Wednesday, August 14, 2013

ARE THE ROADS SAFER IN THE SUMMER? THINK AGAIN . . .

Driving in the summer is not necessarily safer than driving in the winter months.  At times, the summer roads can be more deceptive than icy roads in winter or floods during springtime. According to the driving statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), from July to August, during the years 2006 to 2009, there was an increased fatality rates during the summer months.

One reason for the increase in driving fatalities is that school is out for the summer which results in more teens on roads and highways. Students Against Destructive Decisions reports that teens spend approximately 44% more time driving during summer than they do during the school year.  Naturally, the more drivers there are on the roads, the higher risk of accidents.

In addition, many vacationers choose the summer months for their trips.  Due to the high costs of flights, travelers often chose to drive to their destinations.   What results is congested roads and an increase in car accidents because of unpredictable driving from others.

Further, because of the nice weather, road construction is generally prevalent during summer months. This increased road construction has also led to a rise in accidents on highways.  With traffic lanes narrowed or reduced, as well as intrusive barricades and traffic congestion, this "perfect summer storm" can be problematic. In 2009, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reported nearly 700 fatalities resulted from car crashes in construction zones.

Finally, due to the increased temperature, more cyclists are utilizing the roads during summer. This forces motorists to share the road with cyclists, which can be a difficult, dangerous but extremely important task.  

As you enjoy the last bit of your summer, it is vitally important to stay safe and alert while driving, as there can be an increased accident rate for drivers. If you or someone you know has been injured in a vehicle accident as a result of another person's negligence, we strongly recommend that you contact an experienced personal injury attorney, such as the professionals at Smith Horras, P.A., along with seeking immediate medical attention. 




Monday, August 12, 2013

Ouch! Continued Pain From a Slip and Fall Accident?

Slip and fall accidents can result in personal injury law claims. Have you been injured on someone else’s property?
Hundreds of thousands of people are injured every year in slip and fall accidents. The cause is often a defect in the floor or an unsafe condition such as changes in the walking surface, poor lighting, or a slippery surface.
If you get injured in such an accident, the law requires that you prove that:
  1. A dangerous condition existed;
  2. The property owner knew or should have known about the condition; and
  3. The property owner did nothing to remedy the dangerous condition.
The law limits the amount of time you may wait before filing your slip and fall lawsuit. Don't deny yourself compensation simply because you took too long.  Contact Smith Horras, P.A. now for a free consultation to evaluate your claim.


Financial Assistance For Adoptions in Idaho!

Adoption is an amazing process that is able to match a loving family with a child that needs stability, safety and nurturing.  Your family will need to obtain the services of an attorney to file the petition for adoption and get that adoption finalized.

Smith Horras, P.A. has experienced and qualified attorneys to help you with this process.  In addition, in Idaho, there are resources available to assist with the costs if you and your adoptive child qualify.  If you are adopting a child eligible for adoption assistance, these fees can qualify for reimbursement after adoption finalization. Financial assistance for adoption may be available through one or more of the following sources:
·         Adoption Assistance: Idaho offers an adoption assistance program for eligible children with “special needs”. Most children in foster care are considered to have special needs. Adoption assistance can include up to $2,000 reimbursement of adoption-related costs, a monthly subsidy for the ongoing care of the child, and a Medicaid card to assist with medical expenses until the child is 18 years of age. 
·         Adoption Tax Credit: You may be able to take a tax credit for qualifying expenses paid to adopt an eligible child, including a child with special needs. The adoption credit is an amount subtracted from your tax liability.  Learn more through the IRS website
·         Employer Benefits: A number of employers offer adoption benefits. Contact your Human Resources department to inquire about the availability of adoption benefits.
·         Military Benefits: The military provides active-duty personnel a reimbursement for most one-time adoption costs. The National Military Family Association provides further information and resources.
·         Loans and Grants: Loans or grants are available through a variety of organizations such as adoption agencies, foundations and banks.