This is the 2nd year that consumers have been able to buy aerial fireworks in Michigan. Michiganders used to have to drive to the Ohio border to purchase “the good stuff.”

Before the ban on aerial fireworks was lifted, disappointed patrons would stop at Michigan’s firework stands and think:

You’re gonna stand there, ownin’ a fireworks stand, and tell me you don’t have no whistlin’ bungholes, no spleen splitters, whisker biscuits, hoosker don’ts, cherry bombs, nipsy daisers, with or without the scooter stick, or one single whistlin’ kitty chaser?

Michigan has to balance its financial interest in selling more fireworks against the liability of having more dangerous ones.

While firework sales dramatically increased as a result of Michigan’s new law, so did the amount of injuries.

Two bicyclists were struck and killed by cars in two separate accidents in the Northern Lower Peninsula: an unidentified 29-year-old woman from Traverse City and Daniel Adams from Oden. Here is the official news story.

Michigan residents are looking for the SUV that hit Mr. Adams, dragging his body for almost two blocks, and then fleeing the scene.

It’s difficult to read about these types of accidents, and our condolences go out to everyone affected by them.

As more cars and bikes hit the open roads this season, it’s important to remember a few tips to keep our bikers safe.

Scott Goodwin is a 2013 Super Lawyer: he was named Lawyer of the Year in 2004, and he is the Vice President of the Michigan Association for Justice. He’s built his reputation defending clients injured in car, motorcycle, and drunk driving accidents over the last 25 years.

His litigation experience and his ability to reach deep into his opponents’ pockets have also awarded him recognition as:

• a Top 100 Trial Lawyer,
• a top lawyer from DBusiness Magazine,
• and he is an AV, highly recommended attorney by the Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings.

Officials had a hard time even identifying the type of car that collided with a semi truck on North 75, which killed the car’s two passengers. The license plate had melted from the immense fire that closed the freeway early Monday morning.

The accident happened late Sunday night, and the people inside the car were so badly burned that their dental records will likely identify them.

An Art Van employee was driving the semi and he, fortunately, only sustained minor injuries. According to the driver, he was able to escape his truck before it was engulfed in flames.

Before you ride

Before you strap on your new leather chaps and hit the road, then you should sit and thoroughly read your owner’s manual. Check your gas, tire, and oil levels. Ensure that you’ve complied with all the necessary state requirements and have the requisite license to ride. Unless you understand bike mechanics, then let a licensed professional work on your bike. Your signals, horn, and lights should all function properly. Although simple, these reminders significantly reduce the likelihood of an injury.

Did you know that someone in America seeks medical attention for an animal related injury every minute? By assessing a dog’s body language, then you can significantly reduce the likelihood of a dog bite.

Did you know that you have the right to sue someone if their dog bites you? That’s right, if someone’s pet beast attacks you and you are injured, you can sue them for money. Millions of dollars have been won off these lawsuits, and it is more serious than you may think. If a dog is not trained properly, it could inflict serious and sometimes fatal injuries. Pitbulls are a perfect example of a dangerous animal. The breed was reported to have been responsible for 15 of the 16 fatal dog attacks last year. In the past seven years, pitbulls were responsible for 151 deaths. If you have been seriously injured by a dog attack, do not hesitate to contact a lawyer because you deserve compensation.