Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Blog

East Atlanta homeless man killed in pedestrian hit-and-run

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)35810 — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

A homeless man died after being struck by a hit-and-run driver in east Atlanta.

Clerance Sellers was known by others in the East Atlanta village neighborhood as “Pop”. He was well liked in the neighborhood and did odd jobs and lawn work in order to earn money. The Atlanta pedestrian accident occurred on Friday night, July 23. Sellers was wheeling his lawnmower across the street at the intersection of Patterson and Glenwood Avenue when he was hit by a dark-colored SUV.

Police believe the truck was a black or dark blue Ford Explorer or Expedition. It has extensive damage in the front and the last four numbers on the license plate are 9251 or 9521.

Almost every day a pedestrian is hit by a car in Atlanta. Victims of pedestrian accidents have rights. These rights include insurance compensation for their medical care, or in the case of a fatal accident, for burial expenses. Pedestrians may also claim damages for pain and suffering, lost wages and other losses. To learn more, contact the Law Offices of R. Shane Smith at 770-HURT-999. We can help.

Atlanta Car Accident Attorney discusses Mistake 5 in Auto Accident Settlements

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)34747 — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

     Why should you avoid giving a short recorded statment to the insurance company adjuster in your car accident case?

     First remember the insurance adjuter's job is to settle your case for as little as possble. Every dollar they save is a dollar more for their company. For a full explanation of why you shouldn't do this, read my full article here.

     The short listis:
     Using your words against you in court later
     Using the fact that you said you were doing okay to say you were not hurt
     Saying that you didn't mention an injury on there for they wont pay
     Twisting your words around

Short example - before he was a client - he gave the adjuster a statment where he said he had drank a beer before the wreck. The officer didn't think my client was drunk, the officer tested my client and he wasn't drunk. My client didn't think he was drunk. The insurance company tried to blame my client for the car accident because he had a beer at his friends house and their insured drove into his car after running a stop sign.

     Short Advice - Don't give a recorded statement

Holiday weekends mean a high risk for Georgia DUI accidents

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)34542 — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Alcohol is a major factor in holiday weekend accidents. In 2008, 491 Americans lost their lives in Fourth of July car crashes. Forty-three percent of those deaths were caused by drunk drivers.

There were 1,095 Georgia car crashes during the 4th July travel period of that year. These accidents resulted in 930 injuries and 21 fatalities. More than one-quarter of these crashes involved an impaired driver.

Because this year, the Fourth of July is right in the middle of a long weekend, law enforcement officials are gearing up to stop drunk driving in Atlanta. If you will be drinking or will be with friends who are drinking this weekend, don’t drive. Instead:

• Designate a sober driver

• Keep taxi cab phone numbers in your wallet or pocket

• Look into taking a bus home

• Make arrangements to call someone you trust

• Spend the night where you are

• Don’t drink and volunteer to be a designated driver

The Atlanta car accident attorneys at The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith hope you have a happy and safe Independence Day. But, if the unthinkable happens and you are injured in a car accident, we are here to help. Contact our office anytime at 770-HURT-999.

Car Accident Claims Settlement Mistake 4 | Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)33841 — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

The number way most people harm their car accident settlement is ...

Not using their health insurance or med pay to get treatment for their car accident injuries.

Find out why you should always use your health insurance if you are involved in a car accident. There are many different reasons why it makes a lot of sense to do so

Better Care
No impact on your credit report
Doctor gets paid quicker
You don' get hassled about a bill
You get more money on your car accident settlement

Find out the reasons why you should do this and be prepared. Some lawyers may tell you not to use your health insurance since it creates more work for them and their staff or they may not be a car accident lawyer. Check out all of the reasons why so you will be prepared if someone tells you not to use your health insurance to get treatment for your car accident injuries.

P.S. If you think it is unfair to your health insurance that is covered also, but have they ever sent you a check at the end of the year saying thanks for being healthy all year?

Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer | Auto Accident Claim Mistake

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)33748 — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

     Atlanta car Accident Lawyer talks about the number 3 way to reduce the value of your Georgia Auto Accident Claim Settlement. This is delaying necessary medical care. Find out why this can destroy the value of your case, especially if you have soft tissue injuries, neck injuries, or back injuries. These types of injuries suffer the most from a delay in medical care.

     Shane goes over this in detail here, where he talks about how the insurance adjuster would prefer for you to delay seeking care and then use it against you when you try to settle your car accident claim. Find the answers to these questions and many more:

     Can I just go to any doctor?
     Will the insurance company authorize me to go to the doctor or chiropractor?
     Will the insurace company give me a doctor to go to?
     Can I wait two weeks to see if I get better?

Auto Accident Claims Mistakes -2 Property Damage Repairs

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)33580 — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

     Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Shane Smith talks about the second most common mistake people make on their Auto Accident Claim which is failing to repair their vehcile. Find out the main reasons why failing to do this could cost thousands on a auto accident claim or personal injury claim.

The reasons this can cost you are :

     - The car insurance company uses property damage as a guideline for how much your settlement should be
     - Hidden damage can show up after you settle the property damage claim and they wont pay to fix it
     - The amount of the damage to the car is used as a baseline for how long you should treat for any back and neck soft tissue injuries
     - The property damage amount is used to determine what is reasonable for the amount of your medical bills
     - Failing to repair the car can be interpreted as desperate to settle which results in a "low ball" offer from the car insurance company
     - Failing to repair the vehicle could unfairly classify your auto accident claim as a MIST or Minor Impact Soft Tissue Claim

     Find out the reasons behind these and many other reasons why to have a successful auto accident claim you must get your vehicle repaired. Read this article for more information.

Auto Accident Claims Settled

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)33418 — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

     Find an updated list of auto accident claims and case results we have gotten recently in our Atlanta Car Accident Law Firm. We practice only personal injury in our law office. We take pride in helping injury victims get fair compensation for their personal injury and bodily injury cases. This includes getting compensation for medical bills, medical records, you injuries (many times back and neck strain), lost wages (missing time from work), future medical bills, permanent injuries, and pain and suffering.
     The vast majority of our practice is auto accident claims and car accidents. We handle the entire process from setting up the claim with the insurance company, to gathering the information to send in a settlement demand, and even filing a lawsuit if necessary.  If you were hit by a drunk driver, be sure to check out our section on Drunk Driver Accidents and how they are different from normal car accident claims.

Auto Accident Settlements No. 1 Mistake

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)33404 — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

     What is the first major mistake people make during the car accident settlement process?

     The first mistake people make is not doing enough at the scene of the auto accident. There are a number of things that everyone who is involved in a car accident should do before they ever leave the scene of the collision. Some of the major mistakes people make are:

- People decide not to file an accident report with the police
- People don't get a witness's name, address, or phone number
- People move their vehicle before the police officer arrives at the scene
- People don't take any pictures of the scene of the car accident or the vehicles
- People say I'm not hurt when they really are

     Find out the reasons why all of these are quick ways to reduce what you will get for your car accident claim or bodily injury claim in Atlanta or Georgia. These mistakes are discussed in detail in the attached article from Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Shane Smith's Free Book discussing Bodily Injury Claims in Georgia.

Car Accident Settlement Free Book for Atlanta Georgia

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)33291 — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Why did Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Shane Smith write a book that talks about car accident settlements, car accident injuries, and the mistakes to avoid ruining your Georgia Car Accident Claims Case and more importantly Why does he give it away Free.

I represent people who are injured in car wrecks by someone else’s negligence or through no fault of their own. These are normally hard working people who were minding their own business and someone else hit their car because they were not paying attention, talking on a cell phone or doing something else when they should have been driving. This innocent party now has multiple injuries, needs medical care and is hurting. This book is designed to help that person be aware of the biggest ways to hurt their Auto Accident Injury Claim or Case and protect themselves.

I get numerous calls from people who have tried to avoid hiring a lawyer or who just don’t know where to turn. This book and my website are designed to help you until you can hire a competent attorney who practices personal injury work. You want a lawyer who knows car accident cases. After years of practice, and years of answering the same questions I decided to write this book that explains the ins and outs of a auto accident claims case or personal injury case in Georgia. If you are reading this in another state things very well may be different. I would encourage you to contact a lawyer in your state. If you need help finding a lawyer in your state, just go to my website www.shanesmithlaw.com. Under the links page, you can find a listing of personal injury lawyers in your state.
Why do I give my Car Accident Claims book away for Free? The first is just because I get tired of clients calling after they have tried to avoid hiring a lawyer, and then when we talk about their auto accident claim, we find out that they did something that is difficult or impossible to fix just because they did not know how to deal with the car insurance company. Also the book requires that you give me your email or address. That allows me to provide you with my Free Newsletter filled with information about my Car Accident Law Firm, better ways to protect yourself in another car accident, how to get better care for your car accident injuries or buy better car insurance. The more information you have, the better you will be to select a car accident lawyer who can truely help you with your auto accident claim.

MIST Minor Imact Soft Tissue Case Information for Car Accident Claims

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)33287 — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

     Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Shane Smith answers questions about Minor Impact Soft Tissue car accident claims or MIST cases and how this designation by the insurance company can reduce the value of your car accident settlement.

     On his website he has answered three new questions about MIST cases and how the insurance company treats them. He also talks about how to prevent your car accident claim from being put into this category of auto accidents. Also discussed are how the car insurance company will treat your car accident injuries if it says your claim is a Minor Impact Soft Tissue Case.

     Links are provided to the new sections of his FAQ on Auto Accident Injury Claims:

     What does it mean when my car accident claim is called a Minor Impact Soft Tissue Case? Here

     Why is it important if my car accident injury case is called a MIST claim? Here

     How do I keep my car accident claim from being classified as a MIST case? Here

Atlanta Car Accient Lawyer on Why You Need a Lawyer

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)33177 — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Shane Smith on why you need a car accident lawyer ...

Did you know the insurance company adjuster is trained to make an on the spot minimal low dollar offer or "low ball" offer when they give an estimate on your property damage.

Did you know the insurance company adjuster wont tell you which doctor or chiropractor to see but they will tell you where to get your car fixed. Why is that?

Maybe it saves them money to send your car to the shop but
they would rather you didn't go to the doctor.

Did you know the insurance company adjuster is nice because people have a harder time suing their friends.

Find out lots more information about the insurance company on Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Shane Smith's Website or order his free book.

Accelerator stuck? What do you do if your Atlanta vehicle won't stop?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)33034 — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Unintended acceleration of Toyota vehicles has killed at least 89 people and caused injury to many more. Now, Chrysler has announced a recall of its 2007 Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass vehicles for sticky accelerator problems. In addition, the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration is investigating consumer complaints involving stuck accelerator pedals. If your car suddenly accelerates, do you know what to do?

Regardless of the cause, if your vehicle experiences unintended acceleration, you should take the following steps:

• Brake firmly and steadily. Do not pump the brake.

• Shift the transmission into neutral.

• Steer to a safe location.

• Shut the engine off.

• Call your Atlanta car dealer to pick the vehicle up. Do not attempt to drive it.

If you are in an Atlanta car accident and need help getting insurance compensation for your injuries and property damage, contact The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith. Atlanta car accident attorney Shane Smith can help you get fair payment for all your losses. Call us at 770-HURT-999 to schedule a FREE legal consultation and to order our FREE book: Property Damage Guide for Georgia.

Atlanta Car Accident Injury Free Book Offer

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)32897 — Sat, 05 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Order this free book today - The Top 10 Ways to Ruin Your Personal Injury Case. This book covers the most common ways people cost themselves thousands of dollars on a personal injury case. It answers the questions:

Why does the insurance company want a recorded statment?
Why wont they give me a doctor's name to treat with?
Why do they need all these forms signed?
Why wont they pay me for the days off from work?
Why did the adjuster say a lawyer would only cost me money?

This book is free to Georgia residents. Find out the answers to these and other common questions people have after a car accident.

ATLANTA CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER SETTLES COWETA COUNTY DUI VICTIM

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)32790 — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Shane Smith and his client V.R. recently went to mediation on a local Coweta County Case. Shane's client was struck in a rearend collision by some on prescription drugs who was later charged and convicted of DUI or driving while less safe. V.R. required treatment at the emergency room and saw a local chiropractor Matt Davis from Cross Roads Chiropractic. After a long fight against the insurance company the case was settled at mediation for four times the initial offer. Shane believes the reason was that we continually fought for punitive damages in this case because the defendant was convicted of DUI. V. R. had needed treatment for back and neck pain. Find out the details about this fight and this case by checking out our case results page.

Car Accident Worth Question

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)32286 — Wed, 26 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Many times on an initial call I am asked by my clients what their case is worth. This is a difficult and usually impossible question to answer. Your bodily injury case considers several things. These are the total of your medical bills, the type and length of your medical treatment, your lost wages, your pain and suffering, and whether there is any permanent injury. Usually in a soft tissue case you do not have any significant document able permanent injury. If you do then I would not consider it a soft tissue injury case. When advising clients about the value of their case after a car accident, I always say that it is really impossible to throw a number out telling them what a case is worth. So much depends on the treatment and the specific facts of their case.
Anyone who says they can immediately tell a client what a case is worth is either just trying to get the case by telling the client the case is worth a lot of money or doesn't know a lot about personal injury cases. Your initial diagnosis might be soft tissue injuries or back and neck strain, but it could easily change if you don't get better. My experience has shown me that the answer to the question of what is my case worth? Is almost always it depends. The worth of a case also depends on you and what you lost because of an accident.

Atlanta Georgia Car Accident Free Book by Attorney

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)32120 — Mon, 24 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Atlanta Georgia Car Accident Attorney Shane Smith offers a free book to anyone who was involved in a car accident in Georgia. Shane, an attorney who has handled over a thousand car accident and personal injury cases, wrote this book - 10 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Georgia Wreck Case. This is a free book to help car accident victims to know their rights. It is important to know how not to mess up your case before you talk to the adjuster. The insurance adjuster is trained how to pay as little for your case as possible. Take a few minutes to learn how best to protect yourself. If after reading it you still have questions or don't want to wait, call Shane today at 770-487-8999 or 770-HURT999. Tell Shane you saw him on the web and the advice is free.

Atlanta Georgia Car Accident Property Damage Free Book

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)32115 — Mon, 24 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Shane Smith is giving away a FREE BOOK telling Georgians about their rights after a car wreck. Shane wrote this book after handling well over a thousand car accident cases and being asked the same questions by his clients over and over. This free book covers getting a rental vehicle, what is diminished value, salvage titles, what you can do with a totaled vehicle and many more areas of property damage law. Also feel free to check out our Georgia Property Damage FAQ for instant answers.

Drunk driving deaths are a serious problem in Atlanta

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)31412 — Wed, 12 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

I recently posted two news articles that involved drivers who were under the influence of alcohol.

Georgia is ranked sixth in the nation for drunk driving and DUI fatalities. In 2008, alcohol-impaired driving led to 416 fatalities on Georgia roads. Drunken driving deaths account for one-third of all traffic accident deaths, and almost 70% of these fatalities involve drivers with blood alcohol content (BAC) over .15. Seventy-nine percent of these high BAC drivers have a history of prior convictions for DUI.

Victims of drunken driving accidents are entitled to regular insurance compensation, just like any other accident victim. However, DUI victims are also eligible for punitive damages. Punitive damages are a monetary sum that is awarded to an injury victim that goes beyond what is necessary to compensate the victim for his injury and losses. Punitive damages are intended to punish the drunken driver and discourage him from drinking and driving in the future.

The unfortunate reality is that many Atlanta DUI victims do not get all the compensation that they are entitled to. Insurance companies will do their best to minimize the amount they are required to pay, even in drunk driving cases when it is clear who is at fault. Punitive damages are rarely awarded unless an attorney asks for them.

If you have been injured by a driver under the influence of alcohol or have lost a loved one to a DUI car crash, contact the Atlanta Law Offices of R. Shane Smith. Call 770-HURT-999 to talk to a lawyer about your DUI injury case.

Atlanta Tow Truck driver at DUI scene also charged with DUI

BobbieJo@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)31211 — Sun, 09 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

A tow truck driver sent to the scene of a DUI accident was arrested and charged with DUI when troopers smelled alcohol on his breath.

On Wednesday, May 5, a Georgia state trooper stopped a man on I-75 north of Dalton for a minor traffic violation. As the trooper approached the vehicle, the driver sped away. The driver led police on a chase that ended when the driver hit a pole off U.S. 41. The driver was under the influence of alcohol and had four pounds of marijuana in his car.

Police called for a tow truck to take away the mangled car. When Christopher Chaffin of Sexton Wrecker Service arrived, the trooper at the scene detected alcohol on his breath and arrested the tow truck driver.
The actions of the state trooper may have prevented a second DUI crash

Drunken drivers are a danger to everyone on the road. Drivers under the influence drive faster and are more reckless than drivers who have not been drinking. Georgia ranks 6th in the nation for alcohol-related traffic deaths. In 2008, there were 489 alcohol-related traffic deaths in Georgia. Alcohol-related crashes accounted for one-third of traffic deaths.

If you or a loved one were injured in a car wreck caused by an Atlanta-area drunk driver, you have rights. An attorney can help you get compensation for your medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages and other damages. Contact The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith to learn more.

Who pays for damage if your stolen car crashes in Georgia?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)30555 — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

The driver of a stolen car died in a head-long car crash in Cherokee County.

The crash occurred just after midnight on Saturday, April 24. A police deputy turned on his flashing lights when spotted the 2007 Pontiac Vibe which had been stolen from the Roswell area. The car sped away and the deputy did not pursue the vehicle.

The Pontiac continued and crashed into a 1997 Silverado. The driver of the Pontiac, 24-year-old Richard Armin Whitman, Jr. of Roswell, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Silverado was taken to North Fulton Hospital to be treated for injuries.

If you are involved in a car crash and the negligent driver is driving a stolen vehicle, who is responsible for damages?

This is a tough question. If you have uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) motorist coverage, that portion of your own insurance may cover some or all of the damages. The owner’s insurance may also cover some damages. It will be depend on the insurance coverage of the persons involved.

If you have been involved in an Atlanta area accident and have questions about insurance coverage, request our free book Property Damage Guide for Georgia. If you have more questions or need help getting insurance compensation, call the Atlanta Law Offices of R. Shane Smith at 770-HURT-999.

Speeding car injures four in Atlanta horse-drawn carriage wreck

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)30204 — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Four people were hospitalized after two cars crashed into a horse-drawn in downtown Atlanta.

The accident occurred around 7:30 pm on Friday, April 16 on Peachtree Street and Harris Street in downtown Atlanta. Two cars were speeding and ran the red light at the intersection of Andrew Young International. One of the cars, a black Lexus, ran into a carriage carrying four people. The driver and his three passengers were tossed into the air as the carriage fell apart. The carriage driver and his passengers were taken to Grady Memorial Hospital for treatment of serious injuries. One passenger was in critical condition. The passengers were all visitors from Nebraska.

The horse was captured as it ran from the scene. It appeared to be unharmed.

Atlanta police arrested the driver of the Lexus. Twenty-eight-year-old Odom Gerald has been charged with following too closely, driving on a suspended license and violating the open container law. Police are seeking the other driver who was driving a black Camaro. They believe street racing was involved.

This unusual accident is an example of the wide variety of traffic wrecks that occur in Atlanta. If you are injured in a car crash, and you are on foot, on a bike, or in a horse-drawn carriage, you are still entitled to insurance compensation for your injuries and property damage. Learn more; request our free book Property Damage guide for Georgia. If you need help, contact the Law Offices of R. Shane Smith at 770-HURT-999.

U.S. driving deaths decline. What does this mean for Atlanta drivers?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)28092 — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

The good news is that U.S. driving deaths have continued to decline and are at their lowest levels since 1954.

The U.S. Department of Transportation reported that driving fatalities decreased 8.9% from 37,261 accident deaths in 2008 to a record low of 33,963 accident deaths in 2009. This is the lowest number of recorded highway deaths since the federal government started tracking highway fatality data in 1954.

Driving deaths have steadily decreased since 2005 when 43,510 highway deaths were recorded. These deaths include all motor vehicle deaths including car crashes, truck wrecks and pedestrian car accidents. The fatality rate also declined to the lowest on record. In 2008 there were 1.25 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles travelled; in 2009, there rate decreased to 1.16 fatalities per vehicle mile travelled.

The government attributes the continued decline in traffic deaths to increased seat belt use, safer vehicles, education programs and stronger enforcement of the law.

The decline occurred despite an increased in vehicle miles traveled. American drivers drove 6.6 billion more miles in 2009 than in 2008.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said that despite the decrease, there are “still far too many people dying in traffic.”

We agree. The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith represent victims of car crashes in the Atlanta metropolitan area. If you have lost a loved one in a car wreck, we are sorry for your loss and would like to help you get compensation and accountability.

Unexpected accident: Woman killed by flying tire in I-285 Atlanta car crash

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)27803 — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A 56-year-old woman was killed on Thursday in a tragic car accident that closed down all lanes of I-285 west at Bouldercrest Road.

A Georgia State University van was travelling eastbound on I-285 when its left tire came off and crossed the median line. Debra Driscoll of Virginia was killed when the flying tire struck her Hyundai Sonata as she was travelling west on the interstate. A second car was also hit by the tire, but it received only front end damages. No one else was hurt.

The van belonged to GSU’s School of Public Policy. The driver was the only occupant.

Even the safest drivers may be involved in an accident. An unexpected event like a loose tire can bring devastating loss to a family. If you have lost a loved one in an Atlanta car wreck, The Law Offices of R.

The attorneys at The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith understand that this is a tough time for you. We want to make it easier.

Your family has rights and you are entitled to compensation for your losses. The insurance companies want to minimize their costs. Let us deal with the insurance companies and get you the compensation and accountability that you are entitled to.

Contact Shane smith at 770-HURT-999 for more information.

Sandy Springs icy roads cause fire truck, ambulance wreck

BobbieJo@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)26730 — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Unusually icy roads are wreaking havoc for Atlanta area drivers. Late Friday night and early Saturday, hundreds of cars were stranded on northbound Georgia Highway 400 when the Georgia Department of Transportation closed the bridge over the Chattahoochee River in order to treat for ice.

Emergency vehicles were kept busy responding to accidents in the area. An ambulance on its way to an accident on northbound Georgia 400 at the Abernathy Road overpass in Sandy Springs was hit by another vehicle and knocked off the road. The EMTs in the ambulance were among seven injured at that location.

Only minutes later, a fire truck responding to the collision was involved in a wreck on eastbound I-285 as it approached the Georgia 400 junction.

Crews worked through the night and into the morning to treat icy roads, rescue stranded travelers and pretreat icy bridges.

The Georgia Department of Transportation suggests that drivers stay off the roads in icy conditions.

Attorney Shane Smith represents Atlanta area accident victims. If you have been injured in a traffic accident, you may have a hard time getting fair compensation from the insurance companies. The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith can help. We have experience representing the injured of Atlanta and getting fair compensation for injuries, property damage, pain and suffering, lost wages and other losses. Call today to schedule a free consultation or to request our free book, 10 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Georgia Wreck Case.

New study shows that distractions cause Atlanta car crashes

BobbieJo@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)26295 — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A controversial new study suggests that banning handheld cell phones may not significantly decrease the risk of traffic accidents in Atlanta and nationwide. The experts say that distracted driving of all types is the real problem.

The study was conducted by The Highway Loss Institute, a nonprofit organization funded by the car insurance industry. They looked at car wreck data in four states with cell phone bans and compared the crash data both before and after the bans took place.

This study contradicts a larger Virginia Tech Transportation Institute study that found drivers using handheld telephone are about three times more likely to be in an accident or near accident than drivers who are not. The study found the risk increased to almost 23 times while texting.

The authors of the new study propose that the danger of cell phones has more to do with the distraction they provide than with the handheld aspect. They imply that replacing handheld cell phones with hands free devices does not necessarily reduce the risk of an accident. They propose that any distraction increases the risk of accident, whether it is texting, hands-free calling, adjusting a GPS, eating a bagel, or disciplining children.

They propose that more needs to be done to educate drivers about the risks of driver distraction. You can read more here.

In Georgia, only school bus drivers are prohibited from using cell phones while driving. The Georgia House of Representatives is currently considering a ban on texting.

What should I do if I was hurt in my Atlanta Car Accident?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)25442 — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

     People are hurt in car accidents everyday in Atlanta. Many times they need help quick. At HURT 999 we provide quick, response help for those injured in car wrecks. We help people all over Georgia. The first thing you should do if you were hurt in an car accident is to go to the doctor. Please don't wait for the insurance adjuster to authorize it or give you permission. Many times they will try to delay this for several days, and you are at home hurting.
     After you start seeing the doctor, you should call an attorney who is familiar with car accident cases. This should be someone who is familiar with your type of injuries and the specifics of handling a car wreck case here in Georgia. Find out more information on Atlanta Car Accidents on our site. You can also order our free book on Atlanta Car Wrecks. If you want to talk to us, please call us at (770) HURT 999 or (770) 487-8999.
     This blog is done by Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Shane Smith from the Georgia Law Firm of HURT 999, Law Offices of Shane Smith, PC.

Hit by a drunk driver in atlanta or georgia

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)25365 — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Sometimes all you want is your car fixed. Maybe you were not seriously hurt or maybe you were not even in your car when it was hit by a drunk driver. Even so, your case is more complicated than just a regular car accident here in Atlanta or Georgia. Georgia law allows punitive damages against drivers who cause car accidents while drunk. Find out what is different about these cases in our practice area that specifically talks about drunk driving. Find out why it matters what the defendant blew on the breathalyzer. Find out what why it is important whether they have more than one DUI or drunk driving arrest. Call us at (770) HURT 999 or (770) 487-8999 to talk to an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer.

Georgia DUI Car Accidents- Why you need an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)25114 — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

What is different about a DUI car accident? Go to our site to find out. Here is the link to a short FAQ about it. You can find even more information about punitive damages and why it is important that your lawyer researches the criminal history or past DUI's of the driver who hit you. We work to get the most for our clients who are hit by drunk drivers. We know what the mandatory minimum punishments are and we use the Georgia Open Records Act to find out the drunk drivers criminal punishment. If you were hit by a drunk driver in Atlanta or Georgia, call us to find out what we do to make sure you get maximum compensation. Find us at www.hurt999.com

Atlanta Accident Lawyer Answers - Should my airbags have deployed during my car crash?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)25058 — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Many times, we receive calls in our office here at Hurt 999 where people who have just been in a car accident ask why the airbags didn't deploy and they want to sue the airbag company. This is not a cut and dried situation. Airbags are not designed to deploy in all crashes. Before I learned about this area of car accident law, I thought an airbag always deployed in almost every situation where there was a significant impact. I then learned how expensive it was to repackage an airbag. This can cost over a thousand dollars per airbag. Car companies have designed the air bags and vehicles with sensors which determine the type of car crash. The signals are then sent to a black box or internal computer which determines whether the car should deploy the airbags. Find out more about this here from our car accident lawyers at Hurt 999.

Ice blamed for deadly crash

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)25022 — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Cherokee County police are blaming the icy weather for the death of a 50-year-old woman from Ackworth.

The car accident occurred just after 9pm on Thursday, January 7. The victim was driving along Priest Road at North Holt Road in Ackworth when the car skidded on the ice. The car slid off the roadway and crashed into a tree. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene.

This year’s unusually cold weather is especially dangerous for Georgia motorists who are unaccustomed to severe winter weather.

Freezing rain covers roadways with a layer of ice that is often invisible. Snow can be slick to drive on, and when snow melts and refreezes, it can leave an icy glaze that makes roads very slick. In these conditions, it is best to avoid traveling if possible.

However, if you must travel, leave plenty of time and drive slowly. It is very easy to lose control of a vehicle that is speeding on ice. Make sure your tires have plenty of tread and bring warm clothes and a fully-charged cell phone incase you are stranded.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith represent victims of car accidents. To help keep you and your loved one safe, we’ve put together some tips for safe winter driving. Click here to read more.

Enjoy the rare snow days and stay safe.

Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Renames Firm to Help Clients - to Hurt 999

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)24875 — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Atlanta Car Wreck Attorney Shane Smith wanted to make it easier for his clients to reach him. Rather than have a separate car accident web page, separate phone number and separate law firm - Law Offices of R. Shane Smith, he decided to make everything the same. Now you can reach him on the web at www.hurt999.com or www.770hurt999.com, by phone at (770) Hurt 999 or (770) 487-8999. He has even changed his law firm name to Hurt 999, Law Offices of Shane Smith, PC. Shane decided that it would make it easier for his clients and car accident victims to reach him if everything was the same.

Seat belt Replacement Needed after Car Accidents

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)24874 — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Seat belts. We have to wear them and everyone says they save lives. Most people don't know much about them. Do you know whether or not they need to be replaced after a car accident? Do you know which part is most likly to be damaged in a car wreck? Go to our web page to find out. Find out before you talk to the insurance adjuster or your car repair shop. Free advice from Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer from Hurt 999.

Can you choose your own auto repair shop after a Georgia Car Accident?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)24531 — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

We try to answer the questions that our clients ask us the most. One of the most common is do I have to use the insurance company's body shop or can I pick my own body shop. This is a common question and one that people need to know. It can commonly mean the difference between being satisfied with the repairs to your vehicle and being unhappy with them. Please go to our website to find the answer to this question. We also have an extensive FAQ section on property damage in Georgia Car Accidents.

Speeding in Georgia to cost more in 2010

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)24499 — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

New laws took effect on January 1st, and Georgia drivers who speed will face stiffer fines.

On most Georgia roads, going 85 miles per hour or more will cost an additional $200 beyond the ticket for going over the speed limit. On two-lane roads, (those with one lane in each direction) one only needs to drive over 75 miles per hour to incur the extra fine.

The original ticket may not tell the driver about the additional state fine. After the driver receives the ticket, the State of Georgia will send a letter notifying the driver of the additional fine, which must be paid within 90 days. Drivers who do not pay will have their licenses suspended.

This law is designed to save lives. Speeding vehicles are more likely to be involved in accidents, and the risk of serious injury or death is higher when speeding is involved. Officials hope this law will put a stop to super-speeding and road racing.

Money collected from the fines will be used to fund trauma services.

If you or a family member has been involved in a collision with a speeding vehicle, you may need help getting compensation for your injuries. Call Atlanta car wreck attorney Shane Smith at 770-HURT-999 for a free consultation, or fill our contact form if you have any questions.

Our free book, 10 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Georgia Wreck Case, can help you get started.

Five-year-old's death blamed on driver error

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)23631 — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Five-year-old Karla Campos will not be celebrating Christmas this year. The little girl lost her life on December 9 when she stepped off her Cobb County school bus on Davis Road in Marietta.

Eighty-two-tear-old Edith M. Anderson of Roswell was driving a 1995 Nissan Altima. She saw the stopped school bus, the flashing lights and the cars stopped behind the bus. However, instead of stopping, she placed her foot on the gas peddle. The sudden acceleration caused the elderly driver to panic. She swerved to the right to avoid hitting the car in front of her. She lost control of the vehicle, drove on the sidewalk and hit little Karla Campos. The car continued off the curb and into the grass.

Karla’s mother and two siblings, a three-year-old and a newborn, were at the the bus stop to meet Karla. They witnessed the accident.

Ms. Anderson was taken into custody and charged with first-degree vehicular homicide, failure to maintain lane and improper passing of a school bus. She bailed out on $5,000 bond.

Police blamed the pedestrian accident on driver error. Driver error is a form of negligence and a leading cause of car accidents. Although the driver did not intentionally cause the pedestrian accident, her behavior created the danger of the crash. When an Atlanta accident is caused by negligence, the victim and the family are entitled to damages. Call 770-HURT-999 for more information.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith would like to offer our condolences to Karla’s family.

Four teens injured in truck wreck

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)23630 — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Four Alcovy High School students are in the hospital following a one-vehicle crash that occurred around 4pm on Wednesday, December 9.

The teenagers had just left school and were traveling westbound on Picket Bridge Road, a dirt road near Georgia Highway 36. The 16-year-old driver had one passenger in fron and two in the rear.

They were speeding as they came over the crest of a hill. The driver lost control of the truck, hit an embankment, struck a tree and rotated coming to rest on the north shoulder of the road. After stopping, the vehicle caught on fire.

Nearby residents heard the crash and came to help. Two of the students were outside the truck and it was unclear if they had gotten out or were ejected during the crash. The other two were pulled from the vehicle.

All four sustained serious injuries and were taken to Atlanta Medical Center for treatment. One student remains in critical condition with severe head injuries.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith wish the boys a speedy recovery.

Teenagers between the ages of 16 and 19 have the highest traffic-fatality rate of any age group and traffic accidents are the leading cause of death of teenagers. Inexperience, bravado, distraction and too many passengers contribute to the disproportional amount of accidents that involve young drivers.

We hate to hear of lives ended before they’ve truly begun, so we’ve a list of safety tips to help keep your teen driver safe.

Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Answers question - Do I have to get my car repaired after a car accident in Georgia?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)22636 — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Atlanta Car accident lawyer Shane Smith answers the question - Do I have to get my car repaired on his FAQ page. The insurance company will not encourage you to get your car fixed. They just want to do a quick estimate and issue you a check. They may even try to get you to sign a release. Go to my FAQ to find out why this is a bad idea to do, even if you are not hurt in the car accident.

Children and Car Accidents

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)22159 — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

I just posted a news article about a mother and her four children who were involved in a multi-vehicle collision. Fortunately, the children sustained only minor injuries.

According to the National Center for Statistics and Analysis, each year nearly 250,000 children are injured in car wrecks on American highways. This makes traffic accidents the leading cause of child injury.

Each year about 2,000 of those children die from injuries sustained in automobile collisions. In Atlanta and nationwide, car accidents are the leading cause of permanent acquired disabilities such as brain injuries and paralysis.

Twenty percent of children killed in traffic accidents are killed in collisions involving drivers who are under the influence of alcohol. Nearly half of these children were passengers in a vehicle being driven by an intoxicated driver.

In more than half the deaths, the child was not wearing a seatbelt or using a child safety seats. Proper restraint can save your child’s life! Not only is an unrestrained child a potential distraction to the driver, but not being restrained dramatically increases the chances that the child will be thrown from the vehicle in a collision. Children who are not restrained are far more likely to suffer serious injuries or to be killed.

Keep your children safe. Never drive while intoxicated and always make sure they are buckled up. Lean more here.

After a car accident in Atlanta should I file on my own car insurance?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21851 — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Many times a client will ask whether or not they should file on their own car insurance after a car accident. In my recent FAQ I have attempted to answer that question about whether or not it is a good idea to do this. I answer the pros and cons of doing so and the situations where I would recommend it and when I would not recommend it. This advice is based on my handling of hundreds of car accidents here in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. If you have an accident outside of Georgia, the law could be different and I urge you to contact one of the firms here to discuss your rights with them.

After a Car Accident, Can I File on my own Car Insurance?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21719 — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

     Many times after a car accident the first person you call is your own insurance carrier to report the accident? Or sometimes, you wait, hoping the other person's insurance company will call you about your car. Can you file with your own insurance company? Should you file with your own insurance company? Another question is does it matter?
     Read our FAQ answering this question. We tell you that under some circumstances you should file on your own, especially if you are hurt. There are other reasons, depending on who the insurance company is that the other driver uses.
     Also what about a deductible? Can you get a rental if you file on your own insurance? Find out on our site at www.shanesmithlaw.com, written by Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Shane Smith.

Case Results Page Update For Atlanta Car Accident Attorney

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21672 — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

     Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer R. Shane Smith updates his case results page. We wanted to provide a small showing of the types of cases we handle. I frequently get calls from clients who need some advice about their case from an attorney. Then they will ask me if I even handle a case of their size. These are usually people who have been involved in a car accident, their was property damage somewhere between $1200 to $5000 to their vehicle, but they did not receive any broken bones. These clients normally have "soft tissue" or back and neck strain injuries. Treatment normally consists of a visit to the emergency room after the car accident, a follow up visit with the family doctor or Primary Care Physician (if you have health insurance) and then treatment with a chiropractor or a physical therapist.
     We help many people get a fair and good result from the insurance companies with these types of injuries. Sometimes these are harder cases to get a good result on than a big broken bone case. I once heard a great lawyer I respected say - its easy to get a million dollar case settled, just have a 2 million dollar case.
     He was indicating that many lawyers can ruin a great big case and think they are helping their clients. We take cases both large and small where we think we can help someone get a better result than without us. Some of these cases are large, some aren't. What is important is that we helped someone be better off than they would have been without us.
     I do not post numbers after every case. Ask me to tell you about my large cases and I will. However, every case is different, just as every person is different. We pride ourselves on helping our clients, those with big cases, and those with smaller cases. Go to my website to see just a few of the people we helped.

The insurance company wants to total my car but I want to keep it. How can I do this after my Atlanta car accident?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21632 — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you were just in a car accident in Atlanta or Georgia and you drive an older vehicle, the insurance company may tell you that their only choice is to total the vehicle. They may use the term total loss. Many times, people feel it is unfair and want to keep their car. Clients have told me that the damage is only cosmetic and their vehicle is still a good car. What can you do? As a lawyer with many clients who are in car accidents, I have to help with this situation many times Find out what I tell my clients when they ask me what are their options.
Check out my recent FAQ dealing with this issue. It discusses your options and what to do if you to take a salvage title. If you want to keep your car after a Georgia car wreck, check us out to find out how you can do this. Don't take the insurance company's word. Remember they want what is easiest for them, not what is best for you.

Rental Car Rights in Atlanta and Georgia After a Car Accident

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21593 — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Were you involved in a car accident in Atlanta or Georgia? Are you trying to deal with an insurance company about your car wreck? Are you worried about getting a rental vehicle after the collision? Please check out our article on your rights regarding a rental in Georgia after a car accident. Get free information without having to call a lawyer or attorney. Other information about property damage claims can be found on our website. Our articles are based on Georgia personal injury law, so some specifics may not apply if your car accident did not happen in Atlanta or Georgia. If you are a Georgia resident or were involved in a Georgia car accident, please order our free book which talks about your rights after a Georgia car accident. If you were injured please find our book on personal injury.

Fatal Atlanta Car Accident Involving Morehouse Marching Band

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21592 — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

On October st, a fatal car accident occurred in Henry County, GA. It involved Ralph Marshall, a resident of Jonesboro, who drives a charter bus for Superior Transportation, based out of Atlanta. It was originally believed that another vehicle cut the bus off while driving on I-75 in Henry County. The bus had been chartered by Morehouse College Marching Band to take them to the Morehouse/ Albany football game. Several members of the marching band also received injuries.

What is my car worth if it is totalled?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21550 — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

     The insurance adjuster says that your car is totaled and that this is all your car is worth. How did they come up with this number? What are they basing it on? Can you argue with them?
     Find the answers to all of these questions in a short article posted here, which talks about how the adjuster comes up with their numbers. You can check different sources and make sure that they are comparing similar vehicles to yours. Ask the right questions and they will send you their paperwork, which you can then double check. We recommend you spend a few minutes researching the value of your car so that you know what you are talking about when you dispute the insurance adjuster.
     The insurance adjuster expects you to be emotional after your car accident. They also expect you not to be thinking clearly when they talk to you. Get your facts and figures straight before talking to them. Make sure you do not make a mistake that could cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Read this short article and find more out about property damage claims from car accidents in Atlanta and Georgia here. Do your research, find free information here from Atlanta car accident lawyer R. Shane Smith.

Woodstock bicyclist killed in collision with van

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21546 — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Woodstock police are investigating a deadly accident that killed a bicyclist on Monday afternoon. The bicyclist, Andrez Martinez, of Woodstock died of head trauma after being hit by a van on Main Street. He was not wearing a helmet. The van was pulling out of a parking lot to make a right turn when Martinez hit the side of the van.

Nationwide, about 200 children and 700 adults are in killed in bicycle accidents each year. Nearly all these deaths involved a collision with a motor vehicle. The leading cause of death in a car-bicycle crash is head injury. In 90% of these accidents, the motor vehicle driver was at fault.

Bicyclists are at an extreme disadvantage when they are hit by a car. While the damage to the car is minor, the pedestrian or cyclist is lucky if they escape with their lives. Such accidents can cause broken bones, spinal cord injuries, paralysis, brain injuries and internal injuries. Many victims never fully recover from their injuries. The medical expenses, the pain and the suffering following a bike accident can ruin lives.

While bicyclists can take safety precautions, they can not prevent all accidents. A bicyclist may follow all the safety and road rules, but he still may not be seen by a distracted driver.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Metro-Atlanta bicycle-vehicle collision, we can help. Call the Atlanta bicycle accident lawyer, R. Shane Smith, at 777-HURT-999 to learn more.

Diminished Value Property Damage Claims For Atlanta Car Accidents

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21502 — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Diminished value is one of the main areas where people disagree with the insurance company. Frequently the insurance adjuster will offer 200 or 300 dollars for diminished value and say that you should be happy. Sometimes they will cite a formula and say it was approved by the Georgia Supreme Court for diminished value. Other times they say that that amount is all they can pay.
How can you prove diminished value? How do you argue that there is no magic formula? Check out my FAQ which discusses property damage claims for Georgia car accidents and even has a discussion about diminished value. Find a link to the Georgia Insurance Commisioner's letter which says there is no magic formula.

Cheaper Automobile Insurance May Not be Best

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21460 — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Here is a short article talking about some of the perils of buying the cheapest car insurance you can get away with legally in Atlanta and Georgia. Many times I have talked to clients who say they have "full" coverage or good car insurance only to find out that they do not have good coverage at all. Just remember all insurance salesman want to make a sale. When you tell them what you want is the cheapest insurance or the lowest cost - that is the type of plan they will design for you. A desire to save $10 a month could cost you thousands if you are in a car accident in Atlanta. Do not be one of the many victims of a car accident here in Atlanta, where your lawyer is the first person to talk to you about medical payment coverage, uninsured motorist coverage or gap insurance. Check out the linked article or go to my web page for free information on car insurance. Remember, I do not sell car insurance in Atlanta, Georgia or anywhere else, I just deal with the problems my clients have when they are in a car wreck with someone who has a terrible minimum limits policy and they also bought the cheapest policy that was available. Go to my site for free information that will help you decide what risks you want to take and whether saving $10 a month and skipping med pay or uninsured motorist coverage is a good bargain for you.

Property Damage Basics for Georgia Car Accidents

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21458 — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Car Wrecks damage not only the person but also the vehicles of those involved. Many times, getting your car fixed after an Atlanta car accident is the first thing on your mind. Visit us at www.shanesmithlaw.com to find out more about your rights during this time. Many times, a car accident victim's emotions are running high and all you can think about is getting your car back. Do you have to do a recorded statement to get your car fixed? The short answer is no, but please check us out to find out why not. Sometimes insurance adjuster want you to sign a quick release based on an eyeball check of the damage. Will this cover all of the broken things on your car? Please keep in mind that the insurance adjuster is the one writing up the estimate, every dollar he says on those estimates is pure profit for his company. If you sign a quick release that doesn't fix all the internal damage on your car you will be out of luck. Once you sign a release your property damage claim is over. Please check out our information prior to settling your property damage claim from your Atlanta or Georgia car accident.

Pedestrian Struck by Ambulance in Villa Rica, Georgia

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21261 — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Terry Sisson was struck and killed by an ambulance on October th, 2009. Terry was working as a sanitation worker at the time. He had stepped out after a car stopped and was crossing the street. An ambulance on a non-emergency call was coming down the road without lights and sirens, didn't have time to stop and struck him. The ambulance driver was an EMT and attempted to save him until others arrived on the scene, after which time she became very emotional. No charges were pressed and officials said that speed was not a factor in this pedestrian accident.

Atlanta Police Officer in Two Car Accident in Atlanta near MLK

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21206 — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

An Atlanta Police Officer was involved in major car accident in downtown Atlanta. Details are sketchy right now but both drivers are in critical condition. The officer went to Grady and the other driver went to Atlanta Medical Center. Both have serious injuries. Find more information at www.shanesmithlaw.com

Medpay or Medical Payment Coverage For Car Accidents - Needed or Not?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)21106 — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

     Many times, when clients are involved in a car accident, one of the first things a doctor or even a car accident attorney will want to know is do you have med-pay or medical payment coverage. This is coverage that will pay for you to go to the doctor or chiropractor after a car accident. This coverage can apply even if the car accident was your fault. It can provide benefits to your passengers also.
     This type of coverage can make it much easier to find a doctor to treat you if you do not have health insurance. Many times it is not expensive and several thousand dollars worth of coverage can be bought for less than $20 a month. This can greatly increase the amount you receive through a car accident case here in Atlanta. Some states do not allow this type of coverage on the automobile policies that are sold in their state but Georgia does allow this.
     I always recommend that my clients get a quote for this when they renew their car insurance policies. If my clients do not have health insurance then it is almost always a good idea. If you are in a car accident you shouldn't be worry about how to pay for a trip to the emergency room or whether or not you can afford to see a chiropractor for your back and neck pain. Get coverage so you will know that no matter what, whether the car accident was your fault or not, that your health will not suffer.

Atlanta chiropractors Helping With Back and Neck Pain From Car Accidents

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20777 — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Shane Smith updates his directory of chiropractors serving metro Atlanta Georgia and Georgia. In an effort to provide more information to his clients and the general public Shane Smith has started a directory for chiropractors that treat car accident victims. See his website and click on the resources tab to view them or link directly here. We continue to update this page of our website to provide our viewers with more options for treatment from their injuries, especially when they are dealing with back pain or neck pain - the most common injuries from car accidents.

Car Accident Attorney tries to Prevent Car Wreck in Peachtree City, GA

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20750 — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Local Car Wreck Attorney Shane Smith tries to prevent a car accident for a local resident while at lunch. On Wednesday, while at lunch Shane saw a car stall out at the the main intersection in Peachtree City. Knowing that a breakdown would cause a huge traffic jam there, Shane got out to try and push the car into a nearby parking lot. Fortunately, it was a downslope and wasn't that hard. Some traffic had to be directed out of the way, but for a few minutes, we saved a lot of time for everyone and hopefully prevented any car accidents. The car owner was glad to have the help. A little extra help on our parts can sometimes help a stranger out a lot. It reminds me of a movie - Pay it Forward, although not nearly as impressive as the things done there.

Atlanta Car Accidents Stop Commute Wednesday Morning

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20711 — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Daily commute gets longer for most people in Atlanta this Wednesday as multi car accidents delay and shut down the down town connector and spaghetti junction. DeKalb County had a fatal car wreck near Spaghetti Junction shutting down I-85 for almost 45 minutes just before 8 am. Cobb County boasted a six car wreck stopping I-75 for about an hour before 8 am. Henry County had a seven car collision slowing down I-75 until 9 am. This just helps prove that Atlanta drivers deal with one of the worst commutes in the United States. More details at my website or the AJC.

Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Helps Newnan Rear End Collision Victim With Car Accident Claim

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20689 — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Attorney Shane Smith helped Belinda and her two children settle their Newnan, GA car accident case. Belinda received treatment from a local chiropractor Dr. Vandine. She had back and neck injuries and required physical therapy. Both of Belinda's children also required treatment.

Atlanta Chiropractor and Georgia Chiropractor Directory Update on Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Shane Smith's Website

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20646 — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

     Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Shane Smith updated his website today adding numerous Atlanta Chiropractors and several Georgia Chiropractors to his Atlanta Directory of Chiropractors and Georgia Directory of Chiropractors.
     We pride ourselves on providing a lot of information on our website. We are continually growing and adding to our website. We want to be the source for information regarding car accidents in Atlanta and Georgia. Since many of our clients choose chiropractic care after being injured in a car wreck, it seemed like a place was needed where they could find a list of chiropractors in the Atlanta area. Since we practice throughout Georgia, we have also added several in the Columbus Georgia area and throughout the state. We will continue adding doctors and chiropractors that are familiar with car accidents and the types of back and neck injuries associated with car accidents.
     If you cannot find a doctor or chiropractor in your area, please contact us. We have not completed our resources section and know many doctors throughout Georgia and the Atlanta area.

Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Shane Smith answers question - I was hurt in a car accident and need a doctor but I do not have health insurance?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20575 — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

     Atlanta car wreck lawyer Shane Smith Answers the a question about how to get medical care if you are injured in a car accident and do not have health insurance. This is a question I hear from clients during our free consultation all the time. How do I go to the doctor for my back and neck injuries when I do not have health insurance. Sometimes, they have tried to get the adjuster to authorize or Pre- approve the treatment with the chiropractor or the emergency room, other times they tried to get the hospital to do third party billing or for the adjuster to tell them where to go to the doctor. The adjuster does not want you to go to the doctor because if you do not get medical care, they will not pay you anything substantial on your car accident or personal injury claim.
     Initially, I tell my clients who are hurt right after the car accident to go to the emergency room of the nearest hospital. We want to make sure that you do not have any broken bones or other serious life threatening injuries. Assuming that you have "soft tissue" injuries or back and neck injuries, my office would normally recommend that you try and receive treatment from a doctor or chiropractor on an attorney lien. This is where you, the doctor and the lawyer agree to pay the doctor out of the car accident settlement. This is only a way to delay collection from the doctor or chiropractor until a settlement is received.
     If you have a more serious injury then you need an attorney who has extensive relationships with medical specialists. Your lawyer will need to have a good relationship with a medical specialist or surgeon in order to get them to treat you on credit. This is where the attorney's reputation can be critical. Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Shane Smith has successfully helped clients get medical care when their injuries ranged from back and neck strain, to a torn rotator cuff, a torn ACL, to lumbar fusions and even plastic surgery in one car accident case. Please see our FAQ for more details on this. Call us, we would be glad to help.

Atlanta Car Wreck Attorney Shane Smith Receives testimonial from satisfied Atlanta Car Accident Client

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20394 — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Atlanta car accident client Commenseta adds testimonial stating that she is very satisfied with the service and help she received from Atlanta car wreck attorney Shane Smith. She states that all calls were returned the day she called and that throughout the claim process she was kept informed. She feels that she was presented clear choices at every step in the process. Most importantly she states that she will recommend us to her friends and family who need a lawyer in Georgia.

Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Answers Question - Do I have to give a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster?

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20421 — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

     Atlanta car accident attorney Shane Smith answers the question - Do I have to give the insurance company adjuster a recorded statement about my car wreck. The short answer is no. It is entirely possible to get your car repaired and fixed without giving a recorded statement. Usually in my car accident practice we will send the adjuster a copy of the accident report and this will give them enough information to start the repairs. This is especially true for a regular rear end collision in Atlanta.
     The insurance company's use the recorded statement to look for any reason to deny your claim. They want to try and get you to say that you were going a certain speed. After you are on tape, they will check to see if the speed limit was less than what you said. They want to get you to say what hurts, and then deny paying for any injury you forgot to list. Maybe they can get you to say you took a prescription drug earlier in the day or that you answered your cell phone. All of these are things they do to look for a reason to deny your claim.
     Atlanta car wreck lawyer Shane Smith advises you to call and discuss your accident with him prior to giving a recorded statement. He has handled hundreds of car accident cases in Atlanta and Georgia. Let him go over the likely questions with you prior to the statement if you are going to give one. A few minutes could keep you from getting a denial letter or from complicating and delaying payment on your case.

Georgia Fatal Car Accidents Occur in Rural Areas More Often Due to Less Seat Belt Usage

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20406 — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

     The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released statistics showing that nationwide more people are killed on rural roads than in urban areas. 21,000 fatal car accidents occur in rural areas, with only 16,000 in urban cities. Georgia has 700 fatal accidents in rural with 687 in urban areas. Tennessee has 607 in rural with 428 in urban areas.
     Officials list several reasons why this could be true: less maintanence, missing guard rails, faded yellow lines, more four way stops, flashing lights, sharper curves, and narrower roads. However, the common belief is that the lower seat belt usage on rural roads is what causes the higher death rate. Seat belt usage is between 60 and 65 percent on rural roads and 85 percent in urban areas.
     Studies show seat belt usage saves lives. They can drastically increase the chances of survival in a serious crash. Currently the Governor's Office of Highway Safety is working to increase seat belt usage in rural areas of Georgia and Tennessee.

2 New Treatment Centers Added to Directory of Metro Atlanta Chiropractors

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20401 — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Shane Smith adds two new chiropractics centers to his directory of metro Atlanta Chiropractors. In an effort to provide more resources for the victims of car wrecks in Georgia and Metro Atlanta Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Shane Smith is starting a directory of chiropractors in the metro Atlanta area. Since many times, the injured people in a car accident need treatment for back and neck injuries, Shane Smith wants to create an area on the web where they can locate the names of chiropractors in their areas. This directory will continue to grow and is only in the initial stages.

Atlanta Car Wreck Lawyer Settles Atlanta Car Accident from rear end collision in Coweta County

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20396 — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Shane Smith helps local client client Lakenita settle a minor rear end collision. Lakenita was in a car wreck where her she was rearended in Coweta County, Georgia. She initially had back pain and shoulder pain. She went to the emergency room of Piedmont Newnan Hospital to receive her treatment. Fortunatly she was not seriously hurt and did not require extensive followup care.

Georgia Statute of Limitations Extended For Some Car Accident Victims If ...

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20265 — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

On September 28, 2009 the Georgia Supreme Court decided that the statute of limitations in Georgia car accidents can be extended under certain circumstances. The Supreme Court decided that a Georgia Law "tolling" the statute for a victim of a crime applied to Georgia traffic offenses.
This extends the length of time car accident victims have to file a claim or lawsuit if the criminal or traffic ticket was delayed in getting resolved. This can be extremely important in DUI victim cases or other car accident cases where the defendant fought the ticket in court. Find more information including the text of the case at my library of articles. I do not recommend delaying but this recent decision could save a case if the circumstances apply and you were late talking to a car accident lawyer about your atlanta car accident case.

Atlanta DUI victim Car Accident Case Results

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20264 — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Atlanta DUI Victim Lethonia Case Results from a Car Wreck. Lethonia was referred to our office by an attorney who did not practice personal injury or take car accident cases. Lethonia was struck by a driver who he believed was DUI. Even though the officer did not perform a breathalyzer we pursued this case as a DUI victim case. We sought punitive damages in the case.
Lethonia suffered back and neck injuries from the rearend collision. He sought treatment at Cobb Wellstar Hospital and Accident Injury Centers of Atlanta (AICA).

What is a Georgia Personal Injury Claim FAQ update

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20151 — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Today we posted an answer to help our clients identify what a personal injury claim is and is not. A personal injury claim or bodily injury claim is where a person is injured through someone else's mistake or negligence. It is a tort claim. This can be a car accident or a slip and fall.

The amount recovered on a personal injury claim is based on many diffent factors. A short list follows, but for more specifics you would need to talk to an attorney. The type of injury, the severity, the duration of treatment, the type of treatment, whether the injury is permanent, the amount of pain and suffering you experienced, whether you missed work, whether there were any scars. Additional factors can be whether there was a delay in your treatment, whether you are a DUI victim or even the location of the accident. It matters where in Georgia it occurred. People treat injuries and accidents differently whether they are in south Georgia or Metro Atlanta. If you have a claim, with an injury, we would encourage you to speak with a lawyer to discuss the specific factors of your case. An attorney can best advise you about what is and is not important in your claim.

Fatal Crash on Highway 78 in Stone Mountain Georgia

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)20007 — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Single vehicle crash on Highway 78 in Stone Mountain Georgia results in 3 fatalities on October 13, 2009. Dekalb County authorities stated that 9 people were in the van at the time of the collision and no other vehicles were believed to be involved. EMT's had to cut the top of the van off to reach those injured inside. Six people were taken to Grady Hospital and the Atlanta Medical Center. The six remaining passengers were listed in critical condition. No further information is available at this time.

Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Shane Smith Launches His New Website

shane@shanesmithlaw.com (Blog Author)19962 — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Today we launched our new website. This is designed to give our prospective clients more information about our law firm and how we are able to help. We will also be starting a new current events section on our website. This will allow us to post information about recent car wrecks in the metro Atlanta area. We will soon be adding a safety tips section in an effort to advise people on how best to avoid car accidents. Since many of our clients have questions about their injuries we will also be adding a medical information section soon. Currently we have information regarding our main practice areas of car accidents, pedestrian accidents and a DUI victim's page. We plan to update our site regularly, so please check back often.

Two seriously injured when van crashes into Coweta County ambulance

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)16516 — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Bad weather caused a pair of Coweta County rescue workers became accident victims last week when the ambulance they were driving was struck by a van in Newnan.

The Georgia car accident occurred on Saturday, July on Raymond Hill Road in Newnan. The driver of the van lost control of his vehicle and hydroplaned on the wet road. The van crashed into the ambulance. The impact caused the van to flip over several times. It finally came to rest in a ditch.

A mother and daughter were in the van. They were not wearing seat belts, and the impact of the crash caused them to be ejected from their vehicle.

Fortunately for the two women, the rescue workers in the ambulance were unharmed. Dennis Martin and James Field got out of the ambulance, gathered their supplies and went to help the women. Fourteen-year-old Ashley Saunders was taken to children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston Hospital. Her mother, 39-year-old Renae Saunders was taken to Atlanta Medical Center. Both victims sustained head injuries and were listed in critical condition.

Two seriously injured when van crashes into Coweta County ambulance

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)16515 — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Emory student injured by Atlanta hit-and-run driver

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)16381 — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

An Emory University student was seriously injured in a hit-and-run pedestrian accident on North Decatur Road.

The Atlanta pedestrian accident happened at about 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 13. Olivia D’Angelo was trying to cross North Decatur Road at Emory Village near the main entrance to Emory University. She was struck by a blue SUV at the corner of North Decatur Road and Oxford Road.

According to witnesses, the female driver of the SUV stopped and looked at D’Angelo who was lying on the ground, then she got back in the SUV and drove away.

The Emory University Police Department responded to the accident. D’Angelo was taken to a nearby hospital where she underwent six hours of surgery to repair a compound fracture in her leg. She is in stable condition and is expected to make a full recovery.

D’Angelo is a cross-country runner at Emory University. Last year, she made the school’s varsity squad, which reached the NCAA Division III Championships. It is not known if the injury will affect her place on the team.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith wish Ms. D’Angelo a quick recovery.

Stuck accelerator blamed for Lawrenceville crash

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)16155 — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

A stuck-accelerator is being blamed for a Georgia car accident that left two injured and a vehicle embedded inside a Sonic restaurant in Lawrenceville.

The Georgia car crash occurred on Sunday, July 11th at about 10:00 a.m. A driver was parking at a church on Grayson Avenue near the Lawrenceville Mall Shopping Center when the vehicle suddenly surged into the restaurant next door. The vehicle crashed into a wall near a cooling unit and was lodged about three feet into the building.

No one in the restaurant was injured. The man and woman inside the vehicle sustained minor injuries and were taken to Eastside Medical Center in Snellville for treatment.

The make and model of the vehicle have not been released.

Equipment failure is the fourth most common cause of Atlanta car crashes. Sudden acceleration has made headlines this year as millions of Toyota vehicles were recalled for several problems including sticky pedals that could cause sudden acceleration.

Driver injured in Cobb commuter bus crash

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)15979 — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

The driver of a commuter bus was seriously injured when the bus ran off the road near Powder Springs. Nineteen passengers were on board.

The bus did not overturn, but it tilted with the door against a tree. The passengers were forced to climb out the windows of the bus.

Reports say that the driver lost control of the bus due to a medical condition. The driver was rushed to the hospital for treatment of abdominal pain. Three passengers were also taken to the hospital for treatment of minor injuries. A second bus was sent to transport the rest of the passengers.

In the U.S., about 350 million bus passengers travel a combined 28 million miles each year. As busses become a more popular commuting option, bus crash injuries are becoming more common. About 25 percent of bus crash fatalities involve pedestrians. Sixty percent involve a collision with a passenger car. It is important that drivers be properly trained and screened in order to keep passengers safe.

Two seriously injured in Covington SUV – train accident

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)15976 — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

A couple is seriously injured after their SUV was hit by a train at a railroad crossing in Covington.

The accident occurred at about 12:50 p.m. on Saturday, July 3, 2010 bat the railroad crossing at North Emory Street near the Depot restaurant. An SUV Honda Pilot was travelling south on Georgia’s Highway 81. The crossing signal was blocking access to the track, but the driver of the SUV went around the arm of the crossing signal and attempted to beat the train.

The train was not able to stop. It crashed into the driver’s side of the vehicle and lifted the SUV. The impact blew out all the windows and flipped the Honda onto its roof. The vehicle was pushed about 50 yards down the t rack.

The occupants, Linda and Danny Long, were seriously injured. They were taken to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta for treatment of multiple injuries.

The Georgia State Patrol is investigating the crash.

Nearly 3000 railroad crossing accidents occur each year. Many occur in Atlanta because of the high number of railroad crossings. These accidents involve both cars and pedestrians.

Atlanta Drunk Driver Kills Victim and then goes home

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)15679 — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Once again the drunk driver kills someone and isn't hurt. Current article shows a Georgia Drunk Driver going home on bond. For background know that she left her job at a night club here in Atlanta. She was .229 over three time the legal limit. While going home she struck another vehicle being driven by a designated driver. The DUI victim went to the hospital and later died of their car accident related injuries.
Once again the DUI victim pays the price for Drunk Driving in Atlanta. No amount of money will ever bring back the victim, but maybe a large verdict can prevent another drunk driver. More likly though is a Dram Shop Act case, where the night club is sued for deliberatly serving a drunk person who then goes out and hurts someone. At .229 BAC the driver had to have shown signs of intoxication. Lawsuits against bars and night clubs can help prevent them from encouraging this type of behavior.

Atlanta woman killed in scooter accident

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)15694 — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

A 55-year-old Atlanta woman has died after an accident where her scooter was rear-ended by an SUV.

The accident occurred at about 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 19, 2010. Lynn Martin, a resident of Atlanta, was about to turn into her Peachtree Road home when she was rear-ended by a Toyota 4 Runner SUV. The impact sent her scooter through an intersection.

Martin was taken to a local hospital where she died from injuries sustained in the scooter crash.

The Toyota driver is expected to face charges.

Scooters drivers, motorcyclists and bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other drivers who use Georgia roads. However, these vehicles do not offer the same protection as a car with a roof and airbags. In an accident, scooter drivers, bicyclists and motorcyclists are very likely to sustain serious injuries. It is the responsibility of other drivers to watch for scooter drivers and allow them to ride safely.

If you or someone you love has been seriously injured or killed in an Atlanta scooter or motorcycle crash caused by a reckless driver, call The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith to learn more about your rights.

Governor's intern killed in Atlanta drunk driving crash

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)15693 — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

A young man who worked as an intern in the office of Governor Perdue lost his life in a weekend car crash.

The DUI car crash occurred at about 4 a.m. on the morning of Saturday, June 19. Twenty-four-year-old Jordan Griner was returning to his apartment after driving three friends home from a party to celebrate the end of their six-month government fellowships. He was the designated driver and had not been drinking.

Twenty-six-year-old Christa Scott was returning home from her job at Door 44, a club on 12th Street in Midtown. She was driving a Mustang convertible and ran a red light on West Peachtree Street and then t-boned Griner’s car on 17th Street.

Fire crews at to extricate Griner from the damaged car. He was pronounced dead at Grady Memorial Hospital.

Scott had a blood alcohol level of .229 at the time of the accident. This is almost three times the legal limit. She is charged with first-degree vehicular homicide, driving under the influence and reckless driving. She posted bond and was released from the Fulton County Jail.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith offer the family of Jordan Griner our sincere condolences after this tragic accident.

New distracted driving law: texting while driving banned in Georgia

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)15511 — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Starting July 1, texting while driving will be against the law in the state of Georgia.

The Georgia state Assembly passed a law (HB23) forbidding texting and cell phone use by drivers under the age of eighteen. They passed another law (SB360) banning texting by all Georgia drivers. On June 5, 2010, Georgia governor Sonny Perdue signed the two bills into law. They go into effect next month.

SB360 is also known as Caleb’s Law. It is named for Caleb Sorohan, an eighteen-year-old driver who died in a Morgan County car wreck while texting and driving last December. His friend and family supported both laws.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration attributes an estimated 6,000 deaths and half-a-million injuries to distracted driving in 2008. While cell phone use and texting are not the only forms of distracted driving, it is hoped that banning texting and restricting cell phone use by drivers will reduce the number of distracted driving accidents and injuries in Georgia.

If you have lost a loved one to a distracted driver, contact the Law Offices of R. Shane Smith at 770-HURT-999. We are here to help.

Teen arrested for Atlanta car crash death of toddler

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)15514 — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

A 19-year-old is charged with vehicular homicide after causing an Atlanta car crash that killed a two-year-old boy.

Kelly Cantry was driving a white car on Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway when she swerved and crossed the yellow line into the path of on-coming semi truck. The 18-wheeler careened off the road and into the Auto Zone parking lot where the big rig hit several cars.

Two-year-old Zion Churney and his 14-year-old cousin were in a parked car in the parking lot. The large truck crashed into the car, and the two boys were injured. They were taken to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta where Zion died from his injuries. An adult was also injured.

Canty is charged with first degree vehicular homicide, reckless driving, failure to maintain lane, and driving without license, insurance, or tag. Canty was denied bond and remains in Fulton County Jail.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith offer our sincere condolences to the family of Zion Churney.

Atlanta pedestrian killed in hit-and-run

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)15512 — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Atlanta police are looking for the driver that left a 27-year-old man dead in the side of the road.

Lejuan Washington was found on Highway 166 near Interstate 285 on May 31, 2010. He was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital where he died from his injuries.

Police believe that Mr. Washington was hit by a 2006 or earlier Nissan Titan, Armada or Infinity QX56. It is believed that the accident occurred between 2 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. The driver of the vehicle did not stop at the accident scene. Police say the car will have damage on the passenger side and a missing side mirror.

Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers or the Atlanta Police department.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith offer our condolences to the family of Mr. Washington. Personal injury attorney Shane Smith represents families who have lost loved ones to pedestrian accidents in the Atlanta metropolitan area. For more information, contact our office at 770-HURT-999.

Three children injured in bad weather Fulton crash

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)15089 — Sat, 22 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Three young children were hospitalized after a head-on collision in south Fulton County.

The two car accident occurred at 3:45 pm on Friday, May 21. A Lincoln Aviator was travelling south on Buffington Road when it hydroplaned and struck a northbound Buick Park Avenue near the intersection with Flat Shoals Road.

A two-year-old and a three-year-old were ejected from the Aviator. The three-year-old sustained serious injuries and both children were taken to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston. It is not known if the children were securely restrained in child safety seats. The driver of the Buick was unharmed.

The driver of the Buick was taken to South Fulton Medical Center for treatment of his injuries. His passenger was also injured and taken to Grady Memorial Hospital. An infant was also in the car. She was restrained in a car seat and appeared to be uninjured, but was taken to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston for evaluation.

The crash is under investigation, but officials say the accident is being blamed on wet roads and rainy weather.

Lack of crosswalks to blame for Atlanta pedestrian accidents

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)14932 — Mon, 17 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Transportation for America, an organization which advocates against urban sprawl and in favor of walking and mass transit has rated the Atlanta, Sandy Springs and Marietta as the tenth most dangerous metropolitan area for pedestrians.

It may be that suburban roads are more dangerous than city streets. In the city, drivers travel at slow speeds and expect pedestrians. In the suburbs, drivers travel at high speeds on wide roads. There are few crosswalks, and drivers do not look for pedestrian.

The biggest danger is near bus stops. About one-quarter of Atlanta area pedestrian crashes occur within 100 feet of a bus stop; almost half occur within 300 feet. Many bus stops are miles from a crosswalk.

The most dangerous roads for pedestrians:

• Buford Highway in Dekalb and Gwinett Counties

• Tara Boulevard in Clayton

• Old National Highway in Fulton

• Fulton Industrial Boulevard in Fulton

• Six Flags Drive in Cobb

• Chandler Road in DeKalb

Accidents could be prevented with more crosswalks, pedestrian islands, and warning lights.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian car crash, you have rights. Call the Law Offices of R. Shane Smith to learn more.

Pregnant mom charged with DUI death of fetus

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)14931 — Fri, 14 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

A pregnant Georgia woman who led police on a high speed has been charged with the death of her unknown baby and is expected to face other charges in connection with a DUI car crash on Wednesday, May 12, 2010.

Jessica Bruce, 21 was driving 85 m.p.h. in a 65 m.p.h. zone on I-20 in Douglasville. When police tried to pull her over for speeding, she refused to stop her car and exited onto Chapel Hill Road and then turned right on Douglas Boulevard.

Bruce sped up and wove in and out of traffic, the car hit a curb and then spun out into traffic where she hit a vehicle that was stopped at a red light and then caused another crash when her car was t-boned. Bruce was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. Her 24-week-old fetus died as a result of the crash. Police believe that alcohol was a factor in the accident. he will be formally charged when she is released from the hospital.

The other drivers sustained only minor injuries, but one woman was trapped in her car and had to be extricated.

Twenty-four states recognize fetuses as victims in DUI and drunk driving crashes, but Georgia is the only state with a specific law pertaining to “feticide by vehicle.”

Motorcyclist killed in Douglas County DUI truck wreck

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)14610 — Sun, 09 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

A motorcyclist was killed after he collided with a trailer that had separated from the pick-up truck that was pulling it.

The traffic accident occurred around 1 p.m. on Friday, May 7 at the intersection of Lee Road and Park Avenue in Douglas County, Georgia.

A pick-up truck pulling a trailer carrying a load of aluminum cans was going around a curve when the trailer separated from the truck and collided with a motorcyclist. The motorcyclist, identified as 63-year-old Ronald Salvatore Starnieri of Douglasville was thrown from his motorcycle. Starnieri died at the scene.

The driver of the pick-up truck, 53-year-old Don Harold Yarbrough of Douglasville, has been charged with vehicular homicide, DUI, failure to maintain lane, and failure to secure a load.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith offer our sincere condolences to the family of Ronald Salvatore Starnieri.

Our Atlanta car crash attorneys represent victims of DUI traffic accidents throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area. If you have been injured in an Atlanta car crash or motorcycle wreck and need help getting insurance compensation, call our office at 770-HURT-999.

Woman killed, child injured in Cobb County 3 car wreck

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)14609 — Sun, 09 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Police expect to file charges against the driver who caused a three car wreck that killed a Paulding County woman and left her son critically injured.

Sixty-seven-year-old Jeffrey L. House of Powder Springs was driving a 1988 Jeep Comanche on Midway Road near Powder Springs on Friday, May 7. It was about 3 p.m. when he made a left turn onto Lost Mountain Road and pulled into the path of a 2004 Chevrolet Blazer. The Blazer was knocked into the path of a Honda Odyssey. That impact caused the Blazer to overturn.

The driver of the Blazer, 47-year-old Pennie Ann Cearfoss died at the scene. She had three passengers in her vehicle. Seventeen-year-old Joshua Cearfoss was flown to Atlanta Medical Center where he is listed as being in critical condition. His twin, Justin Cearfoss and another brother, Jeffrey Cearfoss, 25, were taken by ambulance to Atlanta Medical for treatment of their injuries. Neither 17-year-old was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident.

The driver of the Honda, 61-year-old Anabelle Cordova of Powder Springs, was taken to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital for treatment of her injuries. Two minor children in her vehicle were uninjured.

House was not injured. The accident is under investigation. It is unknown if alcohol is a factor.

Wrong-way driver kills motorist on Atlanta's I-85

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)14282 — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

A driver was killed in the southbound lane of I-85 when he was hit by a wrong-way driver early on Sunday morning.

On Sunday, April 25 a green BMX entered the interstate at Shallowsford Road and headed north in the southbound lane. The vehicle collided with a gold Lexus that was driven by twenty-six-year-old Steven Naraine of Atlanta. The Lexus was then hit by two more vehicles. Naraine was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the BMW, 26-year-old Manuel Rivera, was driving under the influence of alcohol. He is in stable condition at Grady Memorial Hospital and will be transferred to DeKalb County Jail. He is charged with vehicular homicide, reckless driving, DUI and driving the wrong way.

Two other drivers were taken to the hospital for evaluation and released.

In February another driver caused a wrong way accident on the stretch of I-85 in the northbound lane. That driver was also driving while under the influence of alcohol.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith offer our condolences to the family and friends of Steven Naraine.

Kennesaw State student killed in DUI crash

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)14102 — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

A backseat passenger was killed and three were injured when a car carrying four Kennesaw State University students ran off Barrett Parkway around 2:30 am on Sunday, April 18. None of the victims were wearing seatbelts.

Twenty-one year old Shaneisa Newsome of Roswell was driving the 2002 Chevrolet trailblazer eastbound on Barrett Parkway when she lost control of the vehicle between Stilesboro Road and Old U.S. 41 in Kennesaw. The vehicle ran off the roadway, hit several trees and a manhole cover and then rolled on its left side.

Twenty-one year old Kimberly Johnson of Macon was killed at the scene. Two other passengers, Michelle Jackson, 21, of Waverly Hall, and Lauren Prewitt, 22, of Kennesaw were taken to the hospital for treatment of injuries. The driver was also treated at the hospital, but was then transferred to the Cobb County jail. She is charged with first-degree vehicular homicide, DUI, failure to maintain lane, driving without a tag, and driving without a seatbelt.

In 2008, 416 people died on Georgia roads because of drivers under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol-related fatalities account for more than one-quarter of Georgia road deaths. Each of these deaths is a wrongful death that could have been prevented if the driver obeyed the law.

Learn more about the rights of DUI victims in Georgia. Contact the Atlanta Law Offices of R. Shane Smith at 770-HURT-999.

Four-year-old boy is killed in Marietta hit-and-run

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)14028 — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

A four-year-old boy was crossing the road with his family when he was struck by a van. The driver involved in the pedestrian accident left the scene.

The accident occurred on Austell Road near Marietta at 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 10, 2010. The boy and his family had just gotten off a bus and were crossing the street near Austell Circle to reach Somerpoint apartments. The family had reached the center median and was about to cross the westbound lane when
the accident happened.

A van hit the boy, his mother and his two-year-old sister. His nine-year-old sister was with the family, but was not injured. The driver in a blue 1984 Chevrolet Sportvan fled the scene.

The boy and his family were rushed to Cobb WellStar Hospital. The boy died in the hospital. His mother and sister were treated and released.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith offers our condolences to the family.

An unidentified woman called police on Sunday morning to inform them that she believed an acquaintance had been involved in a hit-and-run. Police arrested Jerry L. Guy, 47, of Marietta in connection with the accident. Guy has been charged with hit and run, first-degree vehicular manslaughter, cruelty to children and other charges. He has been denied bond.

Four-year-old boy is killed in Marietta hit-and-run

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)14027 — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

A four-year-old boy was crossing the road with his family when he was struck by a van. The driver involved in the pedestrian accident left the scene.

A van hit the boy, his mother and his two-year-old sister. His nine-year-old sister was with the family, but was not injured. The driver in a blue 1984 Chevrolet Sportvan fled the scene.

The boy and his family were rushed to Cobb WellStar Hospital. The boy died in the hospital. His mother and sister were treated and released.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith offers our condolences to the family.

Atlanta News: Toyota to be fined $16.4 million for sticky gas pedals

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)14002 — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced on Monday, April 5, 2010 that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will seek the largest civil penalty possible against Toyota.

In January, Toyota recalled 2.3 million U.S. vehicles for “sticky gas pedals” that were blamed for some incidents of sudden acceleration. The NHTSA determined that Toyota knew of the defects at least 4 months before the recall.

Toyota has issued three separate recalls in recent months for floor mats that don’t fit, sticky pedals and software issues. The handling of each recall is being investigated by the NHTSA.

The federal penalty for failing to notify regulators of a safety defect is $6,000 a car. However, there is a $16.4 million dollar cap on fines. If there were no cap, Toyota could be fined $13.8 billion. As the government continues its investigation, they are considering additional fines.

Toyota is currently facing at least 177 consumer and shareholder lawsuits seeking class-action status and at least 57 individual lawsuits claiming personal injury or deaths caused by sudden acceleration events.The lawsuits will be combined and tried in federal court near the Toyota U.S. headquarters in Torrance, California.

Fifty-one deaths have been linked to car crashes caused by sudden acceleration. If you have been injured in an Atlanta car accident caused by sudden acceleration, contact attorney R. Shane Smith.

Fulton County nine-year-old on life support after being hit by a car

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)13836 — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

A nine-year-old boy is struggling for his life after being hit by a car while riding his bike in south Fulton County.

The boy was riding his bicycle along Britley Terrace in the Old National East subdivision near College Park around 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 1, 2010. Fulton County police say that the child suddenly darted in front of a Chrysler Sebring.

Police are not sure how fast the driver was going, but the speed limit in the area is 35 m.p.h. No charges have been filed against the driver, but the accident is still under investigation.

The boy was not breathing when emergency crews arrived. He was given CPR and was flown by helicopter to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston where he remains on life support.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith offer our best wishes to the family.

Keep your child safe. Click here to read about kids and bicycle safety.

Atlanta cyclists support "three foot law" to prevent accidents

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)13618 — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Hundreds of cyclists biked to the state Capitol in order to support a measure they feel would make Atlanta streets safer for bicyclists and pedestrians.

The “three foot law” would require drivers to stay at least three feet away from bicyclists when passing them on the road. Georgia’s current law states that drivers must give a “safe passing distance.” The term "safe distance" is very unclear to drivers who may not realize the effect that wind from a large vehicle can have on a bicycle.

Twelve Georgia residents died after being hit by a car in 2009. The average is 15 bicyclist fatalities a year due to car-bicycle accidents.

The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety has announced a three year grand of nearly $500,000 to prevent bicyclist and pedestrian fatalities.

For more information about your rights after a pedestrian accident in Atlanta contact the Law Offices of R. Shane Smith at 770-HURT-999.

Marine killed by Cobb County wrong-way driver

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)13497 — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A U.S. Marine who had just returned from Iraq was killed by a wrong-way driver.

On Saturday, March 13, Lance Corporal Gregory M. Suedmeyer was heading home to Huntsville, Alabama after a tour of duty in Iraq. He was driving a 2000 Mitsubishi Mirage westbound on Interstate 20 near Six Flags. At about 5 p.m., he was hit by 2008 Chevy Silverado that was headed east in the westbound lane.

The Silverado was driven by 71-year-old Bruce Joseph Quayle of Villa Rica. Quayle had been driving on the wrong side of the interstate for at least a mile and police had received numerous phone calls about a wrong-way driver at I-20 and Lee Road.

Rescue workers responded to the scene of the car accident. Gregory Suedmeyer was taken to grady Medical Center where he died approximately two hours after the accident. His wife and passenger, 19-year-old Katelyn Suedmeyer, was airlifted to Atlanta Medical Center. She is in critical, but stable condition.

A dog in the car died at the scene of the accident.

Quayle was also transported to Grady Memorial Hospital. He remains in stable condition. Police are investigating the accident and expect to file charges against Quayle.

The Law Offices of R. Shane smith would like to offer our sincere condolences to the family.

Nine vehicle pile-up closes I-285 in Fulton

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)13413 — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A nine vehicle accident closed I-285 South and stopped traffic for several hours on Friday, March 12, 2010.

The crash occurred on I-285 South between Bolton Road and Hallowell Parkway. Five tractor-trailers and four passenger vehicle were in involved in the wreck, but fortunately only one person was injured.

Over 100 gallons of hydraulic fluid spilled from one of the truck making the road hazardous for drivers and rescuers. Traffic was backed up for several miles as clean-up crews worked to clear the area.

Large accidents are a common occurrence in the highways surrounding Atlanta. Large semi trucks are especially dangerous as they have the potential to cause serious injury to other drivers. In this case, only one driver was injured, but there was a significant amount of property damage to the vehicles involved.

Atlanta’s commuters depend on their vehicles. If you have been involved in a Georgia highway accident, you may be concerned about getting your car repaired. Attorney R. Shane smith has written a guide that can help. The book covers the details of getting your car fixed after an accident. Request your FREE copy of Property Damage Guide for Georgia and learn more about your rights.

If you have any more questions about your rights after a traffic accident, call The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith at 770-HURT-999.

Gwinnett County woman charged in fatal DUI crash

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)13333 — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Grayson woman has been charged in connection with the January car wreck that killed a three-year-old girl.

Police have charged twenty-six year old Alicia Tubman with several counts, including homicide by vehicle and driving under the influence for the fiery death of three-year-old Jayla Cook.

On January 11, Tubman was driving a Toyota Highlander north on Braselton Highway. She lost control of the vehicle while driving around a curve. The vehicle went off the road and crashed into a fire hydrant before catching on fire. Witnesses were able to get Tubman out of the car, but were unable to rescue the little girl because the vehicle was already engulfed in flames. Jayla cook died at the scene.

Tubman was taken to the hospital and treated for burns.

At the time of the accident, Tubman’s blood alcohol concentration was more than three times the legal limit of 0.08. Police are still waiting for the results of additional toxicology tests. In addition to homicide by vehicle and driving under the influence, Tubman has also been charged with cruelty to children, reckless driving, reckless conduct, and failure to maintain lane.

She is being held without bond and, if convicted, faces fines and jail time.

Buckhead church van accident injures eleven

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)13225 — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Nearly a dozen people were injured after a church van and several other vehicles collided at a Buckhead intersection.

The traffic accident occurred at about eight o’clock on the evening of February 29th. The van from Northside United Methodist Church was carrying children ranging in age from 11 to 16. The van struck a vehicle in the intersection of Northside Drive and West Wesley Road and then hit a utility pole. Two other vehicles were involved in the crash.

The van’s driver sustained a shoulder injury. Ten others, including some of the children on the van, complained of injuries and were taken to the hospital for treatment. None of the injuries were life-threatening.

The cause of the wreck is under investigation by Atlanta police.

Even a minor accident can lead to extensive hospital and therapy bills. If your child is injured while a passenger on a school bus or a church van or while attending an after school activity, you are entitled to compensation for your child’s injuries, including medical costs and any time that you must take off work to care for your child.

If you have any questions about your rights after an Atlanta car wreck, contact Attorney Shane Smith at 770-HURT-999.

Gainesville pedestrian struck outside post office

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)12947 — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Gainesville, Georgia woman was struck by a car while trying to cross a busy street. She was hospitalized with injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening.

Carol Chester, 67, was crossing the northbound land of Green Street shortly after 10am on Friday, February 19. She was hit by a 2001 Buick Park Avenue. The car was being driven by Marion Steele, also of Gainesville.

Ms. Steele was exiting the post office parking lot. She was watching for traffic on the left and did not see the pedestrian.

Ms. Chester was not crossing in a designated cross walk. After the accident, she was taken by ambulance to Northeast Georgia Medical Center for treatment of her injuries. She is listed in fair condition.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith wish the victim a quick recovery.

Pedestrian accidents are common in the Atlanta area. Atlanta has been recognized as one of the most dangerous cities for pedestrians in the United States. It is important that drivers watch for pedestrians when exiting parking lots.

Have you been injured in or lost a loved one to a pedestrian accident? You have rights. Contact attorney Shane Smith at 770-HURT-999 to learn more.

Runaway car injures 27 at Ellijay auto auction

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)12886 — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A 1995 Volvo 960 plowed through the crowd at an Ellijay auto auction leaving 27 people injured.

The accident occurred at about 8:15 pm on Tuesday, February 17 at the Blue Ridge Auto Auction in Ellijay. The driver of the Volvo was bringing the car into the auction building to be auctioned when the car started accelerating. He claims that the gas pedal was stuck and the brakes broke loose. The car ran through a crowd of 30 to 40 people. People could not move fast enough to get out of the way.

The car was going about 50 mph when it made a hard left turn and ran into the side of the building.

There were about 100 people at the auction at that time. Twenty-seven people were injured. Six were flown to hospitals for treatment. Eight more were taken to Gilmer County area hospitals. Thirteen others were treated on the scene and released. One victim is in critical condition at Atlanta medical center. The rest are in stable condition.

The driver was not hurt. The accident is under investigation, but the police suspect vehicle malfunction.

If you have been injured in any type of vehicle accident, you have rights. The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith represent victims of automobile and pedestrian accidents in the greater Atlanta area. If you have questions, call us at 770-HURT-999.

Nine hurt 4-car Atlanta crash on I-85

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)12885 — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A driver going the wrong way on Interstate 85 in Atlanta caused a four car crash that sent nine people to the hospital.

The accident occurred around 3 a.m. on Sunday, February 13. The driver of a green Chevy Blazer was headed south in the northbound HOV lane of I-85 between Chamblee Tucker and Shallowford roads.

The Chevy crashed into a Ford Explorer and a Buick. A total of four vehicles were involved in the accident.

Six people were taken to area hospitals for treatment of injuries. Two of the injured, including the driver responsible for the crash, were in critical condition.

The accident is under investigation. Authorities suspect that alcohol was a contributing factor to the crash.

If alcohol was a contributing factor in the accident, the DUI victims injured in the accident are entitled to compensation for medical expenses, property damage, loss of income, and pain and suffering. The driver may have to pay punitive damages to those who were injured.

If you have been injured by or have lost a loved one to the actions of a driver under the influence, the Law Offices of R. Shane Smith can help you. Call 770-HURT-999 to schedule a free initial consultation.

Sandy Springs pick-up driver charged with crash death of passenger

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)12686 — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A pick-up truck driver was charged with vehicular homicide after his passenger was ejected from the truck bed and killed.

The crash occurred around 2pm on Monday, January 25. Jack Mize, 69, of Chamberlee was driving his pick-up truck in the westbound lane of I-285 ant New Northside Drive in Sandy Springs. Evilio Morales, 35, also of Chamberlee, was riding in the bed of the truck.

Mize sideswiped a Mercedes and lost control of his truck. The truck rolled and Morales was thrown from the truck. He died from his injuries. Mize and a passenger in the cab of the truck received non-life threatening injuries.

Mize was charged with second-degree vehicular homicide and with a lane violation.

In Georgia, it is illegal for children under 18 to ride in the back of an uncovered pick-up truck while on the interstate. The law does not cover adults. However, passengers in the beds of trucks are unprotected and at risk of serious injury in the event of an accident.

If you have been injured or lost a loved one due to reckless driving, you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and other losses. This is true even if you were in the vehicle of the negligent driver. Call the Law Offices of R. Shane Smith at 770-HURT-999 if you have any questions.

Deadly crash may have been alcohol-related

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)12581 — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Two people died and three more were injured in a deadly Forsyth County car crash. The crash occurred just before 8:30 pm on January 31, 2010 on Dawsonville Highway (S.R. 53) just west of Anderson Lake Road.

Deborah Elaine Mace, 44, of Gainesville was driving her 2005 Dodge stratus westbound on the highway when she crossed the center line. She collided head-on with an eastbound 2007 Kia Sportage.

Mace was seriously injured and flown to Atlanta Medical Center. She was alone in her vehicle.

The driver of the Kia Sportage was identified as 48-year-old Ricky Joe Frady of Suwanee. Frady died instantly in the crash.

Frady had three passengers in his vehicle. Fifty-seven year old Brenda Williams of Gainesville was also killed in the accident. She was a rear seat passenger.

Two more passengers were seriously injured and taken to the hospital. Eighteen-year-old Kishia Ray of Gainesville was flown by helicopter to Gwinnett Medical Center. Hattie Lorene Skywark, 48, was taken by ambulance to North Fulton Hospital. There is no word on the conditions of the injured.

The Forsyth County Sheriff’s office has stated that both driving under the influence of alcohol and excessive speed may have been contributing factors to the accident. The accident is still under investigation.

Texting driver sustains serious injuries

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)12363 — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A young man from Liburn was seriously injured after crashing his car into a telephone pole while text messaging with a friend.

The accident occurred on Friday, January 22 near the intersection of Arcado Road and Wayside Court in Liburn. Nineteen-year-old Soheb Roy sustained head trauma after crashing his Acura into the pole. The impact was strong enough to break the pole in two and total the Acura. The road was blocked for most of the day.

Roy was taken to Gwinett Health Center where he is in serious but stable condition.

Neither alcohol nor drugs were a factor in the crash, but police plan to charge Roy with improper use of a cell phone.

Twenty-one percent of all drivers admit to texting while driving; however, more than half of drivers between 16 and 24 years of age admit to texting while driving.

A recent study found that drivers who are texting are 23 times more likely to be involved in an accident than drivers who are not texting. An accurate count of accidents caused by drivers who are texting is not available, but the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that 80% of accidents are caused by driver distraction.

Click here to learn more about the dangers of texting and distracted driving.

Student killed in Stone Mountain pedestrian accident

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)12333 — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A young driver is accused in a deadly pedestrian collision that killed a 14-year-old girl and injured two of her friends.

Tanesha Williams and two of her friends, 16-year-old Benjamin Omozui and 14-year-old Brianna Rowell, were walking home from Stone Mountain High School on Wednesday, January 20th. A fellow student, 17-year-old Shaheed Saunders, lost control of his car and plowed on to the sidewalk.

Saunders was driving a green Ford Victoria at a high rate of speed. He lost control and jumped the curb when he tried to pass another car. It is believed that Saunders may have been racing. Charges will be brought against Saunders.

The driver of the second car has also turned himself in. Police are trying to determine his level of involvement in the accident and whether racing was involved. No charges have been filed yet as police continue the investigation.

Saunders suffered only minor injuries. Omozui and Rowell suffered broken bones, but are in stable condition. Williams died at the scene.

Family and friends are mourning Williams’ death and trying to come to terms with what happened.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith would like to offer our condolences to the family and friends of Tanesha Williams.

Driver seriously injured in Tara Boulevard wreck

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)12219 — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A car crash left one man seriously injured and closed down Tara Boulevard in Clayton County for several hours yesterday.

The traffic accident occurred around 5:45 pm on January 12th. An SUV driving on Dixon Street turned onto Tara Boulevard and into the path of an oncoming panel truck.

The panel truck hit the SUV. The truck’s cargo of oxygen and carbon dioxide canisters spilled onto the street.

The driver of the SUV was pinned in his vehicle and had to be cut out. He was flown in a Life Flight helicopter to Atlanta Medical Center for treatment of his injuries. Both the passenger in the SUV and the truck driver suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene of the accident.

Police say the SUV driver will likely be charged with running a stop sign. The police did find a small amount of alcohol in the vehicle. The accident remains under investigation.

If you’ve been involved in a car crash due to a negligent driver, you’ve probably been offered an insurance company settlement. You may have questions about the amount, especially if it doesn’t adequately cover your injuries and the damage to your car.

Atlanta attorney Shane Smith has written a free book to get you started. Click here to request your copy of The Georgia Car Wreck Guide. If you have any questions, or need help, contact Shane at 770-HURT-999 for a free consultation.

Three-year-old killed; alcohol use suspected as cause of crash

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)12207 — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A 3-year-old child was killed in a fiery car wreck in Gwinett.

The single vehicle accident occurred around 7 pm on Monday, January 11. The child, Jayla Cook of Grayson, was a passenger in a Toyota Highlander that was traveling on Braselton Highway near Old Cook Road in Dacula. The driver, 26-year-old Alicia Tubman, lost control of the vehicle and went off the road. She hit a tree and a fire hydrant before the vehicle burst into flames.

Witnesses were able to get Tubman out of the car, but were unable to rescue the child because the vehicle was already engulfed in flames. Jayla Cook died at the scene from injuries sustained in the crash.

Paramedics took Tubman to Grady Memorial Hospital for treatment of burns. A blood alcohol test was done to determine of alcohol was a factor in the accident. The accident is still under investigation.

Car crashes are the leading cause of death and injury to young children. In 2008, 216 children died in alcohol-related vehicle crashes. About half of these children were passengers in a vehicle being driven by an impaired driver.

Deaths due to impaired driving are preventable. If you have lost a loved one to a drunken driver, your family is entitled to compensation. Contact the Law Offices of R. Shane Smith at 770-HURT-999 for more information.

Three-year-old killed in I-95 tractor-trailer crash

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)12068 — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A little boy lost his life and his family members were injured when their family van was hit by a speeding semi-truck.

The deadly accident occurred on Sunday, December 27. The Thornton family of Pittsburg was traveling in a 2007 Toyota Sienna on the southbound lane of I-95 in McIntosh County. Witnesses say that the tractor-trailer was speeding before it struck the back of the van.

The collision with the 18-wheeler pushed the vehicle onto the shoulder of the interstate downing several trees. It took almost two hours and three sets of Jaws of Life to remove the victims from the wrecked vehicles.

Three-year-old Sean Thornton was pronounced dead at the scene. His mother, Susan Thornton, is in critical condition. Another child was seriously injured. Daniel Thornton and the third child sustained minor injuries.

The driver of the big-rig, Willie Hill of Jacksonville, Florida, was hospitalized with a broken pelvis and leg. Charges are pending against the driver.

Large trucks are involved in eight percent of fatal crashes. A fully-loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. It is no surprise that 98% of the fatalities in these crashes are to the occupants of passenger vehicles.

Many drivers speed or drive while tired because of company pressure to deliver their load on time. Because trucks are so dangerous and drivers are under pressure, there are strict federal regulations that govern the trucking industry. When an accident occurs, an investigation is made to be sure these rules are not broken.

Fayette County teen faces charges after fatal crash

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11759 — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A popular Fayette County teenager was killed in a single car accident while on her way to school.

The accident occurred on the morning of Monday, December 14. Three teenagers were on their way to school when the driver lost control of the vehicle and hit a stone mail box and a tree on Old Ford Road.

Sixteen-year-old Angel Anthony was sitting in the back seat. She was not wearing a seat belt. She was severely injured and was transported to the local hospital where she died from her internal injuries. Ms. Anthony was a popular student at Sandy Creek High School.

The driver, 16-year-old Delsia Radlien, and an unidentified front seat passenger were wearing seat belts and were not seriously injured.

Ms. Radlein had just received her driver’s license in September. She now faces several misdemeanor charges, including second degree homicide by vehicle, driving too fast for conditions, failure to maintain a lane, and a driver’s license class D restrictions violation for having two other passengers in her vehicle. She is not being charged as an adult. Teenage drivers are particularly vulnerable to car crashes because of their inexperience.

The Atlanta Law Offices of R. Shane Smith offer our sympathy to the families involved.

Crash on Downtown Connector leaves two critically injured

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11676 — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Two drivers were left critically injured after a head-on collision on the Downtown Connector.

The car wreck occurred in the early morning hours of Tuesday, December 8, when a man was driving north, the wrong way, in the southbound lanes of I-75/I-85. The speeding car collided with a woman who was driving south in the southbound lane of the Connector. The accident left both drivers trapped in their cars.

Both of the drivers were taken to Atlanta’s Grady Memorial Hospital. The male driver has severe head injuries. The female driver is suffering from severe internal injuries. Both drivers are in critical condition.

The man was arrested for reckless driving, serious injury by motor vehicle, and driving the wrong way. Charges for driving while intoxicated are pending.

The crash closed all lanes of the southbound connector as police investigated the crash and cleared the wreckage. The interstate was reopened around 5:30 a.m.

Atlanta’s Downtown Connector is one of the most congested stretches of highway in the United States, and has a high concentration of dangerous and aggressive drivers. Drivers often move at high speeds just to keep up with traffic; this makes the Atlanta Connector an especially dangerous road for drivers.

Four-year-old boy survives being hit by a train

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11644 — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A 4-year-old boy, searching for his dog, was struck by a train in northwest Atlanta on the afternoon of Thursday, December 3. The accident happened around 4:30 p.m. The accident involved a CSX freight train. The boy was seriously injured, but is now recovering at home.

Four-year-old Elijah Anderson was playing in his backyard in northwest Atlanta when his dog Poochy ran off. Elijah chased after his Jack Russell terrier as the dog ran behind the Lamar Avenue home and towards the train tracks on Wilson Boulevard. The boy was very focused on catching his dog, and he did not see a train that was approaching.

The conductor of the CSX train saw the boy, but was unable to stop. It takes at least a mile for the average freight train traveling at 55 mph to come to a complete stop. The train was traveling at 30 mph when it struck Elijah and threw him off the tracks.

At the time of the accident, Elijah and his twin sister Eleisha were being babysat by a thirteen-year-old sibling.

Elijah was taken to the hospital in critical condition and treated for a concussion. Within 24 hours his condition was upgraded to good and he was released the next day. He is currently recovering at home.

Last year, 452 pedestrians were killed after being hit by trains. Fifteen of these deaths were in Georgia. Eight additional Atlanta pedestrians were injured by train crashes.

Gwinnett County hit-and-run driver injures six

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11610 — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A taxi-driver and his five passengers were injured in an automobile crash when an unidentified car sideswiped the taxi as it was traveling south on I-85 near the Indian Trail Road exit in Norcross.

The white 2004 Chevrolet Astro van taxi was sideswiped by an unidentified dark-colored car traveling in the same direction shortly after 6pm on Sunday, November 29. The dark-colored car struck the taxi and then sped away. The impact caused the taxi to rollover.

By the time the police arrived on the scene, the driver and the five passengers had climbed out of the overturned van. Three children, ages 9, 7 and 6, were taken to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite where they are in stable condition.

The driver, 38-year-old Regis Francy, and his two adult passengers, Mary Jean, 41 and Raphael Agache, 29, were taken to Gwinnett Medical Center in Lawrenceville. All injuries were minor to moderate and were not life threatening.

Police are looking for the driver that caused the accident. The suspect’s vehicle is described as dark-colored and may have damage on the front or driver’s side. Anyone with information is encouraged to call 770-513-5000.

Taxi accidents are not uncommon in the Atlanta area.

Two-year-old girl killed in I-85 car crash

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11645 — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A two-year-old girl died on Sunday in a car accident after a vehicle struck the rear of her family car on Interstate 85 just north of the Lafayette Parkway exit. Her parents were injured. The family was on its way home after visiting friends.

Brian Gray, 31, of Winder, Georgia was driving the Honda Odyssey minivan when he was rear-ended by a 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe driven by Luke Waters, 24, of Fairhope, Alabama. Slowed traffic in the area had almost come to a halt at the time of the accident. When the Odyssey was hit, it crashed into the Ford Taurus in front of it, which in turn ran into a Ford pickup truck.

The driver of the Chevy Tahoe said he saw the slowed traffic, but was unable to stop in time. He did not know what caused traffic to slow down. Police say the accident is under investigation and charges are pending.

Two-year-old Helen Gray was riding in her car seat. She suffered head injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Her mother, Pamela Gary, 29, was flown by helicopter to Atlanta Medical Center for treatment of her injuries. She was treated for chest injuries and numbness in her hands and lower legs. She is in critical, but stable condition. The father was treated at West Georgia Medical Center and released.

Four others suffered minor injuries.

The Law Offices of R. Shane Smith would like to offer our condolences to the Gray family.

Man killed in multi-vehicle crash, mother and 4 children injured

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11373 — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A multi-vehicle traffic accident on Holcomb Bridge Road in North Fulton County left a mother and her four children injured and one man dead.

The wreck occurred just after 8am on Thursday, November 19. The collision was caused when the driver of the pick-up truck crossed the center line of the road and drove into on-coming traffic. The man hit a minivan and then a car. Local police reported that a second car became involved when it was hit by the debris from the previous collisions.

The mother was driving the minivan with four children. The mother is in serious condition at North Fulton Regional Hospital. The children, who range in age from ten months to seven year old, were not seriously injured. We wish them a speedy recovery.

The drivers of the cars were not injured. The driver of the truck was killed.

The accident is currently under investigation. The investigators are waiting for blood test results before determining why the driver drove his truck into on-coming traffic.

Car accidents are the most common type of accident involving children. Of the 250,000 children injured in car wrecks each year, 2,000 die from their injuries. You can read more about children and traffic accidents here.

Austell pedestrian killed by car

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11310 — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Juan Guadalupe Colon, the 26-year-old pedestrian who stepped in front of a vehicle in Austell has died.

Cobb County Police say that Austell stepped in front of a Chevrolet Suburban that was driving westbound on Six Flags Drive in Austell at approximately 7pm on Friday. He was taken to the hospital with serious injuries. Colon died from his injuries on Saturday morning.

The accident is under investigation, but police do not expect that charges will be filed against the 32-year-old woman who was driving the vehicle.

According to a story aired on CBS Atlanta, Six Flags Drive is a particularly dangerous street for pedestrians. Many residents in the area do not drive and are dependent on busses. Yet, one side of the street does not have a sidewalk and crosswalks are few and far apart.

When a pedestrian is hit by a car, the pedestrian almost always sustains injuries. If a car is moving at 30 mph or more, serious injury is likely and there is a high risk of death.

If a family member has been killed or injured in a pedestrian accident with a motor vehicle, contact the Law Offices of R. Shane Smith. We can help you deal with the insurance companies and get the settlement that you deserve. Call 1-770-HURT for a free evaluation of your pedestrian accident case.

Nine year old girl recovering after being pinned under a car

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11306 — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A nine year old girl was released from the hospital with only minor injuries after being pinned under a car.

The girl and her mother were leaving the Whole Foods store on Roswell Avenue around 2:30 on Sunday afternoon. A driver in the parking lot lost control of his vehicle and the car backed into a large cement planter and over the girl.

The Sandy Springs police officer that responded to the call says that the “heavy cement planter took most of the impact from the car.” This prevented the child from further injury.

The child was taken to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite. She was released several hours later. The girl suffered severe abrasions, but no serious injuries. She is recovering at the family’s home in Lilburn.

It is expected that the girl will fully recover.

The accident is currently under investigation; no charges have been filed.

Accidents happen. Unfortunately, insurance companies are not always on your side. If you or a loved one has been injured by a car, Attorney Shane Smith can negotiate with the insurance companies to get you and your family the compensation you deserve. Contact us at 770-HURT-999 for a free legal consultation. And, to get started, order our free book, 10 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Georgia Wreck Case.

Fatal Atlanta Car Accident For Morehouse Bus Driver

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11245 — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Ralph Marshall was driving a chartered bus for the Morehouse College Marching Band when he was involved in a fatal collision. It is believed that another driver cut the bus off. This car accident occurred at the intersection of Sylvan Road and Arden Avenue, located in South Fulton. He was pronounced dead after being taken to Grady Hospital in Atlanta.
Mr. Marshall was employed by Superior Transportation, a charter bus company located in Atlanta. The car accident occurred when Mr. Marshall was driving the marching band to Albany for a football game between Morehouse and Albany State. The incident occurred on October st in Henry County on I-75. It has been difficult to corroborate if another vehicle did in fact cut the bus off causing the car wreck.

Pedestrian Hit by Ambulance near Atlanta GA

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11195 — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Terry Sisson works as a sanitation worker for Trash Pro Service. After signaling a driver to stop to allow him to get someone's trash, he stepped out to wave thank you to them. An ambulance from West Georgia Ambulance was heading northbound and struck him. The ambulance had been going to pick up a non-emergency patient, but was not using sirens at the time. The ambulance driver was an EMT. After striking Terry, the EMT attempted to help him until others arrived. People on scene indicated that the driver became very emotional after others arrived. No charges were pressed against the driver or the ambulance service.

Atlanta PD involved in Atlanta Car Accident

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11189 — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

An Atlanta Police Officer was involved in a two car accident in downtown Atlanta, near Martin Luther King (MLK). The officer managed to call for backup on his radio after the collision but he was barely conscious by the time help arrived. Both parties were in critical condition.
The officer went to Grady Memorial Hospital and the other driver went to Atlanta Medical Center.

Woman flees hit-and-run accident only to die in second crash

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11374 — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Police believe that alcohol and speed may be contributing factors in the death of a woman was killed last Tuesday, October 27.

Thirty-year-old Arwen Burns was driving a 2007 Chevrolet Equinox west on Piedmont Road in Marietta. Shortly before 5:30 p.m., The Marietta woman struck a 2003 Honda Pilot near the intersection of Piedmont Road and Morgan Road. Ms. Burns left the scene of the car accident.

Within moments, the woman lost control of her vehicle in a curve near the intersection of Piedmont Road and Piedmont Enclave Court. The vehicle traveled into the center median of Piedmont Road. It crashed into a group of trees and stopped. Ms, Burns died at the scene as the result of her injuries.

The driver of the Honda Pilot, 44-year-old Jae Park of Acworth, was treated at the scene for minor injuries and was released.

Fortunately, in this case, the DUI victim sustained only minor injuries. She was lucky. Nationwide, almost one-third of fatal traffic accidents involve a driver who is under the influence. Last year in Georgia, 415 people died in alcohol-related crashes. These are deaths that should never have happened. Mothers against Drunk Driving calls driving under the influence “the most frequently committed violent crime in America”.

Coweta County firefighter charged in DUI hit and run

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11235 — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Coweta County firefighter is charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, hit-and-run, and leaving the scene of an accident. Twenty-eight year old Matthew Van Robinson is currently on administrative leave from the fire department pending a police investigation of the incident.

On the night of October 11, Robinson hit several vehicles with his truck and then ran over a pedestrian in the parking lot of the Taco Mac in at 310 Newman Crossing Bypass in Newnan.

Witnesses saw Robinson drinking alcohol in the restaurant before the accident. He left the restaurant and got into his truck. As he backed out of his parking space, he hit two parked vehicles. He pulled forward and then backed out again, and again, he hit the two vehicles.

Bystanders tried to get the firefighter’s attention. But, he sped out of the parking lot hitting a pedestrian on his way. He then left the area.

Newnan police officers located Robinson at his home. They were able to look through the window and see him asleep on the couch. For half an hour they tried to wake him by banging on the door, calling his cell phone and even sounding sirens. When Robinson finally woke up, he let the officers inside.

He could not remember much about the incident. He remembered seeing the bystanders and thought they were a crowd of people planning to beat him up. Robinson was arrested and transported to the Coweta County Jail.

Atlanta Car Accident Stops I 75/85 During Rush Hour Commute

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)11076 — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

     Wednesday morning commuters had a longer than average commute when traffic came to a stop early in the morning. A fatal car wreck shut down all lanes on I-85 near Spaghetti Junction. DeKalb County Police said that a woman was getting on the interstate when she lost control, started spinning and struck was struck by another vehicle. The woman died at the scene.
     I-85 opened back up by 8 a.m. but traffic had already backed up for 10 miles to Ga. Hwy 316. To further complicate matters, a six car wreck backed up I-75 near Windy Hill around 7 am. Cobb County had gotten all but one lane re-opened by 8 but this wreck caused a 13 mile back up to Wade Green. This is in addition to all of the surface street back ups caused when people couldn't get onto the Interstates.
     Not to be outdone, the south side of Atlanta had a 7 vehicle collision in Henry County, blocking lanes until 9 am. For more details see the AJC article posted here. This just illustrates why Atlanta has one of the longest commutes in the United States. We in Atlanta were ranked as having the fourth longest commute in a recent Forbes article. Be safe Atlanta.

Fatal Car Accidents in Georgia and Tennessee

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)10925 — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

     Georgia State Patrol officials and law enforcement officials in Tennessee all agree that fatal car accidents occur more often in rural areas. There are a combination of reasons why this occurs. One factor is less frequent maintains on the roads. Guard rails may be missing, or yellow lines have faded from view. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides statistics which show that there are more fatal accidents on back roads in rural areas than on urban roads or main highways.
     Nationwide, just under 21,000 people were killed in car accidents on rural roads last year with another 16,000 on urban roads. In Georgia there were 700 rural fatal car accidents with 687 urban fatal car crashes. Tennessee had 607 fatal accidents in rural areas and 428 in urban areas.
     Speed can also play a major factor. Back roads are often narrower. Back roads often have four way stops, flashing lights, and curves that are not present on urban roads. When drivers do not pay attention, accidents happen.
     However, police officials attribute the most prevalent reason is that seat belt usage is not as common among back road drivers. Statistics in rural areas show 65 percent wear them versus 85 percent in urban areas. Wearing a seat belt increases your chances of survival in a serious wreck. You are responsible for yourself.

Fatal Single Vehicle Accident in Stone Mountain on Highway 78

blog@www.shanesmithlaw.com (News Author)10830 — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

On October 13, 2009 the DeKalb County authorities released some details regarding a fatal crash on Highway 78 near Stone Mountain in Atlanta, Georgia. There were 9 people in the van at the time of the collision and no other vehicles were believed to be involved. Emergency personnel at the scene had to cut the roof of the van off to reach the injured people inside. Six people inside were taken to Grady Memorial Hospital and the Atlanta Medical Center. Initial reports listed all six as being in critical condition. Local TV footage showed the van lying on its side. At this time, the names of those injured have not been released.

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