While we all know in theory that fatal car accidents happen countless times a day -- every day -- across the country, we tend not to think about the possibility that one of these accidents will happen to us or someone we love. Even the act of putting on a seat belt has become automatic. Most of us do it not because we're afraid of crashing, but because it's a well-ingrained habit. But the unfortunate truth is that none of us is guaranteed an accident-free journey through life. Driving carefully is important, but it doesn't prevent a fatal collision with a driver who might not be as cautious.
Truck driver dies in collision triggered by mattress in road
Everyone knows that driving defensively will decrease the chances of being involved in a car accident. But sometimes even following all the rules of the road and keeping an eye out for aggressive drivers or potential road hazards isn't enough to avoid a crash. That's especially true on interstate highways and other high-traffic roads. Even if a driver is able to avoid sudden danger, other drivers may not be as alert or able to anticipate an accident, and too often the result is a collision that is beyond the cautious driver's control.
Shale industry fraught with health challenges
Business is booming in some Pennsylvania towns where hydraulic fracturing, known as "fracking," for oil and natural gas has increased the population. However, along with the increased growth comes increased problems related to workplace accidents and health issues. Job-related illnesses, mental health issues and other physical work-related problems can take their toll on workers. Specific problems include substance abuse, toxins from chemicals, dietary issues, loneliness and depression and the toll of extreme cold. Injuries come in all shapes and sizes from crushed extremities, burns or whips from chains. Death may occur as well. Residents, especially females, also face risks of assault from the transient population.
Pennsylvania motorcyclist dies in collision with SUV
When sport utility vehicles saw a meteoric rise in popularity in the 1990s, many buyers in Pennsylvania and across the country were attracted to them based on the belief that they were safer than smaller passenger cars. The larger the vehicle, the reasoning went, the more protection its occupants had in an accident. No longer would drivers have to worry about being crushed by the frame of a small car, because there was so much extra room on the inside -- if not much room left in a driver's wallet after filling up the gas tank.
Simple tips enhance hospital patient safety, prevent malpractice
Going into the hospital can be a frightening experience. Many Pennsylvania residents have heard horror stories about patients who developed additional illnesses or infections while hospitalized, or were the victims of medical malpractice. There are things patients and their families can do to avoid medical errors and missteps in hospitals, but if the medical center still errs, they do have the right to pursue a medical malpractice lawsuit. Some tips to enhance patient safety in hospitals:
Crane accident leads to construction worker's brain injury
Many workers go through their entire careers without any serious injuries, but that's not the case with everyone who works in the construction field. One of the most dangerous positions in the construction field is that of a crane operator. It may seem as though they're pretty safe where they are, but they actually face a lot of risk. A recent case of a crane operator who was injured led to what could have been grave results. The construction accident caused severe swelling of the man's brain. Doctors are amazed that he lived and that he's come so far in his recovery after intensive physical therapy. Still, there are questions about why the accident happened. Was there something the company could have done that would have prevented or significantly lowered the danger?
Driver to stand trial for accident that killed New Castle boy, 7
Fatal car accidents are always tragic, but especially when they take the lives of young children. And when the accident is caused by circumstances under a driver's control, it can be that much harder for the victim's family to overcome their loss. A recent accident that killed a 7-year-old boy in New Castle, Pennsylvania, and severely injured his 9-year-old neighbor, for example, is being blamed on a man suspected of driving under the influence of drugs.
Some injuries that keep workers down are emotional
It has almost been two months since the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary shook the world. While hearts everywhere were broken by the deaths of the 20 children and six adults, those who were not directly connected to the victims can't know the pain that family and friends are going through.
Criminal charges possible in crash that killed 2 Pennsylvania men
A crash that killed two Gordon, Pennsylvania, men earlier this week is being investigated as a criminal matter, according to police officials in Mount Carmel Township. That news may offer some comfort to the victim's devastated family members, who could decide to file a wrongful death lawsuit as a result of the at-fault driver's actions.
Pa. State Police: 'Dusting' led to fatal motorcycle crash
Everyone knows that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and can cause traffic accidents. But another dangerous habit that appears to be growing in popularity among teens has been blamed for an accident that killed a motorcyclist and several others in Green County, Pennsylvania, last fall.
