San Francisco Injury Lawyer Blog

June 15, 2020

Distracted Driving Involves More Than Your Phone

To most people, the term ‘distracted driving’ usually refers to texting while driving. Although texting and driving is a form of distracted driving, and against the law, there are many other types of distractions drivers contend with when behind the wheel. Although these other forms of distractions may not be against the law, a driver may still be found negligent when engaging in these behaviors. Accident victims can hold negligent drivers liable for providing compensation for any injuries or losses. For this reason, it is crucial that all drivers are aware of the different types of distractions, so they can avoid them.

Adjusting Controls in the Vehicle

Looking over to adjust the climate control in your vehicle, the radio, or any other type of control may seem like a fairly safe practice. When you do this though, you take your eyes off of the road, and you can cause an accident in that short moment. If possible, ask a passenger to make these adjustments, or use the controls on the steering wheel, if your vehicle is equipped with them.

May 31, 2020

How Much is My Dog Bite Claim Worth?

by Gregory J. Brod

Under California’s strict liability laws, individuals that are bitten by a dog are entitled to hold the owner liable for paying compensation. Dog bites are very serious injuries and can cause permanent scarring, disfigurement, deep cuts, and secondary infections. These injuries are not only painful, but they are also expensive to treat.

While it is important to remain realistic about the damages one may receive, it is just as important to not undervalue a claim. Although no one can say with certainty how much a dog bite claim is worth, there are some guidelines you can follow to determine how much you can recover in damages.

The Nature and Extent of Your Injuries

April 24, 2020

Medical Malpractice for Failure to Treat or Diagnose Coronavirus

by Gregory J. Brod

The coronavirus has impacted nearly every region of the world, and its impact is likely going to be felt long after there is a vaccine available. Although medical professionals throughout California are doing their best to stay on top of the virus and care for the patients who are infected with it, there are going to be mistakes made. Tragically, with this virus being so deadly, those mistakes are going to cost lives.

When this happens, it is important that patients understand that they have legal options, but any personal injury cases involving the coronavirus are going to be particularly complex. A California medical malpractice lawyer can help injured patients and their families throughout the process.

Failure to Treat and Diagnose Coronavirus

April 17, 2020

What Does California Law Say About Lane Splitting?

by Gregory J. Brod

Lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist travels between two lanes of traffic. Bikers typically do this when traffic has come to a complete stop or when it is slow-moving. This gives the biker an advantage over other vehicles because it allows them to move through traffic faster and exit a traffic jam. Lane splitting is one of the most controversial practices regarding motorcycles in California. While proponents of it say that the practice does not contribute to the amount of motorcycle accidents, others say it is extremely dangerous. So, what does California law say about lane splitting?

Lane Splitting Law in California

Many people think that California is the only state in which the law specifically allows for lane splitting. This is not entirely true. While bikers are not usually pulled over or discouraged from lane splitting, there simply is no law on the books that either allows it or prohibits the practice. However, in 2016, Governor Brown passed Assembly Bill 51, which gave the California Highway Patrol the authority to instate lane splitting safety guidelines.

April 10, 2020

Nursing Home Abuse and Negligence During COVID-19

by Gregory J. Brod

As the new coronavirus sweeps the globe, residents in nursing homes have been some of the hardest hit populations. An outbreak, which can be declared after just one of two residents test positive for the virus, can be deadly for anyone in the nursing home. Since the virus first emerged, it has been said that the people most vulnerable to the sickness are the elderly.

Although there is seemingly little that can be done about it, the staff and owners of these nursing homes have more responsibility on their shoulders than ever. When they fail to meet that responsibility and are negligent in their duties, nursing home residents and their families can hold those staff members and nursing home owners liable for any damages. A California nursing home abuse lawyer can help families with their case.

Nursing Home Guidelines During COVID-19 Set By CMS

March 31, 2020

What You Must Prove in a Dog Bite Claim

by Gregory J. Brod

In the best of cases, a dog bite results in only very minor injuries. In the worst cases, victims suffer severe lacerations that often come with complications, permanent scarring, and more. When accident victims suffer from these injuries, they can file a claim against the dog owner to secure compensation that can help with their recovery. California is a strict liability state. This means that victims do not have to prove that the dog owner was negligent or knew of a dog’s violent history. However, there are still certain elements of proof that are required in dog bite cases. These are outlined below.

You Were Legally Located

To have a valid dog bite claim, you must have legally been on the property where you were bitten. If you were in a public space, such as a park, you likely have a valid claim. If you were legally on private property, such as at a friend’s house, you also likely have a valid claim. However, if you were illegally on property, you are considered a trespasser and you may not have a valid dog bite claim.

February 28, 2020

Avoid These Mistakes in Your Wrongful Death Claim

by Gregory J. Brod

Losing a loved one is always extremely difficult, particularly when it is due to someone else’s negligence. While dealing with your grief, you and your family will likely reminisce, cry over your loss, and laugh about the memories you cherish of your loved one. As your family comes together during an extremely emotional time, you will face situations you never have before.

Due to this, it is important to know some of the most common mistakes to avoid that could negatively interfere with any wrongful death claim you may file in the future. Below are some of the most common mistakes people make when filing a wrongful death claim.

Fighting Within the Family

January 31, 2020

When do You Need a Car Accident Lawyer?

by Gregory J. Brod

Car accidents occur every day in California. Even when a crash is caused by another person’s negligence, though, it may not require the help of a car accident lawyer. Although most car accident claims can greatly benefit from the help of an attorney, seeking legal counsel is not always necessary. How do you know if you need the help of a lawyer? If your car accident involves any of the factors below, the chances are good that your claim can greatly benefit from the advice of a San Francisco car accident lawyer.

The Accident Involved Serious Injuries or Death

If you only sustained minor bruises and scrapes in the accident, there is a good chance that you do not need a lawyer. When the injuries are more serious, however, or worse, result in wrongful death, you must seek the help of an attorney who knows the law and can advise on your claim.

December 30, 2019

Three Common Types of Accidents in Winter

by Gregory J. Brod

California may not get the harsh winters that are seen throughout much of the country. However, even in the Golden State the weather changes during the winter. Temperatures drop and the days are shorter, and this causes car accidents that may not have occurred during the hot summer months. Below are the three most common types of accident claims filed in California during winter, and what you should do if you are involved in any of them. If you have been injured in any type of accident, reach out to a California personal injury lawyer today.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Only certain parts of California see any snow during the winter, but the entire state gets some rainfall, and icy patches are sometimes found in some areas. In slippery conditions like these, it is easy for a person to slip and fall and become seriously injured. Slip and fall accidents and claims increase during the winter.

November 30, 2019

Important Steps to Take if You Suspect Medical Malpractice

by Gregory J. Brod

Medical malpractice is a form of negligence on the part of physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Although not every unsuccessful result or treatment indicates malpractice, it is more common than most people realize. Medical negligence occurs when a healthcare worker deviates from the appropriate standard of care and patients become hurt as a result. If you suspect a healthcare professional has committed medical malpractice, there are some important steps you should take.

Collect Supporting Documentation

If you have been a victim of medical malpractice, you may be able to claim compensation for your injuries and other losses. To do so, you will first have to prove your claim with a number of pieces of documentation, including: