Richard Heartquist Faces Charges in Lawrence Hit and Run Crash

Richard Heartquist, 42, of Newburyport, faces serious charges for a hit and run accident that occurred two weeks ago in Lawrence, causing 35-year-old Michael Baglieri of Methuen to sustain head and leg injuries from the crash.

Heartquist, an attorney who has an office in North Andover, turned himself in to Lawrence Police on Monday of this week.  He was charged with obstruction of justice as well as leaving the scene of an accident that caused personal injury.  He maintained that he was not involved in the hit and run because he was with another woman when the accident occurred and not behind the wheel.

Authorities involved with the case state that Heartquist was driving his wife’s Chevrolet Avalanche when it hit Baglieri’s car on Merrimack Street in Lawrence on December 17 at about 11:30pm. 

Heartquist’s wife, Allison, told police that her husband took her vehicle to go to a Christmas party in Lawrence and that he informed her that he would be getting a ride home after it ended. 

The day following the accident, Heartquist reportedly told police that he had turned the Avalanche on in the parking lot near the party he was attending and left the keys in the ignition.  He then went to go meet up with the unidentified woman and that someone else had stolen the vehicle.  Police advised Heartquist to file a report if the vehicle was stolen.  Heartquist has not filed a stolen vehicle report.

In the police report, it was noted that Heartquist had a bruise on one of his hands and a cut above his left eye.

Heartquist was convicted of drunk driving back in Newburyport in 2005 and has had an expired driver’s license since July of this year. 

Hit and Run Statistics
Approximately 10% of car accidents that occur across the country are hit and run accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). 

Drivers who leave the scene of the accident may not have car insurance and believe that trying to get away will be better for them than if they face the consequences.  Another reason may be that the driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol and may not even have realized they hit another car or simply don’t want to get caught.

When to Contact a Massachusetts Accident Attorney
If you or someone you know has been the victim of a hit and run accident, BEFORE you sign any forms, talk to the insurance company or hire any lawyer, get this free Massachusetts accidents book to learn how to avoid making the 7 fatal mistakes after an accident.

Contact the Boston car accident attorneys of Kiley Law Group to find out about your legal options.

Our car accident lawyers have 30 years of experience and successful track record of obtaining seven figure wins for our clients in auto accident cases, medical malpractice, child birth injuries, brain injuries, and other personal injury cases.  Call 800-410-2769 to receive a free legal consultation.

And while the call is free, the information may be priceless.

DISCLAIMER: The Kiley Law Group is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited within the article. If you were involved in this accident or a similar incident and have questions about your rights and legal options, call us at 800-410-2769, or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a legal evaluation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to all not-at-fault persons named in this article and to their family members as well.

Hairo Gomez Pleads Guilty in Fatal Staged Car Accident

Hairo Gomez, 33, formerly of Lawrence, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty to manslaughter charges in connection to a staged car accident in which his 65-year-old grandmother, Altagracia Arias, died. Arias was a willing participant in the scheme, news reports said.

According to prosecutors, Gomez was driving one of the vehicles in the intentional crash in September 2003, as an attempt to defraud the insurance company.

Gomez will serve a sentence of 2 1/2 years in prison concurrently with a 5-year drug sentence he is serving in New Jersey. Upon his release, Gomez faces deportation to the Dominican Republic.

DISCLAIMER: The Kiley Law Group is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited within the article. If you were involved in this accident or a similar incident and have questions about your rights and legal options, call us at 800-410-2769, or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a legal evaluation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to all not-at-fault persons named in this article and to their family members as well.

Is Your Insurance Adjuster Withholding Money From Your California Injury Claim?

The following article is a guest post from the California personal injury lawyers at Bisnar & Chase.

Personal injury victims in California can become challenged with a number of stressful situations. Those who are injured may want to hire a skilled and knowledgeable lawyer. If you decide to negotiate your case, you will need to be prepared to battle it out with your insurance adjuster to receive a just settlement. 

One of the fatal misconceptions that a number of injury accident victims make is believing the insurance adjuster is on your side. This could not be further from the truth. An insurance adjuster is not on your side.  An adjuster will be awarded and in some cases promoted based on how much money he saves the company.  Every dollar an insurance company withholds from your settlement is another dollar of profit for the shareholders. 

In a perfect world, the insurance adjuster would happily give you a fair settlement for all of your damages.  Because an adjuster works on behalf of a for profit business, it is important to keep in mind that they are not there to help you. One of the adjuster's tricks is to act like they are your friend. An adjuster's act of being kind is just that, an act. 

Be careful what you tell your adjuster and how you communicate your message to him. An adjuster will sometimes record what you have said and use it against you later (sometimes out of context).

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a Los Angeles car accident, it is important that you schedule a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. A skilled lawyer can help you receive a fair settlement for your injury accident. Some of the best personal injury lawyers will offer free consultations. It is in your best interest to take full advantage of complimentary consultations offered by the knowledgeable personal injury lawyers.

This post has been provided as a public service by the personal injury lawyers at BISNAR | CHASE. If you have been catastrophically injured, in California, please contact our office for a free, no obligation consultation. We have helped more than 6,000 accident victims to recover hundreds of millions of dollars and would like to do the same for you. Contact one of our experienced Southern California personal injury lawyers by calling toll free at 1-800-561-4887.

Winter Weather Keeps Drivers Home and Off Roads

The blizzard that arrived yesterday afternoon and is still lingering in the area left us with a heavy blanket of snow to dig ourselves out of today.  Luckily, many people decided to stay at home for this storm, which resulted in few incidents and problems for the plows to face as they cleared the roadways across the state.

Just about a foot of snow has fallen in the Merrimack Valley region, with other parts of the state experiencing up to nearly 20 inches of snow. 

There was a power outage in Groveland when a tree fell on top of wires, leaving up to 300 houses without power at approximately 7:00am this morning.  Repair crews were fixing the wiring and were expected to have power back on before long.  Some homes in Boxford also experienced a power outage.

Houses in Norfolk and Plymouth counties saw significantly worse outages, leaving about 18,000 National Grid customers without power early this morning.  Around 11,000 NStar customers were also without power on the South Shore and Cape Cod.  Some coastal towns experienced flooding and affected homes were evacuated in the towns of Scituate, Quincy, and Rockport.  There still is a flood warning in effect along some of the Massachusetts coastline.

Overall, the roadways in the area of the Merrimack Valley have been kept in relatively good condition.  Back roadways and streets less traveled will require more attention from plows, but the main streets are being kept cleared. 

Governor Patrick announced yesterday that all nonessential state workers should stay at home today and private companies should try to keep their employees at home as well.  For those who are expected to report for work, they are being encouraged to take some form of public transportation for safety and to stay off of the roadways until the storm has completely moved out of the area.

Snow and ice conditions resulted in nearly 600 fatalities nationwide last year on the roadways.  Thankfully, many residents across the state decided to stay indoors during this snowstorm instead of out on the roadways. 

When Should You Contact a Massachusetts Auto Accident Attorney?
If you have been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident in Massachusetts, and want to know if you have a case, call the Massachusetts personal injury lawyers at Kiley Law Group.

BEFORE you talk to an insurance adjustor, sign ANY forms or hire a lawyer, get a FREE copy of attorney Thomas M. Kiley’s Massachusetts accidents book.

For a free case evaluation call 1-800-410-2769.

Two Methuen Residents Injured in Prospect St Crash

Alain Ata, 26, and Tiffany Beeley, 25, of Methuen were injured in the single-car accident on Prospect Street around midnight.

 Police and paramedics were called to the scene after a car that had crashed into a telephone pole near 610 Prospect St.

According to police, Ata was driving Beeley’s 2001 Honda Civic south on Prospect St before it crashed into a telephone pole off the left lane.

Both occupants were found trapped in the badly damaged vehicle. Ata was rescued from the wreck relatively easy compared to Beelye’s rescue, which required a 2-hour effort and the use of the Jaws of Life.

Both victims suffered serious injuries and were taken to local hospitals. Ata was initially taken to Lawrence General Hospital and then airlifted to Beth Israel Hospital in Boston, where he was listed in “good condition” this morning.

Beeley was also taken to Lawrence General Hospital at first, and then rushed by ambulance to Tufts Medical Center since weather conditions made it too dangerous to fly. She was listed in a critical condition at the ICU at Tufts.

It is not yet known what might have caused the accident.

Single Vehicle Accidents Statistics
There are more than six million motor vehicle accidents in the United States every year. Last year alone, 30,797 people lost their lives in traffic accidents, 593 in winter conditions, such as snow and sleet.

Liability Issues
In single-vehicle accidents, there could be several possible reasons for the crash. Alcohol, speeding, roadway conditions, winter conditions, or any combination of these can cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle and go off the road.

This time of the year is especially dangerous, because of the ice and snow we have been seeing all across the state, limited visibility, increase in alcohol consumption due to the many holiday parties, traffic, distracted driving, driver inexperience, and so on.

While investigators are trying to determine the cause of the accident, we send our wishes for a speedy recovery to the two victims.

If you or someone in your family have been injured in a similar accident, BEFORE you sign any documents, talk to the insurance agency or hire an attorney, get this FREE BOOK about the 7 Fatal Mistakes injured victims do after their Massachusetts accident.

Call 1-800-410-2769 for a Free Legal Consultation with an experienced Massachusetts car accident lawyer.

DISCLAIMER: The Kiley Law Group is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited within the article. If you were involved in this accident or a similar incident and have questions about your rights and legal options, call us at 800-410-2769, or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a legal evaluation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to all not-at-fault persons named in this article and to their family members as well.

Hit-and-Run Accidents in Massachusetts: A Troubling Trend?

This past week brought with it the first significant snowfall in Massachusetts, but it also included two prominent hit-and-run accidents. One of the accidents resulted in a fatality and the other caused the victim serious injury. Both drivers who are responsible for the separate hit and run accidents have not been identified yet by authorities.

Late last Friday night, tragedy struck a Seekonk family when their 18-year-old son, Jacob Mayo, was struck and killed by a driver on I-95 as he was walking in the breakdown lane. The driver fled the scene after striking the teenager and police are continuing to track down who is responsible for causing the fatal accident.

That same Friday night around 11:30pm, 35-year-old Michael Baglieri of Methuen was driving in Lawrence when he was struck by another vehicle and seriously injured, with a laceration to his forehead and back and leg injuries. The other driver allegedly ran out of the truck immediately after the impact and fled from the accident scene. Police in this case are working to determine who was behind the wheel when the hit and run occurred.

About 10% of all U.S. motor vehicle accidents are hit-and-run accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

One of the primary reasons drivers flee the scene of an accident that they have caused may be because they do not carry insurance. Another reason may be because they are driving drunk or under the influence of drugs and do not want to face the consequences.

In 2009 across the nation, about 4,100 pedestrians were struck and killed by a car. That same year, just under 50 pedestrians were struck and killed by a motor vehicle here in the Commonwealth.

Nearly 900 fatal accidents occurred in the U.S. last year on Friday nights, in between 9:00pm and 11:59pm.

Our thoughts are with both of the families affected by these hit-and-run accidents.

When to Contact a Massachusetts Car Accidents Lawyer
Have you been seriously injured in a Massachusetts hit-and-run accident due to someone else's recklessness? Want to know if you have a case? BEFORE you sign any forms, talk to the insurance company or hire any lawyer, get this free Massachusetts accidents book to learn how to avoid making the 7 fatal mistakes after an accident.

Contact the Boston personal injury law firm the Kiley Law Group to find out about your legal options.

Our car accident lawyers have 30 years of experience and successful track record of obtaining seven figure wins for our clients in auto accident cases, medical malpractice, child birth injuries, brain injuries, and other personal injury cases. Call 800-410-2769 to receive a free legal consultation.

And while the call is free, the information may be priceless.

DISCLAIMER: The Kiley Law Group is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited within the article. If you were involved in this accident or a similar incident and have questions about your rights and legal options, call us at 800-410-2769, or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a legal evaluation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to all not-at-fault persons named in this article and to their family members as well.

Tips for Safe Driving This Holiday Season

This time of year should bring us all lots of cheer, including festive parties to attend and friends and family to see. Unfortunately, alcohol can play a leading role on the roadways during these next few weeks. Throw a snowstorm in the mix and driving to and from your celebrations can take a treacherous turn. Inexperienced and elderly drivers may also have a more challenging time navigating through the snowy streets.

Last year in Massachusetts, 108 people were killed in car accidents where the driver had a blood alcohol concentration (or BAC) of more than .08. There were an additional 130 fatalities in car accidents across the state where the driver had a BAC of over .01. In the U.S. in 2009, there were approximately 600 fatal car accidents resulting from either snow or sleet. 

There were 77 people killed in Massachusetts car accidents last year, who ranged in age from 16 to 24, while 25 elderly drivers aged 74 and older died in fatal accidents in the Commonwealth the same year.

Now that the first snow has fallen in Massachusetts, it’s time to go over some tips on staying safe on the wintry roads during this holiday season.

• Be sure to check your car’s fluid levels (windshield washer fluid, anti-freeze)
• Clear your car of snow and ice as much as possible to prevent snow from flying off onto other cars
• Keep your windshield wipers completely cleared of snow and ice
• Try to keep your gas tank half-full during this season to account for heavy traffic delays
• If there are winter road advisories and you don’t have to go anywhere, try to just stay home
• Allow more space between your car and the car in front of you than you would under normal conditions
• Give yourself more time to come to a safe and complete stop on slippery roads
• Posted speed limits are for dry conditions only, not for snowy and icy conditions, so take it slow
• Bridges freeze quicker than other roadways, so take extra care
• Be aware of black ice
• Make sure your cell phone is charged with each trip or have a cell phone charger for your car
• Put together an emergency kit to keep in your car. This should include jumper cables, a spare tire, a shovel, flashlight, a heavy blanket, an ice scraper, and flares to warn other drivers
• Always choose a designated driver before your night begins

With these in mind, you should be well on your way to having a very merry holiday season.

Happy Holidays!

When to Contact a Massachusetts Car Accidents Lawyer
If you’ve been in a car accident during the holidays in Massachusetts due to someone else's recklessness, BEFORE you sign any forms, talk to the insurance company or hire any lawyer, get this free Massachusetts accidents book to learn how to avoid making the 7 fatal mistakes after an accident.

Contact the Boston personal injury law firm the Kiley Law Group to find out about your legal options.

Our car accident lawyers have 30 years of experience and successful track record of obtaining seven figure wins for our clients in auto accident cases, medical malpractice, child birth injuries, brain injuries, and other personal injury cases.  Call 800-410-2769 to receive a free legal consultation.

And while the call is free, the information may be priceless.

Lawrence Hit and Run Injures Methuen Man

Michael Baglieri, 35, of Methuen, has been injured in a hit and run that took place on Merrimack Street in Lawrence on Friday night. 

Baglieri had been driving along Merrimack Street when another vehicle pulled out of a parking lot and struck Baglieri’s Buick, causing the car to be totaled.  The driver of the other car, who has yet to be identified by Lawrence police, ran off immediately after the crash occurred, according to witnesses. 

Baglieri was taken to a local hospital for treatment of injuries to his forehead, back and leg. Police reported that he was bleeding from his forehead when they responded to the hit and run around 11:30pm Friday.

The vehicle that hit Baglieri is registered to Newburyport City Councilor Allison Heartquist.  Her husband, Richard, was reportedly at a Christmas party in the city that night and had driven the Chevrolet Avalanche to the party. The Avalanche was left at the scene of the crash, with the other driver running off. Lawrence police have stated that the truck is not believed to have been stolen that night.

Baglieri continues to recover but is still in pain from the hit and run accident. He said that he could have died in the accident and hopes that the driver of the other vehicle faces consequences for the accident.

Hit and Run Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) over 10 percent of car accidents across the United States involve hit and runs. The top two most commonly cited reasons as to why a driver might leave the scene of an accident are that the driver does not have car insurance or is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The law in Massachusetts that applies to drivers who leave the scene of the accident, states that “whoever without stopping…after knowingly colliding with or otherwise causing injury to any other vehicle or property” may be fined anywhere from $20 to $200 and could be punished by a prison sentence lasting from two weeks to two years.

Hit and run accidents are unfortunately a common occurrence out on the roadways, and Baglieri is another victim of such an accident. We wish him a speedy recovery and hope that the driver who fled the scene is brought to justice.

When to Contact a Massachusetts Hit and Run Lawyer
If you or someone you know has been the victim of a hit and run accident, BEFORE you sign any forms, talk to the insurance company or hire any lawyer, get this free Massachusetts accidents book to learn how to avoid making the 7 fatal mistakes after an accident.

Contact the Boston car accident attorneys of Kiley Law Group to find out about your legal options.

Our car accident lawyers have 30 years of experience and successful track record of obtaining seven figure wins for our clients in auto accident cases, medical malpractice, child birth injuries, brain injuries, and other personal injury cases.  Call 800-410-2769 to receive a free legal consultation.

And while the call is free, the information may be priceless.

DISCLAIMER: The Kiley Law Group is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited within the article. If you were involved in this accident or a similar incident and have questions about your rights and legal options, call us at 800-410-2769, or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a legal evaluation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to all not-at-fault persons named in this article and to their family members as well.

Drunk Driver Posts $10K Bail in Fatal Andover Accident

Robert Bryant, 50, of Haverhill, posted the $10,000 bail yesterday that he was being held on from charges that he struck a Haverhill woman, who later died from the injuries, with his truck on Sunday in Andover.  The prosecution team handling this case tried to maintain the bail at $50,000, in addition to a request for Bryant to wear an electronic monitoring bracelet if he made bail.  However, a Salem Superior Court judge dramatically reduced the bail amount and will not require Bryant to wear the monitoring bracelet now that he has been released from jail. This is the latest development in the story and Bryant will be arraigned in court on Jan 4.

Cynthia Ray, 30, was on her way to her car after leaving the Massachusetts State Police barracks on Route 125 Sunday afternoon when Bryant hit Ray with his truck and tried to drive away before police were able to apprehend him before Bryant reached the highway. That night, Ray died at a Boston hospital from the injuries sustained in this tragic drunk driving accident in Andover. Our sympathies go to the family of Cynthia Ray for their loss.

Deadly Drunk Driving Accident Statistics
Last year, there were over 4,000 pedestrians hit and killed by cars in the United States. In 2008, impaired or drunk drivers were responsible for the deaths of 12,000 people nationwide. This statistic translates to one individual being killed every 45 minutes by an impaired or drunk driver on the road.
 
When Should You Contact a Massachusetts Auto Accident Attorney?
If you have been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident in Massachusetts, and want to know if you have a case, call the Massachusetts personal injury lawyers at Kiley Law Group.  BEFORE you talk to an insurance adjustor, sign ANY forms or hire a lawyer, get a FREE copy of attorney Thomas M. Kiley’s Massachusetts accidents book.

For a free case evaluation call 1-800-410-2769.

The Kiley Law Group is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited within the article. If you were involved in this accident or a similar incident and have questions about your rights and legal options, call us at 800-410-2769, or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a legal evaluation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to all not-at-fault persons named in this article and to their family members as well.

Maximizing Your Personal Injury Settlement

Victims who are injured in a car accident in Los Angeles could be facing a number of difficult challenges.  Some will experience constant phone calls from an insurance adjuster and frequent medical treatments.  This is no life is no easy task to say the least.  Staying focused during this difficult time is important.  You need to prepare your personal injury claim now to ensure that you receive a fair settlement.

The first thing you should be aware of is that the insurance adjuster is not your friend.  An adjuster works for the insurance company to settle your claim for as little money as possible.  Every dollar an insurance adjuster saves on your claim is another dollar of profit for shareholders.  To receive a fair settlement from an insurance adjuster you will need skill in to areas: preparation and negotiation.

Preparation is important to any personal injury case.  You would not take a trip to Europe without planning all the details.  A personal injury claim is no different in this regard.  Start the preparation of your case by answering the following questions:

1. What is the strength (evidence) of your claim?  The strength of your case will be the evidence you provide.  Prepare statements of witnesses, police records, photos, documentations of your losses and so on.
2. What are similar claims generally resolved for? Go to your local law library and find similar cases.  Don't be afraid to reference these cases when negotiating.
3. What is your settlement goal?  This number should be the ideal amount you would like to walk away with.  Keep it within reason.
4. What is your settlement bottom line?  Define the lowest amount you will settle your case for.  Make sure this will pay for all of your expenses, pain and suffering, as well as future expenses that will be incurred from your accident.
5. What alternatives do you have if you don't settle?

After a car accident it is important that you consult with a skilled personal injury lawyer in California.  The best personal injury attorneys will offer free consultations to all injured accident victims.

Drunk Driving Crash Ruins Two Bradford Families

The notorious DUI accident which happened on Sunday in which a 30-year-old woman, Cynthia Ray, was struck and killed by a drunken 50-year-old man, Robert Bryant, in front of the state police barracks in Andover, attracted extensive local media coverage in the last few days.

We now know that the at-first-unnamed woman was later identified as Cynthia Ann Ray, and that she was from the Bradford section of Haverhill, as was Bryant.

Ray was walking to her car in front of the barracks on Route 125 when Bryant’s pickup truck struck her and left her unconscious on the road. He then struck her parked vehicle and attempted to flee the scene.

Ray’s mother was in the parked vehicle. She ran for help at the barracks, and police were able to stop Bryant from reaching the highway.

In the meantime Ray was rushed by ambulance to a local hospital, then to Boston, where she died on Sunday night from her injuries.

It was also reported that according to the officer who arrested Bryant, his eyes were “glassy and bloodshot”, that he stuttered after being removed from the vehicle, that he failed three sobriety tests and that he admitted to having had “a few beers at a friend’s house” prior to the accident. Furthermore, Bryant appeared not to know that he even hit a pedestrian. “Did I hit somebody?” he told the officer.

How could a successful Massachusetts businessman and a father of four do something mostly attributed to irresponsible and inexperienced drivers in their early twenties?

And how could his friends had let him drive after his “few beers”? Bryant was clearly too drunk to drive, yet he still went on the road.

With that fatal mistake he took not only the life of the 30-year-old Cynthia Ray, but ruined two families – Cynthia’s and his own. Our sympathies go to the family of Cynthia Ray for their loss.

Bryant was arraigned at court on Monday and bail was set for $50,000 cash. He is due to appear back in court on January 4th, 2011.

Fatal Drunk Driving Accident Statistics
According to his lawyer, Bryant didn’t have a history of alcohol abuse or any mental illness, so this could have been a one-time mistake. Yet this only goes to show that even one-time drunk driving can lead to a tragic outcome for everyone involved.

Alcohol and driving do not mix, as NHTSA data for fatal drunk driving accidents shows. In 2009 alone, 334 people were killed in traffic accidents in Massachusetts. Of them, 108 fatalities were caused by drunken driving.

This means that 108 lives could have been spared if drivers did not engage in intoxicated driving.

We are sorry that Cynthia Ray will be among the drunk driving accident victims for 2010. Our prayers go out to her family.

When to Contact a Massachusetts Car Accidents Lawyer
If you have lost someone in a drunk driving accident in Massachusetts, contact the Boston personal injury law firm, the Kiley Law Group to find out what your legal options are.

Our car accident lawyers have 30 years of experience and successful track record of obtaining seven figure wins for our clients in auto accident cases, medical malpractice, child birth injuries, brain injuries, and other personal injury cases.

Call 800-410-2769 to receive a Free legal consultation.

The call is free, the information may be priceless.

The Kiley Law Group is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited within the article. If you were involved in this accident or a similar incident and have questions about your rights and legal options, call us at 800-410-2769, or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a legal evaluation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to all not-at-fault persons named in this article and to their family members as well.

Don’t Let a Little Buzz Ruin Your Holidays

Getting behind the wheel after one too many drinks can often lead to a disaster, as fatality reports often show.  Even just a little buzz makes a difference, so it is no wonder that National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) started their Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving campaign.

Armed with clever posters, catchy slogans and easily available to the public through their website, the NHTSA’s campaign is aimed to discourage intoxicated driving through a 3-pronged strategy:

1.    High-visibility law enforcement
2.    Enhanced prosecution and adjudication
3.    Medical screening and limited intervention for alcohol abuse problems

Underage drivers are especially at risk, as are those under 35, repeat offenders, and high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) offenders.  In general, men are more likely to drive while drunk than women are.  In Massachusetts, 116 drivers with BAC levels of 0.08 or more were involved in fatal accidents in 2008.  Of them, 95 were men.

So, this holiday season we urge all drivers, especially men, not to drink and drive.  Winter conditions alone can cause many crashes—alcohol makes them even more deadly.

When Should You Contact a Massachusetts Auto Accident Attorney?
If you have been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident in Massachusetts, and want to know if you have a case, call the Massachusetts personal injury lawyers at Kiley Law Group.

BEFORE you talk to an insurance adjustor, sign ANY forms or hire a lawyer, get a FREE copy of attorney Thomas M. Kiley’s Massachusetts accidents book.

For a free case evaluation call 1-800-410-2769.

Woman Killed by Drunk Driver Identified

The identity of the woman who was struck and killed by a drunk driver outside of the Andover State Police barracks yesterday has been released by authorities in an update out this afternoon. 
   
30-year-old Cynthia Anne Ray was hit by a pickup truck driven by 50-year-old Robert Bryant as she was walking back to her car from leaving the barracks.  Both the victim and alleged drunk driver are from the Bradford section of Haverhill. Our sympathies go to the family of Cynthia Ray for their loss.

Bryant was arraigned in Lawrence District Court today on several charges that included motor vehicle homicide and operating under the influence.  He entered pleas of not guilty to all of the charges, stating that he did not remember hitting the woman with his truck.

Drunk Driving Fatality Statistics
Last year, there were more than 4,000 pedestrians hit and killed by cars in the United States.  In 2008, impaired or drunk drivers killed approximately 12,000 people nationwide.  This statistic translates to one person being killed every 45 minutes by an impaired or drunk driver on the road.

When Should You Contact a Massachusetts Auto Accident Attorney?
If you or someone you know has been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident in Massachusetts, and want to know if you have a case, call the Massachusetts personal injury lawyers at Kiley Law Group.

Before you talk to an insurance adjustor, sign any forms or hire a lawyer, get a free copy of attorney Thomas M. Kiley’s Massachusetts accidents book.

For a free case evaluation call 1-800-410-2769.

The Kiley Law Group is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited within the article. If you were involved in this accident or a similar incident and have questions about your rights and legal options, call us at 800-410-2769, or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a legal evaluation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to all not-at-fault persons named in this article and to their family members as well.

Drunk Driver Hits and Kills Woman in Andover

An unidentified 31-year-old Bradford woman was hit by a truck driven by 50-year-old Robert Bryant, also of Bradford, in the Massachusetts State Police barracks parking lot in Andover yesterday afternoon.  The woman later died as a result of her injuries at a Boston hospital last night.  Bryant was held last night on $50,000 cash bail and is being arraigned today in court on motor vehicle homicide and operating under the influence charges.

 It has been reported that Bryant was driving drunk when he hit the woman with his pickup truck outside of the State Police barracks on Route 125.  After hitting the woman, Bryant also struck her car that she had been walking back to after she had left the barracks.  Bryant then attempted to drive away, but was captured by police just short of the highway.  The truck’s right front tire had come off as a result of the accident, according to police. 

The woman was at the barracks yesterday around 3:00pm to pick up an accident report for her husband, who had been involved in a car accident earlier that same day.  Her mother was in the passenger seat of the car when Bryant hit the parked Toyota Highlander.  Once the car had been hit, she ran inside the barracks for help.

State police found the woman unconscious on a grassy area and administered first aid.  She was then transported via ambulance to a local hospital and then to Boston.

The accident is currently under investigation by state police.  The Essex County District Attorney’s office is also involved in the investigation.

Motor Vehicle Fatality Statistics
 In 2009, over 4,000 pedestrians were struck and killed by motor vehicles in the United States.  Drivers who were impaired killed 12,000 people in 2008 across the nation, which averages to be one person every 45 minutes who is killed because of an impaired or drunk driver. 

When Should You Contact a Massachusetts Auto Accident Attorney?
If you or someone you know has been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident in Massachusetts, and want to know if you have a case, call the Massachusetts personal injury lawyers at Kiley Law Group.

Before you talk to an insurance adjustor, sign any forms or hire a lawyer, get a free copy of attorney Thomas M. Kiley’s Massachusetts accidents book.

For a free case evaluation call 1-800-410-2769.

What You Can Do to Avoid a Holiday Disaster

With so many of us counting down to the approaching holidays, there is little doubt that we will have errands to run here and there in our preparations for parties and presents.  Heading out into the cold or snowy weather is just another item on our To Do lists.

As you dash through the snow to and from stores and soirees this holiday season, try taking extra time and care with your driving.  Other drivers may be rushing even more than you out on the roadways and this can be a recipe for disaster.  The roads may be icy and because we don’t have as much daylight in these cold months, it may take some time to adjust to driving in the dark.  If you factor in ice or snow storms into your driving experience, calling off errands for that day may not be such a bad idea.

Try to pay extra attention while driving if you want to avoid an accident this season.  Drive a little slower to be safer.  Leave earlier than you normally would to get to your holiday parties on time.  Even arriving a few minutes late will not make a difference if you were to take your time out on the roads.

 The drive home from a party can be just as dangerous as getting there safely.  If alcohol is involved, please plan ahead and have a designated driver in your group before you even arrive.  Look into public transportation options such as a train or taxi, if a responsible driver isn’t available to get you back to your front door.   By taking this extra step before the festivities begin, you won’t have to worry about it later.

At this time of year, car break-ins are a common crime in shopping plaza parking lots.  Remember that “Out of sight, out of mind” is a good motto to follow if you don’t want your gifts to be a temptation for others.  Put presents in your car’s trunk, for example, or under seats.  If possible, try to park in an open and well-lit parking space wherever your shopping list takes you.

Hopefully these reminders will help you make the most of this holiday season. 

Happy Holidays!

When Should You Contact a Massachusetts Auto Accident Attorney?
If you have been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident in Massachusetts, and want to know if you have a case, call the Massachusetts personal injury lawyers at Kiley Law Group.

BEFORE you talk to an insurance adjustor, sign ANY forms or hire a lawyer, get a FREE copy of attorney Thomas M. Kiley’s Massachusetts accidents book.

For a free case evaluation call 1-800-410-2769.

Methuen Man in Fatal Car Accident

Yesterday afternoon, 55-year-old Methuen resident Michael Croshaw died in a single vehicle accident on Route 110 in Methuen.

He was driving east on Lowell Street around 1:30pm when a witness stated that the car Croshaw was operating, a 2007 Honda Civic, went off the roadway and crashed into a tree. 

 Initial police reports about the crash are revealing that there was no evidence of skid marks on the road before the fatal impact.   Methuen police reported that an autopsy may uncover more details as to the cause of the accident and whether or not a health condition or some other distraction could have had a role in this tragic accident.

Emergency responders had to employ hydraulic equipment in their attempts to rescue Croshaw from his car.  He was transported to Lawrence General Hospital and was later pronounced dead.

The Methuen Police Department is continuing to investigate the crash.

When Should You Contact a Massachusetts Auto Accident Attorney?
If you or someone you know has been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident in Massachusetts, and want to know if you have a case, call the Massachusetts personal injury lawyers at Kiley Law Group.

Before you talk to an insurance adjustor, sign any forms or hire a lawyer, get a free copy of attorney Thomas M. Kiley’s Massachusetts accidents book.

For a free case evaluation call 1-800-410-2769.

Former Mass Pike Head Admits Driving Drunk

Last week, the former head of the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority stated publicly that he had been driving drunk in the August incident that led to his arrest.  Matthew Amorello admitted that he drove drunk down a Haverhill street, which resulted in him hitting two parked cars and losing one of the wheels on his own car as he continued to drive away from the accident scene.

As of his hearing last week, his driver’s license will be suspended for 45 days and he will owe fines of more than $500.

It was reported that the available evidence is considered to be enough for Amorello to be found guilty by a jury.  A Haverhill District Court judge, however, has continued the case without a finding for one year and will dismiss the charges against Amorello if the former leader of the Big Dig steers clear of additional charges.

Amorello left his position in 2006 as head of the Turnpike Authority due to governmental pressure for him to resign over the death of a Boston woman, who had died when part of a Big Dig tunnel’s ceiling fell onto her car.

Statistics on Drunk Driving
About 12,000 people in the United States died in 2008 in car accidents that involved alcohol.  Thankfully, no one was seriously injured in the Amorello incident, but it is a sad fact that people drink and drive every single day.  Drunk drivers put themselves and everyone else who is on the road in danger.  In Massachusetts, there were a total of 308 car accident fatalities in 2009 and 96 of those deaths were alcohol-related.

When should you contact a Massachusetts car accident attorney?
Have you or someone you know been seriously injured in a car accident due to drunk driving in Massachusetts?  Want to know if you have a case?  Want to know what your case is worth?  Want justice?  Call the Massachusetts car accident lawyers at Kiley Law Group for a free and professional evaluation of your case at 1-800-410-2769. 

You can also download or request a copy by mail of  attorney Thomas M. Kiley's free Massachusetts auto accidents book "The 7 Mistakes That Can Wreck Your Massachusetts Accident Case" now!

Pedestrian Accident in Andover: Are You Looking Both Ways Before You Cross?

The day before a 14-year-old student was hit by a teenage driver, another pedestrian was also struck while crossing a street in Andover.

Thomas Romano, 52, was struck by a car this past Sunday morning as he attempted to cross Railroad Street around 9:00am.

Romano, of Andover, was transported to Lawrence General Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the car that hit Romano was 38-year-old Mark Van Doren, also of Andover. Three witnesses were present at the scene, according to Andover police.

Officials are reporting that Van Doren was driving approximately 20 miles per hour as a result of the sun reflecting on his windshield. The solar glare is what authorities believe led to Van Doren hitting Romano, who was not in a pedestrian crosswalk at the time of the accident.

Pedestrian Accidents
In 2009, 842 pedestrians were killed in the U.S. while improperly crossing a roadway or intersection. To make sure cars are able to see you while you’re out for a walk at anytime of the day, follow these helpful safety tips for pedestrians. Making yourself visible to drivers with either reflective clothing or a flashlight (especially now that it gets dark so early in the evening) is imperative. Never assume that a driver can see you because if you think that they see you and they really don’t, they may not be able to stop in time. Look over those extra safety steps before you step into the crosswalk.

When to Contact a Massachusetts Auto Accident Attorney?
If you have been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident in Massachusetts, and want to know if you have a case, call the Massachusetts car accident attorneys at Kiley Law Group.

BEFORE you talk to an insurance adjustor, sign ANY forms or hire a lawyer, get a FREE copy of attorney Thomas M. Kiley’s Massachusetts auto accidents book.

For a free case evaluation call 1-800-410-2769.

The Massachusetts personal injury law firm Kiley Law Group is not representing any of the parties mentioned in the article at the time the article was published. Our information sources are clearly cited in the article. If you were involved in this accident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us. Do not act solely based on the information provided above. Get a free confidential consultation from an experienced personal injury attorney.