Los Angeles Wrongful Death Attorneys

What is wrongful death? It is a death caused by another’s action (direct attack or recklessness) or inaction (negligence). A wrongful death claim is one brought to civil court, usually by the victim’s family, in order to hold the person liable for his or her conduct. Civil courts usually award damages in the form of monetary compensation to the family for the victim’s medical expenses, funeral costs, financial and emotional suffering of the family.

Wrongful death rulings are decided based on a preponderance of evidence; that is, by a majority of evidence being in favor or against the victim or defendant. This varies from a criminal case in that a ruling in favor of the victim may be easier to attain. Criminal courts require proof beyond a reasonable doubt of the defendant’s guilt – and this may be hard to prove in a case of negligent behavior or harmful intentions that led to a family member’s death.

An attorney who has experience in dealing with all types of wrongful death claims is essential if you want to have a chance of proving the defendant’s guilt. The qualified los angeles wrongful death lawyer s at Pacific Attorney Group in Los Angeles practice innovative solutions and techniques to help attain a ruling in your favor.

Types of Wrongful Death Cases

Fatal Auto Accidents

Car accidents are the leading cause of wrongful death throughout the United States. Our lawyers are experienced in determining what led to a fatal collision to then help the family of a lost loved one seek to hold the responsible party accountable. Click here to learn more about fatal auto accidents.

Fatal Medical Negligence

Negligent conduct on the part of a medical professional is a potentially deadly matter. Substandard medical care may lead to a misdiagnosis of a deadly medical condition such as cancer or a heart attack, a mistake by a surgeon may lead to a life-threatening injury, or a medication error may cause serious side effects in an unsuspecting patient. Read more about fatal medical negligence.

Dangerous Products & Drugs

A defective product or dangerous prescription or over-the-counter drug may cause serious injury to consumers. In these matters, the manufacturer or pharmaceutical company may be held liable for the injuries caused by their defective or dangerous product. We handle all cases of this kind for clients throughout Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. Read more about dangerous products and drugs.

Los Angeles Wrongful Death Overview

Wrongful death happens when a person dies at the negligent hands of another individual, company, manufacturer, business, or any other party that acted in a way and/or produced a product that killed someone. The family members left behind by that deceased individual, or people who were dependent on them and/or qualify as their heirs, are thereafter qualified to file what is called a “Wrongful Death” lawsuit, in which they seek financial retribution for their loss and all expenses associated with that loss.

The death of a loved one is already so hard to deal with; losing a person you love because another person or party was irresponsible—either accidentally or with intent—makes that loss all the more bitter. When elderly people are mistreated or neglected in their nursing homes; when construction sites are ill-handled and workers consequently die in an accident while on one; when pharmaceutical companies irresponsibly distribute their non-FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) approved drugs and/or defective products into the world and these are used, resulting in death—all of these scenarios are examples of the kinds of negligence that result in wrongful death.

About Compensation

In order to find out for sure about whether or not you qualify to file a wrongful death lawsuit, you need to contact a Los Angeles wrongful death attorney. However, California law operates and defines wrongful death as claimable by people who were either the immediate family members (most commonly, spouses) or dependent on the person that died due to negligence. Financial compensation is thus awarded accordingly. Some of the things and situations that a victim can allege for and thus receive monetary retribution for include, but are not limited to:

• Loss of future benefits to heirs
• Pain and sufferings associated with the loss of the person
• Loss of the deceased’s companionship
• Medical and/or hospital bills
• Burial costs
• Funeral costs
• Earnings or work wages foregone because of anything having to do with the wrongful death

Let a Los Angeles Wrongful Death Attorney Be Your Advocate

We are dedicated to showing with our actions that we are passionate to the cause of wrongful death advocacy. We start doing this by refusing to charge you a cent until we get your the legal and monetary retribution you deserve.

If you have a loved one who has died as a result of negligence, then you could be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. Let us help you get started, when you call our toll-free number and speak to a caring and knowledgeable representative. We are the firm with a difference. Call one of our Los Angeles wrongful death lawyers now.

Wrongful Death Law

When a person dies as the result of another’s negligence, recklessness, or intent to harm in California, the injured party must supply only the majority of evidence, and do not have to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, to win a wrongful death suit. Because of this, family members of the victim should seek retribution when possible. With the help of a Los Angeles personal injury attorney, the responsible party can protect your interests and make sure the responsible party pays the medical expenses, funeral costs, or future living expenses, that can be a burden when a loved one dies. Your Los Angles personal injury lawyer can help you successfully sue in civil court for wage loss, pain and suffering, and other expenses.

In order to increase your chance of a civil court judge ruling in your favor, having a skilled attorney to help you build an aggressive defense is important. In California, wrongful death suits can be caused by numerous causes, including truck or motorcycle accidents, airplane accidents, slip and fall accidents, accidental poisoning, choking, fires, and violence or criminal activity. At our firm, we have worked with all of these cases, including those that involve medical negligence, workplace accidents, and more. We utilize our experience and resources to seek justice for our clients. It is your attorney’s job to prove that the responsible party is at fault, even when the responsible party is someone you trusted. If you have lost a loved one due to negligence contact our Los Angeles wrongful death attorneys now.

Losing a loved one can be difficult, and the least we can do is help you remove the financial burden of your loss.

At Pacific Attorney Group, our qualified legal team has more than 35 years experience in successfully seeking settlements in wrongful death suits. Our wrongful death attorneys serve all of Southern California and work in all types of wrongful death cases including auto accidents, premises liability, medical malpractice, product liability, and criminal actions. We help you get compensation for your loss while providing a higher level of client care, with individual attention and advice for our valued clients. Our high success rate and return clients can attest to our value. At Pacific Attorney Group, we use our vast knowledge of the California accident court system to help Los Angeles and Orange Country residents win their wrongful death cases. We offer a free consultation to determine if we can assist you in your claim.

Practice Areas:

• Dangerous Products and Drugs
• Deadly Workplace Accidents
• Fatal Airplane Accidents
• Fatal Auto Accidents
• Fatal Medical Negligence
• Fatal Motorcycle Accidents
• Fatal Truck Accidents
• Nursing Home Deaths

If you have a wrongful death claim in Los Angeles or Orange County we can help. Contact Los Angeles personal injury attorneys today.

Experience

With 40 years of experience, our Los Angeles wrongful death lawyers have been helping people get some modicum of justice when their loved ones are killed in accidents. Los Angeles personal injury lawyers are primary concerned with insuring that clients have their rights vindicated either in court or through a settlement. Accidents can happen, but when they do, there is usually someone at fault. Because we understand that lives are valuable, we help individuals who are dealing with the unfortunate death of a loved one. Whether that death happened in a workplace accident, a car accident, or a tragic slip and fall, we provide assistance in helping those individuals with their claims.

Our strategy has long been simple. We meet with our clients to figure out their story and their needs. From there, our Los Angeles wrongful death lawyers craft either a trial strategy or a settlement plan to help grieving families get the most out of their claim. We know that no amount of money can bring back a loved one, but that money can help families deal with difficult circumstances.

Wrongful Death Truck Accident Lawyer

The loss of a loved one may be an extremely difficult situation to bear. The pain and stress associated with this type of loss will typically only be worsened by the knowledge that their loss could have been prevented if a truck driver or other person had only acted responsibly. If only they had not been speeding or had not taken to the road while intoxicated, your loved one would still be here today. Unfortunately, there is nothing we can do to go back in time and prevent a fatal truck accident from occurring in the first place. However we can take legal action against the party that caused the accident in order to seek justice.

A Los Angeles wrongful death lawyer at Pacific Attorney Group can meet with you to discuss your legal options in this regard. A wrongful death claim may be filed in civil court in order to hold the responsible party liable for their actions. Although the driver may face vehicular manslaughter charges in criminal court as well, a wrongful death claim enforces civil penalties in the form of monetary damages for the family.

Legal Help for Los Angeles Wrongful Death Claim

Although this cannot even begin to replace your loved one or lessen the pain you have experienced, it may help you rebuild your life and work to protect your family’s future. The unexpected loss of a loved one may also lead to funeral costs, medical bills and serious financial difficulty, and the uncertainty of what the future holds. Talk to a Los Angeles truck accident attorney at our law firm today to discuss your options in filing a wrongful death claim and recovering the money that will help you recover and move on.

Wrongful Death Attorney Los Angeles, California

If a person dies because of the negligence, carelessness or intentional act of other person or an entity, it comes under the “wrongful death” section.

The Los Angeles wrongful death laws recognize that family members and dependents of the deceased suffer from economic and non economic losses in future. If someone close to you died due to wrongful act or negligence of other person, it is important for you to immediately look out for a reputed law firm with an exceptional reputation in handling wrongful death cases. For finding out evidences and carrying investigation, it is important for you to get the help of a legal firm in Los Angeles without any delay.

Talking about the compensation, wrongful death actions are intended to help the plaintiffs in handling their own losses rather than taking care of the loss faced by the deceased. Family members usually do not get certain kind of damage that is recoverable in case of a personal injury like medical expense, property damage or income loss.

If your loved one has died because of negligence of other party, you should immediately contact an attorney, who has extensive experience in handling such cases. We at Pacific Attorney Group understand the complex nature of such cases and have helped various clients through difficult times. Our exceptional working style and handling of complex cases will surely assist in getting a judgement on your behalf.

Directly speak with our Los Angeles wrongful death attorney now (24/7) by calling 1-800-358-9617

Los Angeles Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Accidents & Injuries in the Workplace – Call 866-832-1387

If you are injured in an accident at work or become ill because of the conditions at your workplace or duties associated with your job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. It’s crucial to contact a Los Angels Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for a free consultation. We have over 70 years of collective experience. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance program that can benefit workers by streamlining the route to compensation, eliminating the need to prove that another party is to blame in order to receive financial support and medical care. In California, most workers are entitled to monetary benefits and medical treatment under the state’s workers’ compensation system – as long as their injuries or illnesses are work-related. 

Need assistance filing a workers’ comp claim or appealing a denial?

Call 866-832-1387 for a FREE consultation!

Workers’ compensation should cover the full extent of your injuries, but the claims process can be difficult. Some claims are delayed or denied, jeopardizing a worker’s ability to recover benefits. That is why we recommend at least discussing your case with a California workers’ compensation attorney at our firm. Though some claims may prove straightforward and legal counsel may be unnecessary, there are complex claims and disputes that can benefit from the attention of a skilled los angeles workers compensation lawyer.

At Pacific Attorney Group, we apply more than 70 years of combined experience to help injured workers and their families across California. You can see some of our case results below:

Representative Cases

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Injured at Work? What You Can Do.

If you have been injured at work or diagnosed with a work-related illness, you probably have questions. You may be unsure of what steps to take immediately after the accident or diagnosis. Here, you can find out what to do so you protect your right to receive workers’ comp benefits.

Workplace Accidents

Workplace accidents are the most common cause of work-related injuries, and these can affect virtually any type of worker in any occupational setting. Our firm takes on workers’ compensation claims for: slip and fall accidents, falling object injuries, work-related auto accidents, construction accidents and more.

About Workers’ Comp Benefits

The benefits provided under the workers’ compensation system will vary depending on the case, primarily on the extent of injury the worker has sustained. In California, there are five types of benefits: medical care, temporary disability benefits, permanent disability benefits, supplemental job displacement benefits and death benefits.

Denied Workers’ Comp Claims

What happens when a workers’ compensation claim is denied? This may occur if a claims administrator does not believe an injury should be covered. Incomplete applications, insufficient documentation and other issues may lead to a denial. Fortunately, our attorneys know how to appeal denied claims to help our clients seek positive results.

 

About Workers’ Comp Benefits

Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Los Angeles, CA

Benefits for Injured Workers

Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance system that provides benefits and medical treatment for workers who are injured at work or fall ill as a result of occupational exposure or the duties associated with their jobs. In California, an injured worker or his or her family may be entitled to specific benefits under the state’s workers’ compensation system. It is important to understand exactly what benefits may apply so you can approach your claim and seek the financial support and medical treatment you deserve. In addition to reviewing the information included here, please feel free to call a Los Angeles workers’ compensation lawyer at our firm for a free consultation.

There are five primary types of benefits offered under the California workers’ compensation system: medical care, temporary disability benefits, permanent disability benefits, supplemental job displacement benefits and death benefits.

Medical Care

An injured worker is entitled to medical treatment that is required to recover from a work-related illness or injury. This may include hospitalization, doctor visits, medication, medical equipment, diagnostic and other tests, and even travel costs to and from medical appointments.

Temporary Disability Benefits

A worker is also entitled to cash benefits to make up for wages lost while injured or ill and unable to work – if the condition is work-related. For a temporary disability, these payments are paid while the worker is recovering. Temporary total disability benefits may be paid for the duration of the worker’s disability, ranging from $160 to $1,066.72 per week (as of 2013) depending on the worker’s average weekly wage.

Permanent Disability Benefits

If a worker is permanently disabled, he or she may be entitled to benefits. This applies if the worker suffers from a permanent physical or mental condition that impacts normal functions and/or his or her ability to be gainfully employed. Depending on the extent of disability and the part of the body, a worker may be entitled to a lump sum payment.

Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits

If a worker is eligible for permanent disability benefits and is unable to return to work for his or her previous employer, he or she may be entitled to a voucher that will help pay for retaining or skill enhancement to enter a new field or position. The maximum benefit is $6,000 (as of 2013) and this amount will vary depending on the condition.

Death Benefits

If a worker loses his or her life as a result of an on-the-job injury or occupational illness, the family may be entitled to death benefits, which may include money for the deceased worker’s lost earnings and burial expenses.

There are a number of factors that may influence the specific weekly benefits and/or lump sum payment to which an injured worker is entitled. For this reason, you may find it helpful to involve an attorney who can advise you of your rights and the benefits allowed by law. You can also rely on an attorney to represent your interests if your claim is disputed or denied by a claims administrator.

At Pacific Attorney Group, we represent workers and their families in workers’ compensation claims, hearings and appeals across California. We realize how complicated workers’ comp proceedings can be and are committed to the preservation of injured workers’ rights in these matters. To learn more about our firm and how we can help you, contact our offices. We offer a free case review. It’s time to speak to a workers compensation attorney.

Denied Workers’ Compensation Claims

Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Not all workers’ compensation claims are approved, and if you received a letter from the claims administrator that your claim was denied, you can take several steps to dispute this denial. There are deadlines by which you must file the necessary paperwork, however, so it is important to act quickly. You may also wish to involve an attorney. Though you can represent yourself in these proceedings, having a legal professional may work to your favor in presenting a clear and compelling case.

Pacific Attorney Group offers a free initial consultation to discuss your denied workers’ compensation claim. Our Los Angeles workers’ comp attorneys have decades of experience in representing injured workers even in the most complex of claims and we are prepared to put our knowledge to work for you. In every case we handle, we strive to seek an approval and just benefits that will help our client face a better and more stable future. You can find out more about appealing a denied claim by contacting our offices, or you can review the information included below.

Contesting a Denied Workers’ Comp Claim

In California, contesting a denied workers’ compensation claim is done by filing a case at one of the 24 local Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) offices located across the state. This is the general process by which a denial may be contested:

• You will need to fill out and file an Application for Adjudication of Claim with the office located in your county or the county in which you were injured. This application must also be served on any relevant parties, which typically includes the claims administrator.
• Next, the DWC office where you filed your application will send you a notice that this has been received. You will be assigned a case number, which you will need to use in any and all correspondence related to your claim.
• If you want to request a hearing before a judge, you will need to file a Declaration of Readiness to Proceed. This lets the DWC know that you are ready for a hearing, called a mandatory settlement conference, in front of a workers’ compensation administrative law judge.
• After filing a Declaration of Readiness to Proceed, a hearing will be scheduled for a judge to hear your case.
• At the hearing, you (and your attorney, if you have one) and the claims administrator (and/or their attorney) must appear before the judge. The judge will try to help you reach an agreement by discussing the case with you, using the facts and evidence at hand. If your case cannot be settled in this manner, it will be sent to trial.
• A trial will be held in front of another judge, who will consider the evidence and information provided by both parties to reach a decision on your claim. The judge will then issue a written decision on the matter and mail this to you between 30 and 90 days after the trial.
• If your claim is still not approved, you have the option to file a Petition for Reconsideration. This is essentially an appeal of the judge’s decision, sent to the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board. The Board may uphold or reverse the judge’s decision or may send the case back for another trial.

It is not easy to receive a notice that your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, but it is important to remember that you have options. A denial does not mean your case is over. With a Los Angeles workers’ compensation lawyer from our firm to help you seek a hearing and even file an appeal, you can seek a positive result. Call our offices today for a free review of your case.

Not all workers’ compensation claims are approved, and if you received a letter from the claims administrator that your claim was denied, you can take several steps to dispute this denial. There are deadlines by which you must file the necessary paperwork, however, so it is important to act quickly. You may also wish to involve an attorney. Though you can represent yourself in these proceedings, having a legal professional may work to your favor in presenting a clear and compelling case.

Pacific Attorney Group offers a free initial consultation to discuss your denied workers’ compensation claim. Our workers compensation attorney have decades of experience in representing injured workers even in the most complex of claims and we are prepared to put our knowledge to work for you. In every case we handle, we strive to seek an approval and just benefits that will help our client face a better and more stable future. You can find out more about appealing a denied claim by contacting our offices, or you can review the information included below.

Contesting a Denied Workers’ Comp Claim

In California, contesting a denied workers’ compensation claim is done by filing a case at one of the 24 local Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) offices located across the state. This is the general process by which a denial may be contested:

• You will need to fill out and file an Application for Adjudication of Claim with the office located in your county or the county in which you were injured. This application must also be served on any relevant parties, which typically includes the claims administrator.
• Next, the DWC office where you filed your application will send you a notice that this has been received. You will be assigned a case number, which you will need to use in any and all correspondence related to your claim.
• If you want to request a hearing before a judge, you will need to file a Declaration of Readiness to Proceed. This lets the DWC know that you are ready for a hearing, called a mandatory settlement conference, in front of a workers’ compensation administrative law judge.
• After filing a Declaration of Readiness to Proceed, a hearing will be scheduled for a judge to hear your case.
• At the hearing, you (and your attorney, if you have one) and the claims administrator (and/or their attorney) must appear before the judge. The judge will try to help you reach an agreement by discussing the case with you, using the facts and evidence at hand. If your case cannot be settled in this manner, it will be sent to trial.
• A trial will be held in front of another judge, who will consider the evidence and information provided by both parties to reach a decision on your claim. The judge will then issue a written decision on the matter and mail this to you between 30 and 90 days after the trial.
• If your claim is still not approved, you have the option to file a Petition for Reconsideration. This is essentially an appeal of the judge’s decision, sent to the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board. The Board may uphold or reverse the judge’s decision or may send the case back for another trial.

Hearings Trials Appeals

Workers’ Compensation Hearings and Appeals

When an injured worker encounters problems when seeking workers’ compensation benefits, he or she may need to schedule and attend a hearing and/or file an appeal to seek a favorable result. There are specific steps that must be taken under the Californiaworkers’ compensation system to address a disputed or denied claim; the attorneys at Pacific Attorney Group know how to navigate these proceedings to protect our clients’ best interests. We handle workers’ comp hearings and appeals in Southern California, applying more than three-and-a-half decades of experience to each worker we represent.

The process of requesting a hearing or filing an appeal will begin with the denial of a workers’ compensation claim. This may occur because a claims adjuster has come to the decision that a worker’s injury should not be covered because it was not work-related. A worker does not have to simply accept a denied claim and try to seek medical and financial support elsewhere. Injured workers have the right to challenge denied claims by filing a case with one of the 24 Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) field offices located across the state. These field offices serve as courts where hearings and trials are held to resolve workers’ compensation disputes.

Hearings, Appeals and Trials: Disputing a Denied Claim

You can learn more about the three key steps in contesting a denied workers’ compensation claim by reviewing the brief descriptions below, or click on a subject to be redirected to a page dedicated to that specific topic.

Mandatory Settlement Conference

A mandatory settlement conference (MSC) is a hearing held at a DWC field office to help an injured worker and claims administrator (or their attorney) come to an agreement regarding a disputed claim. A workers’ compensation law judge will discuss the case with both parties and try to facilitate a settlement.

Workers’ Compensation Trial

When a settlement cannot be reached through a mandatory settlement conference, the case will go to trial. These trials are presided over by workers’ compensation law judges without juries. If your case goes to trial, this will be held before a different judge, other than the one who handled your hearing. Upon hearing all evidence and testimony on the matter, the judge will make a decision and inform both parties in writing in 30-90 days.

Workers’ Compensation Appeal

If a worker does not agree with the outcome of a workers’ compensation trial, he or she has the right to file an appeal. This is accomplished by filing a Petition for Reconsideration with the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB). The WCAB has the authority to review the case and either uphold or reverse the judge’s decision, or send the case back for another trial.

Working with a Lawyer

Working with a lawyer who is experienced in handling workers’ compensation hearings, trials and appeals can make all the difference as you seek a fair outcome to your claim. It can be difficult to know exactly what information is needed and how to present your case to a workers’ compensation law judge at your hearing or trial. A lawyer will understand how to prepare and present a compelling case that gives you the best opportunity at having your claim approved – even if it was initially denied.

Do not take chances with your financial stability and your ability to rebuild and recover in the wake of a workplace accident. Contact a workers’ compensation lawyer at our firm for a free review of your case.

Mandatory Settlement Conference

A mandatory settlement conference, or MSC, is a type of hearing held at a California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) field office. This hearing will be held in the county in which you live or in the county in which you were injured. Presided over by a workers’ compensation law judge, this hearing will be held to try to resolve a dispute regarding a denied workers’ compensation claim. The judge will attempt to help both parties (the injured worker and the claims administrator) reach a settlement.

Mandatory settlement conferences are an important part of the workers’ compensation process in California. The proper presentation of your case is crucial, as is full preparation to go to trial if a settlement cannot be reached. Working with a competent workers’ comp attorney can help you seek a fair and favorable result. At Pacific Attorney Group, we have more than 35 years of combined legal experience to help our clients at their hearings, trials and appeals. We represent workers in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas.

What happens at a workers’ comp hearing?

As is evident by its name, a mandatory settlement conference is required prior to a workers’ compensation trial to try to get disputing parties to reach a settlement. At this hearing, you (or your attorney) and your claims administrator (or their attorney) will appear before the workers’ compensation law judge. You will discuss your case and try to reach an agreement. If you reach a settlement, the judge must approve it.

If you are unable to reach an agreement at a mandatory settlement conference, the case will go to trial. Your workers’ comp attorney and the defense attorney will need to fill out paperwork that describes what issues have been agreed upon and what issues will need to be decided on during the trial. Both parties will also need to list out witnesses and exhibits that will be presented at the trial. This is the “discovery” phase of the case and must be completed at the mandatory settlement conference. No new witnesses or exhibits may be added after this list is given to the judge.

Preparing for a Mandatory Settlement Conference

Preparation for a mandatory settlement conference is crucial, not only because it is important to seek a fair settlement but because witnesses and evidence for the trial must be laid out at this hearing if the case is not resolved. A careful review and investigation of your claim and preparation of documents can help your attorney seek a fair settlement at your hearing – and lay the groundwork for your trial if that is the only way to seek a favorable resolution.

For more information and insight, contact a workers’ comp attorney.

Workers Compensation Appeal

Filing a Workers’ Compensation Appeal

Insight from a Workers’ Comp Lawyer

As an injured worker, there are different steps you can take if your workers’ compensation claim was denied. An appeal is one of these steps, typically the last in the process. The first step is to file a case with the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) field office in the county in which you live or were injured. A hearing, called a mandatory settlement conference, will be held to try to reach a settlement between you and the claims administrator who denied your claim. If all matters pertaining to the claim could not be agreed upon at this hearing, your case will go to trial with the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB). A workers’ compensation judge will preside over this trial and render a decision on any and all issues that need to be resolved.

If you are dissatisfied by a workers’ compensation judge’s decision regarding your case, you can appeal this decision. This is accomplished by filing a Petition for Reconsideration with the local district office of the WCAB in your area. You will be notified of the workers’ compensation judge’s decision within 30 to 90 days after your trial, via a notice by mail. Upon receiving this notice, you will have 25 days from the date of the judge’s decision to file an appeal (the date is located near the judge’s signature on the document). If the decision was rendered at the trial, you will have 20 days from that date to file an appeal.

It is important to act quickly if you wish to file an appeal. If you wait too long, you may lose the right to appeal a judge’s decision on your workers’ comp claim, thus affecting your receipt of benefits. At Pacific Attorney Group, we believe in helping our clients seek swift and favorable outcomes to their workers’ compensation claims. Filing appeals is one of the ways we can help our clients seek the benefits to which they are entitled. You can learn more about our firm and your rights as an injured worker by calling a los angeles workers’ compensation attorney at our offices.

What are the reasons to file an appeal?

You may be able to file a workers’ compensation appeal if you believe the judge’s decision was reached in error or by fraud, or if new evidence has come to light that could affect his or her decision. The Petition for Reconsideration form lists five primary reasons to appeal a judge’s decision on a workers’ compensation claim:

By the order, decision or award, the Board acted without or in excess of its powers.

The order, decision, or award was procured by fraud.

The evidence does not justify the findings of fact.

Petitioner has discovered new evidence material to him which he could not with reasonable diligence have discovered and produced at the hearing.

The findings of fact do not support the order, decision or award.

In the Petition for Reconsideration, you must completely describe your disagreement with the judge’s decision and why it should be changed. You need to fill out the form completely and honestly and be prepared to provide supporting documentation. The WCAB will then review your petition and will determine how to respond. The Board may support or reverse the judge’s decision or may order your case to be tried again.

Though your claim may have been denied by the claims adjuster and a workers’ compensation judge may have upheld this decision or otherwise ruled unfavorably, you may be able to file an appeal. Contact a workers’ comp lawyer at our firm to find out how you can move forward with your case.

Workers’ Comp Trials

Contact a Los Angeles Workers’ Compensation Attorney

When an injured worker disputes a denied workers’ compensation claim and a settlement cannot be reached during a hearing (mandatory settlement conference), the matter may go to trial. It is important to note that workers’ compensation trials are very different than standard civil or criminal courtroom trials that most people are familiar with. In California, a typical workers’ comp trial will take place in a small hearing room at one of the 24 Division of Workers’ Compensation field offices located across the state. There is no jury. A workers’ compensation law judge will preside over the proceedings and make a final ruling based on the evidence at hand.

The manner in which a workers’ compensation trial is approached and handled will have a direct impact on its outcome. This makes involving a competent attorney of the utmost importance. If your claim was denied after a work accident, occupational disease or other on-the-job injury, you have the right to challenge this denial. The first step is a mandatory settlement conference, a hearing where a judge will try to help you and your claims adjuster (or his/her attorney) to reach a settlement. If you cannot agree upon a settlement, the matter will go to trial.

Your workers’ compensation lawyer’s preparation and handling of your mandatory settlement conference is just as important as his or her handling of your trial. If one or more issues cannot be resolved during your hearing, these will be resolved during a trial before a different workers’ compensation law judge. At your hearing, however, your attorney will already need to have complete documentation on all evidence and witnesses that will be presented at the trial. No other evidence/witnesses can be submitted after the hearing is over.

What happens at a workers’ compensation trial?

If your case goes to trial, you and your attorney and the claims adjuster and his/her attorney will be present. A workers’ compensation judge will hear the matter; there will be no jury. The trial is overseen by the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB). Depending on the issues you have already resolved during your hearing and which still need to be decided upon by a judge, your trial may only take a matter of minutes or hours. If the trial is not finished on the day it begins, it will not resume the following day. It will be continued to another day, which may be two or three months later. This means that extensive workers’ compensation trials may take years to resolve.

During the trial, the judge will consider the evidence and testimony presented by both sides and will then make a decision on any and all matters that need to be resolved. Each side will have the opportunity to call witnesses and to examine and cross-examine these witnesses. Expert testimony from medical professionals may be given in writing.

The judge will consider all of the evidence and the issues at hand and will render a verdict. In nearly all cases, the judge will not render a verdict on the day of the trial. You will be informed of the decision in the mail anywhere from 30 days to 6 months after the trial. You have the right to appeal a decision made at your workers’ compensation trial, which your attorney can do by filing a Petition for Reconsideration.

Experienced Workers’ Comp Trial Counsel

When faced with a denied workers’ comp claim, do not take any chances by involving an inexperienced attorney. Choose a legal professional who has a track record of success with these complex matters. At Pacific Attorney Group, we represent injured workers throughout the California area in workers’ compensation hearings and trials, using more than 35 years of combined legal experience to seek the best possible result in every case we handle. Find out how a workers’ compensation attorneycan help you – call our firm today.

 

Injured at Work What To Do

Injured at work? Here’s what you should do.

Have you been injured in an accident at work or diagnosed with any type of work-related illness or injury? You may have a number of questions about your legal rights and the steps you should take at this point to seek cash benefits and medical care under California’s workers’ compensation system. Fortunately, the team at Pacific Attorney Group is prepared to offer insight and guidance when you need it most.

There are several steps you should take immediately after an on-the-job injury occurs. Taking these steps can help ensure you actually have the opportunity to receive financial support and medical treatment under the workers’ comp system. According to the California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC):

Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to provide you with the medical treatment you need to recover from your work related injury or illness, partially replace the wages you lose while you are recovering, and help you return to work.

Steps to Take After a Work Injury

If injured at work, taking the following steps can help you fully experience the advantages that the workers’ compensation system has to offer:

Inform your employer of your illness or injury. You need to report your injury or illness to your supervisor within 30 days of the incident or the time that you became aware that your condition was work-related. Failing to inform your employer may jeopardize your right to workers’ comp benefits.

Seek medical treatment. If you are seriously injured, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room to seek immediate care. Inform your employer of the incident as soon as you can for further instructions on receiving medical treatment. If you are not in need of emergency care, be sure to obtain first aid and schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. Be sure to inform any medical professionals that your injury or illness is work-related.

Fill out a workers’ compensation claim form and give it to your employer. Your employer is required to give you this form within one working day of your report of injury or illness. You can also download this form from the DWC website. Be sure to fill out this form completely and honestly, and be as detailed as possible. If you have trouble understanding the form or filling it out, you can look for help on the DWC website or can always call an attorney who is experienced in handling these claims.

If you were seriously injured or are experiencing any problems in seeking workers’ compensation benefits, consider involving an attorney. The recovery of benefits is not always a straightforward matter, particularly if you are left temporarily or permanently disabled or if your claim is being disputed by your employer. An attorney can assert your rights and help you seek the benefits to which you are entitled.

Choosing a Lawyer

If you have informed your employer of your injury, received medical care and filed your workers’ compensation claim, and yet you have questions or have come across any problems during the claims process, you can find help in a skilled legal professional at our firm. We represent injured workers and have more than three-and-a-half decades of combined legal experience to apply to our clients’ cases. To get started in receiving the legal representation you deserve, contact our firm. We are here to help you rebuild after a work injury.

 

On the Job Injuries

Hire a Los Angeles Workers Compensation Attorney

On-the-Job Injuries

Workers in any field or occupation may be injured, whether they spend the majority of their time operating heavy machinery on farms, sitting behind desks or working on scaffolding on construction sites. On-the-job injuries can affect anyone. The steps a worker takes after an injury may influence the medical care he or she receives and his or her financial stability in facing the upcoming weeks, months or years.

Pacific Attorney Group offers experienced legal representation to injured workers in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas in Southern California. We realize that work injuries can change your life, not only creating unforeseen financial instability but impacting your ability to work and even your ability to perform day-to-day activities and enjoy life. ALos Angeles workers’ compensation lawyer at our firm can help you seek medical care and benefits to help you rebuild toward a more stable future.

This website was created to offer helpful information to those interested in learning more about occupational injuries and workers’ compensation in California. Feel free to review what we have included here, or call our offices to discuss a particular issue during a complimentary consultation.

Single-Incident vs. Repeated Exposure Injuries

An on-the-job injury typically stems from one of two causes: a single incident or repeated exposure. Single-incident injuries most often occur as the result of accidents. A worker may fall from a ladder at a construction site or may be involved in an auto accident while making a delivery. These injuries will vary dramatically depending on the type of accident and circumstances surrounding the incident, such as whether the worker was wearing protective gear at the time.

Repeated exposure injuries occur from recurring, ongoing incidents. This may be continual exposure to loud noises at a manufacturing facility or repeated heavy lifting in a warehouse. Some examples of work injuries resulting from repetitive motion or repeated exposure may include: hearing loss, carpal tunnel syndrome and back injuries.

Occupational injuries of all kinds are covered by workers’ compensation, and most workers in California are entitled to benefits. This is a no-fault system, meaning the cause of the injury does not need to be proven for a worker to recover benefits. As long as the injury is work-related, the worker will likely be covered – even if the worker may have been to blame. (The only exception may be if the worker was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or if the worker purposefully caused injury to himself or herself).

Psychological Injuries & Workers Compensation

Psychological injuries may also be covered by workers’ compensation. These occupational injuries are not discussed as frequently as physical injuries, but workers who suffer psychological trauma as the result of work conditions, an incident at the workplace or physical on-the-job injuries may be entitled to workers’ comp benefits. Benefits for psychological injuries may vary on a case-by-case basis, so it is important to talk to your attorney to see whether you may be covered.

Injured at work? Call a Los Angeles workers’ comp lawyer.

If you were injured at work, do not wait to talk to a lawyer. Workers’ compensation lawyers are prohibited from charging or accepting up-front fees for their services. Instead, legal fees are determined by the court and paid out of a worker’s award. This means your lawyer only gets paid if you do. The insight and representation of a skilled legal professional may make all the difference as you approach a difficult claim or try to deal with a situation where a claim has been delayed or denied. At Pacific Attorney Group, we handle workers’ compensation claims, hearings, trials and appeals for workers. Call today!

Occupational Diseases

Attorneys for Workers in Los Angeles, California

Have you been diagnosed with an illness you believe was caused by your job or work environment? A  workers’ compensation attorney at our firm may be able to help you. At Pacific Attorney Group, we help injured and ill workers seek benefits and medical care under the California workers’ compensation system. Representing workers with occupational diseases is an important part of our practice, and we are committed to helping workers get the support they need.

An occupational disease may be defined as a medical condition that arises as the result of one’s occupation. Some examples are mesothelioma, silicosis and carpal tunnel syndrome. The work environment and/or duties performed may contribute to the development of an illness, disease or disorder. A worker may be exposed to toxic materials while on the job or may perform duties that put strain on certain parts of the body. The worker may then develop a medical condition that requires medical attention and ongoing care. The condition may interfere with the worker’s ability to perform his or her job duties or may even be life-threatening.

Types of Occupational Diseases & Their Causes

The majority of occupational diseases are caused by exposure to harmful agents, substances that are hazardous to our health. This may include asbestos, lead, radiation, benzene, pesticides, viruses and other chemicals or biological substances. Most occupational diseases result from inhaled gases, particulates, vapors or liquids. In other cases, agents may be ingested or introduced into the body through touch.

Exposure alone is just one aspect of the cause of occupational disease. A number of other factors will come into play, including personal habits (like smoking cigarettes or refusing to wear protective gear), work history, susceptibility and general health. Occupational diseases can also be traced to accidents and disasters, like a plant explosion that exposes hundreds of workers to radiation, or a situation like the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks that left the World Trade Center a pile of rubble and released dangerous gases, particulates and other materials into the environment.

As Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorneys, we handle occupational disease claims for:

• Asthma
• Pneumoconiosis
• Silicosis
• Asbestosis
• Dermatitis
• Renal failure
• Kidney disease
• Cardiac arrhythmia
• Vasodilation
• Sterility
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Cumulative physical traumas
• Hearing loss
• Vision loss
• Mesothelioma
• Lung cancer
• Cancer
• Respiratory disorders

If you are suffering from any of these conditions or have been diagnosed with any illness or disease that is work-related, you may be entitled to benefits.

Call a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Occupational diseases are preventable. The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and their state counterparts work to reduce the occurrence of work-related diseases by creating and enforcing workplace safety regulations, but workers continue to fall ill. Until occupational diseases are a thing of the past, we must fight for the rights of employees to safe working conditions. We also must seek workers’ compensation benefits and other compensation (when applicable) to help ill workers face more stable futures.

Now is the time to find out what rights and options you have if diagnosed with an occupational disease. You only have 30 days from the date of your diagnosis or your suspicion that your illness is work-related to inform your employer and file a claim.Contact a workers’ compensation lawyer at our firm to get started.

 

Los AngelesWorkplace Accidents

Work accidents happen, no matter the industry or occupation. Virtually any type of employee, from a miner to an administrative assistant, may be at risk of being injured in an accident of some kind. It is important for every worker to understand his or her right to financial compensation and medical treatment under the California workers’ compensation system. At Pacific Attorney Group, we are prepared to offer the level of insight and representation injured workers need to seek maximum compensation.

In addition to recovering workers’ comp benefits for lost earnings and medical care, an employee injured in a workplace accident may be entitled to monetary damages paid by a third party. This may be an individual or company (other than the worker’s employer or a co-worker) that is partially or wholly to blame for the accident. With a workers’ compensation lawyer from our firm by your side, you can trust that we will look to every possible source of compensation in your case.

About Workplace Accidents

You can find out more about the types of workplace accidents, their causes and a worker’s right to compensation by reviewing the information included in this portion of our website. Read the brief descriptions below or click on any subject to learn more.

Construction Accidents

Accidents in the construction industry are one of the leading causes of worker injuries and fatalities in the United States. Our team handles construction accident claims involving ladder accidents, scaffolding falls, falling objects, electrocution and more. Our experience with these difficult claims can help the injured recover the money they need.

Electrocution

Workers in various fields may have to work directly with or in close proximity to electrical equipment, wiring or systems. In these cases, the utmost care must be taken to prevent contact between a worker and a live electric line. Our firm represents injured workers and the families of workers who have been electrocuted on the job.

Explosions

An explosion is one of the most serious types of workplace accidents. It can cause catastrophic injuries and can also affect a large number of workers at once. When workplace explosions occur, it is important to seek counsel from a firm with the resources to fully investigate its cause and identify any third parties that could be liable.

Falling Objects

Whether working at a construction site or in a retail store, an employee may be at risk of being struck by a falling object. This can cause serious injuries, including head trauma or traumatic brain injuries, depending on the size and weight of the object and the distance it fell. You can learn more about these accidents and your rights by calling a lawyer at our firm.

Machinery Defects

Heavy machinery, tools and other equipment enable us to get the job done faster and better than ever before. If these machines are not properly designed, built, inspected and maintained, however, they may malfunction and cause serious injuries or deaths. We can look to workers’ compensation benefits and possibly product liability lawsuits.

Injured in an accident? Call our firm.

After a work accident, some employees are surprised to find that their employer delays their workers’ compensation claim or that the insurance company tries to dispute its validity. When a claim is undervalued, delayed or denied, a workers’ compensation lawyer can take the necessary steps to request a hearing or file an appeal to seek a positive result. Sometimes it only takes a certain amount of pressure to get an insurer or employer to act in a fair and reasonable manner. To find out more about our services and your options if you were injured, contact our firm.

 

Electrocution & Electric Shock Injury

Have you lost a loved one as a result of electrocution? Have you or someone you know suffered severe injury due to electric shock in the workplace? Consulting an attorney is an important step to take in order to ensure your claim is appropriately addressed and that you have the opportunity of recovering money for the full value of your injuries and any missed work, or for the loss of your family member. At Pacific Attorney Group, we offer a free initial case review to help you get started, and our lawyers take on electrocution and electrical injury cases involving serious injury or wrongful death.

What is electrocution?

Electrocution is defined as the stopping of life (a stopped heart) as a result of any type of electric shock. In everyday language, electrocution may be used to describe any injury or death caused by electric shock, whether accidental or as a result of negligence or intentional wrongdoing. Depending on the voltage, an electric shock may cause a victim’s heart to beat rapid and irregularly or may even stop the heart altogether. If caught early enough and reversed with a defibrillator, the victim’s life may be saved without any permanent injury.

However, if the shock is powerful enough the victim may lose his or her life or may suffer from burn injuries and cellular damage. Brain damage may also result from an electric shock. Electrocution may result from a machinery defect, any defective product, or from negligence in implementing state safety regulations at a construction site, plant or other work-related environment. More than just workers may be at risk of suffering electrocution or injury in these situations, as any visitor to the site or even a passerby may be injured when equipment malfunctions or another incident occurs.

Explosions at the Workplace

Los Angeles Workers Compensation Lawyer for Catastrophic Accidents

An explosion in the workplace is most often catastrophic. Although many construction site accidents and other workplace accidents may be isolated incidents affecting only one or two workers, an explosion can cause serious or fatal injury to numerous workers, visitors to the site, and even passersby. On construction sites in particular, due to unsteady scaffolding or exposed gas lines or electrical panels, an explosion may cause widespread devastation to the property and all those in its vicinity.

An explosion may be caused by negligence on the part of a worker or employer, due to inexperience, improper training or a lack of standard safety protocols, or even as the result of a simple mistake. A machinery defect may also result in an explosion. Depending on the specific situation, victims in an explosion accident may suffer from serious burns, broken bones and fractures, crush injuries, damage to internal organs,amputation, disfigurement, or death. Fortunately, the victim of an explosion accident in Los Angelesmay be able to recover financial compensation or benefits from a personal injury lawsuit or workers’ compensation claim.

Were you working at a site or walking by when an explosion occurred? Were you or a loved one seriously injured? At Pacific Attorney Group, we can offer you a free initial consultation to talk to you about the matter and what we can do to assist you. We understand that you may feel that you are out of options or may wonder exactly how to handle a workers’ compensation claim or lawsuit against your employer or whatever party was responsible for your injuries. A lawyer at our firm can determine exactly what needs to be done to properly address the situation.

Call a Los Angeles Workers’ Comp Lawyer Today

It is important to seek legal counsel if you have been injured at work. Even if you believe you were to blame, you are probably still covered (unless you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the incident). A lawyer can advise you on special situations and can help if your claim has been disputed, delayed or denied. With our resources, our firm can work to ensure that your claim is properly valued and that sufficient pressure is put on your employer and/or workers’ comp insurance provider to seek a fair settlement. Contact our firm today to get started!

Worker’s Comp Summary

If you’ve been in a work-related incident and the extent of your personal injuries are severe enough, you may be at the expense of medical bills and other costs that leave you in a less than appealing situation. As an , California worker, you have the right to receive worker’s compensation benefits for any work-related injury, regardless who was at fault. There are a number of services our attorneys can assist you with regarding your worker’s compensation claim. By offering these services, we can help you seek a positive result for your claim and minimize the stress of your experience. We can help you file a claim with your employer, ensuring it is filed properly, on time and with all appropriate information. We can handle any and all communication with the claims administrator, your employer, and other parties regarding the claim. We will be able to address the professionalism if any obstacles arise. We will facilitate and advance your process in order to achieve resolution. Our primary goal in helping injured workers is to protect their rights throughout the claims process. We will help you recover full benefits in which you may be entitled. We can work toward receiving the highest settlement possible by handling all the necessary areas of communication. We want to help you rebuild your life in the wake of a work-related injury or accident.

Firm Overview – Choosing to work with an attorney is a personal decision, but it is also one that will have a noticeable impact on the outcome of your situation. Our attorneys at Pacific Attorney Group have 35 years of collective experience, and each of our attorneys, including the rest of our legal staff, specialize in areas providing you with expertise and assurance. We established in 2003 and since then have been providing superior legal representation for our clients. Our team of talented attorneys include P. Mark Shayani, Peter M. Lazarus, and Brain K. Andrews. Not only is your initial consultation free, but when you work with worker’s compensation attorney at our firm, you pay no legal fees unless we are successful in recovering a settlement on your behalf or winning your case in court. At Pacific Attorney Group, we handle all types of worker’s compensation accidents, exposure, and injury claims.

Workers Compensation Lawyer Near You

• Sacramento
• San Jose
• San Diego
• Turlock
• Stockton
• Modesto
• Bakersfield
• Orange County
• Santa Ana
• Oxnard
• Redding
• Oakland
• San Francisco
• Victorville
• High Desert
• Riverside
• Inland Empire
• Long Beach
• LA County

Do I Have A Case?

the initial consultation is free

Call or email us to schedule a free consultation. You can reach us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our attorneys will travel to wherever is most convenient for you to meet and speak about your case.

Los Angeles Fatal Airplane Accident Attorney

Wrongful Death Attorney Serving Los Angeles

In the event of an airplane accident, passengers are likely to sustain catastrophic injuries or lose their lives. Plane crashes are among the most serious types of accidents that occur – not only because they are often fatal but also because a large number of passengers are likely to be lost forever. At Pacific Attorney Group, we are dedicated to helping the families of victims of fatal airplane accidents. We help clients throughout Los Angeles and the surrounding areas in Southern California, and we offer a free initial consultation to help you get started in receiving the help you need.

Call us at 1.800.358.9617 to schedule a consultation with a Los Angeles wrongful death lawyer at our offices. We are here to help.

Fatal Plane Crashes: Who is Responsible?

Aviation accidents happen for a number of reasons. Poor maintenance of a plane or pilot error may cause an accident to occur. Although we most often think of commercial airline accidents, aviation accidents may also include crashes involving private planes and helicopters. Additional causes of these accidents may include poor weather conditions, mechanical failure, defective plane parts, and air traffic controller error or negligence.

Depending on what caused a fatal airplane accident to occur, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the pilot, airline or perhaps the manufacturer of a defective airplane part. An attorney experienced with aviation accidents can help to investigate the matter to determine exactly what caused the accident to occur, therefore assisting you in holding the appropriate party responsible.

Interested in learning more about your right to take legal action after losing a loved one in an airplane accident?

Contact a Los Angeles fatal airplane accident lawyer at Pacific Attorney Group today for the skilled and compassionate help you deserve.

Los Angeles Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Los Angeles Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

If a doctor acts negligently in any way and fails to provide a standard level of care to a patient, serious injury may result. Every day, doctors hold patients lives in their hands as they diagnose and treat medical conditions. Virtually every single decision a doctor makes and every action he or she carries out may have a significant impact on a patient’s ability to recover. One mistake or act of negligence may cause catastrophic injuries that may even lead to wrongful death.

If someone you love was injured due to medical malpractice in a Los Angeles hospital or any other medical care facility, contact an injury attorney at our law firm. At Pacific Attorney Group, we take on all types of malpractice and negligence claims in Southern California, applying our knowledge and legal experience in handling serious injury claims to assist clients in recovering the financial damages they need to rebuild and recover – financially, physically and emotionally.

Medical Malpractice May Cause Serious or Fatal Injury

What types of injuries may result from medical malpractice? A failure to diagnose a heart attack may lead to stroke and total heart failure, which may in turn lead to death or paralysis. A surgical mistake may result in the perforation of an organ or the wrong surgery performed, causing permanent injury. A medication error may cause serious side effects, such as an allergic reaction or kidney failure. A plastic surgery or cosmetic surgery error may lead to permanent scarring or disfigurement. Unfortunately, the possibilities are endless.

No matter the type of injury you or a loved one has suffered, if a doctor or other medical professional was responsible you may have grounds for an injury claim. This is your opportunity to seek justice and to recover money for medical care and other damages associated with your injuries.

Contact a Los Angeles medical malpractice injury attorney at our offices today.

Los Angeles Neurological Disorders Lawyer

Attorney for Serious Injury Claims in Los Angeles

If someone you love has been diagnosed with a neurological disorder, it is important to consider the possibility that this was as a result of another person’s negligent or wrongful conduct. For example, a neurological disorder may be caused by a serious accident, such as a car accident caused by a drunk driver. If the victim sustains serious head trauma or brain injury, this may result in damage to the nervous system. The same may apply to a case involving medical malpractice, such as an incorrectly diagnosed illness or a surgical error.

At Pacific Attorney Group, our Los Angeles injury lawyers represent victims of the most serious and fatal injuries, including those involving neurological disorders. We have over 35 years of attorney experience and offer a free initial consultation to discuss your particular case and your legal options. With the help of a serious injury lawyer at our firm, you may be able to take legal action against the person responsible for your injury and recover financial damages for medical care and possibly much more.

About Neurological Disorders

A neurological disorder is defined as a medical condition that involves the nervous system, the network of nerves that conveys messages to and from the brain and the rest of the body. When the nervous system is damaged in any way, the signals to and from the brain and the muscles or organs may be interrupted, misinterpreted, weakened, or stopped entirely. Neurological disorders may be caused due to illness or physical trauma, and these serious injuries will typically affect all aspects of a person’s life. Loss of coordination, balance or ability to speak clearly may be symptoms of a neurological disorder, which may start with numbness or twitching in a hand, leg, arm, or foot. As it advances, a neurological disorder may affect a person by causing tremors, twitching, or the loss of involuntary movements such as blinking. Dementia, the deterioration of brain functions affecting memory, movement and cognitive skills, may be the final result of an advanced neurological disorder.
Contact a Los Angeles injury attorney at our law offices today for a consultation regarding your accident and neurological disorder claim.

Los Angeles Fatal Medical Negligence Lawyer

Los Angeles Malpractice & Wrongful Death Lawyer

If you have lost a loved one as a result of medical negligence in a Los Angeles hospital or medical care center, you may have the right to file a wrongful death claim against the facility or the doctor that caused your loss. By talking to a Los Angeles wrongful death attorney at our law firm, you can discuss the particulars of your case and what can be done to hold the negligent party responsible for his or her actions.

What is medical negligence? Medical negligence refers to a failure to provide a standard level of care, when committed by a medical professional. Also referred to as medical malpractice, medical negligence may cause serious injuries or may even lead to the death of a patient in a situation where the loss of life should have been preventable. Some examples of situations that may lead to fatal medical negligence include medication errors, the failure to diagnose a medical condition, birth injuries, surgical injuries, and emergency room errors. In any of these situations, a doctor, nurse, surgeon, anesthesiologist or other professional in the field of medicine may act carelessly or may be inexperienced and therefore provide inappropriate treatment to a patient. This may occur in the diagnosis of a patient, during surgery or in post-operative care.

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim for Medical Negligence

When a patient loses his or her life due to medical negligence, the family may have the right to file a wrongful death claim for their loss. By talking to a lawyer about the particular situation that led to your loss, you can find out more about taking action now and seeking justice on your loved one’s behalf. This can help your family recover much-needed monetary compensation as well as increase awareness of medical negligence in general.

856 S Robertson Blvd
los angeles, CA 90035
(310) 659-6000

Los Angeles Truck Accident Attorney

Truck Accidents 

Every year hundreds of people are hurt in accidents with tractor-trailers, semis, and 18 wheelers. Unfortunately, these types of accidents typically involve very serious injuries and may result in death as well.

Too many truck drivers are faced with long hours behind the wheel of their vehicles reducing their attentiveness and often creating negligent behavior on the road. Accidents involving trucks can cause very serious destruction because of the sheer force and size of the vehicles involved.

Unlike an automobile accident, truck accidents are far more complex because the industry that governs trucking allows for injury victims to file claims against both the driver of the truck and the company that owns the truck as well.

At Pacific Attorney Group we’ll make sure that you are not taken advantage of by insurance companies or insurance adjusters who have saving money as their primary goal, keeping you from getting the maximum amounts that you might otherwise be entitled to.

Pacific Attorney Group understands that each accident must be investigated individually and handled as the non-routine cases that they are. An accident involving a truck can result in

• Catastrophic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Loss of limbs
• Disfigurement
• Shattered bones
• Paralysis
• Death

At Pacific Attorney Group, our Los Angeles truck accident attorney will help ensure that not only will the full extent of the accident be investigated but we will also make sure that all of the latest economic and accounting rules are used to evaluate the loss of wages and other compensation that you might be due.

Truck Rollover Accidents

Overview of Semi Truck Rollovers

Truck accidents involving delivery trucks, 18-wheelers, or semi trucks that tip over while on the road are characterized as truck rollovers. These accidents are dangerous not only to the driver of the truck, but also to all those individuals that are in the general area of the truck. Truck rollovers can cause other vehicles and people to be literally crushed by the sheer size of the truck.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a truck collision Pacific Attorney group may be able to represent you. We provide our services to clients throughout the LA County area as well as the entire state of California. We work diligently to recover full financial compensation for our client’s insurance claims and lawsuits. Feel free to take advantage of our free initial consultation with a personal injury attorney.

Truck Rollovers: How do they happen?

A truck rollover collision can occur for a various reasons. High wind, rain, and other weather conditions can make large trucks particularly susceptible to tipping over. The manoeuvrability of the truck is compromised due to the vast size and weight, thus making it difficult to operate even in normal conditions. A trucks balance and load can also increase the chance of a rollover if not prepared correctly.

Many trucking companies may overload trucks in order to cut the cost of delivery, unfortunately these business strategies could potentially lead to serious injuries. You should not be forced to suffer needlessly from something of this nature. For this reason, if you’ve recently been involved in a truck rollover caused by the actions of a third party, do not waste another moment, get our firm involved in your injury claim today.

Truck vs. Truck Accident

When more than one commercial truck is involved in a collision, often due to the large size and weight of the trucks, the amount of damage is very high. In these situations, there may be large amounts of physical (both cosmetic and mechanical) damage to the trucks, damage/destruction of the cargo, injury to the truck driver, injury to truck passengers, and even damage to public property and injury to by standing motorists. When involved in a double commercial truck collision, it is crucial that you retain legal counsel that specializes in this type of litigation.

Pacific Attorney Group has a legal team that is skilled and qualified to represent all parties that may be involved in a double commercial truck collision. If you are a truck driver who was injured as a result of a trucking accident that took place while operating a truck for your employer, you may be entitled to compensation from your employer in addition to compensation from the negligent / at fault party. At Pacific Attorney Group, we can guide you through the process of filing a claim for workers’ compensation. We can help you better understand the language and terms of the workers’ compensation and insurance policy carried by your employer.

Liability in a Truck Collision with another Commercial Truck

Often when more than one commercial vehicle is involved in a collision, accusations of blame and liability can be hastily assessed and assigned. If you have found yourself potentially in this situation, expert legal counsel would likely be necessary to fully explore and examine all facts and conditions in order to legally prove that you are not liable for the collision. If found liable for causing an accident while operating a commercial truck, you may be subject to a suspension or even revocation of your commercial driver’s license, which would ultimately result in the loss of your actual and current/future eligibility for employment.

Tractor Trailers and Accidents in Los Angeles

Tractor trailers can be defined as trucks that consist of more than one part. Usually, a tractor which is operated by the driver and also carries the engine, in addition to the trailers which carry the cargo that is need of transportation. Most tractor trailers only carry one trailer however it is not uncommon for additional cargo requiring more trailers. Tractor trailers go by many names including big rigs, 18-wheelers, and semis.

Tractor trailers are some of the biggest vehicles that roam the streets and due to their massive size, even minor collisions can cause serious injuries. A tractor-trailer can weigh in at up to 80,000 pounds and with a length of up to 80 feet. The first step after a tractor-trailer collision is contacting an attorney. Ensure the worth of your claim and seek the money and justice you deserve today, contact Pacific Attorney Group and set up a free consultation for your tractor trailer accident. We do not waste any time – from the very moment that you contact us, we will begin our fight to protect your rights as we fight for your deserved amount of compensation.

Tanker Truck Accidents

Have you been injured in a collision with a tanker truck? This is the type of accident that may cause catastrophic, life-threatening injuries, and the steps you take at this time may have a direct impact on your ability to seek justice and recover fair compensation. A truck accident attorney at Pacific Attorney Group can offer insight regarding your rights and options, helping you seek a positive case result. We recommend that you call our offices to talk about your case, or continue reading if you would like to learn more about these serious truck accidents.

A tanker truck, or tank truck, is a type of commercial vehicle that can carry liquid or gasses. A tanker truck may vary in size, usually consisting of a truck cab towing a cylindrical tank or tanks lying horizontally on a trailer. The tank may be insulated and/or pressurized depending on the type of liquid or gas being transported. A large tanker truck may carry anywhere from 5,500 to 11,600 gallons of liquid such as gasoline, diesel, water, milk, septic material or industrial chemicals. Some may be able to transport multiple types of liquefied loads in separate tank compartments.

Due to their design, tanker trucks typically have a higher center of gravity than other types of commercial trucks, and this can increase the likelihood of a collision. Maneuvering a tanker truck can be far more difficult, not only because of the higher center of gravity (which increases the chances of a rollover) but because liquid cargo can shift dramatically during transport. Liquid cargo in a partially-filled tank is more likely to slosh about, putting extreme stress on the truck from constantly shifting weight. Even at a relatively low speed, a tank that is less than three-fourths full may cause a truck to tip or roll over if it is improperly maneuvered.

Drivers of tanker trucks must be particularly vigilant in obeying traffic laws and trucking regulations. They must drive with full awareness of how each maneuver may affect the liquid cargo they are carrying. If a driver gets behind the wheel while fatigued (in violation of hours-of-service regulations) or while under the influence of alcohol, street drugs or even prescription medication, that driver may be at an increased risk of causing a collision. The same applies to a truck driver who is simply careless or negligent, speeding, following too closely behind another vehicle or texting while driving.

Hazardous Cargo = Increased Chance of Injury

Taking the size and weight of a tanker truck into consideration, it is fairly easy to see why a collision with such a vehicle could be catastrophic. Another factor that can greatly increase the severity of the collision is the type of cargo the tanker is carrying. Volatile materials like gasoline or chemicals may explode or catch fire after impact, burning at such high temperatures that they demolish everything in their path. If they spill, they can even have a lasting impact on the plants, wildlife and roads and may require special clean-up crews to address health and environmental concerns.

Call a Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyer

If you were involved in a tanker truck accident, do not take any chances with your case. Call a truck accident attorney at our firm and find out what you can do and what our attorneys can do to protect your legal rights and interests. You may be facing a long, painful and expensive road to recovery, but seeking a fair settlement or jury award can make all the difference. Call today for a free case review.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Los Angeles Truck Accident Attorney

What are the most common causes of truck accidents? What factors may contribute to an accident with a large commercial truck? Understanding these issues can empower you, as a motorist, to identify hazardous situations and take a proactive approach to avoid truck accidents. These collisions claim the lives of thousands of Americans each year and injure tens of thousands more. In 2011, 287,000 large trucks weighing more than 10,000 pounds were involved in traffic accidents in the United States, according to the National Traffic Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA). It is essential that we understand more about these deadly collisions.

Pacific Attorney Group represents victims of truck accidents across Southern California. We understand how much of an impact a crash of this kind can have on an individual and a family, leading to traumatic physical injuries and even the untimely loss of life. If you were injured or lost a loved one in a traffic collision with a big rig, semi-truck, tractor-trailer or other large truck, a truck accident attorney at our firm can help. We have more than 35 years of collective experience and have recovered millions of dollars for our clients through successful settlements and favourable verdicts.

Our attorneys can handle truck accidents involving all of the most common – and some of the not-so-common – causes, including:

• Truck driver fatigue
• Overloaded or imbalanced trucks
• Drunk driving
• Driving under the influence of drugs
• Driving while distracted
• Texting while driving
• Unsecured truck loads
• Defective or improperly maintained trucks/truck parts
• Speeding
• Following too closely
• Failure to yield right of way
• Improper passing
• Traffic signal and sign violations
• Other traffic law violations

Causes Unique to Truck Accidents

Some of the causes listed above are common among all types of traffic accidents, like speeding and drunk driving. Others are unique to truck accidents. Truck driver fatigue, overloaded trucks, improperly balanced or secured truck loads and defective trucks or truck parts can cause serious truck accidents. Because trucks are larger and more difficult to maneuver than typical passenger vehicles like sedans, sports cars and SUVs, they require special training to operate. They also fall under federal regulations because they are responsible for transporting goods throughout the U.S.

Large trucks and commercial vehicles of any kind are subject to a number of regulations regarding truck driver training and licensing, maximum loads, types of goods transported, hours-of-service for truck drivers, truck inspections, maintenance of large trucks, and many others. Trucking companies, loading companies and truck drivers who violate these regulations place everyone on the road in danger.

Possible Injuries Caused by a Trucking Accident
Any truck accident, no matter what it seems like or appears to be, is serious. Many kinds of injuries can be contracted after a person is in a trucking accident. Some of these include, but are not limited to:

• head injuries
• cuts
• scrapes
• lacerations
• neck injuries
• stomach punctures
• broken bones
• fractures limbs and/or bones
• spinal cord injuries
• decapitations
• Severe whiplash
• Contusions or lacerations
• Broken bones
• Facial trauma
• Head trauma
• Traumatic brain injury
• Loss of limb / amputation
• Severe burns
• Spinal cord injury
• Paralysis
• Crush injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Soft tissue injuries

Negligence is Most Always to Blame

Lawsuits are most typically filed against trucking companies and their employees—the driver of the truck that caused your accident—for reasons of negligence. Negligence, in layman’s terms, is simply bad driving. However, bad driving doesn’t cause ‘simple’ consequences. People die every year as victims of negligent driving.

And yet, negligence must be demonstrated to a jury and judge in a civil court of law. How so? Reckless driving that injured you can be proven by eyewitness reports of the accident. It can also be demonstrated by investigator reports and analysis of media—usually photographs—collected from the site of the truck accident. The police reports that were filed by the policemen or women who attended the scene are also eligible for inclusion to prove that the driver was negligent. These are all ways to confirm by official data that you are a victim.

If you have suffered any or all of the above mentioned injuries, call a Los Angeles truck accident lawyer today.

Call a Truck Accident Attorney Los Angeles

Have you been injured as a result of getting into a truck accident in the state of California? If so, you should call one of our skilled California truck accident attorneys to find out if you qualify for legal representation in a court of law against all offending parties responsible for your accident.

We don’t collect a cent until we win your case.

You are likely eligible for monetary compensation covering a wide range of your losses, suffering, and pain. Some of these include money that you fronted to get medical care for some or all of the previously listed injuries, hospital visits and/or stays, forfeited wages and wages you have to forfeit due to no longer being able to work, treatment for psychological trauma resultant of the accident like PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)—just to name a few.

Determining Cause & Liability in a Truck Accident

As truck accident lawyers, one of our goals in representing victims and their families is to determine the true cause of the accident so we can determine and assign liability. We often work with investigators and accident reconstruction professionals to identify what factor or factors caused a client’s collision, such as an overloaded truck that could not be properly maneuvered or a truck driver who unknowingly ran a red light because he or she was so fatigued. Once we determine cause, we can also see what party or parties should be held legally responsible for our client’s injuries. We will then fight for maximum financial compensation for all economic and non-economic injuries and losses.
Ready to get started? Contact a truck accident lawyer at our firm.

Overloaded Trucks

An overloaded truck is one of the most dangerous types of vehicles you may encounter on the road. If a tractor-trailer, semi-truck or big rig is carrying a load that is too heavy for the vehicle to safely transport, or if a truck is carrying an oversized load without a proper permit, this can create the perfect breeding ground for disaster. An overloaded truck will be more difficult to maneuver, will take longer to stop and may even result in brake, steering or suspension system failure.

If you were driving and were involved in a collision with a large truck, one of the issues to consider is whether the truck may have been overloaded or imbalanced. An improperly loaded truck could mean that fault will lie with the truck driver or trucking company, not on your shoulders. With a truck accident lawyer at Pacific Attorney Group to investigate the cause of your accident and represent your interests in your insurance claim or lawsuit, you can rest assured that any negligence on the part of the trucking company or truck driver will be exposed so you can seek maximum compensation for your injuries.

Understanding Overloaded Truck Hazards

According to regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the weight of a commercial truck should not exceed 20,000 pounds per axle, usually to a maximum of 80,000 pounds for an entire vehicle. With special permits, however, some trucks may be able to weigh more than 80,000 pounds. There are also certain roadways and bridges where lower maximum weights are in place because the roads cannot support more than a certain amount.

When the cargo on a truck exceeds the vehicle’s maximum weight limit, is not in compliance with federal regulations or exceeds the weight for a road, this can cause an accident. The following are some of the most prevalent dangers associated with overloaded trucks, making them more prone to be involved in traffic accidents:

• The weight in an overloaded truck will shift to the rear of the vehicle, taking weight off the front of the vehicle and reducing the driver’s ability to safely steer the vehicle.
• An overloaded truck will take longer to slow down and come to a complete stop. This is particularly dangerous on steep hills, where the truck may begin traveling faster and faster out of a driver’s control.
• An overloaded truck will be more difficult to maneuver in emergency situations, like debris in the roadway or sudden changes in traffic.
• An extremely heavy truck load, exceeding the vehicle’s limits, will put undue pressure on the brakes. This can even result in brake failure in some cases.
• A truck that exceeds the weight capacity of a road or bridge could cause the road to collapse.
• Too much weight on a truck could result in the tires bursting, even while the truck is in motion on the highway or other roadway.
• An overloaded truck has a higher center of gravity, and this can increase the chances of a rollover.

In addition to these factors, an overloaded truck may cause a more serious collision due to the higher force of impact. This may mean that a victim or victims’ injuries will be more severe and may result in loss of life.

Fatal Truck Accidents

Any truck accident, depending on the circumstances, has the potential to claim one or more lives. This is true even in a relatively low-speed collision or in an accident where the other vehicle has top-rated safety features. Commercial trucks are large and heavy, weighing up to 80,000 pounds or even more. They may also carry hazardous cargo like gasoline, lumber, chemicals or even cars or heavy machinery. When a smaller vehicle is involved in a collision with a semi-truck, tractor-trailer or tanker truck, the results may be catastrophic.

Los Angeles Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers

A Most Heinous Crime

Nursing home abuse takes many forms, and is a national issue. It’s been going on for decades, and appears in many forms. One example is outlandish charges for everyday items. There is naturally an economic flux over time, and senior citizens at a care facility may not always have heirs with whom to impart their wealth. Meanwhile, there are vultures in the rafters who will charge ten dollars for a single roll of toilet paper, knowing their residents are unaware of inflationary trends in the market. There have been scandals where monthly and yearly invoices were examined at nursing homes, and the result showed clear abuse of the elderly through financial theft. But taking advantage of minds who have lost their grip on sober conduct through age doesn’t only take the form of theft. Neglect, harsh words, ignorance, and apathy all combine into a melange of abuse, leaving many elderly individuals in a situation from which they have no escape, and with no one to represent them.

If you have a friend or family member who you suspect is being abused, you need legal representation. Oftentimes abuse happens in patterns of consistency. If you can get away with charging ten dollars for a roll of toilet paper every month among a community of 100 senior citizens, that’s an extra $1000 per month in your pocket, minimum. Certainly many senior centers have operated from such an ethic in the past, and will continue to in the future. To catch them in the act, and make what restoration is possible under the law, you will need representation that doesn’t just have experience, but reputation.

Future Considerations

Something else to keep in mind is your own age. You may not be elderly now, but if you continue to remain alive, you will be. So look for a solid firm with history of representation going back at least ten years, in the event you become trapped in such a situation. Look for no-cost initial consultation, too. If you’re getting taken advantage of by a nursing home, or a friend is, how terrible is it to be as ill-used by an attorney in a subsequent interaction! Plus, pre-representation consultation fees indicate a lack of success in court. Why nickel-and-dime clients if you run a successful practice? Why indeed. The answer is that a firm who charges for initial consultation can’t afford to keep its doors open otherwise, and is so likely to be a losing horse in your upcoming legal race. Choose tenure, choose experience, and choose a Los Angeles nursing home abuse attorney that will represent your interests.

Los Angeles Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys

Wrongful Death Lawyer for Nursing Home Abuse

Nursing home abuse is a serious problem in Los Angeles and throughout California as well as the rest of the U.S. In fact, it is estimated that one in three nursing homes is guilty of some form of negligence, abuse or noncompliance with state and federal regulations for nursing homes and assisted living facilities. If nursing home abuse or neglect led to the loss of an elderly loved one, a Los Angeles wrongful death lawyer at Pacific Attorney Group can help you take legal action against the responsible caregiver or facility. By representing your interests and asserting your lost loved one’s rights, we will fight to seek justice and recover compensation for your loss.

Stopping nursing home negligence is an important part of our firm’s practice. We believe that by assisting clients with claims involving nursing home deaths, we can not only seek the justice the family deserves but also increase awareness of elder abuse in order to help prevent further atrocities.

When Los Angeles Nursing Home Abuse Leads to Wrongful Death

At times, nursing home abuse may be so severe that it will lead to the loss of an elderly patient or resident. Physical abuse, malnutrition, neglect and medical malpractice in nursing homes may all lead to injury to an elderly loved one. Due to their already frail physical or emotional conditions, abuse may lead to the loss of life.

If you suspect that nursing home negligence led to the loss of your loved one, do not hesitate to involve an attorney. Your gut feeling or strange occurrences that you may have observed may be indicators that some form of mistreatment actually occurred, and by taking legal action you can make sure the proper party is held accountable for what they have done.

Los Angeles Nursing Home Abuse Summary

Nursing home and elder abuse incidents have become increasingly common as our population ages and needs care. By the year 2050, almost 87 million people over the age of 65 will live in the United States. Many of these individuals will need full-time care in a health facility or part-time care provided by a home health aide.

Although many such facilities provide compassionate and comprehensive care in a health and safe environment, some do not and are negligent in attending to seniors’ needs. Negligence, malpractice and mistreatment is often masked by the fact that many seniors cannot fully articulate what has occurred. That’s why our dedicated Los Angeles nursing home lawyers at Pacific Attorney Group are committed to fighting for the rights of seniors involved in nursing home abuse and negligence.

Elderly individuals can be expose to many different types of ill treatment at a nursing home or assisted living situation. No matter what the abuse encompasses, you can count on the experience of your Los Angeles nursing home abuse attorney to investigate and prove that abuse has occurred. If you suspect that a loved one may have suffered elder care abuse, our Los Angeles nursing home attorneys may be able to help.

Firm Overview

Pacific Attorney Group is a Los Angeles nursing home abuse law firm dedicated to helping elderly victims who have suffered some form of personal injury resulting from negligence or intentional wrongdoing of others. Established in 2003, our firm is dedicated to representing victims of elder abuse or neglect and holding negligent facilities or caregivers responsible for their actions. We strive to increase awareness of these situations and help our clients attempt to recover the compensation they deserve for medical care or damages resulting from their injuries.

Our lawyers, P. Mark Shayani, Peter M. Lazarus and Brian K. Andrews, have more than 40 years of collective experience to apply to client cases. Along with our premiere staff, we have the drive and dedication it takes to see a nursing home claim or lawsuit through to the best possible end result.

Practice Areas

Pacific Attorney Group takes on all different types of cases involving elder abuse. Our team can help you understand what rights you have when filing a claim against caregivers or facilities responsible for your loved one’s injuries. Abuse can take many different forms. Our practice areas include:

• Nursing home and assisted living facilities
• Bed sores
• Burns
• Dehydration
• Home health care aides
• Involuntary seclusion
• Malnutrition
• Medication errors
• Physical abuse
• Psychological abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Neglect
• Verbal abuse
• Wrongful death

If you are interested in finding out how a Los Angeles personal injury lawyer can help, call us at 800-670-8142 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.

Los Angeles Nursing Home Abuse

Unfortunately, many residents and patients in nursing homes find themselves subjected to neglect or abuse in this setting. Our Los Angeles injury law firm is dedicated to providing these individuals with the legal counsel and representation necessary to help them recover financial compensation to cover medical bills and other damages engendered by their injuries. With over 40 years of experience, we possess the industry knowledge necessary to provide clients with the expedient, detail-oriented assistance to generate the best possible outcome on the case. Each Los Angeles nursing home neglect lawyer of the firm will hold the negligent caregiver responsible and increase awareness of the situation. Our skilled professionals offer legal services for a wide range of nursing home abuse issues, including dehydration, malnutrition, sexual abuse, physical abuse, financial abuse, emotional abuse, wrongful death, and more.