People sometimes fail to treat slip-and-fall situations as the serious matters that they can be. It is quite common for those who hear of slip-and-falls to assume that the person didn’t sustain any major injuries. Those who fall in public locations often feel so embarrassed that they don’t properly evaluate themselves for injury symptoms.

While it is true that most slip-and-falls at businesses result in a little more than bruises or minor lacerations, people can also sustain major injuries in a same-level fall. Provided that the incident occurred because of a business’s negligence, it might be possible to seek financial compensation through a premises liability lawsuit. The following kinds of expensive injuries commonly occur as a result of slip-and-fall situations.

Traumatic brain injuries

The worst possible injury in a slip-and-fall case is a traumatic brain injury. People can hit their heads on the floor or on any objects nearby when they suddenly lose their balance. They may develop a permanent brain injury as a result of that blunt force trauma.

A brain injury could cause a variety of different concerning symptoms, ranging from memory issues and changes in personality to motor function challenges. People sometimes have to leave their careers and may require hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical care costs because they hit their heads when they fall.

Broken bones

People often try to stop a fall when they lose their balance. The attempt to grab onto something or brace for impact can lead to fractures. Broken bones can be expensive because they require medical care. Significant fractures might lead to surgery.

Those in blue-collar or service professions may also miss out on weeks of work while they recover from the injury. Fractures can be incredibly expensive, and the worst fractures can cause lingering symptoms that affect people indefinitely.

People may also develop soft tissue injuries because they overexert themselves when they try to prevent a fall. If there are sharp or dangerous objects nearby, a fall might lead to severe lacerations and infection risk.

Those who report a slip-and-fall after it occurs can protect their right to pursue compensation if they end up incurring significant costs. Realizing that a slip-and-fall can affect finances may motivate people to report injurious incidents and see a doctor afterward.

Posted in Personal Injury | No Comments »

A tire blowout is a scary thing that can happen to anyone at any time. It is a sudden event that can leave you shaken, injured and unsure of what to do next.

Knowing how to respond can make all the difference in protecting your safety and future. This short blog outlines three steps to take if your tire blows out to help you get through the road ahead.

Surviving a tire blowout: What drivers should know

If a tire blows out while driving, you’ll feel your vehicle slow down and pull to one side. The key to staying safe and unharmed is to remain calm and follow the three steps below:

1. Do not brake:  To get through a tire blowout, hold the steering wheel firmly and avoid slamming on the brakes. This mistake may cause you to lose control of the vehicle, making the situation even more dangerous.
2. Slow down:  Release the gas pedal to let your car slow down before stopping. This way, you can maintain control of the vehicle and avoid further accidents.
3. Pull over:  Once you have reached a safe speed, pull over to the side of the road and activate your car’s emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your situation.

If you experience a tire blowout, wait to exit your vehicle until you’re sure you’re in a safe location, away from busy traffic and other potential hazards. If it’s safe to do so, use reflective cones or triangles to alert other drivers to the situation.

If you’re not comfortable changing the tire yourself or if it’s not safe to do so where you are, don’t hesitate to call for roadside assistance. Remember, keeping a calm head will help you avoid additional risks and get back on the road safely and efficiently.

Staying safe on the road

Following these critical steps after a tire blowout can significantly reduce your risk of further injury or harm. It’s crucial to recognize that roadway safety is a paramount concern – and being ready to respond effectively in emergencies is vital to regaining control and getting back on the road.

By being proactive and taking precautions, you may minimize the fallout from a tire blowout and resume your daily routine with confidence and peace of mind. Stay safe and stay informed.

Posted in Auto Accidents | No Comments »

Driving while drowsy poses a significant risk to your safety and the safety of others on the road. You might think you can power through fatigue, but your body may have other plans.

Microsleeps can strike without warning and lead to devastating consequences. Understanding this phenomenon and learning how to prevent it could save lives, including your own.

What is a microsleep?

A microsleep is a brief, unintended period of sleep that can last from a fraction of a second to about 30 seconds. During this time, you may experience:

• Short loss of consciousness
• Momentary loss of attention
• Blank stare or prolonged blinking
• Head nodding or drooping
• Suddenly jerking awake

These episodes often occur when you are sleep-deprived or perform monotonous tasks, like driving on the long, straight highways of California. The danger lies in their unpredictability and the fact that you may not even realize they’re happening.

Can you stop it from happening?

Microsleeps can be deadly. To reduce your risk of experiencing microsleeps behind the wheel, consider these strategies:

• Get adequate sleep before long drives
• Take regular breaks every two hours or 100 miles
• Avoid driving during your usual sleep hours
• Consume caffeine in moderation
• Travel with companions who can substitute behind the wheel

Remember, while these tips can help, the most effective way to prevent microsleeps is to prioritize rest and avoid driving when you’re feeling drowsy.

Microsleeps pose a serious threat to road safety that may go unrecognized. By understanding the causes and taking proactive steps to prevent risks, you can prevent the dangers of drowsy driving.

Posted in Firm News | No Comments »

Landlords must ensure their properties remain safe and habitable. When they fail to do so, tenants and visitors can suffer injuries that can make the landlord liable.

Here are common types of injuries in apartments that could potentially lead to landlord liability:

Slip and fall accidents

These are the most common apartment accidents that lead to tenant injuries. They can occur due to wet floors, poor lighting, torn carpeting or uneven flooring. Landlords are responsible for maintaining common areas and ensuring the property is free from hazards that could cause such accidents.

Exposure to toxic molds

If a landlord neglects water leaks or dampness, causing toxic mold growth, they can be liable for any health problems that the mold exposure causes.

Structural collapses

Injuries resulting from collapsing decks, ceilings, stairs or other structural elements can lead to landlord liability if the collapse was due to poor maintenance or neglect of the property.

Lead paint poisoning

In older buildings, peeling or chipped lead paint can pose a serious health hazard, particularly to children. Landlords often need to disclose the presence of lead paint and address any related hazards on their properties.

Inadequate security

If a landlord fails to provide adequate security measures, like locks, lighting, security cameras or personnel, and a tenant is injured by an intruder, the landlord might be liable if evidence shows that the lack of security contributed to the injury.

It’s advisable for tenants to report maintenance issues as soon as they arise and to seek legal advice if injured due to the landlord’s negligence. A legal professional can offer guidance on tenant rights and options. This can involve pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other damages.

Posted in Personal Injury | No Comments »

Car accidents can happen to anyone, anytime. Knowing how to react in the aftermath can significantly protect your rights and ensure a smoother claims process.

Below are essential steps and pitfalls to avoid after a collision.

Essential steps you may take after a car accident

Immediately following a car accident, you may follow the steps below to ensure safety:

• Prioritize safety

Your first concern should be safety. It would be best to move your vehicle to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone requires medical attention.

• Document the scene

Use your smartphone to capture photos of the accident scene. You should also capture photos of vehicle damage. It would also be best to take photos of any visible injuries. This evidence can prove invaluable later when dealing with insurance companies or potential legal proceedings.

• Exchange information

Collect essential details from everyone involved in the accident. Remember to include names, phone numbers, addresses and insurance policy numbers.

• Get medical treatment

Even if you do not feel like you have an injury, it is best to get a medical assessment. Some injuries may not be apparent immediately, and a doctor’s report can be necessary documentation for your claim.

Getting medical aid and ensuring safety should be everyone’s priority immediately after the accident.

Actions you should avoid after an accident

The following are the steps you should generally avoid following a car accident:

• Admitting fault It may be best to avoid apologizing or accepting blame at the accident scene. They may use your words against you later, even if you were not at fault.
• Neglecting to report the accident

It is wise to always report the accident to the police and your insurance company, regardless of its severity. Failing to do so could complicate your claim or even void your insurance coverage.

• Settling too quickly

It may be beneficial to consider not accepting the first settlement offer from an insurance company. These initial offers may undervalue your claim. You may want to consult an attorney to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Handling the aftermath of a car accident may come with complications. It is crucial to know what to do and what to avoid doing immediately after. Your actions in the immediate aftermath of an accident can significantly impact the outcome of any potential claims or legal proceedings.

Posted in Auto Accidents | No Comments »

Public transportation is a convenient way to get to work, school and other locations. However, accidents can happen, and when they do, commuters need to know their legal rights.

Whether you are a regular or an occasional commuter, how can you protect yourself against the dangers of public transportation? In addition, what steps should you take if you get injured?

Common risks associated with public transportation

While public transportation in California is cost-effective and eco-friendly, it also presents certain risks. Among the common risks are:

• Sudden stops or starts: These can cause passengers to fall or get thrown from their seats, which can result in injuries.
• Slippery surfaces: Wet or slippery floors can lead to slips and falls, especially when entering or exiting the vehicle.
• Inadequate maintenance: Poorly maintained vehicles can break down or malfunction, which may cause accidents.
• Assaults and crimes: Commuters may be victims of theft, assault or other crimes while using public transportation.

In California, the law protects commuters who suffer injuries due to the negligence of public transportation operators. Public transportation providers, who owe a high duty of care to passengers, must take reasonable steps to ensure passenger safety.

Steps to take after suffering a public transport injury

Meanwhile, a commuter who suffers an injury while using public transportation must seek medical attention promptly. They should also report the incident to the transportation operator and gather evidence, if possible.

Further, filing for a personal injury claim has a deadline. In California, the statute of limitations is a two-year period from the date of the injury. However, the deadline is typically within six months when filing a claim against government entities like public transportation providers.

Protecting your rights and aiming for fair compensation

Knowing the risks of public transportation and the rights of injured commuters is crucial for everyone’s safety and well-being. In case of an injury, seeking an advocate may guide you through the complex legal process and help you protect your rights as you aim to receive fair compensation.

Posted in Auto Accidents, Personal Injury | No Comments »

Encountering an accident with an 18-wheeler truck is one of the most intimidating experiences possible on the road. Due to the size disparity between a passenger vehicle and a commercial truck, the injuries that those in a smaller vehicle may sustain in such an accident can be devasting.

In the aftermath of a collision like this, you may wonder whether to sue the driver or the trucking company they work for. Who will be held responsible for your lost wages, vehicle damage and medical expenses hinges on the unique circumstances of the accident as well as the driver’s employment status.

Truck driver negligence

You may sue the truck driver if their negligence directly led to the accident that damaged your vehicle and caused your injuries. For example, if the truck driver was eating behind the wheel, making a phone call or texting at the time of the accident, you can hold them responsible for damages you sustained from the accident.

The truck driver is also responsible for the accident if their impairment slows down their reaction time, resulting in the accident. A driver’s judgment can be impaired by fatigue or from using drugs or alcohol while they’re behind the wheel.

Speeding is another cause of trucking accidents because commercial vehicles have a long stopping distance. If the truck driver caused the accident because they were exceeding the stipulated speed limit at the time of the accident, you can hold them responsible for your damages. The same goes for reckless driving behavior like:

·       Tailgating

·       Recklessly changing lanes

·       Disobeying traffic signals

When you sue a truck driver following an accident, their personal insurance coverage should compensate you for your damages.

Trucking company liability

The trucking company where the truck driver is an employee can also be responsible for your injuries if they neglect routine vehicle maintenance. Suppose the vehicle’s mechanical failure is what resulted in the accident; the company should reimburse you for your out-of-pocket expenses.

You can also sue the trucking company if they incentivize their drivers to violate Hours of Service regulations. This may be applicable if the trucking accident happened because the truck driver was dozing off at the wheel. After all, they had exceeded the recommended working hours with the company’s go-ahead.

Determining who to sue for your injuries following a truck accident requires careful consideration of the specific circumstances of your case. Consulting with a knowledgeable legal team can help you establish liability and help ensure that you pursue the appropriate party for maximum compensation.

Posted in Truck and Semi-Truck Accidents | No Comments »

With summer in full swing, it’s the perfect time to hit the park and the outdoors with your kids. But what happens if a playful day takes a turn, and your child gets bitten by a dog? Here are some quick steps in navigating this stressful situation. 

Prioritize medical attention 

The most crucial step is ensuring your child’s well-being. Assess the bite’s severity. For minor scratches, clean the wound with soap and water for 5 minutes. For serious bites, especially on the face or neck, call 911 immediately. Seek medical attention regardless of severity. The doctor will clean the wound, check for infection and administer necessary medications like rabies shots or a tetanus booster. 

Gather information 

While attending to your child, try to gather details about the incident. Get the dog owner’s name, contact information and address if possible. Note the dog’s breed and any visible tags. Ask witnesses for their names and contact details. This information will be crucial for reporting and potential legal actions. 

Report the bite 

California law mandates reporting dog bites. Contact your local animal control department. They will investigate the incident, determine if the dog is up to date on vaccinations and potentially quarantine the animal. Reporting also helps track aggressive dogs and prevent future incidents. 

Document everything 

If possible, take pictures of the bite wound before treatment. Also, if it is safe to do so, take photos of the surrounding area and the dog. Keep copies of medical bills, police reports and any communication with the dog owner.  

Consider legal options 

Dog bite victims in California have a compelling case, especially if the bite was unprovoked. Dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets. Consulting a personal injury professional can help you understand your legal rights and navigate the process of seeking compensation for medical bills, emotional distress and other damages. 

While it can understandably be a nerve-wracking situation, staying calm and taking these steps can help you later if you decide to seek legal action. 

Posted in Animal Bite Law | No Comments »

California has some of the busiest freeways in the nation. Stalling out amid fast and busy traffic can be unnerving, but it’s crucial to keep your cool as soon as your engine seems like giving up. Your response in these moments is critical to ensure your safety and that of your fellow drivers.

Immediate steps for safety

A vehicle suddenly stopping on the highway can be dangerous. If you are in this situation, remain calm and consider taking these steps:

1. Activate hazard lights: A malfunctioning engine can make it difficult to push the brake pedal and steer the wheel. As soon as you sense trouble, turn on your emergency hazard lights to alert other drivers and prompt them to steer clear.
2. Move your vehicle to safety: If possible, steer your vehicle towards the side of the road, particularly the right shoulder, where you will have more room away from traffic.
3. Remain inside your vehicle: If moving the car isn’t an option, it is better to stay put. Inside your car, you’re shielded in ways you wouldn’t be on foot, as drivers do not expect to see pedestrians on the highway.
4. Call for assistance: Without delay, contact emergency services or roadside assistance. They’re equipped to manage such incidents and can provide the necessary support.

Who’s responsible if there’s an accident?

Unfortunately, stalled cars can increase the risk of accidents, particularly on highways. Even with precautions, other motorists may still collide with your vehicle.

If an accident occurs due to your stalled vehicle, figuring out who is responsible can be complex. In a situation involving a stopped car, there may be multiple parties to blame.

You may be liable for not adequately maintaining your car, while the other driver could also be seen as negligent. Fortunately, California abides by the pure comparative negligence rule, which allows you to recover damages even if you are partly at fault.

A personal injury attorney may provide valuable guidance in these situations. They can help explain your rights and assess your eligibility for compensation, offering guidance from the moment of the incident.

Posted in Auto Accidents | No Comments »

People who are driving around need to be able to focus on the road. Other things around them, such as children in their vehicle or a cellphone can’t take precedence while that vehicle is in motion.

Understanding distractions may make it easier for drivers to avoid these behaviors. Additionally, it may help victims of distracted driving crashes as they try to put together their case.

Types of distractions

There are three types of distractions that can negatively impact how safely a driver operates their vehicle.

• Cognitive distractions: These affect a person’s ability to think about what they need to do while they’re driving.
• Manual distractions: These force the driver to take their hands off the steering wheel to do something else.
• Visual distractions: These require the driver to take their eyes off the road while they look at something else.

Some distractions encompass only one of these, but others include more than one. Regardless of how many types of distractions are present, all distracted driving can lead to crashes that cause serious injuries or even death to innocent victims.

Length of distraction

The length of the distraction the driver faces is often a factor in these cases, but even short distractions can be catastrophic. If a vehicle is moving 55 miles per hour, it moves the length of a football field in just five seconds. That length of roadway without a driver being in control of what’s going on with the vehicle is enough for a serious crash to occur.

Victims of distracted driving crashes should ensure they get appropriate medical care. This can be costly and may be necessary long term. These victims may opt to pursue a compensation claim that names the distracted driver as the defendant. Because these cases can be so complex, it’s a good idea to have a legal representative to help tie everything together and get the case filed prior to the expiration of the statute of limitations.

Posted in Auto Accidents | No Comments »