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What Happens If You Don’t Use Insurance Money for Repairs?
If your car accident claim is approved, you’ll most likely use the insurance money for repairs. But what happens if you don’t? Many claimants worry about being denied or receiving a check for less than the repairs to a vehicle. However, it’s not unheard of for someone to consider using the money for something else. We’ll now answer the question, “What happens if you don’t use the insurance money for repairs.” The short answer is—it
Liability vs. Full Coverage: Can I Save By Dropping One?
Auto insurance isn’t cheap, so vehicle owners sometimes weigh liability vs. full coverage. We’ve talked about the difference between the two before. Liability-only insurance covers damage to other vehicles and injuries to other people. But full coverage also includes damage to your vehicle (and sometimes medical payments coverage). But what if you chose to drop one? We’ll explain if and when it’s possible and the possible repercussions. As of 2023, minimum liability coverage in California
Does a Release of Liability Waiver Have Limits?
Contrary to what many people believe, a release of liability waiver has limits. It protects a business or property owner only under certain conditions. You may be asked to sign a waiver of liability at a gym, theme park, or sporting event. But you’re only waiving the right to sue for harm sustained by circumstances the waiver covers. How Does a Release of Liability Waiver Work? A liability waiver is a legally binding agreement once
How Does Assumption of Risk Affect My Personal Injury Settlement?
Assumption of risk may or may not prevent you from receiving a personal injury settlement. Your rights can vary depending on the circumstances and state laws, even if you signed a waiver or participated in an activity with inherent dangers. Signing a release form doesn’t permanently relieve the defendant of liability. At The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani, we can help pursue a personal injury settlement even if the assumption of risk is a factor
Can a Construction Accident Lawyer Help If I’m Not an Employee?
If a construction worker is injured on the job, their losses are usually covered by an employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. The worker may also consider hiring a construction accident lawyer. But what if you’re hurt in a construction site accident and not an employee but instead a subcontractor or civilian? Can you still file a lawsuit? Filing a Lawsuit as a Subcontractor If a subcontractor is injured while performing ordinary work duties, they can usually
When Do I Need a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer?
When you need an experienced lawyer, you can count on The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani for high-quality representation. We can help recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and loss of consortium as well as other losses. Some injury claims involve more significant and costly losses than others. For the most serious accidents, you’ll need a catastrophic injury lawyer who’s a skilled litigator and negotiator. Definition of a Catastrophic Personal Injury The term “catastrophic
Can You Trade in a Totaled Car?
After an accident, you may wonder what to do with a totaled car. A car that’s declared totaled by the insurance company is simply one that’ll cost more to fix than it’s worth. But can you trade in a totaled car? Assuming you haven’t accepted a check from the insurance company (they’ll now own the car and have the right to salvage it), a trade-in may be an option. Why Avoid Letting the Insurance Company
Can an Uber Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles Help Me Sue a Driver Directly?
Due to the nature of Uber’s corporate structure and insurance policy, suing the company for injuries sustained in a rideshare accident can be difficult. But sometimes, an Uber accident lawyer in Los Angeles can help you sue a driver. The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani have helped many clients who’ve been injured in Uber accidents. We’ll explain how to go about suing a driver and receiving compensation. Is Uber’s Insurance Policy Enough? Under the rideshare
How to Cancel the Registration on a Totaled Car in California
If you total your car in California, you must report it to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Once the insurance company offers a settlement after your car accident, within 10 days you must obtain a California Salvage Certificate or Non-repairable Vehicle Certificate. You’ll receive it in exchange for the vehicle’s California Certificate of Title that you must surrender. Continue reading to learn more about how to cancel the registration on a totaled car. Canceling
Why Is Suing a Large Company So Difficult?
Any business can be liable for negligence, malpractice, a personal injury accident, etc. Suing a large company may be your only legal option if, for example, you’re injured in an accident caused by a truck driver, slip on a retailer’s slippery floor, are hurt by a defective product, or are harmed in the workplace. But your path to victory won’t be easy. Big corporations have unlimited resources for putting up a defense. They have access
Does GAP Insurance Cover a Total Loss?
Guaranteed Auto Protection (GAP) insurance is one of a few types of car insurance that can cover accident-related costs. But what if your car is totaled? Most policies limit the coverage amounts and types of coverage (collision, medical, uninsured motorist, etc., but not a totaled car). GAP insurance does cover a total loss, and we’ll explain how it works. How Does GAP Insurance Help? A car begins to depreciate as soon as you drive it
After a Car Accident, Is Determining Fault by the Location of Damage Possible?
For our clients injured in car accidents, obtaining fair compensation for injuries and expenses is a top priority. But pursuing a settlement first requires determining fault. There are many ways to do so. For example, witness accounts, photographs of the scene, and police reports can help identify the negligent driver. It’s also possible, after a car accident, to determine fault by the location of the damage. While the location of the damage doesn’t always tell
What Happens to the License Plates When a Car Is Totaled?
Anyone who’s been in an auto accident may ask, “What happens to the license plates when a car is totaled?” We’ve previously covered what to do with a totaled car. In this article, we’ll explain what happens with the licensed plates of a totaled car in California. If your car is totaled, it means the cost of repairs (plus its salvage value) is equal to or exceeds the vehicle’s actual cash value. To be compensated
What Is the Delayed Discovery Rule in California?
In general, a statute of limitations for bringing a lawsuit begins when a negligent or wrongful act causing a loss or injury occurred. A personal injury claimant in California has two years from the date of injury to file a claim (or one year for medical or legal malpractice). If they fail to do so during that time, the court will bar them from suing. But there is an exception—the delayed discovery rule; in California,
Can a Lyft Accident Attorney Near Me Help Sue for Damages?
If you’re injured in a rideshare car accident, you may seek compensation for damages. But suing Lyft can be challenging since its drivers are independent contractors. The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani will help hold the responsible party accountable. If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, our Lyft accident attorney near you will help with your claim. We work with personal injury clients throughout California and have seen many
How Do I Get a DMV Total Loss Registration Refund?
A totaled car is one that’s considered too costly to repair. But just because your vehicle is a total loss doesn’t mean you can’t receive a settlement on it. Rather than paying for repairs, you can settle for its salvage value. You must go to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) before receiving compensation. A total loss registration refund can also be obtained by visiting your local DMV. We’ll explain how the process works in
Will the Insurance Company Send Me a Check for My Medical Bills?
Paying your insurance premiums every month is enough of an expense. Medical bills can be much costlier if you’re injured in an accident. If not insured, you’ll have to pay them out-of-pocket. But let’s assume you are insured; now, we’ll look at the answer to the question, “Will the insurance company send me a check for my medical bills?” and how medical bills get paid through an accident claim. Do I Get the Check? The
How Effective Are Safety Features in Cars?
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) are rapidly becoming standard features in new cars. Aside from familiar safety elements like seatbelts and airbags, many vehicles include collision warning systems, blind-spot detection, automatic emergency braking, etc. But are these safety features in cars making a difference? Vehicle crashes, accident injuries, and fatalities are in the news almost every day. Cited by Forbes, research by LexisNexis Risk Solutions found that with ADAS-equipped vehicles, bodily injury claims have been reduced
When Are Nominal Damages Awarded?
In many lawsuits, plaintiffs seek compensatory damages to pay for losses caused by a defendant’s actions or negligence. But not everyone goes to court to seek a large monetary award. We’ll explain when nominal damages are awarded and what they mean. What Does It Mean to Receive Nominal Damages? Nominal damages are awarded when the plaintiff has not suffered any substantial losses. The goal is to establish that their legal rights have been violated. Your
How to Sell a Totaled Car?
When a car is totaled, the insurance company has decided the cost of fixing the vehicle is more than its value. Salvaged cars are those that have been declared totaled. Selling a totaled car is possible and legal. If you’re asking, “Can I sell a totaled car?”, we’ll explain how to do so. Your Insurance Company Can Help It is up to the insurer to declare the car totaled. If you’ve been in an accident,
What to Do When Vehicle Repairs Exceed Insurance Estimates or Check
You were in an auto accident, and the repair shop quoted a price of $2,000. However, the insurance company refuses to pay more than $1,200, claiming that’s what the repairs should cost. This is not uncommon. Insurance policyholders often find their insurance company won’t cover the total price of a vehicle repair. Can you dispute an insurer’s estimate? We’ll explain what to do if the insurance check is less than the repairs. Insurance Companies and
In a Multi-Vehicle Crash, Is the Car with More Damage at Fault?
A multi-vehicle accident involves three or more cars. It’s often caused by a chain reaction in which the first car collides with another vehicle that hits the next, triggering a series of crashes. Unfortunately, this is not uncommon on California’s busy roads. Establishing fault in such a situation can be difficult. Oftentimes, the extent of the damage to each vehicle helps determine liability. But is the car with more damage at fault all the time?
How Long Is an Insurance Check Good For?
If you receive an insurance check, chances are you need access to the funds quickly. But it can be easy to be forgetful. Or, perhaps a family member passed away and had an old check lying around. Can you still cash it? We’ll look at how long an insurance check is good for and if you can cash an old check. The validity of the check depends on its expiration date. Insurance companies usually print
How Do Car Insurance Companies Pay Out Claims?
If you’re injured in a car accident, receiving an insurance claim payout is a major hurdle. Let’s assume you’ve filed a claim and an insurance company has evaluated and approved it. In California, an insurer has 30 days to pay a settled claim.¹ To help you better understand what to expect, we’ll look at how car insurance companies pay out claims in more detail. How an Insurance Claim Is Paid Out The at-fault driver’s insurance
Who Is Liable for Damages in an L.A. Car Chase?
Car chases aren’t uncommon in Los Angeles. Watching one on a live broadcast can be exciting, but being caught in the middle of the action isn’t fun. High-speed chases can cause unsuspecting drivers, passengers, and pedestrians to be severely injured. There’s no way to predict when a police chase may occur. If your life has been affected by an L.A. car chase, you’re probably wondering who is liable so you can pursue compensation. The following
Who’s Liable When Road Conditions Cause a Car Accident?
Negligent driving is a leading cause of car accidents, but dangerous crashes also occur due to poor road conditions. These include issues other than bad weather. Depending on the case, a city, county, or state government agency (or other person/entity) may be liable for damages. We’ll look at who may be responsible when road conditions contribute to a car accident. Road Conditions that Cause Accidents A wide range of hazards can lead to car accidents.
Who Gets the Insurance Check When a Car Is Totaled?
When the insurance company determines your car is totaled, that means the cost of repairs is greater than its estimated value. However, that doesn’t guarantee you can pocket the cash when your accident claim gets paid. Who gets the insurance check when a car is totaled depends on the following: You Own the Vehicle If you’re the owner of the car and don’t owe anything on it, the negligent driver’s insurer may pay you the
What Does Whiplash Feel Like and When Should I Get Medical Treatment?
Whiplash is a term often associated with car accidents. It can occur after a fall, assault, or sports accident as well. But regardless of how common the term is, many people don’t know what it’s like (the symptoms, severity, and impact on daily life vary from person to person). We’ll now answer the question, “What does whiplash feel like?” to help you recognize the signs and determine when to seek medical treatment. What Does Whiplash
Are Bouncers Allowed to Touch You?
Bars, clubs, and other establishments hire individuals to provide security services. But there’s a limit to the measures they can take. Unnecessary force, restraint, or detention are illegal. Nonetheless, in certain situations, you may wonder how far is too far. We’ll look at the legal limitations to answer the question, “Are bouncers allowed to touch you?” What Does a Bouncer Do? A bouncer is hired for security purposes. They are not security officers with any
What Safety Devices on Cars Can Be Added Later?
In recent years, auto manufacturers have started including numerous safety features in vehicles. These can save lives and even help avoid accidents. But the average age of cars on the road is 12.2 years, as of 2022, according to S&P Global Mobility. That means owners of older vehicles may not benefit from what are now standard safety features. However, there are many safety devices for cars that can be purchased as aftermarket products. The following
Qualities to Look for in a Good Car Injury Lawyer
After you’re injured in a car accident, it can seem like the cards are stacked against you. Recovering from injuries is hard enough. But you’ve got medical bills and are perhaps unable to work and earn wages to cover rent and daily essentials. On top of that, the insurance company is giving you a hard time providing the coverage you need. An experienced car injury lawyer can help you get fully compensated, but how do
New California Bike Riding Rules for 2023
At The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani, we have represented numerous clients who have been victims of bicycle accidents. Safety is a serious concern for bicyclists. According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), more than 10,000 of them are injured in collisions with motorists, and over 100 are killed every year. State legislators have issued new laws in recent years to help improve bicycle safety. Here’s a look at the new bike riding
What Does Implied Assumption of Risk Mean?
People sometimes participate in activities they know are dangerous. For example, contact sports, skydiving, rock climbing, and riding a roller coaster have inherent risks. In law, “assumption of risk” is a concept that applies when someone is hurt by participating in such an activity. This can prevent them from holding another party accountable and pursuing damages. There can be an express or implied assumption of risk. Express assumption of risk means a person acknowledges they’re
Types of Distracted Driving
In 2020, 3,142 people were killed and over 324,000 injured in vehicular crashes involving distracted drivers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Not all of them were vehicle occupants. Numerous pedestrians, bicyclists, and others were killed or injured due to distracted drivers. There are three primary types of distraction that can impair driving. These categories include: Manual Distraction The driver takes one or both hands off the wheel to perform a task,
How Do I Invoke a Wrongful Death Statute in a Lawsuit?
In California, surviving family members or the decedent’s estate can sue for damages if the person’s death was caused by another party’s wrongful act. This act can be negligent, intentional, or reckless. A wrongful death settlement or jury verdict can compensate for a range of damages. Here’s a look at California’s wrongful death statute (Code of Civil Procedure 377.60) to help understand how it can be used in a lawsuit. What You Need to File
Who Do I Sue When Road Conditions Caused an Accident?
Negligent driving is the most common cause of car accidents. However, poor road conditions play a role in many. Deteriorating roads are a problem throughout California; in 2022, 44% of roads analyzed here by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) were in poor condition, the worst in the country. When an accident happens due to a road defect, proving who is liable can be a challenge. Types of Road Conditions That Lead to Accidents To file
Top 6 Reasons to Fasten Your Seatbelt
A seatbelt is the most effective safety feature in a motor vehicle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 51% of passenger vehicle occupants killed in 2020 were not wearing one. That’s a total of 23,824 people who lost their lives and a 4% increase over 2019. While most drivers and vehicle occupants buckle up, some don’t and are putting their lives at risk; these are the top six reasons to fasten your seatbelt at all
When Do You Pay a Los Angeles Injury Law Firm?
Many legal service providers charge upfront or hourly fees. However, personal injury lawyers usually do things a little differently. They typically work under a contingency fee plan. This means they get paid only if the plaintiff receives a financial award after winning their lawsuit. We’ll explain when you’ll be expected to pay a Los Angeles injury law firm and how the contingency fee process works. A contingency fee is paid when: A settlement is reached
How to Determine a Fair Child Pain and Suffering Settlement
When a child is seriously injured in a car accident, the entire family suffers financially and emotionally. You can be compensated for short- and long-term medical costs as well as missing work to help your child recover. But the trauma of an accident can inflict pain and suffering that includes mental anguish, loss of quality of life, and an inability for your child to socialize and develop normally. Determining a fair child pain and suffering
Slip and Fall Deposition Questions a Defendant’s Lawyer Might Ask
A deposition is a face-to-face meeting with the defense’s legal team. You’ll be asked questions, under oath, about your personal injury and how your slip and fall happened (and likely recorded or videotaped). This is for the defense to determine what your claims are about. They’ll also use the opportunity to assess the strength of your claim. In doing so, there are many slip-and-fall deposition questions a defendant’s attorney might ask. Oftentimes, the information requested
When to Call the Police for a Car Accident in California
Per California law, you must call the police if you were involved in a car accident that caused an injury or death. But you should always contact law enforcement, even if the accident is minor. A police officer’s account and an accident report, filed within 24 hours of a crash, can be a crucial part of your claim. The Los Angeles Police Department also requires you to call the police if one of the drivers
Examples of Non-Economic Damages
In a personal injury lawsuit, you can claim various types of damages. These include economic damages, which are quantifiable and based on tangible losses. Another type is non-economic damages, or special damages, that aren’t as easy to calculate compared to documented financial losses, expenses, or charges. Non-Economic Damages Defined Non-economic damages are non-monetary losses. They are subjective and may be determined by a lawyer, judge, or jury based on an accident’s or injury’s impact on your life. But they
Do I Need to Notify the DMV If My Car Is Totaled in California?
You are required to notify the DMV if your car is totaled in California. It is an important step in filing an insurance claim, accepting a settlement, or keeping the car. Failing to notify the DMV may result in serious fines and penalties. In California, the general rule is as follows: A car is totaled if the cost of repairing it exceeds 75% of its value. Your insurance company usually decides if this is the case.
When Will My Lawyer Tell Me How Much My Case Is Worth?
A personal injury lawyer should be open to all your questions. You are likely wondering, “When will my lawyer tell me how much my case is worth?” As any accident attorney would admit, this is an important question. But aside from a ballpark estimate, you may not get a precise answer; that’s because the exact case value may not be immediately known. Why Is My Lawyer Dodging the Question? There can be a lot of
What Are the Most Common Injuries in a Vehicle Rollover Accident?
A vehicle rollover is the most dangerous and deadly kind of accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 30% of passenger vehicle occupant fatalities occur due to rollover crashes. Speeding, impaired/distracted drivers, and aggressive driving are common causes of rollovers, which involve cars going end over end in a rolling motion until the vehicle comes to a stop upright, on its side, or upside down on the roof. Survivors of such crashes
The Insurance Company Says My Car Is Totaled? What Does This Mean?
You were in a car accident, but the good thing is no one was seriously injured. However, the insurance company says your car is “totaled” (even though it doesn’t look destroyed). This term can be misleading, which is why we will explain exactly what this means. When a car is said to be “totaled,” the insurance company has declared it a total loss. That means the cost to fix it exceeds the vehicle’s actual cash value. It
What Are the Latest Bird Scooter Requirements?
As Bird scooters appear in cities across California, the potential for accidents is increasing. There are requirements in place to help you safely share the road and park your scooter. We’ll detail the latest Bird scooter requirements and how to have a safe, uneventful ride. How to Use a Bird Scooter Riding a Bird scooter requires downloading the Bird app and creating an account. It includes a map that shows available electric scooters nearby. Tap a button
What Are the Restitution Laws in California?
If you’ve been a victim of a crime that caused financial harm, California law entitles you to compensation. The court can issue a restitution order in which the defendant is required to cover medical bills, lost wages, or the value of stolen or damaged property. Other economic losses may be included as well, such as the wages/profits lost by a parent/guardian to care for an injured minor. Restitution for psychological harm and other non-economic losses
What Is the Minimum Wage in California?
The state of California has specific minimum wage requirements. Many cities and counties have set their own minimum wages as well. Unless an exemption applies, employers must abide by the law or face serious consequences. Below, we’ll look at the minimum wage in California and how to proceed if you’re not being fairly compensated for your work. California’s Latest Minimum Wage Law In 2022, California’s minimum wage was raised to $15.00 per hour for employers
What Is Hearsay?
Hearsay is a term often encountered if you go to trial. Here, we’ll examine the meaning of hearsay and how it may impact your claim, lawsuit, or case. While testifying in court, a witness may repeat a statement they heard someone else say. This is hearsay. It is made out-of-court and offered to prove the truth of what it asserts. In short, hearsay is essentially secondhand information that may have questionable reliability. Therefore, it’s generally
What Happens If You Don’t Use Insurance Money for Repairs?
If your car accident claim is approved, you’ll most likely use the insurance money for repairs. But what happens if you don’t? Many claimants worry about being denied or receiving a check for less than the repairs to a vehicle. However, it’s not unheard of for someone to consider using
Liability vs. Full Coverage: Can I Save By Dropping One?
Auto insurance isn’t cheap, so vehicle owners sometimes weigh liability vs. full coverage. We’ve talked about the difference between the two before. Liability-only insurance covers damage to other vehicles and injuries to other people. But full coverage also includes damage to your vehicle (and sometimes medical payments coverage). But what
Does a Release of Liability Waiver Have Limits?
Contrary to what many people believe, a release of liability waiver has limits. It protects a business or property owner only under certain conditions. You may be asked to sign a waiver of liability at a gym, theme park, or sporting event. But you’re only waiving the right to sue
How Does Assumption of Risk Affect My Personal Injury Settlement?
Assumption of risk may or may not prevent you from receiving a personal injury settlement. Your rights can vary depending on the circumstances and state laws, even if you signed a waiver or participated in an activity with inherent dangers. Signing a release form doesn’t permanently relieve the defendant of
Can a Construction Accident Lawyer Help If I’m Not an Employee?
If a construction worker is injured on the job, their losses are usually covered by an employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. The worker may also consider hiring a construction accident lawyer. But what if you’re hurt in a construction site accident and not an employee but instead a subcontractor or civilian?
When Do I Need a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer?
When you need an experienced lawyer, you can count on The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani for high-quality representation. We can help recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and loss of consortium as well as other losses. Some injury claims involve more significant and costly losses than others. For
Can You Trade in a Totaled Car?
After an accident, you may wonder what to do with a totaled car. A car that’s declared totaled by the insurance company is simply one that’ll cost more to fix than it’s worth. But can you trade in a totaled car? Assuming you haven’t accepted a check from the insurance
Can an Uber Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles Help Me Sue a Driver Directly?
Due to the nature of Uber’s corporate structure and insurance policy, suing the company for injuries sustained in a rideshare accident can be difficult. But sometimes, an Uber accident lawyer in Los Angeles can help you sue a driver. The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani have helped many clients who’ve
How to Cancel the Registration on a Totaled Car in California
If you total your car in California, you must report it to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Once the insurance company offers a settlement after your car accident, within 10 days you must obtain a California Salvage Certificate or Non-repairable Vehicle Certificate. You’ll receive it in exchange for the
Why Is Suing a Large Company So Difficult?
Any business can be liable for negligence, malpractice, a personal injury accident, etc. Suing a large company may be your only legal option if, for example, you’re injured in an accident caused by a truck driver, slip on a retailer’s slippery floor, are hurt by a defective product, or are
Does GAP Insurance Cover a Total Loss?
Guaranteed Auto Protection (GAP) insurance is one of a few types of car insurance that can cover accident-related costs. But what if your car is totaled? Most policies limit the coverage amounts and types of coverage (collision, medical, uninsured motorist, etc., but not a totaled car). GAP insurance does cover
After a Car Accident, Is Determining Fault by the Location of Damage Possible?
For our clients injured in car accidents, obtaining fair compensation for injuries and expenses is a top priority. But pursuing a settlement first requires determining fault. There are many ways to do so. For example, witness accounts, photographs of the scene, and police reports can help identify the negligent driver.
What Happens to the License Plates When a Car Is Totaled?
Anyone who’s been in an auto accident may ask, “What happens to the license plates when a car is totaled?” We’ve previously covered what to do with a totaled car. In this article, we’ll explain what happens with the licensed plates of a totaled car in California. If your car
What Is the Delayed Discovery Rule in California?
In general, a statute of limitations for bringing a lawsuit begins when a negligent or wrongful act causing a loss or injury occurred. A personal injury claimant in California has two years from the date of injury to file a claim (or one year for medical or legal malpractice). If
Can a Lyft Accident Attorney Near Me Help Sue for Damages?
If you’re injured in a rideshare car accident, you may seek compensation for damages. But suing Lyft can be challenging since its drivers are independent contractors. The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani will help hold the responsible party accountable. If you or a loved one has been injured in a
How Do I Get a DMV Total Loss Registration Refund?
A totaled car is one that’s considered too costly to repair. But just because your vehicle is a total loss doesn’t mean you can’t receive a settlement on it. Rather than paying for repairs, you can settle for its salvage value. You must go to the Department of Motor Vehicles
Will the Insurance Company Send Me a Check for My Medical Bills?
Paying your insurance premiums every month is enough of an expense. Medical bills can be much costlier if you’re injured in an accident. If not insured, you’ll have to pay them out-of-pocket. But let’s assume you are insured; now, we’ll look at the answer to the question, “Will the insurance
How Effective Are Safety Features in Cars?
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) are rapidly becoming standard features in new cars. Aside from familiar safety elements like seatbelts and airbags, many vehicles include collision warning systems, blind-spot detection, automatic emergency braking, etc. But are these safety features in cars making a difference? Vehicle crashes, accident injuries, and fatalities are
When Are Nominal Damages Awarded?
In many lawsuits, plaintiffs seek compensatory damages to pay for losses caused by a defendant’s actions or negligence. But not everyone goes to court to seek a large monetary award. We’ll explain when nominal damages are awarded and what they mean. What Does It Mean to Receive Nominal Damages? Nominal
How to Sell a Totaled Car?
When a car is totaled, the insurance company has decided the cost of fixing the vehicle is more than its value. Salvaged cars are those that have been declared totaled. Selling a totaled car is possible and legal. If you’re asking, “Can I sell a totaled car?”, we’ll explain how
What to Do When Vehicle Repairs Exceed Insurance Estimates or Check
You were in an auto accident, and the repair shop quoted a price of $2,000. However, the insurance company refuses to pay more than $1,200, claiming that’s what the repairs should cost. This is not uncommon. Insurance policyholders often find their insurance company won’t cover the total price of a
In a Multi-Vehicle Crash, Is the Car with More Damage at Fault?
A multi-vehicle accident involves three or more cars. It’s often caused by a chain reaction in which the first car collides with another vehicle that hits the next, triggering a series of crashes. Unfortunately, this is not uncommon on California’s busy roads. Establishing fault in such a situation can be
How Long Is an Insurance Check Good For?
If you receive an insurance check, chances are you need access to the funds quickly. But it can be easy to be forgetful. Or, perhaps a family member passed away and had an old check lying around. Can you still cash it? We’ll look at how long an insurance check
How Do Car Insurance Companies Pay Out Claims?
If you’re injured in a car accident, receiving an insurance claim payout is a major hurdle. Let’s assume you’ve filed a claim and an insurance company has evaluated and approved it. In California, an insurer has 30 days to pay a settled claim.¹ To help you better understand what to
Who Is Liable for Damages in an L.A. Car Chase?
Car chases aren’t uncommon in Los Angeles. Watching one on a live broadcast can be exciting, but being caught in the middle of the action isn’t fun. High-speed chases can cause unsuspecting drivers, passengers, and pedestrians to be severely injured. There’s no way to predict when a police chase may
Who’s Liable When Road Conditions Cause a Car Accident?
Negligent driving is a leading cause of car accidents, but dangerous crashes also occur due to poor road conditions. These include issues other than bad weather. Depending on the case, a city, county, or state government agency (or other person/entity) may be liable for damages. We’ll look at who may
Who Gets the Insurance Check When a Car Is Totaled?
When the insurance company determines your car is totaled, that means the cost of repairs is greater than its estimated value. However, that doesn’t guarantee you can pocket the cash when your accident claim gets paid. Who gets the insurance check when a car is totaled depends on the following:
What Does Whiplash Feel Like and When Should I Get Medical Treatment?
Whiplash is a term often associated with car accidents. It can occur after a fall, assault, or sports accident as well. But regardless of how common the term is, many people don’t know what it’s like (the symptoms, severity, and impact on daily life vary from person to person). We’ll
Are Bouncers Allowed to Touch You?
Bars, clubs, and other establishments hire individuals to provide security services. But there’s a limit to the measures they can take. Unnecessary force, restraint, or detention are illegal. Nonetheless, in certain situations, you may wonder how far is too far. We’ll look at the legal limitations to answer the question,
What Safety Devices on Cars Can Be Added Later?
In recent years, auto manufacturers have started including numerous safety features in vehicles. These can save lives and even help avoid accidents. But the average age of cars on the road is 12.2 years, as of 2022, according to S&P Global Mobility. That means owners of older vehicles may not
Qualities to Look for in a Good Car Injury Lawyer
After you’re injured in a car accident, it can seem like the cards are stacked against you. Recovering from injuries is hard enough. But you’ve got medical bills and are perhaps unable to work and earn wages to cover rent and daily essentials. On top of that, the insurance company
New California Bike Riding Rules for 2023
At The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani, we have represented numerous clients who have been victims of bicycle accidents. Safety is a serious concern for bicyclists. According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), more than 10,000 of them are injured in collisions with motorists, and over 100 are
What Does Implied Assumption of Risk Mean?
People sometimes participate in activities they know are dangerous. For example, contact sports, skydiving, rock climbing, and riding a roller coaster have inherent risks. In law, “assumption of risk” is a concept that applies when someone is hurt by participating in such an activity. This can prevent them from holding
Types of Distracted Driving
In 2020, 3,142 people were killed and over 324,000 injured in vehicular crashes involving distracted drivers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Not all of them were vehicle occupants. Numerous pedestrians, bicyclists, and others were killed or injured due to distracted drivers. There are three primary types
How Do I Invoke a Wrongful Death Statute in a Lawsuit?
In California, surviving family members or the decedent’s estate can sue for damages if the person’s death was caused by another party’s wrongful act. This act can be negligent, intentional, or reckless. A wrongful death settlement or jury verdict can compensate for a range of damages. Here’s a look at
Who Do I Sue When Road Conditions Caused an Accident?
Negligent driving is the most common cause of car accidents. However, poor road conditions play a role in many. Deteriorating roads are a problem throughout California; in 2022, 44% of roads analyzed here by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) were in poor condition, the worst in the country. When an
Top 6 Reasons to Fasten Your Seatbelt
A seatbelt is the most effective safety feature in a motor vehicle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 51% of passenger vehicle occupants killed in 2020 were not wearing one. That’s a total of 23,824 people who lost their lives and a 4% increase over 2019. While most
When Do You Pay a Los Angeles Injury Law Firm?
Many legal service providers charge upfront or hourly fees. However, personal injury lawyers usually do things a little differently. They typically work under a contingency fee plan. This means they get paid only if the plaintiff receives a financial award after winning their lawsuit. We’ll explain when you’ll be expected
How to Determine a Fair Child Pain and Suffering Settlement
When a child is seriously injured in a car accident, the entire family suffers financially and emotionally. You can be compensated for short- and long-term medical costs as well as missing work to help your child recover. But the trauma of an accident can inflict pain and suffering that includes
Slip and Fall Deposition Questions a Defendant’s Lawyer Might Ask
A deposition is a face-to-face meeting with the defense’s legal team. You’ll be asked questions, under oath, about your personal injury and how your slip and fall happened (and likely recorded or videotaped). This is for the defense to determine what your claims are about. They’ll also use the opportunity
When to Call the Police for a Car Accident in California
Per California law, you must call the police if you were involved in a car accident that caused an injury or death. But you should always contact law enforcement, even if the accident is minor. A police officer’s account and an accident report, filed within 24 hours of a crash,
Examples of Non-Economic Damages
In a personal injury lawsuit, you can claim various types of damages. These include economic damages, which are quantifiable and based on tangible losses. Another type is non-economic damages, or special damages, that aren’t as easy to calculate compared to documented financial losses, expenses, or charges. Non-Economic Damages Defined Non-economic damages are non-monetary losses.
Do I Need to Notify the DMV If My Car Is Totaled in California?
You are required to notify the DMV if your car is totaled in California. It is an important step in filing an insurance claim, accepting a settlement, or keeping the car. Failing to notify the DMV may result in serious fines and penalties. In California, the general rule is as follows:
When Will My Lawyer Tell Me How Much My Case Is Worth?
A personal injury lawyer should be open to all your questions. You are likely wondering, “When will my lawyer tell me how much my case is worth?” As any accident attorney would admit, this is an important question. But aside from a ballpark estimate, you may not get a precise
What Are the Most Common Injuries in a Vehicle Rollover Accident?
A vehicle rollover is the most dangerous and deadly kind of accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 30% of passenger vehicle occupant fatalities occur due to rollover crashes. Speeding, impaired/distracted drivers, and aggressive driving are common causes of rollovers, which involve cars going end over end
The Insurance Company Says My Car Is Totaled? What Does This Mean?
You were in a car accident, but the good thing is no one was seriously injured. However, the insurance company says your car is “totaled” (even though it doesn’t look destroyed). This term can be misleading, which is why we will explain exactly what this means. When a car is said to
What Are the Latest Bird Scooter Requirements?
As Bird scooters appear in cities across California, the potential for accidents is increasing. There are requirements in place to help you safely share the road and park your scooter. We’ll detail the latest Bird scooter requirements and how to have a safe, uneventful ride. How to Use a Bird Scooter Riding
What Are the Restitution Laws in California?
If you’ve been a victim of a crime that caused financial harm, California law entitles you to compensation. The court can issue a restitution order in which the defendant is required to cover medical bills, lost wages, or the value of stolen or damaged property. Other economic losses may be
What Is the Minimum Wage in California?
The state of California has specific minimum wage requirements. Many cities and counties have set their own minimum wages as well. Unless an exemption applies, employers must abide by the law or face serious consequences. Below, we’ll look at the minimum wage in California and how to proceed if you’re
What Is Hearsay?
Hearsay is a term often encountered if you go to trial. Here, we’ll examine the meaning of hearsay and how it may impact your claim, lawsuit, or case. While testifying in court, a witness may repeat a statement they heard someone else say. This is hearsay. It is made out-of-court
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