Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley launches

"Do You Know" Campaign

Odds are that many of us will be involved in at least on traffic accident in our lifetime; hopefully it's never more than a minor incident. There are things you can do to try to limit it to just that.

Searcy Denney has undertaken a "Do You Know" informational campaign that educates and reminds drivers of the dangers on our roads and highways travelled by you and your families everyday.

Whether it’s listing the top 10 most dangerous intersections or the top 10 most dangerous driving distractions or how SUVs are dangerous, we want you to be aware and prepared to keep you and your family safe.

If you have unfortunately been hurt in an accident please fill out our contact form and a representative of our firm will call you for a free consultation.

Please download our accident checklist to keep in your car. It will help you obtain all the pertinent information you need to protect yourself if you are involved in an accident.

From the attorneys of Searcy Denney: Please be careful out there!

Vehicle Accident Facts and Figures

It may surprise you to learn that motor vehicle accident fatalities and injuries are on the decline in the United States. The fact is, fatalities reported in 2008 represent the lowest number since 1961. Yet, when we add up all the figures, we understand why catastrophic motor vehicle accidents remain a terrifying threat to drivers, passengers and pedestrians in every state.

Preventing Vehicle Crashes

The number one rule for motor vehicle safety: buckle up!

The CDC reports that seat belt use has increased over the years, but one in seven adults still do not buckle up. Using your seat belt can reduce your chances of dying in an accident by half.

A national Safety Belt Law was passed in 1986, and all 50 states have enacted their own seat belt laws. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association:

All 50 states and the District of Columbia have enacted specific requirements for infant and child safety seats since the national Child Restraint Law was passed in 1982.

In 47 states and the District of Columbia, booster seats are required for children too large for infant seats, yet too small for adult seat belts. Only Arizona, Florida, and South Dakota have not passed these important safety measures.

Five states – California, Florida, Louisiana, New Jersey, and New York – mandate seat belts on school buses. After 2010, this requirement will apply to school buses in Texas, as well.

What to Do If You Have an Accident

Be alert to the details of the accident. If you can, make notes on the circumstances of the accident, such as the time, the place, and exactly what happened. Identify not only participants – the driver of other vehicles, for example – but also witnesses who can corroborate your story. Be sure to get license plate numbers, names, addresses, and telephone numbers.