Playing Pokemon Go While Driving May Cause Accidents

Pokémon Go has come under fire recently due to several accidents that have been caused by people who are playing the game. For those who don’t know, Pokémon Go is a location based augmented reality game for mobile devices. The game, which is available on both Android and iOS devices, works by using the GPS in a user’s phone to determine that user’s location. Based on the user’s location, the game then causes Pokémon appear around the player's character which the player can try to catch. In the past, people who played other Pokémon games were able to catch Pokémon only within the game, on the devices screen, but Pokémon Go lets users try to “catch ‘em all” in real life, which has been appealing to millions of users.

For those who don’t know what Pokémon is, it started off originally as a video game for the Game Boy device. The name Pokémon is believed to translate roughly to Pocket Monsters. Basically, Pokémon are virtual creatures that the player, or "Pokémon Trainer" attempts to catch by throwing a "pokeball" at it. Once caught, the Pokémon then belongs to the Trainer who caught it.

The reason Trainers want to catch Pokémon is so that they can train them to become more powerful, with the intent of battling other Trainers. Originally, there were two main goals or premises of the game. One was to travel around the virtual Pokémon world to defeat all eight Gym Leaders, who were very skilled Trainers. After defeating the Gym Leaders, Trainers would face off against the four best Pokémon Trainers in the game, known as the Elite Four. Once the Elite Four were defeated, there were no real goals left to achieve, except to complete the Pokédex, by catching one of every single Pokémon in the game.This was the second main goal of the game. 

Pokémon Go takes the same basic premise as the original video games, except it allows players to feel like they are actually catching these Pokémon in real life, because they only appear based on the player's location and surroundings. The application also allows players to take pictures to show the Pokémon actually appearing in their surroundings. 

While this game has been enjoyed by millions of people since it's release, it has also been causing dangerous car accidents. Since Pokémon only appear the GPS location is moving in real life, and certain Pokémon only appear in certain locations, some users are playing Pokémon Go while driving. This dangerous distracted driving has led to many accidents due to users not paying attention to the road. These accidents have ranged from single-car accidents, to multiple-car accidents, to pedestrian acciddents, and have caused a lot of people to be upset with Niantic, the company that created Pokémon Go.

In response to the complaints, Niantic has tried to put out measures in to prevent users playing Pokémon Go while driving, such as displaying an alert message whenever a user opens the app, which says “Do not play Pokémon Go while driving.” More recently, Niantic also has created a pop up message which appears when the application believes a player is going to fast, and which blocks the user from playing unless they agree that they are a passenger in the vehicle.

In addition to the safety reasons for not playing Pokémon Go while driving, Click On Detroit reports that drivers playing Pokémon Go could also face jail time and fines if caught catching and driving. Michigan has laws against reckless driving. Motorists are likely to be pulled over by law enforcement if they are a threat to themselves or others on the road.

Using Pokémon while driving is very dangerous and may result in motor vehicle collisions. If you or anyone you know has been involved in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, call The Michigan Law Firm. Whether you were hit by a driver playing Pokemon Go or any type of distracted driver, our attorneys can help you. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation.

Ford Invests $150 Million In Velodyne

Driverless cars are a concept that many have been dreaming about for years. However, we are now in an age of technology where driverless car features are not only possible, but actually exist and are starting to gain steam with big time auto manufacturers like Ford and GM. In addition to some driverless features, companies like Ford are wanting to develop a completely autonomous car. According to the Detroit Free Press, Ford is aiming to have such a car available by the year 2021.

In an effort to work towards their goal of having a completely driverless car by 2021, Ford, along with web services company Baidu, recently invested $150 million in Velodyne. Velodyne is a Morgan Hill, California based company that was founded in 1984 which produces high-end audio systems, but it is now on the forefront of the driverless vehicle frontier. Velodyne received $150 million from Ford and Baidu to continue development and production of Lidar, which is the 3-D light-powered radar that helps self-driving cars see where they are going.

Mike Jellen, the company's president and COO, said the investment will help expand development and manufacturing operations and also speed the advancement of Lidar technology. "We ship Lidar today, we have thousands of them in the field, but what automakers are really looking for are longer-range sensors and higher-resolution sensors at a lower cost," Jellen said.

Until recently, Velodyne's Lidar systems cost about $8,000 — too high to be cost effective for an automaker trying to sell to individual customers. Later this year, Velodyne will begin producing a system that could cost as little as $500 for each unit, if a high enough volume is ordered. This is good news for Ford, because it means that their goal of trying to bring a completely driver-less car to market by 2021 is starting to look like a goal that can be reached. 

One concern for customers and manufacturers of driverless cars is the issue of how safe the technology of the autonomous car is, and whether or not these cars will be involved in more or less crashes than a normal automobile. Until autonomous cars become mainstream however, we won't know exactly how safe they are. In the meanwhile, drivers should be careful while operating human controlled vehicles on the road. If you or somebody you know has been injured in a car accident, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Car accidents can cause a lot of stress which our attorneys hope to alleviate by working hard to help you. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation.

NFL Takes Precautions Against Concussions

The 2016 National Football League (NFL) regular season started  on Thursday, September 8, 2016. This is an exciting time of year for many NFL fans, as it is a brand new season full of hopes and dreams for their favorite NFL team.

Another exciting thing that comes with the start of the NFL season is the start of fantasy football. For many who play fantasy football, the hope for a new fantasy season can match or even sometimes exceed their excitement for the actual NFL season. Of course, one of the concerns that comes with fantasy football every year, as well as with NFL teams, is injuries to athletes that play this game. This year in the NFL, a new rule change is being implemented that is thought to help with reducing injuries. This year when a team receives the ball on a kickoff, and the play results in a touchback, the receiving team will be awarded the football at the 25-yard line.

In previous years in NFL history, teams were given the ball on only the 20-yard line after a touchback. The main reason behind this change is believed to be to try to cut down on concussions across the league. On a kickoff, players are usually moving faster than on almost any other type of play, and with 22 total players running full speed at each other on the kickoff, many injuries have resulted on kickoffs in previous years. The NFL has been trying to find ways to cut back on concussions in previous years, changing many rules and details of the game to try to avoid concussions as much as possible.

According to ESPN, The NFL says reported concussions in regular-season games rose 58 percent from 2014 to 2015, the highest number (182) in any of the past four years. Jeff Miller, the NFL's Senior Vice President of Health and Safety Policy said during a conference call, that the league will study what might have caused the incidence of head injuries to rise so much this season. Among the possible explanations Miller mentioned were a doubling in the number of players screened for possible concussions, "unprecedented levels of players reporting signs and signals of concussions," and that trainers who work as spotters or independent neurologists on sidelines "are much more actively participating in identifying this injury." As the season is already underway, it will be interesting to see if the new rule helps to decrease concussions from 2015 to 2016.

Brain injuries from concussions can be very serious injuries, but it isn't just NFL players who deal with concussions and the lingering issues that can stem from concussions. Concussions can also occur when involved in a motor vehicle accident, even if the accident wasn't a major one. If you or anyone you know has suffered a concussion or any other injuries from a car accident call The Michigan Law Firm today. Our attorneys are highly experienced in dealing with all types of motor vehicle accidents and will work hard to get you the help you need. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation.

Coming Soon: Regular Software Updates For Your Car

Just like your smartphone, your car may soon be able to get regular software updates to fix problems, improve performance, and to add new features. According to The Detroit Free Press, by 2022, more than 200 million vehicles around the world will be able to get over-the-air software updates according to ABI Research, a company which studies technology trends.

Nearly one-third of the defects that lead to recalls might be fixed with an over-the-air software update, resolving problems without having to make a trip to the dealership, which saves the car owner money, while also saving automakers up to $6 billion a year. “Streaming updates to cars is going to be a big play for the auto industry,” said Scott Frank, marketing vice president of Airbiquity, a Seattle-based company specializing in connected-car services. “It’s central to a lot of new things we’re working on. Phones and TVs are already updateable. Your car will be, too.”

The number of features that could possibly be affected are suprising. According to The Detroit Free Press, the first steps will include connecting to the cloud for entertainment and security functions, but Frank says nearly every aspect of how vehicles operate will be affected. Many updates that now require a trip to the dealer for a software flash, like the addition of Apple CarPlay in a car that was originally sold without it, will be handled by beaming new software to the vehicle. Software-only recalls, which would be the perfect candidates for streaming updates, affected 3.3 million vehicles in the U.S. last year. That’s nearly 5 times the number of vehicles that were affected in 2014, which is a trend that is likely to continue as vehicles add more software and electronics. Updates will include fixes, new security to keep up with would-be hackers, and adding new features.


“Adding features and improving performance post-purchase is a game-changer for the industry,” Frank said. Potential examples include new transmission programming to increase fuel economy, updated navigation information, and new infotainment apps."

The service will also make new levels of service and repairs possible. A good example would be how to deal with going over a nail or something sharp in the road. This of course would be seen as a negative inconvenience to any driver, but Frank sees an opportunity to build customer loyalty. “First, the car sends a warning message that you’re losing tire pressure,” he said. “The car could look for nearby service dealers and centers, download coupons, make an appointment and tell you that service is waiting for you 20 minutes down the road. The car is made intelligent by the data and analytics we can offer through the cloud. It improves your experience as an owner.” Frank says that vehicles capable of all these functions should be available by 2020.

These software updates could help prevent many accidents by fixing issues and bugs that could prevent your vehicle from not working properly. However, just as software can be updated, it can also malfunction or be hacked. Have you or anyone you know has been injured in a car accident due to faulty car software? If so, call The Michigan Law Firm today. Our attorneys are highly experienced in dealing with all types of motor vehicle accidents. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation.

Tired Driving Can Happen To Anyone, Even Professional Athletes

Tired driving is a bigger issue than most people realize. Sleepy drivers pose many risks that don't seem to be as talked about as drunk or distracted driving. According to the National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep in America poll, 60% of Americans have driven while feeling sleepy and 37% admit to actually having fallen asleep at the wheel in the past year. These statistics include all Americans, even professional athletes. Recently, former University of Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson drove his car into a pond.

Robinson, who is currently a National Football League (NFL) running back for the Jacksonville Jaguars, drove into a pond while asleep at the wheel over the past 4th of July. According to NBC Sports, The Florida Times-Union reported that Robinson was found asleep behind the wheel of a car by police responding to reports about a car crashing into a pond early on Sunday morning. Luckily, neither Robinson nor his passenger were hurt. According to the report, Robinson was screened by two officers and found not to be intoxicated. In a post to Twitter, Robinson indicated that he fell asleep at the wheel.


“I just wanted to let everyone know that I was involved in a single-car accident on Saturday night, and thankfully, everyone was safe and remained unharmed,” Robinson said. “I thank God every single day for the opportunities he has presented me with and I’m grateful every morning to wake up healthy. I should not have been driving that late or when I was that tired, but again, I’m just glad that everyone was safe. God Bless."

In this scenario, Denard Robinson knew he was tired but felt as though he could continue driving without danger. The problem is that many people cannot tell if or when they are about to fall asleep. Others may believe that if they pinch themselves or drink coffee, that they will not fall asleep. Many others shrug it off and attempt to drive anyway if sleepiness comes on while driving. What these people don’t realize, however, is that when you are tired, or even just a little bit drowsy, you are putting yourself and others in danger.

When To Stop And Rest 

Here are some signs provided by the National Sleep Foundation that when experienced should tell a driver to stop and rest:

•    Difficulty focusing, frequent blinking, or heavy eyelids
•    Daydreaming; wandering/disconnected thoughts
•    Trouble remembering the last few miles driven; missing exits or traffic signs
•    Yawning repeatedly or rubbing your eyes
•    Trouble keeping your head up
•    Drifting from your lane, tailgating, or hitting a shoulder rumble strip
•    Feeling restless and irritable

 

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), an estimated 1 in 25 adult drivers (aged 18 years or older) report having fallen asleep while driving in the previous 30 days. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy driving was responsible for 72,000 crashes, 44,000 injuries, and 800 deaths in 2013. However, these numbers are underestimated and up to 6,000 fatal crashes each year may be caused by drowsy drivers.

It is important for people to realize that no matter how much of a rush they are in, that if they are tired in any way, that they should not get behind the wheel of a vehicle. When taking long road trip, drivers should periodically stop, rest, and refuel as often as possible. It would even be beneficial to take long road trips with at least one other driver, so that each driver will be able to rest and take turns. Most importantly, if a driver become tired during a drive, they should immediately pull over and stop driving until they are 100% awake and energized. By following these steps and by being able to recognize tired driving, thousands of people will be able to avoid being involved in motor vehicle collisions.

Have you or anyone you know been injured by a driver that was driving tired or asleep at the wheel? If so, call The Michigan Law Firm today. Our attorneys are highly experienced in dealing with all types of motor vehicle accidents including those involving tired drivers. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation.

The Creepy Clown Craze Is Sweeping The Nation

Sightings of creepy clowns have become far to common of an occurrence in the last month and have only been increasing with Halloween around the corner. What started as a joke is not something many people are finding funny anymore. There have been reports of everything from arrests to even a death that has been attributed to these types of clown incidents. Just last month, the death of a 16-year-old in Reading, Pennsylvania was attributed to someone wearing a clown mask. According to Fox News, police in eastern Pennsylvania found a 16-year-old who was stabbed to death during a fight that broke out after a person showed up wearing a clown mask. Authorities said the incident happened the night of Sunday, September 25th around 8:30 p.m. in Reading, located about 50 miles northwest of Philadelphia.

It appears as it came out of nowhere, but the clown craze quickly swept the nation. In another crazy story involving clowns, a Wisconsin couple is facing child neglect charges after they allegedly left their 4-year-old child at home for hours to take part in a “creepy clown” prank. According to NBC Chicago, during the early morning hours on Friday, October 9th, police received reports of two men in clown masks chasing vehicles in Menasha, near Green Bay. A 20-year-old man and a 29-year-old man were found at the intersection of Appleton Road and Midway Road dressed in full clown costumes, according to the Menasha Police Department, as dash-cam video recorded police taking them into custody. A 26-year-old woman was also found in the area and is accused of driving the two men around during the “gag,” police said in a news release. Police said their investigation later revealed the woman and the 29-year-old man had left their 4-year-old child at home unattended for “a minimum of a few hours while they were out participating in this prank.” The child was placed outside of the home by the Department of Human Services and the parents have been referred to court on charges of child neglect. The 20-year-old man was not charged in the incident.

Clown incidents have become so dangerous, that now clown costumes and clown masks are being banned from stores, and even whole counties. According to USA Today, Kemper County in Mississippi has made it illegal for any public appearance of clowns through November 1st, the day after Halloween. So, any children or adults planning on being a clown for Halloween, will have to choose another costume. County officials deemed the recent clown-scares sweeping the nation as justification for the decision to make clown appearances illegal until the day after Halloween. Those who dare to put on a clown costume, mask, or makeup are subject to a fine up to $150 if they are caught by the local sheriff's office.

Some companies are also making the decision to not offer clown masks for purchase in stores or online. According to CNN Money, Target decided two weeks before Halloween that they would pull some clown masks off their shelves and out of their online store after sightings of menacing clowns across the country. "Given the current environment," Target spokesman Joshua Thomas said, "We have made the decision to remove a variety of clown masks from our assortment, both in stores and online." Home Depot took a similar step last month and pulled a Halloween decoration called the Scary Peeper Creeper from its stores in Canada following complaints from shoppers.

Clown have also been spotted here, in Michigan with one such sighting in Sterling Heights. According to The Detroit News, Police are investigating claims that people dressed up as clowns attacked a 7-year-old boy and scared two women in Sterling Heights, the latest in a series of Metro Detroit scary clown sightings. The child reported someone wearing a clown mask with “red hair, a red nose and red facial features” approached him outside his home on the night of Tuesday, October 4th. The person, whose gender was unclear, then allegedly wielded an object and scratched the youth’s arm before fleeing on foot, the child told authorities. Broadcast media reports said the suspected assailant had a knife, but police would not confirm that. Fortunately, The boy was not seriously hurt in the attack.

Some of these incidents have proven to cause harm or even be fatal, which makes clowns a serious problem. It's important to know that this kind of action can result in problems for not only those who witness creepy clowns, but also for those who are just trying to have fun. Victims of clown sighting may try to attack or even shoot clowns who get the jump on them causing harm to both parties. Others may even suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder from the fright of seeing and fending off a clown attacker. And in the instance that one of the parties is in a car, the sight of a clown is scary enough to cause drivers or pedestrians to loose their wits for a moment, causing a car accident. Pulling silly pranks just for a laugh is not worth the damage that can and has been caused in these incidents.

Have you or anyone you know been injured due to a distracted driver or have been involved in an accident caused by a distraction? If so, call The Michigan Law Firm today. Our attorneys are highly experienced in dealing with all types of accident cases and will work to get you the help that you need. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation.

Eminem's Ex-Wife Pleads No Contest To Drunk Driving Charge

Kim Mathers, the ex-wife of popular Detroit rapper Eminem, avoided standing trial for driving under the influence by pleading no contest Tuesday, October 18, 2016. According to Click On Detroit, Mathers crashed the vehicle in Macomb Township, near 23 Mile and Card Road, last October and was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. Police and emergency personnel realized Mathers was upside-down in SUV which hit a light pole just after noon. In cellphone footage, reportedly showing the aftermath of the crash, and officer is heard saying, "You know who it is? It's Kim Mathers. She's hammered." According to the police report, Mathers told police she'd drank a fifth of Malibu rum and crashed the car on purpose.  Police believe the crash was a failed suicide attempt

Kim called in to local Detroit radio show “Mojo in the Morning” on 95.5 FM in May of 2016, according to CNN, to clear up what happened during her crash in 2015. "I did this on purpose and I'm so sorry," Mathers said on the show. "I never lied to [first responders]. I told them everything that I did. I said that I was sorry and that it was intentional and I didn't expect to make it out alive." On October 18th, Mathers decided to plead no contest and move on. Outside of court, Mathers and her attorney had very little to say. "I just want to put this all behind me," she said. Mathers is scheduled to be sentenced Nov. 22. Her lawyer said there are no terms to the plea.

Kim Mathers and rapper Eminem (whose real name is Marshall Mathers) were teenage sweethearts who married in 1999 before divorcing in 2001. In 2006 they briefly remarried before splitting again. The couple share a daughter, Hailie, and Eminem reportedly adopted his former wife's daughter from another relationship. 

Drinking and driving is never a good idea. Whether Ms. Mathers was trying to commit suicide or thought that saying to is a good defense is irrelevant because Ms. Mathers put the lives of other drivers in danger when she attempted to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. Luckily, no one, including Ms. Mathers was injured due to her recklessness. If you or anyone you know has been injured in an accident involving a drunk driver, call at The Michigan Law Firm. Our attorneys are highly experienced in dealing with all types of automobile accidents, including those involving drunk drivers. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation.

MLB Pitcher Hit In Head By 105 MPH Line Drive

One of the many dangers of playing baseball is that a ball flying over 90 miles per hour, and even sometimes over 100 miles per hour, can do some serious damage if it were to hit a player. One such scary situation involving Los Angeles Angels pitcher Matt Shoemaker occurred on September 4th. Shoemaker was pitching to Seattle Mariners third baseman Kyle Seager in the second inning of the game at Safeco Field in Seattle, when Seager ripped a line drive right back at Shoemaker, which drilled Shoemaker right in the head, as he tried to avoid it. The line drive that hit Shoemaker came off Seager's bat at a stunning 105 mph, according to MLB Statcast. The Angels pitcher fell to his knees before the Angels' trainers hurried out to the pitcher’s mound, followed by Shoemaker’s teammates, and even Kyle Seager as well. After remaining on the ground for some time, Shoemaker rose to his feet, firmly holding a towel to what appeared to be a bleeding head. He had to immediately leave the game and received a standing ovation from the Seattle crowd as he walked to the visiting team’s dugout.

Shoemaker was immediately taken to a hospital to where according to the New York Daily News, a CT scan revealed a small skull fracture and small hematoma. Shoemaker had to undergo surgery to stop bleeding in his brain. He had the procedure performed late on September 4th and was being treated by Dr. Manuel Ferreira of the University of Washington Medical Center. Los Angeles athletic trainer Adam Nevala stayed with Shoemaker until he was able to travel to Southern California.

General manager Billy Eppler provided the update on September 5th, saying Shoemaker had been receiving CT scans every 2-3 hours when the third image showed increased bleeding, shortly before 9 p.m. That’s when surgery was determined to be the next step. “The CT scan confirmed or when they actually did the operation that confirmed where the bleeding was,” Eppler said. “They were able to access that area. They were able to seal it, stop the bleeding. He was wheeled back up into recovery and is recovering fine.” As bad as this situation with Matt Shoemaker was, the fortunate side of the whole situation is that Shoemaker is still alive, and looks like he is going to be alright.

Brain injuries form sports accidents can be very serious injuries, but these same or even worse injuries can also occur when involved in a car accident. Sometimes, traumatic brain injuries don't present themselves right away. This is why it is absolutely important to immediately see a doctor following any kind of car crash. If you or anyone you know has been injured in a car accident, call The Michigan Law Firm. Our attorneys are highly experienced in dealing with all types of motor vehicle accidents and can get you the help you need. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation.

$1 Billion I-75 Construction To Last Until 2030

Last month, a 14-year long project to improve and widen Interstate 75 in suburban Detroit, Michigan officially got started. 14 years is a long time for most anything, but when it comes to construction on a major highway, 14 years seems like an eternity.

Fox 2 Detroit talked to Bloomfield Hills resident Indigo Zuri, who said "It's needed but the flip side of that is 14 years is a really long time...Why so long? I'll be too old to drive in 14 years." CBS Detroit talked to Annie Rosenborough of Detroit, who was among motorists not happy to hear about any of it. “I’m going to have to get up a little bit earlier to get to work on time,” she told WWJ’s Charlie Langton.


The first construction of the project started with a 2-year, $90.8 million project to reconstruct both directions of I-75 between Coolidge Highway and South Boulevard in Oakland County. The project includes reconstructing pavement, replacing bridges and modernizing the Square Lake Road interchange. The Michigan Department of Transportation says lane closures are planned. 

A new traffic configuration is expected to last into early September, when additional work on the project is scheduled to begin. The first phase includes roadways in Bloomfield Township and Troy. The right lane of southbound I-75 from the Square Lake interchange to Coolidge Highway will be closed as road crews prepare for a traffic shift. That traffic shift will happen in mid-September. This first phase of the project will cover about three miles of the interstate and is set to be complete in November of 2017. Of course, with construction comes more traffic, and delays all along I-75. "It's going to be a pain. We acknowledge that; we understand that, but this work needs to be done. We have to improve safety. It's our responsibility to put out the safest freeway we can," says Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) spokesperson Rob Morosi.


Drivers will also see some single-lane closures on northbound I-75 from Coolidge Highway to South Boulevard, and on the north and southbound I-75 ramps to westbound Square Lake Road. This is just the beginning of the construction that is planned, as the work is taking place in phases through 2030. Overall, the construction will widen the roadway from 8 Mile all the way up to M-59 and the cost of the roughly 18-mile project is expected to top $1 billion. 

Waiting in traffic can make anyone impatient, but worse than having to wait in traffic is getting into an accident in traffic. Many drivers are so impatient that they will tailgate and push their and your luck to the limit. If you or somebody you know has been injured in an accident involving an impatient driver, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation.

Study: Commuters Want Reliability over Technology Upgrades

A new report from research group TransitCenter suggests that amenities such as free Wi-Fi and comfy seats aren’t as important to riders as previously thought. The study concludes that people don’t care about the fancy features of public transportation, they don’t think that they convince more people to ride a bus, and funding would be more useful for other system improvements. 

Wired reports that TransitCenter surveyed more than 3,000 online respondents from 17 regions across the country about the type of upgrades they would like to see on their daily commutes. These choices included free Wi-Fi, outlets, more frequent service, faster travel times, cheaper fares, robust shelters built for bad weather, and updates on when their bus would arrive. The survey showed that features such as outlets and Wi-Fi were the least important to commuters. This survey proved that customers favor reliability and practicality over technology upgrades and flashy amenities. Earlier this year, New York City’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) was scorned by the public for adding Wi-Fi and USB charging ports to 75 new buses, which will cost between $2,000 and $3,000 per bus, The Wall Street Journal reported. 

“Many of the young people using our system today grew up with a smartphone in one hand a tablet in the other,” MTA chairman and CEO Thomas Prendergrast said when the unveiling of the new technology systems were rolled out. “They’re demanding more Wi-Fi, more real-time information, more charging stations, connectivity, more apps, and more screens. They aren’t luxury items anymore.”

Steven Higashide, TransitCenter’s Senior Program Analyst believes transit officials may not make the best decisions on behalf of the commuters because they aren’t the ones that are riding the bus and subway everyday. “We’re really not trying to criticize agencies for providing Wi-Fi, but it won’t improve service,” Higashide explained. Aarian Marshall from Wired believes that it’s a zero sum game, and either luxury or reliability takes precedence. “The stakes are higher for US cities where transit ridership-especially on the unglamourous but highly useful bus-is stagnant or declining. It’s new buses or a more robust, concentrated network. It’s a shelter with a countdown clock or a new tree next to the bus stop,” Marshall wrote. 

The Metro Detroit area is continuing to enhance the accessibility to public transportation for commuters so they can get to work or school on time. If you or somebody you know has been injured in an accident involving a public transportation vehicle such as a SMART Bus, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our experienced attorneys will work alongside you to get you the help you need, so that you can focus on your recovery. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

Autonomous Semi-Trucks Drive on Michigan Highway For First Time

For the first time ever, four autonomous semi-trucks were tested on Interstate 69 in Lapeer and St. Clair Counties in Michigan in July, 2016. The test was done by the U.S Army Tank Automotive Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) alongside the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). 

Paul Rogers, director of TARDEC, told MLive that the testing, which included tracking the response of the vehicles to commands, represented “an opportunity for the U.S Army to leverage the technology and capability within this state.” The testing is also helping set federal standards and expectations while government leaders continue to craft legislation to make the possibility of driverless cars a reality on the roadways.

Michigan Governor Rick Snyder called the event “the intersection of two wonderful initiatives we have going in the state to really talk the strengths of our state and the opportunities how we can help our country and the world...We’re moving forward on how we can deploy this is a safe fashion on our public roadways and bring this technology to bear to make Michigan a true leader,” Snyder said. Snyder also pointed out the progress being made at the University of Michigan’s MCity and the upcoming “Planet M” campaign. The growth of the driverless car industry will impact the Michigan economy as well. According to Lt. Governor Brian Calley the initiatives will employ approximately 100,000 residents and will allow Michigan to become a leader in the mobility industry outside of the auto industry. 

Janice Karcher, Vice President of Economic Development for the Flint and Genesee Chamber of Commerce, is excited about the possibilities of drawing the industry to the state. “We see opportunities for more research and development teams to be on the ground supporting that kind of activity,” Karcher said.

The obvious potential impact with the growth of driverless cars is increased safety. Kirk Steudle, Director of MDOT, said that autonomous technology can help cut down traffic deaths by 80%. MDOT has a goal of 350 miles worth of fiber optic lines being put in place by 2018, making Michigan the largest test bed in the United States for mobility research. 

While driverless cars may cut down on traffic accidents in the future, they are still too frequent on the road today. Injuries as minor as a few scratches or as severe as a closed head injury can change your day-to-day routine and your way of life. If you or somebody you know has been injured in an accident, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys will identify the help you are entitled too and will not rest until your case has been resolved. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

Detroit Looks to Ressurect Once-Booming Transportation System

Detroit, Michigan has not had the best luck when it comes to earning a positive reputation around the country. The once-booming city has become infamous for its declining population and high crime rate, and now, its transit system is being called out. 

At the end of World War II, Detroit was home to the largest municipally owned streetcar system in the United States. State of Michigan records show that between regional streetcars, buses, and commuter rails, Detroit had an annual ridership of 490 million. Today’s Detroit tells a much different story as the annual ridership on urban and suburban transit systems is now 36 million. Until the QLINE opens up in the downtown area, Detroit stands as the largest American metropolis without a surface rail transit, according to Slate. For perspective, the entire city of Detroit has lower weekday bus ridership than two of the busiest individual bus routes in New York City. 

As Slate’s Henry Grabar explains, it’s not for a lack of need that the transit system has failed so miserably in the Motor City. Detroit, known for its autocentric economy, ranks 8th nationally in its percentage for car-less households. There are approximately 66,000 Detroit residents that are car-less, and many of them can’t find a way to get to work, or get anywhere else for that matter. Studies have shown that a lack of transit access can be linked to unemployment, low income, and low economic mobility.  The city spends $69 per capita on transit each year (Atlanta spends $119 per capita, Cleveland $177, and Seattle $471).

A BRIGHTER FUTURE 

Last week, the Southeast Michigan Regional Transit Authority (RTA) unveiled a $4.6 billion plan to connect Detroit, its suburbs, the Wayne County Airport, and nearby Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti into one large network. Following a public review period in June and a RTA board review next month, the proposal will be placed on the ballot for a vote this November across four counties in Southeast Michigan. 

“If it passes, the plan would double per capita transit funding in the region- and represent a rare instance of cooperation in the vitriolic political history of mostly black Detroit and its largely white suburbs. Its approval would signify popular recognition that Detroit and its surrounding counties share a common interest. And it would make it a whole lot easier to get around without a car,” Grabar wrote. 

It is still too early to tell if this type of proposal has a chance to pass come Election Day, but many of its supporters are feeling optimistic. The divide between Detroit and the suburbs still remains, but it does not run as deep as it once did. Millage for SMART bus service is consistently renewed by suburban voters, and the idea of transit connecting the counties is now more favorable to residents of Macomb and Oakland county. “The fundamental difference between now and even five years ago is that Detroit is rapidly becoming a city that the region can be proud and is proud of,” Sandy Baruah, CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber, explained.

Navigating the roads of Southeast Michigan can be difficult, especially during rush hour times. As frustrating as it may be, drivers should be patient and cautious when making their way to and from work. The consequences of road rage far outweigh any positives. If you or somebody you know has been injured in an auto accident because of another driver's careless driving on the road, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys have experience handling cases of all scales and will work to get you the help you need. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

Should Self-Driving Cars Hit a Pedestrian to Save the Driver?

There are a lot of questions researchers, engineers, and the general public are asking about the future of self driving cars. One of the more crucial ethical questions is: Should your driverless car hit a pedestrian to save the driver’s life? Well, a new research study shows that what people really want is to ride in an autonomous car that puts its passengers first, even if that means running a pedestrian over. 

In a recent issue of Science Magazine, a group of computer scientists and psychologists conducted several online surveys of United States residents, last summer and fall, which asked people how they think self-driving vehicles should behave. The survey results showed that respondents generally thought self-driving cars should be programmed to make decisions for the greater good, unless their own lives are at stake.

The New York Times writes that “through a series of quizzes that present unpalatable options that amount to saving or sacrificing yourself- and the lives of fellow passengers who may be family members- to spare others, the researchers not surprisingly, found that people would rather stay alive.”

As autonomous vehicles come closer and closer to the mainstream, serious ethical and moral questions like the one above are becoming an important factor in the manufacturing of self-driving cars. Should cars be programmed with a degree of mortality in them, depending on what consumers want? Should the government step in and mandate that all self-driving cars have the same value of protecting the greater good, even if that means putting its passenger’s lives at risk? 

“Is it acceptable for an autonomous vehicle to avoid a motorcycle by swerving into a wall, considering that the probability of survival is greater for the passengers in the car than for the rider of the motorcycle? Should autonomous vehicles take the ages of the passengers and pedestrians into account?” Jean-Francios Bennefon, of the Toulouse School of Economics in France, wrote.

Some researchers believe that teaching machines ethics may not be the best idea. “If you assume that the purpose of A.I. is to replace people, then you will need to teach the car ethics. It should rather be a partnership between the human and the tool, and the person should be the one who provides ethical guidance,” Amitai Etzioni, a Sociologist at George Washington University argued. 

Unfortunately, deadly accidents involving pedestrians take place every day. Even if the collision isn't fatal, the injuries sustained can be long-term and may not even present themselves until later down the road. If you or somebody you know has been in a motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys will work alongside you to help identify any benefits you may be entitled to under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

The Motor City Embraces More Bicycle Paths

What a difference a decade can make. Detroit, Michigan was vacant of any bike lanes just 10 years ago, today there are plans for nearly 200 miles worth of marked biking lanes for cyclists. 

WDET explained that the bike lanes which were “dreamed up, designed, approved, painted and protected is the work of citizens, community advocates, bicyclists, city officials and engineers,” are just getting started. “There’s a lot of stuff on the drawing board,” said Mike Darga, Senior Project Engineer at Giffels Webster Engineering.

In the southwest area of Detroit, the handful of bike lanes have now expanded to a larger network of pathways as roads are beginning to be maintained or improved, according to Teresa Zajac, VP at the Southwest Detroit Business Association. “The city of Detroit began looking at bike lanes as the asset that they are and can be, and so as they renovate different roads throughout the city of Detroit, including southwest Detroit, they’ve added bike lanes,” Zajac explained. 

This network of bike paths does not solely serve the purpose of recreation. According to the latest U.S Census, about 25% of Detroit households do not have access to a car, so many are turning to bicycles as a way to get to their workplace or local food store. “Most of the people I would say that we deal with are using bikes more so for transportation. They're trying to get to the store or trying to get to work. We have some recreation riders but they’re mostly riding their bike because they’ve got to get somewhere,” Alex Allen, CEO of the Candler Park Conservancy, stated. 

There is still a lot of work to be done, including figuring out how to build pathways for Detroit neighborhoods that don’t have any. “The next step is really to get the various public agencies that are responsible for the roadways and the sidewalks including the city and in our case the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to agree and buy into that same vision,” Tom Goddeeris, Executive Director of the Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation stated. 

While out enjoying a bicycle ride, riders should be conscious of cars and traffic signals to avoid any dangerous accidents. Bicyclists are encouraged to wear a helmet during their ride to protect themselves against any type of severe head injuries. If you or somebody you know has been involved in an accident while riding their bicycle, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are experienced in handling bicycle collisions and will fight to help you identify and receive any benefit you may be entitled to under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

Older Drivers Are Willing to Adapt to New Car Technology

Senior citizens are becoming more determined than ever to keep up with evolving technology in cars, in order to keep driving in their later years. According to a survey done by The Hartford, 76% of drivers 50 years old and up, would look for a car with the latest safety features. 

“Our findings indicate that some drivers, age 50+, would be more willing to drive in certain situations if they had particular technologies,” Jodi Olshevski, Executive Director of The Hartford Center, explained. The results show that seniors “associate advanced technologies with enhanced safety.” USA Today reports that some of these desired safety features include blind-spot warning, crash mitigation, lane-departure warnings, and advanced headlights. 

Perhaps even more surprising than the initial statistic is that only one in four older drivers is opposed to owning an autonomous vehicle, according to the study. 35% of respondents said they would be willing to give it a try, and 42% are informed enough about driverless cars to have an opinion. 

While a large majority of senior citizens are open to the idea of driving an autonomous vehicle, there are still some obstacles they would have to get through. The study found that 56% said they need to know that they would be as safe riding in a driverless car as they would be if they were driving themselves. Additionally, 48% would use a self-driving vehicle if their health prevented them from driving, 27% would use one if they helped them stay connected to friends, 27% if they were cheaper than a regular car, and 17% if somebody they trusted recommended a driverless car. 

In 2012, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) stated that there were almost 36 million licensed drivers age 65 and older in the United States. While driving can be beneficial to keeping senior citizens active and independent, it can also put seniors at higher risk for injuries and deaths in car accidents. An average of 586 elderly drivers are injured every day in crashes. 

How to Prevent Elderly Driver Injuries and Deaths (CDC)

  • Have your eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year. Wear glasses and corrective lenses as required. 
  • Drive during daylight and in good weather conditions only. 
  • Find the safest route with well-lit streets, intersections with left turn arrows, and easy parking. 
  • Make sure to leave a large following distance behind the car in front of you. 
  • Exercise regularly to help increase strength and flexibility. 
  • Consider potential alternatives to driving, such as riding with a friend or using public transit, that you can use to get around. 

As stated above, injuries sustained by senior drivers can be serious even in the most minor of car collisions. It is extremely important that elderly victims of a car crash receive immediate medical attention. If you or somebody you know has been involved in an auto accident, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in dealing with all types of motor vehicle accidents, including those involving elderly drivers. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

Toyota's Braking and Steering Issues May Lead to Recall

Toyota is now under federal investigation after two crashes and five injuries have been linked to steering and braking problems in over 100,000 Toyota sport utility vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) told Reuters that it has 135 complaints from 2001-2002 Toyota Sequoia SUV owners citing incidents of unexpected vehicle stability control activations which have resulted in automatic braking of the left or right wheel, as well as unexpected steering pull.

Before a recall is deemed necessary, the NHTSA will conduct a preliminary probe into the vehicle’s issues. About half of the complaints which have been filed said the problems were caused by a faulty sensor, and most complaints reported unexpected activation at highway speeds which led to drivers feeling a “jerk” from their steering wheel. According to the Reuters article, this is not the first time this decade that Toyota has had to consider recalling their vehicles. In 2010, Toyota recalled 50,000 2003 Sequoia SUVs because the vehicle stability control system could activate at low speeds. Toyota insisted at the time that the issue was not a safety issue, but the company agreed to recall the vehicles.

“We are aware that the NHTSA has opened a Preliminary Evaluation concerning the 2001 and 2002 model year Sequoia. Customer safety and satisfaction is a top priority for Toyota. We will cooperate with the agency in its investigation, as we have previously,” Toyota spokeswoman Cindy Knight said in a statement. Knight also requested that any drivers who may be experiencing similar issues with their vehicles should contact their dealers immediately. 

Is your car driving on its own but is not an self-driving car? Car defects that are not properly repaired or replaced can lead to severe injuries and even death. If you see a recall out for your vehicle, even if it's for a minor defect, it is important that you have your car fixed or replaced as soon as possible. If you or somebody you know has been involved in an accident which was caused by a car defect, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys will fight to the fullest extent of the law to get you the help necessary for you to recover from your injuries. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

Fiat Chrysler Gear Shift Recall

Fiat Chrysler is looking to fix a design issue in some of its gear shifts which may be found as the cause of death for “Star Trek” actor Anton Yelchin. The automaker notes that while drivers believe they have placed their cars in park only to have their cars rolling away, the car is actually in neutral. 

Yelchin died on June 19, 2016 when his 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee rolled down his driveway and he was crushed between the car and a brick pillar. Chrysler said the company is still investigating the death and that it is too soon to determine the exact cause of the accident. This comes two months after it began sending recall notices to more than 1 million Jeep, Chrysler, and Dodge owners, but there is still no fix according to CNN Money. The company has said that it “anticipates having the software updates required to remedy the vehicles no later than July or August of 2016.”

Reports from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveal more than 300 consumer complaints about the gear shift issue. Within those 300 complaints lie 212 accidents and 41 injures. Those injuries included three people who fractured their pelvis, ruptured their bladder, fractured a kneecap, broke their ribs and injured their right leg. 

As CNNMoney points out, it is not uncommon for a delay between when a problem is detected and when it can be repaired. An example of this has been highlighted in a blog post from The Michigan Law Firm regarding the recall of Takata airbags, which have a risk of exploding. At least 13 people have died from the defective airbags, making it the largest auto recall in history. But unfortunately, some drivers will have to wait until 2019 to get new air bags. And only on June 21, 2016 did Fiat Chrysler announce that it will stop building cars with the defective Takata airbags. 

“We continue to expedite this campaign in the best interests of our customers,” Fiat Chrysler spokesman Eric Mayne said. Drivers who are confused about the operation of features as simple as a gear shifter should contact their car dealer with questions. 

Are you having issue getting your Fiat, Chrysler, or Jeep into park? Car defects that are not properly repaired or replaced can lead to severe injuries and even death. If you see a recall out for your vehicle, even if it's for a minor defect, it is important that you have your car fixed or replaced as soon as possible. While a small error with the vehicle may seem negligible, it can cause serious consequences down the road. If you or somebody you know has been involved in an accident which was caused by car defects, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys will fight to the fullest extent of the law to get you the help you deserve. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation. 

Labor Day Weekend: Arts, Beats, & Eats in Royal Oak, Michigan

The 19th year of the Arts, Beats, and Eats festival is right around the corner! This street fair, where nearly 200 musical acts come to perform, is located in Royal Oak, Michigan and will be going on from September 2 through September 5.

The festival demonstrates and displays artists' work and hosts multiple vendors from whom visitors may purchase unique pieces. Not only is there plenty of shopping but no one will leave hungry. Arts, Beats, and Eats is known for having plenty of food and drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. It is a celebration for local artists, music, food, and a good time!

Unfortunately, the good times should be taken with some precaution. After all, where there is alcohol, there should be responsibility. Every year about 10,000 people die and 290,000 people are injured due to drunk driving related crashes according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). Having a great time at the Arts, Beats, and Eats festival is fine, but how much fun is too much?  Drinking and driving is no joke.

Getting home safely from Arts, Beats, & Eats

Ask A Friend

  • Call someone who hasn't been drinking such as a friend or a family member. Or better yet, appoint a designated driver. This is someone who attends the festival but doesn't drink. 

Call An Uber

  • Or Lyft, another ride-share service, or even a cab. What’s a $30-$50 cab fair when compared to thousands in DUI costs, prison, or even a life. 

Don’t Drink!

  • There are more than enough ways to enjoy the Arts, Beats, and Eats festival without involving alcohol. In fact, staying clear of booze might help you do more things at the event and help you remember them.

When attending the festival make the decision to prevent drunk driving. It has been reported that after an NFL game 40% of spectators are under the influence according to Stay Safe. Approximately there are 100,000 people at an NFL football game so that is about 40,000 people with alcohol in their system. The Arts, Beats, & Eats festival last year had nearly 380,000 and by using the football statistic it is clear to say at least 100,000 people will also be under the influence. Don't be another statistic and try to remember there is not only one driver on the road. 

Arts, Beats, and Eats festival is an integral part of the Royal Oak experience. Every year, thousands of people have great fun appreciating art, listening to music, and enjoying the food. And while some festival-goers may choose to drink alcohol to contribute to this fun, they should remember that choosing to drink and drive is wrong. Accidents happen but all drunk driving accidents are preventable. If you have been injured or know of someone who has been injured by a drunk driver, contact The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of automobile accident cases including those involving drunk driving. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation. 

Labor Day Driving Tips

This Labor Day weekend is estimated to be the most dangerous, of any year, for driving on busy American roads. Just in the past six months there has been a 3.5% increase of automotive deaths compared to 2015, and a 9% increase of drivers on the road, according to Consumerreports. 

Labor Day traffic is always overwhelming with its mile long, bumper to bumper traffic. No one wants to spend their weekend on the side of the road or worse, involved and injured in a motor vehicle collision. Though it may seem like accidents are inevitable during this time, there are may preventative measures that drivers can take so that their Labor Day doesn't involve the labor of dealing with a car crash. Here are some tips and tricks from USA Today to making weekend travels a little smoother and safer.

Labor Day Driving Tips

Preparation Is Key

  • Make sure the driver knows how to get to the desired destination. Mark out the best route on a map or pre-program the GPS. Locate the nearest restroom stops, stores, and other destination detours ahead of time. Try and plan these stops according to highway access because no one wants to get lost in the middle of nowhere! Lastly, double check for traffic before leaving, because navigating heavy traffic is more likely to cause accidents. 

No Distractions 

  • Stay off the phones! Remember that it is illegal to text and drive, though it still doesn’t prevent other drivers from doing it. Make sure that the phone is synced to the vehicle before leaving, thereby ensuring that it is a hands-free device. 
  • Technology is not the only distraction. Always keep your eyes on the road in front of you. This means no gawking at the world's largest ball of string or at the unfortunate scenes of car accidents you pass. Remember that accidents can happen in a matter of seconds and not keeping eyes on the road for even one second puts the driver at risk. 

Vehicle Check List

  • Before leaving on a trip the driver should make sure their vehicle is in tip top shape, especially if the vehicle’s history isn’t the healthy. That means if the car needs an oil change, tune up, or even just new windshield wipers, get it done before leaving. If an engine light, break light, or any other light appears on your dashboard, take it in to a local mechanic or dealership to get it checked out. Lastly, fill up your tank before leaving; no one wants to be stuck on the highway with no gas.

Safety First

  •  Seat belts! Seat belts! Seat belts! When traveling on a long trip, make sure to buckle up. Seat belts save lives. 

Whether driving down the street for the neighborhood block party or to a relative's house in Florida, driving during the Labor Day weekend is dangerous. The large number of travelers on the road create congested traffic, breed road rage, and eventually cause thousands of motor vehicle accidents. Though there is no way to avoid this problem, drivers can be much safer by following these safety tips and tricks. 

Labor Day is best spent having fun and not dealing with a car accidents and their resulting injuries. It is best to plan any travels plans down to the smallest detail, before getting in the car, in order to stay. Once on the road, it's important to keep eyes peeled and alert and to follow road safety laws. Despite taking all of these preventative measures however, accidents may still occur. If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident over the Labor Day weekend, contact The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM, for a free consultation.