Last year, Wisconsin's pedestrian deaths rose by 22 percent. Warm spring weather, substantial decreases in gas prices, and an improved economy were all considered factors for this rise in traffic fatalities last year. While there may be some truth to this information, it cannot be used as an excuse. An examination other pedestrian-friendly cities may offer some insight as to how Wisconsin could better their streets for their most vulnerable [...]
Even non-fatal automobile accidents can cause serious injury. Some serious injuries can take weeks, months, or even years from which to recover. Others can cause permanent disability, forever changing the life of the accident victim. Either of these situations can result in expensive medical bills, time lost from work, and difficulty in fulfilling daily tasks or responsibilities. The following highlights the most common of these types of injuries. Brain Injuries [...]
Recreational activities, like snowmobiling, have become extremely popular among Americans. Unfortunately, recreational pastimes can also result in severe injury or even death because they often take place on dangerous terrain, and passengers are often unprotected. In fact, statistics show that snowmobiling causes approximately 200 deaths and 14, 000 injuries in the United States each year. If you are planning to ride, know how to reduce your risk, and learn what [...]
Marketed as a smoking cessation product, electronic cigarettes have grown massively in popularity over the years. However, an analysis of several studies suggests they may not be effective in helping smokers quit. Even more concerning are the warnings coming from doctors regarding the potential health risk they may pose to users. Add in the defective electronic cigarette claims being filed and these little products begin to seem much more dangerous [...]
Driving without insurance is detrimental to society, and a crime. Yet Wisconsin still has its fair share of uninsured motorists on the road—about 12 percent of the driving population, according to state representative Joe Sanfelippo. To combat the problem, he recently proposed stricter penalties for those caught driving without insurance. If successful, it could be beneficial for all motorists, including the ones who find themselves at the receiving end of [...]
For years, we have been told that the back seat is safest for passengers during an automobile accident. However, a new study, conducted by researchers from the Neuroscience Research Australia center in Sydney challenges that theory and provides some fairly convincing information. Yet should it really change where we place our passengers (particularly children)? Although the verdict is still out, the real answer is probably not. Seat Belts Now Most [...]
Dog bites can be traumatic experiences that leave both emotional and physical scars, long after the initial injury has healed. Sadly, children are often most susceptible, due in part to their curious nature and lack of knowledge when it comes to interacting with strange animals. However, even adults can become victim to a loose and aggressive dog. Know how to best prevent such injuries, and how you can treat them [...]
Even though the New Year has only just begun, there have already been automobile accidents that have caused injuries and fatalities. The slick, snowy, and icy driving conditions found throughout Wisconsin have been a contributing factor in those accidents. Reduce your risk of accident or injury during the remainder of the winter season with the following winter weather driving safety and preparedness tips. Plan and Prepare Effective planning and preparation [...]
Toys can do more than just provide fun and entertainment for children; they can also aid in development, growth and learning. Unfortunately, certain toys—even the most innocent looking ones—can pose a threat. Thankfully, an ounce of prevention (and sometimes a lot of supervision) can go a long way when it comes to keeping children safe from potentially dangerous toys. Pay Attention to the Packaging All toys should have an age [...]
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), driving while texting is six times more dangerous than driving while intoxicated. In fact, distracted driving is estimated to injure more than 1, 153 people and kill more than nine others in the United States each day. Unfortunately, drivers seem to be missing the point because an alarming 70 percent of drivers still admit to using their smartphones while driving. Emerging [...]
