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Meghan Wautlet Killed in Motorcycle Crash (Huntington Beach)

September 11, 2021 – Huntington Beach, California: 22-year-old Huntington Beach resident, Meghan Wautlet, was unfortunately killed in a motorcycle crash the evening of September 11, 2021. She was a passenger on the motorcycle when it was involved in a collision with a vehicle on Pacific Coast Highway in Huntington Beach, California.

If you are a family member of someone involved in this incident and would like more information, please click here for help requesting a copy of the police report. Our team of attorneys is here to help you find answers and justice during this trying time.

The 22-year-old Huntington Beach resident, Meghan Wautlet, was killed as a passenger on a 2019 Harley Davidson Street Bob motorcycle involved in a crash that was driven by 21-year-old Huntington Beach resident, John Murray III.

According to Huntington Beach Police Department, the motorcycle was traveling southbound on Pacific Coast Highway at a high rate of speed when it collided with a 2015 Mazda CX-5 that was completing a legal U-turn on northbound Pacific Coast Highway.

After the accident, the highway was closed in both directions to allow police to investigate the accident. The 21-year-old Huntington Beach resident, John Murray III, sustained significant injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital after the accident. Unfortunately, the 22-year-old Huntington Beach resident, Meghan Wautlet, was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to police, neither drugs nor alcohol appear to be factors in the accident at this time.

Our Orange County Attorneys Are Here to Help

Our deepest sympathies are with those involved in this incident and their families. We understand the impact losing a loved one in a severe accident can have on your life. Our team of attorneys is compassionate and attentive. We know how to handle the legal and financial aspects of your loss. That way you can focus on coping with it. Our experienced team of Huntington Beach personal injury lawyers and wrongful death attorneys are here to help you seek justice and compensation.

Call Younglove Law Group at (949) 691-3660 for a free and confidential discussion of your potential claim. If you need help after hours, our team is available 24/7 for your convenience. We are also available by online chat and text message.

How an OC Accident Attorney Can Help After an Accident

In the aftermath of a serious crash with injuries or death, it is vital that claimants understand their rights and assert their claims as soon as possible. Fortunately, our experienced personal injury lawyers can help you in numerous ways, including:

  • We work on contingency: We understand you have enough on your shoulders after a major accident, dealing with physical, emotional, and financial hardship. That is why our firm works on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not have to pay any upfront costs for representation. We offer this not only because it enables far more people to have access to our expertise, but also because it helps people put their finances where they are needed most. We are only paid from the settlement funds we obtain for you, meaning you will never owe our firm any money out-of-pocket for our work.
  • Investigation of your claim: After a severe collision, it is vital that all evidence be documented and leads followed up on. Our staff and team of investigators know what evidence needs to be preserved after every kind of accident, which is why it is important that you don’t delay if you have a claim. The longer it has been since an accident, the harder it will be to obtain the evidence necessary to prove your claim.
  • Just Compensation: Our attorneys know how to craft the best demand letters in order to maximize the value of your claim. We handle all negotiations and keep you informed throughout the process.
  • Paperwork: We handle all filings with insurance carriers and the court on your claim to ensure all deadlines are met so your claim can proceed without issue.

To learn more, call Younglove Law Group at (949) 691-3660 for a free and confidential consultation.

Source: https://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/news/story/2021-09-13/coroner-identifies-woman-killed-in-huntington-beach-motorcycle-crash

If a family member would like this article removed for any reason, please click here, complete the form, and the article will be removed.

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Heath Christian McCormick Killed by DUI Driver (Orange)

September 20, 2021 – Orange, California: Motorcyclist Heath Christian McCormick was killed by a suspected DUI driver yesterday evening, Monday, September 20 in the City and County of Orange, California. The suspected DUI driver was later identified as Eric Lopez, a 24-year-old from Anaheim.

If you are a family member of someone involved in this incident and would like more information, please click here for help requesting a copy of the police report. Our team of attorneys is here to help you find answers and justice during this trying time.

Specifically, motorcyclist Heath Christian McCormick was killed by the suspected DUI driver when he was traveling northbound on Orange Olive Road. Eric Lopez, who was driving a Nissan in the opposite direction, made an unsafe left turn onto Meats Avenue, causing a collision with the motorcycle.

The driver of the Nissan that caused the collision remained at the scene of the collision and was arrested on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated after being interviewed by police, who believe the driver to have been under the influence of marijuana.

Our Orange County Attorneys Are Here to Help

Our deepest sympathies are with those involved in this incident and their families. We understand the impact losing a loved one in a severe motorcycle accident can have on your life. Our team of attorneys is compassionate and attentive. We know how to handle the legal and financial aspects of your loss. That way you can focus on coping with it. Our experienced team of wrongful death attorneys and motorcycle accident attorneys are here to help you seek justice and compensation.

Call Younglove Law Group at (949) 691-3660 for a free and confidential discussion of your potential claim. If you need help after hours, our team is available 24/7 for your convenience. We are also available by online chat and text message.

How an OC Accident Attorney Can Help After an Accident

In the aftermath of a serious crash with injuries or death, it is vital that claimants understand their rights and assert their claims as soon as possible. Fortunately, our experienced personal injury lawyers can help you in numerous ways, including:

  • We work on contingency: We understand you have enough on your shoulders after a major accident, dealing with physical, emotional, and financial hardship. That is why our firm works on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not have to pay any upfront costs for representation. We offer this not only because it enables far more people to have access to our expertise, but also because it helps people put their finances where they are needed most. We are only paid from the settlement funds we obtain for you, meaning you will never owe our firm any money out-of-pocket for our work.
  • Investigation of your claim: After a severe collision, it is vital that all evidence be documented and leads followed up on. Our staff and team of investigators know what evidence needs to be preserved after every kind of accident, which is why it is important that you don’t delay if you have a claim. The longer it has been since an accident, the harder it will be to obtain the evidence necessary to prove your claim.
  • Just Compensation: Our attorneys know how to craft the best demand letters in order to maximize the value of your claim. We handle all negotiations and keep you informed throughout the process.
  • Paperwork: We handle all filings with insurance carriers and the court on your claim to ensure all deadlines are met so your claim can proceed without issue.

To learn more, call Younglove Law Group at (949) 691-3660 for a free and confidential consultation.

Source: https://www.ocregister.com/2021/09/20/motorcyclist-dies-following-crash-in-orange/

If a family member would like this article removed for any reason, please click here, complete the form, and the article will be removed.

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How to Prove Loss of Consortium in California

More than 900,000 adults lose their spouses or partners each year. If an accident occurs, resulting in the injury or death of a loved one, you may be able to prove loss of consortium. Loss of consortium is the harm and distress that results from losing a loved one’s emotional support, affection, care, and companionship. 

The award-winning personal injury attorneys of Younglove Law Group have experience helping victims of all types of personal injury, including loss of consortium, build an injury claim as they pursue compensation for the damages they have suffered as a result. Loss of consortium applies to the spouse of an injured or deceased party, similar to the common law claim of alienation of affection. 

What Injuries May Be Included in a Loss of Consortium Claim?

Loss of consortium claimants can only recover their non-economic damages. These are subjective in nature and include harms resulting from the loss of:

  • Comfort
  • Love
  • Companionship
  • Society
  • Affection
  • Solace
  • Moral support
  • Sexual relations
  • Help with maintenance of the home 
  • Ability to have children

An individual may claim damages for any of the items on this list following the loss or injury of their husband, wife, or registered domestic partner. 

How Can I Prove Loss of Consortium in California?

If you are trying to prove loss of consortium in California, you must provide proof of the following:

  • Legal marriage: Legal marriage or registered domestic partnership must have been valid at the time of the injury or death. 
  • Spouse or partner was wrongfully injured: The spouse or partner of the victim may have to prove that they were injured due to an act of negligence. 
  • Loss of consortium: The spouse of the injured victim must detail all the ways their relationship has changed due to the loss of consortium. This can be an uncomfortable and involved process. 
  • Injury caused the loss of consortium: You must prove that the injury caused the loss of consortium. If you fail to do this, your claim may fail. 

It may be challenging to understand the steps of proving loss of consortium in California, so partnering with an experienced personal injury attorney may help build your claim. 

How to Quantify Loss of Consortium

It may be challenging to quantify the loss of consortium as this damage is intangible, but it is not impossible. While there is no definite way to calculate how much you may be owed in compensation, the following factors often play a role:

  • The victim’s new quality of life
  • The quality of the marriage or domesticated partnership before the accident
  • The history of the relationship regarding divorce filings, separation, infidelity, or domestic violence reports
  • The living arrangements of the people in the relationship
  • The partner’s plans regarding having children and their ability to do so before the accident or injury
  • The extent of ongoing care for the injured spouse or partner

A seasoned injury attorney may be able to help you quantify the amount of compensation you may be eligible to receive for loss of consortium. 

California Personal Injury Lawyers May Be Able to Help

Loss of consortium may cause immense emotional distress and suffering for the spouse or partner of the injured party. As you adjust to a new way of life in your marriage or domestic partnership, partnering with an experienced personal injury attorney may help build your claim. 

Younglove Law Group is a team of dedicated personal injury attorneys helping victims in Newport Beach, California. Our award-winning legal team is dedicated to providing our clients with compassionate care and top-of-the-line service. For a free case review, call (949) 691-3660 or complete our contact form. 

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Can I Collect a Car Accident Settlement that Exceeds My Insurance Policy Limits?

When you suffer serious injuries in a car accident in California, you may face extensive financial losses and expenses. The financial burdens placed on you can feel overwhelming, from hospital bills to rehabilitation and countless other responsibilities. A personal injury lawyer will work to pursue the best possible outcome and compensation for your claim. 

However, many people are unaware that a negligent driver’s insurance company is not obligated to take full responsibility for the awarded damages. It is only obligated to pay up to the policy limit. Sometimes, your financial award is not able to cover all the expenses because of the policy limit. If you face this situation, there are ways still to recover more than the at-fault insurance policy limit.

How Do Insurance Policy Limits Work in California?

In California, it is illegal to drive a motor vehicle without evidence of financial responsibility. It is essential to have some type of insurance that can cover medical expenses and other damage if an accident occurs. Most auto insurance policies have two types of insurance coverage: 

  • Bodily injury coverage
  • Property damage coverage

Both types have separate limits depending on the driver’s coverage. For bodily injury, one type limits what the insurance company will pay for a single individual’s injuries, and the other limits what insurance will pay for all injuries sustained in a single accident by any number of claimants. Because the policy limits are separate, your claim usually won’t exceed the limit. Discussing your options with an experienced personal injury lawyer may boost your chances of recovering the necessary amount to cover your damages. 

Can I Receive Compensation That Exceeds Insurance Policy Limits? 

While motor vehicle accident settlements do not usually exceed the insurance company’s policy limits, there are times when the recovered financial damages are not enough to fully compensate for the harm caused. Discuss some of the below actions with a personal injury lawyer to find your best option: 

Suing an At-Fault Driver

There is an option to sue the at-fault driver for the difference in the policy’s limits. However, not all parties will have enough financial assets to cover the remaining damage. This may make suing the party more trouble than it is worth. 

Suing Multiple Defendants

If multiple people are responsible for the accident and the injuries you have suffered, you may hold them jointly accountable for the rest of the damages. The recovered compensation will be pulled from each insurance policy proportional to how responsible each party was for the accident. 

Economic Damages Caused by an Uninsured Defendant

California’s Proposition 51 limited the liability of defendants for non-economic damages to their proportion of liability in causing the accident. However, one party can still be forced to pay a plaintiff’s full economic damages in claims in which the other defendants are unable to pay their shares. Thus, finding a solvent defendant that is even 1% at fault for an accident can result in a large recovery for substantial injuries caused by uninsured defendants. 

Bad Faith

When an insurance company unreasonably refuses to pay a policyholder’s claim or fails to investigate and process a claim within a reasonable time, this is referred to as participating in “bad faith.” If an insurance company can reasonably settle a provable claim and refuses to, they may be guilty of bad faith. 

Umbrella Policies 

While these are mostly for commercial and corporate entities, an individual can also have an umbrella policy. An umbrella policy offers extra coverage above the primary amount. While the insurance limits were met, the policyholder’s umbrella coverage may cover additional amounts from your claim. 

If your compensation claim exceeds the responsible party’s insurance coverage policy limits, it is even more imperative that you receive assistance from a personal injury lawyer. Each case is unique and presents challenges that can face complex processes. Talk with an experienced California personal injury attorney that will discuss what option is best suited for you. 

Contact a Passionate California Personal Injury Lawyer Today

When you are facing severe injuries because of someone else’s negligence, the financial responsibilities can feel overwhelming and burdensome. Our Newport Beach personal injury attorneys at Younglove Law Group empathize and understand how stressful those situations are and want to make sure you receive the best possible compensation and outcome for your case. With over $40 million recovered for our past clients, our experience guiding clients through personal injury cases is extensive, and we work hard to advocate for your rights in legal proceedings. 

Call (949) 691-3660 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. 

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Deanna and Frederick Stuve hit by Chillandra Bell (Huntington Beach)

July 25, 2021 – Huntington Beach, California: Deanna and Frederick Stuve were hit by Chillandra Bell on Sunday night on Pacific Coast Highway in Huntington Beach. Chillandra Bell was driving a Nissan Altima and has been accused of driving away from the scene of the collision before abandoning the vehicle on the side of the highway. She fled the scene in a different getaway car, which police tracked to its registered owner’s home where they found Chillandra Bell.

If you were involved in this incident and would like more information, please click here for help requesting a copy of the police report. Our team of attorneys is here to help you find answers and justice.

More specifically, Deanna and Frederick Stuve were hit by Chillandra Bell when she ran a red light while they were crossing the street in a marked crosswalk on Newland Avenue at the intersection with Pacific Coast Highway around 8:00 pm. Deanna Stuve was tragically pronounced dead at the scene, and Frederick Stuve was taken to a nearby hospital with severe injuries.

Chillandra Bell was arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and felony hit-and-run resulting in death or injury.

Anyone with information about this accident is asked to contact police.

We Are Here to Help

Our sincerest sympathies are with those involved in this incident and their families. We understand the impact losing a loved one in a severe Huntington Beach auto accident can have on your life. Our team of attorneys is compassionate and understanding. We know how to handle the legal and financial aspects of your loss. That way you can focus on coping with it. Our experienced team of Huntington Beach wrongful death attorneys and Huntington Beach car accident attorneys are here to help you seek justice and compensation.

Call Younglove Law Group at (949) 691-3660 for a free and confidential consultation. Additionally, if you need help after hours, our team is available 24/7 for your convenience. We are also available via online chat and text message.

Source: https://www.ocregister.com/2021/07/25/hit-and-run-crash-kills-one-and-seriously-hurts-another-on-pch/

If a family member would like this article removed for any reason, please click here, complete the form, and the article will be removed.

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My Loved One Is in a Coma after a California Motorcycle Accident—What Now?

When someone you care about is in an accident and suffers severe injuries resulting in a coma, it’s normal to feel frustrated and consumed with anguish for your loved one. Some injuries sustained after an accident are minor and require little medical treatment, but others can cause long-term disabilities and life-threatening harm. Those who suffer from a coma after a dangerous accident are put in life-threatening positions. 

When your loved one is unable to seek justice for the harm inflicted, the responsibility to pursue legal action and provide medical expenses for them is often placed on family or close friends. Providing for and protecting those unable to do so themselves can feel overwhelming. 

If your loved one is in a coma because of an accident, it is important to find a solid support group to help you continue your daily responsibilities and assist your loved one. An experienced and compassionate motorcycle injury lawyer will help protect your loved one’s rights and stay by your side every step of the way. 

Common Injuries After a Motorcycle Accident That May Cause a Coma

Accidents often happen and usually cause minor to severe injuries. Because a motorcycle does not have the protective cage that a car does, accidents for riders and even cyclists are often more severe. Some injuries are worse than others, and if your loved one sustains life-threatening damage, it is possible those injuries can lead to a coma.

Several injuries can lead to a coma, including:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Lack of oxygen
  • Infections

While most comas resulting from accidents have to do with traumatic brain injuries, it is not unusual for the lack of oxygen or infections during a motor vehicle accident to cause TBIs. Having a medical professional determine the cause of the coma is vital for looking at treatment options for your loved one. 

Tips for Handling the Aftermath of a California Motorcycle Accident

Everyone’s circumstances and needs are different. Coping with the absence of a loved one and dealing with the consequences of an accident can put significant weight on your shoulders. The pressure can often feel overwhelming, but taking one step at a time and moving forward with the help of a support group can help relieve the burden. 

If a loved one enters a coma due to a motorcycle accident, the following steps can help guide you:

  • Talk with medical professionals about a diagnosis and treatment. 
  • Make copies of early documentation and medical analysis. 
  • Obtain the police report and photos of the accident if available.
  • File an insurance claim without providing a recorded statement.
  • Save bills, receipts, and other expenses related to the accident. 
  • Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer.

If your loved one is injured due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you may be eligible to receive compensation for medical fees, lost income, and other financial losses. The documents and pictures you collect for evidence are vital to receiving a fair and just settlement. 

Are You and Your Loved One Eligible for Compensation after a California Motorcycle Accident? 

Most people that endure comas are kept in hospitals for their health and safety. However, keeping someone in a hospital is expensive and can take income away from other financial responsibilities, like car loans and mortgages. 

When your loved one is in a motorcycle accident because someone disregarded safety rules and regulations, you and your loved one may be entitled to compensation from the other party. The list below shows a few examples of compensation you might be entitled to receiving: 

  • Pain and suffering
  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of wages
  • Permanent scarring and disfigurement
  • Property damages
  • Emotional and mental health

Receiving fair and just compensation for the severe harm the accident inflicted on both you and your loved one is one of the main jobs for a motorcycle accident attorney. An experienced attorney will be there every step of the way and can help gather evidence and documentation that you will need for your claim. 

Trust an Experienced California Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Battling the emotional toll of helping an injured loved one and pursuing a complex legal settlement is not something you should do on your own. At Younglove Law Group, our team of experienced motorcycle attorneys is dedicated to providing you with understanding and adept legal counsel so you can focus on staying at your loved one’s side. 

By working with a supportive group of attorneys, you can rest assured your motorcycle accident claim will receive the attention it deserves at each step of the claims process. Don’t worry about missed deadlines or tense negotiations with insurance adjusters; put your recovery first. 

Call (949) 691-3660 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation.

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When Should I File a Claim after a Slip-and-Fall on Public Transportation in California?

Public transportation offers an affordable, efficient, safe, and eco-friendly alternative travel option for many residents in California. From meeting up with old friends to beating rush-hour traffic, public transit provides accessible options for many residents in California. Many individuals need public transportation to perform their daily tasks—like grocery shopping or going to work. 

When we use public transportation, we expect that safety measures are taken for the protection of those on the motor vehicle. However, there are a few situations in which either the driver, staff members, or company might exhibit negligence that puts you and others at risk. If you were involved in an accident because of someone else’s carelessness, a slip-and-fall accident lawyer can help you file a claim for the damages you have sustained. 

Common Injuries Caused by Slip-and-Fall Accidents

Many slip-and-fall injuries occur each year on public transportation. For example, you may enter a public bus and slip on the steps because of a slippery substance covering the entrance due to improper cleaning. Each slip-and-fall case is unique and requires thorough investigation.

When these events happen, some common injuries may occur:

  • Sprains and strains 
  • Cuts and bruises
  • Dislocated shoulders
  • Nerve and spine damage
  • Broken bones
  • Knee injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries

The above injuries can happen due to unkept conditions and inept training, both of which demonstrate neglect to provide safe conditions for those on public transportation. Severe injuries and emotional damages that people endure are serious matters and those in slip-and-fall accidents should seek legal action with the help of an attorney. 

What Compensation Is Available for Individuals Involved in Slip-and-Fall Accidents?

If you are in an accident and sustain injuries, you may endure expensive medical fees, lost wages, and other financial losses. Depending on the situation, you might be entitled to compensation from the other party for these expenses. 

The following are examples of types of compensation you may be eligible to receive:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of employment or wages
  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Emotional and mental health
  • Permanent scarring and disfigurement
  • Property damages

Experiencing a slip-and-fall accident is frightening. Seek legal assistance from a passionate lawyer who will guide you through the necessary processes and documentation for personal injury accidents. 

What Should You Do If You Are in a Slip-and-Fall Accident on Public Transportation? 

A lot happens during an accident, and you may feel disoriented and confused. There are a few steps to remember if you are involved in a slip-and-fall accident that can help your personal injury case. Consider the following: 

  • Contacting the driver or staff: If the vehicle is still moving or cannot stop, it is important to get someone to help you move to a safe position or location. Another crucial factor is to document how the staff handles the situation. 
  • Getting medical attention and calling law enforcement: You might have injuries that need immediate medical attention, so calling emergency medical assistance is vital. Calling the police will allow you to have a police report of the accident, often used in claims as evidence. 
  • Taking pictures and gathering evidence of the accident: If you can take pictures or have someone else document the accident, the data and content provided will provide important evidence of your case and injury. 
  • Contacting an experienced personal injury attorney: The legal process of handling a personal injury claim is extensive and complex. For those unfamiliar with the rules and terminology, the best option is to contact an experienced attorney to guide you through the legal proceeding. 

By remembering these steps, you may increase the possibility of a fair and just slip-and-fall settlement.

How Long Should I Wait Before Filing a Slip-and-Fall Claim?

The sooner you are able to contact a personal injury attorney and file a slip-and-fall claim, the better the results may be. Having an experienced attorney at your side increases the likelihood your claim will have a favorable outcome. In California, the statute of limitations to file a slip and fall personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. This does not mean you should wait to file a claim, as the entire process may take longer than you expect, especially in the rare event that your claim goes to trial. 

In some cases in which the defendant is out of state for an extended period or the injured person is a minor, the statute of limitations might be “tolled,” or suspended. When you are injured due to someone else’s negligence, you should file a claim as soon as you are able to. A personal injury lawyer will help you with the process and conduct a thorough investigation. 

Trust Younglove Law Group with Your Slip-and-Fall Settlement in California

A slip-and-fall accident can occur at any time but handling the aftermath can be difficult when you are facing financial and emotional hardships. At Younglove Law Group, we advocate for our clients’ rights while guiding them through each step of the slip-and-fall claims process. Slip-and-fall injuries may incur tens of thousands of dollars in medical bills, and we do not believe you deserve your life to be put on hold due to another’s negligence. 

Our goal is to help you secure the maximum compensation possible for your losses so you can continue living your best life. With years of experience and dedication, we have recovered millions in settlements and awards for our clients. To learn more about what Younglove Law Group can do for you after a public transportation accident, call (949) 691-3660 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. 

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Manuel Contreras Arrested After Fatal Crash (Orange)

July 18, 2021 – Orange, California: Manuel Antonio Sanchez Contreras was arrested for driving under the influence after causing a fatal crash in Orange on Sunday afternoon. The accident occurred around 4 pm in the intersection of West Sycamore Avenue and North Main Street, according to police.

If you are a family member of someone involved in this incident and would like more information, please click here for help requesting a copy of the police report. Our team of attorneys is here to help you find answers and justice during this difficult time.

There were 2 vehicles involved in this incident, a Mazda Protege and a Honda Accord. Manuel Antonio Sanchez Contreras, who was driving the Honda, collided into the driver of the Mazda and was arrested after the fatal crash. The driver of the Mazda was pronounced dead at the scene.

Specifically, Manuel Contreras was arrested on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. He was uninjured. It is believed Manuel Contreras was traveling at a high rate of speed when he rear-ended the Mazda while it was stopped in a left turn lane, waiting to turn onto westbound Sycamore Avenue from North Main Street.

If you have any information that might assist police in their investigation, please them at (714) 744-7444.

We Are Here to Help

Our sincerest sympathies are with those involved in this incident and their families. We understand the impact losing a loved one in a severe Orange County auto accident can have on your life. Our team of attorneys is compassionate and understanding. We know how to handle the legal and financial aspects of your loss. That way you can focus on coping with it. Our experienced team of Newport Beach wrongful death attorneys and Newport Beach car accident attorneys are here to help you seek justice and compensation.

Call Younglove Law Group at (949) 691-3660 for a free and confidential consultation. Additionally, if you need help after hours, our team is available 24/7 for your convenience. We are also available by online chat and text message.

Source: https://www.ocregister.com/2021/07/18/1-dead-1-arrested-after-collision-in-orange/

If a family member would like this article removed for any reason, please click here, complete the form, and the article will be removed.

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Are There Caps on Non-Economic Damages in California?

Personal injury accidents can be devastating, depending on the nature of the incident. However, whether you experienced a slip-and-fall at a restaurant or you were hurt during a serious automobile accident in California, it is important to pursue a personal injury case that can provide you with the necessary compensation required to recover from the accident. 

One of the most common questions asked by personal injury victims is whether there is a limit to how much they can receive in non-economic damages after an accident in California. The answer to this question relies on several important details regarding your claim and the injuries that you suffered, but an experienced lawyer can help you navigate the process of pursuing the compensation you deserve.

Damages in California Personal Injury Claims

Victims of personal injury accidents in California are eligible to collect two distinct types of damages: economic and non-economic. Many people are familiar with the idea of receiving economic compensation, which is related to any property damage, physical injury, or quantifiable loss that occurred as a result of the accident. 

Alternatively, non-economic damages are associated with the consequences of an accident that cannot be financially quantified, including the development of mental health complications, loss of quality of life, and much more. 

Depending on the details of your California personal injury case, a judge may also order punitive damages. These damages are assigned to the party who is found to be at fault in addition to the economic or non-economic damages they must already pay. Punitive damages are used as a method of punishment if the responsible party acted recklessly or negligently. 

Calculating Damages in California Personal Injury Cases

There are no existing specifications for how non-economic damages are awarded in California personal injury claims. Each case is unique and requires the evaluation of a court to determine the damages that victims will receive. Depending on the details of the accident, a jury will decide a final amount that is considered reasonably appropriate for the injuries sustained. 

To ensure you receive the non-economic damages you require, your lawyer will need to provide sufficient information to the court to prove the responsible party behaved negligently. They must also show that the defendant’s negligence directly contributed to the accident. In order to do this, they will gather important evidence from the scene of the accident that illustrates their careless behavior and how it led to your injuries. 

Caps for Non-Economic Damages in CA Personal Injury Claims

California does not place a cap on the economic damages that a victim can receive after they have been in a personal injury accident. Similarly, most cases of personal injury in California do not have a cap on the non-economic damages that can be awarded; however, several exceptions can prevent victims from obtaining uncapped damages, such as: 

  • Claims involving medical malpractice, in which non-economic damages are capped at $250,000;
  • Claims in which injuries were sustained by the claimant while they were driving under the influence;
  • Claims in which injuries were sustained by the claimant while they were committing or escaping from a felony crime; and
  • Claims in which the claimant did not have active car insurance, even if their injuries were sustained during a car accident for which the claimant was not at fault.
    • If the responsible party was driving under the influence, non-economic damages may be available.

Understanding which forms of compensation are available to you may seem challenging, which is why it is important to work with an experienced lawyer who has your best interests in mind. It can be difficult to navigate the world of personal injury claims, but a dedicated legal professional has the ability to strengthen your case and provide you with peace of mind. 

Reliable Personal Injury Claim Support in California

Each personal injury claim is unique and requires the full attention of a reliable lawyer. If you are currently pursuing a California personal injury claim, it is important to contact a qualified lawyer who can help you build evidence for your case and ensure that you obtain the best possible results for your claim. The Newport Beach personal injury lawyers at Younglove Law Group are experienced in successfully handling a variety of personal injury cases, and they can help you.

To get started, call Younglove Law Group at (949) 691-3660 or book your consultation online today.

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Do I Have to Pay Taxes on a Personal Injury Settlement in California?

Personal injury cases in California can range in severity depending on the nature of the accident that took place. Certain cases, such as car accidents or workplace injuries, can result in a substantial settlement for the victim to ensure that they can receive the necessary medical care and attention for the physical damage that they suffered. However, one of the most common questions that victims often ask is whether or not they are required to pay taxes on the income that they received from their settlement. 

The state of California has a specific set of rules that govern personal injury settlements and how taxes are applied. If you are in the process of researching the different aspects of settlements and the way that taxes affect them, one of the best decisions you can make is to work with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can provide answers to your questions. Remaining informed on the tax-specific areas of your personal injury settlement can help you avoid any unwanted financial surprises. 

What is a Personal Injury Settlement?

There are many different varieties of personal injury cases, and the details of each accident are important in how the settlement value of these cases is determined. For a majority of personal injury cases in California, a settlement is reached between the defendant and the plaintiff and the case never reaches a jury decision. 

Insurance adjusters on both sides of the case will work with legal representatives for the plaintiff and the defendant to reach a decision on what they believe the settlement award should be. Both sides determine their own specifications for what they believe to be a fair and adequate amount that appropriately reflects the details of the incident that led to the case. After this time, an agreement is reached and both parties must sign a document called a settlement agreement.   

What Factors Affect Settlement Value in California Personal Injury Cases?

Much like any other legal case, there are certain factors that need to be examined to determine an appropriate settlement value for a personal injury case in California. Various aspects of the injuries that the victim suffered, as well other damages, are considered before a settlement value is calculated. Some factors that can affect the amount awarded to the victim include:

  • Plaintiff’s Losses: The extent of the injuries that the victim suffered, as well as factors such as medical expenses or pain and suffering. Certain cases may involve punitive damages being paid as a punishment for negligent behavior by the defendant. 
  • Defendant’s Assets: The amount of income, or lack thereof, that the defendant makes can affect how much is awarded to the plaintiff. In some cases, the court can choose to garnish their wages or sell their assets to pay.
  • Defendant’s Liability: The liability placed on the defendant based on the evidence provided by the plaintiff and their legal representative. Providing indisputable proof of the defendant’s liability is an important element in obtaining a settlement.

If you are unsure of whether your personal injury case will be affected by any of these factors, a qualified California lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of settlement guidelines and how they may affect your recent personal injury case. 

California State Tax and Personal Injury Settlements

Luckily for plaintiffs in California personal injury cases, the majority of settlements are tax-free. However, according to the IRS, there are several different circumstances in which you may be required to file taxes for different types of settlements, including:

  • Medical expenses: You may be required to pay taxes if you paid for any medical costs for more than one year, or if you added an itemized medical deduction to your taxes, you may be required to pay “pro-rata” taxes on the medical expenses listed as deductions. 
    • Your medical settlement is tax-free if you did not previously take an itemized deduction for associated medical costs.
  • Non-economic damages: Any damages received for a reason not related to a physical injury or physical sickness may be subject to state tax.
  • Lost wages: Any awards for lost wages require you to pay tax since you would have needed to pay Medicare and Social Security taxes on them if you were capable of working.
  • Property damages: You are required to adjust the basis in your property according to the amount received in your settlement if your property was damaged during the accident and, if the settlement is more than the adjusted basis of the property, you will be required to pay taxes on the excess.
  • Punitive damages and interest: You are required to pay taxes on settlements that are received for punitive damages. These are taxed as “Other Income,” and it includes any interest that has accrued on those damages.

While the process of understanding California state tax in association with your personal injury settlement may be complex, it is important to know whether or not you will be asked to pay any additional fees when tax season begins. If you are still unsure of whether you will be asked to pay any additional taxes on your California personal injury settlement, the trusted lawyers at Younglove Law Group can help you find answers to all of your questions.

Dedicated Personal Injury Lawyers in California

Although facing the aftermath of a personal injury case can be challenging, it is important to find a reliable legal professional who can provide you with the legal counsel you need to ensure that you can move on after your settlement. The qualified Newport Beach personal injury attorneys at Younglove Law Group are experienced in various personal injury cases, and they can help you find answers to all of your relevant legal inquiries.

When you need help after a personal injury case, call the team at Younglove Law Group at (949) 691-3660 or reach out to us online to set up a consultation with one of our dedicated personal injury lawyers in California.

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Disclaimer: The information on this website is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice. An attorney-client relationship is not formed until your case has been accepted by Younglove Law Group Personal Injury & Accident Attorneys and a Contingency Fee Agreement has been fully executed. 

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