Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer

FDA Advisory Panel Recommends Banning Vicodin and Percocet

2011-11-23T13:15:00.000-08:00

According to recent findings by a Food and Drug Administration advisory panel, acetaminophen overdose is the leading cause of liver failure in the U.S., which prompted the panel to recommend that the FDA ban prescription drugs such as Vicodin and Percocet that contain high levels of acetaminophen. Many over-the-counter drugs - including Tylenol - also contain smaller doses of acetaminophen, which, if taken in combination with acetaminophen-containing prescription drugs, may lead to an overdose. The FDA is not required to accept the panel's recommendation, but consumers should consult their pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter medications while taking Vicodin or Percocet, which are often prescribed as painkillers.

Each year hundreds of new drugs enter the $60 billion per year prescription-drug market promising to improve our lives. But each year, hundreds of thousand of Americans die and many more suffer injuries as a result of those drugs. Despite the many clinical trials and tests conducted on prescription drugs to protect the public, many drugs still cause serious injuries and death. In fact, according to the General Accounting Office, over 51 percent of FDA-approved drugs have major adverse effects that aren't detected until after the general public uses them.

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed due to a dangerous drug, call (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation with an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of personal injury and product liability cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner is an Atlanta injury lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your injuries.

Rollover Accident Kills 4, Injures 4 Others

2011-10-10T08:49:00.000-07:00

Four members of a Georgia family were killed in a rollover accident on Interstate 75 near Ocala, Florida, early Sunday morning. According to police reports, 17-year-old Darrian George, of Tucker, was driving the family's 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe when it veered off the roadway and rolled several times, ejecting five passengers. Rescue crews reported that Darrian and 30-year-old Tiffany Bradshaw were pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. Two other passengers, Kayden George, 3, and Kyia George, 7, were transported to Shands Hospital in Gainesville, where they later died from their injuries. Four other passengers were also taken to the hospital, where they are recovering from their injuries. Only one passenger was wearing a seat belt in the crash, police said.

As an Atlanta accident attorney, I know firsthand that using safety belts can save lives and help prevent personal injuries when auto accidents occur. In Georgia, all drivers and front-seat passengers are required by law to wear a seat belt. In addition, children eight years of age or older must be buckled in and children under 8 must either be either secured in a federally-approved child safety seat or wearing a seat belt. Observing these seat belt laws can help prevent tragedy in the event of a car accident. However, failure to wear a seat belt may not be "considered evidence of negligence or causation, . . . and shall not be evidence used to diminish any recovery for damages" in a personal injury lawsuit.

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in an auto accident, contact an experienced Atlanta auto accident lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner helps personal injury victims in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Our Atlanta accident lawyers will not charge a fee unless you receive a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

Atlanta Police Ramp Up Enforcement in School Zones

2011-08-10T09:32:00.000-07:00

Atlanta-area kids went back to school this week, and police officers ramped up enforcement of crosswalk and speed laws in Atlanta school zones on Wednesday. Unfortunately, drivers often exceed the posted speed limit in school zones - despite the fact that there are children present. The APD implemented this special operation in order to remind drivers that ignoring driving laws near school zones can result in tragedy.

In 2009, 150 pedestrians were killed in auto accidents in Georgia and tens of thousands more were injured. A significant percentage of those victims were children traveling to and from school. If your child has been injured in a crosswalk or anywhere in a school zone, you deserve compensation for your child's medical bills, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma. You need an experienced Atlanta auto accident lawyer to fight for your rights and help bring the responsible parties to justice. Leigh R. Bodner has over 30 years experience representing victims of auto accidents in Georgia.

If your child was injured in a school zone, contact Atlanta auto accident lawyer Leigh R. Bodner at (404) 262-3343 to discuss your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of personal injury and auto accident cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. The Atlanta personal injury attorneys at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. offer a free initial consultation regarding your case.

College Park Woman Injured in Ceiling Collapse

2011-07-08T12:05:00.000-07:00

A woman in College Park was injured when the ceiling of her apartment collapsed onto her while she was asleep in bed on Wednesday night. The 68-year-old was in her bed at the Vesta Gardens apartments when the ceiling of her bedroom came crashing down. She was transported to the emergency room at Atlanta Medical Center for treatment of neck injuries and head trauma. The collapse may have been the result of a leaky roof.

When accidents occur on the premises of an apartment complex, the owner of the premises and/or the landlord may be held liable for the resulting injuries in certain circumstances. If a landlord knows or should have known of the danger on the premises, and failed to repair it, then he or she may be liable for the damages caused by that negligence. Anyone injured on someone else's property should seek appropriate medical treatment, and then contact an experienced premises liability attorney to discuss their case.

If you have been injured or lost a loved one because of the negligence of a property owner, contact Atlanta personal injury lawyer Leigh R. Bodner at (404) 262-3343 to discuss your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of premises liability and slip and fall cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. The Atlanta injury attorneys at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. offer a free initial consultation regarding your case.

Study Reminds Parents to Watch Children Around Water This Summer

2011-06-20T14:11:00.000-07:00

A recent study reveals that a child drowns in a portable pool every five days in the U.S. during the hot summer months. According to an article published this week in Pediatrics, 209 children drowned between 2001 and 2009 in as little as 2 inches of water in backyard "kiddie pools." Researchers believe that the reason so many children die in portable pools is because parents don't realize how dangerous they actually are. Parents need to keep in mind, however, that children can drown in only a few inches of water in just a matter of moments. In fact, over 40 percent of the children who drown in portable pools are supervised by adults at the time of the drowning.

Another reason for the high incidence of drownings in portable pools is that parents don't invest in the same safety measures with kiddie pools as they do with standard in-ground pools, such as fences and covers. In some cases, drownings can be caused by a defect in the design or manufacture of the swimming pool. When a child dies due to the negligence of another, the negligent parties must be brought to justice.

If your child has drown or nearly drown in a swimming pool due to someone else's negligence, call (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of accident injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner is an Atlanta accident lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your injuries.

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Offers Summer Program for Teenagers with Brain Injuries

2011-05-25T11:22:00.000-07:00

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta is offering a two-week summer program for teenagers who are living with acquired brain injuries (ABI). The intensive program addresses the needs of teens who are suffering from brain injuries as they make the difficult transition into adulthood. According to the CHOA website, "Key skills for adult transition will be addressed, including goal setting, self-management, health and wellness." To learn more about CHOA's traumatic brain injury summer program, click here.

Most cases of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) are mild, involving only temporary loss of consciousness. The most severe cases, however, can have a devastating impact on victims' lives, causing paralysis, seizures, impaired speech, sensory losses, amnesia, coma, and even death. Victims of TBI may never fully recover and deserve full compensation for their injuries. Atlanta brain injury attorney Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. will conduct a thorough investigation of your case, assist you in assessing the full amount of your damages, and present testimony of expert witnesses to prove your Traumatic Brain Injuries to the jury.

If you or someone you love has suffered a traumatic brain injury, contact an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner helps brain injury victims in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Our Atlanta brain injury lawyers will not charge a fee unless you receive a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

One Dead in Atlanta Truck Accident

2011-05-05T13:07:00.000-07:00

One person was killed in an accident involving a semi truck on Interstate 20 Thursday afternoon, according to Georgia State Patrol officials. The accident happened at Interstate 20 eastbound near Interstate 285 northbound, when a red car smashed into the back of a tractor trailer. Several eastbound lanes of Interstate 20 are closed while rescue crews clear the roadway. An investigation into the cause of the accident is underway by the State Patrol and Atlanta Fire and Rescue.

Semi trucks can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds, while passenger cars and trucks weigh only a few thousand. That is why collisions with large trucks often result in serious injuries and death to occupants of passenger vehicles. Truck accidents are often caused by the negligence of truck drivers and trucking companies. If you have lost a loved one in an Atlanta truck accident, the negligent parties must be held accountable for your emotional and financial loss. The Atlanta truck accident attorney at Bodner Law Firm can help you seek justice for your loss.

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a truck accident, contact Atlanta auto accident lawyer Leigh R. Bodner at (404) 262-3343 to discuss your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of personal injury and auto accident cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. The Atlanta injury attorneys at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. offer a free initial consultation regarding your case.

NHTSA Issues New Guidelines for Child Seats

2011-04-19T10:06:00.000-07:00

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently revised its child restraint guidelines, which are now categorized by age instead of by type of child seat, in response to the latest scientific and medical research. The new guidelines urge parents to keep children in each restraint type, including rear-facing, forward-facing and booster seats, for as long as possible before moving them to the next type of seat. Kids should be kept in rear-facing car seats, for example, until 2 years of age or until they surpass the height and weight limits of the car seat.

Each year, child safety seats are recalled by manufacturers due to a variety of defects in the design, manufacture, or warnings on the products. Children involved in accidents while restrained in defective car seats often suffer catastrophic injuries and death. If your child has been injured due to a defective child car seat, contact Atlanta personal injury attorney Leigh R. Bodner to discuss your legal options.

If you have been injured or a loved one has been injured in any type of accident, call (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of accident injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner is an Atlanta auto accident lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your injuries.

Woman Dies in Fall From Condo Balcony

2011-04-06T12:48:00.000-07:00

A Marietta woman died in a fall from a 14th-floor balcony at a Panama City Beach condominium, police investigators said. Michelle Haley, 44, fell from a balcony at around 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, landing on a parking structure below. The cause of the fall is currently under investigation, but police do not suspect foul play.

Falls such as this one are often the result of a structural defect. Some of the causes of structural defects are:

Inadequate design
Materials that are poor quality or defective
Improper workmanship
Improper use of structural components
Construction methods that are unsound

If you have been injured or lost a loved on in a slip and fall accident, contact an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner helps bus accident injury victims in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Our Atlanta injury lawyers will not charge a fee unless you receive a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

10 Charged in Deadly DUI Crash

2011-02-25T11:27:00.000-08:00

Ten people have been charged in connection with a drunk driving accident in Douglas County that left a 16-year-old dead on Saturday. The crash occurred early Saturday morning after the driver of the car, along with the deceased and another passenger, left a bonfire party where they had all consumed alcohol. Police have arrested the 17-year-old driver and his passenger, the Douglasville Chief Code Enforcement Officer who hosted the party the teens had attended and his teenage son, another adult who furnished alcohol to the teens at a separate party, the owner of the store where the alcohol was purchased, and several other adults and teens in connection with the case.

Drunk driving crashes such as this one are especially tragic because they could have been prevented. Sadly, DUI-related crashes often cause injury and death to innocent victims. It is commonly the case that drunk drivers involved in crashes are uninsured or underinsured and have no assets to cover the cost of medical bills, time missed from work, or other damages caused by their irresponsible conduct. In these cases, it may be possible to seek compensation from the bar, restaurant, or social host that overserved the driver. An experienced Atlanta accident lawyer can help you seek compensation from the person or business that served alcohol to the drunk driver under Georgia’s “dram shop” acts.

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a drunk driving accident, contact Atlanta auto accident lawyer Leigh R. Bodner at (404) 262-3343 to discuss your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of personal injury and auto accident cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. The Atlanta injury attorneys at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. offer a free initial consultation regarding your case.

HERO Worker Killed in Crash

2011-01-31T13:08:00.000-08:00

A Georgia Department of Transportation employee was killed while aiding a stranded motorist on I-85 as part of the Highway Emergency Response Operator (HERO) unit Monday morning. The HERO employee was helping a motorist near Metropolitan Parkway when he was struck by a flatbed truck on the side of the highway. The driver of the truck was taken to a local hospital in serious condition. A Georgia DOT official said that this is the first instance of a HERO worker being killed in the line of duty. Fortunately, the stranded motorist was not harmed in the crash.

The number of stranded motorists killed on highways is on the rise in the U.S. According to a recent report by the Automobile Association of America (AAA), motorists who break down on highways should not get out of their vehicles. Rather, stranded motorists should pull as far onto the shoulder of the roadway as possible, turn on their vehicle's hazard lights, call AAA, a towing company, or the police, and wait for assistance. Stranded motorists who exit their vehicles on the highway place themselves in danger of being seriously injured or killed by passing cars and trucks.

If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed in an auto accident, contact Atlanta auto accident lawyer Leigh R. Bodner at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of accident injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner is an Atlanta auto accident lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your injuries.

School Bus Driver May Have Been Negligent in Crash

2011-01-06T10:48:00.000-08:00

Police may file charges against the driver of a school bus that was involved in a collision with a tractor trailer in Cherokee County this week. The crash occurred on Highway 369 at around 8 a.m. Tuesday, when substitute bus driver Lisa Spince turned in front of a large truck while carrying students to Free Home Elementary. Police say the truck driver was unable to avoid the crash. Six of the students on board the bus suffered minor injuries. Spince and the truck driver were transported to a local hospital for treatment of their injuries. Fortunately in this case, no children were seriously injured in the collision.

Bus drivers are required to exercise the utmost degree of care when transporting students to and from school. Bus driver negligence, however, often causes serious injuries and death to students on board the bus at the time of the crash. There are many different ways in which a driver may be negligent, including failing to yield the right of way, fatigue, distracted driving, or speeding, to name only a few. When a bus driver's negligence causes injury to a student, the school district will typically be held liable for the injury.

If your child has been injured in a school bus accident, contact an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner helps bus accident injury victims in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Our Atlanta injury lawyers will not charge a fee unless you receive a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

Pet Food Recalled by Kroger

2010-12-20T09:26:00.000-08:00

Kroger, Inc. has recalled select varieties of pet food sold in stores in 19 states, according to a company announcement. The states affected by the recall are Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia. Below is a complete list of the recalled pet food products:

Pet Pride Cat Food sold in 3.5 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111088128
Pet Pride Cat Food sold in 18 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111071357
Pet Pride Tasty Blend Poultry & Seafood Cat Food sold in 3.5 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111088152
Pet Pride Tasty Blend Poultry & Seafood Cat Food sold in 18 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111074580
Pet Pride Kitten Formula Food sold in 3.5 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111071903
Old Yeller Chunk Dog Food sold in 22 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111074566
Old Yeller Chunk Dog Food sold in 50 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111074563
Kroger Value Cat Food sold in 3 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111000018
Kroger Value Chunk Dog Food sold in 15 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111071559
Kroger Value Chunk Dog Food sold in 50 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code:1111000108

Consumers may call Kroger at (800) 632-6900 with comments or questions.

If your dog or cat has become ill or died after consuming tainted pet food, contact an Atlanta injury lawyer at (404) 262-3343 to discuss your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of personal injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. The Atlanta injury attorneys at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. offer a free initial consultation regarding your case.

New Strict Crash Ratings Tough on Toyota

2010-11-22T12:09:00.000-08:00

Toyota did not fare well when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released the first set of results under its stringent new crash ratings system. The five-star rating system, called the New Car Assessment Program, evaluates the safety of new vehicles in front impact, side impact, and rollover crashes. In its first round of tests, the Toyota Camry received only 3 stars, while similar GMC, Honda, and BMW models all earned 5 stars. The results are bad news for the Japanese auto maker, which has been subject to several recent lawsuits regarding recalled Toyota and Lexus model vehicles. The new crash test ratings may be a red flag for consumers concerned about the safety of Toyota cars, trucks, and SUVs.

If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed in an accident involving a Toyota vehicle, contact Atlanta auto accident lawyer Leigh R. Bodner at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of accident injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner is an Atlanta auto accident lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your injuries.

School Buses are Safe Without Seatbelts, Study Reveals

2010-10-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

A new study concluded that school buses are safe enough without seat belts. Researchers estimate that equipping school buses with safety belts would work to prevent only one death every eight years. The study was conducted by the University Transportation Center for Alabama at the behest of Alabama Governor Bob Riley after four students were killed in a school bus crash in 2006.

Because the cost of installing seat belts would run $11,000 to $15,000 per school bus, the state of Alabama has determined that they are not a cost-effective solution. Lawmakers say spending the money on increased safety procedures for students while boarding and getting off buses, which is when most deaths occur, would be a better investment. Georgia legislators may still require safety belts on school buses despite the study's findings. The state had put off making a decision regarding seat belts on school buses until the results of the three-year study were released.

If your child has been injured in a school bus accident, contact an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of auto accident cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Our Atlanta injury lawyers will not charge a fee unless you receive a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

Are 15-Passenger Vans Safe?

2010-10-11T12:42:00.001-07:00

A deadly October 3 crash that killed four members of a Georgia church group has raised serious concerns about the safety of 15-passenger vans. The crash occurred on U.S. Highway 27 when the tire blew out on a van carrying 17 members of the Tabernacle of Prayer and Deliverance church of Columbus to a revival meeting in Quincy, Florida. The driver lost control of the van which crossed the median and rolled several times before landing in a ditch. Four passengers, including the church's pastor, were killed, and 13 others were injured in the crash. None of the passengers were wearing seat belts.

According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data, 15-passenger vans are more likely than other passenger vehicles to roll over at high speeds. In fact, they are 50% more likely to be involved in a rollover crash when fully loaded than when empty. The NHTSA offers the following safety tips regarding 15-passenger vans:

All occupants should wear their safety belts at all times while the vehicle is in motion.
Operators should make an inspection of the tires and check tire pressure before each use.
Drivers should be trained, experienced drivers who operate 15-passenger vehicles on a regular basis.
Drivers should be well rested and refrain from using cell phones, having conversations with other passengers, and engaging in other distracting activities while operating the vehicle.
Drivers should limit the time they are behind the wheel to eight hours in a 24-hour period.

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in an accident involving a 15-passenger van, contact an Atlanta injury lawyer at (404) 262-3343 to discuss your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of personal injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. The Atlanta injury attorneys at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. offer a free initial consultation regarding your case.

Texting Bans May Be Ineffective, Study Shows

2010-09-29T10:38:00.000-07:00

A recent Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) study found that the number of texting-related crashes did not decrease in states that passed laws banning texting while driving. In fact, texting bans are associated with an increase in the number of insurance claims filed for collision damage in vehicle crashes during the months after the laws were passed, according to statistics released by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in Virginia. The HLDI study compared collision claim rates in the months before and after laws were passed that banned texting while driving in California, Louisiana, Minnesota and Washington with the rates in nearby states without texting laws.

The studies do not mean that texting while driving is safe. Rather, the evidence may indicate that texting laws are ineffective and that other measures to cut down on texting while driving should be explored. A previous study by HLDI uncovered similar results for bans on talking on a hand-held cell phone while driving. If you have been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, an Atlanta Auto Accident Attorney can help you get just compensation for your injuries.

If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed in any type of accident, contact Atlanta auto accident lawyer Leigh R. Bodner at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of accident injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner is an Atlanta auto accident lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your injuries.

New Roller Coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia

2010-09-03T13:28:00.001-07:00

A new roller coaster is set to open in 2011 at Six Flags Over Georgia, according to a company spokesperson. The coaster, which is set to be named "Dare Devil Dive," will be the first new roller coaster to open at the amusement park since the release of "Goliath" in 2006. Dare Devil Dive is the first "Eurofighter" style coaster, which has a 10-story-high vertical lift, to be introduced at the park. This will be the park's 11th roller coaster ride.

Along with the excitement of a new adventure ride at Six Flags should also come caution. Although most amusement park rides are completely safe, when improperly operated or maintained, these rides can be deadly. In July, a twelve-year-old girl suffered severe injuries after falling more than 40 feet because a ride operator at a Wisconsin Dells theme park "blanked out" and failed to wait for a signal from another operator that a safety net under the ride was secured. The sheer size, weight, and speed of amusement park rides make them inherently dangerous products when a malfunction or operator error occurs.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an amusement park accident, you deserve compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of auto accident cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Our Atlanta injury lawyers will not charge a fee unless you receive a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

Toyota Announces Recall of Another 1 Million Vehicles

2010-08-26T14:47:00.000-07:00

Toyota announced this week that it is recalling over one million of its 2005-2008 model Corolla sedans and Matrix hatchbacks due to issues with engines stalling while the vehicles are in operation. Corolla and Matrix vehicles equipped with the 1ZZ-FE engine contain a defective engine control module (ECM). Soldering on the ECM may develop cracks which can cause the engine to fail to start or to stall while the vehicle is in motion. To date, at least three accidents are believed to be related to defective ECMs in Toyota Corolla and Matrix models.

This latest recall comes in the wake of a series of Toyota recalls for unintended acceleration and braking problems with several other Toyota models, including the Camry, Prius, and Lexus hybrid. This current recall brings Toyota's total recalled vehicles to over 9 million since last September. Toyota will begin repairing the faulty ECMs on the recalled vehicles in September.

Many people are often unsure what to do after an auto accident. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in an accident caused by a defective Toyota vehicle, contact an Atlanta injury lawyer at (404) 262-3343 to discuss your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of personal injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. The Atlanta injury attorneys at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. offer a free initial consultation regarding your Toyota recall case.

1 Dead in South Fulton Motorcycle Crash

2010-07-12T14:47:00.000-07:00

A 32-year-old Jonesboro man was killed when his motorcycle collided with an SUV on Old National Highway in South Fulton early Sunday morning. Albert Davis was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at Grady Memorial Hospital at around 4 a.m. Sunday morning. According to police, the SUV appears to have pulled out ahead of Davis, who was headed northbound near Jolly Road. Davis crashed into the SUV after losing control of the motorcycle upon trying to stop suddenly. No charges have been filed in connection with the accident, but police aren't ruling out the possibility that a third vehicle may have been involved in the crash.

Sadly, when motorcycles are involved in accidents with passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs, the results are often tragic. Motorcycle accident victims often suffer catastrophic injuries that leave them unable to work after the accident. If you have sustained personal injuries in a motorcycle crash, you are most likely facing thousands of dollars in medical debt and household bills that you are unable to pay. You deserve compensation for your injuries.

If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed in a motorcycle accident, contact Atlanta injury lawyer Leigh R. Bodner at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of accident injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner is an Atlanta injury lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your injuries.

1 Person Injured in Car-School Bus Collision

2010-04-12T10:42:00.000-07:00

One person was injured when a car collided with a school bus on Highway 81 east in McDonough early Monday morning. The crash occurred when a Grand Prix headed eastbound sideswiped a school bus headed in the opposite direction. The driver of the Grand Prix was rushed to the hospital. There is no word on his condition. None of the 16 children on board the bus were injured.

If your child has been seriously injured in a bus accident, you deserve compensation for medical bills and your child's pain and suffering. Contact an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of auto accident cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Our Atlanta car accident lawyers will not charge a fee unless you receive a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

Redan Accident Kills High School Student

2010-03-16T11:55:00.000-07:00

A Redan High School student was killed when the car she was riding in crashed into a tree in DeKalb County Tuesday morning. The teenager and two friends were on their way to school when the car they were driving side swiped another vehicle making a left turn on King Road. Their car careened out of control and smashed head-on into a tree. One student was killed on impact, and another student was critically injured. The third student and the driver of the other car were not injured in the crash.

Contact an Atlanta injury lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your auto accident case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of personal injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. The Atlanta injury attorneys at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. offer a free initial consultation regarding your injury case.

Jonesboro Boy Attacked by Three Dogs

2010-03-05T08:37:00.000-08:00

A four-year-old boy was recovering at Children's Hospital of Atlanta overnight after being mauled by three dogs in Jonesboro Thursday evening. The boy was in his front yard when he was attacked by a pit bull and two German shepherds. A neighbor helped pull the dogs off the boy, who suffered non-life threatening injuries. The dogs have been captured by animal control.

According to a study published in the American Journal of Public Health, children under 9 years of age are most likely to suffer wounds to the head and face in dog attacks. These wounds almost always cause scarring to the face. Although the appearance of scars can be improved through expensive surgical procedures, scars can not be completely removed. That means that children who suffer dog bite injuries will likely have a permanent reminder of the attack. Victims of animal attacks deserve compensation for the emotional trauma that accompanies the permanent disfigurement of a dog bite injury.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, contact Atlanta injury lawyer Leigh R. Bodner at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of accident injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner is an Atlanta injury lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your injuries.

27 Injured in Auto Auction Crash

2010-02-19T08:09:00.000-08:00

A car sped out of control at a North Georgia auto action on Tuesday, resulting in 27 injuries. The accident occurred at the Blue Ridge Auto Auction, in Ellijay, Georgia. Witnesses say the driver began accelerating rapidly, and sped into a crowd of people. Victims in the crowd suffered head trauma, broken bones, scrapes, and bruises. Most victims were treated and released at the scene of the accident. However, one victim is still listed in critical condition and five others are in stable condition at local hospitals. No charges have been filed against the driver of the car, who is an employee of the auction. Police have not yet said why the driver lost control of the vehicle.

If you are involved in an accident caused by an employee performing the duties of his or her employment, you may have a claim against the driver's employer under the legal doctrine of "respondeat superior." Respondeat superior, Latin for "let the master answer," allows for recovery against an employer in the event that an employee causes injury while acting in the scope of employment. For example, if a pizza delivery driver injures someone in an accident while on the job, the injured party would have a claim against the pizza company for damages caused by the employee.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident caused by an employee acting within the scope of employment, contact an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of auto accident cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Our Atlanta car accident lawyers will not charge a fee unless you receive a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

Severed Fingers Prompt Graco Stroller Recall

2010-01-20T11:58:00.000-08:00

Graco strollers have been recalled due to several incidents in which children have lost their fingertips. Graco issued the recall in conjunction with the Consumer Products Safety Commission after receiving reports of seven children suffering lacerations to their fingers. The accidents happened when the children's fingers got caught in the canopy of the stroller as it was being opened or closed. Five of the children had their fingertips severed, while two others suffered deep cuts. The recall includes Graco's Passage, Alano and Spree Strollers sold between October 2004 and December 2009. If your child has been injured due to a defectively designed or manufactured stroller, it is important that you contact an experienced Atlanta personal injury attorney immediately.

Contact an Atlanta injury lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your product liability case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of personal injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. The Atlanta injury attorneys at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. offer a free initial consultation regarding your injury case. Injury Lawyer Atlanta

Icy Roads Pose Hazards to GA Drivers

2010-01-11T13:48:00.000-08:00

Icy conditions are posing serious hazards to drivers on Georgia's roads, according to various news reports. One Bartow County deputy was injured in a crash involving a tractor trailer on Friday. He was treated at Cartersville Medical Center and later released. In another incident, two Cobb County deputies were uninjured when their vehicle spun out of control and landed in a marsh. Georgia state patrol officers cited slick, icy roads as a factor in both crashes.

Low visibility and icy roads create hazards to drivers in the winter months. To avoid accidents in inclement weather, motorists should employ the following precautions:

Because it takes more space to stop a vehicle on icy roads, drivers should leave extra room between their car and the vehicle in front of them.
Motorists should drive with their headlights on at all times to increase their vehicle’s visibility to other drivers on the road.
Drivers should slow down when crossing bridges or overpasses, as these areas will be icy even when other areas of the road are not.
Motorists should clear snow and ice from their windshield, back window, driver and passenger windows, as well as their headlights and tail lights before operating their vehicle.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a negligent driver, contact Atlanta accident lawyer Leigh R. Bodner at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of accident injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner is an Atlanta injury lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your injuries.

Atlanta Speeders Will Pay Higher Fines in 2010

2009-12-17T14:14:00.000-08:00

Speeders in Atlanta and throughout the state of Georgia will be paying higher fines in 2010. Starting January 1, drivers caught going 85 mph or more on interstate highways or 75 mph or more on two-lane highways will now pay an additional $200. That's $200 on top of the cost of what speeders now pay for a speeding ticket.

Under Georgia law, all motorists are required to drive at a careful and prudent speed that is reasonable under the circumstances. Despite the law, however, speeding is responsible for an overwhelming number of Georgia auto accidents each year. The Atlanta auto accident attorneys at Bodner Law use our vast experience and resources to prove negligence on the part of a speeding driver in order to obtain the highest monetary reward for our clients.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident caused by a speeding driver, contact an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of auto accident cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Our Atlanta car accident lawyers will not charge a fee unless you receive a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

Atlanta Motorcycle Crash Results in "Grave" Injuries

2009-12-04T15:42:00.000-08:00

One man is in critical condition after an accident involving a motorcycle and another vehicle on I-75 Sunday night. The motorcycle operator suffered severe injuries in the crash and is in "grave" condition, according to news reports. The northbound lanes of I-75 were closed for an hour and a half after the accident, the cause of which is still under investigation by highway patrol.

Unfortunately, when motorcycles are involved in accidents with other motor vehicles, the results are often catastrophic. Incapacitating injuries leave motorcycle accident victims unable to work after the accident. If you have sustained personal injuries in a motorcycle crash, you are most likely facing thousands of dollars in medical debt and household bills that you are unable to pay. The Atlanta car accident lawyers at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C., know the hardships you are facing. Our firm works on a contingent-fee basis, which means you don’t pay a fee until our experienced accident attorneys get monetary compensation for your motorcycle accident injuries.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact an Atlanta car accident lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of personal injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. The Atlanta accident attorneys at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. offer a free initial consultation regarding your accident case. Injury Lawyer Atlanta

CPSC Recalls 2.1 Million Drop-Side Cribs

2009-11-24T15:00:00.000-08:00

The Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a recall of 2.1 million drop-side cribs manufactured by Stork Craft on Monday. Nearly 150,000 of the defective cribs are marked with the Fisher Price label. The drop-side of the crib can become dislodged, causing a space between the mattress and the side of the crib, in which infants can get stuck and suffocate. The CPSC warned consumers to stop using the crib immediately and contact the manufacturer to receive a free repair kit.

This recall comes in the wake of numerous other crib recalls in recent months. Since 2007, over 4 million drop-side cribs have been recalled by the CPSC, and several wrongful death suits have been filed over defective drop-side cribs. If your child has been injured or killed due to a defectively designed or manufactured drop-side crib, it is important that you contact an experienced personal injury attorney immediately.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a defective product, contact Atlanta accident lawyer Leigh R. Bodner at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of accident injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner is an Atlanta injury lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your injuries.

Bus Company Investigated in Morehouse Band Accident

2009-11-10T14:15:00.000-08:00

The bus company that owned the Morehouse band bus involved in a rollover accident on Saturday may have been operating illegally, according to news reports. The Georgia Public Service Commission is investigating Superior Transporation Group, the company that owned the bus, to uncover whether the company was properly licensed to trasport passengers in the state. The bus skidded on the wet road surface off I-75 South and rolled over twice while carrying 42 band members to a football game against Albany State University on Saturday. Twelve band members were injured in the accident, although no one suffered serious injuries.

Bus accidents often result in catastrophic or deadly injuries because buses are not equipped with safety features, such as seatbelts and airbags, that are typical of other vehicles. Bus accidents are often the result of negligence on the part of bus companies and bus operators. If you believe negligence caused your injuries, you should consult with an Atlanta accident lawyer to explore your legal options. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages that resulted from the accident.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a bus accident, contact an experienced Atlanta accident lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of auto accident cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Our Atlanta accident lawyers will not charge a fee unless you receive a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

MARTA Investigating Distracted Driving Incidents

2009-10-13T08:39:00.000-07:00

MARTA is currently investigating three cases of distracted driving on the part of its employees that have occurred in the last four months. Two drivers were recently caught on camera eating and reading a magazine while driving. Another driver was caught text messaging while driving. MARTA will be conducting a safety review with its employees in the wake of these incidents.

According to a study conducted by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, distracted driving is responsible for nearly 80 percent of traffic accidents each year. People injured in accidents caused by distracted drivers often suffer serious, debilitating injuries that may prevent them from returning to work for a while or permanently. They may have mounting medical bills and household debt they simply cannot pay. They may not know where to turn for help.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, contact an Atlanta accident lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of personal injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. The Atlanta accident attorneys at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. offer a free initial consultation regarding your accident case.

Toyota to Recall 3.8 Million Defective Floor Mats

2009-09-29T08:40:00.000-07:00

Toyota is set to recall 3.8 million vehicles in the U.S., the company announced in a press release on Tuesday. The floor mats on the affected models may interfere with the accelerator pedal, causing the accelerator to become stuck while the vehicle is in operation. A stuck accelerator can result in high vehicle speed, which may cause the operator to lose control of the vehicle and crash. A San Diego crash that killed three people last month has been attributed to defective Toyota floor mats. Owners may begin receiving notifications of the recall as early as next week.

According to the press release, the following Toyota and Lexus models will be affected by the recall:

2007 - 2010 Camry
2005 - 2010 Avalon
2004 - 2009 Prius
2005 - 2010 Tacoma
2007 - 2010 Tundra
2007 - 2010 ES350
2006 - 2010 IS250 and IS350

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported over 100 incidents in which floor mats in the affected Toyota models caused the accelerator to stick. Owners of vehicles equipped with the defective floor mats are encouraged to remove the floor mats from the vehicle and refrain from installing replacement mats until the company remedies the problem.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident caused by a defective product, contact Atlanta accident lawyer Leigh R. Bodner at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of accident injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner is an Atlanta injury lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your injuries.

School Bus Driver Charged in Fatal Accident

2009-09-16T08:41:00.000-07:00

The driver of a school bus that ran over a kindergartner Tuesday afternoon has been charged with 2nd degree vehicular homicide. Sharon Denise Dale, 39, apparently lost track of one of the six children she had just let off the bus near Vanderbilt Court and Hobart Drive and began to pull forward, running over 5-year-old Everette Johnson with the front tire of the bus. The boy was rushed to the hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

This tragedy is a grim reminder of the extra caution that must be used by school bus operators. Of the 152 children that have died in school transportation crashes since 1997, 69% were killed by the school bus itself. According to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration study, in 57 percent of all crashes involving fatalities to occupants of a school transportation vehicle, the principal point of impact was the front of the vehicle. Typically, these accidents occur when the driver negligently pulls forward without first ensuring that all children have safely passed in front of the bus.

If your child has been injured or killed in a school bus accident, contact an experienced Atlanta accident lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of auto accident cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Our Atlanta accident lawyers will not charge a fee unless you receive a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

No Charges in Dog Mauling Deaths

2009-08-26T08:42:00.000-07:00

The man who fed a pack of feral dogs on his property will not be charged in the mauling deaths of an Oglethorpe County couple earlier this month. According to authorities, Howard Thaxton was not the owner of the 16 dogs that he fed every other day and will not be charged in connection with the deaths of Sherry Schweder, 65, and Lothar Karl Schweder, 77, earlier this month. The former university professor and his wife were attacked and killed by the pack of dogs while out for a stroll near their home in Lexington. Although these were feral dogs, even the most well-trained animals can attack without warning.

As is evident in this tragedy, dog bite injuries can be severe and are often fatal. Dog attack victims often sustain puncture wounds and lacerations to the face, neck, and arms, which may require repeated cosmetic surgery procedures such as skin grafts and microsurgurgical repair. In addition, dog bite injury victims must undergo scar-removal techniques, such as dermabrasion, which require multiple treatments to be effective. Dog attack victims may suffer total or partial loss of limb function and extensive nerve damage. And the most vicious dog attacks result in death. If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed in a dog attack, an experienced Atlanta injury attorney can help you seek compensation for your physical, emotional, and financial losses.

If you or a loved one has suffered a serious or fatal dog bite injury, contact an Atlanta injury lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of personal injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. The Atlanta injury attorneys at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. offer a free initial consultation regarding your dog bite injury case.

1 Dead in Decatur Accident

2009-08-06T08:42:00.000-07:00

All lanes of I-285 west were shut down yesterday after an accident involving 2 motorcycles, a tractor-trailer, and 3 SUVs left one person dead and five others injured. One of the victims was seriously injured, while the others are listed in moderate condition at a local hospital. The operator of one of the motorcycles was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.

Sadly, as was the case in this accident, motorcycle riders and their passengers often suffer more serious injuries in auto accidents than occupants of passenger vehicles. Motorcycles lack the protective shell and safety features standard on passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs, leaving motorcycle riders involved in auto accidents especially vulnerable to suffering serious injury and even death. Motorcycle riders injured in auto accidents and family members of riders killed in auto accidents should contact an experienced Atlanta accident attorney to discuss their case.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Atlanta accident lawyer Leigh R. Bodner at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of accident injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner is an Atlanta injury lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your injuries.

Thursday: GHP's "100 Days of Summer HEAT" Continues

2009-07-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

The Georgia Highway Patrol will be on the lookout for speeders on Thursday as part of its “100 Days of Summer HEAT” initiative. Under this initiative, which stands for “Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic,” police will be conducting concentrated patrols of I-285, I-85, I-75, and I-20 in an attempt to crack down on speeding and other forms of aggressive driving. This initiative is just one of GHP’s many traffic safety programs, which intend increase overall safety on Georgia’s highways.

Speeding is a contributing factor in a large number of traffic crashes each year. There were over 300 fatalities in speeding-related crashes in Georgia in 2008, and thousands more injuries. If you have been injured in an Atlanta auto accident caused by a speeding driver, you deserve full compensation for your injuries. An experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer can help you calculate all of the damages that resulted from your accident.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a speeding-related accident, contact an experienced Atlanta accident lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of auto accident cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Our Atlanta accident lawyers will not charge a fee unless you receive a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

19 Killed in Traffic Accidents Over Holiday Weekend

2009-07-07T08:44:00.000-07:00

According to the Department of Public Safety, 19 people were killed and 682 were injured in traffic accidents over the busy holiday weekend. Most of these accidents were the result of speeding, drunk driving, and driver inattention. When a loved one is killed because of an irresponsible or reckless driver, family members want to see that the people responsible for their loved one’s death are brought to justice.

A wrongful death suit is intended to compensate family members for the emotional and financial losses suffered after the death of a loved one. If you have lost a loved one due to the wrongful conduct of another, contact an Atlanta wrongful death lawyer to explore your legal options. Nothing can make up for the death of a loved one, but holding the guilty parties responsible for their actions can often help families get a sense of justice during their time of grief.

If your loved one has been killed in an auto accident, contact an Atlanta accident lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of personal injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. The Atlanta accident attorneys at Leigh R. Bodner, P.C. offer a free initial consultation regarding your wrongful death case.

Drunk Driver Kills Mother of Two

2009-06-09T08:44:00.000-07:00

A Lawrenceville mother of two was struck and killed by a drunk driver on Monday, according to news reports. The woman had stepped to the curb and was attempting to signal to the driver to slow down, when he swerved and hit her. The intoxicated driver has been charged with vehicular manslaughter and DUI. Tragic incidents such as these often give rise to public outrage. When a drunk driver causes injury or death to someone you love, an Atlanta personal injury attorney can help you seek justice for your loss.

Often drunk drivers who cause injury or death to others on the road are uninsured or underinsured and have no assets to cover the cost of medical bills, time missed from work, or other damages caused by their irresponsible conduct. In these cases, it may be possible to seek compensation from the bar, restaurant, or social host that overserved the driver. An experienced Atlanta accident lawyer can help you seek compensation from the person or business that served alcohol to the drunk driver under Georgia’s “dram shop” acts.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, contact an Atlanta accident lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of accident injury cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your Atlanta accident injuries.

U.S. DOT Increases Roof Strength Requirements on Passenger Vehicles

2009-05-15T08:45:00.000-07:00

In an announcement this month, the Department of Transportation revealed that it is setting tougher roof strength standards for passenger vehicles in the U.S. The new restrictions will require all cars, trucks, and SUVs under 6,000 pounds to have a roof strength that is able to withstand up to 3 times the vehicle’s weight. In addition, previously unregulated heavy vehicles (weighing 6,000 to 10,000 pounds) are now required to have a roof strength that can withstand 1.5 times the vehicle’s weight. These standards will begin to be implemented in September 2012, to be standard on all vehicles by 2017. The announcement was met with acclaim by vehicle safety advocates, who have been demanding stricter roof strength requirements for several years.

It is hoped that these tougher restrictions will help to lower the number of fatalities in rollover accidents. In 2007, rollover accidents were responsible for over 10,000 deaths and another 250,000 injuries in the U.S. Victims involved in rollover accidents often suffer serious or catastrophic injuries that may leave them permanently disabled and unable to return to work after the accident. Mr. Bodner is an Atlanta auto accident attorney with the skills and experience to help rollover accident victims receive full compensation for their injuries.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a rollover accident, contact an experienced Atlanta accident lawyer at (404) 262-3343 for a free consultation regarding your case. Mr. Bodner handles all types of auto accident cases in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austelle, Chamblee, College Park, Conyers, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Point, Hapeville, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Riverdale, Rockdale, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stockbridge, and throughout Gwinett County, Dekalb County, Cobb County, Clayton County, and Fulton County. Mr. Bodner works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you owe nothing unless you receive monetary compensation for your injuries.