Personal Injury

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.

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:

What Should I Do After a Dog Bite Injury?

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

dog bite injury
Dog bite injuries are very common. According to the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”), over 4 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year. Connecticut, like most states, has laws that cover injuries caused by dogs. In this state, individuals who are injured by a dog can file a claim against the dog owner, or the person in control of the dog, in order to obtain compensation for injuries.

Read on to learn the first steps you should take if you have been attacked and injured by a dog:

Report the Incident to the Police

11 Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer

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

questions-to-ask-a-personal-injury-lawyer
Personal injury claims are never easy, whether they arise from a car accident, a fall, or some other mishap. When your injury is caused by someone else’s negligence, it may be time to consider hiring a knowledgeable, experienced personal injury attorney. But where do you start? Trying to choose the right legal representation for your personal injury case can seem challenging and overwhelming. Before making your decision, here are some important questions you should ask, as well as the answers you can expect from Hirsch Andrade.

1. What are your fees?

Hirsch Andrade accepts cases on a contingency fee basis. This means that Hirsch Andrade does not get paid unless l you receive a settlement or verdict. The fee is a percentage determined by Connecticut state statute of the overall recovered amount.