their vehicle."

Commercial truck drivers who are either fatigued or driving under the influence may take unnecessary risks in traffic. The results are often tragic for other motorists. One out of eight auto accident fatalities are caused by a semi truck or tractor trailer (Semi Truck Accident Victims Center).

"Other causes of commercial trucking accidents are due to the truck's cargo being loaded improperly. This results in an uneven distribution of weight," says Mann. "It can make it difficult for a large truck to keep the cab and trailer going in the same direction — especially during sharp turns or lane changes."

Some commercial trucking companies do not follow basic safety standards in the upkeep of their vehicles. This means there are large commercial trucks on the road with faulty brakes and worn tires. When this is combined with inclement weather, construction sites, or uneven road surfaces, it makes it extremely difficult for large trucks to drive safely.

"Motorists need to be aware of the position of large trucks on the road," says Mann. "Don't follow too close behind them, drive in their blind spots, or try to pass them on the right. If you see a large truck driving erratically, then adjust your speed accordingly and try to keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the truck."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Hutchinson, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/12/2015 -- Recent statistics show a rise in automobile-related pedestrian fatalities over the last decade. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 4,743 pedestrians killed and 76,000 injured in 2012 due to auto accidents. Furthermore, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that there is an automobile-related pedestrian death every 2 hours, and an injury every 7 minutes in the United States.

The majority of pedestrians either killed or injured in an auto accident are adults aged 65 and older. Twenty percent of the children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are killed in auto accidents are also pedestrians. In 2012, pedestrian fatalities occurred most often at non-intersections in urban environments after dark (NHTSA).

"Pedestrians over the age of 65 are injured or killed after they fall while crossing the street, or trip over the curb," says Scott Mann, auto accident attorney of Mann Law Offices. "Many child pedestrians fall victim to auto accidents while walking to school, or shortly after leaving the bus stop. Others dart into the street unexpectedly while playing outside."

Motorists who hit pedestrians are usually not paying attention to the posted speed limit, or are driving while intoxicated. Almost 50 percent of automobile and pedestrian accidents involve one or both parties over the legal blood alcohol level.

In order to better protect themselves from auto accidents, pedestrians need to take extra precautions to ensure their safety. Pedestrians of all ages should cross the street at a crosswalk and be aware of their surroundings at all times. At night, they should wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight to increase their visibility.

"Children are especially vulnerable to auto accidents, as they are more difficult for motorists to see," says Mann. "Child pedestrians should always ask a parent or guardian to assist them in crossing the street. They should never run into the street to retrieve a toy or pet until they look both ways, and the road is clear of all oncoming traffic."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Motorists Continue to Text While Driving Despite New Regulations

Hutchinson, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 12/15/2014 -- Since 2011, texting while driving laws in Kansas have prohibited drivers of all ages from reading and sending texts behind the wheel of a running automobile. As a primary law, officers are able stop and ticket any driver who they suspect of this offense. Despite the enforcement of these laws and a $60 fine, many drivers still choose to text while driving.

"Many drivers don't recognize the hazards of texting while driving," says Mike Wyatt, auto accident attorney of Mann Law Offices. "Drivers think that reading a text is safer than sending, or that texting at a stoplight is permissible. However, texting or reading a text at any time while operating a vehicle is as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol."

According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), drivers who text behind the wheel are 23 times more likely to be in an accident than non-texting drivers. The FCC also states that of the drivers between the ages of 18 and 20 who survived a collision, 11 percent of those surveyed admitted to texting or reading texts at the time of the accident.

"Texting while driving takes your eyes off the road longer than any other distracted driving offense," says Scott Mann, personal injury attorney of Mann Law Offices. "It involves reading, writing and a reaction to the message, which takes at least 5 seconds. If you are driving 55 mph, this means you are not looking at the road for 100 yards."

About Kansas Laws
Kansas laws do not prohibit adults from using handheld cell phones while driving. Only novices (those with an intermediate license or learner's permit) are not allowed any cell phone activity. However, Kansas is one of 39 states that prohibits drivers of all ages from texting. This includes sending and receiving texts, instant messages and electronic mail on any wireless communication device that is not voice-activated.

"Texting while driving is a problem for drivers of all ages," says Mann. "Statistics have shown that busy soccer moms are just as guilty as text driving as teenagers. For the safety of motorists everywhere, drivers need educate themselves on the dangers of text driving so we can help reduce these alarming statistics."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Hutchinson, KS -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/26/2014 -- The rise of traffic accident fatalities despite the enforcement of stricter seat belt laws is a growing safety concern for Kansas motorists. Statistics published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that seat belts reduce the number of fatalities by 50 percent when properly worn. However, drivers are still not wearing their seat belts.

"After becoming a Primary Law in 2010, Kansas police officers are required to enforce the adult safety belt law," says Scott Mann, auto accident attorney at Mann Law Offices. "This means that the driver or front seat passenger can be issued a ticket if they are not wearing a seat belt."

However, the CDC shows that increased seat belt laws in Kansas and 48 other states have not influenced drivers, especially teenagers, to wear their seat belts. Fifty-five percent of the teenagers who died in traffic accidents in 2012 were not wearing seat belts.

This statistic extends to adults under the age of 35 who wear seat belts less often than adults 35 years and older (CDC). It is hardly a coincidence that traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for adults under the age of 35.

"Many people think they don't need seat belts when driving short distances, or cite being a 'good driver' as justification," says Mann. "However, the majority of fatalities on the road occur within a 30-mile radius of the home. Accidents happen quickly without enough time to react. The skill of the driver has no correlation with surviving an accident and not wearing a seat belt."

Wearing the seat belt the correct way also plays a role in reducing serious injuries and fatality. Both the shoulder strap and lap belt need to be securely worn to lessen the impact of the accident.

"In an auto accident there are two collisions," says Mike Wyatt, personal injury attorney at Mann Law Offices. "The collision of the car's exterior, and that of the person colliding with the car's interior. A properly won seat belt is the best prevention against a serious injury or fatality in the event of a traffic accident."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm