April 14, 2008

POMONA, CA PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY

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:
Pomona_CA_seal.png

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.

April 4, 2008

WRONGFUL DEATH SETTLEMENT REACHED IN GILROY, CA FOR FAMILY OF CHILD STRUCK AND KILLED BY TRUCK: CITY ACCUSED OF DEFECTIVE ROAD DESIGN.

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.

pedestrians_crossing%20beware.jpgLast 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.

April 1, 2008

OXNARD ACCIDENT AND PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER

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.

Oxnard_City_Logo.jpgSometimes 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.

March 31, 2008

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER

If you have been hurt by a motor vehicle accident, slip or fall, faulty product, dog bite or negligence in San Fernando Valley, CA, we can help you. As personal injury attorneys, representing individuals who are victims of accidents is our specialty. Whether a car accident or construction accident, negligent maintenance or product liability, we know your rights and understand your physical or emotional injury. We are experienced and dedicated personal injury lawyers, and our outstanding results include numerous multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements.

ambulance.jpgIf you or a loved one has been injured by the negligence or wrongdoing of another in California, you need assistance from successful and knowledgeable injury lawyers. Please call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) today for a free and confidential consultation. We will come to your house or hospital room to sign you up. We’re here to help.

March 25, 2008

VENTURA COUNTY PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY

Ventura County is the home to over 750,000 people. Each year in California, thousands of innocent people are the victims of accidents involving negligence. If you have been injured as the result of a car accident, a negligent product, or dangerous public or work premises, you may be entitled to receive damages for your suffering. Accidents can cause serious emotional and physical pain, and we are here to help you through this difficult time.

car%20accident%20head%20on.jpgThe Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP are an experienced and respected Southern California law firm dedicated to protecting the rights of people injured through the negligence of others. With an extensive record of trial and settlement success, we know how to represent your needs and fight for your rights.

If you or a family member has been injured by the negligence of another in California, let a personal injury attorney help. Please call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) today for a free and confidential consultation. We’re here for you.

March 14, 2008

BALDWIN PARK, CALIFORNIA MOTORCYCLE RIDER FAILS TO WEAR HELMET AND DIES IN ACCIDENT

A man took his friend’s motorcycle for a test run in Baldwin Park, CA last fall and collided while attempting to pass a tractor-trailer truck that was concurrently making a left turn into a parking lot. As the truck turned, the rider lost control of the bike and became entangled underneath the trailer’s tires. At the time of the crash, the man was not wearing a helmet. He died instantly.

Although wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle is required by law in the state of California, many drivers often fail to do so – either out of laziness or pure recklessness. As evidenced by the story of the Southern California Baldwin Park man, the consequences can be fatal. Studies published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show a significant correlation between helmet use and head injuries among those fatally injured in motorcycle collisions. 51% of un-helmeted motorcyclists suffered a head injury, compared to only 35% of those that actually wore a helmet. Furthermore, a study conducted by the Harborview Injury Prevention Center found an 88% reduction in brain injury for riders who used a helmet. Because motorcycles lack the physical protection that enclosed automobiles and trucks possess, riders should take every precaution possible to protect themselves from bodily injury.

motorcycle%20helmet.jpg

Data shows that the road is becoming an increasingly dangerous place for motorcyclists. While the number of registered vehicles continues to increase, the number of registered motorbikes on the road continues to climb as well. As a result, roads are becoming more congested, and motorcycle riders are often less visible than their larger car and truck counterparts. Furthermore, motorcyclists are more vulnerable to external hazards such as the weather and road conditions than automobiles.

Although motorcycles only make up approximately 3% of all registered vehicles in the United States, they account for more than 11% of total fatalities related to vehicle crashes. The latest study published by the NHTSA finds that the number of motorcycle crash fatalities across the nation have increased every year for the past nine years. Looking at the individual state level, California has also experienced an increase in motorcycle fatalities. In addition, it is among the top 3 states with the highest number of absolute increases. The study concludes that motorcycles are therefore 35 times more likely to die and 8 times more likely to be injured in a motor vehicle related traffic accident than those driving in passenger cars and trucks.

Victims of motorcycle crashes are often left with debilitating and severe, if not fatal, injuries. The effects on the victim and loved ones are devastating. During this difficult time, an experienced and smart personal injury lawyer is critical to ensure that you are fully taken care of. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle-related accident, the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP are here to help you. Contact us at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for your free consultation.

March 10, 2008

CHILD STRUCK & KILLED BY MUNICIPAL CITY TRUCK IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA: FAMILY RECEIVES LARGE SETTLEMENT

The city of San Francisco awarded $21 million to the family of a 4-year-old girl killed by a city Municipal Railway maintenance truck in 2003 in a settlement that was approved by the city’s Municipal Transportation Agency Board of Directors. This is the largest payout ever awarded for a personal injury case by the city of San Francisco. After the family was awarded $27 million by a jury in 2005, the city appealed. The case now concludes with the approved settlement. The payment will come from the Municipal Railway budget and will be made in installments over the next three years.

The girl was struck and killed in February, 2003, in the Mission District area of San Francisco on her way home from preschool. As she and her mother stood on the sidewalk, the truck jumped the curb and pinned the child against a building. Tragically the girl did not survive.

truck%20blue.jpg

If you or someone you know has been injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident in California please call us toll-free at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a free legal consultation regarding your rights. We are experienced and committed lawyers willing to go all the way to make sure you receive compensation for your pain and suffering. Let us work for you! Please call us now.

March 4, 2008

POTENTIAL PRODUCT LIABILTY ON FORD VEHICLE RECALL: GOVERNMENT URGES CAR OWNERS TO REPAIR DEFECTIVE CRUISE CONTROL SWITCHES TO PREVENT ENGINE FIRES

Automobile owners in Los Angeles, California and across the nation are being urged by the federal government to respond to a product recall that covers Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury sport utility vehicles (SUVs), pickup trucks, vans, and passenger cars. Ford issued the recall in 1999 in response to hundreds of complaints and dozens of lawsuits after faulty cruise control systems caused engines to catch on fire, even after the vehicles were turned off.

Nearly ten years after the recall, Ford Motor Company still faces over 100 lawsuits as a result of their defective product. In addition to severe burn injuries, three wrongful deaths have been linked to engine fires caused by the faulty electric cruise control system. Furthermore, the NHTSA has received approximately 60 complaints since August 2007 on this problem.

car%20accident%20fire.jpg

Although 9.6 million vehicles have been recalled, only a little over half of them have been fixed. Worried about the outstanding 4.6 million automobiles with defective wiring systems, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued consumer advisory warnings to owners of these vehicles. It appears, however, that Ford is struggling to produce enough replacement parts for this recall. As a temporary solution, vehicle owners can have their local service dealership disconnect the cruise control switches until replacement parts are in full supply. Owners who opt for this interim solution will not have to leave their vehicles at the dealership or make an appointment. A representative from the Ford Motor Company says that there should be an “ample supply” of replacement parts by June.

The recall covers cars as old as 1992 and as new as 2003. To check to see whether your SUV, truck, or car is affected by this recall, please refer to a full list published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/recalls/recallsearch.cfm.)

If you were the victim of this product recall and have suffered injury or damages from an engine fire in California, we are here to help you. Please call 1-800-ALAWPRO to speak to an experienced legal expert at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP. We are here to help you recover.

March 3, 2008

UNHITCHED TRAILER COMES DETACHED FROM TRUCK AND KILLED MAN NEAR WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA

A runaway trailer on the San Gabriel River Freeway (605) caused a four vehicle crash in Baldwin Park, CA. The collision occurred when a trailer became unhitched from a Ford F-350 truck and bounced across a center highway divider and into oncoming traffic. One driver, a man from Rancho Cucamonga, suffered a death at the scene due to severe head injuries when a tire from the loose trailer flew into his car’s windshield. The impact from the debris caused the victim to lose control of his car and slide into the center dividing wall.

Common tow-trailer accidents are often unexpected causes of highway accidents (see February 22, 2008 blog). Often, these tragic incidents are the result of negligence on the part of a trailer owner who failed to secure safety latches or inspect the equipment for wear and tear. More often than not, trailer owners are not made aware of the safety risks that this type of everyday-use equipment poses. For additional information on safely towing equipment, please refer to the user guide published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/problems/Equipment/towing/Towing.pdf). The State of California Department of Motor Vehicle also publishes helpful tips on how to safely attach a trailer (http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/dl648/dl648pt12.htm).

trailer.jpg

If you have suffered injury from a car accident in California caused by loose debris from a tow trailer or even a runaway trailer, please call us at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP (1-800-ALAWPRO) 1-800-252-9776 for a free consultation about your rights. We are experience personal injury attorneys who are here to help you.

February 22, 2008

LOS ANGELES CAR ACCIDENT CAUSED BY RUNAWAY TRAILER THAT CAME DETACHED FROM A TRUCK RESULTS IN WRONGFUL DEATH

Common tow-trailers that are hitched to the back of passenger cars, SUVs, and trucks pose extremely hazardous risks when not secured properly. In Los Angeles, an unsecured trailer that came unhitched on the Sierra Highway caused the wrongful death of a man. When the trailer broke lose from the Chevy Suburban that was towing it, the driver of a Ford Expedition driving behind had to serve unexpectedly to avoid hitting it. Tragically, the SUV swerved across the median and slammed directly into an oncoming Dodge pickup, killing the driver of the truck instantly. The cause of the runaway trailer was a worn latch in the locking device. The widow of the man and their children were only able to recover $312,500 from their wrongful death suit.

A little known fact is that runaway trailers are responsible for a sizeable number of harmful accidents across the country. Trailers are used for a variety of purposes such as hauling household appliances, cars, boats, gardening materials, etc. When not used for commercial purposes, these trailers are often owned by individuals who are not properly trained to properly connect and secure them the towing vehicle. A study conducted by Master Lock found that most owners of trailers lacked basic safety and handling knowledge of the towing devices. In addition, more than half failed to attach safety chains to their trailers.

The risk of runaway trailers grows even greater, considering the lack of state and federal regulations governing private trailers and hauling devices. While some states require the use of safety chains, the safety requirements and regulations are not uniform or widespread. Although the California Highway Patrol posts very rudimentary towing and hauling guidelines on its website, there exists no formal training program or requirement for individuals prior to using a tow-trailer.

hitch%20rusted.jpg

The remedies that can be sought after an accident involving a runaway trailer are, for the most part, limited to common law claims such as negligence, wrongful death, pain & suffering, etc. However, there seems to be a growing recognition of the dangers involved with towing. The state of Washington recently implemented a law that criminalizes the failure to secure a load when it results in bodily injury. The law, named “Maria’s Law,” was inspired by a tragic accident where debris from a U-Haul truck flew into the windshield of a woman driving behind the truck, causing her permanent blindness and disfigurement.

Tips for Safe Towing
Preparing a Trailer• Hook up the electric cable for trailer lights and make sure to check that the lights work.
• Tie the load down securely if you are using an open trailer,.
• You will need to look at your owner's manual to check the maximum weight the vehicle can safely tow. A general rule is to make sure that the vehicle is heavier than the trailer.
• Organize slightly more of the weight in the front half to ensure stability when loading the trailer,. When a trailer has been loaded correctly, approximately 10% of its total weight will be sitting on the trailer tongue.
• If you have a trailer with electric brakes, make sure the battery for the emergency breakaway system is charged and that the power cable is attached.
• Confirm before you leave that your tires are in good condition and are inflated the proper amount.

Towing a trailer• If you are in a situation where the trailer sways, hold the wheel straight and do not apply the brakes on the tow vehicle. If you brake or steer to counter the swaying, it can lead to loss of control of your vehicle. Stop when it is safe to do so and be sure the trailer is loaded properly.
• When towing a trailer, be sure to drive slowly, especially down hills. Avoid sudden stops and lane changes whenever possible.
• Avoid towing in windy, wet, or icy conditions.

If you or a family member has been involved in a truck accident, you could be eligible for compensation. If you have been injured as the result of a collision with a truck, which was not your fault or if a family member has been killed through a truck accident, you should contact a lawyer. If the accident occurred in California, please call us at The Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLC for a free and private consultation. We are experienced attorneys who can help guide you at this difficult time.

February 18, 2008

NORTHRIDGE MOTORCYCLE CRASH ACCIDENT VICTIM OBTAINS LARGEST COURT AWARD; CITY OF LOS ANGELES FORCED TO PAY $15.7 MILLION IN MEDICAL, PAIN & SUFFERING, AND EMOTIONAL DISTRESS

A retired police officer sued the City of LA when he was hit by a city-operated dump truck while riding his motorcycle in Northridge, California. As a result of the very serious motorcycle accident, the man suffered severe brain injury which caused him to suffer from short-term memory loss. After a two-year lawsuit, the man was finally able to receive ample compensation for damages suffered from this traumatic accident.

The case went finally went to trial after prolonged settlement negotiations failed to materialize. Even though the retired officer suffered severe brain injury and now requires 24-hour care as a result of the collision, the city never offered more than $50,000. The key issue in the case was the degree of the city’s liability. City attorneys contend that the driver of the dump truck was merely a contractor of the Bureau of Street Services, and thus an independent worker outside of the responsibility of the city. In addition, they argued that the driver had finished his day’s shift and was thus “off-site” when the collision occurred.

motorcycle%20handlebars.jpg

Luckily, the jury was more sympathetic to the victim of this tragic motorcycle accident. Despite the city’s attempt to escape liability, the jury found that the city was indeed liable for the man’s injuries. The Chatsworth Superior Court awarded him $4.7 million for his past and future medical expenses and lost wages. In addition, the court also awarded the man an additional $11 million to compensate for his pain and suffering and emotional distress. This was the largest award given out by this court.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in California, please call The Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman, LLC for a free consultation at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776). We are trial attorneys who will fight for you!

January 26, 2008

PARAPLEGIA LAWYER CALIFORNIA: INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? WE CAN HELP

PARAPLEGIA OVERVIEW
Both paraplegia and quadriplegia are conditions which result from injury or trauma to the spinal cord. Paraplegia is a condition where someone is paralyzed and cannot move their legs. Quadriplegia occurs when a person suffers paralysis in all four limbs: legs and arms. The spinal cord runs through the center of the vertebrae which are there to protect it. People can become paralyzed after an accident (such as a car accident or fall) where they break their back or neck. As the spinal cord is housed in the bones of the neck and back, a break to one of the vertebrae may result in spinal cord injury. Once the spinal cord is damaged, the brain has trouble communicating with various parts of the body.

CAUSES OF PARAPLEGIA
There are many causes of spinal cord injuries- the leading causes being accidents and illness. Types of accidents that can cause spinal cord injuries include: car accidents, motorcycle accidents, falls, and sporting accidents to name a few. The majority of people who have a spinal cord injury are young males, as they are the demographic who have a greater tendency to indulge in risky behavior. But people of all ages, and both sexes can be the victim of spinal cord damage. Once paralyzed, people generally need the aid of a wheelchair to be able to move around.

wheelchair.jpg

LOSS OF FUNCTION IN PARAPLEGIA
Spinal cord injuries are described by where on the spinal cord they have happened. Caregivers use letters and numbers to describe where your spinal cord is injured. There are eight cervical, twelve thoracic, five lumbar, and four sacral bones. So for example, if you have a “T5” spinal cord injury, that means that the damage to the spinal cord occurred at the fifth bone in the thoracic spinal cord section. Generally the level of function lost corresponds to the level in the spinal cord where damage took place. That means that people who suffer an injury to the upper part of the spinal cord have greater injuries and are most likely quadriplegics (or tetraplegics). People who incur injuries to the lower spinal cord are often paraplegic. Spinal cord injuries are also described as complete or incomplete. This refers to how much function (defined as movement and feeling) is left after a person has healed from the injury. A complete SCI means that a person has totally lost the movement and feeling below the injured level. An incomplete SCI does not cause total loss of movement or feeling.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU’VE BEEN INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident in California and are now suffering from paraplegia, you should contact a lawyer to learn about your rights. These types of accidents are life changing events, and you should have an attorney on your side, fighting for your rights. The Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP are experienced attorneys who can help guide you through this traumatic time. Please call us now for a free consultation at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776).

January 20, 2008

BROKEN BONES COMMON INJURIES IN CAR ACCIDENTS: A LAWYER CAN HELP GET YOU COMPENSATION

Broken bones (or fractures) occur when the physical force exerted on the bone is stronger than the bone itself. Common causes of broken bones are falls from large heights and motor vehicle accidents. A large number of car accidents result in broken bones and serious fractures because the forces acting on the body in a car accident are usually so severe. Common injuries include broken legs, broken arms, broken wrists, broken ankles, broken pelvis and broken jaw bones. Serious breaks of the bone sustained in a car crash are also more likely to require surgery as the type of break may be more severe than a simple fracture. The repair of a fracture is a gradual process and generally requires the bone to be immobilized for several weeks. Once stabilized into position, it is important to build up strength in the healing bone through movement, exercise and physiotherapy. Unfortunately fractures can take a substantial amount of time to fully heal. The severity of a fracture depends upon its location and the damage done to the bone and tissue near it. Serious fractures can have dangerous complications if not treated promptly; possible complications include damage to blood vessels or nerves and infection of the bone (osteomyelitis) or surrounding tissue. Recuperation time varies depending on the age and health of the patient and the type of fracture. A minor fracture in a child may heal within a few weeks; a serious fracture in an older person may take months to heal. If your fracture injuries were due to an accident or incident where you were not at fault, you can make a personal injury claim and can seek compensation against the person responsible. If you have been injured in any type of accident, you should contact a lawyer to know your rights. You may be entitled to additional medical care and monetary compensation. If you are located in the state of California, please call us now at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776).

broken%20arm.jpg

TYPES OF FRACTURES
There are many types of fractures, but the main categories are simple and compound (whether or not the bone breaks through the skin) and complete and incomplete (the way the bone breaks). In a simple fracture, also called a closed fracture, the bone breaks but there is no open wound in the skin. A compound fracture, also referred to as an open fracture, is when the bone breaks through the skin; it may then recede back into the wound and not be visible through the skin. Complete and incomplete fractures refer to the manner in which the bone breaks. In a complete fracture, the bone breaks into two or more parts. In the case of an incomplete fracture, the bone cracks but does not break all the way through. Simple fractures include:

Buckle Fracture: Part of the bone buckles and ruptures, but doe snot break into pieces.

Greenstick fracture: an incomplete fracture with small cracks in the bone.

Avulsion Fracture: An avulsion fracture is when a tendon that attaches a muscle to a bone pulls a piece of the bone apart.

Transverse fracture: a fracture at a right angle to the bone's axis.

Hairline Fractures: Small fault lines in the bone, but the bones remain connected.

Oblique fracture: a fracture in which the break slopes.

Comminuted fracture: a fracture in which the bone breaks into several pieces. These breaks may require metal plates to repair.

An impacted fracture is one whose ends are driven into each other (also known as a buckle fracture). Other types of fracture are pathologic fracture, caused by a disease that weakens the bones, and stress fracture, a hairline crack.

Other types of fracture are pathologic fracture, caused by a disease that weakens the bones, and a stress fracture.