GMC Recall Impacts More Than Three Millions Cars

Over the past few months, the story of how General Motors Co. (GM) mishandled the recall of more than 1.6 million vehicles that were manufactures with a faulty ignition switch has slowly emerged.  An additional 1.5 million vehicles recently were recalled as a result of defects in the brake parts, airbag wiring harnesses, and other vehicle components.  The faulty ignition switch defect has been linked to thirteen deaths.  Recently, the chief executive at GM, Mary Barra, acknowledged that the company did not manage the situation properly.

In a videotaped message to employees, Ms. Barra stated that something went wrong with the recall process and “terrible things happened.”  As a result of what occurred, GM announced that it is changing its investigation protocols and recall procedures.  It is believed that increased scrutiny over vehicle problems led to the new recall of 1.5 million vehicles.

The initial recall relating to the ignition switch problems is getting intense scrutiny because the problem with these vehicles has been known for a long time.  The recall impacts mainly older model cars, including the 2005 through 2007 Chevy Cobalt and the 2003 through 2007 Saturn Ion.  The questions of what was known and when it was discovered has led to the civil and criminal investigations, congressional hearings, and lawsuits based on the injuries that occurred as a result of the faulty ignition switches and GM’s failure to respond in the proper manner.

The problem with the ignition switch is that the switch could turn off unexpectedly, cutting power to the vehicle while it is traveling at varying rates of speed.  It is possible that the switch turns off because the weight of the key fob and any additional items is enough to pull it out of the “on” position.  Although the corrected switches are supposed to be available for replacement this month, April 2014, GM has advised drivers of recalled vehicles to eliminate all extra items on the key.  Because the recall affects older vehicles, many of them no longer are on the road, so there are fewer people currently impacted by the recall.  However, GM has been investigating 31 serious accidents, including 13 incidents that resulted in front-seat deaths.

The more recent recall affects luxury sedans, full-size vans, and crossover utility vehicles.  Some of the defects could lead to the side airbags failing to deploy during an accident. The problems in the Cadillac XTS include the wiring in the brake booster pump, which can overheat, leading to melting plastic materials in the vehicle and the possibility of a fire in the vehicle engine compartment.  Two dealer-owned XTS sedans were reported to have vehicle fires in the engine compartment.  However, GM has reported that it does not have any reports about accidents related to the recalls for the newer model vehicles.  Although most of the recalled vehicles were sold in the United States, there were some sold in Canada and Mexico.

The ignition switch problems have led to the filing of at least one class action lawsuit is a federal court in Texas, with other lawsuits expected to follow.

When car manufacturers fail to take the appropriate actions in responding to defects in the vehicles when they learn about them, innocent people get hurt.  The experienced and dedicated auto accident attorneys at Barrett Law PLLC will work with you to develop the best possible legal strategy and get you the compensation that you deserve as a result of the harm that was done to you.  To schedule an initial case evaluation, call us at (601) 790-1505.  We only receive a fee if we succeed on your behalf.

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Catastrophic Burn Injuries in Mississippi

Burns that are inflicted upon car accident victims can be devastating, as they typically result in serious and sometimes disfiguring injuries. In the event that you sustained burns arising from a Mississippi car accident, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you think that your injuries are minor, failing to obtain treatment may have severe consequences, including chronic pain, infection and permanent scarring.

Generally speaking, fires that erupt from vehicles occur more frequently than you think. According to national statistics, engines that overheat, leaking fuel tanks and tires that become overly worn account for thousands of burn related injuries across the U.S. As experienced Mississippi personal injury attorneys, we have also represented auto accident victims who were seriously burned due to defective and poorly designed car parts, such as its engine, transmission and brake systems. In other words, many car fires erupt as a result of faulty wiring and improperly designed fuel tanks that ignite during a collision.

In light of the above, it is important to understand why car fires start so that you can mitigate the risks should you be involved an accident. Most often, a significant amount of friction and heat are caused when a car is struck by another vehicle or object. When sparks start flying as a result of the collision, it is not surprising that fires erupt. Cars contain numerous flammable liquids as well as solids, including various interior parts of the vehicle (i.e. fabrics, etc.). To illustrate, when fuel, battery or brake fluid become overheated, they can cause explosions to occur that can engulf an entire car within minutes. Additionally, when the weather hits triple digits, the amount of excessive heat can also make car fires more likely.

Overall, the cause of related accidents can be extremely difficult to prove in a court of law, hence why it is important to work with an attorney that has previously handled these types of catastrophic cases. Generally speaking, there may be several reasons why a car fire started, which can present significant challenges for even the most seasoned personal injury attorney. That is why it is important to consult with a personal injury attorney who has the skills necessary to prove your case, no matter how difficult or complex.

If you or a loved one suffered burns in a Mississippi automobile accident, give us a call now to find out more about how we can help you obtain the compensation you deserve. We have the skills, experience and expertise necessary to prove your case, regardless of how challenging or complex. We look forward to providing you with superior legal representation.

 

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Pediatric Injuries Can Be Prevented in Mississippi Car Accidents

As an experienced Mississippi auto accident attorney, it is always devastating to hear about a child that has either been injured or killed in a car accident.  However, it is even more troubling to learn that the child was not properly secured in his or her car or booster seat at the time of an accident.  Surprisingly, thousands of people across the U.S. fail to check that their children are properly secured in their seats while driving.   As a result, numerous children suffer the consequences of parents who neglect to take a few extra minutes to ensure that their children are safe.  For two parents in Mississippi, this situation has become an unfortunately reality.

In Eastern Mississippi, five young children, including an 18-month year old, and an adult passenger were recently killed when their SUV veered off of a rural road and landed in a creek.  The parents of the children managed to survive the crash however, they were treated for water inhalation and hypothermia.  Accident investigators revealed that none of the children were wearing their seatbelts during the accident.  Despite the mother’s claim that the 18-month year old was properly secured in his child seat, rescuers did not find the child’s body in his seat while investigating the scene.  Although this tragedy has deeply devastated the children’s parents as well as the local community, there are several safety lessons that can be learned from this incident.   These are as follows:

  1. Always secure your child in his or her seat, regardless of the circumstances.  Meaning, most accidents occur close to home and as a result, it is not surprising that some people compromise their children’s safety simply because they do not expect to be involved in an accident.   In other words, the short distance of your trip should never influence you to neglect you and your children’s safety.  Always check that your children are properly secured at all times.   Whether you are traveling one mile or one thousand, taking the above step will save lives.
  2. Review your car seat manufacturer’s instructions.   Be sure to review all of the car seat’s instructions before installing the device.  By failing to take one single step, you are putting your children’s lives at risk.
  3. Do not allow your children to remove themselves from their car or booster seat.  Children often become cranky, especially during extended car trips.  Regardless of how much they fuss, do not remove them from their seats or allow them to remove themselves.  Explain to them how important their safety is while riding as a passenger in a car.
  4. Contact your local police or fire department for help.  Oftentimes, police officers and/or local fire departments are available to review whether your car seat was properly installed or to assist you during the installation process.  Give them a call to find out whether they can evaluate your car seat and make sure that it is safe.

If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident in Mississippi, contact our office today to find out more about our superior personal injury services.  Our experienced attorneys will evaluate your case and advise you of all of your legal options.  Moreover, we will also take the time necessary to answer all of your questions and keep you well informed during the pendency of your case.

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How to Avoid Fatal Car Accidents in Mississippi

For over the past decade, there has been a noticeable decrease in the number of fatal car accidents across the State of Mississippi.  According to the National Traffic Safety Administration, in 2000, 941 people sustained fatal injuries in vehicle accidents across the State, whereas in 2010, only 641 were killed.  Overall, between 2009 (with 700 fatalities) and 2010, there has been an 8.4% decrease in the number of accidents involving death in Mississippi. While these numbers are promising, they still represent an excessively large amount of unnecessary and perhaps preventable accidents.   Otherwise stated, Mississippi continues to maintain its reputation as having some of the most dangerous roads in the country.

There are several reasons why an overwhelming number of fatal accidents continue to occur on a yearly basis in Mississippi. Specifically, the State is crisscrossed by various busy roads and interstate highways that are frequented by thousands of cars, trucks and motorcycles on a daily basis.  Hence, it is not surprising that the majority of fatal car accidents in Mississippi occur on roadway departures, which is a crash that occurs when a car crosses the edge or centerline of a roadway.  Regardless of the cause of a crash, there are certain things you can do to prevent accidents.  Although not every collision can be avoided, the following are some safety tips you should consider to maximize your safety while driving:

  1. Do not speed.  As simple as this may sound, speeding is one of the main reasons why accidents turn deadly in Mississippi.  As tempting as it may be, follow the speed limit, as it could mean the difference between life and death.
  2. Always maintain your car, vehicle or truck.  Many car accidents are caused by the failure of a driver to keep his or her vehicle in good repair.  For example, tire blowouts on trucks, which often result in fatal injuries, could have been avoided had the driver checked his or her tire pressure before departing.
  3. Do not drink and drive.  Do the smart thing and have someone else drive you home should you drink too much.  If you must drive, it is always a good idea to avoid drinking before getting behind the wheel or waiting a while to take off in the event you have had a few drinks.  Moreover, you can also call a taxi or take a bus to avoid the inherent risks associated with driving while impaired.
  4. Do not text and drive.   Driving while “distracticated” has become a serious issue across the U.S. and accounts for at least 25% of accidents nationwide.  This amounts to over 2,500 deaths and more than 250,000 injuries each year to drivers across the country.

For more information, contact us today to learn more about your legal options.  We will take the time necessary to investigate the facts of your case and keep you well informed during your case.  We look forward to hearing from you.

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Christmas Day Crash Kills Baldwyn Woman

A Christmas Day crash claimed the life of a Baldwyn woman, according to a news report. Amanda Autrey, 25, sustained life-threatening injuries around noon December 25, 2012. She was a passenger in a pickup-truck that hydroplaned while traveling along Mississippi 245, overturning near Shannon.

At 2:30 pm, Amanda Autrey was pronounced dead at North Mississippi Medical Center.

Timothy Autrey, driver of the pickup-truck, was ejected from the vehicle, sustaining minor injuries in the crash. Amanda Autrey, a passenger, was trapped inside the crashed vehicle. Neither Timothy Autrey, nor his wife, were wearing seatbelts when the accident occurred.

The crash remains under investigation by the Mississippi Highway Patrol.

Sadly, when you lose a loved one in an automobile accident, insurance claims adjustors knowingly intrude on your grief, counting on your vulnerability to bully you into settling an insurance claim immediately – before you’ve had the opportunity to discuss the matter with your attorney. They do this to usurp a wrongful death or personal injury claim that you may be entitled to which, in most cases, has a substantially larger award value than the settlement the insurance adjustor is offering you.

Before you sign-off on any insurance company paperwork, ask your attorney to review the documents. This would be a good time to discuss the alternative option of filing a wrongful death or personal injury claim seeking compensatory damages to cover funeral and burial expenses, medical costs, and lost income. Depending upon the circumstances of the automobile accident that took the live of your loved one, you may additionally wish to seek an award of punitive damages. Seeking damages is especially important in terms of future economic support if, for example, the decedent left children behind who depended upon his (or her) income for support.

If you don’t already have an attorney, several attorney referral services are available through your local bar association or online. It’s important to find an attorney who is both experienced and reputable, and specializes in wrongful death and personal injury law. Your attorney is an advocate who represents your interests, files a claim on your behalf, and brings you the compensation you deserve.

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 attorneys by calling (601) 790-1505.

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Impact of a Mississippi Car Accident Can Last Lifetime

An automobile accident occurs in a split-second, but the impact can last a lifetime. The resulting injuries too often necessitate changes in lifestyle or cause strife in relationships.  The dad who used to throw the football around with his kids is suddenly unable to care for himself – let alone enjoy the simple pleasures of parenting. In other words, there’s nothing frivolous about seeking compensation for injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Although impossible to reposition the lives of you and your family to exactly the way it was pre-accident, a lawsuit seeking compensatory and punitive damages makes it possible for you and your loved ones to garner the financial resources to create a brighter future.

The word “injury” is frequently tossed around and can be misleading, sometimes making the average onlooker perceive a compensable injury as inconsequential – like a hang-nail. The reality is that auto accident injuries can be quite severe, often resulting in chronic pain, permanent disability, or even death. Victims who seek a judicial remedy for their injuries, pain, and suffering are quite deserving of the awards allowed under the law and more.

Among the injuries that can result from a car accident are:

  • Broken bones
  • Concussion
  • Contusions
  • Disfigurement
  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Internal organ damage
  • Loss of consortium
  • Loss of sensory function
  • Loss of limbs
  • Spinal injuries
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Wrongful death

If you and your family are dealing with the immediate aftermath of car accident injuries, you understand the high-level of specialized medical care your loved-one-suddenly-turned-patient now requires. Some car accident victims require long-term care that families are generally not equipped to handle.  Medical care – especially long-term care – although necessary, is bank-breakingly expensive. Most families simply don’t have the resources lying around.

When faced with the adversity of automobile accident injuries, always contact a reputable attorney as soon as possible to discuss your circumstance before agreeing to sign-off on an insurance settlement. Hiring an experienced lawyer to handle your personal injury claim under Mississippi Code Annotated § 85-5-7 (2012) can bring you peace of mind and the compensation you deserve.

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 attorneys by calling (601) 790-1505.

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The Economic Impact of Car Accidents in Mississippi

Injuries incurred as the result of a car accident can be devastating in both personal and financial terms. Families mourning the loss of loved ones, who were financial providers as heads of households or caregivers to children or elderly family members, face big financial concerns. Measuring the cost of injuries and deaths resulting from car accidents can be difficult for the courts. Yet, shrewd lawyers representing insurance companies generally play legal games in order to preserve insurers’ corporate bottom lines. The injured and their families or survivors deserve just compensation, but are often slighted without proper legal representation.

A report prepared by the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) using 2005 crash death data, serves as a glaring example of the economic impact of roadway accident deaths. The costs of medical care and lost income for families impacted by the highway death of a loved one in Mississippi was $881-million, compared with $41-billion nationwide.

The primary areas of financial loss in the aftermath of a car accident are:

  • Lost income – The economic impact of a car accident on your household income can be devastating. Past and future wages forfeited as the result of death or injury can be compensated through a damages claim.
  • Medical bills – In some cases, injuries suffered in a car accident are so severe that lifelong medical care is required. Past and future medical bills, care, and treatment necessitated due to an injury accident may be recovered through a damages claim.
  • Mental anguish – The mental trauma suffered as the result of a car accident can sometimes become debilitating.  Emotional scars remain, regardless of how hard you work to overcome the experience. Compensatory damages are available to accident victims suffering mental anguish.
  • Physical suffering – Anyone who has been injured in a car accident can tell you that pain and suffering are real. The courts see it that way, too. Pain and suffering are compensable damages claims.
  • Property damage – Damages to your vehicle or other property (such as a bridge or signage belonging to a third party) are compensable.

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 attorneys by calling (601) 790-1505.

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What You Can Expect While On The Road In Mississippi

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The road is one aspect in our lives that is presently all throughout the country. While we use the road for many things such as commuting, transporting much needed materials, or simply traveling, today, we use the road to ultimately live our lives. Today in our lives, we are not only responsible, but are also depended on to get tasks and errands done, and done so in a timely manner. Also, lets not forget about those in our lives that depend on us for their own commuting such as our children, and elderly loved ones.

While on the road today we would like to believe that the only issues we will face is that of having our radio stationed tuned properly, or having our air conditioning adjusted properly. Unfortunately, however, Mississippi drivers face bigger issues while on the road which is that of negligence, and distracted driving. Today, many individuals are under the impression they not only can multitask, but also do so behind the wheel of a vehicle while on the road. From texting while driving, personal grooming, showing a lack of attention to the road, or ultimately being negligent while behind the wheel not only endangers that driver of being involved in an auto accident, but also other drivers on the road as well.

When a driver not only participates in one, or both of these actions, they put their safety at risk, as well as other vehicle operators, and pedestrians on the road. Unfortunately, we are beginning to not only see an increase in the number of these accidents today on the road, but the true negative force of these accidents which leave individuals with property damage, personal injury, and even death.

Being involved in an auto accident is very serious regardless of how severe the accident is, or whether you think everything is alright or not. When you are involved in an auto accident of any kind it is extremely important that you contact an experienced auto accident attorney immediately in order to not only protect you, but also fight for your rights, your case, and the potential damages you may be entitled to.

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.
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Understanding That of A DUI Crime

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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.

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

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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.

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