Physical injuries are typically catastrophic and life-threatening when heavy machinery accidents happen. Some victims have lifelong disabilities or are unable to go back to work. Manufacturers, operators, and maintainers are responsible for protecting workers and the public from fatal risks that are not of their making. If faulty equipment or other people's negligence contributed to the accident, you might be able to file a to recover monetary damages.
Any industry that uses equipment has the potential for heavy machinery accidents; however, some of the most frequent ones are as follows:
Workers frequently use heavy machinery in these fields, including cranes, bulldozers, forklifts, and backhoes. These devices are vital; they can break down, a person can maintain or operate them improperly, and all these can cause severe injuries or even death.
Accidents involving heavy machinery can take occur in different forms. However, the following are the most frequent mishaps that cause injuries when using heavy machinery:
Some machinery users made mistakes or errors due to poor training or carelessness. Additionally, the machinery had mechanical issues or failed safety features.
Heavy machinery accident victims frequently experience long-term effects since they may have severe burns or disfigurement. A person can potentially suffer various injuries, some of which may be severe and result in lasting damage. Here are some common injuries a person can suffer from heavy machinery accidents:
A circumstance in which a fatality results from the wrongful conduct or negligence of another person or entity is often referred to as a case of wrongful death. Accidents involving heavy machinery often arise from human error or faulty, frequently resulting in fatalities or horrible, catastrophic injuries. Thus, many victims of heavy machinery and construction accidents in California can bring a personal injury or wrongful death claim for damages.
Finding the parties accountable for the accident and demonstrating their negligence is essential to have a successful wrongful death lawsuit. These parties may include:
If you were financially dependent on a loved one who died in a heavy machinery accident, you might be eligible for worker's compensation death payments, which will help offset some of your losses. But let's say someone else was at fault. In that situation, you might be qualified to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit against the person accountable if the employer was egregiously negligent or you are in some other way ineligible for worker's compensation death payments. You might be able to ask for compensation in a wrongful death lawsuit for the amount of money your loved one would have most likely made up until retirement age. Additional damages like loss of companionship or loss of consortium may also be admissible in your claim.
If you or a family member suffered in a heavy machinery accident and sustained a severe or catastrophic injury, Kaass Law experienced wrongful death attorneys can assist you in obtaining compensation. We will help to understand how the accident happened and identify all who must be legally liable. We will examine every possible payment source, including any potential issues with insurance coverage. Kaass Law attorneys will do everything to protect your rights and get the best outcome in your case. Call us now at (310) 943-1171 and visit our website for other practices.
Using a commercial vehicle has benefits, but it can also come with risks. You may worry about the consequences of an accident. What happens next if you are involved in an accident in a company car? Further, we will discuss what happens after this type of accident.
Laws can vary by state or jurisdiction, which is another factor that can complicate what happens after a company vehicle accident. Due to that, it's important to know what coverage your employer has if you use a company car and what your state and local laws say. California law makes it clear that if an individual is driving a vehicle to perform work duties or to do something for their employer, the driver's employer is liable for any injuries resulting from a car accident where the employee is at fault. For example, you can perform such duties as:
If you are using a company car for personal reasons, the above laws do not apply. As a result, you will probably be responsible. So if you cause an accident on your way to work, your employer is likely liable. Depending on the details, you may also be partially liable. If another driver caused the accident, they are responsible for the damages.
A head injury is a potentially catastrophic consequence of slip and fall incidents. Trauma to the head, skull, or brain may be included. When a person slips and falls, their head may hit the ground, table, or another hard item as they fall. Accidents involving the head frequently need visits to the emergency room. It could result in anything from a slight head injury to a serious brain injury.
Slip and fall accident victims may have emotionally taxing symptoms in addition to physically crippling ones. After a head injury, there could be considerable changes in everyday activities and independence. In severe situations, patients may experience long-term, irreversible impairment that necessitates the need for them to relearn fundamental abilities. Those can include but are not limited to walking, speaking, and using a fork to eat. Some people with head injuries may never be able to work again or may have to work in a completely new field. A skilled medical practitioner must check you right away after a slip and fall accident. It will help them determine whether your symptoms are the result of a head injury or something else following damage to the head. Diagnostic imaging techniques like CT and MRI scans can be helpful to identify hidden ailments so that medical professionals can create a treatment strategy.
Anyone can sustain an injury in various circumstances, such as car accidents, riding a horse, swimming in a pool, and even smoking an e-cigarette. When such situations happen, you usually think of how it is possible to receive compensation for such injuries. Some scenarios can also lead to the criminal responsibility of the defendant. However, it is essential to get compensation for your recovery expenses rather than see the defendant behind bars. To have a successful claim and receive as much compensation as possible, you shall imagine the lawsuit process and be ready for it. There are several steps you shall undertake after sustaining injury. Let's examine those steps and the lawsuit process as a whole.
To prove a certain size of damages and seek the compensation you shall be able to prove the link between the actions of the defendant and your injury. Collecting evidence immediately after the injury happened is a key to success in the process.
Fixed evidence in the place where the accident happened. This can be done by taking pictures of the place of the accident, and collecting details of witnesses if there were any. If there was a car accident, it is essential to maintain the evidentiary value of the car.
Swimming pool accidents can be both fatal and non-fatal. In some cases, people drown in a swimming pool due to lack of safety measures. Other times, accidents happen as a result of negligence or a lack of familiarity with the surroundings. There are many things that contribute to these types of accidents and this article will explore them all so that you know how to stay safe while swimming in a pool. In this article, we will explore the causes and effects of swimming pool accidents. It is common for people to have accidents in or around swimming pools. So, let's read more into some causes and their effects. Any injury related to a pool may result in a lapse in safety measures that may have been overlooked or taken for granted. The severity of the injury will depend on what happened during the accident. Other important factor is how much time passed before help was sought out from professionals.
There are a number of common swimming pool injuries that may occur in or within the area of a swimming pool. It is important to take the right precautionary measures for possible injuries thoroughly. Below are the subcategories listed of injuries frequently occurring in or around swimming pools.
A minors' compromise and release hearing is required by California law if a child under the age of eighteen is injured and receives a monetary settlement from the at-fault party. This means that a guardian must be appointed by the court unless the child is legally emancipated, a judge must approve the settlement for your injured child, and the settlement funds must generally be deposited into a blocked account in any FDIC-insured bank, trust company, savings and loan associate, or similar financial institution located in the state of California, until the child is eighteen years of age. The settlement funds can also be invested in a vehicle like an insurance annuity contract (single-premium deferred annuity). Alternatively, you can have a portion of the funds deposited in a bank and a portion of the funds deposited in an investment vehicle. Please see other articles on this website for more information, or your child's injury lawyer can explain which method is best for depositing settlement funds.
According to California Probate Code Sections 2504,90 3500,91 3600,92 and California Code of Civil Procedure Section 372.93, an enforceable settlement of a can only be consummated with California court approval. The whole point of a court-supervised settlement for injured minors in California is to: Appoint a guardian to assist the minor child in monitoring his or her settlement funds.
It's natural to feel stress and confusion of what to do after receiving an injury in a car accident or other type of accident. You may be coping with financial hardship in addition to the physical and emotional effects of your injury. Many people have lost income as a result of their inability to work, while also facing mounting medical expenditures. Therefore, if someone else's negligence caused the accident, you may be able to hold them liable for the financial losses.
It's a legal principle that's been around for centuries. Its goal is to safeguard persons who was received injures in car accidents. If a person is hurt, they are able to get all of the money they need as soon as possible. If a third party compensates said person, it should have no bearing on what the plaintiff pays. The rule performs two functions. The evidential function is the first one. Simply put, it is a rule that implicates the rules of evidence and ensures that the defendant will not be able to bring up third-party payments made to the plaintiff. The substantive function is the second. This pertains to a person's civil rights and obligations, as well as the victim's right to recover the damages. In other words, just because a victim has received compensation from a third party does not indicate that it will lessen their losses.
It is highly dangerous work to deal with asbestos and underground tank works, which can cause big property damages and serious health injuries if not done correctly. A person (including a licensed contractor) who performs asbestos-related work without certification, or who installs or removes an underground storage tank without certification, is in violation of California's Business and Professions Code 7028.1 BPC.
Asbestos is a high heat resistant fibrous silicate mineral. An underground tank is "a tank and or any underground piping which is connected to the tank, and at least 90 percent of the combined volume of which is underground." Such tanks are usually used to store petroleum and other similar materials. California Business and Professional Code, with its section 7028.1, makes it a crime for a contractor to perform the following actions:
Cycling is a popular and eco-friendly choice in California, offering benefits like avoiding traffic, improving fitness, and reducing your carbon footprint. It also serves as an alternative for people who want to avoid the dangerous combination of alcohol or drugs with driving. While bicycles are not motor vehicles under California law, cyclists must still follow specific regulations, including those about cycling while intoxicated. Understanding these laws is crucial for anyone planning to ride their bike under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
In California’s cycling laws, a bicycle is any human-powered vehicle with one or more wheels, typically propelled by pedaling. It includes bikes powered by gears, chains, or belts. However, motorized bikes or mopeds are not considered bicycles. These bikes are subject to the same DUI laws as motor vehicles, so if you're riding one, you must follow the same alcohol and drug restrictions as drivers.
According to California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 21200.5, a refers to any public road or street, but not freeways. Bicycles are generally not allowed on freeways. Cyclists must stay on permissible roads and avoid restricted areas like freeways.
No driver, unfortunately, is insured against a car accident. After a car, truck, or motorcycle accident, drivers have several options for getting their compensation for vehicle repair. While the damaged vehicle is in the process of repairing, the at-fault driver or his or her insurer is also liable for the payment of renting a similar vehicle. However, just because another driver is at fault does not guarantee that the responsible party will pay up without a fight.
The negligent driver who is the "at fault" party for the car accident, shall be responsible to compensate you for the caused injuries. However, if you have collision coverage, you can decide to seek compensation from the insurer. In any case, the right option for you is to file a notification with the negligent driver as you can later decide that the best option for you is to seek compensation from him. If you have optional collision insurance, the insurer is obliged to pay the costs of repairing the vehicle, regardless of the fact who is the liable party in the accident. This kind of insurance is not mandatory under California law; however, many drivers obtain it. The insurer afterward is eligible to seek reimbursement from the other driver who is at fault of the accident. In case you do not have collision coverage, you have several options to decide on:
In California, the at-fault party is responsible for damages in a car accident. As a result, if the responsible party has insurance coverage, the insurer pays the costs.
Sometimes your employer may look for ways to avoid liability. If you've been using a company car for work, it's important to know your rights. Since your employer usually has to handle the damages. However, if you are concerned about being blamed, contact a car accident lawyer.
If you are an employee there are two types of insurance that may apply:
In general, liability insurance covers damages like:
Workers’ compensation provides a lot of benefits. Through workers’ comp, if your accident injuries prevent you from working you can get compensation for:
If you are struggling with compensation after a company car accident, contact one of our experienced KAASS Law attorneys. We will review your case and determine your legal options.
If you use your personal car for work, you will probably need to use your own insurance. Your employer's insurance is unlikely to apply. However, if you are unsure, consult an experienced attorney.
After the accident there are certain things you should do:
You should also consult an experienced lawyer. Even if your company will handle a lawsuit, it’s crucial to know your rights.
If you’ve been in an accident while driving a commercial vehicle, you need to contact us today for a consultation. Call us at 310.943.1171.
Open-head injuries and closed-head injuries are the two main classifications of head injuries. Using a hard item to strike the head or striking the head against a hard object can result in closed head injuries. The scalp may or may not be bleeding from the outside, and the skull is not fractured. When a hard item strikes the head and breaks the skull, it can cause an open-head injury, which allows blood to enter the brain. This kind of damage occurs most frequently in situations involving high rates of speed, such as when a person happens to be flying through a windshield during a car accident or when a bullet with high velocity enters the skull.
Compared to other types of trauma, slip-and-fall events are more likely to result in certain head injuries, such as:
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) happens when the brain strikes the hard internal surface of the skull, resulting in brain hemorrhage and bruises. A contusion is a medical term for a brain bruise. More serious than bruises from a bump on another part of the body are brain contusions. In some circumstances, severe TBIs can result in fatality or life-altering injury due to irreversible alterations in brain function.
Any type of brain injury can cause edema or brain swelling. The skull cannot expand, in contrast to other body components that can do so to accommodate swelling brought on by tissue injuries. Because brain tissue presses on the skull and pressure build, as a result, swelling in the brain is far more dangerous and can quickly result in an emergency that might be fatal.
Blood that has gathered or clotted outside of blood arteries is referred to as a hematoma in the brain. Clotting results in pressure building inside the skull, which can induce loss of consciousness or irreversible brain injury. Hematomas can be divided into various categories according to where in the cranial cavity the blood collects. Blood that gathers between the skull and the surface of the brain forms a subdural hematoma. A headache that becomes worse over time is a typical sign of subdural hematomas.
If you or someone you know have a head injury resulting from a slip and fall, don't hesitate to call a professional attorney. Please feel free to give our office a call at 310.943.1171.
Receiving medical treatment as soon as possible is not only good for your health and quick recovery of damages. This is also essential for documentation of your visit, professional assessment of your health conditions, and stating that the accident is the cause of your injuries.
The reports immediately after the accident happens, have a big value in your evidence set.
In addition, don't forget that you have limited time to file a lawsuit. The terms of a statute of limitations differ based on the type of accident, however, the general term is two years. If you don't react actively and undertake the necessary steps, you'll not be able to further recover from your damages.
You do not immediately go to court if you sustain injury. Sometimes it is possible to receive compensation even after filing a lawsuit. For this reason, you can file a demand letter to the liable party or the insurance company asking for compensation for your damages. If you are denied, you are free to file a lawsuit with the court.
Without having legal standing, you'll not be able to file a lawsuit. You have legal standing when:
Particularly, if the amount of your claim:
The lawsuit is a formal claim for damages that states your intent to recover compensation from the defendant who is at fault for the accident. The lawsuit contains evidence of such fault and the direct link with your injuries. There is a legal obligation to respond to your claim. In case the defendant does not respond to your claim, the court decides if the defendant is accepting his fault for causing damages. In this case, the court will automatically hold the judgment in favor of you.
The Discovery stages of proceedings allow the parties to gather relevant evidence and information from each other. Depositions are utilized which be used in combination with the first findings gathered.
Most of the cases end before going to trial. Parties are more interested in ending the case sooner without further trial. A fair settlement is a usual solution to injury cases. However, sometimes you will not be satisfied with the offer and decide to continue the process. In this case, just note that more time (approximately more than one year) and expenses will be spent on the settlement of your injury case. If you or your loved one wants to file a personal injury lawsuit, we invite you to contact KAASS Law at (310) 943-1171 for a free consultation on your case and further assistance.
Starting small, we have scrapes or scratches. They are highly common injuries that happen both inside and outside of a swimming pool. If the inside of the pool walls has a specific texture, such as pebbles, it is more than likely someone will sustain an injury if a body part slides across it. Scratches outside of a pool may happen due to a slip and fall caused by a tile, or other slippery outdoor floor material.
Slips and falls are not uncommon either. If the ground outside of a pool is wet, it is likely for someone to slip and fall, possibly hurting themselves with moderate to sever injuries. Slips and falls may also result in broken bones. However, there are recommendations that may limit the chances of slip and falls around the pool deck. For example, coating the area around the pool with a non-slip material to avoid accidents. Another way to prevent a slip and fall is to avoid running in the area or wearing durable outdoor pool shoes.
There are also other injuries that are far more severe. Drowning or near-drowning may cause internal impairment. The number of such experiences happening per year is incredibly high. To avoid the chances of drowning or near-drowning, take precautionary measures to ensure your safety. Children are at the highest risk for drowning in a pool because they cannot swim yet. Additionally, they lack the understanding necessary to avoid dangers like drains and steps, which can cause them to drown. By wearing a floatation device, knowing how to stay afloat, and having safety guarding the pool (fence, lifeguard), it will reduce the chances of drowning.
Wrongful death lawsuits occur when someone faces an unfortunate death due to a swimming pool injury. The victim's family can get compensation if the injury results in death. Compensation that is normally granted after a fatal accident includes:
Accidental contact with electrically charged water and things striking someone in the head while swimming close to a cliff are other examples of accidents that can occur. Even the interaction of different chemicals can harm someone's health.
The pool is a great place to spend the day and cool off in the summer. However, many people have accidents while swimming or around pools. These can range from drowning to cuts and bruises. This article discussed the causes of these accidents as well as some safety tips that you can follow to avoid them yourself! Those who have sustained an injury from a swimming pool are able to get compensation. In these accidents, the victim fulfills all of their obligations. It's critical to realize that damages can vary depending on who is accountable for the victim's injuries. There are many risks that one faces when he goes into a pool. If you or someone you know has had a swimming pool accident, give our office a call. We'd love to help you get the compensation you deserve for your case. To reach a Glendale Personal Injury Attorney, call 310-943-1171 today.
In California, the court process is the best way to approve and monitor a bodily injury settlement for a minor. After the court approved their child’s injury settlement and deposited the funds into a bank account, parents approached me to petition the judge for an early release of part of the funds that didn’t directly benefit the minor. Some parents forget that California’s court process exists to protect the child’s interests because the settlement funds belong to the child. Courts will allow an early release of funds, but they closely scrutinize such requests and require that the money benefit the minor directly.
Courts supervise minor settlements in California to ensure that children receive full protection under the law. Judges appoint guardians, evaluate the fairness of settlement terms, and oversee fund distribution. This process ensures that parents, insurance companies, or other parties do not misuse the minor’s funds. The courts take an active role in protecting a child’s financial interests until they turn eighteen. Without this safeguard, many minors could lose access to money that was rightfully theirs. The legal system prioritizes the child’s well-being above all else and aims to prevent financial exploitation or irresponsible use of settlement proceeds.
At a minor’s compromise hearing, the court reviews all settlement documents and hears from the guardian and attorneys involved. The judge examines the proposed settlement amount, attorney fees, and any medical liens or expenses. If the judge finds the settlement fair and in the best interest of the child, they approve it. Once approved, the funds move into a blocked account or annuity. Parents and guardians must present clear justification for any early withdrawal requests. Judges often ask questions to ensure that the settlement truly benefits the minor. They also check that the agreement complies with California Probate Code and Civil Procedure requirements.
Parents must gather key documents and understand the legal steps before attending a minor’s settlement hearing. They should consult with a personal injury attorney to file the proper paperwork, including a petition for approval and financial documentation. Courts expect parents or guardians to fully explain how they will use and safeguard the funds. Parents should also discuss blocked account options or annuity investments with financial advisors. Courts want to see responsible planning to protect the minor’s future. Preparing thoroughly not only helps ensure a smooth court process but also builds trust with the judge, increasing the likelihood of approval.
For more information on California’s court procedures for minor settlements, visit the California Courts Self-Help Center on Minor's Compromise.
If the monetary settlement is less than $5,000, California Probate Code Sections 3611(d), 94, and 340195 have routinely allowed custodial parents to manage the settlement funds directly on behalf of their minor children, avoiding the need for court approval. In fact, all of California's major insurance carriers routinely waive minors' compromise and release hearings when the settlement amount to the injured child is less than $5,000.
Judges do not require court approval for settlements under $5,000. Judges can choose to place the minor child's funds in a blocked account with court-approved withdrawals. They may also order direct payment to the custodial parent(s).
Are you looking for an attorney to help you with your case? Look no further, Kaass Law will be able to provide you great experience, knowledge and satisfaction. Fell free to call our office at 310.943.1171.
The collateral source rule states that any compensation received by an accident victim from a source other than the defendant in a personal injury case cannot be deducted from the defendant's final award. There are essentially two things that result from the collateral source rule, which are as follows:
An example of those evidence includes:
Yes, there are two exceptions to the collateral source rule, which are as follows:
Yes, subrogation clauses inserted in policy contracts of insurance companies may be an issue for purposes of the collateral source rule. The reason why is because a subrogation clause can help an insurance company recover the costs of the benefits it has paid the plaintiff after an accident.
Contact our Glendale personal injury lawyer today for a consultation and case review. Please feel free to give our office a call at 310.943.1171.
According to the text of the law, it does not matter whether you are a licensed or a non-licensed contractor; you shall be certified to conduct the works mentioned above, as your license does not automatically enable you to conduct asbestos-related or underground tank works.
The above-mentioned section is a misdemeanor. In case you commit the violation for the first time, it can result in:
If you violate the relevant section for the second or subsequent time, this can lead to:
In accordance with the aforementioned sanctions, the judge has the authority to grant probation to the defendant.
Under the California Business and Professional Code, among the related offenses is contracting without a license under section 7028 of the Code. The relevant section makes it a crime for the person to:
The offense is a misdemeanor offense and has these charges:
There are several defenses you can raise to protect yourself from further penalties under the relevant section. Examples of such defenses will be if you were not a contractor while performing the forbidden actions. This means you have not entered into a contract to perform these activities. This defense may work as section 7028.1 applies only to contractors. It can also be if you have not committed the actions knowingly. For example, you touched upon asbestos in the middle of the performance of other types of work, you performed actions not understanding that you are currently dealing with the mentioned material. You can also use types of such defenses as proving that the police applied overbearing measures to coerce you into confession, with the help of which the judge may exclude the confession from other evidence. It is also possible to try to prove that you are falsely accused of violating section 7208.1 of the California Business and Professional Code.
When dealing with hazardous materials such as asbestos and underground storage tanks, it’s critical to understand the legal requirements in California. The certification ensures that workers have the knowledge and skills necessary to handle these dangerous substances safely, preventing health risks and property damage. Certification also guarantees compliance with state laws, which aim to protect workers, property owners, and the environment. Without proper certification, individuals may face legal penalties, including fines or jail time. Thus, obtaining proper certification is not just a legal necessity but also an ethical responsibility to ensure safety.
To avoid violations under Section 7028.1, contractors must prioritize staying informed about certification requirements for asbestos and underground tank work. Ensure all employees involved in such projects are properly certified and meet the necessary safety standards. Contractors should regularly review the latest regulations and training opportunities to maintain compliance. Additionally, it’s crucial to avoid unlicensed work, as operating outside of these boundaries can lead to severe legal consequences. A proactive approach can help prevent penalties, fines, and potential jail time while ensuring safety and legal integrity in all projects.
Note that it is essential to have a good defense to mitigate or even dismiss a charge against you. Contact our Glendale personal injury lawyer today for a consultation and case review. Please feel free to give our office a call at 310.943.1171.
Yes, it is illegal to cycle intoxicated in California. This law applies if you are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both. Under California Vehicle Code Section 21200.5 VC, cycling while intoxicated is prohibited on public roads, trails, and highways. Cycling intoxicated is considered a misdemeanor and carries penalties.
Cycling while intoxicated can impair your ability to ride safely, just like driving under the influence. If you can’t control your bicycle or navigate traffic due to alcohol or drugs, the law considers you “under the influence” and holds you accountable for your actions.
Cycling while intoxicated is a misdemeanor in California. If convicted, you face:
To secure a conviction, prosecutors must prove three key elements:
Yes, California law treats cyclists similarly to motor vehicle drivers on public roads or highways. If you're cycling intoxicated, you face the same Driving Under the Influence (DUI) laws that apply to motor vehicles. Section 21200 of the California Vehicle Code requires people on bicycles to follow the same rules as vehicle drivers, including those prohibiting intoxicated driving.
California Vehicle Code Section 21200.5 extends this provision to cycling while intoxicated. So, cyclists must understand that riding while intoxicated carries penalties similar to a DUI for car drivers.
If you’re charged with cycling under the influence (DUI), several defenses could reduce or dismiss the charges. Some common legal defenses include:
You may successfully argue that you were sober at the time of the incident. Proving your sobriety can lead to the dismissal of the charges.
The law applies only to cyclists on public roads or highways, which excludes private property. If you were cycling on private property, the law doesn’t apply.
Officers need probable cause to stop and arrest you. If the officer didn’t have a valid reason or cause for the stop, this could serve as a defense to suppress evidence collected during the arrest.
California law considers any substance that impairs your ability to ride safely as intoxicating. This includes alcohol, marijuana, prescription medications, and illegal drugs like heroin or cocaine.
Unlike DUI laws, which set a clear blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit, there is no set baseline for drugs in your system. Therefore, any substance that impairs your ability to control your bike or ride safely could lead to a CUI charge.
For more details on cycling laws, visit the KAASS Law website.
If you’ve been arrested for cycling under the influence in California, it’s essential to get help from an experienced attorney. A skilled lawyer can investigate your case, challenge weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and protect your rights.
An attorney can argue that you were sober, that you were not on a public road, or that the officer didn’t have probable cause to stop you. These defenses can reduce or even dismiss the charges against you.
To schedule a consultation or case review, contact KAASS Law at 310.943.1171.
Reporting the accident to your insurance company can be mandatory under numerous policies. Also, not reporting the accident to the California Department of Motor Vehicles can even lead to criminal liabilities.
The best solution for proving property damages is the collection of necessary evidence. This can be:
The insurance shall determine who was liable for the accident based on the photos, testimonies of witnesses, reparation estimates, police report of the accident, etc.
An insurer's only legal obligation is to compensate you for damages up to the value of your vehicle. If you've received a couple of repair estimates and it appears that the cost of repairs will exceed the value of your car, your insurer may declare it a total loss. In this case, you have the right to receive:
To get the most available amount of compensation for the damages, you will definitely need professional legal advice.
If you caused damage to your own vehicle - for example, by driving off the road or colliding with a tree or fence. You'd have to pay for it yourself or file a claim against your own collision coverage, if you have it. If the damage isn't severe, you may want to pay for repairs yourself rather than through your own policy's coverage. This could raise your car insurance premium and cost you more money in the long run.
If you or a loved one has been harmed as the result of another's negligence, then you may be entitled to compensation. If that is the case, contact our Glendale personal injury lawyer today for a consultation and case review. Please feel free to give our office a call at 310.943.1171.