Coast Guard Hits Boat, Boy Dies in Parade

An eight-year-old boy died while five others were injured after a 33-foot Coast Guard vessel hit the boy’s family pleasure boat while they were watching fireworks for a holiday event near Harbor Island.

Anthony Cole DeWeese died an hour after the horrific boat accident at the UCSD Medical Center.

Reports indicate that no one went overboard but three adults suffered serious injuries while two kids, aged 3 and 4, sustained minor injuries.

The boy’s father, and also the boat captain, said that he saw the speeding vessel approaching at 30-40 knots but they had insufficient time to react and get out of the way. Witnesses say that the boy’s father kept on asking rescue personnel about his son as he docked the boat.

The coast guard vessel was said to be responding to an emergency call by a grounded boat when they hit the 26-foot family boat where around 13 people were on board to witness the boat parade.

Accidents involving motor boats are likely to be fatal because with the power that the two vessels have, major collisions can almost always be expected.

Driver Faces Trial for Car Collision

The next thing to do when a case is filed against a driver is to prove his negligence in court. Testimonial evidence is one way of indicting a negligent driver. Witnesses account may be used to prove whether the driver has been negligent or not.

In a misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter charges against Donald Lee Bell, the daughter of Lettie Anderson who died in the crash testified that Bell attempted to turn left when it hit head-on an SUV in which Anderson was a passenger.

On the other hand, other witnesses including a truck driver hit by the SUV after the impact corroborated Bell’s allegations that he was driving “straight through the intersection at the time of the collision and never activated his turn signal.” A witness further added that he saw the SUV veered into Bell’s lane.

If convicted, Bell could face up to one year in jail. Bell’s attorney, Denny Forland wanted to call a reconstruction expert to rebut a CHP finding that Bell was at fault for violating the right of way.

In car accidents, witness play a vital role in determining whether the driver is at fault or not. To resist claims against the defendant, an experience personal injury attorney must be hired. Otherwise, the convicted driver may face jail sentence in addition to compensation claims.

Truck Driver, Companion, Victims of Latest Hit-and-Run

A truck driver in Ontario was killed while another was injured while they were chaining up their truck in preparation for an icy road ahead.

The other driver, identified as Francisco Lecaro of Perris of California hit the men while they were on a freeway in Eastern Oregon. Lecaro tried to escape as he fled from the scene but authorities later found him on a truck stop.

Hit-and-run accidents have serious legal implications on motorists who try to leave their injured victims behind. Under the law, they have legal responsibility to these individuals whether they caused the accident or not and so they must call for help immediately.

Danger on the Road

Vehicle accidents have devastating effects on all parties involved in it, especially the injured victims. It becomes even more dangerous when the gas tank is hit and damaged, which could trigger an explosion or the vehicle to burst into flames.

This happened exactly in San Diego, California where a man died and two other victims were injured when the vehicle ignited after another vehicle rammed its back. Investigators are still trying to determine the cause of the car accident.

Reckless driving often results to serious and fatal car accidents. Sometimes, accidents are caused by people who drive in excessive speeds to reach their destinations immediately. Others make stupid decisions by driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Car accidents can happen all the time. Safety is the key to avoid it. He should use his seatbelt when he is driving. He should drive slower when the road is wet or there is ice. He should also take note of potholes or road bumps.

Elderly Crashes into a Pole; in Critical Condition

The 80-year-old unidentified man who crashed a motor home onto a light pole remains to be in critical condition in a recent vehicular accident.

Power was said to be undisrupted and the pole need not to be replaced as caused by the said vehicle collision. But, the man who appeared to be coherent when rescuers found him, was immediately taken to UCI Medical Center where he will be treated for his injuries.

There were no other reported property damages and injuries in the said accident.

Elderly drivers need to undergo tests that will prove whether or not they are still fit to drive and handle themselves well on the road.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol is Unsafe Driving

People may find drinking alcohol as a good way to unwind but it is not good when they go behind the wheel afterwards. In Jamul, a car driven by an 18-year old hit a power pole and injured five other teenagers.

Report said the young man was driving his 1994 Infinity when he lost control of his car. Inevitable events like this may happen if the driver is reckless and tries to drive while he is intoxicated, since it is never safe to drive when drunk. A man’s capabilities of driving are not as good as when he is sober.

A drunk driver is not just putting his life at risk but also other people’s lives such as other passengers or pedestrians. Under the law, the BAC limit is not more than .08. Anything exceeding that is punishable by law.

There are other ways to avoid car accidents. Do not drive when distracted especially while using a cell phone to call or send messages. Do not drive when he is sleepy or exhausted. It is not safe when someone is under the influence of drugs.
Do not drive too fast because one may lose control of the vehicle. Do not beat the red light when crossing an intersection. Car accidents can be avoided when a driver is careful.

Driver Ran a Red Light, Dies in Collision

An accident in San Diego’s West Cedar Street that recently killed a 56-year-old man is believed to be caused by the driver’s fault as he reportedly ran a red light.

Reports say that the vehicular collision between the man’s vehicle and a truck caused minor injuries to the truck driver and fatal injuries to the negligent driver.

More and more accidents occur due to the carelessness of these motorists who are often hurt and end up in a bad condition after these road accidents caused by negligence.

So, victims of negligent drivers must immediately find personal injury lawyers who will see to it that the damages on their end will be compensated accordingly.

Driving Test Resulted to Accident, Instructor Injured

A 63-year-old DMV driving instructor sustained serious injuries after an unlicensed driver hit the passenger side of the vehicle he was sitting in.

The 57-year-old Richmond woman, Maria Adela Morales-Monterosa, was driving the vehicle that the instructor was riding in when she was broadsided by a Ford pick-up driven by an unlicensed driver from Santa Rosa.

Driving instructors are constantly in danger of car accidents as they ride vehicles driven by student drivers. But, in this case, the accident is said to be caused by another motorist.

The instructor, or his beneficiaries, may be eligible to recover compensatory damages for all the expenses and suffering that the accident inflicted upon them.

Teen Dies in Crash on Her Way to School

An 18-year-old California State University Los Angeles student Beth Amstone died on the scene of a single vehicular crash when she was ejected from her vehicle driven by her boyfriend, Deshawn Johnson, who was taking her to a bus stop to school.

Authorities are yet to rule out speeding as the cause of the accident but it appears that Johnson was not driving under the influence of alcohol when the accident happened.

It is possible that Amstone wasn’t wearing her seatbelt during the crash as she was ejected from her vehicle onto the pavement while her boyfriend only sustained minor injuries.

This tragedy should be a warning to all motorists to always wear their seatbelts whether travelling short or long distances as road accidents can happen to anyone at any given time.

Teen Dies in Crash on Her Way to School

An 18-year-old California State University Los Angeles student Beth Amstone died on the scene of a single vehicular crash when she was ejected from her vehicle driven by her boyfriend, Deshawn Johnson, who was taking her to a bus stop to school.
Authorities are yet to rule out speeding as the cause of the accident but it appears that Johnson was not driving under the influence of alcohol when the accident happened.
It is possible that Amstone wasn’t wearing her seatbelt during the crash as she was ejected from her vehicle onto the pavement while her boyfriend only sustained minor injuries.
This tragedy should be a warning to all motorists to always wear their seatbelts whether travelling short or long distances as road accidents can happen to anyone at any given time.

Alleged 4th Red signal Violation Sparks Memories of Chatsworth Train Accident

With last year’s Chatsworth train accident still fresh in people’s minds, Metrolink has given commuters another reason to keep them away from riding the train.

Or more specifically, to be scared of riding Metrolink trains.

Last Tuesday a commuter train engineer allegedly failed to stop at a red signal as another train approached.

Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident and both trains were able to stop hundred feet apart.

According to initial reports, the engineer realized the problem after he ran the red light and quickly declared emergency on the radio as required, and stopped the train before going through a switch and onto a section being used by an oncoming Metrolink train.

The train that passed the red light had passengers on board from Union Station.

Although there were no injuries, Metrolink board members have expressed exasperation and frustration about these basic safety violations.

If proven, this will be the fourth violation of the same nature since the Chatsworth tragedy.

That is four violations in just a little over a year.

One of the board members called the violation inexcusable and that these engineers may be weeded out if they do not do their job.

And we should all say rightfully so.

A train is a common carrier, thus the engineers are required to practice the highest level of care in ensuring the safety of their passengers.

If they cannot abide by the simple safety rule of stopping in a red signal, how are we to believe that their trains are safe?

As of now, the offending engineer was removed from service pending completion of the probe.

Gas Pedals redesigned for safer Toyota cars

After months of studies, Toyota has finally arrived at a solution to its defective car mats that caused the death of a CHP officer’s family back in August.

Toyota spokesperson Brian Lyons said that they modified the pedals making it ¾ of an inch shorter than the previous with more rounded edges. They would also replace the Styrofoam padding under the floor carpet of the Camry, Lexus and Avalon models. A system was also installed to cut the power in case of a sudden acceleration.

Lyons added that these remedies were arrived at after extensive testing of their cars and consultation with the federal transportation officials.

Lyons also clarified that there was no indication of faulty wiring in a recent incident involving Lexus ES 350.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 14 fatalities and eight injuries had been reported due to cases of sudden acceleration.

Injuries or deaths due to defective cars or car parts may be a subject of a product liability case. The filing of a personal injury case can help victims recover compensation claims.

Sparing other People's Lives from Vehicle Accident

Life does not go back to the same path wherein the word normal fits a person after he recovered from a truck accident. It is never easy to accept the consequences of an accident, especially when one’s life was taken away. No amount of surgeries or therapies can bring back what has been damaged or destroyed by an accident.

Severe injuries were what a young woman got from a semi trailer truck accident in California. Her body suffered serious injuries—fractured bones and severe cuts on her skin. She was riding her bike on the beach that time.

Who would have thought that a simple bicycle ride on the beach would lead next to a horrific accident like that? The truck driver was driving on the right side of the lane when it happened.

The damages she sustained from an accident had put her life on a halt. Her life, her work, her activities before now hang on a thread. And if she recovers fully from her injuries, not every single thing will revert back to normal.

Drivers should be more careful when driving because hitting someone is not what they would want to happen. Their actions will cause someone’s life to change drastically. As time passes by, the law becomes stricter and stricter to lessen accidents like this.

But it does not stop other drivers to become irresponsible with driving. They should know that for every action that they do, there are repercussions. Roads are not race tracks. Drivers should be aware of traffic rules and regulations.

They should not use their cell phones when driving. They should not drive when they have taken drugs or drank alcohol. When they are tired, they should rest or sleep and refrain from driving. Drivers should not treat the roads like race tracks thus over speeding should not be done.

Speeding, DUI Results to Three Injuries

A single car collision which was caused by DUI has injured three vehicle occupants in Montebello. One of them had major injuries as he was ejected from the vehicle.

The 33-year-old Whittier man identified as Lester Enrique Chupina was apprehended on charges of felony drunk driving.

Alcohol and speeding is a deadly combination as it can cause critical injuries to vehicle occupants. Drivers must never overestimate their driving skills and underestimate the dangers of alcohol.

Woman and Dog Injured after Hitting a Telephone Pole

A person’s negligence can lead to accidents that could result in self-inflicted harm or injury. Furthermore, the resulting injuries can hurt not only humans but animals, as well, such as one’s pet.

A woman and her dog were both hurt after a Toyota Camry she was driving crashed into a telephone pole in Orange.

Emergency crews removed the woman and her dog from the vehicle.

The dog was brought to a veterinarian to receive treatment for an injured leg while the woman was brought to a hospital.

Animal owners should also protect the lives of their pets, not just their own, while they are traveling with them. The number of accidents like this one may be reduced if only drivers will learn the importance of following traffic rules that are being implemented by the state.

Hit-and-Run Kills 84-Year-Old; Suspects Still Sought

Three men are now being sought by the San Francisco Police in connection with the recent hit-and-run accident that killed an 84-year-old man inside his vehicle.

The crash which took place shortly after midnight is also said to have damaged parked cars in the intersection.

Witnesses say they saw three men fleeing from their vehicle after the crash.

Causing an accident is a terrible thing but in this case, the men worsened their violation by fleeing the scene of the accident and failed to alert authorities of their situation.

Motorists should remember that they are obliged to leave their identity and insurance details with the other party in case they are to be involved in an accident.

Hit-and-run accidents will leave the victim’s family with no closure and burden of not knowing who committed the wrongdoing that took the life of their loved ones.

In case these suspects are apprehended, the family must immediately contact a personal injury lawyer and file wrongful death claims against the defendants.

Teen Injures another in Hit-and-Run Accident

People as young as 16-years-old are already allowed by the law to operate a vehicle. However, at their age, they are sometimes ignorant of what their negligent driving actions can do to others.

In Otay Mesa, a juvenile driving a SUV struck a 17-year-old boy, causing the victim to be trapped inside the vehicle. Police said the juvenile ran a red light and escaped after the accident.

The collision occurred at the intersection of Picador Boulevard and Beyer Way. Emergency crews needed to cut the victim out of the vehicle after the accident.
According to authorities, he suffered from a collapsed lung aside from other injuries. He was brought to a hospital by a helicopter.

After the accident, a witness followed the SUV and called the authorities. Two juveniles in the vehicle were detained.

The state should impose stricter rules concerning teen drivers so that the number of hit and run accidents involving them will be reduced. Parents are also responsible in teaching their children proper driving techniques and behavior.

Doting Father, Hit, Killed While Assisting Co-Worker

A man who died in a road accident turned out to be assisting his friend who was involved in an earlier accident and caused traffic.

Khai Lee, 42, got out and directed traffic when a 61-year-old woman skidded, hit, and sent him to the gutter. Lee died after sustaining serious injuries.

The accident resulted in Lee’s death. The tragic and fatal incident left behind seven children with no father to guide and support them through school.

If proven guilty, the woman who hit Lee will have to shoulder the compensatory damages which would include the lost wages that Lee is using to support his children’s studies.

Video Monitors in Metrolink Trains

Around 50 commuter trains will be installed with video cameras in order to avoid train accidents similar to what happened in September wherein 25 people were killed.

The cause of September’s crash was reported to be the use of cellular phone of the train’s engineer.

The cameras to be installed are expected to monitor the operators of the train so that accidents could be prevented.

This latest safety measure to be imposed by Metrolink’s management will surely be appreciated by commuters who put their lives on the hands of the operators each time they ride trains.

Families and victims of these catastrophic train collisions can file wrongful death suits or claims for compensatory damages against the train companies who are shouldered with heavier liability as they transport greater amount of commuters daily.

Dangerous Presence of Senior Drivers on the Roads

Driving may be a sensitive topic for seniors because their age sometimes affects their ability to drive. They are more likely to receive traffic tickets compared to young drivers. The two main reasons for this may be due to slower reflexes and poor eyesight.

Seniors who are unfit to drive must realize that accidents may happen and people may die if they insist on riding behind the wheel.

A 75-year-old woman was convicted of vehicular manslaughter and felony hit-and-run after running over and ending the life of an 89-year old pedestrian at the parking lot of a church in Placentia.

Ana Maria Torres, from Fullerton, was also convicted for giving wrong information to a police officer concerning the death of Jessie Pound. She is now facing a possible four-year term in jail.

Torres failed to see the victim while she was driving out of the parking space of St. Joseph’s church. As a result, she ran over the victim’s head and body as she was driving off, then left without rendering help.

The victim died because of severe injuries to her lungs and brain.

Accidents like this one may be avoided if the state would impose stricter driving qualifications for the elderly. People who were involved in an accident should also be brave to face the consequences of their actions or behavior if it happened due to their fault.

18-Year Old Injured after a Boat Collision with Father

A lot of boaters head for the open waters not even knowing the laws that needed to be followed to keep everyone safe.

That is probably what happened when an 18-year-old man got critically injured when his father’s 25-foot power boat crashed into his own 18-foot boat.

According to officials, the boat accident occurred after the father lost control during a boat race in Mission Bay.

After the collision, the smaller boat continued speeding out of control until it crashed onto Ski Beach.

The son was pulled from the wreckage by lifeguards and was found unconscious and bleeding.

The father and the two others aboard his boat were not harmed.

Although the San Diego Police Harbor unit is still investigating the boating accident, Lifeguard Lt. Andy Lerum stressed that a lot of boaters disregard boating regulations including speed laws.

According to California boating laws, the maximum speed for motorboats that are within 100 feet off the bather and within 200 feet off a bathing beach, diving platform or passenger and boat landings is 5 miles per hour.

When there is no speed limit posted, the law asks boaters to operate their boat in a manner that will not endanger other people.

Having a lookout is also recommended as the operator cannot see all hazards on the water.

The law also discourages high speed boat races especially in confined, congested and restricted areas.

This should teach the father some lessons, in fact, he should have known better in the first place.

Engaging your son in a boat race is already negligent on its own, but letting your young 18-year old son race on a boat alone without guidance is worse.

And when he lost control, the boats may have been in close proximity of each other for it to have crashed on the other.

Now he could only regret his actions and pray that his son makes a full recovery.

Motorist Rescued Underneath Semi-trailer

The impact which a speeding car makes is so powerful and hard that the car could be crashed into pieces if an accident happens.

If the metal components of a car are damaged and reduced in size, what more could happen to a delicate human body?

Miraculously, a motorist only suffered moderate injuries when his car smashed into the back of a semi-trailer in Otay Mesa and got stuck underneath it.

The man was extricated from the wreck through the joint efforts of San Diego and Chula Vista fire-rescue crews. He was taken by helicopter to the hospital.

The accident happened at Sanyo Avenue near Airway Road. The authorities were still investigating the cause of the accident.

In California, car accidents statistics marked a significant improvement. Traffic fatalities decreased by 13.6 percent. The reduction is attributed to its seat belt laws and its efforts against DUI.

But the authorities can only do so much. The public has to contribute and fill the remaining part to dramatically reduce the still high percentage of car accidents.

For the innocent victims of reckless driving, a personal injury case may be pursued against the negligent driver. The assistance of a car accident lawyer is advised in filing a claim.

Suspected DUI Driver Drags Woman

Despite knowing the legal repercussions of hit and run, many drivers still opt to run away from the authorities in case of car accidents. While escaping may afford them temporary freedom, drivers could face pile of charges when they get caught.

In San Marcos, a woman was seriously injured when she was hit by a suspected drunken driver, Leopoldo Morales. The victim with her husband was heading towards their car at a parking lot when a Saturn SL struck her then dragged her under the car.

The woman suffered internal injuries and injuries to her back, ribs and right arm.

Instead of stopping, Morales drove off and headed west on West Mission Road where he was noticed by the police. He continued to evade the police until his car crashed head-on with a parked car on Descanso Avenue. He tried to run and hide but he was soon caught.

Morales would be facing several felony charges such as suspicion of driving under the influence causing serious bodily injury, hit-and-run and evading arrest.

Had Morales stopped the moment he struck the woman, he could have been spared of some of the charges. But he chose to speed off thinking that he could get away with his deed.

The woman may file a hit and run case against Morales for the negligent operation of his vehicle. Through the help of a personal injury attorney, she has greater chances of winning the case.

Suspected DUI Driver Hits Fire Engine

“Do not drink and drive” is a simple rule that almost every one could not seem to follow.

No day passes by without a drunk driving incident. In most cases, it causes serious injury or property damage.

In Mira Misa, Jack Albert Morales smashed his Honda Accord into the back of a fire engine on Interstate 15. Unfortunately, aboard the car were Morales’ wife and 12-year-old son. The three were seriously injured.

Authorities suspected that Morales was under the influence.

The fire truck was responding to another crash in the freeway and parked at an angle. Just as the fire fighters were putting out safety cones, the Accord suddenly hit the truck’s rear bumper. A firefighter was knocked several feet away due to the impact.

Serious consequences wait whoever attempts to drive under the influence. Not only has it posed physical harm, it also creates infractions with the law.

Victims of drunk driving accidents may sue the driver for negligence through the assistance of a personal injury attorney.

Investigators Cite Human Error in Plane Crash

Human error is one of the factors investigators look into in every accident. In fact, it is the more dominant contributor to accident cause.

Human errors could be attributed to many individuals not only the pilot. Errors committed by the crew and ground personnel such as the controller could also result to fatal accidents.

In an investigation conducted in the March 25 jet fighter crash, investigators revealed that the fatal crash was due to human factors. Investigators determined that Lockheed Martin test pilot David Cooley, who was performing tests under gravitational forces, had experienced an increased psychological stress specifically in the third test. His lack of awareness delayed a recovery maneuver which caused him to almost lose his consciousness.

When Cooley’s attempted recovery, he realized that he had an inadequate altitude and ejected. However, he suffered fatal blunt force trauma due to the aircraft's speed and windblast.

This incident is an example of how fatal human error could be. In this case, the jet fighter was at its A-1 condition. However, Cooley’s string of error caused the flight to an abrupt and tragic end.

Human errors are not only prevalent in plane crashes as it practically exists in all accidents. It only proves that safety lies in one’s own hands. Observance of utmost care and diligence in everything could help us live an accident free life.

For victims of negligent aircraft operation, they can file a personal injury case through the assistance of a plane accident attorney.

Bicyclist dies in Valley Center

Drivers of huge vehicles tend to be unmindful of the presence of small cars much less of bicycles on the roads. Hence, incidents of bicycles being hit by larger vehicles are very common.

In Valley Center, a bicyclist died after it was struck by a pickup truck. The driver of the truck already saw the bicycle, looked over to pass but ended hitting it.

Angel Guadalupe Galvez who was riding south on Cole Grade Road near Bernabeo Court died at the hospital due to his injuries. His helmet was knocked off due to the impact of the collision.

California Highway Patrol Eric Newbury said the truck’s driver could face misdemeanor manslaughter charges.

Ironically, the deceased’s brother died of dirt bike accident in 2005 also in Valley Center.

For Angel’s loved ones, they are entitled to file a personal injury case against the driver. They must be compensated for Angel’s death caused by the negligent act of the driver.

Hit and Run Driver Arrested after Chase

Hit and run accidents often end up unresolved due to lack of defendants to be indicted for it.

To impute liability, witnesses’ accounts are vital. Without it, parties at fault would remain at large. Moreover, the chance of drivers doing the same act again is high.

In Carlsbad, a 23-year old woman was struck by a blue Chevrolet truck at the intersection of Maple Avenue and Carlsbad Boulevard. The woman only sustained injuries.

Luckily, witnesses were able to get the license plate of the truck. When the police officers spotted and stopped the same truck, the driver sped off. A chase followed until the truck drove off an embankment and landed on the recessed driveway of an RV storage facility. Due to the impact, the driver had to be extricated from the truck.

The driver was taken to the hospital and later arrested. He would be charged with suspicion of hit and run with injury, driving under the influence of alcohol and driving on a suspended license and on probation for DUI, and driving under the influence with prior DUI convictions.

The driver was previously arrested and convicted of DUI.

This incident relays one thing: vigilance on the road is necessary. Were if not for the alert bystanders who witnessed the incident, the accident would just be another unsolved case.

Victims of hit and run accidents have no means of imputing liability against their assailants without anything to implicate them. A hit and run case could not be filed against them without evidence pointing them as the driver.

In case the driver would be apprehended, the assistance of a hit and run lawyer would be most convenient and advantageous.

Anaheim hit and run victim dies

Witnesses play a vital role in hit and run cases. Without a witness’ account, culprits of hit and run accidents would forever be at large.

Police officers feared that the case of a man found lying dead at Ball Road just east of Brookhust Street would be another case of unsolved hit and run.

Police officers responded to a call from another motorist informing them of the incident. On the scene, they observed that the man’s watch and sandals were separated from his body due to the impact. Apparently, the man looked struck by a car.

Due to the incident, Ball was closed for an hour to give way to the on - scene investigation.

Victims of hit and run accidents must be given justice. Any and all information towards the arrest of these reckless drivers must be given to the authorities. A case of hit and run would only be feasible when someone could be made responsible for it with the help of witnesses.

Officers Arrest Brother of the Real DUI driver

Laws, rules and regulations are created to punish those who committed illegal acts. It does not intend to punish innocent people.

Unluckily, Jason Anderson Deats was a victim of a wrongful arrest made by the Orange County Sheriff's deputies.

The arrest was made at his home on June 21, 2008 for suspicion of drunk driving. Consequently, he was prosecuted for several misdemeanors, including evading a peace officer and driving under the influence. He managed to go out of bail but complained of the beatings he got from the authorities.

Ten months later or on April 13, 2009, all charges against him were dropped. The dropping of charges was prompted by his brother’s confession that he was the real culprit.

Aaron Anderson Deats came forward and informed the police that he was the driver of the Honda Prelude on the night of June 21. He pleaded guilty to misdemeanor evading a peace officer and was sentenced to three years' probation.

Jason now filed a petition asking for permission from the Orange County Superior Court to file a claim against the county. He wanted the county to pay for the wrongful arrest and beatings that he had been subjected to.

Certainly, there had been a mistake in the procedure undertaken by the police officers. The authorities could have used their resources to identify the real culprit. Proper investigation should have been done.

If the court permitted Jason to file a claim against the county, he may have a good chance of prevailing against the negligent officers.

Illinois Woman Dies in Pedicab Accident

Pedicabs are common scenery at downtown San Diego. Surely, pedicab is enjoyable but it is hard and dangerous as well.

Moreover, pedicab drivers are mostly young and untrained.

On July 4th, a pedicab accident took the life of 60-year-old Sharon Miller, a retired teacher from Sherman, Illinois. Miller was in San Diego to attend the National Education Association convention.

Authorities said that Miller flew off from the pedicab when the driver, 23-year-old Sukru Safa Cinar swerved quickly. Cinar was driving unsafe and performing serpentine pattern which lead to Miller being swayed from side to side.

Police said the accident occurred on an area where pedicabs and bicycles were prohibited.

Cinar may have a permit to drive a pedicab but he could still face a misdemeanor manslaughter charge.

Other passengers said that some pedicabs have seatbelt while others have not. Some travel for 5 miles an hour while others exceed. Some have a maximum of 3 passengers while others have more. This only means that a pedicab as means of transportation must be regulated. Certain standards must be implemented to prevent further waste of life.

For the victims of negligent operation of pedicab, personal injury lawyers could ensure that you are properly compensated and your rights are protected.

Los Angeles Braces for Jackson’s Memorial

It is official, music icon Michael Jackson’s memorial will be held on Tuesday at the Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles.

AEG Live, Jackson’s promoter (also incidentally the owner of Staples Center) and the Jackson family publicist have announced that a motorcade will go from Forest Lawn Mortuary in L.A. to the Staples Center complex in downtown Los Angeles.

According to Randy Phillips, AEG's chief executive, it will be a public memorial and that about 11,000 tickets will be given away free of charge for the 20,000-seat arena. Actual distribution of the tickets however, was not discussed.

While fans who hoped for a public memorial at the famed Neverland ranch are coping with the disappointment (and the fear of not getting a last look at the musician), Los Angeles officials are fretting over what may be a huge and potentially uncontrollable outcome.

In fact, Los Angeles City Councilman Dennis Zine has said the Jackson family should consider delaying the public memorial to allow more time to plan. Given the current financial meltdown of California, he also said the city can't afford to pay police overtime.

If the nationwide and worldwide outpouring of grief for the singer’s death is any indication, people will be coming in at droves and in hundreds of thousands at the memorial just to see the late great Jackson.

He also said that the memorial announcement took the worst timing as things are also busy over the July Fourth holiday weekend. Zine said that, “If you can imagine 100,000 people show up and you have 20,000 capacity (at the Staples Center), there is not sufficient room. Now you have a crowd-control problem.”

Indeed, with a motorcade also in the works, traffic is bound to be equally horrible as well. The organizers and local authorities will have to pull something short of miracle to keep things peaceful and orderly.

Hopefully, the activities for Tuesday as well as the crowd will not be anything like the aftermath riot following the Lakers’ championship. Authorities will have to be on the look-out, not just for unruly crowds but also for people who may take advantage of the situation by inciting fights, doing property damage, or even drinking and stealing.

Emotional situations such as the death of a music legend can bring out the best and the worst out in people. Since the number of actual policemen on duty will be far outstripped by the masses, the fans (bystanders, onlookers and the simply curious) should pay their respects to the legend by abiding the law and avoiding accidents.

The Awful Truth

Trains are one of the primary means of transport for millions of Americans but after the deadly DC train crash, the awful truth is out.

More than a third of the trains of the largest transit systems are in poor or marginal condition. In fact, according to a report from the National Transportation Safety Board, these old subway cars lack “survivable space” and experience the worst damage.

It can be recalled that the train which caused the crash was an older 1000 Series running on automatic mode when it hit the stopped train. In one report, 50 feet of the 75-foot length of the lead car of the moving train was mangled.
All of the nine fatalities from the crash came from the moving train.

NTSB has warned Metrorail, as far back as 2006, to phase out the old fleet because of concerns over how well it would fare in a crash and how it has a tendency to compact in intense collisions. However, because NTSB’s power is merely regulatory and investigative, it lacks the capacity to force the implementation of its recommendations.

But transit officials say the lack of money has constrained them from implementing NTSB’s recommendation. It was estimated to need $888 million to replace the 296 rail cars that were built more than 30 years ago. It also claimed that since they couldn’t afford to replace the older models, they’ve taken steps to keep the train cars in good condition.

Nine people have died and more than seventy other passengers were injured after the crash. The Metro's board has approved of a $250,000 hardship fund to provide financial relief for victims of the collision, to assist them with their medical, funeral and other immediate expenses.

It is an unfortunate fact that safety is now a luxury for train passengers. Because of the high costs of facility and train upgrade, there is a high risk for railway accidents.

Commuters now have to pay the price for these transit system’s inaction but in the end, what Metrorail have cut in costs will become victims’ compensation.

Jury Deliberates in a Road Rage Accident

The jury found it hard to reach a decision in a case of gross negligence discharge of a firearm filed against police officer Frank White. White was involved in the road rage incident that injured a woman and her son.

The jury seemed to need more time as deliberations was set to continue the next day instead of giving it on the scheduled day.

White’s lawyer Rick Pinckard, as closing argument, said that his client was only defending himself from what he believed a threat to his life and that of his wife. Thus, he pulled a gun as a consequence. He said further that White was not aware that a boy was on board the car at the time he pulled the trigger of his gun.

Every case has two sides, that of the plaintiff and that of the defendant. Each party tries his best to convince the jury to side with him. While the jury never witnessed what happened, pieces of evidence presented by each party are scrutinized and evaluated as a way of knowing the truth or an approximation thereof.

This case showed the advantage of having a good personal injury lawyer to lead a party from pursuing his interest – a lawyer who would do everything to argue at his client’s advantage.

Everyone hopes that at the end of all this true justice would be served to whoever mostly deserves it.

Girl Dies of Car Accident at the Border

For many, United States has always been the land of dreams. Consequently, many people stay at US-Mexico border waiting to cross the US. They employ whatever means possible even to the point of risking their lives.

A Mexican mother and her 4 year old daughter had the same dream – to cross the border posing as vendors selling items to drivers about to cross the border.
However, the unfortunate happened. The child was hit by a Chevrolet Suburban and died at Chula Vista hospital.

The female driver who was a legal resident of the US claimed that she did not see the child walking beside her vehicle.

Mexican authorities said that their action against the driver would depend on the result of the investigation of the accident.

If the female driver would be found negligent, a wrongful death case may be filed against her for negligent driving.

The little girl’s loved ones may claim for damages because of her death. While no monetary value could ever replace her life, expenses incurred may at least be approximated.

Treadmill cord causes death of Tyson’s daughter

Due to their age and understanding, children are more prone to dangers. Who would have known that even a stationary treadmill could kill a 4 year old kid?

Shockingly, a tread mill cord caused the death of Mike Tyson’s daughter, Exodus Tyson. Exodus’ older brother found her lifeless body. She was rushed to the hospital and placed on a life support but died the next day.

Investigations revealed that Exodus either “slipped or put her head in the loop of a cord hanging under the treadmill’s console” causing her to suffocate.

This incident has added to the boxing champion’s already tumultuous life. Tyson claimed that this was the most challenging battle he has yet to overcome this year after being hooked on drugs and alcohol.

Accidents especially on children happen regardless of who they are. The only question every time an accident happens is that who was at fault or negligent.

In this particular case, the treadmill manufacturer may be sued if the hanging cord should not suppose to hang. A product liability case may be filed against the manufacturer if negligence is found to have contributed to the child’s death.

In this complicated case, the assistance of a personal injury lawyer is advised. As news on product defects circulates us, it is an advantage to look at the treadmill for any possible manufacturing defects which may have contributed to the death of Exodus.

Motorcycle Officer Struck, Hauled by Truck

Sudden change in the direction of the vehicle should be carefully assessed so that drivers would not lose control over their vehicles and cause an accident that could potentially kill other motorists.

A recent accident in San Diego involves a California Highway Patrol motorcycle officer who was hit before he was caught under an out-of-control truck and was dragged 50 feet from the median he was originally standing on.

The unidentified officer along with another officer was reportedly investigating an earlier solo-vehicle crash on Tuesday morning when he was suddenly struck by a truck from the eastbound lane of Interstate 8 a few minutes before 9 a.m.

The 43-year-old driver, identified as Brian Joseph Andrews, apparently hit the median where the two officers were standing before he hit the parked BMW motorcycle and dragged it along with one of the officers.

The veteran officer sustained lung injuries and abrasions but was lucky to be alive as many accidents similar to this resulted to instant deaths.

This road accident is just one of the many examples of negligence that led to injuries and possible death of the very people who should only be investigating them.

It should serve as a reminder and a reason for people to be more cautious while on the road and driving along with other motorists.

Animal Officer Attacked By Dog

Cases of dog attacks are high in the nation. Statistics show that most victims are bitten by a relative’s or a friend’s dog. This only proves that we must still be cautious even if the dog is owned by someone we know.

A recent incident in Bell Gardens shows the dangers involved in an animal officer’s job.

Officer Martha Muro was checking a house when two pit bulls broke-free and one of them attacked her. She reportedly lost a chunk of her thumb and sustained injuries.

Big dogs like pit bulls should be kept in a safe place where they cannot attack anyone going near the vicinity.

In the same manner, officers checking out animals that might be dangerous need to be more equipped and capable of defending themselves from attacks of big animals.

Helicopter crash kills two highly skilled pilots

As one of the safest mode of air transportation, helicopters are often used for military trainings and missions. It is convenient to use as it provides lift without needing to move forward or using runways.

However, even great machines such as helicopters fail. An AH-1W attack helicopter known as “Super Cobra” crashed at east of San Diego. The crash killed two top pilots of 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit who were at their pre-deployment training exercise.

The crash ignited a brush fire but no other structures were harmed. Rescuers were told to stay away from the crash site due to unexploded ammunitions. Until a go signal from the Marine's explosive-ordnance-disposal unit, no ground crew could enter.

The cause of the crash was still undetermined. Investigators were trying to determine if the pilots made distress calls. As the deceased pilots were highly skilled, investigators were puzzled as to the cause of the crash. In fact, the pilots were trained to support ground troops while the helicopter was built to fight and destroy the enemy.

Helicopter crash, though not frequent, is unavoidable. Oftentimes, after extensive investigation, helicopter pilot is determined to be at fault. In other cases, defective helicopter parts or poor maintenance may also be the cause. In either case, an aviation crash case may be pursued against the negligent pilot or manufacturing company.

In aviation accidents, fault must be established. As it involved complex legal theories and remedies, an aviation accident lawyer is often necessary to initiate a plaintiff’s case or settlement.

Preventing Dog Attacks

Owning a dog can be very useful especially due to the security it can provide to its owner. However, it can also harm if not properly taken care of by their owners.

In a Valley Center neighborhood, residents are getting scared and concerned because of the continuous occurrence of dog attacks in the place within this year.

A miniature horse was attacked by four pit bulls last January 31. Meanwhile, two dogs were killed last March 11. After a week, a woman chased away pit bulls that were trying to bite her horse.

It was reported that these dogs were spotted running to the direction of the San Pasqual Indian Reservation after the incidents occurred. It was claimed by the tribe that the dogs are left by their owners in the area since they are no longer capable of handling them.

Although the victims in most of the attacks are animals, residents are now equipping themselves with guns and stick so that they will be protected from a possible attack.

Aside from doing such, people should also avoid staring a dog in the eye, or approach a dog that is drinking or eating. Dog owners should also take good care of their pets so that the occurrence of an attack may be prevented.

USC student killed in hit-and-run accident

A road accident recently happened last March 29, 2009 at the intersection of Hoover Street and Jefferson Boulevard about a freshman student who was killed by a hit-and-run driver. The victim was Adrianna Bachan, 19, a student at the University of Southern California.

The morning the dreadful accident happened, Bachan, along with another male student, Marcus Garfinkle, were walking in a marked crosswalk. That’s when both of them were hit by a dark-colored car. Garfinkle got stuck on the car’s hood so the car stopped and a passenger got out and removed him and then drove away. He survived the accident but is in critical condition while Bachan was pronounced dead at a hospital.

After I have read this news, I felt some anger, thinking that, how can someone just flee after causing someone harm.

Those people should have stopped and helped the victims. It is possible that they are scared because they know that they have violated the law, but they should face the consequences of their actions.

Furthermore, a person has a duty of care to others, meaning, he/she should prevent others from being harmed or injured. And besides, even if there’s no such written law, as a human being, it is in our nature to help someone who is in need, especially if that someone is seriously injured and dying.

Let’s just hope that the perpetrators will be apprehended to give justice to the victims and to their families and friends who have been greatly affected by the incident.

“Click or Ticket” Campaign Launched

Inarguably, seatbelt is one of the most efficient auto features to prevent car accidents. It has dramatically reduced fatalities and serious injuries to car occupants.

Over the years, authorities have been creative in finding ways to minimize, if not eliminate, incidents of car accidents.

The “Click it or Ticket” campaign is a road safety drive aimed at getting all Californians to buckle up while inside their cars. It emphasizes the need to wear seatbelts at all times not only because it is provided by law but ultimately for safety reasons.

If properly fastened, seatbelts will prevent passengers from sustaining further injuries. It is particularly useful in rollover accidents to prevent car occupants from being ejected out of the vehicle.

The participating counties include Upland, San Bernardino, Claremont and Chino. The local authorities will launch awareness programs sending “buckle up” message to motorists. The campaign also includes a statewide enforcement program participated by the officers of the California Highway Patrol.

In places where seatbelt use is strictly implemented, the fatality rate in car accidents has decreased. In Upland, for instance, where authorities aggressively enforce this law, no case of death in car accidents since September 2007 has been reported.

Under California laws, violators of seatbelt law have to pay a fine of between $105 and $126 for adult occupants and between $365 and $436 for children.

The Office of the National Safety gathered that seatbelt use in California was about 95% in 2008. By this campaign, authorities hope to bring the percentage to a hundred.

Temporary roundabout for a safer intersection

The recent spate of road related accidents in a San Diego suburb has alarmed not only the authorities but ordinary citizens, as well.

Jennifer Luther who had been pushing for roundabout installation at Pomona and Adella avenues and Seventh Street had been successful in her quest. Last March 1, a temporary roundabout was installed at the intersection where the three roads meet.

The intersection is regularly used by students in going to school and by motorists coming from San Diego. Seeing the danger it brings to school children, residents made persistent requests to city officials to address this threat.

The authorities acted on the request and began working on improvements on the traffic situation. The city officials considered five options before considering roundabout installation as the best solution.

The roundabout is aimed at slowing down traffic in the area. Consequently, vehicles need not stop or make left turns. By installing a roundabout, residents hope for a reduced number of accidents.

The roundabout has been temporarily installed for a period of 6 months. At this trial period, traffic levels will be monitored and free and safe movements of vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians will also be checked.

For Luther who lives near the intersection, she hopes that car mishaps and pedestrian accidents would be minimized. Luther’s effort is just one instance on how community members can help in making the roads safer for everybody especially for children.

Traffic Violations: Risking the Lives of People

Traffic laws are implemented to maintain peace and order and to ensure the safety of people. If such laws are violated, injuries and damages may occur.

Last March 23, an accident happened in Chula Vista where a suspected drunk driver who was on probation for DUI (driving under the influence) led police officers on a short chase, resulting in major property damage ended only after the driver crashed into a house.

Because the accident started when the 30-year-old driver, who was driving a full-size Chevy pickup at around 2:15 a.m., was stopped by police officers because of a traffic violation and then sped off as the officers approached him. Some drivers, including this one, may think that they can get away from such a violation so they flee from the scene, without taking into consideration the possible consequences of their actions. After the driver sped off, he lost control of the vehicle, crashing into a house.

The accident resulted in major damage to the garage and to a car inside it, as well as two more vehicles, one in the driveway and the other one in a neighbor’s adjoining driveway. The driver sustained moderate injuries.
All these resulted because of the driver’s refusal to abide by the traffic laws, not knowing that such rules are intended to protect people from harm, including himself.

Homeless Man Dies in hit and run accident

California Vehicle Code provides that a driver involved in an accident should immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident.

Not knowing the law is not an excuse not to stop in case of accident. Ignorance of the law excuses no one; neither Good faith is a good defense.

Everyone is obliged to stop in an accident scene, particularly if a motorist is injured or death is involved. A simple 911 call is a sufficient way of showing help. The driver of the vehicle that hit Bobby Ray Rowe should know this.

Ray Rowe, a 34-year old one-legged homeless man, was a victim of hit and run. He was found dead behind a Bank of America branch near Van Nuys.

Los Angeles police found him lying down half on the street and half on the sidewalk.

Even without a law, human nature dictates that once you have wronged a person, the least you can do is help him and show concern for his pain and suffering.

While investigations were made, no information was gathered as to the identity of the culprit. Police officers urged the public, especially those who witnessed the incident, to help them find the offender and eventually, charged him in court. Otherwise, his death would just be another incident of unresolved hit and run case.

The Influence of DUI: A Car Accident Case

Actions of drivers while they are driving out on the streets should always be guarded because even a simple mistake made by them cause serious problems to others.

Just like the incident that led to a short chase in Chula Vista involving a 30 year old driver that was suspected to be driving under the influence alcohol. The chase ended when the suspect lost control and crashed into someone’s house, which had caused major destruction to some of the properties.

It is fortunate that no one was physically injured in the incident.

Drunk driving is one of the most common causes of vehicle accidents. Such accident can be avoided if drivers will follow established traffic laws. A little effort on their part can save others from facing property damages, sustaining injuries, or even death.

Steps to Prevent Defective/Dangerous Products from Entering U.S. Territories

The present global financial crisis is not the only problem for Americans. Ensuring the safety of American consumers has also been a struggle.

In fact, some of the most controversial and serious product liability cases and settlements involved suits filed against major car manufacturers, pharmaceuticals companies, medical device makers and food corporations.

Defective bassinets, faulty cars, salmonella infective food and toys with excessive lead content or made with dangerous ingredients were among the products that consumers have been exposed to. Many of these products came from overseas like China.

The question now is what are the steps taken by the government to ensure the safety of Americans especially the children?

In a Congressional Hearing last November 2008, Attorney Tomas Gowen urged lawmakers to pass a law barring dangerous and defective products from entering the U.S. territories and holding the manufacturers liable should their products cause injuries.

Gowen recommended that all foreign manufacturers and sellers should obtain import license containing the name, address, product lines and brand names made by such company.

The license also requires revealing the name of the agent who would sell the same. Moreover, such import license would also compel foreign manufacturers to maintain adequate product liability insurance.

Gowen’s testimony represented those victims of negligent foreign manufacturers. We have yet to see how the Congress reacts to this proposal.

Making a Difference

When you want your community’s image to change for the better, you help your officials to put awareness in your own community.

Dr. Owen Leons, founder of Teachable Moment Foundation, saw this urge to help Sacramento California in its battle against drunk driving.

Sacramento ranks first in California for having the most cases of drunk-driving incidents.

As a starter for his campaign, he established a website called every37.com aimed at social marketing efforts to reach young motorists who are often the victims of drunk-driving related accidents. It specifically targets motorists between 18 to 35 years old who are prone to the risks of drunk driving.

The website would serve as an interactive portal that would inform drivers of the dangerous consequences of driving while intoxicated. To further the campaign, advertising promotions were launched. Media appearances and streets plays were performed to spread information.

Based on the statistics, the numbers are alarming. This does not include incidents, which are unaccounted for. I bet if all incidents were properly accounted for, most probably the statistics will zoom up.

If all of us will help contribute to the betterment of our community just like what Leons did, certainly, the world would be a better place to live in especially for our children.

Severe Penalty Awaits Incorrigible Drunk Driver

Driving plus intoxication equals danger. Driving plus high speed plus intoxication equals horrible disaster.

Jose Hernandez has been never learned his lesson. His seven convictions for drunk driving failed to warn or slow him down. This time, he was convicted of murder for killing a 60-year-old woman drunk driving.

Hernandez was seemed incorrigible of his ways. He may have cheated death for the times that he had been drunk driving but to actually drunk drive, while his two-year-old daughter was on board the car was utterly negligent and irresponsible.

For someone who had been arrested for seven times of drunk driving, he should have been aware by this time of the consequences of driving while intoxicated. For some one who has undergone drunk driving education programs, he should have been aware of the dangers of it.

Hernandez’s previous offenses had been used to charge him with murder. It may also be used to file civil liability suit.

For some who have plans of following Hernandez’s footsteps or have potential to be like him, severe penalty awaits you. Let this case awaken your senses and change your poor choices.

Chaotic Road Crash

Paying special attention on the road has always been a driver’s everyday challenge. As distractions and other conditions are present, having a safe trip could sometimes be a dilemma.

Sometimes, accidents get in our way causing fatal injuries just like what happened to the drivers of Ryder moving truck and 2006 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck.

Solomon Henderson was driving his moving truck on eastern bound of Interstate 8 when he was cut off by a Nissan Sentra. Consequently, the truck veered across westbound lanes and smashed into a pick up truck.

The drivers of the moving truck and the pick up truck died instantaneously while the driver of the Nissan Sentra fled from the accident scene.

We share the streets with other drivers; some are negligent while others are notorious in driving. It would be advisable to exercise the highest standard of care.

The deceased drivers may have exercised all necessary caution but unluckily they shared the road with another driver – a reckless one.

As Henderson failed to wear his seatbelt, let this incident be a constant reminder for all us. Who knows he may have survived if he just wore it. Seatbelts are additional protection for drivers and passengers. It must be worn at all times.

Alarming Air crash

Plane crashes often leaves disastrous consequences.

In a crash happened in the western part of Catalina Island, three people died on such fatal incident. The plane was headed to John Wayne Airport but it never reached it.

Upon investigation, it was revealed that pilot Mark Hogland had a private license and approval to fly on a bad weather but never had the license to conduct charter flights like this in particular.

Oftentimes, plane crashes are due to pilot errors. However, in this accident different factors contributed to the crash.

Catalina Island is mountainous and bordered by steep cliffs. It has no air traffic controllers.

The geographic conditions, lack of necessary equipment and Hogland’s lack of license to conduct charter flights contributed to this horrific crash.

Reportedly, a total of twenty people already died in eight plane crashes coming in or out of what is dubbed as an “Airport in the Sky”.

This is an alarming statistics. I hope the authorities would make the necessary actions.

Flaming Year Starter for Four Car Crash Victims

The year 2009 certainly started with a bang to the 4 victims of a vehicular accident in Fullerton. The incident left 2 died and 2 critically injured. The car hit a tree then caught in flames in the early morning of January 11.

Road accident specifically vehicular accidents have been a constant sight in cities and highways of California.

Not surprisingly, vehicular accidents, such as car crashes, normally occur here because several freeways traverse or end in California - Los Angeles to be specific.

In most cases, car accidents are due to human errors. Drunk driving and distractions are common reasons for collisions between vehicles or mishaps on the road.

The message is clear: if we do not take our acts together then none of this would change. We would be forever in fear and uncertain of our life and limbs the moment we drive or ride our car.

If any untoward incidents happen, you have the power to fight for your right by hiring a car accident lawyer. It is the least you can do to vindicate your right.

New Beginnings

It seemed that the authorities’ campaign for sober holidays had paid off, at least in Sacramento, California.

Sacramento policemen had made few DUI arrests over the holidays. Reports revealed that for the CHP Valley Division which included the Sacramento region, only 75 motorists had been arrested for DUI compared to 104 in 2007.

The incidents resulted to the death of 16 people, 13 of said fatalities were not wearing their seatbelts.

Sobriety checkpoints were held and saturation patrols were conducted beginning December 12 in an effort to reduce incidents of drunk driving and DUI-related deaths.

This goes to show that when authorities would just put their minds into it, safer California roads would be within our reach.

The Holidays may be over but road-related incidents are just waiting to happen. It is up to us to start our year with caution and safety in our mind.