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22 Apr, 2024
Understanding Compensation and Liability in California Car Accidents
29 Feb, 2024
Riding motorcycles can be an exhilarating experience, but unfortunately, accidents can happen. If you're a California resident who has been involved in a motorcycle accident, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. In times like these, it's crucial to seek the help of a professional who understands the complexities of motorcycle accident cases. That's where a motorcycle accident attorney comes in. In this blog post, we'll discuss why you need a motorcycle accident attorney in California and how they can help you navigate the legal process.  Expertise and Experience: Motorcycle accident attorneys specialize in handling cases involving motorcycle accidents. They understand the unique challenges and complexities that come with these types of cases, such as determining liability and negotiating with insurance companies. By hiring a motorcycle accident attorney, you are tapping into their expertise and experience to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Following a motorcycle accident, it's essential to gather evidence to support your case. A motorcycle accident attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, gather evidence such as police reports and witness statements, and work with experts to reconstruct the scene of the accident if necessary. This attention to detail is crucial in building a strong case on your behalf. Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be daunting, especially when you're recovering from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. A motorcycle accident attorney will handle all communication with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Court Representation: In some cases, negotiations with insurance companies may not lead to a fair settlement offer. In these situations, having a skilled litigator on your side is essential. A motorcycle accident attorney will represent you in court if necessary, presenting your case before a judge or jury and fighting for the compensation you deserve. Peace of Mind: Perhaps most importantly, hiring a motorcycle accident attorney provides peace of mind during what can be an incredibly stressful time in your life. Knowing that you have an experienced professional advocating for your best interests allows you to focus on your recovery without worrying about navigating complex legal processes on your own. If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident in California, don't hesitate to seek the assistance of a qualified motorcycle accident attorney. With their expertise and experience, they will guide you through the legal process, advocate for your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Remember that time is of the essence following an accident - contact a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your case is handled properly from the start.
01 Feb, 2024
Premise liability cases represent a significant sector of personal injury law, particularly in the bustling streets and properties across California. Residents of The Golden State, or more specifically, California residents, may find themselves victims of injuries due to a property owner's negligence. Knowing the common types of injuries in such cases and the role an attorney can play is pivotal in seeking justice and compensation.  Navigating the sidewalks, visiting businesses, or simply enjoying the amenities of a public space in California should not come with a risk of injury. Yet, accidents happen, and when they do, understanding the intricacies of premise liability law is crucial. Whether you are a California resident or a visitor, being aware of the common injuries that occur in premise liability cases can guide your steps following an unfortunate incident. This blog post will explore the various injuries often seen in premise liability cases and shed light on how an attorney can assist victims in these situations. Common Injuries in Premise Liability Cases Premise liability injuries can range from minor bruises to catastrophic harm. The following are several injuries that commonly result from premise liability incidents: Slips, Trips, and Falls: Poorly maintained floors or walkways can lead to injuries such as fractures, sprains, concussions, or even spinal damage. Swimming Pool Accidents: Inadequate safety measures around pools can cause drowning or near-drowning incidents, which may result in brain injuries or other severe outcomes. Dog Bites and Animal Attacks: When animals are not properly restrained on someone’s premises, bites and attacks can occur, leading to lacerations, infections, and psychological trauma. Inadequate Security Injuries: Assaults or robberies due to a lack of appropriate security measures can leave individuals with physical and emotional scars. Exposure to Toxic Substances: Contact with hazardous chemicals due to a property owner’s negligence can result in burns, respiratory issues, or long-term health problems. How Can an Attorney Help? After sustaining any of these injuries, it may seem overwhelming to tackle the legal aftermath alone. Here's where a proficient attorney comes into play: Legal Knowledge and Guidance: An experienced attorney will be familiar with California's legal standards for premise liability and can offer advice tailored to the specifics of your case. Investigation and Evidence Collection: Attorneys have the resources to conduct thorough investigations to prove negligence, including gathering surveillance footage, witness statements, and maintenance records. Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Skilled in negotiation, attorneys can communicate with insurers on your behalf to ensure you are not undervalued or denied rightful compensation. Representation in Court: Should your case go to trial, a seasoned lawyer can vigorously represent you, presenting a compelling case before a judge or jury. Injuries sustained from premise liability cases can have long-lasting effects on your health, livelihood, and wellbeing. As a California resident, understanding the common types of injuries and how a premises liability attorney can aid in your recovery process is essential. Taking legal action with a knowledgeable attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. If you find yourself in such unfortunate circumstances, remember that you do not have to face the journey to recovery alone. Navigating premise liability law can be complex, but with the right legal partner, you can confidently address your injuries and advocate for fair treatment under the law. Remember: your safety is paramount, and holding responsible parties accountable is a right that aids in maintaining a safer environment for all California residents. If you've been injured on someone else’s property and require legal assistance, reach out to a trusted attorney today. Your path to justice and healing is a phone call away.
21 Dec, 2023
As a Californian, you might already be aware of the increasing number of bicycle accidents in the state. With cycling on the rise for leisure, exercise, and commuting, bicycle accidents have become a common occurrence on California roads. Unfortunately, these accidents often result in serious injuries and fatalities for cyclists. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, it is important to understand your legal rights in California.  1. Bicycle Accident Laws in California: California has specific laws that safeguard cyclists on the road. Under California Vehicle Code Section 21200, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles. This means that they are entitled to use the roadway and are required to follow traffic laws. Drivers of motor vehicles are also required to give bicyclists at least three feet of space when passing. 2. Negligence and Liability: In California, if a driver of a motor vehicle is found to be negligent in causing a bicycle accident, they may be liable for the damages suffered by the cyclist. This includes medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Negligence can include speeding, distracted driving, failure to yield, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 3. Statute of Limitations: It is important to note that there is a statute of limitations on bringing a claim for a bicycle accident. In California, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you do not file within this timeframe, you may lose your right to seek compensation. 4. Contributory Negligence: It is also important to note that under California law, if a cyclist is found to be partially at fault for the accident, their compensation may be reduced. For example, if a cyclist was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, their compensation may be reduced even if the driver of the motor vehicle was at fault. 5. Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney: If you have been involved in a bicycle accident in California, it is important to seek the help of a personal injury attorney. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. They can also assist you in communicating with insurance companies and gathering evidence to support your claim. As a cyclist, it is important to know your legal rights and what to do in the event of a bicycle accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, it is important to seek the help of an experienced personal injury attorney in California. They can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. By understanding your legal rights and taking action, we can work together to make California roads safer for all cyclists.
14 Nov, 2023
One thing to be aware of if you have been in an accident and plan to file a personal injury claim are the limitations on claims in the state of California. Having this knowledge of California law can help you make the most informed decision when going through this process. Unfortunately, if you are not aware of certain personal injury law, not following certain guidelines can sometimes hurt your personal injury case. The statute of limitations is the time frame that one has to take legal action. California Code of Civil Procedure calls for a personal injury victim to file their claim within a two-year time frame. The is a “discovery of harm rule” that allows more leeway with this time frame as the victim may not have known they sustained the injuries due right away. It is sometime difficult to understand the extent of injuries immediately. The two-year time from mentioned previously starts once this injury or new development is discovered.  California also has regulations on the maximum compensation victims can receive for the injuries. This can sometimes help determine whether personal injury legal assistance is worth the cost. It could also impact a personal injury attorney’s decision to take on a case. Victims are generally not capped on economic damage compensation typically including medical expenses, medication, rehabilitation treatment, and additionally extending to loss of wages as well as disability income. There is however a cap on what California seems non-economic damages like pain and suffering, mental health related side effects, or inconvenience. Awards can be anywhere from $30,000-$150,000.
14 Nov, 2023
Ride sharing has quickly become one of the most popular forms of transportation across the country. With the high rate of car accidents that already take place, this can mean that with more ride share cars on the road, the probability of an accident occurring can increase. Often time more traffic leads to an increased amount of accidents. It is important to assess thee factors as these companies rise in popularity, as they are not regulated or held to the same safety standard across the board.  Are riders protected in the case of an accident? Absolutely, ride share drivers are obligated to carry a million dollars in liability insurance in the case of an accident while they are on a trip. Ride share companies for the most part are good at taking care of customers in the case of an accident. What this means is that if you are injured in an accident while using ride share services you may be entitled to compensation for any losses sustained. It is important to have representation that has this knowledge and can fight to successfully get a you the proper compensation from your claim.
14 Nov, 2023
With the weather beginning to heat up this summer, motorcycle riders will want to fire up their bikes and hit the road. California is known for its temperate climate and has one of the nation’s highest number of motorcyclists on the road around the year. Due to the crazy traffic Californians regularly experience, roads are not as motorcycle friendly as they once previously were thought to be. Congested freeways and heavily populated streets around the clock have contributed to the rise in serious motorcycle collisions. Though motorcyclists wear protective gear, they are still overly exposed in the case of a collision, especially when that collision is with another vehicle.  The most common cause of motorcycle collisions is drivers’ negligence. Those on motorcycles have low visibility to drivers and the wrong move or lane change can have serious consequences. With traffic adding a massive amount of cars and vehicles on the road, motorcyclists need to be increasing careful to stay out of harm’s way. Most injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents are life threatening. They range from broken bones, brain and spinal cord damage, paralysis, and even more. This calls for drivers and motorcyclist to practice a high level of caution out there this summer so everyone can stay safe. Motorcycle riding can be fun and safe with the proper preparation and attention. If in the unfortunate case you do find yourself in a motorcycle accident, Free Injury Services can work to connect you to legal assistance and representation that can help you fight for your claim.
14 Nov, 2023
Statistics show that one cyclist is killed every month in an accident with a motor vehicle in Orange County. A rise in these numbers are due to bicycling becoming a more popular way of commuting for a few different reasons like environmental purposes, health benefits, and congested city traffic. In addition there has been a push in many place to encourage the use of bikes, with bike lanes on popular streets, bike trails, and bike storage in business offices and public buildings. With the summer months already here, we may see more people taking the streets on bikes for recreation and leisure or as a means of transportation.  Cyclists are more vulnerable on the road as they are exposed more than someone in a motor vehicle is. With the growing rate of accidents involving bicycles and motor vehicles, both driver and cyclist need be more aware on the road. Being more cautious when approaching intersections and when lane changing will help prevent accidents from happening. If you or someone you know have been injured in a bicycle accident, they may have a claim. The use of legal representation in these cases is the best way to get information so that you can receive the best possible assistance based on your circumstances. Reach out to Free Injury Services and let us connect you with the proper representation.
14 Nov, 2023
Consumer Reports stated that there were 1545 electric scooter accidents in the past year in the US. With the sudden emergence and wide reach of these devices around the country it has been hard for cities to find concrete regulations for the use and safety of this new form of recreation and transportation. While total crashes can be found, there still is very little information on specific regarding scooter crashes or the extent of injuries sustained in these instances. With this missing data, it can be assumed that accident and injury rates can be even higher than reported.  This same consumer report confirmed at least 4 electric scooter related fatalities in the past year as well. Some common causes of electric scooter related injuries are children riding them, riding on sidewalks, scooters being left abandoned in the middle of the path or walk way or even left in front of business entrances. These scooters are not only putting riders at risks, but pedestrians and motorists as well. There are many different factors that can contribute to a crash on an electric scooter and in some cases accidents are just waiting to happen. If you have been involved in an accident involving an electric scooter you may be entitle to compensation. Reach out to Free Injury Services to get more information about how you can work to find legal representation with your injury claim.
14 Nov, 2023
Many people regularly enjoy going to shopping centers but even in the safest of conditions, personal injury can still occur. It is perceived that parking lots are safer spaces then being on roads or highways with fast moving traffic, but this perception would not be accurate. There is data out there that suggests that a high number of individuals are struck by automobiles in parking lots each year. Grocery stores, shopping malls, parking structures, and school parking lots are all common spaces for pedestrian accidents and personal injury to occur. One may think that because drivers generally travel at a relatively low speed in parking lots, these injuries may not be serious, but on the contrary, a lot of these accidents result in life threatening injuries. There are also many cases where a driver is using a high rate of speed unnecessarily in a parking lot, which can create potentially worse injuries. Some common injuries sustain in parking lots are fractures to lower body extremities, brain and facial injuries from the impact of a head blow, and even spinal cord fractures and nerve damage. Each one of these are serious cases and examples of major personal injury. Additionally with the increase in larger sized vehicles, this has an effect on the frequency of drivers having decreased visibility due to blind spots on large truck and SUV’s. This can cause issues when backing out of a parking space while a pedestrian is in the path of the vehicle. You should use high caution in parking lots and do not assume that you are in the eyesight of the driver. If you happen to be involved in an accident as a pedestrian, allow Free Injury Services connect you with a legal professional who can get you some assistance with an injury claim.
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