Auto Accident Lawyer in Sacramento

Driving Distractions That Cause Accidents

Americans spend a lot of their time behind the wheel. As commutes get longer and longer and self-driving cars still seem a world away, it’s important to understand what causes car accidents and how to prevent them. A major reason people say they were involved in a car crash is because they were distracted. Now, it seems obvious not to drive distracted, but as driving seems natural and we do it all the time, people become too comfortable with the task and start becoming flippant about it. This article will cover the top ten driving distractions and how to avoid them and always remember to seek legal advice from an auto accident lawyer in Sacramento if you have been involved in a car accident.

Driving Distraction 1: Passengers

Many young people get in car collisions while driving with their friends. Young people are less likely to understand the seriousness of driving and how dangerous it can be. They’ve been in cars their whole lives and being able to drive one unsupervised introduces a huge amount of independence, which can be very exciting. Young passengers may think it’s funny to play jokes on the driver or that driving is a great time to engage in a serious or compelling story. It’s important to realize that it’s okay to tell your friends to calm down and be quiet when you’re driving.

Driving Distraction 2: Phones Calls

Communicating over cell phone is more distracting than when someone else is in the car for several reasons. Other passengers are able to tell when the driver is focusing on the task ahead. The may speak freely while the driver is peacefully travelling down a straight road and will know to pause the conversation when the driver is merging or entering a high-traffic area. People on the phone won’t be able to understand that they may get frustrated if a driver pauses during the conversation for seemingly no reason. Another thing that makes cell phones distracting is their operation. Even hands-free devices can be difficult to work as the driver’s words may be misinterpreted, potentially causing panic and an even more dangerous situation. Avoid this by making all calls before and after driving and contact an auto accident lawyer in Sacramento to learn what you can do if you were hit by a distracted driver.

Driving Distraction 3: Texting

Texting may seem like something that can be done between glances at the road. This is an extremely common and dangerous misconception. Taking your eyes off the road for only a moment can result in an accident. Even if you just look at your texts and wait to respond, this takes attention away from the happenings of the road. This is a very easy distraction to avoid. Keep your phone in the glove compartment and on silent during your road. It’s okay to be unavailable for a short amount of time – it makes you seem more interesting, anyway!

Driving Distraction 4: Playing with the Radio

While a bad song or disruptive commercials can be distracting themselves, it’s even more distracting to try to fiddle with the radio to silent this disturbances. A good way to avoid this is to either have your passenger take on this role or to set yourself up with a playlist before hitting the road. Having good music can make tedious drives more enjoyable and keep you motivated to focus on the task.

Driving Distraction 5: Entertainment

While it’s important to have music that you enjoy, being too involved in the music or other entertainment can cause you to lose track of what’s going on on the road. Showing off your dance moves or reacting to an outrageous audio book or podcast can result in a car collision by forgetting the actual task at hand. Avoid this distraction by specifically curating your entertainment so you have something interesting but not distracting.

Driving Distraction 6: Eating

Americans are an on-the-go people. We’re always in a rush and off to our next task. Sometimes, our days can be so hectic that we don’t have time to sit down and enjoy a meal. Going through the drive-thru to pick up a sandwich for the drive is a tempting time-saver. It’s important to take the extra moments to finish your snack before hitting the road. You don’t want a tomato falling into your lap and making you take your eyes off the road.

Driving Distraction 7: Playing with the Controls

Having to adjust the airflow, seat warmer, and other car controls can be quite distracting. This is especially true if you aren’t familiar with the car you’re driving. Having to search for the control you need is even more distracting that simply turning a knob. It can be unavoidable and minimally distracting to simply press a single button when you know exactly where it is and what it will do. To avoid spending excessive time on the controls of the car, take a moment to orient yourself before the trip. This way you have a better idea of the layout of the buttons and you can identify the ones you actually are likely to use. If you or someone you know has been hit because of a distracted driver, you may be entitled to legal compensation. Contact an auto accident lawyer in Sacramento today.

Driving Distraction 8: Self-Care

Waiting until you’re on the road to do last-minute beauty maintenance is a bad idea. Combing your hair and wiping your face is a bad idea when you’re on the road. Though you may save a minute or two by performing these tasks on the road, getting into a car collision will surely take more time among other associated consequences.

Distraction 9: Getting Lost

It’s inevitable that we’ll drive on an unfamiliar road or in an unknown city at some point. Checking your GPS and driving without knowing where you are can be dangerous and distracting. Be sure you know where you’re going as much as possible. Look at the instructions on your GPS before you start traveling. Pointing out landmarks to yourself can be helpful. For example, instead of thinking “turn left on Main,” noticing your favorite fast-food restaurant is on the corner can help you remember your directions and familiarize yourself with the area. If you do get lost, be sure to pull over before studying the GPS instructions.

Driving Distraction 10: Emotional Baggage

It’s hard to separate your emotions from the task at hand. While this may not matter when you are showering or doing the dishes. Being upset while behind the wheel can be dangerous. Everyone knows the term “road rage” for its potentially serious consequences. Taking your emotions on the road with you can make you behave erratically and dangerously. Take a moment to calm down and focus on getting to your destination before you start the car. Perhaps you were in a fine mood when you got into the car, but traffic or other drivers have riled you up. Having a mantra to say to yourself may be helpful to keep calm. It may be difficult to have compassion for jerks on the road, but just imagine the car riding your bumper is trying to reach the hospital. Putting things into perspective and allowing yourself to let go of other people’s issues can help keep you safe on the road and calm in other areas of your life.

Getting into an accident because of distracted driving is almost always a regret. Think twice before you partake in activities that can distract you from driving and always consult with a highly experienced auto accident lawyer in Sacramento if you have been in an accident.

Contact an Auto Accident Lawyer in Sacramento if You’ve Been Hurt in an Auto Accident

Getting in a car accident of any size can alter your life indefinitely. At The Choyce Law Firm, we understand how emotionally and financially stressful it may be if you or a loved one was in a car accident. Give us a call at (916) 306-0636 to speak to an auto accident lawyer in Sacramento.

Call Auto Accident Lawyer in Sacramento For Help

If you have been injured in a car, truck or motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another, regardless of the nature of the underlying accident, it is important to contact experienced auto accident lawyers in Sacramento at The Choyce Law Firm to discuss your legal options. We have offices in Sacramento & Fairfield, CA for your convenience and have the resources and expertise to aggressively litigate your case in court, fighting to get you just compensation for your injury.

Call (916) 306-0636 today for a free consultation with our car accident lawyer in Sacramento regarding your injury case.
 

The Choyce Law Firm
1438 Del Paso Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95815
(916) 306-0636

CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY IN SACRAMENTO

Statute of limitations are deadlines for filing a lawsuit and every state has them.

The period of time during which you can file a lawsuit varies depending on the type of legal claim. For example, with personal injury cases, you have two years to file from the time of the injury. If the injury was not discovered right away, then it is 1 year from the date the injury was discovered. For a breach of written contract, its four years from the date the contract was broken and two years for an oral contract. Any property damage lawsuits have 3 years from the date the damage occurred.

If you fail to go to court and file a lawsuit against those who have injured you within the 2 year time frame, the court will likely refuse to hear your case at any time in the future and your right to compensation will be lost. There is a time limit of 6 months to file an injury claim against a government entity and claimants must adhere to a strict set of procedural rules. In some personal injury cases, the defendant may make the argument that you’re actually to blame(at least partially) for causing the accident that forms the basis of your claim. If you do share some level of liability, it can end up affecting the total amount of compensation you’ll end up receiving from other at-fault persons and businesses. In shared fault injury cases, California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule which basically means the amount of compensation you’re entitled to will be reduced by an amount that is equal to your percentage of fault for the accident.

There is a strict liability for dog attack cases. Unlike most states, California does not adopt the “one bite” rule which gives dow owners exceptions for the first time their dog attacks someone. In California, the owner is “strictly liable” regardless of the times the dog has bitten someone.

Because lawsuits are a long and complicated process, contact Sacramento accident attorneys at The Choyce Law Firm immediately so you can get started on getting the compensation you deserve.

THE INSURANCE COMPANY IS NOT ON YOUR SIDE

Your interests and those of your insurance company will conflict, especially when an uninsured or underinsured motorist injures you. In this case, you will seek compensation from your own insurance company. In every car accident, your insurer will pay your medical bills and lost wages. But it is through the insurer’s investigation of the accident that determines total financial payout. It is vital that you contact an auto accident attorney at the Law Firm whose only interest is to obtain maximum compensation for you. Many insurance companies give out advice that should be followed at the scene of an accident. These include calling the police; not admitting fault at the scene; exchanging insurance information with the other driver; and obtaining the other driver’s name, address, phone number, license plate number etc.

The final piece of advice is to notify your insurance agent immediately. Although your policy obligates you to notify your insurance company of any accidents, your attorney should personally do so if injuries were involved. Without notifying your lawyer, you may make mistakes that will go against you in the future. Employees at the insurance company are trained to investigate accident cases to defend against fraudulent and exaggerated claims in order to protect their company’s pocket. Sometimes insurance companies misrepresent the amount of their policy limits in order to settle cases for far less than justified by the nature of the injuries. In some cases, insurance adjusters might advise claimants to avoid getting an attorney because the lawyer would supposedly take all of the money. It is important to understand that contacting your lawyer first is always safer and wiser.

If you were injured due to the negligence of another, regardless of the nature of the underlying accident, it is important to contact an experienced injury attorney to discuss your legal options.

The Choyce Law Firm has the resources and expertise to aggressively litigate your case in court, fighting to get you just compensation for your injury.

What to Do Following an Accident

Being involved in an accident can result in a scary and confusing situation, especially when serious injuries have occurred. The immediate aftermath following an accident is crucial. There are a few key steps that you can take in order to ensure safety, collect vital information, and make sure that you are treated fairly by both your insurance company and the legal system. If you have any questions, always contact a skilled car accident attorney for legal advice.

Immediately following an accident, you should:

• First check to see if you are injured, and then see if anyone else around you is injured
• Call 911 immediately to obtain medical assistance
• Ensure that the police arrive on the scene and create a report of the accident
• Make notes on the cause of the accident, accident scene, and other factors that were involved, while it is still fresh in your mind
• Collect as much evidence as possible, such as pictures of the damage, license plate numbers, street signs, skid marks, and more
• Contact your insurance provider

If you are injured or suffered extensive damage to property, contact an experienced and trustworthy car accident attorney in Sacramento to learn if you have cause for legal action

Let Our Experienced Team Begin Work on Your Case Immediately!

By reacting as quickly as possible after an accident, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving the fair compensation that you deserve for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and more. Our Sacramento car accident attorneys at The Choyce Law Firm are ready to begin work on your case right away. We can collect all of the necessary information and evidence to put together a strong claim on your behalf.

Injured in an Accident? Contact car accident attorney in Sacramento for Help.

If you have been injured in a truck, motorcycle, plane or car accident, or charged with a DUI or other criminal or traffic offense, call the lawyers at The Choyce Law Firm right now! Our experienced personal injury lawyer is available to give you the answers you need to know immediately and can fight for justice and compensation with integrity and relentless enthusiasm.
 
It’s important to understand that there are many legal deadlines if you are injured or charged with a DUI. We are a local law firm with offices in Fairfield, CA & Sacramento, CA. We limit our practice to four areas of expertise: criminal defense, DUI defense, traffic ticket defense and personal injury. Don’t hesitate, to call our office at (916) 306-0636 for your free consultation!

Car Accident Lawyer in Sacramento

Rear-End Accidents in California

At The Choyce Law Firm, we understand that being involved in a rear-end accident can be a traumatic experience, especially if you’re dealing with injuries caused by someone else’s negligence. One of the most common questions we hear is, “Who is at fault for a rear-end accident in California?” In most cases, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is considered to be at fault. However, it’s important to understand that this isn’t always a clear-cut determination.

• What To Do After A Car Accident?
• Should I Take An Ambulance After A Car Accident?
• Medical Bill Payment After A Car Accident
• Statute Of Limitations
• Dealing With Insurance Companies

California law requires all drivers to maintain a safe following distance and to be aware of the road conditions and traffic around them. When a driver fails to do this and collides with the vehicle in front of them, they are typically held responsible for the accident. This is because they were either driving too closely or not paying attention to the road.

However, there are exceptions. If the driver in front suddenly stops without warning, has faulty brake lights, or if there’s an unexpected hazard on the road that caused the abrupt stop, the responsibility might be shared or shifted. Additionally, in some cases, a third party might be partially at fault, such as when a mechanical failure or poor road conditions contributed to the accident.

We know that determining fault can be complex, and that’s why we’re here to help. If you’ve been injured in a rear-end accident in Sacramento, you shouldn’t have to navigate the legal process alone. We will work tirelessly to investigate the details of your case, gather evidence, and advocate on your behalf to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a rear-end accident, reach out to us today. We’re here to answer your questions, provide legal guidance, and help you on the path to recovery.

When the Rear Driver is At Fault

When the rear driver is at fault in a rear-end accident, it’s usually because they failed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them. California law requires drivers to follow at a distance that allows them to stop safely if the car ahead suddenly slows down or comes to a halt. When a driver doesn’t adhere to this rule, they can be held liable for any resulting accident and injuries.

Several common scenarios illustrate why the rear driver is typically at fault. For example, if the rear driver was distracted, perhaps by their phone, and didn’t notice the car in front slowing down, they wouldn’t have enough time to stop. Similarly, if the rear driver was tailgating, they wouldn’t have sufficient space to brake safely in the event of an emergency stop by the vehicle ahead.

Another factor that can place fault on the rear driver is speeding. A driver who is going too fast may not be able to stop in time to avoid a collision, especially if traffic suddenly slows down. Additionally, poor road conditions like wet or icy surfaces can exacerbate the situation, but the rear driver is still expected to adjust their driving to these conditions.

In most rear-end accidents, the rear driver is presumed to be at fault because of these reasons. However, every case is unique, and there may be other contributing factors that need to be considered. If you’ve been rear-ended and are dealing with injuries, it’s crucial to have a legal team on your side that understands how to effectively prove fault and secure the compensation you deserve.

At The Choyce Law Firm, we have extensive experience in handling rear-end accident cases in Sacramento. We will thoroughly investigate your accident, collect the necessary evidence, and build a strong case to hold the at-fault driver accountable. CAll car accident lawyer in Sacramento today to learn more about how we can help you.

Could Another Driver Be At Fault?

Yes, in some cases, another driver could be at fault for a rear-end accident, even if they weren’t directly involved in the collision. While the rear driver is often presumed to be at fault, there are scenarios where another party’s actions could have contributed to the accident, shifting or sharing the blame.

For instance, if a third driver cut off the front vehicle by changing lanes abruptly without signaling, causing the front driver to slam on their brakes, the third driver could be considered partially at fault. Their reckless or negligent driving forced the front driver to stop suddenly, leading to the rear-end collision. In such situations, it’s crucial to identify this third driver and gather evidence, such as witness statements or traffic camera footage, to support your claim.

Another situation could involve a multi-vehicle pileup, where one vehicle’s negligence triggers a chain reaction of collisions. In such cases, the driver who initially caused the pileup might bear responsibility for the damages that follow, even if they weren’t directly involved in the rear-end collision that injured you.

It’s also possible for a mechanical failure, such as faulty brakes, to contribute to the accident. If the rear driver’s brakes failed due to a defect or improper maintenance by a service provider, the manufacturer or mechanic could be held partially liable.

At The Choyce Law Firm, we understand that determining fault in a rear-end accident can be complex, especially when multiple parties may be involved. Our team is experienced in investigating these cases thoroughly, identifying all responsible parties, and ensuring that you receive the full compensation you deserve. If you suspect that another driver or a third party might be at fault for your rear-end accident, we’re here to help you explore all avenues of liability and build a strong case on your behalf.

The front driver of a rear-end collision could be at fault

The front driver in a rear-end collision can indeed be at fault in their own right under certain circumstances. While it’s common to assume that the rear driver is responsible, there are several scenarios where the front driver’s actions may contribute to or cause the accident.

• Sudden and Unnecessary Stops: If the front driver suddenly and unexpectedly slams on their brakes without a valid reason, they could be held partially or fully at fault for the resulting collision. For instance, if they stop abruptly in the middle of the road to make a turn without signaling or to avoid missing an exit, the rear driver may not have enough time to react.
• Faulty Brake Lights: If the front driver’s brake lights are not functioning properly, the rear driver may not realize that the car in front is slowing down or stopping. This lack of warning can lead to a collision, and the front driver could be held responsible for failing to maintain their vehicle’s safety features.
• Reversing into the Rear Driver: In some cases, the front driver might accidentally or intentionally put their vehicle in reverse and collide with the car behind them. This situation can occur in parking lots, at stop signs, or even at traffic lights. If this happens, the front driver is likely to be at fault for the accident.
• Driving Under the Influence or Recklessly: If the front driver is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or if they are driving recklessly (such as swerving in and out of lanes), their impaired judgment and dangerous behavior could be the primary cause of the rear-end collision.
• Driving with Mechanical Issues: If the front driver’s vehicle has mechanical problems, such as stalling in the middle of the road or failing to accelerate, they could be held liable if these issues lead to a rear-end collision. It’s the driver’s responsibility to ensure their vehicle is in safe working order before getting on the road.

At The Choyce Law Firm, we recognize that each rear-end collision is unique, and the determination of fault isn’t always straightforward. If you’ve been involved in a rear-end accident and believe that the front driver’s actions contributed to the crash, we’re here to help you investigate the circumstances and protect your rights. Our team will work diligently to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable, and that you receive the compensation you need for your injuries and damages.

Contact Car Accident Lawyer in Sacramento

If you have been injured in a car, truck or motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another, regardless of the nature of the underlying accident, it is important to contact experienced Sacramento auto accident attorney at The Choyce Law Firm to discuss your legal options. We have offices in Sacramento & Fairfield, CA for your convenience and have the resources and expertise to aggressively litigate your case in court, fighting to get you just compensation for your injury.
 
Call (916) 306-0636 today for a free consultation with our car accident lawyer in Sacramento regarding your injury case.

Contact Sacramento Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

Whether you or a loved one suffered one single bite, or a more devastating attack, you deserve a personal injury attorney who cares about your situation and is here to help make sure you are fully compensated for your injury. Our American system of law is set up only one way – to repay you for your loss with money. The insurance companies have one job – to pay you as little as possible and keep expenses as low as possible for their company. You must level the playing field by having an attorney on your side, who will fight to make sure justice is done.
 
Call Sacramento dog bite injury lawyer at The Choyce Law Firm for free consultation today. Our experienced personal injury lawyer is available to give you the answers you need to know immediately and can fight for justice and compensation with integrity and relentless enthusiasm.
 
It’s important to understand that there are many legal deadlines if you are injured.Give us a call at (916) 306-0636 to speak to a personal injury attorney in Sacramento who can handle your case and take the burden off your hands.
 
The Choyce Law Firm
1438 Del Paso Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95815
(916) 306-0636

Sacramento auto accident attorney

Car Accidents With Pedestrians

California has the country’s highest number of pedestrian fatalities for the second year in a row. This alarming trend highlights the significant risks pedestrians face when navigating roads and intersections. Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the lack of protection pedestrians have compared to vehicle occupants.

If you’ve been hit by a vehicle as a pedestrian, it’s crucial to take immediate action to protect your rights and seek compensation for your injuries. Here are the steps you should follow:

• Seek medical attention: Your health and safety are the top priority. Even if you don’t feel injured, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Get a thorough medical examination to document any injuries sustained.
• Report the accident: Contact the police and report the accident. Ensure that a detailed and accurate report is filed. This report will be crucial evidence in any legal proceedings or insurance claims.
• Gather evidence: If possible, gather evidence at the scene. This includes taking photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Collect contact information from any witnesses and the driver involved.
• Avoid making statements: Be cautious about what you say at the scene and to insurance adjusters. Avoid admitting fault or downplaying your injuries, as these statements can be used against you later.
• Contact an experienced attorney: Reach out to an experienced Sacramento auto accident attorney as soon as possible. An attorney will guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and work to secure the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.

Pedestrian accidents can be complex, involving multiple parties, including drivers, insurance companies, and sometimes governmental entities responsible for road maintenance. An experienced attorney will investigate the accident, gather necessary evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Don’t delay in seeking legal assistance. Contact a Sacramento auto accident attorney immediately to protect your rights and begin the process of recovering from your injuries and losses.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

• Pedestrian deaths are increasingly becoming more and more serious.
• There were 2,368 pedestrians killed from Jan-June in 2015, a 6% increase from the year before.
• In California, 23% of all motor vehicle fatalities were pedestrians.
• Pedestrian fatalities now account for 15% of total traffic deaths.
• About ⅓ of pedestrian deaths occur after dark.
• 70% of those victims were male.
• ⅓ of pedestrian fatalities were a result of a drunk driver.
• Pedestrians are three times more likely to die when struck by vehicles moving at 40 mph as they are by vehicles moving at 25 mph

You Have The Right To Compensation

If you were injured as a pedestrian due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to compensation. Such compensation should cover financial losses like medical bills, lost wages from missed work, rehabilitation, permanent disabilities and any emotional and psychological distress.

About ⅕ of pedestrian deaths involve hit-and-run drivers. If the police cannot locate the driver, wrongful death compensation is not available. But in other cases, when the driver is known, certain family members can pursue compensation. Contact a lawyer immediately if a loved one had died due to someone else’s negligence.

Proving Fault

In order to prove the driver of the vehicle was negligent, you will need evidence such as:

• Witness testimonies
• Driver statements
• Photos of the scene
• Photos of the vehicle
• Photos of your injuries
• And anything else that can prove the driver was negligent!

In most cases, fault is easy to establish. California has several right of way laws that apply to pedestrians so if a driver breaks any of these laws, he or she is at fault. Such laws include:

• Drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing in a marked crosswalk, or unmarked crosswalks at intersections
• While pedestrians must use due care for their safety, drivers approaching a pedestrian within any marked or unmarked crosswalk must also exercise due care and shall reduce the speed of their vehicle or take any other action to safeguard the safety of the pedestrian
• If a vehicle is stopped at a marked or unmarked crosswalk to let pedestrians cross, other drivers must not pass the stopped vehicle
• Even when pedestrians are walking outside a crosswalk, drivers are expected to exercise due care

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian-vehicle accident, contact a Sacramento auto accident attorney immediately who can review your case in detail and find the best way for you to get the compensation you deserve.

Injured in an Accident? Contact Sacramento auto accident attorney for Help.

If you have been injured in a car, truck or motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another, regardless of the nature of the underlying accident, it is important to contact experienced Sacramento auto accident attorney at The Choyce Law Firm to discuss your legal options. We have offices in Sacramento & Fairfield, CA for your convenience and have the resources and expertise to aggressively litigate your case in court, fighting to get you just compensation for your injury.
 
Call (916) 306-0636 today for a free consultation with our Sacramento auto accident attorney regarding your injury case.

SACRAMENTO PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER

Have you been seriously injured & need legal help?

Personal injury is a category of civil law in which a citizen files a legal claim against another person or entity. Personal injury is a way for individuals who have incurred injury to gain compensation against the responsible party. With the help of a Sacramento personal injury lawyer, injured parties may file claims against:

• Private individuals
• Businesses and corporations
• Government entities

Types of Personal Injury Claims

There are many circumstances that may reasonably lead to a personal injury suit, but some are more common than others. Some of the most common types of personal injury claims are mentioned below. If you have found yourself in one of these situations, call a Sacramento personal injury lawyer immediately for legal representation.

Negligence

This is the common charge made against individuals who are responsible for car collisions and other such instances in which the liable individual behaved negligently, resulting in the plaintiff’s injuries. This relies on the fact that each of us has a general duty of ordinary care that we will act reasonably given certain circumstances. This is a very broad area of personal liability and centers around the negligent party acting unreasonably and causing injury to another individual.

Defective Products

Injuries caused by defective products are related to product liability – the responsibility of the designers, manufacturers, distributors, and other individuals involved in the process of creating a product and getting it in the hands of consumers to do so safely. In these cases, it must be shown that the plaintiff received injuries due to the product that was defective as sold. Obviously there are many individuals who could be responsible for this injury and often large companies that may make it difficult to pursue legal action. For that reason, it’s highly encouraged to speak to a Sacramento personal injury lawyer.

Premises liability

Business owners or managers have a duty of care for all individuals who enter their property. Leaving their property in a manner that may result in injury is a negligence on the part of the responsible party and the cost of any subsequent injury should be their liability. Details include:

• The foreseeability of harm
• Whether it is reasonable to expect an individual on the property
• Exactly who is responsible for the state of the property

Private property owners are not out of reach, and some circumstances may give the right to personal injury claims even to trespassers.

Medical Malpractice

Doctors have a responsibility to their patients. They are required to exercise a degree of skill, knowledge, and care in their treatment of patients. This is the case not only for surgeries, but for prescriptions and even diagnoses. Because these cases are quite complicated, it’s best to seek legal advice from a highly skilled Sacramento personal injury lawyer. A medical malpractice case can include the following details:

• That doctors are required to behave in a similar manner to other members of their profession in similar conditions and circumstances.
• Informed consent is required and informed refusal must be made with full knowledge of the risks
• Standard of care includes the reasonable disclosure of other therapeutic options and dangers inherent in each
• Scope of disclosure requires physicians to inform their patients of as much relevant information as necessary to make an informed decision

Elder Abuse & Neglect

Elder abuse is defined as any intentional or negligent behavior by a caregiver or other individual that results in the harm or serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult. This abuse often occurs at nursing homes and other treatment settings. If a loved one has experienced any type of elder abuse, contact a Sacramento personal injury lawyer immediately to learn what legal actions you can take.

Elder abuse affects approximately 11% of elder persons each year in the United States, according to the Department of Justice. America is home to more than 40 million persons 65 years old or older, meaning there are at least 4 million elders abused each year in the US alone.

Much of the abuse, 90% according to the National Council on aging, is carried out by family members such as adult children or spouses. Abuse in nursing homes has been a large problem in America as these institutions often are run by inexperienced individuals and often don’t undergo as much inspection as they should.

When people think of elder abuse, they may think of impatient caregivers physically striking the elder individuals who depend on their care. However, there’s much more to it than that. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, there are seven general categories that define most forms of elder abuse, such as:

• Physical abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Neglect
• Financial exploitation
• Abandonment
• Self-neglect

Abuse can take a variety of forms and it’s always best to consult with an experienced Sacramento personal injury lawyer as it pertains to your situation.

Assault & Battery

To have a strong case against an individual for assault and battery, the following must be shown:

• Proof of the instance of assault or battery – assault is essentially attempted or threatened force while battery is the execution of that force in the form of offensive contact. The contact does not need to be severe or particularly damaging to be considered battery; California state law merely requires the contact to be unwanted or offensive.
• Intent – accidentally bumping into someone at a crowded bar does not qualify as battery. Intentionally pushing someone because they accidentally bumped into might as the action was done on purpose, though on dubious grounds.
• Ability – the accused individual must have actually been physically able to execute the battery for a reasonable case to be brought. If an individual swung a bat at the defendant but the bat was made of foam, there wasn’t the ability to cause actual harm.

Types of Compensation

There are various types of compensation that may be sought in a personal injury claim, such as:

• Medical bills – This can include medications, surgery costs, general hospital bills, physical therapy, etc. Future medical bills that may be reasonably anticipated may also be sought.
• Lost wages – Lost future wages due to a continued injury may also be sought when reasonable.
• Lost earning potential – If an injury causes a significant, permanent change to an individual’s capacity to earn a wage, the plaintiff may seek to be compensated for this.
• Loss of quality of life – If a significant change has occurred due to the incident in question, changing the plaintiff’s ability to enjoy life as he or she once did, there is reasonable basis for compensation.
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship – In the case the was a wrongful death and the claim is being pursued by a loved one

Statute of Limitations

Generally, individuals are permitted to file personal injury claims no later than 2 years after the incident causing the injury for which the plaintiff seeks compensation. This may seem like a lot of time, but the reality of how expensive medical bills often doesn’t occur to individuals immediately. Additionally, the process of determining fault and making a case take time and effort. In some cases, injuries are not obvious at the time of the incident and only appear weeks or months later, especially in brain injury cases.

There are several exceptions to this general 2-year rule, such as for claims against government entities, claims involving minors, incidences when the plaintiff is incapacitated for example due to a coma, etc. Most cases only allow 2 years (6 months for government defendant cases) for action to be taken. For this reason, it’s very important to seek legal representation from a Sacramento personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. You may not like the first attorney you speak with. Your case may be very complicated and require a lot of research. There are many reasons for a case to be delayed, and if you’re trying to cover medical bills, those costs add up quickly! Be sure to speak to an attorney as soon as possible to discuss the potential of moving forward with your case.

Call a Sacramento personal injury lawyer If You’ve Suffered Any Type of Injury

The Choyce Law Firm consists of professional, hard working attorneys who make a personal commitment to their clients on getting the best possible outcome. Working closely with you, we’ll help you throughout the entire process to ensure you’re in good hands. Give us a call at (916) 306-0636 to speak to an experienced Sacramento personal injury lawyer.

Call Sacramento personal injury lawyer

If you have been injured in a car, truck or motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another, regardless of the nature of the underlying accident, it is important to contact experienced auto accident lawyers in Sacramento at The Choyce Law Firm to discuss your legal options. We have offices in Sacramento & Fairfield, CA for your convenience and have the resources and expertise to aggressively litigate your case in court, fighting to get you just compensation for your injury.

Call (916) 306-0636 today for a free consultation with our Sacramento personal injury lawyer regarding your injury case.

Car Accident Lawyer in Sacramento

Helping Victims of a Drunk Driver Accident

California has some of the harshest penalties for driving under the influence. If you’ve been a victim of a drunk driving accident, contact a car accident lawyer in Sacramento immediately for help. California law prohibits drivers from operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs because of the severe devastating and life changing injuries that can occur from drunk driving accidents. Drunk driving fatalities in California in 2015 was 867, which is 28% of all total traffic deaths, a 4.6% increase from the year prior.

Victims of drunk drivers, whether those who experienced a collision themselves or those who lost a family member due to a drunk driver, are entitled to compensation. It is infuriating that the carelessness and negligence of one person could completely change the course of so many lives. Because professional attorneys have dealt with these cases so many times, it’s best to contact one for the best help.

The value of your claim will usually depend on the nature and extent of the injuries, damages and losses you have sustained. The more common types of damages you could seek compensation for are:

• Medical expenses: emergency transportation and treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, cost of medication, medical equipment, etc.
• Rehabilitation costs: physical therapy, chiropractic care, etc.
• Lost income: if the injuries cause permanent disabilities that require removal from the work force, victims can seek compensation for lost of future income or loss of livelihood
• Pain and suffering: the physical pain and mental suffering caused by the accident
• Loss of consortium: the damages suffered by the spouse or partner of the injured victim

If the drunk driving crash resulted in a fatality, the family of the deceased victim can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for the damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income and benefits, pain and suffering and emotional distress.

Our Lawyer Will Help Prove Liability

If you’ve been a victim of a drunk driving accident, you are not alone. Help is available so contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Sacramento immediately. An experienced and local lawyer can help you start a civil case against a drunk driver and fight for the maximum compensation you need. A skilled lawyer will need to investigate the accident, gather and preserve evidence, and determine who should be held responsible for your injuries.

Sometimes proving liability is easy, but sometimes it isn’t which is why you need an attorney. The fact that the driver has already been convicted in court of having a blood alcohol content over the legal limit at the time of the event is extremely helpful in pursuing compensation. However, it is not enough to get you the maximum amount of compensation you deserve. Because some cases involve serious damages or fatal accidents with lack of insurance, you need a seasoned attorney who knows the best way to overcome these obstacles.

Contact Car Accident Lawyer in Sacramento If You’ve Been Injured in an Accident

The Choyce Law Firm handles many personal injury cases, including vehicle accidents caused from rainy weather. When you contact our law firm, you can expect exceptional professionalism and legal advice. Give us a call at (916) 306-0636 to speak to an automobile accident lawyer in Sacramento.

Call Car Accident Lawyer in Sacramento

If you have been injured in a car, truck or motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another, regardless of the nature of the underlying accident, it is important to contact an experienced car accident attorney in Sacramento to discuss your legal options. We have offices in Sacramento & Fairfield, CA for your convenience and have the resources and expertise to aggressively litigate your case in court, fighting to get you just compensation for your injury.
 
Call (916) 306-0636 today for a free consultation with our car accident lawyer in Sacramento regarding your auto accident injury case.

INJURY ATTORNEY IN SACRAMENTO

Dashboard Cameras & Car Accident Claims

Car accidents are a crazy situation for everyone involved, and the last thing you are thinking about when the adrenaline is pumping is how to make sure the accident is completely documented so that liability is properly assigned. The problem is, each party in the accident usually has a different and opposing goal – to have liability assigned to the other!

Have you ever been stuck in this situation? Sometimes it happens because each party honestly believes they are correct and the other is at fault, but at other times, one party will attempt to lie and reduce their own liability. In either case, the benefits of having a dash cam could prove invaluable.

Dash Cams to Fight Fraud

The emergence of the Dash Cam’s heavy use can generally be traced back to Russia, where it was originally used to fight insurance fraud in the country. Insurance fraud was running rampant, and individuals began recording their daily driving to combat the issue and protect themselves from unfair lawsuits. “Driving in Russia” YouTube videos went viral and people started using dash cams around the world. They are an incredibly useful tool for documenting evidence during a collision, but their use during the claims process and court proceedings in the United States has been met with skepticism. Although video from a dash cam can be considered conclusive evidence, it will not always be. Having a dash cam in your car can prove very helpful in the event of a crash, but it is not a substitute for performing all the other necessary steps following an accident. If you have been involved in an injury accident, call the injury attorney in Sacramento at The Choyce Law Firm for a free consultation.

Dash Cams to Save Money on Insurance

Dash Cams are a great way to protect yourself from fraud and to gather information about an accident, but did you know they may soon be able to save you money on insurance costs?

Insurance is priced so that the sum of all annual premiums will pay for the cost of any claims, plus some profit for the insurance company. As the cost of claims goes down, so do the insurance premiums paid, and vice versa. This is why certain drivers pay more than others – the insurance company has deemed their potential cost of claims, or risk, based on their age, driving record, or other factors, to be greater than the next persons. Insurance companies have entire teams of statisticians that work to determine factors that put people at higher risk of making a claim, and they have teams of people that work to develop products and packages that can help to limit the chance of accident. An example would be an insurance company lowering your premium based on the number of miles you drive. The lower the number of miles, the lower the risk for an accident and the lower the premium paid.

Insurance companies in the UK have begun experimenting with premium reductions for people who drive with dash cams. The actuarial teams have determined that having a dash cam reduces the cost of claims, and should result in a decreased premium paid. It has not yet been determined why these companies think dash cams reduce the cost of claims, as there is no causal link between having a dash cam and a reduction in accident frequency. For this reason, insurers in the United States have remained skeptical and have yet to adopt a similar stance, but it could be soon to follow if the statistics are validated in other markets.

Have You Been injured in a Car Accident?

Sacramento accident lawyer at The Choyce Law Firm is an expert in car accident injury cases and has the team of investigators and litigators necessary to secure you the compensation you deserve. Whether you have the accident documented with a dash cam or not, we have the knowledge and experience necessary to document the accident and injuries and properly assign liability. If you have been injured in a car accident, call our injury attorney in Sacramento for a free consultation today!

Call Injury Attorney in Sacramento For Help

If you have been injured in a car, truck or motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another, regardless of the nature of the underlying accident, it is important to contact injury attorney in Sacramento at The Choyce Law Firm to discuss your legal options. We have offices in Sacramento & Fairfield, CA for your convenience and have the resources and expertise to aggressively litigate your case in court, fighting to get you just compensation for your injury.
 
Call (916) 306-0636 today for a free consultation with our injury attorney in Sacramento regarding your auto accident injury case.

AUTO ACCIDENT LAWYER IN SACRAMENTO

DO NOT SPEAK TO INSURANCE COMPANIES OR INSURANCE ADJUSTERS PRIOR TO SPEAKING WITH OUR ATTORNEYS FIRST

They will attempt to obtain a recorded statement from you. You do not want to give them one, because they might use that statement against you. They might find a discrepancy between your statement and the police report, or between your statement and the witness statement. The insurance company will often hire an expert witness who will disprove your side of the story. If the case is litigated later on you will end up looking like a liar in front of the judge and jury.

You also do not want to sign anything that they give you without an attorney reviewing it first. Often insurance adjuster will ask you to sign a blank authorization which will allow them to obtain your medical records. They will then use that authorization to get a copy of your medical records beyond what is required for them to make a determination of your injuries. They will find previous conditions and injuries in your medical records and relate the injuries you suffered in the car accident to preexisting conditions.

If an insurance adjuster calls you, you do not have to be rude to them, be short with them, or ignore them. You do need to politely tell them that you are in a process of hiring an auto accident lawyer in Sacramento and he or she will contact them as soon you hire one. You also want to get

1. the name and number of the adjuster,
2. the company he or she is from,
3. and the claim number or a reference number of the claim.

Do Not Delay In Contacting An Auto Accident Lawyer In Sacramento

Do not ignore the phone call from insurance adjuster and contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Ignoring the situation will not make it go away. Having an experienced auto accident lawyer in Sacramento represent you in a case eliminates the headache of dealing with insurance companies and increases your value in monetary recovery.

Experienced auto accident lawyer in Sacramento at The Choyce Law Firm knows what they are doing, they’ve done it before. Attorneys will obtain medical records on your behalf, deal with medical facilities about all the outstanding medical bills, deal with insurance companies on your behalf, and help you settle the case.

Call Automobile Accident Attorney in Sacramento

If you have been injured in a car, truck or motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another, regardless of the nature of the underlying accident, it is important to contact an experienced car accident attorney in Sacramento to discuss your legal options. We have offices in Sacramento & Fairfield, CA for your convenience and have the resources and expertise to aggressively litigate your case in court, fighting to get you just compensation for your injury.
 
Call (916) 306-0636 today for a free consultation with our automobile accident attorney in Sacramento regarding your auto accident injury case.

accident attorney in sacramento

SIDE-IMPACT “T-BONE” OR “BROADSIDE” AUTO ACCIDENTS

Side-impact car crashes, also known as “T-bone” or “broadside” collisions, occurs when a vehicle is hit on its side by another vehicle. Side-impact crashes are extremely dangerous.

They have caused 29% of all passenger-vehicle deaths in the U.S. in 2009 and produce a high rate of severe injuries so it’s important you contact an experienced auto accident attorney who can help you with your case and get you the compensation you deserve.

The reason for more severe injuries in such collisions is because the sides of vehicles have a small amount of space to absorb the energy of the other vehicle. Additionally, the force of side-impact crash often pushes the struck vehicle into the path of other vehicles, causing further collisions, damage and injuries.

In most cases, broadside collisions are preventable and are typically caused by negligent and reckless driving such as running a red light or stop sign, failing to yield the right of way during a turn, engaging in distracted driving behavior, racing through a yellow light or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Even though many vehicles are now designed with side airbags and reinforced side doors, the odds remain high that you will suffer a serious injury that could potentially result in multiple surgeries, rehabilitative therapy, long term medical treatment and extremely high medical bills. Because of that, proving fault is extremely important.

You have the right to make a claim for damages and bodily injury. While it may seem obvious who is at fault in a T-bone collision, there are instances of comparative liability.

For example, if one driver makes an unsafe left turn on a two-lane street and is broadsided by another driver coming straight it makes sense that the first driver is responsible for the accident.

However, if the second driver was speeding, it could occur that the second driver is partially responsible. It’s always best to speak with an experienced attorney who can help you with your case specifically.

What To Do After a Car Accident

Regardless of whether fault has been established for an accident not, all involved parties should immediately consult with an attorney. It is important to know what to do to protect the legal rights of yourself and your loved ones. Time is of the essence in serious injury cases because physical evidence may be destroyed or lost, witnesses’ memories may fade, and recovery of out of pocket expenses can be delayed.

• Obtain the name, address, telephone number, driver’s license number, license plate number and insurance company of all parties involved in the accident.
• Obtain the names, addresses and telephone numbers of all witnesses.
• Call the police immediately to make an accident report.
• If you are injured, seek immediate medical treatment, make sure that you give a detailed description every part of your body that is injured.
• Take photographs of your injuries.
• Take pictures of any damaged motor vehicles involved in the accident.
• Take pictures of the scene of the accident.
• Report the accident to your insurance company.
• Do not give a statement, speak to the insurance company or sign any documents without first consulting an attorney.

Selecting the right car accident attorney in Sacramento is an important decision. You should choose someone who is experienced, aggressive and dedicated to working to get you fair compensation for your injuries. That is why you should contact the attorneys at the The Choyce Law Firm We have successfully represented thousands of accident and injury victims over the past decade.

SPEAK WITH AN EXPERIENCED ACCIDENT ATTORNEY IN Sacramento

The challenges that arise with identifying these cases can be challenging, but there’s a team behind you that can help. It’s easy to become overwhelmed when injury strikes. If you believe you’ve been involved in such a case, please contact an experienced accident attorney in Sacramento at the The Choyce Law Firm as soon as possible. For more than 15 years, The Choyce Law Firm has protected the rights and interests of victims of all types of injuries. We have the resources and dedication to get you the compensation you deserve. Call us at (916) 306-0636 to speak with a accident attorney in Sacramento today.

Call a Injury Attorney in Sacramento For Help

The Choyce Law Firm has years of legal experience handling tough settlement claims with frustrating insurance companies. Give us a call at (916) 306-0636 to speak with an accident attorney in Sacramento who can handle your case and take the burden off your hands.
 

The Choyce Law Firm
1438 Del Paso Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95815
(916) 306-0636