After Deadly Year Austin Joins National Vision Zero Program

After Austin experienced 102 traffic deaths in 2015, setting a new record, the city was included in the Vision Zero Focus Cities program, joining Chicago, New York, and Washington, D.C.

Getting its start in Sweden in October of 1997, Vision Zero is a national traffic safety program that tries to reduce or completely eliminate traffic fatalities. What makes Vision Zero different from other traffic safety efforts is that it puts primary emphasis on life and health, rather than making a cost-benefits analysis when deciding how to spend safety-related dollars.

The Vision Zero team, which is made up of city transportation and planning members, analyzed traffic crash data between 2010 and 2014 to determine what is causing traffic fatalities and compiled a list of recommendations for the city. However, the program got off to a slow start when the Public Safety Commission voted to only support 5 of the 100 recommendations put forth by Vision Zero. The approved changes include increased traffic enforcement, evaluations of local speed limits, more pedestrian safety signals, and impounding cars if the drivers had a suspended license or no license.

Vision Zero had also recommended more prosecution of drunk driving, adding a sobriety center, and installing more red-light cameras. But one commissioner complained that the plan was not “very well vetted” and was too complex to implement. “There are far too many moving parts,” he said. While another commissioner, who is also a Vision Zero task force member, also criticized the plan citing the high costs of implementation.

The efforts to make Austin safer for drivers and pedestrians are not proceeding very fast, so we urge everyone to stay alert while driving and to always find a safe drive home. However, if you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s extremely important to contact Austin Car Accident Attorney immediately in order to preserve certain legal rights. Call us today at 512-900-9000 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

from Terry & Kelly PLLC http://ift.tt/1WCN6mZ

Austin Sends Uber, Lyft Fingerprint Mandate to Voters

After a lengthy battle in City Hall, voters in Austin, Texas will get the chance to decide whether drivers for Uber, Lyft and other transportation network companies (TNCs) need to be fingerprinted and undergo a background check in order to transport passengers. Voters will get to decide on May 7th in a special election that will cost between $500,000 and $800,000.

Back in December the Austin City Council approved an ordinance that would raise the franchise fee from 1% to 2% and would have eventually required all TNC drivers to pass a fingerprint-based background check. Since then a political action committee called “Ridesharing Works for Austin” collected signatures and submitted a petition with over 65,000 names complaining that the ordinance put undue pressure on the drivers for these and other transportation network companies.

The petition forced the city to either adopt the original regulations approved back in October 2014 by former Mayor Lee Leffingwell (which lacked any fingerprinting requirement and only collected a 1% franchise fee) or bring the issue to a vote. Uber and Lyft threatened to leave the city if they are forced to fingerprint background check their drivers.

Uber Technologies, Inc. was formed in 2009 in San Francisco as a smartphone app to allow riders to get a ride from local drivers, using their own vehicles. Now the company operates in over 50 countries and is worth upwards of $60 billion. Lyft is a similar company also based in San Francisco. These and other transportation network companies have been the topic of debate over safety and other concerns since their inception. All eyes will be on Austin when the city’s voters take to the ballot in May.

Safety on the road, whether behind the wheel or as a passenger, is our top concern at Terry & Kelly, PLLC. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s extremely important to contact Austin Car Accident Attorney immediately in order to preserve certain legal rights. Call us today at 512-900-9000 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

from Terry & Kelly PLLC http://ift.tt/1os1jrN

102 Traffic Fatalities on Austin’s Roads in 2015

The year 2015 was a horrible year for drivers in the Austin area. Last year Austin, TX broke the record for the number of fatalities related to driving accidents with 102 traffic-related deaths. When compared to 2014 this number has nearly doubled.

 

What’s Causing The Increase In Traffic Related Deaths?

The increase in traffic accidents in the Austin area can be attributed to the increasing population in the area leading to larger amounts of people on the road and a decaying road system. As more people use Austin’s roads the risk for car accidents and fatalities increases dramatically. Many of these traffic related deaths could be attributed to driving at high speeds, the illegal use of electronic devices, poor road signage, and the lack of passageways for cyclists and pedestrians.

 

How To Remain Safe While Driving

With so much at stake, it is crucial for area residents to make the extra effort to stay safe while driving in the Austin area. Terry & Kelly, PLLC encourages all drivers to:

–  Obey all speed limits and traffic laws

–  Be aware of drivers around them

–  Avoid distractions such as texting and driving

–  Never drink and drive

–  Look twice for pedestrians, bicycle riders, and motorcycles, especially at intersections

–  Refrain from listening to the music too loud

–  Take extra precautions during rainy or icy weather

–  Keep your car properly maintained

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, it’s extremely important to contact a personal injury attorney immediately in order to protect certain legal rights. If you are looking for an Austin Car Accident Attorney, contact Terry and Kelly, PLLC today at 512-900-9000 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

from Terry & Kelly PLLC http://ift.tt/1QIZUE4

How to Choose A Truck Accident Attorney

Motor vehicle accidents involving trucks are usually more complicated than other car accidents. Because truckers are often on the job when the accident happens, you may have a claim against both the driver and their employer, which is why it’s important to choose the right truck accident attorney for your case. Here are a few factors to consider before hiring a truck accident lawyer.

• Experience – When choosing a truck accident attorney, it is crucial to find a lawyer who has experience with truck accident litigation and personal injury cases. Experienced attorneys will know what is needed to file a successful claim and will prevent you from being bullied by unfair insurance settlement tactics.
• Focus – Using an attorney who focuses on truck accidents and personal injury law is important. Attorneys who practice heavily in these areas will be able to devote their time and attention to your case in a more efficient manner than other attorneys who practice in all areas of law and their experience is often much more extensive.
• Personal Outreach – Look for an attorney who is willing to reach out to you and take the time to work with you directly. Many attorneys and law firms never take the time to get to know their clients and understand their situations.
• Expert Help – Truck accident litigation often requires the assistance of experts who can help prove the legal elements required for a successful claim. An experienced Austin Truck Accident Attorney will be able to identify the types of experts that are needed and will hire the experts needed for your case.
• Testimonials – When selecting an attorney, always ask look at testimonials from former clients. This will allow you to gauge the expertise and professionalism of the attorney.

If you are involved in an accident with a large truck, contact the Austin truck accident attorneys at Terry & Kelly, PLLC as soon as possible to learn more about your options and to protect your interests. Call our experienced legal team at 512-900-9000 to schedule a free consultation and obtain a case evaluation.

from Terry & Kelly PLLC http://ift.tt/1RNXkC3

Riding Your Motorcycle in Winter Weather

Whether you’re a novice or experienced rider, weather can greatly affect motorcycle maneuvers and increase the risk of a motorcycle accident. As winter arrives in Texas, riders must be on the lookout for wet and icy roads. Forecasts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predict that a strong El Niño will greatly impact Texas this winter. In fact, residents can expect it to be more than 30% cooler than usual and nearly 50% wetter. So to help keep you safe this winter here are a few winter weather motorcycle riding tips:

• Wear the Right Gear – Wear protective gear – such as a warm leather jacket, gloves and boots – to keep you warm and help prevent serious injuries in case of a crash.
• Take Breaks Every 2 to 3 Hours – If you’re planning a holiday road trip on your bike, remember to take breaks in order to avoid fatigued driving. Also, frequent breaks will help warm you up after riding in freezing winds.
• Slow Down in Poor Visibility – Cooler weather often means an increased chance of fog and poor visibility. Make sure you slow down to a distance that allows you to see the road or vehicle in front of you.
• Consider Installing a Windshield – A small windshield on your bike can help keep you warmer by breaking some of those cold winds.
• Hydrate – It’s easy to want to avoid cold drinks, but you need to stay hydrated while riding. Also, avoid coffee as it can actually cause you to lose body heat, despite it warming you up initially.

At Terry & Kelly, PLLC, our attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injury victims. If you’ve been injured while riding your motorcycle, our experienced Austin motorcycle accident lawyers can help you obtain the compensation you deserve after an accident. Contact us at 512-900-9000 to schedule a free consultation and case evaluation.

 

from Terry & Kelly PLLC http://ift.tt/1UX2rhZ

Rainy Winter Ahead: How to Drive Safely

Due to a strong influence from El Niño, a periodic warming of the equatorial eastern Pacific Ocean, this winter season is predicted to have more rainfall than usual. We’ve already experienced some heavy rainfall and flooding this season and Austin’s weather is only expected to get worse as the temperature drops and we move further into winter.

This could present a problem for drivers as they travel on Texas roads this holiday season and it’s essential that everyone use extreme caution while driving in severe weather. Here are 6 tips to help you drive safely during this rainy season.

1. Check Your Vehicle’s Tires – According to the National Highway Safety and Traffic Administration, bad tires are the primary cause of accidents on rainy days. Check your tires for the proper amount of air. Examine the tread on your tires to determine whether you need new ones.
2. Travel at a Safe Distance – Following your fellow drivers too closely in your vehicle is dangerous. On rainy days, stay at least 6 seconds behind drivers ahead of you.
3. Examine Your Brakes – Effective brakes allow you to stop at a moment’s notice. If you cannot remember the last time your brakes were replaced, it is time to examine them.
4. Put the Cellphone Away – Driving while talking on the telephone is unsafe on dry days. On rainy days, it is especially dangerous. If you must talk on your cell phone, use a hands-free option or pull over to make your call.
5. Reduce Your Speed – Slick roads, rubber tires and excessive speed are a recipe for a road disaster. When it is raining slow down at least 5-10 mph under the speed limit to prevent hydroplaning and increase following distance fourfold.
6. Take Your Time – If you are required to arrive at a destination by a certain time, leave a few minutes early. Leaving early will give you ample time to make your appointment without speeding.

Following these simple tips will help you stay safe on the roads this rainy holiday season.  But if others fail to take precautions in rainy weather and you become involved in an accident, contact Terry & Kelly, PLLC immediately. Our experienced Austin car accident attorneys can assist you with your case. Call 512-900-9000 to schedule a free initial consultation and case evaluation.

from Terry & Kelly PLLC http://ift.tt/1Up4bAu

How to Stay Safe This Holiday Season

While the holiday season should be happy and joyous, the truth is that it is also a time when numerous accidents occur. Even though the majority of people are careful, many find themselves facing life-changing situations. In order to keep you and your family safe this holiday season, here are a few tips to keep in mind while out shopping, celebrating with friends or entertaining in your own home.
Fortunately, there are numerous ways Austin residents can stack the safety odds in their favor this holiday season. For example, when you’re out shopping this year the Austin Police Department suggests parking in well-lit areas, hiding valuables left inside the vehicle, and always making sure to lock the vehicle whether parked at home or elsewhere.
For those who will be attending holiday parties this year, keep in mind that there will be increased DWI patrols to cut down on drunk drivers who may be on the road. To be safe, it may be best to utilize the services of Uber or Lyft rather than taking a chance on driving while intoxicated – even if you have not had too much to drink.
And, of course, while holiday decorations can be beautiful, they can also be dangerous if done incorrectly. Also, according to the National Fire Prevention Association, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day are the top three days for cooking fires, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions. Be sure to test fire alarms, place space heaters away from fuel sources such as curtains and furniture, replace broken light bulbs, and keep decorations away from flames.
Terry & Kelly, PLLC wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season. However, if you or a loved one is injured in an accident please contact our Austin personal injury lawyers immediately. Call us at 512-900-9000 to schedule a free consultation and we will put our expertise to work for you.


from Terry & Kelly PLLC http://ift.tt/1NfZB2A