California Injury Blog tag:,2010:/32 2010-03-10T22:52:13Z Published by Bisnar|Chase, LLP Movable Type 3.33 Man Arrested in San Francisco Area Hit-and-Run Car Accident tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.71104 2010-03-10T22:48:48Z 2010-03-10T22:52:13Z San Rafael police have arrested a Novato man in connection with a hit-and-run San Francisco car accident in which a teen pedestrian was injured. Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ San Rafael police have arrested a Novato man in connection with a hit-and-run San Francisco car accident in which a teen pedestrian was injured. According to a CBS News report, two girls -- ages 15 and 16 -- were crossing Second Street in San Rafael, in a marked crosswalk, the evening of March 8, 2010, when a maroon van southbound on B Street, hit them. One of the girls sustained leg injuries. The driver did not stop and continued east on Second Street.

Hit-and-Run Suspect Apprehended

However, a witness wrote down the van's license plate number and reported it to authorities. A Marin County Sheriff's deputy driving north on Highway 101 near Lucas Valley Road, spotted the suspect vehicle, and arrested 48-year-old Gbayere Germain Any on charges of felony hit-and-run and failure to yield to a pedestrian, which is an infraction, a much lesser crime.

I hope and pray that neither of the two young victims was seriously injured. I wish the injured girl the very best for a quick and complete recovery.

]]> Car Accident Laws

Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious crime under California law. According to California Vehicle Code section 20001: "The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident."

In this pedestrian accident, the motorist not only left the crash scene but, also, failed to yield right-of-way to the girls who were legally crossing the street in a marked crosswalk. California Vehicle Code Section 21950 states: "The driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within any marked crosswalk or within any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection." The same section also states that 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 a vehicle or take any other action relating to the operating of the vehicle as necessary to safeguard the safety of the pedestrian."

Liability Issues

In this case, had Any stopped after he hit the girls, all he may have had to do was pay a fine for the infraction, which is a minor offense. However, he now faces criminal felony charges because he fled the scene of the crash. He has now been charged with a far more serious offense. Any can also be held civilly liable for the injuries caused to the teenager. The victim and her family in this case can seek compensation to cover medical expenses, pain and suffering and other costs incurred as a result of the girl's injuries. In such cases an experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyer will be able to give victims and their families more information about their legal rights and options.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers Pedestrian Injured in Orange County Car Accident tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70990 2010-03-09T23:24:49Z 2010-03-09T23:29:12Z Khuong Nguyen, 42, was injured in an Orange County car accident after he was struck by an out-of-control car in the parking lot of a Garden Grove hotel. Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ Khuong Nguyen, 42, was injured in an Orange County car accident after he was struck by an out-of-control car in the parking lot of a Garden Grove hotel. According to a news report in The Garden Grove Journal, the incident occurred at the Ramada Inn Plaza on Garden Grove Boulevard, the night of March 5, 2010, when a Jeep Liberty SUV that was being driven into the hotel parking lot by 58-year-old Dzung Truong, hit Nguyen.

Truong told police officials that he tried to stop, but his brakes failed and that the car continued forward, striking Nguyen and pushing him against a wall. Nguyen sustained major leg injuries. He was transported to a local hospital. Police do not believe alcohol or drugs were involved. No citations have been issued pending a police investigation.

I sympathize with Nguyen, who has apparently been seriously injured in this collision. I hope he has not suffered any catastrophic injuries and wish him the very best for a quick and full recovery. He will be in my prayers.

]]> Pedestrian Accident Statistics

There were four deaths and 49 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in Garden Grove, in 2008, according to California Highway Patrol's traffic accident statistics. Countywide, 31 people died and 785 were injured as a result of pedestrian accidents during the same year.

Fault and Liability Issues

Based on this news report, it is not clear exactly what happened here. I trust officials are having the Jeep Liberty SUV tested to make sure that there was a mechanical failure, specifically a brake failure -- as Truong told police. If, in fact, that was the case, the auto maker could be held liable for the accident and injuries caused to Nguyen. If the vehicle was not defective and if the accident is determined to have been Truong's fault, then, he could be held liable for Nguyen's serious injuries.

In such cases, victims can seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation, physical therapy and other related expenses. An experienced Orange County personal injury lawyer will be able to stay on top of the investigation and make sure that the victim's legal rights and best interests are protected.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers San Diego Car Accident Kills Pedestrian tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70895 2010-03-08T23:12:46Z 2010-03-09T00:42:10Z Steven Anthony Kelley, 18, was killed in a San Diego car accident after he was struck by a two cars while crossing El Camino Real, in Carlsbad, the night of March 5, 2010. Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ Steven Anthony Kelley, 18, was killed in a San Diego car accident after he was struck by a two cars while crossing El Camino Real, in Carlsbad, the night of March 5, 2010. According to a news report in The San Diego Union-Tribune, the second driver waited at the scene, but the driver who initially struck Kelley drove away. The following day, a woman called police and told them that she may have struck Kelley. She told officials she drove away because she thought she had "struck an object" and did not realize that she may have hit a person. Kelley was crossing the northbound lanes of El Camino Real, near Camino Vida Roble.

My heart goes out to the family and friends of Steven Anthony Kelley for their tragic and untimely loss. I offer my deepest condolences to them. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

]]> Pedestrian Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were three fatalities and 25 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in Carlsbad. In San Diego County as a whole, 63 fatalities and 998 injuries were reported as a result of pedestrian accidents during the same year.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Based on this news report, officials are still looking into whether this was a hit-and-run accident. Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious crime under California law. According to California Vehicle Code section 20001: "The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident."

Liability Issues

If I were a member of Kelley's family, I would want to know whether the woman was at fault for the accident and Kelley’s fatal injuries. Was she telling the truth or did she drive away because she panicked and then realized later that turning herself in was the right thing to do. We just don't know yet. In such cases, victims' families would be well-advised to contact an experienced San Diego personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that the negligent parties are held accountable.

A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also be able to determine whether there was a dangerous condition on the roadway, which caused or contributed to this fatal pedestrian accident. If that was the case, the governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway could also be held liable. Any such claim against a governmental entity in California must be filed within 180 days of the accident or injury.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers Los Angeles DUI Collision Causes Fatality tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70736 2010-03-07T08:01:00Z 2010-03-07T08:16:04Z The driver of a Ford Econoline van sustained fatal injuries in a Los Angeles car accident that happened the morning of March 4, 2010 on the 405 Freeway, in Torrance. Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ The driver of a Ford Econoline van sustained fatal injuries in a Los Angeles car accident that happened the morning of March 4, 2010 on the 405 Freeway, in Torrance. The Daily Breeze reports that police arrested the drunk driver suspected of causing the collision. Adriano Baek, 27, was booked on one count of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and two counts of DUI causing injury or death.

Baek was driving south on the freeway near the Crenshaw Boulevard off-ramp when he attempted an unsafe lane change and ended up rear-ending the Ford van at a high rate of speed. The van driver lost control of his vehicle, veered across lanes, hit another vehicle and went down an embankment.

I offer my heartfelt condolences to everyone who knew and loved the deceased van driver. Please keep this family in your prayers.

]]> Drunk Driving Statistics

There were two fatalities and 30 injuries involving DUI collisions in Torrance, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Countywide, 258 people died and 4,832 were injured as a result of alcohol-related crashes in 2008.

California DUI Laws

According to California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a): "It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle." A driver whose act of driving under the influence results in the death of another will likely face vehicular manslaughter charges under California Penal Code section 191.5 (a). These are the charges Baek is facing in this case. If he is determined to have been intoxicated, I hope he is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Liability Issues

In such cases, victims' families would be well-advised to seek the counsel of a reputed Los Angeles personal injury lawyer who is also experienced in financially pursuing drunk drivers. Where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation to cover funeral expenses, lost future earning, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers Major Injuries in San Francisco DUI Collision tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70729 2010-03-06T08:01:00Z 2010-03-06T08:05:18Z Four people including an infant sustained serious injuries in a San Francisco car accident, which officials say was caused by a suspected drunk driver. ABC News reports that 24-year-old Faustino Vega-Xicohtencatl was traveling west in a 2004 Ford F-150 on... Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ Four people including an infant sustained serious injuries in a San Francisco car accident, which officials say was caused by a suspected drunk driver. ABC News reports that 24-year-old Faustino Vega-Xicohtencatl was traveling west in a 2004 Ford F-150 on Mark West Springs Road near Santa Rosa the evening of March 2, 2010, when he lost control of his vehicle and crossed into opposing lanes of traffic.

He struck a 2002 Mercury Mountaineer head-on critically injuring its driver, 21-year-old Carron Boyd. Randal C. Hinojosa, 22, a passenger in the Mercury suffered minor injuries. His 8-month-old daughter, Allesandrya Hinojosa, sustained severe head injuries and was taken to a local hospital. One other driver, who was involved in the crash, was fortunately uninjured. Police arrested Vega-Xicohtencatl on two counts of felony drunk driving. He was also charged with driving without a valid license

]]> My heart goes out to the family of Baby Allesandrya for what they are going through right now. I wish the child and the severely injured Carron Boyd the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep them in your prayers.

DUI Collisions

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were five fatalities and 98 injuries reported as a result of DUI collisions in Santa Rosa, in 2008. In Sonoma County as a whole, 17 deaths and 264 injuries occurred due to alcohol-related crashes during the same year.

Claims for Compensation

California law prohibits drivers from operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent or higher. California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a) states: "It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle."

In such cases, it would be in victims' best interests to contact a reputedSan Francisco personal injury lawyer who will stay on top of the investigation and hold the negligent parties accountable. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will be able to advise victims about how their own car insurance policies apply to accidents involving uninsured or underinsured motorists.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers Two Killed, Five Critically Injured in Los Angeles Car Accident tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70728 2010-03-05T22:59:02Z 2010-03-05T23:03:22Z Michael Harris, 67, of San Carlos was one of two people killed in a Los Angeles car accident that occurred the evening of March 3, 2010 on the northbound 605 Freeway in Cerritos. Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ Michael Harris, 67, of San Carlos was one of two people killed in a Los Angeles car accident that occurred the evening of March 3, 2010 on the northbound 605 Freeway in Cerritos. According to a news report in The Press-Telegram, a Ford van containing seven people was going north in the number two lane and was near the Artesia (91) Freeway, when the van tried to move into the carpool lane nearly hitting a Mitsubishi Lancer traveling in the number one lane.

]]> Deadly Accident

Both vehicles swerved in order to avoid a crash and ended up hitting the freeway divider. Five people were ejected from the van. Harris and one other person were killed. Five others were critically injured. The driver of the Mitsubishi, which rolled over after hitting the center divider, was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. California Highway Patrol officials said none of the seven people in the van was wearing a seatbelt.

My heart goes out to the families that have lost loved ones in this crash. I also hope and pray that the five people who have been critically injured make a speedy and complete recovery. I wish the driver of the Mitsubishi the very best for a quick and full recovery as well. Please keep these injured victims and their families in your prayers.

Car Accident Statistics

There were three fatalities and 393 injuries involving car accidents in Cerritos, according to CHP's 2008 traffic accident statistics. Countywide, 667 fatalities and 52,229 injuries were reported in 2008 as a result of car accidents.

In this particular case, it is not clear what caused the Ford to swerve into the carpool lane. Was the driver intoxicated, distracted or driving recklessly at the time? Officials have said that no one in the van was buckled up. If I were a member of the victims' families, I would want to find out if that was actually the case or if any occupant had been ejected because of seat restraint system failure.

Fault and Liability

If the van driver is determined to have been at fault for the accident, then he or she could be held liable for the accident and injuries caused. If an auto product defect played a part here, the auto maker or the manufacturer of the defective auto product could also be held liable. An experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer will be able to help victims and their families better understand their legal rights and options.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers "The Best of Los Angeles Law": BISNAR | CHASE tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70727 2010-03-05T22:49:47Z 2010-03-05T22:53:17Z Newsweek recently featured the Los Angeles personal injury law firm BISNAR | CHASE in their "The Best of Los Angeles Law." The article was written to draw attention to the law firms in the Los Angeles area that specialize in certain areas of litigation like personal injuries and wrongful death due to accident, defective products liability and negligence. Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ Newsweek recently featured the Los Angeles personal injury law firm BISNAR | CHASE in their "The Best of Los Angeles Law." The article was written to draw attention to the law firms in the Los Angeles area that specialize in certain areas of litigation like personal injuries and wrongful death due to accident, defective products liability and negligence.

The feature was part of a larger December of 2009/January of 2010 Newsweek issue which dedicated its subject to "people who matter most." According to the magazine, in-depth Q&A were conducted with prominent figures from Hillary and Bill Clinton to Henry Kissinger, Bill Maher to Jeff Bezos of Amazon.com. The "Best of Los Angeles Law" section allowed John Bisnar and Brian Chase, partners of BISNAR | CHASE, to talk about their legal achievements and innovative approaches to helping personal injury victims.

]]> Newsweek asked BISNAR | CHASE to be a part of the "Best of Los Angeles Law" issue because of their reputation as a leading personal injury law firm. It was a timely request as both John and Brian have both been acknowledged for their accomplishments by being chosen as 2010 Southern California Super Lawyers by Orange Coast Magazine. It was John's third consecutive appointment and Brian's fourth consecutive appointment.

Yet the recognition BISNAR | CHASE has received does not begin there; in 2009, Avvo.com, an online attorney rating service, gave John a "perfect 10" and "superb" ratings for his background, experience, successful track record, reputation with clients and peers, and professional accomplishments within the realm of personal injury law. Brian also is AV rated with a "Preeminent 5 outo f 5" by Martindale-Hubbell and "Superb 10 out of 10" by Avvo, the highest rating possible. He was 2004 Trial Lawyer of the Year by Orange County Trial Lawyers Association in the area of defective products and was named as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the American Trial Lawyers Association in 2007.

Brian and John represent catastrophically injured accident victims, or the families of victims, of serious injury accidents involving defective products and negligence. BISNAR | CHASE has won numerous tough personal injury and defective product cases and is composed of experts who are phenomenal at fighting and winning cases against negligent insurance companies, governmental agencies and Fortune 500 corporations.

"Being entrusted with clients' legal rights and economic futures is a serious responsibility the success of which is measured by how many clients we help and how well we help them," said John Bisnar, founder of BISNAR | CHASE. "We very much appreciated the opportunity to be able to communicate our dedication to personal injury victims, our expertise in personal injury law and the successes our firm has achieved through Newsweek, one of the most respected news publications in the U.S. and abroad."

For more information please see Newsweek Features BISNAR | CHASE in "The Best of Los Angeles Law". Stay current with BISNAR | CHASE press releases .

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers Man Killed in Car Accident at Dangerous Gilroy Intersection tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70643 2010-03-04T23:07:02Z 2010-03-04T23:13:50Z Steven Kroff, 75, was killed in a car accident after his vehicle crashed into a large truck at an intersection in Gilroy. Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ Steven Kroff, 75, was killed in a car accident after his vehicle crashed into a large truck at an intersection in Gilroy. According to a news report in the Gilroy Dispatch, Kroff was driving his Sebring convertible south on No Name Uno. California Highway Patrol officials said he stopped at a stop sign at the intersection of Buena Vista and then pulled into the intersection in front of an oncoming Chevy Silverado pickup truck driven by a 40-year-old woman. The woman did not have a stop sign. Kroff died at the scene. Officials believe he may have been on his cell phone at the time of the collision based on the time of his last call. The driver of the truck was not seriously injured.

My heart goes out to the family and friends of Steven Kroff for their tragic loss. I offer my deepest condolences to them. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

]]> Dangerous roadways

Based on this news report, neighbors who live in the area say the intersection where the accident occurred is an extremely hazardous one and that car accidents occur every month at that intersection. One neighbor says that the intersection definitely needs a four-way stop. Neighbors say it is difficult for eastbound drivers on Buena Vista to see the intersection and the line marking where drivers on No Name Uno should stop. The stop sign is apparently too far back and should be moved at least six feet, a neighbor says. Just last month, 96-year-old Joan Patrick was killed when an ambulance in which she was being transported crashed into a pickup truck at the same location.

Liability Issues and Governmental Agencies

If the neighbors' statements are accurate, it seems to me that there might be a dangerous condition at this intersection. Under the provisions of California’s Government Code Section 835, a public entity or government agency is liable for personal injury or death because of a condition of public property when the affected party proves that:

  1. There was a dangerous condition on the public property at the time of the injury or death.
  2. The injury was proximately caused by the dangerous condition
  3. The dangerous condition created a reasonably foreseeable risk of injury of the kind that occurred and

Government Code Section 835.4 also states that a public entity may absolve itself from liability for creating or failing to remedy a dangerous roadway condition by showing that it would have been too expensive, impractical or unreasonable for the agency to have done anything else but what it did or did not do. In addition, Governmental Code Section 830.4 states that a dangerous condition cannot be the absence of traffic control or warning signs alone.

In such cases, victims' families would be well advised to contact an experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyer, who will analyze all facets of this case and make sure that the negligent parties are held accountable. In any case involving personal injury or wrongful death claims against government entities, it is important to remember that the claims must be filed within 180 days of the accident or injury, under California Government Code 911.2.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers Suspects Apprehended in San Bernardino Fatal Hit-and-Run Car Accident tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70548 2010-03-03T22:39:08Z 2010-03-03T22:42:21Z A couple has been arrested on suspicion of murder and hit-and-run in connection with a San Bernardino car accident that killed 19-year-old Thomas Joseph Meeks and critically injured his 15-year-old stepbrother Christopher. Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ A couple has been arrested on suspicion of murder and hit-and-run in connection with a San Bernardino car accident that killed 19-year-old Thomas Joseph Meeks and critically injured his 15-year-old stepbrother Christopher. According to a news report in the San Bernardino Sun, the couple -- Heriberto Eddie Solis, 25, and 20-year-old Glory Maria Gurrola -- was trying to escape after attempting to steal a car stereo from a vehicle at a nearby parking lot. It was during their getaway that they struck the brothers who were double-riding across the street on a bicycle.

The couple was arrested when they came into the police station to collect their 1991 Toyota Camry, which was the suspect vehicle in the Feb. 19 hit-and-run collision. Solis and Gurrola admitted to hitting the brothers, but said that they fled the scene because they were scared.

]]> Suspects Were Committing Burglary

I commend police officials who apparently did a lot of good investigative work to track down these suspects. They say it was a combination of a little luck and a lot of hard work. Last week, officials got a search warrant and seized the Camry. Solis has been charged with murder committed while in commission of another crime, vehicle burglary and felony hit-and-run. Both Solis and Gurrola were charged with child endangerment because they were apparently committing the crime with their 11-month-old infant in the back seat.

It is indeed reassuring to read a about a case where police have apprehended the hit-and-run suspects. I can only imagine the grief the Meeks family is going through after having lost one of their children and caring for a critically injured child in the hospital. Tragic! I wish Christopher the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. This family will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.

No Excuse for Leaving the Scene of a Crash

Based on this news article, the couple just recently purchased the Camry and evidently had a rap sheet. In fact, this crime was committed in the process of committing another crime – all with a baby in the back seat! Their excuse -- "I was scared." It is always my hope in such cases that the negligent parties are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious crime under California law. According to California Vehicle Code section 20001: "The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident."

Victims and their families in such cases would be well-advised to contact an experienced California personal injury lawyer who has had a successful track record dealing with hit-and-run and negligent drivers. I can imagine the enormous emotional and financial strain this family is going through right now. A knowledgeable lawyer will be able to advise them about their legal rights and options and also how their car insurance policy would apply to a hit-and-run incident and cases where the negligent driver lacks insurance or does not have sufficient insurance.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers The difference between DUI, DWI, OUI and OWI tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70501 2010-03-03T16:46:12Z 2010-03-03T17:10:26Z Drunk driving commonly referred to as “Driving Under the Influence” or DUI is a term used to describe impaired driving or driving while under the influence of drugs or any other controlled chemical substance. Multiple terms are used to describe... Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ Drunk driving commonly referred to as “Driving Under the Influence” or DUI is a term used to describe impaired driving or driving while under the influence of drugs or any other controlled chemical substance. Multiple terms are used to describe this offense, like DUI, DWI, OUI and OWI which all mean the same thing. Although different states use different terminology, the reference in which the terms are used is the same. Here is an explanation to differentiate between the different drunk driving charges:

]]> DUI – “Driving Under the Influence” is a drunk driving charge which refers to anyone who drinks and drives or drives while under the influence of alcohol or any other intoxicating beverage, chemical substance or drug. This is the most common term used in the states, although states like Maine, Massachusetts use other terms instead of DUI.

DWI – DWI stands for “Driving While Intoxicated” or “Driving While Impaired” and also refers to drunk driving. States like Alaska used to use this term to refer to drunk driving a few years back, but changed to DUI.

OUI – The term OUI is an abbreviation for “Operating Under the Influence” and is commonly used in the state of Massachusetts for drunk driving. It also refers to “Operating under the influence of Intoxicating Liquor” under the Massachusetts General Laws. The state of Maine also uses this term to refer to drunk driving.

OWI – This term is an abbreviation for “Operating While Intoxicated”, “Operating While Impaired” and also for “Operating a motor vehicle While Under the Influence” and all refer to drunk driving.

Some people use these terms interchangeably, but they all refer to the same thing. In all states, a DUI/DWI/OUI/OWI offense is charged as a misdemeanour and not a felony offense. A Felony DUI is separate from a DUI, and has harsher penalties and charges. Usually in the case if a bodily injury or death is involved, the case is treated as Felony DUI. In other cases, even if no bodily injury or death occurred, but the driver was found with a very high level of BAC (Blood Alcohol Level) at the time of arrest, the person is charged with Felony DUI.

DWI and DUI

Although the terms DWI and DUI refer to the same thing in most states, some states differentiate between the two terms. These states consider DUI as a lesser charge, whereas DWI is considered a more serious offense. The level of alcohol in the blood actually defines if the person is to be charged with DWI or DUI. In these states, the offender can get help from a DWI defense attorney to have the charges reduced to a DUI, or have them cleared altogether.

However, in such a case, certain conditions have to be met for the court to agree to the reduction, such as the offender should not have a prior DUI conviction on his/her record. Secondly, if the Blood Alcohol Limit at the time of arrest was very high, then the defendant does not qualify for a reduction from a DWI to a DUI. Ideally, BAC should be below 0.08% for the person to be eligible for a reduction in charges. Lastly, the defendant needs to display some remorse for his actions for the court to consider his/her appeal.

As mentioned already, only a few states differentiate between DUI and DWI, while others do not. The states which do not differentiate between the two terms follow a zero tolerance policy for BAC levels higher than those defined under the law of that state as legal, and hence will punish the offender. This minimum illegal blood alcohol level limit is set to 0.08% in most states and 0.04% for commercial drivers. The legal allowed limit may change over time, but the laws for an offense will still be the same, or harsher over the years.

Some states also differentiate DUI and DWI based on the drug or substance which was used by the driver, which lead to impairment or intoxication. In these states, the term DUI is usually reserved for offenders who are under the influence of illegal drugs.
Whether you are charged with a DWI, DUI, OWI or OUI, you need to get professional legal assistance right away. Hire a DUI attorney to defend you in court, so the charges and penalties against you are reduced considerably.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers Toddler Mauled to Death in Dog Attack tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70443 2010-03-02T23:19:52Z 2010-03-02T23:24:55Z Ashlynn Anderson, 4-year-old daughter of reality TV show star Jesse Browning, was the victim of a fatal dog bite incident February 28, 2010. Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ Ashlynn Anderson, 4-year-old daughter of reality TV show star Jesse Browning, was the victim of a fatal dog bite incident February 28, 2010. According to an Associated Press news report, Ashlynn was found by her mother badly injured on their lawn in Astoria. The girl had been attacked by one of the family's own Rottweilers. Ashlynn was transported to a Portland hospital where she was pronounced dead. This tragic dog attack occurred just four months after animal control officers had taken a Rottweiler from the same home after it bit an adult family member. The two Rottweilers at the home have been quarantined. There is no word on whether any criminal charges will be filed against Ashlynn's parents in this case.

My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved little Ashlynn for their tragic and devastating loss. I offer my deepest condolences to her family members. Please keep them in your prayers.

]]> Dog Bite Statistics

According to Dogsbite.org, a Web site for dog attack victims nationwide, of the 88 fatal dog attacks in the United States in a three-year period between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2008, 59 percent or 52 incidents involved pit bulls followed by Rottweilers (14 percent), American bulldog and Husky (5 percent each). This dog bite fatality finding is more or less consistent with an earlier report released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, which states that pit bulls and Rottweilers together account for 60 percent of fatal dog attacks.

Pit Bulls and Rottweilers

In this particular case, it appears that there was a warning just months before this tragic fatality occurred. One of the Rottweilers had already bitten someone else in the house. It is not clear if that was the same dog that also mauled Ashlynn. This tragic story is yet another example of how dog owners' love for their pets or animals can put them in a state of denial.

A number of cities and municipalities nationwide are starting to impose more stringent regulations on those who own aggressive breeds of dogs such as pit bulls and Rottweilers. Whatever arguments animal rights activists may present, statistics speak for themselves. Pit bulls and Rottweilers were responsible for nearly three-fourths of all fatal dog attacks in the United States over a three year period (2006-2008). This incident is certainly a wake-up call for all parents who have young children and dogs at home.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, please contact a reputed Oregon personal injury lawyer who has successfully represented dog bite victims. In such cases, victims could seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of wages (if applicable), cost of cosmetic surgery and psychological counseling. Deceased victims' families can also file wrongful death claims against dog owners whose negligence led to the attack.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers Why Do Auto Defects Still Happen? tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70420 2010-03-02T19:37:43Z 2010-03-02T19:49:00Z Auto defects have been found in a number of different makes and models. Recalls of defective products are announced every year by manufacturers. With the advancements in technology it is surprising how many defective cars are manufactured every year. Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ Auto defects have been found in a number of different makes and models. Recalls of defective products are announced every year by manufacturers. With the advancements in technology it is surprising how many defective cars are manufactured every year.


]]> The reason auto defects still happen is because corporations that manufacture automobiles continuously put profit over safety. It has been a constant theme for decades. Even with all the technological advancements with regard to manufacturing, manufacturers make profits on cars when they are using a 20 or 30 year old platform. Even though you have a new body on your car, often times under the skin of that vehicle you're driving a 30 year old car.

If you or a loved one has suffered catastrophic injury due to a defective product please contact the BISNAR | CHASE Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation. We have been representing seriously injured accident victims since 1978. Our 97.8% success rate speaks for itself.

Victims who have been injured from a defective auto product may also receive a free book, "Still Unsafe At Any Speed." This auto defect book offers valuable information regarding defective auto cases. Victims who read this book will be able to better evaluate an auto defect case.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers Debt Collectors and Your Rights tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70402 2010-03-02T16:29:28Z 2010-03-02T16:35:29Z Fighting back against debt collectors can feel like a quixotic undertaking, particularly if you've already been victimized by the economy's downward spiral. Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ By Sergei Lemberg

Fighting back against debt collectors can feel like a quixotic undertaking, particularly if you've already been victimized by the economy's downward spiral. When you've lost your job, your home, or have incurred a wave of unexpected medical expenses, the last thing you need is a bill collector calling you at all hours of the day and night, sending you collection notices in the mail, or contacting your friends, family members, and coworkers.

But make no mistake -- bill collectors circle like sharks in the water, waiting to strike when you're at your most vulnerable. In fact, they're placing a bet on the chance that you don't know your rights and that you don't know what constitutes illegal behavior on the part of debt collection agencies.

]]> If you've been the victim of debt collectors' dirty tricks, the first thing you should know is that there's a law on the books to protect you. It's a federal law called the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. It goes into precise detail about what third party debt collection agencies can and can't do in an attempt to collect a debt.

For example, a debt collector can't call you late at night or early in the morning. He can't call you at work unless you've given your permission. He also can't engage in other forms of telephone harassment, such as calling repeatedly and hanging up, using profane language, or threatening you with arrest or violence. In addition, a collection agency can't send you a letter or a postcard that indicates on the envelope or postcard that they're trying to collect a debt. And, while a debt collector is allowed to contact your friends, family members, or coworkers, they can only do so in order to get contact information for you. Once they can contact you directly, they're no longer allowed to contact the people you know. And, even when they're contacting others to look for you, they're not allowed to tell others that you owe money.

If you've been the victim of illegal collection practices, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Actsays that you can sue the debt collector, and receive up to $1,000 in damages. That's why it's important that you contact an attorney who specializes in fair debt law. The good news is that retaining a fair debt attorney shouldn't cost you a penny. That's because the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act says that the unethical debt collector is responsible for paying your attorney's fees.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers Bus Accident in San Francisco Critically Injures Pedestrian tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70345 2010-03-01T22:53:44Z 2010-03-01T23:14:05Z A man was seriously injured in a San Francisco pedestrian accident after he was run over by the Muni bus he was trying to catch. According to an ABC News report, the accident occurred the afternoon of February 23, 2010 on Stanyan Street, near Fulton Street. Initial reports indicate that the pedestrian tripped and fell while running to catch the 33-Stanyan bus as it was moving away from the bus stop. The bus then ran over him. The pedestrian sustained a major leg injury. His injuries are believed to be life-threatening. Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ A man was seriously injured in a San Francisco pedestrian accident after he was run over by the Muni bus he was trying to catch. According to an ABC News report, the accident occurred the afternoon of February 23, 2010 on Stanyan Street, near Fulton Street. Initial reports indicate that the pedestrian tripped and fell while running to catch the 33-Stanyan bus as it was moving away from the bus stop. The bus then ran over him. The pedestrian sustained a major leg injury. His injuries are believed to be life-threatening.

My heart goes out to this critically injured pedestrian. I hope and pray that he makes it through his serious injuries and makes a complete recovery. It seems that this victim may have sustained catastrophic injuries. Please keep this injured victim in your prayers.

]]> Pedestrian Accidents in San Francisco

Pedestrian accidents are getting to be a serious problem in the city of San Francisco. Two months ago, a group called Transportation for America released a study, which showed that 27 percent of all traffic accident fatalities in the San Francisco region (including Oakland and Fremont), involved pedestrian accidents. In 2008 alone, 72 people died in pedestrian accidents in San Francisco. That number was up from 64 in 2007.

Fault and Liability Issues

It is, of course, possible this particular case was just a terrible accident and not the result of negligence on anyone's part. However, if I were a family member of the victim, I'd certainly want to know if in fact, any negligence or oversight, either by the Muni driver or the city officials led to the major injuries.

I trust officials are looking into the actions of the Muni bus driver here, for DUI, speeding, distracted driving or any other negligence at the time of this bus accident. It is extremely important for pedestrians to remember certain safety rules when they are on the road. One of the most important rules is not to run on a busy roadway. There is always the danger of tripping and falling and getting run over, as it occurred with this pedestrian.

If there was a dangerous condition on this roadway that caused or contributed to this major injury accident, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining this roadway could be held liable as well. Any such claim against a governmental entity in California must be properly filed within 180 days of the accident or injury. In such cases, victims can seek compensation to cover medical expenses, cost of hospitalization, prosthetics, rehabilitation, physical therapy and long-term care in case of any catastrophic injuries. An experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyer will be able to advise victims about their legal rights and options.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers Fatal Los Angeles Car Accident tag:www.californiainjuryblog.com,2010://32.70126 2010-02-28T08:01:00Z 2010-02-28T08:16:05Z Authorities have identified an off-duty police officer who was killed in a Los Angeles car accident the evening of February 25, 2010, as 37-year-old Jacqueline Montalvo. Guest Author http://www.bestattorney.com/ Authorities have identified an off-duty police officer who was killed in a Los Angeles car accident the evening of February 25, 2010, as 37-year-old Jacqueline Montalvo. The San Gabriel Valley Tribune reports that the accident occurred when Montalvo's vehicle crossed a median and careened into oncoming traffic. Three other vehicles were involved. One man was taken to a hospital in serious condition while three others sustained minor injuries. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

I offer my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Jacqueline Montalvo for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep this family in your prayers during their time of grief. I also wish the injured victims the very best for a quick and complete recovery.

]]> Car Accidents

There were six fatalities and 294 injuries involving car accidents in Diamond Bar, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Countywide, 667 fatalities and 52,229 injuries were reported as a result of car accidents during the same year.

What Caused This Fatal Car Accident?

Based on this news report, it was Montalvo's vehicle that crossed over the center median and into opposing lanes of traffic. The question here, is how did that occur? Was there a vehicle defect or mechanical malfunction in Montalvo's vehicle that caused it to go out of control? Was there some debris or some other dangerous condition on the roadway, which resulted in this crash? I trust officials are also looking into whether impairment, distraction, speeding or any other form of negligence played a part in this fatal collision.

In such cases, it would be in the victims' or their families' best interests to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and help protect their legal rights. An injury lawyer who has successfully handled auto product defect cases will be able to have Montalvo's vehicle thoroughly evaluated by an expert, for evidence of malfunctions or other vehicle defects. If Montalvo's negligence caused this accident, then the other injured victims can file a claim against her estate or insurance company to seek compensation.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

]]> This is a post from BestAttorney.com - BISNAR | CHASE California Personal Injury Lawyers