The Accident Lawyer

Missing Child Found in Hotel Pool

2010-12-17T13:15:00.000-08:00

Every child’s safety should never be taken for granted especially because their curiosity and playful nature can easily get them into accidents.

Guardians must always make sure that children are safe and supervised.

In a recent accident, an 18-month-old boy who was reported missing while they were in a San Francisco hotel was found in a fountain pool.

According to reports, the boy was last seen at the lobby of Hyatt Regency Hotel before he was reported missing by his guardians. As officers arrived, they found the boy around 1:30 pm in the hotel’s decorative fountain pool.

Rescuers tried to revive the boy until the paramedics arrived. He was taken to a hospital but his condition wasn’t immediately released.

Hopefully, the boy will have a quick recovery from this accident though it is very likely that he sustained physical injuries and other conditions he may have to endure throughout his life. His condition would have certainly worsen and he could have died had rescuers found him a little later.

Aside from this, it is very likely that the boy will be traumatized by this incident at his very young age.

So, parents must be cautious in letting kids play near pools. If they allow them to play in these areas, then, they should be supervised and accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

The hotel, on the other hand, should have been more responsible in securing the safety of their guests by installing railings and placing restrictive cordon around areas that shouldn’t be accessed by guests, especially children.

In Search of Clean Water

2010-10-15T12:47:00.001-07:00

It is believed that water is one of the few life-sustaining elements in the entire solar system, and it is only found in high volumes here on Earth. For billions of years, nature has depended on water in order to flourish and develop. But then, man appeared and became the dominant force that would shape the world, and indeed he did. In just several thousand years, he drastically changed the face of the Earth, exploiting all its natural resources and tainting the once pure source of life. Now we are beginning to realize that the search for clean water has begun.

In every successful and industrialized city is a river, sea, or lake behind it. World-renowned cities like New York, Tokyo, and London could not have developed into large, bustling cities if not for the help of their adjacent sources of water.

It is just natural to depend on water as a source of food, an area for trade, and a means of travel. What makes everything wrong is when water becomes both the starting and end point of industrialization. Once all the available clean water within an area is exhausted, there is no way to replace it. You cannot suck in all the filthy water in the sea and refill it with clean water, unless you are a god.

In locations where getting clean water is impossible, people just satisfy themselves drinking unsafe water, hoping their bodies are strong enough to fight the disease-causing microbes in it. While adults usually emerge victorious over their microscopic foes, children do not, which results to thousands of deaths.

Unfortunately, six out of ten individuals just wouldn’t care if told this fact, and three will just shake their heads and return to whatever it is they’re doing. Only one may take a step to solve the problem, that is, if he is not part of the second group.

Water is not just a necessity. It is life itself. Numerous cities around the world are already experiencing shortages of clean and potable water as a result of our own ways. But there are still things we can do to reduce the damage. We just have to be aware of what is going on. If we do not act now, more people will perish from this Earth. Eventually, its description as “the only planet in the solar system that has life” may become a myth.

Authorities in Search of Driver Involved in Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident

2010-08-10T19:49:00.001-07:00

Authorities are looking for the driver who fled after his van, which was carrying field employees, rolled over in unincorporated Sonoma County. The hit and run accident left one dead and three others injured.

According to reports, the Chevrolet Astro the man was driving went over an embankment located along Guerneville Road.

Police said three vehicle passengers who were identified as Ignacio Hernandez-Rubio, 17, Nahum Avendano, 26, Domingo Layata-Mendez, 34, all from Santa Rosa, sustained non-life threatening injuries in the incident.

The teen was brought to Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Santa Rosa to receive medical treatment for his broken leg. Meanwhile, the two men were rushed to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital to be treated for lacerations and head injuries.

A male occupant was not as lucky as them. He reportedly died when he was ejected from the vehicle, which rolled over numerous times.

The man was not wearing his seat belt at the time of the accident. His name is being withheld pending family notification.

Woman Dies in Second SoCal Train Crash

2010-06-25T22:47:00.000-07:00

A woman died at the scene of a Metrolink train crash in Covina hours after a man was also hit and killed by a freight train in Oceanside early Wednesday morning.

The woman was yet to be identified but it is said that she was trespassing the property and was on a restricted area when she was hit by the train carrying more than a hundred passengers. No one else was reportedly injured in the accident.

The Metrolink train was heading to the Union Station in Los Angeles from San Bernardino. The passengers were eventually transported by bus as the train blocked Covina’s intersection of Glendora and Glenn avenues. The train services continued a few hours after the accident.

Pedestrians should be cautious when crossing train tracks and should never go to restricted areas where their presence is not expected.

Woman Killed in Rollover and Multi-Vehicle Crash

2010-06-08T22:53:00.000-07:00

On state Route 125 in San Diego, a 25-year-old woman was killed and two other motorists were injured in a multi-vehicle crash.

The accident happened at about 8:40 AM. It occurred when the female driver suddenly lost control of her Ford Explorer causing her to cross the center divide and meet the oncoming freeway traffic head-on.

According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the woman’s SUV flipped and landed right on top of a silver Chrysler PT Cruiser, rolled over and collided with a Border Patrol Jeep Wrangler.

The driver of the PT Cruiser, a 48-year old woman had to be airlifted from the scene due to her injuries. An on-duty agent was driving the marked jeep and was taken to Mercy Hospital for further treatment.

The driver of the Ford Explorer SUV however, died at the scene. According to the CHP, preliminary investigation shows that there was no evidence that drugs or alcohol were a factor in the fatal crash.

Driver Error or behavior is one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents. While generally, people often pin the blame on the road conditions, a car defect or even on the other driver for having caused the crash, the truth is, most car accidents are caused by the driver’s own negligence.

Even if the driver is driving sober and free from the influence of either drugs or alcohol, if he is distracted (texting while driving, putting on make-up, etc.) or drowsy or even just because he is speeding, he may be considered negligent.

When the driver also fails to follow traffic rules and signals, fails to yield, and operates his vehicle recklessly or aggressively, he would likely be held responsible for having caused an accident or collision.

Accidents don’t just happen as an “act of God” – most are often caused by the fault or negligence of people.

If you are injured in a car accident or if you lost someone to a crash, you have the right to recover damages for any expenses or loss you suffered because of it. But don’t expect to get compensation so easily, a lot of defendants (even if they are negligent) would refuse to acknowledge their fault so it would be advisable for you to hire a car accident attorney if you wish to pursue your claim.

Bus Driver Reported Drunk by Passenger, Arrested

2010-06-02T19:02:00.000-07:00

Drivers and operators of bus companies should make sure that passengers will be taken to their destination safely as they will be shouldered with heavier penalty for any accident that they may cause.

A 40-year-old bus driver was recently arrested after a passenger reported him to the Sheriff’s Department on suspicions of drunk driving near Calle Magdalena.

The bus was reportedly heading east on Encinitas Boulevard at about 4:30 pm when the passenger made the call to the department that may have saved them from an accident caused by intoxication.

Responding deputies reported that the man was showing signs of being intoxicated and that he driver was arrested after a field sobriety test has been conducted.

Drivers should never put themselves and their passengers at risk by driving while drunk. The bus driver should have never underestimated his responsibility to the company and to the passengers that he is to transport.

7-Year-Old Girl Sustains Critical Injuries in Dana Point Hit-and-Run Accident

2010-05-14T22:04:00.001-07:00

It is advisable for drivers to reduce speed when they are traveling near schools or residential areas because kids are usually found along these areas. A driver who may have failed to do so hit a 7-year-old girl in Dana Point and fled after the incident.

According to reports, the victim sustained critical injuries after she was hit by a white pickup truck with a blue stripe in front of her house along La Paz Avenue and Silver Lantern Street.

The girl’s 6-year-old friend saw the whole incident and immediately called the victim’s older sister, who then asked the help of her father.

Reports said the girl was first brought to Mission Hospital in Laguna Beach. However, the injuries she sustained were too severe to be treated there so she was then transported to Children’s Hospital in Mission Viejo.

According to police, the girl is now under a guarded condition.

Authorities are still trying to locate the whereabouts of the hit-and-run driver.

Woman Arrested after Crash in I-5

2010-05-11T19:21:00.000-07:00

Motorists should never jeopardize their safety by driving around under the influence of drugs or alcohol as it is known to impair their judgment and cause accidents that may harm others on the road.

A female driver was taken into custody after an early Thursday morning crash that involved a big rig near Highway 50.

The woman, who was not immediately identified, was said to have crashed the red Ford Focus she was driving into the yellow barrels placed along Interstate 5 at about 3:30 am.

The impact of the vehicle into the barrels sent it spinning around before hitting a big rig. The woman told authorities that she had fallen asleep while driving but she was still arrested after submitting to a breathalyzer test.

Injuries of the rig driver and the woman were not reported immediately though it is very possible that they’ve sustained injuries in the said accident.

It is always best to think before driving and never attempt o drive if you know that you are not in the capacity to make good judgments, be alert, and keep your eyes on the road.

Teen Dies, Another Injured in Hit-and-Run Accident

2010-04-29T00:15:00.000-07:00

Motorists should be careful when driving within residential areas, especially late at night when the darkness and poor visibility make it difficult for them to notice pedestrians walking along or crossing the streets.

A 16-year-old girl, identified as Chanel Lenard, died while her friend was brought to St. Francis Medical Center to be treated for serious injuries after they were hit by a gray minivan along 154th Street recently.

The two teenage girls were apparently walking home past midnight after attending a party when they were hit by the van driven by 22-year-old Compton man Juan Garay who failed a sobriety test when apprehended a few blocks from the accident scene.

Authorities booked Garay on suspicion of drunk driving and felony hit-and run.

The lost of a young life could have been prevented if only the driver was wise enough not to drink and drive and assisted the victims who needed immediate medical care.

Young Women Die in Crash Caused by Speeding and Intoxication

2010-04-21T22:47:00.000-07:00

Young drivers often get involved in fatal accidents because of their inexperience and aggressiveness.

Three young women recently died when their vehicle was hit by a wrong-way driver along Weedpatch Highway around midnight. The 19-year-old negligent driver, identified as Leonel Nunez Jr., was said to be speeding and was found to be intoxicated at the time of the crash.

Nunez was said to be driving a 2000 Pontiac Trans Am on the southbound lane with 20-year-old Ricardo Parra and 18-year-old Vincent Alvarez when he suddenly shifted to the northbound lanes where the women’s vehicle was attempting to turn from Reynolds Avenue.

The driver of the 1997 Plymouth Breeze was identified as 20-year-old Esmeralda Soriano. Soriano was with Marilupe Madrigal, 18, and 17-year-old Giselle Madrid at the time of the accident. The three young women died on the scene.

Nunez sustained only a cut on his arm while his passengers sustained minor injuries. He was arrested and may possibly face two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol and causing injury as well as three felony counts of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.

Lake Elsinore Councilman Admits Guilt in DUI Charges

2010-04-08T20:10:00.000-07:00

All drivers and motorists are required to follow traffic rules. Those who choose to ignore their responsibility will receive a punishment that corresponds to the graveness of the offense that they committed.

In fact, a Lake Elsinore councilman was recently sentenced to three years of probation and six days in custody after he pleaded guilty to two counts of misdemeanor DUI.

Reports stated that Thomas Buckley, 44, was pulled over by the authorities in November after they noticed that his vehicle does not have a front license plate.

It was determined later on that the he had a blood-alcohol level of .08.

According to Buckley’s attorney, the councilman will likely serve his six days of custody in a work release program.

Reports said Buckley was also required to join a first-time drinking driver program and pay a fine amounting to $1,582.

People in high positions should set a good example and avoid doing negligent actions that other people may follow. Drivers will continue to disobey traffic rules if the people whom they look up to also disregard them.

ATV Accident Seriously Injures Motorist

2010-03-24T23:41:00.000-07:00

All-terrain vehicle riders should be aware of their driving restrictions and the different traffic laws that prevent them from travelling on roads where they may cause accidents because of the speed and ability of their vehicle.

A recent accident involves a woman who sustained major injuries to the head and upper body after being thrown from her ATV on Highway 20 in Williams.

The 21-year-old Mariel Cervantes was reportedly riding her ATV with a trailer in tow when she tried to make a left turn when she was hit by a 2002 Dodge Durango that was trying to pass the slow-moving ATV.

Cervantes was broadsided and thrown off the ATV. She probably sustained major injuries as she wasn’t wearing protective gears such as helmet or pads when the accident occurred.

These protective equipments are important to riders as they help save the riders life by minimizing possible injuries that can be sustained.

Blown Tire Causes Four-Vehicle Accident in Pasadena

2010-03-16T00:53:00.001-07:00

Drivers are expected to maintain the good condition of their tires and check if they are already worn out because failure to do so can suddenly result to a tragic road accident.

In fact, a big rig with a blown tire had apparently caused injury to three people when it triggered a four-vehicle accident along the Foothill (210) Freeway in Pasadena.

According to reports, two people sustained serious injuries while another one is now under a critical condition. All of them were brought to a hospital to receive treatment for their injuries.

Police said two drivers needed to be extricated from two different vehicles, which include one that rolled over.

All westbound lanes were closed by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) for hours after the incident.

Avoiding accidents caused by blown tires requires little effort from drivers. They should always remember their obligation of checking the condition of their tires not only for their own sake, but for the safety of all road users.

Man Struck and Killed by Car While Fleeing from Robbery

2010-03-11T23:05:00.000-08:00

All road users, including pedestrians, are required to follow traffic laws and avoid any kind of distraction that can result to road accidents. However, some distractions may be unavoidable and can suddenly end an innocent person’s life.

This is exactly what happened to a male teenager who was struck and killed in Canoga Park after failing to see an approaching car because he was focused on fleeing from a “would-be robber.”

According to reports, authorities found Miguel Alvarenga, 18, unconscious along the 20600 block of Sherman Way.

Investigators said a bicyclist approached the teen and tried to rob him.

Alvarenga was hit by a vehicle while he was running into the street, away from the bicyclist. He was brought to a local hospital where he was announced dead after a day because of his injuries, said reports.

Authorities are still trying to locate the whereabouts of the bicyclist and are asking for public assistance in accomplishing this goal.

Metrolink Crash Resistant Train Cars Arrives

2010-03-05T18:20:00.000-08:00

Finally, the first two crash resistant train cars have arrived and will be replacing the older models used by Metrolink.

Metrolink is still reeling from the massive Chatsworth train accident that resulted in 25 deaths and millions of dollars in settlement.

The new train cars are in line with the series of actions being taken by Metrolink to improve passenger safety.

The new cars use “crush zone” technology to absorb the impact of the collision.
It will go a long way in reducing the injuries that may be sustained in case of a train crash.

Other measures taken by Metrolink include the placement of video cameras to monitor train and employee activities.

Chatsworth was allegedly caused by a train engineer who did not notice a red signal because he was texting.

One of the leading causes of train accidents is negligence. It could be operator error like that of Chatsworth or just the simple lack of warning signs and safety measures in their railroad crossing.

Hopefully, Metrolink will address all these safety concerns and not just the issue of reducing the impact during a collision.

Authorities Request Public Assistance in Locating Simi Valley Hit-and-Run Driver

2010-03-01T17:09:00.000-08:00

Many drivers who were involved in an accident try to flee an accident area despite knowing that running away from the scene is illegal.

Another driver who fled after hitting a man in the parking lot of Taco Bell located along Tapo St. in Simi Valley is now being searched by the authorities.

According to reports, a Mercedes dragged a 50-year old man who was holding the driver door. The victim released it after several feet and landed on a pavement.

The Mercedes driver then backed up and hit him with the vehicle’s rear end before fleeing the accident area.

Reports said the victim was brought to Simi Valley Hospital to receive treatment for cuts along his right arm and a bump on his head. He was released after being treated.

Authorities are now looking for the hit-and run driver’s vehicle that is probably a 2006 or 2007 model of a black or dark colored four-door Mercedes Sedan with a shattered taillight.

The driver was described as a Middle Eastern or Hispanic man who is around 25-years-old.

El Sereno Head-On Collision Kills One and Injures Another

2010-02-24T20:28:00.000-08:00

A head-on collision in El Sereno killed one motorist and injured another the other night.

According to the LAPD’s Central Traffic Division, the 2-vehicle crash happened on Eastern Avenue, 100 yards north of Klamath Place and just south of Huntington Drive.

The police did not specify the details of the car accident so we do not know the cause of the crash.

What we do know is that one of the drivers involved died at the scene while the other sustained minor abrasions and was brought to a nearby hospital.

The important information that needs to be figured out is who between the 2 drivers drifted to the other’s lane.

With modern traffic implementing the two-direction system (southbound and northbound, westbound and eastbound) the occurrence of head-on collisions has been greatly decreased.

However because of reckless and impatient drivers, this type of accident still occurs.

According to studies, the impact of a head on collision between two cars moving at 50 mph is approximately equal to the impact of a car hitting a wall at 100 mph.

That is how dangerous it is.

Whoever drifted to the lane of the other driver can be charged both civilly and criminally.

So even if you are stuck in traffic, resist the temptation of going to the other lane.

Two People Hospitalized after Two-Car Collision

2010-02-12T17:29:00.000-08:00

A collision is a type of road accident that often results to injuries because of the tremendous impact between moving vehicles.

At least two people were brought to Community Regional Center after being injured in a two-car collision along Grantland and Shaw avenues in west of Fresno.

According to reports, the accident caused Shaw’s eastbound lanes to be partly blocked.

The extent of the sustained injuries was not immediately available.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the collision.

2 Pedestrian Accidents Involving Government Vehicles Killed One and Seriously Injures Another

2010-02-11T21:46:00.000-08:00

In a bizarre turn of events, two separate pedestrian accidents involving government vehicles killed one and seriously injured another at almost the same time in San Francisco.

The first vehicle accident happened in Ocean Avenue at about 1:40 pm when a water department truck struck a woman who was crossing the street.

The woman was pronounced dead on the scene.

Police are trying to find out if the woman was on a crosswalk when she was struck and why the truck was not able to see her.

The driver of the truck had worked for the city for 23 years.

At almost the same time, a second incident happened in San Bruno Avenue when a Muni Bus struck a woman who was also crossing the street.

There are no stoplights or stop signs in San Bruno but there were crosswalks for pedestrians.

The woman was hit on the right side and was thrown about 15 feet.

A witness called 911 and emergency personnel responded to the scene.

The injuries of the woman was said to be life-threatening.

Both drivers will be tested for alcohol and drugs as part of procedures involving these kinds of incidents.

The family of the first victim and the woman in the second accident could file a wrongful death and a personal injury suit against the city.

The city has a duty to take reasonable measures to keep its citizens from harm.

The claimants could argue that the drivers were not exercising the highest level of care and that the city has neglected some of its roads by failing to put adequate stop signs or stop lights.

Irvine City Blamed in Fatal Collision

2010-02-09T21:33:00.000-08:00

Lack of road signs can cause drivers to be technically “blind” because it prevents them from seeing possible dangers they might face on the roads.

This stands as the primary reason why the family members of a motorcyclist killed in an accident last July have filed a $10 million wrongful death claim against Irvine city, alleging that inadequate road signs along a public roadway had resulted to the death of their loved one.

The absence of road warnings or signage on Walnut Avenue allegedly resulted to a deadly accident involving David Dietrich, a Mercedes-Benz driver who made an illegal left-turn in front of 23-year-old Michael Edwards.

It was reported that Edwards was driving a motorcycle along the opposite side of the road when the accident happened. He collided with the Mercedes after failing to stop his motorcycle on time, and was announced dead at the area.

The claim stated that at the time of the incident, drivers moving westbound may not have clearly understood that they are prohibited from making a proper left-hand turn going to Wisteria because of insufficient signage.

Dietrich pleaded guilty to the charges of failure to obey traffic signs and vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence.

San Diego Pedestrian Injured in Accident

2010-01-26T19:06:00.000-08:00

A pedestrian accident in San Diego recently resulted to serious injuries after an intoxicated pedestrian reportedly stepped right into the path of oncoming traffic.

Reports indicate that the pedestrian was suspected to be under the influence of alcohol when he emerged between two parked vehicles and got directly into the path of a Jaguar driven by an unidentified man near Euclid Avenue recently.

The pedestrian remains to be in critical condition after sustaining head injuries in the accident that occurred in Federal boulevard.

Drinking while on the road has proven to be fatal to pedestrians and motorists who are not able to exercise their good judgment in situations that confront them because of the negative effects of alcohol in their system.

Car Tossed into a Tree when Tornado Hit Ventura

2010-01-24T23:46:00.000-08:00

Comprehensive car insurance coverage will shoulder all repair costs or it may replace the policyholder’s vehicle and properties inside it if they were lost or damaged due to different factors like flood, fires, and tornados, among others.

This insurance coverage may be useful for the owner of a vehicle that was lifted into a tree in Ventura County.

The National Weather Service (NWS) stated that the damage left in the area was brought by a tornado. NWS also said that the tornado “was the smallest category class.”

Aside from lifting the car, the tornado also hurled a fence into a pool, downed power lines, and caused some shingles to be ripped off the rooftops.

Vehicle owners should anticipate the danger they may face and the accidents they may be involved in when availing car accident insurance coverage. By doing this, they will be provided with financial help if an accident happens or if their vehicle was destroyed by natural or other forces.

Chrysler Announces Product Recall Due to Break Failure

2010-01-21T17:11:00.000-08:00

About 24,177 vehicles will be affected by the product recall of Chrysler.

According to the bulletin posted by the NHTSA, the product recall was made due to reports of brake failure.

The bulletin said that the vehicles affected may have been produced with an improperly formed or missing brake booster input rod retaining clip.

NHTSA added that the safety defect may cause brake failure without warning that could lead to a car accident.

The following models are affected:

• Chrysler Sebring, 2010
• Dodge Avenger, 2010
• Dodge Nitro, 2010
• Dodge RAM , 2009-2010
• Jeep Commander, 2010
• Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2010
• Jeep Liberty, 2010.

For more information about the recall, you can call Chrysler at 800-853 or NHTSA at 888-327-4236

If you have been injured due to the said safety defect, you should also consult a product liability attorney to know your legal options.

Hollywood Crash Ended Police Chase

2010-01-21T00:22:00.000-08:00

An 18-minute chase ended up in a vehicle collision after a man hit another car at a Koreatown intersection recently.

Authorities say that the chase begun when the man allegedly pulled out a gun on police officers who were riding on an unmarked vehicle.

No one was reported with serious injuries though the speeding vehicle ran red lights and drove on the sidewalks which could have easily resulted to a pedestrian accident wherein he will also be accountable for.

Officials say he may be booked on charges of assault with a deadly weapon against a police officer.

Aside from this charge, he should face other traffic-related charges for endangering the lives of pedestrians and other motorists in the area by being a negligent driver.

Eleven-Year-Old Boy Causes Fatal Tulare Crash

2010-01-14T22:53:00.000-08:00

Only persons aged 16-years-old and above are permitted by law to operate a vehicle. An age requirement was imposed because younger persons are presumed as incapable of driving properly and responsibly and they may endanger the lives of many in the event of an accident.

True enough, an 11-year-old driver caused an accident in Tulare County that ended the lives of three people, including his own, and injured another.

According to authorities, Jose Silva was driving a 1993 Honda eastbound on Avenue 168 and ran a stop sign along Road 152. The Honda, which was carrying four occupants, all from Woodville, was then hit broadside by a 1999 Ford headed southbound.

The Ford driver who was identified as Charles Seguin, 44, from Porterville, sustained minor injuries and received treatment at the accident area. Meanwhile, Froylon Gonzales, 34, one of the Honda’s passengers, sustained life-threatening injuries and was brought to Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno.

Jose, his 6-year-old sister named Elizabeth, and his mother Maria were all killed in the incident.

Parents should not let their children drive because young ones are not yet aware of what their actions can cause. In addition, children are not yet physically and mentally ready to handle the pressures that they may face while out on the roads.

Motorcyclist Dies in Crash

2010-01-12T23:10:00.000-08:00

A motorcycle accident recently killed a rider in San Diego after he lost control of his vehicle and hit an oncoming westbound Honda Accord.

The 49-year-old Virgil Frank Garrett apparently lost control of his motorcycle on a curve before swerving in front of the Accord driven by the 23-year-old motorist.

Garrett died before rescuers were able to transport him to a hospital.

The recent vehicle collision proves how difficult it is to maneuver motorcycles and so riders should be extra cautious and manage the speed of their vehicle.

Police in Search of Lakeside Hit-and-Run Driver

2010-01-07T22:21:00.000-08:00

Although the law prohibits drivers from leaving the scene of an accident, many drivers still try to escape to avoid liability by running away especially if the incident had resulted in injury or death to another.

This is what happened in the case of a 63-year-old woman who was critically injured in a hit-and-run incident in Lakeside.

According to authorities, the woman was hit while she was crossing Old Highway 80, east of Los Coches Road.

She sustained severe head injury and broken legs.

The vehicle was described by witnesses as a dark-colored Ford Expedition.

The woman’s family will have trouble recovering damages because the unidentified driver fled the area without assisting the victim. Because of this, the driver may face graver punishments once caught as escaping has only worsened the offense he had committed.

Drunk Driver Ran Away in Fatal Crash

2010-01-06T21:59:00.000-08:00

A multiple car crash in Santa Ana has taken the life of an 18-year-old Anaheim woman who was riding on a vehicle hit by a drunk driver who fled the scene after the accident.

The 36-year-old Robert Charles Serrano was later arrested at a relative’s house while the teen, Corbin White, died at a hospital a day later after the crash.

Reports indicate that after leaving a bar, Serrano hit a Toyota Scion, where White was a passenger, which was stopped by the traffic light. The impact caused the Scion to hit a Chevrolet Malibu that was making a turn to the southbound lanes of Main. The BMW driven by Serrano then spun and hit the vehicle at the back of the Malibu.

The driver of the Scion, including White were both taken to the hospital to be treated for serious injuries. The other two drivers were unharmed while Serrano was apparently well enough to flee the scene on foot.

Serrano is detained and faces felony charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and fleeing an accident scene.

A young life is once again senselessly taken away because of the negligence of a drunk driver who doesn’t care enough to just take a cab home after drinking so as not to endanger other motorists.

Coast Guard Hits Boat, Boy Dies in Parade

2009-12-22T22:52:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-18T16:34:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-17T00:03:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-15T23:25:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-15T18:16:00.001-08:00

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

2009-12-11T14:56:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-08T23:37:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T20:25:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-04T17:22:00.001-08:00

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

2009-12-04T17:22:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-03T17:59:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-27T18:25:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-24T16:24:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-20T11:03:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-17T22:34:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-13T20:23:00.000-08:00

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

2009-10-22T22:43:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-19T21:31:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-08T21:32:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-02T00:46:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-23T23:19:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-28T21:53:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-20T00:57:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

“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

2009-08-07T08:23:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-23T08:54:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-14T16:41:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-10T22:46:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-10T08:28:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-08T08:14:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-06T16:39:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-26T13:04:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-23T09:52:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-05T22:08:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-28T19:29:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-27T23:48:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-15T23:42:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-08T20:09:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-21T22:45:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-02T23:20:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-02T23:07:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-02T00:44:00.000-07:00

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

2009-03-31T00:05:00.000-07:00

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

2009-03-29T22:05:00.000-07:00

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

2009-03-24T21:24:00.000-07:00

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

2009-03-19T21:26:00.000-07:00

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

2009-03-03T20:55:00.000-08:00

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

2009-02-26T23:29:00.000-08:00

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

2009-02-18T23:23:00.000-08:00

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

2009-02-11T19:22:00.000-08:00

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

2009-01-13T22:44:00.000-08:00

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

2009-01-08T17:18:00.000-08:00

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.

Plane Crashing through a Neighborhood

2008-12-15T20:57:00.000-08:00

Compared to land and accidents, air accidents register the least incidents. However, when it happens, the horror, injuries and suffering are the same if not far more than other accidents in land or water.

The horror and devastation I am trying to relay was made into life by an incident that happened on December 8, 2008.

The plane accident took place in the neighborhood of University City just west of the naval base killing three people and creating destruction and ruins.

The pilot who had timely ejected from the craft suffered minor injuries.

One may ask why the pilot chooses to fly over a populated area such as University City when he could have chosen to crash land over a body of water or an empty lot. Well, there he must have been ill-advised to be anywhere near the area.

Clearly, at some point, negligence existed. An engine trouble is common but a double engine failure is unlikely to happen. Moreover, a proper maintenance check would have prevented such failure.

If negligence truly existed then someone has to pay. Innocent people died and a father was left without a family.

Leaving License Plate after Drunk Driving Accident Made it Easy

2008-11-27T20:44:00.000-08:00

We have read a lot about leaving a business or calling card whenever we figured in an accident. But this one is quite a calling card – the license plate of the car itself.

The driver of a pickup truck reportedly smashed his vehicle into another vehicle somewhere in Manteca, California. He caused injuries into two of its occupant in the process, and most especially leaving the license plate of his car, making it easy for the police to track him.

According to reports, the two occupants of the vehicle were Taiwanese couple who were on their way to Santa Clara when their car was broadsided by a pickup truck. The car driver fled from the scene of the accident.

But as he left his car’s license plate, the police readily tracked him and was booked after he failed the breathalyzer, sobriety and field sobriety tests. He was taken to jail.

The victim driver said he had no recollection whatsoever of what had happened. The driver’s fiancée suffered the greatest effect of the car accident which left her trapped in the right side of the car.

In the US, there are more than 6 million car accidents and from that figure, 42,642 lost their lives; one person dies every 13 minutes or 115 each day. Others suffer bodily injury, which range from temporary to permanent injuries.

Rare Mountain Car Accident

2008-11-14T00:23:00.000-08:00

There was one car accident in the Angeles National Forest, near Glendora, that happened and turned fatal very recently.

The single accident reportedly happened one early morning in the area of Glendora Mountain Road and Glendora Ridge Road. The Los Angeles County Fire Department reported the accident.

The agency said that the car slid for about 100 feet into the side of Glendora Mountain Road. One individual was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident, while a passenger in the same vehicle was taken to the hospital.

The cause of the accident is still under investigation. No other information was released regarding the accident.

The personal injury and wrongful death which resulted from car accident have become a major tort case in the country today, especially in states where car accidents and motorcycle accidents happen too frequently.

Accidents could be a combination of driver error, defective condition of vehicle, or defective condition of roads.

Cases should be filed for rightful compensation – car accident lawyers can be of help.

A Fatal Sunday Morning

2008-10-30T22:02:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning is often spent with family and close friends. It is a day where we spent quality time with our spouse and kids. We either stay at home or go somewhere so long you are with your loved ones.

This may have been the plan of the four unidentified car accident victims were it not for their death on a Sunday morning. Reports revealed that a woman and three children died at the accident scene when their car was struck by another vehicle.

The accident was caused allegedly by the other car’s running a stop sign. Its driver was suspected to be under the influence.

How many innocent victims should be pun on the line for us to take car accidents seriously? I am not mocking the efforts of the authorities but it seems that whatever it is that they are doing right now is not enough.

Certainly, there must be wrong, if not with the system, with its implementation and enforcement.

I think we should reexamine thoroughly our traffic laws, rules and regulations. We should give violators the stiffest possible punishment.

I can no longer think of a better way than this if you have please tell me.

Establishing Fault in a Car Pileup Accident

2008-10-23T22:05:00.000-07:00

A car pileup or a multiple vehicle crash is a devastating vehicle accident, often involving several victims with extensive damage to vehicles or properties.

Take the case of a car pile up accident that occurred in France’s A4 Motorway and involved 28 vehicles, including a tractor-trailer and two buses.

About 39 people were injured while one died as a result of the multiple vehicle crash. Some 230 rescue personnel and police officers also rushed to the scene of the accident to help the victims.

In vehicle accidents like this, one may ask – whose fault is it?

Under the tort law, comparative responsibility in accidents such as this applies. This principle applies not only to accidents caused by negligence but to intentional torts as well.

By comparative fault, the participation of each party in the accident is assessed and the fault of each one is determined and established. In this way, the fault is divided by percentage among the parties and accordingly, the amount of damages for the plaintiff.

Proving and establishing comparative responsibility in a car pileup accident may be an intricate process. Hiring an experienced car accident lawyer will ensure protection of your rights during the process.

Drunk Driving, Bike Accidents and the Elderly

2008-10-22T21:48:00.000-07:00

What could be more tragic than being struck by a vehicle driven by an intoxicated motorist while cruising on a motorcycle with your fiancée on a great weekend?

The article, “Riverside Drunk Driving Accident Kills Motorcyclist”, posted on October 16, 2008, mirrors this tragic incident involving a motorcycle and a sports utility vehicle (SUV) in Riverside County.

According to the article, the motorcycle enthusiast and his fiancée were crossing an intersection after attending the 2008 American Heat Motorcycle Weekend in Palms Spring, when a SUV turned in the its path. The bike was “broadsided” by the vehicle, causing the rider and his companion to be thrown off the motorcycle during the collision.

As a result, the rider suffered more than his fiancée who had only minor injuries and survived the crash while the rider died later from severe injuries sustained in the accident. To make it worse, it was learned that the couple were engaged to be married next year.

Investigations revealed that the driver of the SUV was a 76-year old man whom the police later arrested on suspicion of felony drunk driving, later amended to vehicle manslaughter following the death of the accident victim.

Authorities have noted a recent upsurge in motorcycle accidents, which may be attributed to the increase in the number of people who use motorcycles as cheaper means of transportation in the midst of rising fuel prices.

Consequently, bike accidents have also increased. Considering that motorcycles are dangerous enough to use, it has become even more lethal with the added factors of a drunk elderly losing control of a vehicle in an intersection.

Drunk driving is considered as one of the major causes in many vehicular accidents. Many teen and adult drivers are guilty of violating the road safety regulation on drunk driving.

If you happen to become a victim of a vehicle accident caused by negligence or recklessness such as drunk driving, consulting with a skilled personal injury lawyer can help from the damages wrought by the accident on your life.

I-8 Car Crash Kills One

2008-10-17T00:20:00.000-07:00

A driver was killed in the crash site after an auto accident that happened in I-8 last Sunday. Border Patrol authorities reports of a vehicle accident on westbound I-8, west of Jacumba, San Diego County.

The crash was believed to have occurred a little past ten at night when the driver of a sedan apparently lost control of his car and went off the north side of the freeway. The car landed about 70 feet down an embankment.

Officers told the California Highway Patrol that they pulled the driver out of the wrecked vehicle before it caught fire. However, the driver did not make it, he perished near the site of the accident. As of the time of this writing, the driver was not identified.

The NHTSA data reveals that there are around 4,236 traffic accidents fatalities in California last year, including those coming from San Diego.

For victims of this car crash caused by erring driver besides the victim himself, compensation that may be recovered may include but is not limited to the following:

• Loss of earning capacity

• Pain and suffering

• Reasonable medical expenses

Generally, car accidents suits are filed in the state where the accident took place. A civil suit for damages is filed to recover compensation. A criminal case may also be filed especially when the car crash was attended by serious injuries, driving under the influence (DUI), assault and manslaughter.

Rail Technology calls for Advancement

2008-09-19T19:03:00.000-07:00

There is already a development in the horrible train accident investigation that happened in Los Angeles.

And as if equaling the magnitude of horror to this now the worst train collision in the state in the last half century – a federal investigator said that the engineer of the commuter train did not apply brakes even after he drove through a red signal.

While according to the same investigation, the driver of the other train, a 17-car Union Pacific freight train, did slam on his breaks.

The National Transportation Safety Board is the agency investigating the accident.

The investigation revealed that only four seconds passed from the time the freight train engineer saw the approaching 3-car Metrolink train until the impact – then the worst rail accident happened.

The accident left 25 people dead and more than 130 people injured.

Still, the root cause of the accident is yet to be determined. One thing is certain though, the signaling equipment was properly working at the time of the accident.

If there is any good that can come out of this disaster, it is that the accident now becomes an eye-opener on the call to advance the technology on the rail. At its current state, the investigators are questioning whether the engineers actually saw each other and the signaling equipment.

Authorities and concerned personalities are now pushing to expand the use of the so-called “positive train control” collision avoidance systems using satellites, transponders and other technology that automatically stops the train when there is an impending collision.

I, personally, support this move, if only to avoid future railroad accidents of this magnitude. This may just be considered a whisper in the woods but a million whispers get to be heard sometimes.

Big Rig Killed a Man on a Wheelchair

2008-09-15T17:47:00.000-07:00

It’s bad enough that for some reason you were in a wheelchair. To be struck by a big rig truck that eventually caused death is way more than what anyone or his/her family can possibly bear.

During the first week of the first of the “-ber months”, the Los Angeles Times reported an accident involving a man in a wheelchair who was struck and killed by a big rig truck in downtown Los Angeles.

A spokeswoman for the Los Angeles Fire Department said that the accident happened around 1.30pm in the vicinity of South Santa Fe Avenue. The victim was described to be in his 45. No other details were revealed as of the time of this writing.
Some sources say that the big rig truck was turning onto one street when the rig’s rear wheels struck the victim. Police report said the unidentified victim was dragged along the street and died almost instantly.

For the family of the victim, one thing I could suggest is to go after whosoever is responsible for the wrongful death of their loved one. Under the law, they may sue the driver, or the owner of the big rig or anyone, which contributed to the accident.

They may recover damages by hiring a competent car accident or personal injury lawyer. In doing so, they may realize that they can get rightful compensation for damages than opting for hasty out-of-court settlement of claims.

A good accident lawyer is the key. The erring driver can be facing vehicular manslaughter charges at the very least. And once proven, the punishment, under the full force of the law, is anything but light.

In the US, there are more than 6 million car accidents and from that figure, 42,642 lost their lives. One person dies every 13 minutes or 115 each day. Others suffer bodily injury which range from temporary to permanent injuries.

SUV pedestrian accident kills woman in Newport Beach

2008-09-04T19:14:00.000-07:00

Another senseless death occurred just before the end of last month because of a pedestrian accident caused by a reckless, negligent unmindful-of-other-person’s-life-and-limb fellow human being.

This is actually the second accident to happen in Newport Beach in the span of only a week.

The first fatality was a Redondo Beach resident Michelle Kim, 54 years of age. She was struck and killed by a minivan when she was crossing Newport Palace Drive outside pedestrian crossing. The driver, a certain Sung Van Le of Santa Ana was questioned but was later on released.

The second time around, the senseless accident which could have been prevented claimed the life of a 32 year old Costa Mesa resident, Martha Ovalle. She was reportedly struck by a sports utility vehicle while crossing the road, in a marked crosswalk. The vehicle GMC Yukon was traveling west on Westcliff Drive near Dover Drive when the accident happened.

Martha was pronounced dead by the responding paramedics at the scene of the accident shortly after she was struck. The driver was identified as Martin Kuehl, 41 years old, also of Costa Mesa. He was cited for the fatal Buckingham Lane and Westcliff Drive pedestrian accident and arrested for parole violation as well, by the police.

Martin was found to be neither speeding nor under the influence. But the accident happened nonetheless. The authorities surmised he wasn’t paying attention to the road while driving.

The family of victims must vehemently and with full strength of the law pursue these reckless drivers. We hope that they locate and employ the services of a good accident lawyer to fight and win with them. These drivers may be facing negligence charges, if not the much graver manslaughter charges.

Which Accident Law Applies in a Car and Airplane Collision?

2008-08-22T22:03:00.000-07:00

Freak accidents, like a car and airplane collision, rarely happen but when they do, the consequences are often fatal. Some people may also find it odd to ask which accident law should apply to freak accidents.

It depends on the given situation and the contributing factors in the accident.

In one of these rare accident cases, such as the one mentioned in “Airplane and Car Collide on Interstate 40”, posted on August 13, 2008, a car collided with an experimental plane that made an emergency landing on Interstate 40 west of Needles.

The article, which was based on a news story regarding the accident, mentioned two conflicting facts. Initially, it said that the aircraft was “preparing to take off when it was struck by a vehicle”. In another part, it said the plane “was flying just above traffic, when it flew lower into the path of a vehicle”, when the accident occurred.

This motor vehicle versus aircraft collision seldom happens and in this case, the pilot incurred severe injuries and died instantly at the scene of the accident while the car driver and the three passengers suffered only minor injuries.

Although the accident is being investigated by both the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board, for the victim or his survivors, they may pursue their claim based on the applicable car accident law.

The claim for damages in this accident must be pursued under laws governing car or motor vehicle accidents because of the following elements:

• The accident happened on the road (Interstate 40)

• The aircraft happened to be “parked illegally” on a freeway, which is, traditionally, a conveyance for motor vehicles such as cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles.

• One of the parties involved is a motor vehicle

DUI, Elderly Victims, and Vehicle Accidents

2008-08-21T19:08:00.000-07:00

Vehicle accidents involving drunk drivers are commonplace occurrence and there seem to be no end to the number of innocent victims, harmed or killed, in DUI-related incidents.

In the article,”Woman Charged in Church Van Drunk Driving Accident”, posted on August 20, 2008, some factors tended to complicate matters as two elderly women were among those injured.

The collision involved a car driven by an intoxicated woman and a church van carrying seven members, most of them elderly, from the Light Oak Missionary Baptist Church.

Luckily, for the van passengers, including the two elderly, they suffered only minor injuries but the vehicle was damaged extensively.

According to the article, the female driver of the car that collided with the van had been charged with “drunk driving and driving left of center” before. When police confronted the suspect, the officers smelled her reeking of alcohol.

As an excuse, the car driver denied being drunk and said she just took a few sips of vodka before she left the house. She also claimed that she was only driving at 20 miles per hour, and was just trying to reach for something in the back seat when the accident took place.

Apparently, it was not the first time for the same driver to be involved in a similar accident and for all other accidents, drunk driving is the scourge of motorists.

Perhaps in the future, the authorities could implement stricter laws that will ultimately prevent occurrence of similar accidents.

Octogenarian Causes Pedestrian Accident

2008-08-08T06:38:00.000-07:00

At approximately 11.43AM on the 30th of July, officers from Bakersfield Police responded to 1900 Columbus Street, One Bakersfield reports.

It appears that 84 years old Charles Nowatzki was traveling east of said street. As it passed through the intersection on Baylor Street – his 1997 Ford Crown Victoria struck a pedestrian in the crosswalk.

The pedestrian suffered major bodily injuries and was taken to a hospital.

The old man wasn’t speeding, nor under the driving under the influence – both drugs and alcohol.

The question is, at his age, why was he driving? Or at the very least, why was he even allowed to drive? There is no law which prohibits an octogenarian from driving, yes. Only that study shows that the risk for drivers 75 years of age and above is higher.

If negligence is proven, Mr. Nowatzki, or his family, can be made to answer for damages he has caused. And I’m afraid, his age will not be considered favorably.

A person who figured in a car accident may suffer injuries such as spinal cord damage, fractured bones, injuries to lower limb and traumatic brain injuries, among others.

In 2006, car accident fatalities in the United States totaled to 42,642. Out of that number, pedestrian accident kills a staggering number of 4,784 while nearly 70,000 pedestrians are injured.

Statistics show that at least 1 pedestrian gets killed in a traffic accident every 110 minutes, or so.

Due to increasing popularity of car culture in the country, only 8.6% of the trips were recorded to have been made by walking. Despite this, 11.4% of all traffic deaths are pedestrians.

Pedestrian accident is the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children within the age bracket of 5 and 14.

Airbag-induced Injury Victim’s Chances of Recovery

2008-08-07T19:27:00.000-07:00

Airbag, as considered by many, is their last line of defense against serious injury in a car accident. With the proper airbags installed and working, people feel at ease riding their cars, and could make them feel a little immortal. These describe the import of airbags to people, as their sort of defensive protection, supplementing seat belt.

However, just recently, the airbag failure issues has been on the open line once again, as ever, where a certain Brooke Katz and her unborn child was killed in a car accident in Atlanta due to airbag failure.

The car involved in the fatal crash was a Chrysler car, which has been controversial lately in their airbag provisions. The controversy have grown when a testimony from a Chrysler employee reveals that some of the crashes involving Chrysler cars occurred in cars whose air bags were recalibrated by the company to not deploy at all. This revelation came in court papers presented in the lawsuit against Chrysler brought by Brooke Katz husband.

This case, along with so many others fatal front-impact car accidents after airbags failed to deploy, has long been an issue in our jurisdiction and as can be anticipated, would still continue to rise.

As can be gleaned then from these accidents, all evidence seems to point to yet another instance of auto manufacturers wanting of measures to deal with the airbags late deployment problem, totally compromising the lives of their patrons.

As I can relate with these, especially to those who may have suffered an air bag-induced injury, that they have the right to go against the auto manufacturer who failed to keep safe their airbag in good conditions. In these aspects, there is a great chance for those injured to recover financial compensation for their pain and suffering, medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages or income, and property damage against the erring manufacturer.

Pursuing your Legal Right in a Motorcycle Accident

2008-08-07T18:58:00.000-07:00

Motorcycle accidents are not that often compared to other kinds of vehicular accident but it usually results to nasty injuries. In the US, statistics show that motor accidents are the leading cause of death of people between 6-33 years old, and almost 3,000 people are killed each year as a result.

Motorcycle accidents often result to serious injuries or death. Most victims of motorcycle accidents undergo serious life changes and permanent disability.

A new addition to the long list of motorcycle accident just happened yesterday. In a news report entitled “91 Freeway Accident Sends Motorcycle Rider to Hospital” posted on August 6, 2008 related an accident involving a motorcycle and three cars.

As of the moment, the authorities are still on search on the cause of the accident. The only report that has been released is that the driver of the motorcycle was transported to a hospital for treatment but his identity is still unknown.

Well, let us leave that matter to the authorities. My concern is on the victims of the incident. I encouraged them to file a claim for damages and other monetary benefits against the person who caused the injury. Such right is provided in the federal and state laws to victims of this kind of incident.

I also advise them to contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. These persons are adept in this kind of issue; therefore, you have higher chance of getting the right amount provided by law.

Reckless Driving Ends in Car Collision and Arrest

2008-08-01T07:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, online news reported about a car chase, which caused some minor accidents in Los Angeles.

The report said the police have arrested the suspect who drove opposite freeway traffic that led to high speed chase between him and the police.

During the chase, the suspect’s vehicle figured in a collision accident with another vehicle in Mission Hills. As of the time of this writing, it wasn’t known yet whether the crash caused any injuries.

But, reading the news, I think one thing here is known and certain.

The law, to protect the motorists from their reckless and negligent fellow, requires the erring drivers to compensate their victims for any damage, bodily injury or damage to property, alike.

Therefore, for the collision this driver caused in the intersection in Mission Hills, irrespective of the fact that no injuries are known to have been sustained, he will have to face prosecution for the compensation of the other driver for the damage that the latter sustained from the collision.

Not to mention the certainty of the fact that the driver will be facing charges for his felonious act and violations of the existing traffic rules and regulation of the county or state.

The victim of the car collision may claim from his own or the suspect’s insurance company for the actual value of the repair of his vehicle together with other damages.

Good thing the person was arrested. His victim will no longer have the extra burden of looking for him.

Another DUI Crash

2008-07-31T22:00:00.000-07:00

After I wrote my legal blog dealing about DUI crashes of a famous Hollywood talent, when I was about to wrap thing up, I suddenly browse-in a news article that relates the same DUI infested car crashes involving Jeep And Tractor Trailer. This happened Last July 11, 2008, which is considerably an older one from the one I just made a blog with.

The crash happened when a Jeep rear-ended a slow moving tractor-trailer on northbound side of the Cuesta Grade. The driver of the Jeep was identified as, Joshua Lowe, 31 year old, who was found to have suffered intoxication at that point.

Lowe and his passenger were taken to Sierra Vista Medical Center for treatment of their moderate injuries. Apparently, Lowe will be dealing with a charge of DUI.

As I constantly aired, people should not drink and drive in order to avoid crippling DUI crashes such as what happened to this case.

Drunk driving should be not be countenanced especially that there are huge volume of cases of injuries and deaths in these causation alone.

As an Attorney, I deeply pressed concern for the continued prevalence of like events that happen in our roads, the same way that I am irked to those irresponsible numbers of abusive road users who are drunk dead in driving.

Wew! We have another worthless addition to the constant road issue that besets us.

If you have been involved in a DUI crashes such as this one, it is worthwhile to seek legal help from an adeptly qualified Lawyer to help you battle your compensation pursuit, at the soonest.

Fatal Anaheim Construction Accident Kills One

2008-07-17T07:36:00.000-07:00

An unfortunate construction accident happened in Anaheim very recently. The accident was reported by the OC Register on line.

The report says that one Arturo Gonzales, 34, died after a forklift tipped over and hit him.

Arturo was taken by an ambulance to the hospital but he didn’t survive.

The “car-sized scoop on the end of an extension arm” of the forklift was reported to have hit him. One fellow construction worker said, “He got totally crushed” due to the accident.

The accident happened in a condominium construction site. Arturo was part of a six-person crew who were tasked to plaster stucco onto the condominium development.

We can just imagine the grief that his family is experiencing now. Presumably, he was their bread winner and they depend on him for support. But now, he is dead…

The California law is not exactly without say on this. But we all know that Arturo’s family won’t be getting much from workmen’s compensation benefits.

The same will not be enough. The loss of a loved one, and a breadwinner at that, entails great loss to the family. Even if they successfully claim for workmen’s compensation, as already mentioned, it won’t be enough.

A piece of legal advice – (1) the family should vehemently pursue the workmen’s compensation claim plus (2) they should also file a claim against his employer for construction liability.

They may also choose to file a third party claim suit. They might want to consult with lawyer whose expertise includes construction accident cases.

My deepest sympathies to the members Arturo’s family.

Plane Accidents and Realities

2008-07-14T21:39:00.000-07:00

Airplane, described by many as the fastest, convenient and relatively the safest means of transportation, ever had. To that, I can agree, qualifiedly.

Why qualified or with reservation?

Though, plane has now become part of mass transport, there are reported incidents (in fact many) across all jurisdictions of accident involvement with this particular kind of conveyance. One thing can describe from all these plane accidents, that is, “one incident can cause a large number of fatalities”. That is to show how grave its impact whenever plane is involved in air mishaps.

Like in the recent event that happened in Ventura County, specifically in a Camarillo industrial park, reported by CBS2 (Thursday, 10 Jul 2008) with the heading, “Small plane flips in Ventura County”. The report related that a banner-towing plane has landed upside down in a Camarillo field during an emergency landing.

Luckily, the pilot did not suffer any serious injuries. Still lucky enough, that the plane has not conveyed passengers while taking its course.

Worthy to note then, the event was just the third mishap involving a small airplane in Ventura County in the past eight days.

Terrified! News like this one really irked me!

I express concern with this, as I am an air traveler myself. Traveling through plane medium really is quite a risk, as potentially we can be dead at an instant with no choice to live whenever grave trouble in voyage happened.

With these facts and realities about planes, we air travelers cannot do anything but hope that no complications arise when we take our flight.

For the airline companies, this I say, that they should properly maintain their air conveyances to the maximum level to avoid air troubles while in transit. Or else, when plane accident happens, they can be held liable for the deaths or any injuries to passengers as well as to the damages and loss of its cargoes.

Selecting the avenue of Wrongful Death suit or claims

2008-07-08T07:48:00.000-07:00

News reported in www.sacbee.com written by Susan Ferriss entitled, “Farmworker's family sues over California heat-related death” related the gloomy incident that happened to María Isavel Vásquez Jiménez, who died in Lodi two days after collapsing in a vineyard on May 14 due to hot vineyard environment. The news was published on Thursday, June 19, 2008.

The family of the teenage girl filed a wrongful-death lawsuit in Merced Superior Court on Wednesday, the following day of the death. In its complaint, it alleged that Merced Farm Labor and West Coast Grape Farming Inc. (the company that hired Merced to provide workers) are responsible for the death of their daughter.

Public eyes were open to this issue as there are diverse views on the matter that have been issued and relayed. The labor sector as well as other sectors has expressed their concerns on the tragic wrongful death of the teenage girl. The labor activist has this to say on the event, “They want the suit to send a strong message that California farm companies – not just the labor contractors they hire – should be held accountable for conditions that endanger workers”.

I was shaken by the issue and I expressed deep sympathy to the teenage girl who has been ruthlessly killed while doing her job religiously.

How many of type of cases with this liking have happened in our society? I can fairly guess there are many. This case was just an addition to the many cases of wrongful death that besets our jurisdiction.

Wrongful death cases, have gained advances in the list of most celebrated personal injury law litigated issues. Unfortunately, despite the prevalence of this event, many people have no real inkling regarding their right to claim compensation for their losses coursing through the legal option of filing a wrongful death lawsuit or claim.

Gladly though, the parents of the teenage girl, through its lawyers have wage the proper avenue in ventilating their injury compensation for their losses by filing a wrongful death case. However, for those who failed to opt for this legal remedy, I express my concern.

One thing I must say, especially to the surviving families, when events like this happened, go for this remedy in your pursuit for injury compensation.