Los Angeles Injury Lawyer Blog

If you live in Ontario, CA, you know that it is home to Ontario Mills Shopping Mall, the largest shopping mall in Southern California. You also know that it has recently experienced a surge in both residential and commercial development. During this development, accidents of every nature can occur – from car collisions to premises liability to construction accidents to workplace injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in Ontario, it is important to enlist the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer who knows the best way to help you recover. To find a reliable attorney, below are some helpful things to consider:

• Experience: Does the attorney have a proven track record for successfully litigating client claims? What percentage of the law firm’s portfolio involves personal injury cases?


• Referral/ Reputation: Talk to your trusted friends and family to see if they have had experience with this law office. In addition, attorneys often refer their cases to their trusted legal network if they don’t have adequate expertise in the subject matter. Finally, consult your local bar association for attorney referral services


• Goal of litigation: Make sure your goals are aligned with the attorneys. You may want the highest amount of recovery to cover damages incurred (even if it means going to a lengthy, costly trial), or you might just want the fastest resolution to your claim possible. Be sure to find the attorney that is best suited for your needs.

The attorneys at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP have over 50 years of combined experience and have collected over $150 million for their clients. They have extensive trial experience as well as a proven track record of fighting against stubborn insurance companies. Finally, they only focus on California claims which means they know their way around the California legal system. If you or a loved one has been injured, call them at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a free consultation.


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Nail gun injuries are rising and these tools are unsafe and poorly regulated according to a report by The Sacramento Bee. Victims of nail gun injuries have filed and won many lawsuits against both nail gun manufacturers and construction companies for wrongful death, negligence and faulty product production. Approximately 42,000 people are hurt in nailgun accidents each year. In California, about 500 nail gun work-related injuries are reported annually. Professionals and novices are at risk. If you or a loved one has been injured by a nail gun in California, please consult an attorney immediately. Call us now for your free-consultation.

Nail Gun Equipment Information
Nail guns are made by multiple manufacturers and are used at a variety of sites. The nail gun's function is to aid building construction by firing nails propelled by compressed air, also known as pneumatic firing. Nail-gunned nails can travel up to 490 feet per second and fire rapidly, up to 30 nails per minute. Nail guns are extremely powerful. In one incident, a nail killed a worker after traveling 27 feet.

Contact-Tip Mode: A special feature, known as "contact tip", provides an automatic mode by which nails are fired whenever they make contact with any surface, including the human body, once the trigger is pulled. Nail guns in contact tip mode appear to be responsible for the majority of nail gun injury incidents.

Nail Gun Dangers
The newspaper reports that safety regulation and labor agencies are not doing enough to address the dangers of nail guns. Dangers of nail guns include:

• hazardous design, specifically:
  *automatic or "contact tip" mode
  *trigger location


• improper training at work sites


• insufficient safety precautions supplied by employers, including safety goggles or shields


• poor availability of consumer safety information at rental and retailing establishments

Doctors, engineers and safety commissions are all urging the modification of nail gun design, the restriction of nail gun usage, and in some cases, an all out nail gun ban. Most arguments against nail guns are against the "contact tip" or automatic mode. Research indicates that up to 75% of nail gun injuries are the result of automatic firing.

Nail Gun Injuries
Nail guns have become increasingly popular in the past 10 years, and as a result, nail gun injuries have increased three-fold in the past decade. Injuries from nail guns can range from mild to severe. Injuries sustained from nail gun accidents are more common and costly than those from manually and mechanically operated saws and sanders. Commonly, nail gun accidents resulting nails entering hands, eyes, heads and chests. Reports exist of:

• fingers being nailed together


• eyes impalement


• partial and complete paralysis, from nails entering the spinal cord

death, from nail entering the brain, heart or severing arteries

Nail Gun Injury Victims
Victims of nail gun injuries vary in background. Those frequently injured are:

• People doing home improvements


• New construction workers


• Non-union carpenters


• Bystanders and Passersby, including those in neighboring buildings or rooms, or those who are driving or walking by a worksite
  550 people are injured each year in this fashion

If you or someone close to you has been injured with a nail gun in California, please contact an experience attorney to help you learn your rights. The Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP have over 50 years combined experience in personal injury law. Please call us toll-free at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a private consultation. Let us help you during this difficult time. Call us now.

Developed as a planned city, the City of Irvine in Orange County, CA is home to several educational institutions such as the University of California – Irvine, Concordia University, University of Southern California (Orange County Center), as well as satellite locations for several other major California universities. In 2007, it even won the designation as Safest City in the US. However, accidents can occur even in the safest city of America. These accidents can include but aren’t limited to: traffic collisions, slip, trip and fall on public or private property, work place injuries, and even pedestrian accidents. An unfortunate result of these accidents is often severe personal injury or, in the most unfortunate of circumstances, death.

During this troublesome time, it is important that you seek the help and guidance of an experienced professional. You may be unaware of all of the possible remedies that may be available to you. When looking for a lawyer, it’s important to choose someone who has a long, reputable history of successful legal work. The last thing you need is for your attorney to take advantage of you or fail to fulfill his or her duties to you. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP only work with your best interests in mind. With over 50 years of combined experience and over $150 million collected for their clients, they work hard to make sure you are happy. To minimize your own risk, our attorneys won’t collect any legal fees unless they collect money for you first. In addition, all up-front costs are paid by the firm. If you’ve been injured in Irvine, California, call us now at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a free consultation on your situation. We’ll even come to you to sign you up.

Known affectionately as “Surf City USA,” Huntington Beach, California in Orange County is a destination spot for many tourists, particularly those visiting the pier, beach, or even the city’s colorful shopping district. During holidays, tourist congestion cause often cause problems for negligent drivers who have failed to yield the right of way. If you have been hit or injured by a car while walking as a pedestrian in Huntington Beach, California, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and pain & suffering.

According to statistics released by the National Highway Traffic & Safety Administration (NHTSA), a pedestrian is injured in a traffic crash every 9 minutes. In addition, pedestrian accidents can occur where you least expect them to. Pedestrian fatalities occurred most often in urban areas, at non-intersection locations, and in normal weather conditions.

The attorneys at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP are concerned about your safety. To prevent these unfortunate accidents from occurring, below are a few safety tips published by the NHTSA:

• Stay on sideways, crosswalks, and other designated walking areas


• If there are no designated walking areas and you must walk in the road, walk on the side that faces oncoming traffic


• When crossing the street, stop, then look left, right, and then left again. Stopping first sends a message to drivers that you intend to cross the street.

If you have been hurt in a traffic accident in California, you may be able to seek compensation for your injuries. When these accidents occur, it is important not to let greedy insurance companies disclaim liability or compensate you less than you are entitled to. The professionals at Greenberg & Rudman LLP know how to handle these situations, as proven by numerous settlements and verdicts they have won for clients. Call 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9766) now for a free consultation regarding your rights.

Using cell phones while driving are found to be the most common distraction factor for drivers. A study by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. shows that 73% of drivers talk on their phones while driving, with younger drivers occupying a substantial portion of those drivers. A separate study by Carnie Mellon concluded that cell phone usage reduces brain activity associated with driving by 37%. As a result, cell phones are often a leading factor in fatal or severe traffic collisions. These statistics are even more alarming as cell phone ownership has been shown to increase rapidly in recent years. As of February 2008, over 254 million people subscribe to cell phone services, up from 4.3 million in 1990. Because of the increase reliance on these wireless devices, drivers are more commonly using them while on the road.

When cell phones and driving are combined, the results can be tragic. Take, for example, a fatal automobile crash that killed four people last December in North County San Diego, California. One of the survivors of the collision claims that the crash occurred when the driver dropped a cell phone. While bending down to pick it up, the driver of the SUV hit a guardrail, crossed into oncoming traffic, and collided with a Toyota Camry – killing all four occupants inside.

/>Responding to numerous studies highlighting the danger of cell phone usage while driving, the California legislature passed a law that makes it illegal to use a cell phone without a hands-free device for drivers 18 years or older. Drivers under 18 may not, under any circumstance, operate a cell phone while driving. The law will become effective beginning July 1, 2008. Violators of the law will face a fine of $20 for the first offense and $50 for each subsequent offense.

If you or someone close to you has been injured in a traffic collision in the state of California, you may have remedies against the other driver. During this difficult time, it is important that you enlist the help of an experienced professional that has your best interests in mind. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP are here for you. Call 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9766) now for a free consultation regarding your rights.

A major retailer has agreed to drop their reimbursement claims against a former employee who successfully sued a trucking company for a traffic collision that left her with severe brain injuries. At the time of the accident, the 44 year old woman was an employee at Wal-Mart. The accident caused her to suffer severe brain injury, but luckily, the company’s health insurance was able to cover the medical expenses. Unfortunately, buried deep in the health plan contract, was a clause that allowed the company to seek reimbursement for expenses paid if the injured party collected monetary damages in a lawsuit against the liable party.

The accident occurred when a tractor-trailer crashed into her minivan, causing severe injuries that left her in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit for weeks. Having lost most of her memory and ability to walk or talk, the woman requires ongoing care that will confine her to a nursing home for the rest of her life. Immediately following the accident, Wal-Mart’s employee insurance plan paid approximately $470,000 in medical expenses. In a lawsuit against the trucking company responsible, the woman was able to recovery $1 million in damages. After legal fees and other costs were deducted from the $1 million settlement, the remaining $417,000 was placed in a trust for her continuing medical care. Unfortunately, the severity of the women’s injuries will likely require at least $2 million in care and treatment over her lifetime. Even more unfortunate was Wal-Mart subsequent attempts to drain the remainder of the women’s lawsuit award by enforcing their reimbursement clause.

This reimbursement clause, called subrogation, is becoming more commonplace since a 2006 Supreme Court decision ruled in favor of the practice. The companies claim that allowing them to seek reimbursement from lawsuit proceeds allows them to keep the costs of these health insurance plans low and affordable for its employees. The counter-argument, however, is that employees pay a premium each month specifically to fund these insurance programs. If companies are allowed to be reimbursed every time, then, in effect, health care coverage acts as a loan rather than insurance. In addition, as in the case at hand, lawsuit settlements and injury awards are often insufficient to cover the full amount of medical expenses required. The trust fund in this case currently only has $270,000 left to pay for her medical expenses and nursing home bills for the remainder of her life. Allowing Wal-Mart to collect would leave the woman with nothing, and in fact, owing about $50,000 more.

Luckily, the story has a happy ending for this woman. Amid criticism from the media and other activist groups, Wal-Mart has re-evaluated its policy and dropped its reimbursement claims against the woman. While the policy still remains, Wal-Mart now has the ability to evaluate each case on an individual basis.

If you have been injured in California and are facing insurance subrogation claims against your medical expenses, you need to speak to a qualified professional. While insurance companies are only interested in recouping their expenses, we’re interested in fighting for you. Contact the attorneys at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP for a free consultation to see how we can help. Call 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) now.

A tragic automobile accident occurred recently in Riverside County when the driver of a Land Rover swerved suddenly to avoid hitting a parked car on the shoulder of the highway, which caused the SUV to roll. In the backseat, the wife of the driver sat with her three year old son and one year old daughter. None of the backseat passengers were restrained by any safety belts. The accident caused all three to be thrown from their seats. The mother and the three year old boy died as a result of the accident.

On their way home from dinner, the family stopped at a local grocery store merely six miles from their hours. Only a few exits away, the deceased mother forgot to buckle up her children. According to the husband driver, the mother always made sure her children were buckled up: the 3-year old usually secured by a seatbelt, while the 1-year old was usually secured by a child safety seat. On that fateful evening, the couple was deep in conversation, and the mother, likely distracted, failed to secure her children or herself. 20 minutes after the accident occurred, the mother was pronounced dead. The three year old died the next morning due to severe injuries. The driver and their 5-year old son sitting in the front street emerged from the accident relatively uninjured. Both were wearing seatbelts at the time of the accident.

Vehicles are dangerous, particularly when driven at high speeds on the interstate. All it takes is a little bit of debris or an unexpected obstacle to cause an accident as unfortunate as this. Seat belts can prevent significant amount of injury, particularly when young children are involved. For this reason, states have enacted seat belt and child restraint laws. In California, a child that is 5 years old and younger OR weighing less than 60 pounds must be secured in a child restraint system (such as a car seat) in the backseat. There are certain exceptions which allow for these children to ride in the front seat. They are as follows:

• The car does not have rear seats or the rear seats either face the rear or the side


• Child safety seats cannot be installed property in the rear seats


• All rear seats are being occupied by children under 12


• Some medical necessity that requires that child to ride in the front seat

In addition, the following conditions prohibit children from riding in the front seat when the car is equipped with front-seat airbags:

• Child is under the age of 1


• Child weighs less than 20 pounds


• Child is riding in a rear-facing child seat

As a general matter, everyone else in the vehicle must be secured by a seatbelt, including the driver.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car collision and have suffered serious injuries, you may be able to seek recovery from the other party at fault. Call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP in California for a free initial assessment of your situation – 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776).

The National Transportation Secretary announced a proposal for improving school bus safety late last year. The proposal includes higher seat back requirements and improved seat belt standards in an effort to protect children and assure parents of their safety. Implementation of the planned improvements on the country’s 474,000 school buses should be complete by this November. Approximately 7 passengers die per year in school bus accidents. If you or someone close to you has been involved in a school bus accident in California, please contact a lawyer who can help you.

School Bus Improvement Specifics
Even though school bus transportation is one of the safest ways to travel, here are the main proposed improvements:

• Federal Seat Belt Standards
  For full-size buses, federal safety standards for seat belts will be provided for school districts that request new belts. This is the first time such standards have been offered. Monies from the Federal Highway Safety funds will cover the cost.


• Seat Back Height Adjustment
  Current safety requirements include a 20 inch seat back. The new proposal calls for an increase to a 24 inch seat back. This height augmentation should provide better protection for passengers by preventing taller children and adults from being thrown over bus seats during an accident.


• Special Seat Belts for Small Buses
  Per the proposal, “three-point belts” will replace lap belts on new small buses, since these buses are more likely to roll over than full-sized ones. This will occur within three years.

If you or a family member has been involved in an accident with a school bus in California, you should seek the help of an experienced attorney. Please call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP toll-free at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776). We will consult with you to help determine your rights. Don’t hesitate to protect the safety of your child. Please call us now.

A hit and run car accident is a crime which occurs when someone strikes another person, their personal property (including their car), or a fixed structure, and then flees the scene, neither stopping nor identifying themselves to take responsibility for the damage inflicted. In the U.S. there are approximately 700,000 hit and run accidents yearly. As of 2003, California has had a dramatic increase in the number hit and run crashes reported. It is the state with the most fatal hit and run accidents annually. If you or a loved one has been involved in a hit and run in California, please contact an experienced attorney to help you seek justice during this painful and difficult time. You can get a free consultation in California by calling 1-800-ALAWPRO.

Hit and Run Accident Statistics: California
Hit and run is a disturbing and deadly trend. Around 300 people are killed in hit-and- run’s each year in California. These fatalities represent 8% of all state-wide traffic deaths. California’s record of hit and run deaths is nearly twice as high as that of other states. Two-thirds of people killed in hit and run accidents are pedestrians.

Hit and Run Accidents in California: Why?
Hit and run causes severe pain and emotional trauma to the surviving victims and their friend and families, often leaving them with the unanswered question of “why?,” when the fleeing drivers are not apprehended. Experts, including police officers and safety professionals, have presented possible explanations for California’s exceedingly high hit and run numbers, though even they are shocked the frequency in which hit and run drivers are fleeing the scenes of their crimes. Some proposed reasons include:

• Fear of being caught and facing the consequences, especially for drivers who are under the influence and for those who lack insurance


• Abundance of busy and spacious highways, streets and intersections


• High speed driving, four-lane roads result in faster driving and therefore, greater danger


• California’s “car culture,” including dependence on traveling by car, fast driving, and general love of automobiles


• High number unlicensed drivers in California, estimated at 1million drivers, many of whom are illegal immigrants


• Driver’s with the feeling of having “nothing to lose”

Authorities are hopeful that new roads, laws, and education about pedestrian traffic and the danger of hit and run will eventually reduce California’s staggeringly high rate of hit-and-run fatalities.

Have you or a loved one been the victim of a California hit and run? If so, you should contact a lawyer immediately to learn about your rights and seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Please call the law team of Greenberg & Rudman LLP toll-free at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776). We will provide a free and confidential consultation and support you through this painful time. Call us now.

A Miami high school has been found guilty of partial negligence for a deadly car crash that occurred after a graduation party in 2001. A jury found the school liable for $14 million in damages to the victims and families. The horrible car accident left one student, a passenger, dead, and another student, the driver, brain-damaged and paralyzed. Both students were underage and above the legal blood limit for alcohol. School officials did not notify authorities about the party, even though they knew it involved illegal teenage drinking. The school intends to appeal the decision.

In the one-car wreck, which occurred around 5pm, two 17 year-old male students were driving in an Acura when they slammed into a tree going about 80 mph, splitting the car in half. The passenger had a blood alcohol level of .22, and the driver, who was thrown from the car, had a level of .096. The legal limit blood alcohol limit is .08.

The party was held at the home of two other students and was widely advertised with a flyer featuring a picture of a whiskey bottle. The school principal was aware of the party but did not notify parents or authorities. Not only did he refer to the party over the school’s PA system, but he also attended the party and witnessed students behaving in drunken and disorderly manner.

The jury found additional parties negligent as well, including the parents of the student-hosts, the 21-year old purchaser of alcohol, the driver of the car, and his parents. Families of the victims intend to seek compensation from the school only.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident which you believe involves alcohol in California, please contact an attorney to learn your rights. Call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a free and confidential consultation. Let us help you understand your rights and seek compensation for you loss.

West Hollywood, CA, home to nearly 40,000 people, is just over 2 miles squared and bordered by Los Angeles and Beverly Hills. Due to its central location and popularity as a destination, car crashes and traffic congestion at intersections pose common and deadly problems to cars and motorcycles, bikers, and pedestrians. Additionally, the running of red lights by drivers has reached frighteningly high proportions. The city of West Hollywood, urged in part by its unsatisfied and victimized residents, has installed red-light cameras at busy intersections in an effort to stop the high rate of accidents at popular intersections. If you have been injured in an accident at an intersection in California, please call us at 1-800-ALAWPRO. We are experienced lawyers who will help you know your rights.

Car and foot traffic at intersections are ever-present on the streets of West Hollywood. According to a report by the City, the dangerous practice of running red lights by drivers, both local and non-local, has resulted in “numerous fatal accidents involving motorists, passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians.” Unfortunately, violating a red light at a very intersection has a high chance of causing a fatality since the driver is frequently accelerating, traveling at high speed, in order to race through the light.

Since 2000, the following problematic intersections have received red-light cameras in order to improve safety of drivers and pedestrians:

• Beverly Boulevard @ Robertson Boulevard


• Fountain Avenue @ Crescent Heights Boulevard


• Fountain Avenue @ Fairfax Avenue


• Fountain Avenue @ La Brea Avenue


• Melrose Avenue @ La Cienega Boulevard


• Santa Monica Boulevard @ Fairfax Avenue


• Santa Monica Boulevard @ La Brea Avenue


• Sunset Boulevard @ La Cienega Boulevard

A study by the city showed that the rates of accidents went down with the installation of cameras in most instances, suggesting that the intersection cameras discourage the running of red lights. Each intersection had an average of 4 to 10 accidents per year prior to camera installation.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident at an intersection, contact an attorney immediately. The Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP have over 50 years combined experience in Southern California. Please contact us toll-free at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a confidential consultation regarding your rights, and let us help you seek the justice you deserve.

Electrocution deaths and electric shock accidents at work sites, including construction projects (indoor and outdoor), restaurants, agricultural sites, industrial plants, and offices, are a serious and ongoing problem for workers in the U.S. and California. It is estimated that 7% percent of all work-related fatalities are due to electrocution in some form, with around 700 employees being electrocuted per year. Electric shock is the 4th leading cause of death in occupational fatalities. If you or someone close to you has been electrocuted in a work-related incident in California, please contact a lawyer immediately.

Striking power lines both above and below ground, problems or mishaps in electric building circuitry, and the combination of water and electric outlets are all deadly contributors which can lead to death by electric shock. OSHA cites numerous fatal accidents in which poor safety maintenance led to the electrocution fatality of employees. Often times, mere education and training can prevent the devastating results of electrocution. Here is a brief recount of one such tragic incident:

A small group of employees was constructing a chain-link fence in a residential neighborhood under a live power line. The erection of the fence required the workers to install long metal rails (21 feet each) for assembling the top of the fence. During the fence construction, one of the workers held a 21-foot rail upright, causing it to come into direct contact with the energized power line. The laborer, a 25 year old man, was electrocuted with 7200-volts of electricity, and tragically, he died. Inspectors found that the electrocuted worker received no professional training or instruction regarding general construction or power line hazards from his employer or supervisor.

Have you or a loved one been electrocuted in an accident in California? If so, please seek the advice and help of an experienced personal injury attorney. Call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a free and confidential consultation. We will help you understand your rights and seek the justice you deserve. Call us now.

Nearly 40% of all car accidents in the United States are the result of rear end collisions; approximately 2.5 million crashes annually! Even slow speed rear-enders can have serious, sometimes deadly, consequences. Studies have shown that many cars remain unsafe for rear end impact. If you have been involved in a rear end accident with a car, truck, motorcycle, or bus in California, you should contact an attorney immediately to learn your rights. Call now to get your free consultation at 1-800-ALAWPRO.

Rear End Accident General Info:
A rear end accident occurs when one vehicle (a car, truck, motorcycle, bus or van) hits the vehicle in front of it – impacting the other vehicle in the rear end. To evaluate the force of impact, consider that one car hitting another is equal to hitting a wall at half speed. For instance, rear ending a non-moving car going 60 mph is equal in force to hitting a wall going 30 mph.

Rearend Causes:
Often, but not always, rear-ending occurs when the front car stops abruptly or more quickly than traffic is flowing. One study found that most rear end accidents can be prevented by allowing greater distance for vehicles in front of you. Other causes of rear end collisions include: driver distraction in the rear vehicle, excessive speed and poor road conditions.

Rear End Crash Injury & Consequences:
Usually, the occupants of the car which has been rear ended suffer worse injury and damage. This is the result of the surprise and subsequent lack of preparation of impact that occurs when one is rear-ended. Whiplash and other minor neck injuries are the most common result of rear end accidents. Other injuries sustained in rear end accidents include broken bones, neck, brain and spinal cord injuries, head injuries, asphyxiation and death.

If you or a family member has been involved in rear end accident in California, please seek the advice of an experienced attorney. Contact the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a free initial consultation, and let us help you understand your rights.

The city of Buenaventura, commonly known as Ventura, holds the county seat of Ventura County, CA. With a population of over 100,000 people, the city of Ventura maintains 2 million square feet of sidewalks and 650 miles of streets and alleys. Walking, bicycling and driving in such a large and popular destination can sometimes be dangerous. If you have been injured in an accident in Ventura, please contact a attorney to learn about your rights. The Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP will provide a FREE consultation for California residents.

Car crashes are an all too common occurrence. Additionally the maintenance of roads in a city the size of Ventura is a huge undertaking. Streets begin to deteriorate quickly after construction, even though they are meant to last for decades, and the meeting of safety requirements is absolutely essential in high-traffic areas. Be aware of your surroundings, and do your best to protect yourself and your family.

If you or a loved one has been injured in Ventura in a street or other type of accident, please contact an experienced law team. Call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP toll-free at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776), where you will receive a confidential and free consultation about your rights. Don’t wait- please call us now.

The fourth largest city in California, Santa Clarita is home to over 177,000 residents and ranked #18 in its Money magazine’s “Top Places to Live” list. However, unexpected accidents can happen anywhere and finding the right attorney is important when damages and injuries are involved. Before selecting an attorney, you should know what to expect as far as expenditures go:

• In the state of California, it costs over $300 to file a lawsuit


• Stenographers hired to record the testimony taken during depositions cost approximately $1,000


• In some cases, private investigators must be hired


• Other administration costs such as mailing, long-distance telephone calls, and messengers also add up quickly


• Expert witnesses needed for technical subject matters are extremely costly


• If a case actually goes to trial, tens of thousands of dollars can easily be spent

If you are like the average individual, you may not have or want to front all of these costs up front, especially if a successful outcome is not guaranteed. The Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP are so confident in their ability to help you recover that they will front all expenses associated with the lawsuit. In fact, they only recoup the costs if they are able to collect money on your behalf. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an automobile accident, tort injury, work-related incident, or on the premises of another entity, the experienced attorneys at Greenberg & Rudman LLP are the professionals for you. Call 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) now for a free consultation.

Under a state penalty program passed into law in January 2007 (Health and Safety Code section 1280.1), hospitals may be fined for cases of “immediate jeopardy” to a patient’s health. Since the law was enacted 15 months ago, several hospitals have been hit with penalties for their violations. Among these violations include cases where physicians hit patients with substantial and unnecessary amounts of forced during an angioplasty procedure, failing to ensure the safety in a mental health unit, putting patients and visitors at risk of infection from food-borne illnesses, and giving patients dosage exceeding the recommended amount. Under the law, a penalty of $25,000 is to be assessed for every violation found to have occurred.

A press release issued by the California Department of Public Health released the names of eleven hospitals that were fined just last month, including their specific violations:

• Cedars-Sinai Medical Center—Los Angeles, Los Angeles County
  Failure to implement policies and adequately educate staff on the safe use of medications


• Enloe Medical Center—Chico, Butte County
  Failure to develop procedures for the safe use of medications
  Failure to implement verification processes for intravenously administered narcotics


• Kern Medical Center—Bakersfield, Kern County
  Lack of quality assurance systems


• Kindred Hospital Modesto—Modesto, Stanislaus County ($75,000 fine)
  Failure implement corrective actions related to the safety of side rails
  Failure to implement procedures to minimize adverse medication events
  Failure to develop policies surrounding the accountability of controlled substances


• Natividad Medical Center—Salinas, Monterey County
  Failure to ensure the safety of a patient in a mental health unit.


• Scripps Memorial Hospital—La Jolla, San Diego County
  Failure to protect a patient’s right to considerate and respectful care


• Sierra Vista Hospital, Inc.—Sacramento, Sacramento County
  Failure to develop and implement procedures for safe use of medications


• Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs (Southwest Healthcare Systems)—Murietta, Riverside County
  Failure to ensure proper food controls, placing patients and visitors at risk for serious harm due to the potential growth of microorganisms and food borne illness


• University of California, San Francisco Medical Center—San Francisco, San Francisco County
  Failure to implement polices on safe distribution of medications and minimize adverse medication outcomes


• Valley Care Medical Center—Pleasanton, Alameda County
  Failure to ensure safe distribution and administration of medication


• Washington Hospital—Fremont, Alameda County
  Failure to implement polices on safe distribution of medications

The purpose of the fines is to deter hospitals from unsafe practices that may cause injury or death to its patients. According to a representative, the hospitals take the violations very seriously, not only for their monetary value, but also because they are made public. In addition, new laws may allow the California Health Department to increase fines to $50,000 per violation.

If you or a loved on has been injured in a medical malpractice in a California hospital, do not hesitate to take action now. During this difficult time, you need an experienced, tough attorney who will fight for your rights. Call the professionals at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a free consultation.

As the Today Show reported this week, car crashes continue to be the most common cause of death for teenagers, and teen’s frequent cell phone use (talking and text messaging) while they drive greatly increases the danger. In a series of controlled tests, experts found that teens are increasingly distracted and overly confident of their abilities on the road. This information combined with teen’s lack of driving experience makes for a frightening combination. Parents of teens who are driving or about to drive are urged to get involved to insure the safety of the children and other drivers to prevent more accidents and deaths.

Most teenagers posses a cell phone for safety and/or social reasons; however unlike most adults, teenagers hardly have any experience behind the wheel. At an age where social communication is extremely important, many kids have a problem taking a break from or ignoring their cell phones. The featured study showed that looking away from the road for more than 2 seconds is extremely dangerous with potentially fatal consequences. Using a cell phone to dial, answer, read or type easily takes more than 2 seconds, and this applies to both adults and teens. In the test, the teen subjects’ cell phone use resulted in numerous simulated injuries and deaths. Clearly, teenagers’ lack of behind-the-wheel experience along with their attachment to cell phones causes increased risk including missing a red light, running a crosswalk, failing to see upcoming traffic, and a host of other hazards.

While 16 is the age that most states allow children to begin driving on their own, not all of them may be prepared for this enormous and important responsibility. Parents are advised to (a) make responsible decisions regarding children’s abilities and preparedness; (b) set up rules and precautions to keep children from using cell phones (and other distractions) while driving; and (c) educate children regarding car safety and the dangers at risk to themselves, their passengers and the other people on the road.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you should speak with a lawyer. If you are located in California, please contact the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP toll-free at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776). We’ll provide a confidential consultation to apprise you of your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has suffered personal injury in Pomona, California, it is important that you seek the guidance of experienced legal professionals to help you understand your rights and remedies. The lawyers at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP have experience in the following practice areas:

• Motor vehicle (car, truck, bus) accidents


• Premises liability (slip & fall, trip & fall, workplace & construction injuries)


• Dog bites and animal attacks


• Defective products


• Pharmaceutical injury and medical malpractice


• Toxic, environmental torts


• Injuries such as burn, spinal cord, brain, broken bones, back pain

In addition to over 50 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys have successfully collected over $150 million for our clients. More importantly, we advance all costs so that you don’t have to pay a dime until we first collect money for you. If you think that you have suffered injury at the wrong of others, call now so that we can give you a personal assessment of your situation. We’ll even come to your home or medical room to sign you up. Call 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9766) now. We’ll do what it takes to help you through this difficult time.

In the slip & fall case, a woman slipped on a City-owned park’s exterior steps that were covered in wet leaves. As a result of the fall, the woman broke three bones in her left foot and another bone in her right foot. The Contra Costa County Superior Court originally found in favor of the City of Antioch. The injured victim sued the City and the landscaping company hired by the City on grounds of negligence for failing to maintain the stairway and causing a dangerous condition. After the reviewing the evidence, the First District CA Court of Appeal overturned that trial court decision excusing liability, and re-submitted the case for trial.

On the morning of the accident, the woman was dropping off her daughter at a preschool located within the park. Light rain had made the concrete walkway and staircase leading to and from the school wet. The woman, wearing flat-heeled, rubbed soled sandals, slipped when coming down the steps leaving the school. As noted above, the woman suffered broken-bone injuries in her foot. Under section 835 of the Government Code, a public entity must maintain its property in a way that does not create a hazard for foreseeable users. The trial court, however, found that the City successfully avoided liability by showing that it was too costly and impractical to keep their stairs clear of leaves during the fall season, a defense to a dangerous condition suit provided by section 835.4 of the Code.

Upon further review of the evidence, the CA appellate court found conflicting evidence that showed that the landscaping company actually had sufficient notice of the dangerous condition and should have been able to clear the leaves prior to the arrival of early morning patrons. Key evidence that support this renewed finding was testimony from the supervisor of the landscaping company that showed that the stairs should have been cleared shortly before the arrival of parents dropping off their children at the preschool. In addition, the court relied on testimony from the victim claiming that she saw landscapers clearing an adjacent area close to where she fell on the stairs at the time of the accident.

Stairways and walkways in public areas are often a source of slip & fall accidents. Often, the public entity or landlord will be held liable for all injuries associated with these accidents. If you or a loved one has suffered from a trip, slip, or fall in California, you may be owed due compensation for your injuries. Call the professionals at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a complimentary consultation regarding your rights.

Another crane collapse has occurred at a construction site this month, whether by unlucky coincidence or widespread negligence,. For reasons unknown, a piece of a crane being used on a large condominium project in Miami, Florida fell 39 stories and crashed through the roof of a home being used as the site’s construction office. One person died at the scene of the crime from severe head injury, while another was pronounced dead later at the local hospital. In addition, 5 more people inside the house had to be hospitalized.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is currently investigating the crash to determine the cause of the accident. Earlier this month, another crane collapsed at a construction site in New York and left 7 individuals dead. The New York crane collapse occurred when a 5 ½ ton steel collar used to secure the crane to the building broke loose. Investigators into the New York crash discovered that a building inspector had allegedly lied about performing a safety inspection of the crane, and the individual was arrested.

Cranes are often used in the construction industry. One source estimates that approximately 125,000 cranes are currently being used. Although not a subject of widespread media attention until recently, crane accidents actually occur more often than most people realize. In 2007, 347 accident reports were received involving cranes. Of those, these crane accidents claimed 176 lives. Crane accidents can occur due to faulty design, negligence on the part of the inspector, operator, and even the construction company for failing to maintain safety standards.

Victims of crane accidents can seek recourse if the accident occurred as a result of negligence on a responsible party’s part. If you or a loved one has been injured by a crane or construction accident in the state of California, you need an expert who can help you fight for your rights. The professionals at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP are just those experts. Call 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney now.

Santa Ana, CA is the most highly populated city in Orange County. Many of its residents were drawn to the city due to the availability of multi-housing units dating back from the 1970s. As with all residential properties, the potential for premises liability is common. Whether due to the negligence of a landowner or landlord (in the case of rental property), severe injuries can result when premises are not maintained in a safe manner.

If you have been injured on the premises of another in the state of California, you may have a right to recovery for your damages. Generally speaking, landlords have obligations to their tenants in the following ways:

• Duty to exercise due care in the management of their property


• Duty to inspect the property for dangerous conditions


• Duty to repair defects


• Warranty of habitability that requires rental properties to be maintained a safe, clean, and habitable condition


• Duty to maintain their property up to building codes


• Duty to take affirmative action to protects its tenants from outside parties that the landlord knows may pose a danger to tenants

To understand whether your injury on another’s premises is the results of negligence in California, you should contact the personal injury professionals at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP. We’ve negotiated millions in settlements and trial verdicts for our clients. In addition to advancing all costs, we won’t charge you unless we successfully recover money for you. Call 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a free consultation now.

A six-year old was hit and killed by a car while riding her bicycle in an alley this past Thursday, March 27. The tragic alleyway accident occurred midday near the center of Lompoc. The girl was not wearing a helmet. Lompoc is located in Santa Barbara County in Southern California. The city’s population is less than 75,000. According to local police, the accident is currently under investigation, with neither speed nor alcohol appearing to be factors in the crash.

Recent statistics show that in 2006, bicyclist deaths on the road numbered 770 in the U.S. Over 90% of those deaths were the result of motor vehicle crashes. The number of injuries cause by bike vs. auto accidents is a staggering 45,000 per year.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed while riding a bicycle, please seek the help of an attorney. Call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776 immediately for a free and confidential consultation. We will come directly to your hospital room and help apprise you of your rights.

Located in California, the city of Glendale, with a population over 200,000, has the highest number of accidents of cars hitting senior pedestrians, and a very high ranking for autos vs. walkers in general for a city of its size. As a result the city government is taking steps to cope with the deadly problem of crashes involving vehicles and pedestrians.

In the San Fernando Valley, where Glendale is located, six pedestrians were killed in the first two months of this year alone. In both 2006 and 2007, Glendale reported 126 collisions involving pedestrians, even though car accidents in general decreased in 2007. Experts for the city report that drivers are at fault for 60% of all pedestrian-involved accidents, and that the primary causes for these accidents are aggressive driving and speeding.

As a result of its epidemic, the city of Glendale has put $133,000 towards education and enforcement, writing hundreds of tickets since October. The city is also in the process of installing over 20 street-level lit crosswalks, 5 photo-enforced cameras at intersections, and handing out safety fliers. Hopefully Glendale’s campaign to end auto-pedestrian accidents will save lives.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a pedestrian accident, you need the help of an experienced and trusted attorney. Let us help you learn your rights and receive the compensation to which you are entitled. Please call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a free and confidential consultation now.

Construction site workers on rooftops or upper floors are at risk for severe injuries and even death from falling through a roof, skylight or floor. Work-related fatalities resulting from falls is one of the leading causes of death on the job according to the U.S. Dept. of Labor, and “fall-thru” events continue to be a serious problem for construction sites across the country. Poor safety and management are usually to blame for these terrible falling incidents, almost of which could be prevented by proper safety installations. If you or a family member has been the victim or a work-related fall through a roof, skylight or floor, please contact an attorney to learn your rights.

Each year more than 600 construction workers die from falls, many falling from flooring or roofs at lower levels. About 10% of these falling fatalities occurred when employees fell thru a floor, roof, sky light, or other existing opening, such as an elevator portal. The non-fatal injuries reported from these fall-throughs are consistently severe due to the traumatic nature of the accidents and include head injuries, brain injuries and spinal injuries. Not surprisingly, the treatment and recovery required for injuries sustained from fall through a roof are extensive and result in an extremely high number of days of work missed.

By following the safety guidelines set forth by government agencies, nearly all of these construction fall injuries could be prevented or at least minimized. These guidelines include education of workers, the wearing of personal protection equipment and rail and netting apparatus set-up prior to worker engagement on floor and/or rooftops.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a fall at a construction site, please seek the advice of a lawyer. If you are located in California, please call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP toll-free at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776). We will provide you with a confidential consultation to help you learn your rights and seek compensation for your losses. Let us help.

Simi Valley in Ventura County is only 40 miles from downtown Los Angeles and has a population of nearly 125,000. California roads and commutes are known for their congestion, and accidents abound. Motorcycles can be one of the most efficient yet most dangerous ways to drive. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident or car accident in Simi Valley, you should seek the advice of an experienced attorney.

Many times, people who have been hurt on the road do not know their rights. Let us help you learn if you are entitled to compensation for your loss. Greenberg & Rudman LLP’s legal team has over 50 years combined legal experience in representing crash victims. We are trial attorneys who have reached successful and lucrative settlements and verdicts.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in California, please call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) today. We will provide you with a free and confidential consultation, and even come to your hospital room. Let us help you now.

A report by the California Highway Patrol shows that 303 fatalities have occurred since 2002 as a result of drowsy driving (driving while overtired). However, this figure is likely underreported as police officers cannot conclusively test for drowsiness. Unlike alcohol, there are no lasting physical effects of fatigue. A poll conducted by National Sleep Foundation reports that 60% of adult drivers admit to driving a vehicle while sleepy in the past year. More than a third of those polled admit to actually falling asleep at the wheel. A study by Virginia Tech researcher filmed driving behavior of individuals in their personal cars for a year. Drowsy driving was found to have contributed to accidents in 12% of the crashes that occurred.

In an effort to reduce the number of accidents caused by sleepy drivers, particularly commercial drivers, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has been reviewing recommendations regarding the incidence of truck drivers and sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea. People who have sleep apnea do not get a continuous night’s sleep because of a disorder that causes their airways to partially construct when sleeping. As a result of the constant awakenings, these individuals tend to experience higher periods of drowsiness during the day. A clinical study by the Center for Sleep and Respiratory Neurobiology at University of Pennsylvania has found that truck drivers experience a higher rate of obstructive sleep apnea, particularly if they are obese. The Center is recommending to the FMCSA a mandatory sleep study for truck drivers once they reach a certain level of obesity. To support their recommendation, the Center submits data that shows that drivers with sleep apnea are 2.5 more likely to be involved in a vehicular crash.

One example of drowsy driving played out tragically last month in an accident involving a tractor-trailer truck in Los Angeles County when the driver of the commercial truck fell asleep at the wheel. The drowsy truck driver drove his big rig up a dirt embankment and struck an overpass. Ten minutes later, a man crashed his car into the tractor-trailer when he could not stop in time. A few months earlier, another accident occurred as a result of drowsy driving. The fatigued driver fell asleep momentarily and caused a three-car accident. Although both accidents only resulted in moderate to minor injuries, accidents involving drowsy or fatigued driving are a major cause of vehicle collisions.

Regardless of whether you are a commercial truck driver or drive your own personal car for leisure, it is important to recognize the signs of fatigue before you fall asleep at the wheel. If you notice any of these signs of drowsiness, pull off the road as soon as possible to give your body a break.

• Drifting unexpectedly across lanes


• Repeated yawning, nodding head


• Disconnected thoughts, inability to maintain focus, finding yourself in a dazed state


• Impatience, restlessness, irritability


• Tailgating or unintentional speeding/ slowing down


• Closing/heavy eyes, repeated blinking, unfocused eyes

If you or someone close to you has been involved in a car crash in California, it is important to seek the assistance of a licensed attorney. The experienced professionals at the Law Office of Greenberg & Rudman LLP have litigated numerous personal injury cases involved automobiles and obtained favorable results for their clients. Call 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) now for a free initial consultation.

The city of Thousand Oaks, CA in Conejo Valley is home to more than 125,000 people with 385 miles of streets and more than 110 traffic signals. As Thousand Oaks residents know, car accidents and motorcycle accidents are a common Southern California occurrence. If you have been injured or involved in a crash, you should contact a specialized attorney to help you know your rights.

Even a low speed collision can cause bodily harm, and the responsibility of who is to blame in any accident may not be clear. Driver negligence, driving under the influence or poor road design can contribute to injuries on the road. The lawyers at Greenberg & Rudman LLP have 50 years combined experience supporting the rights of those who have been injured. We are successful trial attorneys who have collected millions of dollars in both settlements and verdicts for victims like you.

Please call us if you have been hurt in a car accident California. Contact the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP toll-free at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776), and we will supply a free legal consultation. Know your rights, and call us now.

The city of Gilroy in Northern California will pay the family of a 5-year-old boy hit and killed by a truck a partial settlement for wrongful death and subsequent emotional distress. The total settlement is in the amount of $130,000; however the city's agreement to pay a part of it immediately avoided a lawsuit. The city admitted no wrongdoing, while the driver of the truck has already complied with court rulings which found her guilty of criminal negligence. The incident took place at a busy intersection in 2006. The fatal accident occurred as the child and his older brother were crossing at a local intersection. The boys had the right of way, but a truck turning left struck and killed the 5-year-old as he was riding his red scooter across street. The tragic incident left family and friends devastated.

The fatal intersection ranks as the 13th most dangerous in the city, and the area has 20,000 autos passing per day. Attorneys for the family argued that the intersection where the death occurred was "dangerous and defective," citing the need for a left turn-signal, an inappropriate speed limit, poor road striping and an inadequate number of turning lanes, and more. Though the city admits no wrongdoing, a project to add signals to the intersection is underway.

Last year the parents of the boy killed filed a claim against the city. This came after the driver, convicted of negligence and carrying the minimum amount of legally required insurance, received penalties including probation, a $110 fine and community service, but no jail time. Part of the $130,000 settlement will be paid by the driver's insurance company, while the city will pay the rest.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident, please seek the advice of an attorney. Local municipalities and state agencies are responsible for properly designing and maintaining public roads under their jurisdiction. Failure to do so can mean that they are negligent and liable for any injuries you or a loved one has sustained. Call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman for a free-consultation at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800- 252-9776). Let us help seek justice for you.

Home to the famous Rose Bowl and Tournament of Roses parade, Pasadena often welcomes more than 100,000 visitors each year for these traditional events. During these sports-spectator events, the incidence of pedestrian-automobile accidents increases as walkers and drivers attempt to share the road and walkways. When the two clash, it can result in serious injury or fatalities that leave loved ones devastated.

The Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP are no strangers to personal injury cases. With over 50 years of combined experience, the attorneys at Greenberg & Rudman LLP have collected over $150 million in trial verdicts and settlements for their clients. Contributing to their personal records of success are the following advantages that our attorneys possess:

• Tough negotiators that aren’t afraid to stand up to stubborn insurance companies


• Experienced trial attorneys that regularly employ medical doctors, trial experts, and even private investigators to win your case


• Persuasive storytellers who will use techniques like documenting “A Day in the Life of the Individual” to show juries the severe, long-lasting pain & suffering that traumatically injured individuals suffer


• Knowledgeable attorneys that can calculate damages and costs in order to ensure the maximum amount of recovery

If you have been injured in an accident of any kind in California, don’t hesitate to call the professionals at Greenberg & Rudman LLP at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) to learn about your rights. Let us take care of you during this traumatic time.

A hit & run driver struck a man as he was crossing Ventura Boulevard in Woodland Hills, CA in the San Fernando Valley. After the initial strike, the victim was run over by another driver who stayed at the scene. Sadly, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. There were witnesses to the hit and run crime, which occurred earlier this month.

The victim was first hit by an eastbound BMW sedan as he was crossing from the north side. The first driver fled the scene. A second driver in an Audi unknowingly ran over the victim, dragging him about 40 feet while under the car. The Audi driver cooperated with police while remaining at the scene. There was no crosswalk at the accident site. Witnesses were able to describe the hit and run car and driver. Hit & run is a felony in California. She faces felony charges of Hit and Run if apprehended.

Have you or a family member been the victim of a hit and run car accident in California? Let us help you during this painful and difficult time. Please call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a free and confidential consultation. We will come to your hospital room.

Have you been the victim of an accident or injury in Oxnard, CA? Oxnard is the largest city in Ventura County, California in terms of population and with nearly 200,000 residents, accidents are bound to happen. If you or a loved one has suffered any type of personal injury including bodily harm, emotional distress, disease or sickness as the result of another person’s negligence, you need to consult with an experienced and respected California injury attorney immediately. We will protect your legal rights and fight for the compensation and damages you deserve.

Sometimes when a person is hurt, especially in a car accident or in a public area, they may not be at fault. Learn if you have been a victim of someone else’s neglect. You may be entitled to payment for your suffering. We are trial attorneys with 50 years combined experience and millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts.

Let us help you. If you have been injured in California, please call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP toll-free at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a free legal consultation regarding your rights. We will come straight to your hospital room to sign you up.