When it comes to personal injuries in California, the possibilities are nearly endless. Whether you are crossing a busy street, shopping at your favorite store, or sitting in your own gazebo sipping morning coffee, someone’s carelessness can cause an unforeseen disaster to invade your life.
Take Note of Commonplace Personal Injury Cases
Although situations may run the gamut from predictable to truly bizarre, most personal injuries fall into several routine categories. Reviewing these typical cases can keep you attentive and help you avoid hazardous circumstances.
Incidents Involving Motor Vehicles
Not surprisingly, the largest number of personal injury lawsuits in California result from injuries and deaths involving motor vehicles. In 2019, traffic fatalities on California roadways totaled 3,606 persons. This was a 5.1% decrease from 2018. Pedestrian deaths reached 972 in the same year.
Since California subscribes to a pure comparative negligence rule, compensation to accident victims is reduced by the percentage of their assigned fault. If a jury or court decides an injured party is 10% at fault for an accident, the total damages awarded are reduced by that percentage.
Employment Hazards
Even when California employees make it safely to work, they still face risks at their job sites. Workplace injuries are covered under workers’ compensation benefits, which include medical expenses and some lost wages during recuperation. Workers need to seek immediate medical treatment and report the incident to their employer as soon as possible. Employees who fail to report injuries within 30 days risk losing their benefits.
Slip and Fall or Other Premises Liability Mishaps
California property owners have a responsibility to keep their premises in a safe condition. Failure to maintain the property and keep it free of safety hazards can result in claims of negligence. Dangerous conditions that might cause harm to unsuspecting guests include tripping pitfalls in the aisles, cracked steps, spilled liquids, or defective electrical items. If you are injured while a guest at a business or someone’s property, contact an attorney immediately for help in documenting the circumstances.
Dog and Other Animal Bites
Animal owners in our state remain responsible for the behavior of their pets in public places, as well as toward any lawfully invited guest on their property. Keep in mind that California dogs do not get a free pass for their first bite. The owner is still responsible for the animal’s actions even if the dog has never shown aggression in the past.
Defective Products
Manufacturers and businesses that produce or sell flawed goods causing injuries or illness are responsible for the damages that result. Countless harmful or substandard products may fall under this category, such as children’s toys, take-out food, dietary supplements, or tools and appliances. Evaluating and documenting these types of injuries usually requires legal assistance.
Malpractice Blunders
From surgical errors to administering the wrong drug or overlooking a vital diagnosis, medical malpractice claims require the special knowledge of an experienced lawyer. If your health has been impacted by errors in your medical care, contact professional legal help at once.
Pay Attention to the Statute of Limitations
In general, California law gives injured parties two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Individuals seeking compensation from a government agency, however, must first file an administrative claim with the government entity within six months of the injury. If the agency denies this claim, the injured party can file a lawsuit in court within six months from the date of the denial.
If you have suffered a personal injury, it is important to keep track of the statute of limitations. The court strictly adheres to the two-year window and denies cases filed after that period.
Consult a Seasoned Personal Injury Attorney To Protect Your Rights
Personal injury cases are often complicated, and it’s vital to know every detail of the California laws that apply to each situation. Prompt filing, comprehensive documentation, and familiarity with California’s shared fault laws may all come into play. The caring attorneys at The Law Offices of Brent D. George have the expertise you need to obtain fair compensation for your injuries. Contact us online or call (805) 494-8400 today for a free consultation.
