Can Cops Arrest Me for Boating Recklessly?

Call your California boat accident lawyer if you have been involved in any sort of collision on the water.

Just like with a car, there are laws governing the use of boats in the state of California. As a result, boating recklessly or boating under the influence of drugs/alcohol can get you in serious legal trouble. If you have had an interaction with boating police, or suffer an injury while boating around Los Angeles, contact your California boat accident lawyer.

Boating Violations in California

The police are normally looking for the same sort of reckless or erratic behavior in boats that might cause them to pull over a car. They are watching out for dangerous boating or people who seem to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Some things that police officers may stop your boat for include the following:

Excessive or unsafe speeds, especially in contained waterways or where there is heavy traffic
Boating too close to swimmers, divers, or other boaters
Failure to visibly display current registration
Running into another vessel
Interacting inappropriately with wildlife from your boat
Unusual driving of your boat, including swerving, inconsistent speeds, or boating dangerously close to land, other vessels, or any other object
Partaking in any boating activities between a tow boat and whatever it is towing
Creating too much wake in an area where the wake may be dangerous for others or their property
Crossing closely behind another vessel to experience its wake
Disregard for the right of way of other boats or vessels
Lastly, failure to comply with equipment laws like lights or life jackets

The police officers may also look for other visible signs of reckless behavior or intoxication. Unsafe use of skis or other water sport equipment may raise red flags for officers. Further, they will look out for littering or any open use of drugs or alcohol.

Just like with cars, it is illegal to operate a boat, watercraft, or other water equipment with a blood alcohol concentration of greater than 0.08 percent. For non-recreational vessels, that threshold is lower at 0.04 percent. If you have suffered injury by someone that you suspect may have been boating under the influence or any other similar action, contact a California boat accident lawyer right away.

Legal Punishment for Boat Accidents

Boating accidents are investigated similarly to automotive wrecks. The police, insurance companies, and other involved parties will try to determine who is at fault. This investigation may look into things like intoxication, negligence, or dangerous behavior. The police will question everyone involved, and administer field sobriety tests, breath tests, or blood tests as necessary.

The punishments for a BUI (boating under the influence) are similar to those for a DUI. They may include fines, probation, or even a jail sentence. Call your California boat accident lawyer if you have been in any sort of collision on the water.

Winning California Boat Accident Lawyer

California Injury Attorneys are a motivated group of lawyers located in Los Angeles. We offer free consultations, so the way we receive payment is by making sure you receive compensation. Contact us online, or give us a call at (323) 999-HELP. Our office hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but we are available 24/7 to take your call.

The best thing to do is avoid breaking any of California’s boating laws, which you can read more about here. If you suffer and injury as a result of someone of breaking any of those laws, consult with an attorney as soon as possible. We have highly skilled and motivated attorneys with a lot of experience. Do not hesitate to reach out for assistance anytime you need a California boat accident lawyer. Contact California Injury Attorneys today!

The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

California’s ‘Move Over’ Law

We encourage you to visit our SoCal accident lawyers in person.

If you’re an older American, you’ve probably bemoaned the things people don’t appear to know that may seem blatantly obvious to you. When an emergency vehicle or police car approaches you – from any direction – you safely decrease speed and when possible, pull over to the side, and stop your vehicle. For you, the right thing to do doesn’t have to be a law; it’s simply common sense.

Some other people need laws. Our SoCal accident lawyers have represented local residents in many types of auto accident injury claims and cases. However, some are more heartbreaking than others. Because more than 150 law enforcement officers have been killed by drivers on highways that didn’t slow or move their vehicles, the National Safety Commission created the Move Over, America campaign.

Even though forty-three states, including California, have passed Move Over laws, 71% of Americans have never heard of them.

The Details of California’s Move Over Law

It did not get much publicity and sometimes it’s a surprise the first time an officer stops a California driver for not pulling over. Still, a citation puts one point on your driving record and the fine, including court costs, is about $150.

The Move Over law states drivers are required to move over to allow an emergency vehicle with flashing lights to pass. Additionally, stationary vehicles for which you should slow down/move over include:

Authorized emergency vehicle with its emergency lights flashing
Department of Transportation vehicle flashing amber warning lights
Lastly, tow truck flashing it’s amber warning lights

If the move-over maneuver is unsafe, slow to a reasonable speed that is safe for existing weather, road, and vehicular/pedestrian traffic conditions.

Safety First

A California attorney expressed concern about the Move Over law. He wanted to know how a driver can defend his or her own judgment call. Can drivers receive a ticket because they didn’t slow down fast enough? What if a driver decided moving over was too dangerous but a traffic officer disagreed?

“The state is trying to save lives of the patrolmen and Cal Trans workers,” said Lt. Mike Cea, traffic services coordinator for the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. California Highway Patrol Officer Art Athans added, “Nothing in the vehicle code and enforcement of traffic laws is a ‘Gotcha!’ scheme. We are not trying to make money on this stuff.”

What Our SoCal Accident Lawyers Can Do for You

When you choose an attorney, you should pick someone who understands what you’re going through. However, if this is your first involvement with a personal injury claim, you may feel overwhelmed. Our team at California Injury Attorneys can make this process easier. Some of the tasks we’ll handle may include:

Customizing your claim for your injuries and damages (no one-size-fits-all claim process)
Defending your rights so you can realize the best possible outcome
Making arrangements with rental agencies
Negotiating terms with insurance companies
Lastly, representing you in discussions with police and other entities

We encourage you to visit our SoCal accident lawyers in person at 8872 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069. Our office hours are 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.. But, we can answer your questions 24/7 with Live Chat.

We understand that worrying doesn’t have business hours, so call 323-999-HELP (333-999-4357) any time of the day or night. Or, contact us any time you have questions. One of our California Injury Attorneys can be your secret weapon. Don’t settle for less. Don’t wait. Call us today!

The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

Valuable Advice for You to Help your Mom After She’s Been in an Accident

If mom needs guidance about possible legal action, she should call a California accident lawyer today at California Injury Attorneys.

A car accident can be a harrowing incident that may leave the victim with physical and emotional damage. These effects can sometimes be long-lasting and significant. If the person involved is your mom, or the mother of your children, you’ll want to give her as much love and support as possible. From helping her with daily tasks to encouraging her to contact a doctor and California accident lawyer, the following tips in honor of Mother’s Day will help you aid in her recovery.

Take Photos

If you’re in the car when the accident occurs, take photos of the scene as long as it’s safe to do so. Use your phone to show damage to the cars involved in the crash, a broad perspective of where the accident occurred, and any other pertinent information. This could include things such as traffic lights, stop signs, or road hazards. If you weren’t present when the accident occurred, take photos of mom’s injuries and her vehicle as soon as you possibly can.

Offer Emotional Support

Acknowledge that Mom has been through a traumatic event that can continue to impact her long after the accident itself. If she’d like to talk about the accident, encourage her to do so. But, don’t force her into discussing it when she’d rather not. Spend time with her, even if she can’t yet pursue her regular activities. And most importantly, let your mom, or your children’s mom, know that you’re there for her in whatever she needs.

Help Her with Daily Tasks

Mom may have trouble accomplishing tasks that she’s been doing for years. She may need you to drive her to errands and her appointments, clean house, cook meals, walk the dog, and complete other activities she may be unable to. Spend some time with her to see how she’s getting around and if she’s able to care for her home, if your mom is living elsewhere. If not, pitch in to do what she’s not currently able to.

Go With Her to Medical Appointments

It may be hard for mom to remember everything the doctor and nurse tell her at a doctor’s appointment. Go along with her, take notes about her instructions, and ask questions if needed. You can serve as another set of eyes and ears to ensure that nothing is left out or is unclear. In addition, if you’re at the appointment with her, you may be able to help her follow the instructions at home.

Keep Track of Important Documents

Set up a file of important documents related to mom’s accident so she can easily keep track of them. From photos to medical receipts to letters from the insurance company, she’ll need to have her documents easily accessible. Especially if she chooses to pursue a legal claim with a California accident lawyer.

Urge Her to Use Caution About What She Says

Mom may be ready to apologize to the other driver or admit blame, even if the wreck wasn’t her fault. She may end up confused after the accident, not aware of everything that occurred, or may just reflexively want to apologize. Encourage her to let the insurance companies and judicial system assign blame after gathering all the facts.

Getting Help from a California Accident Lawyer

If mom needs legal guidance about possible legal action, she should call a California accident lawyer today at California Injury Attorneys at (323) 999-HELP. We can offer your mother free consultations to review her possible case. Our office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m., but you can reach us anytime 24/7 by phone. We also offer a Live Chat feature on our website for your convenience. So, don’t wait. Contact us today!

The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

How Much Could a Car Crash Really Cost You in California?

If the negligence, or lack of due care, of another person or institution compromises your ability to earn money, our Los Angeles accident lawyers will fiercely advocate to cover your lost earning capacity and lost wages.

A car crash can upend your vehicle as well as your life. Especially violent car crashes can damage your body, mind, and spirit. Some car crash victims are no longer able to earn a living because of their injuries. These injuries can be debilitating and extremely painful. If you have suffered injury from a car crash that can even be partly the fault of another person or institution, our Los Angeles accident lawyers can help. Meet with us so we can review the facts of your case. We can give you an idea of potential recoverable damages. Here is a look at some of the different types of compensation available to car crash victims.

Lost Earning Capacity and Wages

If the car crash renders you physically or mentally debilitated, you may not be able to perform your work duties. Some car crash victims end up in considerable pain and cannot work at all. If the negligence, or lack of due care, of another person or institution compromises your ability to earn money, our Los Angeles accident lawyers will fiercely advocate for damages to cover your lost earning capacity and lost wages.

If your injuries related to the car crash even partiallydiminished your ability to make a living, it is possible to obtain financial compensation. A number of factors could be in play when determining whether you are deserving of a financial award. These factors can also affect the amount of the award. Everything from your occupation to your experience, life expectancy, health, and age could come up. Even prior earnings can play a part in determining the level of compensation provided for your lost earning capacity.

Mainly, the focus will be on what you would have earned had the offending party not acted negligently. Even if you are unemployed at the time of the accident, you still might be eligible for compensation.

Medical Expenses

If you are not at fault, you should not pay a penny for medical treatment for the injuries you suffered. The cost of medical services ranging from ambulance fees to emergency room care, hospital stays, medical equipment, medications, and visits with the doctor can fall on the at-fault party’s insurance policy. Our attorneys will work to prove the causal relationship between your auto accident and need for medical care/equipment to maximize your compensation.

Funeral Costs

If you lose a loved one as a result of a car crash for which they were not at fault, you and your family should not bear the cost of the funeral. Your loved one’s premature death can likely be the fault of the negligent party. Therefore, the responsible individual or institution should cover the cost of the funeral.

Pain and Suffering

You may likely suffer some degree of pain and suffering during or after your auto accident. This pain should not go uncompensated. Even if the other driver is only slightly responsible for the car crash, you may be able to obtain compensation for the resulting pain and suffering. The type of injury, its severity, the length of time the pain is present, and the likelihood of future pain can all play a part when determining damages.

Contact Our Los Angeles Accident Lawyers After Your Car Crash

Our legal team at California Injury Attorneys is here to help in the aftermath of your car crash. Let us handle the legal aspect of your accident while you do your best to return your health and life to normal. Give us a call at (323) 999-HELP to schedule a free initial consultation. Our office hours are 8am-5pm, yet we will gladly take your call 24/7. Or reach out to us, any time of the day or night, via our Live Chat on our website.

The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

Easy Tips to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Safely in SoCal

If you’ve been an accident on Cinco de Mayo or at any other time, you may need the help of a California injury law firm.

Cinco de Mayo, May 5th, celebrates the Mexican army’s win against the imperial French army in the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It has since grown to become a widespread cultural celebration in Southern California and elsewhere. This celebration often includes Mexican food, margaritas, and festive late-night events. California Injury Attorneys, your California injury law firm, offers the follow events and tips to ensure that your Cinco de Mayo is a fun and safe holiday.

Southern California Cinco de Mayo Events

TripSavvy.com lists a variety of events, including the following:

Cinco de Mayo at Olvera Street, May 4-May 6
Plaza Kiosko will host live music and dancing Friday night. The weekend will continue with more fun at El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument on Olvera Street. The traditional celebration will feature mariachis, folklorio dancers, piñatas, and more.
Hecho en LA: Taco Madness, May 5
This adults-only event is held at the LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes. It offers Mexican beer cocktails, tacos, and more from food trucks and restaurants. DJs and live music will liven the atmosphere through Taco Madness, which runs from 6 p.m.-midnight.
Cinco de Mayo in Santa Ana, May 4-6
Santa Ana will host a Cinco de Mayo celebration on historic 4th Street (Calle Cuatro). The fun starts with a carnival on May 4 and continues over the next two days with carnival rides, games, dance, and food.

Staying Safe While You’re Out and About

If you’re planning to attend one of Southern California’s many public Cinco de Mayo events or are heading out to a party, these tips will help you stay safe:

Plan transportation ahead of time: If you’re indulging in some margaritas or other alcoholic beverages, make sure to arrange a reliable designated driver in advance. Alternatively, have your Uber or Lyft app ready to call for a ride.
Watch out for pedestrians: The area around a Cinco de Mayo event may have an increased number of pedestrians. So, drive slowly and be on the lookout for someone who may unexpectedly step into the road.
Lastly, keep an eye out for drunk drivers: If you see a reckless driver, keep your distance. Don’t try to pass them. Instead, call the police and give them as much information as you can about the car.

Hosting a Party Safely and Responsibly

If you’re hosting a Cinco de Mayo party, the following tips will help you, your guests, and your home stay safe:

Stick with people you know- Make your party exclusive to invited guests only. If the invite spreads via social media or throughout a larger group, you may find that your rules won’t be followed.
Limit alcohol and serve plenty of food- If possible, limit your party to adults only. But, if minors are present, make sure they don’t have access to alcohol. Stop serving drinks about an hour and a half before the party ends and serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages.
Also, arrange for rides- Guests who have been drinking too much should take a cab or ride service home. You can also help them get a ride home with other guests who haven’t been drinking.

Getting Help from a California Injury Law Firm

If you’ve been an accident on Cinco de Mayo or at any other time, you may need the help of a California injury law firm. Contact California Injury Attorneys at (323) 999-HELP. Our office hours are 8:00 a.m.-5 p.m., but we are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call. We also offer free consultations, so you don’t need any money up front to find out what we can do for you.

The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

Useful Festival Safety Tips for You in California

If you do find yourself injured while attending a music festival, don’t hesitate to get in contact with California injury lawyers.

Music festival season is upon us! Whether you’re planning a night taking in your favorite artists outdoors or an entire weekend of fun, you shouldn’t ignore your safety as you dance the night away. You should be able to have an amazing experience that you’ll be able to talk about for years to come. Our California injury lawyers have some helpful bits of advice to offer you to maintain your personal safety at your next big show.

Avoid Binge Drinking and Drug Use

Attending a music festival can make the temptation to binge drink stronger in anyone, even a normally responsible drinker. Don’t let the carefree atmosphere of the festival let you forget how to consume safely. Monitor how much you and your friends have drank and suggest water breaks after every finished drink. Also, be sure to keep an eye on your drink and your friend’s drinks, alcoholic or soft. Strangers can put drugs, like Rohypnol or GHB, in any unattended beverage. Never accept drinks from strangers, unless they come in sealed packaging. Abandon your drink for a new one if you lose sight of it.

Using drugs may seem like a rite of passage for some music festival goers. But, you could be putting your safety in jeopardy by using illegal drugs, or accepting them from fellow partiers. Furthermore, you should not mix alcohol and drugs together. You could end up violently ill or endanger your life.

Still, if you suffer an injury at a festival and believe someone else may have caused it, make sure you have the number to a team of California injury lawyers ready.

Prevent Dehydration and Heat Exhaustion

Late spring through early autumn are the prime seasons for music festivals. And most of these shows take place outdoors. As a result, some festivals can take place under hours of blazing, unforgiving sunshine. It’s massively important to monitor yourself for signs of dehydration. Keep a form of water on you at all times. Make sure you are consuming enough water to stay sufficiently hydrated through the activities that are common at a music festival.

Another danger of festival fun in the sun, is heat exhaustion. This is another way to refer to your body overheating above its normal temperature range. Alcohol and drug use coupled with the California heat can exacerbate this condition. If you experience your body overheating, promptly have a drink of cool water and find a cool, shady place to rest. To help prevent heat exhaustion, dress in loose, light fabrics for the festival. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and SPF with you as well.

Have a Plan

Attending a music festival can be a bit overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. Having a plan of action before you make your way to the performance area can help save you some trouble while you’re there.

When you first arrive to the festival grounds, get your bearings on the festival area. Locate important places, such as toilets, food vendors, emergency assistance, and rest areas. If the festival provides a map, use it.

If you’re attending a music festival with a group of friends, address how you will all keep in contact through the festival before you head out. A buddy system and specific check-in place and time are great ideas to help you keep track of your group. If you’re going to a festival alone, introduce yourself to some of the people around you so that they will notice if you need help or if you go missing.

In any situation where you will be part of a large crowd of, possibly rowdy, people, it is in the best interest of your safety to always remain alert and aware of your surroundings. This goes for the people around you as well. Take note of anyone who is acting aggressively or dangerously. Distance yourself from the trouble, ideally in the direction of the nearest exit. Being aware of potential danger early can help you avoid injury. However, if you do find yourself injured while attending a music festival, don’t hesitate to get in contact with California injury lawyers to determine what your next steps should be.

Has your Night in Dreamland Turned into a Nightmare? California Injury Lawyers are Here to Help

A music festival should be a time for you to let loose and be carefree in a crowd of fellow fans. However, an injury can pick the worst times to rear its head. If you find yourself the victim of someone else’s negligence, contact California Injury Attorneys at 323-999-HELP for your free legal consultation. Our team of passionate and dedicated California injury lawyers have the experience and tenacity to pursue your rightful compensation. Our office is open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm. However, we are available for you 24/7. Visit our website and check out out Live Chat to get started on your case right away. California Injury Attorneys do not request fees or payments from you unless we win your case. So there’s no risk to call us. We always have reps waiting by the phones, so don’t wait. Contact us today!

The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

I Got Rear-Ended in West Hollywood, What Now?

If you are having a hard time determining who is at fault after a rear-end collision, contact your West Hollywood accident attorney.

Rear-end collisions are by far the most common kind of accident in the United States. Especially in busy areas like West Hollywood. One out of every three traffic accidents is a rear-end collision, according to data collected by the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). If you have been rear ended in West Hollywood, you may want to talk to your West Hollywood accident attorney to determine what kind of steps you should take. You may be entitled to compensation.

Injuries Caused by Rear-End Accidents

Rear-end crashes cause damage to cars, and occasionally damage other property, as well. In extreme cases, they can even cause significant injuries to the parties involved. Here are some of the most common injuries people experience because of this type of accident:

Spinal injury or other back injury
Whiplash
Injuries caused by the seat belt or airbag
Brain trauma
Broken bones or teeth
Bruising
Facial injuries or other head injuries
Burning
Cuts
Wrist and arm injuries
Internal organ damage

Contact your West Hollywood accident attorney to discuss whether you can pursue compensation for any injuries that may have resulted from a rear-end accident.

What Causes Rear-End Accidents?

Paying attention on the road is the best way to avoid rear-end collisions, but sometimes there is nothing you can do to avoid an accident. These are often the result of negligence on the part of other drivers. Your West Hollywood accident attorney can help you find out if the other driver was being negligent at the time of the accident.

Here are some of the most common causes for rear-end collisions:

Driving under the influence
Disregard for traffic laws, signs, and signals
Speeding or being impatient
Tailgating
Distraction due to parking lots or parking garages
Improper use of turn signals or failure to use signals
and lastly, distraction caused by cell phones, music, or some other reason

A rear-end collision can happen at any time, and there are many possible causes. These are simply some of the most common causes. So, contact your West Hollywood accident attorney, and they can work to figure out exactly what caused your recent accident.

Who is at Fault for a Rear-End Collision?

If you are part of a rear-end collision in West Hollywood, the good news is that the fault most likely lies with the person who hit you. If one driver was moving, and the other was not, the driver who was moving at the time of the accident is almost always at fault. Even if both drivers are moving, or the lead driver slams on the brakes, the rear driver is almost always responsible.

The most common exception to this is when the lead driver has cut off the rear driver. In this case, the negligence and fault may fall on the lead driver, because the rear driver may have had no way to avoid the collision. So, if you are having a hard time determining who is at fault after a rear-end collision, contact your West Hollywood accident attorney to get the help you need.

Finding a West Hollywood Accident Attorney

Visit California Injury Attorneys online to learn more about our services. You can also call our office at (323) 999-HELP. Our office hours are 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. However, we are available 24/7 to take your call. Your West Hollywood accident attorney should be caring and want to win as badly as you do. At California Injury Attorneys, we give free consultations, so there is no pressure to work together on your case unless we are the right fit. We also offer a Live Chat on our website so we can start reviewing your case for free whenever you’re ready.

The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

Right of Way Rules and Free Legal Consultation in California

Contact California Injury Attorneys for your free legal consultation in California.

Right-of-way rules are essential to traffic safety. These rules dictate who has the legal right to proceed first in various driving scenarios. A fixed system ensures order on the road and maintains the flow of traffic. Common sense and common courtesy play huge roles, as well. These factors combined set the base for good driving habits. A successful driver will respect the right-of-way of others. Especially that of bicycle riders, motorcycles, and pedestrians. However, not everyone on the road has their fellow motorists’ safety in mind. If you find yourself the victim of a driver that has refused to adhere to the right-of-way rules, California Injury Attorneys can offer you a free legal consultation in California to discuss your options.

Pedestrians

According to the California Driver Handbook, “in California, pedestrian deaths occur in approximately 22% of all traffic fatalities.” Motorists must be especially careful in areas where pedestrians are present. In any situation, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. Always stop for pedestrians.

However, this does not mean that pedestrians do not also have duties on the road. California law states that, “No pedestrian may suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close as to constitute an immediate hazard. No pedestrian may unnecessarily stop or delay traffic while in a marked or unmarked crosswalk.” We suggest you get a free legal consultation in California if a pedestrian causes you an accident or injury.

Crosswalks and Intersections

A crosswalk is a section of the road designated for pedestrian traffic, usually to cross an intersection in the road. Not every crosswalk will have painted lines to designate it as such. Therefore, it is important for drivers to always approach crosswalks with the utmost caution. Once again, in any situation where pedestrians are present, the pedestrian usually has the right-of-way. CVC §21950 states “the driver of a vehicle approaching a pedestrian within any marked or unmarked crosswalk shall exercise all due care and shall reduce the speed of the vehicle or take any other action relating to the operation of the vehicle as necessary to safeguard the safety of the pedestrian.”

An intersection is where two roads traveling in different directions meet. This can be anything from a cross street or alleyway to a freeway entrance. Navigating an intersection can be one of the most difficult aspects of driving on public roads. According to the Federal Highway Administration, intersection collisions account for more than 45% of all reported crashes and 21% of fatalities. When you approach an intersection, keep these things in mind:

Reduce your speed and be ready to stop if necessary as you approach an intersection without a ‘Stop’ or ‘Yield’ sign present.
Always come to a complete stop when approaching a ‘Stop’ sign. Look for approaching traffic before continuing through.
Yield right-of-way to motorists and pedestrians that are already in an intersection or have reached the intersection before you.
For left turns, look out for pedestrians and cyclists. Then, yield the right-of-way as necessary to avoid a collision with approaching cars.

Roundabouts

Roundabouts can be an extremely confusing driving scenario; especially where right-of-way is concerned. A roundabout is a type of intersection in which traffic flows in a counter-clockwise direction around a central island. All traffic shares the road in a roundabout. So, it’s extremely important to pay close attention to other motorists and your blind spots when entering and exiting a roundabout. As you enter and exit the roundabout, you must yield the right-of-way to any vehicles or cyclists already making the round, as well as any pedestrians. In order to safely navigate a roundabout, you must:

Reduce your speed as you approach
Look for any signs or markings that mention prohibited actions
Follow the flow of traffic in the counter-clockwise direction
Do not stop or attempt to pass in a roundabout
Use your turn signals to communicate your intentions to other drivers when you want to exit

If you miss the exit you needed, you will need to complete the circle again in order to reach you proper exit. While vehicles already in the roundabout have the right-of-way, always use your best judgment and stay aware of other cars as they enter. Some other drivers may not enter the round properly, so it may be up to you to prevent a collision.

Get a Free Legal Consultation in California

Right-of-way rules help keep drivers safe on the road. However, not every motorist adheres to the established rules of the road. If you find yourself the victim of an accident caused by another driver ignoring the right-of-way rules, contact California Injury Attorneys for your free legal consultation in California. Our team of passionate, dedicated lawyers will stop at nothing to pursue the settlement you deserve. We offer free counsel, so there’s no risk involved. We don’t even collect fees until we’ve won your case. Our office is open Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm. But, if you have legal concerns that can’t wait, we answer calls at any time of the day or night, 24/7. We also offer a Live Chat on our website that’s available anytime for your convenience. Don’t wait! Contact us today!

The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

Stay Safe while Camping in SoCal

Camping Safety Tip by SoCal Injury Lawyers

With summer around the corner, the mountains might be calling your name. When you look to escape the everyday city life and commune with the great outdoors, you may want to know what happens, and who can be held accountable for, if you are injured while in the great outdoors. Our SoCal injury lawyers can help.

Camping in State or National Parks

Most campers will pick national or state parks, like Yosemite, Redwoods, or Palomar Mountain, for their escapes. The National Park Service operates and maintains national parks. So, what happens if you or a loved one experience an injury while camping or hiking there?

Generally, property owners can expect responsibility to fall on them to maintain for a safe environment and provide reasonable care for their visitors. However, with government property comes sovereign immunity, which governs premises lawsuits. The Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) allows injury lawsuits against the federal government, under which national parks fall. We recommend consulting with our SoCal injury lawyers to see how to proceed and seek potential compensation for pain and suffering.

Guided Tours

Groupon and other discount sites open a new world of possibilities for new outdoor experiences. Guided tours are just one of those available options. Injuries can happen, no matter the location, even with the most prepared of guides. It’s human nature. So, if harmed while on vacation with a tour group or an organized expedition, accountability may fall on the company that sponsors/hosts the trip. For minor injuries, like cuts and scrapes, they should have a first aid kit on hand. Even so, you may need to seek medical attention after the trip. This ensures you suffer minimal long-term pain and no lasting damage. Seeking medical attention also documents your injuries, if you need to pursue legal action.

Other Safety Tips

Bring plenty of food and water for time you plan on spending outdoors. A good rule of thumb is a gallon/person per day.
Protect your pets. Wild animals don’t see a difference between prey and your beloved pet.
Bring bug spray. No one likes bug bites.
Lastly, get up-to-date vaccines to protect you and your loved ones.

SoCal Injury Lawyers

When injured while camping, talk to California Injury Attorneys today. Our office hours are 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, but our SoCal Injury Lawyers assist those injured 24/7. Don’t wait! We look forward to hearing from you!

The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

What Evidence Will Help my Legal Case in West Hollywood?

You need a West Hollywood accident lawyer on your side to protect your interests.

When you or loved ones suffers an injury in an accident, you might not immediately think about filing a lawsuit. However, it is important to look into filing a claim in order to receive compensation for your injuries. If you are in pain, it can be difficult to clearly think about what evidence you will need for a personal injury case. These tips from a West Hollywood accident lawyer can help you know what evidence you will need to make a successful personal injury case.

Burden of Proof

As a plaintiff in a personal injury case, you and your lawyer will need evidence to prove four elements of negligence:

Duty to exercise reasonable care: the defendant has a duty to exercise reasonable care to operate their vehicle safely or ensure that visitors to their property would be safe from unreasonable harm.
Breach of duty of care: the defendant has exercised care which falls below the reasonable standard to prevent harm.
Legal and proximate cause: proof that if the defendant had not been negligent, you would not have been injured, and that the injuries you sustained resulted from the defendant’s failure to abide by the standard of care.
Money damages: supported with evidence of your expenses and losses because of your injuries.

You will need reliable evidence to provide these four elements. Therefore, if you have insufficient evidence, it will be difficult to win your personal injury lawsuit.

Physical Evidence

This type of proof is evidence that you can see or touch. If you are in a car accident, damage to your vehicle can be physical evidence that can help prove the cause of your injury. The torn or bloodied clothing that resulted from an accident can also provide proof of your physical injury. In the event of an injury from a defective product, you should save the product to keep it as proof of the defect. Any physical evidence should be carefully preserved or photographed as soon as possible before it is altered by weather, repaired, or destroyed.

Police Reports

If a car accident results in your injury, the police report from your accident is an important piece of evidence. This report may provide evidence that helps determine who caused the accident.

Witness Statements

When possible, immediately collect names, phone numbers, and statements from people who witnessed your accident. Do not rely on the police to gather this information because the witnesses may leave the scene before the police arrive.

Photographic Evidence

When physical evidence is not available, photos of the evidence are your next best option. You should also take photos or a video of the accident scene. These photos should show the scene from various angles. Additionally, make sure to make notes about the date, time, and the content of the photos. You will also want to provide photographic evidence of your injuries whenever possible.

Medical Reports and Bills

You will need reports and copies of the bills from doctors who treated your injuries. This includes records of your initial examination, reports from any specialists seen, and any second opinions.

Proof of Income and Income Lost

You will need to provide proof of your income with your pay stubs, W2 forms, or tax returns. This helps provide evidence of what your income was before your injury and what wages you have lost as a result.

Don’t Go It Alone. Hire a West Hollywood Accident Lawyer

Navigating the court system on your own for a personal injury lawsuit is difficult. Therefore, you need a West Hollywood accident lawyer on your side to protect your interests. Because accidents don’t always occur between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, California Injury Attorneys are ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take your call at (323) 999-HELP. Or you can use our convenient Live Chat on our website. Don’t wait! Contact us for your free consultation today.

The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.