Category Archives: Lawyer

Newport Harbor Boat Crash Injures 4

A boating collision in Newport Harbor left four people injured and two vessels damaged, Sunday evening.

At approximately 8:20 p.m., sheriff officials were called to respond to the accident that happened near the Newport Harbor entrance.

Officials arrived to the scene and found that two boats had crashed in the harbor and as a result people were thrown overboard and injured. After further investigation, it was determined that both vessels had been traveling at high speeds in the five mile per hour zone prior to the wreck.

Lt. Lloyd Downing of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department told reporters that officials are investigating further details of the events that lead to the Newport Beach boat crash and whether any of the people piloting the boats were intoxicated.

Aboard the two boats, a 22-foot Whaler and a 27-foot Rayson, were seven people. The boats were heading towards each other and when they tried to escape the crash, it was too late. The boats were wrecked and had to be pulled from the harbor with a crane.

The sheriff’s Harbor Patrol responded to the accident and was able to account for all seven passengers, including the three women and one man that were thrown overboard at the time of Orange County high-speed boat collision.

Lt. Mike Janson of the Harbor Patrol told reporters that one person that was tossed into the water had facial cuts and complained of knee and forearm pain. Emergency personnel tended to those who were injured and all four people were hospitalized. Further information regarding their injuries has not been made public.

Aside from speeding, there are many common factors that may have contributed to the boating crash. Distracted driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and breaking waterway laws are contributing factors of waterway collisions, which can cause serious damage to people and their property.

It has been our experience, here at Dara Khajavi Law Offices that in the event of a boat accident occurring at high speeds, the people riding the boat tend to incur more serious injuries on average than those who crash at lower velocities.

No matter how bad your Orange County boating accident is, give us a call before you contact an insurance company and file a claim. Call us at (877) 782-3777 for more information. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for your convenience and offer FREE consultations. We would like to hear about your case and let you know how we can assist you.

Santa Ana Car Accident Fatally Injured Pedestrian

A young driver that ran two red lights at excess speeds fatally injured a pedestrian in Santa Ana late Monday morning. The pedestrian died at the hospital moments after being hit and the driver was released shortly after being questioned, pending the investigation. Investigators were sent to the site and closed the intersection for more than three hours.

A woman who crossed First Street at Sullivan Street at around 10:45 a.m. was seriously hurt when a white Volkswagen sedan traveling eastbound on First Street slammed into her.

Authorities responded to the car accident where the pedestrian who was walking via the crosswalk was hit, Ana police Cpl. Anthony Bertagna told reporters.

Emergency respondents arrived to the scene and tended to the woman who was critically injured. They loaded her into an ambulance and rushed her to a nearby hospital, where she died a short time after.

Monday night, Orange County coroner’s office officials identified the pedestrian as Graciela Sanchez, a 56-year-old, of Santa Ana.

Authorities described the driver of the white vehicle as a licensed female in her 20’s. She remained at the scene and did not appear to be intoxicated.

Traffic light video footage from the First Street and Fairview Street cameras showed the eastbound driver crossing the intersection on a red light above the speed limit, at speeds over 60 miles per hour. Witnesses told officials that the driver also ran a red light at First and Sullivan streets, where she truck the woman who was in the crosswalk and “has the right-of-way,” Bertagna said.

Officials questioned the young driver who was later released pending the continuing investigation. They did not say if she was injured.

Investigators closed down the intersection and reviewed the scene. They took notes and collected essential evidence that would help them confirm what happened there earlier that day, including talking to willing witnesses and reviewing street light camera video recordings. At about 2:30 p.m. officials reopened the intersection.

Depending on the police report and other facts from the accident, a Santa Ana car accident lawyer would be able to help the family members of Sanchez.

At Dara Khajavi Law Offices, lawyers are available to speak with new clients regarding their OC car accident anytime. Available 24/7, including holidays, Daralaw.com can provide you with a free consultation. If you’ve been in an accident, don’t hesitate to contact them, but make sure you do so before your time limit to report an accident expires.

5 Dead in Memorial Day Crash

Five teens died in a fiery crash in Newport Beach on Monday at about 5:20 p.m.

The crash took place on Jamboree Road near Island Lagoon Drive. The vehicle was a late model Infiniti. Occupants were five teens from Irvine. The vehicle was traveling southbound on Jamboree Road. It veered off the road and into the center divider. The vehicle slammed into a tree. The impact from the crash caused the vehicle to split in half. One half of the vehicle burst into flames. After crashing into the tree, the vehicle continue to travel 100 more feet.

Four of the occupants were completely ejected from the vehicle. These victims died at the scene. The fifth occupant was partially ejected from the vehicle. The fifth victim was transported to Mission Hospital Regional Medical Center in Mission Viejo. Unfortunately, this victim could not be resuscitated.  There were two male and three females in the vehicle. The victims have not been identified. Families of the victims are still being notified.

According to police, debris was scattered all over the road. Large chunks of metal covered the road for several blocks around the crash site.  Police are currently looking for any witnesses to interview. Investigators are trying to determine if there was any activity before the collision that may have caused the accidents. Investigators have stated that it is too early to know if alcohol played a factor in the crash.

Both sides of Jamboree Road have to be shut down while investigators examined the scene of the crash. Jamboree Road remains closed in both directions between Santa Barbara and Back Bay drives. Police has notified residents to avoid Jamboree Road from Pacific Coast Highway to san Joaquin Hills Road.

The Newport Beach Fire Department had to dispatch five units and 14 personnel to the scene.  Two fire engines, a truck, a medic unit, and a battalion chief reported to the scene. It took firefighters a few minutes to put the fire out. Paramedics were able to attend to the fifth passenger quickly. Rescuers described this crash as one of the worst traffic collisions they had ever seen.

Police described it as the worst recent car accident in Newport Beach. All occupants in the car died due to their injuries. The last serious Newport Beach car crash of such magnitude was in June 2011. Three people died in a 10 vehicle crash on Mariners Mile.

Car accidents like these are serious and often deadly. Survivors suffer from extensive injuries that require extended hospital stays and physical therapy. These injuries mean expensive hospital bills and time away from work. Insurance may be able to cover some of these costs, but a Newport Beach car accident lawyer can help you seek maximum damages for your losses. Contact the Law Offices of Dara Khajavi, if you are ever in a car accident. Do not hesitate to contact us today.

Dog Bite Safety 101

There have been an unfortunate string of dog attacks lately. Dogs are usually extremely friendly and fun animals, but some dogs can be quiet aggressive and dangerous. Certain breeds are perceived as more aggressive than others, but a dog’s aggressive behavior is usually due to abuse. Here are some tips on how to handle dog attacks.

•             Be careful around dogs

If you are walking or running outside, be on the lookout for loose dogs. Do not smile at strange dogs.  You may think it is a friendly gesture, but an aggressive dog may see it as a challenge. Avoid going close to chained dogs. These dogs tend to be more aggressive.

•             Look for warning signs

Learn dog body language. Not all dogs are aggressive. A loose dog may come up to you just out of curiosity. Some dogs are commonly perceived as less aggressive or more aggressive. If you encounter a loose dog, don’t assume a less aggressive dog is safe or vice versa. Pay attention to the dog’s body language not its bread. Dogs about attack will have a straight and stiff body. Stay calm.

•             Remain calm

Do not make any sudden movements. Dogs can sense your fear and panic. Try to command them. Tell them in a demanding voice “Go Home!” or “No!” Assume a non-threatening position. Dogs think that you are going to attack if you face them head on and make eye contact. Instead, you should stand sideways to the dog.

Stay still. Sudden movements will startle the dog. Protect your face, chest, and throat. Keep your arms flat by your side with clenched fists. If the dog knocks you over, you should curl up and cover your head. Pull your face into your chest and cover your neck with your hands. The dog will think you are boring and leave you alone.

•             Don’t run

Your first instinct may be to run, but don’t ever run from a dog. The dog will definitely chase after you. Instead, you should stay still until the dog loses interest in you.  When the dog loses interest in you, you should slowly back away.

Dogs can be really fun to play with, but a stray or loose dog can be incredibly dangerous. Be extremely cautious if you ever come across a loose dog. If you are ever attacked by a dog, you may want to contact a Newport Beach personal injury lawyer.

Hit and Run Suspect Arrested At Bar

A Westminster man suspected of fatally striking a pedestrian and leaving the scene was arrested at a bar in Westminster.

A male adult pedestrian was crossing Springdale Street in Westminster on Wednesday, April 17, around 8:20 p.m. The victim was walking outside of a marked crosswalk. He was struck by a black Dodge ram truck. The driver fled the scene on foot. There was a passenger in the truck. The passenger remained at the scene and assisted in the police investigation.

Westminster Police and OC fire Authority paramedics were called to the scene. The emergency authorities performed CPR on the victim. He was then transported to a hospital. The victim later died at the hospital from of his major head injuries. He was a 34 year old Westminster resident.

He was later found at the Posse Bar in Westminster. Employees of the bar recognized the suspect and called Westminster Police around 9:16 the Friday after the accident. The suspect tried to leave the bar, but he was stopped by employees and patrons in the parking lot. Police officers identified the suspected and arrested him in the parking lot. He was booked for main slaughter and felony hit and run.

Police are asking for more information related to the incident. Individuals with more information should contact the Westminster Police Department Traffic Decision or the Orange County Crime stoppers.

Unfortunately, every year a large of number of pedestrians die in traffic crashes. Many more are injured, and these injuries are often fatal.  Pedestrians are more susceptible to traffic crashes because they are so vulnerable.

Here are some pedestrian safety tips:

  • You should only cross the street in the designated crosswalk. Drivers may not see you if you do not walk in the crosswalk.
  • Be especially careful at busy intersections. Many drivers fail to yield to pedestrians. You may also be in a driver’s blind spot.
  • At night, you should wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight. Lights make you more visible to drivers.
  • You should walk on the sidewalk. If you have to walk in the street, walk against traffic.
  • If you have children, make sure they walk closely with you and do not dart out onto the street.

Car accidents involving pedestrians are usually quite serious and often fatal. If you are ever in a car accident, contact a Westminster car accident lawyer. Insurance may be able to cover some of the costs, but a car accident lawyer can help you seek maximum damages for your losses.

 

 

Theme Park Safety Tips

Orange County is home to three famous theme parks: Disneyland, Disney California Adventure Park, and Knott’s Berry Farm. These parks are great fun for the whole family. Unfortunately, theme parks can be dangerous too. Theme park visitors are susceptible to dehydration, ride defects, and more. Here are some tips on to have fun and safe trip to a theme park.

•             Stay cool

Summer is coming soon, and this means Orange County is going to heat up. The great weather perfectly complements a day at a theme park. If you decide to go to the theme park on a sunny day, remember to stay cool and hydrated. Heat rashes, sun burns, and heat exhaustion are common injuries for theme park visitors. You should constantly hydrate through the day. Water is the best and healthiest choice. Avoid drinking sugary drinks and alcohol. Alcohol will dehydrate you, and sugary drinks have unnecessary calories. Don’t forget to take breaks from the heat and sun.

•             Do not go into any restricted areas.

Restricted areas are restricted for good reason. These restricted areas are usually restricted for safety reasons. Avoid these areas. If you somehow loose something in a restricted area, ask a staff member. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

•             Know your limits on the rides

Before going on any ride, you should consider the state of your health. If you have certain health issues, you may want to consult your doctor before a theme park visit. Rides can be strenuous and dangerous for certain individuals. Your health condition may make the ride dangerous for you. It is better to safely sit out a ride.

•             Don’t ignore the rules of the ride

Don’t ignore the rules of the ride. These rules have purpose, and they are made to protect passengers.  The ride may seem tame and easy, but looks can be deceiving. There could be a hidden drop or sudden stop that may not be suitable for certain passenger. If the ride has a height minimum, do not try to sneak a child. You could be endangering the child.

Rides can be very dangerous. On a ride, you should always stay seated safely in the car. Properly use all safety harnesses and seat belts. Do not ignore these precautions. They are designed to protect you. Only leave the ride when the ride attendant states that is safe to do so.

  • Report anything wrong

Unfortunately, park rides sometimes break down. If you see anything that seems broken or out of place, report it immediately to an employee.

Orange County is home to some of the greatest theme parks. To make sure you have a great time, follow these safety rules!

If you are ever injured in a theme park, contact an Orange County personal injury attorney.