As an avid runner, and five-time marathoner, I always enjoy running in the cooler temperatures of fall, and the opportunity to run without heat and humidity. While it is often possible to run on the safety of a path or trail, runners sometimes must run through neighborhood streets or alongside local roads.

Obviously, there are many risks of running close to vehicular traffic. Most runners can share stories of “near misses” when oblivious drivers fail to notice them, and many runners have actually been struck by cars. Accidents between vehicles and runners can be significant, and unfortunately, can also have tragic consequences. (more…)

According to the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, an estimated 50,000 motor vehicles illegally pass New York State school buses every day. Whether by accident or intentionally, these illegal maneuvers are putting drivers, passengers and children at risk on a regular basis.

What Are New York State’s School Bus Laws?

New York traffic law states that traffic from either direction approaching a stopped school bus with flashing red lights must stop before reaching the bus. Drivers should stop their vehicles at least 20 feet from the bus. You MUST stop whether you are approaching a school bus from the front or from the rear. Even on divided or multi-lane highways, you must stop when you see the lights. (more…)

Throughout New York State, there are many locations where bicyclists and motorists share roadways. Whether in bike lanes along roadways or on bike paths that intersect with local highways, these areas put bike riders and motorists in close contact with one another.

Unfortunately, in these areas, and others where cyclists and motorists travel together, car-bicycle accidents do occur.

Car-bicycle accidents can be especially devastating because of cyclists’ lack of protection. Often, collisions with vehicles leave bicyclists severely injured. In these cases, cyclists may choose to pursue compensation for the pain, suffering, lost wages and medical bills they have endured as a result of the accident.

One question that is often asked in this scenario is: Who pays for the medical bills and the pain and suffering of the cyclist? (more…)

A homeowner sought advice from a real estate professional about potential liability for the 250 year old oak in the back yard because it extended over the next door neighbor’s property line.

The branches had been trimmed on the property owner’s side by a previous owner, but they continue to grow on the side over the neighbor’s yard. Because of this, the tree became lopsided now laying slightly in the neighbor’s direction.

The concern was that, due to its advanced age, the tree would eventually topple at some point. Given its present angle of tilt, it could fall on the neighbor’s house. The homeowner was reluctant to have it cut down due to the cost and aesthetics, but wanted to legally be in the clear. (more…)