THANK YOU ALL: We wish to gratefully thank Amy G., James I., Linda M., Mellisa D., Arla P. and Horace T. for their kind referrals of injury cases to our office. Thank you very much.
WHAT IS NEW AT THE TULLY LAW FIRM:
ATV and Off- Road Vehicles – What Are Your Rights On The Roadway? These vehicles are usually not allowed on the highway. But if you are riding these machines on the highway, you still have rights, and we may be able to pursue a claim for you. No one has the right to rearend you just because you were on the roadway with an Off-Road or ATV vehicle. No one has a right to make an improper left turn in front of you on the highway. Please give us a call if you, or someone you know, has been involved in a serious ATV or Off-Road Vehicle Accident.
WHY IS PENNSYLVANIA SPECIAL LEGALLY?
Pennsylvania is the ONLY state in the country that does NOT allow local police to use radar guns to catch speeders. Incredible as it sounds, legally only Pennsylvania State Police can use a radar gun to catch speeders. Why? Apparently it is the fear that local police in municipalities will use radar guns to give too many tickets to drivers in order to pay for excessive municipality spending. In short, setting speed traps is an easy way to enhance government revenue. There is currently legislation pending that will now allow police to use radar guns to catch speeders. Pretty amazing right?
WHAT’S NEW IN THE LAW:
There was a recent important change in the way depositions, in Allegheny County and elsewhere, are to be conducted. The new case decision says attorneys are not (except in limited circumstances) allowed to constantly object to questions asked during a deposition. Before this new case, defense objections were common in order to break up the rhythm of the questioning. But
thankfully no more. This will ultimately help your case. In fact, Michael recently attended a seminar discussing the new case law in great detail.
LEARN-THE-LAW CORNER – MOTORCYCLES AND LANE SPLITTING:
We have represented many motorcycle accident victims over the years. So what is motorcycle lane splitting? Lane splitting refers to the motorcyclist riding between 2 lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. Normally this is done when traffic is moving very slowly or at a standstill and the motorcyclist then goes between the traffic that is stopped by riding down the middle lane. Some people get upset with lane splitting but I always figured if they are not putting any cars in danger why not let them?
Is it legal in Pennsylvania? Currently lane splitting is not legal in Pennsylvania. However, there is legislation in the works to address this issue in the near future. Interestingly, currently only one state allows lane splitting – California.
POLICE REPORTS – ARE THEY ADMISSIBLE AT TRIAL?
One of the first things we do after retaining a new client who was involved in a motor vehicle accident is to order the police report that was completed by the investigating police officer who first arrived at the scene. However, can we offer that police report, which will include the officer’s conclusion of fault and also any charges brought against the defendant, into evidence at trial? The answer is NO! Not unless the officer appears at the hearing. The reason why they aren’t is that the Pennsylvania Legislature and case law has determined the police reports are HEARSAY. You cannot cross-examine a police report so the police officer must be subpoenaed to the hearing.
PENGUINS IN TOUGH BATTLES DURING STANLEY CUP RUN:
The Penguins playoff run is off to a good start! Let’s hope they keep up the good work and keep pushing forward, despite the physical toll they are going through!
PITTSBURGH PIRATES:
Okay we are not good right now. But we have a lot of new developing players. They will be the basis for a future playoff run. Go Bucs!
STEELERS TALK: What are you thinking about another playoff run?
LEGAL WORD OF THE MONTH:
“Quid Pro Quo” “Something for something” in Latin. An exchange of goods or services where one transfer is contingent upon the other. The Quid Pro Quo for a free lunch was to attend a boring seminar.
JOKE OF THE MONTH:
What did the ocean say to the shore? Nothing – it just waved!
CONGRATULATIONS TO: Patricia C. who won our $50.00 prize for successfully answering May’s Newsletter question. Great job!
NOW YOUR CHANCE TO WIN $50.00: What historical World War II event occurred on June 6, 1944?
Your friends and attorneys,
Bernard M. Tully and Michael J. Tully
Have a great June!