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Dog bites can cause serious injuries, whether from a large breed dog like a Rottweiler or pit bull, or a small dog, such as a Jack Russell terrier or Chihuahua. Puncture wounds from dog bites can be painful and carry the risk of infection, meaning that every dog bite should be taken seriously.
Just as important as treating dog bite injuries, however, is preventing them from happening in the first place. If your dog exhibits aggressive behavior to people or other dogs, it is your responsibility as the dog owner to address the behavior to prevent attacks. 
Canine aggression can be scary, stressful, and embarrassing, particularly when it’s coming from your own dog. Do not give up hope– there are ways to treat aggression. Below are tips for dealing with and preventing aggressive dog behavior.

See a Vet

Some health problems, such as rabies, thyroid issues, and metabolic disorders, can cause an otherwise friendly dog to begin exhibiting aggressive behaviors. Hidden injuries may also cause your dog to behave abnormally. Speak with your veterinarian to see if your dog’s behavior problems may be related to a health condition.
Additionally, always make sure your pup is up-to-date on vaccines and regular preventative healthcare. This will keep your dog healthy and help prevent others from getting sick in the event of a bite.

Understand Your Dog’s Stressors

Dog aggression is nearly always caused by some kind of underlying fear, stress, or pain. By recognizing the situations that cause your dog to become aggressive, you can begin to understand the motivation behind their aggression. Types of aggression include:

• Protective aggression
• Territorial aggression
• Fear aggression
• Social aggression
• Leash aggression
• Possessive aggression
• Defensive aggression
• Sex-related aggression
• Redirected aggression

Recognize Signs of Dog Aggression

In many cases, dogs display warning signs before resorting to biting. Understanding how your dog displays fear or stress can help you prevent attacks. By keeping an eye on your dog’s body language in potentially stressful situations, you may be able to anticipate and therefore prevent a bite. Common signs of aggression in dogs include:

• Growling
• Snarling
• Snapping
• Lunging
• Becoming still and rigid
• Avoiding eye contact
• Yawning or licking lips

Train and Socialize Your Dog Appropriately

It is crucial for dogs to receive proper training and socialization from puppyhood in order to help them learn how to interact appropriately with humans and other dogs. In many cases, aggressive or fearful dogs were not given proper socialization when they were young, and therefore new situations or people may cause them unnecessary stress.
Dog training and socialization involves exposing your dog to other dogs, humans, and new experiences. While it is easier to socialize a puppy, thanks to their curiosity and lack of world experience, it is possible to socialize an adult dog as well.

When exposing your dog to an unfamiliar situation, start slow. Begin in controlled environments, where things won’t get out of hand and traumatize your dog. Short walks around the neighborhood, where your dog is allowed to sniff and explore without being approached by other dogs or humans, is a good place to start.
Other activities that can help your dog learn to remain calm in strange situations include:

• Call your dog’s name and reward them when they look at you. Start in a quiet, familiar environment, and gradually work up to busier areas.
• Walking side-by-side with another dog (but keep the dogs several feet apart, unable to reach each other)
• Invite an adult friend or family member over and ask them to ignore your dog until your dog is able to be calm

Use treats and praise as positive reinforcement while your dog is trying new experiences. This will help them associate the stimuli with good feelings.
If your dog has harmed other dogs or people, consider using a basket muzzle while you work on behavior modification in order to keep everyone safe.
Avoid introducing an aggressive dog to small children except in very controlled environments, where everyone is able to remain calm and you can ensure that no one will be hurt. A dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist can help you determine if, when, and how you should introduce your dog to young children.

Spay or Neuter Your Dog

When it comes to sex-based aggression, you may be able to fix or improve your dog’s behavior by having your dog fixed. Intact male dogs are prone to aggression toward other male dogs, particularly if a female in heat is nearby.
Female dogs may also exhibit aggressive behaviors toward other dogs of either sex, but especially males.
Warning signs of sex-related aggression include:

• Refusal to follow commands
• Barking or lunging
• Destructive behavior
• Territorial behavior, such as marking 
• Urge to escape or roam

Spaying and neutering dogs can solve sex-related aggressive behavior as well as a variety of other issues, such as marking. Studies have also shown that dogs who have been spayed or neutered may live longer than unaltered dogs.

Exercise Your Dog Regularly

While walking your dog certainly won’t fix all aggressive behavior, it may provide them with the mental and physical stimulation they need to relax in stressful situations. Many dog breeds were bred to be active, working animals. A dog who spends too much time lying around, especially alone, will find ways to expel that energy, and it likely won’t be in a positive manner.
Dogs who are not getting enough exercise may exhibit:

• Destructive behavior
• Restlessness
• Depression
• Excessive barking
• Attention seeking
• Lunging or pulling while on leash
• Biting, nipping, or scratching

By giving your dog the chance to walk, run, or play with you or another dog, you expose them to stimuli that will engage their brain and wear them out, and as the old saying goes: A tired dog is a good dog.

Avoid Situations That Trigger Aggressive Behavior

If you understand the type(s) of aggression your dog displays, you may be able to help them avoid those situations. For example, if your dog exhibits possessive aggression and resource guarding behaviors, you can move their food bowl into a quiet room during meal time and allow them to eat alone.
Early in the process of behavior modification, it is wise to avoid situations that may be triggering for your dog, particularly if it may pose a danger to other people or animals. If your dog displays fear aggression when feeling cornered or trapped by other dogs, you can avoid dog parks and other places where off-leash dogs may be present. When people visit your home, put your dog in a secure room or kennel.
While canine aggression can be difficult to treat, in many cases, all hope is not lost. Seeking professional help can help you learn what causes your dog’s behavior problems and understand how to give your dog the best chance at a calm, happy life.

See a Dog Trainer or Behaviorist

While all of the above suggestions can help you begin to understand your dog and improve their behavior, aggression in dogs can be a complicated issue. Your dog may have multiple triggers, or exhibit a variety of aggressive behaviors.

A professional dog trainer or behaviorist can help you understand the causes behind the aggression, and come up with a treatment plan to address your dog’s needs. Your local humane society may have resources to help you find a behaviorist in your area.

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide is a topic that has, in one way or another, touched the lives of many of us at The Advocates. We are committed to helping raise awareness for suicide prevention and protecting some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.
To help us accomplish this goal, we are once again sponsoring the Out of Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk put on by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The goal of the event is to foster feelings of community and support, remember those we have lost to suicide, and raise funds for further education and awareness events.
The Advocates would be honored to have members of our community join us at the walk. There will be booths and vendors, a silent auction, and opportunities to donate. Registration is free, though donations are encouraged.
If you can’t join us on September 9th, there are still ways you can help. By making a financial donation to AFSP, you can help the organization create and distribute educational materials, provide suicide loss support groups, and fund research that can help prevent suicide in the future.
If donating is not an option for you right now, consider promoting the Out of Darkness Walk on your social media pages. Everyone can help us get closer to a world without suicide.

Event Details

Date and time: Saturday, September 9, 2023
Registration begins at 9:00 am; walk starts at 10:00.
Location: Veterans Memorial Park
1985 W. 7800 S. 
West Jordan, UT 84088
Activities to enjoy: Honor and remembrance area, silent auction, vendors, food trucks, arts and crafts, comfort tent

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal ideation, the following resources are available:
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 at any time to be connected to trained crisis center counselors. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, someone will be there to listen.
Crisis Text Line: Text 741-741 for support with suicidal ideation, self-harm, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and more.

Our dogs are sources of joy and love, but even healthy and happy dogs have a slew of bacteria that should not be transferred to humans. A dog bite is a perfect way to transfer bacteria from the unaffected host to their unsuspecting victim. Staph infections, which are often passed around in hospitals from an affected person, can be acquired from a dog bite, and that can be a danger to everyone’s health.

What is a Staph Infection?

Staphylococcus (sta-fill-oh-KAW-kuss) is a type of bacterium with many species. The staph bacteria most commonly found on humans is known as S. (which is staph abbreviated) aureus. These bacteria are found on about a third of the population and are mostly harmless, often living in the nostrils or the throat. However, if they manage to squeeze into an open wound and attach to a cell, they can produce a range of diseases.
In some cases, S. aureus may be resistant to some of the strongest antibiotics medicine has available. This is often known as methicillin resistant S. aureus, also known as MRSA. MRSA has become a problem in most recent years because of its difficulty to kill and can be responsible for many extended stay hospital deaths.

How Can a Dog Bite Cause a Staph Infection?

Staph bacteria found on dogs are different from S. aureus, instead known as S. pseudintermedius (sood-enter-mee-dee-uss), which are also found in the dog’s nostrils and saliva. Around 22-69% of dogs are carriers of S. pseudintermedius and similar to S. aureus, is not harmful until it connects with a cell. A dog bite that breaks a human’s skin will transfer the S. pseudintermedius to the human, which can result in a serious staph infection.
Unfortunately, staph infections from dog bites are often mislabeled as staph infections caused by S. aureus. This is cause for concern since the testing to see if the bacteria are resistant to antibiotics is completely different. MRSP, which is methicillin resistant S. pseudintermedius, has similar symptoms as MRSA but has a very different treatment regimen. If you are bitten by a dog and develop boils, bone and joint pain, or nausea/vomiting, tell your doctor you were bitten by a dog and that they will need to test for MRSP instead of MRSA.
Were you bitten by a dog? The Advocates have skilled dog bite attorneys who have experience seeking compensation from the homeowner’s insurance from the owner of the dog. They can keep track of your medical bills and lost wages and receive it all back from the insurance company, as well as extra for your pain and suffering. You initial phone consultation is free and confidential so call now!

A car accident involving a power box early Tuesday morning cause roughly 1400 Rocky Mountain Power customers to suffer a loss of power. The accident occurred near 5600 West and 9000 South. The crash happened when the collision of two cars resulted in one of the vehicles hit the power box. According to authorities, there were no significant injuries for those involved. Rocky Mountain Power crews worked to repair the damage. According to an article on Good 4 Utah, the power was restored around 8:20 a.m.
Although the reason for the accident is still unknown, it is clear that, often, an accident can sometimes affect thousands of people. Although a disaster that affects so many people may seem rare, accidents causing small and extensive power outages are more common than you might think. For example, this same thing happened in Chubbuck, Idaho on May 13, 2018. A driver experienced a diabetic reaction while driving causing him to lose control of his vehicle and slam into a utility pole. The man had only minor injuries, and the power was restored within the hour according to Local News 8 in Idaho Falls, Idaho.
Now, as mentioned, we do not know the precise cause of this accident. However, as with any accident, we would like to know how such an accident could have been prevented. With this accident, as with others, there are few simple things you can do to try and alter you driving just a little bit and ensure a safer, more convenient drive for everyone on the road.
Avoid Distractions.
Distractions while driving is the top cause of accidents and continues to rise. Avoiding distractions involves putting down anything that might pull your attention away from the road. For example, eating while driving, drinking while driving, and texting while driving all constitute distracted driving.
Never Drive Drunk.
According to an article in the Huffington Post, drunk driving is one of the most dangerous causes of an accident. Anytime you drink and drive, you threaten your own life and the life of others.
Keep Up Your Vehicle Maintenance.
Sometimes, a car accident can be caused or exacerbated because the car’s owner has not adequately cared for his/her vehicle. This maintenance will include changing the oil, changing the filters, checking the valves, spark plugs, and other parts of the engine, as well as the braking system. There Are a variety of things you will need to do to keep your vehicle road-ready.
Restrict Your Night Driving.
According to Geico, your chances of being involved in a fatal crash is three times higher at night than it is during the day. Not only is the driver’s visibility reduced, but also, you are more likely to fall asleep.
Slow Down.
Driving too fast will always increase your chances of a crash. Remember, the speed limit is just that, you should not exceed that speed. The speed limit is not a speed target. Remembering this fact can help you slow down, and as a result, drive a little safer.
Here at The Advocates Law Firm, our goal is to help everyone prevent a devastating accident. Every day, we work with clients whose lives have been broken down by the calamitous effects of a car accident. Don’t let the same happen to you. There are many other things you can do to ensure safer driving. Check our blog each week for additional tips and suggestions on how you can be a better and safer driver.

A woman was killed in a semi truck accident late Thursday night just south of Cove Fort. The semi truck was carrying pigs when it crossed the center-line of Interstate 15 and hit the vehicle, a Kia Optima, being driven by the semi truck accident victim.
The semi truck was driving south along I-15 when it suddenly veered across the median into the northbound side of the highway. The semi truck then collided with the Kia Optima shortly before 11:30 p.m. The semi truck pushed the Kia off of the shoulder into a 100-foot drop-off down into a nearby ravine. The driver of the Kia Optima is believed to have died upon impact with the semi truck.
Emergency responders were forced to scale the side of the embankment in order to reach the wrecked Kia Optima. The driver of the semi truck is reported to have been uninjured in the semi truck accident.
Utah Highway Patrol is currently investigating the causes of the semi truck accident. Authorities believe either driver fatigue or illness is to blame for the crash.
I-15 was shuttered for hours as troopers and a rescue team responded to the semi truck accident. In fact, the right lanes of I-15 did not reopen until after 9 a.m. Friday morning.
The identity of the deceased driver has yet to be released by authorities.
If you’ve been hurt due to the recklessness of another person, you will need an Advocate on your side to help you through the legal aftermath. Our attorneys have decades of experience helping accident victims just like you. We know how to get you just compensation for your injuries and losses. Our staff is available 24 hours a day to answer all of your legal questions about your case. You can either call us at (801) 326-0809 or chat online right now with a live attorney from our homepage. Don’t wait to get back on the road to recovery. Contact us today. You deserve an Advocate!

Utah’s summers are renowned for being long, hot and bristling with open-air concerts, festivals and the opportunity to explore the great outdoors. As the snow slowly yields its icy grip on the Wasatch Mountains, ski resorts turn into hubs for rock climbing, mountain biking and hiking. Areas once impassable turn into vast paradises waiting to be explored. Painfully so, this time of year is also known for an increase in the number of fatal car accidents.
Following a national trend, the “100 days of summer” are considered one of the most dangerous times to operate a motor vehicle. According to the Utah Highway Patrol, the likelihood of being involved in a fatal car accident increases almost 50% between Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekend. Increased traffic, as well as other factors, nearly double the dangers of driving during the summer months.
Here are the most common causes of summer car accidents in Utah and more importantly how to minimize your risk of being injured in a crash.

5 Common Causes of Summer Car Accidents

1. Speeding

It may seem like an obvious point but excessive speed remains the perennial number one cause of fatal car accidents in Utah. In 2016 alone there were over 11,000 speed related accidents resulting in over 100 fatalities. And here’s why:

• Accidents where speed was a factor accounted for 38% of all fatal accidents and were 2.7 times more likely to result in a fatality compared to other car accidents.
• Utah Highway Patrol says for every 5% increase in speed there is a 10% increase in the chance of a crash related injury and a 20% increase in the chance of a fatal accident.
• Exceeding the posted speed limit dramatically increases not only your risk of being in an accident but that a fatality could occur.

Plan extra time for summer trips to avoid feeling the need to rush. Always obey the posted speed limit and take into account the road and traffic conditions to ensure you are driving safely.

2. Distracted Driving

Distracted drivers are still one of the most common causes of summer car accidents in Utah, even though police consider it the most under-reported reason. The reason being is that a driver’s hesitation to report themselves and the inherent difficulty in verifying certain types of factors leads police to believe the problem is more widespread than reported. So, what is considered distracted driving?

• Using a phone
• Eating or drinking
• Adjusting the radio
• Feeling fatigued

These are all commonly reported distractions while operating a motor vehicle. It’s vital to strive for a safe, distraction-free environment while driving. On long summer drives it’s important to take time to rest. Highway Patrol suggests taking a 15-minute break every two hours as well as having someone else stay awake to keep you company. Don’t be afraid to pull over for a nap if needed.

3. Teen Driving

Receiving one’s driver’s license is a venerable right of passage on the road to adulthood, but it is also one of the most common causes of summer car accidents in Utah. There is no nice way to say it. Teenage drivers are statistically more likely to get into car accidents. While the overall number of car accidents involving a teenage driver remain fairly steady over the course of the year, the number of fatal accidents nearly double during the months of May and June.
Friday evenings are considered the most precarious time for these young drivers. Following too closely is the number two cause for car accidents involving teenage drivers with excessive speed and failure to yield rounding out the top three. It’s important to use the learner’s permit period to work closely with your teenager to build safe driving habits. This starts by setting a good example when you are behind the wheel.

4. Weekend Traffic

Summer weekends still remain the most popular time in America for taking a vacation road trip. Unfortunately, the massive influx of drivers on the road heavily contributes to the cause of summer car accidents in Utah. With Saturday afternoon traffic into early evening is the most dangerous time to drive during these summer months.
If you take a vacation trip by car, consider mapping out a plan to do your driving on weekdays if possible. Prepare for the roadways to be busy and allow yourself extra travel time with strategic breaks to prevent you from getting road weary.

5. No Seatbelts

Seat belts save lives; it’s that simple. Half of the deadliest summer car accidents in 2016 involved drivers who were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. If you were injured in a serious accident, you are 24 times more likely to suffer a fatal injury when you are not restrained. Law enforcement agencies from Nevada, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado and Arizona are marshalling together this summer to step up enforcement of the seat belt laws.
According to Utah seatbelt regulations, the minimum fine costs drivers $45. Each person in the car also receives their own ticket even if they are buckled up. The law has recently been changed to allow police to pull over a car solely for failure to wear a seat belt. Play it smart and always wear a seat belt.

Utah Car Accident Lawyers – The Advocates

If you’ve been hurt in a summer car accident through no fault of your own, you will need a personal injury attorney to guide you through the steps toward your recovery. When you hire the Advocates to represent your legal claim, you will work with the best car accident lawyer in Utah to fight for the compensation you are rightfully owed.
Being injured in an accident can cause a whole new layer of stress that no one is ever truly prepared for. We make it our mission, as Advocates for the people, to help you get back on your feet again. Your recovery is always our number one priority. Contact us today by phone at 801-326-0809 or through our live chat here on our homepage. You deserve a trustworthy Advocate!

Despite its diminutive size, Vermont is known for many of the things it did first. First state to join the Union, first state to ban slavery and the only state to pass legislation on how apple pie is served?! Boasting the highest cow-to-person rate in the nation and capped by lush forests, Vermonters in the Green Mountain State are proud that things are a little different here. However, the most dangerous roads in Vermont are not something to boast about.
First, there is the quality of the roads themselves. With more than 1 in 4 roads rated as badly in need of repair, these are some of the worst road conditions in the nation. Secondly, drivers in Vermont were recently rated as the most distracted drivers of any state. The number of traffic fatalities caused by impaired drivers is almost twice the national rate and Vermont is #1 in run-off-the-road accidents. Here are The Advocates list of the 4 Most Dangerous Roads in Vermont to help make your road trip a safer one.

#4 Vermont State Route 15

Winding across northern Vermont from Burlington to Danville is VT 15. Skirting north of the majestic Mt. Mansfield and passing through three state forests this route is renowned for its fall foliage and eclectic mix of townships. There is no shortage of natural beauty in this area known as the Northeast Kingdom.
Risk Factors

• Rural route with limited access to emergency services
• Possibility of winter road closures
• Wildlife wandering on to the road
• General condition of the road is poor
• Cambridge to Morrisville and Jericho to Essex Center motorcycles not recommended

This northern rural path is prone to closures during winter storms and conditions can become hazardous. Like many of the state routes, road maintenance here too is a problem. Some of the busier sections like the stretches between Cambridge and Morrisville or Jericho to Essex Center are in especially poor condition and should be approached with caution and avoided on motorcycles altogether.

#3 U.S. Route 2

Starting near the Canadian Border and heading south, U.S. 2 passes over several bridges and through the stunning isles of Lake Champlain to enter the mainland near Burlington. From here it turns east and follows the Winooski River through the capital city of Montpelier and on to the border of New Hampshire. One can’t miss stop is in Waterbury for a tour and a free scoop at Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory.
Risk Factors

• Physical condition of road is poor with large potholes
• Moose are common from May to November
• Rural stretches have limited access to emergency services
• Winter conditions can include snow and ice

Don’t let the captivating scenery stop you from keeping your eyes on the road though. This highway is notorious for its poor condition, which is why it’s on our list of dangerous roads in Vermont. Numerous cities have clamored for road repairs as there are large spots missing pavement. In Marshfield, the town clerk wrote the State complaining of large potholes, so big that cars are forced to swerve into the other lane. Although U.S. 2 is currently slated for a 2021 re-pavement, the agency says repairs may be delayed due to funding issues.

#2 State Route 9

Passing east to west across the width of lower Vermont is VT-9. Also known as the Molly Stark Byway after the colorful revolutionary character. Crossing the Appalachian Trail and passing over summits in the Green Mountains, VT-9 is famous for its stunning natural beauty and quaint colonial-era townships. Don’t miss the 8 obelisks erected along the route marking local historical sites including the famed 3-state overlook at Hogback.
The changing terrain and mountainous sections can be challenging especially during winter weather. These factors combine for the second-highest traffic fatality rate in the state. Another thing to watch out for on this rural route is moose. Vermont motorists average almost 60 traffic accidents involving a moose each year. Here are a few tips to avoid a moose related mishap.
Moose-Related Risk Factors

• Moose are dark brown and can be hard to spot against pavement
• Don’t rely on ‘eye-shine’ as they are too tall to reflect light like a deer
• They are unafraid of headlights and will not run from an oncoming car
• Slow down or stop, if necessary, as moose may dart or lunge suddenly
• Most accidents occur at dusk or dawn between May and November
• The popular bumper sticker doesn’t lie: Brake for moose… it can save your life

#1 United States Route 7

Running along the western edge of the state from the Massachusetts border to the northern tip of Vermont is U.S. 7. Starting a mile east of the New York border, this roadway angles toward the historic Bennington War memorial visible to the west with the wilds of the Green Mountain National Forest rolling to the east. The northern portion hugs the shores of Lake Champlain, home of Champ the New England version of the Loch Ness monster, before coming to an unceremonious end of the road sign near the Canadian border.
Risk Factors

• Two lane undivided highway with only wire guardrails
• Faded lane marking and inadequate signage for road hazards
• Limited use of plows and salt during winter weather
• Intermittent heavy fog and slick conditions near Lake Champlain year around

U.S. 7 is primarily an undivided two-lane rural route with little in the way of congestion. Wire guardrails chosen for their aesthetics provide less visibility in the twist and turns than the modern designs. Even with the icy winters and lake effect snowstorms, Vermont chooses to use plows and salt as little as possible for ecological reasons and expects drivers to adjust to the wintry conditions. With over 50 traffic fatalities over the last decade, it remains the most dangerous road in Vermont.

Utah Car Accident Lawyers – American Fork, Ogden, Salt Lake City

With a healthy dose of caution and mindfulness, a Vermont road trip can be a very memorable event. Should the unforeseen occur and you are a loved one is injured in a car accident, through no fault of your own, it’s crucial to retain legal counsel right away. A professional who specializes in car accident litigation can make a real difference for you and your case.
Here at The Advocates our experienced staff of car accident attorneys will be there to assist you every step of the way. From dealing with insurance adjusters to handling hospital bills we take charge of the details leaving you to focus on recovery. We are ready to stand up for you and get the settlement you deserve. Call The Advocates today at 801-326-0809, or consult confidentially via our Live Chat here. While you focus on healing, The Advocates will take care of the rest.

A trip through Massachusetts can feel like touring a living history museum. Although one of the smallest states, its 187 historical landmarks is second only to New York. The Bay State has so much more to offer than just a history lesson though. Boston is known for its baked beans, cream pie and sports teams. However, Beantown is also a nexus for culture, innovation, green spaces and quality of life. Some of the best and brightest minds come here for the prodigious list of top-flight colleges including MIT, Harvard and Tufts, just to name a few.
Take a break from city-living and head south to take the Sagamore Bridge to Cape Cod or the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard. Or perhaps head west to explore the Berkshires range known for music, arts and outdoor recreation. With so much to see and do in such a small area, it’s little wonder that some of the nation’s longest commute times are found here. Adding to the frustration of congestion is a highway system that is rated as 1 of the 5 worst in the United States with 1 in 3 bridges in need of repairs.
Here is The Advocates’ list of the 5 Most Dangerous Roads in Massachusetts to help you prepare for a road-trip through Massachusetts.
#5 Interstate 93
Starting out near Canton, I-93 is a north-south freeway passing through downtown Boston before heading north through Andover on its way to Manchester, New Hampshire. The Big Dig created a 1.5 mile tunnel for I-93 to pass under the heart of downtown Boston to help ease congestion.
Risk Factors:

• Heavy rain pools up causing hydroplaning near Exit 42
• Ubiquitous heavy congestion in the Greater Boston region
• Interchange with I-495 most dangerous exchange in state

I-93 bravely pierces straight through the heart of some of the worst congestion in the United States. Carefully consider the time of day if taking this route in or near Boston to avoid the worst of the traffic nightmare.
#4 The Massachusetts Turnpike
The Mass Pike is a toll road that traverses the middle of the state from New York to Boston and connects to Logan International Airport via a short tunnel under the Boston Harbor. Congestion on this stretch of highway has reached crisis levels. Lawmakers are pondering time-of-day toll pricing in an attempt to impact the crushing traffic.
Risk Factors:

• Heavy congestion and commuter traffic present year around
• Multiple dangerous interchanges with major freeways
• Stressful driving conditions serve as a precursor to frequent road-rage incidents

If traveling through the Boston area, chances are you will need to use this toll road at some point. Consider alternate routes during peak hours and allow for extra travel-time to account for traffic.
#3 Interstate 95
Starting north of Providence, I-95 passes close to the Patriots’ Gillette Stadium in Foxborough before circling west around Boston and heading north to New Hampshire. Another road permeated with heavy traffic and congestion year-around. The stretch of I-95 from Rhode Island to Cape Cod in the summer is flooded with bumper-to-bumper beach goers.
Risk Factors:

• Heavy congestion especially around Boston
• Nor’easters bring slick and icy winter conditions
• Summer drivers headed to the Cape flood the roads
• Missing signage and poorly marked shifting lanes

The frequency of traffic fatalities across Massachusetts is less than half the national average, although that number has spiked in recent years. I-95, however, has consistently had more than its share of accidents. With almost 70 fatalities in a 4-year span, it is one of the most dangerous roads in Massachusetts.
#2 Interstate 495
Starting 10 miles north of Cape Cod, I-495 circles west to form the edge of the greater Boston region before skirting close to the New Hampshire border in the north. Circumnavigating the city of Boston at a range of about 30 miles, I-495 is an important alternative to I-95 and remains busy with commercial and local traffic.
Risk factors:

• Interchange with Mass Pike is especially dangerous and frequently backs up
• Heavily congested from both commercial and local traffic
• Constant flux of merging traffic clogs up on and off ramps

With almost 500 accidents in 4-years at the Mass Pike exchange alone, I-495 has earned a reputation for being one of the most dangerous roads in Massachusetts. The heavy traffic from trucks and big-rigs passing through, along with the exit hopping suburban traffic, forms a potent mixture that can spell trouble for distracted or impaired drivers.
#1 State Route 24
The main connecting route for several major southeastern cities to the Boston metropolitan area is Route 24. Although relatively short at 40 miles, Route 24 is under a constant deluge of commuter traffic. Offering little in the way of twists and turns, this straight shot suffers from design problems and reckless drivers.
Risk Factors:

• The antiquated road is narrow, with short and dangerous merge lanes
• Police cite frequent speeding and distracted commuters
• Frequent weaving in and out of lanes by hurried drivers

Already known as a hot-spot for car accidents in the state, recent statistics show that car accident rates on this stretch of highway are on the rise. Cramped shoulders leave less room for maneuvering. With 629 car crashes in 2009 alone, this short highway is one of the most perilous for drivers.

The Advocates Car Accident Lawyers – American Fork, Ogden, Salt Lake City

Car accidents are a traumatic experience for everyone involved. Worrying about lost wages, insurance claims and an ongoing legal case is a lot to deal with. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, it’s vital to retain an experienced car accident attorney.
Here at The Advocates, our car accident lawyers are ready to assist you every step of the way to help you build a strong legal case. Let us worry about hospital bills, insurance adjusters and getting your paperwork filed while you focus on recovery. Our seasoned attorneys will fight for you to ensure your family gets the settlement you deserve. Contact us today or use our Live Chat Feature to speak with an attorney right away. You deserve an Advocate!

Did you know that nearly 16,000 car accidents occur in the U.S. every day? Even the third smallest state in the nation sees its fair share of motor vehicle crashes. However, knowing the best routes to travel and what the most dangerous roads in Connecticut are can help you and your loved ones get to your destination unharmed.
Neighboring with two major cities on the east coast, Connecticut truly lies in the midst of an urban-industrial complex. A frequented state to cross through, here are 5 of the most dangerous roads in Connecticut you should be mindful of.

What are the 5 Most Dangerous Roads in Connecticut?

A state with only three primary highways and about 110 miles in length east to west, Connecticut is a surprisingly densely populated state.
For residents of the state, it may come as no surprise that both winters and summers in Connecticut can be hectic. Winter roadways are filled with ice, slush, snow and other wet surfaces mixed with oil, whereas summer months consist of teenagers being done school, families traveling to the coast, and drivers passing through, en route to New York or Boston.
Consider the following highways on your next drive through Connecticut:
Route 1: Deadliest Road for Pedestrians
While most roadways in Connecticut are considered dangerous for pedestrians to cross, according to a traffic report from a non-profit agency, Route 1 is the deadliest. Between the years 2011 and 2013, 99 pedestrians were killed on this route, which was a slight increase from previous studies.
There are essentially no sidewalks for pedestrians, yet the highway is planked with crosswalks, indicating that this is a route you can cross. However, even the crosswalks prove untrustworthy since they lack basic crossing signals or lights.
If you plan on driving this route or using the crosswalks on Route 1, be mindful of your surroundings. Winter has proven to be the deadliest time to walk across this highway due to the large snowbanks stacked on the side and the risk of getting struck when walking around them.
Route 6: A Backcountry Nightmare
John Denver has led the nation through song into believing that country roads offer a serene drive of fond memories and smooth sailing, but he failed to mention the perils of Route 6. Considered one of the deadliest country roads in the continental U.S, if you find yourself driving along this backroad in Connecticut, you may want to think twice.
Risk Factors:

• Poor road conditions
• Unexpected curves and sharp turns
• Fatality rate peaked at 62 deaths in 2012
• Speeding is a known factor
• Distracted driving plays big role in accidents

While this country road may not lead to West Virginia, Route 6 still poses a dangerous threat to drivers with its aging infrastructure and distracted/impaired motorists. If you see a car swerving ahead, follow at a safe distance and report the vehicle if you can.
Interstate 95: Dangerous in Any State
Traversing the entire length of the east coast from north to south, Interstate 95 is a major highway that is dangerous in almost any state. However, I-95 has had a notorious reputation for speeding and traffic congestion throughout southern Connecticut during the winter and summer months.
Risk Factors

• Linkage between New York City and Boston
• Highway known for speeding
• Major road congestion around holidays
• High risk of distracted driving during summer months
• Winter brings icy roads, slush and snow

Contrary to the road conditions down in Miami, I-95 throughout the Nutmeg State is usually blanketed with sheets of ice and snow during the coldest months of the year, thus putting it on our list of most dangerous roads in Connecticut.
Interstate 91: Along the Connecticut River
A road that quite literally divides the state in two, Interstate 91 is the most traversed north-south highway in the state. On our list of most dangerous roads in Connecticut, I-91 starts in the coastal city of New Haven and snakes along the Connecticut River all the way up to Derby Line, Vermont.
A popular local route during the summertime, families often venture to Six Flags or Yale’s campus and the beach using this highway. Unfortunately, traffic, as well as poor road conditions, have led to many serious accidents on I-91. Perhaps a more rural route would be a better fit for you and your family to use.
Route 17: Watch Where You’re Merging
While rear-end collisions may not be life threatening, they can cause serious injuries to the body. A short north-south route beginning in New Haven and ending on the banks of the Connecticut River just south of Hartford in Glastonbury, Route 17 is notoriously known for its rear-end accidents.
Risk Factors:

• Dangerous interchange between Main Street and Route 9
• Merging between Route 17 and Route 9 a high accident area
• Frequent rear-end collisions
• Route and freeway ramps known for aggressive driving

Despite being only 36 miles of interstate in a relatively remote part of Connecticut, this highway has seen its fair share of crashes. When traveling on Route 17, stay alert and drive at a safe distance from the cars in front of you.

When to Call an Attorney – The Advocates

If you were recently injured in a collision by another driver, you should contact our car accident lawyers right away. Cases like yours can be time-sensitive and you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses. The car accident attorneys with The Advocates are here to guide you through the aftermath of being injured in a collision and help you build the strongest injury claim possible.
When working with an Advocate, our goal is to help you focus on recovering while we take care of the rest. We understand just how frustrating it can be dealing with insurance companies and collecting your own medical bills. Your legal team here at our office will take care of all those things for you and negotiate with insurance adjusters on your behalf. Don’t wait to reach out to The Advocates. Call us today at 801-326-0809 or use our Live Chat to speak with an attorney right away.