North Carolina residents have been keeping a close eye on Hurricane Matthew this past week.  On Monday, Governor Pat McCrory issued a state of emergency for 66 North Carolina counties, including New Hanover County, Brunswick County, and Pender County.  This hurricane was supposed to directly hit the coast, but the latest forecast track shows that this powerful storm is expected to make a sharp turn to the east as it nears the North Carolina Coast. This sharp turn is caused by an upper level trough which will move towards the eastern United States and force the hurricane away from moving up the east coast. It will also likely weaken into a Category 1 hurricane by this point.

Evacuation orders remain in place because Hurricane Matthew is still expected to brush our coast and could still bring damaging winds and flooding. To ensure safety, The University of North Carolina Wilmington has even issued a mandatory campus evacuation for all students starting Thursday at 12 p.m.

Although things are looking better for North Carolina, areas such as Wilmington, Southport, and Oak Island may still encounter dangerous weather conditions, so it is best to continue to be over-prepared. Here are a handful of tips that the Red Cross suggests you do to be prepared for a hurricane:

• Bring in anything that can be picked up by the wind (lawn furniture, bicycles, etc.)
• Fill your car’s gas tank
• Talk with your family and create an evacuation plan so that you are always prepared
• Make sure you have at least a 3-day supply of water
• Make sure you have flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit
• Drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads

These dangerous weather conditions may cause more traffic accidents and traffic citations, so we encourage everyone to be safe and extra cautious on the roads this weekend.  However, if you or someone you know gets into an accident or receives a traffic ticket, please give us a call at 910-793-9000 for a confidential consultation.

By Kimberlin S. Murray, Legal Assistant at Collins LAw Firm

The National Center for Statistics and Analysis reports that approximately 1200 are injured and about 8 are killed every day in the U.S. in car accidents involving a driver who has been distracted.  Drivers can be distracted by activities such as texting; eating and drinking; talking to passengers; grooming; using in-vehicle technology; etc.

Texting however is considered especially distracting because it requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention from the driver.

In order to address distracted driving in our hometown, Wilmington Police Department initiated a campaign this week during which its Traffic Unit will closely monitor drivers who are preoccupied by using their phones, eating, or other activities.  Officers will stop distracted drivers to educate them on the dangers of distracted driving and they will take appropriate action depending on the circumstances.

We urge you to be a responsible driver and pay attention to the traffic when you operate a motor vehicle.

However, should you or somebody you know receive a citation for texting while driving or other distracted driving activities, Collins Law Firm can help you—call us at 910-793-9000 for a confidential consultation.

By Jana H. Collins, Legal Assistant

Memorial Day is right around the corner, and for those of us near the coast, this means considerably higher traffic along our thoroughfares as vacationers flock to the beach for the holiday weekend. Ranking as one of the top ten most visited states for domestic travel, NC commonly experiences increased roadway congestion. What this weekend should also remind us of, however, is the extreme importance of automobile safety as our loved ones submit themselves to the mercy of their fellow drivers among our state’s highways. This sentiment is echoed by Governor Pat McCrory, who has officially declared May Seat Belt Safety Awareness Month. At 42% percent, almost half of passenger vehicle fatalities last year can be attributed to drivers or passengers not wearing seat belts.

To this end, the Governor’s Highways Safety Program features the continuance of the State’s “Click it or Ticket” campaign intended to increase seat belt usage by raising awareness of NC’s strict seat belt policies: charging up to $179 in fines per ticket and even up to $263 per passengers 15 and under not wearing their seat belt. The initiative also features the increased likelihood of police checkpoints on the roads intended to make sure drivers are buckling up.

On the other hand, for drivers leaving the coastal area, here are a few helpful pieces of traffic information courtesy of the North Carolina Department of Transportation to expedite your commute:

• N.C. 42 will have a signed detour, road closure and bridge replacement east and west of Ahoskie Creek in Hertford County.
• N.C. 94 will have a road closure and bridge construction on Elementary School Road at U.S. 64 in Tyrrell County.
• U.S. 158 will have two-lane two-way traffic on the Pasquotank River Bridge in Pasquotank County.
• I-85 will have lane closures in both the northbound and southbound lanes traffic between the Virginia line and the town of Henderson. The pattern affects traffic in Vance and Granville counties.
• U.S. 23/74 will have a bridge replacement in Jackson County.
• N.C. 294 will have portable traffic signals in Cherokee County.

As always, remember to start your commute early in the day to avoid peak traffic hours, obey the posted speed limits, never drive when feeling tired or drowsy, and needless to say, buckle up!

Have a great Holiday weekend, and stay out of trouble; but if you do find yourself in need of representation or know someone else who does, be sure to give us a call at Collins Law Firm (910) 793-9000.

By Clifford Howie, Legal Assistant

The resentment towards police departments by community activists who have portrayed law enforcement as racist who routinely shoot black Americans, for essentially no reason, has caused a substantial increase in shootings and murders all across the United States in recent years. This idea has become what is known as “The Ferguson Effect.”

New Hanover County Police Department offers their vision statement on the home page of their website “To serve with professionalism and hold ourselves responsible and accountable to the citizens of New Hanover County,” and here at Collins Law Firm, we support what the greater goal of all police departments is: to serve and protect. It is unfortunate that the atmosphere in which law enforcement officers are to perform their duties is now burdened with danger and consequence.

Attorney David Collins has over 20 years of experience in the legal field, and has represented many people charged with various crimes. If you or someone you know has been charged with a crime, please call to schedule a consultation today: (910) 793-900. We’re here to help!

By Amber Younce, Legal Assistant

It’s finally here, a three-day weekend! Although for most of us Labor Day weekend marks unofficial end to summer, it’s also a great time to catch up with family and friends at the beach and spend some quality family time before it starts to cool off.
If and as you travel, keep in mind that this is one of the most traffic heavy weekends all year. Officials say about 1 million Tar Heel state residents are expected to travel 50 miles or more from home, 86% of those will be driving—but here we have good news! According to AAA Carolinas, the average gas price in North Carolina is now $2.22 per gallon. This time last year it was over a dollar more.

Although traveling this year will be more economical than last, the laws and consequences associated with the dreadful DUI/DWI have gotten nothing but worse. So, whether you’re traveling locally to relax at the beach or headed out of town, remember to drink responsibly and don’t drive!

Law enforcement officials said they are going to keep a close eye on you this Labor Day weekend to make sure everyone has a safe and fun holiday. NC State Highway Patrol said they have teamed up with the NC Wildlife Commission to crack down on impaired driving this weekend.

Their “On the Road, On the Water, Don’t Drink and Drive” campaign which was kicked off on Thursday September 3rd and conclude at midnight on Monday, September 7th. Highway Patrol also launched their ‘Booze it & Lose It’ campaign on August 21. Sgt. Pope with the Highway Patrol said they have arrested 41 people for driving impaired in New Hanover and Brunswick counties throughout the last week and they plan to over-staff law enforcement this weekend.

North Carolina is well-known nationwide for having some of the most severe DUI/DWI consequences in the country.

Here at Collins Law Firm we wish you all a safe and fun Labor Day Weekend.

If you or someone you know is in need of representation for a traffic or DWI/DUI offense, please give Attorney David Collins a call. With over 20 years of experience, we are able to help you in most matters! Call us at 910-793-9000.

By Amber Younce, Legal Assistant

Independence Day originally started as a celebration for the United States liberation from Great Britain. Over the years, culture has shifted, and this has become a day when people of all ages flock towards the beaches for relaxation and time with family and friends. Popular hangout spots, such as Masonboro Island, Mason’s Inlet, and the North End at Carolina Beach, have drawn crowds to Wilmington. Due to an increase in safety concerns in the area during popular holidays, such as Memorial Day and July the fourth, law enforcement has increased patrols and monitoring of the waterways, beaches, and surrounding areas.
As of yesterday, emergency officials have already begun preparation for the upcoming weekend. Local news stations report that both the North Carolina Department of Highway Patrol and area law enforcement alike will have increased patrols in an effort to “keep everyone safe.” Wrightsville Beach Police Department reports the main issues they have seen in the past on this holiday are underage drinking and illegal water taxis. Wrightsville Beach Police will work closely with the United States Coast Guard in an effort address these concerns. Those caught without proper permits and or fail to meet other regulations could face hefty fines.
It is equally important to understand the long-term consequences of underage drinking. Consumption of alcohol has many negative health consequences, but if one is caught drinking and driving, and or drinking underage, the monetary fines and long term implications are severe. The State of North Carolina has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving; offenders could face fines up to $500, be sentenced to serve community service, attend DWI Treatment court, and complete two alcohol education courses. Ramifications of being charged with this crime include having to tell future employers of the charges, as well as universities to which you may be applying.
For those over the age of 21, consequences of drinking and driving are still cause of concern. A DWI charge can result in imprisonment for up to three years, fines up to ten thousand dollars, and license suspension. The process of obtaining your driver’s license after suspension due to DWI can prolong the emotional and financial effects of the charges; the defendants face the possibility of having an ignition interlock installed and face an increase in insurance premiums.
Attorney David Collins has over 20 years of experience in the legal field, focusing on criminal defense matters. Mr. Collins has helped many clients facing underage drinking, fake ID, DWI, drunk and disorderly, and possession of open container charges. If you or someone you know is facing criminal or traffic charges, please give our office a call at (910) 793-9000.
By: Brittany Bryant, Legal Assistant

This past Memorial Day weekend, Wilmington officials reported numerous traffic violations and accidents. According to news sources, there were approximately six deadly crashed that occurred throughout the state, one of which tragically took the lives of a newborn and toddler in Pender County. In all, seven people lost their lives in these accidents over the weekend. Half of these incidents occurred in the Cape Fear region. The number of fatal crashes has reduced since last year, however, one life lost is still one too many. Always wear your seatbelt and be alert and aware of your surroundings.

Efforts to improve motor vehicle safety were noted over the weekend as well. State troopers reported close monitoring of speed in Brunswick County, issuing around one dozen tickets for speeding. Highway patrol reported giving an additional 160 citations in the Cape Fear region this weekend alone.

Last Saturday night, the Wilmington Police Department hosted a checkpoint at the intersection of Market Street and 15^th Street, leading to over 70 charges. Out of these charges, 10 were DWI related.

If you or someone you know is in need of representation for a traffic offense, please give Attorney David Collins a call. With over 20 years of experience, we are able to help you in most matters! Call us at 910-793-9000.

By Brittany L. Bryant, Legal Assistant at Collins Law Firm

The aroma of hotdogs and hamburgers is soon going to fill the air! Memorial Day is upon us! Most know this holiday as one filled with family cookouts and time spent at the beach. Wilmington natives avoid traffic, as they know this city is a premier destination for those all over the state. For tourist’s driving to the local area, it is advised to leave home early in order to help avoid traffic that occurs on the highways. This year, the NCDOT is halting construction projects on major highways in an effort to help its citizens reach their holiday destinations safely and without strife. According to the NCDOT website, NCDOT will put on hold most construction projects along interstate, N.C. and U.S. routes from 4 p.m. on Friday, May 22, until 9 a.m. on Tuesday, May 26, with these exceptions:

• U.S. 158 (Elizabeth Street) in Elizabeth City is reduced to one lane in each direction from Road Street to the Pasquotank River Bridge for resurfacing and construction of a new bridge;
• U.S. 264 in Dare County will be reduced to one of two lanes controlled by temporary traffic signals in three locations for the replacement of three bridges. Lane closures are located between Stumpy Point and the Hyde County line;
• Two bridges in Brunswick County on N.C. 211 over the Honey Island Swamp will have intermittent lane closures in order for crews to realign the roadway and replace both bridges and approaches;
• Third Street in New Hanover County is closed for a bridge replacement with a signed detour;
• I-85 southbound between the Virginia state line and the U.S. 1 interchange will have lane closures in place day and night as crews work to strengthen the shoulders and patch concrete; and
• I-73 in Guilford County is reduced to two lanes in each direction between Wendover Avenue and I-85.

Today, the NCDOT launched its “Click It or Ticket” campaign. This campaign reminds drivers and passengers alike that everyone in the vehicle must properly wear their seat belts at all times. Not wearing a seat belt is unsafe and costly; court costs for this infraction are typically around $160.00.

With most activities that occur during the holiday, adults will be drinking alcoholic beverages. Please remember to have a designated driver if you plan on drinking. According to MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), every two minutes, a person is injured in a drunk driving accident.

If you will be in the waterway’s this weekend, remember to wear proper life jackets. In 2013, the U.S. Coast Guard counted 4,062 accidents, 560 deaths, 2,620 injuries, and approximately $39 million dollars of property damage as a result of recreational boating accidents. Where cause of death was known, 77% of fatal boating accident victims drowned. Of those drowning victims, 84% were not wearing a life jacket.

May is also Motorcycle Awareness Month. Be sure to share the road and check all areas surrounding your vehicle before changing lanes.

If you or someone you know have been hurt in a boating or motorcycle accident, or is seeking representation in a criminal or traffic matter, please call the professionals at Collins Law Firm for a confidential consultation at 910-793-9000.

By: Brittany Bryant, Legal Assistant

Cinco de Mayo, Spanish for “5^th of May,” is a widely-celebrated holiday in the United States. In Mexico, it is considered a minor holiday,  not to be confused with Mexican Independence Day, which happens on the 16^th of September. Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War. The battle was led by Texas-born General Ignacio Zarazoga, who commanded his poorly-supplied and greatly outnumbered Mexican troops against the 6,000-strong French force of General Latrille de Lorencez. Beginning at daybreak on May 5^th, 1962, the French army attacked the city of Puebla de Los Angeles. The French forces retreated in the early evening, having lost nearly 500 soldiers, while fewer than 100 Mexicans had been killed in the battle. Although this victory was not a major strategic win in the overall war against the French, the success of the troops at Puebla became a symbol of Mexican resistance to foreign domination. The war would eventually end almost six years later, with support of the United States military and political pressure.

In the United States today, festivities are most prominent in areas with a large Mexican-American population, and, in Mexico, celebrations occur most heavily in the Puebla region. The occasion is marked with parades, mariachi bands, Mexican folk dancing, and, of course, traditional Mexican food and drink in celebration of Mexican culture and heritage. Traditional foods include Mole Poblano, Chalupas, and Chiles en Nogada. Revelers may sip on sangria, margaritas, and Mexican beer, aka cerveza.

While Wilmington festivities will remain tame compared to celebrations in other cities, local restaurants are gearing up for the holiday with food and drink specials to mark the occasion. One local favorite, El Cerro Grande, promises an “epic fiesta” at each of their three locations. Many chain restaurants are also marking the occasion: Taco Bell® will reportedly be giving out free breakfast food, while Moe’s Southwest Grill® will be giving away t-shirts. Restaurant-goers are sure to see specials aplenty on margaritas, tequila, and cervezas; sombreros may or may not be optional.

With alcohol such a big part of many people’s Cinco de Mayo festivities, it’s no surprise that drunk driving is especially high on “Cinco de Mayo”.  At Collins Law Firm, we have over 20 years experience handling DWI/DUI’s and other criminal and traffic matters. If you or someone you know is charged with a crime or gets hurt during the celebration, please call our office at (910) 793-9000 for your confidential consultation.

By Rebekka Sekeres, Legal Assistant at Collins Law Firm

This weekend, April 8-12, 2015, is the 68th Annual North Carolina Azalea Festival in Wilmington, NC, New Hanover County. The Festival is an annual celebration of Wilmington’s gardens and culture.  The festival covers five days of entertainment which includes: a parade, street fair, circus, concerts, pageantry, and all that is Southern. Beginning in 1948, the Festival has blossomed into an extended weekend celebration that attracts more than 250,000 people annually to the region including and surrounding New Hanover County, NC.

This year the festival includes a concert by Nelly! Since entering the spotlight in 2000 with his hit album, County Grammar, Nelly has left an enormous mark on the music industry as a multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning rap superstar, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and actor. He has been the recipient of multiple American Music Awards, a Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Award, Soul Train Music Awards, and MTV Video Music Awards. In 2009, he took on a recurring role in CSI: NY, and has more recently joined the cast of the BET sitcom The Real Husbands of Hollywood. His philanthropic work includes the launch of the Jes Us 4 Jackie Foundation in 2003, which aimed to educate and spread awareness about the need for bone marrow and stem cell transplant donations. His foundation was co-launched by his sister, Jackie Donahue, who sadly passed away from leukemia in 2005. Nelly continues to use his influence to spread awareness about bone marrow and stem cell transplant donations, and has been credited with hosting the largest African American bone marrow drive to date. Nelly takes the Miller Lite Main Stage at 7:00 pm on Friday, April 10^th.

While the Azalea Festival is a fun family friendly event, drinking alcohol is part of many of the events, and in the revelry many people will be charged with alcohol related crimes including open container, driving while impaired  or driving under the influence (DWI/DUI), fake i.d. or counterfeit identification, underage drinking, and aiding and abetting these and other crimes. Following 2011’s Azalea Festival, it was reported that the Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE) cited or arrested 216 people over the course of the festival’s weekend. In total, their agents filed 308 charges, including 107 charges of underage possession of alcohol, 15 charges of using a fake ID, and 15 charges of possession of marijuana. Two businesses were cited for alcohol incidents in which minors were involved. Then, in 2012, Highway patrol, with the assistance of various checkpoints in and around Wilmington, made over 100 DWI arrests during Azalea Festival Weekend.

This year’s festival will also feature a heavy presence of law enforcement officials. The City of Wilmington has agreed to provide a minimum of 35 officers and 50 police vehicles, while the New Hanover County Sherriff’s Office will have about 60 officers present throughout the course of the festival week. Some of the officers and deputies will walk through the event undercover, mostly as part of the vice and narcotics units. It is almost a certainty that Highway Patrol will also be hard at work this weekend, quite possibly with the help of their “Booze It & Lose It” Bus. This special DWI command features multiple breathalyzers and an on-board magistrate, which is ideal for citing violators at the scene.

If you are charged with any type traffic charge or crime in our area, call Collins Law Firm at 910-793-9000 for a confidential consultation about what we can do for you. In many cases, we are able to negotiate with the charging officer and the district attorney’s office to have the charges reduced, or even dismissed.  Sometimes, volunteer service can be completed as part of the agreement, and can be served on the beach picking up trash, and helping keep our beautiful beaches clean, including Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Topsail Beach, Wilmington Beach, and Kure Beach.

By Rebekka Sekeres, Legal Assistant at Collins Law Firm