Author Archives: Sara Morgan
WRONGFUL DEATH DAMAGES
A “wrongful death” cause of action is a “‘statutory claim that compensates specified heirs of the decedent for losses suffered as a result of a decedent’s death.’ Although each heir has a ‘personal and separate’ claim, the wrongful death statutes ordinarily require joint litigation of the heirs’ claims in order to prevent a series… Read More »
PRE-JUDGMENT INTEREST
Did you know that the law provides for an award of pre-judgment interest in a personal injury lawsuit? California’s Civil Code, Section 3288 provides that “[i]n an action for the breach of an obligation not arising from contract, and in every case of oppression, fraud, or malice, interest may be given, in the discretion… Read More »
Car Accidents Resulting From Someone Driving Under The Influence Of Drugs
The dangers of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol are well-known. But unfortunately, each day countless motorists still choose to drive while high or drunk. This reckless decision endangers not only the driver, but any other motorists, pedestrians, or cyclists that the driver encounters on the road. When an intoxicated driver causes… Read More »
DID YOU KNOW THERE ARE DOG BITE EXPERTS?
A useful tool in litigating “dog bite” cases (see my prior blog about how a “bite” is not necessarily involved) involves a professional assessment of the subject dog’s behavior. Although a veterinarian, or the subject dog’s specific (or primary care) veterinarian, may be deposed or called as a witness, there are experts with qualifications,… Read More »
The Long-Term Effects of Car Accidents
According to the National Safety Council, there are 282.4 million vehicles and 228 million licensed drivers in the United States. While driving has become significantly safer since cars first hit the roads, many still experience crashes resulting in significant injury(ies) and long-term effects. If you have been injured in a car accident, you should… Read More »
Understanding Seat Belt Injuries: Causes & Preventions
Seat belts are necessary for the best chance of protecting passengers during accidents. They keep people in their seats, reduce injuries, and save lives. Occasionally, however, seat belts themselves can cause injuries. At Heiting & Irwin, our dedicated motor vehicle accident attorneys have worked tirelessly for more than 45 years to serve our clients’… Read More »
Do Pedestrians Have The Right Of Way?
Pedestrian accidents can have serious consequences for drivers and pedestrians involved. By understanding California’s rules about pedestrians, drivers can help curb the frequency of pedestrian-involved crashes. The experienced legal team at Heiting & Irwin can help you answer the question, “Do pedestrians have the right of way?” Call 951-682-6400 to schedule a consultation. Who… Read More »
3 MORE THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT DOG BITE CASES IN CALIFORNIA
In addition to those points set forth in our prior post, the following points and information can also apply to what are commonly referred to as “dog bite” cases. Some animals are considered “inherently dangerous”. In certain situations, because of a tendency or “propensity” of a specific animal to cause injuries to others or… Read More »
3 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT DOG BITE CASES IN CALIFORNIA
Injuries include risk of infection. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, approximately 15-20% of dog bite injuries develop infections. Other sources report the risk as high as 25%. Dog bite related infections are polymicrobial, predominantly Pasteurella and Bacteroides spp. Infected bites presenting less than 12 hours after injury are particularly likely to… Read More »
SUBPOENA WARS: ENFORCING PRODUCTION
During the litigation of a personal injury claim, an attorney may need to issue a legal document referred to as a “subpoena” if the goal is to require a non-party to the litigation to produce information. The information sought determines the specific name for the pre-trial subpoena, but they generally either seek someone’s deposition… Read More »
