Louisiana has a great tradition for popping off fireworks. However, whether it is going to a big display put on by professionals, or friends or neighbors having fun in the street or yard, it is essential to be safe as we go into the July 4th holiday.
Tis the season for firework safety
New study finds e-scooter injury statistics alarming
The decision by City Hall in New Orleans to not be a part of an e-scooter pilot program looks to be a smart one. After months of deliberating and contemplating potential laws and regulations, the city said thanks but no thanks.
Man gets $21.6 million in damages in collision with truck
Crashes involving trucks are usually severe if not fatal. Fortunately, a man in Dalton, Georgia survived a crash caused by a semi-truck, and he and his wife will collect $21.6 million in damages. The jury sat for a four-day trial in Whitfield County Superior Court, but it needed less than two hours to determine guilt and damages.
Proving emotional distress
Injuries come in many forms. Some are obvious, such as a broken arm in a car crash or a work-related death. Others are harder to determine, such as emotional duress or other psychological distress, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Pursuing a claim purely based on emotional distress can be done here in Louisiana, but the victim will need to prove that they are suffering.
Louisiana is dangerous for bikers
Louisiana has the dubious distinction of once again being near the top of rankings for the most dangerous state to bicyclists. According to the Wall Street Journal, the only one with more bike-related fatalities was Florida. Whether we are first or second, it is still bad news for bicyclists out there seemingly and innocently getting exercise, lowering our carbon footprint and putting fewer cars on the roads here in Covington and around the state.
Mistakes that can impact your claim
Victims injured due to the negligence of others often experience severe pain, a loss of income and incur new and unexpected expenses. They will often want to focus on healing and recovery, but certain issues should be addressed if they plan to file a personal injury claim.
Pedestrian fatalities hit a 28-year high
Folks here in Covington and the surrounding area like to get out and walk, either to the local restaurant, to enjoy the night air, save on gas and parking, or for other reasons. Now according to a Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) study, the number of fatalities has surged to the highest its been since 1990. The new report finds that an estimated 6,227 pedestrians were killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2018. This is a 4% rise from the previous year and a 35% increase over the last ten years.
Support for some, a danger to others
It has become commonplace to see dogs walking through airports and other public spaces that used to be off limits to pets. This is a result of the explosive growth in the number of emotional support animals in our daily lives. Under the best of circumstances, the presence of these animals provides comfort and happiness to their humans. However, the same may not be said for those who come in contact with these animals.
Shopper wins $3 million settlement over escalator injury
Accidents on escalators seem to be more like urban myths than actual truths. However, escalators are dangerous and can cause severe injury. One recent example is a woman who had her toe shredded while riding an escalator while shopping at a mall in Little Rock, Arkansas. A jury has now awarded her a $3 million settlement.
WATCH issues list of 10 most dangerous toys
Parents generally try to balance elements of fun and safety when picking toys for the kids. Add such benefits as being educational or durable and a toy can be a real winner, at least in the eyes of the parents. However, Great Aunt Agnes or Uncle Pierre the confirmed bachelor may not have the same priorities. These gift-giving issues can be monitored at birthday parties, but the sheer volume of presents and the frenzy of Christmas morning can mean problem toys may be overlooked.
