PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER IN SACRAMENTO CA

HELPING VICTIMS OF SPINAL CORD INJURY ACCIDENTS

Spinal cord injuries can be one of the most life-threatening injuries caused by an auto accident, a fall or some other cause. The impact on the lives of the victim and families can be devastating and extremely costly. If you or a family member has been suffered spinal cord injuries, you need to contact a skilled personal injury lawyer in Sacramento CA who can file a lawsuit and get you the compensation you deserve.

Approximately 11,000 people in America experience a traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI). The spinal cord is a crucial component to our bodies. They carry vital and sensitive nerves that act as messengers to speak between our brain and the rest of our body. If the spinal cord is injured, not only could you experience life long chronic pain, but you could lose control of bodily functions.

Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries, often devastating in nature, can arise from a variety of circumstances. One of the most common causes is vehicular accidents, including car, motorcycle, and truck crashes, where the force of impact can severely damage the spine. Falls, particularly among the elderly and in workplaces with hazardous conditions, represent another significant source of these injuries. Sports and recreational activities, especially contact sports like football or activities involving heights such as gymnastics, also account for a notable percentage of spinal injuries due to their high-impact nature. Acts of violence, including gunshot and knife wounds, contribute to spinal cord injuries as well, often resulting in traumatic and life-altering consequences. Medical or surgical procedures, though less common, can sometimes lead to spinal injuries, particularly when they involve complications or errors. Understanding these causes is crucial not only for prevention but also for providing appropriate legal and medical responses when these unfortunate events occur. For individuals who suffer spinal cord injuries as a result of these scenarios, especially due to the negligence or actions of others, seeking legal counsel and appropriate medical treatment becomes an essential step towards recovery and justice.

According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, the common causes of spinal cord injury are:

• Auto Accidents: The leading cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for 42.1%. This high percentage underscores the significant impact of vehicular accidents, including car, motorcycle, and other types of vehicle collisions, in causing serious spinal injuries.
• Falls: Falls are the second most common cause, contributing to 26.7% of spinal cord injuries. This category likely includes falls from heights, slip and fall accidents, and falls among the elderly, highlighting the diverse contexts in which such injuries can occur.
• Violent Acts: Accounting for 15.1% of spinal cord injuries, acts of violence such as gunshot and knife wounds are a substantial cause. This statistic reflects the serious consequences that can arise from interpersonal violence and criminal activities.
• Sports: Sports-related activities lead to 7.6% of spinal cord injuries. This includes injuries from high-impact sports, diving accidents, and other athletic endeavors where the risk of spinal injury is present.

Spinal cord injuries could also be a result of risky surgical procedures and medical malpractice. Whatever the reason it may be, you’ve been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you must contact a skilled personal injury lawyer in Sacramento CA at The Choyce Law Firm for free case consultation. Spinal cord injuries are not only debilitating but also extremely expensive. A lawyer will help you get the financial compensation you deserve to restore you back to your pre-accident condition. Compensation should go above and beyond reimbursement for incurred medical expenses and “pain and suffering”. Because spinal cord injuries can have permanent and life-altering effects, a damages award should also include compensation for ongoing health care. Every case is different and it’s important you talk to an experienced personal injury lawyer in Sacramento CA.

Effects of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) can have profound and far-reaching effects on an individual’s life, impacting their physical, emotional, and social well-being. The extent and nature of these effects often depend on the severity and location of the injury. Here are some of the key effects of spinal cord injuries:

• Loss of Movement and Sensation: Depending on the level of injury, SCIs can result in partial or complete paralysis. Injuries to the lower part of the spinal cord may lead to paraplegia (paralysis of the legs and lower body), while injuries to the upper part can cause quadriplegia/tetraplegia (paralysis of all four limbs). There’s also often a loss of sensation below the level of injury.
• Respiratory Complications: Higher spinal cord injuries can affect the muscles that control breathing, leading to respiratory complications and the need for ventilatory support.
• Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction: SCIs commonly affect bladder and bowel control, necessitating the use of catheters or other interventions for bladder management and sometimes leading to bowel incontinence.
• Pressure Sores: Limited mobility increases the risk of developing pressure sores, as constant pressure on certain body parts reduces blood flow and can lead to tissue damage.
• Spasticity and Pain: Many individuals with SCIs experience spasticity (increased muscle tone or spasms) and neuropathic pain, which can be challenging to manage.
• Altered Sexual Function: SCIs can affect sexual function and fertility, often requiring specialized therapies and interventions for sexual health and reproductive options.
• Psychological Impact: The sudden and drastic change in lifestyle and independence can lead to significant psychological impacts, including depression, anxiety, and emotional distress.
• Social and Vocational Challenges: Adapting to life with a spinal cord injury often involves relearning how to perform daily tasks, potentially changing living environments, and may impact an individual’s ability to work or participate in social activities.
• Financial Burden: The costs associated with medical care, rehabilitation, assistive devices, home modifications, and potential loss of income can be substantial.
• Increased Risk of Secondary Conditions: Individuals with SCIs have a higher risk of secondary conditions like urinary tract infections, blood clots, and osteoporosis.

The impact of a spinal cord injury extends beyond the individual to their families and caregivers, necessitating a comprehensive approach to care that includes medical treatment, rehabilitation, psychological support, and social integration. Advances in medical science and rehabilitation therapies continue to improve outcomes and quality of life for those living with SCIs.

Injured in an Accident? Contact personal injury lawyer in Sacramento CA for Help.

Spinal cord injuries are life-altering events that can leave victims facing a future filled with challenges, both physically and emotionally. The Choyce Law Firm, based in Sacramento, California, understands the profound impact these injuries have on individuals and their families. Our experienced personal injury lawyers are dedicated to providing compassionate, yet assertive legal representation for those who have suffered spinal cord injuries due to the negligence of others.
 
Navigating the complex landscape of personal injury law can be overwhelming, especially when coping with the repercussions of a serious spinal cord injury. This is where our firm steps in. We are committed to guiding you through every step of the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and your voice is heard. Our legal team is well-versed in the intricacies of spinal cord injury cases and equipped to confront the challenges these cases often present.
 
At The Choyce Law Firm, we believe in not just fighting for your legal rights, but also in advocating for the full compensation you deserve. This includes not only immediate medical expenses, but also long-term care costs, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering. Our approach is tailored to each client’s unique situation, recognizing that no two spinal cord injury cases are the same.
 
We understand that this is more than just a case; it’s about securing your future and restoring a sense of justice after a traumatic experience. Trust in our expertise to help you navigate this difficult time. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, reach out to The Choyce Law Firm in Sacramento, CA. Let us be your advocates in seeking the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve. Don’t hesitate, to call our office at (916) 306-0636 for your free consultation!

Sacramento Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

Dogs are often seen as man’s best friend, yet not all breeds share the same temperament. Research indicates that certain breeds are perceived as more dangerous.

While any dog has the potential to bite and cause harm, some breeds are statistically more prone to aggression or violence. This tendency can often be linked to factors such as lack of obedience training, limited socialization during early stages, or inadequate interaction with their owners. Additionally, dogs that have not been spayed or neutered may display heightened aggression.

Furthermore, dogs might exhibit hostility when they are feeling unwell, frightened, or threatened. It is crucial to exercise caution around all dogs. However, recognizing breeds with predispositions toward aggression is essential to reducing the risk of dog attacks and injuries.

Some breeds are often cited in discussions about dangerous dogs, including:
 

Pit Bull Terrier

Pit Bulls are often considered one of the most controversial and misunderstood dog breeds. They were originally bred for bull-baiting and later as farm dogs. With proper socialization, they can be loyal and affectionate pets. However, due to their strength and protective nature, they can be potentially dangerous if not trained and managed responsibly.
 

Rottweiler

Rottweilers have a history as herding and guard dogs. They are strong, confident, and loyal. When properly trained and socialized from an early age, they can be excellent family pets. However, their natural guarding instincts can make them wary of strangers, and without proper guidance, they can exhibit aggressive behavior.
 

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are intelligent, versatile dogs that were originally bred for herding sheep. They are often used in police and military work due to their trainability and loyalty. While they can be gentle and loving family dogs, they require consistent training and socialization to prevent aggressive tendencies, especially in unfamiliar situations.
 

Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies were bred as sled dogs in cold climates. They are known for their endurance and energy. While they are generally friendly and gentle, their independent nature can make them challenging to train. Without proper mental and physical stimulation, they may exhibit destructive behavior, but aggression is not a common trait in well-socialized Huskies.
 

Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamutes are large, strong dogs bred for heavy hauling and as sled dogs. They are affectionate and loyal to their families. However, their independent and stubborn nature can make training a challenge. Like Huskies, they require proper exercise and mental stimulation to prevent behavioral issues, but aggression is not a defining characteristic of the breed when raised in a loving environment.
 

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinschers were originally bred as guard dogs in Germany. They are known for their loyalty and intelligence. Properly trained and socialized Dobermans can be excellent family pets, displaying affection and protectiveness towards their owners. However, their guarding instincts and strong will require consistent training and a firm, yet gentle, handler to prevent aggressive behavior, especially towards strangers.
 

Chow Chow

Chow Chows are an ancient Chinese breed known for their distinctive lion-like mane and blue-black tongue. They were initially used for hunting and guarding. Chow Chows are independent and can be aloof with strangers. Early socialization is crucial to prevent aggressive tendencies, as they can become territorial and overprotective without proper training and exposure to different people and environments.
 

Boxer

Boxers are medium-sized dogs that were originally bred in Germany as hunting and working dogs. They are playful, energetic, and loyal companions. Boxers are generally good-natured, but their exuberance and high energy levels can sometimes be misunderstood as aggression, especially if they are not properly trained and exercised. With early socialization and consistent training, they can be friendly and affectionate family pets.
 

Dalmatian

Dalmatians are distinctive for their unique black or liver spotted coat. Originally bred as carriage dogs, they are energetic and playful. Dalmatians can be loving and loyal, but they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom, which can lead to behavioral issues. While they are not inherently aggressive, any dog that is not properly cared for and stimulated can develop undesirable behaviors.
 

Presa Canario

Presa Canarios, also known as Canary Mastiffs, have a history as guard dogs and cattle herders in the Canary Islands. They are large and powerful dogs, known for their strong protective instincts. While they can be loyal and devoted to their families, early socialization and training are essential to manage their natural guarding tendencies. Without proper guidance, they can exhibit aggressive behavior, especially towards strangers, making responsible ownership and training crucial for this breed.

Dog’s behavior depends significantly on how it is raised, trained, and socialized. Responsible ownership and proper training can mitigate potential issues with any breed. Additionally, breed-specific legislation is controversial and often ineffective; many experts advocate for laws focused on responsible pet ownership and individual dog behavior assessments.

Injured by a dog bite? Contact Sacramento Dog Bite Injury Lawyer for Help.

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 Accident Attorney Explains Premises Liability Law

Have you suffered an injury or personal damage due to negligent maintenance of a physical space such as an apartment complex? You may have a case under Premises Liability law. Speak with a Sacramento accident attorney if you’ve been injured.

The owner or possessor of a property is required to maintain the premises such that an individual will not experience harm or damage during its use. This responsibility is even greater when considering children as they do not have the capacity to assess risk and act with appropriate caution.

In order to have a strong case against a defendant, the plaintiff must establish the following:

1. The defendant was in control of the property. (Liability)
2. The defendant did not adequately maintain the property to prevent injury. (Negligence)
3. The plaintiff was harmed.
4. The defendant’s negligence was a significant factor in the plaintiff’s injury.

Determining liability:

Who owns, possesses, and controls the property? This is the person or organization who is responsible for maintaining a reasonably safe space and thus may be at fault for injuries arising from the condition of the physical space.

**It is very important to establish who is in control of the property. Control of the property is the basis on which these cases are built as this is what enables the implementation of safeguards to prevent injury or damage. Without definitive evidence that an individual or organization is in control of the property, it is impossible to prove that they have a responsibility to maintain the premises to prevent damage or injury. A defendant does not need to be the owner or lessor of a property to be deemed liable – so long as he or she is the controller of that property, he or she is responsible for the reasonable maintenance of safety on the premises.**

The duty for a property owner to maintain a safe environment is not transferable to independent contractors! If you have questions regarding liability of your case, speak with a Sacramento accident attorney.

Establishing negligence:

Negligence is the failure of the duty of the property owner to maintain the premises as to prevent exposing individuals to unreasonable risk of a known harm. If there is a concealed or not readily known danger on the property, it is the responsibility of the owner or possessor of the premises to either remedy the problem or inform individuals that the danger is present. The defendant is not required to warn individuals of harms that are readily or easily observed.

It must be determined that:

1. There was an unreasonable risk of harm present on the premises
2. The controller of the property was aware of this harm
3. The controller of the property did not remedy the cause of harm nor establish clear warning of this risk of harm

Premises Liability is often seen in slip and fall and trip and fall ‘ cases, but also relates to dog bite injury cases, construction injury cases, and injuries resulting from intentional or negligent action by a third party on the premises.

Not only does the controller of the property need to ensure the premises itself does not pose a danger, it must be ensured that no activities on the property pose a risk to individuals visiting said property.

The controller of the property must also take precautions to prevent damage or injury by third parties that may come onto the property, should this danger be reasonably anticipated. For example, certain safeguards should be provided in areas with higher crime or previous incidences of damage or injury. The foreseeability of this danger is very important to the case and is determined in court on a case-by-case basis. The court also must balance the foreseeability of a third party danger and the burden imposed on the controller of the property to prevent third party damage or injury. A Sacramento accident lawyer can explain the foreseeability of danger in your case specifically.

The court will take the following into consideration when hearing a case regarding premises law:

1. The manner in which the plaintiff came onto the defendant’s property
2. The probability of exposure to injury
3. The seriousness of the probable injury
4. The burden on the defendant of preventing such injury
5. Whether the condition of the property itself presented an unreasonable risk to harm within the normal parameters of use of that property.
6. The location of the property
7. The amount of control of the defendant

Landlord Responsibilities

Before move-in:

• A landlord must inspect the property for potential cause of harm before giving released possession of a property to a new tenant, upon lease renewal, or upon repossession of a property after a former tenant vacates. A landlord must make reasonable efforts to remedy any conditions that may cause injury that were discovered or that reasonably should have been discovered upon this inspection.

During the lease:

• A landlord must inspect and prevent conditions that may cause injury in areas under the landlord’s control. The landlord must be aware of the dangerous condition and have the right and ability to remedy this situation. If the condition cannot be immediately resolved, a warning of such dangerous condition must be provided.

If you have been injured on someone else’s property, or a property you rent as the result of an unsafe condition, or property hazard, you should contact a Sacramento accident attorney. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, and contacting an attorney with premises liability knowledge and experience will help you get the compensation you deserve. Call an attorney today for a free consultation!

Get Legal Help About Your Premises Liability Case Now

Call us today to speak with a Sacramento accident attorney about any property damage or injuries you’ve suffered while being on someone else’s premises. Email us to schedule an appointment or call us for a free initial consultation.

Injured in due to Unsafe Premisest? Contact Sacramento Accident Attorney for Help.

If a negligent property owner is responsible for the injuries that you suffered, there is no reason that you should have to bear the financial burden of medical bills, lost wages, and other future expenses. Our Fairfield personal injury lawyers at The Choyce Law Firm are ready to put over 50 years of combined experience to work for you as we fight to get the fair compensation you deserve.
 
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!

SACRAMENTO PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER

Waking up on a normal day, no one expects to need a Sacramento personal injury lawyer by the end of the day.

People don’t usually notice the multitude of dangers they encounter on a daily basis. Between dangerous drivers on the road, slick floors in the grocery store, a broken step on the way into work, a neighbor’s unleashed dog, and a faulty product you ordered online, there are many hazards with the potential to cause harm. This may be part of the reason 32 million people were treated for injuries in an emergency room in the US in 2012, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. The nuances that go into personal injury cases are difficult to fully grasp and contacting a Folsom personal injury attorney is the best way to maximize your chances of receiving compensation.

It’s important to understand the laws that protect individuals and how to protect yourself after an incident that causes you personal harm. In order to have a strong personal injury claim in California, there must be physical, emotional, and/or financial injury to the victim inflicted by the defendant.

When an incident occurs, especially a car accident, there is often a police report describing the events. It is very important to get a copy of this to support your claim. In cases where there is no police report or the police report does not assign blame for an incident, it is common for one party to accept the fault at the scene and later changes their story. Insurance companies representing individuals who once admitted fault often have a difficult time accepting responsibility for the damages even though the individual now claims to be innocent.

California is a comparative fault state. This means that each individual involved in an incident may be found partially at fault. The degree to which each individual is at fault affects the degree to which they are compensated and the amount they are required to pay. For example, if two cars collide on the highway and one is found guilty of not yielding when merging but the other driver was texting during the collision, each individual may be a certain percent at fault. Determining the actual amount each party pays could get complicated so speak to a Folsom personal injury attorney regarding your case specifically.

There are many different types of accidents such as:

• Dog bites
• Car and motorcycle accidents
• Slip and falls
• Workplace accidents – may include diseases or conditions acquired due to the environment of a workplace, such as asbestosis, asthma, workplace deafness, workplace stress, contact dermatitis, repetitive strain injuries, etc.
• Medical malpractice
• Defective products
• Assault claims

There are also a number of different types of injuries victims can suffer. Depending on the situation, many different injuries can be covered under personal injury claims. The following is a list of some of the more common injuries an individual may have when filing a personal injury claim:

• Broken bones
• Concussion
• Back sprain
• Dog bite
• Infection

There may also be non-physical injuries that are incurred and for which an individual may be reimbursed:

• Emotional distress
• Lost wages
• Medical costs
• Pain and suffering
• Lowered earning capacity
• Loss of companionship and support from a loved one
• Punitive damages

If you have suffered any of these types of injuries, it’s imperative you speak with a Folsom personal injury attorney immediately before time runs out in what’s known as statute of limitations.

Statute of Limitations

In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date the injury was incurred. This means an individual with the intention to sue another person or group for an injury must file a lawsuit and bring the case to court within two years from the time of the incident. If this is not accomplished, it is very likely that the case will be thrown out and no compensation may be retrieved.

When an individual means to bring a case against any form of government, such as a city or county of California state government, the statute of limitations is actually 6 months in these cases. This is not very much time to deal with all the entities involved and to make a strong case without professional help.

Limits to Damages

There are limitations to compensation under certain circumstances and it’s highly advisable to speak to a Sacramento personal injury attorney for specific limitations regarding your case.

• Uninsured drivers – California law prevents most uninsured drivers from receiving compensation not related to material costs (e.g. pain and suffering or emotional distress) even if the other driver was found to be completely at fault. There is a significant exception in the case that an uninsured driver is involved in a collision with an individual convicted of a DUI related to the incident.
• Medical malpractice cap – the Medical Injury Compensation Reform Act limits non-material damages to $250,000.
  It is vital to seek out a knowledgeable and motivated Sacramento personal injury lawyer to take on your case and represent you with all the power of the law behind them.

Call a Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyer For Help

One of the best things you can do to protect yourself from being taken advantage of is to get legal representation. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Sacramento at The Choyce Law Firm has years of legal experience handling personal injury claims with insurance companies. We understand the complex laws and procedures will fight on your behalf and can considerably help you get the compensation you deserve.
 
Give us a call at (916) 306-0636 to speak to a car accident lawyer 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

The Choyce Law Firm, the Readers’ Choice 2021 award recipient for Best Attorney

The Choyce Law Firm, established in 2005 by Dionne E. Choyce, is a traffic, criminal defense and personal injury law firm that specializes in traffic tickets, traffic accidents and DUIs but handles serious criminal cases as well.

Choyce describes his team of local attorneys as “personable and aggressive” in the service of their clients.

“We are results-oriented and have obtained an excellent track record of results for our clients. With over 15 years of experience handling cases throughout Northern California, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional legal service no matter what,” the company’s website states. “Whether you’re facing a murder charge or fighting a traffic ticket, the lawyers at The Choyce Law Firm are on your side. We dedicate the time, resources and commitment to treating our clients with utmost respect, dignity and compassion during such a difficult time.”

Choyce’s courtroom development began at the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, where he helped lead the McGeorge trial competition team to a regional championship in the American Trial Lawyers Association Competition.

After graduating from law school, Choyce went to work for the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office in Oakland, where he gained extensive courtroom experience prosecuting all phases of criminal cases, including jury trials, felony preliminary hearings, juvenile felony trials as well as misdemeanor and felony law and motion hearings before entering private practice.

Choyce received his undergraduate degree in English (with honors) from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. He then went on to receive his graduate degree from Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He earned his law degree from the University of Pacific, McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento.

Injured in an Accident? Contact the best personal injury attorney in Fairfield, CA

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 (707) 422-1202 for your free consultation!