Any day that you take to the road, you run the risk of being involved in a car accident in San Diego. This can leave you facing serious injuries, mounting medical bills and questions about who will pay for them. If you were injured because of someone else’s negligence, then you should contact a San Diego car accident attorney.

Common Types of Car Accidents

While any kind of accident in San Diego can happen, some types are more common. One common type is a rear-end collision. It could be nothing more than a fender-bender; however, even a mild-impact accident can lead to neck and back injuries.

In most situations the person who was hit from behind will not be found liable. It is expected that when a driver is following another vehicle, he or she should be at a safe enough distance that a sudden stop wouldn’t lead to a collision. There can be exceptions to this, however, which is why consulting with an attorney is a good idea.

Another common type of car accident involves making a left turn. The one making the left turn is usually found liable in a crash because he or she is supposed to yield to oncoming traffic. But as with any accident, there could be exceptions.

U-turns can also lead to accidents, especially when the driver is not aware of oncoming traffic while making it. Side-impact accidents can happen during merges or if someone runs a stop sign or red light and hits the side of a vehicle.

Head-on collisions can be the most devastating type of accident to be involved in, especially when at least one of the vehicles is traveling at a high rate of speed. Injuries can be catastrophic or deadly.

A rollover is another common type of accident that tends to occur with larger vehicles, such as SUVs. A high-impact crash may lead to a rollover.

No matter in what type of accident in San Diego you have been injured, when it was the result of someone else’s careless or reckless actions, then you could be entitled to compensation.

Compensation can address your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages you have suffered. A San Diego car accident attorney will evaluate the details of your case carefully to determine what your rights are and the legal options you may have available.

Contacting a San Diego Car Accident Attorney

When the unthinkable happens and you or a loved one is injured in a car accident, know that you don’t have to face this challenge alone. The car accident attorneys at the law offices of Keith J. Stone are here to provide all of the information you need about California injury law so you can make informed choices about your personal injury claim. We even offer a FREE auto accident guide for Southern California residents. If you’re looking for personalized care and attention at this vulnerable time, contact our offices today – 1-619-531-2022 or toll free at 1-888-59-HELP-NOW.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

The Fourth of July holiday is associated with BBQs, picnics, fireworks, friends, and family. Sadly, it is also a day of the year that is linked to hundreds of car accident fatalities. In fact, it has been described as one of the deadliest holidays of the year because of drunk-driving accidents.
Make sure your family is safe.

Protect Your Family on July 4th

Even though July 4th may be a dangerous time to be on the road, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the holiday. There are some things you can do to protect yourself while traveling the streets and highways of San Diego. Below are some important safety tips:

• Limit your driving during the evening hours. According to a safety campaign by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the chances of getting into a wreck with a drunk driver are significantly higher during the hours of 6:00 PM to 5:59 AM. In 2010, there were nearly five times more fatal drunk-driving accidents during those hours than the daytime.
• Wear your seat belt. Not only is it California law, but wearing a seat belt is also instrumental in keeping you safe in the event of a car crash. It only takes seconds to buckle up, yet it is a decision that can make the difference between life and death when you are involved in a collision.
• Designate a driver. If you are going to have some cocktails on the Fourth of July, make sure that you have someone who can drive you home. It is critical to designate the driver ahead of time. Worst-case scenario is to call a cab. The taxi fare is worth the money.
• Teach your teen driver about safety. Young people are often the ones who don’t adhere to warnings regarding driving safety. If you have a teenager, explain the importance of driving cautiously and avoiding alcohol. On July 4, 2010, nearly half of young drivers killed in car accidents were drunk.

Above all else, use common sense and follow your instincts so you can avoid dangers this July 4th.

About the Law Offices of Keith J. Stone

Our law firm is based in San Diego. We represent people who have been hurt in motor vehicle accidents across Southern California and beyond. If you or a family member has been injured, contact San Diego car accident attorney Keith Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. Also, be sure to order a free copy of our informative guide, What To Do In An Auto Accident.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

There are many reasons why you should never delay medical treatment after a San Diego auto accident, with the most important involving your health. The minutes, hours, and days following a crash are not the time to try to “tough it out” and be brave. If you are in a serious accident, get medical treatment. It is that simple.
If you need additional incentives to seek medical treatment, keep reading.

Two Major Reasons to Get Treated Immediately after a San Diego Car Accident

Not many people create a plan ahead of time regarding what they will do in the event of a car accident. Instead, they take it one step at a time. Sadly, mistakes are sometimes made along the way that can impact their health and ability to file an insurance claim. Make sure you don’t make these same errors. Below are two important reasons to get treated by a physician right after a car wreck.

1. You may be underestimating the extent of your injuries. How do you know the difference between a minor headache and a brain injury? It is not the time to guess what is causing your pain. Brain injuries can be deadly and need to be treated immediately. And that is just one example. Keep in mind that there are other serious injuries that may present themselves as minor symptoms.
2. A delay in treatment doesn’t look good to the insurance company. Your number-one priority is your health and should be the biggest reason to get medical care. However, there is another reason to go to the doctor, which can affect your pocketbook. If you decide to pursue an injury claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, a delay in medical care looks questionable. The insurance company will wonder why you waited and may become doubtful regarding the severity of your injuries.

Get Help with Your Case

Many car accident claims can be successfully resolved. However, it is a different issue when significant injuries are involved. If you have been hurt in a car wreck caused by another driver, contact experienced San Diego car accident lawyer Keith Stone today at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. Also, be sure to order a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

There is very little doubt that still remains regarding the dangers of texting and driving. It is one of the most dangerous types of driver distractions—so dangerous, in fact, that the state of California has imposed a law to make the practice illegal. Yet, that hasn’t stopped drivers from participating in the hazardous behavior.

How Dangerous is Texting and Driving?

The federal government created a website dedicated to public awareness regarding distracted driving. This website, Distraction.gov, has some alarming facts and figures about texting and driving. According to the site, texting and driving is at the top of dangerous behind-the-wheel activities because it involves manual, visual, and cognitive distraction, all at the same time. Distraction.gov puts texting and driving in perspective by explaining that “sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 4.6 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field, blindfolded. It’s extraordinarily dangerous.”

What Does the Law Have to Say?

In 2009, it became illegal in California to write, send, or read a text message on a wireless device while operating a motor vehicle. Anyone in violation of this law, known as the Wireless Communications Device Law, could be issued a citation and fined. However, you have to remember that the consequences of texting and driving can be greater than a simple traffic ticket—it can cause a serious car accident. Each year, distracted-driving accidents claim countless lives around the country.

Can You Hold a Distracted Driver Liable?

If you were harmed in a distracted-driving accident, you may be able to hold the other driver liable for his or her actions. A negligent driver could be responsible for your damages, such as medical bills, lost income, and more. It is important to talk with an experienced San Diego auto accident attorney as soon as possible.
To learn more about your rights and options following a car accident, contact car accident lawyer Keith Stone today at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. You will be able to get answers to your questions and help with determining the next steps.
While you are on our website, be sure to order a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

Though it is true that the majority of Americans buckle up when they get in a vehicle, some still don’t. The fact of the matter is that your seat belt could be a lifesaver if you are involved in a San Diego car accident.

The importance of seat belts

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, seat belts are the single most effective traffic-safety device. All people, whether you are a driver or a passenger, are strongly encouraged to buckle up when traveling in any type of motorized vehicle.

Why some people refuse

There are many excuses as to why people still refuse to wear a safety belt. Some of the most common excuses include:

• “I’m a safe driver.” Though that may be true, some that you share the Southern California roadways are not. Their actions and negligence can result in you being seriously injured in a car accident.
• “I’m just going down the street.” Studies conclude that this could be the most dangerous time for you and your family. Nearly 80 percent of all fatal auto accidents occur within 25 miles of home and while traveling under 40 miles per hour.
• “I may become trapped.” According to studies, the best place for you to be in if you are involved in a collision is your car. The chances that your car will catch fire or become submerged are slim. In fact, you are 25 times more likely to die if you are ejected from your vehicle.
• “Seat belts are uncomfortable.” You may learn that treatment for a car accident injury is more uncomfortable. Imagine the treatment involved for a broken leg, arm, or neck.
• “My airbag will protect me.” Airbags are only designed to enhance the effectiveness of your seat belt. They were never designed to replace them.

The alarming statistics

If you still need some convincing about the importance of seat belts, take a look these startling statistics:

• Auto accidents are the leading cause of death for people ages 35 and under.
• Over 40,000 people are killed in auto accidents annually.
• Over 40 percent of those killed each year in auto accidents are not wearing safety belts.

There are still some groups who tend to travel unbuckled

Despite the facts, some groups are still less likely to buckle up. They include teens, commercial drivers, men driving in rural areas, and pickup truck drivers.

If you are injured in an auto accident

No matter how safe of a driver you are or what precautions you take, you can’t control the driving habits of those with whom you share the roadways. If you were injured in an accident caused by another person, you might be able to hold that person liable for your damages. That is why you should speak to an experienced auto accident attorney.
Keith J. Stone has helped countless car accident victims recover finances for their damages. His goal is to protect your rights and get you the compensation you and your family deserve. It all starts by ordering a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.
If you were injured in an auto accident, call San Diego auto accident attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He will be able to help you determine your course of action.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

It’s well-documented that the Southern California roads and freeways can be treacherous. Though you may be a safe driver, you can’t always control the driving habits of those with whom you share the roadways. Their negligence can lead to you or someone you know being seriously injured in a San Diego auto accident.

Do you know what to do following an accident?

Unfortunately, many accident victims are not prepared and do not know what to do following an accident. For that reason, we prepared this list of simple steps to follow in the event you are involved in a collision:

• Identify injuries. Before worrying about the extent of damage to your car, you need to make sure that everyone involved in the accident is safe. If you or someone else needs medical attention, dial 911 right away.
• Exchange information. Though you may not want to think about it at the time of the accident, you will have to consider the legal ramifications of your collision. You will need to identify the other driver(s) as quickly as possible and gather as much information about them as you can. For example, get their name, number, address, driver’s license number, registration information, and insurance details. This will help you build a successful case.
• Check to see if there are any witnesses. Look to see if anyone witnessed your accident. They might be of great assistance in proving to a jury that your version of events is accurate. Get any names, numbers, addresses, and email addresses of anyone you can. Also, ask that they speak with a police officer about what they saw before leaving the accident scene.
• Snap as many pictures as possible. If your cell phone is equipped with a camera, take as many pictures of the accident scene as possible. These pictures can be persuasive when presented before a judge or jury. You may also want to jot down any initial thoughts you might have about the accident on a pad of paper.
• Notify your insurance company of your accident. This is necessary and important, even if the accident was your fault.
• Retain your own legal counsel. Having your own auto accident attorney is paramount to the success of your case. You can count on the fact that the other person’s insurance company will engage in tactics to discredit your case and pay you as little as possible, if anything at all. Do not speak with them, give any statements, sign anything, or admit fault without consulting your own lawyer first.

Will I become a victim of the insurance game?

You may if you proceed with your claim on your own. Keith J. Stone has the experience and knowledge to protect you from the insurance companies. He will work hard to defend your rights and ensure you are not victimized again. His goal is for you to receive the best compensation possible for your damages.
To get started, order a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.
If you were injured in an auto accident, call San Diego auto accident attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He will be able to provide you with critical answers concerning your auto accident case.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

It’s not uncommon to become distracted when behind the wheel. Unfortunately, the simplest driving distraction can result in you becoming seriously injured in a San Diego auto accident. That is why you should be familiar with some of the common driving distractions that you may encounter and how to avoid them.
Here are seven of the most common driving distractions:

• Texting and driving. Texting and driving is one of the most dangerous things you can do when operating a vehicle. It requires the use of your hands, as well as takes your eyes off the road for many seconds at a time. You may not be able to respond to a sudden road hazard, such as a pedestrian or stopped vehicle.
• Talking on your cell phone. Though it is illegal in California to text and drive, many motorists still succumb to the temptation. Receiving or making a call requires the use of at least one hand and requires you to take your eyes off the road. You should consider turning your phone off or putting it in the back seat or trunk when driving.
• Traveling with children. A simple conversation among kids can quickly turn into fighting and bickering. You may be tempted to turn your head around to scold your kids. Again, your eyes are off the road. You should pull to the side of road before dealing with your children.
• Traveling with pets. Your pet should never be allowed to travel in your lap or in the front seat. They are unpredictable and may suddenly jump into your lap. This may cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Make sure they are safely secured in the back seat.
• Conversing with passengers. You could be at risk of a car accident by engaging in deep conservations with your passengers. Make sure you keep your full attention on driving when talking with other people in your vehicle.
• Eating and drinking while driving. It takes multiple hand movements to consume a meal while driving. By taking even one hand off the wheel can make it difficult to respond to sudden road hazards. You should consume your meal before turning on your car.
• Personal grooming. The same goes for personal grooming. It takes at least one hand to shave, apply makeup, or do your hair. These activities can lead to a serious auto accident and should be done before you get into your vehicle.

The unpredictability of other drivers

Those with whom you share the Southern California roadways may not practice the same safe-driving habits you do. Their distractions could result in you or a loved one being injured in a wreck. You might be able to hold them liable for your damages if their distractions caused your injuries.

Your next step

Keith J. Stone has helped countless auto accident victims recover for their damages. He has the experience to help build your case, defend your rights, and make sure you get the compensation you deserve. He can also help you negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company.
While you are on our website, be sure to order a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.
If you were injured in an auto accident caused by a distracted driver, call San Diego auto accident attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He will be able to help you determine your next steps.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

No matter how safe of a driver you are, you can’t always avoid becoming distracted when behind the wheel. Unfortunately, even the slightest distraction can lead to you being seriously injured in a San Diego car accident. Driving requires your full attention.

The three types of driving distractions

Driving distractions can be categorized into three types. A driving distraction is anything that takes your:

• Eyes of the road (visual).
• Mind and thoughts off the road (cognitive).
• Your hands off the wheel (manual).

When you take your eyes off the road

It’s always tempting to take your eyes off the road to look at events taking place outside your window. However, this can prove to be deadly. Taking your eyes off the road for even a split second can leave you unable to respond to sudden road hazards. You may not be able to stop for a pedestrian or stopping vehicle. Common visual distractions include:

• Other accidents
• Law enforcement activity
• Construction work
• Billboard ads
• Street addresses
• Turning your head to address children in the back seat

When you take your mind off the road

Cognitive distractions are equally as dangerous. Driving is an activity that requires constant and complex coordination between your body and mind. You should avoid concentrating too hard on conversations with your passengers, music, talk radio, and books on tape. You should also be cautious of daydreaming.

When you take your hands off the steering wheel

You should avoid any activity that requires you to take even one hand off the steering wheel. Manual distractions can leave you unable to maneuver around unexpected road dangers. When driving, you should avoid the following manual distractions:

• Eating and drinking
• Adjusting radio and GPS dials
• Tobacco use
• Personal grooming, such as putting on makeup and shaving
• Reaching for an object on the floor or in another seat
• Reading
• Folding or unfolding a map

When you text and drive

Texting and driving could be considered one of the most dangerous driving distractions of all. In many instances, it falls into all three driving distraction categories at the same time. When you read or send a text, it generally requires the use of at least one hand and draws your mind and eyes away from the road.
That is why you should finish or make that last call before you get into your vehicle. Also, consider storing your phone in the trunk or back seat and away from where you can’t access it while driving.

Those you share the roadways with

Not everyone you share the Southern California roadways with practices safe driving habits. Their distractions can lead to you being injured in a serious accident. Keith J. Stone can help if you were injured by a distracted driver.
His goal is to make sure the other driver is held responsible for your damages. He will work hard to protect your rights, protect you from the other insurance company and their tactics, and to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.

Where to start

To learn more about your case, be sure to order a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.
If you have been injured in an auto accident caused by a distracted driver, call San Diego auto accident attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He will be able to help you determine your next steps.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

If your teen is getting ready to drive or is already driving, then you understand the angst all parents share. A San Diego auto accident can occur at any time, leaving them seriously injured. That is why parents should take it upon themselves to help prepare their teens for operating a vehicle safely.

Practice with Them

New drivers need practice. As a parent, you should devote as much time as possible to helping your teen learn how to drive. It is recommended that you spend at least 50 hours practicing with your child before letting them on their own.

Distractions, Distractions, Distractions

It’s no secret that driving distractions claim the lives of thousands of Americans each year. Studies show that teens are more likely to engage in distractive behaviors when behind the wheel. Instruct them that the following should not be done when behind the wheel:

• Texting and driving.
• Talking on the phone.
• Eating and drinking.
• Personal grooming, such as applying makeup and doing hair.
• Staring at other accident scenes.
• Adjusting the radio.

Set a Good Example

Oftentimes, young children mimic the things they see their parents do. The same goes for teens, especially when it comes to driving. How comfortable would you be if your child engaged in the same driving habits as you do? You should always drive in the same way you hope your child will.

Teach Them the Steps to Take after an Auto Accident

Unfortunately, you can’t always prevent your teen from being involved in an auto accident. That is why it is essential that they know what to do immediately following a collision, such as:

• Check to make sure no one is seriously injured. Dial 911 immediately if someone appears to need medical attention.
• Locate the other driver and ask for their personal information. This includes their name, address, phone number, insurance information, driver’s license number, and registration information. The more information the better.
• Snap as many pictures of the accident scene as possible. This may help if their case goes to trial.
• Locate any witnesses. Request their personal information, including name and phone number.
• Write down everything you can think of about the accident as quickly as possible.
• Do not speak with the insurance adjuster. Keep in mind that their goal is to discredit your child’s account of the accident and payout as little as possible.

If the Unthinkable Should Occur

All parents dread the midnight call informing them that their child has been injured in an accident. Unfortunately, this scenario is possible every time your teen gets behind the wheel.

Attorney Keith Stone can help if your child becomes the victim of a car accident. He has the experience and knowledge necessary to build your child’s auto accident injury case. He will fight to get your child the compensation they deserve for their damages.

Your Free Informative Guide

Protecting the integrity of your child’s case is important. That’s why you should start by ordering a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.

If your teenager has been injured in an auto accident, call San Diego auto accident attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He will ensure that your child’s rights are protected and guide your family through the legal process.

San Diego, Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, Ventura Counties including the cities of:

San Diego, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Santa Ana, Anaheim, Riverside, Chula Vista, Irvine, Glendale, San Bernardino, Huntington Beach, Oxnard, Fontana, Moreno Valley, Oceanside, Rancho Cucamonga, Santa Clarita, Garden Grove, Ontario, Pomona, Palmdale, Pasadena, Corona, Torrance, Escondido, Lancaster, Orange, Fullerton, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, El Monte, Inglewood, Costa Mesa, Downey, West Covina, Victorville, San Buenaventura (Ventura), Norwalk, Burbank, Carlsbad, Temecula, South Gate, Murrieta, Mission Viejo, Rialto, Compton, El Cajon, Carson, Vista, Westminster, Santa Maria, Santa Monica, Santa Barbara, Hawthorne, Alhambra, Hesperia, Whittier, Newport Beach, Chino, San Marcos, Buena Park, Lakewood, Indio, Baldwin Park, Chino Hills, Blythe

Keith J. Stone also handles cases originating elsewhere in California and across the USA.

San Diego has always been a popular destination for tourists and people looking to relocate their families. People cite the climate as one of the number-one reasons as to why they come here.

However, the warm weather also means more people travel the city on foot rather than by car. This can increase your chances of being injured in a San Diego pedestrian accident. New reports indicate walking while distracted can increase those risks greatly.

An Overall Look at Pedestrian Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), overall traffic fatalities were down in 2010. However, the amount of pedestrian injuries rose again. The NHTSA reports that in 2010:

• Pedestrian fatalities jumped 4.2 percent.
• Pedestrian injuries increased 19 percent.

More Pedestrians Injured Due to Distractions

Walking distractions might be the major culprit. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports an increase in pedestrian fatalities due to walking distractions involving electronic handheld devices, such as cell phones. They also report a spike in distracted walkers being treated in American emergency rooms. The number has quadrupled in the past seven years.

“We are where we were with cell phone use in cars 10 years ago or so,” said Jonathan Akins, Deputy Executive Director of the Governor’s Highway Safety Association. “We knew it was a problem, but we didn’t have the data.”

Common Walking Distractions

Many distractions can take a pedestrian’s attention away from navigating the streets or a parking lot on foot. However, electronic handheld devices are becoming more of a problem for walkers. Common distractions involving electronic handheld devices include:

• Operating a cell phone to make and/or receive calls.
• Sending and receiving text messages.
• Listening to music or downloaded e-books.
• Viewing online news articles and websites.
• Playing online or downloaded video games.

Common Places of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians should always be wary of the dangers motorized vehicles pose to them. However, there are certain places where a distracted pedestrian accident is more likely to occur. They include:

• Shopping centers.
• Beach and coastal parking areas.
• Parking lots in rural areas.
• Along city and downtown streets.
• Parking structures near office buildings.

If You Have Been Hurt in a Pedestrian Accident

Regardless of how or who was responsible for your accident injury, you might be able to hold the other driver responsible for your damages. However, proving they are liable is no easy task. That is why you should contact Keith J. Stone.

Mr. Stone and his team are experienced in helping accident victims recover for their damages. He will evaluate the merits of your case and provide you with insightful answers concerning what you should do next.

Order Your Free Book

To get a head start in building a strong accident case, you can order from our website a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.

If you have been injured in pedestrian accident, call San Diego pedestrian accident attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He can provide you with the answers you need for the results you want.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California: