<![CDATA[Visalia Personal Injury Law Blog]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2013-03-21:/blog/72805 2019-10-11T13:30:37Z Movable Type Enterprise <![CDATA[Puncture wounds are more dangerous than they appear]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3846418 2019-10-11T13:31:37Z 2019-10-11T13:30:37Z You're out for a run when a dog bites you. It happens quickly. The owner doesn't have the dog on a leash and it snaps onto your leg as you jog by.

At first, you think that the injury isn't that bad. The adrenaline makes it harder for you to feel the pain. The bite doesn't bleed very much. You take down the person's information and stagger home, where it becomes clear that you have a deep puncture wound.

]]> In a situation like this, you must know that a puncture wound is often more dangerous than it appears. Experts from the Mayo Clinic note that puncture wounds don't bleed as much as surface wounds, but they do carry high infection risks. Untreated, you could have serious complications.

There are a few reasons for this. The main one is that a puncture pushes bacteria and other material deep under your skin, where it becomes trapped. This is what leads to infection if you do not wash it out and treat it properly.

The lack of bleeding is also a problem. With most wounds, bleeding helps to naturally clean out the cut or scrape. If the puncture wound doesn't bleed, it just compounds the issue by allowing bacteria to stay at the site. You may think that the lack of blood is a good sign when it is really the opposite.

Not only do you want to take these injuries seriously and get medical care, but you also want to make sure you understand your potential rights to financial compensation. This is especially true if an infection makes the wound far more detrimental to your health than it first appeared.

<![CDATA[Distracted driving can cause harm to the most vulnerable]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3841516 2019-10-10T13:51:37Z 2019-10-10T13:50:37Z As you have been driving down a California highway, you have probably noticed that you are sharing the road with distracted drivers. Common types of distraction include looking at phones, texting, eating, talking to a passenger, inputting a location in a GPS system, changing the radio station and even putting on make-up. Regardless of why a driver may not be paying full attention, distraction in all forms is dangerous and reckless. 

Distracted driving significantly increases the chance of a car accident. Sadly, it is often the most vulnerable people who suffer harm in these types of crashes. Children are often victims of the choices other people make while behind the wheel. Just looking at one text or looking away for one second can result in an accident that can leave a young, innocent person with serious or fatal injuries.

]]> A serious problem

While cars are safer now than at any other point in history, the rate of people who are dying in car accidents remains startlingly high. One of the main reasons for this is the fact that there are more things that can potentially distract a driver than ever before. In fact, statistics indicate that distracted driving kills more people each year than the number of people who died in the terrorist attacks on 9/11.

Estimates suggest that one-quarter of all fatal car accidents relate to distracted driving in some capacity. Additionally, more than one-half of all accidents involving teen drivers is because of distraction. Clearly, it is a serious problem that appears to only be getting worse.

The problem's tragic consequences

Looking at one text can take a driver's eyes off the road for an average of five seconds. People often overestimate their ability to multitask, or they may assume that they can safely text because it will only take a second. It is this mindset that leads to accidents.

Distracted driving can lead to accidents that can cause injury to people in other vehicles, but it can also have tragic consequences for pedestrians, bikers, cyclists, runners and their family members. The effect of this type of dangerous driving habit is far-reaching and significant.

What can victims do? 

Thankfully, victims of distracted driving have the right to seek legal recourse. Through a personal injury claim, they may be able to claim restitution and damages for their financial losses and more. If you or your child suffered injuries because of a distracted driver, you may want to reach out for an explanation of how you can proceed through the legal process.

<![CDATA[Pedestrian Struck in Vehicle Accident in Fresno at Alamos and Marks Avenues]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3840843 2019-10-07T23:51:10Z 2019-10-08T00:01:12Z A ten year old by was crossing Marks Avenue at Alamos with his father and another child when they were hit by a white van turning left at the intersection, according to Fresno Police. 

The ten year old was airlifted to a local hospital with critical injuries, while his father also suffered injuries as well. The driver of the white van is cooperating with authories. Police do not suspect drugs or alcohol as a factor in the accident.

This is a serious incident that needs more investigation. If you are in need of representation following a pedestrian or other vehicle accident, contact a local attorney like those at Nelson Rozier. With over 15 years experience as personal injury and car accident lawyers, they have recovered millions of dollars in damages for clients. You can reach them for a complimentary consultation at their website or directly at 559-713-0159.

<![CDATA[8 Year Old Boy Killed in Car Accident in Reedley at Dinuba and Alta Avenues]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3840835 2019-10-07T23:39:57Z 2019-10-07T23:50:08Z An eight year old boy, Eliseo Saldana, has died after the sedan he was travelling in with two adults was struck by a car that failed to stop at the intersection. 

According to California Highway Patrol, 21 year old Daniel Lemus was driving without a valid license when he struck Saldana's vehicle. Lemus has been charged with vehicular manslaughter and driving without a license. The two adults traveling with Saldana also received minor injuries.

The attorneys at Nelson Rozier express their deepest sympathies to Eliseo's family and friends during this difficult time. 

Injuries and wrongful death from car accidents can take months and years for loved ones and victims to recover from. If you are in a similar situation and find yourself in need of representation, Nelson Rozier's attorneys have many years experience in helping their clients receive what they are due. No money is due up front--we don't get paid until you get paid. Contact us on the web or directly at 559-713-0159 to set up a complimentary consultation. Our office is located on Caldwell Ave in Visalia. 

<![CDATA[Two Motorcyclists Killed in Vehicle Collision in Bakersfield on Wilson Road]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3840514 2019-10-04T20:12:43Z 2019-10-04T20:22:33Z Santiago Algandar Soto and Lorena Villalba Espinoza of Bakersfield were killed on Wednesday, October 2 when their motorcycles were struck by a sedan which failed to yield to the cyclists' right of way according to Bakersfield Police Department.

Soto and Espinoza were travelling eastbound on Wilson Road when the accident occurred. Our deepest condolences go out to their families and friends.

The attorneys at Nelson-Rozier specialize in personal injury and wrongful death recovery from motorcycle accidents. If you are in need of representation, please contact us on our website or directly by phone at 559-713-0159. Our office is located in Visalia on Caldwell Avenue. As a boutique car accident law firm, we focus on personal attention to our clients to make sure they receive what they deserve. 

<![CDATA[An alleged Visalia drunk motorist kills 1, seriously injures 4]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3840434 2019-10-04T15:44:21Z 2019-10-04T15:43:21Z A suspected drunk driver is believed to have caused a fatal Tulare County car accident on Highway 198 on Sept. 29. The 5:20 p.m. incident claimed one passenger's life and left five others with serious injuries.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) report details how witnesses noticed the driver of a 2001 Mercedes C200 sedan driving down Highway 198 to the west of Road 248 near Lake Kaweah moments before the crash occurred.

]]> CHP's report reflects that the 37-year-old Visalia man who's believed to have been behind the wheel of the Mercedes is alleged to have first struck a sports utility vehicle (SUV) injuring the motorists inside.

Witnesses then watched the man travel into opposing traffic while speeding at 80 miles per hour (mph). He allegedly collided head-on with a 2011 General Motors Company (GMC) Yukon as he attempted to pass a vehicle traveling in front of him in the westbound lane.

The 32-year-old Tulare woman that had driving the GMC at the time suffered moderate injuries in the crash. The 56-year-old female passenger in that vehicle was seriously hurt in the crash. The car's other two occupants, two young kids, ages four and six were all left with minor injuries.

A 61-year-old female passenger in the man's Mercedes was killed in the crash. The alleged drunk driver who caused the crash only suffered minor injuries.

All motorists were all transported to Kaweah Delta Medical Center for treatment.

Once at the hospital, the motorist who is alleged to have caused the crash was administered a blood alcohol content (BAC) test. It showed that he had a BAC of .2%. He was placed under arrest and transported to the Tulare County Jail. He was later booked on both drunk driving and murder charges. It's unclear when his next hearing in court is scheduled for.

Drunk driving crashes are often deadly because motorists who are under the influence of alcohol cannot gauge their speed, have distorted vision and are unable to respond as quickly as they should to different stimuli. If you've been struck by a drunk driver, then it's likely that you've been left with debilitating injuries. An attorney can advise you on how to seek compensation for your medic medical costs and other expenses if you've been seriously hurt in a crash.

<![CDATA[Suspected DUI Accident Kills 1, Injures 4 Others on 198 near Road 248]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3840173 2019-10-03T22:42:52Z 2019-10-04T20:09:02Z A two-vehicle accident took place on Sunday afternoon near Lake Kaweah involving an alleged drunk driver leaving one dead and five injured. The fatal Tulare County collision occurred on Highway 198 west of Road 248. 

Joshua Young was driving a 2001 Mercedes westbound on 198 when he attempted to pass vehicles ahead of him, hitting speeds of 80 miles per hour according to California Highway Patrol. His vehicle collideded with a 2011 GMC Yukon driven by Amanda Clark of Tulare causing major damage to both vehicles. Young's passenger, Sylvia Rosemarie Chandler, died at the scene, while Clark was air lifted to Kaweah Delta Medical Center with major injuries. Clark's three passengers, including two children, were also taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

The attorneys of Nelson-Rozier wish to express deepest condolences to the family and friends of Sylvia Rosemarie Chandler for their loss. We specialize in personal injury and wrongful death cases resulting from vehicle accidents--if you are needing representation you can reach us online or directly at 559-713-0159. Our office is located on Caldwell Avenue in Visalia. 

<![CDATA[What are some of the most serious car crash injuries?]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3837354 2019-09-27T16:41:57Z 2019-09-27T16:40:57Z Car accidents are one of the primary ways in which individuals get hurt in the United States. While many motorists are lucky enough to walk away from their crashes unscathed, countless others suffer serious, life-threatening injuries or die in them.

The chest and neck are two body parts that motorists often injure in car accidents.

]]> Any blunt force trauma to the chest can cause a driver to suffer internal organ damage, a cardiac arrest, collapsed lungs, broken ribs or a fractured pelvis. The sudden jarring of motorist's head and neck during a rear-end accident can leave them with damage to their ligaments and muscles. It's even possible for a motorist to suffer temporary paralysis of their vocal cords in the aftermath of a crash.

Some of the most dangerous types of injuries that an individual may suffer when involved in a car accident include back or head injuries. These often result from high-impact crashes caused by speeding.

The worst type of back injury that an individual can suffer is a spinal cord one. The nerve damage that accompanies such an injury can impact a person's ability to move their feet, arms, legs and hands voluntarily. It can affect their sensation in these body parts as well. Some individuals who suffer a spinal cord injury may be left with full paralysis.

Head injuries are often a sign that someone was struck at a high rate of speed. The impact of a crash often forces an individual's head into a nearby window, steering wheel or dashboard. This sudden, forceful shifting of the brain within the skull often leaves motorists with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Concussions are a mild type of TBI. More serious ones can cause an individual to be left with profound cognitive difficulties.

Individuals who are seriously hurt in car crashes may be left with lasting impairments that affect their ability to work and enjoy the same quality of life that they previously had. They often don't just need medical care immediately following an accident, but instead for the long term as well.

A car accidents attorney in Visalia can advise you of your right to recover compensation for you or your loved one's injuries if they occurred as a result of another motorist's negligence here in California.

<![CDATA[The human eye works more like radar than people realize]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3833097 2019-09-20T13:36:34Z 2019-09-20T13:35:34Z When people think about how they see the world, they often assume that they see everything in front of them, all the time. They may not focus on small details, but they still see them. Right?

Not really. Science experts note that the eye is actually fairly similar to a radar screen, meaning that it is always interpreting what it sees and gathering new information. But it does not just have that information instantly. Just like the radar runs around in an endless circle, updating with each and every revolution, the eye is always attempting to update the picture.

]]> With large, slow-moving objects, it can do this easily. With small objects that are moving quickly, though, it has a little more trouble. These objects may not register or "stick," even though the person is technically looking at them. The eye just needs a little more time to really interpret what it sees. The mind may even attempt to fill in the gaps with memories or the things the person expects to see.

This is one of the big reasons that people pull out into the path of oncoming motorcycles, whether they are turning left, pulling out of a driveway or doing something similar. They often argue that they looked and didn't see anything, and they may not be lying. They just did not look for long enough for the eye to actually add the motorcycle into the overall picture. Then they pulled right out in front of it.

If you get injured in a motorcycle accident, make sure you know what legal options you have.

<![CDATA[California crash leads to criminal charges for truck driver]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3831094 2019-09-13T12:41:18Z 2019-09-13T12:40:18Z There would not be much trade in California without trucks, which brings goods and services to all areas of the state and often do it exclusively far from trains and shores. Perhaps this, along with the Golden State's tightly packed roads in every imaginable setting, is why the state sees one of the nation's highest rates in truck accidents every year.

Truck drivers have to be well-educated and professionally licensed to operate most heavy vehicles. And this is a good thing, since the sheer weight and force of a speeding truck can cause extreme damage and severe injury if it jackknifes, sideswipes or collides head-on with another vehicle.

]]> A trucker who fell asleep at the wheel of a truck on Interstate 10 near Palm Springs recently pleaded guilty on all criminal counts in Riverside County. The man dozed off when utility work stopped traffic, and a tour bus struck his vehicle after the highway began moving again. The bus driver and 12 others died when the bus struck the semitruck stopped in the roadway.

The accident included 13 fatalities and 29 injuries. The prosecutor alleged that the driver did not have adequate sleep and attempted to falsify his log book to hide that fact. He faced nearly 33 years in prison for reckless driving and vehicular manslaughter. He was sentenced to four years in state prison.

Victims of truck crashes and the survivors of people killed by trucks hve the right to claim financial damages in civil court whether or not prosecutors are treating a collision as a crime. An attorney is often the best person to spell out these rights and plan the strategy for filing claims in a civil court, moving towards settlement or a jury verdict.

<![CDATA[Why are fatal truck accidents on the rise?]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3827203 2019-09-10T15:41:35Z 2019-09-10T15:40:35Z Any kind of car accident has the potential to cause serious damage to both vehicles and people. When one of the vehicles involved is a semi-truck, the risk sharply increases. Most truck drivers are aware of that and take proper precautions, but there are times when some drivers fail to take safety into account.

The number of fatal truck accidents rose from 2009 to 2017 by 42%. One organization focused on truck safety has several theories as to why, and they offer several suggestions to improve the numbers. However, they are not without their critics.

]]> What the numbers say

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that almost 36,000 people died from 2009 to 2017 as a result of a crash involving a big rig. California is one of five states with the highest rate of fatal truck crashes in 2017. Every state except six saw a rise in the numbers.

Road Safe America, a truck safety organization, says the mileage driven hasn't significantly changed, but fatal crashes rose anyway. Representatives want trucking companies to install speed limiters that would prevent trucks from driving faster than 65 miles per hour. They say that other countries have implemented this technology to great success, but the United States doesn't require it. Many trucking companies use them, but RSA wants to see it become universal.

Possible benefits

The companies that use speed limiters do so because they lower the crash rates and reduce costs when crashes happen, according to RSA. They even see a savings in fuel and vehicle upkeep. RSA also advocates installing automatic emergency braking, saying countries that use the technology see their truck fatalities plummet.

Critics have concerns

While these safety measures seem like a good idea, some critics are unsure. One trucking association representative says he wants speed limiters installed in all vehicles, not just semi-trucks. He argues that only putting them in tractor trailers creates unsafe conditions, particularly when other, smaller vehicles can drive faster. He attributes the rise in fatal truck crashes to the increase in distracted driving and smart phone use.

He also points to the fact that fatal crashes frequently involve someone who wasn't wearing a seatbelt. In addition, a large portion of truck crashes are due to the driving behaviors of other motorists. He advocates education for both truck drivers and other motorists


Even implementing all of these safety measures doesn't guarantee that a trucking accident won't happen. If you're the unlucky person who gets hit by a semi-truck, statistics don't really matter to you. You just want justice to prevail and for responsible parties to take accountability.

<![CDATA[What can you do to prevent an animal from attacking you?]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3824752 2019-09-06T12:17:57Z 2019-09-06T12:16:57Z In recent years, stories about animals attacking humans have become increasingly devastating. Those individuals that have been lucky enough to survive their attacks have been left with debilitating injuries including severed limbs, lingering nerve damage, pain and flesh-eating infections. Most of these types of attacks are preventable.

The best thing that you can do if you ever encounter a stray animal is to remain calm. Pets can sense when you're not comfortable around them. This can make them feel uneasy. If an animal feels that their life is in danger, then they may attack you.

]]> It's also important that you report its existence to the appropriate authorities. You should alert others to a stray animal's existence so that there is a paper trail. If an owner's pet repeatedly gets out and attacks someone, then such reports could be used to prove an owner's liability for someone's injuries.

You shouldn't assume that an animal is safe to interact with simply because they look friendly. They can snap if they feel intimidated, threatened, are hurt or ill. You should approach any animal that you interact with cautiously.

If you notice that they're displaying any signs of aggression, then you should back off. You shouldn't run away though. This may motivate them to chase after you. You shouldn't yell at it either. This may prompt it to attack.

If you have your kids with you, and an attack appears imminent, then you should pick them up. This may reduce the chance of them suffering such serious injuries if an attack were to occur.

Animal attacks can happen at any time. It's easier to take evasive action when you see an animal approaching in the daylight. It may be easier for a pet to catch you off guard at night. If this happens, you could be left with catastrophic injuries.

You don't have to assume the risk of getting hurt by a stray or aggressive animal just because you decide to take a walk in the park or your neighborhood. You can hold their owner accountable for failing to properly restrain their animal. You may also be able to sue the property owner for failing to enforce leash laws on their premises.

Californians who've been seriously hurt should consult with an attorney to learn what types of compensation that they're entitled to in their Visalia case.

<![CDATA[After a car accident, here's what you should do]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3819024 2019-08-28T19:30:45Z 2019-08-28T19:29:45Z Even if you feel like the odds of getting into a car accident are small, it is important to know what to do after the crash. The scene is often chaotic and stressful, and knowing what steps to take in advance helps you act on autopilot. Remember, even though you can control how safe you are behind the wheel, you cannot control other drivers, so the crash risks may be higher than you think.

With that in mind, here are some important steps to take:

  1. Check to see if you got injured. Remember that you may not feel pain due to the adrenaline rush, but you could still be hurt.
  2. Check on your passengers to make sure they are all right, especially if you had children in the car.
  3. Consider any immediate danger. For instance, is the car still sitting in the traffic lanes and at risk of being hit again? Does it smell like the car may be on fire?
  4. Get yourself and your passengers to a safe place.
  5. Contact emergency services. If there are witnesses, odds are they already called 911, but don't assume anything.
  6. If possible, talk to the other driver. Write down their name, their driver's license number, their contact information and their insurance information.
  7. Take pictures. These could include pictures of the information listed above -- like a driver's license or a license plate -- and pictures of the actual crash scene. This documentation can help you moving forward.
]]> If you do find yourself facing high medical bills and other costs, you may be able to seek out financial compensation.

<![CDATA[Motorcyclists are often safer than passenger car operators]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3815747 2019-08-23T16:00:26Z 2019-08-23T15:59:26Z While it may sound counterintuitive to read this, there are some individuals out there that argue that motorcycles may be safer than cars. There are many reasons that they give to substantiate their claim.

Motorists have been conditioned to believe that a car's large, sturdy shell will provide them with an added degree of protection if they're involved in a crash. While an automobile's frame may create a buffer for any impact that comes their way, it also prevents them from being able to bop and weave in traffic. This is one of the benefits of being a motorcyclist. They can easily swoop in and out of tight spaces to avoid a crash.

]]> Motorcyclists tend to be better motorists because they employ more defensive driving techniques than vehicle operators. Bikers essentially have no other choice but to operate their bikes this way. It seems that motorists often complain about not seeing them. This results in them coming too close for comfort. California motorcyclists often find themselves having to hurry and take evasive action to avoid being struck.

Some say that motorcyclists are also safer because they lack the many distractions that vehicle operators typically face. Bikers don't have the shell of a vehicle and a windshield between them and others.

Since motorcyclists have to keep two hands on their bike to operate it, they're not as easily able to use a cell phone or radio or eat. Since kids aren't allowed on these bikes, there's no potential for a motorcyclist to be distracted by them.

Although there are many benefits that motorcyclists enjoy that can keep them safe out on the road, they're not always perfect motor vehicle operators. The drivers around them here in Visalia don't drive flawlessly either.

Drunk, distracted, drowsy and other impaired drivers can come in all shapes and sizes. So too can reckless ones. Their vehicle operation is often unpredictable. It frequently injures or kills. A motorcycle accidents attorney with more than 40 years of combined experience can provide you with effective representation if you've been seriously hurt in a crash.

<![CDATA[The importance of preventing infection after a dog bite]]> tag:www.nelsonrozier.com,2019:/blog//72805.3811669 2019-08-15T15:25:49Z 2019-08-15T15:24:49Z A dog bite is painful in the moment. It's frightening if you think the animal may continue to attack after the initial bite. Odds are that you had no idea that the attack was about to happen until it did.

However, for many people, the real risk comes later -- if the bite gets infected. The dog's teeth can press bacteria down into your tissue, well below the skin. These puncture wounds can lead to serious infections, and you could wind up in the hospital. An infection is nothing to take lightly. Serious infections can be life-threatening.

]]> So, what can you do to prevent an infection? After the bite, you should:

  1. Press gently and leave the area uncovered. You want it to bleed a little, as this can flush the deepest bacteria.
  2. Rinse the bite out with water, and wash it with soap.
  3. Use clean materials to press on the wound and cover it, stopping the bleeding.
  4. Put antibiotic cream on the damaged area.
  5. Get a sterile bandage wrap and cover the bite so that you don't get other contaminants in it after the fact.
  6. Do not leave the same bandage on for too long. Change it frequently, and clean the wound if needed.
  7. Look out for fever, pain, redness and swelling. Any of these could mean you have an infection, and you need to see a doctor.

These steps help, but nothing guarantees you won't wind up with a very serious infection. If you are injured by a dog bite or attack and require medical treatment, you should look into all of your legal options, as you may be able to seek compensation from the dog's owner.