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Winter Driving

by Mere Davis

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Okay, the votes are in, and it's a fact. Even though we haven't had many--snow storms are unwelcome. And old Grayson better not be retuning any time soon. Of course, here in Western Pennsylvania we all like to look at the snow, and it's especially beautiful during the holidays. Snow covered trees and mountains look as if they are scenes from a fairy tale--and the love several of us feel during the holidays, makes it that much more blissful. But now it's January, and we are back to work, and back to reality. And that 30-second walk to the car, feels like 30 minutes! Often we are in such a hurry to get home and to get warm, that we forget how dangerous it is on the highways! Especially during this icy winter. Fortunately, Pennsylvania has passed a series of driving laws that give us guidance. These laws are meant to ensure safety for our loved ones-- and all those who travel by our highways, and roads. Unfortunately we can't prevent all tragedies from occurring. But, we can take better procession before getting behind the wheel. Child Safety: As of late last year car seats must be facing to the rear for children under the age of 2 years. There are also requirements of height and weight for child car seats that require the adult to follow the manufacturer's specific instructions. Hefty fines can be incurred for not following these simple rules and the second offense is over $1,000.00! Pennsylvania authorities also warn that they are going to start strictly enforcing laws that have not been followed in the past, for example: All children under the age of 18 must wear a seat belt at all times while in the car. All children who have not reached the height and weight requirement must be in a car seat or a booster seat until those height and weight requirements are met. Texting laws: On November 4, 2016, Governor Tom Wolf signed Daniel's Law in honor of Daniel Gallatin, a motorcyclist who was hit and killed by a driver while that driver was texting. Although Daniel, a volunteer fireman was killed, the driver in what most believe was minimal punishment, paid a fine of $250.00 and was sentenced to a short period of incarceration in the local county jail. Now judges have the option of enhancing prison sentences for drivers who are distracted by texting, or using any form of technology while driving. Drunk Driving: There is a new provision in the Driving Under the Influence Law that makes ignition interlock devices more common, and that is a welcome change. Ignition interlock devices are similar to breathalyzers, and will prevent an engine from starting if the device detects alcohol on the driver. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania appears to be taking driving laws very seriously-- and the enhanced punishments and the enforcements are proof of that. Here at Davis and Davis we hope everyone is aware and follows the law that is intended to make us all safe. Let's all drive defensively, and enjoy this winter wonderland!

Uniontown Office: 107 East Main St. Uniontown, PA 15401 Phone: 724.437.2799 Brownsville Office: 113 Thorton Road Brownsville, PA Phone: 724.785.7733

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Davis & Davis Attorneys At Law

107 East Main St.
Uniontown, PA 15401

Phone: 724-437-2799
Fax: 724-437-2035
Uniontown Law Office Map

113 Thorton Road
Brownsville, PA 15417

Phone: 724-437-2799
Phone: 724-785-7733
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Davis & Davis Attorneys at Law

Davis & Davis Attorneys At Law