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How much Uninsured Motorist Coverage Should I Carry?

September 17, 2015 by

California requires drivers to have liability coverage, but many motorists do not follow the law.  The Insurance Research Council reports the state of California has the highest number of uninsured motorists nationwide.  According to their data, in 2012 there were 4.1 million uninsured motorists in California. If you are involved in a crash with a driver who has no insurance, or if you are involved in a collision with a hit-and-run driver, you may have a difficult time getting your … [Read more...]

What is a Defense Medical Exam & Must I Have One?

September 9, 2015 by

When you have filed a personal injury lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries, you need to provide proof of the extent of your injuries and losses.  The attorney for the person or company you have accused of harming you may not be satisfied with the medical evidence you submit. The defense may want you to undergo an examination done by a doctor of their choosing so they can get a better assessment of whether you are exaggerating your injuries or you have legitimately been … [Read more...]

Sexual Assault is a Common Problem for LA Metro Riders

September 8, 2015 by

Sexual assault can have devastating emotional ramifications, in addition to sometimes causing physical harm. Unfortunately, sexual assault is far more common than most people realize and it can happen in locations where people go every day. Sexual Assault On the Los Angeles Metro The LA Times recently published an article about the problem of sexual assault on the Metro.  The Metropolitan Transit Authority conducted a survey of rail riders over the course of May and June.  The Transit … [Read more...]

Lasting Physical and Emotional Injuries After a Car Accident

September 3, 2015 by

The Los Angeles Times reported on three car accident victims who addressed the court after a man was found guilty of second-degree murder, hit-and-run and multiple counts of assault with a deadly weapon.  The man had driven intentionally onto the sidewalk, around pedestrian barriers, and into a crowd on Venice Boardwalk after he was angered by a botched drug deal.  An Italian newlywed couple died and 17 other people were injured because of his actions.  Three of the victims spoke at his … [Read more...]

Ice Cream Truck Safety Laws Aim to Prevent Injury to Children

September 2, 2015 by

Children love ice cream trucks.  The sound of the tinkling ice cream truck music can send kids running from their homes to flag down the truck so they can buy a treat.  The problem is, children may run into busy streets, or they may be struck by a motorist whose view is blocked by the ice cream truck.  California recognizes the risks presented by ice cream trucks, and has included provisions in the California Vehicle Code imposing rules on ice cream trucks designed to … [Read more...]

The Majority of Teen Car Accidents Involve Distracted Teenagers

September 1, 2015 by

Due to their inexperience, teenagers are the demographic group with the greatest likelihood of being in motor vehicle accidents.  Unfortunately, teen drivers face risks not just because they have not driven for very long. They also tend to engage in activities that make driving more dangerous.  One of the riskiest things teenagers do on the road, is become distracted by their smartphones or other electronic devices. It is not legal for teens to use a handheld cell phone, or to … [Read more...]

NHTSA Announces Efforts to Reduce Drowsy Driving Car Accidents

August 27, 2015 by

When a motorist becomes overtired while driving, there can be deadly consequences.  A drowsy driver may have delayed reactions, and impaired judgment.  Being tired behind the wheel can become just as dangerous as being drunk.  As the administrator of the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) commented: “while not everybody drinks, or texts, or speeds, lack of sleep is a problem we all face.  And falling asleep at the wheel at 70 mph is a … [Read more...]

Sexual Assault: How Are Schools Being Made to Provide Broader Protection?

August 26, 2015 by

Universities have an obligation to create a safe space for students and can be held accountable for failure to act when there are risks of harm.  Currently, there are more than 100 universities across the United States who are under investigation by the Office of Civil Rights for the U.S. Department of Education.  The schools are being investigated for their handling of sexual assault concerns.  Federal laws require schools to take immediate steps to address not just sexual … [Read more...]

Should I Keep a Pain Journal After an Accident?

August 20, 2015 by

In the state of California, the victim of an auto accident or other injuries caused by negligence can be compensated for pain.  Determining an appropriate amount of compensation is difficult, as measuring pain is subjective.  Keeping a pain journal after an accident can be invaluable in helping to demonstrate the extent and the duration of the pain suffered. Why You Should Keep a Pain Journal After An accident California Civil Jury Instructions 2095A addresses physical pain and mental … [Read more...]