Koon Cook & Walters, LLC 2024-03-28T14:52:49Zhttps://www.kcw-law.com/feed/atom/WordPressOn Behalf of Koon Cook & Walters, LLChttps://www.kcw-law.com/?p=2540512023-12-19T13:42:36Z2023-12-19T13:42:36ZThe menace of mobile phones
Mobile phones have become an indispensable part of human life. However, when used irresponsibly during driving, they transform into potentially lethal gadgets. The frequent notifications, calls and the allure of texting pose a grave threat to road safety. Recent studies show drivers engaged in text messaging are six times more likely to cause an accident than those focused solely on the road.
Cognitive distractions: Beyond the surface
Distracted driving is not limited to physical actions; cognitive distractions can also increase the risk of accidents on the roadways. Daydreaming, contemplating personal issues or being lost in thought can compromise a driver's cognitive abilities, potentially impairing their reaction time and decision-making skills.
Multitasking myth
The modern world often glorifies multitasking as a symbol of efficiency. However, when it comes to driving, multitasking is a dangerous myth. The human brain struggles to focus on multiple complex tasks simultaneously, and attempting to do so while behind the wheel can have disastrous consequences. Acknowledging the fallacy of multitasking is fundamental to promoting safer driving practices.
Technological interventions for safer driving
As technology introduces new distractions, it also offers solutions to mitigate the risks of distracted driving. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and other smartphone applications are being developed to discourage distracting behaviors. These innovations aim to create a safer driving environment by leveraging technology to counteract the negative impact of its own existence.
Understanding the nuances of distracted driving is essential for combating this pervasive issue. By acknowledging the various forms of distraction, embracing technology for positive interventions and promoting a culture of responsibility, drivers can collectively contribute to safer roads.]]>On Behalf of Koon Cook & Walters, LLChttps://www.kcw-law.com/?p=2540502023-12-12T00:38:19Z2023-12-12T00:38:19ZSouth Carolina has an implied consent law
Drivers generally need to follow an assortment of different laws to maintain their licenses. In addition to obtaining a driver's license and following traffic statutes, drivers must also abide by the implied consent law.
Everyone who has a license and drives on South Carolina roads accepts the potential future need for chemical testing as a condition of retaining a driver's license. The choice to refuse a chemical test after an officer has placed a motorist under arrest is a violation of the law. The state suspends the driver's license of anyone who violates the implied consent law. Most drivers will lose their licenses for at least six months. Some people can retain driving privileges by participating in the ignition interlock device program.
Those who want to prevent the administrative suspension of their license will need to request a hearing and possibly apply for a temporary alcohol license within 30 days of the test refusal. Although officers cannot compel someone to perform a breath test, they can report someone for refusing the test and arrest them anyway.
A violation of the implied consent law does not just carry driver's license consequences. It can also impact driving under the influence (DUI) criminal proceedings. The police officer who was unable to administer the test can testify about someone's refusal to conduct a test and what that likely means about their sobriety.
Becoming familiar with the different driving statutes in South Carolina can help people better respond to traffic stops and arrest scenarios alike.]]>On Behalf of Koon Cook & Walters, LLChttps://www.kcw-law.com/?p=2540492023-10-03T15:39:45Z2023-10-03T15:39:45Zfour common ways that negligent trucks cause violent crashes that can kill someone in the other vehicle or mark them permanently disabled.
Distracted driving. A distracted driver in any vehicle can cause a disaster. But someone operating a huge 18-wheeler that is slow to brake can be especially reckless with a smartphone in their hands. Even a brief distraction from driving can be long enough to prevent a truck driver from reacting to changing road situations in time.
Drowsy driving. Long hours on the road and pressure to complete their routes quickly can leave truck drivers exhausted and sleep-deprived. Federal regulations exist to enforce sleep and rest breaks, but nodding off at the wheel is still a major contributor to trucking accidents.
Breaking traffic laws. Speed limits exist for a reason. Stop signs and traffic lights are there to let traffic flow in an orderly and safe fashion. Breaking the law by speeding, running red lights or changing lanes without signaling all raise the risk of a collision.
Poor training. Driving a commercial truck is more complicated than operating a car, pickup or SUV. It's the trucking company's responsibility to ensure a driver they hire is experienced or give them adequate training if they are not. If the company fails and puts an untrained, incompetent driver on the road, tragedy can be the result.
Getting hit by a semi can cause you lifelong impairments or cost the life of someone you love. A conversation with a personal injury attorney can help you understand what kinds of compensation you are entitled to.]]>On Behalf of Koon Cook & Walters, LLChttps://www.kcw-law.com/?p=2540482023-09-11T14:51:04Z2023-09-07T16:24:56ZReport details where drivers should exercise caution
The State, a widely circulated daily newspaper in Columbia, recently published a list of streets and roads with high accident rates across the city. Here are a few of the big ones they listed:
Farrow Road
Look up Farrow Road crash rates, and you will find no shortage of headlines detailing fatal or severe crashes along this street. Authorities even installed new traffic security cameras in 2022 to monitor activity that creates unsafe driving conditions.
I-26 West
Thousands of drivers travel on I-26 West daily through Columbia. With four lanes of traffic, a 70-mph speed limit, and a new construction project, visibility and drivability on this congested Interstate have become particularly limited, resulting in numerous accidents.
Two Notch Road
Recognized as one of the deadliest roads in America, Two Notch Road is a risky place for drivers and pedestrians. Multiple news outlets have pointed out two notorious intersections along Two Notch that give it a bad reputation, such as the intersections of Two Notch and Trenholm Road Extension, and Two Notch and Sparkleberry Lane.
The State's report concludes that most crashes on these roads and others happen from midnight to 6 a.m. on the weekends.
Seeking Help After A Crash
A few dangerous roads across the city shouldn't stop locals and tourists from exploring everything Columbia offers. Drivers can reduce their risk of getting in a crash by following traffic laws and driving defensively.
However, accidents can and still do happen. And if they do, drivers should seek immediate legal and medical help if they suffer an injury.]]>