Dealing with a car accident can be overwhelming. Both the physical and emotional trauma of a vehicle accident can cause not only ongoing pain it can also make performing simple every day tasks a challenge. Recovering from a vehicle accident requires patience, there are ways to quicken the healing process and get back to your normal lifestyle sooner by following …
Avoidable Mistakes of Victims
Accident victims commonly make five avoidable mistakes that affect their court cases. AVOIDABLE MISTAKES OF VICTIMS #1: FAILURE TO CONSULT A LAWYER BEFORE GIVING A STATEMENT TO A ADJUSTER An adjuster will ask you to make a statement after an accident. Typically, adjusters seem kind and understanding. However, the insurance adjuster’s job is to submit a lower claim. Remember that …
What are driver’s logs?
A North Carolina traffic law requires new drivers to document hours of driving by means of a driver’s log. While driving on the learners permit, up to 10 hours of driving per week may be logged. This means the long will cover a minimum of six weeks at least 10 to 60 hours must be driving at night. Car Accidents …
3 Steps to Take After a Fatal Accident
It seems that every day there is a different news story detailing a fatal accident, whether as a result of poor driving decisions, workplace negligence, or vehicle malfunction. Simply seeing these headlines flash across our screens makes it a bit easier to skim through since we are not directly impacted by the consequences. In contrast, the family and friends who …
Why should I hire a personal injury lawyer?
If you’ve been injured in an accident, you need all the help you can get. While seeking legal representation as soon as possible is advisable, it’s unfortunate that some injury victims pick the first attorney they speak to and later come to regret it. Before you hire a personal injury attorney, it’s important to educate yourself and find the right fit for you …
4 Alcohol-Related Violations That Can Get You into Some Serious Trouble
Alcohol and alcohol-related violations have been a hot topic of debate for almost 200 years. The prohibition movement officially began in the 1820s, but the debate was especially intense during the early part of the twentieth century, with Prohibition becoming law in 1920. In 1933, a Constitutional amendment ended Prohibition, but some states refused to lift the band until decades …
3 Things to Expect If You Have Caused a Fatal Accident
One of the worst things anyone can ever go through is contributing to the death of another human being. Most of the people in this world hold life in high regard. They value their life and that of others. Sometimes there are accidents, though, and these can result in the loss of life. A common accident that leads to the …
Careless Driving vs. Reckless Driving—2 Types of Traffic Violations and Their Differences
Certain terms that fall under the category of Traffic Violations—“reckless driving,” “careless driving,” “aggressive driving,” and “hazardous driving”—are all somewhat similar and many people use the terms interchangeably. Therefore, your first instinct may be to pay the ticket and be done with it. However, there may be much more involved than a simple traffic violation ticket. First of all, it’s …
4th Of July DWIs—3 Steps To Take If You Were Pulled Over
July 4th weekend is worrisome for law enforcement officers across the country. In fact, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, July 4th has held the record of deadliest holiday between 2000 and 2009 because of DWIs. Thankfully, this July 4th weekend has been one of the least deadly in North Carolina. Authorities report that while DWI …
4 Steps To Take Immediately Following A Car Accident
Have you ever been in a car accident? If you have, you know how terrifying the experience can be. Even a seemingly insignificant fender bender can set your heart racing. Those first few moments after an accident are vital and action must be taken. This can be difficult considering how shaken most people are after the experience. Being prepared now, …
How to Recover from a Vehicle Accident Injury
Dealing with a car accident can be overwhelming. Both the physical and emotional trauma of a vehicle accident can cause not only ongoing pain it can also make performing simple every day tasks a challenge. Recovering from a vehicle accident requires patience, there are ways to quicken the healing process and get back to your normal lifestyle sooner by following …
What are driver’s logs?
A North Carolina traffic law requires new drivers to document hours of driving by means of a driver’s log. While driving on the learners permit, up to 10 hours of driving per week may be logged. This means the long will cover a minimum of six weeks at least 10 to 60 hours must be driving at night. Car Accidents …
4 Alcohol-Related Violations That Can Get You into Some Serious Trouble
Alcohol and alcohol-related violations have been a hot topic of debate for almost 200 years. The prohibition movement officially began in the 1820s, but the debate was especially intense during the early part of the twentieth century, with Prohibition becoming law in 1920. In 1933, a Constitutional amendment ended Prohibition, but some states refused to lift the band until decades …
3 Things to Expect If You Have Caused a Fatal Accident
One of the worst things anyone can ever go through is contributing to the death of another human being. Most of the people in this world hold life in high regard. They value their life and that of others. Sometimes there are accidents, though, and these can result in the loss of life. A common accident that leads to the …
Careless Driving vs. Reckless Driving—2 Types of Traffic Violations and Their Differences
Certain terms that fall under the category of Traffic Violations—“reckless driving,” “careless driving,” “aggressive driving,” and “hazardous driving”—are all somewhat similar and many people use the terms interchangeably. Therefore, your first instinct may be to pay the ticket and be done with it. However, there may be much more involved than a simple traffic violation ticket. First of all, it’s …
4th Of July DWIs—3 Steps To Take If You Were Pulled Over
July 4th weekend is worrisome for law enforcement officers across the country. In fact, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, July 4th has held the record of deadliest holiday between 2000 and 2009 because of DWIs. Thankfully, this July 4th weekend has been one of the least deadly in North Carolina. Authorities report that while DWI …
4 Steps To Take Immediately Following A Car Accident
Have you ever been in a car accident? If you have, you know how terrifying the experience can be. Even a seemingly insignificant fender bender can set your heart racing. Those first few moments after an accident are vital and action must be taken. This can be difficult considering how shaken most people are after the experience. Being prepared now, …
Avoiding Bicycle Accidents – Bikes vs. Automobiles – Part I
One of the scariest things a bicyclist can experience is being hit by an automobile. Even a near-miss can make one question whether they should continue riding or not. Riding a bike is a great form of exercise, is good for the environment, and saves money. It’s no wonder more people are picking up this pastime, especially with skyrocketing gas …
What to do after an Car Accident
Do you know what to do in the aftermath of a car accident to prevent further injuries, reduce costs and accelerate the clean-up and repair process? The Consumer Protection Association of America is increasing public awareness on this subject by developing a list of suggestions to help drivers anticipate what they need to know about dealing with an accident. The US …
Rollover Accident on US-40
US-40 Roll Over Accident Last night drivers on US-40 witnessed a two-car roll over accident happened at roughly 9:20 p.m. near Davis Drive. Two cars were involved; one that flipped and the other showed front end damage. At least one person was take to Duke hospital. Traffic patterns were not restored until almost 11:00 p.m.. The cause has yet to be determined, …
3 Reasons Why You Should See An Attorney About Child Custody Issues
As parents, you and your spouse have many decisions to make about the wellbeing of your child. While you were married, there may have been some disagreements about such matters, but ultimately they were settled. Why? Well, because you and your spouse looked beyond yourselves and made decisions that would benefit your child. After a divorce, this process can get …
How Child Custody is Determined in North Carolina
Going through the breakup of a marriage is difficult. The ones who are the hardest hit, though, often seem to be the children. It’s an unfortunate, yet common, occurrence that children are caught in the middle of their parents during child custody hearings. Many times, because the parents can’t agree on things, the court has to make decisions about child …
What Happens When You Refuse DWI Tests in NC?
If a law enforcement officer stops you on suspicion of DWI, refusing to take a breath or blood test may seem like a good way to avoid being charged. However, refusing to take the test can make your situation even worse! You have the right to refuse a breath or blood test in North Carolina. However, refusing a DWI Breath …
4 Alcohol-Related Violations That Will Get You into Trouble
What you need to know that could cause you to lose your car, license, or job. The following are four common alcohol-related violations that as a result will get you into serious trouble and they are: Giving alcohol to someone who is underage. This includes serving or selling it to someone underage. Purchasing alcohol for underage drinkers. Driving under the influence …
What Constitutes Police Profiling?
There are various levels of police profiling—some legal, some not. Offender profiling, for example, is a method used during a criminal investigation that allows law enforcement to identify a likely suspect through offender profiling. Then, they can analyze patterns that could predict future victims or offenses. This type of police profiling is used to locate a potential criminal and arrest …
What are the Types of Assault Charges in North Carolina?
Assault charges takes many forms in North Carolina. However, if you are arrested for assaulting another person, you could face anything from a misdemeanor charge to a felony. Therefore, it is critical that you understand the different types of assault, and how engaging in a fight or injuring someone on purpose could affect you the rest of your life. Two …
Drunk Driving and Sobriety Checkpoints: What are My Rights?
To combat drunk driving, sobriety checkpoints are becoming a standard fixture in North Carolina. Law enforcement is working hard to combat the number of alcohol-related accidents and deaths — and rightfully so. With more than 4,102 deaths from 2003 to 2012 caused by drunken drivers, the state should create measures to prevent further losses. However, implementing the use of sobriety …
When Does Probable Cause Apply?
Might a lack of probable cause be a winning defense for your charges? Traffic stops are legal, but only when law enforcement can justify their reasons for stopping your vehicle. All citizens of the United States are protected by the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution, which prevents law enforcement from performing a traffic stop and warrantless search. However, there are …
Understanding the Basics of Embezzlement Law
Embezzlement falls under the category of white collar crime in the state of North Carolina, and carries serious penalties. If you’ve been charged with embezzlement, you need the services of an attorney experienced in embezzlement law. In addition, understanding the basics of what constitutes embezzlement is important. What is Embezzlement? Embezzlement is defined as the misappropriation of entrusted funds for …
What is a speed trap?
Many drivers in the triangle area caught speeding in what most call a “speed trap.” One officer parks on an I-40 overpass with a radar gun and calls the make and model of vehicles to multiple officers further down the road. There are many other techniques, but this is one of the most effective. Calling it a speed trap insinuates the …
DWI’s and Fatal Accidents in North Carolina
On March 11, 2015, there was a fatal car crash in Durham, NC that resulted in the death of one person and the injury of three others. According to a news report posted by WNCN on March 12, 2015, three cars were involved in the crash and the man accused of causing the accident was found to have been driving …
Hit and Run – Felonies vs. Misdemeanors
Being involved in an accident is a scary experience. It doesn’t matter if you caused the accident or not – it’s scary and it can be difficult to think straight. Adrenaline is pumping, you’re fearful of what will happen, and you’re in shock; it’s easy to make a mistake. These feelings are a common cause of why someone runs away …
About Child Custody
You will need to explore child custody arrangements at the same time as your divorce. Ideally, divorces would result in joint custody when each parent gives equal time with the children. There are many reasons child because they may not be split equitably. Here are some of the things that are taking into consideration in a child custody agreement. Determining Child …
Hit and Run – Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Run
One of the more dangerous of punishable offenses is that of the hit and run accident. A vehicle accident is a scary situation to be involved in, especially if major damage, injury or death has occurred. Fear of the situation, or of punishment, may cause a person involved in an accident, especially if they caused the accident, to run away. …
What is a “No-Fault” Divorce?
When neither party attempts to prove the other is to blame for the divorce, it is called a no-fault divorce. While divorce law varies state to state, each state acknowledges no-fault divorce. You need only offer one of the acceptable legal reasons for divorce in your state to qualify. You should consult a divorce lawyer in your state to learn those …
3 Areas to Protect Yourself In During a Divorce
There are certain things in life that bring out the worst in people. One of these times is when someone goes through a divorce. A breakup can bring out a side of people that may surprise even them. Whether you’re surprised by your spouse’s attitude and actions or not, it’s always best to do all you can to protect yourself. …
How Assets Are Divided During a Divorce – Part II
While North Carolina is an equitable division state, this doesn’t automatically mean that all assets will be divided equally. The judge will determine what is fair for all parties involved and divide the assets based on that determination. Today we will discuss some of the things a North Carolina judge will take into consideration when deciding how to divide assets …
What Happens Now That You’ve Decided It’s Time for a Divorce
The majority of the people entering into marriage aren’t thinking about divorce when they say their “I do’s”. No one wants to think about their marriage failing and most do all they can to rebuild the relationship with their spouse when they experience hardships. At times, though, even the best efforts don’t create the desired results. How do you know …
Divorce Mediation
What is divorce mediation? When a couple believes they can divorce under favorable conditions, they may choose mediation. This is one of the third party mediates an agreement between the two parties. This should not be confused with arbitration, which is when a third-party lender and finding agreement. In a mediation, a couple must agree upon the terms. Many courts …
After Divorce
It’s easy to be so focused on getting divorced that you don’t consider what will follow. Lasting effects are so great that some couple reconsider. The challenges of life after divorce may exceed those that marriage. The Law Firm of John C. Fitzpatrick offers this perspective hoping the strengthen marriages in the RTP. They would be glad to stop offering …
When Should I get Divorced?
No one said marriage would be easy; for better or for worse was the vow. The Law Firm of John C. Fitzpatrick supports making all efforts to save one marriage; however, these Durham divorce lawyers also realize there is a time when people have to chose divorce. Have you been considering divorce? Have you asked trusted friends advice on the matter. There are …
North Carolina Marijuana Laws: What You Should Know
In the past several years, there have been many changes when it comes to marijuana laws in the United States. Although marijuana is still illegal at a federal level, and still classified as a Schedule I substance on a federal level, an increasing number of states are modifying their laws regarding the possession and use of cannabis. Whether or not …
Banks worry about drug crimes despite legalization of marijuana
Banks across the nation are struggling to develop a plan for dealing with the new customers seeking to open accounts for marijuana based businesses. While two states have legalized the recreational use of marijuana, it is still in violation of federal laws. It is a toss up to say who is more nervous about the marijuana firms’ deposits- the bank …
What Happens When You Refuse DWI Tests in NC?
If a law enforcement officer stops you on suspicion of DWI, refusing to take a breath or blood test may seem like a good way to avoid being charged. However, refusing to take the test can make your situation even worse! You have the right to refuse a breath or blood test in North Carolina. However, refusing a DWI Breath …
4 Alcohol-Related Violations That Will Get You into Trouble
What you need to know that could cause you to lose your car, license, or job. The following are four common alcohol-related violations that as a result will get you into serious trouble and they are: Giving alcohol to someone who is underage. This includes serving or selling it to someone underage. Purchasing alcohol for underage drinkers. Driving under the influence …
Drunk Driving and Sobriety Checkpoints: What are My Rights?
To combat drunk driving, sobriety checkpoints are becoming a standard fixture in North Carolina. Law enforcement is working hard to combat the number of alcohol-related accidents and deaths — and rightfully so. With more than 4,102 deaths from 2003 to 2012 caused by drunken drivers, the state should create measures to prevent further losses. However, implementing the use of sobriety …
When Does Probable Cause Apply?
Might a lack of probable cause be a winning defense for your charges? Traffic stops are legal, but only when law enforcement can justify their reasons for stopping your vehicle. All citizens of the United States are protected by the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution, which prevents law enforcement from performing a traffic stop and warrantless search. However, there are …
DWI’s and Fatal Accidents in North Carolina
On March 11, 2015, there was a fatal car crash in Durham, NC that resulted in the death of one person and the injury of three others. According to a news report posted by WNCN on March 12, 2015, three cars were involved in the crash and the man accused of causing the accident was found to have been driving …
Arrested for DWI? Here’s What You Should Know
According to the CDC, more than 1.4 million people were arrested for driving while intoxicated in 2010. That number is a mere 1% of the 112 million reported episodes of impaired driving for the same year. If you’ve recently been arrested for DWI, the first thing you need to do is obtain legal representation. Your attorney will act on behalf …
Guilford Co. DWI Task Force Makes 600+ DWI Arrests
Guilford County law enforcement has been enforcing drunk driving laws extremely effectively since January 1. The article states that in addition to the DWI charges: The DWI Task Force is also responsible for writing 687 citations for driving without a seat belt, 433 speeding tickets, and 416 citations for driving while license revoked. Some charged with traffic violations like these like …
Tougher DWI Penalties
An article recently highlighted Mothers Against Drunk Driving plea for tougher DWI penalties. The article reference a recent accident, ironically enough, involving a mother driving her children. MADD like to see North Carolina join with other states making DWI a felony. Currently it is a misdemeanor, but don’t think that it isn’t a serious charge. The first conviction may relieve you of your …
Should you take the breath test?
Whether or not to take the DWI breath test is likely that was frequently asked questions many DWI lawyer. There are penalties for refusing, but there are good rules of thumb to consider if you are faced with this decision. Clearly, take it if you’ve not been drinking. If you have been drinking, you should not take it. Beware that …
Halloween DWI
Halloween DWI Defense Each Haloween people are charged with DWI. Durham criminal defense lawyer John Fitzpatrick has helped countless people after being arrest for driving drunk. There will be sobriety checkpoints in Durham and across the triangle. In other states law enforcement call DWI roadblocks. North Carolina law enforcement will have extra officers working, in addition to these deterrents. The officers will be looking for drivers who’s driving shows …
What is a “No-Fault” Divorce?
When neither party attempts to prove the other is to blame for the divorce, it is called a no-fault divorce. While divorce law varies state to state, each state acknowledges no-fault divorce. You need only offer one of the acceptable legal reasons for divorce in your state to qualify. You should consult a divorce lawyer in your state to learn those …
Divorce and the Financial Impact—4 Ways to Protect Yourself Financially
Divorce takes a heavy toll on the whole family. Relationships are strained as is the emotional wellbeing of everyone in the family. Divorce also takes a financial toll. Depending on how well prepared a person is or isn’t, permanent separation could be financially devastating. The Heavy Financial Impact of a Divorce The financial impact of a divorce can be so …
12 Property Assets To Keep An Eye On During Divorce Proceedings
When a couple get married, the last thing they think about is how to protect their assets from the other person. This concern usually arises once divorce proceedings have begun. Suddenly the person they trusted most is someone that they have to protect themselves from. It’s a sad turn of events but happens often. If you’re going through a divorce, …
3 Areas to Protect Yourself In During a Divorce
There are certain things in life that bring out the worst in people. One of these times is when someone goes through a divorce. A breakup can bring out a side of people that may surprise even them. Whether you’re surprised by your spouse’s attitude and actions or not, it’s always best to do all you can to protect yourself. …
3 Reasons Why You Should See An Attorney About Child Custody Issues
As parents, you and your spouse have many decisions to make about the wellbeing of your child. While you were married, there may have been some disagreements about such matters, but ultimately they were settled. Why? Well, because you and your spouse looked beyond yourselves and made decisions that would benefit your child. After a divorce, this process can get …
How Child Custody is Determined in North Carolina
Going through the breakup of a marriage is difficult. The ones who are the hardest hit, though, often seem to be the children. It’s an unfortunate, yet common, occurrence that children are caught in the middle of their parents during child custody hearings. Many times, because the parents can’t agree on things, the court has to make decisions about child …
How Assets Are Divided During a Divorce – Part II
While North Carolina is an equitable division state, this doesn’t automatically mean that all assets will be divided equally. The judge will determine what is fair for all parties involved and divide the assets based on that determination. Today we will discuss some of the things a North Carolina judge will take into consideration when deciding how to divide assets …
How Assets Are Divided During a Divorce – Part I
If you’re facing a divorce, you’re probably concerned with how your property and assets are going to be divided. It’s important to know what gets divided, what you get to keep, and who is responsible for what debts. Here’s what you should know if you’re a North Carolina resident. Equitable Division of the Assets North Carolina is an equitable division …
Why the Family Law Profession Exists
If you look online or in the phone book under attorney, you will find pages and pages of options available to you. There are criminal defense attorneys, divorce lawyers, personal injury lawyers, and corporate attorneys just to name a few. Life is very intricate and every aspect of it requires someone who can care specifically for each of them. Take …
What Happens Now That You’ve Decided It’s Time for a Divorce
The majority of the people entering into marriage aren’t thinking about divorce when they say their “I do’s”. No one wants to think about their marriage failing and most do all they can to rebuild the relationship with their spouse when they experience hardships. At times, though, even the best efforts don’t create the desired results. How do you know …
What is a “No-Fault” Divorce?
When neither party attempts to prove the other is to blame for the divorce, it is called a no-fault divorce. While divorce law varies state to state, each state acknowledges no-fault divorce. You need only offer one of the acceptable legal reasons for divorce in your state to qualify. You should consult a divorce lawyer in your state to learn those …
2 Things You Need to Do If Your Case Evidence Is Lost
It is the legal requirement of law enforcement representatives to preserve evidence from a crime scene. Evidence can be used by the criminal defense attorney and the prosecution to build and defend their case. Law enforcement officers and the lawyers for both the defense and prosecution have the legal responsibility to keep evidence safe. What happens, though, if crucial case …
Why should I hire a personal injury lawyer?
If you’ve been injured in an accident, you need all the help you can get. While seeking legal representation as soon as possible is advisable, it’s unfortunate that some injury victims pick the first attorney they speak to and later come to regret it. Before you hire a personal injury attorney, it’s important to educate yourself and find the right fit for you …
What is a speed trap?
Many drivers in the triangle area caught speeding in what most call a “speed trap.” One officer parks on an I-40 overpass with a radar gun and calls the make and model of vehicles to multiple officers further down the road. There are many other techniques, but this is one of the most effective. Calling it a speed trap insinuates the …
My Spouse Has a Divorce Attorney, Should I Hire My Own?
If your spouse has already retained the services of a divorce attorney, you are going to need your own lawyer. While divorces certainly happen all the time with one or sometimes even no lawyers involved, that does not mean that it is necessarily in your best interest to go without one. If your spouse has already hired counsel, he or …
White Collar Crime Law Changes – The #1 Why the President Isn’t Happy
It doesn’t matter if you’re a Republican, Democrat or Independent – we all recognize the fact that crime rates are rising. The rise in crime and subsequent incarceration has left us with prisons that are extremely overcrowded. Recently, a change in criminal law sentencing went into effect. Lawmakers are trying to combat the issue of overcrowded prisons, as well as …
2 Sides to Every Story—the Marijuana Legalization Debate: Part II
We’ve all heard the saying that there are two sides to every story. This is definitely true for the marijuana legalization debate. Both sides—supporters and opponents—are extremely passionate about their cause. While more people are beginning to support marijuana legalization, there are still many states where medical marijuana, let alone recreational marijuana use, is still illegal. Why does cannabis have …
2 Sides to Every Story—the Marijuana Legalization Debate: Part I
Marijuana legalization has been at the center of political and legal debates for decades. Supporters don’t understand why marijuana is illegal, especially when there are legal drugs on the market that are much more dangerous. Critics are just as passionate about marijuana legalization as its supporters. The legalization of marijuana, whether medicinal or recreational, is taking place in some states, …
5 Things to Look For When Choosing Your Divorce Attorney
No one goes into marriage thinking about what kind of divorce attorney they will need to hire down the road. For most, marriage is a sacred union and their vows are taken seriously – “till death do us part.” Unfortunately, approximately half of all marriages end in divorce. The reasons for divorce vary, but the need for a good lawyer …
5 Reasons Why Marriage Might Be Preferred to Singleness
Love and marriage – we’ve been taught they go hand-in-hand, and yet many forgo marriage for singleness. Getting married has been a goal of most people for thousands of years, but it is becoming increasingly unpopular. What has contributed to this shift causing more people to celebrate singleness? Is there any evidence that marriage is beneficial? Why Most People Think …
Why should I hire a personal injury lawyer?
If you’ve been injured in an accident, you need all the help you can get. While seeking legal representation as soon as possible is advisable, it’s unfortunate that some injury victims pick the first attorney they speak to and later come to regret it. Before you hire a personal injury attorney, it’s important to educate yourself and find the right fit for you …
The Basics of North Carolina Personal Injury Law
Have you or a loved one been injured in an accident that was no fault of your own? In cases of personal injury caused by the negligence of another, time is of the essence. In addition, understanding the law as it relates to personal injury claims in North Carolina is important. One thing you definitely need to know is the …
What to do after an Car Accident
Do you know what to do in the aftermath of a car accident to prevent further injuries, reduce costs and accelerate the clean-up and repair process? The Consumer Protection Association of America is increasing public awareness on this subject by developing a list of suggestions to help drivers anticipate what they need to know about dealing with an accident. The US …
Tractor Trailer Accident Involving Alcohol
In July of 2013 we saw all southbound lanes on Interstate 85 near Cole Mill Road closed for hours following a tractor-trailer wreck. Reports show the tractor-trailer hit an un-marked police vehicle which was pulled over conducting a traffic stop. The officer was injured and taken to the hospital. The truck driver was charged with DWI and careless and reckless driving. Durham …
Rollover Accident on US-40
US-40 Roll Over Accident Last night drivers on US-40 witnessed a two-car roll over accident happened at roughly 9:20 p.m. near Davis Drive. Two cars were involved; one that flipped and the other showed front end damage. At least one person was take to Duke hospital. Traffic patterns were not restored until almost 11:00 p.m.. The cause has yet to be determined, …
When Does Probable Cause Apply?
Might a lack of probable cause be a winning defense for your charges? Traffic stops are legal, but only when law enforcement can justify their reasons for stopping your vehicle. All citizens of the United States are protected by the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution, which prevents law enforcement from performing a traffic stop and warrantless search. However, there are …
What is a speed trap?
Many drivers in the triangle area caught speeding in what most call a “speed trap.” One officer parks on an I-40 overpass with a radar gun and calls the make and model of vehicles to multiple officers further down the road. There are many other techniques, but this is one of the most effective. Calling it a speed trap insinuates the …
Crackdown on Dangerous and Distracted Driving
Cars are speeding through neighborhoods and folks have had enough. The InterNeighborhood Council (INC), Bicycle and Pedestrian Commission (BPAC) and some individual citizens are pressing hard for a crackdown on dangerous and distracted driving in Durham neighborhoods. A recent report explains how they are attempting to send a message that Durham will not tolerate distracted driving, irresponsible driving, and breaking traffic …
4 Alcohol-Related Violations That Will Get You into Trouble
What you need to know that could cause you to lose your car, license, or job. The following are four common alcohol-related violations that as a result will get you into serious trouble and they are: Giving alcohol to someone who is underage. This includes serving or selling it to someone underage. Purchasing alcohol for underage drinkers. Driving under the influence …
When can a driver’s license be revoked?
A driver’s license can be revoked for many reasons. For example, a conviction for certain offenses. Here are a few offenses that can lead to a revoked driver’s license. Driving while impaired Excessive speeding Refusing to take a breath or blood test when arrested for driving while impaired Accumulating too many driver’s license points for traffic offenses Failing to appear …
When Does Probable Cause Apply?
Might a lack of probable cause be a winning defense for your charges? Traffic stops are legal, but only when law enforcement can justify their reasons for stopping your vehicle. All citizens of the United States are protected by the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution, which prevents law enforcement from performing a traffic stop and warrantless search. However, there are …
What is a speed trap?
Many drivers in the triangle area caught speeding in what most call a “speed trap.” One officer parks on an I-40 overpass with a radar gun and calls the make and model of vehicles to multiple officers further down the road. There are many other techniques, but this is one of the most effective. Calling it a speed trap insinuates the …
Crackdown on Dangerous and Distracted Driving
Cars are speeding through neighborhoods and folks have had enough. The InterNeighborhood Council (INC), Bicycle and Pedestrian Commission (BPAC) and some individual citizens are pressing hard for a crackdown on dangerous and distracted driving in Durham neighborhoods. A recent report explains how they are attempting to send a message that Durham will not tolerate distracted driving, irresponsible driving, and breaking traffic …
It’s Distracted Driver Awareness Month!
The month of April is national Distracted Drivers Awareness month! There are four types of distractions while driving. Visual – looking at something other than the road. Auditory – hearing something not related to driving. Manual – manipulating something other than the steering wheel. Cognitive – thinking about something other than driving. How common are distracted driving accidents? National Distracted …
3 Steps to Take After a Fatal Accident
It seems that every day there is a different news story detailing a fatal accident, whether as a result of poor driving decisions, workplace negligence, or vehicle malfunction. Simply seeing these headlines flash across our screens makes it a bit easier to skim through since we are not directly impacted by the consequences. In contrast, the family and friends who …