Connecticut Personal Injury Lawyers Blog

What Is Defensive Driving?

Published on: December 23, 2022 | by Hirsch Andrade, LLP

What-Is-Defensive-Driving_
A defensive driver tries to anticipate and react quickly to dangerous traffic situations to reduce the odds of being in an accident. They use techniques that reduce their risk of a crash by remaining alert, being prepared for the unexpected, and controlling what they can.

Every day, reckless drivers cause fatal collisions that could have been avoided if they had taken a few basic safety measures. At Hirsch Andrade, our attorneys have witnessed the harm brought on by aggressive and careless drivers who failed to use defensive driving techniques.

It is never too late to develop the habit of defensive driving. Learn more.

Pets as Passengers: Should You or Shouldn’t You?

Published on: December 23, 2022 | by Hirsch Andrade, LLP

Pets-as-Passengers_-Should-You-or-Shouldnt-You_
Many of us consider our pets as part of the family, so it makes sense to want to take them everywhere. But, you are not doing your pet (or yourself!) any favors by offering up the passenger seat. Any unrestrained object can create a driving hazard, and pets are no exception. Dogs may be a man’s best friend, but dogs are not necessarily a driver’s best friend.

Once becoming aware of the dangers of unrestrained pets, owners of such pets are three times as likely to use a pet restraint system in the car. Read on to learn more.

What are the Dangers of Driving With an Unrestrained Pet?

Who To Call After a Car Accident

Published on: December 23, 2022 | by Hirsch Andrade, LLP

Who-To-Call-After-a-Car-Accident
Critical decisions need to be made in the moments after a car accident. Who you call could make all the difference.

1. Call the Police

It is important to call the police right away if a motor vehicle accident has left anyone injured or property damaged. It does not matter how significant the injury or property damage is; you must call the police even if the damage is only a minor scratch. Per Connecticut state law, you must report the incident to the police as soon as possible.

Tips for Driving Safely This Holiday Season

Published on: December 21, 2022 | by Hirsch Andrade, LLP

Tips-for-Driving-Safely-This-Holiday-Season
Driving safely during the winter can be difficult for several reasons, such as dangerous weather conditions, limited daylight, and extra drivers on the roads trying to arrive at their holiday destination. Here are some ways you can drive safely and wisely this holiday season.

Avoid Distractions

Every time you pick up your phone to send or read a text while driving, you take your eyes off the road for an average of five seconds. Five seconds at 55 mph is enough time to travel the distance of a football field. When driving, you need to give your full attention. If you absolutely have to use your cellphone while traveling, pull over to the side of the road or find the nearest rest stop.

The 5 Deadliest Driving Habits

Published on: December 13, 2022 | by Hirsch Andrade, LLP

deadly driving habits to avoid
Many of us have bad driving habits that we engage in and never think seriously about the risks that they pose. When driving a vehicle, any mistake can turn deadly in a matter of seconds. Stay safe on the road by avoiding these dangerous driving mistakes:

1. Speeding

This is common knowledge: speed increases the danger of collisions by increasing their impact and, therefore, increasing the possibility of injury or death. Indeed, speed is a contributing factor in 26% of all fatal crashes. It may be tempting to travel more quickly, particularly if you are running behind schedule. However, it is not worth the chance (or inconvenience) of getting a ticket, and it certainly is not worth putting your life or anyone else’s at risk. Drive at a speed appropriate for the traffic. By maintaining a slower speed, you will be much safer.

Best Practices for Driving on Wet, Rainy Roads

Published on: December 6, 2022 | by Hirsch Andrade, LLP

tips for driving in rain
Did you know that thousands of car accidents each year are caused by wet driving conditions?

Wet roads, low visibility, and the possibility that the puddle ahead may be deeper than you think all contribute to dangerous driving conditions. This is why both you and your car should be prepared for wet roads. So, what can you do to stay safe?

Avoid Puddles

5 Safe Driving Tips During Deer Season

Published on: November 29, 2022 | by Hirsch Andrade, LLP

safe driving during deer season
In autumn, deer become more active as they prepare for mating season. During this time, you’re more likely to see deer on the road which can result in a higher risk of deer-related vehicle accidents. To reduce the risk of hitting a deer, always stay alert while driving and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Here are a few driving safety pointers to keep in mind.

1. Be Cautious While Driving At Dusk Or Dawn

While deer can be seen throughout the day and night, they are mostly crepuscular animals, meaning they tend to appear most commonly at dawn and dusk. During these times, visibility is lower so slow down and use high-beam headlights to see better—but be sure to tone them down when oncoming traffic approaches in order not to obscure other drivers’ vision. Bright lights can reflect off the eyes of deer and make it easier to spot them in the dark. While your regular headlights will reflect off a deer’s eyes from nearby, your high beams will cast light further and will help you spot deer from a greater distance. By looking out for that reflection, you should have more time to slow down and pass the deer safely.

The Dangers of Driving in Autumn

Published on: November 22, 2022 | by Hirsch Andrade, LLP

Dangers-of-driving-in-autumn
Autumn is one of the most beautiful times of the year. Connecticut is one State where you can experience the beauty of the season.

While driving in the fall can be a breathtaking experience, the season also comes with changing patterns in nature that can be hazardous for drivers. These hazards could result in a serious accident if you are not careful. Be aware of the following dangerous driving conditions which can be found this time of year:

Reduced Visibility

Halloween Safety Tips for Drivers and Pedestrians

Published on: October 18, 2022 | by Hirsch Andrade, LLP

Halloween-Safety-Tips-for-Drivers-and-Pedestrians
Whether you’re a child or an adult, Halloween is a time for celebration. Many of us enjoy trick-or-treating with little ghouls and goblins, while others participate in activities geared toward adults, such as going to haunted houses, Halloween parties, or costume contests.

No matter the spooky activity you’re partaking in, you are bound to be out and about this Halloween. Unfortunately, this holiday can also be one of the most dangerous nights of the year for pedestrians—children are three times more likely to be struck and killed by a car on Halloween than on any other day of the year, according to federal highway safety data.

Here are a few simple safety tips for drivers and pedestrians to follow on this spooky holiday:

3 Examples of Successful AHC Car Accident Cases in Connecticut

Published on: September 27, 2022 | by Hirsch Andrade, LLP

Hirsch Andrade Cases
Every car accident case is different and comes with its own set of unique complications. A skilled personal injury law firm, like Hirsch Andrade, can help you navigate the specific circumstances of your personal injury or wrongful death claim to help you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are three of our many success stories:

$1.16 Million for a Complex Multiple Car Accident Case

Our attorneys represented the estate of an elderly gentleman and his wife who were both involved in a four-car collision.