Ibrahim Law FirmAnaheim CA Car Accident Lawyer | Personal Injury | Bankruptcy2024-03-18T20:16:19Zhttps://www.ibrahimfirm.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1502133/2021/04/cropped-Favicon_s-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Ibrahim Law Firmhttps://www.ibrahimfirm.com/?p=508862024-03-18T20:16:19Z2024-03-18T20:16:19Z29 times higher for a motorcyclist than for a car driver.
Sharing the road safely
Motorcycle riders and car drivers can coexist peacefully on the road, especially if drivers take a few precautions. If you’re driving, keep the following in mind:
Prior to changing lanes, always check your blind spots. Motorcycles' two-wheeled, sleek shape makes them more difficult to notice than other vehicles.
When driving at night, use caution. Don't speed in the dark and always use your headlights.
When you can, stay in your lane. It is permitted for motorcycles to have their own lane.
Give the motorcycle enough warning before changing lanes so that it can keep a safe distance behind you.
When approaching a junction, proceed with utmost caution. Never accelerate to go around a red light. The outcomes can be fatal.
Regardless of your level of caution, motorcycle vs. car accidents can still occur. If that does happen, consider seeking legal guidance to help you navigate the aftermath.]]>On Behalf of Ibrahim Law Firmhttps://www.ibrahimfirm.com/?p=508852024-03-08T16:40:54Z2024-03-08T16:40:54ZCalifornia's requirements are surprisingly low
Many people do not buy insurance with the intention of protecting themselves but only out of a desire to follow state law. The amount of insurance required in California falls far below what a crash might actually cost. A driver only needs to have $5,000 in property damage coverage. While the state does require more bodily injury coverage, it is still not enough in many cases.
A crash where one person suffers injuries could lead to as little as $15,000 in available coverage. In crashes where two or more people end up hurt, a policy might offer just $30,000 in coverage. Such minimal policies may not be adequate for those with severe injuries. A crash involving multiple people with moderate injuries could also go well beyond what insurance could cover.
What happens when there are low policy limits?
Someone negatively affected by low policy limits does not have to accept major financial losses. They still have the option of pursuing more thorough compensation. Those who initiate personal injury lawsuits in accordance with California state statutes could seek full compensation for their economic losses after a collision.
While insurance is subject to policy limits based on the coverage someone purchased, a lawsuit can potentially lead to the courts granting someone full compensation based on the extent of the property damage and injuries generated by the collision. There might even be third parties, such as businesses, with some liability for a wreck that transpired. At the end of the day, realizing that insurance may not offer enough compensation may help people feel more comfortable with the idea of taking legal action after a California car crash.]]>On Behalf of Ibrahim Law Firmhttps://www.ibrahimfirm.com/?p=508842024-03-04T21:55:24Z2024-03-04T21:55:24ZAn auto accident can happen at any time. It’s estimated that nearly 6 million people experience auto accidents each year.Victims may not always know what to do after they’ve been hit by another vehicle. Here’s what you should know:
Check for injuries
Drivers and passengers should check to see if they are injured. If someone is unconscious or suffering from a severe injury, then it may be necessary to keep them still until help arrives. Victims should consider getting a medical examination even if they don’t believe they were seriously hurt. A medical report could be necessary when seeking compensation if it appears that a victim was unknowingly hurt.
Call the police
It’s important to alert the authorities after an accident. The police will come to the accident to make an accident report, which will be used for an insurance claim. If the police are not called and a driver leaves the scene of an accident where someone was severely injured, then there could be severe fines and penalties.
Move the car off the road
A car accident could block traffic, which could lead to more vehicle collisions. It can help to move a vehicle off the road or to a side lane until further assistance arrives. If the vehicle can’t move or if it’s believed that moving the car would endanger others, then the vehicle should stay where it is.
Understand your legal options
Many victims can get compensation after an auto accident for their injuries and losses. However, it’s not always easy. Victims may need to learn about their legal rights before they agree to a compensation offer. ]]>On Behalf of Ibrahim Law Firmhttps://www.ibrahimfirm.com/?p=508792024-02-20T16:55:53Z2024-02-20T16:55:53ZTexting and driving is illegal, and it’s also dangerous. If you’ve ever tried it, you can quickly tell just how distracted you are. It can be difficult just to check notifications while the car is in motion – let alone actually typing a text message – and anything that takes your eyes off of the road increases the odds of an accident.
With this in mind, some drivers may start thinking about sending or reading those text messages whenever they get to a red light. After all, the car isn’t moving, so shouldn’t that be safe? Isn’t that a good way to stay connected and also avoid causing a car accident?
The distraction isn’t over
Many people believe that texting at red lights or even stop signs is safe, and they will do it without thinking about the dangers. But researchers studied this practice and found that the distraction doesn’t actually end just because the person puts their phone down and starts driving again as the light turns green. Instead, they are still cognitively distracted for another 27 seconds.This cognitive distraction could still be plenty to cause a car accident. After all, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that distraction can be cognitive, visual or manual. Setting the phone down may eliminate the manual and visual risks, but it does nothing for the mental distraction. So even a driver who just put their phone down would be more likely to cause an accident than a driver who did not use their phone at all.
Seeking compensation
Have you been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver? Take the time to carefully consider your legal options to seek compensation for medical bills and other costs.]]>On Behalf of Ibrahim Law Firmhttps://www.ibrahimfirm.com/?p=508782024-02-20T02:58:55Z2024-02-20T02:58:55ZWhy is cycling in SoCal so dangerous?
According to a report by the Los Angeles Times, there is a high rate of accidents involving cyclists in Los Angeles and its neighboring counties. Factors such as distracted driving, inadequate bike lanes and limited cyclist awareness contribute to the dangers faced by cyclists on the roads.
How can cycling become safer?
In response to common cycling concerns, both Los Angeles County and Orange County have initiated plans to address safety for bicyclists. The Public Works Department of Los Angeles County has developed Bicycle Master Plans aimed at improving infrastructure. These plans include the expansion of bike lanes, the installation of protective barriers and educational campaigns to raise awareness among motorists.
Similarly, the Orange County Transportation Authority is prioritizing cyclist safety. In particular, the OC Bike Safety Awareness Program aims to make a notable difference. This initiative focuses on educating cyclists and motorists about safe practices on the road. OCTA emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and cooperation between cyclists and drivers to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of all road users.
Should cyclists consult an attorney after a bicycle accident?
While many efforts are in place to reduce the odds of cycling accidents in Southern California, the unfortunate reality is that a bicycle collision will always be possible. In the event of a cyclist accident, consulting an attorney is a top priority. A bicycle accident attorney can help injured cyclists understand how much their claim may be worth and provide guidance on how to secure maximum compensation.
Despite various proactive measures from county governments, cyclists must remain vigilant and take precautions while riding in Southern California. Wearing protective gear such as helmets and reflective clothing, obeying traffic laws and staying alert to surrounding vehicles can help reduce the risk of accidents.]]>On Behalf of Ibrahim Law Firmhttps://www.ibrahimfirm.com/?p=508772024-02-05T22:42:23Z2024-02-05T22:42:23ZAlthough you can find exceptions, rural roads do tend to be a bit simpler than city streets. A city street may have multiple lanes, intersections every few hundred yards and heavy traffic loads. People who are not used to driving in the city often find this to be overstimulating, and it can lead to mistakes.
By contrast, rural roads are more likely to be straight and wide, with just two lanes of traffic and a shoulder on either side. There is usually far less traffic due to the fact that most people live in urban areas.
Does this mean cities are safer?
No, this does not mean that city streets are safer. Studies have actually found that the fatal accident rate on rural roads is higher. Even if the total amount of accidents in any given year is split perfectly evenly between rural roads and city streets, the lower traffic levels in rural areas mean that the accident rate is higher.There are a few reasons for this. For one thing, drivers may be more likely to engage in risky activities, such as not wearing their seatbelt or driving under the influence.But one of the most influential factors is that speed limits are higher on rural roads. Two accidents may take place in roughly the exact same way, but a driver on a rural road may be going twice as fast – even if they’re following the speed limit. This drastically increases the odds that the accident will be fatal.
Have you lost a loved one or suffered injuries?
No matter where you drive most of the time, you could suffer serious injuries or even lose a loved one in a car accident. If so, take the time to look into all of your legal options.
]]>On Behalf of Ibrahim Law Firmhttps://www.ibrahimfirm.com/?p=508762024-01-26T14:54:16Z2024-01-26T03:34:02ZFive risky roads
The California Office of Traffic Safety recorded over 1,700 victims killed or injured in crashes on Anaheim roadways in 2020. Some of the worst roads include:
Interstate 5 (excessive speeding and heavy traffic)
Harbor Boulevard (traffic jams and frequent pedestrian crossings)
Katella Avenue (complex intersections and multiple turn lanes)
Lincoln Avenue (uneven surfaces and sections with poor visibility)
Ball Road (numerous intersections and mixed traffic)
Understanding these dangers
The hazardous conditions present on these frequently traveled roads significantly contribute to the occurrence of accidents. The heightened risk is often a result of factors such as speeding and increased traffic during peak hours.
Congested corridors and frustrated drivers navigating through backups can increase the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, intricate intersections demand precise maneuvers, further raising the potential for collisions.
Uneven road surfaces and limited visibility in certain areas create an environment prone to crashes, catching drivers off guard, while the risks associated with mixed traffic and intersection challenges make certain roads hotspots for wrecks. Add in the confusion of thousands of visiting drivers who are unfamiliar with Anaheim roadways, and it is not surprising that accidents result.
Once you have an understanding of which roadways present greater challenges in Anaheim, travel more safely by adopting defensive driving practices to mitigate the potential for accidents.
]]>On Behalf of Ibrahim Law Firmhttps://www.ibrahimfirm.com/?p=508742024-01-23T19:12:43Z2024-01-23T19:12:43ZIf you have recently been injured in a motor vehicle accident, you are certainly not alone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 2.1 emergency department visits in the U.S. were made by crash victims in 2020 alone. Yet, simply because being involved in a car accident is a common occurrence doesn’t mean that you should take your unique circumstances for granted. The actions you take in the wake of a crash – however seemingly innocent – could ultimately impact the outcome of your case. For example, it’s generally a bad idea to post on social media while your case remains unresolved.
What’s the problem with posting?
Discussing a car accident on social media might seem like a natural impulse, as sharing experiences in this way is commonplace. However, doing so can result in unintended and negative consequences.Anything you post on social media can potentially be used as evidence in a court case or insurance claim investigation. Even seemingly innocent comments or pictures can be taken out of context and used to challenge the credibility of your account. For instance, a simple post stating you're "feeling fine" after the accident could be misconstrued to imply you weren’t injured, even if this is just your way of reassuring family and friends that you’re – to put it bluntly – not dead. Additionally, your recollection of the accident might evolve as you process the event or as new information comes to light. However, an initial social media post can freeze your early account, which might contain inaccuracies or incomplete information. These inconsistencies can be used against you, casting doubt on your reliability or honesty.Ultimately, a post that contradicts your claim or suggests that you sustained less severe injuries can significantly impact the settlement amount or damages award you might otherwise receive in the wake of a crash. As a result, it’s better to stay off social media until your case has been fully resolved. ]]>On Behalf of Ibrahim Law Firmhttps://www.ibrahimfirm.com/?p=508722024-01-15T05:43:00Z2024-01-15T05:43:00ZWhy anti-lock brakes are helpful
Without an ABS system in your vehicle, your wheels could potentially freeze in place if you hit the brake pedal too hard. This prevents you from steering or taking other evasive maneuvers to correct a skid or avoid a wreck. On a motorcycle, an ABS system enables you to maximize the traction that you have in an effort to avoid being thrown off of your bike. It also allows you to stop faster while also reducing your stopping distance, which may avoid a collision or reduce or severity.
Why ABS isn't standard on motorcycles
There are several common arguments made against ABS on motorcycles even if they have the potential to reduce the number of motorcycle accidents on American roads. For instance, some believe that they are a hindrance when on dirt, gravel or other loose soils. Furthermore, some riders believe that ABS systems are too heavy or actually work to minimize traction because they activate too quickly. Finally, more experienced riders may believe that they can do a better job of braking on their own compared to an ABS system.
If you are hurt in a wreck caused by a negligent driver or rider, you may receive compensation for medical bills or other damages. Maintenance records showing that a car or motorcycle's brakes were not adequately cared for may be evidence of the defendant's negligence. Toxicology reports, witness statements and other evidence may also show that the defendant caused the wreck to occur.]]>On Behalf of Ibrahim Law Firmhttps://www.ibrahimfirm.com/?p=508702024-01-10T02:21:30Z2024-01-10T02:21:30ZMissing weeks of work
Some of the best-paid employees in California are blue-collar professionals. They must physically perform specific tasks in order to earn their paycheck. Someone with whiplash may not be able to use their upper body as they usually would. Reductions in strength, chronic pain and limited range of motion can all potentially impact how well someone performs their job. Therefore, some workers may require an extended leave of absence until their whiplash symptoms improve. They could lose out on thousands of dollars in income and might need to consider litigating to recoup those losses.
Needing expensive medical care
Mild cases of whiplash may only require over-the-counter pain medication and rest. People may use ice packs and heating pads to treat their symptoms. Other times, people require medical intervention. They may require muscle relaxants and prescription pain medication or even weeks of physical therapy to fully recover. In more extreme cases, doctors may order steroid injections or surgery. The cost of that treatment could quickly add up to tens of thousands of dollars, which might then justify someone's decision to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Having poor insurance coverage
California requires that drivers carry liability insurance. When someone causes a crash, their liability insurance policy helps pay for the losses that other people suffer because of the wreck. Unfortunately, some drivers have as little as $15,000 in bodily injury coverage. That may not be enough to pay for someone's medical treatment or replace their lost wages. When someone has verifiable expenses related to a crash that insurance cannot cover, a personal injury lawsuit may be the only way for them to get the treatment and support they require.
Realizing that whiplash can lead to major financial setbacks may inspire people pursue financial justice after a California collision.]]>