Multiple Automobiles Recalled by GM for Potential Fire Hazard
General Motors has announced the recall of the Buick Rainier, the Chevy Trailblazer, the GMC Envoy, the Isuzu Ascender, and the Saab 9-7X vehicles of the 2006 through 2007 model years. There is an issue with the driver’s door wherein fluid might enter the module, lead to a corrosion-induced short-circuit, and potentially cause a fire…. read more
New Jersey Lawmaker Wants Drivers to Buckle Up Their Pets
An assemblywoman seeks to enact a law in New Jersey requiring dogs riding in cars to wear animal-modified seat belts. The proposed law would fine drivers $20 for ignoring the law and charge them with possible animal cruelty. Some legislators, though, argue that this law is unnecessary and are pushing for less harsh consequences for… read more
Research Says Elderly Pedestrians Endangered More Than Elderly Drivers
In both the United States and Great Britain, officials have placed an increased emphasis on stringent licensing requirements that must be met in order for an elderly person to obtain a driver’s license. Many people are under the impression that driving ability is likely to suffer as an individual gets older and faces deterioration of… read more
Mythbusters Prove Cellphone Driving Is As Dangerous As Drunk Driving
This next story is an oldie but a goodie. A couple years back, the gang from Mythbusters decided to test out something that is still cause for much debate nowadays. They attempted to determine whether or not talking on a cellphone while driving is actually as dangerous as being intoxicated behind the wheel. This issue… read more
Rahul Ravipudi Examines Danger on the Docks
In an issue of The Advocate from last year, Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP’s own Rahul Ravipudi discussed the threat to safety posed on the docks by workers who engage in drug and alcohol use while on the job. If this substance abuse leads to an injury of another party, the ensuing discovery process… read more
Stoughton, Massachusetts Teens to Experience Distractology 101
The Hardy Insurance Agency in Stoughton, Massachusetts is hoping that simulation technology will give teenage drivers a look at the dangers of texting and driving. The Arbella Insurance Foundation Distractology 101 tour is being hosted by the agency. The tour is an interactive program that will be offered this August to teens in an effort… read more
Indianapolis Officials Support AT & T’s “It Can Wait” Campaign
AT & T has formed a program called “It Can Wait” which encourages drivers to put off texting until they are done driving. State and business leaders in Indianapolis are trying to dissuade drivers from engaging in this high-risk behavior and are partnering with AT&T in their efforts. TV ads will be used to show… read more
Distracted Driving Laws Could Net States $17.5 Million in Grant Money
The NHTSA will issue $17.5 million in funds to states with distracted driving laws that allow police to pull drivers over specifically for that offense. It is hoped that the states can use the money to both enforce the law and educate people about the danger of distracted drivers. The NHTSA will also receive $5… read more
Black Box Vehicle Data Information Standardized by NHTSA
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has ruled that vehicle event data recorders popularly known as black boxes will have to display standardized information. Experts believe that the ruling could mean we’re not far away from a future ruling mandating such devices in new vehicles. The ruling takes effect at the beginning of October. Privacy… read more
Citations Replace Warnings for Beachwood Cellphone Ban Violators
The reprieve is over in Beachwood, Ohio. Beachwood Police have stopped giving warning tickets for distracted driving and now will hand out citations for those talking on cell phones or using any type of electronic device while driving. Hands-free electronic devices remain legal. Violators can expect to pay a $101 fine. Police have the power… read more
Ontario Distracted Driving Law Under Fire in New Editorial
A recent law banning distracted driving in Ontario has come under fire due to its lack of clarification on what constitutes distracted driving. Drivers in the province are banned from using cellular devices while driving, but recent incidents have demonstrated that tickets are not being issued in other cases of distracted driving. In particular, the… read more
Reporter Gets Firsthand Look at V2V Testing in Ann Arbor
Keeping distracted drivers safe is the goal of the new Vehicle to Vehicle technology. The author of a report about the testing of such technology in Ann Arbor got to take a ride in a luxury car, although other types of cars can be outfitted as well. Equipped with V2V, the car alerts the driver… read more
