Los Angeles Injury Attorney Blog

Victorville Man Killed in Highway 18 Pedestrian Accident

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:38:40 -0800

APPLE VALLEY - A 22-year-old Victorville man tragically died Sunday night after he was struck by several vehicles on Highway 18 in Apple Valley, the Victorville Daily Press reported. The fatal pedestrian accident was reported in the westbound lanes of Highway 18 near Bass Hill Road at about 10:45 p.m. on Sunday, February 5, 2012. According to news accounts, Devance Jerome Coleman was struck by several passing vehicles and died at the scene of the crash. A second man was reportedly injured and taken to a local hospital. It was unclear if the injured man had been walking with Coleman or if he was an occupant of one of the vehicles that struck Coleman.

Cause of the Apple Valley Pedestrian Accident

The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department Major Accident Investigation Team is investigating the cause of the fatal pedestrian accident. Based on the very limited information provided in the Victorville Daily Press, the cause of the accident is unclear.

Pedestrian Accident Wrongful Death Liability

Following a fatal pedestrian accident such as this Highway 18 crash, the family members of the victim of this accident would be well-advised to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced Apple valley personal injury lawyer. A knowledgeable and experienced wrongful death attorney can review the accident investigation report and advise the victim's family of their legal rights and best course of action should they decide to pursue a wrongful death claim against any of the drivers involved in this fatal collision.

Another Miramonte Teacher Arrested for Child Sex Abuse

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:22:28 -0800

It was only Monday, January 30th when Mark Berndt was arrested for committing lewd acts on 23 of his students at Miramonte Elementary School. Investigators discovered nearly 400 photographs in Berndt's possession depicting children in bondage, gagged, taped, and even being fed a suspicious clear-white fluid. While investigators were questioning victims, authorities uncovered another case of sexual abuse, and one girl may be the victim of two Miramonte teachers.

On Friday, February 3rd, Martin Bernard Springer was arrested on suspicion of lewd acts on two girls who were approximately 7-years old at the time of the incidents. The parents of one of the girls identified in the Berndt case have also reported complaints against Springer. Springer allegedly touched the leg and thigh of the girls in an inappropriate manner and is being held on a $2 million bail. Parents are concerned and outraged over the reports of not one but two child sex abuse scandals. The repeated cases of child sex abuse at Miramonte Elementary School are indicative of a larger problem regarding the school's lax supervision.

Parents and guardians entrust the safety of their children to schools, churches, camps, and other childcare institutions expecting their children are protected from all reasonably foreseeable dangers. When these parties that are responsible for the safety of children neglect to institute sufficient supervisory measures against child sex abuse, they must be held responsible. The criminal charges against the perpetrator do not take into account the other negligent parties whose wrongful actions enabled and contributed to the incidents of child abuse. Filing a civil suit can help families and child molestation victims seek justice and financial compensation for the damages related to their abuse.

The family of the female student, who is involved in both the Berndt and Springer cases, is planning to file a suit against the Los Angeles Unified School District. Other families who have been harmed in either of the Miramonte cases or other cases of child sex abuse are strongly advised to seek the legal counsel of a professional child molestation lawyer. A thorough review of your case by an experienced Los Angeles child sex abuse lawyer can help you determine your eligibility to recover damages related to your or your loved one's abuse. Even adults, who have suffered abuse years ago as a child, may still be able to seek justice and closure in a successful personal injury case.

To ensure your rights are not compromised, be sure to consult a knowledgeable child sex abuse attorney regarding your potential case as soon as possible.

Elderly Upland Pedestrian Struck and Killed on Euclid Avenue

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:50:42 -0800

UPLAND - The Inland Valley Daily Bulletin reported an elderly Upland gentleman tragically died Monday while crossing Euclid Avenue (State Route 83). The fatal pedestrian accident was reported at about 12:15 p.m. on Monday, January 30, 2012. According to news accounts, the victim, Owen Skousen, 83, was struck by a green 2005 Chrysler 300 at 17th Street and Euclid Avenue. Skousen was rushed to a nearby hospital where he tragically died of his injuries. The driver of the Chrysler, who was not identified, was not hurt in the collision.

Fatal Pedestrian Accident Wrongful Death Liability

Following a fatal accident such as this car vs. pedestrian accident in Upland, the family members of the victim would be well-advised to speak with an experienced and knowledgeable Upland personal injury attorney. A lawyer who is skilled in handling fatal pedestrian accident wrongful death claims can advise the victim's family of their best course of action to protect their legal rights, and whether they may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim against the driver of the vehicle, if it is determined that he or she was responsible.

Ex-Miramonte Elementary Teacher Accused of Lewd Acts Involving Children, Bail Raised to $23 Million

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:59:44 -0800

LOS ANGELES - Mark Berndt who was a former teacher at Miramonte Elementary School, was arrested Tuesday at his Torrance home and is being charged with committing lewd acts involving 23 boys and girls, ages 6 to 10, between 2008 and 2010, Fox News reported.

The investigation first began when Berndt, 61, processed film in a Redondo Beach CVS drugstore. The store found and turned in the film that showed numerous children blindfolded with their mouths gagged with packing tape and large, Madagascar-type cockroaches on their faces. Some photos showed Berndt's arm spoon-feeding the children with a white substance that DNA tests revealed to be his semen.

According to 89.3 KPCC News, authorities reported that the children were told they were playing a "tasting game" and were supposed to say whether the substance was sweet or salty and if they liked the taste. Roughly 40 photographs were turned in from the store, and approximately 400 photos were found at the photo lab, Berndt's home, and subsequent searches. Berndt appeared in court today and his bail was increased from $2.3 million to $23 million. His arraignment on 23 counts of lewd acts has been held over until February 23.

Many parents, whose children have attended or currently are attending the elementary school, have expressed and voiced out their concerns and opinions. They also have questions that are left unanswered regarding why they weren't notified when the photos were found and, if the principal knew of the situation, why wasn't anyone informed.

Now if the information provided by news reports is accurate, it is emotionally disturbing how Berndt took advantage of his authority as a teacher and of the innocent children. Many students who enroll at the school are learning English as their second language and have been unable to communicate what occurred.

Therefore, as the investigation remains ongoing, the parents of Berndt's students would be well-advised to contact a knowledgeable and experienced Miramonte Elementary School molestation lawyer. Attorneys at the law firm of Estey and Bomberger have handled many incidents like this and have the experience of representing victims of horrendous abuse. Thus, speaking to an attorney immediately is absolutely vital, as he or she may be able to help families hold the perpetrator responsible, as well as the school, school district, and other entities responsible if it is determined that their negligent supervision contributed to the horrific acts Berndt is accused of.

Car Crash Kills One in Victorville

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 09:48:38 -0800

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY -- A Victorville car crash killed a 30-year-old man early Monday morning, The Press-Enterprise reported. The fatal collision happened just after 1 a.m. when a 2003 Saturn station wagon traveling west on Bear Valley Road failed to stop at a red light and broadsided a 1993 Buick that was making left turn onto Bear Valley Road from Industrial Boulevard.

Following the crash, the driver of the Buick - a 30-year-old Victorville resident - died at the scene due to his injuries. His passenger was reported to have fled the accident, yet it is unknown why he did not wait for authorities and paramedics to arrive. The driver of the Saturn - a 22-year-old Lucerne Valley man - was taken to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center for treatment of his injuries.

Liability for Victorville Auto Accidents

Failing to yield at a red light can result to severe collisions, which can then inflict harm to individuals involved. Depending on the size the vehicle and the speed it was traveling, injuries can be so catastrophic that victims may not be able to recover from their injuries. Therefore, while the investigation of this January 29th accident remains ongoing, the family of the deceased victim would be well-advised to contact a skilled Victorville accident lawyer. An attorney experienced in wrongful death claims, can advise the family of the rights and ensure they recover the maximum compensation they deserve for funeral and burial expenses, future and anticipated lifetime earnings and benefits, loss of love, care, support, and companionship.

Woman Killed in Winchester Head-On Car Crash

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 12:53:07 -0800

RIVERSIDE COUNTY - According to a press release from the Riverside County Sheriff-Corner's office, a 55-year-old woman was killed in car crash in Winchester early Friday morning. The accident took place on Winchester Road, south of Scott Road, when the driver of a Toyota Corolla - Louisa Valdovinos of Menifee - was struck head-on by a Pontiac Grand Am that crossed into the opposite lane. After the 3:50 a.m. collision, Valdovinos was reported to have died at about 4:04 a.m. No information regarding the name or the injuries of the Pontiac driver was released.

Cause of the Head-On Car Collision on Winchester Road

The accident on January 29th remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol. However, based on the information given, it is not clear what caused the driver to veer into opposing traffic. It is also not certain whether alcohol or drugs were a factor in the collision. Hopefully, authorities can come to a conclusion as to what happened and why.

Riverside County Fatal Accident Liability

Veering across lanes and into opposing traffic can be caused by many factors such as distracted driving, speed, the intoxication of alcohol/drugs, vehicle malfunctions, or road conditions. However, if the accident is determined by police that the collision was due to negligent and reckless driving of the Pontiac driver, he or she can be held liable for the death of the victim. Therefore, in accidents like this, it would be well-advised for the family to seek an experienced Riverside County car accident lawyer. A skilled attorney who has handled numerous wrongful death claims, can ensure the family rights are protected, and help them obtain the maximum compensation for their unexpected and devastating loss.

Man Struck and Killed While Crossing Santa Ana Street

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 12:38:46 -0800

ORANGE COUNTY -- A pedestrian in his 40s was tragically killed just after 8:30 p.m. Saturday when he was struck by two vehicles in Santa Ana, Orange County Register reported. The man, whose name was not released, was attempting to cross Broadway when a white Chevy pickup traveling northbound hit him, causing him to land on the southbound lane, where he was struck by a green Mustang convertible. Neither drivers remained at the scene. Anyone with information regarding this accident or the drivers involved is asked to contact the Santa Ana Police Department.

Orange County Hit-and-Run Accident Liability

Following a pedestrian accident such as this one on January 27th, the family of the victim would be well-advised to speak to a Orange County personal injury lawyer. An attorney knowledgeable in fatal hit-and-run accidents, can help protect the family's legal rights in a wrongful death claim, assist authorities in locating the drivers involved this incident, and help the family obtain the compensation they are entitled to for funeral and burial expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other damages relating to this tragic hit-and-run pedestrian accident.

One Killed, Two Injured on Highway 18 Head-On Crash in San Bernardino

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 12:17:20 -0800

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY - A 42-year-old woman was killed and two other were injured after they were involved in a head-on collision on Highway 18 in San Bernardino. The accident occurred at 5:47 p.m. Friday when the woman, Holly Foor of Crestline, was traveling north on Highway 18 in her 2005 Honda Civic and was struck head-on by a Ford Explorer.

According to The Press-Enterprise, the 1997 Explorer was traveling on the southbound side of the highway when it crossed the double yellow line and into the northbound lanes. A tour bus carrying 20 passengers was also sideswiped in the accident, but no one on board was reported to be injured. However, following the crash, Foor was taken to St. Bernardine Medical Center in San Bernardino where she later died due to her injuries. The driver and the other occupant in the SUV were taken to area hospitals for further treatment.

Wrongful Death Liability for San Bernardino Car Accidents

The investigation of the January 27th accident remains ongoing by the San Bernardino Police Department to determine what happened and who is responsible. However, if authorities conclude that the driver is solely at fault for this horrific collision, family members of the victim would be well-advised to contact a San Bernardino accident lawyer immediately regarding their legal rights in a wrongful death claim. An experienced attorney who has handled many cases involving fatal car collisions, can advise the family of their rights to hold the other party financially liable for the loss of their loved one, and ensure they obtain the maximum compensation they are entitled to.

Woman Killed in Indio Pedestrian Accident

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:22:31 -0800

RIVERSIDE COUNTY -- A tragic pedestrian accident left a 44-year-old woman dead Thursday night in Indio, The Press-Enterprise reports. The fatal incident took place on the westbound lanes of Indio Boulevard, just east of Biskra Street. The woman identified as Brigitte Jasso of Indio was attempting to cross the street when she was struck by a motorcycle and then a black Ford Taurus. Following the accident, Jasso was reported to have died at the scene, and the motorcyclist was taken to Desert Regional Medical Center for further treatment. The driver in the car along with her passenger was not hurt after the crash.

Cause of the January 26th Pedestrian Accident

The fatal accident on Indio Boulevard remains under investigation by the Indio Police Department. However, it is not clear what caused this incident to occur, if evidence from the accident shows that distracted driving, speed, or driver negligence prompted the crash, the motorcyclist and/or the driver of the vehicle can be held liable for the victim's death.

Indio Pedestrian Accident Wrongful Death Liability

In complex pedestrian accidents such as this one, the family of the victim would be well-advised to speak to a experienced and knowledgeable Indio personal injury lawyer regarding their legal rights in a wrongful death claim. Immediate consultation from an attorney who has handled similar accidents like this one, can help the family understand and protect their legal rights in a civil claim and ensure they are fully compensated for their devastating loss, including funeral and burial expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other related damages.

Mother and Son Attacked by Dog in Moreno Valley

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 19:29:43 -0800

RIVERSIDE COUNTY - At about 11:40 a.m. Tuesday, a mother and son were severely attacked by a dog in Moreno Valley. According to The Press-Enterprise, the woman was walking with her son, 6, while pushing a stroller with a younger child along Indian Avenue.

Riverside County sheriff's Cpl. Courtney Donowho stated the 120-pound Bullmastiff jumped a chain-linked fence from a nearby yard and began attacking the boy. The mother attempted to fight off the dog, which then turned on her. Moments later, the owner of the dog came out of his home and was able to pull the dog back into his backyard before authorities arrived.

Following this tragic incident, the child in the stroller was not injured in the attack. However, both the mother and 6-year-old son suffered dog bite injuries. The dog owner also surrendered ownership of the 18-month-old male Bullmastiff to Moreno Valley animal control officers. Manager Steve Fries of the Moreno Valley Animal Services indicated the dog, who will be quarantined in the next 10 days at a shelter, would not be considered for adoption and will probably be euthanized.

Injury Liability for Moreno Valley Dog Attacks

Dog attacks can result to serious injuries and/or death depending on the severity of the attack. Injuries in a dog attack can include and are not limited to facial disfigurement, abrasions, puncture wounds, lacerations, infections, and other life-altering injuries.

After a serious incident such as this one, the victims or family members of the victims would benefit from speaking to a knowledgeable Moreno Valley personal injury lawyer. An attorney who in past cases ensured the protection of victims' legal rights in animal attacks, can do the same for the victims in this January 24th dog attack. If the incident was due to dog owner negligence, the attorney can hold the owner financially liable for the victims' injuries and decide the best course of action to recover the maximum compensation that resulted in this horrific event.

Two-Car Crash Injures Six in Moreno Valley

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 19:57:01 -0800

RIVERSIDE COUNTY - A two-vehicle collision in the city of Moreno Valley left six people injured this morning. The limited information provided by The Press-Enterprise indicated the crash occurred at the intersection of Alessandro Boulevard and Lasselle Street at about 10:58 a.m. Sunday. No other details were given regarding this horrible accident.

Moreno Valley Car Accident Injury Liability

After a multi-vehicle collision such as this on January 22nd, victims or their families would well-advised to speak to a knowledgeable and experienced Moreno Valley car accident attorney. A skilled lawyer who has handled numerous personal injury claims can advise the victims' of their legal rights, ensure they are fully compensated for their injuries, and if necessary, hire an independent investigator to reconstruct the scene of the collision to determine the who is responsible and financially liable for the damages.

Motorcyclist Killed in Hesperia Crash

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 19:45:36 -0800

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY - A 25-year-old man was tragically killed in a motorcycle crash that occurred at about 4:22 p.m. Friday in Hesperia, San Bernardino County Sun reported. The motorcyclist, Kevin E. Medina of Hesperia, was thrown off his 2012 Ducati motorcycle after he was struck by a 1998 Toyota Camry that veered into his path on Hesperia Road. Following the accident, Medina suffered serious injuries and was reported to have died at the Desert Valley Hospital in Victorville.

Cause of the Hesperia Motorcycle Crash

It is not immediately clear what caused the driver of the Toyota to veer into the path of the motorcyclist. However, if police officials investigating the accident indicated factors such as negligence, unsafe or distracted driving - such as through the use of cellphone, eating, and changing/operating the radio - contributed to the crash, the driver can be held financially liable for the death of the victim. Hopefully, authorities can come to a conclusion as to what happened and who is officially responsible.

Hesperia Fatal Motorcycle Accident Liability

Following a fatal accident such as this one, the family would be well-advised to consult with a Hesperia personal injury lawyer regarding their legal rights in a wrongful death claim. An experienced attorney who is highly familiar with motorcycle collisions can protect the family's rights in a civil suit, work with reconstruction specialists to prove the other party's liability in this January 20th accident, and advise the family the best way to obtain compensation for the loss of their loved one.

Elderly Man Struck and Injured by Car in Garden Grove

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 19:44:54 -0800

ORANGE COUNTY -- A 97-year-old pedestrian is suffering from life-threatening injuries after he was struck by a motorist in Garden Grove, Orange County Register reported. The pedestrian identified as Augustine Choi was crossing at a crosswalk at Brookhurst Street and Stanford Avenue around 12:30 p.m. Saturday. The driver of the vehicle, whose name was not released, immediately stopped after the collision to aid Choi. Following the accident, Choi was transported to UCI Medical Center in Orange for treatment of his injuries.

Based on the limited information provided by the Orange County Register, it is not immediately apparent what happened and who is responsible for this January 21st accident. However, if police officials come to a conclusion that the accident was due to driver negligence, it would be well-advised to for the victim or the family of the victim to contact a Garden Grove personal injury lawyer. A skilled attorney experienced in pedestrian accidents can advise the victim of his legal rights, and hold the driver liable for his injuries, including medical care expenses, disfigurement, pain and suffering, and other damages relating to this horrific pedestrian accident.

Pedestrian Struck and Killed by Car in Jurupa Valley

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:30:28 -0800

RIVERSIDE COUNTY - A woman identified as Adelina Gonzalez, 45, of Riverside, was fatally struck by a vehicle Monday night, The Press-Enterprise reports. Gonzalez was attempting to cross the street on Mission Boulevard, west of Pedley Road, in Jurupa Valley when she was hit by an SUV at about 6:06 p.m. Details regarding how this accident occurred and the identity of the driver were not immediately released.

Cause of the Jurupa Valley Pedestrian Accident

The accident on January 16th remains under investigation by the Riverside County Sheriff's Department. However, based in the limited information provided by The Press-Enterprise, it is not evident what happened and who is to blame for this fatal accident. Therefore, investigators will further investigate the collision and determine if speed, distracted driving, alcohol/drugs, or negligent and reckless driving were a factor in the collision.

Jurupa Valley Pedestrian Accident Liability

If police concludes that the accident was due to unsafe and/or negligent driving, the family of the victim would be well-advised to contact a Jurupa Valley accident attorney immediately. A knowledgeable and experienced lawyer who has handled numerous wrongful death claims can help protect the family's legal rights, hold the responsible party liable for their devastating loss, and ensure the family recovers the compensation they are entitled to for funeral and burial expenses, lost wages, loss of love, care, affection, support, and companionship.

One Killed in Beaumont Three-Car Wreck on Highway 60

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:59:11 -0800

RIVERSIDE COUNTY - A 51-year-old Perris man died from his injuries following a three-car wreck in Beaumont, The Press-Enterprise reported. The tragic collision happened at about 5:10 a.m. Saturday on eastbound Highway 60 and Western Knolls Road when two vehicles struck Asencion Placencia's truck. After the collision, Placencia was taken to Riverside County Regional Medical Center and then died at 9:35 p.m. Sunday. The occupants in the other vehicles sustained minor injuries and were transported to a hospital for further treatment.

Beaumont Car Accident Wrongful Death Liability

While this devastating January 14th accident is being investigated by the California Highway Patrol, family members of the victim would be well-advised to contact a Beaumont accident lawyer. A highly skilled attorney can help the family understand and protect their legal rights in a civil suit, help determine with a team of investigators the responsible party and/or parties in this incident, and ensure they recover the maximum compensation for their loss. Compensation in a wrongful death claim can include and are not limited to, funeral and burial expenses, future and anticipated lifetime earnings and benefits, pain and suffering, and other damages.