Understanding That of A DUI Crime

, ,

Mistakes are one aspect of our lives that can be seen literally almost every day. Whether we face the issue of spilling our coffee on the way to work, arriving late to an important meeting, or maybe simply trip and stumble on our way out the door we not only deal with our actually mistakes and the accident itself, but also the consequences that erupt from them. Usually, one can easily see that consequences of a mistake in most cases are determined by the severity of the mistake itself. So, what can you expect from participating in a DUI crime?

What Is A DUI?

A DUI, or driving under the influence, crime is something that can be seen all throughout the country. In most cases we associate alcohol to be the main contributor in DUI crimes, but it, however, is not the only substance that can cause an individual to drive under the influence. When an individual takes some prescription medications, uses drugs, or also that of illegal substances they also can be seen driving under the influence. When an individual drives under the influence they are not operating their vehicle, or holding their safety in a proper state of mind.

What You Can Expect

By committing this crime individuals not only put their lives at risk, but also other vehicle operators and pedestrians alike as well. When you are found to be driving with either a blood alcohol content, or BAC, high than that of 0.08, or test positive for drugs you will be charged with a DUI crime. The legal consequences that follow that of a DUI charge, and later conviction include, but are not limited to that of: license suspension, jail time, probation, community service, required involvement in substance abuse programs, and expensive legal fines. Personally, an individual who is charged, or convicted with a DUI crime can easily lose child custody, deal with risen insurance rates, be terminated of their employment, and ultimately be hindered from future opportunities as well.

Make sure when you have either had just a little too much to drink, or have taken some medicine to help you with that seasonal illness that you stay off the road, and rely on a friend, or family member to get you from one place to the next. Ultimately, by doing so, you not only are protecting your life now, but also your future as well.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at ((601)790-1505) to see how we can help.

/by

How Seconds Can Make A Difference When You Are Hit By Another Vehicle

,

Our lives are full of experiences whether they are good, bad, or just plain ugly. We never can actually predict what we will come to terms with and meet each day in the multiple areas of our lives. One type of experience that the majority of us encounter on a regular basis is that of accidents. Typically, when we look at accidents we see a common pattern, which is that of cause and effect. When these two have been determined one can usually assess what consequences will follow.

Today, accidents on the road are at a record high, which means that more individuals are now dealing not only with damaged property and expenses that go hand-in-hand with the accident, but also serious health issues and injuries that can result in many cases when another vehicle collides with another. However, when it comes down to an auto accident you can never expect what will happen in the moments that follow it especially depending on your situation, and environment in which it takes place. Additionally, the few seconds that are prior to your accident, and after your accident are extremely crucial not only to your vehicle, but also your overall wellbeing.

The Race Against The Clock

Many times we will not realize that we are about to become involved in an automobile accident until everything is said and done. However, sometimes we are blessed with a few sheer seconds to see what is coming for us, and our vehicle. When you are granted these few, short seconds it is extremely important to brace yourself, and prepare for impact. By restraining yourself some you can greatly lessen the likelihood of sustaining serious injuries. Make sure that in the midst of your accident you do not press any pedals, because in many instances when collided with the force, and pressure of the collision will be exerted on to the vehicle, which then impacts its movement. Your pedals also do this, but when both interact with one another you can deal with serious injuries, and even broken bones.

The few moments after your accident it is very important to primarily remain calm. By staying calm you are able to address your situation such as what damage has been done, is everyone in your vehicle alright, were injuries sustained, as well as whether or not there is any further danger present by being in the vehicle. From there, call 911 and explain in detail the situation at hand, in a calm, and clear manner in order for them to get a complete understanding of the needs of you, and your vehicle.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at ((601)790-1505) to see how we can help.

/by

The Importance of Being Cautious On The Road

,

Driving is one action that the majority of us can be seen participating in almost every day. We rely on driving to get us from one place to another whether it is that of running to the grocery store to pick up some milk, dropping our children off at school, or the weekly grind of commuting to work. Either way, driving is one aspect of our lives that we certainly would be put back without. However, driving is one aspect in our lives that is never the same and changes every single time you pull out on to the road.

Yet, how could something so normal, and regularly done change so much constantly? The overall aspect of driving, and that of the road that changes constantly. Whether it is due to either weather conditions, traffic jams, the hour of day in which you are on the road, or maybe even a holiday; all of these and more easily change the risk factors associated with auto accidents on the road. When we look at that of auto accidents we see a wide spectrum of consequences and expectations that can be associated with them, which range from a small fender bender to that of a fatale, debilitating accident.

Addressing The Issue At Hand

However, there is one interesting thing about auto accidents, which is different from that of other accidents in our lives in most cases. The fact of the matter is that auto accidents can almost always be completely avoided, especially in this day and age with the amount of safety features, and devices we have at our disposal. Unfortunately, however, drivers are getting out on the road and are not being as cautious as they should be, and not truly understanding the responsibility that they have in their hands pertaining to not only their safety, but also the safety of others around them.

Ultimately, as a driver your main focus while on the road should be that of the road, and how to operate your vehicle safely that benefits not only yourself, but other motor vehicle operators and pedestrians alike. If not, you can easily assume that at one point or another you will come face to face with that of an auto accident with serious consequences that follow.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at ((601)790-1505) to see how we can help.

/by

The Dangers of Black Friday For Motorists in Mississippi

,

As we all know the holiday seasons are soon upon us which means that individuals will be traveling from all over to either your home, or you to theirs in order to visit with family and friends, celebrate the holidays and have some time to relax and reflect. Usually, the majority of Americans today turn to driving versus any other form of transportation during these busy times of the year, which means that record numbers of vehicles are on the road all at once. However, aside from the celebrations associated with holidays what are some other factors you need to be concerned, and prepared for this holiday season.

Shop Till You Drop

Black Friday. It is a day that many look forward to each and every year that stands not only as day for many as finally the time to start putting up Christmas decorations, but also that of shopping. Each year the number of Black Friday shoppers not only increases, but seems to multiply due to the amazing amount of deals, and savings. However, this day of deals tends to bring out more than just thrifty savers, but also that of aggressive and erratic driving.

Taking It To The Streets

Last year, dozens of automobile accidents occur Black Friday, which is merely a day after Thanksgiving. Yet, why? On Black Friday the usual mood that fills the air is that of aggression, and competitiveness. Individuals line up, and camp out hours before retail stores open hoping to get an item they have been dying to get their hands on, or simply using deals to their advantage and getting some Christmas shopping out of the way. However, usually, shoppers take their aggression outside of stores and on to the road in order to get from one store to another as quickly as possible.

By having this mindset drivers completely abandon the rules of the road, and a mindset of safety to doing whatever it takes to get from one point to another as quickly as possible. Last year alone, many accidents took place that not only resulted in aggravate shoppers, but also vehicular damages, and serious injuries. Make sure this holiday season, and especially on Black Friday that you consider what the season is truly about. Remember, to keep a safe, and level-headed mindset while on the road regardless of the deals you may not get to indulge in, there is always next year.

If you, or a loved one, have been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, make an appointment with one of our Mississippi auto accident attorneys by calling (601) 790-1505.

/by

Thanksgiving On The Road

,

Driving is one aspect of our lives that we rely on everyday whether it is that of commuting from our home to the office, running some of our many daily errands, or picking up and dropping off our loved ones. Ultimately, it can certainly be said, and seen that the majority of our day, and our lives are spent behind the wheel of a motor vehicle and on the road. One particular time of the year that many drivers can be seen on the road whether they usually rely on that of a motor vehicle, or not, is that of holidays.

On The Road Again

Throughout our year we have many holidays that are signify different meanings to us either religiously, nationally, or sentimentally. Soon to come this month is that of Thanksgiving, which is a holiday near and dear to the hearts of many Americans. During the Thanksgiving holiday there always seems to be a record number of drivers on the road traveling from their home to a family member’s, and then eventually back. However, with so many individuals on the road all focused on the destination versus that of the journey many dangers, and factors come to the road that could easily result in your involvement in an auto accident.

Taking Your Thanks and Applying It To The Road

During holiday seasons, especially Thanksgiving, traffic numbers increase greatly nation wide. Many people travel with their families, which means a great number of occupants in a vehicle than usual, and ultimately more distractions. In many cases, it has and will forever be seen that traffic patterns seem to vary in particular areas, which means you can sometimes expect to stop, go, stop, go, and eventually maybe sit in a particular spot on the highway for a number of minutes. The fact of the matter is that individuals are trying to get to their destination, and the majority of the time, in a hurried fashion and not considering their safety, and the safety of others.

Make sure this Thanksgiving holiday that you take your safety and the safety of others on the road seriously regardless of what condition you may be traveling in.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at ((601)790-1505) to see how we can help.

 

/by

What To Do When Involved In An Automobile Accident

, ,

In our lives there are many things that we simply do not have control over no matter how hard we try. One of these things is that of mistakes, which occur every single day by our hand in one mannerism or another. However, the thing about mistakes is that they vary significantly not only on the premise of what happens, but also the consequences that result from it based on its severity. While mistakes and accidents alike can be seen in many various portions of our lives they certainly can hold different consequences when they occur on the road.

The Fact of The Matter Pertaining To Auto Accidents

Today, the road is something that is not only driver by many Americans, but also a necessity that we use for many different reasons that ultimately make sure our lives, and duties are running as smoothly as possible. While we can in fact predict some aspects of the road, such as whether or not an area will have a great deal of traffic, what some traffic signs and speed limits are in an area, as well as possible environmental factors that affect the road in a particular area. Unfortunately, one aspect of the road that is difficult for anyone to predict is that of an accident occurring.

Evaluating The Situation Properly

So, what should you actually do when involved in an accident on the road? The first thing anyone should do is call a law enforcement entity to the scene in order to have an acquire documentation of who’s at fault, how the accident took place, and noticeable damages at the time. Next, make sure to contact an auto accident attorney that is dedicated, and well versed in many different areas of automobile accidents, whether the accident itself was your fault or not. In many cases, individuals do not seek out an attorney and ultimately either settle for something entirely less than they are owed, or end up paying large, and ridiculous fees associated with the accident.

Ultimately, with an experienced auto accident attorney at your side you can rest assure that your case will be looked at thoroughly with your best interest in mind.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at ((601)790-1505) to see how we can help.

 

/by

What You Can Expect From Wrong-Way Crashes

,

Driving and the road are two key parts of our lives that we rely, and depend on daily in order to get all of our many responsibilities, and duties completed whether they are personal, professional, or recreational. Either way, both aspects are necessary commodities to many Americans each day of the week. However, as we have all come to terms with in one form, or fashion accidents are also a common part of our lives whether they result from a mistake made on our part, or another individual. Usually, the consequences of mistakes heavily depend on the severity of the mistake itself, which can range from minor to major.

What Are Wrong-Way Crashes?

So, when on the road, what can you expect from mistakes that lead to wrong-way crashes? Wrong-way crashes usually occur in more urban areas that of suburban and rural, although not completely unheard of. How a wrong-way accident usually occurs is that a driver is either unfamiliar with the area that they are in and turn on a road that traffic is flowing in the opposing direction, or the driver is simply negligent when it comes down to following and abiding by traffic signs and signals.

What You Can Expect

However, what consequences can be seen associated with that of wrong-way crashes? Recently, a wrong-way accident crash took place that highlights exactly what you can easily encounter when dealing with this issue on the road. According to police reports, a vehicle with two passengers was headed down a Mississippi highway, like many Mississippi drivers can be seen doing each day. However, the vehicle came into contact with a vehicle that was driving towards them versus on the other side of the road and hit the vehicle head on. The passengers were rushed to the hospital, and suffered from injuries that were deemed “life-threatening”. Today, the cause of the vehicle driving in the wrong lane is still unknown, but law enforcement entities are insinuating it could be that of texting and driving.

Make sure that when you are on the road that you carefully pay attention and follow the signs, and signals that can be seen all throughout the road regardless of whether or not it is a residential, highway, or interstate road.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at ((601)790-1505) to see how we can help.

/by

The Issue of Texting While Driving

, ,

Technology today is one aspect of our lives that our parents, and grandparents could have never imagined when they were children. Today, technology has ultimately not only helped us complete tasks that were once very difficult, but also in an easier, and more efficient fashion. One particular area of technology that certainly displays this is that of the cellphone. The cellphone has evolved greatly within the past few decades, which was once a large bulky item is now virtually the size of a credit card. Aside from its size, cellphones now serve more than one function of simply talking to another individual verbally, and now can virtually do anything a computer can.

The Power of Cellphones

However, although cellphones such a positive, and useful purpose in our world today what are the negative aspects of such a great device? The fact is that the majority of our lives are spent behind the wheel of an automobile commuting, running errands, dropping off our loved ones and picking them up, and traveling. In order to accomplish all of these many, and demand aspects of our lives we rely on our vehicles, which in turn, requires that of our focus, and attention.

Cause and Effect

Unfortunately, cellphones detract the attention of an individual greatly, and are the leading cause of automobile accidents today. Although it is in fact illegal to use your cellphone behind the wheel texting or talking, unless with a wireless headset, individuals ignore the laws associated with this and continue to put not only their safety at risk, but also that of all other motorists and pedestrians out there. Yet, how does this actually occur? Situationally, drivers usually get behind the wheel and are either texting a friend, checking one of their many social media outlets, or simply responding to a few emails. In order to do this it requires that they read a prior message that was sent to them, but also type as well as read what they are sending back, which ultimately means they will look at their device and away from the road.

By doing this drivers avert their attention and leave the possibility of an accident highly likely. Make sure when you are on the road that you realize what you number one, ultimate duty is as a driver, which is that of getting from one point to the next safely, with your well-being and others in mind.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at ((601)790-1505) to see how we can help.

/by

Why You Should Wear Your Seatbelt

Driving is one activity within our day that we are constantly participating in doing whether we are dropping the kids off at school, running into the office for a meeting, or attempting to accomplish one of our many errands. It can certainly be said that we rely on our vehicles greatly in this day and age when it comes down to our daily needs, and routines. However, with so many things that have to be done and on our mind we tend to lose track of things that are going on around us, especially while on the road.

When individuals get behind the wheel with so many things going on within their lives, and the though of having to deal with them and get them done it certainly detracts away from their ability to properly focus, and operate their vehicle. Ultimately these distractions and more eventually end with an individual being involved in a motor vehicle accident. However, aside from actually focusing on the road while on it, is there anything you can do to protect yourself physically when involved in an accident?

“Click It or Ticket”, but Really

The answer is 100% absolutely without a doubt yes, but what? Seatbelts are equipped with almost every automobile today, besides on motorcycles, and in some buses. By wearing your seatbelt you can greatly help contribute to your safety, and lessen the likelihood, that if involved in an automobile accident, of receiving any severe, or debilitating injuries. In many cases we see individuals who either have sustained injuries, or have died in car accidents that probably could have completely been avoided if they only had worn their seatbelt. Wearing your seatbelt is also a law within the United States, which if not worn you can receive a ticket for.

Whether the law required it or not, you should want to make sure you have a seatbelt in your vehicle, and have it on every time you are in your vehicle before it is even set into motion. By doing so you not only greatly protect yourself if involved in an accident, but also set an example of proper safety to others whether they are in your vehicle, or fellow vehicle operators.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at ((601)790-1505) to see how we can help.

/by

Expectations With DUI Accidents

,

All throughout our lives with deal with many varying aspects that can be seen to be good, bad, or just plain ugly. However, we have to not only deal with the majority of these things that life has to throw at us, but also meet them head on. While some can simply be an issue that is ultimately out of our hands, others can be completely within our control from start to finish. Unfortunately, some individuals either cannot differentiate between right and wrong, or simply just make a mistake, and lack in judgment. One aspect that deals with all of these varying matters is that of a DUI accident.

The Premise of A DUI

When an individual who is intoxicated, or under the influence of drugs, and proceeds to get behind the wheel of a vehicle they are committing a crime by simply just sitting behind the wheel itself. However, when individuals drive under the influence they not only put themselves at risk of being involved in an accident, but also other motorists and pedestrians that can easily result in injuries and death in the blink of an eye. When an accident erupts from driving under the influence the results can be catastrophic, and completely unpredictable.

The Possibilities You Face

In many DUI related auto accidents the driver who is under the influence is driving erratically, and unpredictably, which means that as a sober driver it is your job to distance yourself accordingly from this driver and their vehicle, but to also alert the appropriate law enforcement entities as well. However, when drivers are unable to have an appropriate amount of time to protect themselves from a drunken drive they can expect to usually be involved in an accident. With this type of accidents drivers can not only expect serious, and severe damage to their vehicle, but also injuries that range from minor scratches to debilitating, and even that of death.

In the end, a DUI accident varies on a case-by-case basis, which contains many factors that differ from other situations depending on that of the blood alcohol content of the intoxicated driver, as well as where their crime is taking place. However, regardless of who, what, where, and why, if you or a loved one has been involved in a DUI related accident you need an experienced auto accident attorney on your side to fight for your case, and the potential damages you may be entitled to for your injuries, motor vehicle damage, and more.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at (662) 834-2376 to see how we can help.

/by