Monday, May 31, 2010

Staying Awake Behind the Wheel

Falling asleep while driving can cause injury to you or other drivers. Many semi truck accidents each year are caused by exhausted drivers who simply cannot keep their eyes open. Commercial trucks can be used to transport valuable goods across our nation. However, if you are fatigued, these vehicles can quickly become deadly weapons.

Before even getting behind the wheel, make sure you are awake and alert. If you feel tired, stop at a motel to get some sleep. If you are not near a motel, find a truck stop where you can find some rest in the sleeper berth.

If you begin to feel tired while driving, the following tips may help you avoid an 18 wheeler accident:

Take several deep breaths: By saturating your blood cells with oxygen, you may feel more alert for a short time.

  • Keep your window open: If you are driving with your windows up and the heat on, you may become more tired. While it may be uncomfortable, opening your window and allowing fresh air into your truck may keep you awake. However, do not rely on fresh air to keep you out of tractor-trailer accidents. Find a rest stop as soon as possible.
  • Drive during the day: Try to schedule long drives during the day.
  • Take breaks: If you know you have a long trip ahead of you, plan to take scheduled breaks for resting.

Ultimately, the best way to avoid semi truck accidents is to be well rested before driving. You should never take any kind of drug to stay awake. If you feel tired, your best option is to stop driving and sleep. If you have been in an accident, please contact trucking accident attorneys today.

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Litigating a Business Dispute

Business Litigation
If you are in business, at some point you are bound to become involved in a dispute. Whether you are a small or large business, you need to be ready to deal with the inevitable frictions and disputes that arise out of your everyday transaction. When things become difficult and you are unable to resolve issues on your own, your best bet is to seek the advice and representation of a skilled Atlanta business attorney.

Small businesses in particular need to avoid becoming tied up in hostile commercial dealings that take the time of an owner and can rob you of your reputation. Do not risk losing your business. Contact an attorney with the experience, intelligence, and resolve to represent you should it become necessary to take your matter to trial.

Arbitration
Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution that differs from both litigation and mediation. However, in certain ways arbitration is similar to both.

Arbitration employs impartial and knowledgeable arbitrators to settle a dispute outside of the court system. It is more private than litigation which goes to court and is public, and serves as an excellent forum for business dispute resolution.

In certain contracts such as in client brokerage agreements, arbitration may be required and it is often used to settle securities disputes between investors and stockbrokers. This approach provides quick and confidential business dispute judgment. An arbitration award is usually final and is difficult to appeal.

Mediation
The most common types of mediated business disputes include the following:

Negotiation of partnership contracts
Negotiation of facts of business formations
General conflict resolution

Mediation does not require both parties to hire representation and the process typically allows a business relationship to continue after the process is finalized.

There are several solutions available to resolve business disputes. An attorney experienced in business law can evaluate your situation and explain the route that should be best for your business. Whether it is mediation, arbitration, or litigation, an Atlanta business law firm of can see you through the process.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Common Misconceptions About Wrongful Death Litigation

Making the decision to seek legal help after a loved one has passed can be difficult. In your emotional state, your judgment may even be cloudy. Before pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit, you should be aware of the following misconceptions:

  • I can handle this myself and do not need a lawyer
Wrongful death lawsuits can be extremely complex. Given your emotional state, you should not attempt litigation without a lawyer. Wrongful death lawyers are trained professionals with significant knowledge and experience in this area.

  • I have plenty of time and will take legal action later
Under the statute of limitations you have a limited amount of time in which you can file a wrongful death lawsuit. Once this time period expires, you can no longer take legal action.

  • My insurance company is going to help me
Do not rely on your insurance company to relieve you of the financial burden caused by a wrongful death. Your insurance company does not want to give you any more than they have to. They are likely to pay the least amount possible.

  • Hiring an attorney means I will have a long trial
Every case is different. Some cases are long and some are short—and not all cases go to trial. In fact, many cases are settled outside of court. An experienced lawyer can determine how long your trial might take.

  • Any relative can file a lawsuit
In most states, only immediate family members can file wrongful death lawsuits.

  • I cannot afford an attorney
Many wrongful death lawyers work on a contingency basis. This means that your attorney does not get paid unless you are paid.