Attorney Blog

San Diego Toddler Dies Due to Fire Department Budget Cuts | CA Injury Accident Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)35783 — Sun, 25 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

On the evening of Tuesday, July 20, 2010, in Mira Mesa at 9:40p.m, 2 year-old Bentley Do passed away after choking on his first gum ball. Now, many people, including firefighters, are claiming that his death could have been prevented if emergency responder brownouts did not occur.

90 percent of the time, the national response time for firefighters to take action is within five minutes.In this case, police officers arrived about five minutes after the 911 call was received and firefighters did not reach the home until another 4 and a half minutes after the officers.Fire officials from the San Diego Fire Department said that due to cut backs to save money, “brownouts” may have caused the young child to meet his choking death.

The chief of San Diego’s Fire Rescue Department Javier Mainar, feels brownouts have negatively impacted firefighters to be able to respond earlier to trauma. But it is undecided if firefighters would have been able to save little Bently even if they arrived sooner.

Bentley’s grief-struck family struggle to comprehend the postponed arrival of help.

Bentley’s cousin Du Le says they were told to wait by the dispatcher. Meanwhile, only a block away, on New Salem Street, they nervously looked across the street at the fire station and wondered why help had still not arrived.

Mainer says the Mira Mesa Station 38 was attending to another trauma call in another district in Station 44. Station 44 happened to be called out to take care of abandoned waste material in the neighborhood of Nestor.
The use of brownouts have been introduced to close a $178 million budget gap. Firefighters from one station fill in for firefighters from another station who take unpaid time off. In other words, San Diego has fewer firefighters covering the same area and they may have to travel further for emergencies.

This loss is especially tragic. It is immensely painful to lose a loved one, but to have that person be your child or a young friend and relative in the early stages of their life. The senselessness of the loss is made all the worse when the loss is caused or contributed to by budget cutbacks. No matter how it is spun, that loss was caused by putting money over people. Could this loss have been prevented without the brownout? Maybe, maybe not. The tragedy of the loss is that we will never know and now a young person is not with us or his family anymore.

New Movie Examines Tort Reform and Runaway Juries | San Diego Personal Injury Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)35576 — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

By now, everyone has heard of the famous McDonald's Coffee Case in which Stella Leibeck, an elderly woman from Albuquerque, spilled hot coffee from the drive through of her local McDonald's restaurant on her lap and then sued "because the coffee was hot" and won millions of dollars after a civil trial.

The McDonald's Coffee Case has been mocked innumerable times by everyone from Seinfeld to Letterman and has spawned the "Stella Awards" for examples of outrageous lawsuits and runaway juries and verdicts.

However, now a new documentary, Hot Coffee--The Movie, looks at the true story behind this famous verdict and exposes many of the false beliefs held by the public. These include the belief that Stella won millions (she didn't, the ultimate verdict was reduced to less than a half million dollars), that there was nothing unusual about the temperature of the coffee (in fact, the coffee was so hot that it was hotter than industry standard), and that the jury verdict was unreasonable and not based upon the evidence (the jury actually carefully examined the evidence and awarded punitive damages based upon McDonald's profit from selling coffee).

The movie pays close attention to the role the McDonald's Coffee Case has played in the tort reform movement and how tort reformers and insurance companies have exploited the verdict for their own selfish gains and to limit injured people's access to the civil justice system. Another side effect has been that the verdict helps insurance companies paint injured people seeking civil justice as greedy and out to win the "lottery". Watch the trailer below:

The producers of the movie are looking for additional donations to complete the film. If you are interested in helping out, please donate here.

Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Sends Mayor to Surgery | Bike Crash Lawyers

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)35373 — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa was involved in a bicycle accident on July 17, 2010, along Venice Boulevard between Hervey and Hargis streets in the Mid-City area of Los Angeles at around 6:50 p.m. The accident reportedly happened when an unidentified taxi cab pulled out in front of the Mayor, forcing him to slam on his brakes and fall to the pavement. Neither the Mayor nor other witnesses could provide the Los Angeles Police Department with a license plate or identify the name of the taxi company.

The accident left Villaraigosa with serious but not life threatening injuries. He fractured his right elbow and had to undergo surgery at Santa Monica UCLA Medical Center on July 18 to repair the elbow.

The Mayor's accident only serves to highlight the dangers for bicyclists sharing the road with cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Thankfully, according to this Los Angeles Times article, the Los Angeles Police Department and Los Angeles city government were already taking positive steps to recognize the importance of bicycle safety within the City and that other motorists can cause bike accidents even without striking the bicyclist. For example, the LAPD had already issued a directive to its' traffic officers responding to bike vs. motor vehicle accidents that the driver of a motor vehicle could be held responsible for injuries to a bicyclist even if direct contact is not made. That motorist could also be arrested for felony hit-and-run, as in the Mayor's accident, if they fled the scene of the injury accident. Bike advocates themselves had already called for more dedicated bicycle lanes within the City and other safety provisions to protect them from motorists who are often unaware they are sharing the same roads. The Mayor's accident will most likely only increase the City's attention on bicycle safety.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego bicycle accident lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured in an injury accident. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bike accident in California, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Riverside Car Accident Kills Minivan Driver | CA Personal Injury Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)33981 — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Ronald G. Sneff, 69, was killed in a fatal car accident in Riverside on the afternoon of June 10, 2010. According to the North County Times report, this car accident occurred near Newport Road close to the 215 Freeway (I-215) when a Hyundai Sedan collided with a Mazda minivan.

Riverside County Sherriff’s officers said that the driver of the Hyundai was travelling north to Interstate 215. As he exited the Newport Road exit, he did not stop at the intersection and hit the center divider before finally colliding with the Mazda van. Sneff was travelling in the Mazda van. Four other passengers from both the vehicles sustained injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

We offer our deepest condolences to Sneff’s family and friends for such their tragic and irreversible loss. We also hope and pray that all the four injured victims recover quickly and completely. From the sounds of the news story, it appears that the driver of the Hyundai was at fault for causing this accident, but many questions are still unanswered. Did he run a red light? Was he intoxicated or impaired? Was he distracted because he was on the cell phone? These are the types of questions we hope that the police investigation answers.

If this auto accident is analyzed, the first thought that comes to our mind is that why did the driver of Hyundai not stop at the intersection? If it is found that he was distracted and failed to notice the red light or suffers from vision impairment, he may be held liable for Sneff’s death and for injuries of four other passengers. Sneff’s family may be entitled for compensation to cover the cost of funeral, loss of earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related expenses.

Ross Jurewitz is a Riverside car accident lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed in a car crash. If you or a loved one has been killed or injured in an auto accident in Riverside, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Dog Bites Man Outside of Lake Tahoe Grocery Outlet

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)33384 — Sun, 13 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

A man was bitten by a dog that was tied up in front of Grocery Outlet at about 12:30 p.m. on March 18, 2010, in South Lake Tahoe. The bitten man and the owner of the dog ended up near the Edgin Coin-Op Car Wash and Broc's Puppies where they had an altercation.

Within no time the South Lake Tahoe Police and El Dorado County Animal Services officers arrived at the scene. After Animal Services were satisfied that the dog had a current rabies vaccine, it was released to its owner. The bite victim was treated for the injuries.

The owner of the dog should have ensured that the dog was tied at a spot where it is safe for people to walk by without having to fear for their safety. Dog owners have a strict duty to ensure that their dogs do not injure others and they are held strictly liable if their dog does commit an injury.

Ross Jurewitz is a South Lake Tahoe dog bite injury lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in a dog attack in California, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz’s book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Proposed California Law Would Install Vehicle Cameras in Cars | San Diego Auto Injury Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)33383 — Sun, 13 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Negligent driving is a huge concern and the cause of thousand of injuries and the loss of many lives on California roads. The reckless attitude of some drivers is one of the prime causes of auto accidents throughout the State. These auto accidents not only harm the reckless driver but also other innocent people. To monitor driving and thereby reduce accidents, the California State Assembly has passed a bill on May 17, 2010, that would allow video recorders to be installed on vehicles' dashboards.

The two major challenges in implementing the law are that current California law prohibits dashboard devices that may obstruct a driver's view and video recording raises concerns about drivers' privacy.

The companies that hire teams of commercial drivers support this bill as it will allow them to ensure their employees are driving safely. Also, the cameras will prove helpful in investigations to determine fault in an accident. The devices can record the vehicle’s speed, how and where it travels, whether the driver was wearing a seatbelt, and whether the brakes were applied before the accident. It has been established that companies that use the recorders have reduced their accident claims by 80 percent. Parents of teenagers are also big supporters of these devices.

However, there are many privacy concerns such as when the records will be installed and must be installed according to the law. As the ACLU spokesperson states, “It’s one thing if you’ve got your teenager in the car…but it’s a different thing if it’s…an adult.” The ACLU also has concerns about monitoring employee drivers and is seeking protections to allow employees to opt out of being recorded while driving.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego auto accident attorney and the managing lawyer of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed due to the negligence of another. If you or a loved one has been killed or injured in a traffic accident in California, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Senior Golfer Dies in Borrego Springs Traffic Accident | San Diego Car Crash Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)33379 — Sun, 13 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

A senior citizen was killed on May 7, 2010, when a vehicle crashed into a concrete wall at the De Anza Country Club Golf Resort on Montezuma Road in Borrego Springs which is situated in the far northeastern reaches of San Diego County. This fatal traffic accident occurred around 2:30 p.m., according to the California Highway Patrol.

The elderly victim died at the scene of accident when a vehicle crashed into a concrete wall. His name will be disclosed once his family has been notified of the unfortunate accident.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego wrongful death accident attorney and the managing lawyer of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been killed in a car accident in California, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Los Angeles County Car Accident | California Auto Wreck Attorney Lawyer

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)33320 — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Lisa Hylla, 25 of North Hills, was killed in an auto accident on Interstate 405 (I-405) near Devonshire Street on May 3, 2010, around 2:20 a.m. Hylla was driving a 2007 Toyota Scion that collided with a 1984 Toyota pickup truck driven by a 64-year-old Richmond man accompanied by 63-year-old Richmond woman. The then disabled pickup truck, which was in the number one lane, was apparently then struck by a Los Angeles Sheriff's patrol car, a 2009 Ford Crown Victoria, which was also northbound in the same number one lane of the San Diego Freeway (I-405).

Hylla was thrown into the southbound lanes of traffic, according to the California Highway Patrol. It is uncertain if Hylla had the opportunity to get out of her car at some point, or if she was ejected from the vehicle. Hylla was not hit by any other vehicles on the southbound side of the freeway. The Richmond couple suffered moderate injuries, and the deputies suffered minor injuries, the CHP reported.

We would like to express our condolences and sincere sympathy for the families of Hylla and all those injured in the accident. Regardless of fault and how the accident occurred, having a loved one injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident is always hard to accept. We would recommend that everyone consult with a personal injury attorney to determine if they are entitled to much needed compensation which could pay for medical bills, lost wages, and funeral expenses. It is unclear how the accident occurred and which party was at fault, but a trained lawyer can investigate and determine which party was negligent and responsible for the damages caused by this crash.

Ross Jurewitz is a Los Angeles County car accident lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been killed in an auto accident in California , please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case . It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Palm Desert Car Accident Leaves Two Injured | Riverside County Auto Wreck Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)33273 — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Two people were injured in a Palm Desert car crash that took place on April 13, 2010 around 8:10 a.m. The auto accident happened near Hovley Lane and Portola Avenue.

The car accident included two cars which collided in the intersection. The cause of the crash is yet unknown. Out of the two people injured, one suffered major injuries, while the other suffered only minor injuries.

Our office wishes the injured people a quick recovery. We hope that whosoever was at fault here will make an attempt to be more careful in the future.

Ross Jurewitz is a Riverside County personal injury lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been killed in a car wreck in California, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Riverside County Car Crash Injures 2 People | Inland Empire Auto Accident Attorney Lawyer

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)33272 — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Two people were injured in a Riverside County auto accident that took place on April 13, 2010 around 8 a.m. The car crash occurred on Avenue 52, just east of Van Buren Street in Coachella.

The accident caused a four car pile up and caused minor injuries.

Our office wishes the injured people a quick recovery. We hope that whoever was at fault here will make an attempt to be more careful in the future.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego personal injury attorney and the managing lawyer of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been killed in an auto accident in California, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Texas A&M Basketball Recruit Tobi Oyedeji Dies in Car Accident | San Diego Auto Wreck Lawyer

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)31883 — Thu, 20 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

On May 16, 2010, high school basketball star Tobi Oyedeji was involved in a head-on car accident on South Main near Hillcroft in Houston when his car hit another vehicle. Tobi was driving a Toyota Avalon that hit two vehicles head on, one of which was a Jeep SUV. A female driver who was driving the second vehicle was declared dead while the driver of the third vehicle was unhurt.

After taking Tobi to the hospital, a surgery was performed within a few hours of the accident. Unfortunately, Tobi was not able to recover from his injuries and passed away.

We give out heartfelt condolences to Tobi’s family and friends who have lost a brilliant kid. He died 5 days before his birthday and days before he was to enroll in Texas A&M University as a highly touted basketball recruit. We hope that all his fellow students will take inspiration from the success that he delivered in both studies and sports.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego car accident lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been killed in a head on auto wreck in California, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Grammy Nominated Jazz Saxophonist Hurt In Car Crash | Long Beach CA Auto Accident Lawyer

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)31882 — Thu, 20 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Boney James, a well known jazz saxophonist, was struck by an alleged drunken driver in Long Beach while he was heading home on May 15, 2010. According to Boney’s publicists, his car was rear ended while he stopped in traffic along Interstate 405 (I-405). The auto accident was a major one and left him badly hurt with gash on his chin, a fractured jaw, and 2 broken teeth.

The gash on the chin had to be treated with fourteen stitches. Passers-by pulled Boney out of his car. Boney has gone home after his emergency room treatment, but this car accident forced him to cancel a show that was planned to take place in Columbia, South Carolina.

We hope and pray that Mr. James recovers soon and is able to once again entertain his fans with his thrilling musical performances. This significant accident could have been far more tragic, resulting in his death. We only hope that the drunk driver is brought to justice and has the wherewithal to compensate Mr. James and his family for their loss. Due to his broken jaw, Mr. James will probably not be playing any concerts for awhile.

Ross Jurewitz is a Long Beach car accident lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been killed in a drunk driving auto accident in California, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Buena Park Pedestrian Accident Injures Orange County Teen | CA Accident Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)30337 — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

A teenager was injured on Tuesday in Buena Park when he was stuck by a 1996 Ford Ranger. The injuries are believed to be minor to moderate. The teenager sustained some cuts and abrasions and was treated at a local emergency and discharged.

The accident happened at Knott Avenue south of the 91 Freeway around at 9:12 p.m. Buena Park Sgt. Bill Kohanek stated that the 17-year old teenager was running towards a van parked on Knott Avenue that was about to pick him up. He was accompanied by another teen and both boys were returning to the van after doing door-to-door sales. The other teen made it to the van but the second boy was struck by the truck. The van was scheduled to take them home somewhere in the Los Angeles area.

Police are still investigating the pedestrian accident.

Our office wishes the teen boy a speedy recovery and a healthy life ahead. We should all be more careful and aware of our surroundings while walking on the road as we are more vulnerable to injuries from drivers who may not be looking out for pedestrians or bicyclists. Drivers should also drive slow and carefully in residential and highly populated areas.

Ross Jurewitz is an Orange County personal injury attorney and the managing lawyer of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in a Orange County car accident, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

San Diego Pedestrian Accident Seriously Injures Mother and Baby | CA Injury Attorney Lawyer

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)29829 — Sun, 11 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

A mother and her child were severely injured in a San Diego pedestrian accident that happened on April 7, 2010 around 6p.m. The car vs. pedestrian accident occurred at the intersection of Fury Lane and Via Rancho in El Cajon, CA.

Reportedly, a vehicle crashed into the mother and her baby while they were in the 11500 block of Fury Lane. The driver of the vehicle claimed that he could not see as he was blinded by the sun’s rays. The victims were taken to Mercy Hospital. The 1-year old baby suffered from some serious cuts, but was breathing.

Our office wishes the mother and the child a quick recovery. It is so heart wrenching to hear of such a young child being involved in a serious accident. We hope that a proper investigation takes place and the cause of the accident comes out soon. The area in which the accident took place usually has commuters complaining of the problem of sun rays hitting straight into their eyes as they drive. If this is turning out to be such a problem, then we hope that something is soon done by officials from the City of El Cajon and/or County of San Diego.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego pedestrian accident attorney and the managing lawyer at the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in an car accident in California, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

San Franciso Intersection Sees Consecutive Auto Accidents | CA Injury Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)29818 — Sun, 11 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Two separate car accident took place on 19th Avenue and Winston in San Francisco on April 5, 2010, shortly after each other. These accidents happened at around 1 p.m.

In the first auto accident, the driver had fallen asleep and drove into a traffic signal erected at Stonestown Galleria. The second car accident, which happened shortly afterward, occurred when a Nissan forced a silver Toyota Corolla onto the median causing it to crash into a street lamp. The drivers in both the cases were taken to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

Our office wishes both the drivers a quick recovery. It goes without saying that the first accident could have been much more serious. Sleeping while driving is the most dangerous thing one can do while operating a motor vehicle. Always make sure that you are in a fit condition to drive, so as to ensure not only yours but also others’ safety.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego car accident attorney and the managing lawyer of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in an injury accident in California, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Bauer Youth Hockey Equipment Recalled | San Diego Child Injury Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)29518 — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

Bauer Hockey, Inc. has recalled several Youth and Junior hockey sticks, shafts, and blades due to excessive levels of lead in violation of federal lead paint standards.

The following products have been recalled as dangerous:

Nike Bauer Supreme One50 Junior Stick sticks, shafts and replacement blades U.S. and Canada
Nike Bauer Supreme One70 Junior Stick player stick U.S. and Canada
Nike Bauer Supreme One75 Junior Stick player and goalie sticks U.S. and Canada
Bauer Supreme One75 Junior Stick player stick U.S. and Canada
Nike Bauer Supreme One90 Youth and Junior Stick sticks, shafts, and replacement blades U.S. and Canada
Nike Bauer Vapor XVI Junior Stick player stick U.S. and Canada
Nike Bauer Vapor XX Junior Stick player and goalie sticks U.S. and Canada
Bauer Vapor XX Junior Stick player stick U.S. and Canada
Nike Bauer Apollo Junior Stick player stick U.S.
Nike Bauer Supreme Force Junior Stick player stick U.S.
Nike Bauer Supreme Accel Junior Stick player stick Canada
Nike Bauer Supreme One40 Junior Stick player stick Canada
Nike Bauer Supreme OneLTX Junior Stick player stick Canada

Consumers who have purchased these recalled child hockey products should take their purchased recalled products away from their kids and contact the company for either a replacement product that does not have excessive levels of lead or ask for a refund. Bauer can be contacted at 888-734-0443.

San Diego Pedestrian Accident Kills Girl | San Diego Personal Injury Attorney Lawyer

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)29450 — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

A 7-year old girl lost her life in a fatal San Diego pedestrian accident that took place on April 3, 2010, sometime during the afternoon. The accident took place in the Encanto neighborhood of San Diego in the 500 block of Iona Drive near Kenwood.

The little girl, Ayania Murrell, was a Spring Valley resident and had come to a friend’s place when she ran across the street and was struck by a pickup truck. Murrell was taken to Rady Children’s Hospital where she succumbed to her injuries. San Diego Police are searching for an ice cream truck that may have witnessed the tragic injury that killed this young child.

Our office wishes to offer our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the family and friends of the little girl. We understand how torturous it is to lose someone so young. From a personal injury attorney’s perspective, we wonder why she unexpectedly ran across the street and in front of the truck. Did she hear an approaching ice cream truck and was lured by its’ music and treats? Was the driver of the truck on his cell phone or otherwise distracted? Regardless, the loss of human life and that of a small child is heartbreaking. As parents and adults, all we can do is guide our children to always look before crossing the street and not to run out in front of traffic.

Ross Jurewitz is a child injury lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in a pedestrian accident in California, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Los Angeles Railroad Accident Kills Worker | California Personal Injury Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)29449 — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

A 56-year old man from Visalia lost his life in a fatal Los Angeles railroad accident that took place on March 20, 2010 in El Monte.

The deceased, Roberto Ramirez, was a Union Pacific railroad worker from Visalia and had been working on the railway tracks and had returned to his work truck when he was hit by a commuter train. Due to the impact, his truck moved 330 yards from the scene of the impact. Ramirez died on the spot. Three passengers suffered from minor injuries.

Our office wishes to convey our condolences and prayers to Ramirez’s friends and family. We can understand it must be a very difficult time for them. Understandably, the accident was not Ramirez’s fault. Usually when a railroad worker is working on the tracks, the communications with the train operators will let them know where such work is taking place. Did this happen here? If so, then why did the operator and/or his lookout not see the truck prior to the collision? A thorough investigation must be conducted.

Ross Jurewitz is a Los Angeles railroad accident lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in an injury accident in California, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Blown Car Tire Leads To Death of San Bernardino Woman | Injury Accident Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)28810 — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Date: March 21, 2010

Type: One-Vehicle Accident

Location: Near Kenwood Avenue, San Bernardino, CA

Outcome: Woman killed, other passengers injured

A 46-year old San Bernardino woman was killed when the jeep she was a passenger in careened into the center divider and flipped several times before landing on its roof. The cause behind this fatal auto accident was a blown tire. The deceased, Debra Ann Davis, died on the spot. The other passengers were taken to area hospitals.
Our condolences go out to Ms. Davis’ friends and family and to the friends and family of those injured in this rollover auto accident.

If our California personal injury law firm were to advise Ms. Davis’ family and those people injured following this fatal accident we would recommend that her vehicle be inspected by a trained vehicle inspector. Her family may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer and distributor of the blown tire and the vehicle itself. First, the tire was not designed or manufactured properly. Second, the roof support system of the vehicle may not have been safe. Manufacturers need to assume that rollover accidents occur and provide additional reinforcement for the roof structure.

San Diego Rollover Car Accident Kills Marine | CA Injury Lawyer Attorney San Diego

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)28747 — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Date: March 18, 2010

Type: Rollover Crash

Location: Camino Ruiz and Carroll Canyon Road, Mira Mersa

Outcome: Marine killed and Driver injured

A 21-year old Marine lost his life and the driver was critically injured when the car they were in fell into a ravine. This fatal auto accident took place after 10:30 pm. The Mazda sedan crashed through a guardrail, went off the end of the road and rolled around 30 feet into a ravine before landing on its roof. The Marine succumbed to his injuries in the hospital

San Diego Auto Accident Kills Pedestrian | San Diego Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)28667 — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A 50-year old man lost his life in a San Diego auto accident that took place on March 17, 2010. The accident happened at around 11:45 a.m.

The deceased was struck by an eastbound semi truck after he parked on Camino Maquiladora near Pacific Rim Court in Otay Mesa. He suffered head and leg injuries and died before he could be taken to a hospital. The truck driver was not cited and alcohol was not involved, police said. The truck vs. pedestrian accident is under investigation.

Our office wishes to offer prayers and condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. We hope that the investigation finishes soon. If it does find that the driver of the tractor trailer was negligent and caused this accident, we hope that the pedestrian’s family consults with an experienced and reputable personal injury attorney who can provide much needed advice about their legal rights.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego truck accident lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in a San Diego pedestrian accident , please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case . It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Drunk Driving Car Accident Happens After Driver Runs Red Light

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)28665 — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A 19-year old teenager driving under the influence of alcohol crashed into a car at the intersection of Olympic Parkway and Palomar Street at about 4:45 a.m. on March 14, 2010.

The teenager, Julian Tavasci, had jumped the red signal and subsequently crashed into her car. He was later found to be intoxicated and was arrested on charges of felony drunken driving. Also he had no proof of insurance. The victim, a 51-year old woman, was rescued and was in shock after her car was struck and rolled over after the collision. She suffered minor injuries but the trauma of the car accident left her disoriented.

Our office wishes for a quick recovery for the victim. Disobeying traffic rules, drinking while driving, this shows utter disregard for the system.

Ross Jurewitz is a car accident lawyer in San Diego and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in a auto accident in San Diego, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Riverside County Bicycle Accident Injures Cyclist | Riverside CA Bike Crash Attorney Lawyer

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)28664 — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Date: March 15, 2010

Type: Truck strikes bicyclist

Location: Cook Street and Merle Drive, Riverside, CA

Outcome: Cyclist Injured, Hospitalized

A bicyclist was left injured when he was struck by a cement truck on Cook Street at Merle Drive in Riverside, CA. The bicyclist lost control of the bike while southbound on Cook Street, landed in a traffic lane, and was struck by the truck according to Deputy Melissa Nieburger of the Riverside County Sheriff's Department. The rider is now hospitalized.

San Diego Hit And Run Car Accident Injures Good Samaritan | CA Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)28488 — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A 33-year old man was injured in a San Diego hit and run auto accident while helping motorists on Interstate 805 (I-805) in the Webster area of San Diego. The car crash occurred shortly before 2 p.m.

Sean Franklin, a Ramona resident, was placing flares in the right-hand lane of the southbound side of the freeway near State Route 94 (SR-94) to help several motorists who just been involved in a traffic collision there, when he was hit by a light colored vehicle, possibly a white, four-door 2001 BMW 325 or 330i. Franklin was taken to a hospital where he was admitted for treatment of his serious injuries.

Our office wishes a speedy recovery for Franklin. He has to be commended for stopping for and helping someone else in their need. It is just sad that he had to be injured while performing such a good deed.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego auto accident attorney and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in a San Diego injury accident, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Fatal San Diego Chain Reaction Car Accident | Injury Attorney Lawyer CA

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)28206 — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Two drivers and five people were hurt in a fatal San Diego multi-car accident that occurred on March 11, 2010, on the southbound side of Interstate 805 (I-805), just north of Market Street and south of State Route 94 (SR-94). The accident happened around 1:50 a.m.

The first car crash involved a 34-year old man driving a 2008 Saturn who lost control and went into the median wall. His vehicle came to rest blocking the southbound fast lane of the freeway and was struck from behind by a driver in a 1998 Nissan Sentra. Paramedics took two people to UCSD Medical Center, two people to Sharp Memorial Hospital and one person to Scripps Mercy Hospital, a San Diego fire-rescue dispatcher said.

A third auto accident occurred when a good Samaritan, Sean Daniel Franklin, stopped on the right shoulder of the freeway and ran across lanes to try to divert traffic from the accident site. Franklin, 33, was putting flares on the road to keep cars away from the fast lane when he was struck by a vehicle--possibly a four-door 2001 BMW, either a 330i or a 325--that failed to stop. Franklin suffered major injuries. A fourth wreck occurred in the backup caused by the earlier crashes. Eduardo Michael Diaz, who was driving a 1996 Honda Civic, was unable to avoid the stopped traffic in front of him and ran into an unknown vehicle, which drove off. Diaz suffered major injuries in that crash. In all, five people suffered major injuries and were hospitalized.

Our office wishes for a quick recovery for the injured people and offers condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. The possible reason behind the multiple auto accidents seems to be driving under influence. We yet again urge all drivers to take as much caution as possible while driving after drinking. Because of a slow reflex system due to intoxication, even small incidences turn into disasters.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego car accident lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in San Diego auto accident, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case . It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Fatal San Diego Chain Reaction Car Accident | Injury Attorney Lawyer CA

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)28205 — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Two drivers and five people were hurt in a fatal San Diego multi-car accident that occurred on March 11, 2010, on the southbound side of Interstate 805 (I-805), just north of Market Street and south of State Route 94 (SR-94). The accident happened around 1:50 a.m.

The first car crash involved a 34-year old man driving a 2008 Saturn who lost control and went into the median wall. His vehicle came to rest blocking the southbound fast lane of the freeway and was struck from behind by a driver in a 1998 Nissan Sentra. Paramedics took two people to UCSD Medical Center, two people to Sharp Memorial Hospital and one person to Scripps Mercy Hospital, a San Diego fire-rescue dispatcher said.

A third auto accident occurred when a good Samaritan, Sean Daniel Franklin, stopped on the right shoulder of the freeway and ran across lanes to try to divert traffic from the accident site. Franklin, 33, was putting flares on the road to keep cars away from the fast lane when he was struck by a vehicle--possibly a four-door 2001 BMW, either a 330i or a 325--that failed to stop. Franklin suffered major injuries. A fourth wreck occurred in the backup caused by the earlier crashes. Eduardo Michael Diaz, who was driving a 1996 Honda Civic, was unable to avoid the stopped traffic in front of him and ran into an unknown vehicle, which drove off. Diaz suffered major injuries in that crash. In all, five people suffered major injuries and were hospitalized.

Our office wishes for a quick recovery for the injured people and offers condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. The possible reason behind the multiple auto accidents seems to be driving under influence. We yet again urge all drivers to take as much caution as possible while driving after drinking. Because of a slow reflex system due to intoxication, even small incidences turn into disasters.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego car accident lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in San Diego auto accident, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Lindsay Lohan's Frivolous Lawsuit Against E-Trade: Hurting Plaintiffs with Real Injuries

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)28187 — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Even as a lawyer who regularly represents plaintiffs in civil litigation lawsuits, I still shake my head at the fact that some claims get filed in court. There are some civil lawsuits which just make you wonder why they were brought in the first place. Then there are lawsuits which just enfuriate me because, in my opinion, they are blatantly baseless on their face.

The most recent and noteworthy example of this is the lawsuit brought by Lindsay Lohan against online brokerage company, E-Trade, and filed in Nassau County Supreme Court in New York. Lohan is alleging that E-Trade's baby commercial featuring a baby "milkaholic Lindsay" is a reference to her and that the commercial defamed her, violated her right to privacy, and violated Lohan's proprietary rights to her name and likeness. The lawsuit seeks damages of $100 million. A copy of the lawsuit can be found on TMZ.com.

What narcisism!

I know I am not alone in that I never associated Lindsay Lohan with the E-Trade commercial. Apparently, the only people who believed the commercial referenced Lohan are Lohan herself, her stage mother, Dina, and her attorney.

What is the smoking gun? Where is the proof? According to Dina Lohan, notes from a brain storming session by the Grey Group--who created the commercial for E-Trade--show that the name of the charachter was changed from "Deborah" to "Linday" and that references to the charachter in the notes included "gutter hound", "skanky cake", "fish face", and "saddlebags". Apparently the Lohans do not think much of Lindsay to believe these comments referred to Lindsay. A copy of the original script and a rewrite six weeks later can be found at Esquire.com.

See the commercial for yourself and see if you think it is a reference to Lohan.

The cost to the justice system in terms of managing and dedicating judicial resources to a claim which seems completel baseless is inexcusable. However, what is even more inexcusable is the damage such lawsuits do to legitimate plaintiffs. The public perception is that people who file lawsuits are greedy and that if you file a lawsuit it is because you are out for money you do not deserve. Lawsuits like this just reinforce that belief. This belief is so strong that it permeates almost everyone's belief systems. Every client who comes into our office, people who are seriously injured and who have legitimate claims that deserve compensation, tell us that "I am not trying to get rich", "I don't want to be one of those people who files lawsuits", or "I'm afraid of what my friends/family will think about me filing a lawsuit."

This is also reflected in juries. In one recent San Diego jury trial, a juror after the verdict was reached told the plaintiff's lawyer that they did a disservice to their client by not settling prior to trial--the clear implication is that cases that go to trial do so because of the injured person's greed and not because of their merits. Nevermind the fact that the insurance company never offered to pay the medical bills and the jury awarded 8 times the insurance company's last offer.

In order for injured people and plaintiff's to get a fair shake in front of juries, people must believe that the civil court system does not host frivolous lawsuits and that they serve justice, not lottery results to undeserving participants. Unfortunately, Lohan's claim undermines this necessary belief.

Senator Harry Reid's Wife Seriously Injured in Tractor Trailor Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)28182 — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

The wife and daughter of Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) were struck and injured in a serious rear-end tractor-trailer accident on Interstate 95 (I-95) just outside of Washington, DC when the Honda Odyssey they were travelling in was hit from behind by a semi truck loaded with heavy rolls of plastic. The force of the impact was so severe that the Reid family was pushed into another vehicle, a Jeep Grand Cherokee, which was then pushed into a Chevrolet Cobalt.

Alan W. Snader, the driver of the commercial truck, was charged at the scene with reckless driving.

Landra Reid underwent surgery on Friday, March 12 to stabilize her cervical spine (neck) following the tractor trailer accident. According to her doctors, Mrs. Reid is "neurologically intact" after suffering a broken neck, a broken vertebrae in her back, and a broken nose.

Lana Barringer, the daughter of Senator and Mrs. Reid, was also injured.

Mrs. Reid was transferred out of the intensive care unit at Inova Fairfax Hospital on Saturday, March 13 following her surgery. Her doctors report that she is improving, but that she was seriously injured in the semi-truck accident. According to doctors, Mrs. Reid has been been able to get out bed and is controlling her pain using narcotics.

While all the news reports have been very, very cheery about Mrs. Reid's prognosis, the reality is that Mrs. Reid is in for a very long recovery and will, in most likelihood, never fully recover. Spinal injuries are very serious , particularly cervical spine injuries. She is 69 years old and, even assuming perfect health otherwise, will have a longer healing process than most--injuries in older women tend to persist longer than injuries for other demographic groups. In addition, she will most likely have ongoing neurologic symptoms and pain as well as arthritis in her neck and back. We wish her the best recovery and hope that she is able to eliminate all of her pain.

As for the driver of the semi truck, we hope that the local authorities investigate this accident thoroughly before proceeding with the prosecution. Commercial truck drivers are held to strict safety standards and regulations. It will be essential that it is determined which he complied with and which he did not. However, aside from the criminal prosecution, Mrs. Reid would be well advised to consult with an experienced interstate trucking accident attorney in the Virginia-Maryland-DC area to receive help with her past and future medical treatment and bills. The medical care necessary for her recovery will be very expensive.

Did the San Diego Driver of the Runaway Prius Make up the Accident?

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)28173 — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Earlier we reported about the San Diego Man, James Sikes, who was saved by California Highway Patrol officers after his Toyota Prius allegedly experienced uncontrollable acceleration, speeding up to 90 mph on Interstate 8 (I-8), before being stopped by the officers.

Now, bloggers and other journalists are starting to doubt the story.

When reported accidents like this occur, we generally take them at face value—unless they are completely and clearly fabricated. We’ll continue to do so, but even our office has its’ concerns. First, the slow pace of the acceleration and the slow top speed (90 mph is fast, but is not uncommon for some drivers along San Diego’s freeways) do not at first indicate that the vehicle was accelerating out of control.

Second, the manner in which Mr. Sikes was able to stop his car—by applying his emergency brake and foot brake and ultimately pushing the power button several times—does not at first blush seem like a method to stop a vehicle with a stuck accelerator. Also, Mr. Sikes reportedly tried to put the vehicle in neutral and even reverse in his efforts, all to no avail. Now, admittedly, I am not an expert in sudden acceleration, vehicle design, and have not consulted an expert before writing this article. And the factual events may have proceeded just as Mr. Sikes describes. If they did, one would think that the “black box” in the Prius would have recorded the events. However, I am initially skeptical.

Third, whenever a major news story like the Toyota sudden acceleration problems are reported there are always copycats looking either for financial gain or 15 minutes of fame. Thankfully, these people are a small, small minority and most claimants are very honest. But these handful of claimants in the most publicized cases can have a disastrous effect on the thousands, or even millions in Toyota’s case, who have an honest and valid claim. They end up poisoning the well for jurors and give the defense a tool to use at trial that it is the defense counsel who is seeking truth—not the attorney for the injured person—and is trying to protect the public from frivolous lawsuits.

In Mr. Sikes’s defense, the media attack he is now experiencing is not unusual. Major companies have long used the media and alternative media to criticize those who seek to tell the truth about their behavior or seek deserved compensation for injuries or even death. Certainly some of the media reports we have seen have been focused on digging up selatious dirt on Mr. Sikes’s personal life and are not concerned about whether his claims are true.

We hope, not only for Mr. Sikes’s sake but for the sake of all those people who have suffered injury and even death due to Toyota’s dangerous vehicle design and manufacturing, that Mr. Sikes is telling the truth and is honest about what occurred. As we said earlier, all it takes is one bad, well publicized story to emerge for jurors to doubt everyone’s claims.

Three Die In A Riverside County Car Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)28171 — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

Three people, including 30-year old Donald Graves, his 3-year old daughter Dakota (both of Hemet), and 20-year old Andrew Huizar of Apple Valley lost their lives in a fatal Riverside County car accident on the evening of March 9, 2010.

Graves, along with his daughter, was in a Chevy Malibu and Huizar was driving a Honda Accord when Graves suddenly drove onto the opposite lane causing a head-on collision on Florida Avenue near Warren Road in Hemet. The 3 year old Dakota died at the scene while Graves and Huizar succumbed to fatal injuries at Hemet Valley Medical Center. According to investigating officers, Graves was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the collision.

Our office expresses deepest remorse to the families and friends of the victims. We never like to hear about the loss of life, especially when it may be preventable. Lessons can certainly be learned from this accident. First, a small step like wearing the seatbelt could have possibly prevented Mr. Graves’s death. What will it take to make people realize that it is for their own safety that California law requires them to wear seat belts? Second, it is unclear why Mr. Graves was heading the wrong direction down the road.

If our office were to advise the family of Andrew Huizar, we would suggest hiring an accident investigator to determine why this head-on accident occurred. There is a possibility that Mr. Graves was driving under the influence or distracted on a cell phone or via texting and therefore did not notice that he had crossed over the opposite lane of traffic. We would also recommend hiring a private investigator to determine Mr. Graves’ assets and the assets of his estate that could pay for the loss of 20-year old Andrew Huizar’s life. Mr. Graves’ auto insurance policy will be wholly inadequate to provide full compensation.

Ross Jurewitz is a Riverside County personal injury lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in a Riverside car accident , please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case . It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

San Diego Hit and Run Driver Involved in Fatal Pedestrian Accident Identified

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)27961 — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

An 18-year old teenage boy lost his life in a San Diego pedestrian accident when he was hit by two cars on El Camino Real near Cassia Avenue. This fatal accident took place on March 5, 2010 around 9:45 pm. Now, a local San Diego woman, Lisa Hutchinson, has come forward and contacted the Carlsbad Police Department reporting that she may be the hit and run driver who struck and killed the pedestrian.

The victim, Steven Anthony Kelley, was attempting to cross the street when he got struck by the first car. Though Officers stopped the second car's driver near the scene, but the first vehicle that struck the teenager kept on going. Kelley died in an ambulance en-route to McClellan-Palomar Airport, where he was to be flown to a hospital. The next day, on March 6, 2010, a 44-year-old Lisa Hutchinson came forward as the driver of one of two cars that may have struck the youth. She says she may have unwittingly struck the teenaged boy but had left the scene after failing to spot any victim.

Our office wishes to offer our sincere prayers and condolences to the family and friends of Kelley. We can understand how distraught the family must be at this moment. There are no words to express a tragedy of this kind. We hope that the guilty person is caught and prosecuted We can never stress enough on the fact that how important it is to be vigilant of your surroundings while driving. And in case, you hit someone on the road, at least stop and help him/her out!

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego personal injury attorney and the managing lawyer of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in a San Diego pedestrian accident , please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case . It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Fatal East San Diego County SUV Accident Near Barona Casino

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)27913 — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

One person was killed and another injured in an East San Diego County SUV accident that took place on State Route 67 (SR-67) near Muth Valley Road, on March 7, 2010. This fatal car accident occurred around 12:20 pm.

The traffic collision between a pickup truck and SUV happened near the Barona Resort & Casino, just south of the Barona Indian Reservation. One person was pronounced dead at the scene and at least one other was taken to a hospital according to a Heartland Fire dispatcher. The police are still investigating the cause for the auto accident.

Our office forwards our condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased. We also pray for a quick recovery for the injured person. We never like to hear that anyone is injured or killed in a car wreck. Unfortunately, it happens all too often—particularly along Wildcat Canyon Road and SR-67. That stretch of highway is the most dangerous road in San Diego County and is home to more fatal auto accidents than any other highway based upon traffic volume. We recommend that motorists avoid using this highway unless they absolutely have to drive it. If you have to drive on this road, be extra careful.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego auto wreck lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in a San Diego car crash, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Adjustor Comes to Your Door | Early Lowball Insurance Offer | Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)27800 — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

We've written before about Progressive Insurance's tactic of coming to injury accident victim's home to make a lowball offer early on following an accident . This practice seems to be growing in popularity amongst insurance companies. More and more insurance adjustors are trying to get to accident victims early on to convince them to sign a release before they can hire a personal injury attorney.

The insurance companies are not dumb. They know that their own insurance studies show that injury accident victims receive three times as much compensation when they hire a lawyer than when they do not. It is the goal of the insurance companies to try to get away with paying as little money to settle claims. This is just one tactic to acheive that goal.

A recent post on Facebook reminded our office of this tactic and how widespread it is. According to the post, the insurance company offered the victim $1,000 as final payment to settle his claim. Unfortunately, he said yes and he accepted the settlement amount as payment in full. When he told his family and a lawyer friend about the settlement, they all said he she should have waited until his medical treatment was done. When he tried to reverse the agreement, the insurance company said "too bad, you signed a release."

It is always a smart idea to consult with a personal injury lawyer prior to settling an insurance claim. Often, attorneys will provide a free consultation and advise you whether you should accept the settlement offer. Since this does not cost anything, it is a very smart thing to do. Don't sell yourself short by settling with the insurance company early.

Seat Belt Use at All-Time High

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)27732 — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

According to a new study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seat belt use during 2009 was at an all-time high. Eighty-four percent (84%) of all vehicle occupants use seat belts while traveling in vehicles. That was up from 2008 where the same study found 83% of all vehicle occupants wore their seat belts.

According to the same study, the NHTSA found that seat belt use was higher in "primary law" states such as California (states where vehicles can be pulled over solely for passengers not using seat belts) than in "secondary law" states that require the violation of another California Vehicle Code section before a vehicle can be pulled over.

This is encouraging news. It isn't surprising that the best way to prevent or limit injury in motor vehicle accidents is the use of seat belts that restrain occupants around the waist and shoulders. Why the percentage of passengers using seat belts is not at least 90% is beyond me. Using seat belts should be second nature and people should put them on when they first enter a car.

Please help get this number to at least 90% by putting on seat belts immediately and encouraging all other passengers in your vehicle to do the same to prevent serious injury or even death.

Fallbrook Pedestrian Killed in Fatal San Diego County Bus Accident | Lawyer Attorney Personal Injury

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)27605 — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

In a tragic accident, a 38-year old man lost his life after he was struck by a school bus in the 1700 block of Reche Road in Fallbrook. The victim, Deio Alcala, was standing in front of his girlfriend’s North San Diego County home, drawing with chalk on the road, when he was hit by the 25-seat vehicle. It is believed that he was trying to draw a marriage proposal on the road for his girlfriend to see. The bus accident took place around 5:30 am on February 26, 2010.

Though Alcala looked up before the accident, hecould not move in time and was knocked into a Ford Explorer. He died at the scene. The bus driver, en route to pick up special-needs students for transport to school, was uninjured.

Our office wishes sincere prayers and condolences to the family and friends of Deio Alcala, especially his girlfriend. This fatal accident would have been tragic under any circumstance, but to have it happen while Mr. Alcala was preparing a marriage proposal is all the more painful. Even worse, his girlfriend saw the accident and its’ aftermath. It must have been torturous to see someone you love so dearly dying in front of you.

If she consulted with our office, we would be sure to advise her that under California law she may have a separate right to compensation and recovery because she watched the accident unfold. The gray area, however, is that she is not a blood relative and she was not married to Mr. Alcala at the time. Had she been, she would clearly be entitled to an award of damages. Unfortunately, California law may not accurately reflect today’s realities and the relationships people have amongst themselves when they are serious boyfriend-girlfriend or when they are engaged to be married.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego pedestrian accident attorney and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in a San Diego bus accident , please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz's book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case . It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

Toyota Sudden Acceleration Defect Demonstrates Government Conflict of Interest and Need for Trial Attorneys to Hold Manufacturers Accountable for Dangerous Products

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)27340 — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Toyota and its' executive leadership have had a tough week before a House Subcommittee investigating the nature and impact of what many believe is a serious product defect involving the gas pedal-floormat-electronic accelerator which has led to sudden acceleration of their vehicles. One of the most prominent accidents allegedly arising from this defect was the Santee auto accident which took the lives of California Highway Patrol Officer Saylor and members of the Lastrella family. That accident led to the widespread recall of Toyota floor mats.

As it turns out, the federal government's investigation ignores not only its' own involvement and complicity in allowing these widespread defects to exist but also its' clear conflict of interest as the owner of Toyota's main competitor for glogal automotive dominance: General Motors.

The federal government has long held oversight over a regulatory structure which governs the safety of motor vehicles which use America's highways. Its' purpose was to set basic and general safety requirements and manufacturing standards which would apply to all manufacturers. When products were later discovered to fall short of these standards, the government agencies and US safety regulators, foremost of which is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), would take action including recalling vehicles from the public so that they could receive much needed safety repairs and fixes.

In the case of Toyota, though, the federal government now appears to have been complicit in aiding and abetting the ongoing existence of dangerous vehicles on the roadways. For approximately a decade, the NHTSA has received numerous complaints about sudden acceleration in Toyota vehicles. When it became very apparent that a recall would occur, the government regulators bowed down in the face of pressure from Toyota who negotiated a more limited recall than the government sought with respect to the floor mats in its' vehicles. Toyota executives then communicated internally, as recently discovered in an internal document, that they had got one over on the feds and had saved $100 million for the company.

This reduction of safety concerns to a quantifiable cost is a consistent refrain from manufacturers and, in particular, automobile manufacturers. The most infamous example was Ford Motor Company's mathematic formula for determining when and/or if it would recall its' Pinto line which tended to ignite upon very minor contact.

In addition to the federal government's complicity, a clear conflict of interest now exists with respect to its' oversight over the auto industry. General Motors, the former world's largest automobile company, is now majority owned by the federal government as part of the government's bailout of the United States automobile industry. How can the federal government be taken seriously and not present serious doubt amongst the public when it investigates a competitor like Toyota? Even more importantly, how can the government investigate General Motors now that it is the primary owner? If it did, how could anyone take the investigation seriously with such an inherent conflict of interest? In that situation, many would argue that the government gave light treatment to General Motors due to its' ownership just as many now argue that it is treating Toyota, a competitor, in a heavy handed manner.

The government's decision to take ownership in the auto industry requires it to largely abdicate its' oversight role. Who, then, will hold the auto industry accountable when they put profits ahead of safety? If all the manufacturer cares about is money and profit, the importance of plaintiffs' trial lawyers to obtain civil judgments and even punitive damages against the manufacturer of defective products increases significantly. Reducing the harm and negative effects caused by their defective and dangerous vehicles to monetary damages--and monetary damages that are great enough to be noticed at the company's bottom line--is one of the last ways to reign in a manufacturer's dangerous and reckless decision to put a dangerous vehicle into the marketplace.

Lakeside Rollover SUV Accident Kills Man Along SR-67

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)27287 — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Date: February 21, 2010

Type: Rollover SUV accident

Location: State Route 67 (SR-67) north of Slaughterhouse Canyon Road, Lakeside, CA

Outcome: Driver killed

A Valley Center man was killed after his SUV rolled over as he was driving on State Route 67 (SR-67) in the Lakeside area of San Diego County. According to the California Highway Patrol, the driver drove off the highway north of Slaughterhouse Canyon Road, drove onto the soft shoulder, and overcorrected when he turned back onto the road. The overcorrecting left turn caused his SUV to rollover at least one full time.

The SUV came to rest on its' wheels near the center of the four lane road. Although the driver was wearing a seat belt, he died when the Jeep's roof caved in, causing him to suffer a massive head injury.

Orange County Auto vs. Pedestian Accident | CA Injury Attorney Lawyer

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)27112 — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Date: February 20, 2010

Type: Auto vs. Pedestrian Accident

Location: Newport Beach, Orange County, CA

Outcome: Pedestrian Seriously Injured

A Fountain Valley man was left seriously injured when he was struck by a car while crossing the road. The accident took place in Newport Beach. The car was being driven by a 64-year-old Huntington Beach resident. The authorities have ruled out driving under influence as the cause for this pedestrian accident.

While it is unclear if the driver’s age could have contributed to causing this accident, it has to be said that driving in old age is potentially very dangerous, not only for the elderly driver but also for fellow drivers and pedestrians. Thought has to be given to the danger posed by senior citizens driving when they perhaps should not.

Virginia Judge Rejects Challenge to Attorney Blog Post About Case

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)27015 — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Virginia judge recently ruled that an attorney blog about eight currently pending wrongful death case did not need to be removed or deleted, despite the challenge by the wrongful death defendant, a Virginia hospital, who brought a Virginia State Bar complaint and an emergency motion before the court to have case documents removed from the plaintiff's attorney's blog.

The hospital, Sentara Hospitals, did not want certain facts about the wrongful death case to become public. However, the hospital had created an incident report which contained these facts and turned over the incident report to plaintiff's lawyer. The lawyer, Avery Waterman, of Newport News, Virginia, blog about the case and the facts contained in the incident report.

The court ruled that the blog post could stand in that the attorney was free to post whatever you wanted regarding a case here in the court declined to make any judgment whether the post violated the attorney's ethical or professional conduct.

You can read the entire opinion from the court on Virginia medical malpractice attorney Ben Glass's website.

Irvine Pedestrian Accident Injures Orange County Woman

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)26987 — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Date: February 16, 2010

Type: Pedestrian struck by car

Location: Southwood Intersection, Irvine, California

Outcome: Pedestrian injured

A 21-year old woman was seriously injured after being struck by a car while crossing an Irvine intersection. The Orange County pedestrian accident occurred just before 8:30 a.m., when a 2000 Nissan Maxima traveling southbound on Yale hit the woman as she walked across the Southwood intersection.

The injured woman was treated at the scene, before being taken to a nearby hospital. Police have not identified the woman or the male driver, both of whom are Irvine residents. Authorities are also yet to determine the cause of the accident, which is still under investigation.

San Diego Boy Struck by Car | CA Auto vs. Pedestrian Lawyer Attorney | Jurewitz Law Group

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)26899 — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Date: February 15, 2010

Type: Car vs. Pedestrian

Location: North Park, San Diego

Outcome: Boy Injured, Hospitalized

A 9-year-old boy was left injured when he ran out into an alley and got struck by a 2005 Acura that was going at a speed of 10-15 miles per hour. The accident took place in the west alley of the 4100 block of Arizona around 5 p.m. The boy sustained two open leg fractures and is currently hospitalized.

Riverside Motorcycle Accident Kills Motorcyclist | CA Motorcycle Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)26898 — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Date: February 15, 2010

Type: Motorcycle accident

Location: Rest Area Parking Lot beside the Westbound Lanes of Interstate 10, a Mile West of Whitewater Cutoff Road

Outcome: Motorcyclist killed

A 47-year-old Calimesa motorcyclist lost his life after he hit a curb and wrecked his 2006 Harley Davidson. Gene Gomez had pulled into a freeway rest area near Whitewater when he crashed, according to Riverside County Coroner's Officials. Gomez died at the scene of the 2:10 p.m. accident. The crash was witnessed by his brother who was following on another motorcycle.

Temecula Motorcycle Accident Kills Motorcyclist

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)25806 — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Date: January 19, 2010

Type: Motorcycle vs. big rig truck accident

Location: SR-79, east of Vail Lake Road, outside Temecula, CA

Outcome: Motorcyclist killed

A motorcycle crashed into a big rig tractor trailor near Vail Lake Road, killing the motorcyclist, according to the California Highway Patrol. The motorcycle accident took place around 10:25 a.m. when the motorcylist tried to pass slower moving traffic and crashed into the truck travelling in the opposite direction. Both directions of State Route 79 were closed due to the wreck. A third vehicle carrying a pregnant woman reportedly was also involved, but it is unknown whether she sustained any injuries.

Temecula Car Accident Caused by Mudslide

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)25805 — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Date: January 21, 2010

Type: Auto Accident

Location: SR-79 East of Vail Lake Road near Temecula, CA

Outcome: Two people injured

A motorist was injured after a mudslide caused his vehicle to leave State Route 79 and fell 70 feet down an embankment. An ambulance that responded to the scene also crashed into an embankment. The car accident happened outside of Temecula east of Vail Lake Road around 5:36 p.m.

Caltrans was later called to fix the mudslide. Emergency towing cars also reported to the scene to winch the vehicles up the embankment.

Reduce San Diego, CA Auto Accidents | CA Injury Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)24801 — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

It is well-known that the majority of San Diego auto accidents are caused by excessive speed, driving under the influence of alcohol, or due to age and inexperience.

Recently, Seattle, WA car accident lawyer Jason Epstein of Straight Talk Law recommended raising the minimum driving age from 16 years old to 18. His argument is that 16 years olds are too immature to handle the responsibility of driving and that the rest of us bear the cost of this carelessness in the form of a higher rate of car wrecks and injuries.

Why does he think 18 is the appropriate age to issue a drivers' license? No real empirical evidence supports the decision other than at that age, the person becomes an adult and can be drafted and fight for our country in the military.

Although I would have been very upset to have had to wait until I was 18 to receive my driver's license, in hindsight Mr. Epstein's argument rings true. Like most 16 year-old children, I was too immature and likely to take silly and stupid risks. While I still took silly and stupid risks at 18, the number and frequency of such poor choices was greatly reduced.

You can read the entire article on Mr. Epstein's Seattle, WA personal injury lawyer blog.

Reduce San Diego, CA Auto Accidents | CA Injury Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)24798 — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Reduce San Diego, CA Auto Accidents | CA Injury Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)24797 — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Virginia Medical Malpractice Attorney Takes On Outrageous Frivolous Defense from Doctor

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)24409 — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

The battleground of Republican tort reform arguments lies with medical malpractice claims. Often, tort reform proponents argue that tort reform in the form of capping damages, limiting attorneys' fees, and prohibiting punitive damages. The thought is that such measures will reduce medical costs by eliminating "frivolous lawsuits".

But are "frivolous lawsuits" increasing medical costs? Or are they increased by frivolous defenses by dangerous or incompetent doctors?

Virginia medical malpractice lawyer Ben Glass has a post about a Fredericksburg, VA orthopedist who is asserting a variety of outrageous defenses after he admitted that he performed surgery on the wrong side of his patient's body. Reading over the list of egregious mistakes made by this surgeon, as told by Mr. Glass, is amazing. How could this doctor defend his actions?

San Diego, CA Child Injury Attorney Warns of IKEA Highchair Recall

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)24090 — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

IKEA-USA and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a recall order for all IKEA LEOPARD highchairs that come with a separate tray and seat that snap together using locks. Apparently the defective seat locks have posed a choking hazard or have allowed children to fall through the seat and injure themselves. Although no reported injuries have happened inside the United States, the recall aims to ensure that no future injury will occur in the U.S. either.

For more information about this highchair recall, read this article at our child injury lawyer website. If your child or a loved one has been injured due to a defective product, such as a LEOPARD highchair, please contact our office at 888-233-5020 for a free consultation.

Long Term Brain Injury Symptoms in NFL Players | San Diego Brain Injury Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)24005 — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A recent self reporting study demonstrates that former NFL players aged 50 and over suffer from demensia related diagnosis at a rate five times the national average. The study is so important that the NFL is now undertaking its' own study of the long term affect of concussions and brain injuries on its' players.

For more information about this important brain injury study, please click the link to visit our brain injury website.

Why You Need an Attorney for Allstate Claim | San Diego Personal Injury Lawyer

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)23977 — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Injured by an Allstate driver? Wondering whether you should hire a personal injury attorney to help you with your California accident case when Allstate is insuring the other driver?

San Diego injury lawyer Ross Jurewitz gives you an example of one case where Allstate did not have any evidence to support their position yet did not increase their offer to settle to more than $6,500 until just before trial. Read why he recommends that you should hire a personal injury lawyer for every Allstate claim due to their history of lowball offers and hardball litigation tactics that have earned it the title of the worst insurance company in America according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ).

If you have an Allstate claim and wonder whether you should cooperate with their adjustors, contact the California personal injury attorneys at the Jurewitz Law Group at 888-233-5020 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

San Diego Bay Boat Accident Kills 8-Year-Old Boy

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)23728 — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: December 20, 2009
Location: San Diego Bay, San Diego, CA
Type: Boat Accident
Outcome: 8 year-old-boy killed and 6 others injured

Tragedy struck during Sunday's Parade of Lights on San Diego Harbor when a US Coast Guard vessel crashed into a recreational boat watching the parade. You can read more about this San Diego Bay boating accident here.

Major Defeat for Insurance Companies in San Diego Appellate Court

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)22551 — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

The California Court of Appeals handed down perhaps the most important case in favor of injured Californians in the last decade earlier this week when it issued it's ruling in Howell v. Hamilton Meats and Provisions, Inc. The ruling made it clear that the collateral source rule is still California law and that negligent people who cause injuries cannot receive the benefits obtained by their victim's health insurance companies.

Read the opinion (link above). In the Howell case, the trial court allowed a reduction of over $130,000 from a San Diego jury verdict because that was the reduced amount negotiated by Ms. Howell's insurance company. The Appellate Court held that the negligent commercial truck driver and his employer could not obtain that benefit because doing so would unfairly reward them solely because Ms. Howell had the foresight to obtain health insurance prior to the accident.

This is a tremendous victory for all Californians.

Support Consumer Rights and Protection: California Personal Injury Lawyers Should Join CAOC!

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)21630 — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

George Washington once said:

Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all.

Letter of Instructions to the Captains of the Virginia Regiments [July 29, 1759]. The advocates of consumer rights, viewing the resources of defense firms and corporate defendants, can relate to the trepidation felt by the out-numbered and out-gunned Continental Army. Because of that disparity in resources, Consumer Attorneys of California ("CAOC") consolidates the voices of consumer attorneys throughout the state to (1) preserve and protect the constitutional right to trial by jury for all consumers, (2) champion the cause of those who deserve redress for injury to person or property, (3) encourage and promote changes to California law by legislative, initiative or court action, (4) oppose injustice in existing or contemplated legislation, (5) correct harsh, unjust and oppressive legislation or judicial decisions, (6) advance the common law and promote the public good through the civil justice system and concerted efforts to secure safe products, a safe workplace, a clean environment, and quality health care, (7) uphold the honor, integrity and dignity of the legal profession by encouraging mutual support and cooperation among members, (8) promote the highest standards of professional conduct, and (9) inspire excellence in advocacy. This post is a multi-blog effort to inform consumer attorneys about CAOC's value and encourage participation in CAOC through membership.

CAOC works tirelessly to protect or advance those causes of import to consumers and their attorneys in California. Often those efforts, though valuable, receive little fanfare. For example, CAOC recently sponsored SB 510, which affects the re-sale of what are known as "structured settlements," in which victims receive financial compensation over a period of time for medical expenses and basic living needs, as determined by a jury. Before SB 510 was signed by the Governor, Courts expressed frustration at their inability to prevent the sale of structured settlements on terms that might ultimately lead to long-term financial hardship for the victim. Now, SB 510 gives judges the information they need to make a reasoned decision about the propriety of a structured settlement sale.

Measures like CAOC-sponsored SB 510 help protect the most vulnerable members of our society and ask for nothing in return. They exemplify the spirit of CAOC. However, CAOC is only as effective in its mission as its membership allows it to be. When consumer attorneys join the ranks of CAOC, its voice gains in power and clarity. But if consumer advocates sit on the sidelines, hoping to benefit from the work of others, CAOC is stretched thin, and we are all at risk as a result.

Now, consumer advocate bloggers from across the state are combining their voices to call upon each and every lawyer and firm that regularly represents plaintiffs to join CAOC, thereby strengthening the consumer's first line of defense. The blogs participating in this unified call to action are:

The Complex Litigator (H. Scott Leviant)
The UCL Practitioner (Kimberly Kralowec)
Bailey Class Action Daily (Matt Bailey)
California Employee Rights Blog (James J. Peters)
An Appeal to Reason (Donna Bader)
California Personal Injury and Insurance Blog (Jonathan G. Stein)
California Debt Blog (Jonathan G. Stein)
TrialLawyerTips.com (Mitch Jackson and Lisa Wilson)
California Injury Blog (John Bisnar)
San Diego Injury Lawyer Blog (Ross A. Jurewitz)
San Diego Car Accident Lawyer Blog (Ross Jurewitz
San Diego Injury Accident Lawyer Blog (Ross A. Jurewitz)
California Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Blog (Walton Law Firm LLP)
San Diego Injury Law Blog (Walton Law Firm LLP)
California Personal Injury Law Blog (Norman Gregory Fernandez)
Biker Lawyer Blog (Norman Gregory Fernandez)
California Credit Law (Mark F. Anderson, Carol Brewer & Andy Ogilvie)
Lemon Law Blog (Mark F. Anderson, Carol Brewer & Andy Ogilvie)

Show your support of consumers' rights by joining and supporting CAOC. Together we can make an impact that we cannot make alone.

Tour Bus Accident Kills Two People, Seriously Injures Car Driver

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)17321 — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: August 14, 2009

Location: Northeast Indiana

Type: Bus vs. auto wreck

Outcome: Two people killed, driver seriously injured

Two passengers in a car that turned in front of a Christian rock band tour bus were killed and their pregnant driver seriously injured when their car abruptly turned in front of the bus, leaving no room for the bus to stop. The accident happened in Fort Wayne, Indiana and involved the Dallas, Texas based band, MercyMe. The driver, Kara Klinker, was hospitalized with serious injuries and concerns about her unborn baby. Her two deceased passengers were not yet identified. Members of the band suffered bumps and bruises, but no reported serious injuries.

Our sympathies go out to Ms.Klinker, her family, and the families of her passengers. The loss of life is always tragic and unfortunate.

San Diego Hit-and-Run Car Accident Seriously Injures Man | Personal Injury Lawyer San Diego

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)16719 — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: August 3, 2009
Location: Fairmount Avenue at Myrtle Street, City Heights neighborhood of San Diego, California
Type: Car accident vs. pedestrian
Outcome: Pedestrian seriously injured

A 66-year-old man was seriously injured and suffered a head injury and possible traumatic brain and neck injury when he was struck by a hit-and-run driver while attempting to cross the street. He was struck by a Honda at approximately 9:15 p.m. The Honda was described as having tinted windows and neon lighting under the car. It was located several hours later near the intersection of Poppy Place and 40th Street, about one mile away from the accident. This San Diego pedestrian accident is still being investigated by the San Diego Police Department.

Sheriff Injured in Imperial Beach ATV Accident | San Diego County ATV Injury Lawyer

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)16715 — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: August 9, 2009
Location: Seacoast Drive near Elder Avenue, Imperial Beach, California
Type: ATV accident
Outcome: One Sheriff's Deputy suffered minor head injuries

Two San Diego Sheriff's Deputies were involved in an Imperial Beach ATV accident when one Deputy rear-ended the other Deputy's ATV. Late in the morning on Sunday, August 9, the two Deputies were heading north on Seacoast Drive when one stopped his ATV. The other Deputy collided with the rear of the ATV and knocked the Deputy off the all-terrain vehicle, causing him to land on his head and arm. The injured Deputy suffered head injuries and is recovering.

Driver Killed in Imperial Beach Rollover Car Accident | Injury Lawyer San Diego

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)16687 — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: August 6, 2009
Location: 1200 block of 11th Street, Imperial Beach, California
Type: Rollover car accident
Outcome: Driver killed

John Kirk Colgan, Jr. was killed on August 6 around 10:00 p.m. when his Toyota pickup truck struck several parked cars and overturned after it blew a tire. Mr. Colgan was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected from his vehicle during the car crash. Although the cause of the car crash is under investigation, outside factors are likely at play, such as alcohol, cellular phone usage, or texting which would have distracted Mr. Colgan or affected his ability to drive his truck.

He is survived by his wife and son, both of whom live in Imperial Beach. Our prayers go out to them.

Unfortunately, this is another tragic example why we must always wear seat belts when riding in a vehicle. While there is no way to know for sure, the survival rates for people involved in car accidents increase tremendously when seat belts are used.

San Diego Car Accident Injures Firefighter | San Diego Auto Crash Lawyer

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)16681 — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: August 9, 2009
Location: I-15 Freeway, San Diego, California
Type: Car struck fire truck which then struck firefighter
Outcome: One firefighter injured

An early morning auto accident along Interstate 15 injured a San Diego firefighter when a car crashed into his fire truck at a very high rate of speed. The accident took place at 1:00 a.m. on August 9 when the car struck the firefighter, who was placing cones in the roadway. The vehicle then hit the firetruck.

There were three people in the car when it struck the fireman and his truck, including a child and his father who were both rushed to the hospital with critical injuries.

The firetruck was blocking traffic for the fireman at the time of the accident. However, the car struck the truck at such a high rate of speed that it moved the truck forward and launched the fireman 10 feet into the air after it struck him. The fireman had jumped behind the firetruck for safety.

Oceanside Car Accident Kills 9 Year-Old Girl, Injures Two Others

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)16314 — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: August 3, 2009
Location: Northbound I-15 near the Cassidy Street exit, Oceanside, CA
Type: Drunk driver car accident
Outcome: One girl killed, two people injured

A 9 year-old Los Angles girl was killed in an early morning multi-vehicle Oceanside car accident caused by a suspected drunk driver. The accident occurred after midnight in heavy traffic when a Lexus in the fast lane changed lanes to avoid hitting a car just ahead of it. In doing so, the Lexus struck a car, which hit a Honda CRV and a big rig truck before stopping.

The girl was a passenger in the Lexus and was taken to Rady's Children's Hospital, but was pronounced dead on arrival. Two other drivers were injured and taken to Tri-City Medical Center in Vista, California.

Two Injured in Fallbrook Rollover Car Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)15535 — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: July 15, 2009
Location: Northbound Mission Road, Fallbrook, CA
Type: Car Accident
Outcome: Two people injured

A 59 year-old woman suffered life-threatening injuries and a 66 year-old woman was also injured when their car rolled over while they were travelling northbound on Mission Road at 11:30 a.m. Another vehicle had pulled in front of them near Green Canyon Road and they had swerved to avoid hitting that car. The women were taken to Palomar Medical Center in Escondido and Fallbrook Hospital.

San Diego Child Suffers Head Injury in Hillcrest Car Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)15534 — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: July 17, 2009
Location: 4000 Block of Sixth Avenue, San Diego, CA
Type: Car Accident
Outcome: Child suffers head and brain injury

A 10 year-old boy suffered a serious head and brain injury when a southbound vehicle on Sixth Street crossed over the double-yellow line and struck a northbound vehicle. The boy was a passenger in the southbound vehicle. He was taken via ambulance to the hospital where he was treated for a skull fracture.

Fullerton Woman Killed in Los Angeles Area Freeway Car Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)15529 — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: July 19, 2009
Location: 605 Freeway near Waddell Street, Whittier, CA
Type: Car Accident
Outcome: One woman killed, two people injured

A Fullerton woman was killed when her car stalled alongside the 605 Freeway near Waddell Street when the car she was riding in was struck by a suspected drunk driver. The victim was transported to Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital where she was pronounced death. Two other people were transported to St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood with moderate injuries. The driver was arrested for vehicular manslaughter and bail was set at $25,000.

Riverside County Car Accident Kills Elderly Couple

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14411 — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 24, 2009
Location: Northbound SR-111 near Gateway Drive, Palm Springs, CA
Type: Two-car accident, rear-end collision
Outcome: Two people killed

An elderly couple from Yucaipa, Clyde Arnett and Mildred Arnett, died in a Palm Springs car accident when a speeding car struck their sedan from behind as they were stopped along the shoulder of Highway 111. The fatal auto accident happened early in the morning as the Arnetts were parked. Their vehicle was struck from behind by a Victorville man driving a Mercedes. Several witnesses observed the driver of the Mercedes driving erratically before the car crash.

Man Injured in San Diego Rollover Auto Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14410 — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 18, 2009
Location: Southbound SR-163 in San Diego, California
Type: Rollover car crash
Outcome: One person injured

A San Diego rollover accident on Highway 163 seriously injured a man when his Toyota 4Runner SUV rolled over on southbound SR-163. The car accident happened when the SUV and another car tried to merge and the the SUV ended up overcorrecting and rolled over. The driver of the SUV was ejected and taken to the hospital with major injuries.

Elderly Couple Injured in Chula Vista Auto Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14409 — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 25, 2009
Location: 200 block of Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, California
Type: One-car accident
Outcome: Two people hurt

An elderly couple in their 70s were injured when the car they were driving swerved off the road and struck six parked cars before crashing into a home. The accident happened while the male driver was exiting a parking lot on Fourth Avenue in Chula Vista, striking several cars parked along the east side of Glover Avenue. Paramedics took the driver to UCSD Medical Center to treat his broken arm. His passenger was suffering from chest pains.

Victim of El Cajon Motorcycle Accident Identified

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14408 — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 25, 2009
Location: 200 block of West Bradley Avenue, El Cajon, California
Type: Motorcycle vs. auto accident
Outcome: Motorcyclist killed

A motorcycle rider killed in an El Cajon motorcycle accident was identified as Lane Michael Hagerty. Hagerty was riding his motorcycle westbound on West Bradley Avenue after 5:00 p.m. when he rear-ended a slower moving car. He was taken to the emergency room at Sharp Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Bicyclist Killed in Dublin Bike Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14403 — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 26, 2009
Location: 8600 block of Camino Tassajara, Contra Costa County, near Dublin, California
Type: Auto vs. bicycle accident
Outcome: Bicycle rider killed, woman injured

An unidentified bicyclist was killed when a car hit him and pinned him underneath the vehicle. The woman driver of the car then crashed into oncoming traffic, suffering serious injuries. The bicyclist was heading south on Camino Tassajara when he was hit by the green Honda Accord, driven by the Cupertino woman. She was taken to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek. The driver of the car she hit was a Danville man who had minor injuries.

Man Injured After San Diego Car Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14401 — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 26, 2009
Location: Interstate 5 (Golden State) Freeway near Sea World Drive, San Diego, California
Type: One-car accident
Outcome: One person injured

A San Diego man was injured when his car skidded off the I-5 freeway near Sea World and crashed into the Tecolote Creek riverbed. The vehicle came to rest in about two feet of water. The man was taken to the hospital for undisclosed injuries, while the California Highway Patrol cleared the accident from the highway.

Tracy Car Accident Kills Woman and Throws Toddler from the Car

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14400 — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 26, 2009
Location: 1800 block of MacArthur Drive, Tracy, California
Type: One-car accident
Outcome: Woman killed, toddler injured

A single car auto accident killed a 22-year-old woman and critically injured her 3-year-old son after their car crashed into a tree. The woman's son was life-flighted to UC Davis Medical Center and is in critical condition. He was found at the crash scene 35 feet from the crash site in a stream bed. The woman was still stuck inside her seat belt. The cause of the wreck is still unknown.

Navy Man Killed in Chula Vista Car Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14398 — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 23, 2009
Location: Otay Lakes Road near Wueste Road, Chula Vista, California
Type: One-car wreck
Outcome: One person killed

A 24-year-old Coronado Navy man who was stationed on the aircraft carrier Nimitz died after he drove his car off the road in Chula Vista. He drove his 2001 Nissan Maxima down an embankment when he failed to negotiate a turn and ran down the road around 11:00 p.m. His name was not released by the California Highway Patrol.

San Diego Bay Boating Accident Causes Yacht to Sink

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14395 — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 27, 2009
Location: San Diego Bay under Coronado Bridge
Type: Boating accident
Outcome: No one injured

A mid-day harbor cruise in San Diego Bay went wrong for the owner of a brand new yacht when his ship began taking on water and sinking near the Coronado Bridge, which spans between San Diego and Coronado. It is unknown why the ship began to sink but we do know that the owner and any crew on board escaped unharmed.

A local passerby snapped this picture during the rescue operation by San Diego emergency vessels:

Pedestrian Struck by Car in Spring Valley Area of San Diego

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14371 — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 19, 2009
Location: Westbound Highway 94, east of Kenwood Drive
Type: Auto vs. pedestrian accident
Outcome: One person killed

A pedestrian struck and killed by a car in the Spring Valley of San Diego was identified as 51-year-old, Patrick Edward Crowe. Crowe was dancing on the side of the freeway of westbound SR-94 when he jumped forward and dashed into traffic. He was declared dead at the scene. The car accident is being investigated to determine if the death was due to negligence or suicide.

CalTrans Considers Barrier Along State Route 67 in San Diego County

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14369 — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

California Department of Transportation officials are considering installing a barrier on dangerous State Route 67 which runs through the eastern part of San Diego County, including Ramona and Lakeside. Despite stepped up enforcement by California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers, deadly car accidents continue to occur. Based upon an appeal from San Diego County Supervisor Dianne Jacob, CalTrans is considering a concrete center median barrier to prevent street racing accidents like the one that killed Alexandria Drake of Chula Vista. Since 2003, there have been 29 fatal accidents along the same stretch of SR-67.

3-Year Old Girl Killed in San Diego Auto Accident in Mission Hills

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14367 — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 21, 2009
Location: I-5 (Golden State) Freeway near the Mission Boulevard onramp
Type: Car vs. big-rig crash
Outcome: 3-year-old girl killed and two seriously injured

A young girl was killed when the car driven by her mother crashed into a big-rig and then a pole while driving along the 5 Freeway in the Mission Hills area of San Diego. It is believed that the mother, Mariana Ruiz, was driving at an unsafe rate of speed on a wet highway when she lost control of her car. The young girl was pronounced dead at Holy Cross Medical Center while her parents were transported to the hospital and placed in critical care. The father, Juan Torres, fractured his arm and suffered a concussion and possible minor traumatic brain injury (MTBI). Ruiz suffered an injury to her chest.

Teenage Skateboarder Killed in San Bernardino Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14083 — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 15, 2009
Location: Cottonwood Avenue near Poplar Street, San Bernardino, California
Type: Hit-and-run auto vs. pedestrian accident
Location: One person killed

A teenage skateboard rider, Dustin Rogers Martin, 17, died in a San Bernardino County pedestrian accident after he was hit by a driver who fled the scene. The driver, Kenneth Stotelmyre, drove a sedan and left the scene only to return later with his own father. He was arrested for suspicion of felony hit-and-run.

Woman Injured after Car Tumbles off I-15 in Fallbrook Auto Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14081 — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 19, 2009
Location: Northbound I-15 freeway, Fallbrook, California
Type: Car accident
Outcome: One person seriously injured, one person missing

Paramedics rushed a woman to Palomar Medical Center in Escondido after she swerved off Interstate 15 freeway. The car rolled-over several times and plummeted nearly 200 feet down an embankment until it came to a rest at the bottom of the hill. California Highway Patrol and North County Fire Department Protection District paramedics had to use a parallel dirt road, Dunlin Road, to access her Toyota Scion. The found the woman nearly 25 below the dirt road. Paramedics strapped her to a back board and carried her unconscious body up to the ambulance. When the woman came to, she emphatically told paramedics that her husband was also in the car. The missing man has not yet been found.

Caltrans Construction Worker Seriously Injured in El Cajon Pedestrian Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14075 — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 19, 2009
Location: Southbound State Route 125, El Cajon, California
Type: Car vs. pedestrian accident
Outcome: One person seriously injured

A Caltrans construction worker was seriously injured when an out of control truck hit the worker's truck as it was parked on the southbound shoulder of State Route 125 just south of Grossmont College Drive. The construction worker, a 41-year-old man, suffered internal injuries and broken bones. The driver of the truck was a 22-year-old El Cajon man. It is believed the accident occurred when the tread separated from his truck's left-rear tire while travelling 70 mph.

Murder Charged in a Los Angeles Big-Rig Trucking Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14060 — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

A grand jury indictment was unsealed on Friday, June 19, 2009, bringing murder charges against the big-rig truck driver who lost his brakes descending a grade in the freeways north of Los Angeles, hitting a car and killing a father and his 12-year-old daughter. The truck driver, Marcos Barbosa Costa, previously faced a vehicular manslaughter charge.

Bail is currently set at $2.09 million.

According to prosecutors, Costa drove over the San Gabriel Mountains toward Los Angeles on a road on which big-rig trucks are banned. At La Canada Flintridge, he found he had no brakes and his double-decker car-hauler went through an intersection at the bottom of the hill and crashed into a bookstore. The accident killed Angel Posca, 58, and his daughter, both of Palmdale.

Carson Woman Killed in Long Beach Freeway Car Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14059 — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 19, 2009
Location: Southbound I-705 (Long Beach) Freeway at Sixth Street, Long Beach, CA
Type: Car accident
Outcome: One person killed

A 19-year-old woman was killed Friday when her 1993 Acura Integra crashed on a Long Beach (I-705) Freeway offramp in the early morning. All evidence shows that the driver lost control of the car, causing a roll-over accident before coming to rest on its hood on the Sixth Street offramp. Long Beach fire paramedics responded and pronounced the driver dead at the scene.

Woman Killed in San Diego Freeway Car Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14058 — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 19, 2009
Location: Northbound San Diego (405) Freeway, south Ventura Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA
Type: Car vs. big-rig semi-tractor trailer
Outcome: One person killed, one person injured

Dawn Hanna of Santa Monica, a 25-year-old woman, was killed after her car spun out of control and crashed into a semi-tractor trailer on the I-405 (San Diego) Freeway. The car accident shut down several lanes of traffic on the northbound freeway just south of Ventura Boulevard. The car crash forced Hanna's vehicle and the big-rig into the center divider. A third vehicle, driven by a pregnant 31-year-old woman, was also involved. She was taken to a local hospital.

Calexico Man Fatally Injured in El Centro Head-On Car Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14047 — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 19, 2009
Location: El Centro, California
Type: Head-on car accident
Outcome: One man killed

An unidentified 81-year-old Calexico man died on June 19, 2009, due to injuries he suffered from an El Centro head-on car accident. The man was in the front seat of a 2002 Ford Escape when it crashed head-on into a 2007 Toyota Corolla. The accident happened on northbound Highway 111 on June 18.

Moorpark Car Accident Caused by Rock Thrown through Windshield, Man Seriously Injured

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14043 — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 18, 2009
Location: State Route 118 in Moorpark, California
Type: Car accident
Outcome: One man seriously injured

Nicholas Angell was seriously injured when a rock broke through his windshield and hit him in the face as he was driving along State Route 118 in Moorpark, California. Based upon the investigation, it appears that the rock, which was softball sized, was thrown from the right shoulder of the highway. Angell suffered multiple facial fractures and several broken teeth. The police also found that two other rocks were thrown onto the highway. One of the rocks bounced off another woman's windshield and another crashed through another vehicle's sunroof. Police are looking into the facts and may charge the assailant with assault with a deadly weapon.

Woman Killed in San Bernardino Roll-over Car Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)14041 — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 12, 2009
Location: Interstate 15 (I-15) Freeway in Fontana, CA
Type: Roll-over car accident
Outcome: One person killed

A San Bernardino County roll-over car accident took the life of Karen Hernandez, 65, when she veered off the I-15 Freeway in Fontana, California. Her Chevrolet s10 pickup went off the freeway from the number 2 lane (the second lane closest to the center median), rolled over several times, and came to rest on the freeway embankment. She was declared dead at the scene.

Two California Rollover Car Accident Verdicts Send Strong Message to Manufacturers

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13931 — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

During this last week, a San Francisco jury and a Los Angeles jury have awarded $18 million and $21.1 million, respectively, to the victims of serious rollover car accidents caused by the manufacturer's defective or dangerous vehicles. In the San Francisco case, a federal jury awarded $18 million to a Bay Are musician from Ford after a 2005 15-passenger van rolled over causing him to become a quadriplegic. In the Los Angeles trial, a jury awarded $21.1 million to a man paralyzed as a result of a Land Rover Discovery SUV rollover.

Actor Orlando Bloom Escapes Car Accident Without Injury

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13930 — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 16, 2009
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Type: Car accident
Outcome: No apparent injuries

Actor Orlando Bloom walked away from a Los Angeles car accident on Tuesday when the vehicle he was driving struck another car. Bloom did not suffer any visible injuries following the accident and exchange his auto insurance information with the other driver. This is the second notable auto accident that Bloom has been involved in during the last two years. In 2007, Bloom was involved in a car crash where he left the scene of the accident and his two passengers who required emergency medical treatment.

Driver Killed in San Mateo SUV Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13929 — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 14, 2009
Location: Guerneville Road and Vine Hill Road, San Mateo, CA
Type: Car accident
Outcome: One person killed

A San Mateo car accident killed the driver of a two-car crash in San Mateo. As a result of the accident, the driver of one of the vehicle. 47 year-old Kathleen Acord, was killed after she pulled out in front of an SUV. The SUV hit the driver's side door of the Acord's vehicle, killing her. Acord's husband, Charles Chapman, sustained major injuries and was taken to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital by California paramedics.

Young Woman Killed in San Bernardino County Pedestrian Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13928 — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 13, 2009
Location: Highway 395, Adelanto, CA
Type: Car vs. pedestrian accident
Outcome: One person killed

A San Bernardino pedestrian accident took the life of Crystal Smith, 16, when she was struck by a car while crossing Highway 395 in Adelanto. The car that struck her did not see Smith because of a tractor-trailer driving north in the lane next to her. The driver, a 28 year-old woman, was driving a Chevy Cavalier.

San Diego Police Officer Suffers Head Injury After Fall

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13874 — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 17, 2009
Location: 12700 block of Carmel Country Road, San Diego, CA
Type: Motorcycle accident
Outcome: Head injury, TBI, MTBI

A San Diego Police Department motorcycle officer suffered a head injury after falling in Carmel Valley. The officer was bleeding from the back of his head and was taken to Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla following the fall. As of this afternoon it was unclear what caused the motorcycle accident.

Carlsbad Big Rig Accident Injures Two; Ties Up Interstate 5

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13872 — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 17, 2009
Location: Interstate 5 southbound just north of Tamarack Avenue, Carlsbad, CA
Type: Big-rig truck accident
Outcome: Two people injured

An early morning San Diego trucking accident occurred when a big-rig truck overturned while driving along southbound I-5 just north of Tamarack Avenue in Carlsbad. Two people were injured and taken to the hospital and traffic backed up to State Route 78 as three lanes of traffic were closed.

San Diego Helicopter Crash Remains Found

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13871 — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: May 19, 2009
Location: Coronado Islands, off-shore from San Diego, CA
Type: Helicopter crash
Outcome: Five people killed

The remains of a Navy helicopter crash were discovered yesterday, June 16, 2009. The helicopter crash happened southwest of San Diego when the helicopter crashed into the Pacific Ocean near the Coronado Islands. All five Navy personnel on board--Lt. Cmdr. Eric J. Purvis of Poway, CA; Lt. allison M. Oubre of Slidell, LA; Chief Petty Officer Samuel "Grant" Kerslake of Hot Springs, AR; Petty Officer 2nd Class Aaron L. Clingman of Bend, OR; and Petty Officer 2nd Class Sean Ward of Lovelock, NV--were killed. The remains will be brought to North Island Naval Air Station in Coronado for inspection.

Our prayers go out to the families of these Navy seamen.

Car Accident in San Diego County May Have Been Caused by Street Racing

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13870 — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

San Diego police authorities now believe that a fatal car accident along SR-67 resulted from illegal street racing. The driver who struck and killed 25 year-old Alexandria Drake will be charged with vehicular manslaughter after witnesses watched him and another vehicle race northbound along State Route 67 until his vehicle forced Ms. Drake's vehicle off the road and forcing her fatal crash. The driver, Melvin Pearless, may face up to six years in prison if convicted.

San Diego Car Accident Injures Two People; DUI Driver Causes Rollover Crash

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13869 — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 7, 2009
Location: State Route 76 near Oceanside, CA
Type: DUI rollover car accident
Outcome: Two injured

61 year-old Josh Vera and 50-year-old Maria Torres were seriously injured after a drunk driver hit their vehicle head-on while they were driving along State Route 76 in San Diego County. The drunk driver, 44 year-old Cristoforo Colin, was driving a Nissan 200 when he crossed the double yellow line into oncoming traffic near Gird Road. This is not the first DUI incurred by Colin. He was driving with a suspended driver's license. Vera suffered a fractured skull and Torres was also treated for his injuries.

Hit and Run Driver Kills Normal Heights Man

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13731 — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 14, 2009
Location: 3200 block of Meade Avenue, San Diego, CA
Type: Car vs. pedestrian accident
Outcome: Pedestrian killed

A Normal Heights pedestrian was killed after being struck by a hit-and-run driver Sunday. The victim, described as a man in his 30s, was heading north on Meade Avenue when he was struck by the eastbound vehicle. The pedestrian victim suffered traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and died at the scene. Witnesses describe the hit-and-run vehicle as a late model white hatchback.

Johnny Cash's Son-in-Law Dies in Ventura Motorcycle Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13730 — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 13, 2009
Location: Ventura, CA
Type: Motorcycle accident
Outcome: One dead

Eddie Panetta, the son-in-law of Johnny Cash, died after being injured in a Ventura, California motorcycle accident. Panetta was reported missing after failing to return from his motorcycle ride. Panetta's own son-in-law retraced his motorcycle ride and found Panetta dead on Saturday. Panetta was married to Cindy Cash.

Suspected Drunk Driver Kills Motorcyclist in San Bernardino

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13729 — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 14, 2009
Location: Interstate 215 near Second Street, San Bernardino, CA
Type: Car vs. motorcycle, hit and run
Outcome: One person killed, one person injured

A Sunday night hit and run car accident took the life of a 26-year-old motorcycle rider and seriously injured his passenger when they were rear-ended by a suspected drunk driver. The motorcycle driver was identified as James Hayward Julian IV of San Bernardino. His motorcycle was struck from behind by a 1999 Ford pickup truck driven by a 28 year-old-man from Rim Forest. The motorcycle was pushed into a freeway barrier, ejecting Julian and his passenger. Julian was declared dead at the scene and his female passenger suffered a fractured elbow and multiple abrasions on the right side of her body. The driver of the pickup truck crashed into a tractor trailer and was arrested for suspicion of murder.

Three People Seriously Injured in Camp Pendleton Car Crash

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13668 — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 14, 2009
Location: I-5 North at Orange County Border
Type: Car Accident
Outcome: Three people injured

Two men and a woman were seriously injured and hospitalized after their car crashed at the end of a high-speed car chase as they tried to flee California Highway Patrol officers. The three people were racing their car northbound on Interstate 5 through Camp Pendleton in the early morning of June 14, 2009. The CHP officer originally tried to pull over the vehicle near Las Pulgas Road when they pulled away at speed greater than 100 mph. An Orange County Sheriff's officer also spotted the racing vehicle as he was commuting to work from Oceanside. As the driver of the car approached the US Border Patrol station near San Clemente, the vehicle lost control and crashed into the foundation of the checkpoint's awning.

San Diego Red-Light Runners Targeted by Red-Light Cameras

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13642 — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

San Diego officials announced that it's red-light cameras were having a tremendous effect on catching red-light running drivers. In fact, more than half of all citations were issued at one intersection: Grape Street and Harbor Drive. In less than a year, San Diego issued 8,261 red-light tickets and 54.5 percent were issued at that intersection (4,503 tickets).

Other busy intersections for red-light camera tickets were at the intersections of Aero Drive and Murphy Canyon Road, North Torrey Pines Road and Genesee Avenue, Rosecrans Street and Nimitz Boulevard, and Kearny Villa Road and Balboa Avenue.

Other San Diego County cities that use red-light cameras are El Cajon, Solana Beach, Vista, Oceanside, Encinitas, and Escondido.

Person Dies after Falling from Downtown San Diego Building

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13641 — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 12, 2009
Location: Three story building in Downtown San Diego, 14th Street and Broadway
Type: Premises liability accident
Outcome: One person dead

A person died late Friday night after falling from the top of a three story building in Downtown San Diego. It is unknown whether the person fell or was pushed from the building. Neighbors report hearing noise from the top floor immediately prior to the incident.

Former University of Kansas AD Dies in Bike Crash

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13640 — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 12, 2009
Location: Lawrence, KS
Type: Bicycle Accident
Outcome: One person killed

Bob Frederick, the former University of Kansas athletic director, died late Friday from injuries suffered in a cycling accident. Frederick was an avid cyclist. He was riding his bike on a city street in Lawrence, Kansas, when he hit a pothole, flew over the handlebars, and struck the pavement. He was wearing a helmet at the time, but was rushed to the University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City for treatment of massive head injuries. He was 69.

Encinitas Bicyclist Hit by Hit-and-Run Driver

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13639 — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 12, 2009
Location: Coast Highway 101 near Chesterfield Drive, Encinitas, CA
Type: Bicycle accident, bicycle hit by car
Outcome: One person injured

A cyclist was struck by a hit-and-run car driver early on Friday. The bicycle rider was riding southbound on Coast Highway 101 with his girlfriend on another bike when he was struck by a tan, older box-shaped van. The driver of the van initially stopped, but left the scene after he told the girlfriend that he was simply moving his van to a safer location. The van was last seen driving toward Solana Beach.

22 People, Mostly Children, Taken to Hospital Due to Illness

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13638 — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: June 12, 2009
Location: Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Coronado, CA
Type: Unknown illness, most likely carbon monoxide poisoning
Outcome: Twenty-two people hospitalized

Twenty-two people, most schoolchildren, fell ill and were taken to San Diego area hospitals after they were thought to be exposed to carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas. The people were attending a morning Mass at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Coronado, CA at the intersection of C Avenue and Seventh Street. However, after being taken to the hospital, none of the twenty-two people tested positive for carbon monoxide poisoning. It is currently unknown what caused them to feel ill.

Oceanside Car Accident Hospitalizes Four

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)13057 — Sun, 31 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: May 29, 2009
Location: Mission Avenue and Douglas Drive, Oceanside, CA
Type: Three motor vehicle accident, involving cars and trucks
Outcome: Four people injured and hospitalized

A Friday evening car accident in Oceanside sent two teenagers and two adults to the hospital after a three vehicle car crash occurred at the intersection of Mission Avenue and Douglas Drive. The auto accident involved a Hyundai Tiberon, a Chevrolet Silverado truck, and a GMC Yukon SUV and occurred just after 10 p.m.

The cause of the car accident is under investigation by Oceanside police.

California Highway Patrol Reports 3 Motorcyclists Killed in San Diego County this Memorial Day Weekend

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12747 — Mon, 25 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Thankfully the California Highway Patrol reported that DUI arrests and motor vehicle fatalities were low during the Memorial Day Weekend. There were no deaths from pedestrian accidents or bicycle crashes in San Diego County over the weekend. Unfortunately, three motorcyclists were killed.

Statewide, only 15 people died in motor vehicle accidents over the weekend. Six of the 15 people killed were not wearing their seatbelts at the time of the accident.

North San Diego County Motorcyclist Seriously Injured Along SR-78

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12744 — Mon, 25 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: May 20, 2009
Location: SR-78 just west of Sycamore Avenue
Type: Motorcycle accident
Outcome: One person seriously injured

An unidentified motorcyclist was taken to Palomar Medical Center in Escondido after his motorcycle collided with a coyote crossing SR-78. The driver's condition is currently unknown. However, the CHP reports that the coyote was killed as a result of the crash. The motorcycle accident was reported just after 8:00 a.m.

Perris Man Treated for Life-Threatening Injuries Following North San Diego County Motorcycle Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12743 — Mon, 25 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: May 20, 2009
Location: SR-76 just east of I-15, just north of Escondido
Type: Motorcycle accident
Outcome: One person seriously injured

Robert Early, 36, or Perris was seriously injured after losing control of his 2007 Suzuki motorcycle as he rounded a curve along SR-76 at too great a rate of speed. He was attempting to pass a truck at the time and had crossed the double yellow line. He suffered severe head, chest, and abdominal trauma as a result of the motorcycle crash.

Multiple Vehicle San Diego Auto Accident Ties Up Traffic In La Jolla

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12741 — Mon, 25 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: May 21, 2009
Location: Northbound I-805 south of Nobel Drive, La Jolla | UTC | San Diego
Type: Multiple vehicle car crash
Outcome: Two people injured

A late-night, early morning car accident tied up northbound I-805 from 4:20 a.m. until 7:00 a.m. Thursday morning after a 21-year-old Imperial Beach man lost control of his 1999 Chevrolet Malibu, which careened across all lanes of traffic and came to rest facing south near the center median. The Malibu was then struck by 3 other cars as the driver attempted to exit his car.

The driver of the Malibu was taken to Scripps La Jolla Hospital with serious injuries to both legs and possible head trauma.

Two San Diego Hospitals Fined For Medical Malpractice

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12274 — Wed, 20 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

UCSD Medical Center in Hillcrest and Scripps Mercy Hospital in Hillcrest were both fined the maximum allowed by state law by California state health regulators for significant medical mistakes.

UCSD was fined after its' staff left a sponge inside a patient that required the patient to undergo a second surgery two months later to remove the sponge. Scripps Mercy was fined for using a faulty respirator that left the patient unable to breathe and caused him to suffer heart failure.

These two San Diego hospitals were two of eleven California hospitals that received the maximum fine.

North Carolina Boy Drowns in San Diego Pool Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12229 — Tue, 19 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: May 16, 2009
Location: Winecreek Court, 4S Ranch neighborhood of San Diego, CA
Type: Premises Liability, Negligent Supervision
Outcome: One Killed

A North Carolina boy visiting family in San Diego died after drowning in his grandmother's pool. The boy, Malachi Gardner, was found in the deep end of the pool early Saturday evening by a babysitter. Unfortunately, the babysitter could not swim and could not reach the young boy.

Gardner was transported to Pomerado Hospital and later transferred to Rady Children's Hospital where he was pronounced dead early Sunday.

Our prayers go out to his family.

Woman Seriously Injured in Vista Auto Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12112 — Sun, 17 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: May 13, 2009
Location: Eucalyptus Avenue near Escondido Avenue, Vista, CA
Type: Car Accident
Outcome: One injured

A 48-year-old woman was injured after driving off the road and striking trees and telephone polls as she careened down the hillside. The woman was knocked unconscious and was luckily found by San Diego Sheriff's deputies. She was flown to Palomar Medical Center to treat several severe injuries.

It is unknown whether the woman was driving under the influence of alcohol.

Woman Crushed in San Diego Auto Accident | California Injury Lawyer Attorney

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12111 — Sun, 17 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: May 14, 2009

Location: Skyline Ranch Country Club Mobile Home Park, 18200 block of Paradise Mountain Road, Valley Center, CA

Type: Pedestrian Accident, Run over by Car

Outcome: One Dead

Donna Souther was killed when her best friend accidently pulled her car forward, pinning Souther against her mobile home. Souther was about to go with her best friend and her husband to the airport when her friend put the car in "drive" rather than in reverse.

Souther died late Thursday from crush injuries from being run over by the car. She died at Palomar Medical Center.

Cyclist Killed in San Diego County Bicycle Crash

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12109 — Sun, 17 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: May 13, 2009
Location: Valley Center Road near Cole Grade Road, Valley Center, CA
Type: Bicycle Accident
Outcome: One Killed

Jose Mejia was killed as a result of being struck by an oncoming vehicle. Mr. Mejia inexplicably swerved in front of the oncoming vehicle. He was transported to Palomar Medical Center where he died later the next day as a result of a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Our prayers go out to his family for their loss.

Two Injured in San Diego Car Accident

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12106 — Sun, 17 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Date: May 9, 2009
Location: Valley Center Road near SR-76, Valley Center, CA
Type: Auto Accident
Outcome: Two Injured

A female driver made a left turn in front of an oncoming car driven by a San Diego County Sheriff's deputy. Unfortunately, there was not enough space between the two vehicles and the Sheriff's deputy collided with the woman's car as it was turning.

The impact was so strong that both vehicles travelled for several feet before coming to rest. Fortunately, neither injury was fatal.

New Tort Reform Proposal....From Personal Injury Lawyers?

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12024 — Fri, 15 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

There seems to be a constant effort by the insurance industry and their friends in state and federal government to "fix" the system justice system. These proposals are part of a planned scheme, called "Tort Reform", to limit insurance companies' exposure to paying injured people full value for their claims. The most recent example is taking place in Oklahoma, where the Republicans in the state legislature--led by a former medical malpractice defense attorney--are trying to pass as many different changes to current law as they can. Not surprisingly, while all the proposals are favorable to the insurance companies, they are also all detrimental to protecting and compensating the general public. We wrote about the Oklahoma tort reform efforts on our San Diego Injury Lawyer Blog, here.

Now, here comes a new report and possible effort to reform the civil justice system. However, the source of this report is from an association of personal injury attorneys--those who represent injured people.

This report, described in this AP news story, recommends major changes in the civil justice system in the way that courts hear civil lawsuits. The reasoning behind these suggestions is that the current system drags out disputes unnecessarily by demanding irrelevant and hard-to-find information through the "discovery" process where the parties are able to request information from one another.

Focusing on the federal civil justice system, the authors of the report point out that the federal discovery rules (which are very similar to state discovery rules) are out of date because they were created in the 1930s. Accordingly, they were written for a time when the volume of documents were much smaller than they are today in an age of e-mail communication. Major corporations are now hiring personnel merely to manage their document systems if they ever get sued to ensure they can, in the possible future, comply with federal discovery statutes.

In addition to updating the view of electronic discovery management in the federal discovery rules, the report also suggests creating new specific requirements for expert witness testimony, making sure a judge handles a case from beginning to end, and giving the judges the power to order mediation in some cases.

San Diego Personal Injury Attorneys of the Jurewitz Law Group on Twitter

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12022 — Fri, 15 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Ever wonder what our San Diego personal injury attorneys are working on? Want to know about important news affecting San Diego injury accident victims?

You can now follow the Jurewitz Law Group on Twitter.com, a social media site providing instantaneous news.

To follow along, create a Twitter account and go to http://www.twitter.com/sandiegoinjury.

Jurewitz Law Group Opens North San Diego County Office in Carlsbad, CA

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12021 — Fri, 15 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Jurewitz Law Group announces that it has a second location to serve clients seriously injured by slip and fall accidents, dog bites, and bicycle accidents in North San Diego County. We have opened a second office conveniently located in Carlsbad and within easy driving distance from San Marcos, Encinitas, Oceanside, Vista, and Escondido.

Our North San Diego County office is located at:

2768 Loker Avenue West, Suite 101
Carlsbad, CA 92010

Progressive Insurance Company's Newest Dirty Trick

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12020 — Fri, 15 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Progressive Insurance's slippery and underhanded tactics have been profiled before. See here.

Now comes Progressive's latest dirty trick: offering personal injury settlements in auto accident cases before victims even get a chance to see a doctor.

Here's how the new strategy works:

If Progressive determines that it's insured is at fault, it sends its' adjustor to the victim's home--typically within 48 or 72 hours of the accident. At that time, the adjustor will express Progressive's sympathy and willingness to help. Then the adjustor will offer a nominal sum to settle the victim's claims. Typically the offer is between $500 and $1,000.

If the victim won't agree to the settlement, usually because they have not seen a doctor yet, the adjustor will then up the ante and offer the money and to pay for all medical bills within the next 30 days. Since the victim is entitled to have all medical bills paid to treat the injuries from the accident, without time limit, this is a horrible deal.

Our San Diego personal injury lawyers have seen this strategy play out on a number of occasions. The most notable was a potential client from Rancho Cucamonga who had his new BMW totalled by a Progressive Insured. The potential client went to the doctor and was experiencing pain. The next day the adjustor arrived offering $1,000. The potential client, thinking his pain would go away, agreed to the money and to Progressive covering his medical expenses for 30 days.

3 months later, he continued to have excruciating pain including symptoms which would indicate possible orthopedic and neurologic injuries. But he had already settled his claims.

Don't fall for this strategy. The first call you should make after being involved in a serious car accident--after calling the police--is to call our office and get trained accident attorneys working for you.

Trusting the other driver's insurance company is the worst mistake one can make.

Jurewitz Law Group Opens New Office in Downtown San Diego

raj@jurewitz.com (Blog Author)12019 — Fri, 15 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Jurewitz Law Group, a San Diego personal injury law firm representing injured clients throughout California, announces that it has recently moved and opened its' new San Diego office location.

The new office is located at:

The Koll Center
501 West Broadway, Suite 1780
San Diego, CA 92101
Tel: (619) 233-5020
Toll Free: (888) 233-5020
Fax: (888) 233-3180

New and existing clients can meet with attorneys at the new office or, if preferable, at any location throughout San Diego County, including El Cajon, Chula Vista, La Mesa, and Lemon Grove. Face to face meetings outside Southern California are also possible, but require more lead time.

San Diego Personal Injury Attorneys Move Downtown Office | CA Lawyers

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)16301 — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Our main personal injury law office has recently relocated to 625 Broadway, Suite 1104 in Downtown San Diego. The building, which is commonly known as the Historical John D. Spreckels Building, is one of the older office buildings Downtown and for three years was the tallest building in San Diego.

However, the most interesting aspect of the building is that it was built by one of San Diego’s leading founding fathers and one of the most interesting businessmen, John D. Spreckels. John Diedrich Spreckels was a true businessman with a grand vision for San Diego and its’ place as a major city in the United States. He was a savvy investor and conducted many projects to help build the city of San Diego to be as wonderful as it is today.

Born in South Carolina, Spreckels moved to New York and then San Francisco where he grew up. Coming from a family line of sharp business developers, including major interests in the Hawaiian sugar trade, Spreckels naturally made a lasting career out of being an entrepreneur. He is credited for helping to transform San Diego intto a beautiful metropolitan city by founding a railway system as well as hundreds of business buildings. The San Diego and Arizona Railway and the Hotel Del Coronado are just two of the most notable infrastructure landmarks that gave rise to the City’s modern development.

On a visit to San Diego from San Francisco, Spreckels was impressed and saw potential in the real estate of San Diego. He fell in love with the sleepy, but bankrupt coastal fishing village, and started his investment in Downtown San Diego along Broadway (known as D Street at that time) by purchasing and developing the wharf and dock at the foot of Broadway and San Diego Harbor. He soon spent his entire life building an empire of business buildings in and around the city.

After the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, Spreckels and his family moved permanently to San Diego where he quickly become known as the wealthiest man in town. He invested millions of dollars into the city and its’ development. He was the owner of properties such as Coronado Island, Belmont Park, the Union Building, The John D. Spreckels Building, Spreckels Theater, and many other well known structures. Thousands were employed because of him and he was president of various companies that were critical to the growth of San Diego as an important port and metropolitan area in California.

One of Spreckel’s most notable achievements was the development of the San Diego Electric Railway system. He was able to give citizens quick, cheap, and reliable transportation from all over San Diego. This was the first of any form of mass transportation in the city. Many of his buildings still stand today and tell the story of a large part of our city’s history.

John Spreckels was truly a very interesting and accomplished founding father for San Diego It is a great honor to have the Jurewitz Law Group’s office located inside such a prestigious and historic building built by such a great man.

Are Witness Statements Protected by Attorney Work Product Privilege?

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)15629 — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Are witness statements collected at the scene of an accident or by your personal injury attorney following an accident subject to the protections of the attorney work-product privilege--a privilege which allows injury accident victims to keep these statements confidential and away from the hands of insurance companies and their lawyers?

The issue was recently tackled by the Court of Appeal for the Fifth Appellate District of California in the case of Coito v. Superior Court. The Court was asked to determine whether a statement of a witness to an accident by an attorney is protected by the work product privilege. The Court held that such statements are not protected and can be discovered by opposing counsel during discovery.

The Court distinguished the case of Nacht & Lewis Architects, Inc. v. Superior Court holding that Nacht & Lewis did not hold that a list of witnesses from whom statements had been taken, nor the statements themselves, were privileged. Such statements have very important evidentiary value, including containing inconsistent statements, prior consistent statements, or past recollections recorded--all of which would be admissible at trial. However, were these statements to be protected by the attorney work-product privilege, the opposing party could not have access to these important pieces of information and evidence.

The Court also rejected a qualified attorney work-product privilege defense--in other words that in certain circumstances and with certain limitations, the privilege would exist. The Court held that a recording or document which shows the attorney's thoughts and interpretation of the evidence and case was protected by the privilege. However, in most cases where the attorney or his representative is simply asking questions and the witness responses are simply answering those questions, then the privilege would not attach. The statement would not contain any interpretive input from the attorney. The Court also rejected the argument that the selection of the attorney's questions itself was interpretive--the statements had evidentiary value only.

What this means, for people injured in accidents in California and the insurance companies who oppose them, is that witness statements are discoverable absent an affirmative showing that the statement contains protected interpretive analysis by the attorney.

Can Texting While Driving Be Treated Medically? | San Diego Lawyer Att

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)15538 — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

A recent essay in The New England School of Medicine suggests that doctors should begin asking their patients whether they drive while texting or talking on a mobile phone. The doctor, Dr. Amy Ship, reports that family physicians routinely ask patients whether they engage in dangerous or risky behavior such as smoking, watching their diet, or remembering to fasten their seat belt. Dr. Ship believes that asking about distracted driving should be incorporated into these risk questions.

Distracted driving--whether by talking on a cellphone or texting while driving--is certainly a problem, particularly amongst teenagers and inexperienced drivers. That is why our San Diego personal injury law firm helps sponsor the Teens Against Distracted Driving program where teenagers and their parents can take a pledge not to text and drive.

But can asking regarding dangerous behavior be effective to making patients safer? Is it the place of medical doctors to take on the issue of texting while driving as a preventative medicine issue? Is it too much of an intrusion into individual behavior to have primary car physicians ask about their patients' personal behavior which is not medically related?

Dr. Ship takes the position that any efforts to keep patients safer and alive is fair game for medical doctors. She herself initiates the conversation by letting her patients know that texting and talking on the cellphone causes more auto accidents. She then tells them that multitasking when talking on the cellphone is obviously dangerous, otherwise patients would not mind if their surgeon spoke on the phone while operating on them.

Anything to increase awareness of the problem of distracted driving helps.

Motorcycle Accident Deaths Plunge | San Diego CA Injury Lawyer Attorne

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)14261 — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

A report issued by the Governors Highway Safety Association found that the total number of fatal motorcycle crashes declined by 16% in the first nine months of 2009, compared to the same time in 2008. Motorcycle accidents have been rising steadily for nearly a dozen years before setting a record in 2008.

There is no clear explanation for the drop in fatal motorcycle accidents in 2009, only a year after the record of 5,290 motorcycle fatalities was recorded in 2008. Some have speculated that the economy was keeping motorcyclists off the road and pointed to a 42% decrease in new motorcycle sales. The theory is that there were fewer novice riders on the road and that publicity about motorcycle deaths had increased awareness both amongst motorcyclists and motorists about motorcycle safety.

California experienced 133 fewer motorcycle fatalities during the early months of 2009. Overall, the report projects that the annual fatality decline amongst motorcycle riders will be 10% for all of 2009.

Federal statistics show the number of motorcycle fatalities had steadily increased for over 10 years ending in 2007. However, the data released Thursday demonstrates that several efforts to reduce the number of deadly motorcycle crashes have perhaps worked. For instance, the study authors believe that the recommendation for mandatory helmet use amongst motorcyclists placing the second part in reducing the toll number of deaths from motorcycle wrecks. In addition, the authors believe that decreasing the number of people who ride after drinking alcohol, reducing the instances of speeding, and providing additional training for motorcyclists will further reduce the number of deadly accidents. Riding at excess speeds or under the influence of alcohol were determined to be factors in a significant number of motorcycle crashes. In addition, approximately half of all motorcyclists and their passengers who died in wrecks were not wearing helmets.

This decrease in California motorycyle accidents is good news to our office. There is not a week that goes by where we hear stories of someone who has seriously injured themselves in a motorcycle accident and will now face months, if not years, of rehabilitation to get better. If there is anything that motorcyclists can do, within reason, to remain safe, they should do so. Riding a motorcycle is a lot of fun, but is also extremely dangerous.

Georgia Supreme Court Overturns Medical Malpractice Damage Caps

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)13591 — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

The Georgia Supreme Court struck a huge blow for personal injury victim and in particular those injured due to the carelessness and lack of care of their doctors.

A unanimous Court struck down damage caps on jury awards in medical malpractice cases which limited the amount that medical malpractice plaintiffs could recover for non-economic damages (generally referred to as "pain and suffering" damages) to $350,000. The Court held that damage caps violate the right to trial by jury as guaranteed under the Georgia Constitution.

The case upheld a $1.265 million jury verdice in favor of Betty Nestlehutt, a 75-year old Marietta, GA real estate agent. Following a face-lift operation in 2006, Nestlehutt suffered from gaping wounds across her face that required lengthy and painful treatments to keep them from being infected, leaving her permanently disfigured.

The Supreme Court ruled that the cap on damage awards "nullifies the jury's findings of fact regarding damages and thereby undermines the jury's basic function...The very existence of the caps, in any amount, is violative of the right to trial by jury." The ruling makes it clear to the Georgia Assembly that any future efforts to place a cap on damages would be ruled unconstitutional.

This is the latest in a series of rulings in several states which struck down tort reform efforts to limit the amount that can be recovered by personal injury victims. It does not make sense and simply is not fair for those seriously injured at the hands of others to be told that the perpetrator can inflict unlimited damage upon their body, but that they are limited in the compensation they receive in return.

Rancho Cucamonga Jury Awards Woman $23.4 Million for SUV Accident

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)12926 — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A San Bernardino County jury awarded a one-man $23.4 million for catastrophic injuries she suffered after a 2007 car accident. The civil judgment was entered against Ford Motor Company and arose after the plaintiff, Cynthia Castillo, lost control of her 1997 Ford Explorer because the tread on her left rear tire separated as she drove along the freeway.

According to the evidence presented at trial, Ms. Castillo's Explorer swerved off the freeway and rolled three times down an embankment you for coming to rest. This serious rollover accidents led to her legs and most of her body being paralyzed. The evidence showed a trial that the Explorer's design cause it to lose control when Ms. Castillo's tire tread separated.

At the time of the accident, Ms. Castillo was 38. She has been a quadriplegic ever since. She has been confined to bed and has difficulty caring for a young daughter.

According to Ford Motor Company and its' attorneys, the accident was caused by a worn-out tire that Ms. Castillo put on her own vehicle and had failed to replace. Ford also blamed Ms. Castillo or failure to maintain the vehicle, arguing that her failure to replace the shocks and other maintenance failures demonstrated her own lack of care and cost are accidents and injuries.

Nonetheless, the Rancho Cucamonga, CA jury came back with a unanimous verdict in Ms. Castillo's favor, finding Ford Motor Company almost 100% at fault for causing her injuries.

This is a fantastic verdict and result for a severely injured person who now has to face life largely paralyzed and need the help of others for assistance with even the most basic tasks and routines. We are very happy for Ms. Castillo and hope that the jury's verdict will finally bring her some peace and much-needed help.

Recall of Dorel Asia Cribs | San Diego CA Children Injury Attorney Law

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)12340 — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

In the second majory recall of baby cribs in three months, Dorel Asia Cribs issued a recall of over 600,000 cribs due to threat of strangulation and suffocation. The cribs feature enough space for a child's head to become stuck and cause the airway to be cutoff, leading to death or serious brain injury.

Dorel cribs have been available in the United States since 2005.

Reportedly, at least one baby has died and at least six other babies have been injured by the Dorel cribs.

In November, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a recall of Stork Craft cribs which affected over one million drop side cribs in the United States for the same reasons.

To obtain more information about the Dorel Asia Crib recall, call their customer service representatives at 866-762-2304.

Graco Recalls Baby Strollers | San Diego CA Child Injury Lawyer Attorn

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)12339 — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Graco has announced the recall of certain Passage, Alano, and Spree strollers and travel systems after several children had suffered hurt fingers in the canopy hinge. The injuries resulted in the amputation of five fingertips and two lacerations according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Families were warned not to use the stroller until they received a free protective cover kit for the canopy from the company.

The Graco strollers were sold at a number of stores including Burlington Coat Factory, Walmart, Target, Sears, and Kmart between October 2004 and December 2009. Not all Graco strollers were recalled because they did not include the defective hinge. Please check this notice from the CPSC to make sure that your model number is on the recall list before acting.

In order to order a stroller hinge repair kit by calling Graco's consumer service line at 800-345-4109 or order online .

Progressive Insurance--"We'll Pay Your Client's Medical Bills but That is All..."

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)11944 — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Insurance companies and tort reform advocates often argue that plaintiff injury accident lawyers and their injured clients are running up the cost of car insurance and generally making it more expensive for all Americans to live. Not true. This is a story of a recent interaction we had with Progressive Insurance which demonstrates that insurance companies and their unreasonable positions are largely to blame for the increasing cost of auto insurance.

We recently submitted a demand package on behalf of a client who was injured after being rear-ended at a stop sign. Simple case with no liability dispute and limited and reasonable medical treatment for a few weeks to care for our client's sore back and neck.

Our client's medical treatment totalled approximately $6,000. Progressive Insurance's offer was $6,500 on a take it or leave it basis. They would offer no more money.

Fine. Although Progressive and other insurance companies think they are the final decision makers as to the value of personal injury cases in California, they are not. Juries here in San Diego and elsewhere throughout the State are the ones who ultimately must decide what a case is worth and how much compensation the injured victim will receive. In these cases, we immediately file a lawsuit and serve the defendant with a copy of the complaint, summons, and a letter which nicely explains that we are sorry to involve them, but their insurance company refused to deal with our office fairly. Now the defendant will spend time at deposition and ultimately at trial while Progressive Insurance will spend more defending the lawsuit than it would take to settle the claim--and then they will still have to pay the jury's verdict.

And somehow plaintiff's lawyers and their clients are blamed for increasing auto insurance rates. Go figure.

Insurance Companies Try to Increase Profits Through Questionable Tactics

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)11805 — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A new free report from the American Association for Justice (AAJ), "Tricks of the Trade: How Insurance Companies Deny, Delay, Confuse and Refuse", tells how the insurance industry is increasingly using questionable tactics to increase their bottom lines at the expense of injured people and claimants. This only harms the public who relies on a honest and efficient insurance system to compensate them for serious accidents.

The Report identifies the following common insurance company tricks:

Denying Claims: This is the most common tactic and is regularly employed by all insurance companies, including Allstate, State Farm, and USAA. By denying valid claims, the insurance companies boost their profits because those are monies that will not be paid out. Insurance companies have even been known to incentivize their employees to deny valid claims.
Delaying until Death: Insurance companies regularly delay claims in the hope that the claimant will die before the claim is paid or hoping that the injured person will give up or settle for less. Many people do just that rather than stay the course.
Confusing People: You are not alone if you have ever been confused after reading your insurance contract. They even confuse lawyers. Insurance companies regularly use confusing agreements and language to discourage consumers.
Discriminating by Credit Score: Insurance companies determine premiums and insurance approvals based upon credit scores. Lower scores pay higher premiums.
Abandoning the Sick: Insurance policy holders who are the most need of medical care are often targeted by the insurance companies and have their benefits cancelled to lower the amount of money paid out for health care.
Cancelling for a Call: Some people will call their insurance company to get a feel how filing a claim will affect their insurance coverage. If the effect is too negative, they won't file a claim. However, just by making the call, the insured has essentially made a claim as far as the insurance company is concerned. At renewal, the insurance company can use these phone inquiries to deny claims.

Be sure to protect yourself by doing your insurance policy homework and order a copy of Ross Jurewitz's Book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case, which includes a section on how to buy insurance.

Orange County Jury Awards Injured Worker $4.7 Million After Being Hit by Commercial Truck

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)11486 — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

On July 28, 2009, an Orange County jury awarded a severely injured construction supervisor $4.7 million after he was struck by a commercial truck while supervising the installation of a natural gas pipeline in Orange County. The 36 year old man was left with severe injuries that made him disabled and restricted his physical abilities.

The underlying commercial truck accident occurred on December 8, 2006, while the plaintiff was supervising the installation of a natural gas pipeline when he was struck by a Chevrolet Tahoe driven by an employee of the defendant making a lunch delivery. The defendant was a franchisee of three El Pollo Loco restaurants. The defendant driver had pulled from a stop sign into the intersection in front of an approaching Toyota 4-Runner. Neither driver saw the other before the collision. After both vehicles struck each other, the Chevy was propelled into the plaintiff, causing severe injury, including a shear fracture of the pelvis and a massive injury to the left shoulder. Total medical care costs exceeded $405,000 and the plaintiff lost $63,000 in income. He underwent three surgeries to stabilize his pelvis and beat two separate bouts of MERSA following the surgeries.

As a result of the accident, the plaintiff was forced to give up his field supervisor position in favor of a sedentary job as an estimator for underground construction. There was no claim for future medical care since the experts on both sides agreed that no medical treatment would improve the plaintiff's condition. The medical evidence was also largely undisputed. The plaintiff was relegated to a largely sedentary lifestyle following the auto accident. He could not lift over 20 pounds, had difficulty walking over half a mile, and could not sit or stand for prolonged periods. Prior to the car accident, plaintiff was in excellent health and had a very active lifestyle with his wife and two children.

The defendant driver pointed the finger at the driver of the 4-Runner and did not take responsibility for his own role in the accident.

After a jury trial, the jury rejected the argument that the driver of the 4-Runner was negligent and concluded that it was not reasonable for him to anticipate that the driver of the Chevy would enter the intersection when it was unsafe. The jury awarded over $405,000 for past medical costs, past wage loss of over $63,000, past "pain and suffering" of $2,000,000, and future "pain and suffering" of $2,250,000 for the remaining 40 years of plaintiff's life.

Congratulations to the plaintiff on receiving a fantastic and well-deserved victory. We wish him and his family the best in the future.

Jurewitz Law Group Opens New Downtown San Diego Office

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)8629 — Sun, 17 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

The San Diego personal injury law firm, the Jurewitz Law Group, representing seriously injured people throughout California, recently moved and opened its' new San Diego office location.

Our new Downtown San Diego office is located at:

501 West Broadway, Suite 1780
San Diego, CA 92101
Tel: (619) 233-5020
Toll Free: (888) 233-5020
Fax: (888) 233-3180

New and existing clients can meet with our San Diego injury accident lawyers at our Downtown office, our North San Diego County Office in Carlsbad, or at any location throughout San Diego County.

Face to face meetings outside Southern California are also possible, but require more lead time.

Jurewitz Law Group Opens Carlsbad, CA Office for North San Diego County Clients

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)8628 — Sun, 17 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Jurewitz Law Group has opened a North San Diego County office in Carlsbad to serve clients seriously injured by slip and fall accidents, dog bites, and bicycle accidents. The office is easily reachable from San Marcos, Encinitas, Oceanside, Vista, and Escondido.

You can find our Carlsbad office (by appointment only) at:

2768 Loker Avenue West, Suite 101
Carlsbad, CA 92010

Follow the Jurewitz Law Group on Twitter

blog@www.jurewitz.com (News Author)8627 — Sun, 17 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Do you want to know what our San Diego personal injury attorneys are up to? Want to know of important news regarding San Diego? Want to know about important developments in the law, particularly concerning accident victims and the public?

You can now follow the Jurewitz Law Group on the social networking "micro-blog" site, Twitter.com.

Just create a Twitter account and go to http://www.twitter.com/sandiegoinjury to follow along.