Owen Patterson & Owen Valencia CA

Toll Free 800.676.5295

Local 661.799.3899

No Recovery, No Fee

Menu 
  • Home
  • About
    • The Firm
    • Attorneys
    • Charities
    • Recalls
  • Practice Areas
    • Accidents
      • Auto Accidents
      • Motorcycle Accidents
      • Truck Accidents
      • Bicycle & Pedestrian Accidents
      • Off-Road Vehicle Accidents
      • Boat & PWC Accidents
      • Construction Accidents
      • Children’s Sports Accidents
      • Playground/Rec Equipment Accidents
      • Train Accidents
      • Amusement Park Accidents
      • Aviation Accidents
    • Personal Injury / wrongful Death
      • Wrongful Death
      • Spinal Cord Injuries
      • Brain Injuries
      • Burn Injuries
      • Slip & Fall
      • Dog Bites
    • Abuse/Neglect
      • Elder Abuse & Neglect
      • Sexual Abuse
    • Employment Law
      • Sexual Harassment
      • Wrongful Termination
    • Medical Malpractice
      • Medical Malpractice
      • Birth Injuries
    • Cases
    • Defective Drugs
      • Dangerous Pharmaceuticals
  • Cases
  • Media / Videos
    • Media
    • Video Library
  • Attorney Referrals
  • Testimonials
  • Blog
  • Contact

Personal Injury

Planning Recreational Vehicle Trips This Summer? Stay Safe With These Tips!

June 3, 2018 by opolaw

What’s hotter than a California freeway at five o’clock?

Taking day trips, extended weekends, and vacation excursions in a recreational vehicle, that’s what!

The recreational vehicle industry has enjoyed steady growth since 2012, reaching more than a half-million RV shipments delivered annually. Why? People appreciate having the freedom to traverse the nation while saving money. At the same time, driving an RV is a responsibility that shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Although National Highway Safety Administration figures from 2017 predict a slight decrease in traffic fatalities in the California region, a crash doesn’t have to be deadly to have serious repercussions. Numbers from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that fatal California accidents totaled more than $4B in 2015. That doesn’t even touch upon the dollar figure attached to non-fatal occurrences. Any road incident can quickly lead to injuries and lost wages.

Interested in joining the ranks of RV enthusiasts? Fortunately, with a little prevention, you can protect your vehicle investment and your loved ones. Before you rent a motorhome or purchase a new or used model, remember that safety should always come first when it comes to operating recreational vehicles.

Driver Credentials on Hand?

One of the biggest RV challenges is making sure all drivers have proper skills and experience. RVs are notoriously tricky to maneuver, even for seasoned drivers. For that reason, California is clear on its policies on the types of licenses necessary to legally get behind the wheel of an RV.

According to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), a Non-Commercial Class B license is needed for a housecar between 40-45 feet, whereas a Non-Commercial Basic Class C license is fine if the housecar is less than 40 feet. Plus, if you’re going to be towing your car behind your RV, you must have a Non-Commercial Class A license that has been properly endorsed.

Confused? It’s okay: The language can be tough to navigate. Like most regulations, your best bet is to talk to someone you trust such as a mechanic or California-based RV dealer. In the meantime, take a walk through this DMV online manual that gives you an extensive look at a wide array of RV types, requirements, and other considerations.

Insurance Up to Par?

Relatively new to the RVing world? First time owning a motorized vehicle or just towing a camper? Call up your favorite auto insurance provider to be sure you’re getting the best policy for your needs. An RV is a sizable financial investment, so don’t skimp on insuring it.

California law requires that all vehicles have liability coverage but consider adding comprehensive, collision, and other insurance types if you have a standalone motorhome. This might be the time to talk to a local insurer rather than just taking whatever you can get online. That way, you can speak one-on-one with someone in your neighborhood while supporting your community’s economy.

Equipment in Tip-Top Shape?

Another way to play it safe when RVing is to get a complete inspection performed before heading out on major trips. If your RV has idled all winter in your garage or outside, it’s ready for a tune-up anyway. Be sure the inspection includes everything from the health of the tires to the security of the hitch. Nothing’s worse than finding out your air conditioning is on the fritz when you’re 500 miles from home!

Of course, you can and should conduct your own inspection of the interior of the RV as well. Spend time cleaning up the space where everyone will live for a few days, a few weeks, or maybe longer. Be sure heavy items aren’t in spots where they could fall or hurt someone.

Test Run Under Your Belt?

As a final suggestion, be sure that your first time going somewhere in your RV isn’t the morning of your excursion up the coast. Take a few test drives just to get a feel for the road. You’ll get the hang of driving an RV soon enough and so will all your passengers.

Ready to engage in a bit of RVing this year? Enjoy the freedom of the open road like a pro. Nothing’s better than making memories that will last long after summer ends.

Posted in: Auto Accidents, Personal Injury Tagged: Accident Prevention, Driver Safety Tips, Personal Injury, RV Safety, Safety Tips

5 Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

October 20, 2017 by opolaw

We all want the very best for our loved ones, especially elderly parents, grandparents, or other relatives that have played a special role in our lives.  While many seniors prefer to remain independent and live in their own homes as long as possible, there may come a point when this is no longer feasible.  In such cases, it is often most convenient and cost-effective to find a nearby nursing home or assisted living facility in which to place elderly loved ones. However, it’s important that you visit frequently and keep an eye out for signs of abuse and neglect. Here are just a few signs that abuse and neglect may be taking place.

1. Unsafe conditions

A facility set up for senior living and nursing home care should include certain safety precautions, such as:

  • Adequate lighting
  • Measures to prevent slip and fall accidents
  • Furniture and equipment designed for senior safety

If you notice poor lighting, slippery surfaces, and unsafe furniture and equipment, it should serve as your first warning sign that quality care is lacking.

2. Weight loss or change in appearance

If abuse and neglect are taking place, you may begin to notice signs of rapid deterioration or significant change in appearance, including:

  • Weight loss
  • Poor hygiene (unwashed body or hair, poor dental care)
  • Overgrown nails
  • Soiled clothing/bedding

3. Excessive medication/sedation

During visits, you may notice that your elderly loved one is heavily medicated or sedated.  There could be a valid explanation, but if this treatment seems unnecessary, it could be an indicator that abuse or neglect is underway, especially if you observe other residents in the same condition.

4. Injuries

It’s not unusual for seniors to suffer illness and injuries, which is why elder abuse frequently flies under the radar.  Bumps, bruises, and other injuries can be written off as accidents.  However, if you notice persistent issues like bedsores or frequent bruising or other injuries, you should start to question the level of care in the facility, and whether or not abuse and neglect are occurring.

5. Escape attempts

When seniors are forced to leave their homes and move to an assisted living facility, it’s natural that they might become withdrawn, anxious, or depressed.  While you should monitor these issues, they don’t necessarily mean abuse or neglect is happening.  However, when residents of nursing homes go so far as to attempt escape, you should start to question if something else is going on.

Conclusion

If you uncover abuse or neglect, it’s time to remove your elderly loved one from the situation, contact authorities to report conditions, and seek out a qualified law firm to explore your legal options. Even if you simply have questions about the care your loved one is receiving, please contact us or give us a call at 800.676.5295. We offer a free consultation to our new clients to answer their questions and help them determine what options they have.

Posted in: Elder Abuse & Neglect Tagged: Elder Abuse, Elder Abuse & Neglect, Elder Neglect, Nursing Home Abuse, Nursing Home Neglect, Nursing Home Neglect Attorneys, Personal Injury, Safety Tips, Senior Health, Senior Safety

Important Motorcycle Truths You Should Know

August 29, 2016 by Greg Owen

46629074 - a young man riding a chopper on a road in morning sunMotorcycles have the same rights on the road as any other motor vehicle. Although many licensed motorcycle drivers are aware of common motorcycle safety tips, it is important that everyone on the road is aware of these uncommonly known motorcycle truths.

[Read more…]

Posted in: Motorcycle Accidents, Personal Injury Tagged: Motorcycle Accidents, Motorcycle Attorney, Motorcycle Safety, Motorcycle Safety Tips, Personal Injury

Traffic Deaths Increased 7.7% In 2015

July 11, 2016 by Greg Owen

Screen Shot 2016-07-11 at 8.16.27 AM

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released preliminary data last week that showed a 7.7 percent increase in motor vehicle traffic deaths in 2015. It has been estimated that 35,200 people died, which a significant increase from the 32,675 reported fatalities in 2014.

[Read more…]

Posted in: Auto Accidents, Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents Tagged: Auto Accidents, Bicycle & Pedestrian Accidents, Personal Injury

Questions for a Personal Injury Attorney

February 23, 2015 by Greg Owen

Getting injured as the result or because of the negligence of someone else is more common than you would think.  In fact, a study shows that the average driver will get into 3-4 accidents in their life.  Any one of those accidents could result in the need for a personal injury attorney, depending on the severity of the accident and the injuries sustained.  Beyond car accidents, there are many other ways to get injured that would necessitate a need for a personal injury attorney.

personal injury attorney questions, questions for a personal injury attorney, personal injury attorney los angeles

Regardless of how you were injured, if you feel you deserve compensation for your injuries, calling a personal injury attorney is a logical first step. However, because a personal injury attorney is not something you need on a regular basis, most people don’t have one they know. [Read more…]

Posted in: Personal Injury Tagged: Personal Injury, personal injury attorney los angeles, Questions for a Personal Injury Attorney

Uninsured Motorist Insurance

November 3, 2014 by Greg Owen

In California, it is required by law to have insurance on all vehicles operated or parked on California roadways. 

Although not everyone obeys this law, it does gives you some assurance that if you are in an accident and it is the fault of the other driver, there should be insurance in place to cover your costs.

uninsured motorist insurance, personal injury attorney los angles, best personal injury attorneys

 

However, in California, the minimum liability insurance requirement is $15,000 for death or injury to a single person. That means that someone can legally drive a vehicle with only $15,000 worth of insurance.  [Read more…]

Posted in: Auto Accidents Tagged: Auto Accidents, Personal Injury, Uninsured Motorist Insurance

5 Steps to take After an Accident

October 6, 2014 by Greg Owen

Getting into an accident can be an extremely traumatic experience.  Even if it’s just a fender bender, it will throw your entire day off and create extra stress on you.  Because of this, it’s important to understand the steps to take after an accident before you get into an accident.  If you know what to do, you will feel more in control and be able to make decisions easier.

steps to take after an accident, los angeles accident attorney, santa clarita accident attorney

1. Check to make sure you are not injured

If you or anyone else has been injured by the accident or recognize that you were just in a major accident, call 911 or ask someone else to call for you.  If you have any pain at all, play it safe and be checked out by a medical professional.  Accidents can cause serious injuries, many of which may not present themselves until days, weeks or months later. Although there are some ways to help reduce your risk of injury, accidents frequently cause injuries.  According to the 2012 California Statewide Integrated Traffic Systems (SWITRS), there were nearly 160,000 injury collisions resulting in over 226,000 people injured.

[Read more…]

Posted in: Auto Accidents Tagged: Accident, Auto Accidents, Personal Injury

VIDEO – OPO Wins Fight for Gymnast with Spinal Cord Injury

January 20, 2014 by Greg Owen

A defective trampoline and foam pit caused an accident that left a college gymnast quadriplegic. At trial, we succeeded in making it clear to a jury that the victim required $15 million in compensation vs. their $400,000 offer. View video below to see Senior Partner Greg Owen discuss the case: [Read more…]

Posted in: Defective Products, Spinal Cord Injuries Tagged: Accident, Defective Products, Faulty Products, Personal Injury, Spinal Cord Injuries

When’s The Right Time to Contact a Lawyer about a Personal Injury?

July 26, 2013 by Greg Owen

424194

If you or someone in your family has been seriously injured, an insurance company is likely to make you a quick offer. However, this offer isn’t usually the best one. Sometimes, you need an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side to fight for every penny you and your family deserve. There are numerous instances when you should hire a personal injury attorney to fight on your behalf, including: [Read more…]

Posted in: Personal Injury Tagged: Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Injury Lawyer

23822 W. VALENCIA BLVD #303 | VALENCIA, CA 91355 | (661) 799-3899

15760 VENTURA BOULEVARD | ENCINO, CA 91436 | (800) 676-5295

355 SOUTH GRAND AVE #2450 | LOS ANGELES, CA 90071 | (800) 676-5295

3771 CAHUENGA BOULEVARD | STUDIO CITY, CA 91604 | (800) 676-5295

1999 AVENUE OF THE STARS, SUITE 1100 CENTURY CITY, CA 90067

Categories

  • Amusement Park Ride Accidents
  • Article
  • Auto Accidents
  • Aviation Accidents
  • Awards
  • Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents
  • Boat and Personal Water Craft Accidents
  • Brain Injuries
  • Burn Injuries
  • Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
  • Case Studies
  • Child Protection
  • Children's Sports Accidents
  • Dangerous Pharmaceuticals
  • Defective Products
  • Disaster Preparedness
  • Dog Bites
  • Elder Abuse & Neglect
  • Legal System
  • Medical Malpractice
  • Motorcycle Accidents
  • Natural Disasters
  • Negligence
  • News
  • News & Resources
  • Off-Road Vehicle Accidents
  • Personal Injury
  • Playground and Backyard Recreational Equipment Accidents
  • Press Releases
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Sexual Harassment
  • Spinal Cord Injuries
  • Train Accidents
  • Truck Accidents
  • Uncategorized
  • Weather
  • Wrongful Death

Archives

  • March 2021
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • October 2019
  • February 2019
  • June 2018
  • April 2018
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • May 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • January 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • May 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • February 2015
  • January 2015
  • December 2014
  • November 2014
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • August 2014
  • July 2014
  • June 2014
  • May 2014
  • April 2014
  • March 2014
  • February 2014
  • January 2014
  • December 2013
  • November 2013
  • October 2013
  • September 2013
  • August 2013
  • July 2013
  • June 2013
  • May 2013
  • February 2013
  • January 2013
  • December 2012
  • November 2012
  • October 2012
  • September 2012
  • May 2012
  • September 2011

Recent Posts

  • USC AGREES TO $842.4M SETTLEMENT TO VICTIMS OF DR. GEORGE TYNDALL
  • What To Do If You’re In A Car Accident
  • Covid-19: What About Civil Liability?
  • Attorney Beau Goodrick Returns Home, Joins Owen, Patterson & Owen
  • Kobe Bryant Helicopter Crash: How To Successfully Prove A Wrongful Death Claim

Tags

Accident Accident Prevention Auto Accident Attorney Los Angeles Auto Accident Prevention Tips Auto Accidents Auto Injury automobile accident prevention automobile accidents Automobile safety technology Auto Recalls Auto Safety Tips Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents Bicycle Injuries Bike Safety Boat and Personal Water Craft Accidents Brain Injuries Car Accident car accident prevention Car Accidents Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Car Safety Child Protection Child Safety Dangerous Pharmaceuticals Defective Products Distracted Driving Dog Bites Driver Safety Tips driving safety Elder Abuse & Neglect Motorcycle Accident Attorney Motorcycle Accidents Motorcycle Fatalities Motorcycle Safety Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month Motorcycle Safety Tips Negligence Off-Road Vehicle Accidents Personal Injury personal injury attorney los angeles Personal Injury Lawyer Porter Ranch Gas Leak Porter Ranch Gas Leak Attorneys Safety Tips Truck Accidents
Learn more about these organizations
2015 Litigator Award    
  • Home
  • The Firm
  • Practice Areas
  • Cases
  • Media
  • Attorney Referrals
  • Testimonials
  • Blog
  • Contact

The law firm of Owen Patterson & Owen serves people throughout the United States. Locally, the firm serves people in Valencia and throughout Southern California, including Santa Clarita, Newhall, Gorman, Simi Valley, Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, Moorpark, Agoura, Calabasas, Northridge, Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Encino, San Fernando, Bakersfield, Palmdale, Thousand Oaks, Chatsworth, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Malibu, Victorville, Barstow, Baker, California City, Canyon Country, Apple Valley, Palm Springs, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ontario, El Monte, Pomona, Santa Barbara and all cities within Los Angeles County, Kern County, Ventura County, Santa Barbara County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, as well as the areas known as Santa Clarita Valley, Antelope Valley, San Fernando Valley, High Desert, Southern California, Grapevine and the Inland Empire.

Owen, Patterson & Owen, LLP is a limited liability partnership comprised of Susan A. Owen, APLC, Richard A. Patterson, APLC and Gregory James Owen, PLC. As used in this Website Owen, Patterson & Owen, LLP is referred to as Owen, Patterson & Owen.

©2021 by Owen, Patterson & Owen, 23822 Valencia Blvd #303, Valencia, CA 91355 All rights reserved.Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Site Map Developed by Los Angeles Digital Marketing & WSI