Magna Teen Still in Critical Condition after Being Hit by a Car

We rarely think of the reality that our children are vulnerable when they walk to school. The risk of injury is especially increased when motorists speed, drive distractedly, or use their cell phones in school zones. On February 8, 2010, 14-year-old Macala Holloway was struck by a motor vehicle while she was walking to school. The pedestrian verses auto accident occurred around 7 a.m. near 8550 West and 2700 South in Magna, Utah.

The Unified Fire Authority confirmed that Macala Holloway was in the designated crosswalk when the distracted driver struck her and threw the young teen more than 100 feet. “It amazes me. I mean we’re not talking about freeway speeds but it amazes me the force [of impact],” Lt. Don Hutson explained to ABC 4 news reporter Marcos Ortiz regarding how the at-fault driver’s speeding contributed to the devastation of this auto accident. Macala sustained catastrophic injuries and was life flight to the University of Utah Hospital where she remains today, almost two months after the horrific accident. Brittney Lancaster, the 20-year-old driver of the Dodge Neon that struck Macala was not injured. She was cited for failing to yield for pedestrians and speeding in a school zone. Police officers are waiting for cell phone records before adding any additional charges.

Our thoughts and prayers are extended to the family members and friends of Macala Holloway during this most difficult time. The lives of the two young women and their families will forever be changed due to the reckless speeding and driving behavior of one of the young women, who was the at-fault driver.

What You Need to Hear About Utah School Zone Speeding Laws

According to Utah State Law, failure to obey traffic control devices such as school zone lights and signs, driving too fast for conditions and failure to yield are all Class C misdemeanors. However, if the at-fault motorist causes death to a pedestrian or another motorist when committing these misdemeanors, the penalty of a Class A misdemeanor of negligent homicide will be added to the charges. In the State of Utah, those guilty of negligent homicide will serve prison time. Also, the fees associated with speeding tickets double in school designated zones.

Utah Speed Law Violation Facts

According to the Utah State Statutes related to speed and to the Utah Administrative Code (UAC): a person may not operate a vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the existing conditions, giving regard to the potential hazards then existing.

If the following speed limits are exceeded, the at-fault motorist is considered to be traveling at speeds not reasonable and therefore will be issued a speeding ticket in addition to other charges.
The Statutory Speed Limits are as follows:

• 25 mph in an Urban District/Residential area
• 20 mph in a “reduced speed school zone”

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an Utah Accident, it is well advised to contact a skilled Utah personal injury attorney that has experience in pedestrian accident cases and wrongful death claims. The attorneys of the Christensen Law Firm understand that the legal process can be emotionally draining for your family. We can help. You can contact us at our main phone number at 801.506.0800 to set up a FREE no obligation consultation with an attorney that can answer all of your questions.

5 year-old Yazlin Setino of Ogden was killed in a single car rollover accident on I-15 near Paragonah, Utah, in the early morning hours of Saturday, March 27, 2010. Utah Highway Patrol Troopers say the young child’s grandparent was driving a Toyota Tundra when the pickup hit a patch of ice, went off the road and rolled three times before landing upside down. Yazlin Setino was partially ejected from vehicle and died at the scene of the accident. Troopers confirm that the young girl was not in a booster seat or restrained properly. The three adult passengers suffered minor injuries and were transported to Valley View Medical Center in Cedar City.

I offer my deepest condolences to the family of the young Yazlin Setino for their sudden and tragic loss. As a parent of a toddler, I cannot imagine the amount of grief that this family is currently enduring. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this difficult time.

Liability Issues: Child Safety Seats are Required by Utah Law

One the most difficult aspects of this tragic fatal rollover accident is the fact that the child was not restrained properly in a booster seat which may have saved her young life. In May 2008, Utah legislation increased the requirement for children to use child safety seats and booster seats from four years of age to eight years of age.

Since the new Child Safety Restraint Legislation has taken affect, the Utah Department of Health estimates that booster seat use increased from 35% to 46%; however, that vast majority of Utah parents still do not properly restrain their children. As the tragic rollover accident demonstrates, Utah residents, who do not wear seatbelts or properly restrain their children in child designated safety seats, risk devastating and catastrophic consequences if they are involved in a Utah car accident.

Statistics on Child Restraint Use by Utah Residents

On February 8, 2010, the Utah Department of Health has released their annual Legislative Fact Sheet of Child Restraints in Motor Vehicles. The following statistics were taken from this report:

• 2008, there were 2,662 children ages 5-7 injured in Utah traffic accidents
• 2,604 or 98% of the children were passengers in the motor vehicles
• Unrestrained Children are 4 times more likely to suffer serious injury than children properly restrained in booster seats

For more information about motor vehicle safety, visit the Utah Department of Health Violence & Injury Prevention Program or our main website of The Christensen Law Firm, PLLC, at www.utahpersonalinjurylawfirm.com. Please feel free to contact our skilled Utah accident attorneys if you have any questions about your Utah accident case at (801) 506.0800.

While most states have passed laws prohibiting texting while driving, the New York Times reports that Utah has the nation’s toughest law on texting while driving. Utah treats texting and driving as serious as it pursues drunk driving. More Utah residents are killed in motor vehicle crashes caused by texting than from car accidents caused by motorists driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. To date, Zero Fatalities reports there have been 23 fatalities on Utah roads.

Texting and Driving Kills Two Utah Scientists

Utah’s strict legislation against texting and driving is a result of a 2006 Logan, Utah, car accident that killed two scientists. Reggie Shaw, 19, was recklessly texting while driving when he inadvertently crossed the center lane and crashed into the vehicle carrying James Furaro, 38, and Keith P. O’Dell, 50. The two men died from the injuries they sustained in this tragic Utah texting car accident. Mr. Shaw is currently serving his prison sentence and is an advocate for the Utah’s Zero Fatalities Campaign to eliminate texting while driving in Utah.

Utah Law against Texting while Driving

Since the implementation of the new law in May of 2009, a police officer catches a motorist texting while driving, the motorist’s faces up to three months in jail, a $750 fine and a misdemeanor on their record. If this motorist causes an auto accident that result in the injury or death of another, the penalty is a felony charge, $10,000 fine and up to 15 years in prison.

Texting while Driving is a Criminal Offense in Utah

While drowsy driving and texting while driving are both considered forms of distracted driving, a Utah motor vehicle collision caused by texting while driving is considered a criminal offense and not an accident. “It’s a willful act,” said Lyle Hillyard, a Republican state senator stated in the NYT interview. “If you choose to drink and drive or if you choose to text and drive, you’re assuming the same risk.” If someone is killed in an accident caused by texting, the at-fault motorist will be charged with negligent homicide in the state of Utah as it is considered an inherent reckless decision to choose to text and drive.

A Skilled Salt Lake City Auto Accident Attorney Can Help

Attorney Kenneth L. Christensen and The Christensen Law Firm, PLLC, know the laws relating to Utah personal injury. While we cannot undo the harm that’s been done, we can provide you and your family with a sense of security and comfort through compensation from the parties responsible for you loss. Of equal importance is the change that a suit can bring about. We are dedicated to ending the practice of texting while driving.

If you have lost a loved one or have been injured due to negligence of another, we urge you to contact us at (801) 506-0800.

Around 1:30 am this Tuesday morning of March 23, 2010, the life of 25-year-old Michael A. Peterson of Salt Lake City was claimed in a tragic car accident at the intersection of South Temple and E Street. Michael Peterson was killed on impact in the head-on-collision with a Honda SUV. His passenger and the driver and one of the passengers in the SUV were transported to a local hospital in critical condition. The second passenger of the SUV was listed in fair condition.

I offer my deepest sympathies to friends and families of the victims of this tragic car accident. I hope they each recover fully and quickly from the injuries they sustained in this fatal Utah car crash. My thoughts and prayers are with the family members and those who knew and loved the late Michael Peterson.

The Cause of the Fatal Salt Lake Car Accident

Salt Lake City Police Lieutenant Gary Layton reported in KSL news interview that Mr. Peterson was driving a silver Volkswagen Jetta Southbound on E Street and was struck by a Honda Passport SUV in the intersection when he attempted to turn East. The impact of this fatal Utah car accident was so severe that police were surprised the occupants of the mangled vehicles were not extricated by the Jaws of Life. Nor could officers tell initially which directions the vehicles were headed due to the violent impact. One passenger of the SUV was in fair condition and has been cooperating in the investigation. Thus far, police officers have not ruled out the possible involvement of drugs or alcohol as contributing factors in this catastrophic Salt Lake City Car accident. The investigation is ongoing and the names of the injured victims have not been released.

Salt Lake City Fatal Car Accident Statistics

In 2008, there were 30 car accident fatalities and 8 pedestrians killed in Salt Lake City alone. Each year over the past ten years, the number of Salt Lake City car accident fatalities more than doubles the average number of persons killed in Utah car accidents statewide.

Wrongful Death Claims in the State of Utah

The family members of the injured victims and the deceased are well advised to speak to an experienced Salt Lake City wrongful death and personal injury attorney. As the investigation is ongoing, there are several key pieces of evidence and liability issues that need to be accounted for. Attorney Kenneth L. Christensen has written the Utah Accident Book to educate Utah residents of the time sensitive manner of personal injury claims and steps on how victims and their families can protect themselves. By calling the Christensen Law Firm, PLLC, at (801) 506-0800, you can order a Free copy of this invaluable resource and even schedule a consultation to speak to a skilled attorney without any obligations. We can assist you to navigate the complex insurance issues and the Utah legal process during this most difficult time.

As a parent of a teenager, you’re constantly on the lookout for possible dangers. Driving is both a rite of passage and a huge responsibility that Utah teenagers take on. Tragically, car accidents are the leading cause of death among Utah teenagers and teens nationwide.

On March 18, 2010, US News Media Group published its findings for teen driver safety in its report Best States for Teen Drivers, which will be featured in the April Issue of US News and World Report Magazine. US News gathered government statistics on the 11 variables that affect teen driving safety including safety belt use, teen DUI/DWI, distract driving, cell phone use, average vehicle miles traveled per teen and the number of teenagers that have a driver’s license in each state. The report also examined each state’s road safety conditions including driving laws, road conditions and weather.

The US News Best State for Teen Drivers is as follows:

1. District of Columbia
2. California
3. Colorado
4. Maryland
5. Illinois
6. New Jersey
7. Oregon
8. Minnesota
9. Utah
10. Washington

Statistics on Fatal Utah Motor Vehicle Crashes Involving Teenagers

The Violence, Injury Prevention Program (VIPP), of the Utah Department of Health, confirms that Utah automobile accidents are the leading cause of death for Utah teenagers ages 15-19 years old. Each year, Utah car crashes result in the deaths of 40 teens, 330 hospitalizations and 5,400 emergency department visits each year for Utah teenagers.

• Utah Teens account for only 7% of Utah Drives; however, they are involved in 27% of all motor vehicle crashes in Utah and 18% of all fatal Utah car accidents.

These grave statistics demonstrate the dire need for Utah residents to take action in solving why teenagers are disproportionately prone to being involved and even killed in car accidents. As skilled Utah personal injury and auto accident attorneys, we have seen the catastrophic effects of teenage car accidents on families and communities. According to a recent Allstate Foundation study, parents are the #1 most important driving influence on teenagers.

A Call to Action to Utah Parents

• Enforce Concept that Driving is a Privilege
-Studies show that teenagers obey and respect their parents when adequate rules and consequences are established. Parents have a huge influence on the safety of their children.
• Set Teen Driving Rules
-No Cell Phones. Period. Utah distracted driving accidents are preventable.
-Always wear seat belts. Passengers must always wear their seat belts too.
• Early Curfew-Drowsy Driving is a leading contributing factor to 80% of Utah Accidents.

Why You Need the Best Salt Lake City Car Accidents Lawyers

Dealing with insurance companies is frustrating and the consequences of the decisions you make will affect your child’s future. It is important for parents and guardians of injured teenagers to get legal guidance ASAP from experienced Salt Lake City Injury and Car Accident attorneys. If your child was injured in the State of Utah, you can turn to the Christensen Law Firm, PLLC.
Call today for a free consultation: (801)506-0800.

New information has become available on the Utah fuel tanker crash that occurred in the early morning hours of March 17, 2010 on Interstate 15 near Roy. According Deseret News reporters, the Utah Highway Patrol will be filing charges, with the Weber County Attorney’s office, against the semi truck driver that include possession of drug paraphernalia and lane travel violation. The UHP confirms that drowsy driving is the cause of this Utah semi truck accident. Authorities are waiting on the toxicology report to confirm whether the semi truck driver was high on drugs at the time of the accident. If positive, the truck driver will face criminal charges as the state of Utah aggressively pursues drug and alcohol laws especially when they deal with motorist safety.

According to the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration, driver drowsiness is the major contributing cause of 80% motor vehicle collisions nationwide.

Public Costs of Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving substantially increases the risk of causing a catastrophic car accident. The damages that result are many. Most often the injuries that result from drowsy driving are catastrophic and even fatal. It is a miracle nobody else was hurt in yesterday’s semi truck accident in Utah. Also, road blocks and investigations are intensive for these kinds of Utah car accidents which cause traffic congestion or standstills for hours. Thirdly, Drowsy driving accidents usually involve one vehicle striking a median, guard rail, building or another vehicle which results in thousands of dollars in property damage. When large trucks are involved the damage can result in millions of dollars. UDOT spokesman Vic Saunders confirmed that in yesterday’s semi truck accident, a 25 feet long section of the freeway had to be replaced. “The asphalt tends to be eaten up by the diesel spill and now the road is unstable,” Saunders reported. This is not good news to Utah tax payers who are a main contributor to Utah’s road maintenance.

Utah Semi-Truck Fatal Accident Statistics

A special task force of the US Department of Transportation, The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), investigates and collects data on all trucking accidents nationwide. In their most recent trucking accident report, the FMCSA reported there were 133,719 large truck accidents nationwide, resulting in 71,329 injured persons and an additional 4,229 deaths. In 2008, there were 1,811 large truck accidents in Utah alone. 32 of those Utah semi truck accidents involved fatalities.

Semi Truckers Most Likely to be Guilty of Drowsy Driving

The American Trucking Association reported that 25% of their truck drivers suffer from sleep apnea and should not be driving due to intense fatigue syndrome. There is great difficulty in proving that the cause of a fatal Utah semi truck accident is due to drowsy driving unless several pieces of time sensitive information such as driving log, rest log, maintenance logs, are collected and preserved. These items are rarely obtainable without a legal injunction by a skilled Salt Lake City trucking Accident Injury attorney.

Time is NOT on Your Side in Utah Semi-Truck Accidents

Trucking accidents are not like typical Utah motor vehicle accidents. For one, insurance claims are complex as the truckers are most likely insured by national firms. Also, special rules and regulations apply to truckers and trucking companies. The damages caused by Utah tractor-trailer accidents can be devastating. Federal Law requirements are in place to protect victims; however, the large national trucking firms like Swift Trucking, destroy the federal mandated trucker tracking information under a policy called “document retention policy”. Legally, trucking companies have to keep the driver’s qualification file and other evidence for a short time period—often time the grace period is only 30 to 60 days—before they are allowed to purge files of old records. The elimination of evidence that would prove the semi truck driver was guilty of drowsy driving would be forever lost as well as the victim’s right to a fair and just settlement.
It is highly advised that if you are injured or someone you know has been injured or killed in a semi truck accident that you contact the skilled Salt Lake City Trucking Accident Injury attorneys at the Christensen Law Firm at (801) 506-0800.

Fiery Utah Tanker Crash Spills Thousands of Oil on I-15

St. Patrick’s Day did not begin well for Interstate 15 commuters near Roy who are in a traffic standstill this morning. Around 5 am on March 17, 2010, the 55-year-old driver of a semi pulling two fuel-filled tankers crashed into the median on the 5600 South overpass on I-15. The Salt Lake tanker accident spilled over 5 thousand gallons of oil and caught fire. Emergency crews quickly responded and put out the fire before any explosions. Fortunately, there were no other vehicles involved in this potentially catastrophic Salt Lake semi truck accident. The driver of the semi has been treated minor injuries.

Drowsy Driving Caused this Utah Semi Truck Accident

Although the Utah Highway Patrol has administered a blood test to the driver of the semi in order to find out if this Salt Lake City semi truck accident case is alcohol related, ABC news reports that the driver of the semi has admitted to falling asleep behind the wheel when the Utah Tanker accident occurred.

Utah Statistics on Drowsy Driving Fatalities

Data from the Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) demonstrates that Utah has averaged 1,200 crashes and 32 deaths per year that are caused by drowsy driving. Nationally, each year 100,000 motor vehicle crashes are caused by fatigued drivers—killing more than 1,500 Americans and injury another 71,000 Americans.

UHP officer Lee Perry stated in a recent KSL interview, “Being a drowsy driver, being a tired driver, is a dangerous driver. You’re just as dangerous as any drunk driver we’re ever going to see out there and we’ve got to stop people from driving that way.”

Sleep Smart Drive Smart Campaign provides an interesting fact: Being awake for 20 hours strait is equal to a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% which is legally drunk and leaves you at risk for a crash.

If you or a loved one has become a victim of a semi truck or big rig accident, it is well advised to contact a skilled Salt Lake City trucking accident attorney that can advise you of your legal rights and benefits. Feel free to contact The Christensen Law Firm, PLLC, at (801) 506-0800.

In the early morning hours of Sunday March 14, 2010, tragedy struck the close-knit Ogden community when nineteen-year-old Joseph Michael Barela crashed into a concrete wall. His passenger, Mikel James Rhoades, 20, also an Ogden resident, climbed out of the destroyed Chevy Cavalier and to find help from a nearby neighbor. When Mikel realized the car started on fire, he quickly returned and pulled Barela out of the burning car. Sadly, Barela died at the scene of this Davis County car crash. Mr. Rhoades was transported via ambulance to McKay-Dee Hospital in Ogden.

What Caused this Davis County Car Accident?

According to the initial investigation, Ogden police Sergeant Chris McAllister reports that alcohol and speeding are the contributing factors of this fiery Utah car crash. The driver, Mr. Barela, was traveling at speeds over 60mph in a 45 mph zone near Ogden neighborhoods around 4 a.m. before losing control and driving through two yards, three driveways, hitting numerous trees and shrubs before finally striking a concrete wall at the residence of 1144 12th Street. The Salt Lake Tribune confirms that no criminal charges have been filed at this time.

I offer my deepest condolences to the families of Joseph Barela as they mourn the sudden loss of a son and nephew. I pray that Mikel Rhoades recovers completely from his injuries.

Liability Issues

This Davis County Utah car crash was indeed catastrophic. At this point in the investigation, Mr. Barela seems to be the at-fault party. It would be well advised that families of both victims meet with a skilled Davis County personal injury attorney that can help guide them through understanding their rights and insurance benefits that are applicable in this tragic car accident. Often times, the complex legalities of insurance policies when dealing with the sudden loss of the loved one can feel overwhelming. The compassionate and experienced Davis County personal injury lawyers of the Christensen Law Firm, PLLC, can help you and your family.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a Utah car accident, please do not hesitate to contact us at (801) 294-9500. We offer an FREE no obligation consultation with a skilled attorney, so that you and your family can get informed and protect your interests.

The driver of the Chevy sedan, Alex Amundson, 21, and his passenger Donald Callison, 18, were killed in an car accident with a southbound TRAX train on Thursday evening of March 11, 2010. The two surviving passengers, believed to be in their early twenties or late teens, remain at Intermountain Medical Center in critical condition.

The car verses TRAX collision occurred around 7pm near Central Avenue in South Salt Lake, about 150 West and 4100 South. Unified Police Department Capt. Clinton Smith confirmed that the crossing arms were down when the late Mr. Amundson, the driver of the Chevy sedan, decided to go around those safety arms in the attempt to beat the train. The TRAX train was going full speed of 55mph when it struck the Chevy sedan, dragging the car 300 feet before it stopped. Fortunately, the force of the impact did not cause the train to derail. The sixty-plus passengers on the southbound TRAX train were not injured.

My heart goes out to the families of these young men who were killed in such a sudden and unexpected Utah car accident. I pray that the two victims, who remain in grave medical condition, may recover fully from their injuries. This is such a tragic accident; please keep the grieving family in your prayers.

Three Ways to Prevent a Car Accident with TRAX Trains

The U.T.A. TRAX transit has been a remarkable addition to the commuting system of the state of Utah. However, in order to maintain commuter rail safety Utah motorists, pedestrian, TRAX riders and others need to be alert and take steps to share the road. The Utah Transit Authority reminds motorists to abide by the following rules:

• Rule #1: Turn left across the tracks only at designated intersection.
• Rule #2: Never stop on the tracks or go around crossing gates when they are down.
• Rule #3: Don’t race the train or try to beat it through a crossing.

Your Options when You are in a Utah Car Accident

The victims’ families in such cases, would be well-advised to seek the counsel of a skilled Utah personal injury lawyer that has extensive experienced in wrongful death claims and working with the insurance companies of government agencies. In fact, there are two statutes of limitations, according to Utah law, that are applicable to this particular accident. These laws significantly reduce the amount of time a claim can be filed; therefore, experienced Salt Lake City wrongful death attorneys can ensure that your legal rights are protected within the stipulated deadlines.

Where negligence or reckless behavior is involved injured victims and families of deceased car accident victims can file personal injury claims and wrongful death claims to seek compensation for their damages. The attorneys of the Christensen Law Firm, PLLC, specialize in assisting victims of Utah Car accidents. Don’t hesitate to call us today at 801.506.0800 to set up a FREE no obligation consultation with one of our experienced Salt Lake City personal injury lawyers.

Kristen Kay Taylor, 25, of Salt Lake City was tragically killed in a multi-vehicle accident on Wednesday afternoon of March 10, 2010. Utah Highway Patrol reports that the heavy snow storm over I-15 near Cedar City created such limited visibility that a serious of catastrophic car accidents took place within minutes.

Facts of What Caused the Fatal Car Crash

13 vehicles were involved in 3 separate car collisions that tragic afternoon alone. Ms. Taylor was a victim of the second accident. The first crash involved two vehicles and two tractor-trailers. Five cars stopped for the initial car accident. Ms Taylor, driving a Kia Spectra, stopped behind a tractor-trailer but the semi truck driving behind her did not stop in time. The semi truck struck Ms. Taylor’s Kia with enough force to smash it against the semi in front of her. A third car then hit the semi, causing further damage.

Ms. Taylor was killed at the scene of the car accident. Utah Highway Patrol Trooper Cameron Roden stated in a Salt Lake Tribune report that the male passenger in the Kia, believed to be Ms. Taylor’s fiancée, was seriously injured and his arm amputated may have to be amputated. He was taken to Dixie Regional Medical Center in critical condition. Several passengers and drivers of the multi-car crash were also taken to the hospital for medical treatment.

I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friend who loved and knew Kristen Kay Taylor. I will keep them in my prayers as they go through the difficult grieving process of losing a loved one so suddenly. I also pray for Ms. Taylor's finance that he may recover. I hope that the other injured victims heal from their injuries quickly and completely.

Fault and Liability

It appears that the driver of the semi truck is liable for the wrongful death of Ms. Taylor and the injuries to her passenger. The at-fault driver could be held liable for the accident, injuries and damages caused by his negligent driving behavior. The personal injury and wrongful death claims may be complex as the trucking agency is probably from out-of-state. A skilled wrongful death attorney has expertise dealing with national insurance companies and Utah Law. The experienced Salt Lake City personal injury attorneys at the Christensen Law Firm help Utah victims and their families better understand their legal rights and options so they can focus on healing from their tragic loss.

If you or a loved one has become a victim of a Utah accident or a wrongful death accident, feel free to contact the Christensen Law Firm for a FREE consultation at 801.506.0800.

A sixteen-year-old girl was ejected from the side window of a suburban that was involved in a multi-car crash in Riverton on Tuesday morning of March 9, 2010. Utah. ABC News reports that after being thrown through the glass window, the young woman immediately picked herself off the ground and got back into the car. Fortunately, emergency crews from Unified Fire arrived and assessed that the victim was in shock and in serious condition with possible internal injuries and severe pelvic trauma. Life flight quickly responded and transported the young girl to Intermountain Medical Center where she received medical treatment. The driver and passengers of the Jeep and the second passenger of the suburban all sustained injuries and were transported to the hospital via ambulance.

What Caused this Near Fatal Utah Car Collision

The multi-car accident occurred at 12600 South and 2700 West near Riverton High School. A suburban attempted to complete a left hand turn and instead T-boned a Jeep traveling with oncoming traffic. The force of the impact propelled the Suburban into another collision with a vehicle that was stopped at the intersection.

Citations have not yet been issued, as police are still investigating the cause of the car accident. All passengers have PIP insurance under the insurance policies of the vehicle they were riding in. In such cases, victims can seek compensation from the at-fault party for medical expenses, lost wages, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation, physical therapy and other related expenses.

Riverton Accident Statistics

There were four deaths involving road traffic accident in Riverton, in 2008, according to the Utah Highway Patrol’s traffic accident statistics. Two of these fatal Riverton Car accidents were caused by drunk drivers

If you or a loved one have been seriously injured, you need an experienced Salt Lake Valley personal injury lawyer. The Christensen Law Firm, PLLC, has the legal expertise in the areas of car accidents, motorcycle accidents, wrongful death and related law practices. We have helped accident victims recover from tragic Utah accidents and we would like to do the same for you.

Summary of Elevator Injury Accident Near 40 East and 100 South

On Monday, March 8, 2010, a brick mason fell 40 feet from scaffolding inside an unfinished elevator shaft at the City Creek project located in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah. According to a Salt Lake Tribune news report, the nearest access point to the construction worker was about 20 feet above from where he had landed from his fall. It took emergency crews 45 minutes to hoist the injured victim through a rope-and-pulley system to ground level for medical treatment. The victim was taken to a local hospital with massive trauma over his entire body. He is currently listed in critical condition with possible brain trauma he sustained in this Utah accident. Investigators are still looking into what caused this man to fall from his work site and whether or not the City Creek project supervisors had implemented proper safety protocols.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the victim and his family of this tragic Utah accident. The extent of the victim’s internal injuries has not yet been released. I hope that the injuries he sustained are not catastrophic and that he will heal fully and quickly.

Fault and Liability Issues

Based on this news report, officials are still investigating the responsibility and possible fault of the company that the City Creak development project is under or whether the victim is responsible for this tragic accident. Since the project is state funded, the State of Utah can also be held responsible. As Salt Lake City personal injury attorneys, we remind the victim and his family that this accident case is an intricate one with many questions and many insurance companies to coordinate and work with. We remind the victim that even the time frame to file a claim can be reduced to a year due to the Utah statute of limitation when a government entity is considered a liable party. We highly recommend that the victim speak to an attorney as soon as possible to investigate whether City Creek safety managers are responsible, if OSHA safety standards were met and whether there were proper safeguards put in place at the spot where the victim fell like safety harnesses or restraints.

How to Protect Yourself

In such complex cases such as this one, an experienced Salt Lake City personal injury lawyer will be able to advise victims about their legal rights and options. A knowledgeable accident attorney will have experience working with Worker’s Compensation Fund, the State of Utah and understands how health insurance policies applies to cases involving private companies, government entities and personal injury.

The Christensen Law Firm, PLLC, will provide a free consultation to the injured victims and their family members. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and legal options please feel free to give our experienced attorneys a call at 801.506.0800.

Fatal Head on Collision with Semi Truck Kills One and Critically Injures Another

Immense tragedy struck two families on Saturday afternoon of March 6, 2010. 24-year-old Trent Walker of Utah County was driving home from a funeral service near Birdseye, Utah, when he was involved in a fatal car crash with a semi truck. Utah Highway Patrol Trooper Todd Johnson confirmed that Mr. Walker crossed the center line and caused a head on collision with a semi truck. Mr. Trent Walker died at the scene of this horrific accident and Mr. Slobodan Spanovic, the 45-year-old driver of the semi truck was flown to University of Utah Hospital in Critical condition. The Salt Lake Tribune reported this morning that Mr. Spanovic has now been released from the hospital.

My heart goes out to both victims of this terrible car verses semitrailer accident. I pray that Mr. Walker’s family and friends have support as they go through the difficult process of grieving the sudden loss of a loved one. I hope that Mr. Spanovic fully recovers from the serious injuries he sustained in this tragic accident.

What Caused this Fatal Utah County Car Accident?

Aggressive driving behavior may have been a factor in this accident. Utah Highway Patrol confirmed in a KSL news report that the driver of the pickup truck was trying to pass another car at the time of the head on collision with the semi truck. U.S. Highway 89 in Spanish Fork Canyon is a curvy mountainous road that offers limited visibility of oncoming traffic. As personal injury attorneys that serve victims of Utah County automobile accidents, we highly advise waiting until a designated passing lane is available before attempting to pass slower traffic. Crossing the center line in order to pass traffic is an example of aggressive driving according to the Federal National Safety Council and it is against Utah State traffic laws. The fatal consequences of such driving behavior occur much too frequently.

Finding an the Best Utah County Personal Injury Attorney

In such cases, victims’ families would be well-advised to seek the counsel of a reputed Utah County car accident lawyer who is also experienced in wrongful death and big rig/ trucking accidents. Where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, victims can file a personal injury claim to receive compensation for medical treatment, property damage, loss of income and more. Also, the families of the deceased victim may be able to file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation to cover funeral expenses, lost of future earning, loss of love and companionship and other related damages. Please contact attorneys Ken Christensen or Russ Hymas, two of the leading experts of trucking and car accident claim, at the Christensen Law Firm, PLLC, if you have been injured or have any questions about your legal rights. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case.

Salt Lake County: (801) 506-0800
Utah County: (801) 224-2999
Davis County: (801) 294-9500

U.S. Coast Guard Helicopter Crashes in Utah's Uinta Mountain Range

Rescue crews report that the crew members of the U.S. Coast Guard helicopter are fortunate to have survived the Utah helicopter crash that occurred Wednesday, March 3, 2010 near Silver Meadows Lake in Wasatch County. Deseret News reports that this MH-60T Jay Hawk helicopter and another Coast Guard helicopter were returning to North Carolina from the state of Washington where they had been deployed as part of a joint U.S.-Canadian operation for recent 2010 Winter Olympic Games held in Canada.

Utah’s Mountainside make for a Difficult Rescue

The helicopter accident victims were able to get cell phone coverage to call and text for help. It still took the Wasatch and Summit rescues teams more than an hour to reach the Utah helicopter accident site by snowmobile after they had been notified about the accident. Rescue was difficult due to the steep slopes, dense pine forest and deep snow of the Uinta Mountain range. In fact, authorities report that helicopter debris was stuck in the branches of pines trees 100 feet in the air. It is a miracle that the pilot was able maneuver such a crash landing in Utah’s treacherous mountain terrain.

The second Coast Guard helicopter returned and was able to take part in the rescue. The entire crew of the helicopter involved in the crash, which includes four men and one woman, were flown to the University of Utah Hospital for treatment. Three crew members suffered critical injuries including two with serious internal trauma. All three are expected to recover fully from their injuries. The other two crew members appear to be uninjured but have been hospitalized for precautionary observations. An investigation is still being conducted into what caused this tragic helicopter crash.

It truly is amazing that the five crew members of this aviation accident were not killed or sustain life-threatening injuries. As Wasatch county sheriff stated, “They’re very lucky people. He must’ve been one heckuva pilot.” We continue to pray for their speedy and complete recovery.

Aviation Accident Statistics

The most recent statistics on aviation accidents and fatalities are compiled by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), an independent U. S. Federal agency that investigates all civilian aviation accidents that occur within the Unites States.

• In 2008, 1,649 civilian aviation accidents which resulted 564 fatalities nationwide
• 1,559 general aviation accidents which resulted in 495 deaths nationwide in 2008

Finding an Expert Aviation Lawyer in Utah

The search to finding an expert Utah aviation accident attorney can be quite difficult. Most firms do not have experience with this intricate area of law. With the increased popularity of Utah residents owning personal aircrafts, the skilled Salt Lake City personal injury lawyers at the Christensen Law Firm, PLLC, have witnessed more occurrences of general aviation accidents than before.

Whether your tragic aviation accident happened in a small private plane, commercial airliner or helicopter, your personal injury claim is of great concern to us. Aviation law is complex and liability claims can quickly become convoluted. An expert lawyer in plane crashes is essential to ensure your rights are respected and your interests protected.

If you have been seriously injured or lost a loved one in an aviation accident we urge you to contact one of our experienced aviation lawyers at 801.506.0800 to set up a FREE, no obligation, consultation to discuss your legal rights and options.

Fatal Rollover Accident Details

On the morning of Monday March 1, 2010, 17-year-old Eaity Emich of Utah died after being involved in a fatal rollover accident on I-84 in Idaho. The driver, 20-year-old Rex Sanasan of Clinton, Utah, had fallen asleep at the wheel, which caused the vehicle to veer off the road. Mr. Sanasan awoke and overcorrected, which caused the vehicle to roll several times. The three passengers, Eaity, Bennett Barry, 22, and 9 –year-old Keio Takky, who were not wearing their seatbelts, were ejected and sustained critical injuries. Bennett and Keio remain in serious condition at St. Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise. Mr. Sanasan and his front-seat Passenger Kevin Elimo were wearing their seat-belts on this fatal car accident and have been treated at Twin Falls Hospital for non-critical injuries. The Deseret News reports that alcohol was not a factor in this tragic rollover accident that killed one Utah teenager.

I offer my deepest condolences to everyone who knew and loved Eaity Emich for their tragic and devastating loss. My heart goes how to the driver Mr. Sanasan and his injured passengers for the difficult times that lie ahead. I hope they all will heal emotionally and physically from this catastrophic event. Please keep them in your prayers.

Drowsy Driving Kills

Fatigued or drowsy driving is just as dangerous as being an intoxicated or impaired driver. If you are tired and in danger of falling asleep, your reaction time to avoiding collisions or potential road hazards is significantly reduced. If you fall asleep, you lose that ability to react completely and will most likely overcorrect your vehicle while in panic mode when you are awakened. If you are tired its best to pull over—it’s impossible to predict when you may accidentally doze off. The lives and safety of yourself, your passengers and other motorists are threatened when you engage in drowsy driving.

How do you know if You are a Drowsy Driver?

• You can’t stop yawning.
• You drift out of the lane or hit a rumble strip.
• You don’t keep a constant speed—you slow down or speed up frequently.
• You don’t remember the last few miles you have driven.
• You have “monkey mind” or wondering thoughts.
• You can focus or keep your eyes open.

National Statistics

The National Security Council predicts that these figures are a far below the actual numbers of accident caused by drowsy drivers each year due to the difficulty to prove that the motorist fell asleep or was falling asleep at the wheel when the accident occurred.

• Each year 100,000 reported car crashes are directly caused by drowsy drivers
• 72% of adult American men surveyed admitted to drowsy driving in the last year
• 54% of adult American women surveyed admitted to drowsy driving in the last year
• 37% of adults have report to having “dozed off” for a short time last year

The Importance of Contacting an Experienced Utah Auto Accident Lawyer

The time to file a car accident claim is limited, which makes contacting a skilled Utah Car Accident Lawyer as soon as possible of vital importance. Attorney Kenneth L. Christensen and the Christensen Law Firm, PLLC, know the Utah laws relating to personal injury and wrongful death as they deal with particularly auto accident claims. We see far too many victims who are forced to bear the financial burdens of an automobile accident or wrongful death claim because the time has lapsed for them to receive benefits that are available now. Protect yourself by speaking to a qualified Utah personal injury lawyer.

If you or someone you love has suffered through an auto accident injury and you feel it is the result of the negligence of another we urge you to contact us online or call us at 801.506.0800 to set up a FREE consultation to discuss your legal options.

On Monday, March 1, 2010, a 52-year-old man was killed when the car he was driving was T-boned by a pickup truck. As family members are still being informed of this tragic loss, the name of the deceased victim of this fatal Salt Lake accident has not been released. The driver of the truck failed to stop at the stop sign at the intersection of Main Street and 3530 South and caused the three-car-accident. According to Deseret News, the driver of the truck was upgraded from critical condition to stable condition. The driver of the third vehicle suffered minor injuries and has already been released from the hospital.

My deepest condolences go out to the friends and family members of the victim. This sudden and tragic loss will be difficult. I encourage these family members to speak to an experienced wrongful death attorney before making any decisions. I also pray for the speedy recovery of the drivers of the pickup and the SUV who were also injured.

Have You Run a Red Light while Driving?

Distracted driving was a major factor in this fatal Utah accident. The driver of the pickup truck ran through a stop sign because he or she either did not notice the sign or he or she ignored the traffic sign. As an experienced personal injury attorney of Salt Lake County, I have noticed a terrifying trend among Utah motorists. Many motorists try to take advantage of their commute by completing other tasks while they are driving. Multitasking is not a safe or legal option when operating a motor vehicle. I highly urge motorists to focus on driving in order to prevent Utah car collisions like this catastrophic fatal accident that took place yesterday. Take the following survey to see if you are a distracted driver.

Distracted Driving Questionnaire:

• Have you missed a stop sign or ran a red light because you were not focused on
driving?
• Have been forced to come to a screeching halt because you had not noticed traffic
slowing?
• Have your passengers complained or have been startled by your driving?
• Have you inadvertently made a wrong turn or ended up at the wrong destination
because you were not thinking where you were going?

Utah Car Accident Attorneys

There are several Utah accident attorneys out there but only a few are specifically trained in wrongful death claims and plaintiff’s rights. The skilled personal injury lawyers at the Christensen Law Firm have devoted their entire practice to these areas of law; quickly becoming the experts to contact if you or a loved one find themselves a victim of a Utah accident. Attorney Kenneth Christensen has written several books including 7 Biggest Mistakes that Can Wreck Your Utah Accident Case to educate Utah residents about their rights. Contact us today at 801.506.0800 to set up a FREE no obligation consultation or to order a FREE copy of one of Attorney Christensen's legal guidebooks.

What is Defensive Driving?

The National Safety Council (NSC) has implemented an in-depth defensive driving course for motorists who have accrued enough points on their driving records that they are at risk of getting their licenses revoked. Most of these motorists have received multiple speeding tickets and have opted to take traffic school provided by the Utah Department of Motor Vehicles.

Defensive Driving is a serious skill that many motorists fail to take advantage of. More specifically, defensive driving protects motorists and their passengers from the potential dangers around them which include other vehicles, road conditions, and inclement weather conditions. Most of the hazards on the road are easily foreseen and thus these types of collisions are preventable. The fatal four driving behaviors according to the National Safety Council are:

• Speeding
• Right of Way
• Driving Left of Center
• Tailgating

Speeding Car Causes Fatal Car Accident for Utah Residents

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that speeding is a contributing factor in fatal car crashes that kill around 13,500 people every year and costs $41 billion dollars annually. In fact, exceeding the posted speed limit by 10 miles doubles your risk of death in a Utah traffic accident.

Why do People Speed?

• Failure to monitor speed
• Not allocating enough time to reach your destination
• Ignoring speed limits

Understanding Who has the Right of Way

NHTSA attributes more car accident injuries to right-of-way violations than any other improper driving behavior. Some examples of the common causes of car accidents include:

• Failure to Yield
• Not paying attention to traffic signals and signs
— For example: Is that a green turning arrow or a “yield on green” sign at the intersection?
• Rolling through a Stop Sign or Red Light instead of coming to a complete stop

Driving Left of the Center is Never Necessary

Driving left of the center means crossing the center line. Crossing the center line has a potentially fatal risk of causing a head-on collision. Remember, crossing the center line isn’t necessary. It is much wiser to avoid the practice of doing this altogether.

Tailgating Kills

Following too closely is an unsafe driving habit that contributes to road rage, speeding and motor-vehicle collisions. Rear-end accidents result in severe spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries and even death. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicles around you, so that you can stop efficiently and safely.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury you believe to be the result of the negligence of another, we urge you to contact us, the Christensen Law Firm, online or call us at 801-506-0800 (Main), (801) 224-2999 (Utah County) or 801 (801) 294-9500 (Davis County) to set up a FREE consultation to discuss your legal rights.