Slip and fall accidents can cause serious harm, often resulting in physical injuries ranging from minor sprains to severe fractures or even traumatic brain injuries. Among the numerous causes of such accidents, one of the most common yet overlooked is slick floors caused by wet or improperly dried floor wax.

In order to maintain a clean and glossy appearance, many establishments, including offices, supermarkets, and restaurants, wax their floors regularly. However, when this task is not done properly, or when the floor is used before the wax dries completely, it can become a hazardous zone for pedestrians. It is crucial to understand how long it takes for floor wax to dry to minimize the risk of slip and fall accidents.

Typically, the drying time for floor wax depends on the type of wax used, the thickness of the wax layer, the temperature and humidity of the environment, and the air circulation in the area. However, on average, it usually takes about 8 to 10 hours for a single layer of floor wax to dry completely. In some cases, it can take as long as 24 hours, especially if multiple layers are applied.

When a floor is waxed, it should be clearly marked and cordoned off until the wax is fully dry. This is not just a matter of courtesy; it’s a matter of legal responsibility. Property owners, managers, and tenants have a duty of care to ensure their premises are safe for visitors. If a recently waxed floor causes a slip-and-fall accident due to insufficient drying time or inadequate warning signs, they could be held liable for any resulting injuries.

At Spaulding Injury Law, we can handle cases where clients have sustained injuries due to slip and fall accidents on slick floors. In such cases, we will conduct a thorough investigation to identify negligence and establish liability. Did the property owner or manager ensure the waxed floor was properly marked as a potential hazard? Was there adequate signage indicating the floor was recently waxed? Did they allow sufficient drying time before reopening the area to foot traffic?

These are just some of the questions that we at Spaulding Injury Law delve into when building a strong case for our clients. By establishing that the property owner or manager failed in their duty of care, we strive to secure the compensation that our clients deserve for their medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.

However, it’s also important for everyone to understand how to protect themselves from slip and fall accidents. Here are a few tips.

Pay Attention to Your Surroundings

Being mindful of your environment can significantly reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents. This means paying close attention to any warning signs or cordoned-off areas that might indicate a potential hazard, such as a wet or freshly waxed floor. Look out for “Wet Floor” signs and yellow caution tape. Ignoring these warnings not only increases your risk of injury but could also impact any potential personal injury claim you might need to make.

Wear Suitable Footwear

Your choice of shoes can play a vital role in preventing slip and fall incidents. Shoes with non-slip soles provide better traction and stability, reducing the likelihood of slipping on a slick surface. This is particularly important in environments where floors may be routinely waxed or where spills may occur, such as supermarkets, restaurants, and office buildings. If you’re working in such areas, consider investing in high-quality non-slip shoes to minimize the risk of accidents.

Use Handrails

Handrails are there for a reason, and it’s not just aesthetic. They provide additional support and balance, particularly on stairs or sloping surfaces. In commercial establishments, where foot traffic is high and the risk of slipping is elevated due to periodically waxed floors, using handrails can be a simple yet effective measure to prevent falls. Don’t hesitate to use them, especially if you’re in a new environment or if you notice that the floor is shiny, which could indicate a recent waxing.

Report Hazardous Conditions

If you spot a potential slip hazard, such as a freshly waxed floor without a caution sign, don’t hesitate to notify the relevant personnel. By doing so, you can help prevent injuries to yourself and others. Reporting hazardous conditions not only contributes to a safer environment but also establishes a record of the risk, which can be crucial evidence if an accident occurs subsequently. Whether it’s a store manager, property owner, or work supervisor, make sure the person responsible for maintaining the safety of the area is informed promptly.

Each of these measures contributes to a more comprehensive approach to personal safety, which is crucial in any environment but especially so in places where slick floors from fresh waxing are common. At Spaulding Injury Law, we strongly believe in both proactive prevention and strong legal action when negligence leads to injury. If you’ve suffered a slip and fall accident, we’re here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Spaulding Injury Law Today

If you or a loved one has suffered a slip and fall accident due to a slick floor from improperly dried wax, you may have a valid personal injury claim. Our team at Spaulding Injury Law is experienced in handling such cases and can fight diligently for your rights. Please reach out to us for a free consultation on your case.

Posted in Personal Injury | No Comments »

Georgia’s bustling economy and strategic geographical location make it a hub for commercial transportation. Unfortunately, this also means that tractor-trailer accidents are all too common on the Peach State’s roads. These accidents are often catastrophic due to the size and weight of tractor-trailers.

At Spaulding Injury Law, we handle complex accident cases, ensuring that victims and their families receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

Understanding Tractor-Trailer Accidents

Tractor-trailer accidents can occur due to numerous reasons, such as driver fatigue, improper loading, lack of maintenance, and hazardous road conditions. In many cases, multiple factors contribute to an accident, making it complex to ascertain the liable parties. At Spaulding Injury Law, our experienced attorneys are skilled in unraveling these intricacies and identifying all responsible entities.

• Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often operate under tight schedules, pushing them to drive for extended periods without sufficient rest. This can lead to fatigue, which impairs their ability to react to changing road conditions or unexpected hazards.
• Improper Loading: Tractor-trailers carry a wide range of cargo, and if this is improperly loaded or secured, it can cause the truck to become unstable. This can lead to rollovers, jackknifing, or spilled cargo, any of which can result in severe accidents.
• Lack of Maintenance: Tractor-trailers are complex machines that require regular maintenance to operate safely. Faulty brakes, worn tires, defective lighting, or malfunctioning safety systems can all contribute to accidents. Our attorneys can assess maintenance records and inspection reports to identify any negligence in this area.
• Hazardous Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, insufficient signage, or lack of proper lighting can contribute to accidents, particularly for large vehicles like tractor-trailers. We work to identify if a government entity may be partially liable due to negligence in maintaining safe roadway conditions.

Georgia Tractor-Trailer Laws

The State of Georgia and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) have stringent regulations to ensure road safety. These cover aspects such as driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo loading. Violations of these regulations are often critical in proving liability in tractor-trailer accidents. Our team is well-versed in these laws and their application in establishing fault in personal injury cases.

Driver Qualifications

Both Georgia law and FMCSA regulations have clear guidelines regarding who can drive a tractor-trailer. These requirements include possessing a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), passing regular physical exams, and meeting specific age restrictions. Any violation of these regulations could point toward the driver or the trucking company’s negligence.

Hours of Service

The FMCSA places strict limits on how many hours a truck driver can operate without rest. These “Hours of Service” rules are designed to prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue. If a trucking company or driver violates these regulations, they can be held responsible for accidents resulting from driver fatigue.

Vehicle Maintenance

Regular and thorough vehicle inspections and maintenance are a crucial part of ensuring the safety of tractor-trailers. If an accident is caused by a mechanical failure that could have been prevented with proper maintenance, the trucking company could be held liable.

Cargo Loading

Proper loading and securement of cargo are vital for maintaining the stability and safety of a tractor-trailer. Overloading, or improperly securing cargo, can lead to dangerous situations, including rollovers or jackknifing. If it is discovered that the cargo was improperly loaded or secured, the party responsible for loading the truck could be held liable for the accident.

In cases involving tractor-trailer accidents, it is not uncommon to find multiple violations of these regulations.

At Spaulding Injury Law, our attorneys meticulously examine all aspects of the case, including logbooks, maintenance records, driver qualifications, and cargo loading practices, to identify any such breaches. By doing so, we can effectively establish liability and build a strong case for our clients, seeking the maximum compensation possible for their losses.

Damages in Tractor-Trailer Accidents

Tractor-trailer accidents often result in severe physical injuries, significant property damage, and profound emotional trauma. In the aftermath of such an accident, victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, future income loss, property damage, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of consortium. In egregious cases, punitive damages may also be awarded.

Proving Liability in Tractor-Trailer Accidents

Identifying the at-fault party in a tractor-trailer accident is a complex task as several entities could share liability, including the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or even a government body, for failing to maintain safe road conditions. At Spaulding Injury Law, we meticulously analyze all evidence, including accident scene photos, witness statements, police reports, vehicle maintenance records, and driver logs, to build a robust case for our clients.

The Role of Insurance Companies

In the aftermath of a tractor-trailer accident, victims often find themselves dealing with insurance companies. However, these entities can be challenging to navigate, especially when one is dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial repercussions of a serious accident.

Insurance companies, while purporting to be on the side of the victims, are primarily businesses seeking to minimize their financial liability. They employ teams of experienced adjusters and attorneys whose primary goal is to reduce the amount they pay out on a claim, sometimes even employing tactics to deny claims unjustly. These entities often attempt to resolve cases quickly, offering settlements that do not fully reflect the victim’s damages and future needs. This is where having an experienced law firm like Spaulding Injury Law on your side becomes invaluable.

We are well-versed in dealing with these tactics and know how to counteract them effectively. We begin by conducting a comprehensive assessment of your claim, considering not only the immediate damages but also future expenses that may arise from the accident. This includes future medical costs, lost earning potential, and long-term rehabilitation needs.

Understanding the true value of your claim is just the beginning. Armed with this knowledge, we go into negotiations with the insurance companies, steadfastly advocating for a settlement that matches your damages. Our attorneys are not afraid to stand up to these companies and, if necessary, take the case to court to secure a fair verdict.

At Spaulding Injury Law, we believe that the victims of tractor-trailer accidents should focus on their recovery rather than the complexities of insurance claims. Therefore, we handle every step of the insurance negotiation process, fighting diligently to ensure that our clients receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries, property damage, and suffering.

Why Choose Spaulding Injury Law?

With a rich history in Georgia, our law firm has garnered a reputation for its client-centric approach and comprehensive legal expertise. Our tractor-trailer accident lawyers are committed to seeking justice for our clients, and we work tirelessly to secure maximum compensation for their losses. At Spaulding Injury Law, we believe in providing compassionate legal guidance while aggressively advocating for our clients’ rights.

Handling the legal aftermath of a tractor-trailer accident can be a daunting task. Rest assured, at Spaulding Injury Law, our attorneys are equipped with the knowledge, experience, and resources to handle the complexities of these cases.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a tractor-trailer accident in Georgia, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation. Let us fight for your rights while you focus on your recovery. Call us now at (770) 744-0890

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

A leased vehicle isn’t your own, so what happens if you get into an accident with one? The process largely parallels the steps you’d follow if you owned the car outright, but there are a few key differences. This guide will help you with the potential ramifications and steps to follow if you’ve had an accident with a leased car. Speak with our car accident attorneys about your situation.

Prioritize Your Safety

Firstly, always prioritize your safety after an accident. Assess whether anyone is injured, call 911, and report the incident to the police. After this, you should immediately contact your insurance company. Many insurance policies require you to report any accidents promptly, and failure to do so could result in your claim being denied.

Contact Your Lease Company

Next, contact your lease company. This is an important step because the leasing company holds legal ownership of the vehicle. Review your lease agreement carefully to determine if there’s a specific timeframe within which you must report the accident.

If the leased vehicle is not totaled, the lease company will likely require you to repair the car. The financial implications of this will depend on your insurance coverage. The circumstances will be different if your leased vehicle is deemed a total loss.

A car is typically declared a total loss if the cost of repairs surpasses the vehicle’s current value. When a leased car is totaled, the lease ends after the insurance company pays the leasing company the vehicle’s actual cash value minus any deductible. If your insurance payout doesn’t cover the remaining lease balance, you’ll have to make up the difference. However, there is a solution that can alleviate this financial burden – gap insurance.

Gap insurance can be a lifesaver in these situations. It covers the ‘gap’ between the actual cash value of your vehicle and the remaining balance on your lease. In essence, it ensures that you’re not left to foot the bill if the insurance payout falls short of what you owe on the lease.

Many lease agreements include gap insurance, often referred to as a ‘waiver of responsibility in case of loss.’ If your lease agreement doesn’t include gap insurance, it can often be added to your auto insurance policy. Some providers, like Progressive, offer similar coverage called loan/lease payoff coverage, which can pay up to 25% of your vehicle’s value toward your outstanding lease balance.

If your leased car is declared a total loss, reach out to your gap insurance provider. Make sure that you provide all necessary paperwork, including your lease agreement, gap insurance contract, and police reports, to expedite the process.

Getting Help with Insurance Claims

While dealing with the physical aftermath of a car accident can be stressful, the process of filing insurance claims for a leased car can be just as overwhelming.

To make it easier, gather all relevant documentation and information about the incident:

1. Photos of the accident scene
2. Witness statements
3. Police reports
4. Details about the other party involved

You’ll need these when filing your insurance claim.

Remember that your insurance company and the lease company might have different definitions of what constitutes a “total loss.” Understanding these terms can save you from potential disputes down the line. If you’re unsure, consider consulting with a lawyer to help guide you through this process.

Responsibility for the Leased Car

As the driver, you’re responsible for maintaining the vehicle in good condition. If you’re at fault in an accident, you’ll likely bear the financial burden of repairing the car or paying for its total loss value. This responsibility also extends to meeting the terms of your lease agreement, such as mileage restrictions and routine maintenance, even after an accident.

Choosing the Right Lawyer After a Car Accident Involving a Leased Vehicle

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident involving a leased vehicle can be complicated. Having an experienced law firm on your side can provide you with valuable support and expertise. Spaulding Injury Law is equipped to help you handle these challenging circumstances.

The experienced team at Spaulding Injury Law has a successful track record with many personal injury cases, including car accidents, motorcycle accidents, and wrongful death cases. Led by Ted Spaulding, our firm has secured significant results for our clients, such as a recent $350,000 settlement in a rear-end collision case and a $1,100,000 settlement in an accidental killing case.

Whether you’re dealing with a minor accident or a complex claim involving a totaled leased vehicle, the team at Spaulding Injury Law is prepared to advocate for your rights and ensure you’re treated fairly throughout the process.

Don’t go through this challenging journey alone. Contact Spaulding Injury Law today for a consultation, and let us help you seek the justice you deserve.

Posted in Car Accidents | No Comments »

Atlanta’s Night Market is set for September 9th and 10th this year in downtown Lawrenceville, and expectations are high – based on the brilliant and building success of prior years. The Atlanta International Night Market’s mission is to build greater inclusivity by supporting multicultural festivities and educational events that bolster diversity and strong connections – with a heavy dash of fun and excitement. 

The Backstory

The Night Market began in 2016 when a group of friends from diverse but universally underrepresented communities came together with the goal of cultivating more profound cultural understanding throughout greater Atlanta. The event is meant to be a tapestry of interwoven cultural arts, cuisine, and education. 

The first Night Market drew 6,000 visitors in one night, but the event has broadened its reach and now draws guests by the tens of thousands (with around 60,000 visitors last year). If you have experienced the exciting atmosphere of an open-air night market in East Asia, Southeast Asia, or in some large Chinatowns across the globe, you understand what the Atlanta International Night Market is all about – the energy and pop that only the night can bring. 

International Cuisine

The Atlanta metro area is home to more than 100 distinct international communities that all have their own uniquely delicious cuisine. At the International Atlanta Night Market, you’ll have the opportunity to sample many of these exotic flavors and tastes, including the street dishes of Asia, snacks with Caribbean flair, European pastries, North African delicacies, and much more. Further, vegetarians and vegans don’t have to worry about chasing down flavorful options for themselves because there is a vegan village just for you. 

Diverse Heritage

The Night Market’s focus is on sharing the stories, customs, and traditions that cultures pass down over the generations. While traditional foods can be a big part of this, cultural events and storytelling help to round out the experience. The better we understand the culture all around us, the better prepared we are to grow together, learn from one another, and enrich our individual lives and our communities at large – and the Night Market helps to make it a whole lot of fun. 

Art

Whether it’s visual art, music, or dance, every culture puts its own stamp on its artistic offerings, and at the Night Market, every manner of art is on display. And whether it’s region-specific instruments, traditional dance performances, or culturally infused pop, you can find it on their stages. 

Night Markets Are Popular

Big cities tend to come alive at night, and Atlanta is no exception. Many cities are embracing the night market festival approach, and guests are exceptionally receptive. The idea is to allow inexpensive pop-up stalls – representing a cultural menagerie – to whip up what they do best and get a crack at a much larger audience than they normally might while immersing guests in the experience. Think of the Atlantic Night Market like a farmers’ market that’s ready for its closeup – dripping with twinkling lights, laden with delicious smells that waft through the night air, music and dance buzzing in the background, plentiful shopping venues beckoning, and much more.

If You Build it, They Will Come

Luxury Travel Advisor shares that one of the founders of Atlanta’s Night Market sees the endeavor as a platform for Atlanta’s diversity, and this founder goes on to share that when you have the food, culture, and music, you bring everyone together. The goal is to host the market four times every year, and your next opportunity is on September 10 and 11 in Lawrenceville.   

Protect Yourself in the Event of an Injury

When a lot of people get together, increased traffic is a natural consequence, and heavy traffic at night is often that much more dangerous. If someone else’s negligence causes you to be injured in a traffic accident – or any kind of accident – obtaining just compensation that fairly addresses your physical, financial, and emotional losses in their entirety is paramount. There are several basic kinds of losses that are addressed by the law. 

Property Damage

If the accident is a traffic accident, you’ll likely face property damage to your vehicle and its contents. 

Medical Costs

Your medical expenses will include your immediate medical needs but must also address any related long-term requirements, such as if you experience secondary healthcare concerns or face dangerous complications. 

Lost Income

The more serious your injuries are, the lengthier your recovery is likely to be, which generally means more substantial losses as they relate to your wages. If your ability to earn or to continue advancing your chosen career is affected, the damage is that much more serious.

Pain and Suffering

Your physical and emotional pain and suffering must also be taken into account, and the consequences can be considerable.  

An Experienced Atlanta Personal Injury Attorney Is on Your Side

It’s important to remember, however, that accidents can happen anywhere, even at fun events. If you suffer injuries, you shouldn’t hesitate to reach out for the professional legal guidance of an experienced Atlanta personal injury attorney if you are injured by the negligence of someone else.

The savvy Atlanta personal injury attorneys at Spaulding Injury Law are well prepared and well positioned to advocate tirelessly for your claim’s most beneficial resolution. For more information about what we can do to help you, please don’t delay in contacting us online or calling us at 770-744-0890 today.

Posted in Atlanta | Comments Off on Atlanta Night Market

Given the sticker shock gas at $4+ a gallon, you might be wondering, where is the cheapest gas in my area? Gas used to be an expense that was unavoidable, but manageable. You need gas to get to work and other obligations, but the cost of a gallon used to be far more affordable. With the price of gas exceeding more than 30 minutes of work at the federal minimum wage of $7.25, it is becoming less and less affordable with each price increase. 

In this article, we’ll present tips and information on where to find the cheapest gas in Georgia, keeping in mind that prices will fluctuate regularly due to forces well outside the control of this blog. Read on to learn more about cheap gas prices.

Fuel Rewards Programs Offer Discounts and Rewards 

It might seem like every store you walk into nowadays tries to get you to join their membership program – and maybe even get their credit card – when you check out. Gas stations are no different, and many gas stations now have fuel rewards programs that lead to discounts on gas and even rewards in the store. 7-11 is one of the more popular brands that offers this option, with discounts increasing as you purchase more. Taking advantage of these cards will require that you spend a few minutes filling out an application, but usually, most of them are approved and you can then be saving by the gallon in no time. 

Consider Your Cash-Back Options on Your Credit Cards 

Another way to help save on gas is to get money back for what you spend on it. Many credit cards offer a cash-back incentive to encourage you to use the card. If you pay your credit card bills in full monthly to avoid interest charges, the cash-back incentives lead to real money saved. Some credit cards even offer more money back on certain expenses, including gas purchases. Other credit cards have partnerships with certain gas station brands, or even 7-11, which can lead to additional savings as well. 

Wal-Mart Offers Very Competitive Gas Prices and Membership Benefits 

Stores like Wal-Mart are able to charge low prices because they purchase products in bulk at exceptionally low prices, charge their customers low prices, and move a lot of volume. This same concept has been applied to the Wal-Mart gas stations. Given their bulk buying, you can take advantage of their low prices, even if you have not been shipping in the store. They are usually located on the roadway in front of the Wal-Mart, so you can stop in as you drive by, or add a stop on the way out of the parking lot after shopping. 

Another thing to keep in mind is trying to stack your trips, which can really do a lot to support your fuel efficiency. With gasoline at $4+ a gallon, if you get twenty miles to the gallon, you are paying $.20 a mile. A trip to save a few dollars on a tank of gas at a station a few miles away will lead to a trip that could cost more than your savings. This is the main benefit of Wal-Mart’s gas. While their prices might be only slightly less than elsewhere, if you are already there shopping, their gas stations will save you an extra potentially costly trip. 

Remember to Check Out the Big-Box Stores Like Sam’s, BJ’s, and Costco 

Stores are called “big boxes” when you leave them carrying much larger quantities of an item than you would from a normal supermarket or department store. Instead of walking out with a pack of twelve rolls of toilet paper, you are walking out with a box containing a dozen of the dozen roll packs. By buying in greater quantities, you save money, with the savings exceeding the cost of the membership to the big box store. 

When you purchase a membership at big box stores like Sam’s, BJ’s, and Costco, you can also take advantage of their membership prices for gas. These stores often have gas stations in front, and due to their greater purchasing power, can offer their members lower prices. Keep the cost of membership in mind, though, if you are only planning to buy gas, and make sure your gas savings justify the cost of the membership fee. 

In a Car Accident at the Gas Station, Wal-Mart, or Big Box Store?  

If you need to go and get gas, you are out driving a motor vehicle. Big box stores and Wal-Mart parking lots are locations where many accidents happen. While you might not expect a trip to the gas station to lead to an accident, they are unpredictable. If your car has been put out of commission, you won’t need any gas until your vehicle has been repaired and you’ve recovered from your injuries. 

The fastest way to repair your vehicle and cover costs linked to your injuries is by contacting a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Once you have received emergency medical care for your injuries, it is important that evidence is collected on the accident and your injuries to support your case. 

We hope the article above helps steer you in the right direction to find affordable gas in Georgia. While the prices may keep going up, these pointers will help to save a few percentage points at least on whatever you end up spending at the pump. If you get into a car accident in your gas or electric-powered car, how an experienced personal injury attorney from Spaulding Injury Law can help.

To learn more about how the car accident attorneys at Spaulding Injury Law can help you every step of the way with your injury case, schedule a consultation or call us at (770) 744-0890 now for more information.

Posted in Atlanta | Comments Off on Atlanta’s Cheapest Gas Near You

The City of Woodstock, Georgia, would like to cordially invite you to its 26th annual Christmas Jubilee & Parade of Lights. The winter holidays are almost upon us, and with them come plenty of festivities. Woodstock brings its own brand of celebration to the mix with a wide range of activities for the whole family to enjoy, and because they’ve been doing this for a while, you can count on it being another successful kickoff to the holidays.

The Details

The festivities begin at 5:30 pm on Saturday, December 3, and they don’t show any sign of stopping until 9 pm. To ensure that you’re well prepared to make the most of this holiday extravaganza, keep all the following in mind:

• The Parade of Lights begins at Woodstock Elementary School on Rope Mill Road and travels down Main Street to Sam’s Club on Highway 92.
• Road closures that allow the parade to happen begin at 5:15 pm.
• The parade must go on – and will proceed rain or shine (barring truly inclement weather).

Kick Things Off in Style

Before the parade gets started it’s a great time to knock out some of your holiday shopping. Woodstock has many fine gift shops downtown, and most of them will be offering special deals and treats on the day of the parade. At 4:30, the food vendors in the Park at City Center open up and will be selling an array of delicious treats, snacks, meals, and drinks – warm and cold – to enjoy while you await the parade. There are also plenty of inviting restaurants nearby in which to gather with family and friends and share a full meal – either before or after the parade. At 5:30 sharp, prepare to be dazzled by the Parade of Lights.

The After Party

After the parade, there’s plenty more to look forward to, including:

• Bring your list and head to the Gazebo for a heart-to-heart with Santa
• Enjoy the official lighting of the gorgeous 30-foot Christmas tree, attended by both Santa and the mayor
• Enjoy the float awards ceremony – at which awards for the best holiday float, the most original float, the float that best captures history and heritage, the most original float, and the float that captures the people’s heart will be distributed
• Explore what the participating vendors and food trucks have to offer – while tapping your toes to Ronnie the DJ’s holiday tunes
• Test your skill at the free Sugar Plum Cupcake Decorating event and either savor your creation or take it home to admire – and devour – later
• Take the kids to the free Kris Kringle Kidz Kraft area – as well as the games, crafts, and inflatables throughout the park
• Drop your kids’ letters to Santa in his official mailbox at the Gazebo – and expect to receive a letter back

Make Safety Your Priority

It’s important to keep in mind that more people congregating in one area means more opportunities for accidents to happen, and when motorists don’t make safety their top priority or stores and vendors fail to maintain their premises adequately, parade guests are vulnerable to being injured. If someone else’s negligence leaves you or someone you love harm, reach out for the professional legal guidance that you need.

An Experienced Woodstock Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

If you or someone you care about is harmed by someone else’s negligence, the trusted personal injury attorneys at Spaulding Injury Law in Woodstock, Georgia, recognize the gravity of your situation and have the legal insight and resolve to help. Schedule your free case evaluation today by contacting or calling us at 770-744-0890 today.

Posted in Georgia | Comments Off on Christmas Parade in Woodstock, GA

Motorcycle accident claims present unique challenges, distinguishing them from other personal injury cases. In this article, our legal team at https://www.spauldinginjurylaw.com/

explains some of these complexities, explicitly focusing on the legal environment in Georgia.

What Makes Motorcycle Accidents Difficult?

One primary issue that makes motorcycle accidents particularly difficult revolves around the prejudices and misconceptions held by defense attorneys, insurance companies, and, often, juries. A common belief that many people have is that motorcyclists knowingly take risks and, therefore, if they suffer injuries, they’ve merely reaped the consequences of their choices. The defense often uses this flawed reasoning, known as “assumption of risk,” to lower the amount awarded in motorcycle accident cases.

Severity of Motorcycle Accidents

The severity of injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents is usually higher than in car accidents, leading to potentially significant compensation claims. In an effort to reduce these payouts, the defense subtly manipulates the aforementioned bias. They play on the notion that motorcyclists are thrill-seekers who willingly put themselves in danger.

They might emphasize the inherent risks associated with motorcycles, such as the lack of protective barriers between the rider and the environment or the higher fatality rates associated with motorcycle accidents compared to car accidents. They may also highlight the daredevil image of motorcyclists, often portrayed in popular culture, to substantiate their claim that motorcyclists are risk-takers.

By playing into this bias, the defense seeks to dilute the jury’s sympathy toward the motorcyclist. They frame the motorcyclist not as an innocent victim of another’s negligence but as someone who willingly put themselves in harm’s way. This strategy aims to divert the jury’s attention from the facts of the case – like the at-fault party’s negligence – and instead focus on the assumed risk undertaken by the motorcyclist.

This can result in an emotional response from the jury, which could lead them to devalue the motorcyclist’s claim. The ultimate goal is to reduce the perceived responsibility of the at-fault party and thereby decrease the compensation.

These tactics are not based on a fair interpretation of the law or a just appreciation of the facts but rather on the manipulation of biases and stereotypes. In these situations, you need an experienced attorney who can counter such tactics, refocus the jury’s attention on the actual facts, and ensure that your rights are upheld.

The Role of the Jury

A crucial point that must be understood is that a jury is seldom made up of motorcyclists or motorcycle enthusiasts. More often than not, jurors comprise individuals who’ve never ridden a motorcycle, nor do they understand the thrill and joy of riding one. Their bias, fueled by the defense’s portrayal of motorcyclists as reckless risk-takers, can lead them to question whether they should award full compensation for injuries caused by another party’s negligence.

However, the law does not differentiate between a motorcyclist and a driver of a four-wheeled vehicle. Both have equal rights to seek full compensation for their injuries if they’ve been wronged. Just because someone chooses to ride a motorcycle does not render them a second-class citizen or restrict their legal rights.

Despite this, the reality of the courtroom can often contrast with the written law. A motorcyclist seeking justice in Georgia will be facing twelve jurors, most of whom are likely to harbor the biases previously discussed. This scenario makes securing a fair verdict in motorcycle accident cases considerably more challenging than in car accident cases.

Get Representation from Spaulding Injury Law

Therefore, it is vital for victims of motorcycle accidents to be represented by a knowledgeable attorney; one who understands these biases, knows how to counteract them effectively, and can present the case convincingly to a jury. Having such an attorney is instrumental in overcoming the challenges posed by motorcycle accident claims and achieving a fair and just outcome.

At Spaulding Injury Law, we pride ourselves on our experience and expertise in handling motorcycle accident cases. We are adept at countering biases and are committed to fighting for our client’s rights to full compensation. If you have suffered a motorcycle accident and require legal guidance, please feel free to reach out to us via our website.

Posted in Motorcycle Accidents | No Comments »

Businesses and companies often consider the major highways that run through an area when selecting their location for several reasons, especially because everyone wants the travel and commute in their city to be easy. The more growth a city experiences, the more important it is that the highway system is adequate to handle the load.

With commerce comes the need to transport goods. The use of trucks to move the products bought and sold in the United States is critical to our economy. The planning, routing, development, and maintenance of the highway system are in many ways the backbone of our industrial nation.

In the state of Georgia, the highways are numbered as state routes. This is because the highway system is the responsibility of the state of Georgia to maintain. In the city of Alpharetta, there are five major highways. They are:

• State Route (Hwy) 400
• State Route (Hwy) 9
• State Route (Hwy) 120
• State Route (Hwy) 372
• State Route (Hwy) 140

SR-400

This section of highway was originally built in 1974. It is just under 54 miles long. It is nicknamed the Alpharetta Autobahn because people enjoy speeding on this stretch of road. You might recognize this highway if you were a fan of the Smokey and The Bandit movies.  Some of the scenes from the movies were filmed on SR-400. The “Alabama police chase” scene was actually filmed in Georgia on SR400 between exits 12 & 14.

SR-9

State Route 9 is one of the most extended stretches of highway in this part of the country. It is 86.4 miles long, and it crosses eight counties. It is also one of the oldest highways in the state of Georgia. This route which runs concurrently with US Route 19 has been in use for at least as far back as 1919. It is a great alternative route to avoid congestion on SR-400.

SR-120

This route runs west to east and is just under 91 miles long. It was first built in 1969 but underwent some design changes in 2007. Most of those changes were in Marietta, where the Marietta Loop was decommissioned. The section through Alpharetta picks up at the eastern end at around Route 9.

SR-372

State Route 372 began showing up on maps around 1953. It runs from the western part of Alpharetta at the intersection of SR-140 and goes through Fulton and Cherokee Counties. This section is 27.13 miles long and ends at SR-515.

SR-140

This 78.6-mile stretch of highway begins in the northwestern part of the state of Georgia and crosses six counties, including Fulton County. It ends at I-85 near Norcross, Georgia.

As you can see, Alpharetta benefits significantly from the massive and complex state route highway system. This infrastructure is one of the reasons Alpharetta was able to claim its position as the “Technology City of the South.” For any city to thrive in modern society, it must be fully accessible 24 hours daily. The highway system ensures that it happens. Only by continually maintaining and improving the city’s current status can we establish the city’s future and help prevent Alpharetta car accidents, truck accidents, and other motor vehicle accidents.

Posted in Alpharetta | No Comments »

If you have been injured by someone else’s negligence and are being deposed, are having the at-fault party deposed, or both, you may be experiencing considerable stress. After all, depositions are completely alien to most people outside the legal profession, and often, there is a lot riding on this important discovery tool. A better understanding of what depositions are all about can help you calm your nerves and proceed with a greater purpose in your personal injury or wrongful death case.

One of the most important steps you can take if someone else’s negligence causes you to be injured is reaching out for the skilled legal guidance of an experienced Georgia personal injury attorney.

What Is a Deposition?

Depositions amount to sworn testimony that is taken outside of the courtroom, and they afford both sides the opportunity to officially question one another – while everything is recorded and transcribed by a court reporter. While depositions are taken for many reasons, they are primarily used for the following:

• To seek and preserve testimonial discovery
• To seek admissions in support of the case
• To test legal theories, hypotheses, and suppositions related to the case
• To help support or disprove the establishment of facts
• To help determine witness credibility

Depositions allow personal injury attorneys to proceed with the information necessary to build stronger cases.

Limitations to the Line of Questioning

The attorney conducting the deposition will ask specific questions of the person being deposed (the deponent), but there are limitations involved. The basics include the following:

• The attorney conducting the deposition can ask any relevant questions that do not touch on privileged information, such as anything that is protected by the attorney-client or doctor-patient privilege.
• While the deponent – usually through their attorney – can object to any line of questioning or to any request for evidence, there is no judge present to rule on the matter, which means the deponent’s objections will only be noted.
• Except under very limited circumstances, the deponent is required to answer the deposition questions asked of them.

Depositions are Generally a Legal Requirement

Generally, anyone who is believed to know something – or who may know something – about the case at hand can be deposed. If the person in question refuses, they can be subpoenaed, which means that a court order requiring them to be deposed at a specific time and place can be issued and implemented.

What to Expect

Depositions are typically conducted at the office of the attorney conducting them – or at another more conveniently located spot. The participants generally include the deponent and their attorney, the deposing party and their attorney, and the court reporter. The deposing party’s attorney will generally begin by explaining the deposition process and then lead with broad, overarching questions that segue into more specific questions about the current case.

Focus

If you – as the person who was injured by the other party’s negligence – are being deposed, you can expect your deposition to focus on specific categories of inquiry.

Your Background

The other side will want to flesh out your background by asking questions about all the following:

• Your name, date of birth, and address
• Your level of education and work history
• Any past involvement you’ve had with lawsuits
• Any criminal history you may have

Prior Injuries

You will likely be questioned regarding any prior injuries you’ve suffered or accidents you’ve been involved in. The idea is to determine whether the injuries you claim to have sustained in the accident at issue may have been preexisting – or may have been exacerbated by the accident rather than caused by it.

Your Medical Treatment

At your deposition, you’ll likely be questioned extensively about the medical treatment you’ve received in relation to the accident at hand. This can include all the following:

• Doctor’s visits
• Medical treatments, tests, and procedures
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Rehabilitation
• Follow-up care
• Any ongoing health care required

The deposing attorney may introduce your medical records as evidence during the deposition, which makes having a thorough understanding of your treatment history to date important.

The Accident Itself

The attorney deposing you will almost certainly want you to go into considerable detail about how the injury-causing accident happened. This can include introducing evidence and questioning you about it. Any proof that you shared fault for the accident in question – such as if you were distracted, speeding, or engaging in any other dangerous practice behind the wheel in a car accident claim – can damage your case.

It’s important to note, however, that in Georgia, even if you do bear some of the responsibility for the accident that leaves you injured, it doesn’t negate your right to compensation for the percentage of your losses that were caused by the other party’s negligence.

Current Limitations Faced

The attorney deposing you will want you to describe any current limitations you face as a result of the accident at issue. It’s important to consider your full range of limitations, including those with physical, financial, and emotional ramifications.

Purpose

The attorney deposing you is attempting to set a baseline that will guide your claim moving forward. Anything you say during your deposition can go a long way toward either bolstering your claim or undermining it. Skilled attorneys with extensive experience deposing vulnerable accident victims are adept at putting deponents at ease and proceeding to coax more information out of them than they realize they are sharing. You can count on any additional or poorly considered information that you do share to be carefully twisted to the other side’s advantage. While you cannot win your case via a deposition, you can seriously damage it, which makes being well-prepared critical.

Preparing for Deposition

You’re being deposed, which means that you need to answer questions about the accident that caused you to be injured under oath. As such, being scrupulously honest is imperative. This does not, however, mean that you need to say every thought that pops into your head. Your trusted personal injury attorney will help to ensure that you are well prepared to confidently handle your deposition by going through all the following basics with you:

• Listen carefully to the question posed to you and truthfully answer that exact question as succinctly as possible. Never answer questions that aren’t asked, and always think carefully before you speak.
• Remember that your deposition is not the right time to share your take on the matter – save your side of the story for your court date.
• If you don’t understand the question asked of you or if you get the sense that it’s meant to trip you up, ask for clarification.
• Remember that if you need to take a break to speak with your attorney privately, it’s your right to do so, and you should exercise this right.

An Experienced Georgia Personal Injury Attorney Is Standing by to Help

If you’ve been injured by someone else’s negligence, the practiced Georgia personal injury attorneys at Spaulding Injury Law recognize that you’re facing a difficult path forward and are well-prepared and well-positioned to help ensure that you achieve an advantageous outcome that supports your rights and best interests. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 770-744-0890 to schedule your free case evaluation today.

Posted in Personal Injury | Comments Off on Deposition: What Is It and What Happens at It?

If you have been on a busy street and seen smaller vehicles, such as motorcycles, passing through the traffic, you may wonder if this is legal. While motorcycles may be tempted to make their way around the traffic by fitting between the cars or lanes, motorcyclists must be aware of the laws and what is allowed in their driving state. In this article, the Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer will review lane splitting and answer whether it is legal in Georgia.

What Is Lane Splitting?

Lane splitting is when a motorcycle, bicycle, moped, or other small vehicle passes other vehicles by going into the area between the lanes. While any type of smaller vehicle may help lane split, motorcyclists are the most common driver to be seen doing this.

Motorcycle drivers who participate in lane splitting may do this regardless of if the lanes are going in the opposite or same directions. Some motorcyclists believe that there is an imaginary temporary lane between the two lanes of traffic, which leads to lane splitting.

[case-result-slider id=”1″]

Is Lane Splitting Legal in the State of Georgia?

According to Code O.C.G.A. § 40-6-312, lane splitting is illegal in Georgia. It is illegal throughout most of the United States. In 2017, California passed a law permitting lane splitting, making it the only state allowing motorcyclists to split lanes. Many Californians find it convenient as motorcyclists and moped drivers can go around the traffic during rush hours if need be, but Georgians are still hesitant about the practice. The reason for this is that many people find it to be dangerous for drivers and motorcyclists.

Is Lane Splitting Considered to be Safe or Dangerous?

Some motorcycle safety advocates believe that lane splitting helps motorcyclists avoid accidents. They also believe allowing lane splitting will lead to fewer motorcycle driver accidents. The following are a few of the positive benefits that advocates believe lane splitting provides:

• Motorcyclists can make their way out of the traffic
• Motorcyclists can get out of inclement weather quicker and easier
• Motorcyclists are less likely to be involved in a rear-end accident

On the other hand, most of the public believes that allowing lane splitting will cause roads to become less safe for motorcycle drivers. Here are a few of the negatives that the public believes lane splitting will lead to:

• More accidents will occur because drivers may not see motorcyclists passing or may feel startled when they do pass them
• The likelihood of accidents may increase if they accidentally hit a motorcyclist when merging, passing, or switching lanes
• Motorcyclists could get hit by car doors opening if they are not seen in time

While both sides have good points, there is not enough data on whether lane splitting would provide more benefits or negatives. Since it remains illegal in 49 states, there is not much experience with this driving technique for motorcyclists. For now, it is recommended that motorcycle drivers not participate in lane splitting outside of California unless there is an emergency where they feel it is essential.

[get-in-touch-with-us id=”3″]

What Is Lane Filtering?

Lane filtering is similar to lane splitting. However, there is one huge difference. In lane filtering, motorcyclists can move around the traffic and share lanes with other vehicles if the traffic in both lanes is moving in the same direction and all vehicles nearby are stopped. The motorcyclist must pass slowly and drive carefully when participating in lane filtering.

Lane filtering is common at a red light as it allows the motorcyclist to cut in line to be one of the first ones to go when the light turns green.

Is Lane Filtering Legal in the State of Georgia?

Even though more states are open to lane filtering, it remains illegal in Georgia. Currently, five states allow lane filtering: Utah, Arizona, Montana, California, and Hawaii. Drivers who participate in lane filtering in these states can only do so under certain conditions and must do so cautiously.

Critical Differences Between Lane Filtering and Lane Splitting

While it is common for individuals to get lane filtering and splitting mixed up, key differences exist between the two terms. The following are the differences:

• Lane splitting: Lane splitting typically occurs when there is moving traffic and can be done no matter if the two lanes are going in the same direction or in different directions.
• Lane filtering: Lane filtering usually takes place at intersections or stop lights. Traffic is slowing down or stopping when lane filtering is allowed. Traffic in both lanes must go in one direction to participate in lane filtering.

While both terms are used interchangeably, it is important to recognize that they occur during different traffic speeds and circumstances.

What Happens If You Are Given a Ticket for Lane Splitting in the State of Georgia?

If you participate in lane splitting in the state of Georgia and are caught by law enforcement, there is a very good chance that you will be given a ticket. A lot of motorcyclists believe that it will be overlooked and that they have not done anything wrong, but it is considered a traffic offense and you will most likely be required to pay a fine. Sometimes, Georgian motorcycle drivers who are caught lane splitting will also receive points on their driver’s licenses.

The fine for lane splitting between Georgia is around $130, but the exact amount you will need to pay depends on the county that issues the ticket. Since lane splitting is considered a moving violation in Georgia, the number of points you may receive on your driver’s license is three.

What Happens If You Are Involved in a Lane-Splitting Car Accident?

According to the National Safety Council Injury Facts, accidents involving motorcycles made up 14 percent of all traffic fatalities in 2020, and motorcycle accidents increased by 11 percent from 2019 to 2020.

Whether you are the motorcycle driver or the other vehicle driver, when a motorcycle is lane splitting, and an accident occurs, the motorcyclist will most likely be held liable for the car accident. Therefore, if there are bodily injuries or damage to the vehicle, the motorcyclist participating in lane splitting will be responsible for paying for the injuries and damages.

The only time that a motorcyclist may not be found at fault is if there was a circumstance where they needed to or felt forced to split lanes. An example of when this may be possible is if another driver is driving recklessly, such as swerving in the lanes, braking suddenly, or merging without providing a proper signal.

Is It Possible to Recover Damages After Being Involved in a Lane Splitting Accident in Georgia?

Because lane splitting is illegal in Georgia, motorcyclists may believe that if they were lane splitting and an accident occurred, they would be unable to get compensation. However, this is not always true. If you have injuries or damage to your property, you may be able to file a claim to recover compensation.

To successfully do this, you will need to show proof that the other driver was more negligent during the accident than you were. This can be difficult as you participate in illegal activity on the road, but it is not impossible.

Keep in mind that if you are found to be more liable, you will be required to pay for your injuries and damages as well as theirs.

Other Driving Maneuvers Not Allowed in Georgia

While motorcyclists need to know that lane splitting is not allowed in Georgia, several other maneuvers are prohibited by any type of driver. Here are a few:

• Texting and driving
• Driving while intoxicated
• Driving over the posted speed limits
• Going around an emergency vehicle
• Passing a school bus that signals a stop
• Not following traffic signs and lights
• Failing to merge or switch lanes without a signal

While these maneuvers are prohibited in Georgia, keep in mind that seeking compensation will depend on your portion of the fault in the accident. A motorcycle accident attorney from Spaulding Injury Law will be able to investigate the accident that left you injured and help you fight for compensation.

Have You Been Involved in a Lane Splitting Accident? The Car Accident Attorneys at Spaulding Injury Law Can Assist You.

Spaulding Injury Law is here to help you if you have recently been involved in a lane-splitting accident. We are experienced, trained, and knowledgeable regarding the laws surrounding motorcyclists and motor vehicles. We will do everything we can to ensure your story is heard.

Our team understands that every case is unique and different. Therefore, we would be glad to listen to the details of your case. Afterward, we will investigate the crash, document your losses and injuries, and build a strong case against the defendant. Please fill out this contact form, or call our office to get started on the process, and we will be in touch with you as soon as possible.

Posted in Car Accidents, Georgia, Personal Injury | Comments Off on Is Lane Splitting Legal in Georgia?