Welcome to the Michael Waks Blog

In today’s world, cameras are everywhere. From store security systems to traffic cameras and even doorbell devices, video footage is often captured without people realizing it. When an accident happens, this footage can play a major role in a personal injury case. It can support a victim’s claim or, in some situations, raise challenges that need to be addressed. Understanding how surveillance footage is used in California personal injury cases is important for anyone pursuing compensation after … [Read more...]

After an accident, many people feel shaken but believe they are not seriously hurt. It is common to think the pain will pass or that a trip to the doctor is unnecessary. Unfortunately, delaying medical care can have significant consequences. Not only can it make an injury worse, but it can also affect the strength of a personal injury claim. In California, where accident victims rely on medical documentation to prove their case, seeking immediate treatment is an essential step. Hidden … [Read more...]

Personal injury cases can be complex, often involving detailed medical, technical, or financial information that is difficult for a jury to fully grasp without guidance. This is where expert witnesses play a crucial role. Their knowledge and professional opinions can significantly affect the outcome of a case, providing clarity and credibility to claims that might otherwise be challenging to prove. Understanding how expert witnesses function in these cases is essential for anyone pursuing or … [Read more...]

Being the victim of assault or battery can be a traumatic experience. Beyond the immediate physical and emotional impact, victims often face confusion about what steps to take next. In California, there are multiple legal avenues available to those harmed by violent actions. Knowing your rights and options is critical to securing justice and obtaining compensation for your injuries. Defining Assault and Battery Under California Law Before exploring legal options, it is important to … [Read more...]

The Law Office of Michael D. Waks recently achieved a substantial settlement for a client injured in a serious rear-end collision on the northbound 605 Freeway in Los Angeles. The case, Flores vs CDS Trucking Equipment, Inc., resolved on July 10, 2025, with a $1,500,000 settlement. On January 12, 2023, Tito Flores, a concrete inspector, was driving his pick-up truck on the freeway when defendant rear-ended him, Hakim Hassan Stenson, who was operating his truck while in the course and scope of … [Read more...]

Car accidents can happen for many reasons, ranging from driver error to mechanical failure. One factor that is often overlooked is the condition of the road itself. In California, where traffic is heavy and weather can vary dramatically across regions, defective or poorly maintained roads play a significant role in vehicle collisions. Understanding how these conditions contribute to accidents is essential for both prevention and legal recourse. What Counts as Defective Road … [Read more...]

When someone is injured because of another person’s negligence, they have the right to seek compensation for their losses. However, many injury victims worry that having a pre-existing medical condition will harm their ability to recover damages. In California, the law recognizes that people are often more vulnerable because of prior injuries or health issues. While insurance companies may try to use these conditions against you, the presence of a pre-existing condition does not automatically … [Read more...]

After a serious accident, most people focus on their physical injuries and getting the medical treatment they need. But once the dust settles, financial stress often follows. Hospital bills, missed work, and pain that lingers can leave victims wondering how they’ll get back on their feet. In California, personal injury law gives injured people the right to seek compensation from those responsible. That compensation usually falls into two broad categories: economic and non-economic damages. … [Read more...]

Workplace safety is not just about regulations and checklists. It’s about protecting people. When employers in California fail to maintain safe working environments, the consequences can be serious. Injuries on the job don’t just result in time away from work—they often leave workers with medical bills, lasting pain, and uncertainty about the future. While most on-the-job injuries are handled through workers’ compensation, not every situation ends there. If safety violations played a role, … [Read more...]