Report: Delaware Rivers Most Polluted
A recent study called the Clean Water Act at 50 Report was compiled by the Environmental Integrity Project. The study found that 97 percent of streams and rivers in Delaware are too polluted to support aquatic life. They also pose a danger to anyone who wants to go swimming.
The Environmental Integrity Project compiled the study results in its recently published Clean Water Act at 50 Report. The report does not paint a healthy picture of the condition of local rivers and freshwater supplies, finding that the rivers in Delaware are among the nation’s most polluted.
The report found that algae blooms, nitrates, and fecal bacteria make the state’s rivers and stream unhealthy for any public use. Those uses include drinking water, fishing, and various forms of water recreation.
Particular Problems in Delaware
The water-quality report rates the water quality in Delaware as the worst in the nation. The report says there are three common factors impacting Delaware rivers and streams. Those three factors are:
- High levels of fecal bacteria sprayed onto farm fields
- Large numbers of slaughterhouses and factory farms
- Sewage infrastructure problems across the state
While Delaware ranks very poorly for water quality, the state has initiated efforts to mitigate the problem. Officials with the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control use many monitoring tools to reduce toxic contamination of local waterways. State officials also are considering ways to create buffers that will help to prevent continued water contamination.
Agricultural runoff happens when rain washes fertilizers and pesticides into local water sources. Whether the chemicals leach into the groundwater or are washed into nearby creeks, streams, and rivers, the end result can be devastating to the local ecology.
Agricultural runoff causes algae blooms that can become dangerous for fish or humans to contact. Other contaminants also can pollute the many rivers in Delaware. Many Delaware rivers are reeling from the effects of agricultural runoff that has occurred during much of the past 100 years.
Possible Liability for Water Contamination
Sometimes, entire communities are affected by identifiable sources of water pollution. For example, more than 600 residents of Millsboro claimed runoff from a nearby slaughterhouse contaminated their drinking water.
The residents said the local drinking water supply became contaminated with nitrates. They said the nitrates came from the slaughterhouse and left them with no available clean drinking water.
A court in April 2021 approved a $65 million settlement for the affected Millsboro residents. The case illustrates how entire communities could be cut off from clean and healthful drinking water.
Nearly 2,000 Miles of Affected Rivers and Streams
The Clean Water Act at 50 report shows that Delaware has 4,470 miles of rivers and streams flowing throughout it. It also shows that 1,901 miles of those waterways are too polluted for any kind of use.
The impairments include 1,074 miles that are deemed too polluted to support aquatic life. The report says another 827 miles of rivers and streams are too polluted to support contact with the water during recreational activities.
The Environmental Protection Agency says most of the pollution comes from runoff from farms, urban centers, and suburban communities.
Delaware Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A., Help Affected Families
If you or your family is suffering from water contamination issues, an experienced Delaware environmental lawyer at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A., could help to build a strong case. You can call 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation at one of our law offices in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware. We represent clients in Dover, New Castle County, Sussex County, and throughout Delaware.
How Safe Are Sunroofs in Rollover Crashes?
Sunroofs are a popular feature on many vehicles. They allow more sunlight to brighten the interior, increase airflow, and provide more general comfort for you and your passengers.
However, when there is a hole in the roof of your car covered by glass, it is reasonable to wonder about potential safety issues. You might be especially concerned about the sunroof if a rollover accident were to occur.
Fortunately, a sunroof does not make your vehicle more dangerous during a rollover car accident. Your vehicle’s design and safety features should protect you and your passengers.
How Does the Cabin and Roof Protect Passengers During Rollovers?
Car manufacturers account for the potential of rollovers and other types of accidents when designing vehicles with sunroofs. They design and build vehicles that are not weakened by the inclusion of a sunroof.
The porthole that contains the sunroof does not weaken the cabin or roof. All vehicles have four pillars that create a rigid structure that runs from the frame to the rooftop. The roof also is designed to withstand hard impacts and support the weight of the vehicle if it rolls onto the roof.
The cabin also is designed to create a secure seating area for passengers. The addition of seat belts and airbags helps to protect against rollover injuries.
The sunroof has virtually no effect on your vehicle’s ability to maintain its structural integrity during a rollover accident. It does not weaken the roof or make it less likely to withstand the effects of a rollover accident. Additionally, the glass of a sunroof should be laminated by the manufacturer to prevent it from shattering.
Wearing seat belts will prevent ejections from the vehicle, so having a sunroof should not create any significant dangers during a rollover.
Ejections Are the Greatest Danger in Rollover Accidents
Ejections make rollover accidents among the deadliest types of auto accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says rollover accidents account for about 30 percent of vehicular fatalities, meaning rollovers cause about 12,000 traffic deaths every year.
A partial or full ejection from a vehicle leaves a person completely vulnerable to deadly injuries. The person could land on pavement or be struck by the rolling vehicle. A tremendous amount of injury causes ejections, and there are no safety devices that protect a passenger who has been ejected from a vehicle. If your sunroof is open, that could raise the potential for part or all of your body to be ejected during a rollover.
Vehicle ejections can occur during rollover accidents. Open windows and unbuckled seat belts also enable ejections from vehicles during rollover accidents. Rollover accidents account for 47 percent of passenger fatalities in light trucks, more than double the 22 percent rollover fatality rate among passenger cars.
How to Help Prevent Ejections During Rollovers?
You need to keep your vehicle in good driving condition to help minimize the potential for a rollover accident. The less prone that your vehicle is to a rollover accident, the lower the odds of a potentially deadly ejection of one or more passengers.
- Make sure your tires and suspension components are in working order. A sudden failure by a tire, tie rod end, a ball joint, or a similar part could cause the sudden loss of control at the wheel. Tires and suspension components are especially important for reducing the potential for a rollover accident.
- Regularly inspect and rotate your tires, checking air pressure and tread. If you have a sudden tire failure, your vehicle might roll.
- Regular maintenance of the suspension, steering, and wheel will help to prevent rollover accidents.
- Ensure that you and any passengers wear seat belts while traveling. Seat belts are designed to hold you in place during an accident, including a rollover. The NHTSA says you are 10 times more likely to be ejected from a vehicle if you are not wearing a seat belt.
Potential Third-Party Liability if Injuries Occur
If you suffer injuries in a rollover accident, third-party liability might apply. Vehicles and their components must be designed and built to reasonably minimize potential injuries.
- The sunroof might shatter if it was improperly designed. The manufacturer of the sunroof and your vehicle might be liable for your injuries.
- If your vehicle rolled and the roof collapsed, a faulty body design might be responsible. The automaker might be liable for those injuries.
- Claims for third-party liability require you to reasonably demonstrate two things: evidence of negligence and evidence of the harm done.
- Evidence of negligence is the more difficult to prove. You could do so by showing statistics from other accidents that demonstrate that a particular model of vehicle is especially prone to rollover accidents due to its design.
- The sunroof might have been made without a protective coating to prevent shattering. If so, you could argue that it was not made reasonably safe.
Proving harm or negligence is easier when showing evidence of the damage and injuries caused by said negligence. An experienced car accident lawyer is the best resource for building a strong case for liability and damages.
Dover Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Can Help You if You Have Been Injured in a Rollover Collision
Sunroofs could contribute to serious injuries during a rollover collision. If you have been injured in a rollover collision, our Dover car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help. Call 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. With offices in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we represent clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Should I Do if an Accident Totaled My Car?
Even if a car accident is seemingly minor, not much damage has to be done to your car for it to be totaled. Sometimes, it comes as a surprise to the owner, who may have assumed the car just needed repairs.
Whether a vehicle is totaled in a crash depends upon the amount of damage, what it would take to fix it, and the age and value of the vehicle at the time of the crash. If you do not understand what it means for a car to be totaled and what insurance companies are supposed to do, you may be at a disadvantage following a crash.
What Does it Take for a Car to be Totaled?
When the cost of repairing damage exceeds the vehicle’s market value, insurance companies deem it a totaled car. They may also declare it a total loss if it is dangerous to drive, even if you fix it. If your vehicle is totaled, the insurer will pay you for the car’s actual value, which is how much it was worth just before the accident. Unfortunately, you will not get the amount of money you paid for the vehicle because the actual value considers depreciation and wear and tear. For example, you could have just purchased a brand-new vehicle. However, due to the significant depreciation that immediately occurs to new vehicles, you would not receive the total purchase amount if it were totaled.
Each state has a different threshold of damage for when a vehicle is totaled but the general rule is that when repairs cost 75 percent or more of the vehicle’s pre-accident retail value, the car is said to be totaled. In Delaware, when a damaged vehicle’s actual cash value is equal to or less than repairs and salvage value of the vehicle, the vehicle is considered totaled. Actual cash value means what the vehicle was worth before the accident, not the amount that was paid for it.
Keeping in mind that vehicle prices are high and insurance companies will go with the actual cash value, the owner of the damaged vehicle may not be left with any funds to get a replacement car and may need to pay off the remainder of the bill for the damaged one. WalletHub notes that this problem, a common one with ongoing inflation, can be fixed by purchasing add-ons to your auto insurance, such as gap insurance or new car replacement.
Keep in mind that when a car is deemed a total loss and you need to purchase a replacement vehicle, you may be able to negotiate with the insurance company to pay applicable taxes and title costs. This is not required of insurers in Delaware, but some companies will reimburse you or include these expenses in the payout.
What Insurance Covers a Totaled Car?
There are many categories of insurance coverage on a single policy and vehicle owners should at least have a general understanding of which type of insurance covers what situation.
- Collision coverage: This covers damage to your vehicle, whether it is big or small, and no matter how it occurred.
- Comprehensive coverage: This covers damage to your vehicle that is caused by many different things, including vandalism, theft, and weather, such as hailstorms.
- Property damage liability: This applies if another driver’s negligence causes a crash. The negligent driver’s property damage liability coverage should pay for the damage to your vehicle, assuming they are insured. If you cause an accident, then your property damage coverage will cover any damage you caused.
Millsboro Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Can Help You After a Collision
Getting the compensation that is needed following a serious car accident can be complicated. Our Millsboro car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help you explore your legal options. With offices in Millsboro and Wilmington, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County. Contact us online or call us at 302-656-5445 to schedule a free consultation.
Can an Underinflated Tire Cause a Car Accident?
Modern tires are exceptional at providing drivers with good traction and handling. They also help to keep cars traveling safely in a straight line without pulling to one side or the other. However, tires need to stay within their recommended pressure ranges to work their best.
The sidewalls on tires indicate how much air pressure they can hold to work as designed by the tire manufacturer. Your vehicle has an owner’s manual that tells you the correct tire size and how much air to put in each one. For most tires, that usually is about 30 to 35 pounds per square inch (PSI).
Some minor variations in air pressure are okay. However, when you overinflate or underinflate a tire, you run the risk of causing a tire failure that could lead to a catastrophic accident. A tire could suffer a sudden blowout, simply take too long to respond to the driver, as braking and steering will take more time. By not maintaining appropriate tire pressure, drivers increase their chance of getting into a car accident.
How Underinflated Tires Create Dangers?
Tires are highly engineered and designed to last tens of thousands of miles when used properly. Proper use of tires includes keeping them inflated to within manufacturer recommendations. The tires also have to be the correct size for the vehicle.
When you have four properly inflated tires of the right size on your vehicle, you still need to balance and rotate them about every 5,000 miles. That helps ensure even wear and tear on the tires and helps the tread to last as long as possible.
When a tire is underinflated, the tread does not ride correctly on the road. Instead of providing your car with good traction via a solid contact patch meeting the road, an underinflated tire rides more on the sides and sidewall. Underinflation causes irregular wear, compromises traction, and increases heat inside the tire.
If you continue to drive on an underinflated tire, the heat and wear and tear could cause one or more layers of tread to separate. That tread might become loose and fly off of your vehicle while you are traveling on the freeway or other roadway, which causes accidents and can lead to catastrophic injuries or death.
Tire Separation Poses a Real Threat
An underinflated tire causes improper wear and affects steering and handling. If one tire suddenly goes flat, it could cause your vehicle to swerve into oncoming traffic or over to the side of the road, which could cause your vehicle to roll and could harm pedestrians, bicyclists, or other vehicles.
The primary problem is in the way in which tires are made. Modern tires have layers of steel belts arranged in differing patterns to create a strong inner core. The rubber tread goes around the steel belts to provide traction. Tire manufacturers say tread separation is the most common cause of tire failure in modern steel-belted radials.
When a tire is underinflated, the steel belts and rubber tread heat up. The hotter the tire gets, the more likely the tread will separate from the tire. If you drive in a hot summer climate, the heat within an underinflated tire could cause a tread separation.
An underinflated tire also rides more on its shoulders instead of the tread. The shoulders lead to the sidewall and contain less rubber. The tire has less traction, which affects handling even before a tread separation might occur. It also extends the braking distance needed to stop safely.
What are the Signs of a Damaged Tire?
A flat tire has a very obvious sign that it cannot hold air: it is flat on the bottom. A tire separation due to running an underinflated tire for too long is not as obvious. However, there are some telling signs of a tire separating, including:
- Rhythmic thumping coming from one wheel.
- Vehicle pulls to one side.
- Feels odd when turning.
- Steel threads from the belts start showing.
- Tread has an odd shape in one or more spots.
Any of those conditions and others could be signs of a tire separation in progress. If you drive a lot on freeways in the summertime, a tire separation might cause a blowout or a sudden loss of air. If that happens, your vehicle might roll or veer into other lanes of traffic.
How to Prevent Improperly Inflated Tires?
Most people who regularly check and top off the air in their tires usually go by the PSI indicated on the sidewall. That could be a mistake if the carmaker recommends a tire pressure that is lower than the maximum PSI that a tire is rated to handle. You can check the owner’s manual to ensure your vehicle has the optimal level of air pressure.
One of the many upsides to improving technology in the automobile industry is that many newer vehicles have tire sensors that use warning indicators to tell the driver when the tires are low on air.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says an underinflated tire that is 25 percent lower than it should be is three times more likely to cause an accident. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, a non-profit group, says underinflated tires cause about 90 percent of all tire failures. Fortunately, it is very easy to greatly reduce the potential for a sudden tire failure.
You should visually inspect tires for possible damage to the tread or sidewalls while checking the air pressure with a pressure gage. If one or more tires is underinflated or has too much air pressure, you should take care it of right away.
You also should balance and rotate your wheels and tires every 5,000 miles to even out tread wear. Your mechanic can check each tire for damage or unusual wear and make sure it still has enough tread to run safely while rotating the tires.
Liability for Tire-Related Accidents
If a driver negligently ignores obvious signs that one or more tires are in bad shape and is then involved in an accident, that driver and the vehicle’s owner could be liable for medical costs and other damages to the other parties involved in the collision. Because an increasing number of cars on the road are equipped with sensors that tell the driver when tires are low on air, ignoring an indicator light could lead to additional liability for a car accident.
Third-party liability might also apply if a tire defect caused an accident. The defect might have occurred at the manufacturing facility. It also might have happened while a technician mounted the tires at a tire dealership or a commercial garage. If so, then a third party could be held responsible.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Can Help You After a Tire-Related Accident
If you have been injured in a tire-related collision, our experienced Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
Which Car Parts Cause the Most Accidents?
Although modern vehicles have gotten much safer over the past several decades, it is important to remember that they are still mechanical in nature, meaning they breakdown if not cared for properly. When certain car parts begin to wear down, the likelihood of a car accident increases. Keeping your vehicle in top shape keeps you and your family safe. The following are crucial parts of the car that cause the most accidents.
Tires
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), worn out tires account for over 35 percent of all car accidents. Tires are the first point of contact between the car and the road, so having them in optimal condition is imperative to vehicle safety. Worn tires lead to loss of control, blow outs, and skidding. Have your tires replaced when treads are showing. Having them aligned after replacement helps with longevity as well.
Brakes
The NHTSA found that 22 percent of traffic accidents are caused by faulty or worn-out brakes. Worn brakes will likely lead to an accident, as stopping performance is compromised. It is important to have your brakes checked at least once every 30,000 miles or at every maintenance check, and have them replaced when necessary.
Lights
The chance of an accident increases when visibility is lessened, which is why it is so important that your vehicle’s exterior lighting is working properly. Exterior lighting also alerts other drivers, lowering the chance of a collision.
Suspension
The suspension is an often-overlooked part of the vehicle, mostly because you cannot see when they go bad, but you can certainly feel it or hear it when suspension components are worn. Bad suspension can cause a driver to lose control or cause other mechanical issues in the car.
Steering
Although rare, a failing steering system is extremely dangerous, whether the steering becomes hard to maneuver or will not move at all.
Belts
There are a few systems on your vehicle that run on belts, and they are all important. For instance, the alternator runs on a belt, and if that wears out or snaps, then the electrical system can go inoperative. The engine has a timing belt, or in some cases a chain, and not having these belts checked or replaced can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
Wipers
Another visibility issue, worn out wipers are not only are bad in the rain, but in snowy conditions as well, as salt and dirt will likely cloud up your windshield. It is recommended to have your wipers replaced at least once every six months.
Fuel System
It is a good idea to have your fuel system checked, particularly the electrical portion and associated parts, mainly the fuel lines. Leaking fuel is not only a fire hazard, but it can also cause major damage to the vehicle as well.
It is important to always go to a mechanic that is reputable and that you can trust. Stay away from common car owner mistakes, such as using the incorrect engine oil or fluids or using parts simply because they are cheaper but are lacking in quality.
Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Those Injured by Negligent Car Owners
There are many auto parts that can cause a car accident when they are not properly maintained. If you have been injured in an accident that was caused by a failed car part, then speak with one of our Wilmington car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. today. Call us at 302-656-5445 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we proudly serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Is Silicosis?
Silicosis is a lung disease characterized by inflammation and scarring of the lung tissues that reduces the amount of oxygen the lungs can take in and process. Silicosis causes permanent damage to the lungs, and it gets progressively worse and can be fatal. The main cause of silicosis is breathing in crystalline silica, also known as silica dust. The dust contains particles small enough to be respirated or inhaled into the body. The tiny particles become trapped in the lung tissue, where they buildup and cause scarring, which makes the lung tissue stiff.
There are three types of silicosis:
- Chronic silicosis: Chronic silicosis is the most common form of the disease. Exposure to low or moderate amounts of silica can cause damage to the lungs that may not show up until decades later. Often, mild symptoms appear first and worsen over time. Symptoms include swelling in the chest and chest lymph nodes, which makes it difficult to breathe.
- Acute silicosis: Acute silicosis occurs sooner, between a few weeks and up to two years after significant exposure to a large amount of crystalline silica. This can cause the lungs to fill with fluid and become very inflamed. Patients with acute silicosis experience severe shortness of breath and low blood oxygen levels.
- Accelerated silicosis: Accelerated silicosis symptoms appear five to 10 years after substantial exposure to silica dust and quickly accelerate.
Who Is at Risk of Silica Exposure?
Silica is a crystal that is commonly found everywhere in nature, such as in most rock beds, mineral ores, as well as being a major component of sand. Silica dust is created when rock is being cut or polished, or sand is being used for blasting or glass blowing.
Workers who are at risk of exposure to silica dust include those in the following industries:
- Mining
- Stone cutting or masonry
- Quarrying
- Sand blasting
- Glass manufacturing
- Road and building construction or repair
- Roofing
- Plaster or drywall installation
- Steel manufacturing
- Ceramic manufacturing
Every year, an estimated 2.3 million workers in the United States are exposed to silica dust, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Inhaling the dust formed from processes like cutting, sawing, drilling, crushing, and grinding rock, stone, bricks, mortar, concrete, and blocks puts workers at risk of developing silicosis.
Other operations that present a safety hazard include abrasive blasting with sand, sanding concrete walls, cutting stone countertops, and hydraulic fracturing (fracking). Even if the materials being used contain only a small amount of crystalline silica, if the production method results in a high dust concentration, the outcome is a hazardous level of exposure for the employees.
The OSHA has strict standards for workplaces where silica dust is present. There is a standard for the construction industry, and a standard that applies to general industry and maritime. Both detail the permissible exposure limit averaged over an eight-hour work shift and require employers to use practices that minimize exposure to silica dust.
What Are the Symptoms of Silicosis?
Some types of silicosis take years and even decades to appear, so a worker may not realize they are suffering from the illness. Early symptoms such as phlegm or a cough that does not go away may not be immediately recognized as silicosis. However, trouble breathing is a tell-tale sign that a worker needs to see a medical professional. Later symptoms of silicosis include fatigue, weight loss, chest pain, shortness of breath, blue lips, and sudden fevers.
Silicosis can be diagnosed with a chest X-ray or CT scan to check for scar tissue in the lungs. A bronchoscopy is a way for the doctor to look inside the lungs for damage via a thin tube with a tiny camera on the end. If a lung tissue biopsy is needed, the doctor will use a needle to take a sample of tissue from a nodule that can be checked under a microscope.
Treatment for Silicosis and Complications
There is no treatment specifically for silicosis. Symptoms may be treated with cough medicine, bronchodilators, and supplemental oxygen. For patients experiencing respiratory infections, antibiotics can be prescribed. To prevent the progression of the disease, it is crucial that the source of silica dust exposure be removed. In severe cases of silicosis, a lung transplant may be necessary.
Workers with chronic silicosis are at higher risk for complications from other illnesses, like tuberculosis, pneumonia, and flu. They also commonly develop other lung diseases, such as lung cancer, chronic bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
How Can Employers Control Silica Dust Exposure in the Workplace?
An ideal workplace has no materials containing crystalline silica, but this is not always possible. By using good engineering practices and controls, employers can significantly reduce the amount of silica dust produced in the workplace. There should be a written exposure control plan. The following are some of the ways to control silica exposure:
- Using water to wet down dust prevents it from entering the air where it can be inhaled. Tools that have integrated water delivery systems for cutting, drilling, grinding, chipping, and sawing reduce dust.
- Using localized dust collection systems, such as shrouds that remove dust at the point where it is made.
- Operating equipment within enclosures to isolate the work process.
- Cleaning with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuums.
- Replacing air filters regularly and avoiding dry sweeping.
- Providing workers with the appropriate personal protective equipment, such as respirators, when controls are not adequate to limit dust exposure.
- Limiting worker access to the areas of high exposure.
- Providing training and education for workers about the hazards of silica dust. Workers should never eat, drink, or smoke in areas containing crystalline silica. Following exposure, they should always wash their hands and face before eating and drinking.
There should also be regular air quality testing to ensure it is within OSHA standards. Workers that work in areas of high exposure should be offered medical exams to monitor their health. Those negligently exposed to silica dust may be able to file a toxic tort claim.
Wilmington Toxic Tort Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Fight for Those Exposed to Silica Dust
If you have developed an illness as a result of silica dust exposure, contact our experienced Wilmington toxic tort lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. today. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we represent clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Can Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems Fail in Poor Weather?
Safety systems and devices in modern vehicles are becoming more robust and complex. Currently, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in newer vehicles provide a significant amount of aid to drivers, preventing many car accidents and injuries.
ADAS are designed to work in all types of road conditions. However, a recent study published by the American Automobile Association (AAA) has found that some auto safety systems may not work as well during periods of heavy rain.
ADAS technology includes tools, devices, and computer programs designed to work together to automate and augment vehicle safety by alerting the driver to potential problems. This technology makes driving safer overall by using computer programs and algorithms, which are much faster than a driver’s reaction time. A computer can sense an obstacle and hit the brakes within a fraction of a second.
AAA researchers, in collaboration with the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center, performed extensive tests on various modern vehicles that have ADAS. These vehicles were tested under many road conditions and weather scenarios. What AAA researchers found was that during heavy downpours, some of the ADAS did not work properly or at all. For example, the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system sensors did not register or “see” the cars in front during heavy rainfall. Also, lane assist systems did not work as well as it should have during heavy downpours.
During the different tests, lane keeping systems did not perform properly in 17 percent of tests under ideal road conditions. Lane keeping systems had a failure rate of 69 percent in poor weather. Cars equipped with forward emergency braking that traveled at 25 miles per hour collided with a stopped vehicle 17 percent of the time. At 35 miles per hour, the vehicles collided at 33 percent of the time.
How Can Drivers Stay Safe in Heavy Rain?
Even though ADAS help drivers stay safe, motorists should not rely on technology. According to the AAA, you should take these steps to stay safe in poor weather conditions:
- Keep your windshield clean.
- Make sure your wipers are working properly.
- Maintain your brakes.
- Slow down and drive the speed limit.
- Maintain at least four car lengths of distance between your vehicle and the car in front of you.
- Put your phone away, and do not drive while distracted.
- Do not drink and drive.
- Be patient.
- Do not respond to an angry driver.
- Avoid driving altogether if weather conditions are particularly poor.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Drivers Injured in Weather-Related Collisions
Although ADAS are important for driving safety, you should not rely on technology to avoid a car accident. If you were injured by a negligent driver in a weather-related collision, our Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help you. Call us at 302-656-5445 or complete our online form today to set up a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
How Important Is Water Quality for Your Health?
Having safe drinking water provides many benefits and improves quality of life. With Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards, as well as each state’s own water regulations, many communities across the United States enjoy clean drinking water. However, water contamination can still happen, which can cause many different illnesses.
Clean water brings many health benefits, such as:
- Better digestion.
- Regulates a normal body temperature.
- Helps move nutrients and oxygen through the blood.
- Helps control the nervous system.
- Helps heart function.
Good water quality is even beneficial to the home as well. Many household appliances, such as a dishwasher or water heater, rely on softened water to run efficiently, saving energy. Poor water quality can calcify and harden, causing damage to these appliances, as well as the home’s pipes and sewage system.
What Are the Effects of Water Contamination?
Poor water quality or contaminated water can cause adverse effects, some even fatal. On rare occasions, bacteria-carrying microbes can infiltrate a water supply, causing a myriad of health issues, such as:
- Fever
- Kidney failure
- Digestive problems
- Diarrhea
- Rashes
- Vomiting
- Cardiac arrest
- Chronic pain
- Headaches
Water contaminated with pollutants, pesticides, or other chemicals can cause serious diseases or disabilities that can be permanent or even fatal. Cancer, hepatitis, and some autoimmune diseases are linked to polluted water. There is also a high probability of skin discoloration or reproductive issues. For children and babies, exposure to contaminated water can lead to developmental issues.
Experts agree that there are likely other adverse health effects caused by lower doses of poor water quality, but those illnesses are not fully understood. Also, many illnesses caused by poor water quality are often underreported, or the sick person is not aware of the cause of their illness.
What Causes Water Contamination?
Although there are many EPA regulations protecting public water supplies, contamination is still a risk. It is important to understand that the EPA does not monitor water from private wells. Private wells are more common in older parts of the United States.
With many homes surrounded by businesses, factories, and industrial areas, water contamination remains a very strong possibility. Sewage or chemical runoff from businesses can seep into the ground if not properly disposed of, where it runs into streams and rivers, which eventually reaches to water supplies.
Other sources and their pollutants include:
- Industries such as agriculture use pesticides and solvents that could then find their way into aquifers. Fertilizers are also a concern, as they are often used to enhance growth in product but runoff into streams and nearby water sources.
- Natural chemicals found in the soil, such as arsenic or uranium, can be harmful to humans in large doses. Construction nearby can cause larger than normal quantities of these chemicals into drinking water just by disturbing the environment.
- Manufacturing wastes like plastics, metals, or cyanide can infiltrate a water system when companies do not dispose of them properly.
- Malfunctioning sewage or septic systems can cause human and animal waste to backflow into groundwater.
- Older houses and businesses used lead pipes within their walls, and when they corrode, they could contaminate the water supply for that building. Even more modern buildings now use copper piping, which can also leave harmful biproducts. Contaminants could still reach a water supply even after going through a filtration system.
How Do I Know My Water Is Contaminated?
To keep yourself and your family safe, it is important to know what to look for should something happen to your water or if you feel sick. The best way to see if your water is unsafe is to monitor it yourself. Some steps you should take include:
- Inspect: Inspect your water, as it may be obvious there is something wrong. Sometimes, water will look orange or brown if it has any contaminates. It could also have a strange, metallic taste or a funny odor. Purchasing a water filtration system will help rid of most pollutants, but some are harder to eliminate than others. You should contact an expert, and have your water tested regularly.
- Test: It might be best to have your water tested at a lab. The EPA regulates the number of contaminants that are likely to be found in drinking water, such as certain metals and salmonella. Even if some of these are found in your water, it may be at such a low amount that it may not have an effect at all. You can also obtain a consumer confidence report from your local water supplier to find out about its source, the quality, and what contaminants are in your water.
- Get help: If you do feel ill, it is best to contact your doctor immediately. They will likely determine if your illness is from poor water quality or something else. It is also possible that you may have an underlying health problem that has only become known because of poor water quality.
Should you find an issue with your water supply or have fallen ill and believe it stems from poor water quality, you may want to consult a lawyer. A lawyer can explain what action you should take to remedy your problem.
Delaware Water Contamination Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Protect Your Right to Safe Drinking Water
Having safe and clean drinking water is essential to your health and well-being. If you believe your water supply is contaminated, speak with our Delaware water contamination lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. immediately. Our skilled legal team will protect your rights. Call us today at 302-656-5445 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we proudly serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Are Fatal Wrong-Way Car Accidents Increasing?
Wrong-way driving may not be a top leading cause of car accidents, but when these crashes occur, they are likely to involve catastrophic injuries or fatalities. When a motorist drives the wrong way, the chance of a head-on collision is high. Even on one-way streets or roadway access ramps, driving the wrong way creates an incredibly dangerous situation for all involved.
A study by the American Automobile Association (AAA) Foundation for Traffic Safety reported that in March 2021, wrong-way driving fatalities increased. The data shows that from 2004 to 2009, deaths in wrong-way driving accidents averaged about 360 per year. That figure rose to 430 per year on average from 2010 to 2019.
What is Wrong-Way Driving?
Wrong-way driving occurs when a motorist enters a roadway going in the opposite direction of traffic. This can be on a one-way street, but in its most dangerous form, wrong-way driving happens on high-speed freeways. When a driver on a divided highway is faced with headlights coming at them, it can be traumatic and extremely dangerous. Oftentimes, however, the wrong-way driver may not be aware of the danger until it is too late.
What Causes Wrong-Way Driving Collisions?
Motorists should learn about the common causes of wrong-way collisions to prevent them from happening. Common causes of wrong-way driving collisions are listed below.
Impaired Driving
The most common cause of wrong-way driving is driver intoxication. Drivers impaired by alcohol are most often involved in these accidents, but drugged driving is also a frequent cause. The AAA claims that six in ten wrong-way accidents involve intoxicated drivers. In fact, the AAA also found that 60.1 percent of wrong-way drivers in fatal crashes were driving while drunk.
Age of Driver
Young adults are much more likely to engage in dangerous wrong-way driving, according to AAA data. These younger drivers are also more likely to be driving drunk than older wrong-way drivers. A National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report revealed that out of the wrong-way drivers involved in the study, 65 percent of motorists who were 20 to 39 years old were over the legal limit.
Older drivers are also associated with increased instances of wrong-way driving. Despite the fact that motorists in this demographic generally drive fewer miles overall, drivers over 70 years old had an increased risk of wrong-way driving. Possible reasons for this may have to do with age-related conditions, like poor eyesight.
Driving Alone
Another significant factor that showed up in wrong-way driving accidents is driving alone. When someone else is in the car, the driver is more likely to be alerted to the fact that they are driving the wrong way.
Unsafe Driving Maneuvers
In instances where the driver’s behavior can be determined, one factor that has been linked to wrong-way driving accidents is erroneously entering a highway at the exit ramp. Wrong-way driving is not always a mistake. Sometimes, these accidents are caused by drivers who intentionally make an illegal turn or use an emergency route to cross the median strip on a divided highway.
Poor Signage and Road Design
Sometimes, road markings or signs are missing or obscured. Often, drivers can become confused by a poorly designed road. These factors may lead to wrong-way driving accidents.
Are Wrong-Way Accidents Often Underreported?
A 2015 survey of 400 participants at the University of Central Florida found that people were aware of the dangers of wrong-way driving, but they often did not report wrong-way driving incidents. Only about 10 percent of those who directly witnessed a wrong-way driving event reported it to authorities, even though they admitted to feeling endangered by the encounter.
How can Wrong-Way Collisions be Reduced?
To address some of the age-related factors, driving courses for new drivers and refresher courses for older drivers might help. Also, initiatives to prevent drunk driving, such as an increase in sobriety checkpoints and programs to mandate Ignition interlock systems for repeat offenders, should reduce instances of wrong-way driving as well.
The AAA and the NTSB suggest that states install warnings to alert drivers when they are driving the wrong way. The California Department of Transportation and the University of California-Davis released a joint study that showed a 44 percent reduction in wrong-way driving when red reflective road markers were installed. There were 60 percent fewer accidents that occurred when flashing LED lights were used.
The Florida Department of Transportation has installed vehicle detectors that use radar and video cameras that set off rapid flashing beacons and LED warning signs to alert drivers that they are going the wrong way. Images from the closed-circuit cameras are able to be sent to a traffic authority that can respond. Researchers are seeing that these measures reduce wrong-way driving by approximately 80 percent.
Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Victims of Wrong-Way Collisions
Wrong-way driving accidents are dangerous, and studies suggest that they may be becoming more frequent. If you were hurt in a wrong-way traffic collision, a dedicated Wilmington car accident lawyer at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help you identify the liability party and will fight for your rights. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we represent clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Promote Safe Driving During National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month
December marks the end of the year, and during this time, many people celebrate the holidays irresponsibly and travel long distances as well. December is National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month, and it is important to be mindful about safety and the wellbeing of others during this time.
Impaired driving is a major and deadly issue. Although statistics have shown that impaired driving crashes and fatalities have lessened over the past few decades, they still account for over 30 percent of all traffic-related deaths every year. On average, 29 people die every day from impaired driving in the United States.
Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, fatal car accidents rates slightly increase as well as pedestrian accidents. A pedestrian accident can be caused by a drunk or drugged driver, or the pedestrian may wander into the street if they are extremely intoxicated.
Impaired Driving Statistics
Almost 70 percent of impaired driving deaths are caused by those whose blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level was almost twice the legal limit of 0.08 percent. Driving under the influence (DUI) is extremely dangerous and leads to severe penalties. In Delaware, most DUI arrests consist of first-time offenders. Over 75 percent of DUIs are males, and the age range is between 25 to 44 years old. Also, over 66 percent of arrests involve offenders with high BAC levels of 0.13 and above.
Also, DUI arrests happen more frequently on the weekend days. Additionally, New Year’s Eve is one of the most dangerous times of the year for drivers.
What are the Penalties of Impaired Driving?
Impaired driving is a serious offense and should not be taken lightly. Also, it is illegal for a driver under 21 years old to have any BAC level. First-time offenders do not get any leniency either; one DUI charge can drastically change one’s future. The penalties for drunk driving include the following:
- In Delaware, DUI fines can exceed $6,000.
- Driver’s license suspension for a significant period of time.
- Higher insurance premiums or loss of insurance.
- Jail, depending on the circumstances and the state.
- Drug and alcohol counseling.
DUI fines and penalties will likely increase following additional offenses, including much stricter jail times and fines. Other charges can be incurred if an accident happened and involved major injuries and significant property damage.
Is Drugged Driving Just as Dangerous as Drunk Driving?
Drugged driving is just as devastating as drunk driving. Drugged driving accounts for 20 percent of car accidents in the United States, with an average close to 7,000 deaths each year. Also, it is substantially more difficult to determine if a driver is under the influence of drugs because there are not many available tests to make that determination.
Younger drivers are more susceptible to drugged driving than any other demographic. Moreover, from 1999 to 2010, marijuana-related car accident rates have tripled. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost 60 percent of drivers involved in fatal accidents were under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Marijuana can slow a driver’s response time or impair one’s judgement, but it is not the only drug that can cause an accident. Drugs, like cocaine or methamphetamines, can cause aggressive driving as well. Sedatives can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Prescription drugs can cause dangerous driving conditions too. Mixing alcohol with drugs is even more deadly.
How can I Prevent Drunk and Drugged Driving?
Communities and law enforcement alike must join together to help prevent impaired driving. Alongside DUI laws, which have significantly lowered drunk driving statistics, there are other life-saving tactics, such as sobriety checkpoints and instructional programs in schools. An ignition interlock device may be installed in the vehicle of a DUI offender as well. An ignition interlock device is a tool that measures a driver’s BAC level and prevents the car from starting if their BAC level is too high.
Some ways to prevent a drunk or drugged driving accident around the holidays include:
- If one is going to a party or celebration and there is drinking, one should make sure to designate someone who is not drinking as the designated driver.
- Take the keys of anyone that is intoxicated.
- If hosting a holiday party, enlist the help of a taxi or rideshare service.
- Parents should talk to their children about the dangers of mixing drugs and alcohol and driving.
- If a driver is acting suspiciously on the road, like weaving in and out of traffic, swaying onto the shoulder, or exhibiting any other stranger behaviors, then contact the police right away.
If a person is involved in a drunk or drugged driving accident, they should contact a lawyer immediately. A lawyer will ensure the victim receives appropriate compensation for their injuries.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Clients Injured by Drunk or Drugged Drivers
There are many celebrated holidays in the winter months, which creates dangerous situations for drivers. If you were hurt by an impaired driver, speak to one of our respected Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. immediately. Our experienced and knowledgeable lawyers protect the rights of car accident victims, and help them obtain compensation. Call us at 302-656-5445 or complete our online form for a free consultation and more information. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we proudly serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.