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Determining Fault in CA Automobile Accidents

All drivers in California have a duty to exercise reasonable care while operating a motor vehicle. Even so, automobile accidents are a harsh reality of modern life. Typically (though not always), automobile accidents are caused because at least one driver was negligent in some way (driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, texting and driving, eating and driving, and more). There are a number of factors that can contribute to a finding of negligence under the California Vehicle Code.  Continue reading to learn a few of the more typical situations of driver negligence and their effect on a potential lawsuit, as well as the factors that the judge or jury may look at in making a determination of fault.

Common Causes of Auto Accidents

One very common cause of auto accidents in today’s busy world is the failure to pay attention while driving.  Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley drivers have a duty to keep a lookout for other vehicles and maintain control of the vehicle.  Drivers that are texting, eating, operating a cell phone, or using an electronic music device while driving may all be found liable for failure to pay attention while driving.

Do I Need to Hire an Auto Accident Attorney?

You were involved in an auto accident in the San Fernando Valley, but thankfully it seemed relatively minor. You didn’t break any bones or suffer a concussion, and your car only has minimal damage. So should you just avoid filing a claim with your auto insurance company and move on? As an experienced auto accident attorney would attest, the answer is no. Car accident injuries (such as neck injuries resulting from whiplash) can sneak up on you in the days or weeks following the accident. Therefore, it is critical to seek help for both medical claims and legal claims.

After a car accident, the last thing you want to deal with is your insurance company. This is one area where an experienced auto accident attorney will be very useful. There is just no need to go through the process of filing insurance and medical claims alone. By retaining the services of a qualified Woodland Hills personal injury lawyer, the necessary steps will be taken to ensure that your legal rights are considered that you receive fair compensation for any injuries or losses suffered in the accident. Without hiring a car accident lawyer after an accident, it is possible to end up having to pay medical bills and/or other damages caused in the accident.

Elderly Drivers and Car Accidents

Are you concerned about an elderly loved one’s determination to remain mobile and independent and not give up the keys to their car? Were you injured in a San Fernando Valley car accident caused by a senior citizen who technically should not have been driving? If you can relate to either of these experiences, keep reading.

It seems that older people are often stubborn when it comes to admitting they should not longer be driving, or giving up their drivers licenses. And in places like Los Angeles County, who can blame them? Getting around via public transportation is often not the easiest in our part of the country. However, this is no excuse to put oneself or others at risk. It is an unfortunate and true statistic that the risk of being injured or killed in a motor vehicle crash increases as you age. An average of 500 older adults are injured every day in crashes. According to the CDC, fatal crash rates per mile traveled increase starting at age 75 and jump notably after age 80. Experts believe this is largely due to increased susceptibility to injury and medical complications among older drivers rather than an increased tendency to get into crashes.

Older Drivers are Vulnerable