The Road Respect Tour is a way to increase knowledge and awareness of safe cycling. Since more bikes are sharing the roads with vehicles and accident statistics are rising, The Utah Department of Transportation, Zero Fatalities and the Department of Public Safety have sponsored a bike ride across Utah from June 13–18. The goal of this program is not to blame one party for the cause of accidents. It is to teach both drivers and cyclists the rules of the road, so that both parties can respect one another.

The ride began in Logan on Monday with a main group of 25 professional Road Respect Tour riders who will use proper cycling etiquette and obey road rules. As they travel through cities, however, these riders will participate in educational community events called Road Respect Rallies or Road Respect Stops. The public is encouraged and invited to participate in the riding and events in their town.

On June 13 the riders for the Road Respect Tour began in Logan and went through Ogden and Farmington for the first day. June 14 they traveled through Salt Lake City, Park City and Provo. June 15 they will travel to Nephi, Moroni, and Manti. June 16 they will travel to Moab and take the Dead Horse Point loop. June 17 they ride from Torrey to Loa and the ride will finish on June 18 when they ride from Panquitch to Springdale and finish in Hurricane.

For more information about the Road Respect Tour and specific events held in each town visit http://roadrespect.utah.gov.

Utah Personal Injury Lawyers Information

As bicycle advocates in the State of Utah we understand the extreme importance of educating cyclists and drivers about how to co-exist on the road. When bicycle accidents happen they are not easy for anyone involved. If you or a loved one has been in an accident visit us at www.utahbicyclelawyers.com to learn more about your rights and options after an accident. We will provide you with information that will empower you to come out on top in your bicycle accident case. Contact the Utah personal injury lawyers at the Christensen Law Firm for a free consultation at 801-506-0800 to find out how they can help you.

Friday, May 20 is National Bike-to-Work Day, so anyone is invited to dust off their bike and commute a different way, but Utah also has another event going on to participate in National Bike Month; UTA is hosting its 14th Bike Bonanza and SLC Bicycle Company is hosting the 3rd annual Bicycle Art Show.

Utah’s Bike Bonanza for National Bike Month

Bike Bonanza is hosted in downtown Salt Lake at the Gallivan Center located at 239 South Main St. from 4:00-8:00 p.m. This event is free to the public and offers free Clif Bars, Creamies, pizza and soda. The first 75 children to attend will receive free bicycle helmets, while the first 300 adults will receive free water bottles.

The goal of National Bike Month is to inform the public about bicycle safety and provide them with the information they need, so in keeping with this intention this event offers venders and information for every type of bike user whether it be a racer or a pleasure rider.

To entertain the family there will be a bike rodeo from 4:30-6:30 p.m. A free raffle for bike gear, accessories, and bikes from Specialized will begin after the show at 6:30 p.m. Bike Trials Stunt Shows will also begin at 4:00, 5:00, 6:00 and 7:30 p.m.

Utah’s Bike Art Gallery Roll for National Bike Month

Beginning from 6-9 p.m., SLC Bike Company at 177 East 200 South turns their shop into an art gallery to bring attention to Salt Lake’s bike culture. They also leave the art work up for a few weeks after the event.

Although National Bike Month wants to make the roads safer for bicyclists, safe experiences aren’t a guarantee. If you or a loved one has been in a bicycle accident, contact the experienced Utah bicycle attorneys at the Christensen Law Firm for a free consultation (801) 506-0800.

KSL reported that a driver caused a Utah bicyclist versus car accident at one of Sandy's busiest intersections October 21, 2010. Construction at the intersection at 10600 South and 1300 East has created chaos in the area. The roads are partially destroyed and there are construction crews everywhere. In addition, many of the lanes are very narrow. The incident occurred around 6:50 a.m., while it was still dark. A cyclist was headed west on 10600 South when the driver of a car coming in the opposite direction made a turn in front of the bicyclist. They collided, launching the cyclist five feet from the car. Investigators say the driver was concentrating on making a narrow turn and trying to avoid hitting another car. Nonetheless, according to Utah Bicycle Laws, the driver of the car would be liable for this accident as the bicyclist clearly had the right-of-way.

Many bicycle traffic accidents can be prevented if we simply keep a better lookout for pedestrians and cyclists. Though many people think that bicycling is especially dangerous, bicycling is actually generally safe. Cycling has lesser deaths per mile as compared to pedestrians and lesser fatality per hour as compared to passenger vehicle users.

The knowledge necessary for ensuring safety can be learned from the traffic code and from advice from other cyclists. Strength, bike handling skills, and experience are also important factors in bicycling. Before hitting the streets with your bike, be sure to get a free copy of our Utah Bicycle Accident Handbook. This book explains Utah bike laws and details what types of insurance every cyclist must have. This book is FREE at www.UtahAccidentBooks.com.

One of the best bicycle shops in Utah, Infinite Cycle has teamed up with the Christensen Law Firm to offer FREE copies of The Utah Bicycle Accident Handbook written by Attorney Kenneth L. Christensen.

This book is packed with invaluable information regarding car insurance and how it becomes applicable after a bicycle versus car accident. It also summarizes Utah bicycle laws and explains how cars should treat cyclists on our roadways.

Infinite Cycles is unique in that it offers Lifetime Service on all their bikes. This means you'll never have to pay for a tune up again! That's atleast $122 a year savings.

If you are looking for a bike shop near Riverton or Bluffdale, Utah, I strongly encourage you to contact Infinite Cycles.

During the past month, there has been substantial increase in the number of clients who have come into my office after their own auto insurance company required them to have an Independent Medical Examination (IME). In each case, the medical doctor authorized that insurance benefits to be suspended. This made the client financially responsible for their medical treatment. Despite the fact that the clients’ own medical physicians prescribed them the medical treatments, due to the IME, their own insurance company was able to basically cut them off from receiving the medical insurance benefits needed to pay for the treatment. Surprised and angered that they were so easily taken advantage of by their own insurance companies, these Utah accident victims came to the Christensen Law Firm for help.

These victims of Utah accidents followed their insurance adjustor’s advice to get the IME because it was their own insurance company. They were paying monthly premiums for auto protection for accidents like this, right? Wrong. Unfortunately, this is a common misperception that many Utah accident victims fall for.
“Even if you pay your premiums and have purchased a good insurance policy in the effort to protect you and your family in the case of an emergency, the insurance company’s bottom line is all that they care about,” states Attorney Ken Christensen, author of The 7 Biggest Mistakes that Can Wreck Your Utah Accident Case.

Three Reasons to AVOID an IME

1. Understand the Real Purpose behind an IME

All Insurance companies are for-profit-companies. Every dollar an insurance company saves from spending on your medical treatment is a dollar they make. In fact, insurance adjusters are rewarded with bonuses for this. In their efforts to make more profit, your insurance adjuster will try everything to get you to stop treating and to accept the lowest settlement offer possible. An IME is one of the most damaging tactics used by insurance companies. Remember; never trust your own insurance company interests over your own.

2. Why IME’s are Never Beneficial

Have you ever wondered why your own doctor doesn’t conduct the IME? The insurance company claim an “independent source” should conduct the exam; however, it is the same insurance company who employ the medical doctors that perform the Independent Medical Examination. This means that the insurance company both chooses who the IME doctor is and pays the doctor’s fees. In other words, these medical doctors are paid to find results that are approved by the insurance company. The insurance company is not going to hire a doctor that isn’t going to make them money. In fact, they have a group of doctors that always conduct these IME tests.

Additionally, if your accident case goes to trial, the defense council will require an IME. If you have already had an unfavorable IME performed by your insurance company, you have highly risked the outcome of your personal injury claim. You will now have two IMEs that state your medical treatment was unwarranted.

3. Speak to an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney ASAP

If any insurance company requests that you have an IME conducted, you should contact an experienced Utah personal injury attorney right away. Firstly, a reputable personal injury lawyer is able to set up attorney liens with medical professionals so you don’t have to pay for your medical treatment out of pocket. With an attorney’s lien, your medical doctors will agree to wait for payment until your case is settled. Your health and recovery should remain the priority. A skilled Utah personal injury attorney will ensure your rights and livelihood are protected even if your own insurance company won’t.

If you or a family member has been injured in a Utah accident that was caused by the negligent actions of another, you can contact the skilled Utah personal injury attorney’s of the Christensen Law Firm for a FREE no obligation consultation to discuss your legal rights and options. We understand the complexities of the insurance world and how to navigate successfully through them so you and your loved ones receive the settlement you deserve. Contact us today at 801. 506.0800.

Dangers of Texting While Driving on Utah Roads

On August 2, 2009, Hailey and Shawn were driving northbound on I-15 near the 2-15 Belt Route when traffic slowed down to a stop due to the construction on the freeway. A young man, who was texting while driving, failed to notice and rear-ended Hailey and Shawn. The at-fault motorist was driving 65mph on impact and totaled Hailey’s Honda Civic. Although the vehicle was equipped with air bags and our clients were wearing their seatbelts, they both hit the windshield with their heads and sustained serious injuries to their heads and faces.

Hailey was transported to the hospital for immediate treatment for her head trauma, hip contusions and neck injury. Shawn received treatment for his spinal injuries and back injuries as well as for his multiple facial lacerations from the broken glass. To this day, he still suffers from memory loss and headaches. However, Shawn considers himself lucky. There were construction workers on the road near where the accident occurred. If the at-fault driver had hit these workers while he was distractedly driving, someone could have been killed in this Utah texting and driving car accident.

Texting while driving has increasingly become a safety problem for Utah motorists and their passengers. Despite it being against Utah State Law to text and drive, reckless motorists continue to send or read texts and emails while driving which puts everyone at risk of being involved in a fatal car accident. Join with Zero Fatalities, Oprah’s No Phone Zone, and Utah Bike Coalition to put an end to texting while driving in Utah.

When Insurance Adjusters Win, Accident Victims Lose

Despite the fact that the at-fault driver was breaking the law by texting and driving, when he caused the Utah car accident, Allstate Insurance Company only offered Hailey and Shawn $2,000.00 more than their medical bills. Understandably, Hailey and Shawn were disappointed and distraught at Allstate’s settlement. The at-fault driver’s blatant negligence caused several damages to this young Utah couple including:

• over $10,000 in medical bills,
• total loss of their vehicle,
• months of treatment, and
• Shawn was laid off from his job. Due to his injuries, Shawn was not physically able to keep with his workload.

Insurance companies, like Allstate, will not offer a reasonable settlement when they realize that the accident victims are not being represented by an experienced personal injury attorney. Too often insurance adjusters are successful in manipulating innocent accident victims. Insurance adjusters are rewarded through raises and bonuses for every dollar they don’t pay out in your personal injury claim.

Statistics demonstrate that by hiring a good personal injury attorney, victims receive an average of 3x larger settlement offers from Insurance Companies than if they filed a personal injury claim on their own.

Three things NOT to do When You are Involved in a Utah Accident

• Don’t speak to the at-fault party’s insurance company adjuster before speaking with an experienced Utah car accident attorney
• Don’t give recorded statements to anyone. Despite what the insurance adjuster says, you are not required to give a recorded statement to your own insurance company or the at-fault insurance company.
• Don’t sign any documents until you have spoken to a skilled personal injury attorney.

How Do I NOT Wreck my Car Accident Case

The best way to protect yourself when you have become a victim of an automobile accident is to educate yourself.

• Educate Yourself.
Read 7 Biggest Mistakes that Can Wreck Your Utah Accident Case. This informative resource was written my founding partner of the Christensen Law Firm. Ken Christensen’s book will guide you through complex legal and insurance jargon to help you prepare for the battle ahead.
• Ask an Attorney.
Take advantage of the FREE consultation with the Christensen Law Firm, PLLC, and meet with a real attorney in a setting where you can ask all of your questions and get answers.

The annual Utah Safe Kids Fair will be held this weekend Friday February 26 through Saturday February 27 at the South Towne Expo Center in Sandy, Utah. The goal of the program is to promote healthier living habits to Utah residents and to educate parents and their children about how to enhance their personal safety. Organizers expect more than 25,000 people will attend this free family oriented event. There will be games, informational booths, live music, raffle drawings, and many prizes. KUED confirmed that 200 helmets and 50 car seats will be given away.

The event is guaranteed to be a great educational resources as many of sponsors of the Utah Safe Kids Fair are experts in the medical field, health care and safety departments including Zero Fatalities, Unified Fire Authority, Utah Safety Council, the Salt Lake Valley Health Department and Primary Children’s hospital. As Utah personal injury attorneys, we have witnessed the catastrophic consequences of Utah accidents. Tragically, many of the accidents that injure or claim the lives of our children are preventable. We urge you and your family to take part in educational safety events.

Are Utah's Children at Risk

Utah has a wonderful reputation for being a state that values family and community. The Salt Lake Valley is considered a beautiful Mecca for raising families. In fact, the US Census Bureau estimates that 36% of residents are under the age of 18. With such a large child population it is important that Utah resident teach youngsters how to stay safe.

Child Accident Statistics

Traffic Accidents
• Nearly 250,000 children are injured every year in car accidents.
• The National Highway Traffic Safety Commission found that 72% of the 3,500 randomly inspected car seats were being incorrectly used. This means that at least 72% of children are improperly restrained in their car seats.
• Child pedestrian accidents account for 30%of all fatalities involving children under the age of 15 years.
• Approximately 50 children are injured or killed every week as a result of vehicles backing up.

Accidents

• More than 200,000 children ages 14 and younger are treated at the emergency rooms each year for playground related injuries
• Around half of the injuries on playgrounds are severe including: fractures, internal injuries, concussions, dislocations and amputations.
• 60% of the 1 million reported dog bite attacks each year involve injury to a child.
• More than 130 children die every year in bicycle accidents.
• 270,000 children are injured in bicycle accidents every year.

Hiring the Right Utah Children Accident Attorney

It is very important for parents and guardians of injured children to get legal guidance as soon as possible from a personal injury lawyer that has experience with the unique Utah laws that affect children’s rights and parental responsibilities. The consequences from a Utah accident could have lifelong affects for your child. Make sure the compensation your child receives will is just and fair for your child. If your child was injured in the State of Utah, you can turn to the attorneys of the Christensen Law Firm, PLLC. We are a client –centered firm that focuses exclusively on personal injury law. Please feel free to contact us today at 801.506.0800 to discuss your accident case.

Enhance Your Medical Treatment with Physiatry

Personal injuries resulting from automobile, bicycle and motorcycle accidents often times affect various parts of the human body, necessitating different forms of medical treatment and specialization. Physiatrists coordinate multiple areas of medicine for an all-inclusive approach to treating a patient who has sustained numerous injuries.

Case Study

In 2007, when my client Maria was involved in a pedestrian verses automobile accident in Utah, she sustained spinal cord injuries, a broken leg and head trauma. Clearly, Maria had a long road to recovery ahead of her. Her physiatrist coordinated the medical treatment to enhance and build upon each other with the goal of bringing Maria to her maximum medical recovery stage in the most efficient and thorough manner.

Consequently, Maria was able to treat with an orthopedic surgeon to repair her broken femur and a physical therapist to restore strength and mobility. Maria then treated with a chiropractor and massage therapist for her neck and back pain. Finally, the symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that Maria suffered from her minor head injury were addressed by a licensed psychologist.

What is Physiatry?

• Physiatry, commonly referred to as Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) is a specific area of medicine that takes on a comprehensive approach to solving neurological and musculoskeletal problems within the human body using less invasive procedures than surgery.

• Physiatrists are medical doctors who aim to find the source of pain symptoms their patients have and treat the ailment holistically until the patient has reached his/her optimal functional capability.

• Physiatrists emphasize the importance of addressing all the intricate parts associated with the illness, disability or injury in order to restore one back to his/her best possible health.

Comprehensive Plan of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Physiatrists take on a multidisciplinary approach to treating patients that have a broad range of personal injuries and medical ailments. These conditions include:

• Chronic Pain Management
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Spinal Cord Injury
• Amputation
• Sports Injuries
• Accident Injuries
• Stroke
• Musculoskeletal Pain syndromes
• Nerve Pain
• Neck and Back Pain
• Psychological Issues

According to the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, the complete plan of physiatry may include a large range of medical doctors and medical professionals. To give you an idea of how broad these health professionals are, following are a few that victims of personal injury accidents commonly treat with:

• Physiologists
• Physical Therapists
• Chiropractor
• Massage Therapist
• Occupational Therapists
• Speech Therapist

Your Health is the Priority of the Christensen Law Firm, PLLC

There are many Salt Lake City personal injury attorneys that promise fast settlements and quick cash into your pocket. However, this is not always wise or best for your interests if you have been injured in an accident. Your health is the number one issue to address when you have sustained injuries. The experienced attorneys at The Christensen Law Firm are committed to ensuring that your medical treatment is complete, meaning that you are brought back to the best possible health you can be following a personal injury accident. We will ensure you medical treatment is covered by the at fault party’s insurance and that you receive a full and just settlement for your damages and suffering. For a Free, NO obligation consultation by one of our experienced Utah personal injury attorneys, please call 801.506.0800.

A Salt Lake City bicycle accident victim passed away this morning. Twelve-year-old Jacob Park had been battling for his life the past two weeks after suffering critical injuries in an accident that took place September 22. Jacob was riding his bike around 8 p.m, when he was struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Chase Lane and 400 West. According to investigators, Jacob had been wearing dark clothes at the time of the accident, and did not have reflector lights on his bicycle. The driver of the vehicle did not see him. The force of the impact threw Jacob to the ground, inflicting him with severe head injuries. His family made the difficult decision to take him off life support, and he passed away this morning. We offer our deepest sympathies with the Park family as they mourn the loss of their loved one.

As the days get shorter, it is important to remind your children of proper bicycle safety precautions for riding in the evening. An important rule is “dress to be seen.” At night, make sure your children are wearing bright, reflective clothing to enhance their visibility to motorists. Also, every bicycle should be equipped with a white light in the front and a red reflector light in the back. And of course, always make sure your child does not go riding without a safety helmet. For more Utah bicycle safety tips, read the article “Top Ten Safety Tips for Utah Cyclists to Avoid Accidents,” just one of many Utah bicyclist resources in the Christensen Law Firm’s online library.

Some events in life are out of our control. Even when we adhere to ever safety guideline, accidents can still occur. When a Utah bicyclist is struck by a car, he/she has very little protection against serious injury. The physical recovery can be long and arduous, requiring follow-up surgeries, physical therapy, and time off of work. These medical bills can quickly add up, creating even more stress to an already burdensome recovery. If you have been in a Utah bicycle accident, you may consider seeking legal representation to help you receive a proper settlement. Allowing the best Utah bicycle accident lawyer to handle your accident case will provide you the peace of mind and freedom to focus on your physical and emotional recovery. Contact the expert Utah injury lawyers at the Christensen Law Firm for a free consultation at 801.506.0800. We will provide you with personal service to your case, diligently working to ensure you receive the settlement you deserve.

Date: July 28, 2009

Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon

Type: Utah bicycle accident, Utah large truck accident

The Salt Lake Tribune has reported a serious Utah bicycle accident that took place in Little Cottonwood Canyon early this morning. According to police, a delivery truck was driving uphill around 7:30 am. This morning as the sun came over the hill around 8200 East. The truck was in the right lane of a passing zone, allowing faster traffic to pass. A 37-year-old bicyclist from Draper was also in the right lane. The truck driver saw the bicyclist at the last minute and tried to avoid him. However, the truck’s mirror struck the bicyclist, who was thrown off his bike and fell down the embankment on the side of the road. The cyclist was flown to University Hospital in critical condition, suffering from spinal, neck, and head injuries. He also sustained broken bones. Police believe the sun played a factor in this accident, reducing the trucker’s visibility. Nonetheless, this professional driver is clearly responsible for this accident. The truck driver was cited for driving too close to a bicyclist. We wish the cyclist a full recovery from his injuries.

The cyclist was wearing a helmet this morning. This was a very smart safety precaution and likely spared him from even more serious head injuries. However, it appears that he has still suffered some head trauma. A common form of head trauma is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), which can result in serious symptoms and high medical costs. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1.4 million people sustain a TBI every year. Bicyclists are especially susceptible to TBI in bicycle vs. automobile accidents, even if the cyclist involved is wearing a helmet. For more information on Utah TBI statistics, symptoms, and treatments, visit the “Traumatic Brain Injury” section of the Christensen Law Firm’s online personal injury library.

If you have been injured in a Utah bicycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you are entitled to full and just compensation for your damages. The Utah bicycle attorneys at the Christensen Law Firm provide superlative legal representation to bicycle accident victims. We will provide you with dedicated and personal service to ensure you receive the settlement you deserve. For a free consultation on your legal rights, call us at 801.506.0800.

Car versus Bicycle accidents are on the rise in Utah and the subsequent injuries and damages associated with these type of accidents can be extremely serious. The complications arising from these kind of accidents are numerous, especially when trying to understand what type of insurance will cover the damages. Insurance policies can be difficult to decipher, and many Utah cyclists are unaware of their legal rights when it comes to bicycle insurance.

Kenneth Christensen, founder of the Christensen Law Firm, has represented many Utah bicyclists, ranging from cyclists injured in triathlons to commuter bicyclists hit by cars making illegal left-hand turns. In this video, Mr. Christensen explains some of the insurance issues bicyclists face following a Utah bicycle accident. For example, did you know that if you are hit by a car while cycling, the motorist’s PIP insurance will cover your initial medical expenses? In addition, the driver’s liability coverage may cover such compensations as your pain and suffering, outstanding medical bills, and future medical bills and then your own car insurance will provide additional coverage. Watch the following video to find out more information on Utah bicycle accident insurance from Utah’s leading bicycle attorney. If you have been injured in a Utah bike accident, contact the Christensen Law Firm for a free consultation on your legal rights at 801.506.0800.

Date: April 28, 2009
Location: Kamas, UT
Type: Utah bicycle accident, Utah pedestrian accident

A Utah bicycle accident that took place in August 2008 was not much of an “accident” after all. According to KSL News, Alexander Jason Barto hit a bicyclist with his vehicle, saying he was trying to make a point about bicyclists blocking the road. Barto claims he attempted to ask a group of bicyclists to ride in a single file line last August and accidentally hit one of them. The bicyclist suffered injuries and his bike was ruined. Barto pleaded guilty to third-degree felony aggravated assault for the crash. By pleading guilty, he was able to have two misdemeanor charges dropped. The judge sentenced Barto to 30 days in jail. He must also take an anger management class and pay $13,000 in damages to the bicyclist.

Whether intentional or unintentional, if you have been injured in a Utah bicyclist or pedestrian accident, you are entitled to receive just compensation. Bicyclists have all the rights to be on the road with cars and are fully protected by the laws of Utah. When a bicyclist is in a traffic accident with a vehicle, the injuries can be extremely severe. Every year, over 580,000 bicyclists visit the emergency room due to traffic accidents. The expert bicycle accident attorneys at the Christensen Law Firm are well-versed in personal injury and bicycle accident laws. We know what it takes to win your case and we will work with you to ensure you receive the highest settlement possible. We recover damages for pain and suffering, lost wages, medical expenses and emotional distress. For a free consultation, please contact the Christensen Law Firm at 801-506-0800.

Date: April 21, 2009
Location: 1400 East and 900 South
Type: Utah hit-and-run accident, Utah pedestrian accident, Salt Lake City bicycle accident

KSL News reported a serious Utah hit-and-run accident involving a bicyclist on Tuesday morning. According to police, the cyclist was crossing the street in downtown Salt Lake City and a car suddenly turned into him. The impact was severe enough to cause the rear tire of the bike to land 20 feet away from the rest of the bicycle. The woman driving the car exited the vehicle, looked at the cyclist, and proceeded to reenter the car and drive away. The cyclist suffered injuries, including facial injuries, and was taken to the hospital. Investigators believe the woman is between 20 and 40 years of age with brown hair. She was driving a green Saturn. If you have any information on this accident, please contact your local authorities.

Did you know that hit-and-run accidents are on the rise nationwide? And as more and more people take up bicycling and walking as modes of transportation, pedestrian accidents are increasing. Statistics show that 11% of all automobile accidents nationwide are hit-and-runs, which equates to almost 700,000 victims each year. Studies also show that hit-and-run accidents have increased by 20% since the year 2000.

Hit-and-run accidents can be especially harmful to a victim’s finances, as the responsible party is absent from insurance responsibilities. For more information on hit-and-run accidents, visit the Christensen Law Firm’s website.

Kenneth Christensen, founder of the Christensen Law Firm, has written the original Utah accident book entitled “7 Biggest Mistakes That Can Wreck Your Utah Accident Case.” This book offers advice and important insight Mr. Christensen has gained from years of experience as Utah’s premier personal injury attorney. The Utah accident book has provided countless Utahns with important information they need after suffering from a car or truck accident. The state is buzzing about Mr. Christensen’s book! The Utah accident book was featured on Studio 5, KSL’s morning show, and “Speaking on Business with Fred Ball” on KSL Radio. If you or a loved one have been injured in a Utah accident, you cannot afford to be without this book. Best of all – “7 Biggest Mistakes” is completely free for Utah residents. Simply visit www.UtahAccidentBook.com to request your free copy today. See why former Allstate insurance adjustor Chad Despain said, "No one should talk to an insurance adjustor or hire an attorney until they've read this book!"

As more and more Utah residents turn to bicycles for their daily commutes, safety advocates are encouraging cycling awareness. On April 7, 2009, Gov. Jon Hunstman Jr. joined the safety advocates by signing a ceremonial copy of a bill that will establish a new “Share the Road” license plate. According to the Salt Lake Tribune, Utah motorists can obtain this license plate for a $25 extra registration fee. Proceeds for the license plate will go to the Utah Bicycle Coalition to help promote bicycle safety education. The new plates have a white background with blue numbers under a red “Utah.” Just below the numbers the plate says “SHARE THE ROAD.” Bicycle advocates hope that these plates will promote driver awareness and act as a visible reminder to share Utah roads with bicyclists.

Pedestrian and bicycle accidents are on the rise nationwide. Every eight minutes, a pedestrian is injured in a traffic accident. Even worse, a fatal pedestrian accident happens every two hours. Please remember to be aware of your surroundings and to “share the road” with bicyclists.
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If you would like more information on Utah bicycling, including bicycle laws, helmet laws, and injury statistics, just click on the following links:

Bicycle Safety Tips
Utah Bicycle Laws

Date: March 30, 2009
Location: 1400 North and Beck Street (300 West)
Type: Salt Lake City bicycle accident, Utah hit and run accident Lawyer

Salt Lake City police are investigating a mysterious bicycle accident that took place on Monday, March 30, 2009. A bicyclist was found lying face down in the street last night at around 10:00 pm near downtown Salt Lake City. When he was found, the man was bleeding from his head and face. He was rushed to the hospital and is in serious condition. Detectives are approaching this case as a hit-and-run accident. There is a bicycle lane on the road where the victim was found and investigators discovered skid marks near the scene of the accident. Authorities believe a vehicle possibly ran over the curb and hit the bicyclist. If you have any information pertaining to this case, please call Salt Lake City police at 801.799.3000.

Although it can be a felony to leave the scene of an accident, hit-and-run cases are becoming more common in the United States. Research and statistics reveal that 11% of automobile accidents nationwide are hit-and-runs. Each year, 700,000 people are victims of this type of accident, 900 of which are killed. Along with the physical pain and detriment of injuries sustained from hit-and-run accidents comes the monetary stress. Because the at-fault party has fled the scene of the accident, the victims of hit-and-run cases are stuck footing their medical bills. To avoid such a situation, you may wish to ask your insurance provider if you are protected by Uninsured Motorist Coverage. For more information on this type of insurance and on statistics pertaining to hit-and-run cases, you can read our informative isurance coverage article from the Christensen Law Firm’s website.

Two young boys were involved in two separate Utah bicycle accidents on February 26, 2009. According to KSL News, an 8-year-old boy was riding his bike to school in Salt Lake City and a vehicle suddenly struck him. The crash took place while the boy was crossing 700 East at the crosswalk near 600 South. The driver of the car was turning from 600 South to northbound 700 East and failed to see him. The boy was rushed to the hospital and suffered from ankle and wrist injuries.

A 14-year-old boy in Eagle Mountain was riding his bike near the intersection of Pony Express and Ranch Parkway when he was hit by a car. Fortunately, the young man did not sustain any injuries although the car bumped him off his bike. The police checked him for injuries and then was sent back on his way to school. Please be sure to keep an eye out for bicyclists and pedestrians, especially as the weather is beginning to warm up. Always watch for pedestrians before entering an intersection.

KSL News reported a serious Salt Lake City, Utah bicycle accident that took place on February 9, 2009. 61-year-old, Leroy Martinez was riding his bicycle early in the morning close to downtown Salt Lake City. He was riding north in a crosswalk at 1352 North and 830 South when he was suddenly struck by a Mazda. Police officials say the driver of the car saw the bicyclist but was unable to stop in time. Leroy Martinez was taken to the hospital in critical condition, but later died from his injuries. The accident is still under investigation, but the police allege that Mr. Martinez suddenly cut back into the car's lane of travel.

As more and more people are using bicycles for their commute, the rates of accidents are also increasing. In 2007, over 700 bicyclists died on the road. 90% of these fatalities resulted from accidents involving a motor vehicle. In Utah, an average of 940 bicyclists are injured each year. Additionally, an average of 7 Utah bicyclists die from traffic accidents every year. If you are riding your bike, please be sure to follow standard safety measures, including the use of a helmet. If you are a Utah driver, please keep your eye out for pedestrians and bicyclists and always remember to share the road.

Even though the media and police are quick to place fault with Mr. Martinez instead of the driver of the car, the Martinez family would benefit from talking to an experienced Utah Wrongful Death Lawyer to ensure the accident is properly investigated and all legal options are fully considered.

Located in the heart of Weber County, Ogden city is the home of over 80,000 Utah residentss. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to this city for incredible rock-climbing routes and hiking trails. Kayakers venture down the Ogden and Weber Rivers while skiers enjoy the powder of Snowbasin, Powder Mountain, and Wolf Mountain resorts. Ogden is also a satellite city for the Sundance Film Festival. Weber State University is located in this city, bringing with it a diverse college student population. Ogden has a rich history in Utah and is the closes city to Promontory Point, where the First Transcontinental Railroad was connected in 1869.

Interstates 15 and 84 run along the outlying suburbs of Ogden, connecting the city with the rest of the Wasatch front. Along with these commuting conveniences comes a share of Utah traffic accidents. The Ogden accident and personal injury attorneys at Christensen Law Firm have successfully represented traffic victims in Ogden and other cities throughout Utah. Our attorneys are experts in personal injury laws, dedicating themselves to the client’s they serve.

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KSL News reported that many Utah car accident victims are refusing to take the ambulance to the hospital after car accidents. Last year alone, about 2,600 people in the Salt Lake Valley declined an ambulance ride, instead driving themselves to medical care facilities. Authorities attribute this to the cost of ambulance trips, ranging between $800 and $1200.

While it seems common sense for someone suffering a few bumps and bruises to decline the ride, some people with traumatic injuries are opting out as well. Regardless of the seriousness of an injury, paramedics have no choice but to leave if a victim refuses an ambulance.

However, in Utah every automobile is required to have PIP Insurance which automatically has atleast $3,000 available for medical expenses resulting from a car accident, no matter who's at fault for the accident. Therefore, if emergency personnel feel you should be transported by ambulance, do not decline for fear of payment. Earlier this year a Utah woman refused life-flight transportation and instead took ground transportation by ambulance, but died on the way to the hospital. If she would have been transported by life-flight, she may still be alive today.

According to KSL News, a bicyclist was riding down a hill in Salt Lake City the evening of December 3, 2008 near 1300 East and 800 South when a car failed to keep a proper lookout and made a left-hand turn in front of the bicyclist causing the car and bike to collide. The man on the bicycle was seriously injured when he was thrown into the van's windshield. He was transported by ambulance to the hospital and is in critical condition.

The news report says that the bicyclist may have been traveling fast down the hill, but that requires further investigation and ultimately does not matter. The driver of the van is clearly responsible for failing to yield the right of way and for failing to keep a proper lookout. If the insruance company for the van fails to accept 100% liability, the bicyclist would be well advised to contact an experienced Utah Bicycle and Pedestrian accident attorney.

Accordingly to KSL news, a bicyclist suffered serious injuries when two cars collided at 2100 South and Main Street in Salt Lake City on September 4, 2008.

The injured bicyclist, who has not yet been identified, was pedaling southbound on Main Street when a car t-boned another car, causing it to hit the cyclist. The innocent bicyclist was transported by ambulance to a local hospital in critical condition.

I offer my condolences to all victims involved in this accident and wish everyone a fast and full recovery.

The victims of this accident would benefit from consulting with a Utah Pedestrian and Car Accident Attorney as several insurance policies may be applicable. I have represented people injured in similar accidents and it is always a fight to get insurance companies to accept responsibility when more than one vehicle is involved. An experienced Utah personal injury lawyer can ensure this innocent bicyclist receives full compensation for his injuries and damages.

MSNBC report, Deadly Tension on the Road - Cars vs. Bikes, explains that Bicycle sales are soaring since gas prices have reached more than $4.25 a gallon. Previous reports also show that there are more motorcycles on the roads. Sadly, this has lead to an increase in fatal bicycle and motorcycle accidents.

Not only do motorist need to keep a better look out for these smaller drivers, all bicyclist and motorcycle drivers should be fully educated on the rules of operation before sharing the roads with cars and trucks. Contact your state DMV for specific information.