August 2011 Archives

August 31, 2011
 

Motor Vehicle Safety: Passenger Van Driving

Alpharetta Car Accident AttorneyDriving a mid-size sedan is very different than driving a passenger van. The size and driving requirements are very different as well as the number of people you may be responsible for. Though passenger vans aren't as intimidating as driving a bus, drivers still need to take extra precaution when driving a large passenger van to avoid a car accident.

Recently, two 15-passenger vans rolled over causing ten deaths. Tragic accidents like these are reminders for owners of passenger vans to be extra careful while driving and extra careful when letting others drive.

Passenger Vans Have a Higher Rollover Risk

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, passenger vans have a greater risk of being in a roll over accident. This is due to three reasons:

  • Inexperienced drivers
  • Improperly sized and/or inflated tires
  • Incorrectly loaded cargo and passengers that affect center of gravity

Like other large vehicles, passenger vans also require more reliance on side mirrors as well as greater braking distance. If you own a larger passenger van, don't let just anyone drive it. Make sure the driver is experienced and understands the different requirements for motor vehicle safety in driving a passenger van.

At Daniel W. Mitnick & Associates, PC, we hope that you and your passengers stay safe. If you unfortunately have already been involved in a car accident or know of someone who has, contact our Alpharetta car accident attorneys today. We'll give you the attention you deserve.

August 16, 2011
 

Credit Card Late Payments Down, Bankruptcy Still High

Alpharetta Bankruptcy LawyerAccording to credit reporting agency, TransUnion, late payments from credit card holders has fallen to its lowest rate since 1994. Does this mean consumers are doing better financially? Not necessarily. Some consumers are simply being more responsible with their debt and many banks are putting a tighter limit on what people can borrow.

If you still find yourself having a hard time making those credit card or loan payments, you're not alone. Though late payments from credit card users are down, it doesn't mean everyone is in the clear. Many people are still filing for bankruptcy due to the financial state of their lives.

Should I File For Bankruptcy?

There is not always a definitive answer for whether or not you should file bankruptcy, but it may be something you should consider if your finances have continued to struggle.

If you are paying the bare minimum amounts on your debts and cannot budget yourself out of your debt in the next five years, then bankruptcy may be an option. Impending foreclosure or a recent job loss or divorce could also be reason for filing for bankruptcy.

What Is Not Covered Under Bankruptcy?

Certain financial responsibilities or debts are not excused by bankruptcy. Alimony and child support must still be paid even after bankruptcy. Also, most recent back taxes and most student loans are not excused by declaring bankruptcy.

If you think bankruptcy may be the next step for your financial life, then contact a trusted attorney. At the Law Offices of Daniel W. Mitnick, our Alpharetta bankruptcy attorneys can help you make sure bankruptcy is the best next step and help you navigate through the process.