September 26, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ — As a Chicago personal injury attorney with many years of experience, I have filed lawsuits against countless defendants, alleging negligence, medical malpractice, defective products and every other tort imaginable. Invariably, the attorneys hired by the defendant’s insurance company file what is known as a “jury demand”. What this means is that the defendant insists that the case be tried before a jury and not just a judge. The reason for this tactic is to make it as difficult and expensive as possible for the plaintiff to win. In conservative jurisdictions such as DuPage County, Illinois, the insurance companies are of the belief that these “anti lawsuit” residents are more likely to send the plaintiff home without compensation on that basis alone. In more liberal counties such as Cook, (Chicago) Illinois the defense view is just the opposite. Regardless of the location, medical malpractice insurance companies want their cases tried before a jury, thinking that it is much harder for a plaintiff to convince 12 jurors to award them money as compared to one judge.

During these difficult economic times both insurance companies and plaintiff’s attorneys have become extremely cost conscious which has created a “cottage industry” known as Alternative Dispute Resolution or “ADR”. ADR is basically a private “court” where highly experienced retired judges are hired to act as arbitrators. The parties to a personal injury lawsuit pending in the official court system agree to dismiss the lawsuit and submit it to ADR. The cost of the proceeding including the arbitrators fees are generally split between the parties.

You might ask yourself, given the fact that the judges of our court system are paid a salary by the taxpayers why should I pay a retired judge to perform the same process? The following is a list of the many reasons why each side is drawn to this new Chicago injury practice:

1. The parties are able to select a judge that they both agree upon. This is very important as predictability replaces “pot luck”.

2. The arbitration is scheduled on a date convenient to all as opposed to the crowded court system selecting a date agreeable to it!

3. The rules of evidence are relaxed which saves a tremendous amount of time and money. Foundational and non-essential witnesses are avoided, medical and other records are routinely submitted to the arbitrator for consideration.

4. The expert witness testimony of physicians normally procured at great expense is avoided.

5. The emotions of jurors which can help or hurt both sides are avoided.

6. Plaintiffs’ attorneys trial time and defense legal fees are greatly reduced.

7. The prejudicial attitudes of jurors are eliminated.

8. Extreme verdicts in either direction disappear.

There is generally no appeal of the arbitrator’s decision which can be good or bad depending upon the result. In either case the decision is final and the parties go on with their lives.

The next time you consider going to trial in a personal injury case remember that ADR may be “the way to go”?

Article provided by Steinberg, Burtker Grossman, Ltd.
Visit us at www.rickgrossman.com

—
Press release service and press release distribution provided by http://www.24-7pressrelease.com

# # #

Read more Press Releases from Findlaw PR:

• Confrontation Clause Ruling To Be Applied Prospectively Only
• Receiving Workers’ Compensation? Expect an Impairment Rating Evaluation
• Washington Attorney General Targets Sex Crime Activity on Backpage.com
• Four Motorcyclists Die In Less Than A Month In Illinois
• Problems With the Profit Motive in Medicine
• NTSB Calls for National Cell Phone Ban for All Commercial Drivers
• Is Medical Marijuana Use by Colorado Drivers Increasing?
• Mixed Messages About Medical Marijuana in Oregon
• Dog Bites Increasing In San Diego
• Have You Retired Voluntarily? Protecting Your Workers’ Comp Benefits

    September 24, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ — Thirty-one-year old Aaron Foote of El Paso was recently killed in an ATV accident on Dyer Street. Although the police are still investigating what caused the accident, one of his neighbors surmised in an interview with KFOX-14 that the accident may have been caused by dangerous holes in the desert.

Unfortunately, Texas ATV accidents like this are not unique. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were 482 ATV fatalities in Texas from 1982 to 2009.

ATV Safety Laws

ATVs can be enjoyable for off-road driving, but motorists must always keep safety in mind during their trips — as well as applicable Texas law in order to avoid motor vehicle accidents. The following are some regulations that ATV enthusiasts must abide by.
- When driving an ATV after sunset, the vehicle’s headlight and taillight must be turned on
- ATVs must not be used on public streets, unless the driver is crossing the road
- A registration is needed to operate an ATV — and it must be renewed annually
- A parent or guardian must be with an ATV driver who is under the age of 14

ATV Safety Tips

In addition to following the laws that govern ATV use in Texas, drivers must also keep in mind basic safety strategies. In order to avoid accidents when riding ATVs, motorists should remember to:
- Always wear safety gear — such as goggles and a helmet — when driving an ATV, a helmet in particular can help avoid serious traumatic brain injuries
- Never try to fit a passenger in a single-rider ATV
- Avoid paved roads when driving an ATV
- Never drive an ATV under the influence of drugs or alcohol

By abiding by ATV laws and taking appropriate safety precautions hopefully ATV accidents in Texas will begin to decrease.

Article provided by The Carlson Law Firm PC
Visit us at www.carlsonattorneys.com

—
Press release service and press release distribution provided by http://www.24-7pressrelease.com

# # #

Read more Press Releases from Findlaw PR:

• NTSB Calls for National Cell Phone Ban for All Commercial Drivers
• Is Medical Marijuana Use by Colorado Drivers Increasing?
• Mixed Messages About Medical Marijuana in Oregon
• Dog Bites Increasing In San Diego
• Have You Retired Voluntarily? Protecting Your Workers’ Comp Benefits
• Bike Injury Victims: Head Injuries, Road Rash and Worse
• Truck Drivers, Trucking Companies Carry Heavy Loads and Responsibility
• Distracted Drivers Are Dangerous Drivers
• Stalking Protective Orders and Restraining Orders in Oregon
• Registered and Unregistered Domestic Partnerships in Oregon

    September 26, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ — What is my Personal Injury Case Worth?

After representing thousands of Chicago injury victims in a wide variety of personal injury, PI cases, the most common question asked after my first interview is “what is my case worth?” In the typical scenario, the client has just received emergency medical treatment and remains in significant pain. At this point they may not have even have been seen by a medical specialist. They have no idea how much time they may lose from their gainful employment? Will they require one or more operative procedures? Can they make a full recovery or will the medical treatment fail leaving them with a permanent disability? Will their wounds heal without scaring, on and on?

At this stage in the proceedings there is clearly no answer to the question. Until the clients’ physical condition reaches maximum medical improvement the injury attorney would be speculating by suggesting a dollar amount. This is not to say that unscrupulous injury attorneys do not regularly tell their potential clients’ that they will recover “millions of dollars” hoping to impress them into retaining the attorney, only to later learn that their case is worth a minimal sum.

This situation creates a dilemma for the reputable, experienced Chicago injury attorney. Does he tell the client the truth that there is no way to determine the case value at this stage of the proceedings with the risk of losing the client or disclose a high speculative number?

As a Chicago personal injury attorney, I must and always tell the client the truth but explain in detail all of the above mentioned variables which can change the dollar recovery. I then give them a range of potential monetary recovery depending upon their ultimate physical recovery. This procedure usually appeases the client on a short term basis while maintaining my integrity. I also explain to them that their case cannot be settled before they reach a level of maximum medical improvement. No attorney in good conscious can negotiate a settlement with the at fault parties insurance company at an earlier date and risk committing legal malpractice.

Potential clients must be educated to understand the procedures that experienced, Chicago injury attorneys must follow in the handling of their PI cases. They further should be told that there will be a day in the future when their attorney will given them his or her opinion of the true value of their case based upon the testimony of witnesses, medical records and the opinions of their treating physician. They will then and only then be in a position to determine whether to settle or take their case to trial.

Be patient and you will secure a maximum settlement for the injuries and lost wages you sustained as a result of the negligence of another.

Article provided by Steinberg, Burtker Grossman, Ltd.
Visit us at www.rickgrossman.com

—
Press release service and press release distribution provided by http://www.24-7pressrelease.com

# # #

Read more Press Releases from Findlaw PR:

• Previously Repealed Helmet Law Reconsidered In Pennsylvania
• Signs of Nursing Home Neglect
• Preventing Crash-Related Deaths in America
• New Gun Laws Stir Up Old Debate in Florida
• Proposed Law Takes Aim at Stolen Prescription Drugs
• Ohio Sees One of the Largest Drops in Prices for Foreclosures
• Illuminating the Problem of Blinding Headlights
• Slower Repossessions Causing Foreclosure Rates to Slow
• Wage Garnishments: Confronting Your Debt Issues
• AAA Releases North Carolina’s Most Recent Fatality and Crash Statistics

ShareThis



Email


PDF


Print

Side by Side vehicle parts headquarters

Tyler, Texas (PRWEB) September 26, 2011

Side by Side Headquarters now carries a complete line of aftermarket parts for the new 2012 Polaris Ranger RZR off-road vehicle. With 20,000 square feet of warehouse space and 2 locations, SXSHQ is the leading industry supplier of Side by Side vehicle performance parts and accessories. With a knowledgeable sales staff SXSHQ prides itself in always taking the time to work with individuals to aid them in choosing the Side by Side vehicle parts that are right for them. One advantage Side X Side HQ has over other online retailers is that it also runs a full custom shop. They not only offer installation on all of the products they carry but also build a complete line of bumpers, skid plates, roll cages and other custom fabricated side by side vehicle parts.

Whether looking for aftermarket parts and accessories for your new or used side by side UTV be sure to visit sxsheadquarters.com or call them today at 903-581-0015 to see what all they have to offer.

###

Share:

    September 25, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ — It has proved to be a deadly summer in Illinois for motorcyclists. In Peoria, four motorcyclists have been killed just since July 21.

The Peoria Star Journal reports that in that period the number of motorcycle deaths already have reached half the total number of motorcycle fatalities in 2010 in Peoria County and six bordering counties. There were also four additional bikers injured over that same period.

Ironically, some of the accidents occurred the same day as a bike safety awareness event was held. In 2010, Illinois had 129 motorcycle crashes resulting in fatalities.

Nothing More than A Traffic Ticket

The death of William Wiker Jr. and the police response incensed his son.

“The lady’s going to get a ticket for running a red light, but that’s it. She’s not going to have to go to jail for killing my father,” said William Wiker III.

The woman was cited for disobeying a traffic control device. The police say there isn’t any more they can do, because the running of the stoplight was not intentional and no drugs or alcohol was involved.

No Respect

Motorcycle riders have long felt drivers in cars and trucks don’t respect them when they are riding. The “Start Seeing Motorcycle” campaign has worked to to raise driver awareness of motorcycles on the highway for years.

Motorcycles have the disadvantage of being small and light, and these characteristics work against them when drivers are not paying attention.

It also works to the disadvantage of the riders, since they have no protection when a car crashes into them.

While the stereotype of the biker as young and wild exists, of the two riders killed recently, one was 56 and the other 63.

The Danger of Red Lights

Two riders were killed when an alleged drunk driver rear-ended them while they were waiting at a stop light. This accident points out the danger riders face, even when they are sitting still.

Drivers of other vehicles often simply don’t see them at red lights and plow into them. A bill has passed the legislature and is waiting for the governor’s signature that would allow bikers to go through red lights if they have not automatically switched for them in a reasonable time.

The sensors that trigger some traffic lights often are not sensitive enough to trigger with the presence of a cycle, and can leave a biker sitting for prolonged periods, exposed to the danger of being rear-ended.

Article provided by Joseph Klest, Attorney at Law
Visit us at www.chicagotriallaw.com

—
Press release service and press release distribution provided by http://www.24-7pressrelease.com

# # #

Read more Press Releases from Findlaw PR:

• Confrontation Clause Ruling To Be Applied Prospectively Only
• Receiving Workers’ Compensation? Expect an Impairment Rating Evaluation
• Washington Attorney General Targets Sex Crime Activity on Backpage.com
• Problems With the Profit Motive in Medicine
• NTSB Calls for National Cell Phone Ban for All Commercial Drivers
• Is Medical Marijuana Use by Colorado Drivers Increasing?
• Mixed Messages About Medical Marijuana in Oregon
• Dog Bites Increasing In San Diego
• Have You Retired Voluntarily? Protecting Your Workers’ Comp Benefits
• The Importance of ATV Safety in Texas

    September 24, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ — It is a common scenario in Pennsylvania: after years of dedicated service, a worker succumbs to a job-related injury that ends his or her active career. Fortunately, the workers’ compensation system provides a much-needed safety net for such workers who have given so much of themselves to employers in the form of workers’ compensation benefits.

Why Does Voluntary Retirement Affect Workers’ Compensation

According to the state Supreme Court, under the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act, “disability” has always been synonymous with loss of earning power; in other words, to be entitled to benefits under the Act, a worker must have suffered an injury in the workplace that affects his or her ability to earn a wage.

When an on-the-job injury or illness forces a worker out of the labor market or into a lower-paying job, his or her capacity to earn a wage is diminished; workers’ compensation helps fill in this gap between pre- and post-injury earnings. However, retirees who have removed themselves from the labor market completely – whether disabled or not – no longer have wage-earning capacity according to the law. Therefore, Pennsylvania courts have determined that once an injured worker has voluntarily retired, he or she is no longer entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.

Defining Voluntary Retirement

One may believe that they are off receiving workers’ compensation payments for an injury that they now can also collect a retirement pension without risk is mistaken. But, Pennsylvania courts have long struggled with determining exactly when an injured worker has voluntarily retired.

The key consideration is the intention of the injured worker: if able, would he or she continue working? Age, the receipt of other types of benefits (pension, social security, etc.) or current unemployment may all be taken into account.

An employer wishing to stop benefit payments bears the burden of proving that, under the totality of the circumstances, the workers’ comp claimant intended to retire (voluntarily removes themselves from the work force). Admissions from a claimant that he or she is retired, the acceptance of a retirement pension, a disabled worker’s refusal of suitable light-duty employment or a number of other factors could be used by an employer against an injured/disabled client to show an intention to retire in an attempt to stop workers’ comp payments.

On the other hand, if a workers’ compensation claimant can show that he or she was forced into retirement because of a work-related injury, benefits could continue. For example, they aren’t capable of any level of work due to the workers’ comp injury. Likewise, an injured worker seeking employment (even after retirement age) should still receive workers’ compensation benefits. And, even if a disabled worker voluntarily retires, a change in circumstances down the road that causes him or her to again seek employment could retrigger an employer’s responsibility to make workers’ compensation payments.

Contact a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

If you are nearing retirement age, it is important to protect your workers’ compensation benefits from employers who may claim that you have voluntarily withdrawn from the workforce. Get in touch with a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyer to explore how you can continue to receive the benefits you deserve.

Article provided by Dugan Associates, P.C.
Visit us at www.dugan-associates.com

—
Press release service and press release distribution provided by http://www.24-7pressrelease.com

# # #

Read more Press Releases from Findlaw PR:

• NTSB Calls for National Cell Phone Ban for All Commercial Drivers
• Is Medical Marijuana Use by Colorado Drivers Increasing?
• Mixed Messages About Medical Marijuana in Oregon
• Dog Bites Increasing In San Diego
• The Importance of ATV Safety in Texas
• Bike Injury Victims: Head Injuries, Road Rash and Worse
• Truck Drivers, Trucking Companies Carry Heavy Loads and Responsibility
• Distracted Drivers Are Dangerous Drivers
• Stalking Protective Orders and Restraining Orders in Oregon
• Registered and Unregistered Domestic Partnerships in Oregon

    ALBANY, NY, September 22, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ — For most drivers, receiving a speeding ticket or other traffic citation is simply a nuisance. While you can fight the ticket or simply mail in a fine, the citation generally does not mean losing your driver’s license.

That is not the case with commercial drivers. If you are a commercial driver’s license (CDL) holder, receiving a speeding ticket or being convicted for another moving violation can have serious consequences. Both your CDL and your job may be at stake.

Moving Violations in New York

Speeding, failure to obey a traffic signal, illegal lane changes and reckless driving are all considered moving violations in New York. A conviction for any of these acts is reported to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and will appear on your New York driver’s record.

Regardless of whether you are a commercial driver or simply have a regular New York driver’s license, a conviction for a moving violation adds points to your New York driving record. Accumulating six points in 18 months will trigger a Driver Responsibility Assessment (DRA); 11 points or more in 18 months will lead to a mandatory license suspension.

There are also consequences for commercial drivers licensed in a state other than New York who are convicted of a traffic violation within the state. If you hold a CDL, many states require you to notify your employer and your home state’s DMV within 30 days of being convicted of a moving violation. Whether you were on the job or driving your own personal car when the violation occurred does not matter; all moving violations must be reported.

The NY DMV reports all traffic convictions to a driver’s home state. The consequences of a moving violation that occurred in New York will vary based on the law in your home state, but you may have your license suspended for just one speeding ticket, depending on how fast you were going.

Federal Regulations and the Impact of “Serious” Traffic Violations

Penalties for commercial drivers convicted of a moving violation do not stop at the state lines. In addition to the driver’s home-state penalties, federal regulations apply to commercial drivers who are convicted of speeding, running a red light or other traffic offenses.

The Commercial Motor Vehicle Act of 1986, adopted by all 50 states by 1992, established licensing guidelines for CDL holders throughout the U.S. The act created different types of CDL classes and endorsements as well as regulations governing commercial driving privileges.

If, while driving a commercial vehicle, you commit a serious traffic violation, your CDL can be suspended. Under federal rules, “serious” traffic violations include convictions for:
- Exceeding the speed limit by 15 mph or more
- Reckless driving
- Making erratic or illegal lane changes
- Tailgating (following too closely)
- Driving a commercial motor vehicle without a CDL, without carrying a CDL on one’s person or without the proper class/endorsement
- Being involved in a fatal accident and, in conjunction with the accident, being cited for violating a state or municipal traffic law

If you are convicted of two serious traffic violations involving a commercial motor vehicle in a three-year period, you will lose your CDL for at least 60 days. For three serious traffic violations in the same time period, the mandatory suspension is 120 days.

Beyond 60 to 120 Days: CDL Suspensions for up to One Year

In addition to the serious traffic violations listed above, a conviction for any of the following violations can lead to drivers being disqualified from driving a commercial vehicle for up to one year:
- Driving any vehicle, including your personal car, while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance
- Driving a commercial motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.04 or higher
- Refusing to take a blood alcohol test
- Leaving the scene of an accident — regardless of whether you were driving a commercial vehicle or your private vehicle at the time
- Using a motor vehicle (commercial or personal) in the commission of a felony
- Driving a commercial vehicle when your CDL is revoked, suspended or canceled

If any of these violations are committed while transporting hazardous materials, your license suspension will increase from one year to three years. If you are convicted a second time for any of these offenses, you will be permanently disqualified from ever holding a CDL again.

DWI: A Different Definition for Commercial Drivers

While state law establishes the legal limit of 0.08 as the blood alcohol content (BAC) at which motor vehicle drivers are considered to be driving while intoxicated (DWI), the federal Commercial Motor Vehicle Act has set a lower limit for drivers with CDLs. In most jurisdictions, law enforcement can charge commercial drivers with DWI if their BAC is found to be as low as 0.04.

Because the consequences of all moving violations–from speeding tickets to first-time DWI offenses–can have a serious impact on the lives of commercial drivers, it is important to protect your commercial driver’s license by contacting an experienced traffic violation attorney if you’ve received a traffic citation.

Colwell, Colwell Petroccione is an Albany, New York-based traffic law firm.

—
Press release service and press release distribution provided by http://www.24-7pressrelease.com

# # #

Press Release Keywords:

• commercial driver’s license, excessive speeding, new york moving violations

Read more Press Releases from Kevin Colwell:

• Recent Changes to New York Cellphone Laws Mean Increased Driver Violation Points
• More Fees For New York Drivers: The Driver Responsibility Assessment

Other Press Release Headlines:

• New York Orthodontist Offers Discount on Invisalign Braces to NYC Area Residents Through the End of 2011
• ReviewPro Unveils Innovative Way for Hotels to Measure and Improve Guest Satisfaction
• Realtors Marketing Solution for the Financial Crisis
• Trista Belle Boutique Grand Opening on Saturday, September 24, from Noon to 3:00 pm
• Atlanta Tree Removal Co Yellow Ribbon Tree Experts Announces Top Five Prettiest Trees in Atlanta
• Costco Slip-and-Fall Lawsuit Shows How Court Jurisdiction Works, Says New York Slip and Fall Lawyer
• Customers File Discrimination Lawsuit Against Baluchi’s Indian Restaurant, New York Civil Rights Violation Lawyer Comments
• National Cathedral Crane Collapse Spotlights Construction Site Danger, Says New York Construction Accident Lawyer
• Bill Introduced in Ohio Legislature Will Impact Consumer Protection
• Prevention of Distracted Driving in Colorado and Nationwide

There are some residents of the Centennial State who may view automobile insurance as simply another expense, but being adequately covered can end up saving a vehicle owner from having to pay numerous charges after an accident. In Colorado, the Department of Transportation estimates that there are over 88,200 miles of roadway and plenty of opportunity for motorists to be involved in car accidents. To keep residents financial responsible for at-fault damages, vehicle owners are required to carry specific minimum amounts of liability coverage in additional to other forms of protection while driving. It is possible, however, for many motorists to obtain an adequate amount of coverage at a suitable price by first shopping around before making a purchase, and taking advantage of the many resources that are available to residents.

Shopping for Colorado auto insurance is a lot like shopping for other products. There are typically many different coverage providers to choose from, and nearly all of them offer unique rates. Obtaining a quote usually involves contacting a company directly, but if a resident wants to investigate rates from dozens of insurers this may become a time consuming process. To amass estimates quickly, motorists are urged to complete an online quote comparison. This method of shopping can usually produce dozens of estimates in a matter of minutes, with no obligation to make a purchase and no demand for personally sensitive information (like one’s social security or credit card numbers). Taking the time to make multiple comparisons can often help residents find an insurer able to provide cheap coverage with a minimal amount of effort.

Find and Keep Cheaper CO Auto Insurance

Extensive shopping is an important part of finding adequately priced coverage, but taking advantage of potential discounts and avoiding many of the common ways that people end up paying higher premiums, residents can also help keep auto insurance prices low. Many different insurers offer customers various discounts and special offers that can potentially reduce premiums. But because coverage providers are usually competitive and unique, these special offers are likely to be different for each company. Contacting several insurers after completing a quote comparison to find out about potential discounts may translate into substantial savings. After buying a cheap plan, there are still certain precautions that a motorist can take to ensure that these rates remain adequately low.

Residents may want to know that causing or being involved in a collision may negatively affect an individual’s premium. Although many individuals may feel confident of their driving abilities, 2008 Crash Trends provided by the CO State Patrol indicate that there were roughly 27,200 investigated accidents in a year, meaning that vehicle owners should still drive with caution. Motorists who are convicted of certain automobile related offenses, or are considered at-fault for an accident are likely to experience higher premiums. These residents may even be placed in high-risk pools and may have difficulty locating an insurer willing to provide coverage. Because of this, maintaining a clean driving record by avoiding unnecessary risks, following traffic laws, and remaining a skilled and cautious driver are essential to maintaining cheap auto insurance.

Source: http://www.onlineautoinsurance.com/colorado/

According to the data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, over 2,800 American citizens have died in the month of August, after being involved in serious accidents. Comparatively, the month of March seems to be the safest month in the whole year. The fatality rate for the month of August is at an average of 1.09, while it is 0.94 per 100 million miles traveled in the month of March.

Securing the best coverage is one thing and most of the motorists from Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, as well as the California residents have already done that. However, apart from that they are also urged to practice some safe driving habits to help lower the risk of being involved in crashes that could be fatal. Some of the suggestions that have been given are as follows:

• The inspection of the vehicle must be up to date. Regardless of how safe the driver is, they can get into dangerous situations in case the vehicle brakes fail or if they don’t function properly. Check to see that both headlights function properly.
• There are a number of reckless drivers on the roads. So, always be on guard. These people don’t follow traffic rules and can endanger the lives of the others on the road as well. Unless you are switching lanes, it is important to focus on what lies ahead of you rather than what is behind you.
• Always keep yourself updated on the distracted driving regulations as well as the state’s rules regarding seatbelts etc. There are a number of places where wearing seatbelts are mandatory. However, it is in your interest to wear seatbelts even if it is not mandatory.
• Never use cell phones while driving.

<!–

Auto Insurance News: Drivers urged to exercise caution by tegner-miller insurance brokers
//–>

According to Allstate Insurance Co.’s annual report on the 200 largest U.S. cities and how safe it is to drive in them, the nation’s capital ranked at the bottom of the pile.  Drivers in D.C. are 107.3 % more likely to have a car accident as compared to the national average.

Overall, they ranked 193 on the Best Drivers Report (not 200, because some cities share a ranking). The surrounding areas didn’t fare much better. Arlington, Va., ranked 180, and Alexandria, Va., ranked 184.

Some other places you might not want to drive — as anyone who has encountered New Jersey drivers might expect — are Elizabeth, N.J., ranked 181, and Jersey City comes in at 186. Those two cities in the Garden State received particuarly low rankings.

As for the safest cities in which to drive in America, the data suggest you might be more likely to find motorists checking rear-view mirrors, side-view mirrors and glancing over their shoulders before changing lanes in Fort Collins, Colo. That city was ranked as being the safest in which to drive. Boise, Idaho, was a close second, and Lincoln, Neb., came in third.

The authors of the report note that drivers in cities with populations over 1 million are significantly more likely to experience a collision, but of the bigger cities, Phoenix is where you’re least likely to have a collision, followed by San Diego and then San Antonio, Texas.

Allstate determined these rankings by analyzing insurance claims received by the company.

“Internal property damage reported claims were analyzed over a two-year period (from January 2008 to December 2009) to ensure the findings would not be impacted by external influences such as weather or road construction,” the company said in a release.

Of course, accident rates have a lot to do with weather, so dry cities such as Phoenix and San Diego would be expected to have lower crash rates than cities with unpleasantness such as rain and snow.

And D.C. defenders might point out, justifiably so, that the roads in the area were laid out before the American Revolution.

One note: The Allstate data exclude cities in Massachusetts.