Washington DC Injury Lawyer Blog

Maryland Accident Leaves One Man Dead After Hit by Two Vehicles

January 21, 2023 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

With interstate highways, speed limits may vary depending on the state and the particular highway. It is no surprise that vehicles on highways are moving at a much higher rate of speed compared to vehicles on local roads, school and residential areas, or roads with traffic lights or stop signs, for instance. As a result, it is very important for drivers of all vehicles to remain alert and aware of their surroundings, including remaining aware of vehicles that may be pulled over on the shoulder, and being sure to steer clear.

According to a recent news report, a 23-year-old man was hit and killed in Columbia, Maryland on I-95. The 23-year-old man was hit by two cars, and one of the drivers left the scene. The deceased person was parked on the shoulder of the road and was having a discussion with an unidentified woman next to their car when the woman attempted to walk onto I-95. The 23-year-old man attempted to pull her back from the road, but he was hit by a Nissan Altima, which continued driving. As he lay on the road, a second car also struck him and pulled over on the road, and called 911. The victim was pronounced dead on the scene.

Why Are Roadside Accidents So Common?

Highway shoulders were created with the idea that vehicles would be able to check their surroundings in order to safely pull over to the side in cases of emergencies (i.e. a malfunctioning car). However, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA), 12 percent of all interstate highway deaths include vehicles that are stopped on the shoulder of a highway. It is always important to signal and make clear to other nearby drivers if you must make the transition into pulling over on the shoulder. Additionally, it is important to ensure that other drivers can see you and that you remain visible while pulled over, which may include being mindful of visibility issues, including inclement weather and nighttime driving. Drivers and passengers should be sure to remain away from the highway, and call for help to ensure that any time spent on the highway shoulder is as short as possible.

Yale Research Study Shows a Decrease in Non-Fatal Car Accidents Involving Opioids

December 11, 2022 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

Research studies play a vital role in determining the causes, increases, or decreases in non-fatal car accidents that happen across the country. A recent Yale research study that was published on November 4, 2022, determined that there has been a decrease in the number of non-fatal car accidents that involve prescription opioids. Research shows that people taking prescription opioids are more than twice as likely to be involved in a car accident than those who are not. Further, studies showed that between the early 1990s and early 2010s, the number of fatalities involving drivers using prescription opioids increased seven-fold, and this increase coincided with an increase in opioid use.

Yale researchers from the Yale School of Public Health received a research grant from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Recently, Yale researchers set out to determine how many drivers in the United States were involved in non-fatal car injuries between 2014 to 2018 and had opioid prescriptions at the time of the accidents. The researchers found that once the CDC released new guidelines for prescribing opioids in 2016, this number dropped significantly. The new guidelines “addressed when to initiate or continue opioid prescriptions for chronic pain, offered guidance on which drugs to use, what dosages to provide, and prescription length, and provided strategies for assessing the risk of and addressing the harm caused by opioid use.” Thus, efforts to curb opioid prescriptions have been effective, and with these efforts came a sharp decline in the number of car accidents involving drivers who use prescription opioids – a 28 percent decrease.

The study involved gathering data from IBM MarketScan Databases that contained information regarding 255 million people with employer-provided health insurance across the country. Researchers identified the number of car accidents that led to emergency department visits between 2014 to 2018 and checked whether the injured drivers had an active opioid prescription. Researchers found that each year of the study, the number of active opioid prescriptions among drivers injured in non-fatal car crashes decreased. According to the study, the numbers were as follows: “opioid prescription rates dropped by 5% in 2015, 18% in 2016, 31% in 2017, and 49% in 2018.”

D.C. Hit and Run Leaves One Scooter User Injured

November 30, 2022 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

As modes of transportation become more varied and diverse, the kinds of collisions that happen on the road can evolve for the worse. Drivers are always adapting to new sets of circumstances, underscoring the importance of the need for drivers and pedestrians to work together to create a safe environment on roadways for all involved.

A recent news article revealed details of a collision in Washington, DC that happened towards the end of last month. According to the article, an individual was riding on a scooter near downtown when he was suddenly struck by an SUV. The man fell on the ground, immediately unconscious but still breathing. The driver of the SUV left the scene of the crash, and investigators are still looking for him so they can press charges.

The crash victim was brought to the hospital as soon as first responders arrived at the scene. There are currently no details about the severity of his injuries or about what kind of scooter he was using at the time of the crash.

Couple Killed in Pedestrian Accident

November 17, 2022 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

Many areas with heavy foot traffic see an unfortunate number of pedestrian accidents. In particular, large events can bring hundreds of people to a single location at once. Washington D.C. is a city where a major event is always happening. However, without adequate precautions in place, pedestrians may not be safe from oncoming traffic. Pedestrian accidents may be the result of distracted driving, excessive speeding, or a failure of the premises to implement safety measures such as crosswalks or crossing guards. Too often, these incidents can lead to serious injury or even death.

Recently, a couple was killed following a pedestrian accident in Gaithersburg, Maryland. According to a local news article, the accident occurred on the morning of Election Day outside a polling center. The two victims were walking into the polling place when they were struck by an oncoming vehicle. Both victims were transported to the hospital, where they later died from their injuries. As one local resident explained, multiple accidents involving excessive speeding had occurred on the road near the polling center, which is also a local elementary school.

How Can Drivers and Local Premises Avoid Fatal Pedestrian Accidents?

Maryland Crash Involving DUI Leads to One Dead and Passenger Injury

October 27, 2022 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

Drunk driving accidents can be devasting and scary, and can happen in a flash. Victims of these types of crashes may have absolutely no connection to the drunk driver but may find themselves suffering as a result. In other situations, victims of these types of crashes may have some type of relationship with the drunk driver and may find themselves injured as passengers in the car of the drunk driver. In both situations, passengers may suffer from injuries that leave them wanting to figure out next steps for possible personal injury claims.

A recent news report revealed information regarding a recent fatal car accident in Maryland involving a DUI. According to the report, deputies found a single vehicle that had run off the roadway and struck a light pole. The driver of the vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene. The passenger of the vehicle was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Initial investigations revealed that speed and alcohol contributed to the crash, although the accident is still under investigation.

What Are Common Passenger Injuries in Drunk Driving Accidents?

In unfortunate scenarios involving a drunk driver, passengers may suffer injuries as a result of accidents that occur as a result. When this occurs, you may be wondering what passengers can do to recover from the loss or damages they suffered as a result of their injuries. Passengers may suffer economic loss from medical bills and hospital visits, for example. Firstly, when a driver is identified as the at-fault driver in the accident and is found to have been the only negligent driver who was under the influence of alcohol, passengers are able to file insurance claims with the insurance company of driver who is found at-fault. In some situations, if the passenger was injured as a passenger in the drunk driver’s vehicle, there may be instances where the insurance company can make an argument that the passenger should have known that the driver was intoxicated. This can be a tricky argument to consider, and something that an attorney with expertise in personal injury lawsuits can help with. In addition, there may be questions about how much fault each driver is responsible for in the accident, which can be another aspect that impacts recovery.

DUI Highway Accident Leads to One Dead After Vehicle was Struck Twice

October 14, 2022 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

Accidents on highways can be devastating, especially because the higher speed limits at which drivers are legally able to go. In D.C., the posted speed limits are the maximum lawful speeds, however, no driver should drive at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions, including paying close attention to potential hazards. As of September 2022, D.C. has recently reduced the speed limits to 25 miles per hour on some of their major streets. In addition to being mindful of the maximum speed limits and potential hazards, drivers should also be sure to never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

According to a recent news report, one woman was killed in a crash involving an impaired driver. A 35-year-old woman died, and two other individuals were injured after a Tesla and Chevrolet hit a Toyota on I–270 in Montgomery County, Maryland. The driver responsible for hitting the minivan first was taken into police custody due to suspicion of impaired driving. According to the initial investigation, the driver of a Tesla ran into the back of a Toyota, causing both vehicles to come to a stop on the interstate. The driver and two of the five passengers in the Toyota stayed in the minivan, which was severely damaged and unable to be moved from the highway. The driver of the Chevrolet attempted to swerve out of the way of the stopped vehicles but rear-ended the Toyota. The police were called to the scene at 3:35 am. The 35-year-old was declared dead at the scene, while two other individuals in the Toyota were taken to a trauma center. The Tesla driver failed a sobriety test.

What Should You Do Immediately After a Car Accident?

After an accident, it always advised that all involved in an accident move their vehicles to safe location. This advice is suggested to prevent further harm from happening to those already involved in an accident, especially because for unsuspecting drivers, when vehicles are randomly stopped on a road or highway, it can be tricky to maneuver around the stopped vehicles at the last second. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, transportation data analysis firm Impact Research estimated that 566 people were killed and 14,371 injured each year over 2016-18 in crashes on all types of roads involving a disabled vehicle in which visibility was likely a factor.

Car Accident in Arlington Leaves 15 Injured, Two in Critical Condition

September 30, 2022 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

In high-traffic areas, car accidents can have harmful implications that extend far beyond the involved cars’ passengers and drivers themselves. In a recent crash in Arlington, Virginia, 15 people were injured because of an accident involving only one motor vehicle with three passengers. Unfortunately, even collisions with only one automobile can have chain reactions that extend to people who were not on the road at the time of the crash.

According to the news article detailing the incident in Arlington, it was approximately 7:00pm on a Friday when a vehicle crashed directly into a local pub. A large crowd was gathered at the pub when the driver hit the establishment head on, causing the building to immediately erupt in flames. Police reports indicate that the driver was working for Uber, transporting a group of people to their post-work destination.

Six people were treated at the scene of the accident, and six others were hospitalized and released. By Saturday, the police department’s numbers indicated that 15 people were injured from the incident. Two of the individuals remained in critical condition through the weekend. Reports do not yet indicate if there was any alcohol, foul play, or impairment that could have contributed to the cause of the crash.

Hit-and-Run Accident Leaves One Motorcyclist Dead in Maryland

September 15, 2022 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

Hit-and-run accidents can be scary, frustrating, and anxiety-producing because of the many questions you may have about what to do next. From insurance claims to filing police reports, and figuring out the next legal steps, this type of accident can be tricky to navigate alone. A hit-and-run accident involves a driver hitting a person, vehicle, property, or object and fleeing the scene, taking no accountability for the injuries to the person or the damages made to the property. This includes failure to provide assistance and failure to report the accident. Under Washington, D.C. law, first-time offenders of a hit-and-run violation may face a penalty of 180 days in jail and a fine of $1,000. Penalties may increase depending on how many times a person has been found to have been involved in a hit-and-run violation, as well as depending on the damages that resulted because of the collision.

According to a recent news report, a driver of a car was driving on Frank Tippet Road in Prince George’s County, Maryland, and collided with a motorcycle. The motorcyclist was found unresponsive at the scene and was later pronounced dead. The driver of the car fled after the crash. Police were able to later find the car that was involved in the crash, and were working to identify the driver.

What Next After a Hit-and-Run Accident?

After a car accident, it can be stressful to figure out what next steps to take, including the typical insurance claims. In many accident cases, after an accident happens, drivers exchange insurance information to help with processing claims. In the case of a hit-and-run, you may be wondering what to do next. In addition to seeking any medical attention that may be needed and ensuring your safety, it can be helpful to document the accident. This includes contacting the police and filing a police report so that it can be documented. Taking photos at the scene of the accident, including any injuries or property damage can be helpful. It is also important to contact your insurance company to file a claim. In addition, connecting with an experienced personal injury lawyer can be an essential next step to take. An attorney who has expertise in these types of claims can help you navigate the laws, including laws that concern the statute of limitation, or the deadline you have for being able to file a suit after an accident. Whether you are a victim of a hit-and-run accident, or whether your loved one is the victim of a hit-and-run and suffers injuries or even death as a result, having a lawyer on your side can make the difference in being able to recover damages for you or your loved ones injuries.

Electric Bikes and Scooters Causing Fires and Injuries

August 31, 2022 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

Electric bikes and scooters have become increasingly popular over the years, as a convenient, yet fun way to commute. E-bikes and scooters are lightweight and can get you to where you need to go in a quicker and easier manner, which is part of the appeal. Although these electric vehicles are popular, there have been reports across the county of numerous fires in recent months that have raised some concerns. Reports of electric bikes and scooter fires have increased as lithium-ion batteries are common given the fact that these types of batteries hold lots of energy compared to normal batteries. Fire departments have warned against the potential dangers of lithium-ion batteries.

According to a recent news report, a tragic incident occurred when a lithium-ion battery from an electric bike or scooter sparked a fire in a Harlem apartment. The fire resulted in the death of a 5-year-old girl and a 36-year-old woman and left the child’s father in critical condition. Firefighters responded after 2:30 a.m. to the blaze in the sixth-floor apartment and found the bike inside the front door of the apartment, blocking the exit. The fire did not spread to other apartments and was under control in about an hour. In addition to the individuals mentioned, a firefighter and at least one other person also sustained minor injuries.

According to some experts, the lithium-ion battery can lead to a possible fire if it is damaged or overheated. In addition, as is the case for any product that consumers purchase, there’s the possibility of manufacturing defects or design flaws that could lead to personal injury. While fires from electrical bikes and scooters are a more recent phenomenon, the attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen have years of experience handling some of the most complex personal injury cases and are ready to use their expertise to help you in your case.

Single-Car Accident in Washington, D.C. Kills Passenger

August 14, 2022 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

All unsafe driving habits are risky, but speeding can be deadly. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding was the cause of 11,258 traffic fatalities in 2020. And of the 23,824 individuals killed in vehicles in 2020, over half were not wearing seatbelts. On the other side of the coin, NHTSA estimates that seatbelts saved 14,955 lives in 2020 and could have saved another 2,549 more if those people had been wearing seatbelts.

When speeding and lack of seatbelt use combine, the results can be unfortunately fatal. According to a recent article, a Washington, D.C. man was killed in a single-car accident in a car speeding on a highway. The car was traveling at 100 miles per hour in a 65-mile-per-hour zone when a trooped attempted to pull it over. The driver attempted to speed up but ran off the road shortly after, crashing into a guardrail. The deceased man, a passenger, was ejected from the vehicle and died from the scene. Two other passengers, a man and a 13-year-old boy, were also seriously injured and not wearing seatbelts. An infant who was strapped in a safety seat survived the crash.

Wearing your seatbelt and driving safely can help, but sometimes are not enough to keep all drivers and passengers injury-free on the road. Utilizing safety devices is key, but you may be a passenger in a vehicle with a driver behaving recklessly. If you are in a collision with another car or even in a single-car accident as a passenger and are injured because of your driver’s negligence, you may have claims against the driver.