California Injury Lawyer Blog

SAN MATEO COUNTY -- A 6-year-old girl was struck and killed by a car in the city of East Palo Alto, San Francisco Chronicle reported. This tragic accident occurred around 8 p.m. Wednesday at the intersection of Bay Road and Gloria Way, when a girl, Sioreli Torres Zamora, was hit while she was walking through a crosswalk with her mother, Guadalupe Zamora, and her two younger sisters. The mother and the two sisters were reported not be injured in this accident. Following the collision, East Palo Alto police spokesman said the crash will be investigated and that the driver of the car, Flisha Whiteparker, was not arrested.

Cause of the Pedestrian Accident in East Palo Alto

The pedestrian accident on September 28th remains under investigation by the East Palo Alto Police Department. However, based on the information provided by the San Francisco Chronicle, it is unclear what caused the driver to hit the young girl. Police officials investigating the accident will certainly look a variety of factors, which include vehicle malfunctions, road conditions, and negligent and careless actions by the driver.

Pedestrian Accident Wrongful Death Liability

Accidents involving automobiles and pedestrians can have catastrophic results. While any individual struck by a vehicle can cause severe injuries and/or death, children and the elderly are the most vulnerable. Therefore, if police come to a conclusion that the driver is responsible for the accident, the family of the victim would be well-advised to contact a Northern California wrongful death lawyer. In a devastating pedestrian accident such as this one, a knowledgeable and experienced attorney can advise the family of their legal rights and best course of action to recover the maximum compensation for funeral/burial costs, loss of love, care, and companionship, and other relating damages in this tragic pedestrian accident.

Continue reading "Young Girl Struck and Killed by Car in East Palo Alto" »

MONTEREY COUNTY -- A man killed in a fatal multi-vehicle car crash early Sunday morning has been identified as Gustavo Quintero, Salinas Californian reports. Quintero, 44, of Salinas, was traveling northbound on Highway 138 near McFadden Road, when a Chevy pick-up truck, driven by Melquiadez Mota Gomez, 29, of Watsonville, struck Quintero's vehicle head-on. Witnesses who saw Gomez driving prior to the crash said he was driving recklessly and at a high rate of speed. Following this tragic collision, authorities reported Quintero had died at the scene. According to the CHP, Gomez was arrested and booked into the Monterey County Jail on charges of felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter.

Cause of the Salinas Car Accident

The accident on September 25th remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol. However, based on the information provided by news reports, it appears Gomez may be is at fault for the accident due to driving under the influence. Therefore, Quintero had no way to prevent or avoid this terrible collision.

DUI Car Accident Wrongful Death Liability

Driving while drunk can have severe and catastrophic consequences to any parties involved. A person who drives under the influence will not only face criminal charges, but can be held financially liable for injured or death victims involved in the accident. Therefore, if authorities conclude that the driver who drove drunk is fully responsible for the accident, the family of the victim would be well-advised to contact a California wrongful death lawyer. A knowledgeable attorney who has the experience in DUI head-on collisions such as this one, can provide the victim's family the assistance they may need in protecting their legal rights, and help them decide the best course of action to recover the maximum compensation for funeral/burial costs, future and anticipated lifetime earnings and benefits, loss of love, care, and companionship, and other related damages in this devastating car accident.

Continue reading "Man Killed in Salinas DUI Car Crash " »

DENVER, COLORADO -- According to USA Today, the cantaloupe listeria outbreak that resulted in deaths and serious illnesses to individuals throughout the United States was traced to Jensen Farms in Holly, Colorado. The company recalled the "Rocky Ford" brand cantaloupes earlier this month, however, the Food and Drug Administration found listeria in cantaloupes from grocery stores in the state of Colorado and from a victim's home that were grown at Jensen Farms. Investigators also found matching listeria strains, which were located on the equipment and cantaloupes at Jensen Farms' packing facility.

The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention reported Tuesday that 72 illnesses, including 13 deaths, are linked to the tainted cantaloupes. In addition, three deaths are still being investigated to determine if there is a connection to this contaminated fruit. So far, a total of 18 states have been affected, which includes California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. The FDA, which investigates the cause of foodborne outbreaks, has not released any additional information regarding how the contamination may have occurred, but will continue to monitor the situation.

What is Listeria?

Listeria is a pathogen known to be found in contaminated food products, which can cause serious infections or death. People who are infected can have few or no symptoms present. However, when individuals are symptomatic, they usually consist and are not limited to fever, nausea, diarrhea, and muscle aches. According to the Centers Disease Control and Prevention, 1,600 people become seriously ill with listeriosis each year in the United States. And out of these people, 260 die from contracting listeria.

California Foodborne Illness and Wrongful Death Liability

Foodborne illnesses can cause serious health issues or death to individuals who has consumed any contaminated food products that was not properly grown or prepared. Children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems are the most vulnerable and susceptible to complications that arise from tainted food products. In situations such as this one, where the investigation is ongoing, family members of the victims or the victims themselves who have been seriously ill due these "Rocky Ford" brand cantaloupes, would be well-advised to contact a California foodborne illness lawyer. A knowledgeable and experienced attorney can advise the victims of their legal rights and best course of action to recover the maximum compensation for medical care expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other damages. In the event, where the illness resulted in the death of the victim, family members of the victim, can take action in a wrongful death claim and may be eligible to receive the maximum damages pertaining to medical care expenses, loss of love, care, and companionship, and other damages relating to this devastating incident.

Continue reading "Several Killed, Many Suffer Illnesses in Cantaloupe Listeria Outbreak" »

RENO, NEVADA - The Reno Gazette Journal is reporting that the11th victim of Friday's National Championship Air Races crash has been identified. James McMichael, 47, of Graham, Wash., was the last of six victims who had yet to be indentified by the Washoe County Medical Examiner's Office. Eleven people were tragically killed September 16, 2011 after a WWII-era fighter plane crashed into the ground next to spectators at the Reno-Stead airport. The pilot of the plane, Jimmy Leeward, was one of the eleven tragically killed.

Air Show Accident Liability

It is not known why the fighter plane crashed, but authorities believe they are close to uncovering the cause of the accident. Aviation accidents can be caused by a number of factors, such as pilot error, mechanical malfunction and defective aircraft parts. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the Reno air show airplane crash, several parties may be financially liable for victims' damages, including the pilot, event organizers, flight crew, aircraft manufacturer, aircraft mechanic and airplane owner.

Nevada Air Show Accident Attorneys

The Nevada air show accident attorneys at the law firm of Estey Bomberger will explore all sources of compensation when pursuing damages for victims. Our team of award-winning attorneys includes an expert pilot and litigator, Don Beck. Don is committed to protecting the legal rights of victims and can help clients get the compensation they need to begin putting the pieces of their lives back together following this devastating crash. Our Reno air show accident lawyers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to discuss victims' potential cases. Time is of the essence when filing a claim, so contact our firm as soon as possible.

Continue reading "11th Victim of Reno National Championship Air Races Identified" »

GRANT HILL - ABC 10 News reported three people were injured in a pit bull attack Tuesday night in Grant Hill. The dog mauling reportedly occurred in the 700 block of Evans Street, resulting in three people suffering injuries to their arms and chests. One person was reportedly hospitalized. County animal control offers took away the two pit bulls involved in the mauling.

Dog Bite Personal Injury Liability

In California, dog owners are responsible for the actions of their pets. When a dog bites someone, the owner of the dog is almost always liable for the victims' injuries and related medical care. Following a dog mauling resulting in a serious injury, victims are well-advised to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable San Diego dog bite lawyer. An attorney who has handled dozens of pit bull attack personal injury claims can advise the victims of their legal rights to obtain compensation for their injuries, and the best course of action to recover maximum compensation.

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SANTA CRUZ COUNTY - A 58-year-old bicyclist was severely injured Tuesday morning after he was struck by a Toyota Tacoma on Highway 1, the Mercury News reported. The accident occurred just before 8:30 a.m. on northbound Highway 1 near Bonny Doon Road. According to the CHP, the bicyclist was riding a Giant hybrid bike that was struck from behind by the pickup truck, driven by a 65-year-old Santa Cruz man. The bicyclist, who was not identified, wore a helmet and his bike was equipped with reflectors. He suffered major injuries in the collision and was flown to Stanford Medical Center by helicopter. It was reportedly foggy at the time of the collision.

Cause of the Accident

Based on the limited information provided in news reports, the cause of the collision is unclear. However, if it is true that the cyclist was struck from behind, it appears he likely could have done nothing to prevent the collision. The CHP will surely look at the location of the collision, speed of the truck, and other factors in making their determination of exactly what happened.

Bicycle Accident Personal Injury Liability

Following a major injury bicycle accident such as this September 21st accident on Highway 1, the family members of the injured victim would be well-advised to speak with an experienced and knowledgeable Northern California bicycle accident attorney. An attorney who is also a cyclist and specializes in cycling accident litigation can advise the victim and his family of their best course of action to protect their rights following this accident, and recover maximum compensation for medical care and treatment, lost earnings / wages, and pain and suffering, if negligence is determined to be a cause of the accident. Following any serious injury accident, it is advisable to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible, while important evidence and witness recollections can most easily be obtained and preserved.

Continue reading "Santa Cruz Bicyclist Severely Injured in Highway 1 Accident " »

MADERA COUNTY - Two people were injured in a crash early Monday morning involving a big rig, ABC 30 News reported. The accident occurred on Highway 41 near Avenue 14 when the driver of a big-rig tried to make a U-turn and pulled out in front of oncoming traffic. The driver of the van was unable to stop in time to prevent the collision. Two people in the van were taken to the hospital. Further details about the cause of the Highway 41 accident were not immediately available.

Left-Turn Accident Liability

Although the CHP is continuing to investigate the cause of the collision, based on the information reported, it appears that the driver of the big-rig may be responsible for this accident. The law pertaining to left turns is found in California Vehicle Code Section 21801: "The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left or to complete a U-turn upon a highway, or to turn left into public or private property, or an alley, 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."

Truck Accident Personal injury Claims

Accidents involving commercial trucks can be complicated legal matters. Following an injury accident such as this September 20th truck accident on Highway 41, the injured victims or their family members would be well-advised to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable California truck accident lawyer. An attorney who specializes in representing victims of truck accidents can advise the victims and their loved ones of their legal rights, options and responsibilities, should they wish to pursue a personal injury claim against the truck driver, trucking company, or any other responsible parties. Damages recovered in a personal injury claim may include compensation for medical care and treatment, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Continue reading "Two People Injured in Highway 41 Big Rig Crash in Madera County " »

RENO, NEVADA - After Friday's horrific air race crash tragically killed 11 and left dozens more injured, concerns are being raised over the safety of air shows like the Reno National Championship Air Races. Former National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) chairman, Mark Rosenker, told CBS News the objective of any race is to go as fast as possible, however "when you begin to go as fast as possible, you really do reach the edge of the safety envelope."

Reno Air Show Race Investigation

Although the NTSB is still investigating the cause of the crash, officials believe they are close to finding out why a fighter plane inverted and dove into the ground next to spectators September 16, 2011. NTSB officials have recovered memory cards from an onboard camera, a data recorder and portions of the aircraft tail, which may prove to be a vital piece of evidence after photos showing pieces of the tail missing before impact were recovered. The pilot of the WWII-era plane, Jimmy Leeward, had made drastic modifications to the wings in order to achieve extreme levels of speed and investigators are researching whether these modifications contributed to the crash occurring.

Air Show Race Accident Attorneys

While the cause of the Reno air race crash is under investigation, victims of this catastrophic accident should seek the counsel of a Reno air show accident attorney at Estey Bomberger. One of our attorneys, Don Beck, is an experienced pilot who will put his knowledge of aviation to work for you. Don and his colleagues have obtained substantial settlements for damages associated with a serious injury or devastating loss. Call our law firm today to arrange a free consultation with a Nevada air show accident lawyer.

Continue reading "Air Show Safety a Concern After Reno Crash " »

Qualitest Pharmaceuticals, which is an entity of Endo Pharmaceuticals Holdings Inc., has recalled more than a million packages of defectively packaged birth control pills. The voluntary recall, which takes effect immediately, was issued because of a packaging error that may inadvertently cause women to take the incorrect dose of birth control and consequently, put women at risk for an unplanned pregnancy. In a statement released by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), multiple lots of birth control pill blister packs were rotated 180 degrees, which resulted in the reversal of the daily regimen. The rotation also hid the lot number and expiration date. According to the FDA, there are no immediate health risks associated with the error, but women taking the affected pills are being told to use a non-hormonal form of birth control immediately and consult a health care provider.

Qaulitest Pharmaceuticals spokesperson, Kevin Wiggins, told CNN the recall affects 1.4 million packages of oral contraceptives, including Cyclafem 7/7/7, Cyclafem 1/35, Emoquette, Orysthia, Gildess FE 1.5/30, Gildess FE 1/20, Previfem and Tri-Previfem. A detailed list of the affected pills can be found here. For additional information on the recall, contact Qualitest toll-free at (877) 300-6153.

Product Liability Lawyers

If you or someone you know suffered an unplanned pregnancy as a result of taking one of the affected Qualitest birth control pills, contact a California product liability lawyer at Estey Bomberger. We have more than 70 years collective experience helping victims obtain compensation for damages associated with the use of a dangerous or defective product. Victims may be able to collect financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages due to time away from work and other various types of damages.

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SANTA ROSA - A pedestrian was injured after being struck by a vehicle Wednesday morning on West College Avenue at Link Lane, the Press Democrat reported. The accident was reported on Wednesday, September 21, 2011, at 6:44 a.m. Further details about the extent of the parties involved and the cause of the accident were not immediately available.

The unsignaled crosswalk where the pedestrian was struck was the same location of a fatal accident on January 27, 2010, that killed Santa Rosa High School sophomore Michelle Cordova. Another teenager was struck at the intersection on February 17, 2011. All of the incidents, including the one today, have occurred in limited visibility, either before or after sun-up or sun-down.

If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident in Santa Rosa that was caused by a negligent motorist or a dangerous road condition, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact the Northern California pedestrian accident lawyers at Estey Bomberger for a free consultation of your legal rights. Damages obtained in a personal injury claim may include medical care costs, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other damages.

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SAN LUIS OBISPO - A 53-year-old San Luis Obispo man was tragically killed Monday evening in a head-on collision on Buckley Road, the San Luis Obispo Tribune reported. The accident occurred just after 6 p.m., west of Thread Lane, and involved a 2003 Lexus ES300 and a 2002 Toyota Tacoma. The victim, Allen Nadalsky, was a passenger in the Lexus, which was driven by Hussan Najami, 47, also of San Luis Obispo. According to the CHP, Najami was driving at a high rate of speed when he lost control in a curve of the road. The Lexus veered into eastbound lanes and collided head-on with the front of the eastbound Toyota.

Nadalsky died at the scene of the crash, according to the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff-Coroner's Office. The driver of the Toyota, Alan Everson, 51, of Arrow Grande, suffered serious injuries and was taken by ambulance to the hospital, along with Najami. All three of the men were wearing seatbelts, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Cause of the Buckley Road Accident

The cause of the fatal September 19th collision remains under investigation by the CHP. If statements by investigators are accurate, it appears that speed may have played a role in the crash. The CHP stated that the Lexus was travelling "at a high rate of speed" when the driver lost control. As a passenger, Nadalsky likely could have done nothing to prevent this horrific collision that ultimately took his life.

Car Accident Personal Injury Liability

This collision is surely devastating for all parties involved. If it is determined by investigators that the driver of the Lexus was in fact speeding, he may cited for violating California Vehicle Code Section 22350, which states: "No person shall drive a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable or prudent having due regard for weather, visibility, the traffic on, and the surface and width of, the highway, and in no event at a speed which endangers the safety of persons or property." Additionally, he may be financially liable for the wrongful death of his passenger and the serious injuries sustained by the driver of the Toyota pick-up. Following this collision or any other head-on collision resulting in serious injury or death, the family members of the victims would be well-advised to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable Monterey car accident lawyer. A skilled attorney can advise victims' families of their legal rights to recover compensation from whoever is determined responsible for causing this accident.

Continue reading "One Person Killed, Two Injured Monday in Head-on Collision on Buckley Road " »

RENO, NEVADA - ABC News reported this morning a tenth person has died as a result of injuries sustained when a plane crashed at the Reno Championship Air Races on Friday. According to news reports, a male patient died overnight at Saint Mary's Regional Medical Center.

Over the weekend, it was reported that the NTSB was examining whether a missing tail component - an elevator trim tab - could have caused the plane to spiral out of control. Witnesses reported seeing something drop off the tail of the plain as the P-51 Mustang Galloping Ghost rounded the final clubhouse turn of the race, moments before the plane crashed. In one photo, a piece of metal needed to maintain the aircraft's balance appears to be missing.

The Galloping Ghost was fitted with a forward facing camera, which NTSB investigators say they were able to recover. The plane was also equipped with a flight data system that recorded altitude, engine performance and velocity in real-time. NTSB officials reportedly will also review the pilot's age and a medical history. An ABC News consultant said Monday that he was concerned that Leeward may not have been conscious during the crash.

In addition to the 10 reported deaths, dozens of people suffered a wide range of injuries including, limb and facial injuries, amputations and major head wounds. The Washoe County Medical Examiner has so far identified five of the deceased victims as George Hewitt, 60, of Bellingham, Wash.; Regina Bynum, 53, of San Angelo, Texas; Sharon Stewart, 47, Reno; Gregory Morcom, 47, Stanwood, Wash.; and James Leeward, of Ocala, Fla, the 74-year-old pilot of the P-51 crashed plane.

If you were injured or if a loved one died in this accident, contact the Reno air race accident attorneys at Estey Bomberger for a free consultation. Our experienced aviation accident lawyers can advise you of your legal rights to compensation for your injuries or loss, and your best course of action following this devastating and tragic incident.

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RENO, NEVADA - The intense investigation has begun to determine why the pilot of a World War II era plane lost control at the Reno Championship Air Races on Friday, killing at least nine people and injuring dozens more. Over the weekend, it was revealed that the plane involved in the crash he 65-year-old 'Galloping Ghost', had underwent "radical changes" and "massive overhauls" to increase speed. Modifications included shortening the wings and horizontal tail. Other changes to improve aerodynamics included removing the water and oil radiators from the belly and replacing them with a boil-off cooling system.

The pilot of the P-51 Mustang was Jimmy Leeward, who died in the crash. Leeward, owner of the Leeward Air Ranch Racing Team, was an experienced airman and stunt movie pilot with decades of experience, including work on films "Amelia" and "Cloud Dancer." In an interview last year, Leeward stated that he had flown 250 types of planes, and had a fondness for the P-51.

Leeward's own website referenced the dangers - and the thrill - of air racing: "These guys are always on the edge knowing one wrong move, in one split second, could mean the end," the Leeward Air Ranch Racing Team website said. "NASCAR at 200 mph? Indy at 230 mph? Top Fuel at 300 mph? Mere Childs play. Welcome to the Big League."

Over the weekend, a few people in the crowd told news outlets that it appeared that Leeward realized he was in trouble and tried to steer the aircraft away from the spectators, sparing many more people their lives. Although some witnesses believe Leeward's last moments were heroic, for those that did lose their lives or suffered a life-changing injury, this accident raises a very concerning question: Was safety compromised in pursuit of speed?

If you were a victim of this Reno air race accident, or if a loved one died in the crash, contact the Nevada aviation accident lawyers at Estey Bomberger for a free consultation. Our team of attorneys include a veteran pilot with experience both in operating planes and represent aviation accident victims. We offer a free consultation to review your legal rights.

Continue reading "Reno Championship Air Race Crash : WW II Plane Was Radically Changed to Increase Speed " »

RENO, NEVADA -- The death toll has risen to nine individuals Saturday in the horrific Reno air race show crash that took place on September 16th at around 4 p.m., the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported. According to Reno Deputy Police Chief Dave Evans, the deaths included seven people who were killed on the tarmac and two others who died at hospitals. The fatal crash of the P-51 Mustang flown by veteran race pilot Jimmy Leeward, 74, has also resulted in a variety of serious injuries to spectators involved in the incident. These injuries included major head wounds, facial trauma and limb injuries, including amputations. Doctors who have treated the injured said it was among the most severe situations that they had ever dealt with due to the large number of people, which included at least two children under the age of 18 who were not in critical condition.

The National Transportation Safety Board arrived at the scene of the accident on Saturday to evaluate the crash and determine what caused Leeward to lose control of his plane. Investigators will also look at variety of factors including, mechanical failure, and the health condition of the pilot.

Cause of the Reno Air Race Crash

The accident occurring September 16th remains under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board. However, based on the information provided by news reports, it is unclear what caused the pilot to lose control of his plane. The Reno police has provided a GPS mapping system to help investigators reconstruct the crash while the NTSB officials have been reviewing videos and images captured by witnesses at the scene, which shown a piece of the plane coming off prior to crashing. To witnesses, this piece looked to be an "elevator trim tab," which helps the pilot keep control of the aircraft. According to NTSB spokesman Mark Rosekind, their focus will be on an unidentified component that was recovered from the accident. Investigators stated the NTSB has also recovered part of the plane's tail section. Hopefully authorities will come to a conclusion as to what happened and why.

Spectator Injury and Wrongful Death Liability

While the investigation of this aviation accident is ongoing, victims or family members of the victims would be well-advised to speak to a skilled Reno air show accident lawyer. A knowledgeable and experienced attorney who has handled aviation accidents which resulted in injuries and death to anyone involved, can advise the victims or their family of their legal rights and best course of action to receive a full and fair compensation for medical care expenses, disfigurement, funeral/burial costs, pain and suffering, and other damages relating to this tragic aviation accident.

Continue reading "Death Toll Rises While Others Remain Severely Injured in Reno Air Show Crash" »

RENO, NEVADA - At least three people are confirmed dead and scores of people seriously injured when a plane crashed into the stands at the Reno Championship Air Races, multiple national news outlets reported Friday night. The accident occurred at around 4:00 p.m. PST on Friday, September 16, 2011, when a World War II era P51 Mustang plane struck box seats at the air race. According to News 10, Mike Houghton, the President and CEO of the Reno Air Race stated that the cause of the crash is too early to determine; the cause of the accident will be investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board.

Spectator Injury and Wrongful Death Liability

Following an aviation disaster such as this one, the victims and their families would be well-advised to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable aviation accident attorney. A lawyer who has handled sporting event spectator injury and death claims can advise victims and their families of the steps they need to take to protect their rights following a mass casualty aviation disaster.

Experienced Aviation Accident Lawyers

The aviation accident attorneys at Estey Bomberger have handled both aviation accident injury and wrongful death claims and accident claims involving spectators injured at major sporting events. Our dedicated Reno air show accident lawyers are licensed to practice law in Nevada and California and have the resources necessary to ensure our clients are fully and fairly compensated. If you have suffered a serious injury or loss of a family member in this September 16th Reno air show accident, contact Estey Bomberger for a free consultation. Our team of attorneys are available 24/7 to take your call and answer your questions. For a free consultation, call us at (800)724-3817.

Continue reading "Several Killed, Dozens Injured in Crash at Reno Air Races " »

TEMECULA - Alex Flores, 40, a former softball coach for the Temecula Valley Girls Softball Association, has pleaded guilty to molesting three teenaged girls. According to a report in the Temecula Patch, Flores gave wine to one of the softball players he coached during an overnight stay for a softball game in Coachella. When the 13-year-old victim fell asleep, Flores woke her by rubbing her back and buttocks. In another incident, Floes offered to cancel practice if a player sent him a nude photo of herself. She did, and he cancelled practice. Other incidents involved groping over the victims' clothes.

This case raises the question as to whether the perpetrator's employer, the Temecula Valley Girls Softball Association, failed to supervise Flores. Had Flores ever been accused of misconduct before? Did his employer have policies in place to supervise coaches and their interactions with the young players? Did the softball association turn a blind eye to Flores' actions?

Estey Bomberger child molestation victim lawyers are nationally known for holding negligent supervising organizations responsible for sexual crimes against children. Last year we obtained the largest single plaintiff verdict in California history for a child molestation victim - a $30 million verdict against a foster agency in Santa Clara County. If your child has been the victim of child molestation, contact the Temecula personal injury attorneys at Estey Bomberger for a free consultation and review of your potential case.

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VENTURA COUNTY - A 15-year-old Bakersfield girl very tragically died Sunday night in a head-on collision on Highway 126 between Santa Paula and Fillmore, the Ventura County Star reported today. The victim, identified by the Ventura County Medical Examiner as Maria Puentes, 15, was a passenger in a vehicle driven eastbound on Highway 126, near Toland Road. For reasons still under investigation, the vehicle Puentes was riding in drifted into westbound traffic, directly into the path of an oncoming truck.

The impact of the head-on collision caused the vehicle to spin out of control into westbound traffic and the truck to spin into eastbound lanes. The 17-year-old boy driving the vehicle and the driver of the truck, a 53-year-old Bakersfield man, were taken to Ventura County Medical Center. Puentes died at the scene of the head-on collision, which occurred at about 7:05 p.m. on Sunday, September 11, 2011.

Cause of the Fatal Crash

As a passenger, Puentes likely could have done nothing to prevent this fatal head-on collision that ultimately took her life. Based on the limited facts provided by the Ventura County Star, it is impossible to know exactly what happened here and why this fatal crash happened. The CHP will surely look at the speed of both vehicles, witness reports, and other factors to determine what occurred and who was responsible. Head-on collisions such as this one can have countless causes, including unsafe passing maneuvers, swerving to avoid an object in the road, falling asleep at the wheel, driving under the influence, or driver distraction.

Car Accident Wrongful Death Liability

Losing a loved one in a fatal head-on collision is tragic and devastating. Accidents such as this one raise a number of questions regarding why the accident occurred, who was responsible, and what can be done to prevent fatal collisions like this one in the future. While the cause of this accident remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol, the family members of the young victim would be well-advised to speak with an experienced and knowledgeable Ventura wrongful death attorney. Whether the accident was caused by a dangerous road condition, a defect in the vehicle, or the negligence of one of the drivers involved in this collision, an attorney can help the victim's family understand and protect their legal rights to hold accountable whoever is responsible for their loss.

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