Several United States Senators, including Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, have proposed a bill, called the Sensible Taxation and Equity Promoted (STEP) Act.
What Does the STEP Act Do?
STEP Act would allow individuals to exclude up to $1 million in unrealized capital gains from tax, which are the potential profits from an asset, as well as to pay the tax in installments over a 15-year period for capital gains that apply to any illiquid asset like a farm or business. See below for more details on how illiquid assets affect the process.
An Example to Help Further Explain:
To better understand how the STEP Act works, here is an example: if someone dies holding $7 million in property for which they paid $4 million for, they would only pay taxes on $1 million of that $2 million gain. Additionally, if someone dies holding $3 million in property assets for which they paid $2 million for, none of that $1 million gain would be taxable.
Would The STEP Act Affect Retirement?
Currently, it seems that assets held in a retirement account would not be subject to capital gain taxes under this Act.
Would The STEP Act Affect Gifts and Bequests?
Currently, it seems that gifts and bequests would be exempt from the capital gain taxes under this Act.
How does STEP Act Work During an Individuals Lifetime?
During an individual’s lifetime, any completed transfer to a trust or to any individual other than a spouse will allow for the first $100,000 of cumulative gain to be tax free. However, any excess will be subject to a transfer tax after the first $100,000. Second, this Act will eliminate the ability to use trusts to transfer property or sell other assets. Non-grantor trusts, which is a trust where the grantor retains certain powers over the trust, would have to report gain on all of their appreciated assets every 21 years. Third, this Act would require trusts more than $1 million of assets or more than $20,000 of gross income to provide additional information to the IRS, including a balance sheet, income statement, and list all trustees, grantors, and beneficiaries.
What Transfers Are Exempt from The STEP Act?
Items transferred to a spouses, charitable trusts, qualified disability trusts, charity, and cemetery trusts are exempt from the tax.
Is Illiquid Property Affected by STEP Act?
Illiquid property is property that is not easily sold. Common examples of illiquid property include businesses and farms. For STEP Act purposes, the law will affect transfers of illiquid property. Thus, property owners can pay the tax over a 15-year period. It would be interest only for up to 5 years and then 10 equal payments for the remaining 10 years. However, selling the property would require payment in full. KAASS LAW guides you through the STEP Act with expert legal advice tailored to your needs.
The Impact of the STEP Act on Businesses and Farms
A particular focus of the STEP Act is the impact on illiquid assets such as:
Farms
Small businesses
Owners of such assets will be able to spread their capital gains tax liability over 15 years. This is a relief to those who own such businesses where the value of the assets may make it difficult to sell. This will allow owners of farms or businesses to avoid immediate tax consequences. Instead, they will be able to pay taxes gradually. This allows them to continue to operate their business or farm without serious financial hardship. However, when the asset is sold, the tax is paid in full. This also helps owners avoid asset sales that could result in the loss of the asset.
Benefits and Risks for Asset Owners
The STEP Act will provide owners with significant tax relief in the event of the death of the asset owner. It allows assets to pass without paying capital gains tax if they are worth less than $1 million. This innovation will be an important step in preserving family businesses and farms. It will allow for long-term succession planning without significant financial loss. It is important to note, however, that the transition to a 15-year capital gains tax system may present certain risks. If market conditions change or the owner's financial situation deteriorates, meeting tax obligations may become problematic. It is also important that asset owners properly plan and document all their transactions. This will help avoid potential legal exposure.
How the STEP Act Affects the Taxation of Asset and Debt Transfers
The STEP Act limits the use of trusts and other wealth transfer instruments. This may make it difficult to transfer assets between families or between businesses. It is important to consult with professional legal counsel to avoid tax liability issues.
Consult with KAASS LAW
To learn more about how the STEP Act may affect your tax situation, contact KAASS LAW. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand how the new laws may affect your assets and assist you in developing an effective tax planning strategy.
A common carrier is an individual or business that advertises to the public that it is available for hire to transport people or property in exchange for a fee. A typical example is Uber or Lyft services.
What are the Responsibilities of Common Carriers?
A common carrier must exercise the utmost care and be careful so as to protect their passengers on board. Additionally, the driver of Uber/Lyft ride is responsible to warn fellow passengers should there be any potentially dangerous condition they know of that may harm the passengers on board. For example, an Uber driver should warn their passenger if one of the seatbelts in the car is not properly working so that the passenger may use another seatbelt instead.
What Are Some Examples of Common Carrier Responsibilities?
Common carrier responsibilities ensure the safety of passengers as well as others that are sharing the road. Some examples of responsibilities include:
Treating passengers with civility.
Providing a safe vehicle that is suitable for the assigned duties.
Warning passengers of known dangers that exist in the type of vehicle they are operating.
What is the Difference Between Partnership Dispute and Shareholder Dispute?
According to the Corporation Code of California, the types of corporate structure within Californian jurisdiction are divided into two broad categories:
Corporations; and
Partnerships
The persons who have formed partnerships are known as partners, while shareholders are persons who own one of the shares of a corporation. Therefore, the differences arising among the partners/shareholders within partnership/corporation are referred to as partnership and shareholder disputes.
Why Do Partnership and Shareholder Disputes Occur?
When the business involves two or more people, sooner or later the disagreements between them become inevitable. Partners/shareholders usually succeed in ironing out the differences based on mutual understanding given the common business interest. Unlike it, sometimes disagreements have deep roots full of possible grave consequences for the business. Such disagreements may refer to many different circumstances in connection with the collision of business interests, opposite ideas, breaches, etc.
When Partnership and Shareholder Disputes Are Faced?
The practice shows that more frequently the factors described below do cause or at least contribute to such disputes:
California Vehicle Code does not have any limitations with regards to the age of drivers, that's why it is easy to notice both young and old drivers on roads. However, senior-aged drivers can have more problems while driving and can cause more car accidents. The reasons for the above mentioned are very simple-the physical conditions of the elderly drivers do not let to drive more carefully. For example, a driver of a senior age can suffer from problems with eyesight, thus can fail to notice any marks and signs on the roads. Not hearing the traffic can also become a problem and lead to car accidents.
At What Age Does California Require Drivers to Renew Their Drivers License?
California law requires drivers that are 70 years or older to renew their drivers license.
What are California's Driver’s License Renewal Requirements?
As mentioned above, you must complete the driving license renewal process in person to allow the DMV to evaluate your condition before deciding. The DMV may require the elderly driver to undergo a medical evaluation to assess their physical and mental condition. The medical evaluation shall include:
It is a common issue both for ordinary citizens and public figures, as well as companies to suffer harm to their reputation. California law allows them to sue for compensation of such damages. The law classifies the damages to reputation into several groups, which include:
defamation (libel or slander)
invasion of privacy laws, which includes disclosure of private facts of the person
business/commercial disparagement
Libel & Slander: How is Defamation Regulated Under California Law?
Defamation is the spread of false statements, which is done to cause damage to one's reputation. Slander is the disclosure of such statements verbally and libel is such disclosure, which is done in writing.
What are the Elements for Defamation?
The elements a plaintiff must establish to successfully sue a third party for defamation are the following:
An intentional publication of a statement of fact;
Car accidents, unfortunately, happen every day and cause damages to both the vehicle leading to negative economic consequences to drivers but also their life and health. Car accidents are caused by different reasons such as hydroplane car accidents, accidents involving elderly drivers, and ordinary accidents happening because of the negligence of the drivers. One of the types of car accidents is defective tire accidents.
Common Types of Tire Defects
Manufacturing defects
Manufacturing defects are related to such issues, which, arising during production, make the tire differ from particular specifications.
Design defects
Design defects are considered to be in place if the tire doesn't perform as safely as it can be expected by an ordinary customer and place risk of danger on the latter.
Warning defects
In the case of the manufacturer, the designer does not provide instructions, safety warnings to the use of the tires and lead them to cause damages, it is considered that the tire had a warning defect.
When police officers pull a driver over for suspicion of drunk driving, the breathalyzer is one of the most common tools used to determine whether the driver was in fact driving under the influence. A driver must blow into the breathalyzer test, which then determines the driver's blood alcohol content. Unfortunately, using a breathalyzer may result in false positives due to a number of factors that can throw the machine off. Below are some of the more common factors.
Metabolism and Breathalyzer Test
Your metabolism rate can also adversely affect a breathalyzer reading. For example, if your metabolism is slow, then your body may take longer to absorb the alcohol, and the breathalyzer reading may appear to be higher than the actual amount of alcohol in your blood stream.
Residual Alcohol in the Mouth
The breathalyzer is made to detect alcohol in the mouth. Unfortunately, the machine cannot distinguish when the driver consumed the alcohol. Thus, traces of alcohol in the mouth, absorbed from food in between the teeth or even mouthwash may show a higher reading of blood alcohol content.
Rules for Breathalyzer Use and Allowable Mistakes by Law Enforcement Officers
It is important to understand that there are strict rules regarding the use of a breathalyzer by law enforcement officers. Failure to follow these rules may be grounds for excluding the test results from evidence in court. For example, a police officer must observe a suspect for at least 15 minutes before administering the test. During this time, the driver may not:
Getting compensation for medical bills and expenses is the first thing that comes to anyone's mind after an suffering injuries from an auto accident. Usually, the at fault party responsible for the accident or the injuries should be liable for your medical expenses. However, they do not usually pay compensation immediately after the accident. To better understand the medical bill's compensation process, let's examine it part by part.
How Get Reimbursement for Medical Bills Following an Auto Accident?
As discussed, the liable party or their insurer is responsible for your medical bills, but they typically don't compensate immediately. If you're waiting for a settlement or trial, your insurance company—private or government—can pay your bills. However, there are also common causes, when the injured party does not have health insurance.
What to Do if You Don’t Have Health Insurance and You Were Involved in an Accident and Need Medical Treatment?
The legal regulations allow giving discount or payment plans to uninsured parties or to any person "whose income does not exceed 350% of federal poverty level" Another option is "medical lien". It lets the healthcare provider receive payment from the personal injury case's judgment or settlement. This mechanism lets the patient pay after resolving the case. However, few hospitals or medical organizations will agree to this scheme, as they risk not receiving payment if the case fails. This scheme can also be risky for you as if you do not succeed with your case, you shall be liable for the remaining part of the expenses. If you have insurance but doubt whether you should use it or give a medical lien, it is recommended to use the insurance. If you use it, the medical help providers cannot charge you in full rate, exceeding your contract rate. Also, in the case of insurance, you have more options for healthcare providers to choose from. To sum up, choose your insurance unless you lack it or your insurance doesn't cover the services you need.
While, many people may enjoy rainy weather, rainy weather also becomes a problem for drivers and often times lead to traffic accidents. Particularly, rainy weather is a reason for most hydroplaning accidents.
What is a Hydroplaning Auto Accident?
Hydroplaning is a term describing "sliding and skidding" of a vehicle across a wet surface. It also means the vehicle’s tires contact more water, causing them to displace and lose traction. This causes drivers to lose control over the brakes of the vehicle.
Are Hydroplaning Accidents Only Caused by Water or Rainy Weather Conditions?
The main cause of the accidents is bad weather. However, there is also another reason for such accidents. Mechanical reasons can also cause them. Particularly, poor tire tread or poor tire pressure can lead to failure to keep control over the car. Among such factors, a driver's negligence can cause car accidents. Particularly, drivers must not exceed the speed of a vehicle in bad weather conditions, and failing to slow down can lead to a hydroplane accident. However, others can also be responsible for the accident, which is a ground for the driver to seek compensation for damages.
Other Negligent Parties in Hydroplane Accidents
Aside from the negligent party, road defects can often cause hydroplane accidents. As such, the government may also be an at-fault party in hydroplane accidents if there was a defect in the road. The government must design and construct roads to maintain safety and prevent dangerous road incidents. In the event you believe that a hydroplane accident was caused by defective road conditions, you must file a within 6 months of the accident with the appropriate government agency. Other drivers' negligence can also lead to the occurrence of hydroplane accidents.
Have you ever thought that there are special requirements for building stairs or stairwells? Almost everyone has slipped on stairs and even fell, some of us have got serious injuries and some of us, fortunately, don't break any bones. Is it possible to get compensation for being damaged in a stairway accident or what has happened is only your fault?
Who is Responsible for a Stairway Accident?
As mentioned already, there are special requirements for stairs under California Residential Code. These requirements concern the width and height of such stairs, tread depth, slip resistance, etc. This means that if the constructor fails to meet the requirements or the house owner doesn't maintain the stairs clean and in good repair, the house owner may be responsible for the accidents. Thus, the stair accident claims shall be based on negligence or product liability of:
the construction companies;
property owners;
designers or architects.
Let’s examine the grounds for the liability of each of them.
1. Manufacturers/Sellers/Constructors Liability for Stairway Injury
Giving passengers proper accommodations including a place for the disabled or elderly to sit.
Driving in a safe manner.
Screening and ensuring proper training for their employees.
Can a Common Carrier be Held Liable for the Passenger’s Injuries?
A common carrier can hold responsibility for injuries a passenger sustains. The idea here is that when an individual becomes a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, the passenger is essentially putting themselves under the Uber or Lyft driver’s control. Thus, the driver of Uber or Lyft has a special duty of care towards the passengers that board Uber or Lyft. Typically, proving negligence of a common carrier means showing that the Uber or Lyft driver violated the law or by showing that the driver failed to act reasonably in using care and diligence expected of a cautious Uber or Lyft driver.
How to Prove Common Carrier Negligence?
To establish common carrier liability, the injured party must prove these key elements:
Existence of a duty of care: the carrier has a duty to ensure the safety of the passenger
Breach of that duty: the carrier failed to exercise due care
Causation: the actions of the carrier directly caused the injury
Actual damages: the passenger suffered actual physical, emotional, or financial harm
For example, if an Uber driver ran a red light and caused an accident, this could be direct evidence of a breach of the duty of care.
When is a Transportation Company not Liable?
There are times, however, when a common carrier may not be liable. For example:
Force majeure: if the injury was caused by an unforeseen natural disaster
Third party conduct: if the injury was caused by a third party
Passenger’s fault: if the passenger's own conduct was negligent
However, even if the passenger is partially at fault, California has a comparative negligence rule. This means that the court may apportion some of the fault between the parties.
What are The Damages in Common Carrier Cases?
Passengers injured as a result of a common carrier's negligence may be able to recover for:
Medical expenses
Lost income due to injury
Emotional suffering
Lost earning capacity
Pain and suffering
In some cases, punitive damages may be available if it can be shown that the transportation company intentionally disregarded safety.
Liability of Uber and Lyft as Businesses
These companies may be held liable in certain situations. For example:
If Uber hired a driver without proper background checks
If Uber failed to suspend a driver after complaints of aggression
If the company's app malfunctioned, causing a dangerous situation on the road
As you can see, Uber and Lyft are not only required to vet their drivers, but also to ensure that their services are functioning properly. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in legal liability for the companies, in addition to the drivers themselves.
Lawsuits and Limitations
It is important to remember that California has strict statutes of limitations for personal injury lawsuits:
2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit
6 months if the defendant is a government transportation agency
Failure to seek legal counsel in a timely manner may result in the loss of your right to compensation. That is why it is important to contact an experienced attorney immediately after the incident.
Uber/Lyft Accident Attorneys
If you or someone you know has been injured in an Uber or Lyft ride, contact our Los Angeles UBER accident lawyer at (310) 943-1171. Our attorneys can provide you with any sort of legal assistance you require.
Get Legal Help from KAASS LAW
If you have been injured while riding with Uber, Lyft, or another transportation company, seek help immediately. The attorneys at KAASS LAW are experienced in transportation negligence cases and are ready to stand up for your rights. We can help you get fair compensation and guide you through every step of the legal process. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kyD1x6BCMWs
Which Situation May Serve As an Example of Partnership/Shareholder Dispute?
In some cases, there are laws aimed at resolving shareholder disputes within the legal procedure. For instance, in the process of voluntary dissolution of a corporation, the minority shareholder’s rights may be violated while distributing corporation assets to the shareholders entitled thereto, so they may fight it by the legal tools vested by the Corporation Code of California. In particular, according to the latter, upon the petition of shareholders who hold shares representing 5 percent the court may take jurisdiction over the voluntary winding-up proceeding if that appears necessary for the protection of any parties. The court, if it assumes jurisdiction, may make such orders as to any matters concerning the winding up of the affairs of the corporation and for the protection of its shareholders. In short, the shareholder dispute described above could be resolved by the interference of a court for the protection of the shareholder rights.
How Partnership and Shareholder Disputes Are Resolved?
There is a range of methods to resolve such disputes. Among others, they may include:
Shareholders settle on their own;
A shareholder agreement may prescribe respective mechanisms of resolution for certain situations;
Alternative dispute resolution, such as arbitration or mediation;
Court proceedings;
Applying to an attorney to settle the issue with the opponent privately.
We believe that the most effective and practical way would be entrusting an attorney to reach a settlement in conditions best for your interests.
Get Help For Partnership and Shareholder Disputes
If you need legal assistance when you find settling such disputes is beyond your powers, we invite you to contact an attorney at KAASS LAW at (310) 943-1171 and speak to our Glendale business attorney to assist with the process.
vision test (it is required to have 20/40 vision),
the elderly driver must also pass a written test as part of the driving skills check-up.
What are the Grounds to Suspend the Driving License?
The following medical conditions can be a reason to suspend your driving license:
disorders leading to “loss of consciousness”,
disorders, which made you have such lapses in the past 3 years and this can be repeated,
other medical disorders, which can have a negative impact on your driving abilities (even diabetes can be considered as such).
The DMV also considers the medications elderly people use to treat illnesses, as their side effects can cause drowsiness and dizziness, impairing driving.
What Other Sources Can DMV Have to Assess Your Physical or Mental Conditions?
The common sources which DMV has to assess driving conditions of the elderly person can be:
concerned friends, family members, or even other private citizens,
law enforcement officers, who noticed the elderly drivers in conducting violations,
doctors must inform patients about problems that can lead to “lapses of consciousness” as required by law.
What is the Procedure for The DMV to Decide on Your Physical or Mental Conditions?
In the event there are threatening physical or mental conditions, the DMV can ask you to submit a DMV driver medical evaluation regarding your medical history with your doctor. Another option is to ask for re-examination (including a driving performance test).
Is There a Way to Challenge License Suspension?
Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 14100, you can challenge the revocation at DMV administrative hearings. The period for such a request is 10 days after receiving the notice of revocation. If the hearing result is unsatisfactory and the license does not renew, the next step involves the department reviewing the case. The period for submitting for this review is 15 days after receiving the decision. In any case, you have the right to challenge the decision in court if neither the 14100 hearing nor the department review gives any result. The period is:
35 days if you want to go to court after the hearing,
95 days after you receive the decision of department review.
What Can Older Drivers Do to Keep Their License?
There are a number of steps older drivers can take to keep their license. First and foremost:
have regular medical exams
follow the doctor's recommendations
This will allow you to monitor your health and identify potential problems early. Older drivers are also advised to have their vision checked in a timely manner. Be sure to wear corrective lenses if necessary. In addition, it is important to avoid taking medications while driving that cause:
drowsiness
dizziness
How Can I Improve My Chances of Passing a DMV Test?
To successfully pass a DMV recertification, a driver should prepare in advance. You can take additional training at a driving school or take a few lessons with an instructor. It's also a good idea to study the current rules of the road and take practice tests.
Can I Have My License Restricted and Still Drive?
In some cases, the DMV may impose restricted driving conditions instead of suspending a driver's license altogether. For example, a driver may only be allowed to drive during daylight hours. Such restrictions allow you to maintain your mobility while minimizing the risk to public safety. Contact KAASS LAW for advice and representation.
Get Legal Help
Experienced and professional legal assistance can help you to challenge the DMV decisions and renew your license-restoring your right of driving. We invite you to contact KAASS LAW at (310) 943-1171 for a free consultation on your case and further assistance.
That has a natural tendency to injure or which causes “special damage"; and
The defendant's fault in publishing the statement amounted to at least negligence
What is the Difference Between Defamation “Per Se” and Defamation “Per Quod”?
Under California law defamation is "per se" is statements that are damaging on its face without the need of further explanations. An example of defamation per se includes for instance a false accusation that someone committed a crime or is unfit to practice in their particular profession. In case defamation is "per quod", the victim shall prove that the spread of a false statement causes damages. Examples of such damages can include lost profits, employment, negative consequences, a decrease of customers for a business, etc.
What is Public Disclosure of Private Facts?
Under California law, public disclosure of private facts is a form of invasion of privacy. To get compensation for damages, the plaintiff must prove the following:
the fact, which was disclosed, was private;
the fact was disclosed to third parties;
such disclosure can be “offensive for a reasonable person”;
such disclosure “was not of legitimate concern”.
An example of public disclosure of private facts include publishing statements of your best friend's diagnosis or some intimate content to public media without his/her consent. The court decides the existence of a "private act" on a case-by-case basis, based on what an ordinary person considers private and offensive if disclosed. Physical persons have the right to sue for such kind of harm in one year from the date of disclosure.
What is Business Disparagement?
Business disparagement refers to:
making negative and false statements regarding business;
the statements can cause financial harm to the business.
For example, a supermarket publishes information in a public newspaper that its competitor’s products do not comply with the applicable governmental standards.
Statue of Limitation for Business Disparagement
A corporation has 2 years to file an action for compensation of disparagement after the statements' publishing and dissemination. The plaintiff shall prove the existence of the following elements to seek compensation of damages:
the published statements are not true;
the statement communicates to third parties.
they resulted in causing harm to the business;
the statements were disrespectful and were related to the name and/or products of the business;
the person who was engaged in the dissemination of such statements knew that it was false but disregarded it as if it was true.
The dissemination of such statements can be conducted both orally and in writing. You can prove the loss of income in business disparagement by showing invoices, tax returns, and bank account statements of the company. For harm to reputation victims mostly recover such damages as:
loss of income (business income) whether direct or indirect
the amounts spent on restoring damages caused to reputation.
Available Damages and Remedies for Defamation in California
California law provides victims of defamation not only the right to recover damages, but also other remedies. In addition to economic damages, plaintiffs may seek compensation for emotional distress. This includes:
Stress
Anxiety
Loss of reputation
Loss of public confidence
In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded. These are awarded to punish the guilty party and to deter similar actions in the future. However, in order for the court to grant such a claim, the plaintiff must prove malice on the part of the defendant. In addition to monetary damages, the court may award injunctive relief. This means that the defendant must stop spreading false information. It is important to note that defamation is especially important in the digital media age. Lies posted on the Internet can spread quickly and cause significant damage. Therefore, if such publications are identified, it is important to contact a qualified attorney immediately.
Get in Touch with a California Defamation Attorney
If your or a loved one's believe that you have suffered defamation by a third party we invite you to contact our Los Angeles Personal Injury attorneys at KAASS LAW (310) 943-1171 for a free consultation.
As discussed above, if it is believed that the case of an accident arose out of a defective tire, the liable party of said accident may include:
designer of the tire
manufacturer
tire repair shop
used tire sellers
the driver who drove the vehicle knowing that it has tire defects and that fact can lead to a car accident
How to Prove that the Defects of a Tire was the Reason for the Accident
Generally, to prove that the defect of a tire was the reason for the accident, an qualified expert would testify in the form of expert testimony. Common examples that the expert would need to testify to includes:
the tire was defective
the defects of a tire caused the accident
how the defects caused this accident
You shall also prove that you used the tire in a foreseeable manner and the defects occurred before your use of the vehicle. Expert's opinion shall also assist you with this evidence.
Is it Possible to File a Wrongful Death Claim Due to a Defective Tire?
Family members are entitled to file such lawsuits and receive compensation. The family members having such rights are:
spouse, domestic partner of the victim,
children and/or grandchildren.
Other common losses
burial and funeral expenses,
loss of earnings of the victim,
legal fees
What Damages Can be Compensated in a Defective Tire Lawsuit?
Compensation in a defective tire lawsuit can include the following:
medical expenses, future medical treatment including hospital expenses;
lost earning ability and loss of wages, lost income;
judicial expenses
The defendant can bring different arguments supporting his position, such as that the tires were affected not by his fault but by your negligent use. For this reason, it is essential to receive professional assistance and consult an experienced attorney.
Call a Defective Tire Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been in a defective tire accident, contact our Los Angeles Personal Injury attorney at (310) 943-1171 for a free consultation and case review. Our attorneys will evaluate the details of your case and let you know what to expect and how you can proceed.
Violation of this requirement may result in erroneous results as residual alcohol may distort the readings. In addition, the officer must be certified to use the device. And the device itself must be registered and tested for proper functioning. Otherwise, the defense attorney may question the validity of the data obtained.
Blood Chemical Test as Alternative Evidence
In the event of a dispute over the accuracy of a breathalyzer reading, a second chemical blood test is available. This method is considered more accurate and can reveal discrepancies between the reading and the actual blood alcohol content. If the blood test shows a lower alcohol level, it can be used in court in the defendant's favor. An attorney may also request access to the maintenance records of a particular instrument. If you don’t calibrate the instrument on time, the court may rule the evidence inadmissible.
The Right to Refuse Testing
Although California adheres to the principle of implied consent to take a breathalyzer test, a driver has the right to refuse to take the test. However, doing so may result in administrative consequences. Including automatic license suspension for up to one year. At the same time, refusal can be used as an argument against the driver in court, although it is not direct evidence of guilt. If you suspect that the breathalyzer was defective, the presence of a refusal does not deprive you of the right to defend yourself. A qualified attorney will be able to present arguments on your behalf and minimize possible risks.
Violation of Constitutional Rights During a Traffic Stop
You should also consider whether your rights were respected during the stop. If the police did not have a reasonable basis for the stop, any evidence subsequently obtained may be considered inadmissible. For example, the lack of evidence of a traffic violation may be grounds to challenge the legality of the police action.
Driver has Health Issues
Certain health issues of a driver may throw a breathalyzer test off and show a false high blood alcohol content. For example, a driver with diabetes experiencing hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, may trigger a false high blood alcohol content on the breathalyzer.
Breathalyzer Machine Malfunction
Authorities must properly maintain the breathalyzer to produce accurate results. This means that authorities must constantly recalibrate breathalyzers. Thus, should a police officer fail to calibrate the machine, false high blood alcohol content may result.
Glendale DUI Attorney
If the police accused you of driving under the influence based on a breathalyzer reading, don’t give up. There are numerous circumstances that can affect the validity of the test results and the course of a criminal case. The attorneys at KAASS LAW can help you analyze the legality of the test. call (310) 341-711 for a consultation. Our DUI attorneys will help determine your case and whether you have any feasible defenses.
What Medical Expenses are Covered After a Car Accident?
Medical expenses after a car accident can include a wide range of services. For example, they may include not only the initial hospitalization, but also subsequent recovery:
Physical therapy
Medications
Outpatient follow-up
Post-injury psychotherapy
In the case of serious injuries, there may also be long-term costs, including:
The need for ongoing care
Purchase of medical equipment
Home modifications
Can The Injured Person Recover The Cost of Future Medical Services?
In a personal injury case, it is possible to seek compensation for anticipated future medical needs. To do this, you will need to provide a doctor's opinion as to the length and cost of treatment. For example, if the injured person will need surgery six months after the accident, his or her attorney can include that amount in the claim.
What Should I Do if The Damage Exceeds My Insurance Coverage?
In such a case, the injured person has the right to file a civil lawsuit against the driver or other responsible parties personally. Alternatively, you can use your underinsured motorist coverage, if available. However, this can be difficult in practice if the defendant does not have enough assets to cover the claim.
Why Can't You Wait Too Long?
The statute of limitations in California personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation. It is important to start the process early in order to preserve all evidence and file a timely claim.
How to Pay the Health Insurer Back?
Insurance companies have subrogation rights for a personal injury claim. Subrogation right means that your insurance company can recover your medical expenses from the party who was liable for the injuries. Your insurer shall also have the right to sue the liable party on your behalf.
How to Claim Compensation for Your Medical Expenses Due to an Auto Accident?
Claiming compensation for medical expenses is not an easy process. You still need a professional attorney to assist you with evaluations of your case, negotiations for a larger settlement. Professional legal assistance is crucial if you seek compensation for pre-existing injuries that worsened as a result of the accident.
Legal Assistance from KAASS LAW
The attorneys at KAASS LAW have extensive experience handling auto accident and medical expense cases. We can help you accurately calculate all of your costs and properly file a claim for compensation. Call us at (310) 943-1171 to schedule a free consultation and start protecting your rights.
What Should I Do If I was Involved in a Hydroplane Auto Accident?
Cases involving dangerous roads are specific and complex. Proving that a badly constructed road caused your accident can be very challenging. In other words, it can be difficult, but at the same time essential to prove the direct link between your accident and negligence of, for instance, governmental bodies. Collecting evidence after an auto accident is important. As such, you should do the following:
inspect the road, take photos and videos
collect details of witnesses of the accident, if any
engage experts and investigators to explore the causes and reasons of the accident and provide a professional overview and conclusion
What Compensation Can be Expected for Injuries Due to a Hydroplane Auto Accident?
The court usually evaluates compensation based on the accident's impact on your health and financial conditions. In the event you suffered injuries due to a hydroplane car accident, you can expect to receive compensation for:
medical expenses, which you had for recovery from damages caused because of the accident
loss of wages because of inability to work for a certain period
lifetime medical care in case there has been a catastrophic accident
other expenses related to the repair of the car.
Based on the complexity of the case, it is mandatory to have a professional lawyer on your side to assist with the evidence-gathering process and support your claim.
Aquaplaning Prevention and Insurance Considerations
While many aquaplaning accidents occur unexpectedly, there are preventative measures that can be taken. They can significantly reduce the risk of aquaplaning. Check tire pressure and tire wear regularly. It is also important to avoid sharp turns and braking on wet roads, and to slow down at the first sign of rain. This is when the asphalt becomes particularly slippery due to the mixture of water and road dust.
The Role of Insurance
In California, insurance companies play a key role in personal injury claims. However, insurance adjusters often try to minimize their payouts. Especially when it comes to disputed fault. It is important to remember that your insurance company's claims can be used against you. For this reason, it is highly recommended that you first consult with an attorney.
Statute of Limitations
Aquaplaning accident victims should be aware of the statute of limitations. In California, it is two years from the date of the accident. If you are filing a lawsuit against a government entity, you must first file a claim within six months. Failure to meet these deadlines may disqualify you from receiving compensation. Contact KAASS LAW if you have any questions regarding aquaplaning. We are ready to help you protect your rights and seek justice.
Seek Help from an Auto Accident Attorney If You Were Injured in a Hydroplaning Accident
If you or a loved one have been injured in a hydroplaning car accident, we invite you to contact KAASS LAW (310) 943-1171 for a free consultation with a Los Angeles auto accident attorney today. Our attorneys will help you determine the liable party and proceed accordingly.
If the stairs haven't met the requirements and the injury results from defective stair surfaces or rails, the manufacturer or seller is liable for the defects and injuries under product liability laws. In other words, under such laws, the liability arises for anyone, who:
constructs stairways;
manufactures stairways;
designs stairways,
sells or distributes stairways
What are the Elements That the Plaintiff Must Prove for Liability to Attach?
In order for liability to attach on a stairway manufacture, designer, seller, distributor or contractor the Plaintiff must prove the following elements:
the defendant was the manufacturer/designer/seller of stairways;
the defendant owed a duty of care to the injured party which was breached;
the stairway was defective after leaving the possession of the stairway manufacture, designer or seller; and
the accident occurred due to the defects of stairs and not the negligence of the plaintiff
Stairway Accidents Caused by a Constructor’s Employee
Often times, it can be more problematic to recover damages from an employee of a company, rather than the construction company itself. However, the corresponding legal regulations provide the possibility to recover damages from the employers for negligence of the employees, because the employer shall be vicariously liable for such actions. It is just essential to prove that the negligent employee while constructing the stairs, was acting within the scope of his employment.
2. Liability of the Property Owner of the Defective Stairway
Can a property owner be liable for the damages to the victim? Yes, a property owner has a duty of care for keeping the property in a safe condition. Duty of care is shown by either fixing the issues with the stairway or at least warning the persons about the problems. Thus, if such actions have not been conducted and as a result, an accident took place, the property owner will be held liable for compensating the damages. Generally, the owner's insurance policy covers such compensation. However, if the policy is insufficient, the owner must pay "from their own pockets." The following factors are often taken into account for determining the owner's liability:
the likelihood and seriousness of injury because of the defects of the stairs;
the degree of control over the property and the burden to take measures to avoid the risks of the accident;
direct cause of injury by the owner’s negligence
What Remedies are Available for Stairway Accidents?
A injured party in a stairway slip and fall accident has a number of remedies. The injured party can receive compensation for the following expenses:
out of pocket expenses;
compensation for medical and ambulance expenses;
compensation for temporary or permanent loss of earning capacity;
compensation for funeral or burial expenses as well as loss of financial support in case of a wrongful death lawsuit filed by a surviving family member for a dead victim of stairway accidents.
Of course, often times, the insurance company will try to blame you for the occurred accident for at least sharing the expenses and not compensating you the whole amount. As such, collecting valuable evidence such as photos or videos of the stairway, details of witnesses of your stairway accident, your medical record of treatment after the accident is very essential. Getting professional legal assistance will help you to efficiently plan your steps for getting the compensation.
Los Angeles Premises Liability Attorney
If you or your loved one had a stairway accident, contact our Los Angeles premises liability attorneys today. KAASS LAW (310) 943-1171 for a free constellation and case review.