It goes without saying that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is both dangerous and illegal. However, there are drunk drivers on our roads. In 2015 alone, drunk driving caused 10,265 deaths across America. It’s often hard to spot a driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol until it’s too late. If you do spot a car or other vehicle acting erratically and dangerously, it’s best to keep a wide berth for your own safety. Watch out for indirect impacts on surrounding traffic, e.g. if the intoxicated driver causes other vehicles to swerve to avoid a collision. These avoidance maneuvers can often result in collisions themselves, and motorcyclists are more vulnerable to serious consequences.
Wrongful Death
Accidents involving commercial trucks often lead to much more serious injuries compared to regular car accidents, and sometimes, these accidents can tragically result in wrongful death. Legal cases involving commercial vehicles and trucking companies are quite complex. Often, several companies involved in transporting the cargo might share responsibility for the accident, not just the truck driver or the trucking company itself.
Traffic Violations
In our increasingly eco-conscious world, cycling is more popular than ever. Some people have even taken to cycling to and from work, using that wasted commute time to get fit and spend some extra time outdoors. And although cycling is much slower than traveling by car, speeding past gridlocked rush hour traffic with the wind in your face can be pretty satisfying. What’s more, bike share schemes are making it easier than ever to take to the road on two wheels—and not just in California. All across the United States, more of us are biking than ever before. Sadly, with this uptick in cycling comes an increase in cycling accidents and even fatalities.
Assault
In this case, the person that committed the assault may not have intended to kill the victim but definitely intended to do harm.
Murder
The other main root of wrongful death cases is intent. This is a slightly more complex issue, as criminal charges may also be present. For instance, the defendant may be charged for murder by the state while the decedent’s surviving family brings a wrongful death suit against the same defendant to cover damages related to the loss of a family member.
Manslaughter
An example: A jealous ex-partner kills their former lover. Whether this death constitutes premeditated murder, second-degree murder, voluntary or involuntary manslaughter is irrelevant for the scope of a wrongful death case. Civil cases do not require evidence to indicate guilt beyond reasonable doubt, rather to simply prove that it is more likely than not that the defendant caused the victim’s death.
Hit and Run
After a car accident, always stop—it’s the law- Even a minor fender-bender requires you to remain at the scene until the police arrive, especially if someone is injured. Fleeing an accident with injuries can lead to serious hit-and-run charges, carrying hefty fines and even jail time. If the other driver leaves, report their details to the police immediately. Remember, even if the at-fault driver isn’t found, your own insurance policies like UMC/UIM, Med Pay, or collision coverage might still help you recover damages.
Worker’s compensation benefits and insurance are not the only available remedy. Sometimes workers compensation claims don’t fully cover the damages from an injury accident. In these cases, if there is a liable party, a personal injury claim could help cover the additional damages.
Keep reading to learn more about California’s premises liability laws, the most common types of premises liability cases, and how to go about making a claim.
Property Damage
The U.S. Department of Transportation reports approximately 6,000 train-car accidents annually. Most of these incidents occur at railroad crossings and account for about 600 fatalities and more than 23,000 injuries each year. If you have fallen victim to a train accident, you need the guidance of a seasoned legal advocate. The Scranton Law Firm, experienced in handling train accident cases, is here to help you navigate this challenging journey. Our dedicated attorneys will work relentlessly to ensure the parties responsible for your suffering are held to account. We can help you understand your rights and your potential to secure compensation for medical expenses, property damage, and any suffering you’ve experienced.
Hiring a bicycle accident lawyer in California is crucial after a bicycle accident. As seasoned personal injury lawyers with over 50 years of experience we will protect your rights and help you receive maximum compensation. Here’s why...
Medical Malpractice
Scranton Law Firm specializes in serious injury and wrongful death cases. Experiencing the loss of a loved one can leave you feeling completely lost. We are here to guide you through this traumatic event and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions. Our firm has the resources and experience to take your claim to trial, and we will work tirelessly to help you recover. Our seasoned wrongful death attorneys are committed to seeking justice and providing compassionate legal support to families facing the devastating aftermath of a tragic loss. Please note, we do not handle medical malpractice claims.
Auto Accidents
Dog Bites
Children and Dog Bites: Special Considerations in Legal Cases take our free case quiz Navigating the Legal System After a Dog Bite Legal Considerations for Read More »