Suspected Drunk Driver Causes School Bus Collision

Yesterday afternoon five children were injured in a school bus crash, reportedly caused by a suspected drunk driver.  The accident occurred a little after 3:00 p.m. when a female driver made a left turn in the path of the bus at a Gardena intersection.  The 30-year-old driver of the Mitsubishi Eclipse was taken for a medical evaluation and was to be booked on suspicion of drunk driving.  According to the CHP officer investigating the accident, the woman had the odor of alcohol on her breath.  Fortunately, none of the injuries to the children or the bus driver were described as serious.

See the KTLA news story and video HERE.

Drunk driving accidents are far too common, and the one above is a perfect example of what happens.  A driver, who probably doesn't think they are impaired, makes a poorly calculated decision they can make a turn safely when in fact the oncoming vehicle (bus) was too close, causing the accident.  In this instance, the impact was severe enough to all but demolish the front of the bus and send it into a nearby building.  Everyone aboard the bus is fortunate the injuries were not more severe.  Now, the female driver of the Mitsubishi faces felony drunk driving charges (because of the injuries) and civil liability for her violation of the law.  If the driver is found guilty of a violation of the left turn law (California Vehicle Code Section 21801) and/or the drunk driving statute (California Vehicle Code Section 23152), her civil liability will have been likewise established by the doctrine of "negligence per se."

Compensation for the victims of drunk driving collisions should be an important concern for all Californians.  When an impaired driver carelessly causes a serious or fatal accident, they should be held accountable for the injuries and damages to the victims and those family members left behind.  An attorney with experience at handling DUI accident cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has more than 21 years years of experience handling traffic collision cases.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE 

CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been seriously injured in an accident caused by an impaired driver?

Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Hit-And-Run Victim In Buena Park Hospitalized

On Sunday afternoon, a pedestrian was run over by car in Buena Park in what appears to have been an intentional hit-and-run.  The incident was caught on video, and the Buena Park Police Department is actively investigating the collision.   According to news reports, the hit-and-run was reported just after 1:00 p.m. and officers responded to the scene at Orangethorpe Avenue and Campus Drive to find a 20-year-old victim in the street.  Police described the car as a gold, four-door compact sedan -- possibly a Mitsubishi or Infiniti -- with tinted windows.  The car sustained moderate damage to the front passenger-side windshield during the crash.  The victim was taken to UCI Medical Center and is expected to survive.  

Anyone with information on the car is asked to contact police at 714-562-3970.

See the KTLA news report and video footage HERE.

It is rare that an accident like the one above occurs without there being some motivation and/or intoxication on the part of the driver.  In this instance, from a review of the video, it appears the driver actually took aim and struck the pedestrian on purpose, before speeding away.  That driver, who will likely be identified, is facing very serious criminal charges for felony hit-and-run.  In addition to that, there is the civil liability of the driver for the injuries and damages the victim sustained.   One issue that inevitably arises in situations like this is one of insurance coverage.  Under California law, a driver cannot be insured for "willful acts".  Under California Insurance Code, § 533, an insurance company is not liable for a loss caused by a willful act of the insured.  In this case, the hit-and-run victim could be left with little or no compensation because of the statutory prohibition against such insurance coverage.  The victim's remedies will likely be against only the driver of the car and his personal assets, if any.

Compensation for the victims of hit-and-run accidents should be an important concern for all Californians. When a driver operates their vehicle in a reckless or intentional manner causing a serious or fatal accident and then flees the scene, they should be accountable for all of the injuries and damages they cause.   An attorney with experience at handling hit-and-run accidents can make a fair assessment of these claims. Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years years of experience handling auto and personal injury cases.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been injured or killed in an accident caused by a hit-and-run driver?

Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Hospital Fined After Poor Nursing Care Leads to Death

On Friday, it was announced that Southwest Healthcare System has been fined $100,000 by the California Department of Public Health for failures in procedures that led to the death of a baby during delivery.  According to an article in the Press Enterprise, this latest fine was imposed as a result of substandard nursing care that occurred at Rancho Springs Medical Center in Murrieta.  A delivery nurse failed to timely alert a physician when the nurse could not find a steady fetal heartbeat.  The baby was thereafter delivered by cesarean section but had no heartbeat and was not breathing.  After 30 minutes of resuscitation efforts, the baby was pronounced dead.

Read the full Press Enterprise article HERE.

Unfortunately, the scenario described above is not an unfamiliar one.  In a busy hospital setting, nursing neglect occurs, and it often happens during labor and delivery.  The failure to closely monitor a baby's heart rate (especially decelerations) sometimes occurs and leads to tragic results.  When a baby is in distress, and conservative measures have failed (such as repositioning the mother, etc.), then an emergent c-section becomes necessary to ensure the baby does not sustain significant oxygen deprivation (anoxia) and related brain or other injury. Oxygen deprivation during delivery can lead to brain injury, blindness, cognitive and learning disabilities, physical disabilities, and even death.  As in the case above, when the emergent delivery is necessary to prevent prolonged oxygen deprivation, and that delivery is delayed because of malpractice, the injured child and their family may be entitled to compensation for the resulting injuries and damages.

Compensation for victims of medical and nursing malpractice should be an important concern for all Californians. When a physician or nurse carelessly harms or kills a patient, they should be held accountable. An Orange County medical malpractice attorney with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has over 20 years of experience handling personal injury and medical malpractice cases, including just this type.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been the victim of nursing or medical error during labor and delivery?

Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above.This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Fatal Big Rig Crash In Sylmar

Early this morning one person was killed in a fiery crash on the 210 Freeway in Sylmar.  According to KTLA news, the accident involved a big rig and a driver traveling the wrong direction on the freeway.   The crash reportedly happened at about 2:15 a.m. on the westbound 210 at Roxford Street.  A UPS truck hauling two trailers was heading westbound when it encountered a compact sedan traveling the wrong way. The truck driver's evasive action was unfortunately unsuccessful, and the two vehicles collided.  Both drivers had to be extricated from their vehicles by emergency personnel, but the sedan driver was pronounced dead at the scene.  The truck driver was said to be OK.

See the KTLA story and photographs HERE.

This tragic accident is difficult to understand at this point.  There does not appear to be a logical explanation for the "wrong way" driver's actions.  When auto accidents occur because of a driver crossing into oncoming traffic or driving intentionally into opposing traffic, one of the first things that comes to mind is whether the driver was intoxicated.  From the news story above, we don't have any information a to what the driver was doing before apparently entering the freeway traveling the wrong direction.  This could have been an accident caused by something as simple as a momentary lapse of judgment.  However, collisions such as the one above are more frequently the result of intoxicated driving or attempted suicide.  It is now up to the CHP to do a complete accident investigation that will almost certainly include a medical/emotional profile on the sedan driver.

Compensation for the victims of serious or fatal traffic freeway accidents should be an important concern for all Californians.   When a driver negligently or intentionally causes a serious or fatal accident, they should be held accountable for the injuries and damages to the victims and those family members left behind.   An Orange County attorney with experience at handling auto accidents can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years years of experience handling freeway and other traffic accident cases.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been injured or killed in an accident caused by a negligent or reckless driver?

Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

UC San Diego Student Files Claim After DEA Arrest

A 23-year-old UC San Diego student has filed a 20 million dollar claim after he was taken into custody by the DEA and left in a cell unattended for five days.   According to KTLA news, the student, Daniel Chong, had been taken into custody in connection with a raid intended to snare those involved in an Ecstasy distribution operation.  Chong was thereafter forgotten in a County detention center for five days where he reportedly had to drink his own urine to survive.  After his discovery and as a result of his ordeal, Chong spent five days in the hospital, including three in the intensive care unit.

See the KTLA news story HERE.

Regardless of whether Chong was involved in the Ecstasy distribution operation, the failure of law enforcement to treat him humanely while in custody may expose the involved public entities to significant civil liability.  While the facts of how and why this happened are far from clear, it would seem the County of San Diego may share some responsibility for their apparent neglect in allowing a "prisoner" to remain in a cell with no food, water or toilet for a period of five days.  At a minimum, assuming this is an allegation that is proven by Chong later, the County would be liable for the neglect of their employees in allowing this to happen.  Additionally, such conduct under "color of law" might subject the County to liability for the deprivation of Chong's civil rights.  He has not been convicted of any crime, and the reported mistreatment would seem to rise to the level of "cruel and unusual" punishment, prohibited by the Federal Constitution.  All of this is to say nothing of the potential liability of the DEA for leaving someone they took into custody in this situation.

Compensation for the victims of civil rights violations by the police should be an important concern for all Californians. When someone who has been taken into custody is unnecessarily injured or killed by the police, the governmental entity should be held accountable for all of the injuries and damages sustained.  An Orange County personal injury attorney with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years of experience handling personal injury cases, including just this type.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE
CONSULTATION.

Have you or a family member been a victim of a civil rights violation?

Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Two Fatal Traffic Accidents In Orange County

Two separate accidents in Orange County on Tuesday night have taken two lives and left three others injured, one in critical condition.  In the City of Orange, a passenger in a Honda Civic was killed after being hit head-on by a Toyota Highlander on Lincoln Avenue near the intersection with Tustin Street.  According to the article in the Orange County Register, the driver of the Highlander was traveling eastbound on Lincoln before it veered into opposing traffic, hitting the Civic head-on.  The male passenger was pronounced dead at the scene, and both drivers were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.  The police are asking witnesses to the accident to call investigators at 714-744-7460

See the Orange County Register article, photographs and video HERE.

In the second Orange County accident, a 17-year-old Stanton boy was killed when struck from behind while helping to push a vehicle off the street in Anaheim.  The crash occurred at about 8:00 p.m. on West Cerritos Avenue near Magnolia Avenue.  The boy and an adult male were helping to push a Honda Civic out of the way because of street sweeping the following day.  A truck struck the boy and the Civic, but the adult was able to get out of the way.  The woman steering the Civic suffered serious head injuries and was taken to the hospital in critical condition.  The boy was also taken to the hospital, UCI Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.  The driver of the Honda Ridgeline remained at the scene, and it is unknown whether driver error played any role in the happening of this tragic accident.

See the Orange County Register article, photographs and video HERE.

Just about two weeks, it was reported that the number of traffic fatalities had actually over the last few years, both here in Orange County and around the State.  The two cases above are a tragic reminder that seemingly senseless accidents are still happening with alarming frequency.  While we don't yet know what caused the Highlander in the Orange accident to veer into opposing traffic, driver distraction or driver impairment via alcohol or drugs are potential causes.  Likewise, in the Anaheim accident, it is not known why the driver of the Highlander could not see the Civic and the two people pushing the car before colliding with deadly force.  Presumably it was dark in the area, but headlight illumination would be expected to reveal two pedestrians and a car ahead, in sufficient time to avoid an accident.

Compensation for the victims of serious or fatal traffic accidents should be an important concern for all Californians. When a driver carelessly causes a serious or fatal accident, they should be held accountable for the injuries and damages to the victim and their family.  An attorney with experience at handling Orange County traffic accidents can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years years of experience handling traffic accident cases.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been injured or killed in an accident caused by a careless or distracted driver?

Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Fatal Motorcycle Collision in Fontana

A motorcycle accident yesterday afternoon in the Inland Empire claimed the life of a 23-year-old rider.  The accident happened at the intersection of Arrow Route and Almond Avenue in the City of Fontana.  According to the article by the Press Enterprise, a driver was making a left turn from Almond onto Arrow when the collision occurred.  The motorcycle rider, Sergio Moral-Perez, was traveling west on Arrow when the collision occurred, and he apparently died at the scene.    The driver of the car and his passenger reportedly sustained minor injuries.  The investigation into the precise cause of the collision is continuing.

See the Press Enterprise story HERE.

While left turn accidents are not uncommon, this one seems difficult to understand.  The intersection where the accident occurred is flat and open.  There does not appear to be any impediment to the driver's ability to see Moral-Perez as he was traveling west on Arrow.  However, since the speed of the motorcycle is unknown, it remains to be seen how much time the driver had to see, perceive and react to the approaching bike.  The greater the speed of Moral-Perez on Arrow the less time it would take for him to reach the Almond Avenue intersection.  Drivers often make decisions based on perception and expectation of speed given traffic conditions and speed limits.  Only a complete accident reconstruction will enable investigators to determine fault for this tragic accident.

Compensation for the victims of motorcycle accidents caused by a reckless or careless driver or should be an important concern for all Californians. When a driver makes an unsafe turn and causes a serious or fatal accident, they should be held accountable. An Orange County auto accident lawyer with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims. Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years of experience handling auto and motorcycle accident cases.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been injured or killed in an accident caused by a driver making an unsafe turn?

Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Woman Killed at Victorville Intersection

Last night at about 6:30 p.m. a 50-year-old woman was fatally struck while crossing a street in the Inland Empire.  The fatal accident happened near the intersection of D Street and Sixth Street in Victorville.  According to CBS news, the victim was identified by authorities as Donna Clark.  The driver of the vehicle striking Clark, who was reportedly outside of the crosswalk, was a 28-year-old male who was not otherwise identified in the news report.  Following the accident, Clark was taken to a local hospital where she succumbed to her injuries.


See the CBS article HERE.


The accident above reportedly happened near the intersection of Sixth and D Streets in Victorville, which appears to be an intersection controlled only by stop signs on Sixth Street.  According to the Google Maps images, there are no traffic lights, and the crosswalk lines appear almost completely obliterated.  It is therefore possible Clark was actually walking within what used to be a clearly marked crosswalk or the driver striking Clark did not realize there was a pedestrian crossing at the intersection, contributing to the happening of the accident.  Since this accident happened after dark, it is important to know whether the driver had on his headlights, whether they were functioning and what speed the vehicle was traveling.  Since this area of roadway, in all directions, appears relatively flat and straight there may issues of driver attention that may play a role in the happening of the accident.


Compensation for the victims of intersection accidents caused by a careless or reckless driver should be an important concern for all Californians.  When a pedestrian is struck at or near an intersection and/or a crosswalk, the at-fault driver should be held accountable for the injuries and damages they cause.  An Orange County auto accident attorney with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years of experience handling pedestrian accident cases, including just this type. He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.


Have you or a loved one been seriously injured in a pedestrian accident caused by a negligent or inattentive driver?


Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Two Automobile Accidents In Orange County Cause Serious Injuries

A traffic collision this morning on the westbound 91 freeway overturned a Hyundai Sonata and injured a female passenger in the car.  According to a story in the Orange County Register, the accident was reported at 7:40 a.m., just west of North State College Boulevard.  Citing official sources, the Register story indicated that witnesses said a Toyota 4Runner made an unsafe lane change into the carpool lane and sideswiped the Sonata, causing it to overturn and come to rest near the retaining wall.  The other three vehicles damaged at about the same were possibly involved in a chain-reaction collision arising from the rollover.  


See the Orange County Register story and photographs HERE.


Last night, at about 7:30 p.m., a female pedestrian was critically injured when she was struck during a hit-and-run accident in Orange County.  According to the KTLA news story, the incident occurred on Bolsa Avenue, just west of Beach Boulevard, in the City of Westminster.  Police are still looking for two men who fled the scene after crashing the stolen SUV, a white Lexis.  The woman was struck on the sidewalk near a bus stop, and apparently the men in the Lexis fled on foot. The paramedics rushed the woman to UC Irvine Medical Center where she was listed in critical but stable condition.
See the KTLA story and photos HERE.


Automobile accidents like the ones above are unfortunately all too common.  Aside from issues of fault and recovery from the injuries sustained, nearly all cases of this type are impacted dramatically by the insurance policies, or lack thereof, of the parties involved.  For example, when the owner of a vehicle is injured in an accident, but he or she had no insurance on their car at the time, they are not entitled under California law to recover compensation for their pain and suffering.  Generally, the only valid claim they possess against the at-fault party is one for the economic losses sustained, medical expenses and lost wages.  Another scenario that is often present when an automobile accident occurs is a case in which the only applicable policy limits are inadequate to fully compensate the injured party for all of the injuries and damages sustained.  For example, in a recent accident in Orange County, a young driver turned left into the path of an oncoming vehicle occupied by three women, one of whom was very badly injured.  The worst injured passenger sustained an open (compound) fracture of the right arm for which surgery had to be performed.  The medical expenses related to the surgery totaled more than $60,000.00, but the young driver's policy had a $25,000.00 limit.  In the absence of other applicable insurance or the young driver having substantial personal assets (which was not the case), the badly injured passenger will unfortunately go without full compensation.


Compensation for the victims of automobile accidents caused by a careless or reckless driver should be an important concern for all Californians. When a party without fault is badly injured, the at-fault driver should each be held accountable for the injuries and damages they cause. An Orange County personal injury attorney with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.   Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years of experience handling automobile accident cases, including just this type.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.


Have you or a loved one been seriously injured in an automobile accident caused by a negligent or reckless driver?


Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Elderly Woman Drives Through Orange Business Injuring Four

A woman in her 90s crashed her vehicle into the patio of a doughnut shop in Orange earlier today, injuring herself and three others.  According to the article in the Orange County Register, the elderly driver was trying to back out of a parking space when the accident occurred.  Reportedly, the initial investigation revealed that the woman accidentally stepped on the gas pedal instead of the brake, causing her Cadillac Northstar to accelerate.  The accident happened at DK's Donuts located on Chapman Avenue.  The three men and the driver were taken to local hospitals, but their conditions were not immediately known.

See the Orange County Register and photographs article HERE. 

Elderly drivers can sometimes pose a serious risk when behind the wheel, although it is not the age of the driver alone that is problematic.  With age comes certain physical impairments that may increase the risk of an accident.  For example, drivers of any age are required to possess certain visual acuity before being issued a license to drive.  A driver's poor vision may subject them to a corrective lense restriction on their license.  Other age-related restrictions may include the following:

-  No freeway driving

-  Driving a vehicle with an additional right side mirror

-  Driving from sunrise to sunset (no nighttime driving)

-  Time of day restriction (for example, not during rush hour traffic)

-  Using adequate support to ensure proper driving position

-  Area restriction

-  Wearing bioptic telescopic lens when driving/restricted to driving from sunrise to sunset

See the California DMV website regarding Senior Driver restrictions HERE.

When the age of a driver contributes to physical limitations that may increase the danger while behind the wheel, the elderly driver's license should be restricted.  Unfortunately, the restrictions above do not take into account the diminution in perception-reaction time and hand-eye coordination that generally follow with aging.  Simply stated, if a driver (because of their age) has lost the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle, the driver's privilege to operate a vehicle should be terminated, for everyone's benefit.

Compensation for the victims of automobile accidents caused by a driver's physical impairment should be an important concern for all Californians. When an elderly driver operates their vehicle at in an unsafe manner, they should be held accountable for the injuries and damages they cause.  An Orange County injury trial lawyer with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.   Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years of experience handling automobile accident cases, including just this type.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been seriously injured in an accident with an elderly, impaired driver?

Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Colton Man Dies After Taser Incident

A 43-year-old man died on Sunday night following an altercation with police in which the man was shocked with a taser.  The subject, Hutalio Serrano, had been contacted by Colton police after a 9-1-1 called was placed, reporting a family disturbance.   According to a report by KTLA news, Serrano apparently refused to obey the officers' commands and became combative, resisting their efforts to calm him down.  During the altercation, an officer deployed his taser at least once on Serrrano without success.  It reportedly took three officers to subdue and handcuff Serrano who continued to resist even after he was restrained.  According to the news report, Serrano suffered some sort of medical emergency after being arrested and had to be transported to Loma Linda university Medical Center where he was pronounced dead a short time later.

See the KTLA news story and photographs HERE.

When an incident like the one occurs, the question of whether the amount of force used by the police was reasonable comes quickly to mind.  With a family disturbance call, officers are often thrust into violent situations.  however, the use of force used by police officers to overcome any violence directed at them must be reasonable.  'The 'reasonableness' of a particular use of force must be judged from the perspective of a reasonable officer on the scene, rather than with the 20/20 vision of hindsight.  From the description of the incident above, we simply do not know how much force was reasonable and whether deployment of a taser (perhaps multiple times) was warranted.  Beyond that,  where an officer intentionally or recklessly provokes a violent confrontation, if the provocation is an independent Fourth Amendment violation, he may be held liable for his otherwise defensive use of deadly force.  In other words, an officer may be liable for using deadly force if his own actions provoked (violence or an escalation in the violence) from the party being apprehended or arrested.

Compensation for the victims of excessive force by the police should be an important concern for all Californians. When someone being taken into custody is unnecessarily injured or killed by the police, the police department should be held accountable for all of the injuries and damages sustained. An Orange County civil rights attorney with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims. Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years of experience handling personal injury cases, including just this type.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a family member been a victim of police brutality?

Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Multi-Vehicle Crash in La Habra Leaves One Dead

According to media reports, a four-vehicle crash on Saturday night in La Habra has left one person dead and two suspects under arrest for felony hit-and-run.  The collision reportedly occurred at about 5:30 p.m. at the intersection of Cypress Street and Lambert Road.  The victim has been identified as 20-year-old, Joseph Quezada, who was transported from the scene to UCI Medical Center where he died from his injuries.   The accident involved a white Toyota 4-Runner, a black Nissan Xterra, a U-Haul truck and a blue Hyundai Accent that Quezada was driving.  The Orange County Register has reported that the driver and passenger of the U-Haul truck ran from the scene and were later caught by police officers.
Richard Ambriz, 18, of Santa Fe Springs and Dustin Lish, 19 of La Habra, were arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run.  The La Habra Police Department is still investigating the cause of the crash, and anyone who may have witnessed the accident is encouraged to call 562-905-9760.


See the Orange County Register story HERE. 


While the precise cause of this tragic crash is a mystery, those running from the scene have demonstrated what is generally regarded as "consciousness of guilt".  The flight of a person immediately after the commission of a crime, or after he is accused of a crime, is not sufficient in itself to establish his guilt, but is a fact which, if proved, may be considered by the jury in the light of all other proved facts in deciding whether a defendant is guilty or not guilty.  The weight to which this circumstance is entitled is a matter for the jury to decide.  In short, when a driver flees the scene of an accident an inference may be drawn that they were responsible for causing the accident and the injuries or death that resulted.  In the case above, the police will have to reconstruct the accident based on witness statements, skid marks, post-accident debris, points of rest of the vehicles and metal deformation of the vehicles.  This will enable them to determine speed, direction of travel, evasive action (if any) and whether a particular driver may have violated another driver's right of way.  On top of this reconstruction evidence, there will be the inferential evidence of flight, which should allow the police to assign responsibility for the accident and Quezada's death.


Compensation for the victims of automobile accidents caused by hit-and-run drivers should be an important concern for all Californians.  When a driver operates their vehicle in a negligent or reckless manner so as to cause a serious or fatal accident, they should be held accountable.  An Orange County auto accident lawyer with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years of experience handling Orange County automobile accident cases, including those involving wrongful death.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.


Have you or a loved one been injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident caused by a negligent, hit-and-run driver?


Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Pastor in Orange County Accused of Sexual Abuse of Two Boys

A pastor of an Orange County church has been accused of molesting two boys, both of whom are just 11 years old.  According to a story in the Orange County Register, the pastor of the Laguna Hills church, Oscar Perez, was arrested last weekend, and bail has now been set at 1 million dollars.  Perez is facing four felony counts (two as to each boy) and, if convicted, he could face up to life in prison.

Perez is accused of assaulting the boys at Perez' Lake Forest home, and apparently one of the alleged victims claims to have been abused during a sleepover.  According to court records cited by the Register, prosecutors accuse Perez of abusing one of the boys in July, and the other sometime between 2008 and September 2011.  Perez, identified as a bishop of the Old Catholic Church, rented space at an Episcopal church in Laguna Hills and celebrated Mass once a week, officials said. Spokesmen for the Episcopal and Roman Catholic dioceses said his church was not affiliated with them.  Authorities are asking anyone who believes they were a victim, or who has additional information on the case, to contact Supervising District Attorney Investigator Lou Gutierrez at 714-347-8794.

See the Orange County Register story HERE.

It is not clear from the story above how Perez managed to arrange time alone with the boys and whether his church affiliation had anything to do with that.  In general, the possibility exists that pedophiles will use any position of authority to gain legitimate access to young boys in order to seduce the more susceptible ones into sexual activity.  Unfortunately sex abuse in this context is more common than accidental deaths and serious injuries combined.   It is well recognized that children engaged in organized group overnight activities are at risk of foreseeable sexual abuse.  It is certain that there exists in our society the constant possibility that persons suffering from a lack of proper mental balance or normal decency might subject young people to sexual molestation.  This fact is often illustrated by mass media accounts of crimes against children.  The general feeling of the public that this problem does exist in a threatening way has led to the conclusion by many courts of this State that those charged with the care of children are obligated to guard against sexual abuse.  Liability generally follows where the abuse is foreseeable.

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Compensation for victims of sexual abuse and harassment committed by people in a position of authority should be an important concern for all Californians.  When an adult engages in sexual abuse of a child they should be held accountable, and their victims should be compensated.  An Orange County injury attorney with experience at handling sexual abuse cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has 20 years of experience handling personal injury and sexual misconduct cases, including just this type.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been a victim of sexual misconduct or abuse?

• Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above.This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter.  A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Motorcycle Accident in Aliso Viejo Results in Fatality

Over the weekend, a motorcyclist died after crashing with a SUV on Friday night.  According to a article in the Orange County Register, emergency personnel were called to City Lights Drive, north of Pacific Park Drive, just after 10 p.m. Friday after receiving reports of the collision.  The motorcyclist, identified as 23 year-old Ryan Macomber, was taken to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, according to official sources cited by the Register.   Macomber succumbed to his injuries sustained in the crash and was pronounced dead just after 1:00 a.m. on Saturday.  The accident is still under investigation by the Orange County Sheriff's Department.

See the Orange County Register article HERE.

According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, there are a number of things a motorcycle rider can do to reduce the risk of being involved in an accident.  The factors that should be taken into account include:

• Be visible.  Wear proper clothing, use your headlight, and ride in the best lane position to see and be seen.
• Communicate your intentions.  Use the proper signals, brakelight, and lane position.
• Maintain an adequate space cushion.  Allow yourself enough space when following, being followed, lane sharing, passing, and being passed.
• Scan your path of travel.  Look at least 10 to 15 seconds ahead.
• Identify and separate multiple hazards.
• Be prepared to act.  Remain alert and know how to carry out proper collision-avoidance skills.

See the California Motorcycle Handbook HERE.

It is unknown what caused the fatal accident referenced above, and it is rare that a single party is solely at fault.  Macomber was riding his motorcycle at night, and it is  not known what clothing he was wearing and if the headlight on his vehicle was in operation.  The area of City Lights Drive where this accident occurred is relatively straight with a slight grade.  It does not appear that the roadway configuration would have played a role, although there is a merging lane near Pacific Park Drive.  The SUV's speed and whether the driver was keeping an adequate lookout will also factor into how and why this tragic accident occurred.

Compensation for the victims of automobile and motorcycle accidents, caused by a driver's negligence, should be an important concern for all Californians. When a driver operates their vehicle in a careless manner and causes a serious or fatal accident, they should be held accountable. An Orange County personal injury attorney with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims. Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years of experience handling automobile accident cases, including those involving negligent drivers.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been injured or killed in an Orange County motor vehicle accident?

Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Automobile Accident in Fullerton Injures Two High School Students

This morning a two-vehicle crash in the City of Fullerton injured two students walking to Fullerton Union High School.  According to an article in the Orange County Register, the collision was called in to the  Fullerton police at 7:10 a.m., and it occurred near Pomona and Chapman avenues.  Citing official sources, the Register reported the two vehicles crashed and then one or both of the cars hit the two students, who were crossing the street.  The injuries to the children were described as minor to moderate.  One of the students impacted the windshield of a Kia Spectra involved in the accident.  From the photographs of the accident scene, it appears the collision between the two vehicles was severe.

See the Orange County Register story HERE.

From Google images of the accident site, it is apparent the vehicle collision happened just adjacent to Fullerton Union High School.  The subject intersection is controlled by traffic signals on all corners.  The speed limit for Chapman traffic is 30 mph and for Pomona it is presumably 25 mph, given it runs through a residential area very near the accident scene.  In light of the damage to the vehicles, this would appear to have been an accident involving a left-turning driver and a straight traveling vehicle.  Under California law, the driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left or to complete a U-turn upon a highway, shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the opposite direction which are close enough to constitute a hazard at any time during the turning movement, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to the approaching vehicles until the left turn or U-turn can be made with reasonable safety. (California Vehicle Code § 21801)  It remains to be seen how and why this tragic accident occurred, and it is surely still under investigation by the Fullerton Police Department.

Compensation for the victims of automobile accidents caused by a driver's negligence should be an important concern for all Californians.  When a driver operates their vehicle in a careless manner and causes a serious or fatal accident, they should be held accountable.  An Orange County personal injury attorney with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years years of experience handling personal injury cases, including those involving negligent drivers.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been injured or killed in an Orange County motor vehicle accident?

Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Gardena Hit-And-Run Accident Proves Fatal

A driver traveling westbound on Rosecrans Avenue in Gardena struck a pedestrian crossing the street on Sunday night.  According to KTLA news, the pedestrian, a woman who has yet to be identified, was hit by a grey, 4-door  Honda Civic that did not stop.  The victim was taken to a local hospital following the accident, but she later succumbed to her injuries.  The accident happened around 9 p.m. Saturday night on Rosecrans, between Budlong and Normandie avenues.

The vehicle may have front end damage and the driver's door is missing.  The Civic is believed to have been occupied by two passengers at the time of the accident.  The police have asked that anyone with information call them at (310) 217-6183 or (310) 217-6135.

See the KTLA news story and video HERE.

This type of accident is both tragic and frustrating.  The driver of the Civic had an obligation, regardless of fault, to stop at the scene of the accident and render assistance to the pedestrian.  It is entirely possible that if the driver had complied with their legal obligation, the pedestrian might have survived.  Under California law, the driver of a car involved in a collision must render to any person injured in the accident reasonable assistance, including transporting, or making arrangements for transporting, any injured person to a physician, surgeon, or hospital for medical or surgical treatment if it is apparent that treatment is necessary or if that transportation is requested by any injured person.

Compensation for the victims of hit and run accidents should be an important concern for all Californians.  When a driver negligently or recklessly causes an injury or fatal accident and then flees the scene, they should be held criminally and civilly accountable.  An Orange County personal injury lawyer with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  The first step in recovering compensation for the victim is to seek appropriate legal representation.  Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years of experience handling personal injury and wrongful death cases, including just this type.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been injured in a hit-and-run automobile accident?

• Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Second Accident Leaves BMX Rider Severely Injured

On Saturday night at about 11:00 p.m., a competitive BMX rider, Tyler Rosen, was hit by an oncoming car while riding his bike on Hamner Avenue south of Citrus Street in Jurupa.  Citing official sources, the Press Enterprise reported that 18 year-old Rosen remained in critical condition Monday at Riverside Community Hospital following brain surgery.  He also sustained a broken leg and pelvis in the accident.


What makes Rosen's accident this past weekend even more shocking is the fact that he was still recovering from an earlier, devastating hit-and-run collision when it occurred.  In January of this year, Rosen was struck by a hit-and-run driver while he was simply walking along a horse trail in Norco.  That accident, now the subject of a related criminal case, left Rosen with a mild brain injury and some paralysis on his right side.


See the Press Enterprise story HERE.


The area of the collision on Saturday night is residential, and it appears there are street lights near the scene of the accident.  It is not clear from the information thus far released by law enforcement which direction Rosen was traveling in relation to the vehicle that ultimately struck him.  In the context of a late night accident, responsibility will often hinge on visibility, whether the party struck could have been seen  by the other driver.  This visibility issue must also include a speed analysis in order to determine whether the vehicle's driver could have seen Rosen in sufficient time to avoid an accident.  The speed limit in the area of the accident appears to be 55 miles per hour, which means a vehicle traveling the limit is moving just over 100 feet per second.  If Rosen could first have been seen by the driver from more than 100 feet away, then it stands to reason the driver could have taken evasive action in that two second time frame.  An accident reconstruction will almost certainly be performed by the investigating police agency.

Compensation for the victims of motor vehicle versus bicycle accidents should be an important concern for all Californians.  When a driver negligently or intentionally causes a serious injury accident, they should be held criminally and civilly responsible.  An Orange County personal injury attorney with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  The first step in recovering compensation for the victim is to seek appropriate representation.  Mr. Ralph has 20 years years of experience handling personal injury and automobile accident cases, including just this type.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been injured in a automobile versus bicycle accident?

• Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above.  This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter.  A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Two Fatal Accidents in Orange County

A hit-and-run accident in Huntington Beach left a young woman dead from her injuries early Friday morning.  According to a story in the Huntington Beach Independent, the 24 year-old woman, Oriana Millan, was struck along with her companion, Harlan Coffman, while at the intersection of Brookhurst Street and Atlanta Avenue.  Millan was pronounced dead at the scene, and Coffman was taken to a local hospital with what were described as non-life threatening injuries.  Anyone with further information is asked to please contact the Huntington Beach Police Department, 714-536-5666.


See the Independent story HERE.


In another tragic accident, a female passenger was killed when the reportedly intoxicated driver of the car in which she was riding crashed into a tree and a retaining wall.  According to a story in the Orange County Register, the accident happened when the driver, Justin Drake, was apparently speeding on Malvern westbound near Woods Avenue in the City of Fullerton.  The female passenger was in critical condition at the scene and was transported emergently to the hospital, where she later died of her injuries.  Drake was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI.  Anyone with further information is asked to please contact the Fullerton Police Department, 714-738-6716.


See the Register story HERE.


Both of theses accidents appear to have been the product of careless, if not reckless, driving.  In the first story, the driver left the scene of the collision and then reported to police he thought he had struck an animal in the road.   The flight and the seemingly ridiculous story of running over an animal tend to demonstrate consciousness of guilt.  In the Fullerton accident, the driver apparently exhibited signs of intoxication at the scene and was consequently arrested for felony DUI.  In both instances, these drivers will face not only the prospect of serious criminal charges, but the very real possibility of civil lawsuits for wrongful death, which may include a claim for punitive damages.

Compensation for the victims of automobile accidents caused by a driver’s negligence, should be an important concern for all Californians.  When a driver negligently or recklessly causes a traffic accident and death results, the driver should be held accountable.  An Orange County auto accident attorney with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has 20 years of experience handling personal injury cases, including those for wrongful death.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

• Has a loved one been killed in an automobile accident involving an impaired or reckless driver?Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Four Injured In Orange County Freeway Crash

A three-vehicle crash injured four people on the northbound I-405 this morning at about 11:30 a.m.  The accident happened just south of the 405 and 55 freeway interchange in Costa Mesa, according to an article in the Orange County Register.   A Toyota Tundra, a Ford Expedition, and a Scion xB were apparently involved in the crash.  From photographs published by the Register, it would appear the Tundra and Expedition were very badly damaged, and may be determined to be total losses.  Citing official sources, the Register reported that two patients with traumatic injuries were taken to Western Medical Center in Santa Ana.  The other two patients sustained relatively minor injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital.  A total of three ambulances and 13 firefighters were dispatched to the crash, according to the news story.

See the Orange County Register article and photographs HERE.

No determination of responsibility for the accident has likely been made at this point, and the CHP is probably still collecting and/or analyzing evidence regarding the crash.  From the photographs taken, it would appear there is ample evidence with which to reconstruct this collision.  For example, there are skid marks on the roadway, debris was deposited on the freeway after the impact and the metal deformation of the vehicles will aid in reconstructing the accident.

Unfortunately, freeway accidents like this occur at high rates of speed, making the potential for serious injuries quite high.  Reportedly, two people injured in the accident had to be transported emergently to a trauma center, Wester Medical in Santa Ana.  Hopefully, the injuries were not life threatening, and the patients were released shortly after being admitted. 

Compensation for the victims of automobile accidents caused by a driver’s negligence, should be an important concern for all Californians.  When a careless driver negligently or recklessly causes a traffic accident and serious injuries or death result, the driver should be held accountable.  An Orange County auto accident attorney with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has 20 years of experience handling personal injury cases, including those arising from a motor vehicle accidents.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been injured in an automobile accident involving a careless driver?

Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above.  This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter.  A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.

Elderly Woman and Dog Killed in Pedestrian Accident

Yesterday morning in Temecula, an 87 year-old woman and her dog were run over and killed by a driver suspected of operating his vehicle while under the influence of prescription medication.  According to a story in the The Press Enterprise, the victim, Charlotte Boyce, 87, was struck after the driver ran his pickup onto the sidewalk Boyce and her dog were located.  Boyce died from her injuries at about 11:00 a.m. while at Inland Valley Regional Medical Center.  The accident reportedly occurred near Via Cordoba and Via Lucia. 

The driver of the truck, Harry Shane Scholes, 55, of Temecula, remained at the scene and was arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and DUI.  Citing official sources, the Enterprise reported Scholes was booked into the Southwest Detention Center in French Valley, with bail set at $50,000.  According to the Enterprise article, police believe Scholes was under the influence of a combination of prescription drugs when the collision happened.  He apparently has a history of DUI-related offenses dating back to at least 2006.

See The Press Enterprise story HERE.

This horribly tragic accident looks to have been the fault of a driver operating his vehicle while under the influence, at least based on the information provided thus far.  Here, if is shown the driver was operating his truck while under the influence of drugs, then he would be in violation of the California Vehicle Code and his negligence would be presumed.  However, in every civil case it must be established that such neglect was the legal cause of injury.  Under California law, causation is established by evidence that the defendant's conduct was a substantial factor in causing harm.  It must be more than a remote or trivial factor but does not have to be the only cause of the harm.  Here, at least based on the news report, there is no indication Boyce did anything to cause or contribute to this accident.

Compensation for the victims of intoxicated drivers should be an important concern for all Californians.  When a driver under the influence causes severe or fatal injuries, they should be held criminally and civilly accountable for the injuries and damages they cause.  An Orange County injury lawyer with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has 20 years of experience handling personal injury and wrongful death cases, including just this type.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a family member been injured or killed by an intoxicated driver?

•  Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above.  This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter.  A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.