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Are Punitive Damages Recoverable After a Drunk Driving Accident?

August 16, 2019 by

If you were hurt in a car accident through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to both compensatory and punitive damages. Compensatory damages include hospital bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other economic and non-economic damages stemming from the collision. Punitive damages are intended to punish the at-fault party and to deter similar transgressions in the future. While compensatory damages are awarded in any successful personal injury case, punitive damages are only … [Read more...]

What Is Loss of Consortium?

August 14, 2019 by

The traumatic effects of a serious injury can ripple through an entire family. Loved ones not only may suffer tremendous grief but also might have to cope with a loss of care, affection, and moral support. These non-economic damages fall under the umbrella of “loss of consortium” (LoC). Under certain circumstances, the spouse or registered domestic partner of an injured party can bring a loss of consortium claim against the party responsible for the injury. Read on to learn the answers to a … [Read more...]

What Evidence Should I Gather After a Car Accident?

August 9, 2019 by

Every car accident claim is unique, but strong evidence is always the key to winning a settlement or verdict. Unfortunately, much of the evidence needed to support your claim may be time-sensitive, and it’s not uncommon for certain evidence to be withheld—especially if the liable party is in possession of such evidence. To give your case the best possible chance of success, it’s important that you gather evidence while at the scene if you are able to do so. You should also contact a … [Read more...]

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

August 7, 2019 by

Dozens of people may be personally affected by a wrongful death, but only certain individuals have the right to bring a claim against the liable party. Under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60, the following parties have the right to bring a wrongful death claim if they meet specific criteria: The personal representative of the deceased’s estate; The deceased’s spouse or domestic partner and children or stepchildren; The deceased’s putative spouse and his or her children; The … [Read more...]

Does Strict Liability Apply to Dog Bite Cases in California?

August 2, 2019 by

In the state of California, dog owners are almost always strictly liable for the damages their dogs cause in the event of an attack. As such, dog bite victims typically do not have to prove the owner was negligent in order to recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages. Unlike other states, California does not have a “one-bite rule.” That means dog owners can be held strictly liable for damages even if their animal had never bitten anyone or displayed vicious … [Read more...]

What Circumstances Might Warrant a Premises Liability Claim?

July 31, 2019 by

If you or a member of your family was injured while on another person’s property, you may have grounds for a premises liability claim. Property owners—and sometimes their tenants—have a duty to maintain their premises to a reasonable standard for both invitees and licensees. Even trespassers who suffer injuries may have grounds for a claim depending on the circumstances. Property owners and possessors who allow invitees onto their premises have a duty to conduct periodic inspections for … [Read more...]

Who Might Be Liable for Injuries Sustained at a Pool?

July 26, 2019 by

There are all sorts of ways a person can suffer an injury at a swimming pool. Slipping on a wet deck, diving into shallow water, or getting stuck in an unsafe drain can all cause serious and potentially fatal harm. If you or someone in your family was hurt at a swimming pool, you may be entitled to damages including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering; however, there are several elements that must be proven in order to recover compensation. One such element is liability. You must … [Read more...]

Common Product Defects That Lead to Personal Injury Claims

July 24, 2019 by

A product can become defective at any stage of design, development, or distribution. Even if a product doesn’t malfunction, serious injuries can still occur if a consumer good lacks adequate instructions for safe use. Certain items are responsible for a disproportionately high number of product defects. Examples include: Airbags and other automobile parts; Portable generators; Gas heaters; Medical devices; Pharmaceutical drugs; Children’s toys; Construction materials; and Foods … [Read more...]

Can I File a Pedestrian Accident Claim If I Was Jaywalking?

July 19, 2019 by

It’s no surprise why so many people make a habit out of jaywalking. It saves time, and trekking down the road just to reach an intersection can seem overly cautious. Unfortunately, if you were hit by a vehicle while jaywalking, it might be difficult to recover compensation for 100 percent of your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. In the state of California, pedestrians are generally prohibited from entering a roadway outside of a marked crosswalk, or on an unmarked crosswalk at an … [Read more...]

My Child Was Bitten by a Dog—Can I Sue?

July 15, 2019 by

If your son or daughter was bitten by a dog, your family may be entitled to compensation for all resulting damages. There are, however, many ways for the dog owner and/or the insurance company to dispute your claim. For example, they might argue that your child instigated the attack or that the injuries are less severe than you’re claiming. The easiest way to find out if your case has merit is to speak with a dog bite attorney. Fortunately, most personal injury lawyers offer free consultations, … [Read more...]