The Best California Injury Blog

What Are The Biggest Causes of Los Angeles Motorcycle Accidents?

psteinberg@steinbergspencer.com (Blog Author)27409 — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Are you an avid motorcyclist? Perhaps, you like to hit the Southern California roadways on weekends only. No matter how frequent you ride, you are probably aware of the special dangers that all motorcyclists face since bikers have little to protect themselves when struck by another vehicle. A Los Angeles motorcycle accident can be catastrophic.

However, understanding some of the biggest causes of motorcycle accidents may help protect you the next time you hit the streets. The University of Southern California looked into some of these causes and compiled a list of contributing factors.

First, did you know that almost 75 percent of motorcycle crashes involved a collision with another vehicle while roadway defects only accounted for 2 percent of crashes? What’s even more alarming is that nearly 75 percent of those collisions involving another vehicle occurred when the motorcyclist’s right-of-way was violated.

The study shows that motorcycle collisions usually occur in an intersection, especially when a vehicle is making a left turn in front of a bike.

Some other factors may surprise you. The study found that weather was a factor in only 2 percent of accidents while alcohol was a factor in almost half.

Again, motorcycle accidents can be serious. They can leave victims permanently injured and may even lead to death.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

Jury Rules in Favor of Santa Monica in Slip and Fall Accident Suit

psteinberg@steinbergspencer.com (Blog Author)27407 — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Santa Monica is the big winner as a Los Angeles Superior Court rules in their favor after an 84-year-old woman files a personal injury lawsuit. Some people think that if they are injured in a public place that it would be easy to successfully sue a municipality. However, as Beatrice Kaufman just learned, that is not always the case.

According to Kaufman, she sustained serious injuries on September 5, 2008, while onboard a Santa Monica Big Blue Bus. She alleged that the driver did not give her sufficient time to sit down before pulling away. She claimed that the injuries left her as a partial quadriplegic. She sought $1 million in past medical bills and more than $3 million in future expenses.

Unfortunately for Kaufman, the jury rejected her Santa Monica injury claim. The city was able to provide sufficient proof that Kaufman did have enough time to find a seat, but rather chose to stand holding a safety bar. She apparently fell when she let go of the safety bar while the bus was in motion.

If you have been injured in a slip and accident, you may feel that you have a “slam dunk” case. You need to keep in mind that cities, like Santa Monica, may adamantly defend themselves. You need experienced legal representation.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a similar accident, you should contact an experienced Santa Monica slip and fall attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

Compensation from a Southern California Car Accident

psteinberg@steinbergspencer.com (Blog Author)27099 — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

After a Southern California car accident, you may find yourself in a financial bind. The medical bills are piling up, but you are not able to work because of your injury. As a result, you worry that you won’t be able to provide for your family, let alone cover your medical expenses.

When an accident is minor, you typically just file a police report, contact the insurance company and pay the expenses out of your pocket. However, things are a lot different when the car crash is a major one.

If the other driver caused your auto accident in Los Angeles, Orange County or other area within California, you can pursue compensation. Some of the damages you can recover include lost income, medical expenses and other “out of pocket” expenses. You may also be able to obtain money for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. In cases where the driver was extremely reckless or careless, you could be entitled to punitive damages.

The best way to find out what compensation you may be entitled to is to contact a Santa Monica car accident attorney from our office at (800) 350-8888. We offer free consultations and settlement advances.

"Talk and Die" Head Injuries Can Affect California Accident Victims

psteinberg@steinbergspencer.com (Blog Author)27095 — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A major Southern California accident, such as a car or truck accident or motorcycle collision, can lead to a head injury referred to as “talk and die” syndrome. You might feel fine after sustaining a head injury, but your condition may deteriorate rapidly. That is where this condition got its name.

James J. McCarthy, M.D., assistant professor of emergency medicine at University of Texas Medical School at Houston, says that even if you feel okay and have no symptoms following serious head trauma, you could still be at risk.

“You’ve got confined space inside the skull, and blood from the injured blood vessels flows into the same space that the brain occupies. This growing clot of blood starts taking up more and more space, and puts pressure on and decreases the flow of oxygen to the brain.” He says that the brain is literally squeezed to death.

McCarthy recommends that anyone who becomes unconscious following a head injury, to get evaluated at a hospital. There are some symptoms you can also watch out for including headaches, weakness or balance problems. If you experience these symptoms, you need to get medical attention right away.

For more information, read our article, Don’t Ignore a California Brain Injury – It Could Be Serious, and contact a California brain injury attorney at our office at (800) 350-8888.

Seven Ways You Can Help Your Santa Monica Dog Bite Case

psteinberg@steinbergspencer.com (Blog Author)27092 — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a brutal dog attack, you might be considering whether or not you should file a claim against the pet’s owner. As an injured dog bite victim in Southern California, you can pursue compensation for your injuries.

The following are seven ways to help improve the chances of obtaining fair compensation for your dog bite injuries:

1.    Get medical attention. There are some complications associated with dog bites, including a potentially fatal infection. Make sure to get checked out by your doctor and follow through with your treatment.
2.    Report your Santa Monica dog bite. Call the police to report the incident. They will be able to provide you with a record of the attack.
3.    Get the owner’s information. Gather as much information from the pet’s owner as you can.
4.    Talk to witnesses. Witness accounts can help your Santa Monica dog attack case, so be sure to get their information.
5.    Take pictures of your dog bite wounds. Pictures will help document the seriousness of your dog bite injuries.
6.    Contact animal control. This agency will take the animal into possession, to determine if it has rabies or another disease.
7.    Talk to a Santa Monica dog bite lawyer. An attorney will be able to go over your legal options.

For more information, contact our office at (800) 350-8888.

Information You Should Know to Keep Your Family Safe in a Southern California Car Accident

psteinberg@steinbergspencer.com (Blog Author)27090 — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Even though it has been reported that more than 41,000 people die in the United States each year in motor vehicle accidents, no one wants to believe that it can happen to them. The thought of you or one of your family members becoming seriously injured in a Southern California car accident is terrifying.

As you know, safety devices exist to protect you and your loved ones while in the car. When car seats are properly installed, they can lower the risk of death by 70 percent for infants and by 47 to 54 percent for toddlers, ages 1 to 4 years. It has also been estimated that car seats reduce the need for hospitalization for children ages four years and younger. Yet, despite these great statistics, the use of child safety seats has been below national goals.

Seat belts also save lives in car accidents. These devices have shown to reduce deaths by 45 to 60 percent and lower the risk of serious injury to the head, chest and extremities by 50 to 83 percent. Unfortunately, many people still don’t buckle up.

If you have been injured in a car accident in Los Angeles, Orange County or other area within the state, contact a Southern California car accident attorney at our office at 800-350-8888.

Long Beach Accident Illustrates the Dangers that Pedestrians Face

psteinberg@steinbergspencer.com (Blog Author)27056 — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A recent Long Beach car accident resulted in the death of a female pedestrian. The 47-year-old woman was crossing Seventh Street near Campus Drive when she was hit by a car. The woman was struck by a Honda Civic near Cal State University Long Beach (CSULB).

This story is a tragic reminder of the devastation that such an accident can leave behind. When a car hits a pedestrian, there is virtually no protection for that person, which is why these accidents often have a deadly outcome.

While it is nearly impossible to anticipate every possible danger that can threaten your safety, there are some things you can do to minimize your risk of being struck by a vehicle. For example, you should reduce the amount of time you walk at night or if you absolutely have to be out in the evening, wear light clothing. Always use the crosswalk when available and try to stay on the sidewalk as much as possible.

Never assume that a vehicle is going to stop for you. Many times, drivers aren’t paying attention and don’t see pedestrians.

If you have been hurt in a pedestrian accident in Long Beach or other area in California, contact a Southern California car accident attorney from our office at 800-350-8888 to explain your legal rights. You could be entitled to compensation.

Will the Trucker Texting Ban Impact California Truck Accidents?

psteinberg@steinbergspencer.com (Blog Author)27055 — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

In California, all drivers are banned from texting and driving. Now, President Obama has created a federal texting ban involving truckers on the interstate highways. Obama’s transportation secretary has banned truckers and commercial bus drivers from sending and receiving text messages.

According to a statement by Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, “we’re sending a strong message. We don’t merely expect you to share the road responsibly with other travelers – we require you to do so.”

This new ban has been met with only lukewarm support from the trucking industry. While the industry feels that the ban is good, it does find fault in how quickly it was implemented.

The trucker texting ban makes sending or even reading a text message while driving a federal safety offense. Truckers who violate this rule could be subject to massive fines and could lose their ability to operate commercial vehicles.

It will be interesting to see if this texting ban will reduce the number of California truck accidents, especially since the state already has such a restriction in place.

If you have been injured in a Southern California truck accident, contact a San Bernardino truck accident attorney at our office at 800-350-8888. We offer a free case evaluation and do not collect a fee unless we win your case.

10 Things You Can Do to Protect Your Child from an Orange County Dog Bite

psteinberg@steinbergspencer.com (Blog Author)27043 — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Children are trusting. They don’t have the same experiences as adults and therefore, don’t have many of the same apprehensions, which can be a good or bad thing. When it comes to animals, this lack of experience can lead to a brutal dog attack. In Orange County, children are often the victims of dog bites. They are not afraid to approach a strange dog and they are frequently in the same locations as canines, such as parks and neighborhoods.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 4.7 million dog bites occur annually in our country. When you think about this staggering number, it reinforces the need to teach your children how to be safe around dogs.

The CDC has created a list of ten things that you can teach your child to help them prevent an Orange County dog bite. This list includes the following:

1.    Never approach a strange dog.
2.    Do not scream and run away from a canine.
3.    If an unfamiliar dog approaches, “be still like a tree.”
4.    Roll into a ball and lie still if a dog knocks you over.
5.    An adult needs to provide supervision when a dog is around.
6.    Report stray dogs immediately.
7.    Don’t look at a dog directly in the eye.
8.    Stay away from a dog that is sleeping, eating or caring for puppies.
9.    Allow a dog to see and sniff you before petting it.
10. Report a dog bite to an adult.

Contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 to find out your legal rights following an Orange County dog attack. Our dog bite attorneys represent dog attack cases throughout the state.

Deadly Bakersfield Truck Accident Being Investigated

psteinberg@steinbergspencer.com (Blog Author)27027 — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Large trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making a collision with one of these vehicles potentially deadly. There are many factors associated with semi truck accidents, but there is one commonality between these collisions – the devastation that results. A California truck accident can cause life-altering injuries.

A recent Bakersfield truck accident illustrates the immense dangers posed by these crashes. The truck crash took place in the morning hours of Tuesday, February 2, 2010 at the intersection of Pond Road and Highway 43.

The California Highway Patrol reported that a large truck was heading west on Pond Road when it stopped to make a left turn at the intersection of Pond Road and Highway 43. Apparently, the semi-truck became stuck and couldn’t make the turn. A box truck that was heading north on Highway 43 couldn’t stop in time and crashed into the semi. The box truck driver died at the accident scene, as a result of his injuries. The semi-truck driver was not hurt in the Bakersfield accident.

Investigators are trying to determine how fast the box truck was traveling when the accident happened. It was foggy at the time, although weather was not identified as the cause of the wreck.

It is so upsetting to hear of such a tragic event, as this accident. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the victim’s family.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a California truck accident, whether in Bakersfield or other location within the state, you should contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers to discuss your legal options at 1-800-350-8888.

When a Loved One is Killed in a Southern California Car Accident

psteinberg@steinbergspencer.com (Blog Author)27024 — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Losing a loved one in a Southern California car accident can be devastating for the whole family. It can leave family members wondering what to do. If you are in this situation, we want to extend our condolences to you.

When you are injured in a car accident you can file a claim against the other driver to try and collect compensation. However, what can you do if your loved one is killed? Who files the claim?

The good news is that you have options. If the fatal accident was caused by negligence by the other driver you can pursue a wrongful death suit and potentially collect damages for the surviving dependants.

In short, in a wrongful death suit it is alleged that the victim was killed because the defendant was negligent and caused the accident. It is assumed that the victim would not have been killed if the defendant wasn’t negligent. Again, it allows the victim’s dependants an opportunity to collect damages.

The main difference between a personal injury claim and a wrongful death suit is in who is doing the suing. The victim is the one who brings the action in a personal injury case while someone else other than the victim files the claim in a wrongful death suit.

If you or someone you know has lost a loved one in a Southern California car accident, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles workers car accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

Read the article, Southern California Car Accident Attorney Explains Wrongful Death Lawsuits, for more information.

Southern California Car Accidents Claim Too Many Young Lives

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)26777 — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

You may be like many other Southern Californians and assume that swimming pool accidents, illnesses or other similar hazards are the leading cause of injuries or deaths among children and young people. Would you be shocked to learn that this is not the case?

The major cause if death among children and young people are vehicle related-injuries. That means that the greatest risk children face in Southern California is car accidents.

The statistics are astonishing. It is estimated that more than 41,000 Americans die in car accidents each year. Another 3.5 million suffer nonfatal injuries including 500,000 people requiring hospitalization. The sad truth is that many of these victims include children and young people.

An injury or death to a child is the greatest fear that all parents face and can leave them asking difficult questions. It's important to know that you do not have to face the crisis alone and there are legal experts available who can help answer the tough questions concerning your rights and available recourse.

If you or someone you know has a child who has been injured in a Los Angeles, Orange County or San Diego car accident, you should contact an experienced Santa Monica car accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

For more information, read our article, Are Car Accidents the Leading Cause of Child Injury and Death?

Long Beach, "The Most Bicycle Friendly City in America"

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25924 — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you visit Long Beach City Hall, you will see a metallic bicycle sculpture with the inscription, “Long Beach, the most bicycle friendly city in America.” Many leaders within the city have admitted that this sculpture with its proclamation may have been a little premature.

Long Beach City Manager, Pat West, said that the city is striving to live up to its title. The city is following the example of other cities that have made safety improvements for bicyclists, even at the expense of traffic lanes.

While the City of Los Angeles is reviewing an extensive bike plan, Long Beach is taking steps to increase the safety of bicyclists.

According to Jennifer Klausner, executive director of the Los Angeles Bicycle Coalition, a nonprofit advocacy group, “Long Beach is a built-out city and yet they’re finding a way to make east-west and north-south corridors that are safer and more inviting. There’s no reason L.A. can’t do the same thing. It doesn’t have to be the slow-moving cog in the machine.”

Long Beach has already raised $17 million in state and federal grants to improve its bicycle system. The plan is to resurface 20 miles of streets to incorporate bicycle lanes in the next six months. In addition, the plan is to paint and pave over 100 miles of bike infrastructure.

If you have been injured in a Long Beach bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers today at 800-350-8888 for more information.

City of Los Angeles Looks Into Bicyclists' "Bill of Rights"

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25923 — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Bicyclists may receive extra protection from the City of Los Angeles. L.A. officials are promising to look into ways to protect cyclists on the city’s streets. This promise follows an outcry by bicyclists saying they have the right to share the road with cars.

This campaign was spurred by the Brentwood bicycle accident involving a doctor who was convicted of hitting bicyclists intentionally.

On Wednesday, January 27, 2010, the Los Angeles City Council made the decision to study avenues to protect bicyclists throughout the city.

Aurisha Smolarski, communications director for the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition, stated, “there are anti-harassment laws protecting us in the workplace, but cyclists don’t have the same protections when they are on the road. Los Angeles has a chance to make sure we have the protections and the equal rights to use the roads.”

Some of the suggestions that have been made to increase the protection of bicyclists include developing a bicyclist “Bill of Rights,” creating bicycle-sharing lanes in particular locations and improving police training. Many advocates have pushed for these actions.

More and more Los Angeles residents are taking up cycling, whether as a mode of transportation or as a great form of exercise. As the number of cyclists increases, so does the number of bicycle accidents.

If you or a family member has been injured in a bicycle accident in Los Angeles, contact a Santa Monica bicycle accident lawyer at Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888.

Staircase Accidents are Dangerous

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25584 — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

People are injured everyday in the United States from slip and fall accidents. These types of accidents can lead to serious injuries.

Imagine being permanently disabled because you fell. Unfortunately, this scenario happens all too often.

Did you know that people are commonly injured on staircases? It happens more often than people think. Studies show that thousands of people are injured in slip and fall accident occurring on staircases annually. Slipping on a staircase can be catastrophic.

Slip and fall accidents from stairs can result in serious and permanent injuries. Unfortunately, it can impact your ability to perform your job, leaving you to tackle the tough questions of how you will pay for the medical bills and who will care for you family financially.

If you have fallen on stairs on someone else’s property, an apartment complex, a store or at work, you may be able to hold the property owner liable. You may be able to collect compensation to help pay for medical bills, as well as future living expenses.

If you or someone you know has been injured from falling on a staircase, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles slip and fall accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

Single Most Important Factor in Surviving a Motorcycle Accident

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25582 — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Believe it or not, many Southern California motorcyclists complain about the current state helmet laws. While some could argue either way on this topic, research has been done that shows the effectiveness of helmets in saving lives.

The simple truth is that wearing a helmet could be the difference between life and death. As a matter of fact, the Brain Injury Association of America has stated, “wearing a helmet is the single most important factor in surviving a motorcycle crash.”

All motorcyclists should understand that current state laws not only require the driver to wear a helmet, but any and all passengers, as well.

Brain injuries are the number one cause of death in motorcycle accidents. Someone not wearing a helmet in an accident is 40 times more likely to suffer a fatal brain injury.

Let’s face it, not wearing a helmet is dangerous and increases the odds of dying in an accident. Fortunately, studies show that more motorcyclists are strapping on helmets when taking to the U.S. roads. Helmet use has increased to 67 percent in 2009 from 63 percent in 2008.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside or San Diego motorcycle accident, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles injury attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

These Types of Construction Accidents Are Dangerous

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25581 — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Do you or someone you know work in the construction industry? If so, you understand the high probability of suffering an on-the-job injury.

A construction injury can be serious and cause a major disruption to your life. The injuries can be catastrophic, impacting your ability to do household chores, as well as keep you from performing your duties at work.

There are many types of construction accidents. You probably could think of over a hundred without much effort. There are four common causes of construction accidents that you should be aware of, since they are very common on construction sites. These types include, falling objects, falls, electrical accidents and falling cranes. For more information on these types of accidents, read the article, Four Common Causes of California Construction Injuries.

Unfortunately, if you are injured at work you may have to answer critical questions that can impact your life. A serious injury might leave you to consider how you will pay for the bills, as well as how you will take care of your family financially.

However, if you have been injured on the job, you owe it to yourself and to your family to consider your rights. You may be entitled to workers compensation benefits.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a Los Angeles construction accident, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles injury attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

Many Truckers are Driving with Fraudulent Licenses

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25580 — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Everyday in America, truckers get behind the wheel of big rigs. In many instances, these trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Now imagine that these truckers lack the training and are unskilled to operate a truck.

Unfortunately, this occurs everyday, putting you and your loved ones at risk of being involved in a serious Southern California truck accident. These trucking accidents can lead to catastrophic injuries, including death.

Can you believe that the federal government has discovered that many truckers have obtained fraudulent licenses? This means that you may be sharing the freeway with a truck that is being operated by a trucker who does not have a proper license to do so.

What if you found out that state officials issued hundreds of fake commercial licenses to truckers who do not have the proper training to operate a big rig? That is exactly what happened in the state if Illinois.

Many experts believe that there could be tens of thousands of truckers possessing fraudulent commercial licenses across the country.

It is frightening to think of the dangers these truckers pose to the rest of us. The major concern is that many of these drivers lack the proper skills to react to potential road hazards, putting all of us at serious risk.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a Riverside, Orange County or Los Angeles truck accident, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles truck accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

Have You Ever Heard of the No-Zone Campaign?

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25579 — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Have you ever heard of the No-Zone Campaign? If not, you are probably not a trucker. However, even if you’re not a trucker, as a driver, you need to continue to read this article. It pertains to all those that drive on the Southern California roads and freeways.

Truck accidents can be very serious and in many cases, lead to catastrophic injuries and even death. We are all aware of the dangers that blind spots pose to truckers and other drivers. Over 4,000 people lost their lives in truck accidents in 2008.

The good news is there is something being done to minimize the dangers created by these blind spots. The No-Zone Campaign is a program designed to educate and alert other drivers about the dangerous locations surrounding big trucks. It seems obvious, but we cannot as drivers, assume that a truck driver can see us when we drive along side a truck or attempt to pass it.

Many trucking companies are participating in this campaign by attaching decals on their trucks, as well as conducting seminars. Again, it is important that all drivers are aware of the dangers created by blind spots.

If you or someone you know is has been inured in a Los Angeles, Orange County or Riverside truck accident, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles truck accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

Be Aware of Dangerous Road Conditions

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25578 — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

As you are well aware of, there are many possible causes of a car accident. We tend to assume that an accident is caused by other drivers’ actions. However, that may not always be the case. As a matter of fact, in many instances, accidents are caused by dangerous road conditions.

It seems obvious, but hazardous road conditions, such as dangerous intersections, sign defects and inadequate warnings can pose serious dangers to you as you travel the Southern California roadways.

We see it all the time, cars crossing the centerlines causing serious accidents. How many times have you seen stories on the news about vehicles falling down hills and other inclines? Let’s face it - you and your loved ones are in potential danger every time you start your car.

We all need to understand that dangerous road conditions pose serious risks to all Southern California drivers. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, you should consider hazards such as poor visibility, defective guardrails, utility pole replacement, defective construction, potholes, lack of median dividers and lack of proper warning signs, as possible contributing factors.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident in Orange County, you should contact an experienced Orange County accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

Avoid These Types of Bicycle Accidents

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25300 — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

You should be able to get on your bicycle and not have to worry about a serious bicycle accident. Unfortunately, motorists don’t always give you the space you need and may make serious driving errors that could result in your injury.

Motorist negligence is the most common factor involved in bicycle accidents. Drivers are often distracted or don’t know how to travel safely around cyclists. In a bicycle accident, the bicyclist is the one who has to pay the price for the motorist’s mistakes.

There are many different types of bicycle accidents. For example, a collision can occur when a vehicle turns directly in front of a bicyclist or when the driver fails to yield the right of way to the bicyclist. Cycling accidents can also occur when a motorist runs a stop sign or traffic light or enters the street and doesn’t see the bicyclist.

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries. The driver could be held liable for damages. Contact a Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 1-800-350-8888 for legal advice.

For more information, read our article, Six Common Types of Bicycle Accidents.

A Broken Ankle Can Be a Serious Injury Caused by a Fall

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25299 — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A simple trip and fall or slip and fall can lead to a painful ankle fracture. Most broken ankles will heal without complication, while others will result in serious problems. One of the most serious types of broken ankles is a trimalleolar fracture.

There are multiple bones involved in a trimalleolar ankle fracture, which is one reason this bone break is so serious. The recovery time for a healthy person is six weeks.

Ankle fractures can cause major problems, ranging from arthritis to bone infection. A broken ankle can lead to a condition known as compartment syndrome, which is characterized by pain, swelling and disability of the leg and arm muscles. It is possible for the nerves to become damaged.

The surgery for a broken ankle is intensive. Pins and screws are typically utilized to align and stabilize the ankle during the recovery period.

If you have suffered from a broken ankle, such as a trimalleloar fracture, you may be entitled to compensation. When negligence is involved in the accident, you can hold the negligent person responsible. Contact a Santa Monica accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888 for legal advice.

For more information on this topic, read the article, Trimalleolar Fracture is a Serious Type of Broken Ankle.

Burn Injuries Caused by a Truck Accident Can Lead to Complications

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23823 — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A burn is one of the most painful injuries you can suffer. Just think about how bad it hurts when you touch a hot pan. Just that small, minor burn can cause immense pain.

Burns have been associated with many truck accidents, as fires often erupt and explosions occur. A burn injury from a truck accident can be deadly, as it is usually severe and covers a major portion of the body.

Burn victims are frequently placed in induced comas to help with the healing process. The hospital stay is typically long and many patients are even sent to burn centers for specialized treatment.

There are many complications associated with second degree and third degree burns, including dehydration, shock, chemical imbalance and eschars. However, one of the most serious complications that can lead to death is infection.

For more information regarding a burn injury caused by a semi truck accident, read the article,
Truck Accidents Can Cause Severe Burns.

If you or a family has sustained severe burns from a Southern California truck accident, you may be able to hold the trucker, trucking company or truck manufacturer responsible. Contact an experienced Los Angeles truck accident lawyer at Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 for a free legal consultation. The accident attorneys at Steinberg & Spencer have successfully resolved over 12,000 injury cases and can help you.

Can a Brain Injury Lead to Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease or Dementia?

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23822 — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Studies have found that adult patients who have suffered severe brain injuries are at an increased risk of developing a long-term condition, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and dementia. This news is frightening for the thousands of adults who suffer head trauma each year.

If you or a family member has survived a serious brain injury, you need to familiarize yourself with some of the possible long-term conditions that could develop. Researchers have found evidence that one of these conditions includes Alzheimer’s disease, which is characterized by memory loss, dementia and impaired cognitive abilities. One study concluded that a brain injury could interact with other factors to trigger this disease.

Parkinson’s disease has been linked to adult brain injury. This disease can develop years after the initial injury, just when you think you are in the clear from any long-term repercussions. Parkinson’s disease has many symptoms, such as tremors, stiffness, slow movement and stooped posture.

Dementia is also associated with a traumatic brain injury and includes two types, dementia pugilistica and posttraumatic dementia.

For more information on this topic, read the article, Traumatic Brain Injury Linked to Long-Term Complications.

Contact an experienced Los Angeles brain injury lawyer at Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 if your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. You could be entitled to compensation.

Disabilities Associated with a Traumatic Brain Injury

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23820 — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A traumatic brain injury is one of the most frightening experiences a person will face. Whether you are the family member hoping your loved one fully recovers from a head trauma or an accident victim who has survived a traumatic brain injury, you are going to be dealing with a lot of uncertainty. Many of the long-term repercussions of a brain injury take weeks and sometimes months to surface.

One of the side effects of a traumatic brain injury that develops usually right after the accident or within a few days has to do with impaired cognition. Sometimes, patients suffer from posttraumatic amnesia.

There are many disabilities that can result from a severe brain injury, such as sensory problems, difficulty recognizing objects, tinnitus, language difficulties, speech challenges and depression. People who have sustained a traumatic brain injury may also experience a change in personality and may start to abuse drugs or alcohol.

Severe head trauma isn’t the only injury that leads to disabilities. A mild to moderate traumatic brain injury can also result in problems, including difficulty with organization, problem solving and abstract reasoning.

For more information on this topic, read the article, Traumatic Brain Injury Can Lead to Disability.

Contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 for legal advice if your brain injury was the result of someone’s carelessness.

You Can Avoid a Back Injury at Work

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23819 — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Nurses, construction workers and data entry professionals are among the long list of workers who are at risk of suffering from back pain brought on by their work duties. Actually, it doesn’t matter what industry you are in. A back injury is a risk in any occupation.

Working on a computer for long hours at a time or lifting heavy objects at work can lead to back pain. This pain can eventually become so debilitating that it makes it difficult to just get through the day, not to mention work.

You don’t have to become a victim of back pain. There are some things you can do to protect your back at work and avoid a serious work injury. Below are some tips:

Get regular exercise
Watch your posture
Practice safe lifting
Rearrange your work area

For more information on this topic, read the article, Preventing Back Injury at Work.

If you have hurt your back in a work accident or just from performing routine work duties, you may be eligible for California workers compensation benefits. This compensation includes paid medical treatment (as you know, medical bills can add up), as well as income benefits. Contact a Los Angeles accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 for legal advice.

A Broken Rib May Not Be Your Only Slip and Fall Injury

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23818 — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you have recently fallen, you need to know the signs of a rib fracture. Most of us will try to dismiss pain following what we believe to be a minor accident, but the symptoms of a rib fracture should not be ignored.

Some of the warnings signs of a broken rib include pain in the injured area, pain when breathing, shortness of breath, headache, dizziness, drowsiness and pain when pressure is placed on the breastbone.

A broken rib can be accompanied by another, more serious injury. A rib fracture can cause injury to an underlying organ and could result in an abdominal injury, liver injury and even a splenic injury.

The majority of rib fractures will heal with little complication, but on occasion there are severe repercussions. Some of the complications linked to broken ribs include pneumonia, hemothorax, pneumothorax, hypoxia, brachial plexus and lung injuries. Many of these conditions are life threatening.

If you have sustained a rib fracture from a slip and fall accident caused by the property owner’s negligence, you may be able to recover compensation. You may be confused as to what exactly led to your fall, which is why you should contact an experienced Orange County accident attorney who will be able to review your case to help you determine the cause. Contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers today at 800-350-8888 for answers to your legal questions.

Don't Discount the Severity of a Broken Leg

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23817 — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Sustaining only a broken leg from a serious car accident or other major event is a miracle, but you should still not discount the potential severity of a leg fracture. Some leg fractures take several weeks to heal and can cause all sorts of problems.

A broken tibia is one of the most common types of long bone fractures, and unfortunately, it is also known as being an injury with a prolonged recovery. Patients with tibia fractures often find themselves facing a stay in the hospital and expensive treatments.

When the tibia is broken, the two broken ends don’t always unite with normal healing. Sometimes pins have to be inserted into the bones to keep them in position and traction equipment is needed, which can result in mandatory bed rest.

Unfortunately, there are many complications linked to tibia fractures, including infection, compartment syndrome, gangrene, amputation, peroneal nerve injury and the inability to lift the toes while walking. In very rare cases, a broken tibia can lead to death.

For more information on this topic, read the article, Tibia Fracture Caused by a Car Accident.

If you have suffered a leg fracture from a car accident caused by the other driver, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 for a free legal consultation.

Young Drivers' Risky Behavior Can Lead to Deadly Car Accidents

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23769 — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

It seems that car accidents are a common occurrence on the Southern California freeways and highways. Accidents that claim the lives of others can be seen just about everywhere you drive.

Did you know that young drivers account for one-fifth of all traffic deaths, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)?

According to a report released by the NHTSA, young drivers have certain driving habits that are not found in older, more experienced drivers.

What is considered a young driver? According to the NHTSA, a young driver is classified as a person between the ages of 15 and 20.

Reports show that young drivers do not have as much experience behind the wheel as older drivers do. They participate in driving behaviors that are considered risky. They also tend to make rash driving decisions. Unfortunately, these decisions can be deadly.

The good news is that measures have been taken to help educate young drivers about the dangers on the road and to help reduce risk-taking behavior.

As you know, a car accident can be serious. The injuries sustained in a car accident can be life altering. Besides the pain, victims may suffer debilitating injuries, keeping them from daily activities, such as playing with their children. It can also create financial hardships.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a Southern California car accident, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

Ways to Avoid a Car Accident During the Holidays

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23768 — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

The roadways can be very dangerous during the holiday season. You may be attending parties, festivities and family gatherings to celebrate the holidays. This means more time on the Southern California freeways and roads, increasing your risk of being in a car accident. There are certain things that you can do to keep you and your family safe.

You should check weather and road conditions before leaving your house. Extreme weather such as rain and fog can pose hazards that can make driving more difficult. If the weather is too bad, you may want to consider staying at home and skipping the event.

It is imperative that you make sure you are wearing your seatbelt when traveling. Believe it or not, many drivers fail to buckle up, causing countless of lives to be lost. Also, make sure that all passengers, especially children, are properly strapped in. Their safety may depend on it.

You may want to consider leaving earlier or later for an event. Heavy commuter times are a popular place for accidents.

Avoid speeding, even if you are running behind schedule. Speeding is a major cause of car accidents.

And finally, always avoid driving if you have been drinking. Alcohol can reduce your reaction time to hazards on the roadways, increasing your chances of being in a serious auto accident.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a Southern California car accident, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

A Work Injury Could Entitle You to Compensation

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23470 — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

American workers sustain injuries daily. The list of types of injuries a person can sustain while on-the-job is virtually endless. The range in severity of the injuries is just as long.

Injuries can be minor while others have life altering effects on a person’s life. Some injuries can cause immense pain and others can even claim lives. It is important that you understand that any type of injury sustained at work can be serious and that you have rights.

Work-related injuries come in many forms. Five common types of on-the-job injuries include back injuries, neck injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones and head injuries.

These types of injuries can have a wide range of effects. They can even impact a person’s ability to perform his or her job, causing a possible loss of wages and a financial hardship.

Fortunately, if you have been injured at work, you may be covered under California workers compensation, entitling you to income benefits and paid medical treatment. However, obtaining California workers compensation benefits may not be as straightforward as you might think. As a matter of fact, it can be very difficult to understand the process and you should seek legal advice.

If you or someone you know has been inured in a work accident, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles workers compensation attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

Driving Drowsy can be Deadly

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23468 — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Do you know someone who has been injured in an accident where the person at fault became drowsy and fell asleep at the wheel? Unfortunately, it happens more often than we think.

Drowsy driving has become so prevalent that the NHTSA and the National Center on Sleep Disorders Research launched an investigation to determine ways to prevent this common danger on the roads.

Studies show that drowsy drivers become impaired, affecting their ability to react to dangers on the roads. “Critical aspects of driving impairment associated with sleepiness are reaction time, vigilance, attention, and information processing,” according to the report.

The impairment of driving while tired can increase your risk of being involved in a serious car accident. It may even cost you your life.

The report listed some recommendations to combat accidents caused by drowsiness that include getting enough sleep, avoiding alcohol while tired, limiting driving between midnight and 6 AM and ceasing driving if you become too tired.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a Southern California car accident caused by a drowsy driver, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

Your Brain Injury May Be Keeping You Awake At Night

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)22381 — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Did you know that traumatic brain injuries can cause sleep disorders? This condition is more common that most people think. If you have suffered a brain injury, your risk of experiencing sleep disorders is increased.

Sleep disorders can cause problems ranging from difficulty falling asleep to problems with staying asleep. Sleep disorders can have life altering affects, such as impairing your ability to process through information.

If you have suffered a traumatic brain injury, you should look for symptoms that include difficulty with memory, short attention span and problems with your thought process. These may be symptoms of a sleep disorder resulting from a brain injury.

A traumatic brain injury may be caused by a slip and fall accident or from a car, motorcycle or truck accident. Negligence on the part of someone else may be a contributing factor in the cause of the accident.

There are many complications from suffering a traumatic brain injury that can cause life-altering ramifications, including sleep disorder. If you or someone you know has suffered a serious head injury from an accident and are suffering from sleep disorders, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles injury attorney at Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at (800) 350-8888.

Posttraumatic Seizures Can be Caused by Traumatic Brain Injuries

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)22380 — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Did you know that traumatic brain injuries can cause posttraumatic seizures? Brain injuries are more common than most people realize. The risk of seizures is greatly increased for people who have suffered brain injuries.

We have all heard the term “seizure.” However, many of us may not know what causes seizures. A seizure can take place when a temporary electrical imbalance occurs in the brain causing potential uncontrollable body movements and sensations. It may also be caused from bleeding in the brain or when the skull becomes penetrated.

Traumatic brain injuries often result from an accident such as a car, motorcycle or truck accident. A person may also suffer a brain injury from a slip and fall accident, whether at work or in another area. Accidents are sometimes caused by the negligence on the part of someone else.

There are many complications from suffering a traumatic brain injury that are life changing, including posttraumatic seizures. This complication can drastically affect a person’s ability to perform their duties at work and everyday tasks. You should be aware that you may be entitled to compensation.

If you or someone you know has suffered a serious head injury from an accident, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles injury attorney at Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at (800) 350-8888.

Car and Truck Accidents Can Lead to Spinal Cord Compression

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)22375 — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

We all know people who have been affected by a car accident. Maybe you have recently been involved in an accident involving a car, motorcycle or truck. We all know that the varieties of different types of injuries a person can suffer are extensive, including paralysis and even death.

However, as many people find, the extent of the injures suffered in the accident may not be immediately known. As time went by you may have started to experience back pain, tingling and muscle weakness. These may be symptoms of spinal cord compression, a serious condition that can lead to life altering ramifications.

Spinal cord compression is caused when the nerves passing through the spinal cord become compressed. It can be caused by broken bones, severe spinal injury, a herniated disc or blood accumulation.

If you think that you have suffered spinal cord compression, you should look for symptoms, such as back pain, abnormal sensations, weakness in the muscles and possible bladder and bowel control problems.

This type of injury can affect everyday activities from household chores to your ability to perform your duties at work, which could lead to a loss of wages. You should know that you may be entitled to compensation.

If you are suffering from spinal cord compression as a result of a car, motorcycle or truck accident, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at (800) 350-8888.

A Tailbone Injury is Painful

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)22371 — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Americans fall everyday. Many of these accidents take place at work or in public areas and in some cases result in life altering injuries.

A common injury sustained in falls is an injury to the tailbone. The tailbone is located at the bottom of the vertebrae column and consists of a bony structure that is made up of 3 to 5 bones, which are held together by joints and ligaments. This type of injury may cause bruising to the region, dislocation and even a fracture, causing tremendous pain.

If you have fallen or slipped and think you may have suffered a tailbone injury, you should look for symptoms that include extreme pain in the tailbone area, visible bruising, tenderness, pain is worse when sitting for long periods of times, painful bowel movements and serious pain when direct pressure is put on the area.

An injury to the tailbone can cause excruciating pain and affect a people’s everyday activities, such as playing with their children and their ability to perform their duties at work. This impairment can lead to a loss of wages. You should know that you may be entitled to compensation if you have suffered a tailbone injury from someone else’s negligence.

If you have injured your tailbone from a slip and fall accident or other catastrophic event, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles slip and fall attorney at Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at (800) 350-8888.

Do Your Hands Hurt When You Perform Your Job Duties?

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)22369 — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Imagine experiencing excruciating pain in your hands and wrists every time you sit down to type at work. The thought of that can be concerning, especially since many of us count on our ability to use our hands to earn a living. However, many Americans experience this scenario every day.

If you or someone you know suffers from this type of pain, you should know that it may be caused from a common condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome, which occurs when the nerve that runs through the forearm into the hand becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist area.

You should also know that the effects of carpal tunnel syndrome are not limited to those who work with keyboards. Many employees who work on assembly lines or who have jobs that require repetitive activity can also suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome. You should look for symptoms such as pain, weakness or numbness in the hand area.

The problem for those who suffer from this condition is the fact that it can affect their ability to perform at their job duties, possibly leading to a loss of wages. However, if treated properly, carpal tunnel syndrome can improve. You should know that if you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, you may be entitled to California workers’ compensation benefits.

If you or someone you know is suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome resulting from job duties, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles workers compensation attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

The Dangers of Improperly Loaded Trucks

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)22368 — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

We have all traveled behind a loaded truck before, especially on the Southern California freeways. Trucks carrying all types of cargo are everywhere. Have you ever wondered what would happen if the cargo wasn’t properly loaded?

It is sometimes obvious when a truck is improperly loaded. This danger may be evident by rocks and other debris falling from the truck or even a tarp becoming undone. However, there are other dangers that aren’t so obvious and can cause major accidents, such as when a load unexpectedly shifts. The results can be serious and may even lead to death.

When cargo is loaded improperly, accidents can be caused from pipes falling onto the freeway, large debris falling from the rear of the truck, gas leaks and chemical spills. All can be serious and lead to injuries and death.

Imagine trying to prove that the truck was improperly loaded. It can be a difficult process to do if you have been involved in an accident resulting from an improperly loaded truck. The trucking company, trucker, manufacturer and insurance companies are normally hard to work with. No one will claim responsibility. It is imperative that you have strong representation by attorneys who are experienced in these types of cases.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a truck accident resulting from an improperly loaded truck, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles truck accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at (800) 350-8888.

Are You Experiencing Back Pain Caused by a Car Accident?

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)22263 — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

People are inured in car accidents every day in Southern California. The list of possible injuries is extensive. One of the most common types of injuries people suffer from car accidents are back injuries.

It is important for victims to understand the different types of back injuries. There are other major concerns besides the excruciating pain a back injury can cause. The pain can be an indication of more serious problems, such as a spinal cord injury.

The back pain resulting from a car accident can be felt from the neck area down to the tailbone. The injury is not also limited to car accidents. You can suffer a back injury from other accidents such as tripping, slip and fall accidents and work accidents.

Again, back injuries can be severe and have life altering ramifications and even require surgery. The recovery time can take weeks to months to years to fully recover from and can affect everyday activities, such as the ability to perform household chores, playing with your children and even your ability to perform your job, causing a possible loss of wages.

It is important to know that if you have suffered a back injury as a result of an accident; you may be entitled to compensation.

If you or someone you love has suffered a back injury caused by a car, motorcycle or truck accident, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

Slip and Fall Accidents Can Cause Serious Knee Injuries

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)21863 — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

You may know someone who has been injured in a slip and fall accident. Maybe you have recently tripped and are experiencing pain to one of your knees. Even the simplest of accidents can lead to serious and life altering knee problems.

A knee injury can be serious. It can affect the ligaments and tendons that surround the knee joints, as well as damage the bones, cartilage and ligaments that make up the joint. It can be very painful and impact all aspects of your life.

Victims injure their knees from accidents ranging from a blown knee due to a fall to tripping and landing awkwardly. Injuries can include ligament injuries, tendon injuries, bursitis and dislocated knee caps.

Accidents can take place just about anywhere, including at the workplace and in public areas. A lot of times a common factor is negligence on the part of someone else.

A serious knee injury can take weeks and even years to fully recover. Some victims face a lifetime of pain. It can affect your ability to perform your job and result in a loss of income.

If you or someone you know has suffered a knee injury in a slip and fall accident, you have legal rights. You should contact an experienced Los Angeles accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

For more information about knee injuries, read our article, Knee Injuries Caused by Slip and Fall Accidents

How Serious Are Pelvic Injuries?

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)21856 — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

There are many forms of injuries that a victim can suffer from a motor vehicle accident whether it’s in a car, on a motorcycle or from a truck crash. One type of injury that victims sometimes suffer is a broken pelvis. You may not believe a broken pelvis to be too serious, however, when fractured, it can be deadly.

Most of us don’t realize that this butterfly-shaped bony structure protects vital areas such as the bladder, intestines and rectum. A serious pelvic fracture can cause catastrophic damage to these vital areas.

If you have been involved in an accident you should look for symptoms of a fractured pelvis that include pain in the abdominal area, a numbness or tingling sensation, bleeding, difficulty in standing or walking, pain in the thigh or buttock area and loss of nerve function. Again, this type of injury can be serious and lead to death.

Another concern, besides the excruciating pain this type of injury can cause, is the effects of not being able to work. A victim may experience a loss of income. Even a slight fracture to the pelvis area can take up to 12 weeks to heal.

If you or someone you know has suffered a fractured pelvis in a car, motorcycle or truck accident, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 350-8888.

Doctor Found Guilty in Mandeville Canyon Road Bicycle Accident

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)21520 — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A physician faces up to 10 years in prison after losing his cool and injuring two bicyclists. Dr. Christopher Thompson was convicted of mayhem, assault with a deadly weapon, battery with serious injury and reckless driving causing injury after the July 4, 2008 incident.

The bicycle accident occurred along Mandeville Canyon Road, a Brentwood residential road that has a history of altercations between cyclists and motorists. According to prosecutors, Thompson passed dangerously close to the cyclists yelling at them to ride single file. Then, Thompson pulled in front of them and slammed on his brakes.

The two victims, Ron Peterson, a cycling coach, and Christian Stoehr, were unable to stop in time and slammed into the back of Thompson’s red Infiniti. Peterson suffered a broken nose, broken teeth and lacerations to his face while Stoehr separated his shoulder.

Thompson said that he never intended to hurt the cyclists and that the two cursed at him and flipped him off after Thompson yelled at them to ride single file. He also said that he had pulled off to the side of the road to take pictures of the riders believing there was enough room.

The problem for Thompson’s defense was he allegedly had a history of altercations with cyclists. As a matter of fact, two other cyclists reported that four months prior to this incident, he had attempted to force them off the road.

A Los Angeles Superior Court jury found Thompson guilty and he is to be sentenced December 3, 2009.

Don't Let the Insurance Adjuster Intimidate You

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)20595 — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you have been in a Southern California accident, there is a good chance you have already been contacted by the insurance company. You may even be working with an insurance adjuster to obtain your settlement. It is important to understand the role of the insurance adjuster and your right to negotiate a fair settlement.

The first thing you need to remember about the insurance adjuster is that this person is an employee of the insurance company. The adjuster will be working on protecting the interests of the insurer and not yours. That means that when it comes time for the settlement, there is a strong probability that you will be offered a settlement that is below what your case is worth.

Do not let the insurance adjuster intimidate you and do not hesitate to challenge the settlement offer. You should back your argument with documentation that you feel proves that you should receive more. It is a good idea to work with a Los Angeles injury lawyer who will be able to negotiate on your behalf. Experienced accident attorneys know what insurance companies are looking for and can help you receive the compensation you deserve.

Contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 1-800-350-8888, if you have been injured in an accident in Los Angeles, Orange County or the counties of San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura.

Car Accident Can Cause Irreversible Brain Damage

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)20594 — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Car accidents are the leading cause of brain injury in the United States. An auto accident can lead to a serious head injury that can cause irreversible brain damage. Some brain injuries are described as penetrating injuries, as the skull is broken, but others are classified as closed head injuries. A closed head injury can be just as severe as a penetrating injury.

A closed head injury occurs when there is a blow to the head, but the skull does not break. It can cause bruising of the brain, as well as swelling. When the brain injury is serious, the victim can experience persistent headaches, loss of sensation, paralysis, seizures and speech difficulties. Traumatic brain injury victims have also been known to slip into a comatose state.

Some of the symptoms of a severe brain injury include changes in pupil size, confusion, fatigue, headache, loss of consciousness, hearing impairment, vomiting and blurred vision. If you or a family member has any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. A doctor will be able to determine if a brain injury has been suffered and will be able to determine the best course of action. Often, surgery is required to treat the head trauma.

For information regarding brain injury cases caused by negligence, contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 1-800-350-8888.

Almost 100,000 Children Hospitalized for Brain Injury

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)20593 — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

It is estimated that nearly 100,000 children are hospitalized every year because of brain injuries. Head injury
is a serious problem among children and it can take years to recognize. Children often suffer brain injury from car accidents, bicycle accidents, truck accidents and other catastrophic events.

A brain injury in a child is much different than one in an adult. Doctors have little history to compare to when it comes to the damage caused by a child’s head injury. There usually are no IQ tests or academic records that can be used to compare the difference in brain function, which can identify if the child has suffered serious brain damage.

When there is an injury to the frontal lobe of the brain, the full extent of the brain damage might not be noticed until years later. The frontal lobe functions develop later in a child’s growth and this area of the brain regulates social skills.

If your child has suffered a traumatic brain injury resulting from someone else’s negligence, you should contact an experienced Los Angeles brain injury lawyer at Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 1-800-350-8888 for more information about your legal rights. You may be able to recover compensation for your child’s injury.

Cell Phones Can Cause a Serious Driver Distraction

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)20592 — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Who doesn’t own a cell phone these days? It is a rarity to hear about people who don’t use cell phones. Even though the state of California has enacted laws that ban handheld devices and texting and driving, drivers still use their cell phones on a regular basis - they just use headsets.

Studies have found that the simple act of talking on a cell phone while driving or looking down to dial, can increase the risk of being involved in a car accident. One such study was conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute. Researchers found that it only took three seconds of being distracted for the chances of being involved in an auto accident to increase. Dialing a telephone number can easily take your eyes off the road for three seconds.

Some safety experts believe that drivers can get so wrapped up in a telephone conversation that they have trouble concentrating on the road. They may not be capable of recognizing road hazards, as there driving abilities become impaired.

If you have been injured in an Orange County car accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 for more information about your legal rights as an accident victim.

Aggressive Drivers Cause Deadly Auto Accidents

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)20591 — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

We can all probably admit to participating in aggressive driving at one point or another. Tailgating, speeding, running red lights, not allowing other cars to pass and weaving in and out of traffic are all considered forms of aggressive driving. The AAA’s Foundation for Traffic Safety defines aggressive driving as “any unsafe driving behavior, performed deliberately and with ill intention or disregard for safety.”

Aggressive driving is one of the top safety concerns for drivers and rightly so. A study by AAA discovered that aggressive driving was a factor in 56 percent of the fatal auto accidents reviewed by researchers.

In Los Angeles, Orange County and throughout Southern California, traffic jams are a common occurrence, but often lead drivers to become stressed and anxious to get to their destinations. This feeling of anxiety can cause motorists to drive aggressively, which puts other people on the road in danger.

If you have been hurt in a Los Angeles auto accident caused by an aggressive driver, you can and should hold that person accountable. You should contact an experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney who can explain your legal rights and go over your options to pursue compensation for your injuries. If your case is successful, you may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, mental anguish and more. Contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 for legal advice.

How Do You Know if You Have a Permanent Disability?

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)20588 — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you have been hurt on the job or suffered from a work-related illness, you are probably wondering what constitutes a permanent disability. According to the California Division of Workers’ Compensation, the physician is the one who decides if your work injury or illness has resulted in a permanent disability.

If your physician believes that your injury or illness is not likely to change, the possibility of a permanent disability will be evaluated. However, your doctor will look into other factors that may have led to your permanent disability, other than your work injury. For example, your medical provider will evaluate whether a past injury or illness could have led to your condition.

After the doctor determines that you are permanently disabled, his or her report will be turned into a PD rating. It is the PD rating that is used to calculate your workers’ comp benefits. The date of your injury and other issues will be taken into consideration.

Workers compensation benefits can provide much needed income when you become disabled. However, the workers compensation process can be overwhelming. An experienced Los Angeles workers compensation attorney can help you with the process of obtaining benefits. Contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 for more information.

Top Ten Worst Insurance Companies

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)20161 — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

The American Association of Justice (AAJ) put together a list of the worst insurance companies in America, based on several factors. Allstate is at the top of the list, despite its commercials promoting to consumers that they are “in good hands."

Allstate wasn't the only insurer to be named the worst in the country, Unum, AIG, State Farm, Conseco, WellPoint, Farmers, United Health, Torchmark and Liberty Mutual were also listed.

AAJ based its rankings on such things as claim denials, increased premiums and low settlement offers. Researchers reviewed thousands of court documents and records from the Securities & Exchange Commission, as well as FBI documents and information from state departments. They even took into consideration news reports and testimony from former agents and insurance adjusters.

One of the conclusions is that insurers place a higher emphasis on the bottom line than on policy holders. By denying claims, increasing premiums and offering low settlements, these insurance companies are able to hold on to more of their money, even though their customers have to pay the price.

If you have been injured in an Orange County accident, you should contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 for legal advice. The Los Angeles injury lawyers will make sure that you are treated fairly by the insurance company.

Running a Stop Sign Can Result in Child Injury

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)20160 — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to a study by SAFE KIDS and FedEx Express, nearly half of the cars observed committed a stop sign violation in a school zone or residential neighborhood. When you combine this startling finding with the fact that children under the age of 10 lack the cognitive ability to avoid the dangers imposed by cars, it is easy to see why pedestrian injury is one of the leading causes of unintentional injury among children. Every year, stop sign violations play a factor in about 200 fatal accidents and 17,000 injury crashes.

During the study, researchers observed 288 intersections for 30 minutes each. What they discovered was that 37 percent of the cars rolled right through stop signs and another 7 percent didn’t even slow down. If the car actually stopped, it usually did so in or past the crosswalk, which is still dangerous for young pedestrians. One of the most unsettling discoveries from this study is that nearly one-third of the drivers committed a stop sign violation when children were present.

Driver behaviors are putting children at risk of being injured in a pedestrian accident. If your child has been the victim of a pedestrian accident in Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Diego, San Bernardino or other area in Southern California, you should contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 for legal advice.

San Diego Truck Accidents Cause Devastation

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)19795 — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

The newest figures are in and what these numbers reflect are frightening. In 2008, more than 4,000 people died in truck accidents nationally. The state of California is no different. Every year, thousands of people are injured in truck accidents. In 2008, there were 4,594 injuries caused by truck collisions in California alone.

There are many factors involved in truck crashes, which make these collisions especially devastating. A San Diego truck accident can result in serious injuries and death partly because of the fact that these vehicles weigh 20 to 30 times as much as passenger cars and some safety experts believe it can take longer for a fully loaded truck to stop. Researchers have also found that truck accidents involve such factors as brake problems, drug use, driving too fast for conditions and driver fatigue.

People who are injured in Southern California truck accidents have rights and can pursue compensation. Depending on the details of the collision, the accident victim may be able to hold the trucker and trucking company accountable. In the case of defective brakes, the brake manufacturer could also be responsible.

For more information, contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 and read the article titled, Large Truck Accidents Claimed More Than 4,000 Lives in 2008.

Car Accident Deaths Down But Motorcycle Accident Deaths Up

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)19794 — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

The recent statistics regarding traffic fatalities came with both good and bad news. The good news is that car accident fatalities have gone down. The bad news is that motorcycle accident deaths have gone up.

In 2008 alone, over 5,000 people were killed in motorcycle accidents across the country. This number accounts for 14 percent of all traffic related deaths last year. What is especially unsettling is that the number of motorcycle accident fatalities has more than doubled since 1997.

Some experts have suggested that deaths caused by car accidents have decreased because people are travelling less due to the economic conditions. Maybe so, but what about motorcycle crashes?

An Orange County motorcycle accident tends to result in more serious injuries for the motorcyclist than other types of collisions. While a car acts as “an armor” of protection, a motorcycle offers little defense when hit by another vehicle. Even though motorcycle helmets are required in California, which does cut down on fatalities, people are still seriously injured and even killed in motorcycle crashes.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego or other area in California, you have legal rights and could be entitled to compensation. Contact an Orange County motorcycle accident lawyer at Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 for more information.

Drowsy Truckers Cause Many California Truck Accidents

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)18578 — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Driver fatigue is listed as one of the top ten causes of truck accidents. Truckers are under enormous pressure to deliver their loads on time. This pressure comes not only from the trucking companies, but also the shippers. When unforeseen delays, such as traffic jams, poor weather or road closures, put these truckers behind schedule, they often make the fatal mistake of continuing on without a break or rest.

Drowsy truckers cause countless truck accidents in California. A tired trucker has a slower response to hazards on the road and often is too slow in reacting to a near accident. As a result, the driver may crash his big rig, which can weigh up to 80,000, into another vehicle, causing a catastrophic outcome. California big rig accidents can lead to serious and permanent injuries. In some cases, a Southern California truck accident can cause death.

There is something known as hours-of-service that truckers are supposed follow. It is a federal guideline that sets the amount of hours a trucker is allowed to travel without taking a break. For the most part, California law follows this federal regulation, but there are some exceptions.

If you have been injured in a truck accident in Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Diego County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County or other area in California, you should contact a California truck accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at 1-800-350-8888 for a free legal consultation.

How Traumatic Brain Injury is Treated in California

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)18577 — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is often serious and can lead to a life of permanent disabilities. Treatment for TBI ranges depending on the seriousness of the injury and any associated complications.

After a Riverside car accident, fall or other event that causes brain injury, the doctors will focus on acute treatment. Generally, an injured victim is taken to the hospital immediately following a California accident, where the medical staff will perform life sustaining treatment, if needed. Emergency medical personnel will look for blood clots and will monitor the levels of intracranial pressure. They will also make sure the patient’s airway is clear and will administer medication to prevent further injuries caused by seizures or other complications.

Once a patient is stabilized, he or she may be transferred to a traumatic brain injury treatment center. The medical staff at the treatment center will conduct a thorough evaluation of the patient to determine impairments and disabilities, as well as the likelihood of recovery. A treatment plan will be created. Many of the patients who are admitted into these facilities are in shock or in a post-traumatic state, but they are able to fully recover.

Sometimes long-term rehabilitation is needed, which may include physical therapy, speech therapy or counseling. The ongoing treatment can be expensive. If you or your family member has sustained a traumatic brain injury from an accident in Riverside, Los Angeles, Orange County or other area in California, you should contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 1-800-350-8888. You may be able to obtain financial compensation for the injuries.

The Outlook for Traumatic Brain Injury Patients

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)18576 — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be one of the most devastating injuries someone will ever sustain. This type of head injury can lead to permanent disabilities, changing the life of the injured victim forever. Not every brain injury case results in long-term problems, as the prognosis of TBI can vary greatly depending on the severity of the case, age of the patient and his or her overall health.

Traumatic brain injury occurs when there is a sudden blow or jolt to the head that disrupts brain function. It can be either a penetrating injury, meaning something broke through the skull, or a closed head injury. Either way, TBI can lead to serious complications, such as concussion, coma, brain damage, permanent disabilities or death.

Nearly half of all head injury patients will need to have surgery to remove or repair ruptured blood vessels or bruised brain tissue. There are some complications that are common for traumatic brain injury patients, including cognition problems, sensory impairment, behavioral issues and communication difficulty. People with more serious head trauma may go into an unresponsive state.

If you or a loved one has suffered from traumatic brain injury caused by a car accident, truck accident, motorcycle crash, fall or other event, you should contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers for a free legal consultation. The California brain injury lawyers can be reached at 1-800-350-8888.

Confusion Regarding Runaway Ramp May Have Caused Grapevine Truck Accident

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)18574 — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

A woman was killed recently in a truck accident on the Grapevine, a portion of the 5 freeway. According to a news report, confusion regarding a runaway ramp may have been a factor in the big rig accident.

On Sunday, August 23, 2009, 67-year-old Sumiko Imamura was fatally injured after an out-of-control truck slammed into her Mazda sport utility vehicle. The truck had lost its brakes, as it travelled north on the 5 freeway at Fort Tejon. It gained speed as it went down the hill and into the fast lane. This tragic California truck accident occurred just north of a runaway escape ramp located on the west side of the road. The impact of the truck collision caused the SUV to go into a dirt embankment, where it rolled over. Imamura was ejected from the vehicle.

Even after the semi truck hit Imamura’s vehicle, it continued on and struck a Ford pickup and the debris from the crash hit a Subaru Impreza. The truck didn’t stop until it reached Laval Road.

Just two days after this fatal California semi truck accident, news came out that confusion regarding the runaway ramp may have caused the crash. According to reporters, the trucker may have been able to use one of the two runaway truck ramps that were close by. However, there were two posted signs that said one of the ramps was closed. Apparently, the California Highway Patrol had requested Cal Trans to remove the closure lights, but it hadn’t been done.

If you have been injured in a truck accident on the Grapevine or other area in California, you should contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 1-800-350-8888.

What an Orange County Car Accident Attorney Can Do For You

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)18572 — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a serious car accident in Orange County, you shouldn’t try to handle your case on your own. Insurance companies are notorious for taking advantage of injured accident victims and you may end up accepting a settlement that is far below what your case is worth. An Orange County car accident attorney will make sure that your interests are protected following a crash. An experienced injury lawyer in Orange County will be able to help you with every step of the legal process, which will allow you to focus on your recovery.

First and foremost, an Orange County accident attorney will be able to review your case to determine who was at fault. If the other driver was negligent and caused your injuries, your attorney will be able to pursue compensation on your behalf. Sometimes insurance companies are uncooperative. If that is the case, your car accident lawyer will be able to go to battle against the insurer to make sure that you receive full compensation for your injuries.

Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers have been representing accident victims for nearly 30 years. You should contact one of the knowledgeable Orange County car accident attorneys at Steinberg & Spencer at 1-800-350-8888, if you have been injured.

What You Should Not Do After a Los Angeles Car Accident

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)18571 — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

You may be aware that there are certain actions you should take following a car accident in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, San Bernardino, Ventura or Riverside. Did you know that there are also things that you should never do after a serious auto accident? Don’t hurt your chances of recovering compensation for your injuries. Keep reading to find out what you shouldn’t do after a Los Angeles car accident (or a crash that occurred anywhere in California).

1. Don’t say that you caused the accident. There are many factors that go into a serious traffic accident and some of these factors may not be discovered until an investigation is completed. Emotions run high after an accident, so when you are talking with the police, just stick to the facts.

2. Don’t forgo medical care. What you think is a minor injury could turn out to be something more serious. You should always seek medical attention following a major collision.

3. Don’t sign insurance papers or give a recorded statement. You should first talk with an experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney before you agree to anything with the insurance company.

4. Don’t wait too long to talk with a Los Angeles car accident lawyer. The injury lawyers at Steinberg & Spencer can help you recover the compensation in which you are entitled.

Call Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers for advice regarding your Southern California accident case at 1-800-350-8888.

What You Should Know About California Motorcycle Laws

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)18272 — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Did you know that lane sharing is allowed in California, even though other states don’t allow this practice? Another aspect of California motorcycle law that is different than other states is that you must wear a helmet if you are riding on a motorcycle. These two areas of the law are meant to keep motorcyclists safe.

Believe it or not, lane sharing is considered to be safer than just sitting in traffic. The chances of being involved in a motorcycle accident are higher when you are parked in traffic on the freeway. Living in California, traffic is something you have to deal with often. With lane sharing, you can drive in between vehicles that are in a lane. However, it is highly recommended that you do this driving maneuver safely and prudently.

Motorcycle helmets are required by law. While many motorcyclists are unhappy with this rule, helmets have been found to save lives in motorcycle collisions. A study by the University of Southern California found that wearing a helmet was the single most crucial factor in surviving a motorcycle crash. Another study showed that wearing a motorcycle helmet decreases your odds of sustaining a fatal injury by 37 percent.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, Ventura or San Bernardino, you need to contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer at Steinberg & Spencer at 1-800-350-8888.

Find Out What May Have Caused Your California Truck Accident

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)18270 — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Have you been injured in a truck accident in California? These types of crashes are catastrophic by nature. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. When this massive vehicle is involved in a crash, the impact of the collision can cause permanent injuries and death.

As the trucking industry remains busy, you will continue to see semi trucks traveling on the freeways throughout California. Truck accidents will also continue, injuring thousands every year.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration looked into the causes of truck accidents in a study titled, “The Large Truck Crash Causation Study.” Even though trucker fatigue seems to get the most attention when it comes to tractor trailer accidents, there are actually many other factors involved in these collisions.

Researchers discovered that there were hundreds of factors associated with truck accidents throughout the country, but they were able to put together a top ten list. According to the study, the top factors for large truck accidents include:

Brake problems
Traffic flow interruption
Prescription drug use
Traveling too fast for conditions
Unfamiliarity with roadway
Roadway problems
Required to stop before crash
Over-the-counter drug use
Inadequate surveillance
Fatigue

Trucking companies can often be held accountable for semi truck accidents. If you have been injured in a truck accident in California, you should contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 1-800-350-8888.

You Could Have an Intracranial Hematoma and Not Know It

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)18269 — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Did you know that the warning signs of an intracranial hematoma, which is a potentially life-threatening brain injury, can take several weeks to surface? When you receive a direct blow to the head or you are in a vehicle that abruptly stops, you could sustain a serious head injury.

An intracranial hematoma is known to occur from a car accident, semi truck accident, motorcycle crash and slip and fall accident. It is characterized by a ruptured blood vessel that can cause blood to fill in the brain or in between the brain and skull. As the pressure builds in the brain, so do the symptoms.

If you have a loved one who has been involved in a California accident, watch for physical, mental and emotional changes. Be aware that these changes can be subtle. Some of the symptoms of an intracranial hematoma include increased headaches, vomiting, tiredness, confusion, increased blood pressure and in severe cases, seizures and unconsciousness.

There is treatment available for an intracranial hematoma, which usually involves surgery. However, it is crucial to seek medical attention if a brain injury is suspected. The sooner the condition is treated, the better the prognosis.

Contact an experienced California brain injury lawyer at Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 1-800-350-8888 if the head injury was caused by someone else’s negligence.

You Can Help Your Southern California Car Accident Case

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)18184 — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you have been involved in a car accident in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside or other area in Southern California, there are actions you can take to help your case. What you do after your crash can make the difference in the amount of settlement you receive.

Any time you are involved in a car accident, you need to call for help. It can be difficult to determine the extent of your injuries or those of the other people involved in the crash, so it is a good idea to request the paramedics. Also, a police officer will arrive on the scene to take an accident report, which is crucial when you file an insurance claim or pursue damages in a lawsuit.

Collect as much information as you can at the accident scene, including the other driver’s information. You should take pictures of the cars, location of the crash and your injuries. Most cell phones have built in cameras that can come in handy after an accident. It has even been suggested to keep a camera in your car, just in case you are involved in a collision.

If you were injured in the car accident, you need to get medical attention and follow through with your recommended treatment. Your medical records may be needed to build your car accident case. If your injuries were serious, you should contact a Los Angeles car accident attorney at Steinberg & Spencer at 1-800-350-8888. The law firm represents cases in Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Diego County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, Ventura County and throughout California.

Riverside Car Accident Leaves Four Injured

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)13529 — Sun, 21 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Riverside car accident involving three vehicles leaves four people injured after a car crosses a center line. The incident took place at approximately 7:15 PM on Tuesday evening, March 16, 2010, along First Avenue.

According to Riverside police, the driver of a white Chevrolet Malibu swerved across the center line while southbound on First Avenue and slammed into a Mitsubishi head-on. The collision forced a Honda to plow into the Mitsubishi from behind.

The driver of the Chevrolet has been identified as Robert Vickery, 26, of Lyons. His injuries have been described as moderate.

Police have reported that an elderly couple was in the Mitsubishi when the wreck occurred. Along with the driver of the Honda, rescue crews transported the victims to Loyola University Medical Center where they were treated for injuries sustained in the accident.

The elderly couple’s injuries have been reported as being serious. The driver of the Honda suffered only minor injuries.

According to Vickery, he crossed the center line when a dog ran onto the road. He said that he was attempting to avoid hitting the dog.

The Riverside auto accident is still under investigation by local authorities. Vickery was cited for improper lane usage, driving in the wrong lane and failure to reduce speed to avoid a collision.

This is an unfortunate accident and we wish all the victims a speedy recovery.

Three Killed in Anaheim Auto Accident After Fire Erupts

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)13528 — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

An Anaheim car accident involving a fiery crash leaves three people dead and two others injured. The incident took place at approximately 8:30 PM on Tuesday evening, March 16, 2010, on the 91 Freeway.

According to reports, the accident occurred on the eastbound 91 freeway just east of Coal Canyon when a 1988 Mazda 626 made a sudden left turn and swerved across several lanes of traffic. That is when the Mazda smashed into a 2008 Chevrolet Silverado and exploded into flames.

There were three occupants in the Mazda at the time of the crash. All three victims were pronounced dead from injuries sustained in the accident.

The two occupants of the Chevy, including the driver, were injured in the wreck. Fortunately, their injuries were considered minor.

Police have yet to determine the cause of the accident and why the driver of the Mazda made the sudden left turn.

The fatal Anaheim auto accident is still under investigation my local authorities. Officials have not released the identities of those involved in the fiery crash.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to all of those who have been affected by this terrible accident that claimed the life of three people.

San Diego Car Accident Injures Border Agents

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)13403 — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A San Diego car accident involving a hit-and-run driver leaves two U.S. Border Patrol agents with minor injuries after they were struck by another vehicle. The incident took place at approximately 7:30 PM on Sunday evening, March 7, 2010, along State Route 94.

According to reports, the border agents were sideswiped by a vehicle traveling eastbound on State Route 94, near Harris Ranch Road. The driver reportedly fled the accident scene leaving the two unidentified agents with minor injuries. The extent of those injuries was not made available and it was unclear whether they were transported to a local hospital.

Fortunately, police were able to locate the unidentified driver at her home a short time later. She apparently had not realized that she hit anyone until after she was notified by authorities. She indicated that she heard what sounded like a gunshot, but didn’t realize that she hit the two border patrol agents.

The San Diego car accident is still under investigation by the California Highway Patrol. However, it has been reported that the female driver has had her driver’s license for less than 30 days when the accident occurred

This is an unfortunate accident and we wish the U.S. Border Agents involved a speedy recovery.

Laguna Niguel Car Accident Leaves Cop Behind Bars

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)13438 — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Laguna Niguel car accident involving two vehicles leaves an Orange County Sheriff’s deputy behind bars after he slams into a Toyota. The incident took place on Monday, March 1, 2010.

According to the California Highway Patrol, Deputy Allan James Waters, crashed his 2008 Mercedes-Benz into a Toyota while driving under the influence. The force of the impact caused the two vehicles to slam into a tree.

It was unclear as to whether Waters or the elderly couple in the Toyota were injured in the two-vehicle wreck.

It was also learned that Waters was involved in an earlier wreck on Golden Lantern in Dana Point. According to reports, Waters was involved in a collision outside of Dana Point City Hall with a Lexus. There were no injuries reported in this crash.

Waters is a 13-year veteran with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. However, he was on paid administrative leave when the accident occurred. It was unclear as to why Waters was on this leave.

Both accidents are still under investigation by local authorities. Waters has been sent to county jail and charged with driving under the influence.

These are unfortunate accidents and we wish all the victims involved in the wrecks a speedy recovery.

Garden Grove Truck Accident Leaves Pedestrian Injured

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)13316 — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Garden Grove truck accident leaves a female pedestrian injured after a commercial truck struck her as she was standing in her yard. The incident took place at approximately 11:00 AM on Friday morning, February 12, 2010, along Woodbury Road.

According to reports, Olga Quiroz, 36, of Garden Grove, was standing in her yard when the commercial truck hit several trees, a fence and a block wall before finally slamming into her. Quiroz was dragged underneath the truck until the vehicle finally came to a stop towards the back of the property.

Rescue crews transported Quiroz to a local hospital where she was treated for leg injures sustained in the accident. Her injuries included lacerations and fractures.

The driver of the truck has been identified as William Davis, 44, of Orange. Davis was not injured in the accident; however, neighbors had to hold Davis at the scene until police arrived. He was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI.

It is also believed that Davis was involved in an earlier accident. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in that collision.

The Garden Grove accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

This is an unfortunate incident and we wish Ms. Quiroz a speedy recovery.

Mountain Center Motorcycle Accident Kills Man

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)13003 — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Mountain Center motorcycle accident involving a motorist and a car leaves two people dead and two others injured. The incident took place at approximately 1:30 PM on Sunday afternoon, February 14, 2010, along Highway 74.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the incident involving a 2008 Harley Davidson and a 1998 Toyota Corolla occurred when the driver of the Toyota swerved across the centerline and into the path of the motorcycle. The motorcycle slammed into the right side of the Toyota killing both the motorcyclist and a passenger in the sedan.

The motorcyclist has been identified as William Kaplan, 62, of Rancho Mirage. He was pronounced dead approximately 90 minutes following the two-vehicle crash. The identity of the second victim was not made available pending notification of her family.

There were two other injuries reported. Kaplan’s wife was riding behind him at the time of the accident. She was taken to Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs and treated for major injuries.

The unidentified 19-year-old driver of the Toyota was also transported to Desert Regional Medical Center. She was listed in serious condition.

The fatal Mountain Center accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

This is an unfortunate accident and our thoughts and condolences go out to all of those that have been impacted by this tragedy.

Ontario Car Accident Claims High School Football Coach

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)13002 — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

An Ontario car accident leaves a popular Moreno Valley High School assistant football coach and his family dead when his car explodes into flames. The incident took place at approximately 12:00 PM on Saturday afternoon, February 13, 2010, along the 15 Freeway.

According to California Highway Patrol Officer Monica Posada, the victim’s car became wedged between two trucks and exploded into flames, killing the family of four. The accident occurred on the 15 Freeway, south of the Jurupa Street exit. They were traveling southbound when the accident happened.

Ryan Villalpando, an assistant football coach as Moreno Valley High School, his wife, Veronica, and their two children, were pronounced dead at the scene. Villalpando’s father, Edward Villalpando, reported that the family was on their way to get a pizza when they were killed.

A total of six vehicles, including the two trucks, were involved in the wreck. There were other minor injuries reported.

“He was my offensive line coach,” said Moreno Valley High School football coach Ted Wadkins. “He’s taught the last five years at Moreno Valley.”

The fatal Ontario car crash is still under investigation by local authorities.

This is a tragic accident and our deepest sympathies go out to all of those that have been impacted by the fatal incident.

Southern California Car Accidents Blamed on Weather

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)12938 — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Several Southern California car accidents over the weekend are attributed to the rainy weather as a winter storm drops approximately two to four inches of rain in the area. Unfortunately, several people were killed as a result of the auto accidents.

The first accident took place at approximately 7:15 AM on Saturday morning, February 6, 2010, in the Cajon Pass. According to reports, a woman was killed after losing control of her 1999 Mercury Villager along Interstate 15. She was traveling northbound when she sideswiped another car and eventually hit the back of a tow truck.

A few hours earlier in Rancho Cucamonga, a 25-year-old San Bernardino man was killed in a similar car crash along Interstate 15, just north of East Etiwanda Creek. The accident took place at approximately 5:00 AM on the same morning

According to police, the man was driving a 2004 Infinity G35 and was stopped perpendicular across the lane. That is when the driver of a pickup truck, who was unable to stop, slammed into the Infiniti, T-boning the car.

The impact forced the Infinity onto the shoulder killing the 25-year-old man. Fortunately, the driver of the pickup truck suffered only minor injuries.

The cause of the accident has not been determined, however, police believe that wet conditions played a roll.

Rainy weather can create unsafe driving environments. These are unfortunate accidents and our thoughts go out to all the families that have been affected by the Southern California wrecks.

Vista Pedestrian Accident Kills High School Student

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)12774 — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Vista pedestrian accident involving a hit-and-run driver leaves a 15-year-old high school student dead after he was hit while riding his skateboard. The incident took place on Friday evening, January 29, 2010, along Thibido Road.

According to investigators, Lucas Giaconelli, 15, a freshman at Rancho Buena High School, was riding his skateboard with some friends when he was struck by a car. Lucas, who was killed in the accident, did not get back up after he was hit. According to witnesses, the driver just kept going.

"It hit him from the back and he flew over the car and just collapsed," a witness said.

Fortunately, police now believe that they know who struck the boy. The alleged driver reportedly showed up to the accident scene during a candlelight vigil.

According to San Diego Sheriff's Department spokesperson Jan Caldwell, the unidentified 92-year-old man told police that he thought that he hit something at that time.

"He was driving along and something struck his windshield, he thought it was an owl because it was late at night," Caldwell said.

The Vista hit-and-run accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

This is a tragic accident that claimed the life of a 15-year-old boy. Out thoughts and condolences go out to his family as well as his classmates.

Diamond Bar Truck Accident Kills Woman

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)12601 — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Diamond Bar truck accident involving a big rig leaves a woman dead after she gets out of her car. The incident took place just after midnight on Monday morning, January 25, 2010, on the Pomona (60) Freeway.

According to California Highway Patrol officer Anthony Martin, the woman pulled her 1993 Toyota Corolla over to the side of the freeway to talk with her female passenger. The relationship of the two women was unknown. As she walked back to get into the driver’s side of the Toyota, she was struck by a large truck.

The woman was pronounced dead at the scene from injuries sustained in the accident. Police did not release her identity pending notification of her family.

It was unclear whether the second woman or the driver of the big rig were injured in the accident.

According to Martin, the truck was traveling approximately 55 miles per hour when it fatally struck the woman.

Early morning commuters were inconvenienced for several hours while two lanes were closed to allow crews to clean-up the accident.

The fatal Diamond Bar big rig accident is still under investigation by local authorities. It was not made known why the two women got out of the car.

Moreno Valley Auto Accident Kills One

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)12426 — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Moreno Valley auto accident involving three vehicles leaves one person dead and two others injured. The incident took place at approximately 7:00 PM on Wednesday night, January 13, 2010, at the intersection of Cottonwood Avenue and Festival Way.

According to Moreno Valley Police Department Sgt. Jacqueline Horton, a black Honda traveling westbound on Cottonwood Avenue was driving erratic and weaving in and out of traffic. The Honda either cut-off or struck a Ford Explorer, causing the Ford to swerve into oncoming traffic. The Ford then struck a Nissan Quest minivan head-on.

Rescue crews transported the driver of the Ford, Cynthia Rene Whitaker, 54, of Moreno Valley, to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead from injuries sustained in the accident.

According to police, a male passenger in the Ford suffered a broken ankle in the accident. The male driver of the Nissan complained of chest pains. They were both taken to a nearby hospital and treated for their injuries.

According to investigators, the black Honda fled the scene. Witnesses reported that the Honda turned north on Festival Way, and sped away.

The driver of the Honda has been reported as being Hispanic, in his twenties, and wearing a white T-shirt.

The Moreno Valley car accident is still under investigation by local authorities. Anyone that has information concerning the accident has been asked to contact authorities at (951) 486-6700.

Encino Car Accident Injures Toddler

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)12352 — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

An Encino car accident involving three vehicles leaves four people seriously injured, including a 2-year-old boy, after the vehicles collide. The incident took place at approximately 6:00 AM on Friday morning, January 15, 2010, along the westbound lanes of the Ventura (101) Freeway.

According to California Highway Patrol Officer Patrick Kimball, the three vehicles collided with one another in the westbound lanes of the 101 freeway near the White Oak Avenue exit.

Rescue crews transported the five victims, including a 2-year-old toddler, to a nearby hospital where they were treated for injuries sustained in the accident. They were all listed in serious condition. According to Los Angeles Fire Department spokesperson Brian Humphrey, the five victims were occupants of the same vehicle. He indicated that they were all expected to survive the crash.

Morning commuters were inconvenienced as all westbound lanes were closed in order to allow crews to clean-up the accident scene and allow officials to investigate the circumstances of the crash. The lanes were reopened at approximately 7:15 AM, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The identities of those involved in the crash were not made available.

The Encino auto accident is still under investigation by local authorities. The cause of the crash was not made available.

Placentia Car Accident Involving a Train Leaves Two Injured

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)12313 — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Placentia car accident involving a train leaves two critically injured after a car collides with the train. The incident took place at approximately 7:30AM on Tuesday morning, January 5, 2010, at Orangethorpe Avenue and Rose Drive.

According to authorities, a blue BMW which was heading east on Orangethorpe, turned onto Tustin Avenue, and into the path of a train. The train was also heading eastbound on Orangethorpe.

Rescue crews, who freed the trapped men from the BMW, transported them to UC Irvine. The 27-year-old male driver and a 37-year-old passenger were listed in critical condition from injuries sustained in the accident. Their identities have not been released by authorities.

According to investigators, it is believed that the driver saw the train, but still attempted to beat it. It is also believed that all warning devices were fully operational at the time of the collision.

According to officials, a suitcase was discovered in the wreckage. They believe that the driver may have been hurrying to the airport.

“It looks like he went directly underneath that arm that was coming down,” said Anaheim Police Sgt. Rick Martinez. “Why, we certainly do not know.”

The Placentia car accident involving the train is still under investigation by local authorities.

El Cajon Accident at Fast Food Restaurant Kills Customer

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)12197 — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

An El Cajon car accident at a fast food restaurant claims the life of a customer after a sport utility vehicle (SUV) slams into the building. The incident took place at approximately 8:45 AM on Sunday morning, January 3, 2010.

According to Lieutenant Jeff Davis, the crash occurred at the Carl’s Jr. at 520 N. Second Street in El Cajon, near San Diego.

The unidentified victim, a 66-year-old man from Spring Valley, was sitting in a booth when the SUV slammed into the restaurant. He has been described as a regular customer who sat at the same booth every morning for breakfast. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Davis.

The unidentified driver of the SUV has been described as a 74-year-old El Cajon resident. Rescue workers transported the driver to a nearby hospital and where he was treated for injuries sustained in the accident. The injuries were described as non-life threatening.

Davis indicated the witnesses reported that the driver had just been to a nearby ATM before the crash.

“We heard this big noise…Boom!” said witness Frank Barnes.

The fatal El Cajon accident is still under investigation by local authorities. The cause of the accident is unknown. Police have indicated that they do not believe that alcohol was a contributing factor.

Pacoima Car Accident Involving a Train Leaves Two in Critical Conditio

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)12158 — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Pacoima car accident involving two vehicles and a commuter train critically injures two. The incident took place at approximately 7:00 AM on Wednesday morning, December 23, 2009, in the San Fernando Valley city.

According to authorities, a Toyota Camry was rear-ended by a Nissan pickup truck after the vehicle pulled over for a police car that had its siren turned-on. The force of the impact forced the truck onto nearby railroad tracks. An oncoming Metrolink commuter train then slammed into the Nissan.

The driver of the Nissan, a 38-year-old Sun Valley man and a 2-year-old child, were transported to a nearby hospital and treated for critical injuries. The child was in a car seat when the incident occurred. Their identities have not been released by authorities.

According to Los Angeles Police Officer Rosario Herrera, the impact forced the Toyota off the road and onto a dirt strip along the tracks. The two unidentified victims in the Toyota were transported to Providence Holy Cross Medical Center in Mission Hills and were reported as being in stable condition.

Metrolink spokesperson Angela Starr reported that there were 36 passengers on board the commuter train at the time of the accident. Eight of the passengers complained of minor injuries.

The Pacoima accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

Newport Beach Bicycle Accident Leads to Death

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)11985 — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Newport Beach bicycle accident involving a hit-and-run driver and a bicyclist leaves one man dead as the driver drifts out of her lane and hits the bicycle. The incident took place on Wednesday, December 9, 2009, on a busy Newport Beach street.

According to police, Donald Murphy, 49, of Irvine, was riding his bike along Jamboree Road, just north of Ford Road, when he was struck by a car driven by Patricia Ann Izquieta, 37, of Riverside. According to reports, the female driver drifted out of the lane she was traveling in and struck Murphy, who was traveling near the curb.

Rescue workers transported the male bicyclist to Western Medical Center in Santa Ana where he was pronounced dead at approximately 11:55 AM the next day due to injuries sustained in the accident.

According to Sgt. Evan Sailor, as Murphy lay injured on the side of the road, Izquieta continued driving, dragging his bike with her for an unspecified distance. Police later located Izquieta and arrested and booked her on suspicion of felony hit-and-run.

The fatal Newport Beach hit-and-run accident is still under investigation by local authorities. Police have indicated that they do not believe that alcohol was a contributing factor in the accident. She successfully posted bail and was released from custody on Thursday.

Los Angeles Car Accident Leaves Six Injured

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)11928 — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Los Angeles car accident in Valley Village involving four vehicles along the Hollywood 170 Freeway leaves four people injured. The incident took place at approximately 2:45 AM on Monday morning, December 21, 2009 on the Southern California freeway.

According to Los Angeles City Fire Department spokesperson Devin Gales, the multi-vehicle car accident happened on the northbound Hollywood 170 Freeway at the Ventura 134 Freeway early in the morning.

Six people were injured in the Southern California pile-up. Rescue workers transported five of the six victims to nearby hospitals where they were treated for injuries sustained in the wreck. However, the sixth victim declined to be taken to the hospital. The identities of the victims and details concerning the nature of the injuries has not been provided as of yet.

According to California Highway Patrol Officer Jennifer Connolly, a SigAlert was issued for the No. 1, 2, 3 and 4 northbound lanes. Crews quickly removed the cars involved in the accident as wells as the crash debris. The northbound lanes were cleared just a few hours later.

The Valley Village accident is still under investigation by local authorities. It has not been determined as to what caused the multi-vehicle crash along the busy Los Angeles freeway.

Rain Attributed to Several Los Angeles Car Accidents

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)11788 — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Wet conditions on southland roads can be a recipe for disaster. Rain is attributed to several accidents in the Los Angeles area last week. According to the California Highway Patrol, they reported over 100 accidents on Friday morning between midnight and 9:00 AM, December 11, 2009, as opposed to 60 accidents the week before.

A Los Angeles auto accident was reported along the 10 Freeway when a driver slammed into another vehicle. The driver apparently didn’t see a prior accident ahead and was unable to stop the vehicle in time. According to officials, three people were injured in the wreck and the driver was taken into custody.

Police reported another accident in Eagle Rock when a minivan slammed into the side of a building. Though, the cause of the accident is unknown, wet conditions are believed to be a contributing factor.

“Bad weather, and he was probably speeding also,” said Los Angeles Police department officer Jose Rodriguez. “He lost control of the vehicle and drove into the building.” The driver’s identity was not made known.

A third accident was reported in Echo Park. According to reports, a tanker truck was seen halfway off the road on the northbound 5 Freeway.

In south Los Angeles, a car was believed to have struck a fire hydrant, causing water to shoot into the air and onto the road.

Two Are Injured in Huntington Beach Car Accident

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)11634 — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Huntington Beach car accident involving two vehicles ends with two drivers being sent to a nearby hospital. The incident took place at approximately 4:30 PM on Wednesday afternoon, November 10, 2009 when the two cars collided with one another at the intersection of Gothard Street and Heil Avenue.

According to Huntington Beach police, a Hyundai Elantra driven by Robinette Glover, 62, of Huntington Beach, was attempting to make a left turn onto Heil from Gothard when her car struck a Mitsubishi Eclipse. The force of the impact caused the Eclipse, which was driven by Zachary Davis, 18, to spin around and careen into a light pole on the southwest corner of the intersection.

Both victims were transported by rescue workers to UCI Medical Center in Orange. Glover and Davis were both treated for injuries sustained in the crash and have been listed in serious, but stable condition. One of the victims may have suffered a serious leg and head injury, according to officials.

The cause of the two-vehicle accident has not been determined and is still under investigation by local authorities.

The Huntington Beach police have asked anyone who may have witnessed the accident or who may have information to contact investigator Barr at 714-536-5661.

Anaheim Car Accident Leaves One Man Injured

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)11604 — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

An Anaheim car accident involving two vehicles leaves one man hospitalized. The incident took place at approximately 2:15 PM on Tuesday afternoon, November 24, 2009 at the intersection of Broadway and Loara Street.

According to Anaheim Police Sgt. Rick Martinez, the two vehicles involved in the accident were identified as a black Chrysler Sebring and a green Hyundai Elantra. Martinez indicated that the driver of the Chrysler was heading eastbound on Broadway and collided with the Hyundai, which was traveling southbound on Loara Street. Both drivers have not been identified by authorities.

According to Martinez, the Chrysler hit the passenger side of the Hyundai. The force of the impact caused the Hyundai to hit a traffic signal on the southwest corner of the intersection.

He also reported that the male driver of the Hyundai was ejected from the vehicle. Rescue workers transported the victim to UCI Medical Center in Orange where he was treated for head trauma.

The female driver of the Chrysler also suffered injuries. Her injuries were described as moderate and she was taken to a nearby hospital.

The Anaheim accident is still under investigation by local authorities. The cause of the accident and who was at fault have not been identified.

The Anaheim Police Department has asked anyone who may have witnessed the accident or has any pertinent information to call 714-765-1861.

Newhall Car Accident Injures Police Motorcyclist

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)11475 — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Newhall car accident involving two vehicles, including a police motorcycle, ends in injuries to an officer. The incident took place at approximately 3:30 PM on Friday afternoon, November 20. 2009.

According to Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Sgt. Brian Allen, the deputy was traveling from southbound Railroad Avenue onto eastbound Newhall Avenue towards Highway 14 when the incident occurred. Allen said that an oncoming GMC pick-up truck collided with the front end of the police motorcycle.

Rescue workers transported the unidentified officer to Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital where he was treated for minor injuries. He was later released.

According to witnesses, the driver of the truck appeared to have run a red light. They indicated that the force of the impact sent the officer flying through the air.

The wreckage laid at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and Newhall Avenue as the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s department investigated the accident. The motorcycle lay on its side, with a twisted front tire and surrounded by shattered glass, said deputies.

“It looks like it was just an accident at this time,” said Allen.

The Southern California accident is still under investigation by local authorities. However, police did not issue any citations or make any arrests.

Irvine Bicycle Accident Results in Bicyclist Being Hospitalized

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)11451 — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

An Irvine bicycle accident involving a bicyclist and a car ends in the hospitalization of a cyclist. The incident took place at approximately 7:00 AM on Monday morning, November 16, 2009 at a busy Irvine intersection.

The unidentified 45-year-old female bicyclist sustained serious injuries when a car heading eastbound on Irvine Center Drive, driven by an unidentified 71-year-old man, slammed into her as she was attempting to cross the intersection.

According to Irvine Police Lt. John Hare, the cyclist was treated at the scene by rescue workers before they finally transported her to a nearby hospital. He said that he did not know the extent of the injuries sustained by the female cyclist.

According to Hare, the male driver did not suffer injuries as a result of the Southern California accident.

Hare also reported that the cyclist was wearing a protective helmet when she was struck by the car.

The accident is still under investigation by local authorities to determine why the 71-year-old man hit the cyclist as she was crossing the intersection. No filed charges against the man have been reported as of yet.

Police have asked anyone who may have been a witness to the accident to contact Det. Jonathan Cherney at (949) 724-7024.

San Diego Bicyclist is Killed in Collision with Police Car

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)11384 — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A San Diego accident involving a bicyclist and a police car ended in the death of a man. The bicycle accident took place at approximately 7:15 AM on Monday morning, November 9, 2009 in University City.

Walter Nichols Freeman, 63, of San Diego, was killed while riding his bicycle when he collided with a police car. According to reports, Freeman was pulling out of a gas station at the corner of Genesee Avenue and Governor Drive when he allegedly made an abrupt turn in front of the patrol car.

According to authorities, Freeman made the turn and was heading south in the bike lane along Genesee Avenue when he apparently crossed a lane and hit the police car approximately 40 feet north of the intersection. Freeman was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to police, the patrol car involved in the incident was responding to another accident. The officer did not have the lights or sirens on at the time of the collision. The officer was not injured in the crash.

The unidentified officer has worked for the Police Department for approximately 18 months in the Northern Division. The department has followed standard operating procedures by placing the officer on paid administrative leave until the conclusion of the incident.

Big Rig Catches Fire Along Interstate 5 and Injures Several

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)11292 — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Burbank accident involving a semi truck that caught on fire injures at least two. The incident took place at approximately 6:00 AM on Tuesday morning, October 27, 2009 along the Golden State (5) Freeway in the Sepulveda Pass.

The Burbank truck accident happened in the northbound lanes of the 5 Freeway at Alameda Avenue when a semi truck crashed into a center divider and ignited into flames. According to California Highway Patrol Officer Francisco Villalobos, the truck came to rest partially in the southbound side of the freeway.

According to reports, the truck’s cab caught on fire. The driver of the truck suffered only minor injuries.

It has also been reported that five other cars were involved in the incident injuring at least one. The extent of the injuries and whether any of the victims required hospitalization was not made known. Several of the other vehicles involved were smashed under the semi truck, temporarily trapping at least one victim.

The accident forced the California Highway Patrol to shut down several lanes in each direction as crews worked to clean up the debris from the accident during the morning rush hour commute.

The incident is still under investigation by local authorities.

Beaumont Man Dies in Cabazon Car Accident

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)11211 — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Cabazon car accident along Interstate 10 in California ends with the death of a Beaumont man. The incident took place at approximately 1:00 AM on Thursday morning, October 29, 2009.

According to the California Highway Patrol, Robert Martinez, 26, of Beaumont, was driving a 1992 Toyota that crashed into a semi truck and a 2002 Chevrolet sedan. He was traveling westbound on the I-10, west of Fields Road, when the collision occurred.

According to California Highway Patrol Officer Scott Beauchene, Martinez was traveling at approximately 90 mph in the slow lane when his Toyota crashed into the left rear corner of the semi truck. The semi truck was going approximately 15 mph and approaching a lane that was closed for construction. The force of the impact made Martinez collide with the Chevy, causing it to come to a stop against the center divider wall.

An unidentified 26-year-old man, also from Beaumont, was traveling with Martinez at the time of the wreck. According to the Riverside County coroner’s office, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Martinez suffered minor injuries and was transported to Desert Regional Medical Center, according to Beauchene. He was also arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

Neither of the drivers of the semi truck nor the Chevrolet were injured in the Cabazon car accident involving the three vehicles.

The accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

Corona Car Accident Kills Riverside Man

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)11057 — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Corona car accident results in the death of a Riverside man when his car veered off the freeway and landed in a parking lot. The Southern California accident occurred at approximately 8:45 AM on Wednesday morning, October 14, 2009.

The 33-year-old Riverside man died when the red Chevrolet Silverado he was driving swerved off Highway 91 and landed in a row of cars in a 24 Hour Fitness parking lot. According to witnesses, the truck became airborne and landed upside down after barely missing a pedestrian. The California Highway Patrol has not released the name of the driver.

The red Silverado was seen by witnesses speeding east down the highway just before the McKinley Avenue exit when the truck lost control, clipped the front of a semi-truck and finally ending up in the parking lot.

The pickup truck slammed into and rolled across a row of parked cars. The truck then struck a tree and finally came to rest upside down on top of a sport utility vehicle in an adjacent row about 200 feet from the freeway.

The incident caused the driver of the semi-truck, Manjeet Singh, 53, of Fresno, to crash into a car driven by Thomas Loughmsn, 64, of Murrieta. Neither of the drivers were reported as suffering injuries.

According to California Highway Patrol Officer Sylvia Mosley, the cause of the crash is still under investigation.

Fatal Car Accident Near San Diego Kills High School Student

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)11009 — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

A car accident involving five high school seniors from Torrey Pines High School in Encinitas, just north of San Diego, leaves one student dead. The incident happened at approximately 1:45 AM on Sunday morning, October 4, 2009.

The car accident near San Diego killed Alex Capozza, 17, when the 2008 Mazda 3 that the teenage boys were traveling in rolled over. Another of the students suffered serious injuries.

The students were coming back from a party when the driver of the Mazda lost control of the vehicle. The crash took place on LaGranada, near Rambla de las Flores and the Rancho Santa Fe Golf Course.

The driver of the Mazda was taken to Juvenile Hall. He is being retained on suspicion of felony driving under the influence as well as gross vehicular manslaughter.

The California Highway Patrol and the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control are investigating the incident trying to determine where the students had been drinking, how they acquired the alcohol and whether any adults were present at the time the alcohol was consumed, according to CHP Sgt. Lewis Hall.

Hall also indicated that illegal drugs may have been a contributing factor in the accident.

The District Attorney’s Office have not determined as of yet whether the driver will be charged as an adult in the north San Diego car accident.

The incident is still under investigation by local authorities.

Los Angeles Police Car Involved in Culver City Car Accident

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)11056 — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Culver City car accident involving a Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) patrol car leaves a woman dead and two officers injured. The incident took place in Culver City just before midnight on Thursday, October 15, 2009.

The crash took place at the intersection of Glendon Avenue and Venice Boulevard when a LAPD police cruiser crashed into the side of a car driven by Devin Petelski, 25. The police car struck Petelski’s driver’s side door and then careened off the road where it eventually hit a tree and a traffic sign.

There were two officers in the police cruiser at the time of the accident. Both officers suffered injuries. The driver of the cruiser suffered a fractured hand and lacerations to his elbow. The second officer suffered abrasions. It was not made known if the two officers were transported to a local hospital. The two officers have not been identified.

Petelski suffered the most severe injuries. She was transported to a local hospital and immediately placed on life support. She was taken off of life support on October 17, 2009 and later pronounced dead.

The crash is still under investigation by authorities. The cause if the accident has not been determined.

Pedestrian Accident Near San Diego Kills One Woman

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)10893 — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

A pedestrian accident near San Diego in the North County area results in a woman being killed by a man who lost control of his vehicle. The Sabre Springs accident took place just north of San Diego at approximately 9:30 AM on Wednesday morning, October 14, 2009 in the 12600 block of Sabre Springs Parkway.

According to San Diego police, the driver of the car that struck the woman was 36-year-old Carl David. Police indicate that David lost control of his vehicle, swerving off the road and finally ending up on the sidewalk where his car struck the female pedestrian. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials have not released the identity of the victim as of yet. They do not intend to release her name until her family has been notified of the incident. However, according to San Diego Police Department spokesperson Monica Munoz, the victim was believed to be in her late 60s or early 70s.

David has been placed under arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence, according to authorities. Munoz said that David is expected to be booked and placed in county prison on suspicion of felony driving while intoxicated and vehicular manslaughter.

The North County accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

Fatal San Diego Car Accident Along Route 56

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)10771 — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

A San Diego woman is killed in an apparent car accident when her car veers off Route 56 in Rancho Penasquitos. The fatal accident, which took place just north of San Diego, occurred early Thursday morning, September 1, 2009. According to police, the incident may have taken place the night before.

The victim, who has not been identified as of yet, is reported as being in the U.S. Army. The 23-year-old woman died when her Volkswagen Jetta veered of the road, striking a fence and then rolling down an embankment. According to California High Patrol Officer Kenneth Jackman, the car overturned at least once.

The victim was found inside her car beneath the freeway on Carmel Valley Road just west of Camino Del Sur.

According to Jackman, a motorist found the Jetta across the street from Evergreen Nursery in Rancho Penasquitos at approximately 5:45 AM while traveling to work. The motorist indicated that the vehicle had not been there the prior evening around 5:30 PM.

Jackman reported that the victim was found partially ejected from her car. She was still in the driver’s seat with a seat belt on, he said.

The San Diego crash is still under investigation.

Car Accident on Interstate 5 Kills Marine Near Los Angeles

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)10594 — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

A U.S. Marine and 2006 graduate of Mansfield High School died as a result of a car accident that happened near Fort Tejon, just north of the Los Angeles area. The incident took place at approximately 3:00 PM on Friday afternoon, September 18, 2009.

The driver, 21-year-old Marine Pfc. Derick D. Ruggles, of Mansfield, was traveling along Interstate 5 in excess speeds of 100 mph when the crash took place. According to California State Troopers, Ruggles lost control of his 2004 Toyota Celica, striking the center divider. The impact from the divider caused his car to careen through a metal fence, hit a light pole and finally roll over, killing Ruggles.

Ruggles enlisted with the Marines in 2007 where he served nine months in Afghanistan as a digital transmission equipment operator. According to his father, he had approximately 18 months left to serve. Ruggles, who was born in Phoenix, Arizona, planned on returning to the Los Angeles area in Mansfield.

According to police, Ruggles was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, however, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Alcohol was not believed to be a factor in the accident. The fatal crash is still under investigation by local authorities. There were no other passengers traveling in the car at the time of the accident.

Man killed in Riverside Pedestrian Accident

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)10475 — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to authorities, a man was killed on a Riverside freeway when he was hit by a sports utility vehicle. The incident took place on the westbound 91 Freeway, just outside the Los Angeles area, between Arlington Avenue and Central Avenue.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the fatal Riverside pedestrian accident was reported at 8:35 PM on Monday evening, September 21, 2009.

The Riverside County Coroner’s Office has not released the name or the age of the victim involved in the accident. However, he was pronounced dead at the scene at approximately 8:40 PM, according to the coroner’s office. The make and model of the vehicle involved in the incident has not been made available.

The California Highway Patrol has reported that sections of a chain-link fence and about 20 feet of a guardrail along the freeway were damaged in the fatal accident.

Other motorists traveling westbound on the 91 were inconvenienced when at least one lane of the freeway was shut down due to the investigation and clean-up. The lane was apparently blocked for approximately two hours.

The California Highway Patrol has reported that at least one vehicle had been towed for possible evidence to determine the cause of the crash.

Cathedral City Man Dies in Car Accident

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)10477 — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Cathedral City car accident involving a pickup truck on Interstate 10, just outside of the Los Angeles area, resulted in the fatality of a 42-year-old man. The unidentified man has been reported as being from Cathedral City, just East of Riverside.

The one-vehicle accident, involving the pickup truck, occurred at approximately 6:00 PM on Thursday evening, September 17, 2009. The make and model of the vehicle involved in the rollover had not yet been released by authorities.

The accident took place on the westbound side of Interstate 10, approximately one mile east of Cook Street. According to the Riverside County Coroner’s Office, the man's vehicle collided with a highway sign. It has been reported that the pickup truck apparently then struck a guardrail in the freeway’s median before finally rolling over onto the passenger side of the vehicle.

The Cathedral City man had been partially ejected from his vehicle as a result of the Riverside County rollover which resulted in his death. The cause of the accident has not yet been determined and is still under investigation.

The Riverside County Coroner’s Office refrained from releasing the 42-year-old man’s name due to the fact that his family had not yet been notified about the accident and his death.

Other drivers along Interstate 10 experienced strong delays for more than two hours due to the fatal rollover accident.

Man Killed in Bicycle Accident Near Pasadena

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)10375 — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

A tragic bicycle accident near Pasadena took the life of 53-year-old Charles Cosgrove on Monday, August 31, 2009. Cosgrove was riding his bicycle along Huntington Drive, only a few blocks from his home, when the fatal bicycle collision took place.

The details of the bicycle accident have not been released by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, but witnesses have said that they heard screeching tires before Cosgrove was hit.

Cosgrove frequently rode his bicycle in the area and used cycling as his main mode of transportation after he lost vision in one eye from a wood-chopping accident. His brother believes that his impaired vision could have played a factor in the bicycle accident.

“It might have had something to do with why he was hit by the car, maybe it was his blind side. We don’t know. And we’re not placing blame on anybody. Either way, it was a tragedy,” said Mike Cosgrove, Charles’ brother.

Cosgrove was a Duarte native and attended Duarte High School. He was known for his work as a gardener and handyman who was always willing to help others. Mourners placed flowers and candles at the site of the devastating bicycle crash.

Deadly San Diego Car Accident Still Under Investigation

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)10334 — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Investigators are still looking into the cause of a San Diego car accident that claimed the life of a California Highway Patrol officer and three family members. One of the aspects of the case that is still being reviewed is whether or not the loaner car’s accelerator became stuck.

CHP Officer Mark Saylor of Chula Vista had taken his car to Bob Baker Lexus El Cajon for servicing. He was given a 2009 Lexus ES 350 to use as a loaner car.

In 2008, the auto manufacturer, Toyota, had recalled the “all weather” floor mats in its 2008 model, after receiving complaints about the mats sliding forward and jamming the accelerator. A sales manager with the dealership said he wasn’t sure which mats were in Saylor’s loaner car.

Toyota released a statement that the company was sorry to hear about Saylor’s accident. The statement said, “We are unable to comment on this tragic accident until all the facts are known. It is important to avoid speculation and allow any investigation to run its course.”

Saylor had been with the California Highway Patrol for 19 years and part of his job involved safety inspections. It is unclear whether he tried to turn off the engine or put the car in neutral to slow the vehicle.

Ventura California DUI Accident Injures Six

lnntrrs@aol.com (News Author)10278 — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

When people drive drunk, other people get very hurt! Six people were injured in a Ventura California car accident involving a suspected drunk driver. According to a news report in the Ventura County Star, 28-year-old Adriana Ponces was entering Highway 154 from Paradise Road in an unincorporated area of Santa Barbara County the night of August 30, 2009 when she made a left turn ahead of an SUV driven by 42-year-old Elizabeth Nally. The front end of the SUV hit the left side of Ponces' car. Two of Ponces' passengers--22-year-old Leticia Gonzalez and 27-year-old Edgar Vega Gomez--sustained major injuries that required surgery. Nally, Ponces and Ponces' two other passengers, Oscar Gomez, 19, and Yuridia Tzompantzi, 19, suffered minor injures. California Highway Patrol officials said everyone involved in the accident was buckled up. Ponces was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and driving without a valid license.