I would like to share a video with you that was produced by the Consumer Attorneys of California, of which I am a proud member. Appropriately titled “A World Without Lawyers,” I hope you spend a few minutes to watch the entire video.
Lawyers continue to contribute to the world in many positive ways we might not think about. Please share this with your family and friends.
Today’s Daily Journal published my article on the complexities of filing a lawsuit and litigating cases against mass transit and public entities. The article is an excerpt taken from my personal injury book, Accidents Happen and discusses the following key areas:
Last week, The Christian Science Monitor ran an article titled “Texting-while-driving crackdown coming July 4 weekend“. The article is an informative one in which they quoted me regarding the realities and dangers of texting-while-driving.
California texting laws have been evolving over the past few years, and calls to enact stricter texting laws are in the works. Research shows that texting while driving can be more dangerous than driving while under the influence of alcohol. We are quickly reminded of the Chatsworth Metrolink crash, in which the cause was linked to texting.
Accidents caused by text messaging are totally preventable.
This Fourth of July, when celebrating our Independence Day, most of us will be enjoying the company of family, friends and neighbors. Whether at the beach or pool, barbeque or pot luck, here are some tips and information to make it a safe and memorable weekend.
1. Personal Fireworks: Every year, there are more than 9,000 fireworks-related injuries. The majority of these happen to children under the age of 14. Often times these injuries can range from severe and permanent burns and even death. It is important to understand that fireworks are not toys. In certain cities, personal fireworks are banned all together. Avoid personal fireworks and let the fireworks show be handled by professionals.
2. Drinking and Driving: More people are killed in car accidents during the 4th of July weekend than on any other weekend, including New Year’s Eve. The National Highway Safety Administration reports that nearly 500 people were killed in automobile accidents during the 4th of July weekend in 2008. 43% of those accidents involved drivers who had blood alcohol content above the legal limit. Never drink and drive. One mistake can change your life forever. Be responsible and take a cab or have a designated driver.
3. Protect the Community: Don’t let friends, family or neighbors drink and drive. If you observe anyone swerving on the streets or highways, call 9-1-1 immediately. Report any suspicious activities.
4. Children’s Safety: Always make sure that matches and lighters are out of reach from where children can have access. When near a pool or the beach, children must be supervised at all times. Never allow children to play with or handle fireworks.
5. Enjoy: Being safe and protecting your loved ones is key to being able to enjoy your long weekend. With a few extra steps and precautions you can ensure that a preventable accident does not happen. Happy 4th of July!
Reza Torkzadeh is a California lawyer whose practice is dedicated to representing consumers. His book, Accidents Happen But Who’s Going to Pay the Bills (Pigeon Lake Publishing) offers consumers an inside look into the world of what is often complex civil and personal injury laws in California. Accidents Happen will be available in bookstores everywhere later this summer.
