costs of a car accident

The Hidden Costs of a Car Accident

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It’s natural if you have experienced a car accident to have some reluctance about whether or not you take the matter to court before you know the full costs of a car accident. Alongside any injuries that you may have sustained, you might be hoping to put this experience as far behind you as possible. You may feel bad for the other person involved in the incident or you might not be the type of person who likes to sue.

Yet you might find that you’re overlooking the hidden costs of a car accident. In fact, deciding against seeking compensation for a car accident that wasn’t your fault might be more expensive than you think.

Loss of wages

It might seem surprising to consider, but you may find that you struggle to maintain your income after a car accident. Your doctor may advise that you should stay out of the office for days, weeks, or even months.

The sad truth is that a lot of Americans aren’t in a position to be able to take this kind of financial hit. It’s vital to consider how you’re going to pay for your basic living costs should you have to take a loss of your wages.

Replacement transportation

If the car accident you were involved in has caused damage to your vehicle, you may find it challenging to get compensation from your car insurance company. In many cases, it will depend on how the insurance company determines who was at fault.

Even if you sustained no injury, the costs increase if you then have to factor in having to pay for transport to work. However, if you’re having to travel to and from medical appointments, this is going to add to your transportation costs.

Medical bills

It’s almost impossible to determine the amount your medical bills will cost you. While you may perceive an injury to be minor, it could possibly develop into something which needs serious medical attention and expensive medical care.

You may find that you have to invest in aids to help you to move easily, or expensive rehabilitation sessions to get your body back to physical health. So, while it may seem on the surface that you don’t have any bills that need to be covered, you could end up for footing expensive medical bills after a car accident that wasn’t your fault.

The best way to know whether or not you should seek compensation is to get in touch with a qualified attorney. You can then be taken through the details of your case by an experienced professional who understands the complex ins and outs of a car accident compensation case.

At AGG Law Firm, our personal injury lawyers will meet with you to discuss the strength of your claim and talk you through your various options. At these times it’s important to have knowledgeable lawyers and authority on your side, who can provide you the peace of mind you deserve.

teen driving

How to Get Your Teen to Drive Better

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As every parent knows, trying to keep your children safe is something that can keep you up at night. The world is full of worrying things, but when it comes to your young teenage driver, your concern can seem like it’s holding them back from their greatest dream! Whether you’re worried about your teens driving in big cities like New York, or simply around Fort Collins, Colorado, there are a couple of tips you can employ that can help your teen to drive better.

Show them the behavior you want them to exhibit

While instructing your teenager to be safe behind the wheel is important, you may find that they are resistant to the direct approach. Anyone who has ever experienced their teenager kicking out against the rules knows that this can be a continually challenging experience. So how do you get them to take vehicle safety seriously, without feeling like doing so will lose them their credibility?

It helps to show, rather than tell. The subtle action of showing your teen how to drive safely and to respect the rules of the road is a great way to instill habits into them. If they see you driving with care and attention, you’re already halfway there!

A 2012 Study by Toyota found that the bad habits a young person exhibits behind the wheel are often picked up from their parents. It’s important to remember that every time your child is in your car, they are learning how you interact with the world from behind the wheel, so do the right thing and show them good, safe habits.

Show them exactly what can go wrong

Not just the purview of young people, it can be easy to assume that bad things on the road happen to other people. As you well know, when you’re behind the wheel of a car, it’s not always up to you how your road experiences go.

So, it’s important to make sure that your teenage driver has an understanding of the impact that unsafe driving can have for all concerned. As the statistics on intoxicated and dangerous driving keep increasing, it’s important to make sure that your teen is aware of the damage that can happen.

Some research has also shown that encouraging your child to interact with the victims of car accidents can make them focus on what can go wrong, and how life-changing the reality of a car accident can be.

Make sure that your teenager is aware of the impact of accidents, and the realistic consequences of being in a road traffic accident. The aim is not to terrify your child, but to show them what can happen if they drive unsafely, as well as preparing them for what to do should they find themselves in a car accident.

Driving is a great joy, and you want to make sure your child can benefit from the freedom and independence of being behind the wheel of a car – while also being safe. You can also contact AGG Law Offices if you want to find out the steps your teen might need to take should they be involved in an accident. Our attorneys are parents too, and we will fight hard to make sure your child gets the justice they deserve.

colorado springs reckless driving accident

Livestock dead, one person injured after Colorado Springs reckless driving accident

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Two mules were killed when a car crashed into a buggy in a Colorado Springs reckless driving accident.

The driver of the buggy, 52-year-old Kristin Ballotti of Peyton, had “moderate” injuries according to Colorado State Patrol.

The call came in around 12:30 p.m. near Peyton Highway and Sweet Road, which is north of Highway 24.

Sadly, two mules that were pulling the buggy have died. The driver of the buggy is being flown to the hospital.

All lanes were blocked in the area at the time.

The driver of the vehicle was identified as 18-year-old Isaac Hermes of Elbert. Colorado State Patrol believes speed and “inattentive to driving” are considered factors in the crash.

At AGG Law Firm, our Colorado Springs reckless driving lawyers will meet with you to discuss the strength of your claim and talk you through your various options. At these times it’s important to have knowledgeable lawyers and authority on your side, who can provide you the peace of mind you deserve.

5 Car Maintenance Tips to Prevent Car Accidents

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Prevent Car Accidents in Colorado Springs

Car accidents happen in Colorado Springs, Colorado for a variety of reasons, but the most prominent reason is human error. If you fail to keep up with maintenance on your car, you put yourself and the people in Colorado at a greater risk of an accident when you end up on the road.

Other factors like distracted driving or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol are leading causes of motor vehicle collisions across the United States.  There are a handful of things that should be regularly maintained on your vehicle in order to help prevent accidents while driving.  Also, if you do sustain a personal injury from a car accident that wasn’t your fault, contact our office today to see how we can help.

The following are the best maintenance tips to help avoid car accidents and personal injury if you live in Colorado spring, Colorado.

car accident in colorado springs

1. Always keep an eye out on your tires

If you haven’t checked your tires recently, you should. Badly worn, misaligned or damaged tires is an accident waiting to happen.

The part of a tire that is in contact with the road is called the tread, and this tread wears down over time. When a tire’s tread is completely worn down to the wears bar, you have a bald tire.

Balding tires are known to cause longer stopping times and increased risk of hydroplaning when moisture is present on the road.

Here’s how you can properly maintain your tires:

car accidents in colorado springs
  • Ensure you keep your tires properly inflated. Driving on tires not properly inflated can cause it to wear faster and unevenly and can even cause the vehicle to lose control. Also, check the tires’ inflation pressure at least once a month before long trips. Low tire air pressure puts you at higher risk of a tire blowout.
  • Inspect the tire tread. You can do this by inserting a penny into the tread. If you see the top of Lincoln’s head, you have very little tread left and your tires should be replaced.

2. Check your brakes

Along with your tires, brakes are vital to vehicle safety. This is especially true in the wet, icy or snowy weather of Colorado. Worn brake pads can damage rotors, leading to expensive repairs. Fluid and other problems could result in catastrophic brake failure and a potentially deadly accident.

Knowing the key warning signs when brakes require maintenance will go a long way towards keeping you safe and it’ll help avoid car accidents.

Every driver is faced with situations where it is necessary to slam on the brakes. Defective brakes reduce your ability to stop and prevent a collision with another car, property or pedestrian.

Screeching, clicking and grinding brakes are all signs of aging breaks in need of repair or replacement. If you’re hearing these sounds, check brake fluid levels as well as the condition of brake hoses.

3. Engine oil

The oil in your car is not only what fuels your engine but also what protects it from wear-and-tear.

Dirty oil and transmission fluids will cause excess wear on your engine and transmission, leading to potentially costly repairs down the road. Make sure your car is properly lubricated by changing your oil every 3 months.

car accidents in colorado springs

4. Don’t forget about your battery

A bad battery can leave you stranded, and a faulty electrical system can cause your car to stall or operate incorrectly when driving.  The average battery lasts about three and a half years, but in extreme weather conditions, batteries can die much sooner.

Check your battery and battery cables regularly for corrosion or cracks and clean or replace if necessary.  This can help avoid car accidents, prevent personal injury and the need for a car accident lawyer or attorney.

car accidents in colorado springs

5. Working Lights

Hazards, blinkers, and brake lights are especially important for your safety and other vehicles. Other vehicles need to know when you’re turning, braking or stopped somewhere on the road or off to the side.

If you’re not confident in your ability to perform maintenance checks on your vehicle, schedule an appointment with an auto shop or dealer. Safe vehicles can save your life.

If you or someone you love has sustained a personal injury in a car crash in Colorado Springs, Colorado due to poor vehicle maintenance or driver negligence, contact Alhasoon, Glidden & Glidden Law Firm and speak to our professional car accident lawyers to discuss your legal rights.

Remember, regular car maintenance ensures maximum car performance, prevents personal injury and helps to avoid car accidents.

denver fatal crash

1 person killed in hit-and-run Denver fatal crash

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One person was killed in a three-car hit-and-run Denver fatal crash along Colfax Avenue early Sunday morning, police said.

The wreck happened at the intersection of Colfax and Colorado Boulevard, police tweeted about 3:20 a.m. One person was pronounced dead at the scene, and another person was taken to a hospital with serious injuries.

The suspect was last seen leaving the scene on foot, police said. More information about the Denver car wreck wasn’t available Sunday morning.

At AGG Law Firm, our Denver car accident lawyers will meet with you to discuss the strength of your claim and talk you through your various options. At these times it’s important to have knowledgeable lawyers and authority on your side, who can provide you the peace of mind you deserve.

denver hit and run accident

Police searching for driver in fatal Denver Hit and Run Car Accident

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Police are searching for a driver responsible for a Denver hit and run car accident– a fatal three-car crash early Sunday morning.

The crash happened about 1:10 a.m. at East Colfax Avenue and Colorado Boulevard, leaving one person dead and one person injured, the Denver Police Department said.

Police said a man driving a silver Jeep caused the crash. Police said the driver was able to get out of the vehicle and took off on foot.

Police only said the driver was Hispanic and was wearing dark clothes.

Anyone with information is asked to call police.

At AGG Law Firm, our Denver hit and run accident lawyers will meet with you to discuss the strength of your claim and talk you through your various options. At these times it’s important to have knowledgeable lawyers and authority on your side, who can provide you the peace of mind you deserve.

colorado springs car accident

Adult, child injured in Colorado Springs car accident

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EL PASO COUNTY – Saturday afternoon, Highway 94 was shut down east of Colorado Springs due to a single vehicle rollover crash.

The crash happened around 1:30 p.m. on Highway 94, near Engleby Road. This is about 10 miles east of 94 and Marksheffel.

According to State Patrol, a man and a child suffered traumatic injuries in the crash.

The man was taken by helicopter to St. Francis Medical Center and the child was taken by ambulance to Children’s Hospital in Briargate. There is no further word on their condition at this time.

State Patrol said speed is being considered a factor in the car accident.
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At AGG Law Firm, our Colorado Springs car accident lawyers will meet with you to discuss the strength of your claim and talk you through your various options. At these times it’s important to have knowledgeable lawyers and authority on your side, who can provide you the peace of mind you deserve.

aurora fatal crash

One dead after Aurora Fatal Crash

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One person died after two cars crashed Saturday morning at an intersection in Aurora, police said.

At 11:10 a.m., police were called to the intersection of South Chambers Road and East Smoky Hill Road. Police said an SUV had attempted to make a left turn on East Smoky Hill Road, just as a sedan, traveling north on South Chambers Road, turned toward East Smoky Hill. The two cars crashed in the intersection.

Both people involved were transported to the hospital, police said, where one of the drivers died.

The incident is this year’s 13th Aurora fatal crash, police said.

At AGG Law Firm, our Aurora fatal crash lawyers will meet with you to discuss the strength of your claim and talk you through your various options. At these times it’s important to have knowledgeable lawyers and authority on your side, who can provide you the peace of mind you deserve.

4 Common Causes of Car Accidents and How to Avoid Them

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How to Avoid a Car Accident

Car accidents are unfortunately quite common in Pueblo, Colorado and the majority of these road crashes are caused by human error.  While some are relatively minor, thousands of lives are taken every year by these horrible car crashes. Your life can be at risk if you drive in an unsafe manner, so it’s important to drive carefully and follow all traffic laws.

If you happen to be involved in a car crash caused by the negligence or mistakes of other drivers in Pueblo, Colorado, you should consider seeing a trusted car accident lawyer or attorney and call our office to discuss your case.

The following reasons are the major causes of personal injury car accidents in Pueblo, Colorado.

1. Distracted driving

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving, including talking, or texting on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, fiddling with the stereo, entertainment or navigation system. Basically, distracted driving is anything and everything that takes away your attention from the road ahead.

Texting is the most alarming distraction. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. If you’re driving at a speed of let’s say 55 mph, you’ll have driven the entire length of a football field with your eyes closed. You not paying attention for that long is very dangerous.

car accidents in pueblo

You can’t drive safely unless the task of driving has your full attention. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing.

How to avoid getting distracted while driving

  • Fully focus on driving, do not let anything divert your attention. Actively scan the road, use your mirrors and watch out for pedestrian and cyclists
  • Eat meals or snacks before or after your trip, not while driving. On the road, avoid messy foods that can be difficult to manage.
  • Put aside any electronic distractions. Don’t use cell phones while driving except in absolute emergencies. Never use text messaging, email functions, video games or the internet with a wireless device, including those built into the vehicle while driving.

If you’re hit by a distracted driver, contact our seasoned car accident attorneys.

2. Drunk Driving

Drunk driving is a major cause of road accidents and it is especially deadly.

Alcohol is a substance that reduces the function of the brain, unpairing thinking, reasoning, and muscle coordination. All these abilities are essential to operating a vehicle safely. Drunk driving is deadly and yet, it continues to happen. If you drive while impaired, you can easily be involved in a car crash that causes serious personal injury or death.

How to avoid drunk driving

  • Plan your safe ride home before you start the party, choose a non-drinking friend as a designated driver
  • If someone you know as been drinking, do not let the person get behind the wheel
  • If you drink, do not drive for any reason, call a taxi, ride-sharing service or a sober friend

Being a responsible driver is simple: if you’re drinking, do not drive.

If you have been hit by a drunk driver, it is important that you seek legal representation immediately to ensure your rights are protected and you get the maximum compensation you deserve. Call our office today to schedule a free, no obligation consultation. You don’t pay us anything until we recovery money for you!

3. Speeding

For more than two decades, speeding has been involved in approximately one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities. Speeding not only endangers the life of the driver but the lives of all the people on the road around them. Speeding is a form of aggressive driving behavior and several factors contribute to a rise in aggressive driving.

Traffic

Traffic congestion is one of the contributing factors to speeding.

Running late

Most people speed because they have too much to do and they are running late, either for work, school, their next meeting, lesson, soccer game or other appointments

Anonymity

A motor vehicle separates the driver from the world. Shielded from the outside environment, a driver can develop a sense of detachment, as if an observer of their surroundings, rather than a participant.

This can lead to some people feeling less constrained in their behavior when they cannot be seen by others and/or when it is unlikely they will ever again be seen by those who witness their behaviors.

4. Night Driving

Lack of visibility makes hazards more difficult to see at night. Make sure that you’re extra alert on the road at night in Pueblo, Colorado and use your full lights when on an abandoned road without street lights.

car accident

If you’re ever involved in a car accident in Pueblo, CO get in touch with our a car accident attorneys to understand your legal rights and how to best deal with these serious accidents.  Contact AGG Law Firm at 720-487-1050.