Georgia Legal Report

81-year-old Joan Gertrude Steele of Clayton was killed in a tragic car accident on Georgia Hwy. 115 Tuesday Nov 19. According to police reports, Ms. Steele was driving her 2010 Ford Focus eastbound on GA Hwy. 115 when a 2003 Dodge Ram pickup truck, driven by William Andrew Daniel of Cleveland, pulled out of The Cottage House Restaurant parking lot, striking Ms. Steele.

Ms. Steele was airlifted to Grady Memorial Hospital where she later succumbed to critical injuries. Mr. Daniel, 54, was treated for injuries at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville. Charges are still pending a police investigation.

Just days before Thanksgiving, Ms. Steele's tragic accident occurred at the start of a horrific holiday week of traffic fatalities. Georgia police reported 19 fatal car accidents from Wednesday to Sunday surrounding Thanksgiving. During that time, state troopers investigated 662 traffic collisions with 263 injuries. Alcohol is suspected as a contributing factor in at least 4 deaths. Our hearts and prayers go out to the families of these victims, who lost loved ones on what should have been a joyous week.

Georgia car accident attorneys at The Murray Law Firm are investigating several of these tragic cases and remind drivers, "we are in the busiest travel season of the year and urge drivers to exercise extra caution as they drive to visit family, friends and enjoy holiday shopping."

We extend our sympathies to the family of Ms. Steele and the other victims of these tragic accidents and offer our legal assistance, if needed. Contact our legal hotline toll free at 888.842.1616.

Collision attorneys at The Murray Law Firm of Georgia warn drivers that accidents spike during the holiday season. As holiday driving picks up throughout the state, Georgia car accident attorneys call on the public to protect our roads and families. Please enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season.

Liz Fabian of The Macon Telegraph describe's Georgia's new 'Operation Safe Holidays':

Georgia is poised to mark the first increase in state traffic deaths in more than five years which prompts Tuesday's launch of "Operation: Safe Holidays."

"Seat belt use is one of the few things we have control over in our lives," Blackwood said. "Neglecting it should never be a factor in our deaths."

Atlanta police are searching for suspects in the Allen Hills Apartments shooting of a 37-year-old man.

According to police, the victim was smoking outside of his mother's apartment on 81 Allen Temple Court early Tuesday morning [November 27] when two men approached him asking for a cigarette. The victim believed he was about to be robbed and attempted to leave when police say he "was shot twice, once in his mid-torso and once in one of his thighs."

The victim is in stable condition at Grady Memorial Hospital. Investigators found several shell casings at the scene and are currently unsure of the motive. Police say, "They are looking at all angles including robbery." For now, the suspects remain at large, which has left Allen Hills residents wary once again. Cassandra James was killed at the Allen Hills Apartments only three years ago.

As police continue to search for suspects, apartment crime attorneys at The Murray Law Firm of Atlanta are searching for answers as to how this incident was allowed to happen in the first place.

• Were the gunmen residents of Allen Hills and, if not, how did they gain entry into the apartment complex?

• Was the security gate working at every entry point? Does the gate allow cars to follow residents through? Are there any breaks in the security fence?

• Were complex security or police patrolling the complex regularly on Tuesday morning? Was there a security attendant on duty at the entry gate on Tuesday morning?

As the facts of this shooting continue to develop, it may be revealed that the apartment complex failed to employ proper security measures in protecting its residents and visitors to the property. Under Georgia law, the manager of an apartment complex has a duty to keep its complex safe from foreseeable risks to those legally on its premises. If the apartment manager has reason to anticipate that criminal conduct will take place on its property through prior crime, the apartment manager must take measures to provide effective security. If the apartment manager fails in this duty, the manager may be held liable for any injuries that occur on the property.

According to The Murray Law Firm attorneys investigating this shooting, should the Allen Hills Apartments be found liable in this incident, the victim could very well recover hundreds of thousands or possibly millions of dollars for his injuries.

If you are seeking information on the Allen Hills Apartment shooting, please contact The Murray Law Firm locally at 404-842-1600 or toll free at 888-842-1616.

Two Cedartown drivers were rushed to the hospital after a Wednesday afternoon collision on Hwy. 278, outside the Polk County 911 and Department of Driver Services buildings.

According to initial police reports, a burgundy Dodge Caravan was driving westbound on Hwy. 278 when a red Chevrolet car attempted to cross the four-lane highway. The collision sent the Dodge Caravan off the highway and over an incline, barely missing an antique road grader displayed in front of the Polk 911 office.

Both drivers were rushed to the hospital by ambulance for what appeared to be non life-threatening injuries. Their names have not yet been released by police.

As it appears the red Chevrolet was at fault in this incident for an unsafe multiple lane change, the driver of the Dodge Caravan may elect to hold the Chevrolet driver liable for all injuries and damage sustained during the accident. Depending upon the the insurance coverage of the drivers, total financial recovery for injuries and damage could be a substantial sum.

Although accident victims are rightfully entitled to maximum insurance coverage limits, all too often insurance companies are reluctant to pay victims what they deserve. As such, having an experienced car accident injury attorney to represent victims through these negotiations can mean the difference of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The Georgia Legal Report urges the Caravan driver to retain a personal injury attorney well versed in car collision legal negotiations without delay to ensure that any evidence or surveillance footage of this accident is not destroyed and that the Caravan driver's best interests are protected.

If you are seeking further information on this incident, please contact us toll free at 888.842.1616.

Bounce houses and inflatable indoor playgrounds have become one of the most popular forms of child entertainment at birthday parties, fairs, and malls. The lack of hard surfaces and sharp edges combined with a relatively contained space attracts parents seeking a safe, fun option for their children. Unfortunately, what starts out as a day of fun can often lead to a trip to the emergency room.

Dr. Gary Smith, a pediatric emergency physician of the Nationwide Children's Hospital, noticed a dramatic increase in children suffering from bounce house-related injuries and decided to conduct a study to see if this increase was reflected across the United States.

CNN highlights Dr. Smith's startling findings:

According to its data, the number of inflatable bouncer-related injuries rose 1,500% between 1995 and 2010.

Nearly 1 in 5 children, or 18.5%, had head and neck injuries. However, only 3% of children required hospitalization, according to the study.

How can I prevent bounce house injuries?

Dr. Smith calls the disturbing increase "an emerging hazard, something that should be taken seriously, but something that can be prevented." One way to prevent such injuries is a call for national safety guidelines, similar to those developed for trampolines. Bouncer operators and vendors need to follow through on enforcing their own safety policies. Lastly, parents should heed the following advice from Dr. Smith:

• Based on developmental abilities, don't let children under the age of 6 play in these inflatable devices.

• Having one child play at a time is the safest, but that's not very realistic (or much fun), so only have children of similar age and size play inside these bouncers at one time.

• Horseplay, flips and somersaults should be prohibited; that kind of play leads to the most dangerous injuries.

• Always have an adult present when these devices are in use -- but not inside with the children. Adults (parents and/or bounce center operators) should be in a position to observe and intervene if children are engaging in horseplay or doing flips and somersaults.

Who is liable for my child's bounce house injury?

Injuries and wrongful deaths occur from time to time at amusement park bounce houses and indoor inflatable-bouncer playgrounds, such as Monkey Joes. Georgia premises liability lawyers are the most capable of handling such cases, and it is best that these lawyers get involved as quickly as possible to prevent the destruction of any evidence. Surveillance tapes may be destroyed after 30 days, for example, and these tapes could prove to be the most valuable evidence in pursuing a case against the indoor playground or amusement park. If your child or loved one has been injured in a bounce house-related injury and you're in need of legal assistance, please contact The Murray Law Firm toll free 888.842.1616.

CNN, the Pediatrics journal, and The Child Injury Prevention Alliance have more information on Dr. Smith's study and inflatable bouncer safety.

17-year-old Valdosta State University freshman, Jasmine Benjamin, was found dead on Sunday afternoon [November 18, 2012] in the study room of her Georgia Hall dormitory. A GBI medical examiner has determined Miss Brown's death a homicide. Investigators are working on a timeline of events leading up to her death, but have not yet been able to find her killer.

Now that students and staff have returned from the Thanksgiving holiday, Valdosta police investigators are asking for help solving this case through an anonymous crime hotline (229-293-3091). Maj. Brian Childress urges, "I don't care how minute it might be, if Jasmine told you something that you think might help us find out who did this, please call us."

Miss Benjamin's parents are rightfully frustrated at the lack of progress on this case. Her step-father, James Jackson, questions, "When you allow days to go by...if there is somebody involved, what if they don't come back to the school?"

The fact that police cited the holiday week as "one of the things that complicated this case," raises several new questions about the security presence on campus at the time of Jasmine Benjamin's murder.

On college campuses across the country university staff are given time off at holidays to reduce overhead expenses while most students are away. Classrooms, dining halls, and offices are virtually empty during long holiday weekends and vacation weeks. Students who stay on through the holidays, or who come back early to study, often hold a false sense of security in the community they consider their second home. Campus security offices running on a holiday skeleton crew are incapable of properly monitoring all dormitories, libraries, study halls, parking lots, and campus grounds. As such, students are too often left vulnerable to campus crimes. This lack of proper security during holidays and vacations is completely unacceptable. Universities have a duty to keep their campuses safe from foreseeable risks to students legally on its premises.

While police are focused on capturing Jasmine Benjamin's killer, crime experts at The Murray Law Firm are investigating how this heinous crime was allowed to happen in the first place. They are asking some pointed questions about the possible holiday security lapse, which may have cost Miss Benjamin her life:

• Given the Thanksgiving holiday, were VSU campus police running at full staff?

• How frequently were VSU campus police patrolling and monitoring Georgia Hall over the pre-Thanksgiving weekend?

• Were VSU campus police monitoring Georgia Hall through security cameras and/or foot patrol during the time of Jasmine Benjamin's murder?

• Valdosta police indicate Miss Benjamin could have been "known outside campus." What security measures are in place for restricting outside intruders from campus buildings and were these measures being properly enforced over the holiday weekend?

The family of Jasmine Benjamin and the students and families of all VSU students have the right to these answers. Should VSU be found at fault in failing to properly protect and secure the campus during the weekend leading up to Thanksgiving, Miss Benjamin's family may elect to hold the university civilly liable for her wrongful death. Such a suit would send a grave message to universities across the country about the importance of a constant, strong campus security presence. The Murray Law Firm suggests that Miss Benjamin's family should retain an attorney without delay to ensure that the university does not destroy any evidence in connection to this crime.

Our prayers are with the grieving family of Miss Benjamin and we offer our legal assistance, if needed. Anyone with information on this incident or seeking information on the potential holiday security lapse at VSU is encouraged to contact us toll free at 888.842.1616.

Family and parishioners are mourning the loss and celebrating the life of West Ridge Church pastor, Andrew Pray, who was killed Wednesday November 21 while biking northbound down U.S. 41 in Bartow County. According to Emerson Police, Mr. Pray was cycling legally along the right side of the road and wearing a helmet when a charter bus, driven by by George Carroll, struck the pastor.

The Bartow County bus did not have passengers at the time of the accident. Mr. Carroll, 77, and a mechanic were undergoing final checks of the new bus before allowing it into service. Police Chief Stan Bradley reports, "It was a very tragic accident, by no means malicious...statements indicate that the bus driver did not see him." Mr. Carroll was charged with following too closely and second degree vehicular homicide.

Mr. Pray was rushed to WellStar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta where he succumbed to critical injuries. He leaves wife, Courtney, and three children.

According to Dallas, GA legal experts investigating this incident, the Pray family has the right to file a civil claim for the wrongful death of their family member. Total recovery is based on insurance coverage and could be a substantial sum. Of course, legal action and financial compensation are certainly of little priority to a grieving family, but it is important to retain an experienced attorney quickly to ensure that any evidence relating to the incident remains preserved and that the family's interests are protected.

We extend our sympathies to Pastor Pray's family and offer our assistance, if needed. If anyone has information to share, or is seeking information regarding the incident, please contact our legal hotline toll free at 888.842.1616.

Daley Cochran, a 15-year-old student at Mary Persons High School, was killed Saturday afternoon [November 24, 2012] in a tragic ATV accident on McCollum Road in Barnesville, GA. Miss Cochran was driving through a pecan orchard with passenger Amber Dunbar, 14, when the Arctic Cat ATV she was driving lost control. According to Lamar County coroner, Jim Smith, Daley Cochran died instantly from massive head and neck injuries. She was not wearing a helmet at the time.

Passenger Amber Dunbar was able to jump from the vehicle before the crash and was treated for minor injuries at The Medical Center of Central Georgia.

According to the most recent state report, nearly 100 children under the age of 16 were killed in ATV accidents by 2006. Total ATV deaths reported by 2010 numbered over 300. Despite these losses, there is currently no state agency in charge of ATV regulation. It is imperative that drivers and ATV trail facilities take safety into their own hands. Further, all too often owners of ATVs or third party property owners allow non-trained drivers to operate these vehicles without oversight. This negligent activity may ultimatley lead to the ATV owners or property owners being held civily liable for any injuries or deaths that occur.

Georgia ATV Accident Attorneys at The Murray Law Firm urge riders of all ages to take this tragic incident as a sobering reminder to follow proper ATV safety guidelines:

• Take a Safety Training Course.

• Always Wear a Helmet and Protective Gear.

• Do Not Drive with Passengers.

• Do Not Drive on Paved Roadways.

• Children Should Not Drive Adult ATVs.

• Do Not Drive Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs.

If anyone has information to share, or is seeking information regarding the incident, please contact our legal hotline toll free at 888.842.1616.

As a premises liability law firm specializing in obtaining compensation for victims of apartment complex crimes, we were saddened to learn of a shootout at the Crystal Pointe Apartments in Decatur, Georgia in the early morning hours of November 21, 2012. Reports indicate that the shooting left two men and one woman dead, and police are searching for answers in this senseless crime.

As the facts of this shooting continue to develop, it may very well be revealed that the apartment complex failed to employ proper security measures in protecting its residents and visitors to the property. Under Georgia law, the manager of an apartment complex has a duty to keep its complex safe from foreseeable risks to those legally on its premises. If the apartment manager has reason to anticipate that criminal conduct will take place on its property through prior crime, the apartment manager must take measures to provide effective security. If the apartment manager fails in this duty, the manager may be held liable for any injuries that occur on the property.

We have recovered millions of dollars for victims of crime in premises liability cases. It is imperative that the victims retain a lawyer to assist them to ensure that all evidence is preserved as critical items such as videotape surveillance may be destroyed. We extend our sympathies to the victims of this unfortunate incident, and offer our assistance if needed. We will continue to investigate and follow this shooting. If anyone has information to share, or if anyone is seeking information regarding the incident, please contact our legal hotline at 888.842.1616.

According to Georgia State Patrol, Peach County firefighters, Donnie Parker and Dalroy Ruppert, were responding to the scene of a two-car accident on GA 96 Monday evening [November 19, 2012] when they were struck by a pickup truck driven by Charles Lee Towns of Fort Valley. Fire Chief Thomas Doles reports both Mr. Parker and Mr. Ruppert were taken to the Medical Center of Central Georgia for non-life threatening injuries and later released. Mr. Towns was charged with prescription drug-based DUI and failure to obey a person directing traffic. More charges may be pending.

As it appears Mr. Towns is at fault in this accident, Mr. Parker and Mr. Ruppert may elect to pursue civil action against the allegedly impaired pickup truck driver. In addition, as both firefighters were on duty at the time, they may also pursue a workers' compensation claim which could be worth a substantial sum. The Murray Law Firm, which represents clients in both personal injury and workers compensation claims, is investigating this complex case. "As Mr. Parker and Mr. Ruppert explore their legal options, they will want to ensure that the law firm they retain has the capacity and expertise to pursue both the personal injury case and the workers' compensation claim. Also, as multiple parties are involved, the insurance coverage will certainly be limited. Consequently, it is imperative that victims retain an experienced attorney as early as possible."

The Governor's Office of Highway Safety reminds drivers of Georgia's Move Over Law, designed specifically to avoid accidents such as this one. A growing number of firefighters, police officers and emergency responders have been injured or killed during collision responses and routine traffic stops every year. These men and women protect our streets and we, as a community, need to do our part in protecting them.

If you are seeking information on this incident, please contact The Murray Law Firm toll free at 888-842-1616.

UPDATE: Police have captured and charged two teenagers in connection with the fatal River Glen apartment complex shooting of Demetrius Moore. According to Richmond County police, 16-year-old Rayshawn Migeal Ward of Damascus Road was charged with murder and 17-year-old Demariye Vontrell Glover of Fairhope Street was charged with murder, criminal attempt armed robbery and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Both Ward and Glover were charged as adults.

21-year-old Demetrius Moore was killed on November 13 in what police now suspect was a robbery. The incident occurred around 11pm at the River Glen Apartments complex in Augusta, GA. The latest in more than a half dozen River Glen complex shootings this year, this type of tragedy has become all too familiar for apartment residents who have once again been left terrified and grieving.

Moore's mother, Johnnie Lee Robinson, is calling for justice and an end to the violence, "I brung him into this world and they took him from me at an early age ad I just want answers....they need to stop the crime over here in River Glen Apartments."

Apartment crime legal experts at The Murray Law Firm are investigating this incident and, though they are relieved to see the suspects apprehended, agree with Ms. Robinson that another party should also be held accountable in her son's death: River Glen. Under Georgia law, an apartment owner has a duty to keep an apartment complex safe. If the apartment owner has reason to anticipate criminal activity on its property through prior crime in the surrounding area, the apartment owner must take the reasonable steps to provide adequate security. If the apartment owner fails to undertake these steps, he or she is liable for any injuries that occur as a consequence.

After the February 5th murder of Truemaine Jones, River Glen's management company announced "additional strategies to ensure...residents' safety," but reportedly failed to follow Richmond County sheriff's recommendation to install a security fence around the complex. Christopher Smith is still at large in connection with the murder of Doniel Hicks, whose family has also yet to see justice for his River Glen murder. Demetris Moore is now the latest victim in a rash of violence at the River Glen apartments.

Given River Glen's violent history, the families of Mr. Moore and the other complex victims may be entitled to hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars in financial recovery for the loss of their loved ones. Although compensation is certainly not a priority during this time of hardship, it is crucial the families retain an attorney experienced in apartment crime immediately to ensure that all evidence is preserved and their best interests are protected.

Anyone seeking information on this incident is encouraged to contact The Murray Law Firm toll free at 888-842-1616.

62-year-old Delmar Singleton was killed in a motorcycle accident Saturday evening [November 17, 2012] at the intersection of Davis Drive and Georgia 247 in Warner Robins, GA. According to police, Mr. Singleton was stopped at a red light on his 2012 Triumph motorcycle when a 2005 Chevy Astro Van, driven by 80-year-old James Leroy Edwards, struck the motorcycle, forcing it over 360 feet down the roadway. Mr. Edwards was taken to Houston Medical Center for non life threatening injuries.

Georgia motorcycle accident attorneys investigating this incident caution, "this tragedy serves as a grave reminder for public awareness of motorcycle safety, particularly at intersections and lane changes, where the most serious motorcycle collisions tend to occur."

As it appears Mr. Edwards may be at at fault in this incident, Mr. Singleton's family may decide to hold the driver of the van civilly liable for the wrongful death of their family member. Total recovery could potentially be substantial and, while legal action and financial compensation are certainly of little priority to a grieving family, it is important that an experienced motorcycle collision attorney be retained immediately to ensure that any evidence relating to the incident remains preserved and that the family's interests are protected.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and The Murray Law Firm urge all motorists to stay alert and 'Share the Road' with motorcycles. To avoid more tragic accidents such as this one, please remember the following NHTSA safety tips:

• A motorcycle has the same rights and privileges as any other vehicle on the roadway.

• Allow a motorcyclist a full lane width. Although it may seem that there is enough room in the traffic lane for a motor vehicle and a motorcycle, the motorcycle needs the room to maneuver safely. Do not share the lane.

• Because motorcycles are small, they can be difficult for other road users to see them, or judge their speed and distance as they approach.

• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic. This allows motorcyclists to anticipate traffic flow and find a safe lane position.

• Because of its smaller size, a motorcyclist can be hidden in a vehicle's blind spot. Always check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.

Anyone seeking information on this incident is encouraged to contact The Murray Law Firm toll free at 888-842-1616.

The U.S. is experiencing a disturbing rise in police officer shootings and assaults. Last year was the first time more law enforcement officers were killed in shootings than car accidents. According to the Savannah Morning News, Georgia is part of this alarming trend:

Here, there were 82 instances where officers were shot at, according to figures Morris News Service obtained from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. That was the second year in a row where cases of shots fired at officers jumped 40 percent from the prior year.

The law-enforcement community used to focus just on the number of officers who died at the hands of criminals, Keenan said, but most of the times the cops prevail thanks to training, body armor and reinforcements. Now, the FBI reports only 12 percent of officers getting shot at wind up injured.

Georgia police officer attorneys at The Murray Law Firm are not comforted by the "only 12 percent" injury statistic. "These women and men serve our community and make the streets safe for our children. A loss or injury to even one of our officers is a loss for our community as a whole. As such, we fight passionately to help these heroes and their families achieve justice and financial recovery for their injuries."

SEE UPDATE: SUSPECTS CHARGED

21-year-old Demetrius Moore was found shot to death on Tuesday evening [November 13, 2012] at the River Glen apartment complex in Augusta, GA. The latest in more than a half dozen River Glen complex shootings this year, this type of tragedy has become all too familiar for apartment residents who have once again been left terrified and grieving.

Richmond County police are still searching for a suspect in Mr. Moore's shooting. Moore's mother, Johnnie Lee Robinson, is calling for justice and an end to the violence, "I brung him into this world and they took him from me at an early age ad I just want answers....they need to stop the crime over here in River Glen Apartments."

Apartment crime legal experts at The Murray Law Firm are investigating this incident and agree with Ms. Robinson. Under Georgia law, an apartment owner has a duty to keep an apartment complex safe. If the apartment owner has reason to anticipate criminal activity on its property through prior crime in the surrounding area, the apartment owner must take the reasonable steps to provide adequate security. If the apartment owner fails to undertake these steps, he or she is liable for any injuries that occur as a consequence.

After the February 5th murder of Truemaine Jones, River Glen's management company announced "additional strategies to ensure...residents' safety," but reportedly failed to follow Richmond County sheriff's recommendation to install a security fence around the complex. Christopher Smith is still at large in connection with the murder of Doniel Hicks, whose family has also yet to see justice for his River Glen murder. Demetris Moore is now the latest victim in a rash of violence at the River Glen apartments.

Given River Glen's violent history, the families of Mr. Moore and the other complex victims may be entitled to hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars in financial recovery for the loss of their loved ones. Although compensation is certainly not a priority during this time of hardship, it is crucial the families retain an attorney experienced in apartment crime immediately to ensure that all evidence is preserved and their best interests are protected.

Anyone seeking information on this incident is encouraged to contact The Murray Law Firm toll free at 888-842-1616.

Personal injury experts caution that many losses and injuries resulting from home fires can be prevented by establishing good household safety habits. Many people are wary around the stove and fireplace, but other home tools and appliances can be equally as dangerous.

Laura Moreno-Hill of the National Center for Healthy Housing offers a compelling report on clothes dryer safety:

If your clothes dryer gets super hot and gives off a burnt smell in the laundry room, does that mean it's time to buy a new one? Not necessarily--it just may be time to clean your dryer vent. Lint balls are extremely flammable.

Proper cleaning and maintenance are key to prevention. Most, if not all, dryer fires can be avoided by proper maintenance whether you're the homeowner, renter, or property manager. Clean the lint out of the exhaust pipe and rear of the dryer regularly to make sure nothing is blocking it on the outside of the house where it exhausts. The exhaust pipe should be as short as possible and have limited bends to allow for adequate airflow. Frequency of maintenance will depend on your use, but a general guideline is to clean and inspect the dryer duct and venting every couple of years (or hire a professional company to clean the dryer components). Routine maintenance to effectively clean your dryer and dryer vent hoses/venting system requires a special dryer brush kit (starting at around $15).

Click here for the full NCHH report and additional fire safety resources.

Atlanta police are on a manhunt for the gunman who shot and killed a young man at the Ford Factory Lofts apartment complex on Monday evening [November 12, 2012].

The victim, who appeared to be in his early 20s, was shot in the back in the entryway of the Ford Factory Lofts apartment complex on Ponce de Leon Avenue around 5pm. The young man was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Police are working with witnesses and have released surveillance footage in an attempt to identify the shooter.

As the facts of this incident continue to emerge, it may be possible that the victims family would be entitled to a substantial financial recovery for the wrongful death of their loved one. In particular, under Georgia law, an apartment owner has a duty to keep an apartment complex safe. If the apartment owner has reason to anticipate criminal activity on its property through prior crime in the surrounding area, the apartment owner must take the reasonable steps to provide adequate security. If the apartment owner fails to undertake these steps, he or she is liable for any injuries that occur as a consequence.

Apartment crime legal experts at The Murray Law Firm of Atlanta are currently investigating this incident. Anyone seeking information is encouraged to contact The Murray Law Firm at 888-842-1616.

33-year-old Benjamin Holland of Ty Ty, GA was killed Monday afternoon in a tragic motorcycle collision with a cotton module truck on William Gibbs Rd in Tift County.

According to initial reports, Mr. Holland was driving his motorcycle over a hill when a large Omega Gin Company cotton module truck pulled out of a field onto William Gibbs Rd. Georgia State Patrol Sgt. Stan Stalmaker reports, Mr. Holland "saw the cotton module truck then the motorcycle entered the westbound lane and struck the cotton module truck on the left hand side."

The Georgia State Patrol's Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team is still investigating. no charges have yet been filed.

Motorcycle collision legal experts at The Murray Law Firm are investigating this accident and believe the Omega Gin Company cotton module truck may possibly be the vehicle at fault in this tragedy. If so, Mr. Holland's family may be entitled to hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars in a civil claim for the wrongful death of their family member.

Though the pursuit of a civil claim is certainly of little priority at this difficult time, it is crucial that the family retain a competent law firm quickly to ensure any evidence relating to the incident remains preserved and that the family's interests are protected. Legal experts warn, "We have too often seen evidence critical to a civil claim destroyed by adverse parties who take advantage of a grieving family, and we hope that such a circumstance does not occur in this matter."

GLR investigators will continue to monitor this tragedy. If you have any information pertaining to the incident or are in need of legal assistance, please contact The Murray Law Firm toll free at 888-842-1616.

This fall Georgia teen drivers and parents were encouraged to set aside time to talk about road safety during the U.S. Department of Transportation's Teen Driver Safety Week. Teen car collision legal experts warn, many of the tragic accidents they witness on a daily basis could be avoided by talking to teens about simple, safe driving habits. Parents should also take care to model these behaviors themselves. The DOT warns, "Parents serve as primary influences on teenage driving behavior."

The NHSTA offers the following tips on talking to teen drivers. Please take time to talk to the young drivers in your life and help keep Georgia teens and roads safe!

Learn and follow your state graduated driver licensing (GDL) laws - GDL systems have been shown to reduce teen crashes. All states have three-stage GDL programs (learner's permit, intermediate or provisional license, full licensure). During the process, restrictions are put in place so young drivers can gain critical driving experience in lower-risk situations and a gradual introduction to more complex tasks through controlled exposure to high-risk situations.

Create and sign a parent-teen driving contract - A parent-teen driving contract sets ground rules and creates and explains the consequences of breaking those rules. This ensures teen accountability, ownership of expectations, and an understanding that driving is a privilege that can be revoked.

Prohibit the use of electronic devices while driving - Driving while talking on the phone or while texting is risky for all drivers, but especially for teens. In 2010, 368 teen drivers ages 15 to 19 involved in fatal crashes were distracted, accounting for 13 percent of all fatal distraction affected crashes. Use of electronic devices while driving is also forbidden by law in many states for all drivers. Parents and caregivers should forbid the use of portable electronic devices while driving and also model safe behavior by turning off their cell phones while behind the wheel. Encourage your teen to speak up when someone is using an electronic device while driving. A recent NHTSA survey found that young people were less likely than other age groups to say something to a driver who made them feel unsafe.

Limit teen passengers and night driving - A NHTSA analysis found teen drivers were two-and-a-half times more likely to engage in one or more potentially risky behaviors when driving with one teenage peer compared to when driving alone. That risk increased with multiple passengers. In 2010, 1,326 passengers in young drivers' vehicles were killed in crashes involving young drivers. Most nighttime fatal crashes of young drivers occur between 9 p.m. and midnight. NHTSA recommends a maximum of one passenger in the car with your teen at all times (no passengers if required by your state GDL law) and nighttime driving restrictions starting no later than 10 p.m.

Encourage your teen to always buckle up - Wearing a seat belt is the most effective protection for drivers and passengers in the event of a crash. In 2010, three out of five 16- to 20-year-old occupants killed in passenger vehicles were not wearing seatbelts.

Talk to your teen about alcohol - All states and the District of Columbia have 21-year-old minimum-drinking-age laws. In 2010, 22 percent of the young drivers involved in fatal crashes were drinking. Talk to your teen about the risks of both drinking and driving, and of riding with an impaired driver.

Establish regular supervised driving and feedback sessions - Most parents and caregivers are unaware of the number of hours of supervised driving teens must complete as part of the intermediate phase of their state's GDL program. Parents should refer to the minimum supervised driving requirements required by their state, but are also encouraged to continue to drive with their teen in a variety of driving situations and environments, such as at night, in inclement weather, and in high traffic situations even beyond what's required. More practice will only make them better drivers. Set aside a regular time to discuss your teen's progress, experiences, concerns and achievements.

The Georgia Legal Report is investigating the Newton County school bus accident, which left several students and parents injured outside of Oak Hill Elementary school at 7:30am Monday morning [November 12, 2012]. Newton County School System Deputy Superintendent of Operations, Dennis Carpenter, reports the school bus was driving southbound on GA Higway 212 when a woman leaving Oak Hill Elementary pulled in front of the bus, causing a three-vehicle collision.

Georgia State Patrol confirms a driver leaving Oak Hill Elementary turned "into the path of the bus and was hit by the bus. The bus then hit a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction. A pickup truck then rear-ended the third vehicle."

The driver, who initially pulled in front of the bus, was ejected from her car and is currently in critical condition at the Atlanta Medical Center. Three Alcovy High students on the bus were taken to the hospital for injuries. A parent and child from the third vehicle are also being treated for injuries.

We will continue to follow this incident. For additional information or legal assistance, please contact The Murray Law Firm at 888-842-1616.

Patterson, GA Teens, Jake Westberry and Kenny Lowman, were training for the Waycross 5K race on Thursday evening [November 1, 2012] when they were hit by a suspected drunk driver. The Georgia State Patrol reports the boys were jogging northbound on Trudie Rd. just before 7pm when Floyd Alvin Cantrell allegedly hit them with his Ford Ranger.

14-year-old Jake Westberry was flung 186 ft. along pavement. 16-year-old Kenny Lowman was thrown 30 ft. into a ditch, suffering a broken leg, arm and shoulder. Lowman, who attempted to crawl to Jake at the scene, is recovering at home. His sister says, "His heart is the most broken thing right now."

Mr. Westberry was med-flighted to Shands Medical Center in Jacksonville and remains on a ventilator in a medically-induced coma while attempting to recover from his critical injuries, including a collapsed lung, kidney damage, head lacerations, facial fractures and road rash covering 90 percent of his body. Over 100 visitors have come to the hospital in support of the 5'11'' PCHS freshman, whom his parents, Patti and Alton, call the "gentle giant" with "the biggest heart."

A fund has been set up to at the Patterson Bank in Patterson, Jesup, and Waycross to assist with medical expenses.

Mr. Cantrell has been charged with serious injury by vehicle and DUI, pending toxicology reports. Given Mr. Cantrell's apparent criminal fault in this incident, the families of these young victims may elect to hold Mr. Cantrell civilly liable. The compensation for injuries sustained to Mr. Lowman and Mr. Westberry could well be in the hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. The families of these young victims should retain an experienced Waycross attorney as early as possible to ensure that any evidence relating to the accident remains preserved and that the family's interests are protected.

If you have any information pertaining to this incident or are in need of legal assistance, we encourage you to contact The Murray Law Firm toll free at 888-842-1616.

The U.S. Food and Drug administration has announced Nestle's voluntary recall of certain Nestle NESQUICK chocolate powder canisters.

FDA Full Report:

Nestlé USA announced the voluntary recall of limited quantities of Nestlé NESQUIK® Chocolate Powder in the 10.9, 21.8 and 40.7 ounce canisters. The voluntary recall is limited to only NESQUIK Chocolate Powder, which was distributed nationally. No other varieties of NESQUIK powder or any sizes or flavors of NESQUIK ready-to-drink are affected by this recall.

To ensure the safety of consumers, Nestlé is recalling selected NESQUIK Chocolate Powder. The recall is limited to the following sizes, UPC and production codes of NESQUIK Chocolate Powder:

The affected NESQUIK Chocolate Powder was produced during early October, 2012. To locate the production code, consumers should look on the bottom of the canister, adjacent to the consumer expiration date. All affected products have an expiration date of BEST BEFORE Oct 2014.

Nestlé is dedicated to the health and safety of its consumers. For these reasons, the company initiated this voluntary recall. We apologize to our consumers and sincerely regret any inconvenience created by this incident.

A multi-car collision off highway 431 in Phenix City, AL has left three injured. Phenix City police were called to an accident Wednesday evening, November 7, 2012, after witness reports that a car had flipped onto the roof of another vehicle. Victims were rushed to the Medical Center, thankfully, for non-life-threatening injuries.

Car collision legal experts at The Murray Law Firm are investigating this incident and urge other drivers to let it serve as a stark reminder that the roads and highways in the Columbus metropolitan area are growing more dangerous. "We continue to be astonished as new statistics show just how hazardous our roadways are." Please drive safely.

The Georgia Legal Report will continue to monitor this incident. If you have any information pertaining to this accident or are in need of legal assistance please call The Murray Law Firm toll free at at 888.842.1616 or locally at 706.494.2800.

Brooke Michelle Anthony of Armuchee, GA was killed during a 3-car collision on the Rome, GA Bypass road Tuesday [November 6, 2012]. According to Rome police, Ms. Anthony was heading west in her Kia Soul on the Rome bypass when a GMC cargo van drove over the median and into oncoming traffic. The van landed on top of the Kia and both vehicles were overturned. Ms. Anthony died of multiple, massive traumas at the Floyd Medical Center.

A mother and her 4-year-old child were driving beside Ms. Anthony in a Ford Explorer at the time of the collision and, according to police reports, drove up under the van while it was still midair. Both the mother and the driver of the GMC sustained critical injuries. Thankfully, the child was not physically harmed.

If the driver of the GMC van is found to have been at fault in causing this accident, Ms. Anthony's family may elect to pursue a civil lawsuit for the wrongful death of their family member. Compensation for their loss could be in the hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dollars and, though that is not the family's focus during this tragic time, it is important that an experienced law firm be retained quickly to ensure that any evidence relating to the incident remains preserved and that the family's interests are protected. A Georgia legal expert following the case warns, too often evidence critical to a civil claim is destroyed by adverse parties who take advantage of a grieving family. The driver of the Explorer, whose name has not been released by Rome police, may also be entitled to a substantial recovery for her injuries.

The Georgia Legal Report will continue to investigate this tragic accident. Anyone with information pertaining to this case or in need of legal assistance is encouraged to call The Murray Law Firm toll free at 888-842-1616.

Three Lithia Springs teens were rushed to the hospital early Tuesday morning [November 6, 2012] after being struck on a Douglas County road. According to Georgia State Patrol, Kendra Taylor, Shania Willis, and Carleece Brown, ages 13-15, were hit by 22-year-old Crystal Marshall of Chicago while walking to a store. According to reports, Taylor is in critical condition at Grady Memorial Hospital with head trauma. Willis is also in critical condition with head trauma and being treated at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston. 13-year-old Carleece Brown was treated for a broken ankle at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite.

Police have charged Marshall with driving under the influence, driving too fast for conditions, slick tires, possession of marijuana, and serious injury by vehicle. She has been taken to the Douglas County jail and was being held without bond as of Tuesday afternoon.

Given Ms. Marshall's apparent criminal fault in this incident, families of these young victims may elect to hold Ms. Marshall civilly liable. The compensation for injuries sustained to Mss. Taylor, Willis, and Brown could well be in the hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. As there are multiple injured parties, the insurance coverage will certainly be limited. Consequently, it is imperative that the families of these young victims retain an experienced attorney as early as possible.

If you have any information regarding this incident or are in need of legal assistance please contact The Murray Law Firm toll free at 888.842.1616.

Johnny Walker, an 18-year employee of the Brainerd Optimist Dragway in Ringgold, was struck Saturday night [Nov 3, 2012] during a charity racing event. According to reports, 22-year-old Hillary Mason reversed into Walker at the start of the charity race, Draggin' for Toys, a fundraising event for T.C. Thompson Children's Hospital and Providence Ministries. Mr. Walker, 53, was rushed to Erlanger Hospital in Chatanooga on Saturday night and succumbed to his injuries on Sunday.

Maj. Gary Sisk of the Sheriff's Office reports the incident is still under investigation, but "there have been no charges filed at this time."

Georgia workers' compensation expert, Mark Murray, is investigating the legal implications of this tragic incident. According to Mr. Murray, the Walker family will almost certainly be entitled to substantial compensation as a consequence of this incident. At the outset, Mr. Walker's family will be automatically entitled financial benefits under Georgia workers compensation laws. It is important that the family retain a knowledgeable lawyer to assist them in securing these benefits, however, as the workers compensation law is complicated.

The Georgia Legal Report will continue to monitor this tragic incident. If you are seeking information pertaining to this case or are in need of legal assistance, please contact The Murray Law Firm toll-free at 888.842.1616.

College Park, GA police are conducting a man hunt for two suspects caught on surveillance cameras robbing and shooting Alagie Dibba, a BP gas station clerk, on Saturday night [November 3, 2012]. The two men appear to be in their late teens or early 20s and fired a single shot at the clerk before fleeing the scene of the robbery. Police investigators report Dibba was taken to a local hospital and later died from a bullet wound to the abdomen.

According to workers' compensation experts at The Murray Law Firm in Atlanta, as the shooting occurred in a workplace setting, Alagie Dibba's family will almost certainly be entitled to significant compensation under the Workers' Compensation laws of Georgia. Legal experts warn, however, employers and insurance companies are concerned with limiting their financial exposure and without an experienced lawyer protecting the interests of these families, the value of these claims may be adversely affected. Thus, it is imperative the victim's family secure experienced legal representation quickly.

The Georgia Legal Report will continue to closely monitor this tragedy as more information becomes available. Anyone with information pertaining to this incident or in need of legal assistance is encouraged to contact The Murray Law Firm toll free at 888-842-1616.

The Georgia Legal Report is investigating the November 2, 2012 Buckhead car accident, which claimed the life of 59-year-old Christopher Sims. According to Atlanta police officer John Chafee, the driver of a Toyota Tacoma was traveling northbound on Roswell Road during early rush hour Friday and struck a southbound vehicle while attempting to make a left turn onto Piedmont Road. The truck driver then hit a second vehicle before leaving the roadway, hitting a third, parked vehicle. The Tacoma then re-entered Roswell Road, striking a fourth vehicle before finally crossing the street and smashing through a retaining wall. Christopher Sims, 59, of Atlanta was standing outside his vehicle beside the wall and perished at the scene. The Tacoma driver was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital in conscious and stable condition. No charges have been filed.

The Atlanta Police Accident Investigation Unit is still determining why the Tacoma driver continued after the initial collision. According car-collision legal experts at The Murray Law Firm of Atlanta, if the driver of the Tacoma is found to be at fault, the family of Christopher Sims and other victims of this tragic accident could potentially stand to recover a substantial sum for their loss and injuries. Total recovery is based upon the driver's insurance coverage and families should obtain legal representation quickly to ensure insurance is not depleted.

The Georgia Legal Report will continue to monitor this tragedy. Anyone with information pertaining to this accident or in need of legal assistance is encouraged to contact The Murray Law Firm toll free at 888-842-1616.

We are closely following a tragic work accident at the Pilgrim's Pride chicken facility in Canton, Georgia on October 29, 2012 that has claimed the life of Christopher Chin, 37. According to reports from the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office, Mr. Chin was killed while dislodging material in one of the factory's machines. Lieutenant Jay Baker stated that "OSHA's investigations will attempt to determine what went wrong" and that it is his understanding that "a box or some type of debris got lodged into one of the machines, and [Mr. Chin] was trying to remove it when he was killed." A Pilgrim's Pride spokesperson has stated that the company is "saddened" at the loss, but the company has not claimed legal responsibility nor has it indicated that a third party may be at fault.

Under Georgia Workers' Compensation law, our legal team suggests that the family of the Mr. Chin will most likely be entitled to significant compensation as a result of this accident. They family of Mr. Chin will be eligible for benefits under Georgia's workers compensation laws, but they may also hold a third party civil claim against the manufacturer of the machine that Mr. Chin was manipulating at the time of his death. Because this potential products liability claim is dependent on the facts surrounding the incident, it is imperative that an experienced attorney be retained without delay so as to ensure that all evidence connected to the accident is preserved.

The Georgia Legal Report and the Murray Law Firm will continue to investigate this incident. Anyone with information, or anyone who may need legal assistance, is encouraged to contact the Murray Law Firm toll free at 888.842.1616.