Category: Vehicle Accidents
What to Do after a Car Accident
July 15, 2024 | Adriel B. Villarreal
No one plans to get in a car accident, but knowing the right steps to take in the event of one can help you stay safe and receive appropriate compensation. Protect your rights and calmly navigate the situation with these tips from the car accident attorneys at Barna, Guzy & Steffen on what to do after a car accident. 1. Stop your vehicle State law requires drivers to stop after an accident, even if it is minor. You also must stop regardless of who you believe to be at fault. If possible, pull off to the side of the road and out of the way of traffic. Just make sure to stay at the scene of the accident. 2. Check for injuries Health and safety are paramount. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries, then check the driver and occupants of the other vehicle. If anyone is seriously injured, call emergency medical services immediately. 3. Contact the police Even if the accident isn’t serious, police officers can help manage the scene and redirect traffic. They will also create an accident report, which you should ask for a copy of when possible. This can aid in both insurance claims and legal proceedings. Before the officers leave, write down their names and badge numbers as…
Read MoreCommon Motorcycle Accidents and How to Avoid Them
April 4, 2024 | admin
With the arrival of spring, motorcyclists are returning to the roads to capitalize on the warmer weather. But with increased traffic comes an increased need for safety. Motorcyclists are at greater risk for serious and fatal accidents than other motorists for several reasons. Motorcycles are smaller than cars and don’t offer the same protection. Many drivers don’t think to watch for motorcycles either, especially if they have never ridden one themselves. In this blog, we’ll examine three of the most common motorcycle accidents, how to avoid them, and how drivers and motorcyclists can safely share the road. The Left-Turning Car The most common collision involving a motorcycle occurs when a car turns left into the path of a motorcyclist. This usually happens when a driver is sitting at an intersection, waiting for a gap in oncoming traffic to make their left turn. The driver may not notice an approaching motorcycle due to its small size, or they may see it but underestimate its speed and attempt the turn anyway. If you are a driver waiting to turn left, pay careful attention to oncoming traffic and watch for motorcycles. Remember that despite their small size, they move as quickly as cars and should be treated with the same caution. If you are a motorcyclist…
Read MoreTips for Driving During the Winter
December 29, 2023 | Adriel B. Villarreal
As the temperatures in the Twin Cities begin to drop and snow begins to blanket the roads, it’s critical that you gear up for winter driving. Navigating through these severe winter conditions requires a different set of skills and precautions than driving in warmer seasons. Continue reading our blog as we explore some essential tips to help ensure your safety and your confidence on the icy Minnesota roads. Make Sure Your Vehicle is Prepared Before hitting the road, make sure your vehicle is winter-ready. This includes checking the battery, brakes, tires, and fluid levels. Consider switching to winter tires for better traction in snow and icy conditions. Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze and replace worn-out windshield wipers to maintain clear visibility. Slow Down and Increase Following Distance One of the most crucial winter driving tips is to reduce your speed. Snow and ice will reduce your traction while driving, making it more challenging to stop quickly. Drive at a speed that allows you to maintain control of your vehicle and increase the following distance between you and the car in front of you. This extra space provides more time to react to sudden stops or slippery conditions. Know How to Handle Skids Even taking the…
Read More