Posts Tagged ‘Kansas City injury attorneys’

Kansas City Injury Attorneys Understand Accidents Can Change with the Seasons

Thursday, January 31st, 2019

While you may think of yourself as a creature of habit, the truth is people do alter their behaviors throughout the year. In fact, for most of us, we change as the seasons change. For example, in winter people tend to gravitate towards sports like skiing, ice skating, and hockey while in summer, swimming, and tennis are popular. The same adage holds with accidents. While some types of accidents occur equally throughout the year, other types tend to be more occur most often in one or two specific seasons. To reduce your risk of becoming a victim, you can familiarize yourself with these seasonal dangers. The unique set of hazards each season presents are as follows:

WINTER

Winter is the season that some people love, and others loathe. But whether you are a hater or a lover of the season, the fact is winter does come with cold weather, snow, ice and of course, various combinations of latter two. This wintry mix of precipitation combined with frigid temperatures can make for treacherous driving conditions. But what makes winter driving even more dangerous is the combination of bad weather and intoxicated drivers. Winter sees a lot of drunk driving accidents with people choosing to drink and drive after holiday gatherings, New Year’s parties, and the Super Bowl. Remember there is no excuse for driving under the influence.

SPRING

After the cold of winter, people are generally excited to feel the warmer air and see signs of life returning. As the spring rains wash away the last of the salt, the roads and sidewalks are finally clear to use your bicycle or go for a walk. The bad news is that bicycle, and pedestrian accidents see an increase in spring which continues into the summer months. Pedestrians and cyclists can protect themselves by wearing reflective clothing and always try to cross the road at the corner or a designated crosswalk.

SUMMER

For much of the country, summer weather is the nicest of the year. The warm sunny days practically beg one to get outside. However, sometimes the heat can become a bit too much, and the only way to cool down is to go swimming. While indoor swimming pools are open year round, outdoor pools are generally only open during the summer. For these two reasons, there is an increase in swimming pool accidents and water-related injuries during the summer. Boating accidents also see an increase in the summertime as more people are on family vacations since the kids are out of school.

Motorcycle accidents also see an increase in the summer months. Even though motorcycle accidents happen all year round, especially in warm-weather states like Arizona and Florida, for riders in the Midwest winter weather makes riding less popular. But once the weather improves, riders hit the road. June is notoriously dangerous for riders. Rides should always brush up on their safety skills before taking the bike out for the season.

FALL

Fall is the season when the leaves change color, and there is a certain crispness in the air. It is also the time of year when children head back to school which coincides with a spike in school playground injuries. The start of the school year also means that there are more children traveling in buses and walking to and from school, which can increase the number of child pedestrian-related accidents and school bus accidents. To keep your child out of harm’s way, review proper safety measures for crossing the street and how to be safe around school buses.

No matter what season it is, if you have suffered serious injuries after being involved in an accident, it is important to contact a skilled Kansas City Injury Attorney. Only a seasoned Kansas City Injury attorney can protect your rights! Turn to the Kansas City Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. who have more than 60 years of combined experience helping accident victims in both Kansas and Missouri. Our trusted team of Kansas City Personal Injury Attorneys will fight to make sure you receive proper compensation for your injuries. Contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673.

Kansas City Injury Attorneys Ask Party Hosts: Could More than the Game Be on the Line this Super Bowl Sunday?

Sunday, January 20th, 2019

January and February can be pretty cold and dreary months for much of the country. Sure, late November and December are not sunny and bright months, but with Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s everyone seems to be too busy to notice or care. But once the trifecta of festivities is done and over with, it can be a let down not to having anything on the social calendar until Spring Break. But in recent years, this has changed.

A new “holiday” per se has popped up that requires no gift giving or fancy dress-up attire: just good food, good people, and a television. Yes, Super Bowl Sunday has become not just a day for football fans, but a reason to throw a party. It helps that even if you are not a pigskin fan, the commercials are often just as good if not better than the game itself. Not to mention, there is always the never dull half-time show. Some folks tune in just because they know it will be the main topic of conversation around the water cooler at work on Monday morning. If, however, you are tempted to host a Super Bowl party, there are a few things you should know before you invite people over.

The biggest thing you should be aware of is that by hosting a party, you could open yourself up to liability. In other words, one or more of your party-goers could sue you. If this sounds highly unlikely, did you know that you could be held liable if someone eats contaminated food at your home and later becomes seriously ill? Also depending on the state where you host your party, you could be liable as a “social host” if one of your guests overindulges and gets into an accident. You may also be on the hook if a person slips and falls on your walkway or driveway, or even within your home. To protect yourself, you do not have to cancel the party, but do make sure to take the following steps:

  1. Check your insurance policy. If you want to know if your homeowner’s or renter’s policy will cover a guest who slips and falls or gets food poisoning, you need to check your policy by calling your insurance agent.
  1. Be careful with the food. Sure, hosting a party can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a lot of work. Which is why many hosts have guests each bring a dish, order take-out, or if the party is large, have food catered. Any of these three options lessens the cooking burden for the host but, still do not eliminate a potential liability problem. A host can be held liable if a person becomes ill from food served, even if the host did not make it. The best way to prevent foodborne illnesses is to make sure that hot food is kept hot and cold is kept cold and if you are in doubt as to whether a food is still safe to eat, toss it.
  1. Extend the party for guests who have imbibed too much. While Kansas and Missouri do not have “social host” liability which extends Dram Shop liability to hosts that let intoxicated adults leave their home, other states do. But for everyone’s safety, please extend the party for folks who need to sober up or call them a ride.

If you or a loved one were injured at a party due to the negligence or recklessness of another, it is important to know that you may have legal recourse. The Kansas City Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. have helped countless injury victims, in both Kansas and Missouri, obtain compensation for their injuries. Our caring team of attorneys will take the time to listen to you and carefully review the facts of your case. To schedule an initial consultation with one of our experienced Kansas City Attorneys, contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673. At Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P we are devoted to helping injury victims!

Kansas City Injury Attorneys Warn Drivers of the Perils of Short Trips

Saturday, December 30th, 2017

For so many of us, the holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year. There are so many things to do and places to be that we find ourselves running here and running there. The good news is that the vast majority of these trips are of a short duration—not more than a few miles from home. However, the bad news is that due to the weather and the traffic at this time of year, even a short mileage trip can take a long time. So often we spend more time getting to and from our destination than we do actually at our destination. Most of us see these quick trips a necessary evil of the season, but could they be more?

You may have heard, but it is a good time for a refresher, that most car accidents happen within 25 miles of a person’s home. So while driving across the country may sound more dangerous, a person is more likely to be involved in an accident closer to home. In other words, short car trips can pose a hazard. Now, it is also true that there is no real way to escape the never-ending to-do list of car trips this time of year. I mean, you cannot exactly stop going to the grocery store or taking your daughter to dance practice or your son to piano lessons, or from attending your company’s holiday party or your best friend’s New Year’s Eve party, right? Even though you cannot stop going, you can make this trips a bit safer by understanding what makes short mileage trips accident prone.

Part of the reason close to home trips are ripe with accidents, is the simple fact that most of our time spent behind the wheel is on these shorter trips. However, that is not the only reason. Experts also believe that a reason accidents happen closer to home is because motorists feel comfortable driving in familiar surroundings. In truth, many of the place we drive on these shorter trips, we could do on auto-pilot—and there lies part of the problem. When drivers are so comfortable with the route, they sometimes rely more on muscle memory, allowing their brain to think of other things, like what they need to once they reach their destination or what is next on that never-ending holiday to-do list.

One simple solution to make your shorter trips safer is to focus on the road. Pretend like your trip to the grocery store is a new destination. Pay attention and stay alert. Another tip is to buckle up! Accidents do not happen just on freeways at 60+ mph. So make it a habit to buckle up before you even start your car. If buckling up is not a habit your regularly engage in—add it to your list of New Year’s resolutions.

If you or a loved one was seriously injured after being involved in an automobile accident this holiday season, contact an experienced Kansas City Personal Injury Attorney right away. The seasoned Kansas City Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. will take the time to carefully evaluate your case and determine whether you can hold another party liable for your injuries. Our team of skilled Attorneys is prepared to fight until justice has been served. You can trust the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. to diligently fight for your rights, just as they have done so for countless injury victims around the area, both in Kansas and Missouri. To schedule a consultation with one of our compassionate Injury Attorneys, contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673.

Kansas City Injury Attorneys Warn Thanksgiving Travelers to Stay Alert

Monday, October 2nd, 2017

Thanksgiving is a holiday where what you eat is almost as important as whom you eat it with. Most often, it is a day for families to spend the day together. So unless you are hosting this year’s celebration, you will probably need to travel to the big event. When it comes to Thanksgiving travel, you could leave the driving to someone else and purchase a ticket for a train, plane or a bus. However, each year, the majority of Americans choose to drive. Moreover, if you are like over 30 million Americans, your drive to the T-Day feast will take you at least 50 miles from home. Before you head out, do yourself and your family a favor that they will thank you forever, and that is to prioritize safe driving and never to drive drowsy.

Just before Thanksgiving is a good time to remember to think about the dangers of driving drowsy because it is the kick off to the holiday season and a time when most people are starting to feel a bit overwhelmed. When people get busy, the first thing they tend to give up is sleep. Too little sleep because their schedules are filled to the brim with holiday-related items or inability to sleep because they are stressing about their holiday to-do list. Either way, the holidays often leave drivers sleep deprived at a time when the roadways are at their busiest and the days are shorter and darker earlier—not a good combination!

Drowsy driving may not sound all that risky to some people, being tired while at the wheel is a huge safety concern. A driver that is drowsy is much like a driver that is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Fatigue affects various parts of a driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle. For example, drivers who are tired are less able to pay attention the road and recognize roadway hazards. A drowsy driver also has slower reaction times. In other words, a fatigued driver may not realize that a lane is ending or another driving is merging in front of him or her. Fatigue also interferes with a driver’s ability to react, whether that be needing to brake suddenly, blow the horn, or make a quick tactical maneuver.

The good news is that there are ways to prevent drowsy driving. Sure, the obvious answer is for every driver to get more sleep. However, even simple things, like keeping a bedtime routine can help. Try to go to sleep at the same time every evening and wake at about the same time every morning. If you have to drive and become drowsy, it is important to realize you have options. Pull over and if you do not think you can make it to your destination safely, consider an overnight stay at a hotel. Also, try not drive at times when your body is usually asleep. Breaking up the drive into two days may take a bit longer, it can also make for a fun road trip!

If your loved one was seriously injured or killed after being involved in a car crash with a drowsy driver, it is important to contact an experienced Kansas City Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorney right away. The seasoned Kansas City Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. will evaluate your case and determine whether you hold another party liable for your injuries and suffering. Our team of skilled Attorneys is prepared to fight until justice has been served. Trust the Kansas City Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. to work for you, just as they have worked for countless injury victims around the area, both in Kansas and Missouri. To schedule a consultation with one of our compassionate Injury Attorneys, contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673.

Kansas City Injury Attorneys Offer Tips to Avoid a Car-Bicycle Crash

Saturday, September 30th, 2017

Fall is the perfect time to get outside and what could be a better way to enjoy the season than a bicycle ride. When on a bicycle, a rider not only gets to take in the sights but also gets to feel the cool, crisp autumn air blowing on their face. Whether you are biking for pleasure or as part of your daily commute, it is important to keep safety at the forefront of your mind every time you go for a ride. Biking on trails or paths is very different from sharing the road with cars. A car-bicycle crash often has serious outcomes for the rider. To make sure that the only thing that gets your heart pumping is the big hills this autumn, keep these safety tips in mind:

  1. Plan your route carefully. People often make the mistake of taking the same route they would go in a car on their bike. This can be problematic because this often means selecting busy streets with fast-moving When planning your route, it is important to remember avoidance. While cars and bicycles need to share the roads, they are not equals. A car-bike crash is always worse for the rider of the bicycle, so it is often best to avoid riding with cars whenever possible.
  2. Follow the same rules as cars. Since there are far fewer bicycles on the road than motor vehicles, it is important as a rider to follow the same rules that cars have to follow. This includes coming to a complete stop at stop signs, signaling all turns, and obeying all other traffic laws.
  3. Make sure you are visible. Fall temperatures may be perfect for However, the shorter days can make riding more perilous. Darkness is a huge enemy for riders. Most motorists in car-bike crashes report not having seen the bicycle in time to avoid the crash. Reflective apparel and gear can help increase your visibility to motorists.
  4. Pay attention. Riders like to use bicycling as a way to unwind and unplug at the end of the day. While it is okay to ride for stress relief, it does not mean that a rider can not pay attention to the road. Riders must constantly be aware of their surroundings.
  5. Do not trust drivers. When you the car the car in front of you or behind you remember that you do not know them or how respectful they are to cyclists. To be cautious, do not trust any motorist to do the right thing. If you assume that motorists can see you and will stop or not turn in front of you, it could make a deadly assumption.
  6. Ride like you are invisible. Every time you go for a ride, do so with the idea that you are invisible to motorists. By thinking of yourself as invisible, you will take more steps to be seen and in turn, make yourself more visible to motorists. Since you are invisible, you may need to ride down the side of the road or slow to a stop at an intersection.

If you or a loved one was seriously injured after being struck by a motor vehicle while riding a bicycle, the experienced Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. can help. Our skilled team of Kansas City Injury Attorneys will make sure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. You can trust the Kansas City Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. to help you as they have helped countless injury victims around the area, in both Kansas and Missouri. Contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673 to schedule a consultation.

Kansas City Injury Attorneys Discuss the Dangers Autumn Brings to the Roadways

Saturday, September 2nd, 2017

It is easy to make the argument that autumn is best of the four seasons. What is not to like about cool sunny days spent apple picking, and pumpkin spice flavored everything! There is just something about that crisp feeling in the air that makes a person want to grab a sweater and head for their favorite fall destination. Maybe you will take a drive to see some spectacular fall foliage or a football game. While autumn is a beautiful season to take in the sights, it also comes with its own unique set of dangers for motorists. Do not let the change of seasons catch you off guard. To stay safe this autumn, be alert for these roadway dangers:

  1. Leaves. Fall colored leaves are a thing of beauty when they are on the trees, but once they fall they can become a nuisance and even a downright danger to motorists when the litter the roadways. Treat leaf-covered areas with caution. A blanket of leaves on the road can hide potholes and obscure lane lines. Reduce speed and be sure to avoid hard-breaking on leaves which can become quite slippery when wet.
  1. Sun glare. While summer may be history, do not pack away your sunglasses. Shorter fall days mean motorists spend more time driving when the sun is close to the horizon. Even a short commute to or from work can feel much longer when the sun’s rays are blinding the driver. A smart investment for motorists is to purchase a pair of polarized sunglasses which are better designed to reduce the sun’s glare. A sun visor can also help block the bright rays.
  1. Leaf “peepers.” While you may be on a tight schedule, either picking up a child from school or trying to get to or from work on time, keep in mind the driver next to you might have a more leisurely agenda—leaf peeping. Leaf peepers can be a true danger to other drivers because they often spend more time looking at the foliage than on the roadway. Keep yourself safe by making sure to always keep a safe following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
  1. Rain, fog, and frost. Fall is a season where Mother Nature shows her unpredictable side. One day can be warm and sunny and the next day can be cool, rainy, and foggy. Rather than be frustrated by the weather, a better strategy is to be prepared, and that means making sure that your vehicle is well-maintained. Take the time to have the brakes, tires and windshield wipers checked. Well-worn brakes and improperly inflated tires can make stopping difficult which can spell disaster when mixed wet or frost covered roads.
  1. Critters. Less daylight during the evening commute can make it difficult to spot critters. Deer and other critters are especially active in fall and can pose a real threat to an unwary motorist. Exercise caution when driving in areas known for deer especially during dusk and evening.

If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries after being involved in a car crash, make sure you know your rights! The experienced Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. have helped accident victims in Kansas and Missouri for almost two decades. Our team of seasoned Kansas City Injury Attorneys will take the time to make sure you understand your legal options. We will also treat your case with the attention it deserves. You can trust the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. to put their 60 years of experience to work for you. To schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys, contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P today by calling (816) 472-4673.

Kansas City Injury Attorneys Discuss the Dangers of Driving After Dark

Thursday, August 31st, 2017

The person who came up with the saying that “nothing good happens after dark” must have been referring to driving after dark. While day time driving is not necessarily a walk in the park, night time driving is much riskier. In fact, accident related deaths are three times greater after dark compared to during the day. This statistic should not come as a surprise since driving after dark is fraught with hazards. These hazards include:

  1. Decreased visibility. Of course, one of the biggest obstacles to driving at night is the fact that it is dark. Decreased visibility makes it difficult for motorists to see road signs, other cars, motorcycles, pedestrians, and even animals. To help combat this problem, make sure that you allow extra following distance and keep your speed at the posted speed limit. You can also dim your dashboard lights to reduce glare.
  1. Since most of us are used to sleeping at night and being awake during the day, it makes sense why people often comment that fatigue is a problem for them when they drive a night. If you know night-time driving is a struggle, avoid driving after dark, especially long distances. If you cannot avoid an after dark trip, make sure that you have someone with you to help keep you awake. Remember, it is better to pull over and take a nap or grab a cup of coffee than to continue.
  1. Night-blindness. Some people suffer from a condition known as a night-blindness. This condition decreases a person’s ability to see at night. It is important for all motorists to have regular optical visits. If you feel like your night vision is subpar, make sure that mention this during your next eye doctor appointment.
  1. More motorists are driving under the influence. Night-time driving is also made more dangerous with the presence of more drunk drivers on the roadways. For this reason, weekend evenings are the most likely for fatal accidents.
  1. Construction activity. Since roadways are often busy during the day, it is not uncommon to find construction crews working full-force during the night when the roadways are quieter. While this is good news for daytime drivers, it can be hazardous to night-time drivers, especially if they are unfamiliar with the new traffic patterns.
  1. Poor vision due to age. While modern society has created many amazing inventions, not one has been able to stop people from aging. Sure we can dye our gray hairs and smooth out our wrinkles, but it does not mean a 50-year-old has the same vision as when he or she was 30. In fact, studies have shown that as we get older, it is more difficult for us to see at night because our eyes require more light. While there is not a remedy for this situation, it is something that drivers should be aware of as we all are getting older.

If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries after being involved in a collision, it is important to contact a skilled Kansas City Injury Attorney who can protect your rights! The experienced Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. having been helping accident victims in Kansas and Missouri for almost two decades. Our seasoned Kansas City Injury Attorneys work hard to make sure that you receive proper compensation for your injuries. Trust the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. to help you, just as they have helped countless injured victims in the area. To find out how the attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. can work for you, contact our office today at (816) 472-4673 to schedule a consultation.

Kansas City Injury Attorneys Tell Parents: It is Not Too Late to Protect Your Teen Driver

Tuesday, June 6th, 2017

Every parent dreads the day that their son or daughter is handed their driver’s license. Sure, it will be nice that they can drive themselves to school, home from soccer practice, and their part-time job on the weekend. Oh, and yes, it will be especially helpful that they now can cart their younger siblings around as well. So in some ways, having a teenage driver is not all gloom and doom.

However, the days where dread sits in is when it is Friday night, and your teenage driver asks for the keys to the car, so he or she can pick up a friend and go to the movies, or go “hang out,” or even worse, to a party. With school is in session, teens do not have a ton of free time to go cruising around. However, summer changes all of that. Summer is one of the most dangerous seasons for young drivers. In fact, the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day are said to be the deadliest for teenage drivers, this according to the National Safety Council.

In 2012, more than 1,000 people died in car accidents involving teenage drivers during this 100 day period. It is estimated that more than 550 of the people killed were teens. These statistics coupled with the fact that car crashes are the number one cause of death of American teenagers can make any parent ill with worry.

If you are a parent reading this, you are probably wondering what you can do to protect your teen. Sure, you could take away the keys. However, there are other options. The National Safety Council has started an initiative called DriveitHOME. The purpose of DriveitHOME is to offer information and guidance to parents of teenage drivers in hopes of reducing the number of teen crashes to zero. DriveitHOME is a great resource for parents looking for ways to keep their teen safe behind the wheel. The following are just a few of the many tips parents can start to use today and continue with throughout the year:

  • Set a good example: It is never too early to start practicing what you preach. Driving distracted is dangerous at any age. Show your teen that when you are driving, that is the only thing you are doing. Do not use your phone while driving. If you want to talk or text—pullover.
  • Have a conversation with your teen: Let them know your concerns. Consider having them sign an agreement that sets forth what you expect of them and the consequences if they do not follow the rules.
  • Practice, practice, practice: Just because your teen has his or her license does not mean that he or she is an expert driver. Continue to ride with your teen and allow them to practice their skills. A parent can be a great driving coach!

If your teen suffered serious injuries after being involved in a collision, it is important to contact a skilled Kansas City Injury Attorneys who can protect his or her rights! The experienced Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. have been helping accident victims in Kansas and Missouri for almost two decades. Our seasoned Kansas City Personal Injury Attorneys will fight to make sure that you receive proper compensation for your injuries. Trust the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. to help you, just as they have helped countless injury victims in the area. Call Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673 to schedule a consultation. We look forward to meeting with you.

Kansas City Injury Attorneys Stress the Importance of Quality Gear to Prevent Road Rash

Sunday, April 30th, 2017

One of the biggest differences between driving a car and riding a motorcycle is what behind the wheel needs to do in preparation to hit the road. For the driver of the car, this preparation is practically non-existent. An automobile driver simply hops in his or her vehicle, fastens the safety belt, and he or she is pretty much ready to go. Motorcycle riders, on the other hand, need to put careful consideration into what they will wear. Not just to protect themselves from the elements, like the sun and precipitation, but what they need to protect themselves in case of an accident. The difference between a motorcyclist suffering fatal injuries or being able to survive a crash often depend on the gear choices he or she made before they even got onto their bike.

Unlike other motorists, bikers cannot rely on their motorcycles to provide them with any form of protection in the event they are involved in a crash. Even a minor accident, the equivalent of a vehicle fender bender, can have serious and life-threatening consequences for its rider. Quality gear can help protect the rider from the most common motorcycle injuries, including road rash.

Road rash is the informal term used to describe skin abrasions suffered by a motorcyclist after he or she has skidded across the pavement of the road. Road rash cases vary in severity much like burns, from first degree to third degree. A first-degree road rash looks similar to rug burn and usually does not require medical treatment. A third-degree road rash, which is the most severe, impacts all layers of the skin and can expose tendons and bone. Ask any seasoned bike, and they will tell you road rash is not just a cosmetic concern. Road rash can be extremely painful and can result in significant loss of significant tissue, damage to muscles, and permanent scarring.

It is estimated that a biker loses a millimeter of skin for every mile per hour he or she is going over 30 mph. So that means if you are going over 55 mph at the time of a crash, you could expect to lose an inch of flesh. This is why bikers need to carefully consider what they put on each and every time they go for a ride. Protective gear, like leather and other high-tech performance wear, is the only barrier between a rider and the asphalt in the event of a crash.

Most bikers strive to cover every square inch of their body with some sort type of quality gear before heading out. This strategy is best because all skin should be covered and not just by regular street wear. Some bikers make the mistake of wearing a protective coat, gloves, helmet and boots, but only wear a pair of regular jeans to protect their lower half. In a crash, even the sturdiest pair of jeans can be shredded after as little as three seconds of road contact. If you are unsure of what gear you need, talk to a professional before your next ride.

If you or a loved one was seriously injured in a motorcycle collision, the seasoned Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. can help. Our experienced team of Kansas City Injury Attorneys will make sure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Trust the Kansas City Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. to help you as they have helped countless motorcycle injury victims around the area, in both Kansas and Missouri. To schedule a consultation with one of our skilled injury attorneys, contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673.

Kansas City Injury Attorneys Offer Motorists Stay Safe Strategies For Roadside Emergencies

Wednesday, March 1st, 2017

There are numerous reasons why you may find yourself stranded on the side of the road. A roadside emergency can be anything from a flat tire to having run out of gas, or simply experiencing mechanical problems. No matter the reason for your needing to stop, it is important to keep in mind that the side of the road is not a safe place to hang out. In fact, the shoulder of any roadway can be a very dangerous spot for a motorist. Each year, motorists are killed on the shoulder while waiting for help to arrive. If you ever find yourself experiencing a roadside emergency, keep in my mind these stay safe strategies:

  1. Exit the highway whenever possible. If you are experiencing car trouble on a major highway, you are always safer if you can exit the highway rather than stop on the shoulder. Once you are off of the highway, stay inside your vehicle until help arrives.
  1. Pull completely over. Not only is a car on the side of the road a danger to its occupants, but it also presents a danger to other motorists. However, sometimes, stopping on the side of the road is unavoidable. If you do need to stop on the shoulder of a busy roadway, it is important to make sure that your vehicle is pulled completely off of the main road and onto the shoulder. A car that is even partially in the lane of traffic is a collision waiting to happen. If you are not able to move your vehicle completely onto the shoulder, you need to evaluate whether you should remain in the vehicle. Often the best strategy is to exit the car due to the likelihood that the car could be hit. If it is safe to exit the vehicle, exit out the side of the vehicle that is furthest from traffic, even if that means exiting out the passenger side door. Do not exit your car if traffic does not permit.
  1. Illuminate! Even if your car is completely on the shoulder, it is important that others can see it. At night a car on the shoulder can be near invisible to approaching traffic. Also, emergency vehicles and other motorists use the shoulder as well. The best way to make sure your vehicle is visible to others is to turn on your lights or flashers. Flares, which motorists should keep in their emergency roadside kits, are also useful for this purpose as well.
  1. Call for help. A car on the side of the road is much like a sitting duck. So as soon as you realize that you cannot or should not re-enter traffic, call for help. Sometimes, handy motorists are tempted to forgo calling for roadside assistance or a tow-truck, preferring instead to try to change a tire or conduct other maintenance themselves. Since hanging around outside of your vehicle next to the road is not safe, please resist the urge to do so.

If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries after being involved in a collision, it is important to contact a skilled Kansas City Injury Attorney who can protect your rights! The experienced Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. having been helping accident victims in Kansas and Missouri for almost two decades. Our seasoned Kansas City Personal Injury Attorneys work hard to make sure that you receive proper compensation for your injuries. Trust the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. to help you, just as they have helped countless injured victims in the area. To find out how the attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. can work for you, contact our office today at (816) 472-4673 to schedule a consultation.