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by The Stoddard Firm - March 25th, 2022
Owners of all different kinds of properties are responsible for providing a safe environment for their guests.
This does not mean that no one is ever allowed to host activities with an inherent element of risk, like racing and other extreme sports. However, venue owners must take all reasonable precautions to make sure these activities aren’t any more dangerous than they have to be. They also have a duty to warn their guests in detail about any risks that can’t be eliminated.
The fact that a sport is dangerous does not automatically negate all of the venue owner’s responsibilities to the participants, spectators, or support crew. When accidents happen because of poorly maintained premises liability, outdated or shoddy equipment, or bad safety policies, the venue is liable for the resulting injuries.
On a Saturday evening at the end of February, a car somehow left the track at Cochran Motor Speedway in Bleckley County, injuring seven people. Two of them were still in the hospital by the next Monday.
According to the track’s official statement, the crew was preparing for an open practice, when “a participating race car” struck the front wall and entered the pit area, where the injuries occurred. The statement does not mention what these preparations involved, or whether it was usual for there to be cars on the track at the same time.
Cochran Motor Speedway is owned by the Martin family, and two of the injured were Chris and Parker Martin, a father and son. Surveys of the family’s social media posts indicate that Parker was airlifted from the site, but tests for a suspected spinal injury were negative. Scans found no broken bones.
One witness described seeing at least one head wound and a broken knee among the other victims. Their names have not been released, and the incident is under investigation.
Cochran Motor Speedway has a friendly reputation, and not only because it’s locally owned. The witness who described the injuries also described people from all different teams running to help after the accident, and said that’s something she loves about this particular track.
She did note, however, that the spot where the car impacted is exactly where she usually stands, along with many other people.
The accident happened just hours after the Cochran Motor Speedway updated its posted rules with new state regulations, which ban spectators from standing in the infield. It’s possible this is why the witness wasn’t standing in her usual spot. If so, the change may have saved her life and others just in time.
Still, it shouldn’t have taken a state mandate to get spectators behind protective barriers, and the fact that everyone survived this accident doesn’t mean that all is now well with the Speedway’s safety protocols.
Multiple news sources have alluded to video footage of the crash, which allegedly shows the car breaking through the safety wall before reaching the pit. WGXA has directly stated that they have seen such footage, but that they are unable to show it, because their source was threatened with jail if they released it. If this is true, it strongly suggests that someone connected with the crash is aware of their own wrongdoing and trying to hide it.
The injured and their families deserve the truth. They deserve compensation for any harm the Cochran Motor Speedway could have prevented but chose not to.
If you were injured at the Cochran Motor Speedway, reach out to The Stoddard Firm to learn more about your rights and possible next steps.
A dedicated, ethical advocate who takes on major corporations and global insurers with virtually unlimited resources. Known for high-profile cases featured on Courtroom Viewing Network, this attorney is also a sought-after legal educator, teaching at seminars for top bar associations. Trusted by clients and media alike, they work tirelessly to secure justice and deliver results.
Member of the Atlanta Bar Association, the Georgia Bar Association, and the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association
Licensed in Georgia since: 2008
Education: University of Georgia School of Law
Personal injury compensation enables an injured individual to regain the same quality of life they had before the incident. This may entail funds for modifying a home for wheelchair accessibility or offering vocational training for those unable to return to their previous job. It is crucial for compensation to cover lost earnings and cover both past and anticipated medical costs.
We conduct interviews with colleagues, consult with attending healthcare professionals, and engage specialists to ensure we secure comprehensive compensation that aids our clients in re-establishing their life trajectories.
When deciding to hire an Atlanta personal injury lawyer, you need to consider:
1. Who’s at Fault
If you’re in an accident and it’s unclear who’s responsible, seeking advice from an attorney is wise. Insurance companies may attempt to attribute damages to you in such scenarios. An attorney can shield you from counterclaims and cross-claims, safeguarding your rights.
2. The Severity of Injuries Sustained
When facing a lifetime of pain, suffering, and mounting bills, taking chances is not an option. A personal injury attorney is entrusted with averting lifelong financial strain.
3. If You’re Facing Insurance Company Denial or Delay
The intricate laws and procedures surrounding personal injury claims are areas where insurance companies capitalize on individuals’ lack of expertise. A lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in this regard.
It’s possible but not necessarily probable and will likely depend on whether you want your case to go to trial. The majority of cases end in a settlement. Going to trial typically occurs when there are intricate, contentious matters regarding the accident’s cause or the severity of your injuries. Occasionally, defendants may simply be unyielding and unwilling to settle or you may just want more than the insurer believes is reasonable.
It shouldn’t be a shock if your attorney diligently pursues a settlement while also readying your witnesses for trial. A proficient lawyer must be equipped for any scenario. Demonstrating to the opposing party that we’re gearing up for a trial indicates that we’re resolute and not inclined to back down.
Determining all potential parties who could be held liable for a personal injury involves a thorough investigation of various factors. If someone else neglected to exercise reasonable care, they can be held accountable for the resulting injuries, as outlined in Title 51 of Georgia Code of Laws or as outlined in Georgia’s common law.
The individual directly involved in the accident may not be the sole party at fault. For instance, in the case of a drunk driving accident, while the driver may bear responsibility, the person who knowingly provided additional alcohol to an obviously intoxicated individual could also be deemed liable. In other circumstances, an at fault party’s employer is responsible for its employees actions.
Following a personal injury accident, there are critical steps you should take. First and foremost, seek prompt medical attention. Visit the emergency room or call for an ambulance at the accident site. Any delay in receiving medical care could impact your health and the outcome of your personal injury case.
Refrain from discussing your case with the insurance company representing the at-fault party. They may deny your settlement or offer a significantly lower amount than you deserve.
Additionally, it’s crucial for both you and your personal injury attorney to gather as much evidence and documentation as possible. This is vital in establishing that your injuries resulted from someone else’s negligence. Make an effort to collect records and documents related to your case, including medical records, police reports, photographs, witness contact information, and similar items. Once you’ve received medical attention, contact The Stoddard Firm.
Do not say anything! If an insurance company contacts you, refrain from providing any information until you have consulted with your attorney. Insurance companies typically contact accident victims in an attempt to elicit a statement about the incident, which they may use to devalue the settlement.
While you may eventually need to converse with them, seeking guidance from a seasoned legal team is crucial. They will provide clear instructions on what you should and should not disclose to protect the value of your case.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was revised and approved by Attorney Matthew B. Stoddard, who has more than 16 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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