Awareness of Motorcycle Riding Road Hazards

Riding a motorcycle can be fun and thrilling, but it also poses certain challenges. For one, riding an unenclosed vehicle that runs on two wheels requires a lot of road safety measures. In terms of size and stability, a motorcycle is also smaller compared to cars, trucks, and vans. Additionally, motorcycle riding can be quite challenging, especially with ever-present road hazards.

Various road hazards pose very real safety threats to a rider and his or her passenger; and, it’s given that motorcycles are accident magnets. For one, a car or truck driver may not easily notice a motorcycle, especially in heavy traffic jams, and accidentally run it over. A rider may also unknowingly expose himself or herself to other hazards that can result to disastrous consequences; thus, a driver should always be on the lookout for possible road safety hazards.

Here are some examples of road hazards that a motorcycle rider must be aware of:

•    Uneven road surfaces. Old, unfinished roads are hotspots for potholes, scattered gravel, and other uneven road surfaces. Also, when there is an ongoing road construction or asphalt-laying jobs on the road, a rough and bumpy ride for the motorcyclist can be expected.

•    Edge breaks. They are broken or irregular edges on the road that is undergoing wear and tear. A motorcycle accident and subsequent damage can be expected if the rider transfers lanes.

•    Slippery road. Rain, snow, and other forms of precipitation can make the road slippery. As a result, all vehicles, including motorcycles, may have a hard time stepping on the brakes when slowing down on a slippery road. It is important to ride slowly and steadily while on a wet road.

•    Objects that impede the flow of traffic. Falling leaves from trees, debris, and scattered rocks are road hazards that the motorcycle rider should avoid.

A person or a public or private entity can be held responsible for the biker’s injuries in an accident. However, the defendants involved may vary depending on the road hazards. Determining liability and recovery for damages sustained by the injured biker can be remedied through the expertise of a motorcycle injury attorney.

Things to Do After a Taxi Accident in California

Taxicabs are the choice of many California commuters and tourists. Cabs are considered as a convenient mode of transportation by people who do own a car and  by those who have a car under repair. But, despite the convenience of riding taxis, these for-hire vehicles are also susceptible to road accidents.

Just like any other modes of transportation in California, taxicabs are likely to get involved in various traffic mishaps. Taxi accidents occur due to various reasons including:

·         Speeding and reckless driving

·         Driver fatigue

·         Violation of traffic laws

·         Poor maintenance of the vehicle

·         Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

In California, taxi accident victims have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the cab driver and his company if the accident was caused by the operator’s negligence. Accident victims should consult with a Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorney to know the steps they need to take in order to receive proper compensatory damages.

If you are California taxi accident victim, you should be able to follow these procedures to avoid further physical, emotional, and legal inconveniences:

1. Seek medical treatment promptly – Make sure to avoid sustaining further injuries by visiting the emergency department of a hospital.

2. Get all information – Taxicab accident victims are advised to take down all important information about the incident. Victims should take note of the driver’s name and contact number, and his company’s name, address, and contact number. Taxi accident victims should also get the contact information of people who witnessed the accident.

3. Take photographs – It is very much advisable for victims to take photographs of the accidents scene because photos can serve as pieces of evidence.

4. File a police report – Victims should never miss filing a police report; otherwise, they may find it difficult to file a claim against the driver and his company.

5. Contact a personal injury lawyer – Accident victims should immediately contact a personal injury lawyer to know the procedures involved in claiming for injury payments.

FAQs about Social Security Spouse Benefits Answered

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In the United States, in accordance with the Social Security Act, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is not only tasked to provide benefits to American workers but also to their spouses.

In order to learn more about the social security spouse benefits, one should know the answers to frequently asked questions concerning such benefit program.

1. What benefits can I get from the social security spouse benefits program?

Spouses of workers who have contributed an adequate amount of social security tax may receive equal to one-half of the worker’s full retirement amount if he or she started obtaining benefits at his or her full retirement age (62-years-old). Additionally, spouses who reach the age of 65 may be eligible to receive Medicare benefits.

2. What if both of us worked and contributed to the social security funds?

In cases when both are eligible for spouse benefits, the SSA will provide the spouse benefits first, and subsequently, the retirement benefits.

3. What if my spouse still continues to work while getting benefits?

If your spouse is entitled to benefits this year but he or she is still working, you may use SSA’s earnings test calculator to learn how those income would affect your spouse’s benefit payments.

4. How can I apply for the spouse benefits program of the SSA?

Applying for spouse benefits program is relatively easy. Interested benefits claimants may visit SSA’s website (www.SSA.gov) where they can submit their application.

5. Do I need an attorney when filing for spouse benefits?

You are not required to do so, but it is suggested that you hire an attorney to walk you through the entire process. Many spouse benefits applicants are confused about the instructions concerning the application process. Applicants are advised to consult with a social security attorney, who specializes in guiding spouse benefits claimants, to avoid filing a claim wrongfully.

Four Immediate Things to Do After a Car Crash

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Automobile accidents in the State of California are not uncommon. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 4,000 people are killed each year in the State due to vehicular accidents. The alarming frequency of motor vehicle mishaps makes it doubly important for California motorists to know beforehand the proper actions they need to do in case they get involved in a road accident.

Auto drivers or occupants should follow these tips if they get involved in an accident:

1. Seek medical attention – The top priority of any car accident victim is to have his or her injury treated. Even if the injury may seem minor or superficial, victims must still have their injuries examined and treated accordingly by medical professionals. As they say, it is always better to be safe than sorry.

2. File a police report – Once emergency unit personnel arrive at the accident scene, victims are advised to file a police report. When police officers arrive, victims should disclose all necessary details such as the cause of the accident, time of the accident, and other related information that could help speed up the investigation.

3. Take note of the other driver’s contact information – In case the accident involved another motorist, victims are advised to get the contact information of the other driver. Take note of his or her license plate number, contact number, address, insurance company, and other related information.

4. Contact a personal injury lawyer – Accident victims in California have the right to claim for damages if they are not the ones at fault for the road mishap. Pursuant to tort law, personal injury victims may assert for injury payments from the liable party who caused them their injury. In such cases, it is important to hire a good Santa Monica attorney when claiming for compensations because he or she can help the victims get the appropriate amount of personal injury payments.

Physical and financial injury can be effectively prevented by learning and executing appropriate actions. Accident victims in California should be aware of their rights in order to avoid experiencing further inconveniences other than the accident itself.

LWDA Labor Law and Policies Provisions

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California has released amendments and new regulations in the past years as regards their labor sector. This particularly shows that they fully understand the importance of the workers.  

The State of California Labor & Workforce Development Agency or LWDA, as an example, has provided hundreds of labor bills from the year 1999 up to 2003. These are implemented and incorporated to the California employment laws. Some of the laws that   are highlighted due to their particular relevance to employment issues within California include: 

• Sick leave was expanded for the family members of the private sector

• Daily overtime payment subsequent to  eight hours for the private sector

• Unemployment insurance assistance was increased

• The State disability insurance benefit was increased and indexed

• The benefit is heightened on the workers compensation, reforms and indexing

• Employer-based health care was expanded

• Family and medical leaves were turned into paid status

• The Labor & Workforce Development Agency was established as well as a secretary of labor

• There were a Labor-management committees made for the prevailing wage enforcement

• Financially sufficient contracts were made in the underground economy

• They hired private attorneys general for labor law enforcement

• Has expanded the apprenticeship programs

It is important for the public to realize that the officials are doing their best to provide them the appropriate laws that would suit their needs. Awareness plays an integral part in the cultivation of the community. However, it should be done on the emphasis that these all are rightfully implemented. 

Top Causes of Large Truck Accidents in Southern California

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Big rig collisions in Southern California are not uncommon. In 2009, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 27 people were killed in the State due to large truck accidents. Taking such information into consideration, fatalities may be considered relatively low but it does not mean that truck drivers can take accidents easy.

According to Santa Monica personal injury attorneys, truck accidents contribute to thousands of tort-related cases in California each year. There are particular reasons why truck accidents occur in parts of California, like Los Angeles and Santa Monica. The following are some of the common causes of big rig collisions in California:

1. Driver fatigue – Commercial truck drivers are susceptible to driver fatigue because they are subjected to rigorous and demanding schedules. Because of this, it is not surprising that several truck accidents in California are caused by  such factor. When a driver is exhausted, chances are his driving skills are compromised thus making him closer to accidents.

2. Alcohol intoxication – Driving under the influence (DUI) accidents do not only involve automobile or motorcycle operators.  Truck drivers are also vulnerable to such traffic violation. Intoxicated big rig drivers contribute to hundreds of DUI-related road accidents each year. Drunken drivers are likely to cause or get involved in traffic accidents because their driving skills are impaired.

3. Violation of traffic laws – Even a simple traffic infraction such as not stopping on red light may lead to serious accidents. Certain truck drivers that do violate California traffic laws are likely to get involved in a traffic crash. They may not only put their health in danger but also the safety of  other driving public.

Truck accident victims, pursuant to California tort law, have the right to claim for personal injury compensations. Consulting with Los Angeles lawyers may provide great advantage when it comes to learning their civil rights.

California Law Protecting Transgender People from Employment Discrimination

Gender identity is a protected class under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), which means that transgender employees and applicants should not be discriminated. In accordance with the provisions set by FEHA, employers doing business in the State of California are prohibited to discriminate against employees as well as job seekers based on their gender identity and expression.

It is not a new knowledge that certain transgender people are discriminated in the workplace; however, with the help of FEHA, this employment issue may be addressed and resolved. Specifically, the Act does not allow employers to discriminate people based on their gender identity and expression when it comes to employment-related decisions such as:

·         Hiring process

·         Admittance of an applicant

·         Termination

·         Demotion

·         Providing of benefits and wage

Transgender people in California who have experienced workplace discrimination may file a complaint with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing(DFEH). Valid complaints would undergo certain procedures including:

1. Pre-investigation – DFEH officials would determine if the complaint is apt with the agency’s jurisdiction. If the complaint would be acknowledged, DFEH would initiate investigation.

2. Investigation – Once the complaint reaches the investigation stage, the Department would notify the employer involved about the nature and details of the discrimination claim. In return, the employer would be asked to submit a reply to the complaint.

3. Settlement – Upon hearing both sides, DFEH may mediate settlement between the two parties. However, the employer involved may initiate settlement without the assistance of the Department. When this happens, the complainant is advised to consult with DFEH officials prior to agreeing with the proposed settlement.

4. Further investigation – In case that no settlement would be reached, DFEH would further investigate the claim. During this stage, officials may issue subpoenas and may call on witnesses to further determine the details involved in the complaint.

Top Causes of Fatal Bicycle Accidents in Santa Monica

The rate of road accidents involving bicycle riders may be considered minor; however, this does not mean that bicyclists can ignore the dangers of the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA), in 2009, 603 bicyclists were killed due to traffic mishaps in the United States. In California, the Administration recorded 99 deaths due to bicycle accidents.

In the whole of California, Santa Monica is arguably the most bike-friendly city. The City received an award from the League of American Bicyclists for advocating bicycles as a means of transportation. However, despite this, Santa Monica still is not a 100 percent bike accident-free city.

There are particular reasons why bicycle accidents do occur not only in Santa Monica but in the whole of California. The following are some of the determined factors that may cause bike accidents:

• Riding under the influence – If you think that alcohol consumption only affects motor vehicle drivers, you may need to think again. Bikers who operate their bicycles while drunk are susceptible to road accidents. Excessive alcohol consumption impairs a person’s reflexes, senses, and decision-making skills.

• Road hazards – Unlike motor vehicles, bicycles may be easily affected by road hazards such as unleveled pavements, shattered glass, puddle of water, plants, road litters, and even crossing animals. Because of this, it is a must for any bicycle enthusiast to ensure his or her safety by keeping track of the roadway.

• Negligent drivers – Even though a bicyclist follows all the traffic rules and safety precautions, he or she may still be vulnerable to road mishaps when he or she gets hit by a negligent motorist. When this happens, the injured biker, with the help of a Santa Monica personal injury lawyer, may file an injury lawsuit against the negligent driver involved.

In order for bikers to maximize the benefits of biking, they need to take all precautionary measures when riding on roadways.

Dog Bite Cases: Understanding California’s Strict Liability Rule

If there is a universal truth about dogs, it would be that they are always your friend but can also be your enemy sometimes. According to the Centersfor Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 4.5 million Americans get bitten by dogs each year. Of the said total number, at least 885,000 victims require a visit to emergency rooms of hospitals.

Despite the fact that there is only a very slim chance of fatality due to dog bites; dog owners must still be aware of the consequences of dog attack accidents. In Los Angeles, California, hundreds of personal injury cases are forwarded each year due to dog bite-related accidents. Pursuant to California’s strict liability rule, owners of canines that attack a person may be held legally liable for the incident.

Under strict liability rule, a dog owner may be subjected to civil charges even if he or she was not negligent when the accident occurred. The victim only needs to prove that the dog is vicious thus causing the attack. Dog bite accident victims are advised to seek assistance from a Los Angeles personal injury attorney in order to lawfully assert for compensation claims.

Recoverable damages for dog bite personal injury cases in California include:

·         Medical expenses

·         Loss of income

·         Pain and suffering

·         Property damage

However, in spite of the implementation of the strict liability rule, the legal setting in California concerning dog attacks is not absolute. A victim may find it difficult to obtain personal injury compensations if:

·         The dog that attacked the victim cannot be identified – This is common for attacks inflicted by stray dogs.

·         The victim provoked the dog – In case that the victim maltreated or provoked the dog to attack, he or she may not be eligible for compensations.

The victim is a trespasser – A person who gets inside a property without the permission of the owner may not claim for compensations if he or she gets bitten by the landowner’s dog.